bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Donepezil is associated with decreased in‐hospital mortality as a result of pneumonia among older patients with dementia: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Abe Yasuko , Shimokado Kentaro , Fushimi Kiyohide
Published: November 2017

Aim

Pneumonia is one of the major causes of mortality in older adults. As the average lifespan has extended and new modalities to prevent or treat pneumonia are developed, the factors that affect the length of hospital stay (LHS) and in‐hospital mortality of older patients with pneumonia have changed. The object of the present study was to determine the factors associated with LHS and mortality as a result of pneumonia among older patients with dementia.

Methods

With a retrospective cohort study design, we used the data derived from the Japanese Administrative Database and diagnosis procedure combination/per diem payment system (DPC/PDPS) database. There were 39 336 admissions of older patients for pneumonia between August 2010 and March 2012. Patients with incomplete data were excluded, leaving 25 602 patients for analysis.

Results

Having dementia decreased mortality (OR 0.71, P < 0.001) and increased LHS. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified donepezil as an independent factor that decreased mortality in patients with dementia (OR 0.36, P < 0.001). Donepezil was prescribed for 28.7% of these patients, and their mortality rate was significantly lower than those of patients with dementia who were not treated with donepezil and of patients without dementia. The mortality rate was higher for patients with dementia who were not treated with donepezil compared with patients who did not have dementia. All other factors that influenced LHS and mortality were similar to those reported by others.

Conclusions

Donepezil seems to decrease in‐hospital mortality as a result of pneumonia among older patients with dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 269–275.
Advantages of care for patients with hip fractures in the acute geriatric unit: Hip study Anoia
Authors: Duaso Enric , Formiga Francesc , Marimón Patrícia , Sandiumenge Montserrat , Salgado Maria Teresa , Murga Victor , Gamboa Andrés , Rodriguez Carlos , Castellà Jaume , Escalante Enrique , Lumbreras Célia , Tarrida Anna , Sellarès Ramón
Published: November 2017

Aim

Hip fracture as a result of bone fragility is characterized by poor health outcomes in the medium and long term. Our goal was to compare a new orthogeriatric model with the old trauma model and evaluate improvements in clinical management.

Methods

We carried out a comparative unicentric study, a historical sample (trauma model) collected from 1 June 2007 to 31 May 2010, versus a prospective sample (orthogeriatric model) collected from 1 June 2010 until 31 May 2013. We included all patients aged >69 years with hip fracture as a result of bone fragility.

Results

A total of 792 patients were evaluated (mean age 84.3 years). The surgical waiting period went from 2.70 days in the trauma model to 1.86 days in the orthogeriatric model (P < 0.001); the average stay was 15.76 days in the trauma model, and for the orthogeriatric model was reduced to 5.90 days (P < 0.001); mortality went from 4.5% to 1.3% (P ≤ 0.010); 1 month readmission for hip dislocation was reduced from 2.3% to 0.5% (P = 0.032).

After a 6‐month follow up, we had 302 trauma model patients and 287 orthogeriatric model patients. After 1 year, we had 288 patients in the trauma model and 264 patients in the orthogeriatric model. The main cause of abandonment was death, 108 patients (27.3%) in the trauma model and 100 patients (27.5%) in the orthogeriatric model (P = 0.951).

Conclusions

When we compared the two models, we found statistically significant better results in the preoperative waiting period, average stay, hospital mortality and 1 month readmission as a result of hip prosthesis luxation in favor of the orthogeriatric model. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018; 18: 407–414.
Creating and facilitating change for Person‐Centred Coordinated Care (P3C): The development of the Organisational Change Tool (P3C‐OCT)
Authors: Horrell Jane , Lloyd Helen , Sugavanam Thavapriya , Close James , Byng Richard
Published: November 2017

Background

Person Centred Coordinated Care (P3C) is a UK priority for patients, carers, professionals, commissioners and policy makers. Services are developing a range of approaches to deliver this care with a lack of tools to guide implementation.

Methodology

A scoping review and critical examination of current policy, key literature and NHS guidelines, together with stakeholder involvement led to the identification of domains, subdomains and component activities (processes and behaviours) required to deliver P3C. These were validated through codesign with stakeholders via a series of workshops and cognitive interviews.

Results

Six core domains of P3C were identified as follows: (i) my goals, (ii) care planning, (iii) transitions, (iv) decision making (v), information and communication and (vi) organizational support activities. These were populated by 29 core subdomains (question items). A number of response codes (components) to each question provide examples of the processes and activities that can be actioned to achieve each core subdomain of P3C.

