bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Epididymis Protein 4: A Novel Biomarker for Lupus Nephritis and Chronic Kidney Disease in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Yang Zaixing , Zhang Zhiyu , Qin Baodong , Wu Ping , Zhong Renqian , Zhou Lin , Liang Yan
Published: April 2016

Background

Human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) is an available tumor biomarker for detecting ovarian cancer. However, it is unknown if serum HE4 could be a novel biomarker for diagnosis of lupus nephritis (LN) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

This study enrolled 209 SLE patients, 75 patients with renal dysfunction without SLE and 32 healthy subjects. HE4 concentrations were analyzed by ELISA (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay; Fujirebio Diagnostics, Sweden). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were constructed to assess diagnostic accuracy of HE4 for LN or CKD in SLE.

Results

Serum HE4 level was significantly higher in SLE patients than that in healthy controls (P < 0.001), especially for those with LN or CKD. It was also higher in patients with renal dysfunction without SLE than healthy controls (P < 0.001), while there was no significant difference between these patients and those with SLE with CKD (P = 0.73). Multivariate analysis showed significant association between increased HE4 and LN or CKD after controlling for confounders. ROC curves showed the cutoff values were 150.1 pM (sensitivity, 76.8%; specificity, 91.1%) for the diagnosis of LN in SLE and 233.9 pM (sensitivity, 92.9%; specificity, 93.5%) for CKD in SLE.

Conclusions

Increased serum HE4 level is closely associated with the development of LN or CKD in SLE patients. Furthermore, it can be used as a novel and useful biomarker for diagnosis of LN or CKD.
Prediction of Infarct Transmurality From C‐Reactive Protein Level and Mean Platelet Volume in Patients With ST‐Elevation Myocardial Infarction: Comparison of the Predictive Values of Cardiac Enzymes
Authors: Kim DongHun , Choi Dong‐Hyun , Kim Bo‐Bae , Choi Seo‐Won , Park Keun Ho , Song Heesang
Published: April 2016

Background

High C‐reactive protein (CRP) and mean platelet volume (MPV) levels are associated with poor prognosis in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between CRP level or MPV and infarct transmurality in patients with STEMI.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed CRP level, MPV, and infarct transmurality in 112 STEMI patients who were assessed with contrast‐enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance imaging.

Results

When the cut‐off peak CRP level and MPV were set at 2.35 mg/dl and 7.3 fl using receiver operating characteristic curves analysis, the sensitivity was 67.3/69.2% and specificity was 76.7/76.7% for differentiating between the groups with and those without transmural involvement. Peak CRP level, MPV, peak creatine kinase‐MB (CK‐MB) level, and peak high‐sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hs‐cTnT) level had comparable predictive values for transmural involvement (area under the curve, 0.749, 0.761, 0.680, and 0.696, respectively). High peak CRP level and MPV were independent predictors of transmural involvement after adjusting for the peak CK‐MB level, peak hs‐cTnT level, baseline thrombolysis in myocardial infarction flow grade, and left ventricular ejection fraction (odds ratio: 5.16/5.42, 95% confidence interval: 1.84–14.50/2.03–14.47, P = 0.002/0.001, respectively) in the logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that peak CRP level and MPV are predictive markers for transmural involvement. Their predictive power for transmural involvement is independent of and comparable to that of peak CK‐MB and hs‐cTnT levels.
Balloon dilation causing tracheal rupture: Endoscopic management and literature review
Authors: Heyes Richard , Cervantes Sergio S. , Matthaeus Jaime , Jaroszewski Dawn , Lott David G.
Published: April 2016

A 72‐year‐old female with a history of idiopathic subglottic tracheal stenosis suffered tracheal rupture during endoscopic balloon dilation. The defect measured 7.5 cm in length, through which the mediastinum was visualized. An 80 × 20‐mm silicone‐covered tracheobronchial stent was deployed over the defect. The patient was extubated subsequent to intraoperative computed tomography demonstrating minimal air escape. Postoperatively, the patient saw no further complications and was discharged 3 days later. The stent was removed 80 days postoperatively revealing healed trachea. Tracheal rupture is a potential risk of balloon dilation, and the list of possible complications is extensive and morbid. Although traditional repair requires an open approach, endoscopic techniques are growing in description, and tracheal stenting was successful in this case. Laryngoscope, 126:2774–2777, 2016
Juvenile recurrent respiratory papillomatosis: 10‐year audit and Australian prevalence estimates
Authors: Novakovic Daniel , Cheng Alan T. L. , Baguley Katherine , Walker Paul , Harrison Henley , Soma Marlene , Malloy Michael , Brotherton Julia M. L.
Published: April 2016

Objectives/Hypothesis

To estimate the prevalence of juvenile onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) in Australia, describe its epidemiological profile, and assess the positive predictive value of International Classification of Disease, 10th revision (ICD‐10) code D14.1 (benign neoplasm of larynx) in children for hospitalization due to RRP.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Retrospective case review undertaken at the three tertiary pediatric hospitals in New South Wales (Australia's largest state), by reviewing medical records of patients aged 0 to 16 years admitted during 2000–2009 containing the ICD‐10 Australian modification code D14.1 or other possible disease (D14.2–4, D14.3, D14.4) and RRP‐related procedure codes. For RRP diagnoses, we recorded treatment dates, length of stay, extent of disease, and surgical and adjuvant treatments. The positive predictive value (PPV) of code D14.1 and median number of hospitalizations per year were applied to national hospital separations data from 2000/2001 to 2012/2013 to estimate disease prevalence.

