bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congress of Neurological Surgeons Systematic Review and Evidence-Based Guidelines on the Treatment of Adults With Vestibular Schwannomas: Executive Summary
Authors: Olson Jeffrey J , Kalkanis Steven N , Ryken Timothy C
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

Vestibular schwannomas (VS) are uncommon lesions that are a substantial challenge to the neurosurgeons, otologists, and radiation oncologists who undertake their clinical management. A starting point to improving the current knowledge is to define the benchmarks of the current research studying VS management using evidence-based techniques in order to allow meaningful points of departure for future scientific and clinical research.

OBJECTIVE

To establish the best evidence-based management of VS, including initial otologic evaluation, imaging diagnosis, use of surgical techniques, assessment of tumor pathology, and the administration of radiation therapy.

METHODS

Multidisciplinary writing groups were identified to design questions, literature searches, and collection and classification of relevant findings. This information was then translated to recommendations based on the strength of the available literature.

RESULTS

This guideline series yielded some level 2 recommendations and a greater number of level 3 recommendations directed at the management of VS. Importantly, in some cases, a number of well-designed questions and subsequent searches did not yield information that allowed creation of a meaningful and justifiable recommendation.

CONCLUSION

This series of guidelines was constructed to assess the most current and clinically relevant evidence for the management of VS. They set a benchmark regarding the current evidence base for this type of tumor while also highlighting important key areas for future basic and clinical research, particularly on those topics for which no recommendations could be formulated.

 The full guidelines can be found at: https://www.cns.org/guidelines/guidelines-management-patients-vestibular-schwannoma.
Antiplatelet Therapy Before or After 16 Weeks’ Gestation for Preventing Preeclampsia: An Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis
Authors: Meher Shireen , Duley Lelia , Hunter Kylie , Askie Lisa
Published: November 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2017;216(2):121–128.e2)

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses have shown an association between antiplatelet agents and a reduction in the risk of preeclampsia and its complications, but the ideal timing of antiplatelet therapy is unclear. It has been suggested through aggregate data meta-analyses that therapy commencing prior to 16 weeks’ gestation is more effective, but data are limited. Using a large existing individual participant data set, this study aimed to assess whether treatment is more effective when started before 16 weeks’ gestation or after.
Enoxaparin for the Prevention of Preeclampsia and Intrauterine Growth Restriction in Women With a History: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Groom K.M. , McCowan L.M. , Mackay L.K. , Lee A.C. , Said J.M. , Kane S.C. , Walker S.P. , van Mens T.E. , Hannan N.J. , Tong S. , Chamley L.W. , Stone P.R. , McLintock C.
Published: November 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2017;216(3):296.e1–296.e14)

Preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) are both placental diseases and major causes of perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality. The most commonly used risk predictor for both IUGR and preeclampsia is obstetric history, and women are more significantly at risk if the condition occurred early in pregnancy and was severe. Previous studies have shown aspirin and calcium can significantly reduce the incidence of preeclampsia, and results from trials for heparin and low-molecular-weight-heparin (LMWH) have yielded conflicting results. This multicenter randomized controlled trial aimed to assess the use of LMWH for the prevention of small for gestational age (SGA) infants and preeclampsia in women with a history of these conditions.
Dose-adjusted Plasma Concentrations of Sublingual Buprenorphine are Lower During than After Pregnancy
Authors: Bastian J.R. , Chen H. , Zhang H. , Rothenberger S. , Tarter R. , English D. , Venkataramanan R. , Caritis S.N.
Published: November 2017

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2017;216(1):64.e1–64.e7)

Buprenorphine is increasingly used in pregnant women with opioid use disorders, as it has recently been associated with less severe neonatal complications and comparable efficacy as methadone. Currently, dosing of buprenorphine for pregnant women is based on recommendations for nonpregnant patients; however, drug absorption and metabolism can be impacted by pregnancy. This study examined the pharmacokinetic properties of sublingual buprenorphine in pregnant women and the postpartum period.
Outcomes of Hip Arthroscopy in Adolescents: A Comparison of Acute Versus Chronic Presentation. Two-Year Minimum Follow-up
Authors: Ashberg Lyall , Walsh John P. , Yuen Leslie C. , Perets Itay , Chaharbakhshi Edwin O. , Domb Benjamin G.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Hip arthroscopy has been shown to be effective in managing various hip pathologies, including labral tears in adolescent patients. The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether outcomes of hip arthroscopy in patients under the age of 18 treated for labral tears differ depending on whether the presentation was acute or chronic. We also present the outcomes of the largest prospectively collected study on hip arthroscopy performed for labral tears in adolescents.

Methods:

Patient reported outcome scores (PROs) for 194 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for hip pathology, who were 18 or under at the time of surgery were prospectively collected and retrospectively reviewed. Modified Harris hip score (mHHS), Nonarthritic hip score (NAHS), Hip Outcome score-sport specific scale (HOS-SSS) and Visual Analogue Score (VAS) were the PROs collected. The overall cohort was assessed for outcome and a comparison was made between those patients who presented with acute onset of symptoms versus those who presented with insidious onset.