Conclusion

The P3C‐OCT provides a coherent approach to monitoring progress and supporting practice development towards P3C. It can be used to generate a shared understanding of the core domains of P3C at a service delivery level, and support reorganization of care for those with complex needs. The tool can reliably detect change over time, as demonstrated in a sample of 40 UK general practices. It is currently being used in four UK evaluations of new models of care and being further developed as a training tool for the delivery of P3C.
Age gap between the intrusion of gneissose granitoids and regional high‐temperature metamorphism in the Ryoke belt (Mikawa area), central Japan
Authors: Takatsuka Kota , Kawakami Tetsuo , Skrzypek Etienne , Sakata Shuhei , Obayashi Hideyuki , Hirata Takafumi
Published: November 2017

The relationships between the intrusion of gneissose granitoids and the attainment of regional high‐T conditions recorded in metamorphic rocks from the Ryoke belt of the Mikawa area, central Japan, are explored. Seven gneissose granitoid samples (tonalite, granodiorite, granite) were collected from three distinct plutonic bodies that are mapped as the so‐called “Older Ryoke granitoids.” Based on bulk‐rock compositions and U–Pb zircon ages obtained by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, the analyzed granitoids can be separated into two groups. Gneissose granitoids from the northern part of the area give weighted mean 206Pb/238U ages of 99 ±1 Ma (two samples) and 95 ±1 Ma (one sample), whereas those from the southern part yield 81 ±1 Ma (two samples) and 78–77 ±1 Ma (two samples). Regional comparisons allow correlation of the northern granitoids (99–95 Ma) with the Kiyosaki granodiorite, and mostly with the Kamihara tonalite found to the east. The southern granitoids are tentatively renamed as “78–75 Ma (Hbl)−Bt granite” and “81–75 Ma Hbl−Bt tonalite” (Hbl, hornblende; Bt, biotite). and seem to be broadly coeval members of the same magmatic suite. With respect to available age data, no gneissose granitoid from the Mikawa area shows a U–Pb zircon age which matches that of high‐T metamorphism (ca 87 Ma). The southern gneissose granitoids (81–75 Ma), although they occur in the highest‐grade metamorphic zone, do not seem to represent the heat source which produced the metamorphic field gradient with a low dP/dT slope.
Ultrasonic‐assisted wet chemical etching of fused silica for high‐power laser systems
Authors: Ye Hui , Li Yaguo , Yuan Zhigang , Zhang Qinghua
Published: November 2017

Brittle scratches (microcracks) are important damage precursors to fused silica optics under 351/355‐nm laser irradiation. HF‐based etching is an economical way to mitigate the influence of scratches on laser‐induced damage. We here employed ultrasonic/megasonic‐assisted HF etching to alleviate the damage precursors. Samples were treated by being submerged into 6 wt% HF solution under various conditions, that is, without acoustic power and with acoustic power at different power density, to etch various material away from fused silica surfaces. The evolution of scratch morphologies was monitored and damage performance was tested against the surfaces without brittle scratches (control samples). The results show that the scratches can be enlarged and the microcracks can be opened and blunted by means of wet chemical etching. Approximately 25 μm material removal is sufficient to remove the lateral cracks that accompany the brittle scratches. It is shown that wet chemical etching can increase the laser‐induced damage threshold (LIDT) at the scratches up to a factor of 1.77, while the addition of acoustics (~0.6 W/cm2 and/or ~2 W/cm2) has marginal effects on the LIDT. However, the acoustic‐assisted etching can increase slightly the etching rate of fused silica and more powerful acoustics can lead to a little higher etching rate.
Incidence of in‐hospital and post‐discharge diagnosed hospital‐associated venous thromboembolism using linked administrative data
Authors: Stubbs Joanne M. , Assareh Hassan , Curnow Jennifer , Hitos Kerry , Achat Helen M.
Published: November 2017

Background

Hospital‐associated venous thromboembolism (HA‐VTE) is a serious adverse event, preventable with appropriate care during and post‐admission. Accurate measurement of in‐hospital and post‐discharge incidences is essential for implementation and evaluation of prevention strategies and monitoring.

Aims

To estimate in‐hospital and post‐discharge diagnosed VTE, trends and risk factors.

Methods

This was a population‐based study in New South Wales, Australia, using linked hospital admission and emergency department data for 2010–2013 of adult patients with a minimum stay of 48 h. HA‐VTE were diagnosed in‐hospital or post‐discharge (within 90 days). Multi‐level modelling schemes produced adjusted rates and ratios for patient, admission and hospital‐related characteristics.

Results

From 1 865 059 admissions, the HA‐VTE incidence rate was 9.7 per 1000 admissions; 71% were diagnosed post‐discharge, and 4.3% died with a greater risk for VTE diagnosed in hospital compared to post‐discharge (8.4% vs 2.6%, P < 0.001). Compared with surgical patients, medical patients developed fewer HA‐VTE (IRR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.58–0.63) but were more likely to be diagnosed post‐discharge (OR = 2.19; 95% CI: 2.00–2.40). HA‐VTE increased 6.5% over the period, driven by the 44% increase in in‐hospital diagnoses and not by the 9% decrease in post‐discharge diagnoses.

