bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Law of Tracing in Commercial Transactions
Authors: Raczynska Magda
Published: March 2018

A pressing problem often facing commercial practitioners is how to determine the principle which would dictate when a proprietary claim is available and when it is not. This book explains the nature and structure of key interests in property in commercial transactions and analyses the incidence of proprietary claims available to holders of different interests in assets. It starts by identifying the structure of those interests which the author terms ‘lesser proprietary interests’, comprising security interests and interests based on retention of title in contracts of sale of goods, hire-purchase agreements, and leases, thereby contributing to the understanding of concepts which are traditionally used to explain this area of law such as bailment and fiduciary relationship. The book examines the circumstances in which the interests are lost and the extent to which proprietary claims can be asserted in assets that derive from the original subject matter, that is proceeds, products and income, as well as in accretions. It examines these claims at three levels: as a matter of default rules in the absence of misappropriation of the original subject matter; as a matter of contract; and in circumstances in which the original subject matter has been misappropriated. The book approaches the topic of tracing and derived assets in commercial transactions on a principled basis.
Introduction
Authors: Raczynska Magda
Published: March 2018

This book examines the proprietary protection of the key forms of proprietary interests arising in commercial transactions. The focus is on the so-called lesser proprietary interests, interests which are less than absolute interests and are created in favour of suppliers of goods under a contract of sale with title-based interests and consensual security interests. The book considers tracing, the process of identifying an asset later in time in relation to an asset earlier in time. Chapters discuss the legal structure of proprietary interests, the ways in which those proprietary interests are lost, how new assets can derive from other assets, the default rules governing proprietary interests in derived assets outside contract and outside misapplication of assets, and the issues with contracts that provide for proprietary interests in derived assets. The book also analyses issues that arise from proprietary claims to derived assets where the originally held asset was misapplied.
Conclusion
Authors: Raczynska Magda
Published: March 2018

This book has examined the default rules governing proprietary interests in derived assets and the issues with contracts that provide for proprietary interests in such assets. It has analysed the circumstances that allow the secured creditor or supplier to make a proprietary restitutionary claim to proceeds of unauthorised dispositions of assets subject to security interests and title-based interests. It has shown that security interests and title-based interests extend to accretions, which become part of the original asset and, with the exception of pledges, to mixtures. It has proposed a new structure of the legal relationship between parties to secured transactions and title-based transactions. The book has also considered the difference in treatment between fruits (income) and substitutes by citing Article 9 of the U.S. Uniform Commercial Code. Finally, it has discussed whether a ‘principle of substitutions’ is supported under the current English law.
Towards a Unified Theory for Private Investment Funds
Authors: Spangler Timothy
Published: March 2018

This chapter considers future legal and regulatory responses to private investment funds in the context of a country’s current political dynamics. It begins with a discussion of the regulatory policy issues surrounding private investment funds before and after the global financial crisis, criticisms against private equity funds and hedge funds, and lessons from the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive. It then examines indirect regulation of private investment funds as a way forward, along with financial innovation and regulatory arbitrage. In particular, it explains how the global financial crisis has exposed the complexity of modern financial markets, noting that one of the primary drivers of this complexity has been financial innovation. The chapter concludes by analysing investor-centric approaches to addressing the governance challenge present in private investment funds.
Psychosocial Risk Factors and Other Than Honorable Military Discharge: Providing Healthcare to Previously Ineligible Veterans
Authors: Elbogen Eric B , Wagner H Ryan , Brancu Mira , Kimbrel Nathan A , Naylor Jennifer C , Swinkels Cindy M ,   VA Mid-Atlantic MIRECC Workgroup, Fairbank John A
Published: March 2018

Introduction

In response to a strong focus on suicide prevention for all veterans, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) recently revised policy to provide emergency mental healthcare for veterans who received Other Than Honorable (OTH) discharges from the military. This current study takes a preliminary step toward identifying demographic, historic, military, clinical, and social characteristics of veterans with OTH discharges.

Materials and Methods

N = 1,172 Iraq/Afghanistan-era veterans were evaluated between 2005 and 2016 in the multi-site VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness, Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC) Study of Post-Deployment Mental Health (PDMH Study).

Results

Veterans with OTH discharges constituted 2.7% of our sample, approximating the estimated rate in the overall U.S. veteran population. Compared to veterans discharged under honorable conditions, veterans with OTH discharges were more likely to be younger and have greater odds of reporting family history of drug abuse and depression. Further, veterans with OTH discharges reported a lower level of social support and were more likely to be single, endorse more sleep problems, score higher on measures of drug misuse, have a history of incarceration, and meet diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder. A subsequent matching analysis provided further evidence of the association between OTH discharge and two risk factors: drug misuse and incarceration.

