Otitis media in children: A proposal for a new nosological classification.

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Otitis media in children: A proposal for a new nosological classification.

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2016 Jun 07;:

Authors: Torretta S, Marchisio P

PMID: 28011068 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

http://ift.tt/2hfRqd9

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

Alibertia edulis (L.C. Rich.) A.C. Rich – A potent diuretic arising from Brazilian indigenous species

Publication date: 20 January 2017
Source:Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 196
Author(s): Diana Figueiredo de Santana Aquino, Cleide Adriane Signor Tirloni, Sara Emília Lima Tolouei Menegati, Claudia Andrea Lima Cardoso, Silvia Cristina Heredia Vieira, Maria do Carmo Vieira, Ana María Simonet, Francisco Antonio Macías, Arquimedes Gasparotto
Ethnopharmacological relevanceAlthough Alibertia edulis (L.C. Rich.) A.C. Rich decoction is used in Brazilian folk medicine due to its possible antihypertensive effect, this species has never been critically investigated as a hypotensive drug. So, the aim of this study was to evaluate the possible hypotensive and antihypertensive effects of the oral administration of Alibertia edulis aqueous extract (AEAE) in normotensive and hypertensive rats, and evaluate its inter-relation with a possible diuretic activity.Material and methodsDifferent doses of AEAE (20, 65 and 200mg/kg) were tested on the mean arterial pressure (MAP) of normotensive Wistar rats and after induction of renovascular hypertension (two-kidney, one-clip Goldblatt model). In addition, the diuretic effects of AEAE were compared with hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) in an acute and repeated-dose treatment for 7 days. Volume, sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium contents, pH and density were estimated in urine samples collected after 8 or 24h. Plasma sodium, potassium, total protein, urea, creatinine, AST and ALT concentrations were measured in samples collected at the end of the experimental period (seventh day). Finally, the antioxidant activity of the AEAE was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging and ferric ions reducing power assay.ResultsThe intraduodenal administration of the HCTZ and AEAE significantly reduced, in a dose-dependent manner, the MAP in both normotensive and hypertensive rats. Otherwise, the heart rate was not affected by any treatment. Acute and prolonged oral administration of AEAE (200mg/kg) and HCTZ caused a significant increase in volume and urinary concentrations of sodium, potassium and chloride. Moreover, urinary calcium concentration was significantly increased after administration of AEAE (200mg/kg). Finally, AEAE was able to present important in vitro antioxidant properties.ConclusionThe results obtained have shown that AEAE presents potent diuretic activity and significant hypotensive and antihypertensive effect. In addition, this study may confirm part of the pharmacological activity popularly attributed to this species and opens perspective for the future use in various renal and cardiovascular diseases.

Graphical abstract

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A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A systematic review and network meta-analysis of neoadjuvant therapy combined with surgery for patients with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

Publication date: Available online 24 December 2016
Source:International Journal of Surgery
Author(s): Yuanwei Huang, Haidong Wang, Ganfeng Luo, Yanting Zhang, Li Wang, Ke Li
BackgroundThe role of neoadjuvant therapy combined with surgery for treating esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains controversial. We performed a network meta-analysis to synthesize direct and indirect evidence to identify the optimal therapeutic method for ESCC.MethodsWe identified 15 randomized controlled trials that compared any of the following 4 therapeutic measures: surgery alone (S), preoperative chemotherapy followed by surgery (CTS), preoperative radiotherapy followed by surgery (RTS), and preoperative chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery (CRTS). The main outcomes were 5-year survival, rate of radical resection, operative mortality and postoperative complications.ResultsNetwork meta-analysis showed that CRTS was associated with improved survival as compared with S (OR = 1.50 [95% CI 1.21 to 1.97]) and decreased occurrence of complications as compared with RTS (OR = 0.50 [95% CI 0.22 to 0.99]). Direct evidence revealed CRTS associated with improved survival (OR = 1.61 [95% CI 1.01 to 2.57]) and radical resection (OR = 4.01 [95% CI 1.66 to 9.69]) as compared with S. In terms of radical resection, CTS was more effective than S (OR = 1.73 [95% CI 1.09 to 2.76]). Findings for CTS and RTS did not differ for 5-year survival, operative mortality and postoperative complications.ConclusionsOverall, CRTS might be the best choice for resectable ESCC because it could increase the radical resection rate and lower the occurrence of complications, thereby prolonging survival time.



http://ift.tt/2itBFV8

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

A review and framework for understanding the potential impact of poor solid waste management on health in developing countries

Background: The increase in solid waste generated per capita in Africa has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth in the capacity and funding to manage it. It is reported that less than 30% of urban waste in developing countries is collected and disposed appropriately. The implications of poorly managed waste on health are numerous and depend on the nature of the waste, individuals exposed, duration of exposure and availability of interventions for those exposed.ObjectiveTo present a framework for understanding the linkages between poor solid waste management, exposure and associated adverse health outcomes. The framework will aid understanding of the relationships, interlinkages and identification of the potential points for intervention. Methods: Development of the framework was informed by a review of literature on solid waste management policies, practices and its impact on health in developing countries. A configurative synthesis of literature was applied to develop the framework. Several iterations of the framework were reviewed by experts in the field. Each linkage and outcomes are described in detail as outputs of this study.ResultThe resulting framework identifies groups of people at a heightened risk of exposure and the potential health consequences. Using the iceberg metaphor, the framework illustrates the pathways and potential burden of ill-health related to solid waste that is hidden but rapidly unfolding with our inaction. The existing evidence on the linkage between poor solid waste management and adverse health outcomes calls to action by all stakeholders in understanding, prioritizing, and addressing the issue of solid waste in our midst to ensure that our environment and health are preserved. Conclusion: A resulting framework developed in this study presents a clearer picture of the linkages between poor solid waste management and could guide research, policy and action.