Conclusions

HA‐VTE is a continuing burden, and diagnosis after recent hospital discharge is notably high. Incidence varies across patients and facilities, highlighting the need for individual VTE risk assessment. Inclusive measures and routine monitoring of HA‐VTE incidence and mortality are essential for implementing best practice and assessing effectiveness of prevention strategies.
B‐cell receptor repertoire sequencing in patients with primary immunodeficiency: a review
Authors: Ghraichy Marie , Galson Jacob D. , Kelly Dominic F. , Trück Johannes
Published: November 2017

The advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) now allows a detailed assessment of the adaptive immune system in health and disease. In particular, high‐throughput B‐cell receptor (BCR) repertoire sequencing provides detailed information about the functionality and abnormalities of the B‐cell system. However, it is mostly unknown how the BCR repertoire is altered in the context of primary immunodeficiencies (PID) and whether findings are consistent throughout phenotypes and genotypes. We have performed an extensive literature search of the published work on BCR repertoire sequencing in PID patients, including several forms of predominantly antibody disorders and combined immunodeficiencies. It is somewhat surprising that BCR repertoires, even from severe clinical phenotypes, often show only mild abnormalities and that diversity or immunoglobulin gene segment usage is generally preserved to some extent. Despite the great variety of wet laboratory and analytical methods that were used in the different studies, several findings are common to most investigated PIDs, such as the increased usage of gene segments that are associated with self‐reactivity. These findings suggest that BCR repertoire characteristics may be used to assess the functionality of the B‐cell compartment irrespective of the underlying defect. With the use of NGS approaches, there is now the opportunity to apply BCR repertoire sequencing to multiple patients and explore the PID BCR repertoire in more detail. Ultimately, using BCR repertoire sequencing in translational research could aid the management of PID patients by improving diagnosis, estimating functionality of the immune system and improving assessment of prognosis.
New methodology for determining the dielectric constant of a piezoelectric material at the resonance frequency range
Authors: Daneshpajooh Hossein , Shekhani Husain N. , Choi Minkyu , Uchino Kenji
Published: November 2017

A new methodology is proposed to measure the dielectric constant and loss of a piezoelectric at the resonance frequency range based on the burst excitation method. Using a k31 type soft PZT rectangular specimen, we investigated the “force” and “voltage” factors carefully under the short‐ and open‐circuit conditions of the burst method, in terms of the ratio of the ring‐down current and voltage with the plate end vibration velocity and the displacement, and their phase lags. We provide the obtained material properties, including loss parameters, in particular, dielectric properties at the resonance frequency range.
Detecting outliers in species distribution data
Authors: Liu Canran , White Matt , Newell Graeme
Published: November 2017

Aim

Species distribution data play a pivotal role in the study of ecology, evolution, biogeography and biodiversity conservation. Although large amounts of location data are available and accessible from public databases, data quality remains problematic. Of the potential sources of error, positional errors are critical for spatial applications, particularly where these errors place observations beyond the environmental or geographical range of species. These outliers need to be identified, checked and removed to improve data quality and minimize the impact on subsequent analyses. Manually checking all species records within large multispecies datasets is prohibitively costly. This work investigates algorithms that may assist in the efficient vetting of outliers in such large datasets.

Location

We used real, spatially explicit environmental data derived from the western part of Victoria, Australia, and simulated species distributions within this same region.

Methods

By adapting species distribution modelling (SDM), we developed a pseudo‐SDM approach for detecting outliers in species distribution data, which was implemented with random forest (RF) and support vector machine (SVM) resulting in two new methods: RF_pdSDM and SVM_pdSDM. Using virtual species, we compared eight existing multivariate outlier detection methods with these two new methods under various conditions.

Results

The two new methods based on the pseudo‐SDM approach had higher true skill statistic (TSS) values than other approaches, with TSS values always exceeding 0. More than 70% of the true outliers in datasets for species with a low and intermediate prevalence can be identified by checking 10% of the data points with the highest outlier scores.

Main conclusions

Pseudo‐SDM‐based methods were more effective than other outlier detection methods. However, this outlier detection procedure can only be considered as a screening tool, and putative outliers must be examined by experts to determine whether they are actual errors or important records within an inherently biased set of data.
Phenotypic plasticity in response to environmental heterogeneity contributes to fluctuating asymmetry in plants: first empirical evidence
Authors: Tucić Branka , Budečević Sanja , Manitašević Jovanović Sanja , Vuleta Ana , Klingenberg Christian Peter
Published: November 2017

Fluctuating asymmetry (FA) is widely used to quantify developmental instability (DI) in ecological and evolutionary studies. It has long been recognized thatFAmay not exclusively originate fromDIfor sessile organisms such as plants, because phenotypic plasticity in response to heterogeneities in the environment might also produceFA. This study provides the first empirical evidence for this hypothesis. We reasoned that solar irradiance, which is greater on the southern side than on the northern side of plants growing in the temperate zone of the Northern Hemisphere, would cause systematic morphological differences and asymmetry associated with the orientation of plant parts. We used geometric morphometrics to characterize the size and shape of flower parts inIris pumilagrown in a common garden. The size of floral organs was not significantly affected by orientation. Shape and particularly its asymmetric component differed significantly according to orientation for three different floral parts. Orientation accounted for 10.4% of the total shape asymmetry within flowers in the falls, for 11.4% in the standards and for 2.2% in the style branches. This indicates that phenotypic plasticity in response to a directed environmental factor, most likely solar irradiance, contributes toFAof flowers under natural conditions. ThatFApartly results from phenotypic plasticity and not just fromDIneeds to be considered by studies ofFAin plants and other sessile organisms.
Histochemical distribution of four types of enzymes and mucous cells in the gastrointestinal tract of reared half‐smooth tongue sole Cynoglossus semilaevis
Authors: Wang Y. Z. , Sun J. F. , Lv A. J. , Zhang S. L. , Sung Y. Y. , Shi H. Y. , Hu X. C. , Chen S. J. , Xing K. Z.
Published: November 2017

