bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of trauma patients attended by ambulance paramedics in Perth, Western Australia
Authors: Brown Elizabeth , Williams Teresa A , Tohira Hideo , Bailey Paul , Finn Judith
Published: July 2018

Objective

The aim of the study was to describe the epidemiology of trauma in adult patients attended by ambulance paramedics in Perth, Western Australia.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of trauma patients aged ≥16 years attended by St John Ambulance Western Australia (SJA‐WA) paramedics in greater metropolitan Perth between 2013 and 2016 using the SJA‐WA database and WA death data. Incidence and 30 day mortality rates were calculated. Patients who died prehospital (immediate deaths), on the day of injury (early deaths), within 30 days (late deaths) and those who survived longer than 30 days (survivors) were compared for age, sex, mechanism of injury and acuity level. Prehospital interventions were also reported.

Results

Overall, 97 724 cases were included. A statistically significant increase in the incidence rate occurred over the study period (from 1466 to 1623 per 100 000 population year P ≤ 0.001). There were 2183 deaths within 30 days (n = 2183/97 724, 2.2%). Motor vehicle accidents were responsible for most immediate and early deaths (n = 98/203, 48.3% and n = 72/156, 46.2%, respectively). The majority of transported patients were low acuity (acuity levels 3 to 5, n = 60 594/79 887, 75.8%) and high‐acuity patients accounted for 2.7% (n = 2176/79 997). Analgesia administration was the most frequently performed intervention (n = 32 333/80 643, 40.1%), followed by insertion of intravenous catheters (n = 25 060/80 643, 31.1%). Advanced life support interventions such as endotracheal intubation were performed in <1% of patients.

Conclusion

The trauma incidence rate increased over time and the majority of patients had low‐acuity injuries. Focusing research, training and resources solely on high‐acuity patients will not cater for the needs of the majority of patients.
Extraction of high thermally stable and nanofibrous chitin from Cicada (Cicadoidea)
Authors: Mol Abbas , Kaya Murat , Mujtaba Muhammad , Akyuz Bahar
Published: July 2018

Due to the increasing interest in natural biopolymers including chitin, the exploitation of economic and easily accessible chitin sources with good physicochemical properties is nowadays required. In view of this fact, in the current study chitin was extracted and physicochemically characterized from six Cicadas (Hemiptera: Homoptera: Cicadoidea) species collected from Mediterranean region of Turkey (2014–15). Chitin was extracted using a classic extraction method that includes acid and base treatment. TGA results revealed a remarkable increase (410–412°C) for all the six Cicada species compared to other chitin samples extracted from various sources. For all of the six selected species the chitin contents on the dry basis were determined as 6.7% for Cicadatra atra, 5.51% for C. hyalina, 8.84% for C. platyptera, 4.97% for Cicada lodosi, 6.49% for C. mordoganensis, and 5.88% for Cicadetta tibialis. The surface morphology of chitin isolates from Cicada species was observed to consist of nanofibers and nanopores.
Identification and Quantification of Thujone in a Case of Poisoning Due to Repeated Ingestion of an Infusion of Artemisia Vulgaris L.
Authors: Di Lorenzo Chiara , Ferretti Francesco , Moro Enzo , Ceschi Alessandro , Colombo Francesca , Frigerio Gianfranco , Lüde Saskia , Restani Patrizia
Published: July 2018

Plants of the Artemisia genus are used worldwide as ingredients of botanical preparations. This paper describes the case of a 49‐year‐old man admitted to the emergency room at a Zurich hospital in a manic state after the ingestion of 1 L of an infusion of Artemisia vulgaris. Two monoterpenic ketones, α‐ and β‐thujone, are present in various concentrations in Artemisia spp., but adverse effects have previously been associated only with essential oil from Artemisia absinthium and attributed to the inhibition of gamma‐aminobutyric acid receptors, with consequent excitation and convulsions.

The aim of this work was to examine and quantify the possible presence of thujone in the patient's serum and urine. A High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method with isocratic separation and fluorescence detection (FLD) was set up and validated. Serum thujone concentrations were found to be 27.7 ± 3.48 μg/mL at day 0 and 24.1 ± 0.15 μg/mL on day 1. Results were confirmed by a gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (FID). Poisoning due to thujone was thus confirmed, suggesting four possible scenarios: (1) an unusually high concentration of thujone in the A. vulgaris ingested; (2) chronic exposure as the cause of the poisoning; (3) low metabolic efficiency of the patient; (4) contamination or adulteration of the plant material with other Artemisia spp., for example, A. absinthium.

