bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A qualitative study of the barriers to procedural sedation practices in paediatric emergency medicine in the UK and Ireland
Authors: McCoy Siobhán , Lyttle Mark D , Hartshorn Stuart , Larkin Philip , Brenner Maria , O'Sullivan Ronan
Published: February 2016

Introduction

There is extensive literature on paediatric procedural sedation (PPS) and its clinical applications in emergency departments (EDs). While numerous guidance and policy documents exist from international bodies, there remains a lack of uniformity and consistency of PPS practices within EDs. PPS is now gaining traction in the UK and Ireland and this study aimed to describe existing PPS practices and identify any challenges to training and provision of ED-based PPS.

Methods

A qualitative approach was employed to capture data through a focus group interview. Nine consultants in emergency medicine (EM) participated, varying in years of experience, clinical settings (mixed adult and paediatric ED or paediatric only) and geographical location (UK and Ireland). The focus group was audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using Attride-Stirling's framework for thematic network analysis.

Results

The global theme ‘The Future of PPS in EM—A UK and Ireland Perspective’ emerged from the following three organising themes: (1) training and education of ED staff; (2) current realities of PPS in EDs and (3) PPS and the wider hospital community. The main findings were (1) there is variability in ED PPS practice throughout the UK and Ireland; (2) lack of formal PPS training for trainees is a barrier to its implementation as a standard treatment and (3) there is a lack of recognition of PPS at a College level as a specialised EM skill.

Conclusions

Establishment of PPS as a standard treatment option in the emergency setting will require implementation of robust training into general and paediatric EM training. This should be supported and enhanced through national and international collaboration in EM-led PPS research and audit.
Denosumab treated giant cell tumour of bone: a morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular analysis of a series
Authors: Girolami Ilaria , Mancini Irene , Simoni Antonella , Baldi Giacomo Giulio , Simi Lisa , Campanacci Domenico , Beltrami Giovanni , Scoccianti Guido , D'Arienzo Antonio , Capanna Rodolfo , Franchi Alessandro
Published: February 2016

Aims

Denosumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody directed against RANKL, has recently been introduced in the treatment strategy of giant cell tumour of bone (GCTB). Aim of this study was to investigate the phenotypical modifications induced by denosumab treatment in a series of 15 GCTB.

Methods

The tumours were characterised for histone 3.3 mutations, and studied immunohistochemically for the modifications of RANKL, RANK, SATB2 and RUNX2 expression, as well as of tumour proliferative activity and angiogenesis.

Results

Nine of 11 tumours investigated presented a histone 3.3 mutation inH3F3A, and 2 of these for which the analysis was carried out in pretreatment and post-treatment specimens showed the same mutation in both. Denosumab induced the disappearance of osteoclast-like giant cells, leaving residual spindle neoplastic cells arranged in a storiform pattern, with deposition of trabecular collagen matrix and osteoid, which tended to maturation in the peripheral portions of the lesion. RANK and RANKL expression was variable, with no significant variation after treatment. Moreover, we did not observe any significant modification of the expression of the osteoblastic markers SATB2 and RUNX2. Denosumab treatment determined a significant reduction of the proliferative index and of tumour angiogenesis (p=0.001, Wilcoxon rank-sum test).

Conclusions

These results indicate that denosumab induces a partial maturation towards the osteoblastic phenotype of the neoplastic cells of GCTB, with production of fibrous and osteoid matrix, but with minor immunophenotypical changes. Finally, we first report an antiangiogenic activity of denosumab in GCTB, possibly mediated by a RANKL-dependent pathway.
Correlation between tobacco control policies, consumption of rolled tobacco and e-cigarettes, and intention to quit conventional tobacco, in Europe
Authors: Lidón-Moyano Cristina , Martín-Sánchez Juan Carlos , Saliba Patrick , Graffelman Jan , Martínez-Sánchez Jose M
Published: February 2016

Objective

To analyse the correlation between the implementation of tobacco control policies and tobacco consumption, particularly rolling tobacco, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) users and the intent to quit smoking in 27 countries of the European Union.

Design

Ecological study with the country as the unit of analysis.

Data sources

We used the data from tobacco control activities, measured by the Tobacco Control Scale (TCS), in 27 European countries, in 2010, and the prevalence of tobacco consumption data from the Eurobarometer of 2012.

Analysis

Spearman correlation coefficients (rsp) and their 95% CIs.

Results

There was a negative correlation between TCS and prevalence of smoking (rsp=−0.41; 95% CI −0.67 to −0.07). We also found a negative correlation (rsp=−0.31) between TCS and the prevalence of ever e-cigarette users, but it was not statistically significant. Among former cigarette smokers, there was a positive and statistically significant correlation between TCS and the consumption of hand-rolled tobacco (rsp=0.46; 95% CI 0.06 to 0.70). We observed a similar correlation between TCS and other tobacco products (cigars and pipe) among former cigarette smokers. There was a significant positive correlation between TCS and intent to quit smoking in the past 12 months (rsp=0.66; 95% CI 0.36 to 0.87).