Results:

There was significant improvement in all the PROs for the overall cohort, with improvement maintained over an average of 38.5 months. There was no significant difference in outcome scores, between the acute and chronic groups except for change in VAS. Preoperative scores in the acute group were significantly lower, while postoperative scores did not differ. A trend toward more improvement was noted for the acute group. Overall need for revision surgery was 12%, with a higher rate of revision in the acute group.

Conclusions:

Hip arthroscopy in adolescent patients being treated for intra-articular pathology is a safe procedure with favorable outcomes at minimum 2-year follow-up, with no significant difference in final outcomes between patients with acute onset of symptoms as opposed to those with more a more chronic presentation. Reoperation rate may be higher in patients with an acute onset.

Level of Evidence:

Level II.
Rib Cage Measurement Reproducibility Using Biplanar Stereoradiographic 3D Reconstructions in Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Pietton Raphael , Bouloussa Houssam , Vergari Claudio , Skalli Wafa , Vialle Raphael
Published: November 2017

Background:

A reproducibility study of preoperative rib cage three-dimensional (3D) measurements was conducted for patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS). No prior reliability study has been performed for preoperative 3D reconstructions of the rib cage by using stereoradiography in patients with preoperative AIS. Our objective was to assess the reliability of rib cage 3D reconstructions using biplanar stereoradiography in patients with AIS before surgery.

Methods:

This series includes 21 patients with Lenke 1 or 2 scoliosis (74±20 degrees). All patients underwent low-dose standing biplanar radiographs. Two operators performed reconstructions twice each. Intraoperator repeatability, interoperator reproducibility, and intraclass coefficients (ICC) were calculated and compared between groups.

Results:

The average rib cage volume was 4.71 L (SD±0.75 L). Two SD was 0.19 L with a coefficient of variation of 4.1%; ICC was 0.968. The thoracic index was 0.6 (SD±0.1). Two SD was 0.03 with a coefficient of variation of 4.7% and a ICC of 0.820. As for the Spinal Penetration Index (6.4%; SD±2.4), 2SD was 0.9% with a coefficient of variation of 14.3% and a ICC of 0.901. The 3D rib hump 2SD (average 27±8 degrees) was 1.4 degrees. The coefficient of variation and ICC were respectively 5.1% and 0.991.

Conclusions:

Three-dimensional reconstruction of the rib cage using biplanar stereoradiography is a reliable method to estimate preoperative thoracic parameters in patients with AIS.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—diagnostic study.
What’s New in Pediatric Sports Conditions of the Knee?
Authors: Cruz Aristides I. , Richmond Connor G. , Tompkins Marc A. , Heyer Ann , Shea Kevin G. , Beck Jennifer J.
Published: November 2017

Background:

Sports injuries are common in pediatric and adolescent patients and the evaluation and treatment of these injuries continues to evolve. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive appraisal of the literature, highlighting recent updates on sports-related knee injuries in the pediatric athlete. We specifically examined literature on tibial spine fractures, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the knee, and patellar instability. Because of the volume of literature on the subject, pediatric, and adolescent anterior cruciate ligament injuries were not included in this review.

Methods:

An electronic search of the PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases was performed for keywords related to pediatric: tibial spine fractures, patellar instability, and osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Search results were filtered by publication date to yield articles published electronically or in print on or after January 1, 2013. Papers were selected based on expert opinion and consensus by the authors and included if deemed to have contributed important findings to the above topics.

Results:

A total of 31 articles were deemed to have contributed significant findings to the literature: 5 tibial spine, 17 patellar instability, and 9 OCD. The level of evidence for most studies was either level III or IV.

Conclusions:

The optimal treatment for tibial spine fractures remains controversial. The evaluation of risk factors for recurrent patellar instability is important in determining the optimal treatment strategy following first-time patellar dislocation. Future multicenter studies on pediatric OCD have the potential to further understanding of this difficult problem. High-level, comparative outcomes research on a variety of pediatric sports related injuries is lacking and this review may help inform topics for future study.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV—literature review.
Ultrasonic Percutaneous Tenotomy of Common Extensor Tendons for Recalcitrant Lateral Epicondylitis
Authors: Battista Christopher T. , Dorweiler Matthew A. , Fisher Michael L. , Morrey Bernard F. , Noyes Matthew P.
Published: November 2017

Tennis elbow is a common musculoskeletal condition affecting middle-aged patients with symptoms usually lasting from 6 months to 2 years. The vast majority of individuals will respond to conservative therapy; however, some will require surgical intervention. A new treatment system has been developed for use with ultrasound guidance in the ultrasonic microresection of tendinopathic tissue. This technology has been implemented in the TX1 Tissue Removal System and is used to treat various tendinopathies by debridement using targeted ultrasonic energy. We describe the surgical technique for the TX1 system as well as provide pain and functional outcome scores for a series of patients with recalcitrant lateral epicondylitis treated with percutaneous tenotomy with ultrasonic energy utilizing ultrasound guidance.
SAFETY OF CONSECUTIVE SAME-DAY BILATERAL INTRAVITREAL DEXAMETHASONE IMPLANT (OZURDEX)
Authors: Kapoor Kapil G. , Colchao James B.
Published: November 2017

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to evaluate patient safety and tolerance of consecutive bilateral intravitreal dexamethasone (Ozurdex) injections during a single visit for the treatment of cystoid macular edema secondary to retinal vein occlusion, diabetic macular edema, or noninfectious posterior uveitis.