http://ift.tt/2ihSrD5

An overview of geospatial methods used in unintentional injury epidemiology

Background: Injuries are a leading cause of death and disability around the world. Injury incidence is often associated with socio-economic and physical environmental factors. The application of geospatial methods has been recognised as important to gain greater understanding of the complex nature of injury and the associated diverse range of geographically-diverse risk factors. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide an overview of geospatial methods applied in unintentional injury epidemiological studies. Methods: Nine electronic databases were searched for papers published in 2000–2015, inclusive. Included were papers reporting unintentional injuries using geospatial methods for one or more categories of spatial epidemiological methods (mapping; clustering/cluster detection; and ecological analysis). Results describe the included injury cause categories, types of data and details relating to the applied geospatial methods. Results: From over 6,000 articles, 67 studies met all inclusion criteria. The major categories of injury data reported with geospatial methods were road traffic (n = 36), falls (n = 11), burns (n = 9), drowning (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Grouped by categories, mapping was the most frequently used method, with 62 (93%) studies applying this approach independently or in conjunction with other geospatial methods. Clustering/cluster detection methods were less common, applied in 27 (40%) studies. Three studies (4%) applied spatial regression methods (one study using a conditional autoregressive model and two studies using geographically weighted regression) to examine the relationship between injury incidence (drowning, road deaths) with aggregated data in relation to explanatory factors (socio-economic and environmental). Conclusion: The number of studies using geospatial methods to investigate unintentional injuries has increased over recent years. While the majority of studies have focused on road traffic injuries, other injury cause categories, particularly falls and burns, have also demonstrated the application of these methods. Geospatial investigations of injury have largely been limited to mapping of data to visualise spatial structures. Use of more sophisticated approaches will help to understand a broader range of spatial risk factors, which remain under-explored when using traditional epidemiological approaches.

http://ift.tt/2i8S3JP

Mechanical properties of nanostructured films with an ultralow volume fraction of hard phase

Publication date: 27 January 2017
Source:Polymer, Volume 109
Author(s): Marion Chenal, Cyril Véchambre, Jean-Marc Chenal, Laurent Chazeau, Vincent Humblot, Laurent Bouteiller, Costantino Creton, Jutta Rieger
We demonstrate in this paper how polymerization induced self-assembly (PISA) using RAFT can be used to synthesize very asymmetric but monodisperse poly(acrylic acid)-b-poly(n-butyl acrylate) block copolymers, PAA-b-PBA, with a short PAA block and a long PBA block. In the course of the surfactant-free emulsion polymerization, core-shell particles form in water, with the short hydrophilic block located at the water-particle interface, and the long hydrophobic block constituting the particle core. Drying at room temperature creates films possessing an out of equilibrium structure, where the glassy PAA block generates a percolating network of shells. When deformed in uniaxial elongation, these films combine a high stiffness in small strains (considering the low volume fraction of PAA, of only 3 wt%), a yield stress and a significant extensibility before failure. The modulus, yield stress and extensibility can be tuned by modifying the composition of the latex serum with cations or positively charged low molar mass polymers, or by changing the copolymer composition. Of particular interest was the synthesis by PISA of particles of triblock copolymer PAA-b-PBA-b-PS. The out of equilibrium structure obtained had a very interesting combination of high stiffness, extensibility and high fracture toughness.

Graphical abstract

http://ift.tt/2iv8kp3

Pleiotropic effects of oxidized phospholipids

Publication date: Available online 24 December 2016
Source:Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Author(s): Valery Bochkov, Bernd Gesslbauer, Christina Mauerhofer, Maria Philippova, Paul Erne, Olga V. Oskolkova
Oxidized phospholipids (OxPLs) are increasingly recognized to play a role in a variety of normal and pathological states. OxPLs were implicated in regulation of inflammation, thrombosis, angiogenesis, endothelial barrier function, immune tolerance and other important processes. Rapidly accumulating evidence suggests that OxPLs are biomarkers of atherosclerosis and other pathologies. In addition, successful application of experimental drugs based on structural scaffold of OxPLs in animal models of inflammation was recently reported. This review briefly summarizes current knowledge on generation, methods of quantification and biological activities of OxPLs. Furthermore, receptor and cellular mechanisms of these effects are discussed. The goal of the review is to give a broad overview of this class of lipid mediators inducing pleiotropic biological effects.



