bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Evaluation of h-Index as a Measure of Research Productivity Among Canadian Academic Plastic Surgeons
Authors: Hu Jiayi , Gholami Arian , Stone Nicholas , Bartoszko Justyna , Thoma Achilleas
Published: March 2018

Background:

Evaluation of research productivity among plastic surgeons can be complex. The Hirsch index (h-index) was recently introduced to evaluate both the quality and quantity of one’s research activity. It has been proposed to be valuable in assessing promotions and grant funding within academic medicine, including plastic surgery. Our objective is to evaluate research productivity among Canadian academic plastic surgeons using the h-index.

Methods:

A list of Canadian academic plastic surgeons was obtained from websites of academic training programs. The h-index was retrieved using the Scopus database. Relevant demographic and academic factors were collected and their effects on the h-index were analyzed using the t test and Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney U test. Nominal and categorical variables were analyzed using χ2 test and 1-way analysis of variance. Univariate and multivariate models were built a priori. All P values were 2 sided, and P < .05 was considered to be significant.

Results:

Our study on Canadian plastic surgeons involved 175 surgeons with an average h-index of 7.6. Over 80% of the surgeons were male. Both univariable and multivariable analysis showed that graduate degree ( P < .0001), academic rank ( P = .03), and years in practice ( P < .0001) were positively correlated with h-index. Limitations of the study include that the Scopus database and the websites of training programs were not always up-to-date.

Conclusion:

The h-index is a novel tool for evaluating research productivity in academic medicine, and this study shows that the h-index can also serve as a useful metric for measuring research productivity in the Canadian plastic surgery community. Plastic surgeons would be wise to familiarize themselves with the h-index concept and should consider using it as an adjunct to existing metrics such as total publication number.
Canadian Plastic Surgery Resident Work Hour Restrictions: Practices and Perceptions of Residents and Program Directors
Authors: McInnes Colin W. , Vorstenbosch Joshua , Chard Ryan , Logsetty Sarvesh , Buchel Edward W. , Islur Avinash
Published: March 2018

Background:

The impact of resident work hour restrictions on training and patient care remains a highly controversial topic, and to date, there lacks a formal assessment as it pertains to Canadian plastic surgery residents.

Objective:

To characterize the work hour profile of Canadian plastic surgery residents and assess the perspectives of residents and program directors regarding work hour restrictions related to surgical competency, resident wellness, and patient safety.

Methods:

An anonymous online survey developed by the authors was sent to all Canadian plastic surgery residents and program directors. Basic summary statistics were calculated.

Results:

Eighty (53%) residents and 10 (77%) program directors responded. Residents reported working an average of 73 hours in hospital per week with 8 call shifts per month and sleep 4.7 hours/night while on call. Most residents (88%) reported averaging 0 post-call days off per month and 61% will work post-call without any sleep. The majority want the option of working post-call (63%) and oppose an 80-hour weekly maximum (77%). Surgical and medical errors attributed to post-call fatigue were self-reported by 26% and 49% of residents, respectively. Residents and program directors expressed concern about the ability to master surgical skills without working post-call.

Conclusions:

The majority of respondents oppose duty hour restrictions. The reason is likely multifactorial, including the desire of residents to meet perceived expectations and to master their surgical skills while supervised. If duty hour restrictions are aggressively implemented, many respondents feel that an increased duration of training may be necessary.
Sirolimus in Refractory Cronkhite-Canada Syndrome and Focus on Standard Treatment
Authors: Langevin Catherine , Chapdelaine Hugo , Picard Jean-Maxime , Poitras Pierre , Leduc Raymond
Published: March 2018

Cronkhite-Canada syndrome is a rare syndrome consisting of extensive gastrointestinal polyposis and ectodermal changes including cutaneous hyperpigmentation, alopecia, and onychodystrophy. We report the case of a 45-year-old Caucasian male patient who failed multiple treatments over 2 years including steroids, azathioprine, adalimumab, and cyclosporine. He had recurrent and prolonged hospitalizations because of diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and malnutrition. Sirolimus was initiated with a significant clinical and endoscopic benefit apparent within, respectively, 2 and 8 weeks. An ongoing remission was achieved and maintained for over 6 months after prednisone tapering. We review the current evidence on treatment of Cronkhite-Canada syndrome and suggest the incorporation of sirolimus in that algorithm.
Functional Classification of the Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament: An In Vivo Kinematic Study With Computer-Aided Design
Authors: Kholinne Erica , Zulkarnain Rizki Fajar , Lee Hyun-Joo , Adikrishna Arnold , Jeon In-Ho
Published: March 2018

Background:

It has been widely accepted that the anterior and posterior bundles of the medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) tighten at extension and flexion, respectively. However, this belief is based on anatomic data acquired from cadaveric studies. The advancement of 3-dimensional (3D) model technology has made possible the simulation of dynamic movement that includes each ligament bundle fiber to analyze its functional properties. To date, no study has analyzed ligament kinematics at the level of the fibers while also focusing on their functional properties.