Results

We identified 30 cases of RRP using code D14.1, which had a PPV of 98.1%, with no further cases identified using other codes. Fifty‐seven percent of cases were female, median age of onset was 36 months, and median treatment duration was 36 months (mean = 40 months, range = 1–118). There was one patient death. Between 2000 and 2013, the estimated national prevalence rate was 0.81 per 100,000 aged < 15 years, peaking at age 5 to 9 years (1.1 per 100,000).

Conclusions

RRP prevalence can be monitored after human papillomavirus vaccination programs using routine hospital data.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 126:2827–2832, 2016
Bioactive, Elastic, and Biodegradable Emulsion Electrospun DegraPol Tube Delivering PDGF‐BB for Tendon Rupture Repair
Authors: Evrova Olivera , Houska Joanna , Welti Manfred , Bonavoglia Eliana , Calcagni Maurizio , Giovanoli Pietro , Vogel Viola , Buschmann Johanna
Published: April 2016

Healing of tendon ruptures represents a major challenge in musculoskeletal injuries and combinations of biomaterials with biological factors are suggested as viable option for improved healing. The standard approach of repair by conventional suture leads to incomplete healing or rerupture. Here, a new elastic type of DegraPol® (DP), a polyester urethane, is explored as a delivery device for platelet‐derived growth factor—BB (PDGF‐BB) to promote tendon healing. Using emulsion electrospinning as an easy method for incorporation of biomolecules within polymers, DegraPol® supports loading and release of PDGF‐BB. Morphological, mechanical and delivery device properties of the bioactive DP scaffolds, as well as differences arising due to different electrospinning parameters are studied. Emulsion electrospun DP scaffolds result in thinner fibers than pure DP scaffolds and experience decreased strain at break [%], but high enough for successful surgeon handling. PDGF‐BB is released in a sustained manner from emulsion electrospun DP, but not completely, with still large amount of it being inside the polymeric fibers after 30 d. In vitro studies show that the bioactive scaffolds promote tenocyte proliferation in serum free and serum+ conditions, demonstrating the potential of this surgeon‐friendly bioactive delivery device to be used for tendon repair.

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Virtual Screening of Receptor Sites for Molecularly Imprinted Polymers
Authors: Bates Ferdia , Cela‐Pérez María Concepción , Karim Kal , Piletsky Sergey , López‐Vilariño José Manuel
Published: April 2016

Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs) are highly advantageous in the field of analytical chemistry. However, interference from secondary molecules can also impede capture of a target by a MIP receptor. This greatly complicates the design process and often requires extensive laboratory screening which is time consuming, costly, and creates substantial waste products. Herein, is presented a new technique for screening of “virtually imprinted receptors” for rebinding of the molecular template as well as secondary structures, correlating the virtual predictions with experimentally acquired data in three case studies. This novel technique is particularly applicable to the evaluation and prediction of MIP receptor specificity and efficiency in complex aqueous systems.

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Application of mass spectrometry in the characterization of chemicals in coal‐derived liquids
Authors: Liu Fang‐Jing , Fan Maohong , Wei Xian‐Yong , Zong Zhi‐Min
Published: April 2016

Coal‐derived liquids (CDLs) are primarily generated from pyrolysis, carbonization, gasification, direct liquefaction, low‐temperature extraction, thermal dissolution, and mild oxidation. CDLs are important feedstocks for producing value‐added chemicals and clean liquid fuels as well as high performance carbon materials. Accordingly, the compositional characterization of chemicals in CDLs at the molecular level with advanced analytical techniques is significant for the efficient utilization of CDLs. Although reviews on advancements have been rarely reported, great progress has been achieved in this area by using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), two‐dimensional GC‐time of flight mass spectrometry (GC × GC‐TOFMS), and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT‐ICR MS). This review focuses on characterizing hydrocarbon, oxygen‐containing, nitrogen‐containing, sulfur‐containing, and halogen‐containing chemicals in various CDLs with these three mass spectrometry techniques. Small molecular (< 500 u), volatile and semi‐volatile, and less polar chemicals in CDLs have been identified with GC/MS and GC × GC‐TOFMS. By equipped with two‐dimensional GC, GC × GC‐TOFMS can achieve a clearly chromatographic separation of complex chemicals in CDLs without prior fractionation, and thus can overcome the disadvantages of co‐elution and serious peak overlap in GC/MS analysis, providing much more compositional information. With ultrahigh resolving power and mass accuracy, FT‐ICR MS reveals a huge number of compositionally distinct compounds assigned to various chemical classes in CDLs. It shows excellent performance in resolving and characterizing higher‐molecular, less volatile, and polar chemicals that cannot be detected by GC/MS and GC × GC‐TOFMS. The application of GC × GC‐TOFMS and FT‐ICR MS to chemical characterization of CDLs is not as prevalent as that of petroleum and largely remains to be developed in many respects. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Mass Spec Rev 36:543–579, 2017
Comparison of Reductive Ligation‐Based Detection Strategies for Nitroxyl (HNO) and S‐Nitrosothiols
Authors: Miao Zhengrui , King S. Bruce
Published: April 2016

