bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DO BUSINESSMEN MAKE GOOD GOVERNORS?
Authors: Neumeier Florian
Published: March 2018

This paper evaluates the economic performance of U.S. state governors with a business background (chief executive officer [CEO] governors). Applying a matching method, I find, first, that businesspeople tend to take office in times of economic and fiscal strain. Second, the tenures of CEO governors are associated with a 0.5 percentage points (pp.) higher annual income growth rate, a 0.4 pp. higher growth rate of the private capital stock, and a 0.6 pp. lower unemployment rate than are the tenures of non‐CEO governors. State‐level income inequality is not affected by CEO governors holding office, indicating that low‐income households benefit from the economic upswing. (JEL C21, E24, O47)
Description, evaluation and scale‐up potential of a model for rapid access to early intervention for psychosis
Authors: MacDonald Kathleen , Malla Ashok , Joober Ridha , Shah Jai L. , Goldberg Karen , Abadi Sherezad , Doyle Madeline , Iyer Srividya N.
Published: March 2018

Aim

This paper aims to describe the entry protocol of the Prevention and Early Intervention for Psychosis Program (PEPP)‐Montreal, an early intervention program for psychosis. The protocol is designed to fulfil a key objective of the early intervention movement—reducing delays to accessing high‐quality care. The paper also aims to describe how this rapid entry protocol can be deployed in other services interested in reducing delays in initiating treatment.

Methods

PEPP provides rapid, easy access to quality care by placing a single, well‐trained professional, the intake clinician, at the point of entry. Anyone can refer a youth directly and without formalities to the intake clinician who responds promptly and sensitively to all help‐seeking, whether by a youth, a family member, a school counsellor or anyone acting on behalf of a youth in need. To promote accessibility, PEPP guarantees an initial assessment within 72 hours; maintains relationships with referral sources; and conducts awareness‐enhancing outreach activities.

Results

Since 2003, PEPP has received 1750 referrals, which have all been responded to within 72 hours. Families have been involved in the intake process in 60% of the cases and hospitalization may have been averted in over half of the referrals originating from emergency‐room services. Another indicator of success is the very low turnover in the intake clinician's position. Overall, the PEPP model has succeeded in providing rapid, engaging, easy and youth‐friendly access to high‐quality care.

Conclusion

The success of this protocol at PEPP has inspired the entry protocols at other first‐episode psychosis services. Its ability to provide rapid, engaging access to high‐quality services may allow this protocol to become a model for other early intervention services for psychosis and other mental illnesses.
“The familiar face of a word”:Wittgenstein andBenjamin on the experience of meaning
Authors: Stern Alexander
Published: March 2018

In what is now calledPhilosophy of Psychology—A Fragment(formerly Part II of thePhilosophical Investigations), Wittgenstein writes that the importance of the concept of aspect‐seeing “lies in the connection between the concepts of seeing an aspect and of experiencing the meaning of a word.” Wittgenstein claims that just as we can imagine someone who does not experience shifts between two aspects in the same image—for example, the duck–rabbit—we can imagine people who use language but do not experience the meaning of a word. In this paper, I explicate the importance of this “meaning‐blindness” and its relation to aspect‐seeing. I then argue—drawing on a similar thought experiment in Walter Benjamin's early philosophy of language—that meaning‐blindness is actually a fatal impediment for language use. The upshot of my analysis is that the aesthetic experience of meaning, regularly marginalized in the philosophy of language, must be understood as fundamental to language and language use.
Spinoza, money, and desire
Authors: Douglas Alexander
Published: March 2018

In the context of Spinoza's psychological and political theory, money appears as a profound social problem. I agree with Frédéric Lordon and André Orléan that Spinoza's psychological theory can explain how multiple agents can converge on a single monetary good as a means of payment. I disagree, however, with their further claim that this convergence brings an end to rivalrous conflict among those agents. Instead, I argue, it intensifies and concentrates this rivalry, threatening the very bonds that hold society together. Yet money is, on Spinoza's account, necessary for commerce, and commerce is necessary for humans to live together. The social problem that thus arises is that of ensuring that money can play its vital role in supporting commerce without giving way to destructive rivalries that can destroy society. My interpretation of Spinoza on these points is influenced by the theory of René Girard, with which Spinoza's account has some striking parallels.
Operationalizing the Concept of Conflicting Functional Demands
Authors: Worren Nicolay
Published: March 2018

A number of authors have described the challenge of managing organizations that are subject to conflicting functional demands. These authors belong to different sub‐disciplines of the field, and have demonstrated that conflicting external demands may result in inconsistent strategies, organizational structures, and management practices. Although the issue is widely recognized, the concept of ‘conflicting functional demands’ has rarely been operationalized. The lack of operationalization complicates the interpretation of existing research. It also leads to weak prescriptions for practice. The question raised in this paper is thus how we may operationalize this concept and assess it empirically. The key proposal is to separate between function and structure (or ends and means) and to define functional conflict as a negative interdependency between a particular function (e.g., a goal or requirement) and a structural element (e.g., an organizational unit). This reconceptualization suggests an alternative manner in which to test dualistic models that contain two opposing factors, such as exploration vs. exploitation, related vs. unrelated diversification, or broad vs. narrow strategy.
Potentially inappropriate medications with polypharmacy increase the risk of falls in older Japanese patients: 1‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Masumoto Shoichi , Sato Mikiya , Maeno Takami , Ichinohe Yumiko , Maeno Tetsuhiro
Published: March 2018