Conclusion

These findings elucidate potential factors associated with veterans with OTH discharges, particularly substance abuse and criminal justice involvement. Results also indicate higher incidence of risk factors that often accompany suicidal ideation and should be a highlighted component of healthcare delivery to this vulnerable cohort of veterans.
Discovery of three strongly lensed quasars in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey
Authors: Williams P R , Agnello A , Treu T , Abramson L E , Anguita T , Apostolovski Y , Chen G C-F , Fassnacht C D , Hsueh J W , Lemaux B C , Motta V , Oldham L , Rojas K , Rusu C E , Shajib A J , Wang X
Published: March 2018

We present the discovery of three quasar lenses in the Sloan Digital Sky Survey, selected using two novel photometry-based selection techniques. The J0941+0518 system, with two point sources separated by 5.46 arcsec on either side of a galaxy, has source and lens redshifts 1.54 and 0.343. Images of J2257+2349 show two point sources separated by 1.67 arcsec on either side of an E/S0 galaxy. The extracted spectra show two images of the same quasar at zs = 2.10. SDSS J1640+1045 has two quasar spectra at zs = 1.70 and fits to the SDSS and Pan-STARRS images confirm the presence of a galaxy between the two point sources. We observed 56 photometrically selected lens candidates in this follow-up campaign, confirming three new lenses, re-discovering one known lens, and ruling out 36 candidates, with 16 still inconclusive. This initial campaign demonstrates the power of purely photometric selection techniques in finding lensed quasars.
CE: Lyme Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Authors: Patton Susan Kane , Phillips Bailey
Published: March 2018

Lyme disease is recognized as the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. Surveillance data indicate both increasing numbers of Lyme disease cases and geographic expansion of areas where the causative spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi, can be found. With prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment in the acute stage, most patients will recover fully. Without treatment, however, the infecting pathogen remains within the body, often producing long-term complications, including musculoskeletal, neurologic, and cardiovascular effects. The authors describe early and late manifestations of Lyme disease, the appropriate use of diagnostic tests, the recommended treatment, and strategies for preventing tick-borne diseases nurses can share with patients.
The Impact of Early Substance Use Disorder Treatment Response on Treatment Outcomes Among Pregnant Women With Primary Opioid Use
Authors: Tuten Michelle , Fitzsimons Heather , Hochheimer Martin , Jones Hendree E. , Chisolm Margaret S.
Published: March 2018

Objectives:

This study examined the impact of early patient response on treatment utilization and substance use among pregnant participants enrolled in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment.

Methods:

Treatment responders (TRs) and treatment nonresponders (TNRs) were compared on pretreatment and treatment measures. Regression models predicted treatment utilization and substance use.

Results:

TR participants attended more treatment and had lower rates of substance use relative to TNR participants. Regression models for treatment utilization and substance use were significant. Maternal estimated gestational age (EGA) and baseline cocaine use were negatively associated with treatment attendance. Medication-assisted treatment, early treatment response, and baseline SUD treatment were positively associated with treatment attendance. Maternal EGA was negatively associated with counseling attendance; early treatment response was positively associated with counseling attendance. Predictors of any substance use at 1 month were maternal education, EGA, early treatment nonresponse, and baseline cocaine use. The single predictor of any substance use at 2 months was early treatment nonresponse. Predictors of opioid use at 1 month were maternal education, EGA, early treatment nonresponse, and baseline SUD treatment. Predictors of opioid use at 2 months were early treatment nonresponse, and baseline cocaine and marijuana use. Predictors of cocaine use at 1 month were early treatment nonresponse, baseline cocaine use, and baseline SUD treatment. Predictors of cocaine use at 2 months were early treatment nonresponse and baseline cocaine use.

Conclusions:

Early treatment response predicts more favorable maternal treatment utilization and substance use outcomes. Treatment providers should implement interventions to maximize patient early response to treatment.
Factors Associated With Spinopelvic Fixation Mechanical Failure After Total Sacrectomy
Authors: Tang Xiaodong , Yang Rongli , Qu Huayi , Cai Zhenyu , Guo Wei
Published: March 2018

Study Design.

We retrospectively analyzed factors associated with spinopelvic mechanical failure after total sacrectomy.

Objective.

To find the rate and type of mechanical fixation failure after total sacrectomy and to identify the associated risk factors.

Summary of Background Data.

Although rigid fixation has been achieved, mechanical failure is sometimes encountered in reconstruction after total sacrectomy. The incidence and factors associated with spinopelvic fixation mechanical failure after total sacrectomy are still not clear.

Methods.

The study comprised 63 patients who underwent spinopelvic reconstruction after total sacrectomy. The potential risk factors for fixation mechanical failure after total sacrectomy were evaluated, which included age, sex, body mass index, type of tumor (benign or malignant), and adjuvant treatment received (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy). The surgery-related factors included the classification of tumor resection (en bloc or piecemeal resection) and the type of iliosacral resection. Adoption of anterior spinal column fixation (ASCF), posterior pelvic ring fixation (PPRF), four-rod technique (FRT) of spinopelvic fixation (SPF), and structural or morselized bone grafting after total sacrectomy in patients were considered reconstruction-related factors. Cox regression models were used to analyze associations between postoperative fixation failure and risk factors for all models.

Results.

Postoperative fixation mechanical failure occurred in 25% of patients (16/63) who underwent total sacrectomy. Univariate analysis showed that the factors associated with spinopelvic fixation mechanical failure after total sacrectomy were the non-adoption of FRT of SPF and ASCF, the adoption of Type II sacroiliac resection, and female sex, whereas multivariate analysis demonstrated similar results, except for the adoption of Type II sacroilliac resection.