Purpose:

To propose a new classification for functional properties of the MUCL based on its kinematic pattern.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Five healthy elbow joints were scanned by use of computed tomography, and 3D models were rendered and translated into vertex points for further mathematical analysis. The humeral origin and ulnar insertion of the MUCL fiber groups were registered. Each vertex point on the origin side was randomly connected to the insertion side, with each pair of corresponding points defined as 1 ligament fiber. Lengths of all the fibers were measured at 1° increments of elbow range of motion (ROM). Ligament fibers were grouped according to their patterns. Mean coverage area for each group, expressed as the percentage of ligament fibers per group to the total number of fibers, was calculated.

Results:

Four major bundle groups were found based on fiber length properties. Kinematic simulation showed that each group had a different kinematic function throughout elbow ROM. Mean coverage area of groups 1, 2, 3, and 4 was 8% ± 4%, 10% ± 5%, 42% ± 6%, and 40% ± 8%, respectively. Each group acted as a dominant stabilizer in certain arcs of motion. Reciprocal activity was observed between groups 1 and 3 along with groups 2 and 4 to produce synergistic properties of maintaining elbow stability.

Conclusion:

Detailed analysis of fibers of the MUCL allows for further understanding of its kinematic function. This study provides MUCL group coverage area and kinematic function for each degree of motion arc, allowing selective reconstruction of the MUCL according to mechanism of injury.

Clinical Relevance:

Understanding the dominant functional fibers of the MUCL will benefit surgeons attempting MUCL reconstruction and will enhance further anatomic study.
Evaluation of Shape of Foveal Avascular Zone by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Eyes With Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Shiihara Hideki , Terasaki Hiroto , Sonoda Shozo , Kakiuchi Naoko , Sakamoto Taiji
Published: March 2018

Purpose:

To determine the relationship between morphological parameters of the foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in the optical coherence tomography angiographic (OCTA) images and the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

Methods:

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. Eyes with BRVO without apparent macular edema were studied. The superficial FAZ in 3 × 3 mm OCTA images were delineated manually. The size and shape, the circularity and axial ratio, of the FAZ were determined, and the values were compared to that of the controls. The correlation of these parameters with the BCVA was analyzed.

Results:

The mean FAZ area was larger in BRVO eyes than in controls, but the larger size was not correlated with the BCVA (BRVO, 0.49 ± 0.12 mm2; control, 0.38 ± 0.12 mm2; P = .135). The axial ratio of the BRVO eyes was significantly larger than that of controls ( P < .001). The axial ratio was significantly correlated with BCVA ( R = .382, P = .050). Although the circularity was significantly smaller in the BRVO eyes than that in controls ( P < .001), it was not significantly correlated with the BCVA.

Conclusion:

The shape of the FAZ would be a more appropriate parameter than the size in determining BCVA in eyes with BRVO.
Geochemical characteristics of Triassic and Cretaceous phosphorite horizons from the Transdanubian Mountain Range (western Hungary): genetic implications
Authors: Molnár Zsuzsa , Kiss Gabriella B. , Dunkl István , Czuppon György , Zaccarini Federica , Dódony István
Published: March 2018

The carbonate-dominated Mesozoic sequence of the Transdanubian Mountain Range contains Triassic, uranium-enriched phosphorite layers and Cretaceous,REE-enriched nodular phosphorite. Detailed investigation of these deposits may have an economic benefit because of their large U andREEcontents. The dominant minerals in the Triassic phosphorite are carbonate-bearing fluorapatite (CFA) and calcite. According to the electron-probe microanalysis (EPMA) the U is mainly associated with the CFA crystals. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) measurement shows that CFA contains 137–612 ppm U and 113–261 ppm totalREE + Y. The LA-ICP-MS U-Pb age of the uppermost phosphorite horizon is 237 ± 11 Ma, which conforms with the stratigraphic age of the host limestone.

The Cretaceous nodular phosphorite occurs on the base of an Aptian crinoid-bearing limestone mostly in the form of encrustations around bio- and silicic-clasts, but the clasts also contain phosphorite. The main minerals in these crusts are CFA, calcite, quartz, glauconite and Fe-oxide-hydroxides. Based on EPMA theREEenrichment is related to CFA and LA-ICP-MS measurements show that it contains 748–2953 ppm totalREE + Y.

The redox-sensitive proxies and the shape of NASC normalizedREEpatterns indicate that both phosphorites formed in anoxic environments. There are significant differences between these deposits such as appearance, rock-forming minerals, and U andREEcontents which indicate differences in their sedimentary environments. The present results suggest that the Triassic phosphorite was formed by inorganic precipitation in a reducing environment close to sea-mounts. The Cretaceous occurrence resulted from a concentric growth mechanism in cold, ascending seawater at the continental margin environment during the anoxic Selli Event (OAE 1a) and/or Paquier Episode (OAE 1b). The critical raw material contents were derived from other sources.
Multidimensional fatigue in pulmonary hypertension: prevalence, severity and predictors
Authors: Tartavoulle Todd M. , Karpinski Aryn C. , Aubin Andrew , Kluger Benzi M. , Distler Oliver , Saketkoo Lesley Ann
Published: March 2018

Pulmonary hypertension is a potentially fatal disease. Despite pharmacological advances in pulmonary hypertension, fatigue remains common in patients with pulmonary hypertension.

A convenience sample of 120 participants at an international patient conference completed the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI)-20 scale. Data on New York Heart Association Functional Class, body mass index, oxygen use and medication type/use were also collected.