Practical Application

These results could aid research in the field of adverse effects of botanicals, lead to better understanding and management of similar cases of poisoning, and promote more informed use of natural products.
Effect of Salt Reduction on Children's Acceptance of Bread
Authors: Rannou Cécile , Texier Florence , Marzin Cécile , Nicklaus Sophie , Cariou Véronique , Courcoux Philippe , Prost Carole
Published: July 2018

Salt reduction is becoming a major concern for public authorities, especially in cereal products. As childhood is important for the development of healthy eating habits, this study aimed to formulate salt‐reduced breads with satisfying sensory properties for children. Sourdough and an artisanal bread‐making process were used to compensate the flavor loss due to salt reduction. French breads (FBs) made with sourdough and artisanal processing were compared with white breads (WBs). Two salt levels were applied (1.2 and 1.8 g /100 g flour). To determine their acceptability and characterization, the four breads were assessed (i) by an adult panel (n = 39) according to cohesiveness, overall odor intensity, overall aroma in the mouth and saltiness intensity and (ii) a panel of children (n = 100, aged 6 to 11 years) according to overall liking and saltiness intensity. Finally, consumption by children (n = 89, aged 6 to 11 years) was measured during school lunch to evaluate the acceptability of salt reduction in a real consumption context. Both formulation and salt level induced physical and sensory changes in breads perceived by adults. They described WB as less dense, cohesive, and aromatic but more odorant than FB. Saltiness differences were perceived by adults but not by children. Children showed a preference for the saltiest breads and the FB but these drivers of preference were not confirmed during consumption measurements. These results shed new light on how natural solutions to enhance the flavor of bread can reduce its salt level while maintaining acceptability.

Practical Application

Salt reduction in bread could be compensated by the use of sourdough and an artisanal bread‐making process. These methods allow an improvement of the nutritional quality of breads while maintaining their acceptance by young consumers by favoring the development of appealing organoleptic characteristics (aroma, texture). These methods are natural, easy to implement, and could be adapted to other fermented products in order to improve their nutritional quality.
Antioxidant Properties and Phenolic Compounds of Vitamin C‐Rich Juices
Authors: Nowak Dariusz , Gośliński Michał , Wojtowicz Elżbieta , Przygoński Krzysztof
Published: July 2018

Many studies have shown that bioactive compounds, for example, polyphenols, and so on can play an important role in reducing oxidative stress and protect against various diseases. The sources of these compounds in the human diet include mainly fruit and good quality fruit juices, which may contain polyphenols but also other phytochemicals such as vitamin C. The purpose of the study was to analyze the antioxidant properties of vitamin C‐rich juices, which underwent mild processing. The content of total polyphenols (TP, FBBB), total flavonoids (TF), total anthocyanins (TA), and vitamin C as well as the antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS) were evaluated in commercial fruit juices rich in vitamin C (acerola, gojiberry, sea buckthorn, wild rose, cranberry, Japanese quince). Moreover, phenolic acids and selected flavonoids were determined by HPLC methods. Among the examined fruit juices, acerola and wild rose juices contained the highest amounts of vitamin C and total polyphenols, and had the highest antioxidant capacity. Acerola owes its high antioxidant properties mainly to vitamin C, whereas the antioxidant capacity of wild rose is also attributed to its rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids. Sea buckthorn juice and Japanese quince juice had a lower antioxidant capacity, yet higher than determined for gojiberry and cranberry juices. Total anthocyanins were the highest in cranberry juice. The results showed that the analyzed juices were a valuable source of natural antioxidants. Generally, vitamin C‐rich juices are also good source of polyphenols. Vitamin C and polyphenols act synergistically and define the antioxidant properties of juices.

Practical Application

Bioactive compounds, for example, polyphenols play an important role in reducing oxidative stress and protect against various diseases. Sources of natural antioxidants in human diet include mainly fruit and good quality fruit juices. The study showed that the juices from acerola, gojiberry, sea buckthorn, wild rose, cranberry, Japanese quince were a valuable source of natural polyphenols and vitamin C. These compounds act synergistically and define the antioxidant properties of juices. Among all examined samples, acerola and wild rose juices seem to be the most valuable. Moreover, it's worth noticing that juices underwent mild processing (cold pressed and low pasteurization) retained more bioactive compounds, which affected their higher quality.
Adjusting the Australian Labour Share for Depreciation, Housing and Other Factors, 1960–2016
Authors: Trott Declan , Vance Leo
Published: July 2018

We adjust published Australian labour share series by excluding depreciation and housing from total factor income, and using a range of approximations for self‐employment, business and private sector income. The resulting estimates of the net, non‐housing labour share were at approximately their long‐run averages in 2015–2016. The adjustments do, however, generate a stronger decline and recovery in the labour share during and after the mining boom. Overall, there is little sign of a long‐term decline in the labour share.
I/C: Individualism/collectivism or individuate/categorise?
Authors: Uleman James S.
Published: July 2018

The “common view” is that the Japanese are more collectivist than are Americans, and that American are more individualist than are the Japanese. This commentary briefly summarises Y. Takano and E. Osaka (1999, Asian Journal of Social Psychology, 2, pp. 311–341; 2018, Asian Journal of Social Psychology pp. 301‐316) Literature reviews have shown that research does not support this common view. There is no reliable difference on individualism/collectivism (I/C). Further, there are several reasons to question the coherence of I/C itself. There also are multiple difficulties with the utility of global dispositions. The conditional nature of global dispositions such as I/C is illustrated by the author's published and unpublished attempts to create yet another I/C scale. Possible reasons for the persistence of the erroneous common view that the Japanese are more collectivistic than are Americans are discussed in terms of Western perceivers’ stereotypes and the alternative of perceivers individuating/categorising (I/C) other people. Last, research on cultural differences in spontaneous social inferences, which has been framed in I/C terms, is reviewed and recast.
Effect of a lateral infraclavicular brachial plexus block on the axillary and suprascapular nerves as determined by electromyography – a cohort study
Authors: Steen‐Hansen C. , Rothe C. , Lange K. H. W. , Lundstrøm L. H.
Published: July 2018