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. S. Bruce King at the Department of Chemistry of Wake Forest University. The cover picture shows a prefluorescent phosphine‐based probe reacting with nitroxyl (HNO) and S‐nitrosothiol (RSNO), nitrogen oxide‐derived biological signals. Both species react with the prefluorescent probe, but only the product from the HNO reaction can complete a further chemical ligation pathway that results in fluorescence, indicating the presence of HNO. The product of the probe with RSNO does not complete this ligation and does not generate a fluorescent species. These phosphine‐based probes thus demonstrate a selectivity for HNO over RSNO based on their chemical reactivity and can be used in biological systems to differentiate these species. For more details, see the Communication on p. 110 ff. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/open.201500200
Do School Report Cards Produce Accountability Through the Ballot Box?
Authors: Kogan Vladimir , Lavertu Stéphane , Peskowitz Zachary
Published: April 2016

Public education has been transformed by the widespread adoption of accountability systems that involve the dissemination of school district performance information. Using data from Ohio, we examine if elections serve as one channel through which these accountability systems might lead to improvements in educational quality. We find little evidence that poor performance on widely disseminated state and federal indicators has an impact on school board turnover, the vote share of sitting school board members, or superintendent tenure, suggesting that the dissemination of district performance information puts little (if any) electoral pressure on elected officials to improve student achievement.
The effect of diamine length on the direct solid state polycondensation of semi‐aromatic nylon salts
Authors: Papaspyrides C. D. , Porfyris A. D. , Rulkens R. , Grolman E. , Kolkman A. J.
Published: April 2016

In the current paper, a comparative study on the direct solid state polycondensation (DSSP) reaction of different terephthalate based semi‐aromatic salts (XT salts, X = 4–18) in the TGA micro‐reactor is reported. High purity XT salts were prepared in solution and were used as starting materials for DSSP. The reaction temperature (TDSSP) for each salt was suitably selected as 20 °C–30 °C below the melting point Tm of the respective salt. The PAXT products were characterized by TGA/DSC, liquid 1H‐NMR, and SEM. In the DSSP of XT salts, some diamine is always lost to the gas phase and as a consequence, the attainable molecular weight of the polymer formed gets limited by the unbalance of acid and amine end‐groups. The TGA curves show that as the diamine length increases and its volatility decreases, higher molecular weights are obtained. SEM pictures of the products reveal true solid character during the polymerization reaction up to and including PA10T, whereas PA5T, PA12T, and PA18T reveal stickiness and agglomeration during reaction. A possible mechanism explaining such behaviour is also provided. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2016, 54, 2493–2506
Mid‐childhood lung function in a cohort of children with “new bronchopulmonary dysplasia”
Authors: Fortuna Manuela , Carraro Silvia , Temporin Eva , Berardi Mariangela , Zanconato Stefania , Salvadori Sabrina , Lago Paola , Frigo Anna Chiara , Filippone Marco , Baraldi Eugenio
Published: April 2016

Objective

Recent advances in perinatal care and neonatal respiratory therapy have led to a new phenotype of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (“new BPD”). The long‐term respiratory outcome of this new form of BPD has yet to be adequately described. Aim of this study was to provide longitudinal data on lung function of an unselected cohort of children born extremely premature (EP) with an extremely low birth weight in the post‐surfactant era.

Study Design

Respiratory function was assessed twice (at 8 and 12 years) in 48 children born at a gestational age <28 weeks with a birth weight <1,000 g. Twenty‐eight of them had BPD (oxygen‐dependency at 36 weeks postmenstrual age) (EP‐BPD), and 20 not (EP non‐BPD). Twenty‐seven children born at term served as control group.

Results

The EP‐BPD group had significantly lower spirometric values (given as z‐scores) than controls, especially in parameters indicating airflow obstruction (8 ys: zFEV1:−1.3 ± 1 vs. 0.5 ± 0.8; 12 ys:−1.6 ± 1 vs. 0.5 ± 0.8, P < 0.001). Despite their better spirometric profile, EP‐non‐BPD children also had significantly lower parameters than controls (8ys: zFEV1:−0.5 ± 0.8; 12 ys:−0.5 ± 0.9, P < 0.001). During the 4‐year follow‐up, EP‐non‐BPD and controls had stable mean z‐scores, but EP‐BPD had a significant decline in mean zFEV1 (from −1.3 ± 1 to −1.6 ± 1, P = 0.03), zFEV1/FVC (from −0.4 ± 1 to −1.1 ± 1, P = 0.008), and zFEF 25–75% (from −1.2 ± 1 to −1.8 ± 1, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

