bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Should We Brain-Train in School?
Authors: Raz Amir , Rabipour Sheida
Published: April 2019

“Should We Brain-Train in School” highlights current efforts to disseminate training programs and examines whether these should be incorporated into educational curricula. It addresses both sides of the argument, looking at studies that validate certain training programs, supporting their impact on both children and adults. It also acknowledges that many claims made by researchers extend beyond realistic expectations and addresses the topic of neuroplasticity in relation to brain training.
Development of a Videoconference-Adapted Version of the Community Diabetes Prevention Program, and Comparison of Weight Loss With In-Person Program Delivery
Authors: Taetzsch Amy , Gilhooly Cheryl H , Bukhari Asma , Das Sai Krupa , Martin Edward , Hatch Adrienne M , Silver Rachel E , Montain Scott J , Roberts Susan B
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Effective, standardized, and easily accessible weight management programs are urgently needed for military beneficiaries. Videoconference interventions have the potential for widespread scaling, and can provide both real time interaction and flexibility in delivery times regardless of location, but there is little information on their effectiveness and acceptability.

Materials and Methods

This study as part of a larger weight loss trial describes the videoconference adaption of Group Lifestyle Balance (GLB) program, a community group-based Diabetes Prevention Program intervention, and provides a comparison of weight loss and meeting attendance between in-person and videoconference delivery modes over 12 weeks in adult family members of military service members. Forty-three participants were enrolled from two military installations and received either the videoconference-adapted or an in-person GLB program in a non-randomized trial design. Differences in program attendance and percent weight lost at 12 weeks were compared by independent samples t-tests and nonparametric methods. Group differences in the percentage of weight lost over the 12-week period were analyzed using a linear mixed model.

Results

All GLB intervention components were successfully delivered by videoconference with minor adaptations for the different delivery mechanism. Participant retention was 70% and 96% in the in-person and videoconference groups, respectively (p = 0.04). Completing participants in both groups lost a significant percent body weight over the 12 week intervention (p < 0.001) and there was no difference in percent body weight after 12 weeks of intervention (6.2 ± 3.2% and 5.3 ± 3.4% for in-person and videoconference at 12 weeks, respectively; p = 0.60).

Conclusion

This study describes the first videoconference adaption of the GLB program for use in military families. Attrition was lower in the videoconference group, and there were a similar levels of weight loss in both groups regardless of delivery modality. Videoconference weight loss interventions are effective and feasible for scaling to support healthy weight management in military as well as civilian populations.
More of me! Less of me!: Reflexive Imperativism about Affective Phenomenal Character
Authors: Barlassina Luca , Hayward Max Khan
Published: April 2019

Experiences like pains, pleasures, and emotions have affective phenomenal character: they feel pleasant or unpleasant. Imperativism proposes to explain affective phenomenal character by appeal to imperative content, a kind of intentional content that directs rather than describes. We argue that imperativism is on the right track, but has been developed in the wrong way. There are two varieties of imperativism on the market: first-order and higher-order. We show that neither is successful, and offer in their place a new theory: reflexive imperativism. Our proposal is that an experience P feels pleasant in virtue of being (at least partly) constituted by a Command with reflexive imperative content (1), while an experience U feels unpleasant in virtue of being (at least partly) constituted by a Command with reflexive imperative content (2): More of P!Less of U!

If you need a slogan: experiences have affective phenomenal character in virtue of commanding us Get more of me! Get less of me!
Non-pharmacological Considerations in Human Research of Nicotine and Tobacco Effects: A Review
Authors: Schlagintweit Hera E , Perry Robin N , Darredeau Christine , Barrett Sean P
Published: April 2019

Human research of nicotine and tobacco effects demonstrates that non-pharmacological factors may systematically affect responses to administered substances and inert placebos. Failure to measure or manipulate these factors may compromise study reliability and validity. This is especially relevant for double-blind placebo-controlled research of nicotine, tobacco, and related substances. In this article, we review laboratory-based human research of the impact of non-pharmacological factors on responses to tobacco and nicotine administration. Results suggest that varying beliefs about drug content and effects, perceptions about drug use opportunities, and intentions to cease drug use systematically alter subjective, behavioral, and physiological responses to nicotine, tobacco, and placebo administration. These non-pharmacological factors should be considered when designing and interpreting the findings of human research of nicotine and tobacco effects, particularly when a double-blind placebo-controlled design is used. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed, and we propose methodological strategies to enhance the reliability and validity of future research.