http://ift.tt/2hpTBzJ

Modulation of ventral striatal activity by cognitive effort

Publication date: 15 February 2017
Source:NeuroImage, Volume 147
Author(s): Ekaterina Dobryakova, Ryan K. Jessup, Elizabeth Tricomi
Effort discounting theory suggests that the value of a reward should be lower if it was effortful to obtain, whereas contrast theory suggests that the contrast between the costly effort and the reward makes the reward seem more valuable. To test these alternative hypotheses, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as participants engaged in feedback-based learning that required low or high cognitive effort to obtain positive feedback, while the objective amount of information provided by feedback remained constant. In the low effort condition, a single image was presented with four response options. In the high effort condition, two images were presented, each with two response options, and correct feedback was presented only when participants responded correctly to both of the images. Accuracy was significantly lower for the high effort condition, and all participants reported that the high effort condition was more difficult. A region of the ventral striatum selected for sensitivity to feedback value also showed increased activation to feedback presentation associated with the high effort condition relative to the low effort condition, when controlling for activation from corresponding control conditions where feedback was random. These results suggest that increased cognitive effort produces corresponding increases in positive feedback-related ventral striatum activity, in line with the predictions made by contrast theory. The accomplishment of obtaining a hard-earned intrinsic reward, such as positive feedback, may be particularly likely to promote reward-related brain activity.



http://ift.tt/2heWdLS

Imbalance between the anti- and pro-inflammatory milieu in blood leukocytes of autistic children

Publication date: February 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 82
Author(s): Sheikh F. Ahmad, Ahmed Nadeem, Mushtaq A. Ansari, Saleh A. Bakheet, Sabry M. Attia, Khairy M.A. Zoheir, Laila Yousef AL-Ayadhi, Mohammad Z. Alzahrani, Abdulaziz M.S. Alsaad, Moureq R. Alotaibi, Adel R.A. Abd-Allah
Accumulating evidence suggests an association between immune dysfunction and autism disorders in a significant subset of children. In addition, an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways has been proposed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of several neurodevelopmental disorders including autism; however, the role of anti-inflammatory molecules IL-27 and CTLA-4 and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-21 and IL-22 has not previously been explored in autistic children. In the current study, we investigated the expression of IL-21, IL-22, IL-27, and CD152 (CTLA-4) following an in-vitro immunological challenge of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from children with autism (AU) or typically-developing children (TD) with phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and ionomycin. In our study, cells from children with AU had increased IL-21 and IL-22 and decreased CTLA-4 expression on CD4⁺ T cells as compared with cells from the TD control. Similarly, AU cells showed decreased IL-27 production by CD14⁺ cells compared to that of TD control cells. These results were confirmed by real-time PCR and western blot analyses. Our study shows dysregulation of the immune balance in cells from autistic children as depicted by enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokines, 'IL-21/IL-22' and decreased anti-inflammatory molecules, 'IL-27/CTLA-4'. Thus, further study of this immune imbalance in autistic children is warranted in order to facilitate development of biomarkers and therapeutics.



http://ift.tt/2i5JKw0

Imbalance between the anti- and pro-inflammatory milieu in blood leukocytes of autistic children

Publication date: February 2017
Source:Molecular Immunology, Volume 82
Author(s): Sheikh F. Ahmad, Ahmed Nadeem, Mushtaq A. Ansari, Saleh A. Bakheet, Sabry M. Attia, Khairy M.A. Zoheir, Laila Yousef AL-Ayadhi, Mohammad Z. Alzahrani, Abdulaziz M.S. Alsaad, Moureq R. Alotaibi, Adel R.A. Abd-Allah
Accumulating evidence suggests an association between immune dysfunction and autism disorders in a significant subset of children. In addition, an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory pathways has been proposed to play an important role in the pathogenesis of several neurodevelopmental disorders including autism; however, the role of anti-inflammatory molecules IL-27 and CTLA-4 and pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-21 and IL-22 has not previously been explored in autistic children. In the current study, we investigated the expression of IL-21, IL-22, IL-27, and CD152 (CTLA-4) following an in-vitro immunological challenge of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from children with autism (AU) or typically-developing children (TD) with phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and ionomycin. In our study, cells from children with AU had increased IL-21 and IL-22 and decreased CTLA-4 expression on CD4⁺ T cells as compared with cells from the TD control. Similarly, AU cells showed decreased IL-27 production by CD14⁺ cells compared to that of TD control cells. These results were confirmed by real-time PCR and western blot analyses. Our study shows dysregulation of the immune balance in cells from autistic children as depicted by enhanced pro-inflammatory cytokines, 'IL-21/IL-22' and decreased anti-inflammatory molecules, 'IL-27/CTLA-4'. Thus, further study of this immune imbalance in autistic children is warranted in order to facilitate development of biomarkers and therapeutics.



http://ift.tt/2i5JKw0

Critical evaluation of reverse engineering tool Imagix 4D!