We aimed to examine to what extent a lateral infraclavicular brachial plexus block affected the axillary and the suprascapular nerve. We included patients undergoing hand surgery anaesthetised with a lateral infraclavicular brachial plexus block. Our primary outcome was the relative change in surface electromyography during maximum voluntary isometric contraction of the medial deltoid muscle (axillary nerve) and the infraspinatus muscle (suprascapular nerve) from baseline to 30 min after the block procedure. A reduction in electromyography of > 50% defined a successful block. The impact of the block on the shoulder nerves was compared with the surgical target nerves of the arm and hand (musculocutaneous, radial, median and ulnar nerves). Twenty patients were included. The medians of the relative changes in the surface electromyography were significantly reduced (both p < 0.001) with 92% for the deltoid muscle and 30% for the infraspinatus muscle, respectively. In total, 18 out of 20 patients had reductions > 50% for the deltoid muscle, which was significantly different from the infraspinatus muscle, where the proportion was 5 out of 20 (p < 0.001). The medians of the relative reductions in electromyography for the arm and hand muscles were 90–96%, similar to the effect on the deltoid muscle. Our results suggest that a lateral infraclavicular block provides block of the axillary nerve comparable to the block of the surgical target nerves. The suprascapular nerve is blocked to a lesser degree. Combining a lateral infraclavicular brachial plexus block with a selective suprascapular block for shoulder surgery warrants further studies.
Study on Oxidation Stability and Oxygen Affinity of Hemoglobin During Storage
Authors: Li Qiuhui , Ma Huiya , Zhang Yuanyuan , Feng Kun , Zhu Hongli , Chen Chao , Yan Kunping
Published: July 2018

The factors affecting hemoglobin (Hb) oxidation in its short‐ and long‐term storage were investigated. Porcine Hb with different levels of oxygen saturation was stored at 25°C or 4°C for 40 days. The methemoglobin (metHb) content increased rapidly when Hb was at half saturation with oxygen at 4°C, increased gradually with the increase in Hb oxygenation or deoxygenation, and was almost unchanged when Hb was highly oxygenated or deoxygenated. The Hb oxidation was more intense when stored at 25°C. This indicated that highly oxygenated or deoxygenated Hb can be stored short term at 4°C. The accelerated test showed that metHb content was almost unchanged when Hb was highly deoxygenated and stored at 37°C for 7 days; however, the metHb content rapidly increased when Hb was highly oxygenated and stored at 37°C, which indicated that only highly deoxygenated Hb is suitable for long‐term storage. Then, the long‐term oxidation stability of highly deoxygenated Hb and polymerized hemoglobin was verified; the metHb content of both did not show significant changes at 4°C for 18 months. Moreover, the results in this work indicated that a temperature increasing from 20 to 40°C clearly increased the partial oxygen pressure (P50), which represents decreased oxygen affinity and is beneficial to deoxygenation. Furthermore, P50 was increased when the pH decreased from 9 to 7. Therefore, we concluded that the appropriate high temperature and neutral condition in vitro are conducive to reducing the oxygen affinity of Hb to achieve efficient deoxygenation, which could promote the development of hemoglobin‐based oxygen carriers.
Abnormalities of placenta implantation
Authors: da Cunha Castro Eumenia Costa , Popek Edwina
Published: July 2018

Implantation abnormalities are a group of disorders encompassing several entities with different degree of severity. This section will cover the etiopathogenesis, imaging findings, definition, risk factors, and pathology of the abnormally located and morbidly adherent placenta.
Defense and infection of the human placenta
Authors: Heerema‐McKenney Amy
Published: July 2018

The placenta functions as a shield against infection of the fetus. The innate and adaptive immune defenses of the developing fetus are poorly equipped to fight infections. Infection by bacteria, viruses, and protozoa may cause infertility, spontaneous abortion, stillbirth, growth retardation, anomalies of development, premature delivery, neonatal morbidity, and mortality. However, appreciation of the human microbiome and host cell–microbe interactions must be taken into consideration as we try to determine what interactions are pathologic. Infection is typically recognized histologically by the presence of inflammation. Yet, several factors make comparison of the placenta to other human organs difficult. The placenta comprises tissues from two persons, complicating the role of the immune system. The placenta is a temporary organ. It must be eventually expelled; the processes leading to partuition involve maternal inflammation. What is normal or pathologic may be a function of timing or extent of the process. We now must consider whether bacteria, and even some viruses, are useful commensals or pathogens. Still, recognizing infection of the placenta is one of the most important contributions placental pathologic examination can give to care of the mother and neonate. This review provides a brief overview of placental defense against infection, consideration of the placental microbiome, routes of infection, and the histopathology of amniotic fluid infection and TORCH infections.
Re‐view and view on maturation disorders in the placenta
Authors: Turowski Gitta , Vogel Martin
Published: July 2018