Methods:

This was a retrospective single-center institutional review board–approved study from March 1, 2013, through August 1, 2016. All patients had a complete ophthalmologic examination and optical coherence tomography imaging. Bilateral intravitreal dexamethasone (Ozurdex) injection was performed according to standard sterile procedure. Twelve patients (24 eyes) were included in the study.

Results:

A total of 48 injections were administered to 24 eyes of 12 patients that qualified for the study. Patients received intravitreal dexamethasone (Ozurdex) injections for treatment of diabetic macular edema (10 patients), retinal vein occlusion (1 patient), or noninfectious posterior uveitis (1 patient). There were no complications.

Conclusion:

Consecutive same-day bilateral intravitreal dexamethasone (Ozurdex) is safe and well tolerated. There were no significant complications, and patients preferred continuing bilateral implantation after their initial trial. Same-day treatment may optimize efficiency and decrease patient visits and ultimate treatment burden without compromising patient safety or clinical efficacy.
ACUTE INTRAOPERATIVE SUPRACHOROIDAL HEMORRHAGE DURING SMALL-GAUGE PARS PLANA VITRECTOMY
Authors: Sukpen Intira , Stewart Jay M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose:

To report the intraoperative occurrence of acute intraoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhage during small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy.

Method:

A review of a surgical patient who developed acute intraoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhage during small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy because of bucking under general anesthesia.

Results:

A 32-year-old obese woman with proliferative diabetic retinopathy and traction retinal detachment in the left eye who developed intraoperative suprachoroidal hemorrhage during small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy because of bucking under general anesthesia while doing endolaser under air infusion. The pressure was immediately elevated to stabilize the hemorrhage without sclerotomy creation, and then gas (14% C3F8) was injected, with subsequent face-down positioning. The patient subsequently developed proliferative vitreoretinopathy, requiring additional surgery. The final visual acuity at 14-month follow-up was hand motions with a reattached retina in the left eye.

Conclusion:

Valsalva-induced suprachoroidal hemorrhage during pars plana vitrectomy under general anesthesia may result in sight-threatening visual consequences. Current small-gauge vitrectomy techniques using valved cannulas may allow for better intraoperative management of this complication through control of the intraocular pressure in a closed system.
Nurse Practitioner Fracture Liaison Role
Authors: Chow Sharon
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND:

With the worldwide growing aging population, the high prevalence of osteoporosis-related fractures is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Healthcare costs for treating fractures and subsequent complications will increase to $25 billion by 2025.

PURPOSE:

This article articulates a comprehensive concept analysis of the nurse practitioner fracture liaison (NPFL) role to provide new insights into the role of nurse practitioner in osteoporosis care coordination.

METHODS:

Walker and Avant's concept analysis framework was used to identify the attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of the NPFL role. Model cases illustrated real-life examples of the NPFL role.

CONCLUSION:

The impact of NPFL role is rather novel in promoting healthy bone living at local, national, and international communities. Linking the refined outcome of the concept analysis of the NPFL role to osteoporosis care helps close osteoporosis care gaps, improve healthcare outcomes, and alleviate financial burden by reducing secondary fracture and complications.
Atraumatic Liver Retraction Using Nelaton Catheters During Totally Laparoscopic Gastrectomy
Authors: Lee Si-Hak , Kim Ki-Hyun , Choi Cheol Woong , Kim Su Jin , Kim Dae-Hwan , Choi Chang In , Jeon Tae-Yong , Kim Dong-Heon , Hwang Sun-Hwi
Published: November 2017

This study introduces a novel technique for liver retraction during laparoscopic gastrectomy and assesses its impact on postoperative recovery. This study included 139 patients in whom Nelaton catheters (n=57) or Nathanson retractors (n=82) were used for liver retraction. Serum liver enzyme levels were measured preoperatively and on the first, second, third, fifth, and seventh postoperative days. Clinicopathologic features and postoperative recovery variables between the 2 groups were compared. The aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and C-reactive protein levels were significantly lower (P<0.001, P<0.001, and P=0.007, respectively), and the day of first flatus, the day of initiating a soft diet, and the length of hospital stay were shorter in the Nelaton catheter U-shaped retractor group than those seen in the Nathanson retractor group (P=0.035, P=0.002, and P=0.024, respectively). Atraumatic liver retraction with Nelaton catheters is recommended in laparoscopic gastrectomy.
Target experiences of workplace bullying on online labour markets
Authors: D’Cruz Premilla , Noronha Ernesto
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report a study of bullying on online labour markets (OLMs), highlighting how abuse unfolds in digital workplaces and depicting the trajectory of target resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting van Manen’s hermeneutic phenomenology, targets’ lived experiences of bullying on OLMs was explored. Data gathered from Indian freelancers located on Upwork via conversational telephonic interviews were subjected to sententious and selective thematic analyses.

