bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Cupping Massage in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain - A Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Saha Felix J. , Schumann Stefan , Cramer Holger , Hohmann Claudia , Choi Kyung-Eun , Rolke Roman , Langhorst Jost , Rampp Thomas , Dobos Gustav , Lauche Romy
Published: February 2017

Background: Chronic neck pain is a major public health burden with only limited evidence for the effectiveness of complementary therapies. This study aimed to test the efficacy of cupping massage in patients with neck pain. Patients and Methods: Patients with chronic non-specific neck pain were randomly assigned to cupping massage or a wait list control. The intervention group received 5 cupping massages on a twice-weekly basis while the control patients continued their usual treatments. The primary outcome measure was neck pain intensity (0-100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS)) after 3 weeks. Secondary outcomes included pain on movement, functional disability, health-related quality of life, mechanical detection and pain thresholds and adverse events. Results: 50 patients (52.6 ± 10.3 years, 92% female) were randomised to either cupping massage or a wait list (N = 25 each). Patients in the cupping group reported significantly less neck pain post intervention (difference per protocol -14.3 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI) -27.7 to -1.0, p = 0.037; difference intention-to-treat -10.8 mm, 95% CI -21.5 to -0.1, p = 0.047). Significant group differences in favour of the intervention were further found for pain on movement (p = 0.019) and functional disability (p < 0.001), the quality-of-life subscales pain (p = 0.002) and mental health (p = 0.003) and the mental component summary (p = 0.036). Changes were also found for pressure pain sensitivity at the site of maximal pain (p = 0.022). Five adverse events were reported. Conclusions: Cupping massage appears to be effective in reducing pain and increasing function and quality of life in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain. More rigorous studies are needed to confirm and extend these results.
Synergistic Actions of Histamine-Releasing Factor and Histamine Releasing Factor-Reactive IgE in Chronic Urticaria
Authors: Huang Xianqiong , Li Zhaoyang , Sun Renshan
Published: February 2017

The etiology of chronic urticaria (CU) remains elusive. Histamine-releasing factor (HRF) is reported to have a proinflammatory role in asthma and immediate hypersensitivity of the skin. The aim of this study was to examine the role of HRF in the pathogenesis of CU. Forty patients with CU were enrolled and their serum HRF concentrations were determined by ELISA. The results demonstrated that the concentrations of HRF and HRF-reactive IgE in the CU group were significantly higher than those in the control group, and there was a significant linear correlation between HRF and HRF-reactive IgE concentrations (r = 0.859, p < 0.001) in CU patients. Additionally, the HRF-reactive IgE concentration was significantly correlated with the disease activity (r = 0.693, p < 0.0001). HRF and HRF-reactive IgE alone failed to activate LAD2 cells. After being primed by the patient sera with the highest IgE concentrations and stimulated by HRF, β-hexosaminidase can be released from LAD2 cells. Our findings suggest that the synergistic actions of HRF and HRF-reactive IgE may play important roles in the pathogenesis of CU.
The Role of Fish Oil in Inflammatory Eye Diseases
Authors: Wang Hong , Daggy Bruce P.
Published: February 2017

Consumption of fish oil is associated with reduced morbidity and mortality of cardiovascular diseases and also reduces the severity of many other inflammatory diseases and autoimmune disorders. The beneficial effects are attributed to the anti-inflammatory effects of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), found in fish oils. The mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effects was long thought to be by modulating the production of proinflammatory mediators, including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. Recent advances in research into the novel lipid mediators (resolvins, protectins, and maresins) derived from EPA and DHA and their role in the resolution of inflammation have shed new light on the pleiotropic nature of these fatty acids. In this review, we focus on the effects of EPA and DHA from fish oil in the treatment of two common inflammatory eye diseases - dry eye disease and age-related macular degeneration. Evidence from recent studies lends support to a role of fish oil in the treatment of these two eye diseases.
Rhodiola rosea in Subjects with Prolonged or Chronic Fatigue Symptoms: Results of an Open-Label Clinical Trial
Authors: Lekomtseva Yevgeniya , Zhukova Irina , Wacker Anna
Published: February 2017

Background:Rhodiola rosea roots and rhizomes are a herbal medicine for temporary relief of stress symptoms such as fatigue and sensed weakness. A daily dosage of 400 mg is recommended. Methods: A dry ethanolic extract of R. rosea (WS® 1375) was studied in 100 subjects with prolonged or chronic fatigue symptoms. In an uncontrolled, open-label multicenter clinical trial, the subjects were administered 2 × 200 mg WS® 1375 over 8 weeks. Outcome measures were scales and tests related to fatigue. They were evaluated in an exploratory data analysis to generate hypotheses regarding efficacy. The pilot character of the trial is marked by its broad focus on subjects suffering from fatigue in general and by its comparatively long duration. Results: The greatest change was observed after 1 week of treatment. The fatigue symptoms continued to decline further, with statistically significant improvement at week 8. The safety assessments of WS® 1375 during the trial proved to be favorable, with most adverse events being of mild intensity and not related to the study drug. Conclusions: The results indicate that 2 × 200 mg WS® 1375 may be an effective treatment in subjects suffering from prolonged or chronic fatigue. The safety and tolerability of WS® 1375 also presented a favorable profile.
O diálogo entre estética e ética na produção de sentidos de educação e cidadania na telenovela Meu pedacinho de chão
Authors: Mungioli Maria Cristina Palma , Amaral Gustavo
Published: February 2017