Conclusions

The level of smoke-free legislation among European countries is correlated with a decrease in the prevalence of smoking of conventional cigarettes and an increase in the intent to quit smoking within the past 12 months. However, the consumption of other tobacco products, particularly hand-rolled tobacco, is positively correlated with TCS among former cigarette smokers. Therefore, tobacco control policies should also consider other tobacco products, such as rolling tobacco, cigars and pipes.
Paleo-ocean redox environments of the Upper Ordovician Wufeng and the first member in lower Silurian Longmaxi formations in the Jiaoshiba area, Sichuan Basin
Authors: Yang Rui , He Sheng , Wang Xiao , Hu Qinhong , Hu Dongfeng , Yi Jizheng
Published: February 2016

A study of paleo-ocean redox environments is important for understanding the deposition of black shale and has practical implications for shale gas exploration. Here, we selected a total of 52 shale samples from JY1 Well, the first shale gas well of commercial exploitation in China, to analyze the redox conditions of Upper Ordovician Wufeng (O3w) and the first member in lower Silurian Longmaxi shale (S1l1) in the Jiaoshiba area. Abundant pyrite framboids are observed in these units, with average framboid diameters ranging from 3.1 to 4.7 μm and maximum diameter about 10 μm. Analyses of redox-sensitive trace elements suggest the redox environment has evolved from an anoxic condition in the bottom of Member A to a dysoxic condition in the top of Member A, and to a dysoxic–oxic environment in Members B and C. Graptolite and radiolarian are discovered in these shale samples, indicating an oxygenated seafloor, which seems to be contradictory to the results from pyrite framboids and redox-sensitive trace elements. This contradiction is explained as follows: when the shale was deposited, the sedimentation was dominated by euxinic conditions; however, some oxygen may also occasionally migrate to the bottom water due to oxygen-deficient environment, deglaciation, and (or) strong upwelling of nutrient-enriched seawater, while the limited oxygen and anoxic environment is favorable for the preservation and accumulation of organic matter. Combined with the geological characteristics and redox conditions, Member A, especially the shales at the bottom of Member A, is expected to be the most favorable shale gas reservoir in the Jiaoshiba area.
On-Line Handy Handwriting Chinese Characters Input for Non-Chinese Speakers Based on Wavelet Neural Network
Authors: Huang Tongcheng , Zhang Siyang , Duan Xu , Liang Ronglong
Published: February 2016

Non-Chinese speakers hold increasing opportunities and need to process Chinese information and communicate in Chinese. This paper, with the purpose of facilitating the handwriting input of Chinese characters for non-Chinese speakers, is directed towards the development of the handwriting rules and vocabulary for Latin-style anti-cursive characters and the ways of their selection and classification. This aims to build a practical platform by utilizing three characteristics of wavelet neural network — automatically ascertaining the number of hidden layer unit, converging rapidly and never running into the partial minimum of networks — for a simple Latin-style online handwriting input and processing, meanwhile, taking the customary handwriting habits of non-Chinese speakers. The paper, based on profound information of cursive characters, deciphered the genetic code of ancient cursive symbols and made clear the rules for characters changing into its cursive style. As a result, it breaks the bottleneck, which enables non-Chinese speakers to easily input information through handwriting Chinese characters.
Recognition of PSL(2,p) ×PSL(2,p) by its complex group algebra
Authors: Khosravi Behrooz , Momen Zahra , Khosravi Behnam , Khosravi Bahman
Published: February 2016

In [H. P. Tong-Viet, Simple classical groups of Lie type are determined by their character degrees, J. Algebra 357 (2012) 61–68] the following question arose:

Question. Which groups can be uniquely determined by the structure of their complex group algebras?

It is proved that every quasisimple group except covers of the alternating groups is uniquely determined up to isomorphism by the structure of [Formula: see text], the complex group algebra of [Formula: see text]. One of the next natural groups to be considered are the characteristically simple groups. In this paper, as the first step in this investigation we prove that if [Formula: see text] is an odd prime number, then [Formula: see text] is uniquely determined by the structure of its complex group algebra.
Cosmological constant Λ in f(R,T) modified gravity
Authors: Singh Gyan Prakash , Bishi Binaya Kumar , Sahoo Pradyumn Kumar
Published: February 2016

In this paper, we have studied the Bianchi type-III cosmological model in the presence of cosmological constant in the context of [Formula: see text] modified theory of gravity. Here, we have discussed two classes of [Formula: see text] gravity, i.e. [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. In both classes, the modified field equations are solved by the relation expansion scalar [Formula: see text] that is proportional to shear scalar [Formula: see text] which gives [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] are metric potentials. Also we have discussed some physical and kinematical properties of the models.
Surface family with a common involute asymptotic curve
Authors: Bayram Ergi̇n , Bi̇li̇ci̇ Mustafa
Published: February 2016

We construct a surface family possessing an involute of a given curve as an asymptotic curve. We express necessary and sufficient conditions for that curve with the above property. We also present natural results for such ruled surfaces. Finally, we illustrate the method with some examples, e.g. circles and helices as given curves.
On the (1 + 3) threading of an almost FLRW universe
Authors: Bejancu Aurel , Farran Hani Reda
Published: February 2016

Based on the Riemannian spatial connection and the kinematic quantities, we develop a new approach on the [Formula: see text] threading of an almost FLRW universe, with respect to a non-normalized vector field. By this method, we obtain simple expressions for geometric objects and equations involved in the theory of cosmological perturbations. We state three forms of Raychaudhuri equation, which lead us to more accurate intervals for the conformal time with respect to the existence of caustics in the congruence of geodesics.
EXPLORING THE CHRONIC MORTALITY AFFECTING ABALONES IN TAIWAN: DIFFERENTIATION OF ABALONE HERPESVIRUS-ASSOCIATED ACUTE INFECTION FROM CHRONIC MORTALITY BY PCR AND IN SITU HYBRIDIZATION AND HISTOPATHOLOGY
Authors: Chen I-Wen , Chang Pen-Heng , Chen Min-Shou , Renault Tristan , Chen Meei-Mei , Kuo Shu-Ting , Cheng Chiung-Hsiang
Published: February 2016