The histochemical distribution of acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), non‐specific esterase (NSE), peroxidase (POD) and mucous‐cell types was evaluated in the gastrointestinal tract of the half‐smooth tongue sole Cynoglossus semilaevis. The enzymes were detected in the entire stretch of the gastrointestinal tract. ACP activity was found in the supranuclear region of enterocytes and the lamina propria of the intestine, as well as the cytoplasm of epithelial cells of the stomach. The staining intensity of ACP in the anterior and posterior intestines was stronger than in the stomach. ALP activity was detected in the striated border of enterocytes and muscularis of the whole intestine, lamina propria and supranuclear cytoplasm of the enterocytes in the anterior intestine, as well as in the blood vessels of the stomach. The staining intensity for ALP in the anterior intestine was stronger than in the posterior segment and the latter was stronger than in the stomach. NSE activity was detected in the cytoplasm of the epithelial cells in the entire gastrointestinal tract, with the anterior intestine showing stronger intensity than the stomach. POD activity was located in the blood cells of the lamina propria of the gastrointestinal tract and the levels in the stomach were similar to the anterior and posterior intestines. Alcian blue (pH 2·5) periodic acid Schiff (AB‐PAS) histochemical results revealed three types of mucous cells in the gastrointestinal tract. Type I cells (PAS+AB‐) were observed among the gastric mucosa columnar cells in the stomach and enterocytes in the basal region of the villi and in the middle and top regions of the intestinal villi. Type II cells (PAS‐AB+) and type III cells (PAS+AB+) were not detected in the stomach but were distributed ubiquitously among enterocytes in the middle and top regions of the intestinal villi.
Development of secondary sexual characters and their relationship to ontogeny and seasonal reproductive period in Hyphessobrycon igneus (Ostariophysi: Characiformes)
Authors: Schönhofen Longoni L. , Giora J. , Bernhardt Fialho C.
Published: November 2017

Sexual dimorphism in size, anal‐fin shape and coloration of Hyphessobrycon igneus, Characidae, were examined. Males were more frequent at larger body sizes, confirming body size as a sexually dimorphic trait. Anal‐fin shape and the colour of all fins were the same for females and juveniles, differing only in adult males. Likewise, only adult males had bony hooks on fin rays; larger and more sexually mature males had the most numerous and developed hooks and hooks were most developed in degree and number during peak reproductive periods. Fin hooks regressed in number and developmental degree after the reproductive period, but restarted development with the beginning of the new reproductive period without completely disappearing. Results show that bony hooks have a development and regression cycle related to reproductive seasonality.
Outcomes of pneumatic dilation in achalasia: Extended follow‐up of more than 25 years with a focus on manometric subtypes
Authors: Müller Michaela , Keck Christina , Eckardt Alexander J , Werling Sarah , Wehrmann Till , König Jochem , Gockel Ines
Published: November 2017

Background and Aim

Pneumatic dilation (PD) is the most popular nonsurgical treatment for achalasia. This study investigated predicting factors, including manometric subtypes for symptom recurrence in the long term, in patients with achalasia treated with a single PD.

Methods

Between 1983 and 2013, a total of 107 patients were treated initially with a single PD and included in this longitudinal cohort study. Outcomes were correlated with demographics, symptoms (Eckardt score), and esophagographic and manometric features. Manometric tracings were retrospectively classified according to the three subtypes of the Chicago classification.

Results

Ninety‐one (85%) patients were successfully treated after the first PD. The median follow‐up was 13.8 years (interquartile range 7–20). During follow‐up, 54% of the patients experienced a clinical relapse. The overall cumulative success rates at 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years were 64%, 53%, 49%, 42%, 36%, and 36%, respectively. Age < 40 years, lower esophageal sphincter pressure > 15 mmHg, a cardia width < 5 mm, and an esophageal barium column height > 1 cm 4 to 12 weeks post‐dilation significantly correlated with symptom recurrence, whereas achalasia subtypes did not significantly correlate with the treatment results.

Conclusion

Pneumatic dilation in achalasia is an effective therapy in the short term, but its effect wanes in the very long term. Young age at presentation, a high lower esophageal sphincter pressure, a narrow cardia, and an esophageal barium column of > 1 cm after PD are predictive factors for the need of repeated treatment.
Comparison of Fit of Dentures Fabricated by Traditional Techniques Versus CAD/CAM Technology
Authors: McLaughlin J. Bryan , Ramos Van , Dickinson Douglas P.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

To compare the shrinkage of denture bases fabricated by three methods: CAD/CAM, compression molding, and injection molding. The effect of arch form and palate depth was also tested.

Materials and Methods

Nine titanium casts, representing combinations of tapered, ovoid, and square arch forms and shallow, medium, and deep palate depths, were fabricated using electron beam melting (EBM) technology. For each base fabrication method, three poly(vinyl siloxane) impressions were made from each cast, 27 dentures for each method. Compression‐molded dentures were fabricated using Lucitone 199 poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA), and injection molded dentures with Ivobase's Hybrid Pink PMMA. For CAD/CAM, denture bases were designed and milled by Avadent using their Light PMMA. To quantify the space between the denture and the master cast, silicone duplicating material was placed in the intaglio of the dentures, the titanium master cast was seated under pressure, and the silicone was then trimmed and recovered. Three silicone measurements per denture were recorded, for a total of 243 measurements. Each silicone measurement was weighed and adjusted to the surface area of the respective arch, giving an average and standard deviation for each denture.