A nova versão da telenovela Meu pedacinho de chão (Globo, 2014) traz como marca distintiva, em termos discursivos e de linguagem de televisão, uma enorme confluência de estilos e linguagens (literárias, teatrais, audiovisuais). O presente artigo discute conceitos de remake e analisa aspectos da construção do enredo e sua produção de sentido, destacando a abordagem de temas a partir da relação responsável entre estética e ética (BAKHTIN, 2010). Sob este eixo são enfatizados os temas da educação e da fábula. Compõe ainda do artigo um panorama diacrônico das diferentes versões dessa telenovela na TV brasileira.
Jornalismos possíveis
Authors: Henning Clarissa
Published: February 2017

Este artigo procura explorar duas novas formas de fazer jornalismo: a Ponte e a agência Pública, entendendo-os como exemplos de resistência à mídia, seja porque questionam as práticas do jornalismo hegemônico, seja porque problematizam o ensino das escolas de jornalismo. Para isso, este trabalho analisa o site de cada uma dessas iniciativas, descrevendo algumas premissas indicadas ali e que servem de guia para compreender o que a Ponte e a Pública entendem ser o jornalismo. Também busca investigar tanto as críticas dirigidas às práticas hegemônicas quanto aquilo que, de acordo com cada site, deve ser preservado do jornalismo tradicional.
Usos do entretenimento como estratégia de visibilidade política na página da prefeitura de Curitiba no Facebook
Authors: Martino Luís Mauro Sá , Aleixo Tayra Carolina
Published: February 2017

Este texto delineia algumas condições de visibilidade midiática a partir do uso do entretenimento por agentes da esfera política, tomando como estudo de caso a página da prefeitura de Curitiba-PR, no site de rede social Facebook. A pesquisa, realizada a partir da análise das postagens, bem como uma entrevista realizada junto ao gestor de comunicação da prefeitura curitibana, articulada com levantamento bibliográfico, sugere que o uso do entretenimento parece contribuir para um aumento da interlocução entre prefeitura e munícipes via internet, bem como a projeção de visibilidade do órgão.
Televisão brasileira e ditadura militar: tudo a ver com o que está aí até hoje
Authors: Bucci Eugênio
Published: February 2017

Dados os parâmetros gerais da transformação do espaço público ao longo do século XX, em razão dos meios de comunicação de massa, o presente trabalho analisa a conversão do espaço público no Brasil – tal como foi posto pela instância da palavra impressa – em telespaço público, regido pela instância da imagem ao vivo, segundo uma nova conformação e sujeito a outras leis comunicacionais. A ditadura militar no Brasil, a partir da iniciativa do Estado, realizou a “modernização” tecnológica do sistema de mediações e midiatizações no espaço público nacional ao mesmo tempo que “desmodernizou” a política. Essa estrutura se mantém no telespaço público brasileiro, já que a organização da cultura promovida então pouco se alterou.
Three Excavatum species Tuber badium, T. depressum and T. verrucosivolvum from Sichuan Province, China
Authors: WAN SHANPING , XU WENJUN , TAN NIANWU , WANG YUN , ZHENG YI , YU FUQIANG
Published: February 2017

Three excavated truffle species Tuber badium, T. depressum and T. verrucosivolvum were described and illustrated from southwest China. Molecular analyses based on ITS and ITS-nrLSU concatenated dataset revealed that these species are distinct from the known ones of Tuber. Tuber badium, T. depressum and T. verrucosivolvum differ from other species of Tuber in a combination of morphologically features including ascoma, gleba and ascospore. Phylogenetic placements of these novel Tuber species in the Excavatum group are presented.
Reestablishment of Plantago bradei (Plantaginaceae), an overlooked narrowly endemic species from Serra do Caparaó, eastern Brazil, and range extension of P. guilleminiana
Authors: HASSEMER GUSTAVO
Published: February 2017

This contribution presents morphological and biogeographic evidence for the reestablishment of Plantago bradei (Plantaginaceae), an overlooked narrowly endemic species from the high summits of Serra do Caparaó, a prominent mountainous area in eastern Brazil. Specimens of this taxon were hitherto being identified as P. commersoniana, a morphologically considerably distinct species with a completely different distribution. Plantago bradei can be differentiated from P. commersoniana mainly by the elliptic-lanceolate, coriaceous leaves and the much denser inflorescences. The recognition of P. bradei is also relevant for conservation since it occurs in a single locality and is here assessed as critically endangered. In addition to that, this study presents the first records of P. guilleminiana in Serra do Caparaó, and provides an updated identification key to Plantago in this area.
A New Species in Trillium subgen. Delostylium (Melanthiaceae, Parideae)
Authors: SCHILLING EDWARD E. , FLODEN AARON , LAMPLEY JAYNE , PATRICK THOMAS S. , FARMER SUSAN B.
Published: February 2017