Aim

We aimed to evaluate whether potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) increase the risk for adverse clinical outcomes including falls, emergency department (ED) visits and unplanned hospitalizations in older Japanese patients with chronic diseases, comparing the difference between patients with and without polypharmacy.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study was carried out in a Japanese outpatient primary care clinic. Baseline data was collected from January to March 2016. A total of 740 patients aged ≥65 years with chronic diseases were enrolled and were followed up at 1 year; falls, ED visits and unplanned hospitalizations were recorded. A questionnaire and review of the patients’ medical records were used to collect information regarding sociodemographic status, comorbidities and medication prescriptions. PIMs were defined using the Screening Tool of Older Person's Prescriptions criteria version 2. Using logistic regression analysis, the incidence of falls, and ED visits and hospitalizations were compared between patients with and without PIMs, stratifying by number of prescriptions: those with five or more prescriptions and those with fewer than five prescriptions.

Results

PIMs were identified in 32.3% of enrolled patients. After stratification by number of prescriptions, PIMs were significantly associated with falls in the group with polypharmacy (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.11–3.69). This association was not seen in the group without polypharmacy. PIMs were not associated with ED visits or hospitalizations at the 1‐year follow up upon multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

The combination of PIMs and polypharmacy might increase the risk of falls, therefore clinicians need to pay attention to both PIMs and polypharmacy. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 1064–1070.
Long‐term tolerability, immunogenicity and efficacy of Nuwiq® (human‐cl rhFVIII) in children with severe haemophilia A
Authors: Klukowska A. , Szczepański T. , Vdovin V. , Knaub S. , Bichler J. , Jansen M. , Dzhunova I. , Liesner R. J.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Nuwiq® (human‐cl rhFVIII, simoctocog alfa) is a 4th generation recombinant human FVIII, without chemical modification or fusion with any other protein, produced in a human cell line.

Aim/Methods

This study (GENA‐13) was an extension of the GENA‐03 study in which previously treated children aged 2‐12 years with severe haemophilia A received Nuwiq® prophylaxis for ≥6 months. GENA‐13 examined long‐term tolerability, immunogenicity and efficacy of Nuwiq® prophylaxis in children.

Results

Of 59 patients enrolled in GENA‐03, 49 continued Nuwiq® prophylaxis in GENA‐13 for a median (range) of 30.0 (9.5‐52.0) months. No patient withdrew due to drug‐related adverse events or developed inhibitors. Only 2 of 20 518 infusions were associated with possibly related adverse events (dyspnoea, fever). The estimated annualized bleeding rate (ABR) was 0.67 (95% CI: 0.44, 1.02) for spontaneous and 2.88 (95% CI: 1.86, 4.46) for all bleeds. Younger children (2‐5 years) had lower ABRs than children aged 6‐12 years. Annualized bleeding rates were reduced in GENA‐13 vs GENA‐03, especially for spontaneous bleeds in younger children (71% reduction; ABR ratio 0.29 [95% CI: 0.11, 0.74]). Nuwiq® efficacy was rated as excellent/good in the treatment of 83.0% of 305 evaluated breakthrough bleeds. Surgical prophylaxis with Nuwiq® was rated as excellent for all 17 assessed procedures.

Conclusion

Long‐term treatment with Nuwiq® for the prevention of bleeds in children with severe haemophilia A was well tolerated, effective and reduced spontaneous bleeding by up to 70% compared with GENA‐03.
Preparation of carbon/carbon‐ultra high temperature ceramics composites with ultra high temperature ceramics coating
Authors: Xu Lin , Cheng Jia , Li Xingchao , Zhang Yin , Fan Zhen , Song Yongzhong , Feng Zhihai
Published: March 2018

In order to increase the oxidation resistance of carbon/carbon (C/C) composites at long‐term high temperature, C/C‐Ultra High Temperature Ceramics composites (UHTCs) with a dual‐layer UHTCs oxidation coating was successfully designed and fabricated. The microstructure and ablation resistance were investigated and discussed. After ablation in arc‐heated wind tunnel with temperature being 2200°C for 1000s, the mass ablation rate and linear ablation rate were −1.9 × 10−2 mg/cm2s and 2.9 × 10−5 mm/s, respectively. The formation of thermodynamically compatible oxide scale including ZrO2 skeleton and SiO2 or Zr–Si–O glass on the surface were mainly contributed to the excellent ablation resistance of the composite.
Stability and calorimetric studies of silico‐ferrites of calcium aluminum and magnesium
Authors: Zöll Klaus , Benisek Artur , Dachs Edgar , Kahlenberg Volker , Saxer Andreas , Tropper Peter , de Villiers Johan
Published: March 2018

