Strain rate dependent behavior of the porcine spinal cord under transverse dynamic compression

The accurate description of the mechanical properties of spinal cord tissue benefits to clinical evaluation of spinal cord injuries and is a required input for analysis tools such as finite element models. Unfortunately, available data in the literature generally relate mechanical properties of the spinal cord under quasi-static loading conditions, which is not adapted to the study of traumatic behavior, as neurological tissue adopts a viscoelastic behavior. Thus, the objective of this study is to describe mechanical properties of the spinal cord up to mechanical damage, under dynamic loading conditions. A total of 192 porcine cervical to lumbar spinal cord samples were compressed in a transverse direction. Loading conditions included ramp tests at 0.5, 5 or 50 s^–1 and cyclic loading at 1, 10 or 20 Hz. Results showed that spinal cord behavior was significantly influenced by strain rate. Mechanical damage occurred at 0.64, 0.68 and 0.73 strains for 0.5, 5 or 50 s^–1 loadings, respectively. Variations of behavior between the tested strain rates were explained by cyclic loading results, which revealed behavior more or less viscous depending on strain rate. Also, a parameter (stress multiplication factor) was introduced to allow transcription of a stress–strain behavior curve to different strain rates. This factor was described and was significantly different for cervical, thoracic and lumbar vertebral heights, and for the strain rates evaluated in this study.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28PvWBx
via IFTTT

Analysis of concentric and eccentric contractions in biceps brachii muscles using surface electromyography signals and multifractal analysis

Muscle contractions can be categorized into isometric, isotonic (concentric and eccentric) and isokinetic contractions. The eccentric contractions are very effective for promoting muscle hypertrophy and produce larger forces when compared to the concentric or isometric contractions. Surface electromyography signals are widely used for analyzing muscle activities. These signals are nonstationary, nonlinear and exhibit self-similar multifractal behavior. The research on surface electromyography signals using multifractal analysis is not well established for concentric and eccentric contractions. In this study, an attempt has been made to analyze the concentric and eccentric contractions associated with biceps brachii muscles using surface electromyography signals and multifractal detrended moving average algorithm. Surface electromyography signals were recorded from 20 healthy individuals while performing a single curl exercise. The preprocessed signals were divided into concentric and eccentric cycles and in turn divided into phases based on range of motion: lower (0°–90°) and upper (>90°). The segments of surface electromyography signal were subjected to multifractal detrended moving average algorithm, and multifractal features such as strength of multifractality, peak exponent value, maximum exponent and exponent index were extracted in addition to conventional linear features such as root mean square and median frequency. The results show that surface electromyography signals exhibit multifractal behavior in both concentric and eccentric cycles. The mean strength of multifractality increased by 15% in eccentric contraction compared to concentric contraction. The lowest and highest exponent index values are observed in the upper concentric and lower eccentric contractions, respectively. The multifractal features are observed to be helpful in differentiating surface electromyography signals along the range of motion as compared to root mean square and median frequency. It appears that these multifractal features extracted from the concentric and eccentric contractions can be useful in the assessment of surface electromyography signals in sports medicine and training and also in rehabilitation programs.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28UyDpp
via IFTTT

Strain gauge analysis of implant-supported, screw-retained metal frameworks: Comparison between different manufacturing technologies

Over the past decades, the technological development in the medical field, coupled with the ongoing scientific research, has led to the development and improvement of dental prostheses supported by screw-retained metal frameworks. A key point in the manufacture of the framework is the achievement of a passive fit, intended as the capability of an implant-supported reconstruction to transmit minimum strain to implant components as well as to the surrounding bone, when subject to any load. The fitting of four different kinds of screw-retained metal frameworks was tested in this article. They differ both in materials and manufacturing process: two frameworks are made by casting, one framework is made by computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing and one framework is made by electric resistance spot welding (WeldONE, DENTSPLY Implants Manufacturing GmbH, Mannheim, Germany). The passivity of the frameworks was evaluated on the entire system, composed of a resin master cast, the implant analogues embedded in the cast and the frameworks. Strains were recorded by means of an electrical strain gauge connected to a control unit for strain gauge measurements. The experimental tests were carried out in the laboratories of the Department of INdustrial engineering at the University of Bologna. The results of the test campaigns, which compared three samples for each technological process, showed that no significant differences exist between the four framework types. In particular, the frameworks made by the resistance welding approach led to a mechanical response that is well comparable to that of the other tested frameworks.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28PvTG9
via IFTTT

Patients experiences of deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease: a qualitative systematic review and synthesis

Objective

To review and synthesise qualitative research studies that have explored patients' experience of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in advanced Parkinson's disease (PD).

Design

Systematic review and meta-synthesis of 7 original papers, using metaethnography.

Setting

Studies conducted in Denmark, France and Sweden.

Participants

116 patients who had undergone DBS and 9 spouses of patients.

Results

Prior to surgery, the experience of advancing PD is one of considerable loss and a feeling of loss of control. There are significant hopes for what DBS can bring. Following surgery, a sense of euphoria is described by many, although this does not persist and there is a need for significant transitions following this. We suggest that normality as a concept is core to the experience of DBS and that a sense of control may be a key condition for normality. Experience of DBS for patients and spouses, and of the transitions that they must undertake, is influenced by their hopes of what surgery will enable them to achieve, or regain (ie, a new normality).

Conclusions

There is a need for further qualitative research to understand the nature of these transitions to inform how best patients and their spouses can be supported by healthcare professionals before, during and after DBS. In assessing the outcomes of DBS and other treatments in advanced PD, we should consider how to capture holistic concepts such as normality and control. Studies that examine the outcomes of DBS require longer term follow-up.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Pr8vV
via IFTTT

A survey of social support for exercise and its relationship to health behaviours and health status among endurance Nordic skiers

Objectives

Regular exercise is a key component of obesity prevention and 48% of Americans do not meet minimum guidelines for weekly exercise. Social support has been shown to help individuals start and maintain exercise programmes. We evaluated social support among endurance athletes and explored the relationship between social support for exercise, health behaviours and health status.

Design

Survey.

Setting

The largest Nordic ski race in North America.

Participants

5433 past participants responded to an online questionnaire.

Outcome measures

Social support, health behaviours and health status.

Results

The mean overall support score was 32.1 (SD=16.5; possible range=–16.0 to 88.0). The most common forms of social support were verbal such as discussing exercise, invitations to exercise and celebrating the enjoyment of exercise. We found that an increase of 10 points in the social support score was associated with a 5 min increase in weekly self-reported exercise (5.02, 95% CI 3.63 to 6.41).

Conclusions

Physical activity recommendations should incorporate the importance of participation in group activities, especially those connected to strong fitness cultures created by community and competitive events.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Pr4wm
via IFTTT

What are the cost savings associated with providing access to specialist care through the Champlain BASE eConsult service? A costing evaluation

Objective

This study estimates the costs and potential savings associated with all eConsult cases completed between 1 April 2014 and 31 March 2015.

Design

Costing evaluation from the societal perspective estimating the costs and potential savings associated with all eConsults completed during the study period.

Setting

Champlain health region in Eastern Ontario, Canada.

Population

Primary care providers and specialists registered to use the eConsult service.