The Trillium pusillum Michaux (1803: 215) species complex exhibits a complicated pattern of morphological variability and geographic distributions in southeastern North America (Farmer 2007). In contrast to earlier studies based on isozymes (Cabe and Werth 1995; Timmerman-Erskine et al. 2003), analyses of DNA sequence variability provide evidence of clear boundaries that correspond with morphological and habitat differences to suggest that the group is best recognized as a series of distinct species (Farmer 2007). Species names have been proposed for some of these, and they are recognized as varieties in some taxonomic treatments (e.g. Weakley 2015), but several still are known only from informal designations. One of the rarest, and perhaps most threatened, is the sole representative of the complex in Georgia that is known from only a single creek drainage system in an area being developed for industrial usage. In the current study we provide formal recognition for it, both to emphasize the need to preserve this unique entity, as well as to stimulate searches for further populations of it.
Clarifying the typification of Tulostoma dumeticola (Agaricaceae, Basidiomycota)
Authors: TRIERVEILER-PEREIRA LARISSA , BALTAZAR JULIANO M. , SILVEIRA ROSA MARA B. DA
Published: February 2017

Tulostoma dumeticola Long is an American gasteroid species described based on collections from Southern Brazil. Specimens were first identified as T. verrucosum Morgan by J. Rick (known as the father of the Brazilian Mycology), but then, described as a new species years later by Long (1947). According to Wright’s (1987) monograph on the genus, the type specimen of T. dumeticola was kept at BPI under the number 704401 and isotypes were deposited at FH and NY (Thiers 1997). Wright’s (1987) statement about the supposed type was later followed by Calonge & Carranza (2003), who even annotated the specimen. In 2008, the supposed type specimen of T. dumeticola (BPI 704401) was requested as a loan from Herbarium ICN (Brazil), but unfortunately, it was lost during shipping. Therefore, the selection of a lectotype would be necessary.
The Swedish marine nematologist Carl Allgén (1886–1960): a bio-bibliography and his collection
Authors: BOSTRÖM SVEN , HOLOVACHOV OLEKSANDR
Published: February 2017

The Swedish marine nematologist Carl Allgén (1886–1960) published 185 scientific papers on parasitic, terrestrial, limnic and especially marine nematodes between 1921 and 1960. Among them are also some papers on species of suctorians found mostly on desmodorid nematodes. He described about 70 new genera and over 800 new species and subspecies of nematodes. Allgén left a large collection of nematodes to the Swedish Museum of Natural History in Stockholm and it is now deposited in the invertebrate collection of the Zoology department. The collection comprises about 4500 slides in total, with about 310 slides containing type specimens collected from the Arctic to Antarctica. Allgén’s publications have to a large extent been ignored by scientists working on marine nematodes, likely because of the poor quality of many of his species descriptions. The authors want to remind the scientific community about the existence of Allgén's collection, its availability for study and its importance for nematode taxonomy and systematics. A complete list of Allgén’s publications, a list of all species described by him, and a list of type material available is presented.
A new species and a new synonymy of the plant bug genus Fulvius from Japan (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Miridae: Cylapinae)
Authors: YASUNAGA TOMOHIDE , WOLSKI ANDRZEJ
Published: February 2017

Fulvius Stål (Cylapinae: Fulviini) is a large plant bug genus, with more than 80 described species distributed throughout the world (Schuh, 1995; 2002–2014). In Japan, five species listed below have been recorded mostly from the subtropical Ryukyu arc (Yasunaga, 2000, 2001; Yasunaga & Miyamoto, 2006; Yasunaga et al., 2012). Our recent closer examinations of these Japanese species suggest that (1) what was previously identified as Fulvius dimidiatus Poppius represents an undescribed species, and (2) F. nakatai Yasunaga & Miyamoto described from Okinawa Island is evidently conspecific with F. subnitens Poppius that was described from New Guinea but is now known from pantropical zones as well as Taiwan, Europe and United States (Gorczyca, 2006; Henry et al., 2011). The present paper provides a revised checklist for the Japanese species of Fulvius, with updated distributional records. A new species, F. nozawai, is diagnosed and described, its habitat and biology are also documented, and Fulvius nakatai is proposed as a junior synonym of the pantropical F. subnitens.
A new species of Acantholycosa baltoroi-group (Araneae: Lycosidae, Pardosinae) from the Russian Far East
Authors: MARUSIK YURI M. , OMELKO MIKHAIL M.
Published: February 2017