Until delivery, the placenta plays an important mediator role between mother and fetus. This unit is affected by peristatic conditions, such as acute or chronic maternal diseases, malnutrition, drugs, and others. But also genetic factors and fetal malformations due to embryonic developmental disorders may contribute to macroscopically visible changes and functional disorders of the placenta. In a constantly ongoing progress of maturation, the placenta records and saves changes due to fetal distress partly as maturation disorders. Understanding of maturation disorders might, therefore, be an important contribution to a better understanding of influences on villous differentiation and might improve follow up and fetal outcome to reduce recurrence risk. However, an internationally unified classification system of maturation disorders does not exist. In this review, terminology, trials, and classifications of villous maturation disorders are summed up and compared, to pinpoint the need of agreement on an international unified and reproducible classification of maturation disorders.
Letter: eluxadoline‐associated acute pancreatitis—myth or reality?
Authors: Garcia‐Gonzalez F. , Faghih M. , Singh V.
Published: July 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Harinstein et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14504 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14851.
Letter: eluxadoline‐associated acute pancreatitis—myth or reality? Authors’ reply
Authors: Harinstein L. , Wu E. , Brinker A.
Published: July 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Harinstein et al and Garcia‐Gonzalez et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14504 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14846.
Editorial: covert hepatic encephalopathy—silent but serious
Authors: Neuberger J.
Published: July 2018

Linked Content

This article is linkend to Labenz et al and Labenz and Wörns papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14824 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14867.
Editorial: diabetes in HIV‐infected patients—do not blame the usual suspect!
Authors: Höner zu Siederdissen C. , Mederacke I.
Published: July 2018

Linked Content

This aricle is linked to Provoost et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14812 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14892.
Editorial: aminosalicylates in Crohn's disease—prevalence, risks, costs and time to reassess? Authors’ reply
Authors: Jairath V. , Ma C. , Feagan B.
Published: July 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Ma et al and Mansfield and MacDougall papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14821 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14859.
Effects of ascorbic acid 2‐glucoside and alpha‐tocopherol on the characteristics of equine spermatozoa stored at 5°C
Authors: Sampaio Breno Fernandes Barreto , Nogueira Bruno Gomes , Souza Maria Inês Lenz , Silva Eliane Vianna da Costa e , Zúccari Carmem Estefânia Serra Neto
Published: July 2018

The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the effects of adding ascorbic acid 2‐glucoside (AA2G), a water‐soluble antioxidant and stable derivative of ascorbate, to the semen extender and compare it to the addition of vitamin C (Vit. C) and the fat‐soluble antioxidant α‐tocopherol (α‐Toh), both individually and in combination, on the seminal variables of equine sperm submitted to cooling for 72 h. We used two ejaculates from 10 stallions and evaluated them for motility, membrane integrity, chromatin fragmentation, mitochondrial activity and lipid peroxidation. In the analysis of lipid peroxidation, the control group showed 2506.2 ± 796.4 ng malondialdehyde/108 sperm, which was higher (P < 0.05) than the groups treated with antioxidants. The average value of motility in the AA2G group was 68.4 ± 18.1%, which was higher (P < 0.05) than that observed in the control group (62.1 ± 16.2%). The variables membrane integrity, chromatin fragmentation and mitochondrial activity did not show significant difference (P > 0.05) between treatments. It was concluded that the antioxidants protected sperm cells from lipid peroxidation and that AA2G was effective during the cooling process of equine semen at 5°C for72 h, providing increased levels of total motility.
Are Financial Reports Useful? The Views of New Zealand Public Versus Private Users
Authors: Ehalaiye Dimu , Laswad Fawzi , Botica Redmayne Nives , Stent Warwick , Cai Lei
Published: July 2018

This study reports on surveys conducted with users of financial reports in New Zealand. We compare findings for users of reports of two types of for‐profit entities, namely those with public accountability (public entities) and those with no public accountability (private entities). The findings indicate that both types of users have similar perceptions regarding the usefulness of financial statements, with the income statement and balance sheet rated as the most useful components. Furthermore, both types of users, especially private users, perceive financial statements as the most important information source for decision making. Public users have a greater interest in supplementary information than private users. The findings of this study contribute to the debate around differential reporting for private companies and have policy implications with regard to the user‐needs approach to accounting standard setting.
The Effects of IFRS Adoption on the Unconditional Conservatism of Spanish Listed Companies
Authors: Fullana Olga , González Mariano , Toscano David
Published: July 2018

This paper analyses the effects of the mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) by Spanish listed companies in January 2005 on unconditional conservatism. The lack of robustness in previous evidence justifies analysis of this issue from a different perspective. To this end, we use, for the first time in this context, Ahmed and Duellman's (2007) methodology. These authors consider the impact of growth options and other future income, controlling for the idiosyncratic factors that the literature has found condition this type of conservatism. Additionally, beyond the pooled regression techniques usually used, we use econometric panel data techniques, which minimise the possible effect of endogeneity in the estimation of the proposed models. The results provide new evidence which supports our hypothesis that the adoption of IFRS has reduced the unconditional conservatism of Spanish listed companies.
Solidarity and the problem of structural injustice in healthcare
Authors: Gould Carol C.
Published: July 2018