Main outcome measures

Costs included (1) delivery costs; (2) specialist remuneration; (3) costs associated with traditional (face-to-face) referrals initiated as a result of eConsult. Potential savings included (1) costs of traditional referrals avoided; (2) indirect patient savings through avoided travel and lost wages/productivity. Net potential societal cost savings were estimated by subtracting total costs from total potential savings.

Results

A total of 3487 eConsults were completed during the study period. In 40% of eConsults, a face-to-face specialist visit was originally contemplated but avoided as result of eConsult. In 3% of eConsults, a face-to-face specialist visit was not originally contemplated but was prompted as a result of the eConsult. From the societal perspective, total costs were estimated at $207 787 and total potential savings were $246 516. eConsult led to a net societal saving of $38 729 or $11 per eConsult.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate potential cost savings from the societal perspective, as patients avoided the travel costs and lost wages/productivity associated with face-to-face specialist visits. Greater savings are expected once we account for other costs such as avoided tests and visits and potential improved health outcomes associated with shorter wait times. Our findings are valuable for healthcare delivery decision-makers as they seek solutions to improve care in a patient-centred and efficient manner.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Pr7sd
via IFTTT

Measuring engagement in advance care planning: a cross-sectional multicentre feasibility study

Objectives

To assess the feasibility, acceptability and clinical sensibility of a novel survey, the advance care planning (ACP) Engagement Survey, in various healthcare settings.

Setting

A target sample of 50 patients from each of primary care, hospital, cancer care and dialysis care settings.

Participants

A convenience sample of patients without cognitive impairment who could speak and read English was recruited. Patients 50 and older were eligible in primary care; patients 80 and older or 55 and older with clinical markers of advanced chronic disease were recruited in hospital; patients aged 19 and older were recruited in cancer and renal dialysis centres.

Outcomes

We assessed feasibility, acceptability and clinical sensibility of the ACP Engagement Survey using a 6-point scale. The ACP Engagement Survey measures ACP processes (knowledge, contemplation, self-efficacy and readiness) on 5-point Likert scales and actions (yes/no).

Results

196 patients (38–96 years old, 50.5% women) participated. Mean (±SD) time to administer was 48.8±19.6 min. Mean acceptability scores ranged from 3.2±1.3 in hospital to 4.7±0.9 in primary care, and mean relevance ranged from 3.5±1.0 in hospital to 4.9±0.9 in dialysis centres (p<0.001 for both). The mean process score was 3.1±0.6 and the mean action score was 11.2±5.6 (of a possible 25).

Conclusions

The ACP Engagement Survey demonstrated feasibility and acceptability in outpatient settings but was less feasible and acceptable among hospitalised patients due to length. A shorter version may improve feasibility. Engagement in ACP was low to moderate.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Ur0zb
via IFTTT

"You don't immediately stick a label on them": a qualitative study of influences on general practitioners' recording of anxiety disorders

Objectives

Anxiety is a common condition usually managed in general practice (GP) in the UK. GP patient records can be used for epidemiological studies of anxiety as well as clinical audit and service planning. However, it is not clear how general practitioners (GPs) conceptualise, diagnose and document anxiety in these records. We sought to understand these factors through an interview study with GPs.

Setting

UK National Health Service (NHS) General Practice (England and Wales).

Participants

17 UK GPs.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Semistructured interviews used vignettes to explore the process of diagnosing anxiety in primary care and investigate influences on recording. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

GPs chose 12 different codes for recording anxiety in the 2 vignettes, and reported that history, symptoms and management would be recorded in free text. GPs reported on 4 themes representing influences on recording of anxiety: 'anxiety or a normal response', 'granularity of diagnosis', 'giving patients a label' and 'time as a tool'; and 3 themes about recording in general: 'justifying the choice of code', 'usefulness of coding' and 'practice-specific pressures'. GPs reported using only a regular selection of codes in patient records to help standardise records within the practice and as a time-saving measure.

Conclusions

We have identified a coding culture where GPs feel confident recognising anxiety symptoms; however, due to clinical uncertainty, a long-term perspective and a focus on management, they are reluctant to code firm diagnoses in the initial stages. Researchers using GP patient records should be aware that GPs may prefer free text, symptom codes and other general codes rather than firm diagnostic codes for anxiety.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Ur8yu
via IFTTT

Fathers role in supporting breastfeeding of preterm infants in the neonatal intensive care unit: a qualitative study

Objective

To analyse the social beliefs, representations and experiences of fathers of preterm newborns (NBs) regarding breastfeeding.

Design

A qualitative interview study with analysis of transcripts using the Alceste software.

Setting

A tertiary university hospital neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in France.

Participants

20 fathers of preterm NBs hospitalised in an NICU.

Results

The software classified 72% of the corpus into six lexical classes. Two main networks of classes emerged from the analysis: one for lactation, consisted of 'breastfeeding' and 'expression of milk' classes, and one for 'care'. The analysis demonstrated that fathers were sensitive to arguments related to the health benefits of human milk. Fathers mentioned that breastfeeding preterm NBs was constraining and tiring for their partners (multiple daily sessions of milk expression with breast pumps, time constraints and need for supplements to tube-feeding...). They also mentioned how they could genuinely help their partners during breastfeeding.

Conclusions

The results of this qualitative study provide insight into how fathers can be supportive of breastfeeding when experiencing a preterm birth. Targeted information and practical advice provided by caregivers on the first days of life can help fathers to get involved in the breastfeeding process.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Pr92X
via IFTTT

Smoking and serum vitamin D in older Chinese people: cross-sectional analysis based on the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study

Objective

Studies on serum vitamin D in smokers showed conflicting results. We examined the association of smoking status with serum vitamin D in older Chinese men, taking advantage of a community-based sample with natural exposure to vitamin D.

Design

Cross-sectional study based on the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study (GBCS).

Setting

Community-based sample from the Guangzhou Biobank Cohort Study.

Participants

612 male participants aged 50+years recruited from 2009 to 2011.

Results

The mean (SD) of vitamin D concentration was 58.3 (17.2), 57.0 (15.0) and 54.7 (15.4) nmol/L for never, former and current smokers, respectively. Adjusted for multiple confounders, vitamin D decreased from never to former, then to current smokers (P for trend 0.02). Compared to never smokers, current smokers had lower serum concentrations of vitamin D, and the concentrations decreased with the increasing number of cigarettes per day (–3.11 (95% CI –9.05 to 2.82), –3.29 (–8.3 to 1.72) and –4.61 (–8.89 to –0.33) for 1–9, 10–19 and 20+cigarettes per day, respectively; p for trend 0.01), duration of smoking (–1.39 (–6.09 to 3.30) and –5.39 (–9.42 to –1.35) for 1–39 and 40+years, respectively; p for trend 0.008) as well as pack-years (–2.89 (–6.78 to 1.01) and –5.58 (–10.48 to –0.67) for 1–39 and 40+pack-years, respectively; p for trend 0.009). Longer duration of quitting smoking was associated with higher vitamin D than was current smoking (P for trend 0.04).

Conclusions

Current smokers had lower vitamin D than never smokers, and the association showed a dose–response pattern.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28UqSQf
via IFTTT

Review of how we should define (and measure) adherence in studies examining older adults' participation in exercise classes

Exercise classes provide a range of benefits to older adults, reducing risk of illness, promoting functional ability and improving well-being. However, to be effective and achieve long-term outcomes, exercise needs to be maintained. Adherence is poor and reporting of adherence differs considerably between studies.