Acantholycosa Dahl, 1908 is relatively large genus of wolf spiders with 28 named species and one subspecies (World Spider Catalog 2016) distributed in the Holarctic, though the majority of its species (24) is known from Russia. Although the genus is well studied due to several revisions (Marusik et al. 2004; Marusik & Omelko 2011; Omelko et al. 2016), its real species diversity remains unknown. A recent study of the collections of the Zoological Museum of Moscow State University revealed one undescribed species from Khabarovsk Province of Russia, belonging to the A. baltoroi-group of species. The main goals of this publications are the description of this new species and the proposition of an identification key to males of the A. baltoroi-group.
Molecular Phylogenetic Analysis of the Orthoptera (Arthropoda, Insecta) based on Hexamerin Sequences
Authors: ZHANG XIAOHONG , HAO JINFENG , XIA YU , CHANG YAGE , ZHANG DAOCHUAN , YIN HONG
Published: February 2017

The higher taxa classification and phylogeny of the insect order Orthoptera have long been controversial. Hexamerin, as a member of the highly conserved arthropod hemocyanin superfamily, has been shown to be a good marker for the phylogenetic study of insects. However, few studies have used hexamerins on the phylogeny of Orthoptera. In this study, we determined twenty-seven different hexamerin subunit type sequences in seventeen speices of Orthoptera. In order to infer the phylogenetic relationships among the superfamilies within Orthoptera and test the monophyly of Orthoptera, phylogenic trees were reconstructed using Neighbor-Joining (NJ) and Bayesian inference (BI) methods with two dipluran and three hymenopteran hexamerin sequences as outgroups. The result supported the monophyly of Orthoptera, which includes two monophyletic suborders Caelifera and Ensifera. The Caelifera includes Acridoidea, Eumastacoidea, Tetrigoidea and Tridactyloidea, and the Ensifera includes Tettigonioidea, Grylloidea and Gryllotalpoidea. Our study is basically consistent with the study of morphological classification. In addition, our study indicates that a relatively comprehensive taxa sampling is essential to solve some problems in phylogenetic reconstruction.
Synaptus iranicus sp. nov., a second species of the genus Synaptus Eschscholtz, 1829 from Iran (Coleoptera: Elateridae) discovered by an integrative approach
Authors: JARZABEK-MÜLLER ANDREA , MORINIÈRE JÉRÔME , VARANDI HASSAN BARIMANI , MÜLLER JÖRG
Published: February 2017

Synaptus filiformis Fabricius, 1781 has been recognized as a rather variable elaterid species. Based on morphological distinctness of 3 specimens (2 males, 1 female) from Mazandaran, Iran, a new species is here hypothesised. COI barcoding supports the new species as a new Barcode Index Number with a distance of mean 13.5% to the three other BINs available on the Barcode of Life Database. The new species Synaptus iranicus sp. nov. (BOLD: ACZ9929) and its distinctive features are described. Moreover the results of the DNA barcoding suggest that Synaptus filiformis as yet described is not a single species, but rather a complex of several morphologically similar species.
Bioacoustic analysis in Scinax hayii (Barbour, 1909) (Anura, Hylidae) at its type locality in Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: SANTOS LUCAS RODRIGO DOS , MARTINS ITAMAR ALVES
Published: February 2017

Scinax hayii was described in 1909 from the municipality of Petrópolis, State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Morphological variation and advertisement calls have been previously reported for other populations across the species distribution (Lutz 1973; Heyer et al. 1990; Cardoso & Andrade 1991; Pombal et al. 1995; Magrini et al. 2011; Abrunhosa et al. 2014). However, no information on calls are available from specimens recorded at the type locality, preventing the correct characterization of the species (Magrini et al. 2011). Here we describe the advertisement call and a second call type of S. hayii from Petrópolis, as a contribution towards a better understanding of the taxonomy of this species.
Euprepes chaperi Vaillant, 1884, a junior subjective synonym of Mochlus guineensis (W. Peters, 1879) (Scincidae, Lygosominae)
Authors: INEICH IVAN , TRAPE JEAN-FRANÇOIS
Published: February 2017

During travel made in February and March 1882 in the former French Protectorate of Côte d’Or (southeastern Ivory Coast), Mr Chaper, who had previously sent numerous specimens to the Paris Natural History Museum (Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle, Reptiles & Amphibiens; MNHN-RA), collected about 19 reptiles (and one python egg) belonging to 12 species. All those specimens were deposited in the MNHN-RA collections. Among them some specimens were described as a new species, Euprepes chaperi, in two separate publications reporting on that collection published in the same year by Vaillant (1884a,b), head of the Zoology (Reptiles and Fishes) Laboratory at Paris Natural History Museum. The status of that species was not recently reviewed and several options are reported in literature including validity of the species (in the genus Lygosoma Hardwicke & Gray) or synonymy, sometimes simultaneously in the same data base (see Uetz & Hosek, 2016). We here locate the type series of E. chaperi and carefully check their identity.
The Party’s Maritime Power
Authors: Rajesh M.H.
Published: February 2017

With rising contestations regarding maritime sovereignty in the Western Pacific and widening footprints, the Chinese navy is the cynosure of strategic and military analysts. It is therefore appropriate to review some of the major factors that influence its naval build up. This commentary serves as a primer on basic roles and types of fleet1 and helps contextualize and complement the enormous volume of information on the subject.
Catharine Macaulay’s Republican Conception of Social and Political Liberty
Authors: Coffee Alan MSJ
Published: February 2017