In a systematic study on silico‐ferrites of calcium aluminum and magnesium (SFCA phases) this investigation focuses on synthesis of silicon‐free SFCA‐type compounds with low‐MgO contents (~1.00 apfu—atoms per formula unit). Previous studies revealed the existence of iron‐rich SFCA phases similar to the SFCA‐I structure with the chemical composition Ca3MgAl6Fe10O28 (Metall Mater Trans B. 2017;48:2207). The experimental results in the quaternary Fe2O3‐CaO‐Al2O3‐MgO system confirm large stability fields of 2 silicon‐free ferrites FCAM‐I and FCAM‐III, which are members of the homologous series M14+6nO20+8n (n = 1, 2). Starting with compositions corresponding to Ca3MgAlxFe16‐xO28 (with increasing aluminum content from x = 0‐12 apfu), it was possible to synthesize these phases with an x‐value ≥2 apfu, which corresponds to Al2O3 contents ≥7.14 wt%. Synthesis of pure silicon‐free ferrites with n = 1 (FCAM‐I) and 2 (FCAM‐III) and silicon‐bearing ferrites with n = 0 (SFCA) was possible. Samples were characterized by electron probe microanalysis, powder diffraction, and subsequently studied using relaxation calorimetry measurements in combination with differential scanning calorimetry for determination of the heat capacities and standard entropies S°(298). The corresponding values are S°(298) = 650.3 ± 4.6 J/mol·K for SFCA, S°(298) = 864.5 ± 6.1 J/mol·K for FCAM‐I, and S°(298) = 1206.2 ± 8.4 J/mol·K for FCAM‐III. These thermodynamic data are a step toward a rigorous quantitative thermodynamic modeling of the iron ore sintering process.
Considering dominance in reduced single‐step genomic evaluations
Authors: Ertl J. , Edel C. , Pimentel E.C.G. , Emmerling R. , Götz K.‐U.
Published: March 2018

Single‐step models including dominance can be an enormous computational task and can even be prohibitive for practical application. In this study, we try to answer the question whether a reduced single‐step model is able to estimate breeding values of bulls and breeding values, dominance deviations and total genetic values of cows with acceptable quality. Genetic values and phenotypes were simulated (500 repetitions) for a small Fleckvieh pedigree consisting of 371 bulls (180 thereof genotyped) and 553 cows (40 thereof genotyped). This pedigree was virtually extended for 2,407 non‐genotyped daughters. Genetic values were estimated with the single‐step model and with different reduced single‐step models. Including more relatives of genotyped cows in the reduced single‐step model resulted in a better agreement of results with the single‐step model. Accuracies of genetic values were largest with single‐step and smallest with reduced single‐step when only the cows genotyped were modelled. The results indicate that a reduced single‐step model is suitable to estimate breeding values of bulls and breeding values, dominance deviations and total genetic values of cows with acceptable quality.
Biofilm‐forming ability of Alicyclobacillus spp. isolates from orange juice concentrate processing plant
Authors: Prado Daniela Biral do , Fernandes Meg da Silva , dos Anjos Márcia Maria , Tognim Maria Cristina Bronharo , Nakamura Celso Vataru , Machinski Junior Miguel , Mikcha Jane Martha Graton , de Abreu Filho Benício Alves
Published: March 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the biofilm‐forming ability of Alicyclobacillus spp. isolates. Biofilm formation was evaluated under a stainless steel surface using orange juice as a culture medium at different temperatures (28 and 45  °C, 30 and 45  °C, and 45 and 60  °C) and contact times (24, 72, and 120 hr). The degree of hydrophobicity and the survival time of the different isolates on the abiotic surface were also investigated. Five Alicyclobacillus spp. isolates from the orange juice industry and a reference strain of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris 0244T were used. The biofilm formation of Alicyclobacillus was observed from 24 hr of contact in at least one temperature tested, as a function of the different incubation times and temperatures. Alicyclobacillus spp. presented variations in the degree of hydrophobicity. Surprisingly, two biofilm‐forming isolates (CCT 7230 and CCT 7346) were hydrophilic, with hydrophobicity index <20%, therefore, they are not necessarily related to cell hydrophobicity and adherence of Alicyclobacillus to the stainless steel surface. This study demonstrated that Alicycclobacillus spp. isolates from the industry can survive the processing conditions and form biofilms on contact surfaces.

Practical applications

Alicyclobacillus spp. may be present in the orange juice industry and form biofilms. In addition, it is known that the equipment is exposed to a wide temperature range for different periods of time and that poorly sanitized stainless steel equipment and surface can provide substrates for the formation of biofilms by Alicyclobacillus spp. Therefore, it is of the most importance to understand how these factors influence the adhesion and formation of Alicyclobacillus spp. in the processing of orange juice.
Advanced meat preservation methods: A mini review
Authors: ur Rahman Ubaid , Sahar Amna , Ishaq Anum , Aadil Rana Muhammad , Zahoor Tahir , Ahmad Muhammad Haseeb
Published: March 2018

Development of various novel thermal and nonthermal techniques has shown potential applications in meat processing and preservation. Consumer's demand of meat products with esteemed quality, wholesomeness, and superior safety has led to the commercial introduction of these innovative methods. Accordingly, this treatise outlines the potential of several advanced thermal and nonthermal methods like super‐chilling, ultrarapid freezing, immersion vacuum cooling, hydrofluidization freezing, impingement freezing, electrostatic‐assisted freezing, pressure‐shift freezing, acidic electrolyzed water coupled with high hydrostatic pressure, and nonthermal plasma technique for preserving meat quality and prolongation of shelf stability. This article also highlights the advancements in the packaging technology like use of linear low‐density polyethylene‐based active clay nanocomposite films and resulted benefits for the meat sector. Additionally, consumer responses to various meat products preserved with these technologies are also discussed in this critique. The focal objective of the current discourse is to reconnoiter the aptitude of these novel techniques in meat preservation so that these methods can be adopted at commercial scale in a much broader sense.