Objective

To explore how adherence to exercise classes for older people is defined in the literature and devise a definition for pooling data on adherence in future studies.

Design

Methodological review of the approaches used to measure adherence.

Methods

A review of the literature was carried out using narrative synthesis, based on systematic searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsychINFO. 2 investigators identified eligible studies and extracted data independently.

Results

37 papers including 34 studies were identified. 7 papers (7 studies) defined adherence as completion (retention). 30 papers (27 studies) identified adherence using attendance records. 12 papers (11 studies) based adherence on duration of exercise and 5 papers (4 studies) specified the intensity with which participants should exercise. Several studies used multiple methods.

Conclusions

There was little consensus between studies on how adherence should be defined, and even when studies used the same conceptual measure, they measured the concept using different approaches and/or had different cut-off points. Adherence related to health outcomes requires multiple measurements, for example, attendance, duration and intensity. It is important that future studies consider the outcome of the intervention when considering their definition of adherence, and we recommend a series of definitions for future use.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28UrhC7
via IFTTT

Correction: Feasibility of improving identification of familial hypercholesterolaemia in general practice: intervention development study

Qureshi N, Weng S, Tranter J, et al. Feasibility of improving identification of familial hypercholesterolaemia in general practice: intervention development study. BMJ Open 2016;6: e011734.

The following acknowledgement should be included in this paper:

This paper presents independent research funded by the National Institute for Health Research School for Primary Care Research (NIHR SPCR).

In addition, the following disclaimer should be included in this paper:

The views expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the NIHR, the NHS or the Department of Health.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Pr6Ev
via IFTTT

{beta}-Blockers in sepsis: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised control trials

Introduction

Sepsis is a common and deadly complication of infection. As part of the host response, sympathetic stimulation can result in septic myocardial depression, and metabolic, haematological and immunological dysfunction. Administration of β-blockers may attenuate this pathophysiological response to infection, but the effects on clinical outcomes are unknown. The objective of this systematic review is to determine the efficacy and safety of β-blockers in adults with sepsis using data from randomised control trials.

Methods and analysis

We will identify randomised control trials comparing treatment with β-blockers, versus placebo or standard care in adults with sepsis. Data sources will include MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, clinical trial registries and conference proceedings. Two reviewers will independently determine trial eligibility. For each included trial, we will conduct duplicate independent data extraction, risk of bias assessment and evaluation of the quality of the evidence using the GRADE approach.

Ethics and dissemination

Our systematic review will evaluate the effects of β-blockers in adults with sepsis, comprehensively summarising and appraising the available evidence from randomised control trials. The results of this systematic review will help clinicians treating patients with sepsis to understand the potential role of β-blockade, and inform future research on this topic. Our findings will be disseminated through conference presentation and publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

CRD42016036933.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28PrkeQ
via IFTTT

Correction: How do women trade-off benefits and risks in chemotherapy treatment decisions based on gene expression profiling for early-stage breast cancer? A discrete choice experiment

Marshall DA, Deal K, Bombard Y, et al. How do women trade-off benefits and risks in chemotherapy treatment decisions based on gene expression profiling for early-stage breast cancer? A discrete choice experiment. BMJ Open 2016;6:e010981.

Table 2 title should read: 'Table 2 Demographics and cancer experiences of respondents (n=1004, 21 of which were French)'. This correction does not change the interpretation of results or the manuscript.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28UqXTM
via IFTTT

Describing team development within a novel GP-led urgent care centre model: a qualitative study

Objective

Urgent care centres (UCCs) co-located within an emergency department were developed to reduce the numbers of inappropriate emergency department admissions. Since then various UCC models have developed, including a novel general practitioner (GP)-led UCC that incorporates both GPs and emergency nurse practitioners (ENPs). Traditionally these two groups do not work alongside each other within an emergency setting. Although good teamwork is crucial to better patient outcomes, there is little within the literature about the development of a team consisting of different healthcare professionals in a novel healthcare setting. Our aim was therefore to describe staff members' perspectives of team development within the GP-led UCC model.

Design

Open-ended semistructured interviews, analysed using thematic content analysis.

Setting

GP-led urgent care centres in two academic teaching hospitals in London.

Participants

15 UCC staff members including six GPs, four ENPs, two receptionists and three managers.

Results

Overall participants were positive about the interprofessional team that had developed and recognised that this process had taken time. Hierarchy within the UCC setting has diminished with time, although some residual hierarchical beliefs do appear to remain. Staff appreciated interdisciplinary collaboration was likely to improve patient care. Eight key facilitating factors for the team were identified: appointment of leaders, perception of fair workload, education on roles/skill sets and development of these, shared professional understanding, interdisciplinary working, ED collaboration, clinical guidelines and social interactions.

Conclusions

A strong interprofessional team has evolved within the GP-led UCCs over time, breaking down traditional professional divides. Future implementation of UCC models should pro-actively incorporate the eight facilitating factors identified from the outset, to enable effective teams to develop more quickly.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Ur2ah
via IFTTT

Simultaneous determination of environmental estrogens: Diethylstilbestrol and estradiol using Cu-BTC frameworks-sensitized electrode

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Liudi Ji, Yanying Wang, Kangbing Wu, Weikang Zhang
It is quite important to monitor environmental estrogens in a rapid, sensitive, simple and cost-effective manner due to their wide existence and high toxicity. Using 1,3,5-Benzenetricarboxylic acid (H3BTC) as the ligand and copper ions as the center, Cu-BTC frameworks with surface area of 654.6m²/g were prepared, and then used to construct a novel electrochemical sensing platform for diethylstilbestrol (DES) and estradiol (E2). On the surface of Cu-BTC frameworks, two oxidation waves at 0.26V and 0.45V are observed for DES and E2, and the oxidation signals are improved greatly. The prepared Cu-BTC frameworks not only enhance the accumulation efficiency of DES and E2, but also improve their electron transfer ability. The influences of pH value, modification amount of Cu-BTC and accumulation time were examined. As a result, a highly-sensitive, rapid and convenient electrochemical method was developed for the simultaneous determination of DES and E2, with detection limit of 2.7nM and 1.1nM. The practical applications manifest this new sensing system is accurate and feasible.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SQX2B
via IFTTT

Application of dried blood spot cards to determine olive oil phenols (hydroxytyrosol metabolites) in human blood

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): María Carmen López de las Hazas, Maria José Motilva, Carme Piñol, Alba Macià
In this study, a fast and simple blood sampling and sample pre-treatment method based on the use of the dried blood spot (DBS) cards and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) for the quantification of olive oil phenolic metabolites in human blood was developed and validated. After validation, the method was applied to determine hydroxytyrosol metabolites in human blood samples after the acute intake of an olive oil phenolic extract. Using the FTA DMPK-A DBS card under optimum conditions, with 20µL as the blood solution volume, 100µL of methanol/Milli-Q water (50/50, v/v) as the extraction solvent and 7 disks punched out from the card, the main hydroxytyrosol metabolites (hydroxytyrosol-3-O-sulphate and hydroxytyrosol acetate sulphate) were identified and quantified. The developed methodology allowed detecting and quantifying the generated metabolites at low μM levels. The proposed method is a significant improvement over existing methods to determine phenolic metabolites circulating in blood and plasma samples, thus making blood sampling possible with the volunteer pricking their own finger, and the subsequent storage of the blood in the DBS cards prior to chromatographic analysis.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SR9Pl
via IFTTT