Results

Comparison of manufacturing methods showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.0001). Using a ratio of the means, compression molding had on average 41% to 47% more space than injection molding and CAD/CAM. Comparison of arch/palate forms showed a statistically significant difference (p = 0.023), with shallow palate forms having more space with compression molding. The ovoid shallow form showed CAD/CAM and compression molding had more space than injection molding.

Conclusion

Overall, injection molding and CAD/CAM fabrication methods produced equally well‐fitting dentures, with both having a better fit than compression molding. Shallow palates appear to be more affected by shrinkage than medium or deep palates. Shallow ovoid arch forms appear to benefit from the use of injection molding compared to CAD/CAM and compression molding.
Developmental Links Between Gaming and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Mikuška Jakub , Vazsonyi Alexander T.
Published: November 2017

The current longitudinal study tested the reciprocal relationships between video game play and depressive symptoms among 9,421 adolescents from the Add Health (Mage = 16.15 years, SD = 1.64, 55% female), over 11 years (Waves 2, 3, and 4), ages 16 to 27. Based on structural equation modeling as well as latent growth models, findings indicated that (1) excessive gaming was largely transient over time, from adolescence to early adulthood; (2) excessive gaming predicted increases in depressive symptoms; and (3) in turn, depressive symptoms predicted decreases in gaming over time. Multigroup model tests by sex provided additional evidence that longitudinal relationships from excessive gaming to depressive symptoms were supported for male, but not for female youth.
Associations among tooth loss, systemic inflammation and antibody titers to periodontal pathogens in Japanese patients with cardiovascular disease
Authors: Aoyama N. , Suzuki J.‐I. , Kobayashi N. , Hanatani T. , Ashigaki N. , Yoshida A. , Shiheido Y. , Sato H. , Minabe M. , Izumi Y. , Isobe M.
Published: November 2017

Background and Objective

It is well known that there is a strong relationship between periodontitis and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Tooth loss reflects an end‐stage condition of oral diseases, such as periodontitis. Infection with specific periodontal pathogens is known as a possible factor that influences development of CVD. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between the number of residual teeth and systemic inflammatory conditions in patients with CVD.

Material and Methods

We divided 364 patients with CVD into four groups, according to the number of residual teeth: (i) ≥20 teeth; (ii) 10‐19 teeth; (iii) 1‐9 teeth; and (iv) edentulous. We recorded medical history, blood data and periodontal conditions. Serum samples were obtained and their IgG titers against three major periodontal pathogens were measured.

Results

Smoking rate and the prevalence of diabetes mellitus were higher in edentulous patients and in subjects with a few teeth compared with patients with many teeth. The levels of C‐reactive protein were higher in patients with 1‐9 teeth than in those with 10‐19 teeth and with ≥20 teeth. The level of Porphyromonas gingivalis IgG in the group with 10‐19 teeth was statistically higher than that in the group with ≥20 teeth. The level of P. gingivalis IgG in the edentulous group tended to be lower than that in the other groups.

Conclusion

The patients with 1‐9 teeth had the highest level of C‐reactive protein among the four groups, and the patients with 10‐19 teeth had the highest level of IgG to periodontal bacteria. We conclude that the number of remaining teeth may be used to estimate the severity of systemic inflammation in patients with CVD.
The effect of ice crystals formations on the flesh quality of frozen horse mackerel (Trachurus japonicus)
Authors: Wang Yao , Miyazaki Riho , Saitou Shinobu , Hirasaka Katsuya , Takeshita Satoshi , Tachibana Katsuyasu , Taniyama Shigeto
Published: November 2017

It is known that the formation of ice crystals has a negative impact on the flesh quality of frozen meat. This study focuses on how the formation of ice crystals in the dorsal ordinary muscle affects the flesh quality of frozen horse mackerel (Trachurus japonicus). Freeze‐thawed muscle specimens (F‐TMS) of horse mackerel were first stored at −24C and then thawed. The K‐value, expressible water, breaking strength of unfrozen muscle specimens (UMS) and F‐TMS, and histological structure (light microscope [LM], scanning electron microscope [SEM] of UMS, frozen muscle specimens [FMS], and F‐TMS) were investigated. K‐values were higher in the F‐TMS than in the UMS, and the increasing rate of K‐value in F‐TMS was approximately 1.4‐fold higher than UMS. Similarly, the percentage of expressible water was higher in the F‐TMS than in the UMS. The breaking strength of the UMS decreased with storage period, but it remained at a higher level than that of F‐TMS. Numerous ice crystal formations in muscle cells of FMS and small interstices between cells of F‐TMS were observed under LM. Moreover, we observed a relatively collapsed honeycomb structure of the extracellular matrix (ECM) under SEM, and found that collagen fibril networks of endomysiums became looser after thawing. Therefore, ice crystals contribute to vulnerabilities in the ECM. These results suggest that a decrease of freshness and the degradation of physical properties caused by ECM destruction may be due to the formation of ice crystals in muscle structures during freezing, leading to the deterioration of flesh quality during storage.