Conclusion.

FRT connection of SPF and ASCF should be adopted in reconstruction after total sacrectomy, especially in female patients.

Level of Evidence: 3
Management of Sacrococcygeal Chordoma
Authors: Ahmed Ahmed T. , Abdel-Rahman Omar , Morsy Mohamed , Mustafa Karim , Testini Paola , Aleem Ilyas S. , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Nassr Ahmad
Published: March 2018

Study Design.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies.

Objective.

The aim of the study is to evaluate different treatment modalities in the management of sacrococcygeal chordoma.

Summary of Background Data.

Chordomas are primary malignant bone tumors associated with considerable morbidity and mortality.

Methods.

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central-Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus from inception to July 2015. Eligible studies included patients with sacrococcygeal chordoma treated exclusively with surgery, radiotherapy, or both. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility of potential studies, risk of bias, and extracted data. Outcomes of interest were all-cause mortality, progression-free survival, and metastases. We analyzed further surgical outcomes by resection margin. All outcomes were assessed at 60 months and more than 60 months following intervention.

Results.

We included 33 noncomparative studies reporting on 501 patients (mean age 57 years). Overall mortality rate was (16%) after surgical resection with adjuvant radiotherapy and (28%) after surgical resection, and (43%) after radiotherapy (P = 0.28). All-cause mortality following wide surgical resection was (32%) compared to (40%) after marginal resection (P = 0.51). Overall progression-free survival rate was (58%) after surgical resection with adjuvant radiotherapy and (55%) after surgery (P = 0.92). However, at more than 60 months follow-up, progression-free survival rates were significantly higher (P = 0.024) following surgical resection with adjuvant radiotherapy (74%) in comparison to surgery (55%) and radiotherapy (36%). Overall progression-free survival rates were nonsignificantly higher after wide surgical resection (66%) than marginal resection (33%) (P = 0.16). However, at 60 months follow-up, progression-free survival rates were significantly higher following wide surgical resection (73%) than marginal resection (33%) (P = 0.047).

Conclusion.

Sacrococcygeal chordoma is a difficult to treat disease entity. Until comparative studies become available, wide surgical resection and multidisciplinary management are the recommended approaches to improve patient outcomes.

Level of Evidence: 3
Three antigen-loading methods in dendritic cell vaccines for metastatic melanoma
Authors: Geskin Larisa J. , Damiano James J. , Patrone Christina C. , Butterfield Lisa H. , Kirkwood John M. , Falo Louis D.
Published: March 2018

In the current era of checkpoint inhibitors, some patients with metastatic melanoma have shown a significant improvement in survival. However, optimization of immunotherapy is an ongoing effort. Monocyte-derived dendritic cell (MODC) vaccines have been shown in clinical trials to be safe and capable of inducing tumor-specific immunity as well as occasional objective clinical responses. Here, we conducted a three-arm pilot clinical study in 15 patients with metastatic melanoma to evaluate three types of MODC vaccines, differing only by strategies of tumor antigen delivery. MODCs were isolated from each patient and loaded with patients’ own melanoma cells as sources of antigens. Antigen loading was achieved ex vivo by fusing melanoma cells with MODCs, co-culturing melanoma cells with MODCs, or by pulsing MODCs with melanoma cell lysates. The vaccines were then injected into superficial lymph nodes using high-resolution ultrasound guidance. Primary end points included delayed-type hypersensitivity responses and positive ELISpot result, which measures interferon-γ production. Five of 15 patients achieved delayed-type hypersensitivity responses and six of 15 patients had positive ELISpot results. We demonstrated that the vaccines were safe and well-tolerated by all patients and produced immunological responses in all arms. Although MODC vaccine monotherapy has limited efficacy, combining this vaccine with other immunotherapies, such as checkpoint inhibitors, to engage multiple components of the immune system may be an effective and viable future approach.
CDKN2A germline alterations in melanoma patients with personal or familial history of pancreatic cancer
Authors: De Unamuno Blanca , García-Casado Zaida , Bañuls José , Requena Celia , Lopez-Guerrero José Antonio , Nagore Eduardo
Published: March 2018

CDKN2A germline mutations increase the risk of melanoma development and are present in 20 and 10% of familial and multiple melanoma cases, respectively. Pancreatic cancer has been associated with CDKN2A in some populations and, accordingly, its presence in first-degree or second-degree relatives of a melanoma patient is considered as a criterion for genetic testing. In this study, we show that in an area with low melanoma incidence, CDKN2A germline mutations in patients with melanoma and personal or family history of pancreatic cancer are mainly present in the setting of familial or multiple melanoma cases. In addition, a relatively young age (≤52 years) at pancreatic diagnosis is an additional single criterion that might also be considered.
Donor Site Assessment for Female Hairline Restoration in Southeast Asians
Authors: Ingprasert Sittichai , Pathomvanich Damkerng , Pinyopawasutthi Patra
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND

Female hairline restoration has increasingly been in demand for the past decade. However, no reports address the correlation between characteristics of hair at the hairline and at the donor area.