Copolymeric hexyl acrylate-methacrylic acid microspheres – surface vs. bulk reactive carboxyl groups. Coulometric and colorimetric determination and analytical applications for heterogeneous microtitration

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Emilia Stelmach, Krzysztof Maksymiuk, Agata Michalska
Copolymeric acrylate microspheres were prepared from hexyl acrylate using different amounts of methacrylic acid, resulting in a series of microspheres of gradually changing properties. The distribution of carboxyl groups – between surface and bulk of microspheres was evaluated. Bulk reactive carboxyl groups were determined using reverse coulometric titration with H⁺ ions, following hydroxide ions have been generated and allowed to react with microspheres in the first step. It was found that the number of reactive carboxyl groups available in copolymeric microspheres is lower compared to number of methacrylic acid units used for polymerization process. Moreover, there is correlation between the number of groups introduced and found to be reactive in microspheres. On the other hand, the number of surface reactive groups was proportional to the number of groups introduced in course of polymerization. Thus, the surface reactive groups can be used as reagent, in novel heterogeneous microtitration procedure, in which a constant number of microspheres of different carboxyl groups contents is introduced to the sample to react with the analyte. The applicability of novel proposed method was tested on the example of Ni²⁺ determination.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SRaCQ
via IFTTT

Nuclear forensic analysis of a non-traditional actinide sample

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Jamie L. Doyle, Kevin Kuhn, Benjamin Byerly, Lisa Colletti, James Fulwyler, Katherine Garduno, Russel Keller, Elmer Lujan, Alexander Martinez, Steve Myers, Donivan Porterfield, Khalil Spencer, Floyd Stanley, Lisa Townsend, Mariam Thomas, Laurie Walker, Ning Xu, Lav Tandon
Nuclear forensic publications, performance tests, and research and development efforts typically target the bulk global inventory of intentionally safeguarded materials, such as plutonium (Pu) and uranium (U). Other materials, such as neptunium (Np), pose a nuclear security risk as well. Trafficking leading to recovery of an interdicted Np sample is a realistic concern especially for materials originating in countries that reprocesses fuel. Using complementary forensic methods, potential signatures for an unknown Np oxide sample were investigated. Measurement results were assessed against published Np processes to present hypotheses as to the original intended use, method of production, and origin for this Np oxide.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SRd1j
via IFTTT

Synthesis of single-crystal α-MnO2 nanotubes-loaded Ag@C core–shell matrix and their application for electrochemical sensing of nonenzymatic hydrogen peroxide

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Sai Zhang, Jianbin Zheng
A nonenzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensor was fabricated by combing the crystal α-MnO2 nanotubes and Ag@C core–shell matrix with their own superior characteristics. The morphology, size and electrochemical of the sensing interface materials and the relationship between the electrical catalytic properties and sensor response performance were also studied, established a new method for the detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). The structure and morphology of hollow tubular-like MnO2 and MnO2-Ag@C film were characterized by scanning electron micrograph (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction. The electrochemical properties of the sensor were explored by cyclic voltammetry and amperometry. The investigation showed that the MnO2-Ag@C at the sensor exhibited a high electrocatalytic activity towards electroreduction of hydrogen peroxide; and under the optimal conditions, the linear ranges of hydrogen peroxide were 0.5μM to 5.7mM with a low detection limit of 0.17μM (S/N=3) and high sensitivity of 127.2μAmM⁻¹cm⁻². Compared with other nonenzymatic hydrogen peroxide sensor, the fabricated sensor own lower detection limit, demonstrating that MnO2-Ag@C nanocomposite film will be a new promising platform for the construction of hydrogen peroxide sensors.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SQWLJ
via IFTTT

Inside front cover

Publication date: 1 September 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 158





from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SR9ig
via IFTTT

Development and validation of a RP-UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method for the chiral separation and determination of flavanone, naringenin and hesperetin enantiomers

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Irena Baranowska, Judyta Hejniak, Sylwia Magiera
A quick and sensitive RP-UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method for the separation of flavanone, naringenin and hesperetin enantiomers was developed. The separation of analytes was performed using a Chiralpak AD-3R column, and methanol was used as the mobile phase. Detection was carried out using a triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer with an electrospray ionisation source. Positive ionisation and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) were used. The developed method showed satisfactory linearity with determination coefficients greater than 0.996 in the concentration ranges of 2.5–100.0ngmL⁻¹ for naringenin and flavanone enantiomers and 0.5–100.0ngmL⁻¹ for hesperetin enantiomers. The limits of quantification varied from 0.1 to 2.0ngmL⁻¹. The intra-day and inter-day precisions were below 15%, and the accuracy varied from −13.6% to 13.5%. The described method was successfully applied for the chiral separation and determination of flavonoid enantiomers in real samples of spices and herbal root. Due to the occurrence of the natural compounds in the forms of free aglycones and their glycosides, these samples were subjected to hydrolysis in order to obtain free aglycones from the glycosylated forms. Acid and enzymatic hydrolysis techniques were also compared. In the course of this study, the enzymatic hydrolysis technique was selected.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912vxh
via IFTTT

Highly sensitive nonenzymatic glucose sensor based on nickel nanoparticle–attapulgite-reduced graphene oxide-modified glassy carbon electrode

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Zongxu Shen, Wenyu Gao, Pei Li, Xiaofang Wang, Qing Zheng, Hao Wu, Yuehui Ma, Weijun Guan, Songmei Wu, Yu Yu, Kejian Ding
In this article, a fast and sensitive nonenzymatic glucose sensor is reported utilizing a glassy carbon electrode modified by synthesizing nanocomposites of nickel nanoparticle–attapulgite-reduced graphene oxide (Ni NPs/ATP/RGO). A facile one-step electrochemical co-deposition approach is adopted to synthesize Ni NPs-ATP-RGO nanocomposites via electrochemical reduction of mixed precursor solution containing graphene oxide (GO), attapulgite (ATP) and nickel cations (Ni²⁺) at the cathode potentials. This strategy results in simultaneous depositions of ATP, cathodic reduction of Ni²⁺ into nickel nanoparticles under acidic conditions, and in situ reduction of GO. The as-prepared NiNPs/ATP/RGO-based glucose sensor exhibits outstanding performance for enzymeless glucose sensing with sensitivity (1414.4 μAmM⁻¹cm⁻²), linear range (1–710μM) and detection limit (0.37μM). What is more, the sensor has excellent stability and selectivity against common interferences in real sample.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912lGu
via IFTTT

A rapid and ultrasensitive SERRS assay for histidine and tyrosine based on azo coupling

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Huimin Sui, Yue Wang, Zhi Yu, Qian Cong, Xiao Xia Han, Bing Zhao
A simple and highly sensitive surface-enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS)-based approach coupled with azo coupling reaction has been put forward for quantitative analysis of histidine and tyrosine. The SERRS-based assay is simple and rapid by mixing the azo reaction products with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for measurements within 2min. The limits of detection (LODs) of the method are as low as 4.33×10⁻¹¹ and 8.80×10⁻¹¹M for histidine and tyrosine, respectively. Moreover, the SERRS fingerprint information specific to corresponding amino acids guarantees the selective detection for the target histidine and tyrosine. The results from serum indicated the potential application of the proposed approach into biological samples. Compared with the methods ever reported, the main advantages of this methodology are simpleness, rapidity without time-consuming separation or pretreatment steps, high sensitivity, selectivity and the potential for determination of other molecules containing imidazole or phenol groups.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912XeS
via IFTTT