Abalone herpesvirus (AbHV) infection of cultured abalones Haliotis diversicolor supertexta induced acute high mortality in 2003. Years later, sporadic mortality was noted for an extended period of months, resulting in high cumulative mortality. Moribund abalones were analyzed using PCR, in situ hybridization, and histopathology, because thus far no viral particles have been observed by transmission electron microscopy. PCR using 20 primer sets, specifically designed from sequences of acute AbHV infection, failed to amplify any products from abalones suffering from chronic mortality. Subsequently, a 1406-bp sequence was amplified from chronic moribund abalones, and this sequence showed a 92% (553 bp/602 bp) homology with the gene of an AbHV Taiwan isolate (NCBI serial no. KF537536.1), suggestive of an AbHV pathotype. Histopathology of AbHV pathotype infection showed hemocyte infiltration in the lamina propia of the digestive tract, and hemocytes of various stages were evident, as well as the loss of seminal tubules in the gonad. In situ hybridization revealed that in AbHV infection, positive signals were restricted to the neural ganglia, while in AbHV pathotype infection, positive signals were observed only in the hemocytes. It appeared that the tropism of AbHV shifted from mainly neurotropic in AbHV infection to mainly hemocytotropic in abalone suffering from chronic mortality. Abalone shriveling syndrome-associated virus co-infection was detected in some of AbHV pathotype infection events. Further studies are needed to better understand the pathogenesis of AbHV pathotype affecting H. diversicolor in Taiwan.
Solution of a Nonlinear Thermal Problem in Connected Domains
Authors: Taghite M'B. , Kouitat R. , Bendib S. , Dubois G. , Bonzi B. K.
Published: February 2016

In this paper, the limit behavior of nonlinear problems with nonhomogeneous Fourier boundary conditions, in a connected domain is established. This domain consists of two separate parts jointed by a set of bridges. The parameter describing the heterogeneities of the material and the size of the bridges can be very small. The homogenization method is used to estimate the field of temperatures attainable in the medium, depending of the relative order of the size of the bridges. Three situations are studied according to the connectedness of the components of the domain.
Voluntary wheel running attenuates lipopolysaccharide-induced liver inflammation in mice
Authors: Peppler Willem T. , Anderson Zachary G. , Sutton Charles D. , Rector R. Scott , Wright David C.
Published: February 2016

Sepsis induces an acute inflammatory response in the liver, which can lead to organ failure and death. Given the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise, we hypothesized that habitual physical activity could protect against acute sepsis-induced liver inflammation via mechanisms, including heat shock protein (HSP) 70/72. Male C57BL/6J mice ( n = 80, ∼8 wk of age) engaged in physical activity via voluntary wheel running (VWR) or cage control (SED) for 10 wk. To induce sepsis, we injected (2 mg/kg ip) LPS or sterile saline (SAL), and liver was harvested 6 or 12 h later. VWR attenuated increases in body and epididymal adipose tissue mass, improved glucose tolerance, and increased liver protein content of PEPCK ( P < 0.05). VWR attenuated increases in LPS-induced IL-6 signaling and mRNA expression of other inflammatory markers (TNF-α, chemokine C-C motif ligand 2, inducible nitric oxide synthase, IL-10, IL-1β) in the liver; however, this was not reflected at the whole body level, as systemic markers of inflammation were similar between SED and VWR. Insulin tolerance was greater in VWR compared with SED at 6 but not 12 h after LPS. The protective effect of VWR occurred in parallel with increases in the liver protein content of HSP70/72, a molecular chaperone that can protect against inflammatory challenges. This study provides novel evidence that physical activity protects against the inflammatory cascade induced by LPS in the liver and that these effects may be mediated via HSP70/72.
Loss of diacylglycerol kinase epsilon in mice causes endothelial distress and impairs glomerular Cox-2 and PGE2production
Authors: Zhu Jili , Chaki Moumita , Lu Dongmei , Ren Chongyu , Wang Shan-Shan , Rauhauser Alysha , Li Binghua , Zimmerman Susan , Jun Bokkyoo , Du Yong , Vadnagara Komal , Wang Hanquin , Elhadi Sarah , Quigg Richard J. , Topham Matthew K. , Mohan Chandra , Ozaltin Fatih , Zhou Xin J. , Marciano Denise K. , Bazan Nicolas G. , Attanasio Massimo
Published: February 2016