The concept of solidarity has recently come to prominence in the healthcare literature, addressing the motivation for taking seriously the shared vulnerabilities and medical needs of compatriots and for acting to help them meet these needs. In a recent book, Prainsack and Buyx take solidarity as a commitment to bear costs to assist others regarded as similar, with implications for governing health databases, personalized medicine, and organ donation. More broadly, solidarity has been understood normatively to call for ‘standing with’ or assisting fellow community members and possibly also distant others in regard to their needs, whether for its own sake or in order to realize the demands of justice. I argue here that the understanding of solidarity in the existing bioethics literature is unduly restricted by not sufficiently theorizing the notion of structural (or systemic) injustice and its import for understanding solidarity. Extending traditional conceptions of labor and social movement solidarity, I contrast unitary solidarity within a given group with ‘networking solidarities’ across groups. I analyze the meaning of structural injustice and its significance for solidarity, including countering institutionally entrenched inequalities and economic exploitation. I then apply this broadened conception to healthcare, discussing structural problems with the U.S. insurance system and the solidarity movements addressing its deficiencies. I analyze some natural disasters and global health challenges that were aggravated by structural injustices, along with the solidarity movements they engendered. Finally, I revisit the questions of governing health databases and of personalized medicine with the enlarged conception of solidarity in view.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT WITH ENDOGENOUS SKILL ACQUISITION
Authors: Agénor Pierre‐Richard , Alpaslan Barış
Published: July 2018

The link between infrastructure and industrial development is studied in an OLG model with endogenous skill acquisition. Industrial development is defined as a shift from an imitation‐based, low‐skill economy to an innovation‐based, high‐skill economy, where ideas are produced domestically. Imitation generates knowledge spillovers, which enhance productivity in innovation. Changes in industrial structure are measured by the ratio of the variety of imitation‐ to innovation‐based intermediate goods. The model also distinguishes between basic infrastructure, which helps to promote learning by doing and productivity in imitation activities, and advanced infrastructure, which promotes knowledge networks and innovation. Numerical experiments, based on a parameterized version for a stylized low‐income country, show that changes in the level and composition of public investment in infrastructure may have significant effects on the structure of the labour force and the process of industrial development.
Structural optimization of diphenylpyrimidine scaffold as potent and selective epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors against L858R/T790M resistance mutation in nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Yi Yuanyuan , Wang Luhong , Zhao Dan , Huang Shanshan , Wang Changyuan , Liu Zhihao , Sun Huijun , Liu Kexin , Ma Xiaodong , Li Yanxia
Published: July 2018

A new class of thiodiphenylpyrimidine analogs (Thio‐DPPY) were synthesized as potent and selective EGFR T790M inhibitors to overcome gefitinib resistance in nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This structural optimization led to the identification of two potent EGFRT790M/L858R inhibitors, 14a and 14e, which possess IC50 values of 27.5 and 9.1 nM, respectively. Moreover, compounds 14a (SI > 36.4) and 14e (SI > 109.9) exhibited high selectivity and low activity against the wild‐type EGFR (IC50 > 1,000 nM). In particular, compound 14a also displayed strong potency against EGFRT790M‐mutated H1975 cells (IC50 = 0.074 μM), but weak activity toward normal cells HBE (IC50 > 40 μM) and LO‐2 (IC50 = 9.891 μM). It is important that compound 14a (SI = 52.6) significantly improved the selectivity against mutant H1975 cells over wild‐type A431 cells than rociletinib (SI = 6.0), thus revealing its slight cell cytotoxicity. This study provides a promising Thio‐DPPY derivative as enhanced EGFR T790M inhibitor, and also revealed valuable clues for further optimization of DPPY scaffold to overcome NSCLC resistance.
Adenine derivatives invert high glucose‐induced thioredoxin‐interacting protein overexpression
Authors: Zhong Li , Liu Qing , Ting Yan Sie , Thien Vun Yien , Binti Kalong Nurwafa Syafiqah , Yang Dehua , Wang Ming‐Wei
Published: July 2018

Overexpression of thioredoxin‐interacting protein (TXNIP) is associated with reduced insulin sensitivity and β‐cell apoptosis. We have previously shown that W2476 inhibited high glucose‐induced TXNIP expression at both mRNA and protein levels in INS‐1E cells. In this study, we describe structural modification and optimization of W2476 leading to three more active derivatives, 8d, 8g, and 9h, capable of suppressing TXNIP expression in BG73 and INS‐1E cells, increasing insulin production, and reducing high glucose‐induced apoptosis in INS‐1E cells.
No Pharmacokinetic Interactions Between Elbasvir or Grazoprevir and Buprenorphine/Naloxone in Healthy Participants and Participants Receiving Stable Opioid Agonist Therapy
Authors: Feng Hwa‐Ping , Guo Zifang , Caro Luzelena , Marshall William L. , Liu Fang , Panebianco Deborah , Vaddady Pavan , Barbour April , Reitmann Christina , Jumes Patricia , Gilmartin Jocelyn , Wolford Dennis , Valesky Robert , Martinho Monika , Butterton Joan R. , Iwamoto Marian , Fraser Iain , Webster Lynn , Yeh Wendy W.
Published: July 2018