Catharine Macaulay was one of the most significant republican writers of her generation. Although there has been a revival of interest in Macaulay among feminists and intellectual historians, neo-republican writers have yet to examine the theoretical content of her work in any depth. Since she anticipates and addresses a number of themes that still preoccupy republicans, this neglect represents a serious loss to the discipline. I examine Macaulay’s conception of freedom, showing how she uses the often misunderstood notion of virtue to reconcile the individual and collective elements inherent in the republican model. In her own analysis of the deep-rooted social obstacles that stand in the way of women becoming free, Macaulay identifies a serious problem that confronts all republicans, namely how to secure freedom in the face of entrenched structural imbalances that systematically disadvantage certain classes of person. In the end, I conclude that Macaulay herself cannot overcome the issues she raises. This in no way diminishes the importance of her work since her diagnosis is as relevant today as in her own time.
Designing Static VAr Compensator capacity to enhance power quality in electric arc furnaces
Authors: Asban Mohammad Reza , Aghaei Jamshid , Niknam Taher , Akbari Mohammad Amin
Published: February 2017

This paper introduces a method for reducing damages arising from voltage fluctuations, voltage flicker, imbalance in the three-phase and power factor reduction caused by electric arc furnaces. A novel equation is defined to calculate the susceptance values of the static var compensator control system, the active power functions of phase load as well as the reactive power ones that have been used to suppress the voltage fluctuation. By compensating the impulsive part of active power component in the impulsive loads, not only can we reduce voltage fluctuations, flicker effects, balance the system and increase the power factor, but also voltage stabilization can be directly controlled. By studying this method and simulating on Electro-Magnetic Transients Program (EMTP) software, we can see that, according to the allowable flicker limit, a compensation method can balance the system, increase power factor and resolve the problem of voltage fluctuations and flicker.
Social Meanings across Listener Groups
Authors: Schleef Erik
Published: February 2017

This study compares the group-specific evaluations of (t) in Greater Manchester, England, with those of (ing) published in a previous study. The comparison is based on a set of perception surveys, in which study participants listened to manipulated audio stimuli and rated them on a series of scales. In contrast to findings for (ing), the social characteristics of listeners are not pertinent to the evaluation of (t): most social meanings associated with (t) are shared across the Greater Manchester population. It is argued that this is due to the pronounced attitude strength of T-glottalling in this particular region.
Barclay’s Gift
Authors: Marcus Joel
Published: February 2017

John Barclay’s Paul and the Gift features a powerful and illuminating comparison and contrast between Paul’s theology of grace and theologies of gift and reward in other Second Temple Jewish texts. Barclay is right to critique E.P. Sanders’s conﬂation of the priority of grace with other perfections of the gift concept, but his own assertion that Paul, like the author of 4 Ezra, regards the divine gift as necessarily circular is questionable. Both Paul and the author of 4 Ezra, rather, seem to leave open the possibility that God may freely bestow his grace on the unworthy, not only in this world, but also in the next.
Amylin Replacement Therapy in Patients With Insulin-Requiring Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Owen Susan K.
Published: February 2017

Normally, the release of glucagon is halted at the beginning of a meal by a direct mechanism: insulin secretion from the β cells within the pancreas inhibits the release of glucagon from the β cells. An “indirect” mechanismamylin (a neuroendocrine hormone also secreted from the β cells)-suppresses the release of glucagon through the central nervous system. In type 2 diabetes, the first phase insulin release is absent, and as amylin is released in direct proportion to insulin, both mechanisms to suppress glucagon are absent. The result is that glucagon secretion and, ultimately, the stimulation of hepatic glucose release continue, resulting in extreme postprandial hyper-glycemia. It has been shown that amylin supplementation with injections of the human amylin analogue pramlintide, in patients with insulin-requiring type 2 diabetes, helps limit postprandial hyperglycemia. Amylin supplementation not only suppresses glucagon secretion but also slows the absorption of glucose in the intestines and limits nutrient intake by providing a feeling of satiety, resulting in a moderate reduction in body weight for many patients. Recently approved by the FDA, pramlintide is now available for clinical use. However, it is important that pramlintide be prescribed only for selected patients and that these patients are thoroughly educated in the use of this agent, especially during initiation of treatment. Patients suited to pramlintide use are those who have not achieved adequate glycemic control despite optimal insulin use, are under the care of a professional health care provider skilled in the use of insulin and a diabetes educator, and are well-disciplined in diabetes self-management.
Lumped parameter modelling and methodology for extraction of model parameters for an electrodynamic shaker
Authors: Tiwari Nachiketa , Puri Amrita , Saraswat Abhishek
Published: February 2017