Implications

Growing research demonstrates that non-pharmacological factors systematically alter responses to acute nicotine, tobacco, and placebo administration. Indeed, varying beliefs about nicotine and/or tobacco administration and effects, differing perceptions about nicotine and/or tobacco use opportunities, and inconsistent motivation to quit smoking have been found to exert important influences on subjective, physiological, and behavioral responses. These variables are infrequently measured or manipulated in nicotine and tobacco research, which compromises the validity of study findings. Incorporating methodological strategies to better account for these non-pharmacological factors has the potential to improve the quality of addiction research and treatment.
Magnetic field structure in Serpens South
Authors: Kusune Takayoshi , Nakamura Fumitaka , Sugitani Koji , Sato Shuji , Tamura Motohide , Kwon Jungmi , Dobashi Kazuhito , Shimoikura Tomomi , Wu Benjamin
Published: April 2019

We made near-infrared polarimetric observations toward Serpens South. This region contains three dense filaments that are roughly parallel to one another. Using the histogram of relative orientations, the three filaments are found to be roughly perpendicular to the global magnetic field. The morphology of the plane-of-sky (POS) magnetic field and molecular gas suggests that the magnetic field plays an important role in the filament formation and evolution. Applying the Davis–Chandrasekhar–Fermi method, the POS magnetic field strengths are estimated to be 10–80$\, \mu$G. The evaluated mass-to-flux ratios indicate that the center filament is magnetically supercritical, while the others are approximately magnetically critical. We speculate that the filaments are formed by fragmentation of a sheet-like cloud that was created through the gravitational contraction of a magnetized, turbulent cloud.
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus
Authors: Jeene Paul M. , Geijsen Elisabeth D. , Muijs Christina T. , Rozema Tom , Aleman Berthe M.P. , Muller Karin , Baas Jara M. , Nuyttens Joost J. , Wouterse Sanne , Braam Pètra M. , Oppedijk Vera , Ceha Heleen M. , Cnossen Jeltsje , Spruit Patty , Bongers Eva M. , Berbée Maaike , Mook Stella , Hulshof Maarten C.C.M.
Published: April 2019

Background and Purpose:

Small cell carcinoma of the esophagus (SCEC) is a rare subtype of esophageal cancer for which optimal treatment is unknown. We analyzed the impact of treatment factors on outcome in patients with nonmetastasized SCEC.

Methods:

Patients with a histologically confirmed SCEC without distant metastases were analyzed in a nationwide multicenter retrospective cohort. All patients received radiotherapy as part of curative treatment between January 2000 and December 2014. Details on treatment and outcome were retrieved from individual charts. Cox regression analysis was used to determine prognostic factors for survival.

Results:

Fifty-eight patients were analyzed. Median survival was 16 months (95% confidence interval, 11-21 mo). Infield recurrences occurred in 25%, distant metastases in 45%, and brain metastases in 12%. In total, 63% of patients developed a recurrence. Most recurrences (67%) occurred within 1 year. In univariable analyses an increased number of chemotherapy cycles (>3) and lower radiotherapy doses (<45 Gy) were associated with improved survival. T-stage, N-stage, treatment period, type of chemotherapy, prophylactic cranial irradiation, and age were not associated with survival. In multivariable analyses, only the number of chemotherapy cycles was associated with better survival (hazard ratio, 0.78; P=0.006).

Conclusions:

SCEC recurs frequently at distant sites after definitive chemoradiotherapy and usually within 1 year after curative treatment. With a dose of 45 to 50 Gy, infield recurrence rate was low. We found a relationship between number of received chemotherapy cycles and survival with best results obtained after at least 4 cycles of chemotherapy.
Impact of obesity on male and female reproductive outcomes
Authors: Glenn Tanya , Harris Amy L. , Lindheim Steven R.
Published: April 2019

Purpose of review

The association between obesity and infertility has gained increasing provider and public awareness. The purpose of this review is to outline the recent research into the pathophysiology regarding obesity and its impact of reproductive function in both women and men.

Recent findings

A BMI more than 25 has a detrimental impact on the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis in both men and women, leading to alterations of HPG hormones, gametogenesis, as well as an increase in inflammation and lipotoxicity from excessive adipose tissue. Additionally, BMI likely impacts assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes, with a greater influence on women than men. Studies regarding weight loss interventions are heterogenous in methods and outcomes, and it is difficult to extrapolate from current data if weight loss truly leads to improved outcomes.

Elevated BMI induces changes in the HPG axis, hormone levels, gametogenesis, and adverse ART outcomes. Inconsistencies regarding weight loss interventions make it difficult to assess the impact on outcomes after weight loss interventions.
Sexual frequency and pain in a randomized clinical trial of vaginal estradiol tablets, moisturizer, and placebo in postmenopausal women
Authors: Mitchell Caroline M. , Guthrie Katherine A. , Larson Joseph , Diem Susan , LaCroix Andrea Z. , Caan Bette , Shifren Jan L. , Woods Nancy F. , Heiman Julia R. , Lindau Stacy T. , Reed Susan D.
Published: April 2019

Objective:

To evaluate the efficacy of two common interventions for bothersome postmenopausal vaginal symptoms on improving sexual frequency and pain.

Methods:

This is a post-hoc analysis of data from a 12-week double-blind placebo-controlled trial that randomized postmenopausal women (ages 45-70 years) with moderate-severe genitourinary discomfort to vaginal 10 μg estradiol tablet plus placebo gel (n = 102), placebo tablet plus vaginal moisturizer (n = 100), or dual placebo (n = 100). Outcomes were proportion of sexually active women at 12 weeks, frequency of sexual activity, and pain severity with sexual activity (0-3 scale). Consistent with the original study design, comparisons were made between each active arm and the dual placebo arm.