The aims of these phase I trials were to evaluate the pharmacokinetic interaction between elbasvir (EBR) or grazoprevir (GZR) and buprenorphine/naloxone (BUP/NAL). Trial 1 was a single‐dose trial in healthy participants. Trial 2 was a multiple‐dose trial in participants on BUP/NAL maintenance therapy. Coadministration of EBR or GZR with BUP/NAL had minimal effect on the pharmacokinetics of BUP/NAL, EBR, and GZR. The geometric mean ratios (GMRs (90% CI)) for BUP, norbuprenorphine, and NAL AUC0‐∞ were 0.98 (0.89–1.08), 0.97 (0.86–1.09), and 0.88 (0.78–1.00) in the presence/absence of EBR; 0.98 (0.81–1.19), 1.13 (0.97–1.32), and 1.10 (0.82–1.47) in the presence/absence of GZR. The GMRs (90% CI) for EBR and GZR AUC0‐∞ in the absence/presence of BUP/NAL were 1.22 (0.98–1.52) and 0.86 (0.63–1.18). In conclusion, no dose adjustment for BUP/NAL, EBR, or GZR is required for patients with HCV infection receiving EBR/GZR and BUP/NAL maintenance therapy.
Behavior of right atrial strain in high systolic pulmonary artery pressure
Authors: Deschle Héctor A. , Amenabar Agustina , Casso Norberto A. , Gantesti Jessica , Carnevalini Mariana , Alfie Laura , Torres Bianqui Carolina , Ottonello Pablo , Katib Maria Cristina
Published: July 2018

Aims

Evaluate the ability of right atrial (RA) strain to predict systolic pulmonary artery pressure (SPAP).

Methods and Results

A total of 102 patients were prospectively enrolled. Conventional echocardiographic measures were performed. RA volume was calculated. Mean maximum right ventricle (RV) strain and lateral RA strain were obtained. Pearson's correlation test was used. A multivariate analysis was performed to compare SPAP with RA strain, RV strain, and baseline characteristics of the patients. RA strain was compared between patients with SPAP ≤ 37 mm Hg with those with SPAP > 37 mm Hg. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was constructed. A P < 0.01 value was considered statistically significant.

Age

58.7 ± 15.7 years. Male: 46 (45.1%). The correlation coefficient between SPAP and RA strain was −0.64 (P < 0.01, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.75 to −0.50). Quadratic R2 coefficient = 0.52. In the multivariate analysis, RA strain was independently associated with SPAP level. There were significant differences in RA strain between patients with SPAP ≤ 37 mm Hg (63.3 ± 13.3%; 95% CI: 59.4%–65.1%) and >37 mm Hg (32.7 ± 11.1%; 95% CI: 26.5%–38.39%) (P < 0.01). RA strain < 42.5% was capable to predict a SPAP > 37 mm Hg with 93% sensitivity and 94% specificity, area under the curve (AUC) of 98% (95% CI: 94%–100%).

Conclusions

Right atrial strain is independently associated with SPAP level. RA strain lower than 42.5% can predict a SPAP > 37 mm Hg with high sensitivity and specificity.
A standardized protocol to reliably visualize the left atrial appendage with intracardiac echocardiography: Importance of multiple imaging sites
Authors: Basman Craig , Alderwish Edris , Rambhatla Tarak , Vaishnav Aditi , Kronzon Itzhak , Mountantonakis Stavros E.
Published: July 2018

Background

Currently, there is no accepted protocol for left atrial appendage (LAA) imaging with intracardiac echocardiography (ICE).

Objective

This study aimed to assess the utility of ICE to reliably visualize the entire cavity of the LAA and propose a specific procedural protocol to achieve the above objective.

Methods

We created a three‐dimensional reconstruction of the LAA, using two‐dimensional ICE sections obtained from three different location (the right atrium [RA], right ventricle inflow [RVI], and right ventricular outflow [RVOT]). We then compared the three‐dimensional LAA reconstruction by ICE with one obtained by cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) for morphological and volume differences.

Results

Three‐dimensional reconstruction with ICE could reliably reproduce the LAA as visualized with CCTA but only when ICE sampling was performed from at least two catheter positions. There was no statistically significant difference between LAA volumes obtained with ICE and CCTA (P = 0.33). The contribution of each anatomical location to the total volume was 17% ± 16.6%, 74% ± 13.3%, and 33% ± 26% for RA, RVI, and RVOT, respectively.