IntroductionThe comprehension of legacy codes is difficult to understand. Various commercial reengineering tools are available that have unique working styles, and are equipped with their inherent capabilities and shortcomings. The focus of the available tools is in visualizing static behavior not the dynamic one. Therefore, it is difficult for people who work in software product maintenance, code understanding reengineering/reverse engineering. Consequently, the need for a comprehensive reengineering/reverse engineering tool arises. We found the usage of Imagix 4D to be good as it generates the maximum pictorial representations in the form of flow charts, flow graphs, class diagrams, metrics and, to a partial extent, dynamic visualizations.Case description and evolutionWe evaluated Imagix 4D with the help of a case study involving a few samples of source code. The behavior of the tool was analyzed on multiple small codes and a large code gcc C parser. Large code evaluation was performed to uncover dead code, unstructured code, and the effect of not including required files at preprocessing level. The utility of Imagix 4D to prepare decision density and complexity metrics for a large code was found to be useful in getting to know how much reengineering is required. At the outset, Imagix 4D offered limitations in dynamic visualizations, flow chart separation (large code) and parsing loops. Conclusion: The outcome of evaluation will eventually help in upgrading Imagix 4D and posed a need of full featured tools in the area of software reengineering/reverse engineering. It will also help the research community, especially those who are interested in the realm of software reengineering tool building.

http://ift.tt/2hPN2FR

The evolution of hierarchical triple star-systems

Field stars are frequently formed in pairs, and many of these binaries are part of triples or even higher-order systems. Even though, the principles of single stellar evolution and binary evolution, have been accepted for a long time, the long-term evolution of stellar triples is poorly understood. The presence of a third star in an orbit around a binary system can significantly alter the evolution of those stars and the binary system. The rich dynamical behaviour in three-body systems can give rise to Lidov-Kozai cycles, in which the eccentricity of the inner orbit and the inclination between the inner and outer orbit vary periodically. In turn, this can lead to an enhancement of tidal effects (tidal friction), gravitational-wave emission and stellar interactions such as mass transfer and collisions. The lack of a self-consistent treatment of triple evolution, including both three-body dynamics as well as stellar evolution, hinders the systematic study and general understanding of the long-term evolution of triple systems. In this paper, we aim to address some of these hiatus, by discussing the dominant physical processes of hierarchical triple evolution, and presenting heuristic recipes for these processes. To improve our understanding on hierarchical stellar triples, these descriptions are implemented in a public source code TrES, which combines three-body dynamics (based on the secular approach) with stellar evolution and their mutual influences. Note that modelling through a phase of stable mass transfer in an eccentric orbit is currently not implemented in TrES, but can be implemented with the appropriate methodology at a later stage.

http://ift.tt/2inlQLl

Infinity of subharmonics for Duffing equations with convex and oscillatory nonlinearities

The existence of infinity of subharmonics for Duffing equations with convex and oscillatory nonlinearities is shown. This result is a corollary of two theorems. These theorems, one for a weak sub-quadratic potential and another for a geometric case, roughly speaking, are complementary. The approach of this paper is based on the phase-plane analysis for the time map and using the Poincaré-Birkhoff twist theorem.

http://ift.tt/2intK7E

DEF - a programming language agnostic framework and execution environment for the parallel execution of library routines

There is high demand for library routines that can be included into arbitrary programs and executed in parallel in the Cloud. So our approach is to provide a framework that supports the parallelized execution of library routines, written in different programming languages, from any platform. Our Distributed Execution Framework (DEF) allows to (1) deploy arbitrary routines into a central library and (2) integrate these library routines at runtime into user programs in a way that allows the routines to be executed in parallel in the Cloud. The programming and runtime environment of the library routine is completely transparent to the user and the chosen programming and runtime environment. DEF provides client and library APIs with primitives like search_lib(), create_task(), submit_job() which are integrated into the user's program to access the DEF runtime. DEF allows the user to configure clusters in a public/private Cloud and automatically distributes the tasks for executing the library routines on the workers of the cluster.

http://ift.tt/2hLTOfy

Correlations of microRNA-124a and microRNA-30d with clinicopathological features of breast cancer patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

This study intends to investigate the correlations of miR-124a and miR-30d with clinicopathological features of breast cancer (BC) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 72 BC patients with T2DM (diabetic group) and 144 BC patients without T2DM (non-diabetic group) were enrolled in this study. Blood glucose was detected by glucose oxidase methods. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Fasting insulin (FIns) was measured by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Automatic biochemical analyzer was used to detect triglyceride, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Estradiol (E 2 ) was detected by radioimmunoassay. Homeostasis model assessment was applied to assess the insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and β-cell insulin secretion (HOMA-IS). The expressions of miR124a and miR-30d were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). There were significant differences in age, the ratio of menopause, body mass index (BMI), HDL-C, TC, 2-h plasma glucose (2hPG), FIns, HbA1c, HOMA-IS and HOMA-IR between the diabetic and non-diabetic groups. The diabetic group had higher incidence of lymph node metastasis than non-diabetic group. The miR-124a expression was down-regulated while the miR-30d expression was up-regulated in BC patients with T2DM. The correlation analysis showed that miR-124a expression was positively correlated with HDL-C, while it was negatively correlated with age, HbA1c, LDL-C and E 2 . However, the miR-30d expression was negatively correlated with HDL-C but positively correlated with age, HbA1c, LDL-C and E 2 . In conclusion, miR-124a and miR-30d may be correlated with clinicopathological features of BC patients with T2DM. The miR-124a and miR-30d could serve as novel biomarkers for early diagnosis of BC in patients with T2DM.

http://ift.tt/2igo9nJ

DEF - a programming language agnostic framework and execution environment for the parallel execution of library routines