Results:

Most women enrolled in the trial, 294/302 (97%), had sufficient data to be included in this analysis. Mean age of participants was 61 years, most were white (88%), college educated (66%), and most reported sexual activity in the month before enrollment (81%). After 12 weeks of treatment, a similar proportion of women in the vaginal estrogen and dual placebo groups reported sexual activity in the past week (50% and 40%; P = 0.10) and the past month (78% and 84%, P = 0.52). Mean (standard deviation) pain with sexual activity scores at 12 weeks were similar between vaginal estrogen (1.0 [1.0]) and placebo (0.9 [0.9], P = 0.52] groups. The proportion sexually active at 12 weeks (35%) and mean (standard deviation) pain severity in the vaginal moisturizer group (1.1 [0.9]) did not differ from placebo (P = 0.36).

Conclusions:

Compared to placebo, neither low-dose vaginal estradiol nor vaginal moisturizer treatment over 12 weeks resulted in significantly greater increases in the proportions of women reporting sexual activity or improvement in pain scores with sexual activity.

Trial registration:

Clinical trials.gov: NCT02516202.
Oral Miltefosine as Adjunctive Treatment for Recalcitrant Acanthamoeba Keratitis
Authors: Dewan Nikhil , Ming Wendy , Holland Simon P. , Yeung Sonia N. , Iovieno Alfonso
Published: April 2019

Purpose:

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare, vision-threatening disease. Commercially available antiamoebics are poorly cysticidal and highly toxic, and therapeutic keratoplasties can be complicated by recurrence or graft failure. We aimed to discuss the use of oral miltefosine for treatment of recalcitrant Acanthamoeba keratitis.

Methods:

A 44-year-old contact lens wearer presented with a 2-week history of red painful eye and decreasing vision. After poorly responding to topical corticosteroid on the presumptive diagnosis of anterior uveitis, she developed radial keratoneuritis. Corneal scraping was positive for Acanthamoeba. No clinical response to treatment was observed with topical chlorhexidine 0.02%, polyhexamethylene biguanide 0.02%, and oral voriconazole. She then underwent 2 therapeutic keratoplasties with prompt recurrence of the disease in the keratoplasty graft.

Results:

Oral miltefosine was added to the treatment. She underwent a third penetrating keratoplasty 8 months later. The excised button was negative for amoeba. She continued miltefosine for 3 more months. No recurrence was observed after 30 months.

Conclusions:

This case shows resolution of recalcitrant Acanthamoeba keratitis with oral miltefosine in an immunocompetent patient. Further clinical evidence would be needed to possibly incorporate this medication in the antiamoebic armamentarium.
The Impact of a Stress Management Program on the Stress Response of Nurses in Neonatal Intensive Care Units
Authors: Lary Atefeh , Borimnejad Leili , Mardani-Hamooleh Marjan
Published: April 2019

This study was conducted with the aim to determine the effect of a stress management program on the response to stress by nurses working in neonatal intensive care units. This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 70 nurses in Iran. The nurses were assigned to the 2 groups: experimental and control groups, with each group comprising 35 participants. The McNamara education program was used for nurses in the experimental group. The response to stress in both groups was reviewed pre- and postintervention and 8 weeks after the intervention using the Stress Response Inventory. The 2 groups had no significant differences in terms of stress response preintervention (t = 0.668, P = .506). The mean scores in the experimental group were higher preintervention than those obtained postintervention, and the difference between them was significant. These findings indicate that the program has led to stress reduction in the experimental group.
An Alternative to Mother and Infants Behind Bars
Authors: Kwarteng-Amaning Veronica , Svoboda Jacquelyn , Bachynsky Natalie , Linthicum Lannette
Published: April 2019

The number of women in United States prisons has increased, with the most rapid growth among women of childbearing age. Detrimental effects on maternal-infant attachment have been shown to exist when mothers and infants are separated at birth. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the impact of an out-of-prison nursery program, Baby and Mother Bonding Initiative (BAMBI), on maternal-infant attachment and nurturing competencies among women who gave birth while incarcerated. A sample of 41 participants was recruited through a “Closed” BAMBI Alumni Facebook page and nonprobability snowball sampling. Participants were surveyed, and responses were submitted online or via mail. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, multiple regression, and logistic regression. Results indicated that the number of children living in the mother's household was a significant predictor of positive maternal nurturance. Inversely, the high number of children in the household was the most significant predictor of increased risk for infants to have insecure attachment to mothers. As the number of women giving birth in prisons continues to trend upward, the need for more programs to promote best outcomes for both mother and infants is crucial.
Obesity and Socioeconomic Disparities
Authors: Jevitt Cecilia M.
Published: April 2019

Obesity affects more than 35% of women aged 20 to 39 years in the United States. This article summarizes recent research that reconceptualizes obesity as adipose disease associated with smoking; socio-economic disparities in employment, education, healthcare access, food quality, and availability; and environmental toxins, ultimately altering microbiomes and epigenetics. Individual prenatal care of women with obesity includes early testing for diabetes, counseling on epigenetic diets, advice supporting weight gain within national guidelines, and vigilance for signs of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Intrapartum care includes mechanical cervical ripening measures, patience with prolonged labor, and uterotonic medication readiness in the event of postpartum hemorrhage. Postpartum care includes thrombus risk amelioration through early ambulation, use of compression stockings, and anticoagulation. Delays in lactogenesis II can be offset by measures to support early breastfeeding. Sociopolitical action by nurses at national, state, and community levels to reduce population disparities in racism, education, and employment; reduce pollution from obesogenic chemicals; and improve food quality and distribution policies is likely to have the broadest impact in future obesity reductions and prevention.
Arteriovenous malformations respond poorly to argon plasma coagulation in patients with continuous flow left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Zikos Thomas A. , Namdaran Parhum , Banerjee Dipanjan , Friedland Shai , Pan Jennifer Y.
Published: April 2019

Background

Gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) causes significant morbidity. Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) cause 30–60% of bleeds, yet the efficacy of endoscopic interventions and risk factors for rebleeding have not been studied.