Conclusion

In comparison with CCTA, the LAA can be reliably visualized in its entity by ICE, but only if multiple imaging positions (RA, RV inflow, and RVOT) are used.
Managing the emergence of pathogen resistance via spatially targeted antimicrobial use
Authors: Okamoto Kenichi W. , Post David M. , Vasseur David A. , Turner Paul E.
Published: July 2018

From agriculture to public health to civil engineering, managing antimicrobial resistance presents a considerable challenge. The dynamics underlying resistance evolution reflect inherently spatial processes. Resistant pathogen strains increase in frequency when a strain that emerges in one locale can spread and replace pathogen subpopulations formerly sensitive to the antimicrobial agent. Moreover, the strength of selection for antimicrobial resistance is in part governed by the extent of antimicrobial use. Thus, altering how antimicrobials are used across a landscape can potentially shift the spatial context governing the dynamics of antimicrobial resistance and provide a potent management tool. Here, we model how the efficacy of adjusting antimicrobial use over space to manage antimicrobial resistance is mediated by competition among pathogen strains and the topology of pathogen metapopulations. For several pathogen migration scenarios, we derive critical thresholds for the spatial extent of antimicrobial use below which resistance cannot emerge, and relate these thresholds to (a) the ability to eradicate antimicrobial‐sensitive pathogens locally and (b) the strength of the trade‐off between resistance ability and competitive performance where antimicrobial use is absent. We find that in metapopulations where patches differ in connectedness, constraining antimicrobial use across space to mitigate resistance evolution only works if the migration of the resistant pathogen is modest; yet, this situation is reversed if the resistant strain has a high colonization rate, with variably connected metapopulations exhibiting less sensitivity to reducing antimicrobial use across space. Furthermore, when pathogens are alternately exposed to sites with and without the antimicrobial, bottlenecking resistant strains through sites without an antimicrobial is only likely to be effective under a strong competition–resistance trade‐off. We therefore identify life‐history constraints that are likely to suggest which pathogens can most effectively be controlled by a spatially targeted antimicrobial regime. We discuss implications of our results for managing and thinking about antimicrobial resistance evolution in spatially heterogeneous contexts.
The legacies of the Sokoto Caliphate in contemporary Nigeria
Authors: Buba Malami
Published: July 2018

Contemporary Nigeria is a product of multiple historical experiences dating back to the antiquities. The nation's uncommon diversity of language, culture, and religion are mostly encapsulated in the foundation and continuing relevance of the Sokoto Caliphate, an Islamic polity founded on the principles of reform and restoration by Usman Dan Fodio in 1804. In this article, I explore how this immense geographical entity of intercontinental resonance was governed, and the lessons of history that Nigeria can draw from its success and tribulation.
Measuring the coefficient of thermal expansion of free‐standing enamel films
Authors: Velez Mariano , Gong Yuxuan
Published: July 2018

Digital image correlation (DIC) was applied to the measurement of the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of ceramic enamel films between 100 and 300°C. The CTE of four different enamels were measured by DIC, and the data were correlated with the residual stresses on fired enameled soda‐lime glass substrates. For validation, the CTE of a zinc‐containing alkali borosilicate glass was measured by DIC and push‐rod dilatometry. The results suggested that DIC is an effective technique for measuring the CTE of ceramic enamel films.
Authentication of dietary supplements through Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance (NQR) spectroscopy
Authors: Masna Naren Vikram Raj , Zhang Fengchao , Chen Cheng , Mandal Soumyajit , Bhunia Swarup
Published: July 2018

As the industry grows, adulteration of many products by mislabelling, re‐branding and false advertising is becoming prevalent practice. Existing solutions for analysis often require extensive sample preparation or are limited in terms of detecting different types of integrity issues. We describe a novel authentication method based on Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance (NQR) spectroscopy which is quantitative, non‐invasive and non‐destructive. It is sensitive to small deviation in the solid‐state chemical structure of a product, which changes the NQR signal properties. These characteristics are unique for different manufacturers, resulting in manufacturer‐specific watermarks. We show that nominally identical dietary supplements from different manufacturers can be accurately classified based on features from NQR spectra. Specifically, we use a machine learning‐based classification called support vector machines (SVMs) to verify the authenticity of products under test. This approach has been evaluated on three products using semi‐custom hardware and shows promising results, with typical classification accuracy of over 95%.
Effect of solids‐not‐fat content on dielectric properties of skim milk
Authors: Liu Qiang , Guo Wenchuan , He Hao , Zhu Xinhua
Published: July 2018

Dielectric constant (ε′) and loss factor (ε″) of skim milk samples at different total solids‐not‐fat contents were measured over the frequency range of 20–4500 MHz at 25 °C using a vector network analyser. The results showed that ε′ of skim milk decreased as frequency increased, and ε″ changed from decreasing to increasing and had minimums at about 2000 MHz. There was a linear relationship between ε′ and solids‐not‐fat content with correlation coefficient higher than 0.940 below 50 MHz and keeping at −0.990 above 150 MHz. ε″ had positive linear relationship with solids‐not‐fat content, and their correlation coefficient was higher than 0.970 at all investigated frequencies. Penetration depth of electromagnetic wave in milk decreased as increased frequency or solids‐not‐fat content. The study is helpful to know the relationship between solids‐not‐fat content and dielectric properties, and it provides information for developing solids‐not‐fat detector could be used in on‐line detection for skim milk production.
Inhibition of selected pathogens inoculated on the surface of catfish fillets by high molecular weight chitosan coating
Authors: Karsli Baris , Caglak Emre , Li Dapeng , Rubio Nancy K. , Janes Marlene , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: July 2018