OBJECTIVE

To assess follicular characteristics at the hairline and at the donor area including hair density, diameter, and their correlation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred one randomly selected Southeast Asian female volunteers were assessed for hairline and donor area characteristics. Data from the donor sites, including the temporal, parietal, occipital, and neck region were compared with that of the hairline.

RESULTS

Hairline density was 135.2 hair/cm2 with a diameter of 80.07 μm in midline, 112.95 hair/cm2 with 73.96 μm at the frontotemporal area, 69.82 hair/cm2 with 72.09 μm at temple peak, and 74.26 hair/cm2 with 72.35 μm at sideburns. The donor hair density was 98.89 to 152.19 hairs/cm2 and hair diameter was 76.80 to 81.11 μm. Aging was shown to affect hair density and diameter at the donor area.

CONCLUSION

All donor sites are suitable for hairline restoration of the midfrontal region except in the neck region. The suitable donor area for the frontotemporal area, temple peak, and sideburns is the nape. Hair density and diameter declined with age at some donor sites.
Heart and soul: heart rate variability and major depression
Authors: Kidwell Meyrick , Ellenbroek Bart A.
Published: March 2018

There is a bidirectional relationship between affective disorders and cardiovascular abnormalities, often described as a downward spiral, whereas major depressive disorders (MDD, and anxiety disorders) significantly increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD); CVD are also associated with increased risk of developing MDD (and anxiety disorders). Moreover, the prognosis and progression of CVD is significantly worsened in the presence of MDD. Heart rate variability (HRV) has often been suggested as a potential mediator in this comorbidity. In this review, we discuss HRV alterations in MDD. However, we mainly focus on the direct relationship between HRV alterations and psychiatric symptoms, rather than its relationship with CVD, as this has been reviewed elsewhere. After a general introduction to HRV and how it can be measured, we review how HRV is altered in MDD. We subsequently describe how antidepressant drugs affect HRV, showing that some classes (such as tricyclics) generally worsen HRV, whereas others (most notably selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) have a more positive influence. We also review the effects of several other treatments, with a special focus on vagal nerve stimulation, finishing with some further considerations and recommendation for further research, both in humans and animals.
The Effects of Hemodynamic Unloading in African Americans Implanted with Left Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Tehrani David M. , Rodgers Daniel , Adatya Sirtaz , Sarswat Nitasha , Raikhelkar Jayant , Kim Gene H. , Sayer Gabriel , Uriel Nir
Published: March 2018

We aim to evaluate the echocardiographic/hemodynamic effects of left ventricular assist devices in African American (AA) versus non-AA patients undergoing ramp speed optimization and its subsequent effect on readmissions. In 65 patients (26 AA), no differences in baseline echocardiographic/hemodynamic parameters were noted. During ramp testing, there was a significantly greater increase in cardiac output (slope: 0.29 ± 0.24 vs. 0.15 ± 0.12, p < 0.01) with more rapid decrease in left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (slope: −0.21 ± 0.14 vs. −0.13 ± 0.07 L/min, p < 0.01) in the AA group. AAs had higher all-cause, but similar heart failure readmission rate as compared with the non-AA group.
Combining Stem Cell Therapy for Advanced Heart Failure and Ventricular Assist Devices: A Review
Authors: Reich Heidi J. , Czer Lawrence S. C. , Ramzy Danny , Arabia Francisco , Moriguchi Jaime , Ascheim Deborah D. , Henry Timothy D.
Published: March 2018

The use of stem cell therapy in combination with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) for patients with advanced heart failure (HF) is an attractive concept with the potential to alter the natural history of HF. Cell therapy trials for HF have demonstrated excellent safety and encouraging results, but current rates of myocardial recovery after LVAD implantation are limited. Early trials combining these 2 therapies to increase the likelihood of recovery and to potentially obviate the need for subsequent transplantation appear promising. Additionally, the application of cell therapy to patients undergoing LVAD implantation as a bridge to cardiac transplantation creates an opportunity to examine cardiac tissue before and after treatment and to study the mechanism of benefit. Despite the promise, there is a paucity of data for the combination of stem cell therapy with LVAD insertion in patients with HF. Of 11 case series or clinical trials, the largest enrolled 30 patients. We highlight clinical trials using stem cell therapy for end-stage HF most relevant to an LVAD patient population and comprehensively review the preclinical and clinical studies of combined stem cell therapy and long-term mechanical circulatory support. Based on the available clinical trials, the combination of stem cell therapy and LVAD support is a promising approach but requires further clinical refinement, with additional clinical data and larger numbers of patients required to support its clinical application.
Quality of Life in Partners of Young and Old Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Cohee Andrea A. , Bigatti Silvia M. , Shields Cleveland G. , Johns Shelley A. , Stump Timothy , Monahan Patrick O. , Champion Victoria L.
Published: March 2018

Background

Partners of breast cancer survivors experience the effects of a spouse’s cancer years after treatment. Partners of younger survivors (YPs) may experience greater problems than partners of older survivors (OPs), just as younger survivors experience greater problems than their older counterparts.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to (1) compare quality of life (QoL) in YPs and OPs and (2) determine contributing factors to each group’s QoL.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were collected from YPs (n = 227) and OPs (n = 281) through self-report. Multivariate analysis of variance was used to determine differences between YPs and OPs on QoL while controlling for covariates. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine what contributes to each group’s QoL.