Practical applications

For decades, several methods have been adopted for preservation of meat. With technological advancements, meat industry is looking for some modern and economic preservation methods for meat and meat‐based products. In this regard, several nonconventional techniques like super‐chilling, hydrofluidization freezing, impingement freezing, electrostatic‐assisted freezing, and pressure‐shift freezing have shown their potential for effective meat preservation. Therefore, this article will be helpful for the meat industrialists to consider these techniques for commercial preservation of meat and meat products in a more effectual manner.
The inhibitory effect of traditional pomegranate molasses on S. typhimurium growth on parsley leaves and in mixed salad vegetables
Authors: Faour‐Klingbeil Dima , Todd Ewen C. D.
Published: March 2018

Pomegranate (PG) molasses is an essential condiment that is commonly used in Middle Eastern cuisine in local and international gastronomic markets. There is scarce information on the inhibitory effect of PG molasses on Salmonella growth mainly under in situ conditions and in a food matrix. PG molasses in different dilution ratios of 1:1 and 1:7, combined with sodium chloride (2%, v/v), vinegar (2.4%, v/v), and in a dressing mix was tested against Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium LT2 on parsley and salad vegetables. The results showed significant log reductions in Salmonella on parsley treated with PG solutions for 15, 30, and 60 min, reaching a level of 2.55 log cfu/g. The addition of sodium chloride (2%, v/v) and vinegar (2.4%, v/v) to PG molasses did not exert a synergistic or antagonistic effect on its antibacterial activity. Additionally, the application of PG molasses dressing on salads contaminated with low (3 log cfu/g) and high (6 log cfu/g) inoculum levels resulted in 2–3 log reduction independent of temperature (p < .05) compared with 0.5–1 log reduction for thorough washing alone which may damage the leaf surfaces. This study showed that PG molasses has a great efficacy against S. typhimurium and the potential to enhance the microbial safety of ready‐to‐eat salads and parsley leaves.

Practical applications

The implication of fresh‐cut vegetables in food poisoning are well documented, at the same time, the washing methods in restaurants or home settings are reportedly not effective enough to mitigate the risks of pathogens found in vegetables. This study shows that Pomegranate (PG) molasses has a greater efficacy than chlorine (200 ppm) against S. typhimurium and achieved comparable to greater log reduction values than organic acids. The storage temperature and food matrix did not alter the potency of PG. The present work showed that promoting the use of PG as a natural additive and condiment to ready‐to‐eat (RTE) vegetables offers a great potential to effectively reduce the risk of Salmonella contamination and to improve their microbial safety. Furthermore, this study provided preliminary data that serve as additional inputs in quantitative microbial risk assessment models for estimating the risk of Salmonella infection associated with consuming RTE salads served in Mediterranean cuisines.
Putative virulence traits and antibiogram profile of Aeromonas spp. isolated from frozen white‐leg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) marketed in Korea
Authors: De Silva B. C. J. , Hossain Sabrina , Wimalasena S. H. M. P. , Pathirana H. N. K. S. , Heo Gang‐Joon
Published: March 2018

We evaluated 44 strains of Aeromonas spp. consisting of five species; A. hydrophila, A. veronii, A. caviae, A. enteropelogenes, and A. media isolated from frozen white‐leg shrimp marketed in Korea. All the isolates were positive in DNase, protease, gelatinase, and lipase tests whereas 29 isolates (66%) were positive for slime production. Ten virulence genes were detected by PCR in which the prevalence of act, alt, ast, aerA, lip, ahyB, ser, fla, gcat, and ascV were 50%, 77%, 72%, 82%, 84%, 93%, 80%, 64%, 84%, and 23%, respectively. As observed in antibiogram, 100% resistance was detected in ampicillin and clindamycin while nalidixic acid, tetracycline, cephalothin, erythromycin, and trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole were resisted by 95%, 89%, 86%, 68%, and 66% of the isolates, respectively. Multiple antibiotic resistance index was >0.20 in 42/44 (95%) of the isolates. Overall, our results indicated that these aeromonads are indicative of a serious public health risk due to their virulence potential and the multiple‐antimicrobial resistance.

Practical applications

Similar to other seafood, shrimp have been identified as vehicles of Aeromonas spp. which are the etiological agents of many foodborne infections. The gyrB gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis confirmed the occurrence of five species of Aeromonas in frozen white‐leg shrimp marketed in Korea. Putative virulence properties were examined by both phenotypic tests and PCR assays whereby majority of the isolates exhibited the virulence both phenotypically and genetically. Besides, the disc diffusion test was carried out to assess the antibiotic susceptibility of the isolates. Following the results, the MAR index was calculated for each strain thereby suggested their high risk owing to MAR indices higher than 0.20. With our results, frozen white‐leg shrimp associated Aeromonas spp., exhibiting potential virulence and antimicrobial resistance, can be considered as a potential public health risk. Moreover, it is noteworthy that freezing the shrimp may not reduce the incidence of pathogenic Aeromonas.
First‐in‐human experience of left atrial appendage occlusion with the steerable FuStar sheath
Authors: Kleinecke Caroline , Gomez Monterrosas Omar , Scalone Giancarla , Lam Yat‐Yin , Shin Eun‐Seok , Bellmann Barbara , Brachmann Johannes , Park Jai‐Wun
Published: March 2018

Background

Due the wide variability of left atrial appendage morphology left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) remains a challenging procedure. The steerable FuStar delivery sheath was designed to allow both, transseptal access and delivery of percutaneous devices. We here report the first‐in‐human experience of LAAO with the FuStar sheath.