Antibacterial activity of high molecular weight water‐soluble (HMWWS) chitosan (800 kDa) was investigated against four Gram‐negative (Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Vibrio cholerae and Vibrio parahaemolyticus) and two Gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) bacteria. Catfish fillets were surface‐inoculated with these food‐borne pathogens and coated with chitosan dissolved in aspartic acid (AS) or acetic acid (AC) solution at different concentrations (1% or 3%). Samples were stored at 4 °C for 8 days, except for those inoculated with Vibrio species (10 °C for 6 days). Overall, the most effective coating treatment was the 3% HMWWS chitosan in AS solution (800AS3%). Compared with the control, significant (P < 0.05) reductions caused by 800AS3% were observed for all tested pathogens at the end of storage. The growth of V. parahaemolyticus was completely suppressed by 800AS3%. This study demonstrated that HMWWS chitosan in AS solution could be used as an alternative antimicrobial coating for catfish fillets.
Colonisation of lettuce by Listeria Monocytogenes
Authors: Kyere Emmanuel O. , Palmer Jon , Wargent Jason J. , Fletcher Graham C. , Flint Steve
Published: July 2018

Foodborne illnesses involving ready‐to‐eat vegetables are increasing. Lettuce is the third most consumed fresh vegetable in the United States with worth approximately $1.9 billion, making it the most valuable leafy crop. Previous reviews have described the survival of pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli O157:H7 and Salmonella on different ready‐to‐eat vegetables, but the colonisation of lettuce by Listeria has received limited attention. Listeria monocytogenes has high mortality compared to other foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella. This review summarises recent studies on the mechanisms of attachment and colonisation of Listeria on lettuce leaves. We discuss various factors that affect colonisation of lettuce by Listeria in terms of the number of bacteria that can be recovered after inoculation, the effect of washing, different radiation treatments and cultivation systems on the recovery of Listeria. We propose strategies that can be used to minimise the colonisation of lettuce by Listeria to enhance food safety.
Bibliometric analysis of global publications in medication adherence (1900–2017)
Authors: Sweileh Waleed M , Al-Jabi Samah W , Zyoud Sa’ed H , Shraim Nasr Y , Anayah Fathi M A , Sawalha Ansam F , AbuTaha Adham S
Published: July 2018

Objectives

Medication non-adherence is a worldwide problem. The aim of this study was to assess the global research output, research trends and topics that shaped medication adherence research.

Methods

A bibliometric methodology was applied. Keywords related to ‘medication adherence’ were searched in Scopus database for all times up to 31 December 2017. Retrieved data were analyzsd, and bibliometric indicators and maps were presented.

Key findings

In total, 16 133 documents were retrieved. Most frequently encountered author keywords, other than adherence/compliance, were HIV, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, schizophrenia, depression, osteoporosis, asthma and quality of life. The number of documents published from 2008 to 2017 represented 62.0% (n = 10 005) of the total retrieved documents. The h-index of the retrieved documents was 223. The USA ranked first (43.1%; n = 6959), followed by the UK (8.6%; n = 1384) and Canada (4.5%; n = 796). The USA dominated the lists of active authors and institutions. Top active journals in publishing research on medication adherence were mainly in the field of AIDS. Top-cited articles in the field focused on adherence to anti-HIV medications, the impact of depression on medication adherence and barriers to adherence.

Conclusion

Adherence among HIV patients dominated the field of medication adherence. Research on medication adherence needs to be strengthened in all countries and in different types of chronic diseases. Research collaboration should also be encouraged to increase research activity on medication adherence in developing countries.
Magnetic resonance imaging 3T and total fibrotic volume in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease
Authors: Lai Silvia , Mastroluca Daniela , Letizia Claudio , Petramala Luigi , Perrotta Adolfo M. , DiGaeta Alessandro , Ferrigno Luigina , Ciccariello Mauro , D'Angelo Anna R. , Panebianco Valeria
Published: July 2018

Background

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is the most common renal hereditary disorder. Several authors have attempted to identify a kidney damage marker for predicting the prognosis and the effectiveness of therapy in ADPKD.

Aim

To identify and quantify ADPKD, through a novel magnetic resonance imaging protocol with 3 Tesla (MRI 3Tesla), the presence of parenchymal fibrotic tissue at early stage of disease, able to correlate the glomerular filtrate and to predict the loss of the renal function.

Methods

A total of 15 ADPKD patients had undergone renal testing on MRI 3Tesla at T0 and were revaluated after follow up (T1) of 5 years. We have evaluated renal function, plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC), insulin resistance and surrogate markers of atherosclerosis (carotid intima‐media thickness, ankle/brachial index (ABI) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI).

Results

Our study showed a significant negative correlation between total kidney volume (TKV) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) during observation (P < 0.02). We showed a negative correlation between eGFR with total fibrotic volume (TFV) (P < 0.04) and total perfusion volume/TKV (P < 0.02). Moreover TFV was correlated positively with PAC (P < 0.05), insulin values (P < 0.05), ABI (P < 0.05) and LVMI (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The MRI 3Tesla, despite the high costs, could be considered as a useful and non‐invasive method in the evaluation of fibrotic tissue and progression of the disease in ADPKD patients. Further clinical trials on larger groups are due to confirm the results of this pilot study, suggesting that MRI 3Tesla can be useful to evaluate the effectiveness of new therapeutic strategies.