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a disorder characterized by microvascular occlusion that can lead to thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, and glomerular damage. Complement activation is the central event in most cases of TMA. Primary forms of TMA are caused by mutations in genes encoding components of the complement or regulators of the complement cascade. Recently, we and others have described a genetic form of TMA caused by mutations in the gene diacylglycerol kinase-ε ( DGKE) that encodes the lipid kinase DGKε(Lemaire M, Fremeaux-Bacchi V, Schaefer F, Choi MR, Tang WH, Le Quintrec M, Fakhouri F, Taque S, Nobili F, Martinez F, Ji WZ, Overton JD, Mane SM, Nurnberg G, Altmuller J, Thiele H, Morin D, Deschenes G, Baudouin V, Llanas B, Collard L, Majid MA, Simkova E, Nurnberg P, Rioux-Leclerc N, Moeckel GW, Gubler MC, Hwa J, Loirat C, Lifton RP. Nat Genet 45: 531–536, 2013; Ozaltin F, Li BH, Rauhauser A, An SW, Soylemezoglu O, Gonul II, Taskiran EZ, Ibsirlioglu T, Korkmaz E, Bilginer Y, Duzova A, Ozen S, Topaloglu R, Besbas N, Ashraf S, Du Y, Liang CY, Chen P, Lu DM, Vadnagara K, Arbuckle S, Lewis D, Wakeland B, Quigg RJ, Ransom RF, Wakeland EK, Topham MK, Bazan NG, Mohan C, Hildebrandt F, Bakkaloglu A, Huang CL, Attanasio M. J Am Soc Nephrol 24: 377–384, 2013). DGKεis unrelated to the complement pathway, which suggests that unidentified pathogenic mechanisms independent of complement dysregulation may result in TMA. Studying Dgke knockout mice may help to understand the pathogenesis of this disease, but no glomerular phenotype has been described in these animals so far. Here we report that Dgke null mice present subclinical microscopic anomalies of the glomerular endothelium and basal membrane that worsen with age and develop glomerular capillary occlusion when exposed to nephrotoxic serum. We found that induction of cyclooxygenase-2 and of the proangiogenic prostaglandin E2are impaired in Dgke null kidneys and are associated with reduced expression of the antithrombotic cell adhesion molecule platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1/CD31 in the glomerular endothelium. Notably, prostaglandin E2supplementation was able to rescue motility defects of Dgke knockdown cells in vitro and to restore angiogenesis in a test in vivo. Our results unveil an unexpected role of Dgke in the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 and in the regulation of glomerular prostanoids synthesis under stress.
Disruption of KCNJ10 (Kir4.1) stimulates the expression of ENaC in the collecting duct
Authors: Su Xiao-Tong , Zhang Chengbiao , Wang Lijun , Gu Ruimin , Lin Dao-Hong , Wang Wen-Hui
Published: February 2016

Kcnj10 encodes the inwardly rectifying K+channel 4.1 (Kir4.1) and is expressed in the basolateral membrane of late thick ascending limb, distal convoluted tubule (DCT), connecting tubule (CNT), and cortical collecting duct (CCD). In the present study, we perform experiments in postneonatal day 9 Kcnj10−/−or wild-type mice to examine the role of Kir.4.1 in contributing to the basolateral K+conductance in the CNT and CCD, and to investigate whether the disruption of Kir4.1 upregulates the expression of the epithelial Na+channel (ENaC). Immunostaining shows that Kir4.1 is expressed in the basolateral membrane of CNT and CCD. Patch-clamp studies detect three types of K+channels (23, 40, and 60 pS) in the basolateral membrane of late CNT and initial CCD in wild-type (WT) mice. However, only 23- and 60-pS K+channels but not the 40-pS K+channel were detected in Kcnj10−/−mice, suggesting that Kir.4.1 is a key component of the 40-pS K+channel in the CNT/CCD. Moreover, the depletion of Kir.4.1 did not increase the probability of finding the 23- and 60-pS K+channel in the CNT/CCD. We next used the perforated whole cell recording to measure the K+reversal voltage in the CNT/CCD as an index of cell membrane potential. Under control conditions, the K+reversal potential was −69 mV in WT mice and −61 mV in Kcnj10−/−mice, suggesting that Kir4.1 partially participates in generating membrane potential in the CNT/CCD. Western blotting and immunostaining showed that the expression of ENaCβ and ENaCγ subunits from a renal medulla section of Kcnj10−/−mice was significantly increased compared with that of WT mice. Also, the disruption of Kir4.1 increased aquaporin 2 expression. We conclude that Kir4.1 is expressed in the CNT and CCD and partially participates in generating the cell membrane potential. Also, increased ENaC expression in medullary CD of Kcnj10−/−mice is a compensatory action in response to the impaired Na+transport in the DCT.
Cerebellar contributions to self-motion perception: evidence from patients with congenital cerebellar agenesis
Authors: Dahlem Kilian , Valko Yulia , Schmahmann Jeremy D. , Lewis Richard F.
Published: February 2016

The cerebellum was historically considered a brain region dedicated to motor control, but it has become clear that it also contributes to sensory processing, particularly when sensory discrimination is required. Prior work, for example, has demonstrated a cerebellar contribution to sensory discrimination in the visual and auditory systems. The cerebellum also receives extensive inputs from the motion and gravity sensors in the vestibular labyrinth, but its role in the perception of head motion and orientation has received little attention. Drawing on the lesion-deficit approach to understanding brain function, we evaluated the contributions of the cerebellum to head motion perception by measuring perceptual thresholds in two subjects with congenital agenesis of the cerebellum. We used a set of passive motion paradigms that activated the semicircular canals or otolith organs in isolation or combination, and compared results of the agenesis patients with healthy control subjects. Perceptual thresholds for head motion were elevated in the agenesis subjects for all motion protocols, most prominently for paradigms that only activated otolith inputs. These results demonstrate that the cerebellum increases the sensitivity of the brain to the motion and orientation signals provided by the labyrinth during passive head movements.
Incorporating spike-rate adaptation into a rate code in mathematical and biological neurons
Authors: Ralston Bridget N. , Flagg Lucas Q. , Faggin Eric , Birmingham John T.
Published: February 2016