EP children born in the post‐surfactant era showed a significant airflow limitation, particularly pronounced in BPD subjects who in addition, presented an abnormal airway growth trajectory with a decline in lung function between the ages of 8 and 12 years. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2016;51:1057–1064. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Boron Nitride Nanostructures: Fabrication, Functionalization and Applications
Authors: Yin Jun , Li Jidong , Hang Yang , Yu Jin , Tai Guoan , Li Xuemei , Zhang Zhuhua , Guo Wanlin
Published: April 2016

Boron nitride (BN) structures are featured by their excellent thermal and chemical stability and unique electronic and optical properties. However, the lack of controlled synthesis of quality samples and the electrically insulating property largely prevent realizing the full potential of BN nanostructures. A comprehensive overview of the current status of the synthesis of two‐dimensional hexagonal BN sheets, three dimensional porous hexagonal BN materials and BN‐involved heterostructures is provided, highlighting the advantages of different synthetic methods. In addition, structural characterization, functionalizations and prospective applications of hexagonal BN sheets are intensively discussed. One‐dimensional BN nanoribbons and nanotubes are then discussed in terms of structure, fabrication and functionality. In particular, the existing routes in pursuit of tunable electronic and magnetic properties in various BN structures are surveyed, calling upon synergetic experimental and theoretical efforts to address the challenges for pioneering the applications of BN into functional devices. Finally, the progress in BN superstructures and novel B/N nanostructures is also briefly introduced.
The importance of sewer biofilms
Authors: Jensen Henriette , Biggs Catherine A. , Karunakaran Esther
Published: April 2016

In spite of being under ground and out of sight, sewers are important parts of the urban infrastructure for transporting used, contaminated water for safe treatment. Within sewers, during the transport of waste water, processes take place, transforming the chemical components of the waste water. These processes are largely carried out by bacteria, a significant part of which live in biofilms. These microbial processes impact the sewers by causing odor and corrosion of the sewer pipes, leading to the need costly repair and control strategies. The biofilms may also impact the environment by contributing to greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere and pollution in natural aquatic environments. However, improved understanding of the function of biofilms and the novel techniques and approaches for manipulating biofilms may provide us with strategies for controlling these problems. Moreover, such advances may allow us to design in‐sewer biofilms for beneficial purposes such as in‐pipe treatment of waste water, potentially leading to decreased environmental impact. WIREs Water 2016, 3:487–494. doi: 10.1002/wat2.1144

This article is categorized under:

Engineering Water > Sustainable Engineering of Water

Engineering Water > Water, Health, and Sanitation

Science of Water > Water Quality
An evaluation of hunter surveys to monitor relative abundance of bobcats
Authors: Mahard Tyler J. , Litvaitis John A. , Tate Patrick , Reed Gregory C. , Broman Derek J. A.
Published: April 2016

We examined the utility of bobcat (Lynx rufus) detections by deer hunters in New Hampshire, USA, as an index of relative abundance. To validate the index, we compared the number of hunter outings that detected bobcats per 1,000 outings (hunting seasons 2009 through 2013) with a statewide model of habitat suitability after we partitioned both by wildlife management units (WMUs). We also compared annual hunter‐detection rates with tallies of road‐killed bobcats. The habitat‐suitability model and bobcat road mortalities were correlated with hunter‐survey indices. Linear and exponential trends in hunter‐detection rates of ±10%/year could be detected with power ≥99% over 5‐year periods. As a result, we believe that major changes in bobcat abundance could be detected by the hunter‐survey index. However, without information needed to calibrate the relationship between the index and bobcat populations (e.g., linear or exponential), it was not possible to estimate the extent of change in bobcat abundance by a specific change in detection rate. We consider hunter detections a useful approach to monitor bobcats if applied in concert with other indices (e.g., road‐kill tallies, trapper harvests, etc.) to obtain a reliable gauge of population trends. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Using roadside surveys to detect short‐eared owls: A comparison of visual and audio techniques
Authors: Larson Matt D. , Holt Denver W.
Published: April 2016

We piloted a roadside survey technique for detecting short‐eared owls (Asio flammeus) during the courtship period in western Montana, USA. We conducted 33 surveys between 2009 and 2012 and timed surveys to coincide with courtship behavior. Short‐eared owls perform courtship flights and vocalizations that can be observed and heard during the crepuscular and nocturnal periods. We designed surveys to compare visual and audio survey techniques. Visual surveys occurred during the crepuscular period and were immediately followed by a nocturnal audio‐playback survey. Visual survey techniques accounted for >91% (n = 237) of all detections. Detections associated with audio survey techniques were almost always associated with survey points where ≥1 owl was detected during visual survey. Nearly three‐quarters of visual survey detections (n = 217) occurred between 30 min and 70 min before the end of civil twilight. Greater than 75% of visual survey detections and 90% of audio survey detections occurred in areas where vegetation was uncut, ungrazed, and most frequently associated with vegetation heights greater than approximately 60 cm. We never detected short‐eared owls in areas where livestock was present. We recommend visual surveys during the courtship period as a useful and applicable method for monitoring breeding populations of short‐eared owls. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Muscle Steatosis is an Independent Predictor of Postoperative Complications in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Hamaguchi Yuhei , Kaido Toshimi , Okumura Shinya , Kobayashi Atsushi , Fujimoto Yasuhiro , Ogawa Kohei , Mori Akira , Hammad Ahmed , Hatano Etsuro , Uemoto Shinji
Published: April 2016

Background

Skeletal muscle depletion, referred to as sarcopenia, has been shown to be an independent predictor of lower disease‐free and overall survivals in various kinds of diseases. The quality of skeletal muscle has recently attracted much attention as a new parameter of sarcopenia, but its impact on surgical complications is still unknown.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 492 patients undergoing hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in our institution between April 2005 and December 2014 was performed. The quality of skeletal muscle was evaluated by intramuscular adipose tissue content (IMAC) using preoperative CT imaging at the umbilical level. The impact of sarcopenia on postoperative complications and the predictors of surgical complications after hepatectomy for HCC were analyzed.