Findings

The core theme of “pursuing long-term and holistic well-being” showed how targets tapped into yet augmented their resilience while navigating the features of OLMs as they coped with their experiences of bullying. The interface between targets’ internal and external resources, including platform support, vis-à-vis the concreteness and permanence of the site as targets asserted agency, sought control and realized positive outcomes while preserving their reputation, relationality, success and continuity was captured. It may be noted that bullying in digital workplaces is exclusively virtual in form.

Research limitations/implications

Alongside theoretical generalizability, statistical generalizability of the findings should be established.

Practical implications

Recommendations for action for platforms and targets are forwarded. In particular, the critical role of formal workplace support in influencing employee resilience is emphasized.

Originality/value

The paper makes several pioneering contributions. First, it reports the first empirical inquiry examining bullying in digital workplaces. Moreover, OLM research on abuse and harassment has not been undertaken so far. Second, it furthers theorization of resilience, especially with regard to workplace antecedents. Apart from identifying the new organizational antecedent of formal workplace support, it uncovers the complexities of resilience. Third, it extends knowledge on workplace cyberbullying, positive outcomes of workplace bullying and OLMs in India.
Change over 12 years in residential provision for adult persons with intellectual disabilities in Ireland
Authors: McConkey Roy , Craig Sarah
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to document the impact of major policy changes and reductions in government funding on residential provision for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) in Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

Ireland is unique in having a national database of people in receipt of services from specialist ID providers. Information on persons in residential settings from 2005 to 2016 was examined in terms of changes in the types of provision over time and broken down by age groups.

Findings

From 2011 onwards, cuts in government funding coincided with a continuing reduction in the overall provision of residential accommodation for adults with ID. There was a parallel increase in the number of people living with family carers, especially persons aged 55 years and over. The greatest reduction was in residential centres which was in line with recent policy but this was not matched by an increase in alternative options, with fewer people aged 20-34 living in residential accommodation of any kind. Compared to Great Britain, Ireland has proportionately more residential places with fewer people living independently.

Social implications

More Irish families have to continue caring for their adult relatives into their old age. Likewise, those resident in group homes and living independently are growing older which means there is an increased likelihood they will require additional support.

Originality/value

This national data set is a valuable tool for monitoring changes in service provision over time and for determining the impact of government policy and funding decisions.
Big Egos Can Be Green: A Study of CEO Hubris and Environmental Innovation
Authors: Arena Claudia , Michelon Giovanna , Trojanowski Grzegorz
Published: November 2017

This paper examines whether and to what extent CEO personal traits (hubris, in particular) affect firm environmental innovation. Using the overarching theoretical framework of upper‐echelons theory, the paper builds on the insights from the corporate strategy, innovation, and corporate social responsibility literatures. We also examine the moderating role of firm‐specific features (e.g. organizational slack) and the external environment (e.g. market uncertainty) in this context. Based on a sample of UK companies operating in sensitive industries, we find that CEO hubris facilitates the engagement in green innovative projects. We also find that CEO hubris does not have a uniform effect: its effect on environmental innovation increases with the organizational slack, but weakens with the extent of environmental uncertainty. Our findings suggest that availability of resources per se is not enough to produce environmental innovation. Instead, it requires a stable external environment that enables the CEO with a hubristic personality to make a correct use of them.
Prospective observational study of predicted usage of intravenous cannulas inserted in a tertiary paediatric emergency department
Authors: Hollaway William , Broeze Carsten , Borland Meredith L
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To determine the proportion of unused peripheral intravenous cannulas (PIVCs) inserted in a paediatric emergency department (PED) and to assess clinicians’ abilities to predict future usage of PIVC.

Methods

Prospective concealed observational study in a tertiary PED. Healthcare workers (HCWs) completed questionnaires upon insertion and removal of PIVC with review of patient notes if required. The primary outcome was the number of unused, unnecessary PIVCs. Secondary outcomes included demographic factors affecting unused cannulas, a clinician's ability to predict PIVC use and the incidence of complications from PIVC insertion.

Results

From 806 returned questionnaires, 719 patients were recruited. Twenty‐two per cent of PIVCs remained unused after initial insertion for all patients. There was no significant difference in the rate of unused cannulas among any age or sex category, with the lowest rate of unused PIVCs in triage category 2 patients. HCW seniority when deciding to insert a PIVC did not affect usage rates. Likert scale analyses showed that HCWs could correctly predict ongoing use of PIVCs in 90% of cases. The overall rate of PIVCs removed for infected or inflamed insertion sites was low at 0.8%.