There was a high prevalence of “severe” to “very severe” fatigue for each dimension: General Fatigue (60%), Physical Fatigue (55.8%), Reduced Activity (41.7%), Reduced Motivation (32.5%) and Mental Fatigue (27.5%). The mean±sdoverall MFI-20 score was 58±5.1. Dimensions with the highest averaged levels were General Fatigue (13.40±3.61), Physical Fatigue (13.23±3.67) and Reduced Activity (11.33±4.16). Body mass index correlated with higher fatigue scores. Phosphodiesterase inhibitor plus endothelin receptor antagonist combination negatively predicted General Fatigue, Physical Fatigue, Reduced Motivation and Reduced Activity. Triple therapy was a significant predictor of General Fatigue, Physical Fatigue and Reduced Activity. There were no significant predictors of Mental Fatigue.

Multidimensional fatigue is common and severe in patients with pulmonary hypertension. Phosphodiesterase inhibitor plus endothelin receptor antagonist combination resulted in lower scores in most fatigue dimensions. Comprehensive assessment of fatigue should be considered in the clinical care of patients with pulmonary hypertension and clinical research to develop formal interventions that target this disabling symptom.
Multiple inflammasomes may regulate the interleukin-1-driven inflammation in protracted bacterial bronchitis
Authors: Chen Alice C-H. , Tran Hai B. , Xi Yang , Yerkovich Stephanie T. , Baines Katherine J. , Pizzutto Susan J. , Carroll Melanie , Robertson Avril A.B. , Cooper Matthew A. , Schroder Kate , Simpson Jodie L. , Gibson Peter G. , Hodge Greg , Masters Ian B. , Buntain Helen M. , Petsky Helen L. , Prime Samantha J. , Chang Anne B. , Hodge Sandra , Upham John W.
Published: March 2018

Protracted bacterial bronchitis (PBB) in young children is characterised by prolonged wet cough, prominent airway interleukin (IL)-1β expression and infection, often with nontypeableHaemophilus influenzae(NTHi). The mechanisms responsible for IL-1-driven inflammation in PBB are poorly understood.

We hypothesised that the inflammation in PBB involves the NLRP3 and/or AIM2 inflammasome/IL-1β axis. Lung macrophages obtained from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), blood monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages from patients with PBB and age-matched healthy controls were cultured in control medium or exposed to live NTHi.

In healthy adult PBMCs, CD14+monocytes contributed to 95% of total IL-1β-producing cells upon NTHi stimulation. Stimulation of PBB PBMCs with NTHi significantly increasedIL-1βexpression (p<0.001), but decreasedNLRC4expression (p<0.01). NTHi induced IL-1β secretion in PBMCs from both healthy controls and patients with recurrent PBB. This was inhibited by Z-YVAD-FMK (a caspase-1 selective inhibitor) and by MCC950 (a NLRP3 selective inhibitor). In PBB BAL macrophages inflammasome complexes were visualised as fluorescence specks of NLRP3 or AIM2 colocalised with cleaved caspase-1 and cleaved IL-1β. NTHi stimulation induced formation of specks of cleaved IL-1β, NLRP3 and AIM2 in PBMCs, blood monocytes and monocyte-derived macrophages.

We conclude that both the NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasomes probably drive the IL-1β-dominated inflammation in PBB.
Five-Year Follow-Up of Nivolumab in Previously Treated Advanced Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: Results From the CA209-003 Study
Authors: Gettinger Scott , Horn Leora , Jackman David , Spigel David , Antonia Scott , Hellmann Matthew , Powderly John , Heist Rebecca , Sequist Lecia V. , Smith David C. , Leming Philip , Geese William J. , Yoon Dennis , Li Ang , Brahmer Julie
Published: March 2018

Purpose

In two phase III studies, nivolumab, a programmed death-1 (PD-1) inhibitor antibody, improved overall survival (OS) versus docetaxel in pretreated advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We report 5-year follow-up results from an early phase I study of nivolumab in this patient population and describe characteristics of 5-year survivors.

Patients and Methods

Patients with pretreated, advanced NSCLC received nivolumab 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg every 2 weeks in 8-week cycles for up to 96 weeks. OS from the time of first dose was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method.

Results

The estimated 5-year OS rate was 16% for all treated patients (N = 129); 5-year OS rates were similar for squamous (16%) and nonsquamous (15%) NSCLC. Of 16 5-year survivors, most (88%) were known current or former smokers. Of 10 5-year survivors with quantifiable PD-1 ligand 1 expression, 70% had ≥ 1% PD-1 ligand 1 expression at baseline. Twelve 5-year survivors (75%) achieved a partial response to nivolumab per Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, version 1.0, and two each (12%) had stable disease and progressive disease as best response. Nine 5-year survivors (56%) completed the maximum 96 weeks of nivolumab; four (25%) discontinued owing to adverse events and three (19%) owing to disease progression. As of a November 2016 database lock, 12 5-year survivors (75%) received no subsequent therapy and were without evidence of progressive disease at last follow-up.

Conclusions

Nivolumab treatment resulted in long-term OS and durable responses in a proportion of patients with pretreated advanced NSCLC. Long-term survivors had diverse baseline and on-treatment characteristics.
Memory decline accompanies subthreshold amyloid accumulation
Authors: Landau Susan M. , Horng Andy , Jagust William J. ,   For the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: March 2018

Objective

Extensive cortical β-amyloid (Aβ positivity) has been linked to cognitive decline, but the clinical significance of elevations in Aβ within the negative range is unknown.