Results

Patients with high IMAC were older and had higher body mass index, higher indocyanine green retention test at 15 min, and more operative blood loss. Among 492 patients, 108 (22 %) patients had major postoperative complications (Clavien grade ≥ III), and infectious complications were found in 74 (15 %) patients. Twelve (2 %) patients died from postoperative complications. On multivariate analysis, preoperative high IMAC was an independent risk factor for increased major postoperative complications [odds ratio (OR) 1.580; P = 0.049] and infectious complications (OR 1.903; P = 0.021).

Conclusions

Preoperative muscle steatosis evaluated with IMAC was closely correlated with increased postoperative complications, especially infectious complications. The preoperative nutritional intervention and rehabilitation might lead to the improvement of postoperative outcomes after hepatectomy for HCC.
Eighteen new oleaginous yeast species
Authors: Garay Luis A , Sitepu Irnayuli R , Cajka Tomas , Chandra Idelia , Shi Sandy , Lin Ting , German J Bruce , Fiehn Oliver , Boundy-Mills Kyria L
Published: April 2016

Of 1600 known species of yeasts, about 70 are known to be oleaginous, defined as being able to accumulate over 20 % intracellular lipids. These yeasts have value for fundamental and applied research. A survey of yeasts from the Phaff Yeast Culture Collection, University of California Davis was performed to identify additional oleaginous species within the Basidiomycota phylum. Fifty-nine strains belonging to 34 species were grown in lipid inducing media, and total cell mass, lipid yield and triacylglycerol profiles were determined. Thirty-two species accumulated at least 20 % lipid and 25 species accumulated over 40 % lipid by dry weight. Eighteen of these species were not previously reported to be oleaginous. Triacylglycerol profiles were suitable for biodiesel production. These results greatly expand the number of known oleaginous yeast species, and reveal the wealth of natural diversity of triacylglycerol profiles within wild-type oleaginous Basidiomycetes.
Suitability of Sludge Biotic Index (SBI), Sludge Index (SI) and filamentous bacteria analysis for assessing activated sludge process performance: the case of piggery slaughterhouse wastewater
Authors: Pedrazzani Roberta , Menoni Laura , Nembrini Stefano , Manili Livia , Bertanza Giorgio
Published: April 2016

Piggery slaughterhouse wastewater poses serious issues in terms of disposal feasibility and environmental impact, due to its huge organic load and variability. It is commonly treated by means of activated sludge processes, whose performance, in case of municipal wastewater, can be monitored by means of specific analyses, such as Sludge Biotic Index (SBI), Sludge Index (SI) and floc and filamentous bacteria observation. Therefore, this paper was aimed at assessing the applicability of these techniques to piggery slaughterhouse sewage. A plant located in Northern Italy was monitored for 1 year. Physical, chemical and operation parameters were measured; the activated sludge community (ciliates, flagellates, amoebae and small metazoa) was analysed for calculating SBI and SI. Floc and filamentous bacteria were examined and described accordingly with internationally adopted criteria. The results showed the full applicability of the studied techniques for optimizing the operation of a piggery slaughterhouse wastewater treatment plant.
Carers' diaries in dementia: Is there a role in clinical practice?
Authors: Jayalath Dilini , Ashaye Kunle , Kvavilashvili Lia
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Carers' diaries have been used in very few instances in dementia to assist with gathering information about persons with dementia in the community. The main aim of this study was to compare problems identified using diaries kept by family carers for a week with carers' oral recollection of problems.

Method

Carers were randomly allocated into two groups, diary and control groups. In the diary group, carers received a diary and instructions on how to complete it for 7 days.

Results

A total of 78 carers completed the study. The frequency of problems identified in the carers diaries was greater than in the carers' narrative accounts at day 1 and day 8. The most common problems were behavioral and cognitive problems.