Results

Partners of younger survivors reported better physical function (effect size [ES], −0.57), lower marital satisfaction (ES, 0.39), and lower overall QoL (ES, 0.43) than OPs. Predictors of QoL also differed between partner groups. For YPs, overall QoL was predicted by greater physical functioning, fewer depressive symptoms, higher marital satisfaction, higher parenting satisfaction, and more personal resources (R
2 = 0.47, F
5,195 = 35.05, P < .001). For OPs, overall QoL was predicted by fewer depressive symptoms, higher parenting satisfaction, higher spirituality, and greater social support from the breast cancer survivor spouse (R
2 = 0.33, F
4,244 = 29.80, P < .001).

Conclusion

Partners of older survivors reported greater QoL than YPs. Common factors contributing to QoL between YPs and OPs were fewer depressive symptoms and higher parenting satisfaction.

Implications for Practice

Partners of breast cancer survivors may need support coping with their spouse/partner’s cancer. Partners of younger survivors may require more support than OPs.
Self Efficacy in Depression
Authors: Milanovic Melissa , Ayukawa Emma , Usyatynsky Aleksandra , Holshausen Katherine , Bowie Christopher R.
Published: March 2018

We investigated the discrepancy between competence and real-world performance in major depressive disorder (MDD) for adaptive and interpersonal behaviors, determining whether self-efficacy significantly predicts this discrepancy, after considering depressive symptoms. Forty-two participants (M
age = 37.64, 66.67% female) with MDD were recruited from mental health clinics. Competence, self-efficacy, and real-world functioning were evaluated in adaptive and interpersonal domains; depressive symptoms were assessed with the Beck Depression Inventory II. Hierarchical regression analysis identified predictors of functional disability and the discrepancy between competence and real-world functioning. Self-efficacy significantly predicted functioning in the adaptive and interpersonal domains over and above depressive symptoms. Interpersonal self-efficacy accounted for significant variance in the discrepancy between interpersonal competence and functioning beyond symptoms. Using a multilevel, multidimensional approach, we provide the first data regarding relationships among competence, functioning, and self-efficacy in MDD. Self-efficacy plays an important role in deployment of functional skills in everyday life for individuals with MDD.
Synthetic Cannabinoid Exposure in Adolescents Presenting for Emergency Care
Authors: Gilley Meghan , Brent Jeffrey , Calello Diane P. , Wax Paul , Finkelstein Yaron ,   Toxicology Investigators Consortium
Published: March 2018

Objective

The objective of this study was to characterize the clinical picture and management of synthetic cannabinoid exposure in a cohort of adolescents.

Methods

Using the 45 participating sites of the Toxicology Investigators Consortium Registry, a North American database, we conducted an observational study of a prospectively collected cohort. We identified all adolescent (12–19 years) cases of synthetic cannabinoid exposure who have received medical toxicology consultation between January 2012 and December 2016. Clinical and demographic data were collected including age, sex, circumstances surrounding exposure, coingestants, clinical manifestations, treatment, disposition, and outcome.

Results

We identified 75 adolescents who presented to the emergency department with synthetic cannabinoid exposure. Most were male (91%) and between the ages of 16 and 19 (66%). The most common symptoms were neuropsychiatric with 50 adolescents (67%) exhibiting central nervous system (CNS) manifestations. There was no predominant toxidrome, and 9 patients (12%) were mechanically ventilated. Mainstay of treatment was supportive care. No deaths were reported.

Conclusions

Synthetic cannabinoid exposure in adolescents is primarily characterized by CNS manifestations, which are varied and may be life-threatening. Frontline caregivers should maintain a high index of suspicion for synthetic cannabinoids, especially in adolescents who present with unexplained CNS manifestations, as there is no specific toxidrome or confirmatory rapid drug screen to detect them.
Assessment of Emergency Department Antibiotic Discharge Prescription Dosing Errors for Pediatric Patients in a Community Hospital Health System
Authors: Barstow Linda , Herman Erika , Phillips Heidi , Maloney Patrick
Published: March 2018

Objectives

We quantify and describe emergency department antibiotic discharge prescription dosing errors for pediatric patients in a community hospital health system.

Methods

This was a retrospective chart review evaluating emergency department discharge prescriptions written between July 1, 2014, and June 30, 2015. Pediatric patients who received a prescription for an oral antibiotic were included in error analysis if they had a weight updated in the electronic medical record during the encounter. We used a predefined threshold of +10% variance from the recommended dose to quantify error. Prescriber, environmental, and antibiotic specific data were also collected to identify variables associated with high incidence of error.

Results

Among the 1934 prescriptions included in our error analysis, we detected 776 (40%) dosing errors. Of the prescriptions reviewed, 288 (15%) contained an overdosing error and 488 (25%) contained an underdosing error. There were 208 underdosing errors written for amoxicillin to treat acute otitis media. These errors represented 43% of the total underdosing errors and had a greater magnitude of variance from the recommended dose compared with overall underdosing errors.