Ionic liquid coated carbon nanospheres as a new adsorbent for fast solid phase extraction of trace copper and lead from sea water, wastewater, street dust and spice samples

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Şerife Tokalıoğlu, Emre Yavuz, Halil Şahan, Süleyman Gökhan Çolak, Kasım Ocakoğlu, Mehmet Kaçer, Şaban Patat
In this study a new adsorbent, ionic liquid (1,8-naphthalene monoimide bearing imidazolium salt) coated carbon nanospheres, was synthesized for the first time and it was used for the solid phase extraction of copper and lead from various samples prior to determination by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. The ionic liquid, carbon nanospheres and ionic liquid coated carbon nanospheres were characterized by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, ¹H NMR and ¹³C NMR, Brunauer, Emmett and Teller surface area and zeta potential measurements. Various parameters for method optimization such as pH, adsorption and elution contact times, eluent volume, type and concentration, centrifuge time, sample volume, adsorption capacity and possible interfering ion effects were tested. The optimum pH was 6. The preconcentration factor, detection limits, adsorption capacity and precision (as RSD%) of the method were found to be 300-fold, 0.30µgL⁻¹, 60mgg⁻¹ and 1.1% for copper and 300-fold, 1.76µgL⁻¹; 50.3mgg⁻¹ and 2.2%, for lead, respectively. The effect of contact time results showed that copper and lead were adsorbed and desorbed from the adsorbent without vortexing. The equilibrium between analyte and adsorbent is reached very quickly. The method was rather selective for matrix ions in high concentrations. The accuracy of the developed method was confirmed by analyzing certified reference materials (LGC6016 Estuarine Water, Reference Material 8704 Buffalo River Sediment, and BCR-482 Lichen) and by spiking sea water, wastewater, street dust and spice samples.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912s4z
via IFTTT

Pre-analytical and analytical validations and clinical applications of a miniaturized, simple and cost-effective solid phase extraction combined with LC-MS/MS for the simultaneous determination of catecholamines and metanephrines in spot urine samples

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Xiaoguang (Sunny) Li, Shu Li, Gottfried Kellermann
It remains a challenge to simultaneously quantify catecholamines and metanephrines in a simple, sensitive and cost-effective manner due to pre-analytical and analytical constraints. Herein, we describe such a method consisting of a miniaturized sample preparation and selective LC-MS/MS detection by the use of second morning spot urine samples. Ten microliters of second morning urine sample were subjected to solid phase extraction on an Oasis HLB microplate upon complexation with phenylboronic acid. The analytes were well-resolved on a Luna PFP column followed by tandem mass spectrometric detection. Full validation and suitability of spot urine sampling and biological variation were investigated. The extraction recovery and matrix effect are 74.1–97.3% and 84.1–119.0%, respectively. The linearity range is 2.5–500, 0.5–500, 2.5–1250, 2.5–1250 and 0.5–1250ng/mL for norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, normetanephrine and metanephrine, respectively. The intra- and inter-assay imprecisions are ≤9.4% for spiked quality control samples, and the respective recoveries are 97.2–112.5% and 95.9–104.0%. The Deming regression slope is 0.90–1.08, and the mean Bland-Altman percentage difference is from −3.29 to 11.85 between a published and proposed method (n=50). A correlation observed for the spot and 24h urine collections is significant (n=20, p<0.0001, r: 0.84–0.95, slope: 0.61–0.98). No statistical differences are found in day-to-day biological variability (n=20). Reference intervals are established for an apparently healthy population (n=88). The developed method, being practical, sensitive, reliable and cost-effective, is expected to set a new stage for routine testing, basic research and clinical applications.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912sli
via IFTTT

Bright and photostable fluorescent probe with aggregation-induced emission characteristics for specific lysosome imaging and tracking

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Jiang Ouyang, Qiguang Zang, Wansong Chen, Liqiang Wang, Shuo Li, Ren-Yu Liu, Yuanyuan Deng, Zhao-Qian Liu, Juan Li, Liu Deng, You-Nian Liu
We develop a new lysosome-targeting AIE fluorescent probe tetraphenylethene-morpholine (TPE-MPL), by incorporating a typical lysosome-targeting moiety of morpholine into a stable tetraphenylethene skeleton. Due to both the AIE and antenna effects, TPE-MPL possesses superior photostability, appreciable tolerance to microenvironment change and high lysosome targeting ability. Our findings confirm that TPE-MPL is a well-suited imaging agent for targeting lysosome and tracking dynamic movement of lysosome. Moreover, due to its synthetic accessibility, TPE-MPL could be further modified as a dual-functional probe for lysosome, thereby gain further insight into the role of lysosome in biomedical applications.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912utd
via IFTTT

Editorial Board

Publication date: 1 September 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 158





from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912rO2
via IFTTT

Determination of oleuropein using multiwalled carbon nanotube modified glassy carbon electrode by adsorptive stripping square wave voltammetry

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Mustafa Cittan, Süleyman Koçak, Ali Çelik, Kenan Dost
A multi-walled carbon nanotube modified glassy carbon electrode was used to prepare an electrochemical sensing platform for the determination of oleuropein. Results showed that, the accumulation of oleuropein on the prepared electrode takes place with the adsorption process. Electrochemical behavior of oleuropein was studied by using cyclic voltammetry. Compared to the bare GCE, the oxidation peak current of oleuropein increased about 340 times at MWCNT/GCE. Voltammetric determination of oleuropein on the surface of prepared electrode was studied using square wave voltammetry where the oxidation peak current of oleuropein was measured as an analytical signal. A calibration curve of oleuropein was performed between 0.01 and 0.70µM and a good linearity was obtained with a correlation coefficient of 0.9984. Detection and quantification limits of the method were obtained as 2.73 and 9.09nM, respectively. In addition, intra-day and inter-day precision studies indicated that the voltammetric method was sufficiently repeatable. Finally, the proposed electrochemical sensor was successfully applied to the determination of oleuropein in an olive leaf extract. Microwave-assisted extraction of oleuropein had good recovery values between 92% and 98%. The results obtained with the proposed electrochemical sensor were compared with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SR7qE
via IFTTT

Microwave-assisted enzymatic hydrolysis followed by extraction with restricted access nanocomposites for rapid analysis of glucocorticoids residues in liver tissue