Methods

We examined amyloid and cognitive trajectories (memory, executive function) in 142 cognitively normal older individuals enrolled in the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative who were Aβ-negative at baseline and who had at least 2 [18F]-florbetapir PET scans over 3.9 ± 1.4 years. We determined whether Aβ accumulation was associated with longitudinal changes in memory or executive function.

Results

Among baseline-negative individuals, florbetapir slope (mean annual increase 0.002 ± 0.008 standardized uptake value ratio units/y) was not related to age, sex, education, APOE4 status, baseline memory or executive function, temporoparietal glucose metabolism, baseline hippocampal volume, or hippocampal volume change; but it was related to higher baseline cortical florbetapir, indicating that Aβ accumulation was ongoing at baseline in those who accumulated during the study. Over the course of follow-up, 13 individuals converted to florbetapir+ and 14 nearly nonoverlapping individuals converted to mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer disease. Amyloid accumulation among baseline-negative individuals was associated with poorer longitudinal memory performance (p = 0.019), but it was not associated with changes in executive function. Reducing the sample to individuals with at least 3 timepoints to estimate the florbetapir slope strengthened the relationship further between florbetapir accumulation and memory decline (p = 0.007).

Conclusions

Memory decline accompanies Aβ accumulation in otherwise healthy, Aβ-negative older adults. Amyloid increases within the negative range may represent the earliest detectable indication of pathology with domain-specific cognitive consequences.
Beta oscillations and urinary voiding in Parkinson disease
Authors: Roy Holly A. , Aziz Tipu Z. , Fitzgerald James J. , Green Alexander L.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To investigate the role of beta oscillations in urinary voiding and their association with lower urinary tract symptoms in Parkinson disease (PD).

Methods

We used surgically implanted deep brain stimulation electrodes to record local field potential signals from the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and globus pallidus interna (GPi) of patients with PD during urinary voiding. Five patients with STN electrodes and 5 patients with GPi electrodes were tested. We also explored correlations between beta oscillatory power and urinary symptoms assessed by the International Consultation on Incontinence Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire.

Results

Beta suppression occurred during urinary voiding in the GPi (p < 0.05) but not the STN. Furthermore, the beta signal in the GPi during voiding correlated significantly with severity of incontinence and urinary frequency (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In this study, we have demonstrated that local field potentials can provide information about the neural control of the bladder. Our findings suggest that the GPi is implicated in the process of urinary voiding and that its mechanism of action is linked to signals in the beta frequency band. Moreover, our correlational analyses show that beta oscillations may be implicated more generally in the pathophysiology of lower urinary tract symptoms in PD.
The role of the microRNA-146a/complement factor H/interleukin-1β-mediated inflammatory loop circuit in the perpetuate inflammation of chronic temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Li Tao-Ran , Jia Yan-Jie , Ma Chao , Qiu Wen-Ying , Wang Qun , Shao Xiao-Qiu , Lv Rui-Juan
Published: March 2018

Increasing evidence indicates that neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). However, it is unclear how the perpetuate inflammation develops. Some recent studies have suggested the possible involvement of microRNA-146a (miR-146a) in the modulation of inflammatory signaling occurring in TLE. To understand how miR-146a modulates inflammatory signaling in TLE, we investigated the role of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), miR-146a and human complement factor H (CFH) in the perpetuate inflammation in rat models of chronic TLE and U251 cells. We found that enhancive miR-146a could upregulate the expression of IL-1β and downregulate the expression of CFH, whereas reductive miR-146a could downregulate the expression of IL-1β and upregulate the expression of CFH, in hippocampi of chronic TLE rat models. Meanwhile, enhancive miR-146a could increase the abnormal wave forms in the chronic TLE rat models. Additionally, enhancive IL-1β could feedback downregulate the expression of CFH, upregulate the expression of miR-146a and increase the abnormal wave forms in chronic TLE rat models. After CFH gene knockdown in U251 cells, enhancive miR-146a did not upregulate the expression of IL-1β. In summary, this study shows that enhancive miR-146a can upregulate the inflammatory factor IL-1β in chronic TLE by downregulating CFH, and that upregulation of IL-1β plays an important feedback-regulating role in the expression of miR-146a and CFH, forming a miR-146a–CFH–IL-1β loop circuit that initiates a cascade of inflammation and then leads to the perpetuate inflammation in TLE. Therefore, modulation of the miR-146a–CFH–IL-1β loop circuit could be a novel therapeutic target for TLE.
Ligand-controlled Behavior of Ag(I)–π Complex as σ-Lewis Acid
Authors: Maeda Kazuki , Takahashi Toshifumi , Tomifuji Rei , Hirao Naoya , Kurahashi Takuya , Matsubara Seijiro
Published: March 2018

An efficient σ-Lewis acidic Ag(I) complex has been obtained by complexation with an electron-donating π-conjugated molecule as a side-on π ligand. The σ-Lewis acidity is possibly derived from the controlled linear coordination around Ag(I) due to the π ligand. A combination of UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy and X-ray absorption near-edge structure analyses clearly revealed that the complex is formed by π ligand-to-Ag(I) charge-transfer interaction. The σ-Lewis acidity was evaluated by IR spectroscopy using 2,6-dimethyl-γ-pyrone as the σ-Lewis basic molecule.
Comparison between Slow Components of HR and V˙O2 Kinetics: Functional Significance
Authors: ZUCCARELLI LUCREZIA , PORCELLI SIMONE , RASICA LETIZIA , MARZORATI MAURO , GRASSI BRUNO
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Aerobic exercise prescription is often based on a linear relationship between pulmonary oxygen consumption (V˙O2) and heart rate (HR). The aim of the present study was to test the hypothesis that during constant work rate (CWR) exercises at different intensities, the slow component of HR kinetics occurs at lower work rate and is more pronounced that the slow component of V˙O2 kinetics.