Shakers are widely used to simulate the vibrations for academic research, as well as for product testing. Thus, there is a significant necessity to study them in detail. Amongst the different types of shakers being used, the electrodynamic shaker is by far the most versatile. However, limited work has been done with regard to their integrated electro-mechanical modelling. In this work, we have developed a mobility-based lumped parameter model of an electrodynamic shaker and also a method to measure its various electrical and mechanical parameters using non-destructive and easy to use methods. Towards meeting the latter goal, we conducted experiments to determine the shaker table’s impedance and transfer functions, and used these data for subsequent parameter extraction. Such a model was later validated experimentally. Finally, we predicted the response of the shaker under loaded and unloaded conditions, and confirmed their validity through actual experimental data.
The effects of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) on haemostasis and blood loss in routine coronary artery bypass surgery: a randomized, double-blind trial I
Authors: Spyt TJ , Weerasena NA , Bain WH , Lowe Gdo , Rumley A.
Published: February 2017

A previous study has found that desmopressin (DDAVP), which releases factor VIII/von Willebrand factor from vascular endothelium, significantly reduces blood loss after complicated cardiac bypass surgery. To determine whether or not desmopressin reduces blood loss or transfusion requirements after routine coronary artery bypass surgery, we randomized 100 patients to receive, double-blind, either desmopressin (0.3 μg/kg over 30 minutes intravenously) or placebo at the end of cardiopulmonary bypass. The two groups were similar in age, sex, prior aspirin use and number of coronary grafts. Following desmopressin infusion, factor VIII coagulant activity was higher than in the placebo group (117 ± 31 versus 95 ± 48 iu/dl, p < 0.05) as was von Willebrand factor antigen (141 ± 53 versus 114 ± 40 iu/dl, p < 0.01). No significant changes in fibrinolysis (fibrin plate lysis area) were observed in either group. Despite this haemostatic effect, patients treated with desmopressin had similar postoperative blood loss to the placebo group (1029 ± 523 versus 976 ± 441 ml) and similar blood transfusion requirements (67.5 units in 33 patients versus 63.5 units in 35 patients). There were no significant differences between groups in the incidence of complications, including postoperative hyponatraemia. We conclude that desmopressin is not useful in reducing blood loss after routine, uncomplicated coronary artery bypass surgery.
Mechanisms of Parkinson’s disease-related proteins in mediating secondary brain damage after cerebral ischemia
Authors: Kim TaeHee , Vemuganti Raghu
Published: February 2017

Both Parkinson’s disease (PD) and stroke are debilitating conditions that result in neuronal death and loss of neurological functions. These two conditions predominantly affect aging populations with the deterioration of the quality of life for the patients themselves and a tremendous burden to families. While the neurodegeneration and symptomology of PD develop chronically over the years, post-stroke neuronal death and dysfunction develop rapidly in days. Despite the discrepancy in the pathophysiological time frame and severity, both conditions share common molecular mechanisms that include oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, endoplasmic reticulum stress, and activation of various cell death pathways (apoptosis/necrosis/autophagy) that synergistically modulate the neuronal death. Emerging evidence indicates that several proteins associated with early-onset familial PD play critical roles in mediating the neuronal death. Importantly, mutations in the genes encoding Parkin, PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 and DJ-1 mediate autosomal recessive forms of PD, whereas mutations in the genes encoding leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 and α-synuclein are responsible for autosomal dominant PD. This review discusses the significance of these proteins with the emphasis on the role of α-synuclein in mediating post-ischemic brain damage.
A theoretical framework for determining cerebral vascular function and heterogeneity from dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI
Authors: Digernes Ingrid , Bjørnerud Atle , Vatnehol Svein Are S , Løvland Grete , Courivaud Frédéric , Vik-Mo Einar , Meling Torstein R , Emblem Kyrre E
Published: February 2017

Mapping the complex heterogeneity of vascular tissue in the brain is important for understanding cerebrovascular disease. In this translational study, we build on previous work using vessel architectural imaging (VAI) and present a theoretical framework for determining cerebral vascular function and heterogeneity from dynamic susceptibility contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Our tissue model covers realistic structural architectures for vessel branching and orientations, as well as a range of hemodynamic scenarios for blood flow, capillary transit times and oxygenation. In a typical image voxel, our findings show that the apparent MRI relaxation rates are independent of the mean vessel orientation and that the vortex area, a VAI-based parameter, is determined by the relative oxygen saturation level and the vessel branching of the tissue. Finally, in both simulated and patient data, we show that the relative distributions of the vortex area parameter as a function of capillary transit times show unique characteristics in normal-appearing white and gray matter tissue, whereas tumour-voxels in comparison display a heterogeneous distribution. Collectively, our study presents a comprehensive framework that may serve as a roadmap for in vivo and per-voxel determination of vascular status and heterogeneity in cerebral tissue.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and hearing disorders: Literature review and meta-analysis of clinical and temporal bone findings
Authors: Di Stadio A , Ralli Massimo
Published: February 2017

Objective

This literature review and meta-analysis was performed to evaluate the correlations among hearing and vestibular clinical symptoms, temporal bone findings, and pathological mechanisms in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Study design

Relevant papers in the literature were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical hearing aspects in patients with SLE and relevant temporal bone studies in the same field were analyzed.