Patients and methods

The charts of all LVAD patients undergoing endoscopy for gastrointestinal bleeding at Stanford between January 2010 and December 2017 were reviewed. Cox proportional hazard modeling was used to evaluate risk factors for rebleeding, including the type of endoscopic treatment, patient characteristics, and endoscopic findings.

Results

Of 54 total LVAD patients presenting with gastrointestinal bleeding, 23 (42.6%) had AVMs documented on endoscopy. Treatment with argon plasma coagulation (APC) alone was associated with a higher risk of rebleeding compared to no treatment [hazard ratio (HR)=4.77, P=0.012], and compared with clip±APC (HR=7.47, P=0.012). The 90-day bleed-free rate was 10.9% with APC, 100% with clipping±APC, and 83.3% with no endoscopic treatment. Additional risk factors for rebleeding included the presence of gastric AVMs (HR=3.64, P=0.024), and presence of hematochezia (HR=5.15, P=0.05). In a multiple Cox regression model, only the presence of gastric AVMs (HR=5.50, P=0.029) and APC use (HR=14.3, P=0.008) remained significant predictors of rebleeding.

Conclusion

The use of APC alone for the treatment of AVMs in LVAD patients had a high failure rate. The presence of gastric AVMs was a significant risk factor for rebleeding in LVAD patients. Management decisions should take these factors into account.
Telehealth Etiquette Training
Authors: Gustin Tina Sweeney , Kott Karen , Rutledge Carolyn
Published: April 2019

Background

Telehealth technologies have increased in many health care settings. However, much of the training that occurs regarding telehealth is vendor driven. Training that is typically offered focuses on technical aspects of using telehealth equipment, legal issues, and reimbursement. Rarely does industry training involve soft skills or “screen side etiquette” unique to telehealth encounters.

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present a training program that prepares students with the unique skill set necessary to conduct telehealth visits.

Methods

A training program was developed to teach health care students (n = 103) proper telehealth etiquette. Preprogram and postprogram data were collected on students' understanding of telehealth etiquette.

Results

Results demonstrate significant improvement in knowledge in all areas of telehealth etiquette following the program.

Conclusion

Students recognized some improper telehealth etiquette prior to the program but improved significantly following the program.
Head Motion Predicts Transient Loss of Consciousness in Human Head Trauma
Authors: Fogarty Alexandra E. , Guay Christian S. , Simoneau Gabrielle , Colorado Berdale S. , Segal G. Ross , Werner J. Kent , Ellenbogen Jeffrey M.
Published: April 2019

Objective

Concussion with transient loss of consciousness is a commonly observed but poorly understood phenomenon with mounting clinical significance. This study aimed to examine the relationship between head motion in varying planes and transient loss of consciousness in athletes with brain injuries.

Study Design

A case-control design was used. The Ultimate Fighting Championship database was screened for events ending with knockouts from 2013 to 2016. Time of strike, striking implement, strike location, and head motion were recorded for all knockout strikes (cases) and for a subset of nonknockout strikes (controls). Characteristics of winners and losers were compared using two-tailedttests. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine odds ratios for strike characteristics associated with transient loss of consciousness. The Kaplan-Meier estimate was used to describe the temporal distribution of knockouts.

Results

One hundred thirty-six fights were identified and 110 videos were included. Head motion in the axial plane was strongly associated with transient loss of consciousness (odds ratio, 45.3; 95% confidence interval, 20.8–98.6). Other predictors of transient loss of consciousness were head motion in sagittal and coronal planes, nonfist striking implements, and strikes to the mandible or maxilla. The Kaplan-Meier survival curve demonstrated a decreasing rate of knockouts through time.

Conclusions

Rotational head acceleration, particularly in the axial plane, is strongly associated with transient loss of consciousness.
Diagnostic and Therapeutic Uptake of Intrathyroid Metastasis of Midgut Neuroendocrine Tumor on 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT and 177Lu-DOTATATE Imaging
Authors: Vija Racaru Lavinia , Sinigaglia Mathieu , Fontaine Sebastien , D'Aure Dominique , Courbon Frederic , Dierickx Lawrence
Published: April 2019