Conclusion

This study is consistent with the idle PIVC rates observed in PEDs but there is potential to further reduce this rate with targeted insertion. The paediatric clinicians’ reliability in predicting PIVC use has been demonstrated for the first time and we have identified four groups where targeted phlebotomy rather than i.v. cannulation would reduce unused cannulas.
Realism in paediatric emergency simulations: A prospective comparison of in situ, low fidelity and centre‐based, high fidelity scenarios
Authors: O'Leary Fenton , Pegiazoglou Ioannis , McGarvey Kathryn , Novakov Ruza , Wolfsberger Ingrid , Peat Jennifer
Published: November 2017

Objective

To measure scenario participant and faculty self‐reported realism, engagement and learning for the low fidelity, in situ simulations and compare this to high fidelity, centre‐based simulations.

Methods

A prospective survey of scenario participants and faculty completing in situ and centre‐based paediatric simulations.

Results

There were 382 responses, 276 from scenario participants and 106 from faculty with 241 responses from in situ and 141 from centre‐based simulations. Scenario participant responses showed significantly higher ratings for the centre‐based simulations for respiratory rate (P = 0.007), pulse (P = 0.036), breath sounds (P = 0.002), heart sounds (P < 0.001) and patient noises (P < 0.001). There was a significant difference in overall rating of the scenario reality by scenario participants in favour of the centre‐based simulations (P = 0.005); however, there was no significant difference when rating participant engagement (P = 0.11) and participant learning (P = 0.77). With the centre‐based scenarios, nurses rated the reality of the respiratory rate (P < 0.001), blood pressure (P = 0.016) and abdominal signs (P = 0.003) significantly higher than doctors. Nurses rated the overall reality higher than doctors for the centre simulations (96.8% vs 84.2% rated as realistic, P = 0.041), which was not demonstrated in the in situ scenarios (76.2% vs 73.5%, P = 0.65).

Conclusion

Some aspects of in situ simulations may be less ‘real’ than centre‐based simulations, but there was no significant difference in self‐reported engagement or learning by scenario participants. Low fidelity, in situ simulation provides adequate realism for engagement and learning.
Clinical and biochemical correlates of male hypogonadism in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Herrero A. , Marcos M. , Galindo P. , Miralles J. M. , Corrales J. J.
Published: November 2017

The origin of hypogonadism, a condition including both symptoms and biochemical criteria of androgen deficiency, in type 2 diabetes is poorly known. In a cross‐sectional study of 267 unselected patients, we analyzed the potential correlation of several clinical and biochemical variables as well as chronic micro‐ and macrovascular diabetic complications with hypogonadism. Hypogonadism was present in 46 patients (17.2%) using a cutoff of total testosterone 10.4 nmol/L and in 31 (11.6%) with a cutoff of 8 nmol/L. Among these patients, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism was the most prevalent form (82.6%). Compared to eugonadal subjects, hypogonadal men had significantly lower glomerular filtration rate (67.1 ± 23.4 vs. 78.4 ± 24.6 mL/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.005) and higher prevalence of chronic kidney disease (43.5% vs. 20.4%, p = 0.002), abnormal liver function tests (26.7% vs. 12%, p = 0.019), and psychiatric treatment (23.9% vs. 10.4%, p = 0.025). Total testosterone levels correlated inversely with age (R = −0.164, p = 0.007), fasting blood glucose (R = −0.127, p = 0.037), and triglycerides (R = −0.134, p = 0.029) and directly with glomerular filtration rate (R = 0.148, p = 0.015). Calculated free testosterone and bioavailable testosterone correlated directly with hemoglobin (R = 0.171, p = 0.015 and R = 0.234, p = 0.001, respectively). Multivariate logistic regression analysis, after adjusting for relevant confounding variables, showed that age >60 years (OR = 3.58, CI 95% = 1.48–8.69, p = 0.005), body mass index >27 kg/m2 (OR = 2.85, CI 95% = 1.14–7.11, p = 0.025), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 2.16, CI 95% = 1.05–4.41, p = 0.035), glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR = 2.51, CI 95% = 1.19–5.29, p = 0.015), and abnormal liver function tests (OR = 3.57, CI 95% = 1.48–8.60, p = 0.005) were independently associated with male hypogonadism. Although older age, body mass index, and hypertriglyceridemia have been previously related to hypogonadism, our results describe that chronic kidney disease and abnormal liver function tests are independently correlated with hypogonadism in type 2 diabetic men.
High Prevalence of Drug–Drug Interactions in Primary Health Care is Caused by Prescriptions from other Healthcare Units
Authors: Andersson Marine L. , Böttiger Ylva , Kockum Henrik , Eiermann Birgit
Published: November 2017