There is high demand for library routines that can be included into arbitrary programs and executed in parallel in the Cloud. So our approach is to provide a framework that supports the parallelized execution of library routines, written in different programming languages, from any platform. Our Distributed Execution Framework (DEF) allows to (1) deploy arbitrary routines into a central library and (2) integrate these library routines at runtime into user programs in a way that allows the routines to be executed in parallel in the Cloud. The programming and runtime environment of the library routine is completely transparent to the user and the chosen programming and runtime environment. DEF provides client and library APIs with primitives like search_lib(), create_task(), submit_job() which are integrated into the user's program to access the DEF runtime. DEF allows the user to configure clusters in a public/private Cloud and automatically distributes the tasks for executing the library routines on the workers of the cluster.

http://ift.tt/2hLTOfy

Correlations of microRNA-124a and microRNA-30d with clinicopathological features of breast cancer patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

This study intends to investigate the correlations of miR-124a and miR-30d with clinicopathological features of breast cancer (BC) patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A total of 72 BC patients with T2DM (diabetic group) and 144 BC patients without T2DM (non-diabetic group) were enrolled in this study. Blood glucose was detected by glucose oxidase methods. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) was measured by high performance liquid chromatography. Fasting insulin (FIns) was measured by chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay. Automatic biochemical analyzer was used to detect triglyceride, total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Estradiol (E 2 ) was detected by radioimmunoassay. Homeostasis model assessment was applied to assess the insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and β-cell insulin secretion (HOMA-IS). The expressions of miR124a and miR-30d were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). There were significant differences in age, the ratio of menopause, body mass index (BMI), HDL-C, TC, 2-h plasma glucose (2hPG), FIns, HbA1c, HOMA-IS and HOMA-IR between the diabetic and non-diabetic groups. The diabetic group had higher incidence of lymph node metastasis than non-diabetic group. The miR-124a expression was down-regulated while the miR-30d expression was up-regulated in BC patients with T2DM. The correlation analysis showed that miR-124a expression was positively correlated with HDL-C, while it was negatively correlated with age, HbA1c, LDL-C and E 2 . However, the miR-30d expression was negatively correlated with HDL-C but positively correlated with age, HbA1c, LDL-C and E 2 . In conclusion, miR-124a and miR-30d may be correlated with clinicopathological features of BC patients with T2DM. The miR-124a and miR-30d could serve as novel biomarkers for early diagnosis of BC in patients with T2DM.

http://ift.tt/2igo9nJ

Molecular cloning, polymorphism, and functional activity of the bovine and water buffalo Mx2 gene promoter region

Background: Bovine Mx2 gene sequences were already reported, but further information about the gene properties is not yet available. The objective of the current study was to elucidate the structural properties of the bovine Mx2 gene mainly the promoter region and its possible functional role. If available, such information would help in assessing the functional properties of the gene, which was reported to confer antiviral action against recombinant VSV. Results: Examinations on the bovine genomic BAC clone—confirmed to contain the Mx2 gene—revealed 883-bp sequences. A computer scan unequivocally identified a 788-bp promoter region containing a typical TATA box, three ISREs and other promoter-specific motifs. Comparative analysis of nine bovine genomic DNA samples showed 19 nucleotide substitutions suggesting the existence of five different genotypes in the promoter region. The water buffalo Mx2 promoter region was determined by using primers based on the bovine Mx2 promoter region disclosing 893-bp, with 56 substitutions, two insertions, 9 and 1 nt at two different sites. A functional analysis of the putative ISRE indicated that ISRE played a synergetic role in the activation of bovine Mx2 gene transcription. Conclusion: Bovine and water buffalo Mx2 promoter region was identified disclosing, the conserved ISRE, located in the proximal end of the promoter region like other members of the antiviral family, suggesting functional activity under interferon stimulation.

http://ift.tt/2igk7vl

Molecular cloning, polymorphism, and functional activity of the bovine and water buffalo Mx2 gene promoter region

Background: Bovine Mx2 gene sequences were already reported, but further information about the gene properties is not yet available. The objective of the current study was to elucidate the structural properties of the bovine Mx2 gene mainly the promoter region and its possible functional role. If available, such information would help in assessing the functional properties of the gene, which was reported to confer antiviral action against recombinant VSV. Results: Examinations on the bovine genomic BAC clone—confirmed to contain the Mx2 gene—revealed 883-bp sequences. A computer scan unequivocally identified a 788-bp promoter region containing a typical TATA box, three ISREs and other promoter-specific motifs. Comparative analysis of nine bovine genomic DNA samples showed 19 nucleotide substitutions suggesting the existence of five different genotypes in the promoter region. The water buffalo Mx2 promoter region was determined by using primers based on the bovine Mx2 promoter region disclosing 893-bp, with 56 substitutions, two insertions, 9 and 1 nt at two different sites. A functional analysis of the putative ISRE indicated that ISRE played a synergetic role in the activation of bovine Mx2 gene transcription. Conclusion: Bovine and water buffalo Mx2 promoter region was identified disclosing, the conserved ISRE, located in the proximal end of the promoter region like other members of the antiviral family, suggesting functional activity under interferon stimulation.