A 58-year-old woman with 5-year history of grade 1 progressive metastatic intestinal neuroendocrine tumor with metachronous liver metastases initially treated by surgery and liver embolization underwent 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT before 177Lu-DOTATATE therapy. 68Ga-DOTANOC PET/CT revealed increased uptake in several liver metastases and right iliac lymph nodes, consistent with radiopeptide therapy, including a hypodense isthmic thyroid nodule. Fine needle ultrasound-guided biopsy of the thyroid nodule was realized. Immunohistochemistry was positive for CD56, chromogranin, and synaptophysin and negative for calcitonin, confirming neuroendocrine tumor intrathyroid metastasis. 177Lu-DOTATATE SPECT/CT showed therapeutic uptake on the thyroid metastasis.
Concurrent Metastatic Pheochromocytomas and Lung Adenocarcinoma on 18F-FDG and 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT Images
Authors: Cheng Zhaoting , Zou Sijuan , Song Shuang , Zhu Xiaohua
Published: April 2019

Both 18F-FDG and 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT are used in the evaluation of pheochromocytomas. We reported 18F-FDG and 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT findings in a 60-year-old man who had recurrent metastatic pheochromocytoma coexisting with lung adenocarcinoma. The metastatic pheochromocytoma showed increased activity on both 18F-FDG and 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT, whereas the lung adenocarcinoma lesion showed no obvious DOTATATE activity.
Tracheal Lymphoepithelioma-Like Carcinoma on FDG PET/CT
Authors: Shao Dan , Ding Wenshuang , Wang Siyun , Liang Jiawei , Wang Shuxia
Published: April 2019

Lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) in the trachea is an extremely rare disease. We present a case of a 64-year-old man with FDG-avid tracheal LELC on 18F-FDG PET/CT. Despite its rarity, LELC in the trachea should be considered as one of the possibilities in patients with a hypermetabolic mass in the trachea. If LELC in the trachea is suspected, 18F-FDG PET/CT is a useful tool for initial staging.
Comparison of RECIST, iRECIST, and PERCIST for the Evaluation of Response to PD-1/PD-L1 Blockade Therapy in Patients With Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Beer Lucian , Hochmair Maximilian , Haug Alexander R. , Schwabel Bernhard , Kifjak Daria , Wadsak Wolfgang , Fuereder Thorsten , Fabikan Hannah , Fazekas Andreas , Schwab Sophia , Mayerhoefer Marius E. , Herold Christian , Prosch Helmut
Published: April 2019

Purpose

The aim of this study was to compare the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1, the immune RECIST (iRECIST) criteria, and the Positron Emission Tomography Response Criteria in Solid Tumors (PERCIST) 1.0 in patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer treated with programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1)/programmed cell death protein 1 ligand (PD-L1) inhibitors.

Methods

This prospective study of 42 patients treated with a PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor was approved by our institutional review board, and all patients gave written, informed consent. Tumor burden dynamics were assessed on 18F-FDG PET/CT before and after treatment initiation. Immunotherapeutic responses were evaluated according to RECIST 1.1, iRECIST, and PERCIST 1.0 for the dichotomous groups, responders versus nonresponders. Cohen κ and Wilcoxon signed rank tests were used to evaluate concordance among these criteria. We assessed progression-free survival and overall survival using the Kaplan-Meier estimator.

Results

The RECIST 1.1 and PERCIST 1.0 response classifications were discordant in 6 patients (14.2%; κ = 0.581). RECIST 1.1 and iRECIST were discordant in 2 patients, who evidenced pseudoprogression after treatment initiation. Median progression-free survival, as well as overall survival, was significantly longer for responders compared with nonresponders for all criteria (P < 0.001), with no significant difference between the 3 criteria (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

RECIST 1.1 and PERCIST 1.0 show only moderate agreement, but both can predict treatment response to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor therapy. In case of pseudoprogression, metabolic tumor activity may help to correctly classify treatment response.
Before and After
Authors: Findikcioglu Kemal , Sibar Serhat , Otgoz Duygu , Ozmen Selahattin
Published: April 2019

Face transplantation is one of the most popular and controversial subjects of plastic surgery today. Although there are various surveys on the subject, there is no study comparing the past and the present social viewpoint and behavioral preferences for face transplantations across the world. In this study, we aimed to investigate the changes in the views of the Turkish society with respect to face transplantation from past to present. For this purpose, 1000 volunteer participants were questioned in terms of demographics and their perspective and preferences on organ and face transplantation. The results of the study were compared with the past data, and based on the results, the level of consciousness and awareness of the Turkish society about the subject has increased; the rate risk taking for immunosuppression has decreased, and instead, the rate of having an undecided stance has increased, and this attitude continues even if the risk is resolved. With these results, we can conclude that the greatest handicap for face transplantation in the Turkish society today is immunosuppression and the associated risks. We believe that new drug protocols and monitoring of patient outcomes for longer periods as well as more extensive clinical applications may be beneficial in addressing this issue.
Constitutional Challenges to Liver Transplant Policy
Authors: Tapper Elliot B. , Wexler Rachel , Goldman Edward , Volk Michael
Published: April 2019

Background.

Liver transplant candidacy determination can be contentious. When transplantation is declined for reasons perceived as violating fundamental rights or discriminating against a protected class—for example, age, race, religion, nationality—the case may involve a constitutional claim. Judicial review of such cases may result in decisions with sweeping implications for transplant policy.

Methods.