Methods

PubMed and Google Scholar searches were performed using the following keywords: “auto-immune disease,” “systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE),” “hearing loss,” “temporal bone study,” “vertigo,” “dizziness,” “tinnitus,” “ear symptoms,” “treatment,” “diagnosis,” “symptoms,” “etiopathogenesis,” “Wegener granulomatosis,” “Sjogren,” “polyarteritis nodosa,” “Cogan syndrome,” and “granulomatosis.” Also included were reviews in which the following terms were present: “SLE,” “temporal bone,” and “hearing symptoms.”

Review and conclusion

This literature review and meta-analysis focused on the pathological mechanisms through which SLE can damage inner ear structures and determinate hearing and vestibular symptoms. The main mechanisms involved in inner ear damage include the autoimmune response, deposition of immune complexes in the vessels and, to a lesser extent, cytotoxic damage.
Cognitive Profile of Rett Syndrome
Authors: Fontanesi John , Haas Richard H.
Published: February 2017

We report preliminary studies in 18 girls with Rett syndrome (15 typical, three atypical cases) who were studied using a number of neuropsychologic measures. Results indicate a relative preservation of gross motor and daily living skills at the developmental level of the age of onset of the condition. Other adaptive functions were more depressed. Higher levels of object permanency were found in this population than reported previously. Our results indicate that islands of motor and intellectual function persist in Rett syndrome patients. These data may be useful for therapeutic intervention. (J J Child Neurol 1988;3(Suppl):S20-S24).
The Nutritional Aspects of Rett Syndrome
Authors: Rice Marylynne A. , Haas Richard H.
Published: February 2017

Nutrition is a major problem for the Rett patient. We have studied 21 girls with Rett syndrome (19 typical, two atypical). We report our experience in this population with the nutritional aspects of Rett syndrome, the typical dietary habits, and various nutritional deficiencies. Further experience with the use of high fat diets is reported. (J Child Neurol 1988;3(Suppl):S35-S42).
The Orthopedic Management of Rett Syndrome
Authors: Hennessy Michael J. , Haas Richard H.
Published: February 2017

Musculoskeletal deformity sufficiently severe to require orthopedic surgery is a significant problem in Rett syndrome. Preliminary results from the study of 16 patients suggest deformity in nearly all patients. Eight patients in stage III and seven patients in stage IV showed clinical evidence of scoliosis. Radiographic studies confirmed a structural curve in nine of ten patients studied. Heel cord tightening was seen in nine of 16 patients. Hip instability was identified as an area of potential concern in the Rett patient. (J Child Neurol 1988;3(Suppl):S43-S48).
Rett Syndrome: Qualitative and Quantitative Differentiation from Autism
Authors: Percy Alan K. , Zoghbi Huda Y. , Lewis Kay R. , Jankovic Joseph
Published: February 2017

Patients with Rett syndrome appear to fulfill the Rendle-Short criteria for the diagnosis of autism, but the pattern of their behavior is qualitatively different from children with autism. Until a biologic marker is identified, diagnosis is based on clinical assessment. In order to standardize this clinical assessment and to provide objective criteria for the evaluation of potential therapeutic modalities, motor and behavioral characteristics of 15 Rett patients were analyzed. The patients with Rett syndrome differed from autistic children in having ataxia, breath-holding, hyperventilation, bruxism, simplicity of stereotypies, and hand apposition. The children with autism demonstrated complex stereotypies and verbal but not motor regression. The more typical features of autism, namely, poor eye contact, lack of sustained interest, speech disturbance, and repetitive truncal rocking motions were poor discriminators between the two groups. (J Child Neurol 1988;3(Suppl): S65-S67).
Controversies in the Treatment of Autistic Children: Vitamin and Drug Therapy
Authors: Rimland Bernard
Published: February 2017

A survey of approximately 4,000 questionnaires completed by parents of autistic children provided ratings on a variety of treatments and interventions. Among the biomedical treatments, the use of high-dosage vitamin B6 and magnesium (n = 318) received the highest ratings, with 8.5 parents reporting behavioral improvement to every one reporting behavioral worsening. Deanol (n = 121) was next most highly rated, with 1.8 parents reporting improvement to each one reporting worsening. Fenfluramine (n = 104) was third, with a ratio of 1.5:1. Thioridazine hydrochloride (Mellaril), by far the most often used drug on the list (n = 724), was fourth with a helped-worsened ratio of 1.4:1. The research literature on the use of vitamin B6-magnesium is briefly reviewed, and mention is made of recent findings regarding high-dosage folic acid in autism and biotin in Rett syndrome. (J Child Neurol 1988;3(Suppl):S68-S72).
Research on Rett Syndrome: Strategy and Preliminar Results
Authors: Naidu Sakkubai , Kitt Cheryl Ann , Wong Dean F. , Price Donald L. , Troncoso Juan C. , Moser Hugo W.
Published: February 2017