Practical applications

The flesh quality deteriorated after thawing on the basis of degradation of physical properties. Moreover, it could be presumed that the K‐value increase was exacerbated by ice crystals, and the decreasing speed of chemical freshness was sped up accompanied by ice storage after thawing. Thus, the formation of ice crystals, which destroyed the muscle cells and structures, may be one of the dominant factors causing the deterioration in the flesh quality.
Safety of orally administered,USP‐compliant levothyroxine sodium tablets in dogs
Authors: Hare J. E. , Morrow C. M. K. , Caldwell J. , Lloyd W. E.
Published: November 2017

The safety of synthetic levothyroxine sodium tablets (Thyro‐Tabs® Canine;LLOYD, Inc.) in dogs was evaluated in a randomized, sham‐dose controlled, parallel‐group study. Young, healthy, euthyroid Beagle dogs were randomized into four groups (four females and four males per group) and received single daily doses of 0×, 2× (0.044 mg/kg), 6× (0.132 mg/kg), or 10× (0.22 mg/kg) the labeled starting dose of 0.022 mg kg−1 day−1for 182 days. Every 2 weeks, physical examinations, electrocardiology examinations, and sample collections for thyroid panel, hematology, serum biochemistry, coagulation panel, and urinalysis were performed. At the end of the study, the dogs were euthanized and full necropsies performed. The most overt finding was the expected dose‐dependent increase in serum concentrations of total and free thyroxine with dose‐dependent suppression of the hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis as evidenced by decreased serum thyroid‐stimulating hormone concentrations, decreased thyroid+parathyroid/body weight ratios, and a trend for decreased pituitary weight/brain weight ratios. Clinical signs of thyrotoxicosis (excitation, tachypnea, tachycardia) in the treated dogs were sporadic with no dose–response relationship. Other findings statistically associated with levothyroxine treatment were generally mild and not clinically important. In summary, doses of levothyroxine sodium up to 10× the labeled starting dose were well tolerated in healthy dogs.
Follow‐up of sustained virological responders with hepatitis C and advanced liver disease after interferon/ribavirin‐free treatment
Authors: Kozbial Karin , Moser Stephan , Al‐Zoairy Ramona , Schwarzer Remy , Datz Christian , Stauber Rudolf , Laferl Hermann , Strasser Michael , Beinhardt Sandra , Stättermayer Albert F. , Gschwantler Michael , Zoller Heinz , Maieron Andreas , Graziadei Ivo , Trauner Michael , Steindl‐Munda Petra , Hofer Harald , Ferenci Peter
Published: November 2017

Background

The introduction of direct‐acting antivirals (DAA) has increased sustained virological response (SVR) rates in patients with advanced liver disease and chronic hepatitis C(CHC)infection. At present, data on clinical outcome and long‐term durability of viral eradication after successful DAA therapy are scarce.

Aim

To evaluate the long‐term success of viral eradication in patients with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis treated with DAAs.

Methods

Five hundred and fifty‐one patients with advanced fibrosis (n = 158) or cirrhosis (CPS‐A:317,CPS‐B/C:76) and SVR after interferon and ribavirin‐free DAA therapy treated between October 2013 and April 2016 were studied with a median follow‐up of 65.6 (13.0‐155.3) weeks. Only patients without hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at baseline and without liver transplantation were included.

Results

Twelve patients (2.2%) died during follow‐up: the mortality rate was 0.6% in F3, 2.2% in CPS‐A and 5.3% in CPS‐B/C patients (P = .08). During follow‐up 36 patients with cirrhosis (9.1%) developed a liver related event, including 16 with de‐novo HCC (4.1%). Seven patients were transplanted at a median of 9.7 (range 3.8‐21.7) months after EOT. History of decompensation was significantly associated with liver related events during follow‐up (HR 7.9; 95% CI 2.7‐22.6; P < .001), and with mortality (HR 5.5; 95% CI 1.5‐20.2, P = .01).

Conclusions

Eradication of HCV by DAA therapy was durable irrespective of the DAA combination used. Most of the cured patients had an excellent long‐term clinical prognosis. Nevertheless, the risk of new occurrence of HCC remains worrisome and thus regular surveillance is obligatory even after clinical stabilization and improvement of the patient.
A cognitive account of agentive awareness
Authors: Mylopoulos Myrto
Published: November 2017

Agentive awareness is one's awareness of oneself as presently acting. Dominant accounts in cognitive science consider agentive awareness to be grounded in the states and processes underlying sensorimotor control. In this paper, I raise concerns for this approach and develop an alternative. Broadly, in the approach I defend, one is agentively aware in the virtue of intending to act. I further argue that agentive awareness is not constituted by intentions themselves but rather first‐personal thoughts that are formed on the basis of them. I develop this proposal, highlight some of its theoretical advantages, and show how it successfully meets various challenges.
A global database for plants that hyperaccumulate metal and metalloid trace elements
Authors: Reeves Roger D. , Baker Alan J. M. , Jaffré Tanguy , Erskine Peter D. , Echevarria Guillaume , van der Ent Antony
Published: November 2017