Conclusions

Underdosing of amoxicillin in acute otitis media was a dosing error that occurred frequently throughout our community health system. Further research is needed to identify the clinical impact these errors have on pediatric patients.
Mesonephric Adenocarcinoma of the Uterine Corpus: Report of 2 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Zhang Lin , Cai Zhenjian , Ambelil Manju , Conyers Jeffrey , Zhu Hui
Published: March 2018

Mesonephric adenocarcinoma (MNA) is believed to arise from benign mesonephric remnants or hyperplasia located in the lateral walls of the uterine cervix. They are uncommon in other sites of the gynecologic tract, and exceptionally rare in the uterine corpus. So far, only 30 cases of uterine MNA have been reported in the literature, as a result, the etiology, clinical behavior, choice of treatment, and histogenesis of uterine MNA are still unclear. In this study, we report 2 cases of MNA of uterine corpus. One case involved the inner half of myometrium with endometrial involvement; the second case involved the outer half of myometrium without endometrial involvement. We also reviewed the clinical and pathologic presentations of this rare entity, and discussed the histogenesis of uterine corpus MNA based on recent molecular findings.
Multiple Myeloma Presenting as a Superscan on 68Ga-Pentixafor PET/CT
Authors: Pan Qingqing , Luo Yaping , Cao Xinxin , Ma Yanru , Li Fang
Published: March 2018

A 60-year-old woman diagnosed with multiple myeloma was referred for 68Ga-pentixafor PET/CT for evaluation of the disease. Diffuse and intense radioactivity throughout the axial and proximal appendicular skeleton was noted on PET/CT images, suggestive of extensive involvement of multiple myeloma.
Postoperative Complications Associated With Different Fixation Methods of Isolated Mandibular Angle Fractures
Authors: Ferreira e Costa Rafael , Oliveira Marina Reis , Gabrielli Marisa Aparecida Cabrini , Pereira-Filho Valfrido Antônio , Vieira Eduardo Hochuli
Published: March 2018

The objective of this study was to review the medical records of patients with a history of mandibular angle fracture who were attended at the Service of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Traumatology of FOAr/UNESP in the last 5 years. The data collected were subjected to chi-squared test (significance level of 5%). The authors reviewed 19 medical records. The main cause was physical aggression (58.00%), but with no statistical difference in relation to the other etiologies (P > 0.05). Regarding the type of fixation, one 2.0-mm system plate associated with one 2.4-mm system plate and the fixation using only two 2.0-mm system plates were used in 7 patients each. The fixation method with a monocortical plate at the upper border was used in 5 patients. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of complications among the 3 fixation methods used (P > 0.05). In 52.64% of the patients, the third molar was removed intraoperatively. Despite this, there was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of complications when the third molar was in the fracture line or when it was removed postoperatively (P > 0.05). The complications observed were dehiscence associated with pain (44.44%), trismus (22.22%), infection (22.22%), and presence of bone spicules (11.11%). However, no statistical differences were observed between the frequency of different types of complications (P = 0.779). In the sample studied, there were no differences in the frequency of complications among the fixation methods applied.
Same length, different shapes: ants collectively choose a straight foraging path over a bent one
Authors: Bles Olivier , Boehly Thibault , Deneubourg Jean-Louis , Nicolis Stamatios C.
Published: March 2018

In socials insects, exploration is fundamental for the discovery of food resources and determines decision-making. We investigated how the interplay between the physical characteristics of the paths leading to food sources and the way it impacts the behaviour of individual ants affects their collective decisions. Colonies of different sizes of
Lasius niger
had access to two equal food sources through two paths of equal length but of different geometries: one was straight between the nest and the food source, and the other involved an abrupt change of direction at the midway point (135°). Both food sources were discovered simultaneously, but the food source at the end of the straight path was preferentially exploited by ants. Based on experimental and theoretical results, we show that a significantly shorter duration of nestbound travel on the straight path, which rapidly leads to a stronger pheromone trail, is at the origin of this preference.
Studying the association complex formation of atomoxetine and fluvoxamine with eosin Y and its application in their fluorimetric determination
Authors: Derayea Sayed M. , Omar Mahmoud A. , Abu-hassan Ahmed A.
Published: March 2018

A simple, sensitive and non-extractive spectrofluorimetric method has been developed and validated for the determination of two psychoanaleptic drugs, atomoxetine and fluvoxamine, in pure forms and pharmaceutical dosage forms. The proposed method is based on the formation of binary complexes between eosin Y and the studied drugs in the presence of a Teorell–Stenhagen buffer. The quenching of the native fluorescence of eosin Y due to complex formation with the studied drugs was measured spectrofluorimetrically at 545 nm after excitation at 302 nm. At the optimum reaction conditions, the fluorescence quenching values (Δ
F
) and concentrations were rectilinear over the concentration ranges of 0.2–2.2 and 0.3–2.2 µg ml
−1
for atomoxetine and fluvoxamine, respectively. The developed method was successfully applied for the determination of the studied drugs in their pharmaceutical formulations with average percentage recoveries of 100.13 ± 0.66 and 99.69 ± 0.44 for atomoxetine and fluvoxamine, respectively (
n
 = 5), without interference from common excipients.
Aerodynamic efficiency of a bioinspired flapping wing rotor at low Reynolds number
Authors: Li H. , Guo S.
Published: March 2018