Discussion

Carers' diaries may complement the assessment of dementia as they can provide more information on the problems faced by the persons with dementia.
Frontiers in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Personality Disorders
Authors: Beck Judith S. , Broder Francine , Hindman Robert
Published: April 2016

Clinicians generally find individuals with personality disorders to be challenging to treat, especially compared to clients who have only a straightforward depression or anxiety disorder. In this article we will summarise research on the efficacy of cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for personality disorders. Then we will focus on the conceptualisation and treatment of CBT for personality disorders that is based on the work of Aaron Beck and colleagues; that is, it is predicated upon the cognitive model of psychopathology. Next, we will describe two other forms of treatment with cognitive behavioural roots: schema therapy and dialectical behaviour therapy. A final section will suggest future directions.
‘Is Fox News a Breach of Human Rights?’: The News Media’s Immunity from the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
Authors: JOSEPH Sarah
Published: April 2016

The business and human rights debate has essentially bypassed the media industry. This article addresses that gap in the debate by applying the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights to the media. Application of human rights responsibilities to the media in accordance with the Guiding Principles is significantly complicated by the existence of media rights of freedom of expression. It is argued that the application of the Guiding Principles to the media industry leaves significant scope for it to be involved with serious and systemic human rights violations. This conclusion indicates that the Guiding Principles are an inadequately theorised tool for dealing with human rights responsibilities of the media. It may reveal deeper flaws in the Guiding Principles, which extend to industries other than the media. At the least, a dialogue between the human rights community and the media industry must commence in order to work out how human rights might apply in the context of the responsibilities of one of the world’s most important and powerful industries.
Immunological Aspects of Malignant Gliomas
Authors: Cohen-Inbar Or , Zaaroor Menashe
Published: April 2016

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most common malignant primary brain neoplasm having a mean survival time of <24 months. This figure remains constant, despite significant progress in medical research and treatment. The lack of an efficient anti-tumor immune response and the micro-invasive nature of the glioma malignant cells have been explained by a multitude of immune-suppressive mechanisms, proven in different models. These immune-resistant capabilities of the tumor result in a complex interplay this tumor shares with the immune system. We present a short review on the immunology of GBM, discussing the different unique pathological and molecular features of GBM, current treatment modalities, the principles of cancer immunotherapy and the link between GBM and melanoma. Current knowledge on immunological features of GBM, as well as immunotherapy past and current clinical trials, is discussed in an attempt to broadly present the complex and formidable challenges posed by GBM.
Possible Interplay Between Hospital and Community Transmission of a Novel Clostridium Difficile Sequence Type 295 Recognized by Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Moloney Geraldine , Mac Aogáin Micheál , Kelleghan Maureen , O’Connell Brian , Hurley Caroline , Montague Elizabeth , Conlon Mary , Murray Helena , Rogers Thomas R.
Published: April 2016

OBJECTIVE

To use next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis to enhance epidemiological information to identify and resolve a Clostridium difficile outbreak and to evaluate its effectiveness beyond the capacity of current standard PCR ribotyping.

METHODS

NGS analysis was performed as part of prospective surveillance of all detected C. difficile isolates at a university hospital. An outbreak of a novel C. difficile sequence type (ST)-295 was identified in a hospital and a community hostel for homeless adults. Phylogenetic analysis was performed of all ST-295 and closest ST-2 isolates. Epidemiological details were obtained from hospital records and the public health review of the community hostel.

RESULTS

We identified 7 patients with C. difficile ST-295 infections between June 2013 and April 2015. Of these patients, 3 had nosocomial exposure to this infection and 3 had possible hostel exposure. Current Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA)— Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) surveillance definitions (2010) were considered in light of our NGS findings. The initial transmission was not detectable using current criteria, because of 16 weeks between ST-295 exposure and symptoms. We included 3 patients with hostel exposure who met surveillance criteria of hospital-acquired infection due to their hospital admissions.

CONCLUSION

NGS analysis enhanced epidemiological information and helped identify and resolve an outbreak beyond the capacity of standard PCR ribotyping. In this cluster of cases, NGS was used to identify a hostel as the likely source of community-based C. difficile transmission.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2016;37:680–684
“World-History,” “Itihāsa,” and Memory: Rabindranath Tagore's Musical Program in the Age of Nationalism
Authors: Dasthakur Saurav
Published: April 2016

This essay attempts an exploration of the historical and historiographical implications of the interplay of individual, local, “national,” and global forms of memory in the music of Rabindranath Tagore. Produced at a time of crises in the Indian postcolonial subjectivity, this music offers a critique of the Eurocentric discourses of “World-history” and nationalism, by invoking alternative Indian discourses of“Itihāsa”and“samāj”. At the same time, Tagore departs from the contemporary Hindu cultural nationalist revivalist approach of the tradition of North Indian (Hindustani) classical music and subjects it to a creative regenerative endeavor by reconnecting the tradition with its original subaltern roots. Skeptical of several kinds of homogeneous impulses, this music offers an alternative idea of universalism that is as much human as a specific civilizational concept. Tagore's musical program thus offers an aesthetic blueprint of a more inclusive indigenous modernity in the subcontinent.
Thailand's Relapse: The Implications of the May 2014 Coup
Authors: Sopranzetti Claudio
Published: April 2016

On May 20, 2014, the Royal Army imposed martial law on Thailand, with the declared purpose of restoring peace to the people. Allegedly, the military intervened to put an end to seven months of political turmoil that had begun when the PDRC—the English acronym for the Thai People's Committee for Absolute Democracy with the King as Head of State—occupied key street intersections and government offices in Bangkok. The conservative mobilization had demanded the deposition of elected Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and the complete dismissal of “the Thaksin system”—a network that had dominated electoral politics in the previous thirteen years, in the PDRC's view through corruption and vote-buying. To fight this injustice, the PDRC had called for deep constitutional reforms before the next elections could be held.
The Distinctive Common Good
Authors: Duke George
Published: April 2016