http://ift.tt/2igk7vl

A new proof-of-work mechanism for bitcoin

Background: Bitcoin system, when more than 51% computing power is controlled by a single node, the block chain can be distorted maliciously. This is called 51% attack which is a well-known potential risk that could destroy the Bitcoin system.MethodThe paper proves that under the current proof-of-work mechanism, computing power eventually will be centralized at a single node if miners are rational enough.ResultThe paper propose a new proof-of-work mechanism that improves decentralization and reduces the risk of 51% attack without increasing the risk of Sybil attack.ConcusionsThis new mechanism introduces a series of principles such as Career open to all talents, without distinction of birth, Distribution according to labor and All Men are created equal.

http://ift.tt/2i6ePj0

A new proof-of-work mechanism for bitcoin

Background: Bitcoin system, when more than 51% computing power is controlled by a single node, the block chain can be distorted maliciously. This is called 51% attack which is a well-known potential risk that could destroy the Bitcoin system.MethodThe paper proves that under the current proof-of-work mechanism, computing power eventually will be centralized at a single node if miners are rational enough.ResultThe paper propose a new proof-of-work mechanism that improves decentralization and reduces the risk of 51% attack without increasing the risk of Sybil attack.ConcusionsThis new mechanism introduces a series of principles such as Career open to all talents, without distinction of birth, Distribution according to labor and All Men are created equal.

http://ift.tt/2i6ePj0

Unravelling the glass trade bead sequence from Magoro Hill, South Africa: separating pre-seventeenth-century Asian imports from later European counterparts

Excavations conducted between 2010 and 2012 at Magoro Hill, a site in South Africa's Limpopo Province frequented or intermittently occupied by African farming communities since the first millennium AD, yielded a substantial glass bead assemblage. A selection of the beads was studied non-destructively by classifying them according to morphological attributes, supplemented by Raman analyses and XRF measurements. It became evident that a morphological classification of beads recovered from sites that include imports into Africa after the seventeenth century AD could be problematic due to apparent morphological similarities between earlier and later beads. This paper demonstrates the use and archaeological application of Raman and XRF measurements to separate earlier imported beads from later counterparts by identifying glass nanostructure, as well as pigments and opacifiers, which were not used in bead series pre-dating the seventeenth century AD. Results obtained from Raman and XRF measurements indicate that although some beads retrieved from Magoro Hill pre-date the seventeenth century and belong to the Indo-Pacific (K2, East Coast, Khami) and Zimbabwe series, the largest number of beads is from a later European origin. This ties in with the settlement history of the site, which suggests that it primarily served as a rendezvous for episodic rainmaking rituals before it became the stronghold and capital of a Venda chiefdom, headed by the Magoro dynasty, in the second half of the eighteenth century AD. The comparative analysis of the long bead sequence sheds new light on changing patterns in the availability, range, consumption and origin of glass trade beads imported into the northern interior of South Africa over a period of about 1000 years.Graphical abstractGRAPHICAL ABSTRACT CAPTION

http://ift.tt/2heLiH0

Unravelling the glass trade bead sequence from Magoro Hill, South Africa: separating pre-seventeenth-century Asian imports from later European counterparts

Excavations conducted between 2010 and 2012 at Magoro Hill, a site in South Africa's Limpopo Province frequented or intermittently occupied by African farming communities since the first millennium AD, yielded a substantial glass bead assemblage. A selection of the beads was studied non-destructively by classifying them according to morphological attributes, supplemented by Raman analyses and XRF measurements. It became evident that a morphological classification of beads recovered from sites that include imports into Africa after the seventeenth century AD could be problematic due to apparent morphological similarities between earlier and later beads. This paper demonstrates the use and archaeological application of Raman and XRF measurements to separate earlier imported beads from later counterparts by identifying glass nanostructure, as well as pigments and opacifiers, which were not used in bead series pre-dating the seventeenth century AD. Results obtained from Raman and XRF measurements indicate that although some beads retrieved from Magoro Hill pre-date the seventeenth century and belong to the Indo-Pacific (K2, East Coast, Khami) and Zimbabwe series, the largest number of beads is from a later European origin. This ties in with the settlement history of the site, which suggests that it primarily served as a rendezvous for episodic rainmaking rituals before it became the stronghold and capital of a Venda chiefdom, headed by the Magoro dynasty, in the second half of the eighteenth century AD. The comparative analysis of the long bead sequence sheds new light on changing patterns in the availability, range, consumption and origin of glass trade beads imported into the northern interior of South Africa over a period of about 1000 years.Graphical abstractGRAPHICAL ABSTRACT CAPTION

http://ift.tt/2heLiH0

Dirichlet type problems for Dunkl-Poisson equations

In this paper, using the intertwine relations of differential operators, we study one representation of real analytic functions by Dunkl-harmonic functions, which is a generalization of the well-known Almansi formula. As an application of the representation, we construct a solution of the Dunkl-Poisson equations in Clifford analysis. Then we investigate solutions of homogeneous and inhomogeneous Dirichlet type problems for Dunkl-Poisson's equation, and inhomogeneous Dirichlet problems for Dunkl-Laplace's equation.MSC: 30G35, 35J05, 58C50.

http://ift.tt/2hXcAPm

Dirichlet type problems for Dunkl-Poisson equations

In this paper, using the intertwine relations of differential operators, we study one representation of real analytic functions by Dunkl-harmonic functions, which is a generalization of the well-known Almansi formula. As an application of the representation, we construct a solution of the Dunkl-Poisson equations in Clifford analysis. Then we investigate solutions of homogeneous and inhomogeneous Dirichlet type problems for Dunkl-Poisson's equation, and inhomogeneous Dirichlet problems for Dunkl-Laplace's equation.MSC: 30G35, 35J05, 58C50.