We reviewed all published court opinions involving liver transplantation in 2 legal databases (Lexis Nexus and WestLaw). We included all cases that involved a denial of liver transplant candidacy in violation of constitutional rights.

Results.

The search returned 1562 cases: 290 involved the denial of insurance coverage for a transplant due to a patient’s failure to abstain from drinking, 273 cases involved incarcerated inmates who were denied a liver transplant, 2 involved a constitutional claim for patient requesting a bloodless transplant for religious reasons, and 2 cases arose from age discrimination in transplant criteria. These cases highlight legal pitfalls related to the First Amendment (religious freedom), Eighth Amendment (cruel and unusual punishment), and the Fourteenth Amendment (equal protection and due process).

Conclusions.

The risk of a constitutional claim highlights concrete steps needed to ensure the equity of transplant policy. These include efforts to standardize transplant candidacy criteria across payers for candidates with alcohol-related liver disease and advanced age. Efforts to constrain emerging liabilities related to the citizenship of transplant candidates and the definition of donor service areas are also discussed.
Surface properties and bioactivity of TiO
2
nanotube array prepared by two-step anodic oxidation for biomedical applications
Authors: Peng Zhaoxiang , Ni Jiahua
Published: April 2019

A highly ordered TiO
2
nanotube array has been prepared on a commercial pure titanium substrate in a hydrofluoric (HF) electrolyte using a DC power source through two-step anodic oxidation. The morphology, composition, wettability and surface energy of the nanotube array have been characterized by using a field-emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM), a transmission electron microscope (JEM-2010) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometer EDX (INCA OXFORD), X-ray diffraction method, an atomic force microscope (AFM), an optical contact angle measuring device and the Owens method with two liquids. The electrochemical behaviours of anodic oxidation films with different structures have been investigated in Sodium Lactate Ringer's Injection at 37±1°C by potentiodynamic polarization curve and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The formation mechanism of the nanotube array and the advantages of two-step oxidation have been discussed according to the experimental observation and the characterized results. Meanwhile, the structural changes of nanotubes are analysed according to the results of impedance spectroscopy. Cytotoxicity testing and cell adhesion and proliferation have been studied in order to evaluate the bioactivity of the nanotube array film. The diameters of nanotubes are in the range of 120–140 nm. The nanotube surface shows better wettability and higher surface energy compared to the bare substrate. The nanotube surface exhibits a wide passivation range and good corrosion resistance. The growth of the nanotube array is the result of the combined action of the anodization and field-assisted dissolution. The nanotube array by two-step oxidation becomes more regular and orderly. Moreover, the nanotube array surface is non-toxic and favourable to cell adhesion and proliferation. Such nanotube array films are expected to have significant biomedical applications.
Kinetics and mechanism of selenate and selenite removal in solution by green rust-sulfate
Authors: Onoguchi Aina , Granata Giuseppe , Haraguchi Daisuke , Hayashi Hiroshi , Tokoro Chiharu
Published: April 2019

This work investigated the removal of selenite and selenate from water by green rust (GR) sulfate. Selenite was immobilized by simple adsorption onto GR at pH 8, and by adsorption–reduction at pH 9. Selenate was immobilized by adsorption–reduction to selenite and zero valent selenium (Se
0
) at both pH 8 and 9. In the process, GR oxidized to a mixture of goethite (FeOOH) and magnetite (Fe
3
O
4
). The kinetics of selenite and selenate sorption at the GR–water interface was described through a pseudo-second-order model. X-ray absorption spectroscopy data enabled to elucidate the concentration profiles of Se and Fe species in the solid phase and allowed to distinguish two removal mechanisms, namely adsorption and reduction. Selenite and selenate were reduced by GR through homogeneous solid-phase reaction upon adsorption and by heterogeneous reaction at the solid–liquid interface. The selenite reduced through heterogeneous reduction with GR was adsorbed onto GR but not reduced further. The redox reaction between GR and selenite/selenate was kinetically described through an irreversible second-order bimolecular reaction model based on XAFS concentration profiles. Although the redox reaction became faster at pH 9, simple adsorption was always the fastest removal mechanism.
Effects of curing condition and particle size of aggregate on the expansion and microstructure of dolomitic aggregates cured in TMAH solution
Authors: Yang Bin , Chen Xiaoxiao , Deng Min
Published: April 2019

In this paper, the modified microbars prepared by dolomitic aggregates with three kinds of particle size and self-made cement without K
+
and Na
+
were cured in 1 and 2 N tetramethyl ammonium hydroxide (TMAH) solution at 20°C, 60°C and 80°C, respectively. TMAH was used as curing solution to exclude the expansion contribution of alkali–silica reaction. Effects of the concentration of TMAH solution, curing temperature and aggregate grain size on the expansion of dolomitic aggregates were systematically investigated to determine the expansion characteristics only caused by alkali–carbonate reaction (ACR). Expansion of modified microbars cured in TMAH solution was measured. The porosities of original and reacted aggregates were also measured. Microstructural studies were carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermo-gravimetric (TG) analysis. The results showed that the aggregate grain size and curing temperature can influence the expansion of modified microbars significantly. When the modified microbars prepared by aggregates with 2.5–5 mm grain size and cured in 1 N TMAH solution at 80°C, the samples exhibited obvious expansion only caused by ACR, which is beneficial to detect the ACR reactivity of dolomitic rocks exclusively in concrete engineering. Based on the pore structure analysis, there was a slight increase (13%) in porosities of aggregates cured for 140 days at 80°C. Rod-like brucite crystals formed in the process of ACR were also found in TG analysis and SEM images.
Reciprocal abundance shifts of the intertidal sea stars,
Evasterias troschelii
and
Pisaster ochraceus
, following sea star wasting disease
Authors: Kay Sharon W. C. , Gehman Alyssa-Lois M. , Harley Christopher D. G.
Published: April 2019