Drug–drug interactions are increasingly common, as patients are getting older and the number of drugs per patient is increasing. In this study, we investigated to which extent potential drug–drug interactions originated from single or multiple prescribers. All patients attending any of 20 primary healthcare centres were included in a retrospective observational cohort study. Data on all prescriptions to these patients, irrespectively of the prescriber, were collected for two 4‐month periods. Potential drug interactions were identified using the drug–drug interaction database SFINX. Interactions were classified with respect to the workplace of the prescriber, and the prevalence of interactions according to origin was analysed. We found that the drug interactions were significantly more common when the drugs were prescribed from different healthcare centres, compared with drugs prescribed from the patients’ primary healthcare centre only. One explanation for this increased risk of drug interactions could be that the prescribers at different primary healthcare centres do not share the same information concerning the total medication list of the patient.
Predictive QSAR modeling study on berberine derivatives with hypolipidemic activity
Authors: Yu Pan , Li Dongdong , Ni Junjun , Zhao Linguo , Ding Gang , Wang Zhenzhong , Xiao Wei
Published: November 2017

Berberine (BBR), isolated from a Chinese herb, is identified as a new cholesterol‐lowering small molecule, and hundreds of berberine derivatives have been obtained for optimization of their hypolipidemic activities in recent years. However, so far there is no available quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) model used for the development of novel BBR analogues with hypolipidemic activities, mainly due to lack of lipid‐lowering molecular mechanisms and target identification of BBR. In this paper, the tactics using ligand efficiency indice instead of pIC50 as the activity could be adopted for the development of BBR QSAR models. A series of 59 BBR derivatives with hypolipidemic activities have been studied and split randomly into three sets of training and test sets. Statistical quality of most building models shows obviously robust. Best calculated model that employs LLE indice as the activity (Model 6) has the following statistical parameters: for training set R2 = .984, Q2 = 0.981, RMSE = 0.1160, and for test set R2 = .989, RMSE = 0.0067. This model would be used for the development of novel BBR analogues with lipid‐lowering activities as a hit discovery tool.
Rural Labor Migration and Poverty Reduction in China
Authors: Jia Peng , Du Yang , Wang Meiyan
Published: November 2017

Using various sources of data, this paper examines the contributions of rural labor migration to economic growth and poverty reduction in China. The results show that there is still a significant number of people living in poverty in rural areas, while the effectiveness of migration on poverty reduction has declined, implying an urgent need for new approaches to poverty reduction. China's experiences could also be valuable for the formulation of development strategies in other developing countries.
Early intervention in psychosis: From clinical intervention to health system implementation
Authors: Csillag Claudio , Nordentoft Merete , Mizuno Masafumi , McDaid David , Arango Celso , Smith Jo , Lora Antonio , Verma Swapna , Di Fiandra Teresa , Jones Peter B.
Published: November 2017

Aim

Early intervention in psychosis (EIP) is a well‐established approach with the intention of early detection and treatment of psychotic disorders. Its clinical and economic benefits are well documented. This paper presents basic aspects of EIP services, discusses challenges to their implementation and presents ideas and strategies to overcome some of these obstacles.

Methods

This paper is a narrative review about the evidence supporting EIP, with examples of successful implementation of EIP and of cases where major obstacles still need to be overcome.

Results

Experience from successfully implemented EIP services into the mental healthcare system have generated evidence, concepts and specific strategies that might serve as guidance or inspiration in other countries or systems where EIP is less well developed or not developed at all. Previous experience has made clear that evidence of clinical benefits alone is not enough to promote implementation, as economic arguments and political and social pressure have shown to be important elements in efforts to achieve implementation.

Conclusions

Users’ narratives, close collaboration with community organizations and support from policy‐makers and known people within the community championing early intervention (EI) services are just a few of the approaches that should be considered in campaigns for implementation of EI services. Fast progress in implementation is possible.
Automated Scoring of Students’ Small‐Group Discussions to Assess Reading Ability
Authors: Kosh Audra E. , Greene Jeffrey A. , Murphy P. Karen , Burdick Hal , Firetto Carla M. , Elmore Jeff
Published: November 2017

We explored the feasibility of using automated scoring to assess upper‐elementary students’ reading ability through analysis of transcripts of students’ small‐group discussions about texts. Participants included 35 fourth‐grade students across two classrooms that engaged in a literacy intervention called Quality Talk. During the course of one school year, data were collected at 10 time points for a total of 327 student‐text encounters, with a different text discussed at each time point. To explore the possibility of automated scoring, we considered which quantitative discourse variables (e.g., variables to measure language sophistication and latent semantic analysis variables) were the strongest predictors of scores on a multiple‐choice and constructed‐response reading comprehension test. Convergent validity evidence was collected by comparing automatically calculated quantitative discourse features to scores on a reading fluency test. After examining a variety of discourse features using multilevel modeling, results showed that measures of word rareness and word diversity were the most promising variables to use in automated scoring of students’ discussions.
Assessment of a channel catfish population in a large open river system
Authors: Blank A. J. , Hamel M. J. , Spurgeon J. J. , Pegg M. A.
Published: November 2017