Methods

Seventeen male (age, 27 ± 4 yr) subjects performed on a cycle ergometer an incremental exercise to voluntary exhaustion and several CWR exercises: 1) moderate CWR exercises, below gas exchange threshold (GET); 2) heavy CWR exercise, at 45% of the difference between GET and V˙O2 peak (Δ); 3) severe CWR exercise, at 95% of Δ; 4) “HRCLAMPED” exercise in which work rate was continuously adjusted to maintain a constant HR, slightly higher than that determined at GET. Breath-by-breath V˙O2, HR, and other variables were determined.

Results

In moderate CWR exercises, no slow component of V˙O2 kinetics was observed, whereas a slow component with a relative amplitude (with respect to the total response) of 24.8 ± 11.0% was observed for HR kinetics. During heavy CWR exercise, the relative amplitude of the HR slow component was more pronounced than that for V˙O2 (31.6 ± 11.2% and 23.3 ± 9.0%, respectively). During HRCLAMPED, the decrease in work rate (~14%) needed to maintain a constant HR was associated with a decreased V˙O2 (~10%).

Conclusions

The HR slow component occurred at a lower work rate and was more pronounced than the V˙O2 slow component. Exercise prescriptions at specific HR values, when carried out for periods longer than a few minutes, could lead to premature fatigue.
Overview of the NASA 70-day Bed Rest Study
Authors: CROMWELL RONITA L. , SCOTT JESSICA M. , DOWNS MEGHAN , YARBOUGH PATRICE O. , ZANELLO SUSANA B. , PLOUTZ-SNYDER LORI
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this article was to provide an overview of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) 70-day Bed Rest Study. The integrated complement of investigations and the standardized bed rest environment that served as the platform for this study complement are described. Outcomes of the studies will not be presented here but will be reported in separate publications.

Methods

A set of studies running in an integrated fashion along the entire period (pre–, in–, and post–bed rest) and using the same subjects is referred in this article as “the campaign” or “complement.” NASA selected eight individual studies to participate in the 70-d bed rest campaign. These studies were integrated to increase efficiency in the utilization of resources and to share common measures among the investigations. In addition to the individual studies addressing specific aims, a battery of standardized measures was included. Standard measures target a wide range of physiologic systems and represent some of the testing routinely done on astronauts. Bed rest subjects underwent rigorous medical and psychological screening. Standardized conditions included 70 d of bed rest in a 6° head-down tilt position. Subjects’ vital signs, body weight, and fluid intake and output were measured daily. A standardized diet was provided to ensure consistent nutritional intake across subjects. Exercising subjects were prescribed individualized aerobic and resistance training 6 d·wk−1 performed in a horizontal body position. Subjects in the testosterone supplementation countermeasure group received testosterone enanthate injections at 2-wk intervals during bed rest.

Conclusion

Long-duration head-down tilt bed rest provided a suitable platform for examining physiologic effects of spaceflight and testing countermeasures in a ground-based model. Integrating studies into a complement is an effective way to support multiple investigations while minimizing the number of subjects to answer many research questions.
Farm conditions and production methods in Chios sheep flocks
Authors: GELASAKIS (A. ΓΕΛΑΣΑΚΗΣ) A. I. , VALERGAKIS (Γ. ΒΑΛΕΡΓΑΚΗΣ) G. E. , FORTOMARIS (Π. ΦΟΡΤΟΜΑΡΗΣ) P. , ARSENOS (Γ. ΑΡΣΕΝΟΣ) G.
Published: March 2018

The objective was to describe farm conditions and production methods in intensively reared flocks of Chios sheep in Greece. The total of 66 farms of the Chios sheep Breeders Cooperative "Macedonia" were included in the study that was carried out using a purpose-built questionnaire and farm visits for onsite assessment by an experienced veterinarian. A detailed databasewas constructed using the information obtained from individual farms. Thereafter, four parameters concerning structural and management components were selected (flock size, sheep breeding experience, pasture use and application of three milkings daily) and their effect on milk production was estimated using one-way ANOVA. The results showed that the average flock comprisedof 314 sheep (16 rams, 210 ewes and 88 lamb ewes), whereas flock size was positively correlated to milk production (P<0.05). Inaddition, large flocks had more personnel and practiced three milkings per day (P<0.05). The majority of farms (83.3%) had milking parlours and the average milk yield per ewe was 276.6±55.6. The majority of farmers were relatively young (41.2±8.9years old) with limited experience in sheep production. However, they had a good level of education and showed increased interest in intensification and specialization of production methods. The acreage of private land was generally small (7.6 hectares) and was used mainly for production of feedstuffs; grazing was a secondary objective. In most farms, the feeding management wasinappropriate; overfeeding of concentrates and unbalanced rations was the dominant practice. Preventive measures included vaccinations (100% of farms vaccinated for clostridial diseases) and anthelminthic treatments (at least once a year in all flocks). In conclusion, farm conditions and production methods in studied flocks were considered satisfactory and revealed the potential for further improvements that are discussed here.
The use of synthetic colloids in dogs and cats
Authors: SAVVAS (Ι. ΣΑΒΒΑΣ) Ι. , PAPASTEFANOU (Α. ΠΑΠΑΣΤΕΦΑΝΟΥ) Α. , ANAGNOSTOU (Τ. ΑΝΑΓΝΩΣΤΟΥ) Τ.
Published: March 2018