Disease emergence occurs within the context of ecological communities, and disease driven declines in host populations can lead to complex direct and indirect ecological effects. Varying effects of a single disease among multiple susceptible hosts could benefit relatively resistant species. Beginning in 2013, an outbreak of sea star wasting disease (SSWD) led to population declines of many sea star species along the west coast of North America. Through field surveys and laboratory experiments, we investigated how and why the relative abundances of two co-occurring sea star species,
Evasterias troschelii
and
Pisaster ochraceus
, shifted during the ongoing wasting epidemic in Burrard Inlet, British Columbia, Canada. We hypothesized that
Evasterias
is competitively inferior to
Pisaster
but more resistant to SSWD. Thus, we predicted that SSWD-induced declines of
Pisaster
could mitigate the negative effects of SSWD on
Evasterias
, as the latter would experience competitive release. We document shifts in sea star abundance from 2008–2017:
Pisaster
abundance and mean size declined during the outbreak, while
Evasterias
abundance increased from relatively rare to numerically dominant within the intertidal. When exposed to symptomatic sea stars,
Pisaster
and
Evasterias
both showed signs of SSWD, but transmission and susceptibility was lower in
Evasterias.
Despite diet overlap documented in our field surveys,
Evasterias
was not outcompeted by
Pisaster
in laboratory trails conducted with the relatively small
Pisaster
available after the outbreak. Interference competition with larger
Pisaster
, or prey exploitation by
Pisaster
during the summer when
Evasterias
is primarily subtidal, may explain the rarity of
Evasterias
prior to
Pisaster
declines. Our results suggest that indirect effects mediated by competition can mask some of the direct effects of disease outbreaks, and the combination of direct and indirect effects will determine the restructuring of a community after disturbance.
Characterization of keratinophilic fungal species and other non-dermatophytes in hair and nails samples in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alwakeel Suaad
Published: April 2019

The presence of fungal species on the surface skin and hair is a known finding in many mammalian species and humans are no exception. Superficial fungal infections are sometimes a chronic and recurring condition that affects approximately 10–20 % of the world’s population. However, most species that are isolated from human tend to occur as co-existing flora. This study was conducted to determine the diversity of fungal species isolated from the hair and nails of workers in the central region of Saudi Arabia where there are not many observational studies on the mycological species. Male workers from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia were recruited for this study and samples were obtained from their nails and hair for mycological analysis which was done using Saboraud’s agar and sterile wet soil. Fungal isolates were examined microscopically. Twenty four hair samples yielded a total of 26 species from 19 fungal genera. Chaetomium globosum was the most commonly isolated fungal species followed by Emericella nidulans, Cochliobolus neergaardii and Penicillium oxalicum. Three fungal species were isolated from nail samples, namely, Alternaria alternata, Aureobasidium pullulans and Penicillium chrysogenum. Most of the isolated fungal species (17 of the 26 or 65.38 % of the isolated fungal species). Most of our isolated fungal species have not been thoroughly characterised nor morphologically classified.
Effect of different biocoagulants on the amino acid content of soft cheese (wara) produced from sheep milk
Authors: Ogunlade Ayodele , Oyetayo Victor
Published: April 2019

Soft cheese (wara) is an unripened cheese consumed in several parts of West Africa due to its various nutritional qualities. Soft cheese, a coagulated product of raw milk is usually produced from cow milk using Calotropis procera. This study therefore sought to assess the effect of the different coagulants such as Calotropis procera, Carica papaya, lemon juice and steep water from cereals (maize, millet and sorghum) on the amino acid content of soft cheese produced from sheep milk. Raw milk sample was collected from sheep and processed into soft cheese by these coagulants and the amino acid composition of the sample was carried out using standard methods. The result revealed that Calotropis procera coagulated soft cheese has the highest essential amino acid content Leucine (10.21 g/100 g), while steep water from millet coagulated soft cheese has the lowest essential amino acid content methionine (0.72 g/100 g). However, lemon juice coagulated soft cheese has the highest non essential amino acid glutamic acid (16.27 g/100 g) in all the cheese samples. In conclusion, this study revealed that highly nutritious soft cheese can also be gotten from sheep milk other than the commonly used cow milk and other coagulants such as lemon juice can compete favorably well with Calotropis procera in production of highly nutritious soft cheese. It is therefore recommended that soft cheese produced from sheep milk coagulated by lemon juice should be incorporated into daily diet due to its highly nutritional content.
Arabian Sea associated bacterial strains a source of novel antibiotics against superbugs
Authors: Uzair Bushra
Published: April 2019