Methods

Twenty patients (76.6 ± 8.4 years; 12 (60%) males; CHA2DS2‐VASc score: 5.0 ± 2) with non‐valvular fibrillation and contraindications to oral anticoagulation underwent LAAO with the LAmbre device using the FuStar steerable sheath (Lifetech Scientific Corp., Shenzhen, China) at two german centers.

Results

Successful device implantation was achieved in all patients (100%). No periprocedural complications were observed. Procedure time, fluoroscopy time, contrast media, and radiation dose were 23.4 min ± 9.2, 11.9 min ± 4.1, 96.2 mL ± 45.7, and 2718.4 cG*cm2 ± 3835.3, respectively.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility and safety of the steerable FuStar sheath for LAAO.
Antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of 1,2-bis-(4 methoxyphenylselanyl) styrene in mice: involvement of the serotonergic system
Authors: Anversa Roberta Gonçalves , Sousa Fernanda Severo Sabedra , Birmann Paloma Taborda , Lima David Borba , Lenardão Eder João , Bruning César Augusto , Savegnago Lucielli
Published: March 2018

Background

Pain is one of the most prevalent, costly and disabling conditions that reduces quality of life. Although there are many analgesics available, there is some concern regarding their efficacy, safety and side effects. Organic selenium compounds are attractive targets of various research groups due to their pharmacological properties.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity of 1,2-bis-(4-methoxyphenylselanyl) styrene (BMOSE) in mice, as well as to investigate the mechanism involved in the antinociceptive effect.

Methods

The animals were submitted to the formalin and glutamate tests. The assessment of the possible involvement of the serotonergic system in BMOSE antinociceptive activity was performed using the glutamate test. Also, we investigated the possible toxicity of the compound.

Key findings

1,2-bis-(4-methoxyphenylselanyl) styrene (0.1–50 mg/kg, i.g.) was efficient in avoiding nociception induced by glutamate and formalin and also reduced paw oedema. The possible involvement of 5-HT3 serotoninergic receptor antagonist ondansetron blocked the antinociceptive effect of BMOSE. The acute toxicity assays did not show any toxicity related to the administration of BMOSE (200 mg/kg).

Conclusions

It is possible to conclude that BMOSE has both antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity, and the serotoninergic system, more specifically, the 5-HT3 receptor, is involved in the effect.
Human periodontal ligament cells exhibit no endotoxin tolerance upon stimulation with Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Blufstein A. , Behm C. , Nguyen P. Q. , Rausch‐Fan X. , Andrukhov O.
Published: March 2018

Background/Objectives

Endotoxin tolerance is characterized by a state of hyporesponsiveness after confrontation with endotoxins such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) at low concentrations. The aim of this study was to investigate, whether pretreatment with Porphyromonas gingivalis leads to endotoxin tolerance induction and possible alterations in toll‐like receptor (TLR) 2‐ and 4‐induced response in human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs).

Material and Methods

Primary hPDLCs were pretreated with P. gingivalis (0.1 or 0.3 μg/mL) LPS for 24 hours and afterwards treated with one of the following stimuli: P. gingivalis LPS (1 μg/mL); TLR4 agonist Escherichia coli LPS (0.1 μg/mL; 1 μg/mL); TLR2 agonist Pam3CSK4 (0.1 μg/mL; 1 μg/mL). The protein expression of interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8 and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 was analyzed with quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Gene expression levels of TLR2 and TLR4 were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Pretreatment of cells with low concentrations of P. gingivalis LPS did not result in lower production of IL‐6, IL‐8 and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 compared to control group. In some cases, pretreated cells exhibited lower gene expression levels of TLR2 and TLR4 compared to non‐pretreated cells.

Conclusion

The results of this study implicate that hPDLCs do not develop endotoxin tolerance. Furthermore, the amplitude of the inflammatory response shows no significant dependency on TLR2 and TLR4 expression levels.
Evaluation of updated sepsis scoring systems and systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria and their association with sepsis in equine neonates
Authors: Wong D. M. , Ruby R. E. , Dembek K. A. , Barr B. S. , Reuss S. M. , Magdesian K. G. , Olsen E. , Burns T. , Slovis N. M. , Wilkins P. A.
Published: March 2018

Background

The original equine sepsis score provided a method of identifying foals with sepsis. New variables associated with sepsis have been evaluated, but the sepsis score has not been updated.

Objectives

To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of 2 updated sepsis scores and the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) criteria in regard to detecting sepsis in foals.

Animals

Two‐hundred and seventy‐three ill foals and 25 healthy control foals.

Methods

Historical, physical examination, and clinicopathologic findings were used to calculate the original sepsis score and 2 updated sepsis scores. SIRS criteria were also evaluated. Sepsis scores and positive SIRS scores were statistically compared to foals with sepsis.