This study investigates the aerodynamic efficiency of a bioinspired flapping wing rotor kinematics which combines an active vertical flapping motion and a passive horizontal rotation induced by aerodynamic thrust. The aerodynamic efficiencies for producing both vertical lift and horizontal thrust of the wing are obtained using a quasi-steady aerodynamic model and two-dimensional (2D) CFD analysis at Reynolds number of 2500. The calculated efficiency data show that both efficiencies (propulsive efficiency-ηp, and efficiency for producing lift-Pf) of the wing are optimized at Strouhal number (St) between 0.1 and 0.5 for a range of wing pitch angles (upstroke angle of attackαuless than 45°); theStfor highPf(St = 0.1 ∼ 0.3) is generally lower than for highηp(St = 0.2 ∼ 0.5), while theStfor equilibrium rotation states lies between the two. Further systematic calculations show that the natural equilibrium of the passive rotating wing automatically converges to high-efficiency states: above 85% of maximumPfcan be obtained for a wide range of prescribed wing kinematics. This study provides insight into the aerodynamic efficiency of biological flyers in cruising flight, as well as practical applications for micro air vehicle design.
Anticipation from sensation: using anticipating synchronization to stabilize a system with inherent sensory delay
Authors: Eberle Henry , Nasuto Slawomir J. , Hayashi Yoshikatsu
Published: March 2018

We present a novel way of using a dynamical model for predictive tracking control that can adapt to a wide range of delays without parameter update. This is achieved by incorporating the paradigm of anticipating synchronization (AS), where a ‘slave’ system predicts a ‘master’ via delayed self-feedback. By treating the delayed output of the plant as one half of a ‘sensory’ AS coupling, the plant and an internal dynamical model can be synchronized such that the plant consistently leads the target’s motion. We use two simulated robotic systems with differing arrangements of the plant and internal model (‘parallel’ and ‘serial’) to demonstrate that this form of control adapts to a wide range of delays without requiring the parameters of the controller to be changed.
Enhancing multi-spot structured illumination microscopy with fluorescence difference
Authors: Ward Edward N. , Torkelsen Frida H. , Pal Robert
Published: March 2018

Structured illumination microscopy is a super-resolution technique used extensively in biological research. However, this technique is limited in the maximum possible resolution increase. Here we report the results of simulations of a novel enhanced multi-spot structured illumination technique. This method combines the super-resolution technique of difference microscopy with structured illumination deconvolution. Initial results give at minimum a 1.4-fold increase in resolution over conventional structured illumination in a low-noise environment. This new technique also has the potential to be expanded to further enhance axial resolution with three-dimensional difference microscopy. The requirement for precise pattern determination in this technique also led to the development of a new pattern estimation algorithm which proved more efficient and reliable than other methods tested.
Structural characterization of alkali-soluble polysaccharides from
Panax ginseng
C. A. Meyer
Authors: Ji Li , Jie Zhenjing , Ying Xin , Yue Qi , Zhou Yifa , Sun Lin
Published: March 2018

Panax ginseng
C. A. Meyer (ginseng) has been widely used as a herb and functional food in the world. Polysaccharides are the main active components of ginseng. In this paper, the polysaccharides were sequentially extracted by 50 mM Na
2
CO
3
, 1 M KOH and 4 M KOH from ginseng roots treated sequentially with hot water, α-amylase and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid extraction. Na
2
CO
3
-soluble ginseng polysaccharide (NGP) was fractionated into one neutral and three acidic fractions by anion exchange and gel permeation chromatography. Fourier transform infrared, NMR and methylation analysis indicated acidic fractions in NGP were highly branched rhamnogalacturonan-I domains, with  → 4)-α-Gal
p
A-(1 → 2)-α-Rha
p
-(1 → disaccharide repeating units as backbone and β-1,4-galactan, α-1,5/1,3,5-arabinan and type II arabinogalactan as side chains. 1-KGP (1 M KOH-soluble ginseng polysaccharide) and 4-KGP (4 M KOH-soluble ginseng polysaccharide) were mainly composed of hemicellulose besides starch-like polysaccharides and minor pectin. Antibody detection, enzymic hydrolysis, high performance anion exchange chromatography and methylation analysis demonstrated xylan was the major component in 1-KGP, while xyloglucan was predominant in 4-KGP. Comparing the polysaccharides obtained by different solvent extractions, we have a comprehensive understanding about total ginseng polysaccharides.
The preparation of Fe
2
O
3
-ZSM-5 catalysts by metal-organic chemical vapour deposition method for catalytic wet peroxide oxidation of
m
-cresol
Authors: Yang Yi , Zhang Huiping , Yan Ying
Published: March 2018