One of the most severe health threats to both humans and animals is Antimicrobial resistance development in microorganisms AMR is a significant and growing challenge and to combat this issue new antimicrobials are urgently needed Fifteen microbial strains isolated from Arabian Sea were screened for their capacity to produce antimicrobial metabolites of pharmaceutical interest. These strains were associated to the brown seaweed Pelvetia canaliculata (Linnaeus) attached to the rocks of Sonmiani Beach (Karachi, Pakistan). Bacterial strains were isolated from sea weeds attached to rocks of Baluchistan coast line using marine agar 2216 and screened for antibacterial activity by agar well diffusion method and crude extract was made and antimicrobial metabolites were purified using silica gel column and structure of pure compound was elucidated using spectroscopic techniques. Crude extract filtrates from CMG 2180 strain, grew on ZMA medium, showed the most remarkable antimicrobial activity, and thus was chosen for further examination. The identification of CMG 2180 as a probable new type strain of the Actinobacterium Kocuria marina was based on phenotypic aspects and biochemical characteristics (e.g. halotolerant Gram-positive micrococcoid) as well as on the nucleotide sequence analysis of its full-length 16S rRNA gene showing the highest similarity with the type strain KMM 3905 (GenBank accession number EU073966). Interestingly, a unique UV-bioactive compound, for which the name of kocumarin was proposed, was isolated and purified from CMG 2180 strain’s crude extracts by flash silica gel column chromatography and TLC/HPTLC. Using routine methods, kocumarin demonstrated prominent and rapid activities against all tested fungi and pathogenic bacteria including MRSA. Its chemical structure was unraveled by 1D and 2D-NMR spectroscopy as 4-[(Z)−2 phenyl ethenyl] benzoic acid.
Nutritional quality and microbial density of sweet potato flour fortified with soybean and crayfish flours
Authors: Ibrahim Tesleem
Published: April 2019

Nutritional quality and microbial density of sweet potato based complementary food fortified with soybean and crayfish flours was investigated. Three different samples were produced from mixing sweet potato, soybean and crayfish at different formulation. Sample I, II, III are sweet potato: soybean: crayfish at ratio 80 : 15 : 5, 70 : 20 : 10 and 60 : 25 : 15 respectively. The formulated flours were analysed for proximate composition and microbial density. The result of proximate composition showed that the value of moisture content ranged between 6.50–8.50 %, while ash content, crude protein crude fat, crude fibre, carbohydrate and energy value ranged from 5.50–9.50 %, 25.10–28.50 %, 4.20–6.20 %, 0.13–0.27 %, 47.73–56.27% and 363.42–370.48 Kcal/100 g respectively. Its observed that as the level of inclusion of soybean and crayfish to sweet potato flour increases, there was increase in protein and crude fibre content but decrease in carbohydrate content. Also, the total bacteria count, coliform count, yeast and mould count ranged from 28 to 50×10–4, 18–37 x 10–4 and 40–62×10–4 (c.f.u./g) respectively which are within the recommended limit value for microbial density in food. Therefore, sweet potato flour fortified with soybean and crayfish flour can be recommended as weaning food to reduce the incidence of malnutrition in infants.
Phytochemical and antibacterial property of finger millet (Eleusine coracana) on some selected clinical bacteria
Authors: Ogbeba Jeremiah
Published: April 2019

Finger millet in northern Nigeria was subjected to phytochemical screening using standard procedures. The agar well method was used to test the antibacterial activities of methanolic and aqeous (combined) extracts of the grain on Salmonella typhi, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. The result of the antimicrobial activity as indicated by zone of inhibition ranged from 1 to 8 mm for different extract concentrations. The finger millet extract showed zones of inhibition of 8 mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa at a concentration of 100 mg ml−1, 3 mm at 50 mg ml−1 and 2 mm at 25 mg ml−1 concentrations. The inhibition zones of Escherichia coli at extract concentrations of 100 mg ml−1, 50 mg ml−1, 25 mg ml−1, 12.25 mg ml−1 and 6.125 mg ml−1 were 4 mm, 3 mm, 3 mm, 6 mm and 1 mm respectively, and for Staphylococcus aureus were 5 mm,2mm, 1 mm at 100 mg ml−1, 50 mg ml−1 and 12.25 mg ml−1 respectively. The zones of inhibition against all the tested isolates at 100 mg ml−1 was not significantly different from those of 50 mg ml−1 (P=0.160), 25 mg ml−1 (P=0.067) and 12.5 mg ml−1 (P=0.160), but significantly higher than 6.125 mg ml−1 (P=0.05). Although S. aureus and S. typhi also did not differ significantly in their susceptibility to the varying concentrations of the extract (P=0.157), but susceptibility by S. typhi was significantly lower than those of E. coli (P=0.007) and P. aeruginosa (P=0.015). The qualitative phytochemical analysis indicated the presence tannin/phenol, flavonoids, alkaloid, saponin, glycosides, terpenoid and steroids in finger millet. The quantitative phytochemical revealed total phenolic content (6.57 mg/100 g) and total flavonoid content (0.224 mg/100 g). The overall results indicate that finger millet are potent antimicrobial preparations at least in vitro and also have high nutritional value.