Estimates of dynamic rate functions for riverine channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus (Rafinesque), populations are limited. The open nature and inherent difficulty in sampling riverine environments and the propensity for dispersal of channel catfish impede estimation of population variables. However, contemporary population models (i.e. robust design models) can incorporate the open nature of these systems. The purpose of this study was to determine channel catfish population abundance, survival and size structure and to characterise growth in the lower Platte River, Nebraska, USA. Annual survival estimates of adult channel catfish were 13%–49%, and channel catfish abundance estimates ranged from 8,281 to 24,261 fish within a 10‐km sampling reach. Channel catfish were predominantly (90%) <age 5 and <400 mm total length, and adult growth was similar to other populations across the species’ range. The channel catfish population characteristics in the lower Platte River are likely a result of a combination of factors including recreational harvest and potential shifts in habitat during different life stages. A multifaceted sampling and analytical approach provided additional information such as movement and abundance estimates and may also help to decipher abiotic and biotic factors that interact when managing fish populations in riverine environments.
Sudan grass and pearl millets productivity under different irrigation methods with fully irrigation and stresses in arid regions
Authors: Ismail Saleh M. , El‐Nakhlawy Fathy S. , Basahi Jalal M.
Published: November 2017

A field experiment was conducted at the Agriculture Research Station of King Abdulaziz University to study the response of sudan grass (Sorghum sudanensis L.) cv. California Gold and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) cv. KN‐10. productivity to different irrigation methods and water application under arid conditions. Three irrigation methods including surface drip (SD), sub‐surface drip (SSD) and sprinkler irrigation (SPI) were investigated. Under each irrigation method, one full irrigation treatment (100% of water requirement [WR]) and two water stress treatments (75% WR and 50% WR) were studied. Sudan grass and pearl millet crops were cultivated under each water regime for two consecutive seasons and cut several times for evaluating the production and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE). Results revealed that SSD produced the highest forage yield under full and stress treatments in both crops followed by SD. SPI produced the least forage yield compared with SD and SSD in 2014 and 2015 seasons. Decreasing water application decreased yield production and increased IWUE under SD and SSD but decreased them under SPI. Increasing number of cuts decreased yield and IWUE in both crops. Under full and stress treatments, sudan grass produced higher forage yield than pearl millet. Irrigation water use efficiency was the best under SSD followed by SD and SPI, respectively. Irrigation water use efficiency of 100 and 75% were significantly similar in both investigated crops.
Structural and mechanical characteristics of bread and their impact on oral processing: a review
Authors: Gao Jing , Wang Yong , Dong Zhizhong , Zhou Weibiao
Published: November 2017

Oral processing has become an important area of research in sensory and nutrition studies. Mastication process not only determines the dynamics of flavour release and texture perception but also affects the bioavailability of nutrients. Oral processing of bread is of particular interest because of the need to reduce its glycaemic potential while keeping its desired soft and aerated texture. Bread structure determines its mechanical strength and deformation behaviour which in turn decides people's texture perception and swallowing thresholds. The strong interconnection between food structure and its resistance to breakdown is the rationale behind designing bread to control bread digestion, starting from the oral phase. The present review summarises the characterisation and formation of bread structure, its interlink with bread mechanical behaviour and destruction during human oral processing. Future research should further elucidate the structure–mechanics–digestion interlink by implementing relevant mechanical analyses and micromechanical modelling.
Rationale and opportunities in estimating the economic burden of seasonal influenza across countries using a standardized WHO tool and manual
Authors: Chaiyakunapruk Nathorn , Kotirum Surachai , Newall Anthony T. , Lambach Philipp , Hutubessy Raymond C. W.
Published: November 2017

Influenza disease burden is recognized as one of the major public health problems globally. Much less is known about the economic burden of influenza especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). A recent systematic review on the economic burden of influenza in LMICs suggests that information is scarce and/or incomplete and that there is a lack of standardized approaches for cost evaluations in LMICs. WHO commissioned and publicized a Manual for estimating the economic burden of seasonal influenza to support the standardization of estimates of the economic burden of seasonal influenza across countries. This article aims to describe the rationale of this manual development and opportunities that lie in collecting data to help policymakers estimate the economic burden of seasonal influenza. It describes a manual developed by WHO to help such estimation and also links to relevant literature and tools to ensure robustness of applied methods to assess the economic burden associated with seasonal influenza, including direct medical costs, direct non‐medical costs and indirect costs.
Comparing educational interventions: Correcting misperceived norms improves college students' mental health attitudes
Authors: Turetsky Kate M. , Sanderson Catherine A.
Published: November 2017

This research targeted potential psychological contributors to college students' low levels of help‐seeking for mental distress using a field experiment. Researchers randomly assigned 520 undergraduates to 15‐min interventions: a novel, theory‐driven social norms intervention correcting misperceived distress, stigma, and help‐seeking norms; a general education intervention increasing mental health awareness; and a stress management active control condition. The norms intervention instilled more accurate perceptions of mental health norms and temporarily reduced perceived public stigma compared to other conditions. The norms and general education interventions improved attitudes toward seeking help for mental distress for at least 2 months, relative to the control. Effects on help‐seeking behavior were not observed in this timeframe. This research elucidates the robustness of brief social psychological mental health interventions on college campuses.
Comparison of gelatinization method, starch concentration, and plasticizer on physical properties of high‐amylose starch films
Authors: Zhong Yuyue , Li Yibo , Liang Wenxin , Liu Linsan , Li Silu , Xue Jiquan , Guo Dongwei
Published: November 2017