Results

One‐hundred and twenty‐six foals were septic and 147 sick‐nonseptic. The original and updated sepsis scores were significantly higher in septic foals as compared to sick‐nonseptic and healthy foals. The sensitivity and specificity of the updated sepsis scores to predict sepsis were not significantly better than those of the original sepsis score. One‐hundred and twenty‐seven of 273 (46.5%) foals met the original SIRS criteria and 88/273 (32%) foals met the equine neonatal SIRS criteria. The original SIRS criteria had similar sensitivity and specificity for predicting sepsis as did the 3 sepsis scores in our study.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The updated sepsis scores did not provide improved ability in predicting sepsis. Fulfilling the original SIRS criteria provided similar sensitivity and specificity in predicting sepsis as the modified sepsis score and might serve as a diagnostic aid in identifying foals at risk for sepsis.
Omeprazole‐induced hypertrichosis in two children
Authors: Elosua‐González Marta , Campos‐Domínguez Minia , Bancalari Daniel , Noguera‐Morel Lucero , Hernández‐Martín Angela , Huerta‐Aragonés Jorge , Torrelo Antonio
Published: March 2018

Omeprazole significantly increases duodenal prostaglandin E2 synthesis. Prostaglandins are involved in hair growth regulation: prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin F2 alpha stimulate hair growth, and prostaglandin D2 has an inhibitory effect. The use of omeprazole can cause acquired generalized hypertrichosis by increasing prostaglandin E2 levels.
Efficacy and tolerability of magnesium plus protein for managing hypomagnesemia in pediatric kidney transplant patients
Authors: Lewis Teresa V. , Neely Stephen , Turman Martin A.
Published: March 2018

We sought to investigate whether magnesium oxide bound to soy protein (MGP) increases serum magnesium concentrations with less diarrhea compared to commonly prescribed magnesium salts. Subjects were switched to MGP at a near‐equivalent daily elemental magnesium dose. Mean serum magnesium levels were compared. If magnesium levels remained <1.7 mg/dL after switching to MGP, subjects were enrolled into Part 2 and received a one‐time MGP dose adjustment. The MGP daily dose was increased by 266 mg. For both parts 1 and 2, subjects recorded the number and quality of their stools to assess gastrointestinal (GI) tolerability of MGP. Twelve pediatric kidney transplant recipients completed Part 1. Mean serum magnesium levels increased from 1.61 (SD 0.1) on standard MG to 1.69 (SD 0.1); t(11) = 2.6, P = .02 on MGP. Five subjects completed Part 2, and all achieved serum magnesium ≥1.7 mg/dL (mean 1.75 mg/dL, SD 0.06; t(4) = 2.7, P = .06). Subjects reported the same number of, but looser bowel movements with MGP; however, individuals did not perceive intolerable GI symptoms with MGP therapy and all chose to remain on MGP at the end of the study. At an equivalent mg/kg/d dose of elemental magnesium, serum magnesium levels on MGP were significantly higher.
Genesis and Metallogenic Process of the Lujing Uranium Deposit, Southwest Jiangxi Province, China: Constraints of Micropetrography and S–C–O Isotopes
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Tian , Pan Jia‐Yong , Xia Fei , Zhang Yong , Liu Guo‐Qi , Liu Ying , Zhong Fu‐Jun
Published: March 2018

The Lujing uranium deposit, located in the southeastern part of the Nanling metallogenic province, is one of the representative granite‐related hydrothermal uranium deposits in South China. Basic geology, geochemistry, and geochronology of the deposit have been extensively studied. However, there is still a chronic lack of systematic research on the genesis and metallogenic process of the deposit. Thus, we recently carried out an electron microprobe and stable isotopic analysis. The main research results and progresses are as follows:

Uranium minerals in this deposit include coffinite, pitchblende, and uranothorite, and small amounts of uranium exist in accessory minerals in the form of isomorphism. Coffinite, which occurs predominantly as the pseudomorphs after pitchblende, also occurs as a primary mineral and is locally formed from the remobilization of uranium from adjacent uranium‐bearing minerals. The mineralizing fluid was originally composed of a magmatic fluid generated by late Yanshanian magmatism. The high As content of pyrite in ores may reflect the addition of meteoric water, or the formation water (or both), to the magmatic hydrothermal system. The δ34S values vary from −14.4‰ to 13.9‰ (mean δ34S = −3.9‰), showing a range that is similar to nearby Cambrian metamorphic strata and Indosinian granites, indicating that these host rocks represent the source of sulfur; however, the possibility of a mantle source cannot be completely ruled out. According to our new isotopic data and recent Pb isotopic data, we conclude that the uranium in ores was derived by leaching dominantly from the uranium‐rich host rocks, especially the Cambrian metamorphic strata. The δ13CPDB values (−8.75‰ to 1.40‰; mean δ13CPDB = −5.41‰) and δ18OSMOW values (5.45–18.62‰; mean δ18O = 13.02‰) of reddish calcite from the ore‐forming stage suggest that the CO2 in the mineralizing fluids was derived predominantly from the mantle, with a small component contributed by marine carbonates. Based on these new data and previous research results, this paper proposes that uranium metallogenesis in the Lujing deposit is closely associated with mafic magmatism resulting from crustal extension during the Cretaceous to Paleogene in South China.
The Relation Between Lifelong Learning Tendency and Achievement Motivation
Authors: Yilmaz Emrullah , Kaygin Hüseyin
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study is to reveal the relation between lifelong learning tendency and achievement motivation. The sampling of the study consisted of 570 prospective teachers attending a pedagogical formation course at two universities in Turkey in 2016. Relational screening model was used in the study and the data were collected through achievement focused motivation scale and lifelong learning tendency scale. The collected data were analysed using regression analysis on SPSS 22. As the findings suggest, there is a low, positive correlation (r=0.095) between prospective teachers’ achievement motivation and lifelong learning tendency at 95% confidence interval. As for the correlation between lifelong learning tendency and the sub-dimensions of achievement motivation, lifelong learning tendency has a significant correlation with the expansion of objective (r=0,139), self-consciousness (r=0,128) and internal effect (r=0,089). However, it doesn’t correlate significantly with external effect (r=-0,024). As the standardised regression coefficient (β) indicates, the relative order of importance of predictor values on lifelong learning tendency is as follows; external effect, expansion of objective, self-consciousness and internal effect.
Preparation of renewable antireflection moth-eye surfaces by nanoimprinting using anodic porous alumina molds
Authors: Yanagishita Takashi , Kondo Toshiaki , Masuda Hideki
Published: March 2018