Fe
2
O
3
-ZSM-5 catalysts (0.6 wt% Fe load) prepared by metal-organic chemical vapour deposition (MOCVD) method were evaluated in the catalytic wet peroxide oxidation (CWPO) of
m
-cresol in a batch reactor. The catalysts have a good iron dispersion and small iron crystalline size, and exhibit high stability during reaction. In addition, the kinetics of the reaction were studied and the initial oxidation rate equation was given. Catalysts were first characterized by N
2
adsorption–desorption isotherms, scanning electronic microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Results show that extra-framework Fe
3+
species (presenting in the form of Fe
2
O
3
) are successfully loaded on ZSM-5 supports by MOCVD method. Performances of catalysts were tested and effects of different temperature, stirring rate, catalyst amount on hydrogen peroxide,
m
-cresol, total organic carbon (TOC) conversion and Fe leaching concentration were studied. Results reveal that catalytic activity increased with higher temperature, faster stirring rate and larger catalyst amount. In all circumstances,
m
-cresol conversion could reach 99% in 0.5–2.5 h, and the highest TOC removal (80.5%) is obtained after 3 h under conditions of 60°C, 400 r.p.m. and catalyst amount of 2.5 g l
−1
. The iron-leaching concentrations are less than 1.1 mg l
−1
under all conditions. The initial oxidation rate equation

−

r

A
0

=
7.2
×

10

11

e

−
81300

/

R
T

C
A

is obtained for
m
-cresol degradation with Fe
2
O
3
-ZSM-5 catalysts.
Synthesis, quantitative structure–property relationship study of novel fluorescence active 2-pyrazolines and application
Authors: Girgis Adel S. , Basta Altaf H. , El-Saied Houssni , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Bedair Ahmad H. , Salim Ahmad S.
Published: March 2018

A variety of fluorescence-active fluorinated pyrazolines
13–33
was synthesized in good yields through cyclocondensation reaction of propenones
1–9
with aryl hydrazines
10–12
. Some of the synthesized compounds provided promising fluorescence properties with quantum yield (
Φ
) higher than that of quinine sulfate (standard reference). Quantitative structure–property relationship studies were undertaken supporting the exhibited fluorescence properties and estimating the parameters governing properties. Five synthesized fluorescence-active pyrazolines (
13
,
15
,
18
,
19
and
23
) with variable
Φ
were selected for treating two types of paper sheets (Fabriano and Bible paper). These investigated fluorescence compounds, especially compounds
19
and
23
, provide improvements in strength properties of paper sheets. Based on the observed performance they can be used as markers in security documents.
Rewilding the world's large carnivores
Authors: Wolf Christopher , Ripple William J.
Published: March 2018

Earth's terrestrial large carnivores form a highly endangered group of species with unique conservation challenges. The majority of these species have experienced major geographical range contractions, which puts many of them at high risk of extinction or of becoming ecologically ineffective. As a result of these range contractions and the associated loss of intact predator guilds, the ecological effects of these species are now far less widespread and common, with inevitable consequences for ecosystem function. Rewilding—which includes reintroducing species into portions of their former ranges—is an important carnivore conservation tool and means for restoring top-down ecological regulation. We conducted a global analysis of potential reintroduction areas. We first considered protected areas where one or more large carnivore species have been extirpated, identifying a total of 130 protected areas that may be most suitable for carnivore reintroduction. These protected areas include sites in every major world region, and are most commonly found in Mongolia (
n
 = 13), Canada (
n
 = 11), Thailand (
n
 = 9), Namibia (
n
 = 6), Indonesia (
n
 = 6) and Australia (
n
 = 6). We considered the sizes of protected areas, their levels of protection, the extent of human impacts within and around the protected areas, and the status of prey species in the protected areas. Finally, we used the ‘last of the wild’ approach to identify contiguous low human footprint regions within the former ranges of each species, identifying an additional 150 areas which could be the focus of conservation efforts to create conditions conducive to reintroductions. These low footprint regions were most commonly found in the USA (
n
 = 14), Russia (
n
 = 14), Canada (
n
 = 10), China (
n
 = 9) and Mauritania (
n
 = 8). Together, our results show the global-scale potential for carnivore rewilding projects to both conserve these species and provide critical ecological and social benefits.
Stochastic isotropic hyperelastic materials: constitutive calibration and model selection
Authors: Mihai L. Angela , Woolley Thomas E. , Goriely Alain
Published: March 2018

Biological and synthetic materials often exhibit intrinsic variability in their elastic responses under large strains, owing to microstructural inhomogeneity or when elastic data are extracted from viscoelastic mechanical tests. For these materials, although hyperelastic models calibrated to mean data are useful, stochastic representations accounting also for data dispersion carry extra information about the variability of material properties found in practical applications. We combine finite elasticity and information theories to construct homogeneous isotropic hyperelastic models with random field parameters calibrated to discrete mean values and standard deviations of either the stress–strain function or the nonlinear shear modulus, which is a function of the deformation, estimated from experimental tests. These quantities can take on different values, corresponding to possible outcomes of the experiments. As multiple models can be derived that adequately represent the observed phenomena, we apply Occam’s razor by providing an explicit criterion for model selection based on Bayesian statistics. We then employ this criterion to select a model among competing models calibrated to experimental data for rubber and brain tissue under single or multiaxial loads.