See also the Commentary on this article by Jaffré et al., 218: 397–400.
ArcR modulates biofilm formation in the dental plaque colonizer Streptococcus gordonii
Authors: Robinson J.C. , Rostami N. , Casement J. , Vollmer W. , Rickard A.H. , Jakubovics N.S.
Published: November 2017

Biofilm formation and cell‐cell sensing by the pioneer dental plaque colonizer Streptococcus gordonii are dependent upon arginine. This study aimed to identify genetic factors linking arginine‐dependent responses and biofilm formation in S. gordonii. Isogenic mutants disrupted in genes required for the biosynthesis or catabolism of arginine, or for arginine‐dependent gene regulation, were screened for their ability to form biofilms in a static culture model. Biofilm formation by a knockout mutant of arcR, encoding an arginine‐dependent regulator of transcription, was reduced to < 50% that of the wild‐type whereas other strains were unaffected. Complementation of S. gordonii ∆arcR with a plasmid‐borne copy of arcR restored the ability to develop biofilms. By DNA microarray analysis, 25 genes were differentially regulated in S. gordonii ∆arcR compared with wild‐type under arginine‐replete conditions including eight genes encoding components of phosphotransferase systems for sugar uptake. By contrast, disruption of argR or ahrC genes, which encode paralogous arginine‐dependent regulators, each resulted in significant changes in the expression of more than 100 genes. Disruption of a gene encoding a putative extracellular protein that was strongly regulated in S. gordonii ∆arcR had a minor impact on biofilm formation. We hypothesize that genes regulated by ArcR form a critical pathway linking arginine sensing to biofilm formation in S. gordonii. Further elucidation of this pathway may provide new targets for the control of dental plaque formation by inhibiting biofilm formation by a key pioneer colonizer of tooth surfaces.
World's smallest combined en bloc liver‐pancreas transplantation
Authors: Elsabbagh Ahmed M. , Hawksworth Jason , Khan Khalid M. , Yazigi Nada , Matsumoto Cal S. , Fishbein Thomas M.
Published: November 2017

We present a case of a 2‐year‐old child who underwent a combined en bloc liver and pancreas transplant following complications of WRS. WRS is characterized clinically through infantile insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus, neutropenia, recurrent infections, propensity for liver failure following viral infections, bone dysplasia, and developmental delay. Usually, death occurs from fulminant liver and concomitant kidney failure. Few cases with WRS are reported in the literature, mostly from consanguineous parents. To the best of our knowledge, combined en bloc liver and pancreas transplant has not been performed in small children.
Using somatosensory mismatch responses as a window into somatotopic processing of tactile stimulation
Authors: Shen Guannan , Smyk Nathan J. , Meltzoff Andrew N. , Marshall Peter J.
Published: November 2017

Brain responses to tactile stimulation have often been studied through the examination of ERPs elicited to touch on the body surface. Here, we examined two factors potentially modulating the amplitude of the somatosensory mismatch negativity (sMMN) and P300 responses elicited by touch to pairs of body parts: (a) the distance between the representation of these body parts in somatosensory cortex, and (b) the physical distances between the stimulated points on the body surface. The sMMN and the P300 response were elicited by tactile stimulation in two oddball protocols. One protocol leveraged a discontinuity in cortical somatotopic organization, and involved stimulation of either the neck or the hand in relation to stimulation of the lip. The other protocol involved stimulation to the third or fifth finger in relation to the second finger. The neck‐lip pairing resulted in significantly larger sMMN responses (with shorter latencies) than the hand‐lip pairing, whereas the reverse was true for the amplitude of the P300. Mean sMMN amplitude and latency did not differ between finger pairings. However, larger P300 responses were elicited to stimulation of the fifth finger than the third finger. These results suggest that, for certain combinations of body parts, early automatic somatosensory mismatch responses may be influenced by distance between the cortical representations of these body parts, whereas the later P300 response may be more influenced by the distance between stimulated body parts on the body surface. Future investigations can shed more light on this novel suggestion.
Experiences of HIV-infected adults and healthcare providers with healthcare delivery practices influencing engagement in primary healthcare settings: a qualitative systematic review protocol
Authors: Norberg Andrea , Nelson John , Holly Cheryl , Jewell Sarah T. , Salmond Susan
Published: November 2017

Review question/objective:

The objective of this qualitative systematic review is to examine the experience and impact of health care delivery on health care engagement for adults infected with the human immunodeficiency virus receiving primary care. This review will identify and synthesize the best available evidence on health care structures, processes and practices that promote patient engagement in primary health care.

The review question to be addressed is: What are the experiences of people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) and their health care providers with health care delivery processes and practices that impact engagement in primary health care settings (clinics, physician offices, and other community-based health care settings)? Specifically this review will compile evidence to illuminate health care system structures, provider practices, care delivery and programmatic processes that impact engagement in primary health care, as perceived by PLWH and their providers.
Research and Development of Rubber Bearings for Sodium-Cooled Fast Reactor: Ultimate Properties of Half-Scale Thick Rubber Bearings Based on Breaking Tests
Authors: Fukasawa Tsuyoshi , Okamura Shigeki , Yamamoto Tomohiko , Kawasaki Nobuchika , Hirotani Tsutomu , Moriizumi Eriko , Sakurai Yu , Masaki Nobuo
Published: November 2017