For a slowly varying stimulus, the simplest relationship between a neuron's input and output is a rate code, in which the spike rate is a unique function of the stimulus at that instant. In the case of spike-rate adaptation, there is no unique relationship between input and output, because the spike rate at any time depends both on the instantaneous stimulus and on prior spiking (the “history”). To improve the decoding of spike trains produced by neurons that show spike-rate adaptation, we developed a simple scheme that incorporates “history” into a rate code. We utilized this rate-history code successfully to decode spike trains produced by 1) mathematical models of a neuron in which the mechanism for adaptation ( IAHP) is specified, and 2) the gastropyloric receptor (GPR2), a stretch-sensitive neuron in the stomatogastric nervous system of the crab Cancer borealis, that exhibits long-lasting adaptation of unknown origin. Moreover, when we modified the spike rate either mathematically in a model system or by applying neuromodulatory agents to the experimental system, we found that changes in the rate-history code could be related to the biophysical mechanisms responsible for altering the spiking.
Odors enhance slow-wave activity in non-rapid eye movement sleep
Authors: Perl Ofer , Arzi Anat , Sela Lee , Secundo Lavi , Holtzman Yael , Samnon Perry , Oksenberg Arie , Sobel Noam , Hairston Ilana S.
Published: February 2016

Most forms of suprathreshold sensory stimulation perturb sleep. In contrast, presentation of pure olfactory or mild trigeminal odorants does not lead to behavioral or physiological arousal. In fact, some odors promote objective and subjective measures of sleep quality in humans and rodents. The brain mechanisms underlying these sleep-protective properties of olfaction remain unclear. Slow oscillations in the electroencephalogram (EEG) are a marker of deep sleep, and K complexes (KCs) are an EEG marker of cortical response to sensory interference. We therefore hypothesized that odorants presented during sleep will increase power in slow EEG oscillations. Moreover, given that odorants do not drive sleep interruption, we hypothesized that unlike other sensory stimuli odorants would not drive KCs. To test these hypotheses we used polysomnography to measure sleep in 34 healthy subjects (19 women, 15 men; mean age 26.5 ± 2.5 yr) who were repeatedly presented with odor stimuli via a computer-controlled air-dilution olfactometer over the course of a single night. Each participant was exposed to one of four odorants, lavender oil ( n = 13), vetiver oil ( n = 5), vanillin ( n = 12), or ammonium sulfide ( n = 4), for durations of 5, 10, and 20 s every 9–15 min. Consistent with our hypotheses, we found that odor presentation during sleep enhanced the power of delta (0.5–4 Hz) and slow spindle (9–12 Hz) frequencies during non-rapid eye movement sleep. The increase was proportionate to odor duration. In addition, odor presentation did not modulate the occurrence of KCs. These findings imply a sleep-promoting olfactory mechanism that may deepen sleep through driving increased slow-frequency oscillations.
In Utero Origins of Hypertension: Mechanisms and Targets for Therapy
Authors: Morton Jude S. , Cooke Christy-Lynn , Davidge Sandra T.
Published: February 2016

The developmental origins of health and disease theory is based on evidence that a suboptimal environment during fetal and neonatal development can significantly impact the evolution of adult-onset disease. Abundant evidence exists that a compromised prenatal (and early postnatal) environment leads to an increased risk of hypertension later in life. Hypertension is a silent, chronic, and progressive disease defined by elevated blood pressure (>140/90 mmHg) and is strongly correlated with cardiovascular morbidity/mortality. The pathophysiological mechanisms, however, are complex and poorly understood, and hypertension continues to be one of the most resilient health problems in modern society. Research into the programming of hypertension has proposed pharmacological treatment strategies to reverse and/or prevent disease. In addition, modifications to the lifestyle of pregnant women might impart far-reaching benefits to the health of their children. As more information is discovered, more successful management of hypertension can be expected to follow; however, while pregnancy complications such as fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, preterm birth, etc., continue to occur, their offspring will be at increased risk for hypertension. This article reviews the current knowledge surrounding the developmental origins of hypertension, with a focus on mechanistic pathways and targets for therapeutic and pharmacologic interventions.
Industrial Wastes as Auxiliary Additives to Cement/Lime Stabilization of Soils
Authors: James Jijo , Pandian P. Kasinatha
Published: February 2016

Chemical stabilization involves the use of chemical agents for initiating reactions within the soil for modification of its geotechnical properties. Cement and lime stabilization have been the most common stabilization methods adopted for soil treatment. Cement stabilization results in good compressive strengths and is preferred for cohesionless to moderately cohesive soil but loses effectiveness when the soil is highly plastic. Lime stabilization is the most preferred method for plastic clays; however, it proves to be ineffective in sulphate rich clays and performs poorly under extreme conditions. With such drawbacks, lots of researches have been undertaken to address the issues faced with each stabilization method, in particular, the use of solid wastes for soil stabilization. Solid waste reuse has gained high momentum for achieving sustainable waste management in recent times. Research has shown that the use of solid wastes as additives with and replacement for conventional stabilizers has resulted in better results than the performance of either individually. This review provides insight into some of the works done by earlier researchers on lime/cement stabilization with industrial wastes as additives and helps to form a sound platform for further research on industrial wastes as additives to conventional stabilizers.
A Study of N,N-Diethylammonium O,O′-Di(p-methoxyphenyl)dithiophosphate as New Corrosion Inhibitor for Carbon Steel in Hydrochloric Acid Solution
Authors: Lai Chuan , Xie Bin , Liu Changlu , Gou Wan , Zhou Lvshan , Su Xiulan , Zou Like
Published: February 2016