http://ift.tt/2hXcAPm

Extensibility and Distensibility of the Thoracic Aorta in Patients with Aneurysm

Publication date: Available online 24 December 2016
Source:European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
Author(s): H.W.L. de Beaufort, F.J.H. Nauta, M. Conti, E. Cellitti, C. Trentin, E. Faggiano, G.H.W. van Bogerijen, C.A. Figueroa, F.L. Moll, J.A. van Herwaarden, F. Auricchio, S. Trimarchi
ObjectivesReference values of aortic deformation during the cardiac cycle can be valuable for the pre-operative planning of thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) and for facilitating computational fluid dynamics. This study aimed to quantify normal aortic extensibility (longitudinal extension) and distensibility (radial expansion), as well as pulsatile strain, in a group of 10 (>60 years) individuals with abdominal or thoracic aortic aneurysms.MethodsECG gated CT images of the thoracic aorta were reconstructed into virtual 3D models of aortic geometry. The centre lumen line length of the thoracic aorta and three longitudinal segments, and the aortic diameter and luminal areas of four radial intersections were extracted with a dedicated software script to calculate extensibility, longitudinal strain, distensibility, and circumferential area strain.ResultsMean extensibility and longitudinal strain of the entire thoracic aorta were 3.5 [1.3–6.8] × 10⁻³ N⁻¹, and 2.7 [1.0–4.5]%, respectively. Extensibility and longitudinal strain were most pronounced in the ascending aorta (20.6 [5.7–36.2] × 10⁻³ N⁻¹ and 15.9 [6.6–31.9]%) and smallest in the descending aorta (4.4 [1.6–12.3] × 10⁻³ N⁻¹ and 2.2 [0.7–4.7]%). Mean distensibility and circumferential area strain were most pronounced at the sinotubular junction (1.7 [0.5–2.9] × 10⁻³ mmHg⁻¹ and 11.3 [3.3–18.5]%, respectively). Distensibility varied between 0.9 [0.3–2.5] × 10⁻³ mmHg⁻¹ and 1.2 [0.3–3.3] × 10⁻³ mmHg⁻¹ at the intersections in the aortic arch and descending aorta.ConclusionsPulsatile deformations in both longitudinal and circumferential directions are considerable throughout the thoracic aorta. These findings may have implications for pre-operative TEVAR planning and highlight the need for devices that can mimic the significant aortic longitudinal and circumferential strains.



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Iliac Seal Zone Dynamics and Clinical Consequences After Endovascular Aneurysm Repair

Publication date: Available online 24 December 2016
Source:European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery
Author(s): F. Bastos Gonçalves, N.F. Oliveira, M. Josee van Rijn, K.H.J. Ultee, S.E. Hoeks, S. Ten Raa, R.J. Stolker, H.J.M. Verhagen
ObjectiveTo evaluate the dynamics of the iliac attachment zone after EVAR, and the association with clinical events.MethodsA tertiary institution's prospective EVAR database was searched to identify common iliac arteries at risk. Internally validated measurements were made, using centre lumen line reconstructions. Iliac dilatation and endograft limb retraction were the main endpoints. Associations between dilatation, retraction, oversizing, and distal seal length were investigated. Association with clinical events (sealing or occlusion) was also explored.ResultsOf 452 primary EVAR patients treated from 2004 to 2012, 341 were included (mean age 72 years, 12% female, 597 common iliac arteries). Median follow-up was 4.7 years. At 30 days, the mean iliac diameter increased from 14 mm to 15 mm (p < .001). Over follow-up, it increased to 18 mm (p < .001). Iliac dilatation ≥20% occurred in 295 cases (49.4%) and exceeded the implanted endograft diameter in 170 (28.7%). Limb retraction ≥5 mm was identified in 54 patients (9.1%) and was associated with iliac seal complications (p < 0.001). Iliac endograft extension diameter ≥24 mm (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.7–6.4) and iliac artery dilatation beyond the endograft (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.2–3.8) were independent risk factors. Overall, there were 34 (5.7%) iliac seal complications. Retraction of the iliac endograft (OR 1.17 per mm, 95% CI 1.10–1.24) and baseline AAA diameter (1.04 per mm, 95% CI 1.01–1.07) were independent risk factors for seal related complications. Greater initial post-operative iliac seal length was protective (OR 0.94 per mm, 95% CI 0.90–0.97).ConclusionsIliac dilatation and endograft retraction are common findings during follow-up, potentially leading to adverse clinical events. Optimisation of the iliac seal zone providing a long distal seal length and added attention to patients with large aneurysms or receiving ≥24 mm diameter iliac extensions are recommended. Also, long-term surveillance including CTA is advised to reveal and correct loss of seal at the iliac attachments before adverse clinical events occur.