This paper describes the results of static loading tests using a half-scale thick rubber bearing to investigate ultimate properties application for a sodium-cooled-fast-reactor (SFR). Thick rubber bearings which have a rubber layer that is roughly two times thicker in comparison with existing rubber bearings have been developed by the authors to ensure seismic safety margins for components installed in the reactor building, and to reduce the seismic response in the vertical direction as well as the horizontal direction. The thick rubber bearings, 1600 mm in diameter at the full scale, have been designed to provide a rated load of about 10,000 kN, at the compressive stress of 5.0 MPa, with a horizontal natural period of 3.4 s and a vertical natural period of about 0.133 s. The restoring-force characteristics, including variations, and breaking points, for the thick rubber bearings have not been cleared yet. These validations are essential from the point of view of probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) for a base-isolated nuclear plant as well as a verification of the structural integrity of the thick rubber bearings. The purpose of this paper is to indicate the variation of the stiffness and damping ratios for restoring force characteristics, and the breaking strain or stress, as ultimate properties through static loading tests using half-scale thick rubber bearings. In addition, an analytical model for the thick rubber bearings which is able to express the nonlinear restoring force, including the breaking points, is presented.
A Comprehensive Study of the Sintering of Copper Nanoparticles Using Femtosecond, Nanosecond, and Continuous Wave Lasers
Authors: Roy Nilabh K. , Dibua Obehi G. , Jou William , He Feng , Jeong Jihoon , Wang Yaguo , Cullinan Michael A.
Published: November 2017

A high electrical and thermal conductivity coupled with low costs make copper (Cu) an enticing alternative to aluminum for the fabrication of interconnects in packaging applications. To tap into the benefits of the ever-reducing size of transistors, it is required to increase the input/output pin count on electronic chips, and thus, minimize the size of chip to board interconnects. Laser sintering of Cu nanoparticle (NP) inks can serve as a promising process for developing these micron sized, 3D interconnect structures. However, the exact processing windows for Cu NP sintering are not well known. Therefore, this paper presents an extensive experimental investigation of the sintering processing window with different lasers including femtosecond (fs), nanosecond (ns), and continuous-wave (CW) lasers. The dependence of the processing window on Cu layer thicknesses and laser exposure durations has also been investigated. A simplified model to estimate optimum laser sintering windows for Cu NPs using pulsed lasers is presented and the predicted estimates are compared against the experimental results. Given the simplicity of the model, it is shown to provide good estimates for fluence required for the onset of sintering and the processing window for good sintering of Cu NPs.
Increasing the Flexibility of Combined Heat and Power Plants With Heat Pumps and Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Mollenhauer Eike , Christidis Andreas , Tsatsaronis George
Published: November 2017

Combined heat and power (CHP) plants are efficient regarding fuel, costs, and emissions compared to the separate generation of heat and electricity. Sinking revenues from sales of electricity due to sinking market prices endanger the economically viable operation of the plants. The integration of heat pumps (HP) and thermal energy storages (TESs) represents an option to increase the flexibility of CHP plants so that electricity can be produced only when the market conditions are favorable. The investigated district heating system is located in Germany, where the electricity market is influenced by a high share of renewable energies. The price-based unit-commitment and dispatch problem is modeled as a mixed integer linear program (MILP) with a temporal resolution of 1 h and a planning horizon of 1 yr. This paper presents the optimal operation of a TES unit and a HP in combination with CHP plants as well as synergies or competitions between them. Coal and gas-fired CHP plants with back pressure or extraction condensing steam turbines (STs) are considered, and their results are compared to each other.
Free-Piston Linear Generator and the Development of a Solid Lubrication System
Authors: Virsik Roman , Rinderknecht Frank , Friedrich Horst E.
Published: November 2017

The free-piston linear generator (FPLG) is a new electromechanical generator. It converts chemical energy into electrical energy by means of a combustion process, a linear generator, and a gas spring. The FPLG does not use any crankshaft, which is responsible for a lot of losses. Thereby, the technology aims to have better properties than other electromechanical generators: higher efficiency over wide range of operating points, better noise–vibration–harshness package. This publication deals with the explanation of the concept, the characteristics of a FPLG, and one of the challenges in the development. In order to use a port scavenging, the emission issue is the challenge and has to be solved. One possible solution is the use of solid lubricants to substitute motor oil. On this way, the development methodology and one aspect of the development is explained.
A Ball and Beam Module for a Haptic Paddle Education Platform
Authors: Rose Chad G. , Bucki Nathan , O’Malley Marcia K.
Published: November 2017

Single degree of freedom force-feedback mechatronic devices, often called haptic paddles, are used in university curriculum as well as massive open online courses (MOOCs). While devices differ based on the goals of a given course, broadly speaking they provide hands-on learning for students studying mechatronics and dynamics. We introduce the third iteration of the Haptic Paddle at Rice University, which has been modified to improve haptic performance and robustness. The modifications to the design increased device up time as well as the devices Z-width. The performance improvement enables the addition of experimental plants to the haptic paddle base, which can be directed at advanced dynamics and controls courses, or special topics in mechatronics and haptics. The first module, a Haptic Ball and Beam, adds an underactuated plant for teleoperation or more complex control structures, and a testbed for haptic motor learning experiments in undergraduate coursework.