Renewable antireflection surfaces were formed by the lamination of polymer thin films with moth-eye structured surfaces. Moth-eye structures were prepared by nanoimprinting using an anodic porous alumina mold. Thin-film lamination was performed using a photocurable monomer as an adhesive. A renewed low-reflectance moth-eye structured surface could be exposed by peeling the uppermost film from the sample.
Influence of deposition conditions on the growth of micron-thick highly c-axis textured superconducting GdBa2Cu3O7-δ films on SrTiO3 (100)
Authors: De Vero Jeffrey C. , Lee Doopyo , Shin Hyeonseop , Namuco Shielo B. , Hwang Inwoong , Sarmago Rolang V. , Song Jong Hyun
Published: March 2018

A fundamental understanding of film processing conditions and its effect on the microstructure, crystallinity, and electrical properties of thick layers of a GdBa2Cu3O7-δ (GdBaCuO) superconductor is necessary to optimize material requirements for its applications. In this work, the authors investigated the surface microstructure, crystalline quality, and superconducting properties of GdBaCuO thick films on (100) SrTiO3 single crystal substrates prepared by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). To clarify the effect of PLD growth conditions the substrate temperature, oxygen partial pressure, and laser fluence were systematically varied, then their impact was correlated on the microstructure and superconducting properties of thick layers of GdBaCuO films. By optimizing these growth conditions, the authors successfully obtained preferentially c-axis textured and superconducting films with a uniform and homogeneous layer up to 3.8 μm thick. Based on these results, the authors provide a key guiding principle in achieving thick highly c-axis textured superconducting GdBaCuO films using PLD.
Three-by-Three Basketball: Inertial Movement and Physiological Demands During Elite Games
Authors: Montgomery Paul G. , Maloney Brendan D.
Published: March 2018

Purpose: To determine the demands of elite male and female 3 × 3 basketball games and compare these between various competition levels. Methods: A total of 361 males and 208 females competing in the Under-18 World, Senior European, and World Championships and selected professional tournaments had game demands assessed by wearable technology (global positioning system, inertial measurement, heart rate) along with postgame blood lactate and perceived responses. Differences in the means were compared using magnitude-based inferences and reported with effect size and 90% confidence limits, along with the percentage difference (effect size; ±90% confidence limits, %) of log-transformed data. Results: PlayerLoad™ and PlayerLoad·min−1 during play was 127.5 (31.1) and 6.7 (1.5) for males and 128.5 (32.0) and 6.5 (1.4) for females, respectively, with small differences between junior, senior, and professional levels. There were small differences in accelerations >3.5 m·s−1 between competition levels up to 0.31; ±0.20, 6.9% for males and 0.29; ±0.19, 10.8% for females and for decelerations >3.5 m·s−1, 0.29; ±0.19, 15.6% for males and 0.26; ±0.19, 5.4% for females, with European Championships generally greater than other levels. Average game heart rate was 165 (18) and 164 (12) beats·min−1 for males and females, with no difference between levels. Average rating of perceived exertion was 5.7 (2.1) and 5.4 (2.0) for males and females. Conclusions: 3 × 3 basketball games require high-speed inertial movements within limited distance, creating a relatively high physiological response. Practitioners working with 3 × 3 players should endeavor to focus on the attributes that will improve these player characteristics for greater success.
An Examination of Hazing in Canadian Intercollegiate Sports
Authors: Johnson Jay , Guerrero Michelle D. , Holman Margery , Chin Jessica W. , Signer-Kroeker Mary Anne
Published: March 2018

The overall purpose of the present study was to examine hazing among university athletes in Canada. More specifically, athletes’ experiences with hazing behaviors, knowledge regarding hazing, perceptions of the nature of hazing, attitudes toward hazing, and exposure to hazing policy and prevention/intervention strategies were investigated. A total of 434 U Sports (formerly known as Canadian Interuniversity Sport) athletes from various varsity-level and club-level sports participated in the study. Results showed that 58% of athletes experienced at least one hazing behavior. Some athletes reported that coaches were not only aware of hazing behaviors, but also present while hazing behaviors occurred. Athletes who experienced hazing perceived more positive outcomes of hazing than negative, and did not report hazing incidents because they believed experiencing hazing was part of being a member of the team. A small percentage of athletes had participated in hazing prevention workshops. Implications of these findings pertain to education on hazing, hazing prevention strategies and interventions.
Effect of Intermittent Hypoxia Training for Dizziness: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bao Xiao , Tan Jie-Wen , Long Ying , Liu Howe , Liu Hui-Yu
Published: March 2018