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The arguments for and against cannabinoids application in glaucomatous retinopathy

Publication date: February 2017
Source:Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, Volume 86
Author(s): Yunes Panahi, Azadeh Manayi, Marjan Nikan, Mahdi Vazirian
Glaucoma represents several optic neuropathies leading to irreversible blindness through progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss. Reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP) is known as the only modifiable factor in the treatment of this disorder. Application of exogenous cannabinoids to lower IOP has attracted attention of scientists as potential agents for the treatment of glaucoma. Accordingly, neuroprotective effect of these agents has been recently described through modulation of endocannabinoid system in the eye. In the present work, pertinent information regarding ocular endocannabinoid system, mechanism of exogenous cannabinoids interaction with the ocular endocannabinoid system to reduce IOP, and neuroprotection property of cannabinoids will be discussed according to current scientific literature. In addition to experimental studies, bioavailability of cannabinoids, clinical surveys, and adverse effects of application of cannabinoids in glaucoma will be reviewed.



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Assessment of lead-time bias in estimates of relative survival for breast cancer

Publication date: February 2017
Source:Cancer Epidemiology, Volume 46
Author(s): Therese M.-L. Andersson, Mark J. Rutherford, Keith Humphreys
Relative survival ratios (RSRs) can be useful for evaluating the impact of changes in cancer care on the prognosis of cancer patients or for comparing the prognosis for different subgroups of patients, but their use is problematic for cancer sites where screening has been introduced due to the potential of lead-time bias. Lead-time is survival time that is added to a patient's survival time because of an earlier diagnosis irrespective of a possibly postponed time of death. In the presence of screening it is difficult to disentangle how much of an observed improvement in survival is real and how much is due to lead-time bias. Even so, RSRs are often presented for breast cancer, a site where screening has led to early diagnosis, with the assumption that the lead-time bias is small. We describe a simulation-based framework for studying the lead-time bias due to mammography screening on RSRs of breast cancer based on a natural history model developed in a Swedish setting. We have performed simulations, using this framework, under different assumptions for screening sensitivity and breast cancer survival with the aim of estimating the lead-time bias. Screening every second year among ages 40–75 was introduced assuming that screening had no effect on survival, except for lead-time bias. Relative survival was estimated both with and without screening to enable quantification of the lead-time bias. Scenarios with low, moderate and high breast cancer survival, and low, moderate and high screening sensitivity were simulated, and the lead-time bias assessed in all scenarios.



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How Do We Keep Information ‘Online’?

Publication date: Available online 24 December 2016
Source:Trends in Cognitive Sciences
Author(s): David Soto
New magnetoencephalography (MEG) results indicate that a putative marker of conscious processes – namely, the global broadcasting of information across large-scale cortical networks – can also operate during the maintenance of non-conscious input. I discuss the implications for the theoretical linkage between conscious awareness and working memory functions.



http://ift.tt/2i7AFp8

Obituary – Michael Goitein

Publication date: Available online 24 December 2016
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Herman Suit, George Chen, Thomas Bortfeld, Alfred Smith, Jay Loeffler, Edward Epp, Andrzej Niemierko, Gudrun Goitein




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Continuous Activity Monitoring during Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy

Publication date: Available online 25 December 2016
Source:International Journal of Radiation Oncology*Biology*Physics
Author(s): Nitin Ohri, Rafi Kabarriti, William R. Bodner, Keyur J. Mehta, Viswanathan Shankar, Balazs Halmos, Missak Haigentz, Bruce Rapkin, Chandan Guha, Shalom Kalnicki, Madhur Garg
BackgroundWearable activity monitors are widely available and marketed as fitness trackers. We performed a prospective trial testing the feasibility and utility of acquiring activity data as a measure of health status during concurrent chemoradiotherapy.MethodsAmbulatory patients who were planned for treatment with concurrent chemoradiotherapy with curative intent for cancers of the head and neck, lung, or gastrointestinal (GI) tract were provided with activity monitors prior to treatment initiation. Patients were asked to wear the devices continuously throughout the radiotherapy course. Step count data were downloaded at weekly during radiotherapy and two and four weeks after radiotherapy completion. The primary objective was to demonstrate feasibility, defined as collection of step counts for 80% of the days during study subjects' radiotherapy courses. Secondary objectives included establishing step count as a dynamic predictor of unplanned hospitalization risk.ResultsThirty-eight enrolled patients were treated with concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Primary diagnoses included head and neck cancer (n=11), lung cancer (n=13), and a variety of GI cancers (n=14). Step data were collected for 1524 out of 1613 days (94%) during patients' radiotherapy courses. Fourteen patients were hospitalized during radiotherapy or within four weeks of radiotherapy completion. Cox regression modeling demonstrated a significant association between recent step counts (3-day average) and hospitalization risk, with a 38% reduction in the risk of hospitalization for every 1,000 steps taken each day (HR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.83, p=0.002). Inferior quality of life scores and impaired performance status were not associated with increased hospitalization risk.ConclusionContinuous activity monitoring during concurrent chemoradiotherapy is feasible and well-tolerated. Step counts may serve as powerful, objective, and dynamic indicators of hospitalization risk.

Teaser

We performed a prospective trial demonstrating the feasibility of collecting activity data using a commercial fitness tracker during concurrent chemoradiotherapy for cancers of the head and neck, lung, or gastrointestinal tract. We also found that daily step count was a powerful predictor of short-term hospitalization risk. Activity monitoring should be explored as a tool to aid in the evaluation and management of patients receiving cancer therapy.


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