This paper defends the traditional distinctive notion of the common good against the claim that it is normatively redundant on the aggregative conception. The first two sections of the paper outline the different candidate conceptions of the common good and the normative role of the common good within natural law theories. The paper then considers some difficulties faced by the instrumental and aggregative conceptions, before developing an Aristotelian account of the distinctive conception of the common good and demonstrating its normative significance for a natural law account of political and legal authority.
Drink, song and politics in early modern England
Authors: McShane Angela
Published: April 2016

Between about 1580 and 1690, early modern England experienced three interrelated developments: first, the growth of a successful commercial popular music industry, centred on London, which served a socially broad national market; secondly, the development of political parties, emerging from the political and religious turmoil of the period, which impinged significantly upon the newly burgeoning popular music industry and its markets; thirdly, a substantial increase in the per capita consumption of alcoholic drinks across all social classes, for reasons of sociability rather than health or nutrition. This article explores the unexpected effects of these changes on cultures of politics, drink and song across the whole period. In particular, it explores the way in which the Cavaliers of the 1650s and the new ‘Tory’ party of the 1680s used the medium of song to encourage excessive drinking and the political and social denigration of sobriety in order to promote loyal obedience.
The role of habitat, landscape structure and residence time on plant species invasions in a neotropical landscape
Authors: Haider Julian Ananda , Höbart Raphael , Kovacs Nina , Milchram Markus , Dullinger Stefan , Huber Werner , Essl Franz
Published: April 2016

Plant invasions in tropical agricultural landscapes have been poorly studied so far. Here, we use plot data collected in 2015 in the La Gamba valley in southern Costa Rica to analyse the spread of two invasive alien species (Hydrilla verticillata, Hedychium coronarium) on the landscape level. In total, we recorded the aquaticH. verticillata, which was locally introduced into the La Gamba valley in 2005, in 26% of all plots (size: 15 m2), whileH. coronarium, which occurs along water courses, was recorded in 80% of all plots (size: 25 m2). Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) showed that the habitat type invaded and shading had no significant effect onH. verticillatapresence and abundance. However, proximity to the point of local introduction and habitat diversity in the adjacent landscape did positively affect its presence. ForH. coronarium, GLMs showed a significant correlation with the invaded habitat type. The probability ofH. coronariumpresence was highest in herbaceous vegetation and cover was higher compared with other habitats. There was no effect on native plant species richness and cover byH. verticillata, whileH. coronariumexerted a negative impact on herbaceous plant species number and, in particular, cover.Hydrilla verticillatais a rather recent addition to the local alien flora, and thus dispersal limitation still restricts its local range. Compared with observed rates of spread in other regions, spread velocity within the first decade of its local presence was low. In contrast,H. coronariumhas been locally present for a substantially longer time period. This species encounters suitable habitat conditions in herbaceous vegetation along water courses, where it builds up dense clonal stands which negatively affect herbaceous vegetation. Our results show that while both study species are invasive in Central American lowlands, their local abundance and impacts on native vegetation may differ profoundly.
Strong solvability up to clogging of an effective diffusion–precipitation model in an evolving porous medium
Authors: SCHULZ R. , RAY N. , FRANK F. , MAHATO H. S. , KNABNER P.
Published: April 2016

In the first part of this article, we extend the formal upscaling of a diffusion–precipitation model through a two-scale asymptotic expansion in a level set framework to three dimensions. We obtain upscaled partial differential equations, more precisely, a non-linear diffusion equation with effective coefficients coupled to a level set equation. As a first step, we consider a parametrization of the underlying pore geometry by a single parameter, e.g. by a generalized “radius” or the porosity. Then, the level set equation transforms to an ordinary differential equation for the parameter. For such an idealized setting, the degeneration of the diffusion tensor with respect to porosity is illustrated with numerical simulations. The second part and main objective of this article is the analytical investigation of the resulting coupled partial differential equation–ordinary differential equation model. In the case of non-degenerating coefficients, local-in-time existence of at least one strong solution is shown by applying Schauder's fixed point theorem. Additionally, non-negativity, uniqueness, and global existence or existence up to possible closure of some pores, i.e. up to the limit of degenerating coefficients, is guaranteed.
Sectarianism and Irish Republican Violence on the South-East Ulster Frontier, 1919–1922
Authors: LEWIS MATTHEW
Published: April 2016

Focusing on events on the south-east Ulster frontier, this article seeks to think afresh about the sectarian dimensions of republican violence on the Irish border amid the twin upheavals of revolution and partition. Drawing on a variety of primary sources, it questions a number of the intuitive notions that surround the phenomenon. In doing so, it highlights the limitations of the current discourse on sectarian violence and aims to encourage a more nuanced appreciation of the complex processes and behaviours that both facilitated and limited such violence at a grassroots level.
Psychosocial interventions for people with young onset dementia and their carers: a systematic review
Authors: Richardson Angela , Pedley Gillian , Pelone Ferruccio , Akhtar Farrukh , Chang Jacqueline , Muleya Wilson , Greenwood Nan
Published: April 2016

Background:

Dementia in younger people, known as young (YOD) or early onset dementia (EOD), can pose significant challenges. YOD is often diagnosed in those in paid employment who have relatively young children, leading to different challenges to those for older people. It is therefore very important to provide support tailored to their specific needs. This systematic review aimed to synthesize the literature investigating the impact of psychosocial interventions for people with YOD and their family carers.