It is common in small animal clinical practice to administer fluids in order to replace water deficits or to treat diseases. One of the indications of the fluid therapy is treatment of low intravascular volume, which begins with crystalloid administration. Colloids, however, are more effective in maintaining intravascular volume than crystalloid solutions, because they contain high molecular weight molecules that do not cross capillary walls. As a result, plasma oncotic pressure increases, resulting in water transfer from the interstitial to the intravascular space. The administered volume of a colloid is equal or slightly bigger than the required replacement volume, and the total volume administered is lower than the required volume of a crystalloid. Therefore, colloids should be considered when a patient does not appear to be responding appropriately to the crystalloid fluid infusion or when oedema develops prior to adequate blood volume restoration. The most common side effects of colloid administration may be volume overload, anaphylactic reaction, renal toxicity and coagulation disorders. Colloids are natural and synthetic. Natural colloids include whole blood, plasma and blood products. Synthetic colloids are dextrans, gelatins and starches.Haemoglobine-based oxygen carriers may improve oxygenation and act as colloids. Dextrans have a mean molecular weight of either 40,000 or 70,000 daltons. They have a short half-life and may cause coagulation defeciencies, anaphylactic reactions or acute renal failure. Gelatins have a shorter half-life. Starches are glucose polymers with glycosidic bonds and hydroxyl-ethyl groups.According to the number of these groups, they are distinguished in three types: hetastrach, tetrastarch and pentastarch. They have oncotic effects, long half-life and few side effects. Colloids are mainly administered in shock, as well as in hypoproteinaemia, sepsis and third space losses. They are always co-administered with crystalloids, in order to replace interstitial water as well. Water loss replacement is treated in three phases. Initially, intravascular volume is restored (resuscitation phase), then interstitial space is hydrated (rehydration phase) and finally cells are hydrated (maintenance phase). Depending on the underlying disease, different combinations of crystalloids and colloids are used. Special attention is needed in cases of internal haemorrhage, increased endothelial permeability and hypoproteinaemia.
Annual concentrations of thyroxin and progesterone in Karagouniko and Chios ewes
Authors: KANTAS (Δ. ΚΑΝΤΑΣ) D. , VALASI (Ε. ΒΑΛΑΣΗ) E. , TSILIGIANNI (Θ. ΤΣΙΛΙΓΙΑΝΝΗ) Th. , NTOVOLOU (Ε. ΝΤΟΒΟΛΟΥ) E. , RIGAS (Γ. ΡΗΓΑΣ) G.
Published: March 2018

The circannual secretion of progesterone and thyroxin of two indigenous sheep breeds (Chios and Karagouniko, each n=10) with different reproductive pattern was investigated. Blood samples were collected weekly and the serum hormone's concentration was assayed by RIA. Between breeds, no difference was detected in the mean annual thyroxin concentration. Similarly, no differences were detected within breeds in the mean thyroxin concentrations for the periods of increasing and decreasing daylight. Clear thyroxin peaks were detected in both breeds a month or so prior to the transition to anestrus period; these peaks were higher in the Karagouniko breed. Breeding season duration was clearly shorter in Karagouniko in comparison with that of Chios; in the later breed many animals had substantially short anestrus. These results give strong indications that thyroid activity has a catalytic role in the regulation of the reproductive period in ewes.
Detection and Molecular Identification of Salmonella Strains Isolated from an Industrial Ostriches farm
Authors: MOHAMMADZADEH A. , ASHRAFI TAMAIL I. , KOOCHAKZADEH A. , GHODDUSI A. , MAHMOODI P.
Published: March 2018

Poultry salmonellosis, one of the most prevalent diseases and major source of food-borne infections to humans due to consumption of poultry products is worldwide in distribution. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of salmonellosis in ostriches by culture and PCR , determination of antibiotic resistance pattern of the isolates and the infected ostriches antibody level. 87 fecal samples from one industrial ostrich farm with clinical signs of diarrhea, weight loss, mortality and reduced hatchability were collected and evaluated for presence of the Salmonella. Salmonella was isolated according to standard culture and biochemical tests. The Salmonella positive samples were serotyped with O and H antisera based on slide and tube agglutination tests. PCR was done for detection of serovars Infantis and Enteritidis. Then the antibiotic resistance against 14 antimicrobial agents were tested. The antibody level of the infected ostriches were measured by WIDAL agglutination test. Results indicated 9.1% (8 of 87) of ostriches were positive for Salmonella. Serotyping results showed 3 samples were serovar Infantis and 5 samples were serovar Enteritidis and PCR confirmed the serotyping results. All 8 samples were resistant to tetracyclin and ampicillin but sensitive to other antibiotics including ciprofloxacin, kanamycin, sultrim, cephalothin, norfloxacin, chloramphenicol, flumequine, nitrofurantoin, coamoxiclav, gentamicin, enrofloxacin and cefotaxime The results of WIDAL agglutination test indicated that all ostriches were negative except 8 Salmonella positive ostriches with the titres 1/80 to 1/360 for the O and 1/80 to 1/640 for the H antigens. To our knowledge this is the first study which reports the peresence of Salmonella Infantis in ostriches in Iran and more studies should be done to investigate this pathogen in ostriches herds of Iran.
Detection and analysis of new psittacine beak and feather disease virus (PBFDv) nucleotide sequences
Authors: VUCICEVIC M , VUCICEVIC I , DAVITKOV D , DAVITKOV D , STEVANOVIC J , RESANOVIC R , STANIMIROVIC Z
Published: March 2018

Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) affects a large number of Psittaciformes species. In this study, five White Cockatoo parrots (Cacatua alba) with clinical signs of PBFD were examined. After euthanasia, a full necropsy of parrots was performed and organs with macroscopic changes were sampled for routine histopathological evaluation. To confirm the presence of psittacine beak and feather disease virus (PBFDv), feather samples were analyzed with the PCR method. Sequence analysis of the obtained PCR products indicated their close relationship (99%) to other PBFDv isolates. Six variable nucleotide sites were discovered, two missense and four silent mutations. This paper presents the evidence of new PBFDv sequence in Cockatoo species.
Timely referral saves the lives of mothers and newborns: Midwifery led continuum of care in marginalized teagarden communities – A qualitative case study in Bangladesh
Authors: Biswas Animesh , Anderson Rondi , Doraiswamy Sathyanarayanan , Abdullah Abu Sayeed Md. , Purno Nabila , Rahman Fazlur , Halim Abdul
Published: March 2018

Background: Prompt and efficient identification, referral of pregnancy related complications and emergencies are key factors to the reduction of maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality. As a response to this critical need, a midwifery led continuum of reproductive health care was introduced in five teagardens in the Sylhet division, Bangladesh during 2016. Within this intervention, professional midwives provided reproductive healthcare to pregnant teagarden women in the community.  This study evaluates the effect of the referral of pregnancy related complications.

Methods: A qualitative case study design by reviewing records retrospectively was used to explore the effect of deploying midwives on referrals of pregnancy related complications from the selected teagardens to the referral health facilities in Moulvibazar district of the Sylhet division during 2016.  In depth analyses was also performed on 15 randomly selected cases to understand the facts behind the referral.

Results: Out of a total population of 450 pregnant women identified by the midwives, 72 complicated mothers were referred from the five teagardens to the facilities. 76.4% of mothers were referred to conduct delivery at facilities, and 31.1% of them were referred with the complication of prolonged labour. Other major complications were pre-eclampsia (17.8%), retention of the placenta with post-partum hemorrhage (11.1%) and premature rupture of the membrane (8.9%). About 60% of complicated mothers were referred to the primary health care centre, and among them 14% of mothers were delivered by caesarean section. 94% deliveries resulted in livebirths and only 6% were stillbirths.

Conclusions: This study reveals that early detection of pregnancy complications by skilled professionals and timely referral to a facility is beneficial in saving the majority of baby’s as well as mother’s lives in resource-poor teagardens with a considerable access barrier to health facilities.
New perspectives in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder
Authors: Hong Kevin , Nezgovorova Vera , Hollander Eric
Published: March 2018

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a disabling illness with a high worldwide prevalence. Patients demonstrate a debilitating preoccupation with one or more perceived defects, often marked by poor insight or delusional convictions. Multiple studies have suggested that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and various cognitive behavioral therapy modalities are effective first-line treatments in decreasing BDD severity, relieving depressive symptoms, restoring insight, and increasing quality of life. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors have also recently been shown to be effective for relapse prevention. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of BDD, including its clinical features, epidemiology, genetics, and current treatment modalities. Additional research is needed to fully elucidate the relationship between BDD and comorbid illnesses such as obsessive–compulsive-related disorders and depression and to develop therapies for refractory patients and those who have contraindications for pharmacological intervention.
Case Report: III° atrioventricular block due to fulminant myocarditis managed with non-invasive transcutaneous pacing
Authors: Devkota Kiran , Wang Ya Hong , Liu Meng Yi , Li Yan , Zhang You Wei
Published: March 2018

Fulminant myocarditis is a life-threatening clinical condition. It is the inflammation of myocardium leading to acute heart failure, cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrhythmias. Incidence of fulminant myocarditis is low and mortality is high. Most grievous complications of fulminant myocarditis is mainly cardiac arrhythmias; if there is delay on active management of the patient, it may be fatal. Here, we describe a case of III° atrioventricular block due to fulminant myocarditis that was managed with non-invasive transcutaneous cardiac pacing in the absence of ECMO. The non-invasive transcutaneous pacemaker is a safe, effective and convenient device to revert arrhythmias.
A biochemical logarithmic sensor with broad dynamic range
Authors: Frank Steven A.
Published: March 2018