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Jianan Feng, Xiaodan Liu, Yan Li, Gengli Duan
We developed a novel, simple and fast method for the determination of glucocorticoids residues in liver tissue by combining microwave-assisted enzymatic hydrolysis and restricted access matrix dispersive solid phase extraction (RAM-dSPE) followed with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. Firstly, microwave-assisted enzymatic hydrolysis was introduced in order to obtain a maximum amount of unconjugated parent drug in a short time (8s), while the traditional method commonly needs 4–12h. Secondly, further cleanup was carried out by RAM-dSPE based on the graphene@mSiO2-C8 nanomaterials which were synthesized by coating mesoporous silica onto hydrophilic graphene nano-sheets through a surfactant-mediated co-condensation sol-gel process. The enzymatic hydrolysis influencing factors (pH of the buffer, microwave radiation power, incubation time) and the experimental conditions of RAM-dSPE (sorbents amount, type and volume of the elution solvent, adsorption and desorption time) were optimized. Three glucocorticoids (prednisolone (PREL), betamethasone (BE) and dexamethasone (DE)) were selected as models to evaluate the feasibility of the method. According to the results, the developed method provided low detection limit (S/N=3) of 0.01–0.05μgkg⁻¹ and good linearity range of 0.25–800μgkg⁻¹ (R²>0.996) for glucocorticoids. The limit of quantification (S/N=10) range from 0.03 to 0.19μgkg⁻¹. Compared with other traditional methods, the developed method could provide similar or even better results in a greatly reduced analysis time.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SQVHQ
via IFTTT

Simultaneous analysis of multiple classes of antimicrobials in environmental water samples using SPE coupled with UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS and isotope dilution

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Ngoc Han Tran, Hongjie Chen, Thanh Van Do, Martin Reinhard, Huu Hao Ngo, Yiliang He, Karina Yew-Hoong Gin
A robust and sensitive analytical method was developed for the simultaneous analysis of 21 target antimicrobials in different environmental water samples. Both single SPE and tandem SPE cartridge systems were investigated to simultaneously extract multiple classes of antimicrobials. Experimental results showed that good extraction efficiencies (84.5–105.6%) were observed for the vast majority of the target analytes when extraction was performed using the tandem SPE cartridge (SB+HR-X) system under an extraction pH of 3.0. HPLC-MS/MS parameters were optimized for simultaneous analysis of all the target analytes in a single injection. Quantification of target antimicrobials in water samples was accomplished using 15 isotopically labeled internal standards (ILISs), which allowed the efficient compensation of the losses of target analytes during sample preparation and correction of matrix effects during UHPLC-MS/MS as well as instrument fluctuations in MS/MS signal intensity. Method quantification limit (MQL) for most target analytes based on SPE was below 5ng/L for surface waters, 10ng/L for treated wastewater effluents, and 15ng/L for raw wastewater. The method was successfully applied to detect and quantify the occurrence of the target analytes in raw influent, treated effluent and surface water samples.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SR2mE
via IFTTT

Speciation of inorganic selenium in environmental samples after suspended dispersive solid phase microextraction combined with inductively coupled plasma spectrometric determination

Publication date: 1 October 2016
Source:Talanta, Volume 159
Author(s): Luthando Nyaba, Joseph M. Matong, K. Mogolodi Dimpe, Philiswa N. Nomngongo
A rapid and effective suspended dispersive solid phase microextraction (SDSPME) was developed for the speciation of inorganic selenium using alumina nanoparticles functionalized with Aliquat-336. The target analytes were preconcentrated and determined by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Alumina nanoparticles were characterized using XRD, BET, SEM and EDX while the functionalized nano-Al2O3 was characterized by FTIR. The effect of pH of the solution on speciation Se in water samples was optimized separately. It was observed that when the pH values of sample solution ranged from 2.0 to 7.0, successful separation of inorganic Se species was achieved. The percentage recoveries for Se (IV) and Se (VI) were >90% and 5%, respectively. The two-level fractional factorial design was used to optimize experimental parameters affecting the preconcentration system. Under optimal conditions, the enrichment factor (EF), limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification for Se (IV) were found to be 850, 1.4ngL^−1, and 4.6ngL⁻¹, respectively. Furthermore, intra-day and inter-day precisions expressed in terms of relative standard deviation (RSD) were found to be 1.9% and 3.3%, respectively. The effect of coexisting ions on the recovery of Se (IV) was investigated. The accuracy of the developed method was checked by analysis of standard reference material (NIST SRM 1643e). The optimized method was applied for the determination of targets in surface water samples.

Graphical abstract

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SR0LI
via IFTTT

Moral Failure: On the Impossible Demands of Morality, by Lisa Tessman.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SR8uA
via IFTTT

Geometric Possibility, by Gordon Belot.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2912iKO
via IFTTT

The efficacy of resveratrol in controlling hypertension: study protocol for a randomized, crossover, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial

Hypertension is a global health concern for which novel treatment strategies are necessary. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of resveratrol (trans-3, 5, 4′-trihydroxystilbene, a polyphenol pre...

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SQZaD
via IFTTT

SIRT3 gene expression but not subcellular localization is altered in response to fasting and exercise in human skeletal muscle

The present study examined SIRT3 expression and mitochondrial localization in response to acute exercise and short-term fasting in human skeletal muscle. Experiment 1 involved 8 healthy men (age, 21.4 ± 2.8 years; VO₂peak, 47.1 ± 11.8 ml min⁻¹ kg⁻¹) who performed a single bout of exercise at ∼55% of peak aerobic work rate for 1 h. Muscle biopsies were obtained at rest (Rest), immediately after exercise (EX-0), and 3 h post-exercise (EX-3). Experiment 2 involved 10 healthy men (age, 22.0 ± 1.5 years; VO₂peak, 47.2 ± 6.7 ml min⁻¹ kg⁻¹) who underwent a 48-hour fast, with muscle biopsies collected 1 h postprandial (Fed) and following 48 h of fasting (Fast). Mitochondrial respiration was measured using high-resolution respirometry in permeabilized muscle fibre bundles to assess substrate oxidation. Whole body fat oxidation increased after both exercise (Rest: 0.96 ± 0.32, Exercise: 5.66 ± 1.97, P < 0.001) and fasting (Fed: 0.87 ± 0.51, Fast: 1.30 ± 0.37 kcal min⁻¹, P < 0.05). SIRT3 gene expression decreased (P < 0.05) following both exercise (−8%) and fasting (−19%); however SIRT3 whole muscle protein content was unaltered following fasting. No changes were observed in SIRT3 mitochondrial localization following either exercise or fasting. Fasting also decreased the V_max of glutamate (80 ± 43 vs. 50 ± 21 pmol sec⁻¹ mg⁻¹ dry wt, P < 0.05). These findings suggest that SIRT3 does not appear to be regulated by changes in mitochondrial localization at the time points measured in the current study in response to cellular energy stress in human skeletal muscle.