N,N-Diethylammonium O,O′-di(p-methoxyphenyl)dithiophosphate (EAPP) as a new corrosion inhibitor was synthesized in the present work. The corrosion inhibition of EAPP in hydrochloric acid for carbon steel was evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, weight loss measurements, and scanning electron microscopy. The results indicate that the EAPP is mixed type inhibitor, and the adsorption of EAPP on carbon steel surface obeys Langmuir isotherm. In addition, the inhibition efficiency increases with increasing the concentration of inhibitor and decreases with increasing the hydrochloric acid concentration, temperature, and storage time.
Aging Increases Susceptibility to High Fat Diet‐Induced Metabolic Syndrome in C57BL/6 Mice: Improvement in Glycemic and Lipid Profile after Antioxidant Therapy
Authors: Nunes-Souza Valéria , César-Gomes Cheila Juliana , Da Fonseca Lucas José Sá , Guedes Glaucevane Da Silva , Smaniotto Salete , Rabelo Luíza Antas
Published: February 2016

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has been considered a novel component of the metabolic syndrome (MetS), with the oxidative stress participating in its progression. This study aimed to evaluate the metabolic profile in young and old mice with MetS, and the effects of apocynin and tempol on glycemic and lipid parameters. Young and old C57BL/6 mice with high fat diet‐ (HFD‐) induced MetS received apocynin and tempol 50 mg·kg−1/day in their drinking water for 10 weeks. After HFD, the young group showed elevated fasting glucose, worsened lipid profile in plasma, steatosis, and hepatic lipid peroxidation. Nevertheless, the old group presented significant increase in fasting insulin levels, insulin resistance, plasma and hepatic lipid peroxidation, and pronounced steatosis. The hepatic superoxide dismutase and catalase activity did not differ between the groups. Tempol and apocynin seemed to prevent hepatic lipid deposition in both groups. Furthermore, apocynin improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in old mice. In summary, old mice are more susceptible to HFD‐induced metabolic changes than their young counterparts. Also, the antioxidant therapy improved insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, and in addition, apocynin seemed to prevent the HFD‐induced hepatic fat deposition, suggesting an important role of oxidative stress in the induction of NAFLD.
Modes of Antiviral Action of Chemical Portions and Constituents from Woad Root Extract against Influenza Virus A FM1
Authors: Su Jia-Hang , Diao Rui-Gang , Lv Shu-Guang , Mou Xiao-Dong , Li Kefeng
Published: February 2016

Woad root has been used for the prevention of influenza for hundreds of years in many Asian countries. In this study, the antiviral modes of clemastanin B (CB), epigoitrin, phenylpropanoid portion (PEP), and the mixture of phenylpropanoids, alkaloids, and organic acid portions (PEP + ALK + OA) from wood root extract against influenza virus A FM1 were investigated. The results revealed that CB, epigoitrin, PEP, and PEP + ALK + OA exert their anti‐influenza activity via inhibiting the virus multiplication, prophylaxis, and blocking the virus attachment. The primary mode of action of PEP and PEP + ALK + OA is the inhibition of virus replication. The inhibitory effect on virus attachment and multiplication is the main modes for epigoitrin. All the compounds or chemical portions from woad root extract tested in this study do not have direct virucidal activity. Our results provided the comprehensive analysis of the antiviral mechanism of wood root extract.
Long Term Survival and Continued Complete Response of Vemurafenib in a Metastatic Melanoma Patient with BRAF V600K Mutation
Authors: Sahadudheen K. , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Iddawela M.
Published: February 2016

Introduction. BRAF kinase inhibitors such as Vemurafenib have shown improvement in overall survival, progression-free survival, and response rates in patients with metastatic melanoma with BRAF V600K mutation. However, there were no cases of complete remission reported in patients with V600K mutation before.Case Presentation. A 53-year-old man with metastatic melanoma and dialysis dependent end stage renal failure was treated safely with Vemurafenib for a BRAF V600K mutation positive melanoma and the case was reported elsewhere. After a long follow-up of the same patient treated with Vemurafenib, a complete radiological response was observed and the renal functions remained stable throughout the treatment. Main toxicities reported were grade 1 photosensitivity and skin cancers. Vemurafenib was discontinued but patient remains disease free 12 months after stopping treatment and the clinical review is ongoing.Conclusion. This is the first reported case of complete radiological response to a BRAF inhibitor in metastatic melanoma with BRAF V600K mutation and remains disease free even after discontinuation of treatment. This also shows clinical safety of Vemurafenib in end stage renal failure and highlights the need for closer look at the subgroup of patients with BRAF V600K mutation and its tumour biology.
The Clinical Understaging of Recurrent Glottic Carcinoma after Radiation Failure
Authors: Mourad Moustafa , Moubayed Sami P. , Likhterov Ilya , Urken Mark
Published: February 2016