Objective: To study the effect of intermittent hypoxia training (IHT) for dizziness. Design: A single-blind, randomized controlled trial. All participants were recruited from a rehabilitation department in an acute university-affiliated hospital. Intervention: Participants with dizziness were randomly assigned to 2 groups (IHT group and control group). The Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, and Vertigo Visual Analog Scale were conducted at baseline, end of the fourth week. Results: Among 52 subjects, there were18 males and 34 females, ages 35 to 62 years old (mean [SD] = 46.9 [7.93]). Time length since onset ranged from 12 to 34 months (20.2 [7.15] mo). Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, Vertigo Visual Analog Scale scores, and attack frequencies of dizziness were improved after IHT intervention in the end of the fourth week. There were significant differences between the IHT group and the control group in the Dizziness Handicap Inventory, Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale, Vertigo Visual Analog Scale scores, and attack frequencies of dizziness at the end of the fourth week (P < .05). No adverse events occurred during the study. Conclusion: IHT could improve dizziness after intervention at the end of the fourth week. IHT could be the effective method for treating dizziness.
Differences in Timed Up and Go Subtasks Between Older People With Mild Cognitive Impairment and Mild Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ansai Juliana Hotta , de Andrade Larissa Pires , Rossi Paulo Giusti , Nakagawa Theresa Helissa , Vale Francisco Assis Carvalho , Rebelatto José Rubens
Published: March 2018

This study compared performances of timed up and go test subtasks between 40 older people with preserved cognition, 40 with mild cognitive impairment, and 38 with mild Alzheimer’s disease. The assessment consisted of anamneses and timed up and go test subtasks (sit-to-stand, walking forward, turn, walking back, and turn-to-sit). Data were captured by Qualisys Track Manager software and processed by Visual3D software. The MATLAB program was applied to detect and analyze timed up and go test subtasks. All subtasks differentiated people with Alzheimer’s disease and preserved cognition, except the sit-to-stand subtask, which did not distinguish any group. The walking forward subtask differed older people with preserved cognition from mild cognitive impairment, specifically on minimum peak of knee, average value of knee, and hip (pitch axis) during stance phase. The walking back, turn, and turn-to-sit subtasks distinguished subjects with Alzheimer’s disease from mild cognitive impairment. The separated analysis of transition and walking subtasks is important in identifying mobility patterns among cognitive profiles.
Palmitoylation of δ-catenin promotes kinesin-mediated membrane trafficking of Na
v
1.6 in sensory neurons to promote neuropathic pain
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Long , Ding Huan-Huan , Xu Ting , Liu Meng , Ma Chao , Wu Shao-Ling , Wei Jia-You , Liu Cui-Cui , Zhang Su-Bo , Xin Wen-Jun
Published: March 2018

Blocking the palmitoylation of the cell adhesion protein δ-catenin or its subsequent interactions may be therapeutic in patients with chronic pain.
Pharmacokinetics of Intravenous Posaconazole in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Sime Fekade B. , Stuart Janine , Butler Jenie , Starr Therese , Wallis Steven C. , Pandey Saurabh , Lipman Jeffrey , Roberts Jason A.
Published: March 2018

To date, there is no information on the intravenous (i.v.) posaconazole pharmacokinetics for intensive care unit (ICU) patients. This prospective observational study aimed to describe the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of i.v. posaconazole in critically ill patients. Patients with no history of allergy to triazole antifungals and requiring systemic antifungal therapy were enrolled if they were aged ≥18 years, central venous access was available, they were not pregnant, and they had not received prior posaconazole or drugs interacting with posaconazole. A single dose of 300 mg posaconazole was administered over 90 min. Total plasma concentrations were measured from serial plasma samples collected over 48 h, using a validated chromatographic method. The pharmacokinetic data set was analyzed by noncompartmental methods. Eight patients (7 male) were enrolled with the following characteristics: median age, 46 years (interquartile range [IQR], 40 to 51 years); median weight, 68 kg (IQR, 65 to 82 kg); and median albumin concentration, 20 g/liter (IQR, 18 to 24 g/liter). Median (IQR) pharmacokinetic parameter estimates were as follows: observed maximum concentration during sampling period (
C
max
), 1,702 ng/ml (1,352 to 2,141 ng/ml); area under the concentration-time curve from zero to infinity (AUC
0–∞
), 17,932 ng · h/ml (13,823 to 27,905 ng · h/ml); clearance (CL), 16.8 liters/h (11.1 to 21.7 liters/h); and volume of distribution (
V
), 529.1 liters (352.2 to 720.6 liters). The
V
and CL were greater than 2-fold and the AUC
0–∞
was 39% of the values reported for heathy volunteers. The AUC
0–∞
was only 52% of the steady-state AUC
0–24
reported for hematology patients. The median of estimated average steady-state concentrations was 747 ng/ml (IQR, 576 to 1,163 ng/ml), which is within but close to the lower end of the previously recommended therapeutic range of 500 to 2,500 ng/ml. In conclusion, we observed different pharmacokinetics of i.v. posaconazole in this cohort of critically ill patients compared to those in healthy volunteers and hematology patients.