This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28TZ9OY
via IFTTT

Metformin Alleviates Altered Erythrocyte Redox Status During Aging in Rats

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.


from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Q6om9
via IFTTT

Psychosis Following an Increase in Intrathecal Baclofen

Baclofen is a commonly used medication to treat spasticity in neurologic disorders. In the traumatic brain injury population, the intrathecal administration of baclofen is often preferred over oral administration due to cognitive side effects. Here we report on a case of a psychotic episode following an increase in intrathecal baclofen in a young man with a history of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). While intrathecal baclofen is commonly used and generally well tolerated, this case highlights an important potential effect of intrathecal baclofen, rarely reported in the literature.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2915SmG
via IFTTT

OnabotulinumtoxinA injection for post-stroke upper-limb spasticity: Guidance for early injectors from a Delphi panel process

OnabotulinumtoxinA reduces muscle hypertonia associated with post-stroke spasticity (PSS). PSS manifests as several common postures.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SoHwK
via IFTTT

Exercise Benefits for Chronic Low Back Pain in Overweight and Obese Individuals

Overweight and obese individuals with chronic low back pain (LBP) struggle with the combined physical challenges of physical activity and pain interference during daily life; perceived disability increases, pain symptoms worsen, and performance of functional tasks and quality of life (QOL) decline. Consistent participation in exercise programs positively affects several factors including musculoskeletal pain, perceptions of disability due to pain, functional ability, QOL, and body composition. It is not yet clear, however, what differential effects occur among different easily accessible exercise modalities in the overweight-obese population with chronic LBP.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2916f0D
via IFTTT

Localization of the Lateral Retinacular Nerve for Diagnostic and Therapeutic Nerve Block for Lateral Knee Pain: A Cadaveric Study

The lateral retincular nerve (LRN) is a branch of the superior lateral genicular nerve (SLGN) and is believed to contribute to anterolateral knee pain. However, the precise anatomical pathway of the LRN has not been demonstrated as it relates to the performance of targeted nerve block procedures.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SoNVk
via IFTTT

Early Rehabilitation in the Medical and Surgical Intensive Care Units for Patients With and Without Mechanical Ventilation: An Interprofessional Performance Improvement Project

Most early mobility studies focus on patients on mechanical ventilation and the role of physical and occupational therapy. This Performance Improvement Project (PIP) project examined early mobility and increased intensity of therapy services on ICU patients with and without mechanical ventilation. In addition, Speech-Language Pathology rehabilitation was added to the early mobilization program.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2915PYb
via IFTTT

Comparison of the cross sectional area of longus colli muscle between patients with cervical radicular pain and healthy controls

Previous studies have shown atrophy of paravertebral lumbar muscles in patients with lumbar radicular pain, and proposed rehabilitative approaches based on these findings. However, changes of cervical paravertebral muscles in patients with cervical radicular pain are still unknown.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28SoOsf
via IFTTT

Travel to High Altitude Following Solid Organ Transplantation

High Altitude Medicine & Biology , Vol. 0, No. 0.


from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28THFmz
via IFTTT

Metformin Alleviates Altered Erythrocyte Redox Status During Aging in Rats

Rejuvenation Research , Vol. 0, No. 0.


from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Q6om9
via IFTTT

JCM, Vol. 5, Pages 61: An Evaluation of Acylated Ghrelin and Obestatin Levels in Childhood Obesity and Their Association with Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome, and Oxidative Stress

Background: Ghrelin is a 28-amino acid peptide with an orexigenic property, which is predominantly produced by the stomach. Acylated ghrelin is the active form of this hormone. Obestatin is a 23-amino acid peptide which is produced by post-translational modification of a protein precursor that also produces ghrelin. Obestatin has the opposite effect of ghrelin on food intake. The aim of this study was to evaluate acylated ghrelin and obestatin levels and their ratio in obese and normal-weight children and adolescents, and their association with metabolic syndrome (MetS) parameters. Methods: Serum acyl-ghrelin, obestatin, leptin, insulin, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), lipid profile, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were evaluated in 73 children and adolescents (42 obese and 31 control). Insulin resistance was calculated by a homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). MetS was determined according to IDF criteria. Results: Acyl-ghrelin levels were significantly lower in obese subjects compared to the control group and lower in obese children with MetS compared to obese subjects without MetS. Obestatin was significantly higher in obese subjects compared to that of the control, but it did not differ significantly among those with or without MetS. Acyl-ghrelin to obestatin ratio was significantly lower in obese subjects compared to that in normal subjects. Acyl-ghrelin showed significant negative and obestatin showed significant positive correlations with body mass index (BMI), BMI Z-score, leptin, insulin, and HOMA-IR. Acyl-ghrelin had a significant negative correlation with MDA as an index of oxidative stress. Conclusion: Ghrelin is decreased and obestatin is elevated in obesity. Both of these hormones are associated with insulin resistance, and ghrelin is associated with oxidative stress. The balance between ghrelin and obestatin seems to be disturbed in obesity.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28Ok55m
via IFTTT

Association Among ICU Congestion, ICU Admission Decision, and Patient Outcomes.

Objectives: To employ automated bed data to examine whether ICU occupancy influences ICU admission decisions and patient outcomes. Design: Retrospective study using an instrumental variable to remove biases from unobserved differences in illness severity for patients admitted to ICU. Setting: Fifteen hospitals in an integrated healthcare delivery system in California. Patients: Seventy thousand one hundred thirty-three episodes involving patients admitted via emergency departments to a medical service over a 1-year period between 2008 and 2009. Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: A third of patients admitted via emergency department to a medical service were admitted under high ICU congestion (more than 90% of beds occupied). High ICU congestion was associated with a 9% lower likelihood of ICU admission for patients defined as eligible for ICU admission. We further found strong associations between ICU admission and patient outcomes, with a 32% lower likelihood of hospital readmission if the first inpatient unit was an ICU. Similarly, hospital length of stay decreased by 33% and likelihood of transfer to ICU from other units-including ICU readmission if the first unit was an ICU-decreased by 73%. Conclusions: High ICU congestion is associated with a lower likelihood of ICU admission, which has important operational implications and can affect patient outcomes. By taking advantage of our ability to identify a subset of patients whose ICU admission decisions are affected by congestion, we found that, if congestion were not a barrier and more eligible patients were admitted to ICU, this hospital system could save approximately 7.5 hospital readmissions and 253.8 hospital days per year. These findings could help inform future capacity planning and staffing decisions. Copyright (C) by 2016 by the Society of Critical Care Medicine and Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28RrRQO
via IFTTT

IJGI, Vol. 5, Pages 101: Simulation and Evaluation of Urban Growth for Germany Including Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Measures

Decision-makers in the fields of urban and regional planning in Germany face new challenges. High rates of urban sprawl need to be reduced by increased inner-urban development while settlements have to adapt to climate change and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions at the same time. In this study, we analyze conflicts in the management of urban areas and develop integrated sustainable land use strategies for Germany. The spatial explicit land use change model Land Use Scanner is used to simulate alternative scenarios of land use change for Germany for 2030. A multi-criteria analysis is set up based on these scenarios and based on a set of indicators. They are used to measure whether the mitigation and adaptation objectives can be achieved and to uncover conflicts between these aims. The results show that the built-up and transport area development can be influenced both in terms of magnitude and spatial distribution to contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. Strengthening the inner-urban development is particularly effective in terms of reducing built-up and transport area development. It is possible to reduce built-up and transport area development to approximately 30 ha per day in 2030, which matches the sustainability objective of the German Federal Government for the year 2020. In the case of adaptation to climate change, the inclusion of extreme flood events in the context of spatial planning requirements may contribute to a reduction of the damage potential.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28XcQJD
via IFTTT

Energies, Vol. 9, Pages 482: The Regulatory Noose: Logan City’s Adventures in Micro-Hydropower