Background.Recurrent glottic squamous cell carcinomas following radiation therapy for early staged tumors are oftentime early staged tumors. Management of these early stage recurrences presents a dilemma for the head and neck surgeon. Difficulties in appropriate tumor mapping, preoperative analysis, and poor understanding of the virulent pathologic nature of the recurrence may impede surgical decision-making.Methods.This is a single surgeon case report, presenting a patient with rapid recurrence following salvage transoral resection for an early stage recurrence, necessitating a total laryngectomy.Results.A review of the literature was performed, identifying studies that expound on the pathologic behavior of radiation recurrent disease.Conclusions.Radiation recurrent glottic squamous cell carcinoma has a distinct pathologic behavior and aggressive nature. Disease virulence, coupled with difficulty in appropriate staging and preoperative tumor mapping, should guide the surgeon when deciding the surgical management in the salvage setting.
Intestinal Obstruction and Ileocolic Fistula due to Intraluminal Migration of a Gossypiboma
Authors: Margonis Evangelos , Vasdeki Dionysia , Diamantis Alexandros , Koukoulis Georgios , Christodoulidis Grigorios , Tepetes Konstantinos
Published: February 2016

Gossypiboma refers, as a term, to a retained surgical sponge. It is considered as a rare surgical complication which can occur despite precautions. We report a case of a 36-year-old woman who was admitted to our surgical department with symptoms of abdominal pain associated with episodes of nausea and vomiting that lasted for 2 months. Six months ago she had undergone a cesarean section in a private clinic. Computed tomography revealed a high-density mass occupying a portion of the intestinal lumen, which was reported as a “calcified parasite.” The patient was subjected to laparotomy. The intraoperative findings included signs of obstructive ileus and ileosigmoid fistula and a large sponge was found at the resected portion of the small intestine. Although gossypiboma is a rare entity, it should be included in the differential diagnosis.
The Equivalence of Datko and Lyapunov Properties for (h,k)-Trichotomic Linear Discrete-Time Systems
Authors: Mihiţ Claudia-Luminiţa , Megan Mihail , Ceauşu Traian
Published: February 2016

The aim of this paper is to characterize a general property of(h,k)-trichotomy through some Lyapunov functions for linear discrete-time systems in infinite dimensional spaces. Also, we apply the results to illustrate necessary and sufficient conditions for nonuniform exponential trichotomy and nonuniform polynomial trichotomy.
Effects of Safflower Yellow on the Treatment of Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Li Xiao-jin , Wang Ru-rong , Kang Yan , Liu Jin , Zuo Yun-xia , Zeng Xue-feng , Cheng Gong
Published: February 2016

Objective. To evaluate the clinical effect of safflower yellow on the treatment of severe sepsis and septic shock. Methods. 85 patients with severe sepsis and septic shock were randomly selected to receive either therapy according to the international guidelines for management of severe sepsis and septic shock (Surviving Sepsis Campaign 2012) (control group, n = 45) or conventional therapy plus safflower yellow (study group, n = 40). The 28‐day mortality and 28‐day Kaplan‐Meier survival curves were compared as primary outcomes. Results. The 28‐day mortality from all causes and in‐hospital mortality were significantly lower in the study group (50%, 17.5%) as compared to the control group (78.58%, 54.76%) (P = 0.007, all causes, P < 0.001, in‐hospital), and the 28‐day Kaplan‐Meier survival curve was higher in the study group than in the control group (P = 0.008, all causes, P < 0.001, in‐hospital, Log Rank). 72 hours after treatment, secondary outcomes including heart rate, leukocyte counts, lactate levels, and platelet counts of patients in the study group were ameliorated significantly as compared with the control group. Conclusion. This study offers a potential new strategy employing safflower yellow to more effectively treat patients with severe sepsis and septic shock. This trial is registered with identifier ChiCTR-TRC-14005196.
Conjunctival Involvement of T-Cell Lymphoma in a Patient with Mycosis Fungoides
Authors: Aldrees Sultan S. , Zoroquiain Pablo , Alghamdi Sarah A. , Logan Patrick T. , Callejo Sonia , Burnier Miguel N.
Published: February 2016

Background. Ocular involvement in mycosis fungoides (MF) cases occurs in one-third of patients with the eyelid being the most frequent site affected; however, conjunctival involvement is rarely reported. Herein, we report a rare case of conjunctival involvement of MF.Case Presentation. A 66-year-old man who was previously diagnosed with MF in 2010 and was treated presented in 2014 complaining of foreign body sensation and redness in both eyes. Slit lamp examination of both eyes showed erythematous conjunctival growth that extended circumferentially. Physical examination revealed erythematous skin lesions on different body parts. Conjunctival biopsy was performed and revealed a dense, highly polymorphic lymphocytic population. The immunophenotype demonstrated a neoplastic T-cell origin consistent with MF. A diagnosis of conjunctival involvement by MF was made. The conjunctiva was treated with radiotherapy resulting in tumor regression. There were no recurrences at the 6-month follow-up.Conclusion. T-cell lymphoma should be considered in patients with a history of MF presenting with conjunctival and skin lesions.
The Impact of Personality Traits on the Outcome of Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Giurea A. , Fraberger G. , Kolbitsch P. , Lass R. , Schneider E. , Kubista B. , Windhager R.
Published: February 2016