Method:

Eight electronic databases were searched and three key journals were also hand searched. Narrative synthesis of the selected articles was undertaken.

Results:

Of the 498 records identified, 495 were ineligible after application of the exclusion criteria. The final sample included three studies, all of which were employment-based. Two were qualitative and one used mixed methods. Study quality was mixed. People with YOD and their carers reported benefits from participating in work-based interventions designed for those with YOD, including improved self-esteem and sense of purpose. Social contact was highlighted. Despite cognitive decline, maintenance in well-being was also reported. Carers described benefits for people with YOD, which extended outside the intervention, e.g. enhanced sleep and mood. The impact of the interventions on carers was not assessed.

Conclusions:

This review suggests work-based interventions providing supported, meaningful work outside the home can be beneficial. However, the dearth of studies, the lack of focus on family carers and their mixed quality demonstrate the need for better quality, mixed methods research with larger sample sizes.
Sedative hypnotic use among veterans with a newly reported mental health disorder
Authors: DiNapoli Elizabeth A. , Bramoweth Adam D. , Cinna Christopher , Kasckow John
Published: April 2016

Background:

This study compared sedative hypnotic use by type of mental health diagnosis and determined factors associated with use among older veterans (65+ years) with a newly reported mental health disorder.

Methods:

This study used data from veterans who received primary care services at VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System (VAPHS) from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2011 (n= 879).

Results:

Sedative hypnotics were commonly used in older veterans within 12-months following a newly reported mental health disorder (19.9%), particularly amongst those with insomnia (41.7%). The number of newly reported mental health disorders was a significant factor associated with sedative hypnotic use, with the odds of use increasing by more than 200% in older adults with two newly reported disorders compared to those with one newly reported mental health disorder.

Conclusions:

Continued efforts are needed to improve provider and patient awareness of the risks associated with sedative hypnotic use in older adults, as well as to increase access to and receipt of non-pharmacological mental health treatments for this vulnerable population.
Thermal decomposition rate of MgCO3as an inorganic astrobiological matrix in meteorites
Authors: Bisceglia E. , Longo G. Micca , Longo S.
Published: April 2016

Carbonate minerals, likely of hydrothermal origins and included into orthopyroxenite, have been extensively studied in the ALH84001 meteorite. In this meteorite, nanocrystals comparable with those produced by magnetotactic bacteria have been found into a carbonate matrix. This leads naturally to a discussion of the role of such carbonates in panspermia theories. In this context, the present work sets the basis of a criterion to evaluate whether a carbonate matrix in a meteor entering a planetary atmosphere would be able to reach the surface. As a preliminary step, the composition of carbonate minerals in the ALH84001 meteorite is reviewed; in view of the predominance of Mg in these carbonates, pure magnesite (MgCO3) is proposed as a mineral model. This mineral is much more sensitive to high temperatures reached during an entry process, compared with silicates, due to facile decomposition into MgO and gaseous carbon dioxide (CO2). A most important quantity for further studies is therefore the decomposition rate expressed as CO2evaporation rateJ(molecules/m2s). An analytical expression forJ(T) is given using the Langmuir law, based on CO2pressure in equilibrium with MgCO3and MgO at the surface temperatureT. Results suggest that carbonate minerals rich in magnesium may offer much better thermal protection to embedded biological matter than silicates and significantly better than limestone, which was considered in previous studies, in view of the heat absorbed by their decomposition even at moderate temperatures. This first study can be extended in the future to account for more complex compositions, including Fe and Ca.
Sozio-emotionale Interaktionsqualität vor dem Hintergrund einer erweiterten Altersmischung im Kindergarten
Authors: Sommer Anja , Sechtig Jutta
Published: April 2016

Zusammenfassung. Die erweiterte Altersmischung durch Aufnahme von unter dreijährigen Kindern in klassische Kindergartengruppen für Drei- bis Sechsjährige ist Praxis in vielen Kindergärten. Dass eine derartige strukturelle Veränderung nicht ohne Folgen für das Interaktionsgeschehen und damit für pädagogische Prozesse im Kindergartenalltag bleibt ist zu vermuten, da Merkmale der Struktur- und Prozessqualität in einem engen Zusammenhang stehen ( Anders, 2013 ). Die vorliegende Studie untersucht deshalb den Zusammenhang der erweiterten Altersmischung mit dem sozio-emotionalen Interaktionsverhalten von pädagogischen Fachkräften, das mit der Caregiver Interaction Scale ( Arnett, 1989 ) in 39 Kindergartengruppen erfasst wurde. Die Erweiterung der Altersmischung zeigt sich dabei als stärkster Prädiktor für eine niedrigere sozio-emotionale Interaktionsqualität. Zudem wurden Merkmale untersucht, die dem negativen Effekt erweiterter Altersmischung entgegenwirken können.