Recent growth in the renewable energy industry has increased government support for alternative energy. In the United States, hydropower is the largest source of renewable energy and also one of the most efficient. Currently, there are 30,000 megawatts of potential energy capacity through small- and micro-hydro projects throughout the United States. Increased development of micro-hydro could double America's hydropower energy generation, but micro-hydro is not being developed at the same rate as other renewable sources. Micro-hydro is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and subject to the same regulation as large hydroelectric projects despite its minimal environmental impact. We studied two cases of micro-hydro projects in Logan, Utah, and Afton, Wyoming, which are both small rural communities. Both cases showed that the web of federal regulation is likely discouraging the development of micro-hydro in the United States by increasing the costs in time and funds for developers. Federal environmental regulation like the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and others are likely discouraging the development of clean renewable energy through micro-hydro technology.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28OME5m
via IFTTT

Risks, Vol. 4, Pages 18: Consistent Re-Calibration of the Discrete-Time Multifactor Vasiček Model

The discrete-time multifactor Vasiček model is a tractable Gaussian spot rate model. Typically, two- or three-factor versions allow one to capture the dependence structure between yields with different times to maturity in an appropriate way. In practice, re-calibration of the model to the prevailing market conditions leads to model parameters that change over time. Therefore, the model parameters should be understood as being time-dependent or even stochastic. Following the consistent re-calibration (CRC) approach, we construct models as concatenations of yield curve increments of Hull–White extended multifactor Vasiček models with different parameters. The CRC approach provides attractive tractable models that preserve the no-arbitrage premise. As a numerical example, we fit Swiss interest rates using CRC multifactor Vasiček models.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28XcOBp
via IFTTT

Sensors, Vol. 16, Pages 948: A Novel Line Space Voting Method for Vanishing-Point Detection of General Road Images

Vanishing-point detection is an important component for the visual navigation system of an autonomous mobile robot. In this paper, we present a novel line space voting method for fast vanishing-point detection. First, the line segments are detected from the road image by the line segment detector (LSD) method according to the pixel's gradient and texture orientation computed by the Sobel operator. Then, the vanishing-point of the road is voted on by considering the points of the lines and their neighborhood spaces with weighting methods. Our algorithm is simple, fast, and easy to implement with high accuracy. It has been experimentally tested with over hundreds of structured and unstructured road images. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method is effective and can meet the real-time requirements of navigation for autonomous mobile robots and unmanned ground vehicles.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28OMQl1
via IFTTT

Energies, Vol. 9, Pages 484: Energy Transitions in Nigeria: The Evolution of Energy Infrastructure Provision (1800–2015)

The provision of energy infrastructure is essential for economic growth, social cohesion, and environmental sustainability. Understanding the multiple functions and services it provides us requires firstly a deeper understanding of the factors that influence energy infrastructure itself. This paper focusses on the factors that influence the evolution of energy infrastructure in Nigeria. By studying different eras of energy use according to the technologies that were being implemented, resources that were available, and the political practice of the time it is possible to better frame the drivers of energy infrastructure. The paper explores the transitions of how Nigerians managed to obtain the vast majority of energy from food calories and traditional biomass, to the broad portfolio of energy sources that is in use today.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28XcO4l
via IFTTT

Minerals, Vol. 6, Pages 58: Mineralogical and Geochemical Characteristics of the Early Permian Upper No. 3 Coal from Southwestern Shandong, China

The Upper No. 3 coal of the Early Permian age is a major workable seam in the southwestern Shandong coalfield, which is located in the eastern part of North China. From Early Jurassic to Neogene, the coalfield was subjected to intensive tectonic processes, leading to a significant rearrangement in depth of coal seams. In this paper, three Upper No. 3 coals occurring at −228, −670 and −938 m in the Luxi, Liangbaosi, and Tangkou mines, respectively, were collected to investigate their mineralogical and geochemical characteristics, with emphasis on modes of occurrence and origin of epigenetic minerals. The three coal seams are similar in vitrinite reflectance, volatile matter yield, and maceral components, suggesting insignificant influence from the tectonic activities on coal rank. Terrigenous minerals (e.g., kaolinite and quartz) are comparable in both types and distribution patterns in the three coals. The presence of siderite and pyrite of syngenetic or penecontemporaneous origin indicate they were emplaced during peat accumulation. The distribution of epigenetic minerals (e.g., calcite, ankerite, and dolomite) are associated with the underground water activities, which were Ca (Mg, Fe)-bearing.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28OMFq4
via IFTTT

Religions, Vol. 7, Pages 81: “Show Us Your God”: Marilla Baker Ingalls and the Power of Religious Objects in Nineteenth-Century Burma

This essay examines the unusual evangelical work of Marilla Baker Ingalls, an American Baptist missionary to Burma from 1851–1902. By the time of her death in Burma at the age of 75, Ingalls was known as one of the most successful Baptist evangelists among Burmese Buddhists. To understand the extraordinary dynamic of Ingalls' expanding Christian community, this essay focuses on two prominent objects at the Baptist mission: A life-sized dog statue that Ingalls kept chained at the edge of her property and a massive banyan tree covered with biblical illustrations and revered by locals as an abode of divine beings. This essay argues that these objects transformed Ingalls' American Baptist Christianity into a kind of Burmese religion that revolved around revered objects. Through an examination of the particular shrine practices that pulled people into the Baptist mission, this essay reflects on the larger context of religious encounter, conflict, and representation in modernizing Burma.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28XcLFJ
via IFTTT

Information, Vol. 7, Pages 36: Standard Compliant Hazard and Threat Analysis for the Automotive Domain

The automotive industry has successfully collaborated to release the ISO 26262 standard for developing safe software for cars. The standard describes in detail how to conduct hazard analysis and risk assessments to determine the necessary safety measures for each feature. However, the standard does not concern threat analysis for malicious attackers or how to select appropriate security countermeasures. We propose the application of ISO 27001 for this purpose and show how it can be applied together with ISO 26262. We show how ISO 26262 documentation can be re-used and enhanced to satisfy the analysis and documentation demands of the ISO 27001 standard. We illustrate our approach based on an electronic steering column lock system.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28OMGtX
via IFTTT

Energies, Vol. 9, Pages 481: A Review of CO2-Enhanced Oil Recovery with a Simulated Sensitivity Analysis

This paper reports on a comprehensive study of the CO2-EOR (Enhanced oil recovery) process, a detailed literature review and a numerical modelling study. According to past studies, CO2 injection can recover additional oil from reservoirs by reservoir pressure increment, oil swelling, the reduction of oil viscosity and density and the vaporization of oil hydrocarbons. Therefore, CO2-EOR can be used to enhance the two major oil recovery mechanisms in the field: miscible and immiscible oil recovery, which can be further increased by increasing the amount of CO2 injected, applying innovative flood design and well placement, improving the mobility ratio, extending miscibility, and controlling reservoir depth and temperature. A 3-D numerical model was developed using the CO2-Prophet simulator to examine the effective factors in the CO2-EOR process. According to that, in pure CO2 injection, oil production generally exhibits increasing trends with increasing CO2 injection rate and volume (in HCPV (Hydrocarbon pore volume)) and reservoir temperature. In the WAG (Water alternating gas) process, oil production generally increases with increasing CO2 and water injection rates, the total amount of flood injected in HCPV and the distance between the injection wells, and reduces with WAG flood ratio and initial reservoir pressure. Compared to other factors, the water injection rate creates the minimum influence on oil production, and the CO2 injection rate, flood volume and distance between the flood wells have almost equally important influence on oil production.

from #Medicine via ola Kala on Inoreader http://ift.tt/28XcOBv
via IFTTT