Ten to twenty percent of patients with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are dissatisfied with their clinical outcome. Aim of this study was to investigate the impact of personality traits on the subjective outcome of TKA. We investigated 80 patients with 86 computer navigated TKAs. We asked for patients satisfaction and divided patients into two groups (satisfied or dissatisfied). 12 personality traits were tested by the Freiburg Personality Inventory (FPI-R). Postoperative examination included Knee Society Score (KSS), Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Radiologic investigation was done in all patients. 84% of our patients were satisfied, while 16% were not satisfied. The FPI-R showed statistical significant influence of four personality traits on patient satisfaction: life satisfaction (p=0.006), performance orientation (p=0.015), somatic distress (p=0.001), and emotional stability (p=0.002). All clinical scores (VAS, WOMAC, and KSS) showed significantly better results in the satisfied patient. Radiological examination showed optimal alignment of all TKAs. There were no complications requiring revision surgery. The results of our study show that personality traits may influence patients satisfaction and clinical outcome after TKA. Therefore patients personality traits may be a useful predictive factor for postoperative satisfaction after TKA.
Uncommon Caecum Diverticulitis Mimicking Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Yilmaz Özkan , Kiziltan Remzi , Bayrak Vedat , Çelik Sebahattin , Çalli Iskan
Published: February 2016

Diverticulum of the cecum is a rarely seen reason of acute abdomen and it is difficult to be distinguished from appendicitis. The diagnosis is generally made during operation. We have presented this case in order to remember that it is a disease which should be kept in mind in cases of right lower quadrant pain.
Hermite-Hadamard-Fejér Type Inequalities for Quasi-Geometrically Convex Functions via Fractional Integrals
Authors: İşcan İmdat , Kunt Mehmet
Published: February 2016

Some Hermite-Hadamard-Fejér type integral inequalities for quasi-geometrically convex functions in fractional integral forms have been obtained.
Wear Behavior of Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite Prepared from Industrial Waste
Authors: Xavier L. Francis , Suresh Paramasivam
Published: February 2016

With an increase in the population and industrialization, a lot of valuable natural resources are depleted to prepare and manufacture products. However industrialization on the other hand has waste disposal issues, causing dust and environmental pollution. In this work, Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite is prepared by reinforcing 10 wt% and 20 wt% of wet grinder stone dust particles an industrial waste obtained during processing of quarry rocks which are available in nature. In the composite materials design wear is a very important criterion requiring consideration which ensures the materials reliability in applications where they come in contact with the environment and other surfaces. Dry sliding wear test was carried out using pin-on-disc apparatus on the prepared composites. The results reveal that increasing the reinforcement content from 10 wt% to 20 wt% increases the resistance to wear rate.
Vestibular Schwannoma Presenting as Oral Dysgeusia: An Easily Missed Diagnosis
Authors: Brown Emma , Staines Konrad
Published: February 2016

We present a case of a fifty-year-old male patient who was referred to the Oral Medicine Department with a complaint of a salty taste. History taking subsequently revealed that the patient was also experiencing intermittent numbness of his left lower lip, tinnitus, and a feeling of fullness in the left ear. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed which revealed a large vestibular schwannoma affecting the left vestibulocochlear nerve, which was treated surgically. This case shows the importance of taking a detailed history in a patient presenting with an initial complaint of oral dysgeusia. It also highlights the possibility of significant underlying pathology, presenting with initial low level, nonspecific complaints such as an altered taste, and the rationale for imaging patients who report unilateral facial hypoesthesia.
Using Quartz Crystal Microbalance for Field Measurement of Liquid Viscosities
Authors: Bai Qingsong , Huang Xianhe
Published: February 2016

The field measurement of liquid viscosities, especially the high viscous liquids, is challenging and often requires expensive equipment, long processing time, and lots of reagent. We use quartz crystal microbalances (QCMs) operating in solution which are also sensitive to the viscosity and density of the contacting solution. QCMs are typically investigated for sensor applications in which one surface of QCM completely immersed in Newtonian liquid, but the viscous damping in liquids would cause not only large frequency shifts but also large losses in the quality factorQleading to instability and even cessation of oscillation. A novel mass-sensitivity-based method for field measurement of liquid viscosities using a QCM is demonstrated in this paper and a model describing the influence of the liquid properties on the oscillation frequency is established as well. Two groups of verified experiments were performed and the experimental results show that the presented method is effective and possesses potential applications.
Comparison of the Postprocedural Quality of Life between Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fatima Kaneez , Yousuf-ul-Islam Mohammad , Ansari Mehreen , Bawany Faizan Imran , Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Khetpal Akash , Khetpal Neelam , Lashari Muhammad Nawaz , Arshad Mohammad Hussham , Amir Raamish Bin , Kakalia Hoshang Rustom , Zaidi Qaiser Hasan , Mian Sharmeen Kamran , Kazani Bahram
Published: February 2016

The treatment of choice between coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) has remained unclear. Considering quality of life (QOL) increases life expectancy, we believe QOL should be important in determining the optimum treatment. Thus the objective of this review was to illustrate the comparative effects of CABG and PCI on postprocedural QOL.Methods.We searched PubMed (Medline) and Embase from inception of the databases to May 2014 using “PCI versus CABG quality of life”, “Percutaneous Coronary intervention versus Coronary artery bypass graft surgery Quality of life”, “PCI versus CABG health status”, “Angioplasty versus CABG”, “Percutaneous coronary intervention versus coronary artery bypass surgery health status”, and different combinations of the above terms. 447 articles were found. After applying strict exclusion criteria, we included 13 studies in this review.Results.From the 9 studies that compared QOL scores at 6 months after procedure, 5 studies reported CABG to be superior. From the 10 studies that compared QOL among patients at 1 year after procedure, 9 reported CABG to be superior.Conclusion.It can be established that CABG is superior to PCI in improving patient’s QOL with respect to all scales used to determine quality of life.