High amylose starch is a potential material to produce biodegradable films with the better physical properties than normal starch. In this research, Taguchi's design and analysis of variance were used to compare the effects of gelatinization methods, starch concentrations, and plasticizers on physical properties of high amylose starch films. The results showed that the gelatinization method was the most significant factor for transparency, and the highest transparency was obtained through high temperature‐high pressure treatment. The starch concentration impacted farthest on thickness, tensile strength, elongation at break, and solubility in oil. The highest thickness and tensile strength were obtained from 10% starch concentration, the highest elongation at break were created by 5% concentration, and the lowest solubility in oil was produced by 2% concentration. Solubility in water was affected by plasticizers most, especially in xylitol. The information in this study is helpful to choose optimal parameters for preparing high amylose starch films with desired physical properties.

Practical applications

Due to the biodegradable and environmentally‐friendly traits, high‐amylose starch film is a promising alternative to plastic film. Most studies were focused on the changing of one of the independent parameters at a time while maintaining the others at fixed levels. However, studying the interactive effects of these parameters is beneficial to the development of high‐amylose starch films at a whole insight. For this purpose, the effects of different preparation parameters under different levels on physical properties of high‐amylose starch film were studies under Taguchi design in this study. Results showed the different effects of gelatinization methods, starch concentrations, and plasticizers on different properties such as mechanical properties, solubility in water and oil, and transparency of high‐amylose starch films. The information provided by this study will play a guiding role for the production of high‐amylose starch films in different applications with optimal parameters.
A Comparison of the Effects of Two Prey Enrichment Media on Growth and Survival of Pacific Bluefin Tuna, Thunnus orientalis, Larvae
Authors: Stein Maria S. , Margulies Daniel , Wexler Jeanne B. , Scholey Vernon P. , Ryo Katagiri , Honryo Tomoki , Sasaki Tsukasa , Guillen Angel , Agawa Yasuo , Sawada Yoshifumi
Published: November 2017

Three experiments were conducted to investigate the growth, survival, and standardized cohort biomass of Pacific bluefin tuna, Thunnus orientalis, larvae fed nutritionally enhanced prey during the first week of feeding using two commonly used, commercially available enrichment media, AlgaMac Enrich and Marine Glos. T. orientalis larvae exhibited exponential growth in standard length and dry weight. The daily specific growth rates in length and weight are the first reported for T. orientalis larvae and the averages ranged from 3.8 to 4.1% and 27.5%, respectively, for larvae in the AlgaMac treatment and from 4.1 to 6.1% and 31.5%, respectively, in the Marine Glos treatment. Average daily growth rates in length ranged from 0.16 to 0.23 mm/d for larvae in the AlgaMac treatment and from 0.17 to 0.27 mm/d for those in the Marine Glos treatment. Daily growth rates in length were similar to those reported for other tuna larvae reared in the laboratory but slower than most published estimates for larval tunas in situ at similar water temperatures. Mean prey number per gut was positively associated with mean prey level in the tank. Both enrichment media appear to be good sources of nutritional improvement of planktonic prey for T. orientalis larvae.
Use of Porcine Meal in Plant‐based Practical Diets for Pacific White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Qiu Xuan , Davis D. Allen
Published: November 2017

Two growth trials were conducted to evaluate and confirm the efficacy of a porcine meal (PM) with high protein content (>90%) as an alternative feed ingredient in commercial‐type feed formulation for Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. Six experimental diets were formulated for the two growth trials. The first five diets contained increasing levels (0, 1, 2, 4, and 6%) of PM as a replacement for soybean meal in a plant‐based diet with low inclusion level (6%) of fish meal (FM). The last experimental diet was produced utilizing 4.2% PM to completely replace FM. In Trial 1, shrimp (1.5 g initial mean weight, 20 shrimp/tank, n = 4) were offered test diets for 6 wk in a semirecirculation system. At the end of Trial 1, shrimp fed with the diet containing 6% PM exhibited significantly enhanced weight gain (WG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and survival compared to those fed with the diet devoid of FM. As survival was poor across all treatments and different densities could mask growth results the trial was repeated. In Trial 2, shrimp (0.85 g, 15 shrimp/tank, n = 4) were offered diets for 6 wk. Dietary supplementation of PM at 6% significantly improved WG, FCR, and apparent net protein retention in contrast with the treatment devoid of FM, confirming the same trends in Trial 1. No significant difference was detected in protein, lipid, moisture, and mineral profiles of whole‐body shrimp as well as survival across all the treatments. Results of this study indicate that PM is a good high protein source in shrimp feeds, which can be included up to 6% in the low FM‐based diet without compromising the growth of shrimp.