Sensory perception often scales logarithmically with the input level. Similarly, the output response of biochemical systems sometimes scales logarithmically with the input signal that drives the system. How biochemical systems achieve logarithmic sensing remains an open puzzle. This article shows how a biochemical logarithmic sensor can be constructed from the most basic principles of chemical reactions. Assuming that reactions follow the classic Michaelis-Menten kinetics of mass action or the more generalized and commonly observed Hill equation response, the summed output of several simple reactions with different sensitivities to the input will often give an aggregate output response that logarithmically transforms the input. The logarithmic response is robust to stochastic fluctuations in parameter values. This model emphasizes the simplicity and robustness by which aggregate chemical circuits composed of sloppy components can achieve precise response characteristics. Both natural and synthetic designs gain from the power of this aggregate approach.
Evaluation of phylogenetic reconstruction methods using bacterial whole genomes: a simulation based study
Authors: Lees John A. , Kendall Michelle , Parkhill Julian , Colijn Caroline , Bentley Stephen D. , Harris Simon R.
Published: March 2018

Background: Phylogenetic reconstruction is a necessary first step in many analyses which use whole genome sequence data from bacterial populations. There are many available methods to infer phylogenies, and these have various advantages and disadvantages, but few unbiased comparisons of the range of approaches have been made.

Methods: We simulated data from a defined “true tree” using a realistic evolutionary model. We built phylogenies from this data using a range of methods, and compared reconstructed trees to the true tree using two measures, noting the computational time needed for different phylogenetic reconstructions. We also used real data from Streptococcus pneumoniae alignments to compare individual core gene trees to a core genome tree.

Results: We found that, as expected, maximum likelihood trees from good quality alignments were the most accurate, but also the most computationally intensive. Using less accurate phylogenetic reconstruction methods, we were able to obtain results of comparable accuracy; we found that approximate results can rapidly be obtained using genetic distance based methods. In real data we found that highly conserved core genes, such as those involved in translation, gave an inaccurate tree topology, whereas genes involved in recombination events gave inaccurate branch lengths. We also show a tree-of-trees, relating the results of different phylogenetic reconstructions to each other.

Conclusions: We recommend three approaches, depending on requirements for accuracy and computational time. Quicker approaches that do not perform full maximum likelihood optimisation may be useful for many analyses requiring a phylogeny, as generating a high quality input alignment is likely to be the major limiting factor of accurate tree topology. We have publicly released our simulated data and code to enable further comparisons.
Corporate Media Discourse. Rhetorical Analysis
Authors: Минаева Людмила , Minaeva Lyudmila
Published: March 2018

This article argues that the rhetorical dialogue theory is a sound approach to the analysis of home press. The article proceeds from the assumption that the process of planning dialogues aimed at a certain task and their further implementation contribute to achieving corporate business objectives. The findings indicate that the strategic motives behind publications in magazines for employees consist in promotion of corporate values via dialogue-unison.
Political Leader’s Speech Portrait as a Soft Power Technique
Authors: Медведева Н. , Medvedeva N.
Published: March 2018

A large number of linguistic studies have been devoted to the analysis of the techniques and kinds of language used by politicians to reinforce ideologies in the masses and to attain specific objectives. Nevertheless the constant change in the contexts of political discourse necessitates new research in the field. This paper is an attempt to highlight individual linguistic features of President of Chechen Republic Ramsan Kadyrov to understand the nature of motivational arguments he uses to persuade his audiences towards political aims. Although the analysis draws inspiration from classical works, it focuses on the discussion of real-world contexts of political life in Chechya which called for ideological, social and political changes in the country in the years 2005 -2013. Since leaders’ speeches are the texts prepared by speech writers more spontaneous interview material has been chosen for the analysis. The content analysis of 0Kadyrov’s interviews made it possible to detect the vector of ongoing changes in Chechen Republic. At the same time the article concludes that to make judgments about public political person’s portrait requires a focus on the long-term period of leader’s presidency, with special focus on national peculiarities. However, the analysis allows to say they Kadyrov is a charismatic personality guided by the decisions based on what would be best for the his country and its people.
CHARACTERIZATION OF NITROCARBURIZED COATING BY PLASMA ELECTROLYTIC SATURATION
Authors: Noori Seyyed Mohammad , Dehghanian Changiz
Published: March 2018

Plasma electrolytic saturation (PES) is an atmospheric pressure plasma deposition which is used for fabrication of nanostructural coatings. This process starts with the appearance of some sparks on the surface and finally by the formation of plasma envelope around the sample, particles and free radicals bombard the surface and diffusion takes place into the work-piece. In this paper, the effect of frequency (500, 1000 and 10000 Hz) as pulse parameters on properties of nitrocarburized layers deposited on AISI 1045 steel were investigated. The analytical characteristics of the coating were assessed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. The corrosion behavior of coatings was analyzed by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in 3.5% sodium chloride solution. Moreover, the microhardness and wear resistance of coated samples were also studied. The results indicated that applying nitrocarburized layer in all cases, improved the corrosion resistance, microhardness and also wear resistance of the substrate. The coatings treated at the frequency of 10000 Hz, had corrosion resistance about 2.4 and 1.4 times higher than those of the samples prepared at the frequency of 500 Hz and 1000 Hz. The surface hardness of 10000 Hz treated sample was about 1040 Vickers, which was more than those of the two other ones. An increase in frequency also caused wear resistance to increase. 