The research strategy presented here involves four assumptions: (1) Rett syndrome exists; (2) a single cause will eventually be found to account for the majority of cases presently assigned to this disease category; (3) it is genetically determined; and (4) it represents a neurodegenerative disorder that can be defined by quantitative studies of nervous system structure and function. The strategy proposed here involves the comprehensive study of 100 patients with the classic Rett syndrome phenotype. Studies include the (1) search for a diagnostic marker; (2) high-resolution cytogenetic banding techniques, (3) quantitative morphologic studies of postmortem brain tissue as well as neurochemical analyses including autoradiographic techniques, radioimmunoassays, and in situ hybridization; and (4) positron emission tomography studies of cerebral glucose metabolism and neurotransmitters. (J Child Neurol 1988;3(Suppl):S78-S86).
Neurosonology—Who Should Perform the Study?
Authors: Curry Reva A.
Published: February 2017

Neurosonology is a rapidly growing field of imaging which demands a highly skilled imaging professional. Sonographers are imagers trained to produce sonographic images of one or more of the following specialty areas: abdomen, obstetrics/ gynecology, adult echocardiography, pediatric echocardiography, opthalmology, vascular technology, and neurosonology. There are short and long term training programs for sonographers which vary in scope and the number of specialty areas offered. Some sonographers do not receive formal training and learn OTJ (on-the-job). Any training program in neurosonology should encompass anatomy, basic pathology, sonographic appearance of normal and abnormal structures, and physics/instrumentation. There is presently a sonographer shortage due to the rapid increase in sonographer positions nationwide. It is therefore beneficial to the neurosonology department to allow ample time to recruit and/or train a sonographer. The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, and the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine are valuable resources in providing information on training opportunities and recruitment strategies for sonographers. (J Child Neurol 1989;4:S5-S7).
Macrocephaly Is Not Always Due to Hydrocephalus
Authors: Strassburg Hans-Michael
Published: February 2017

Macrocephaly is a clinical symptom with a heterogeneous cause. Besides enlarged ventricles (hydrocephalus) it can be caused by increased brain volume, expanded extracerebral spaces, intracranial cysts, and dilated vessels. Drawing on the experience of more than 8 years using transfontanellar sonography including Doppler techniques, some typical clinical and sonographic features of several forms of macrocephaly are addressed. Besides isolated familial or sporadic megalencephaly, extracerebral fluid collections are the main explanation of macrocephaly. Subdural effusions with compression of the brain by increased intracranial pressure should be differentiated from craniocerebral disproportion without increased intracranial pressure. Subependymal and subarachnoidal cysts may cause extraordinary displacements and compression of brain structures; nevertheless, the prognosis is rather optimistic, for the brain structure itself is generally not destroyed. In some infants with complex genetic, neurocutaneous, and neurometabolic syndromes, macrocephaly is an early clinical sign. The outcome in these infants is very different and dependent on the dysfunction of the brain by the specific disease (eg, storage of neurotoxic substances, dysplasia, gliosis, vascular disturbances, or brain tumors). In infants with vascular malformations the diagnosis can be established more exactly by using Doppler techniques. I recommend some practical diagnostic procedures in cases of macrocephaly. Nevertheless, in many patients with increased head size an exact statement about the further prognosis cannot be established by one examination; therefore, a developmental evaluation in combination with regular sonographic evaluation is the most valuable method in taking care of all infants with macrocephaly. (J Child Neurol 1989;4:S32-S40).
Neurosonographic Findings in Infants Treated by Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)
Authors: Matamoros Aurelio , Anderson Joseph C. , McConnell James , Bolam David L.
Published: February 2017

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an approved therapy for some neonates who have respiratory failure that is due to hyaline membrane disease, meconium aspiration, persistent pulmonary hypertension, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, or sepsis. The major complication of this therapy is hemorrhage, with intracranial hemorrhage having the highest morbidity and mortality. Seizures, incisional bleeding and bleeding in the pleural space, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, renal failure, and cardiovascular complications account for most of the other complications. Cranial sonography provides an ideal imaging modality for baseline evaluation and daily follow-up; however, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, because of better sensitivity, are important for assessment after ECMO. The changes in intracranial blood flow related to ECMO can be noninvasively evaluated by Doppler ultrasound modalities. (J Child Neurol 1989;4:S52-S61).
Antenatal Diagnosis of Fetal Intracranial Anomalies
Authors: Fadel Hossam E.
Published: February 2017

Defects in the central nervous system (CNS) are the most devastating of the various fetal malformations that can be sonographically diagnosed. The sonographer often initiates a decision-making process that presents the patient with difficult options. An accurate and reliable sonographic diagnosis becomes an essential part of this evolving aspect of obstetric care. In this paper, some of the major defects of the CNS that have been diagnosed sonographically are presented with a brief outline of the pathologic features, diagnostic features, the prognosis, as well as management options. Most of these malformations are serious enough so that termination of pregnancy is usually offered if the diagnosis is made prior to the age of viability and, for some malformations (ie, hydranencephaly, alobar holoprosencephaly), even later. Intrauterine treatment, principally ventriculoamniotic shunting, remains an investigational procedure. A diagnosis of a serious or lethal malformation allows the obstetrician to choose not to perform a cesarean section because of fetal distress or dystocia due to macrocephaly in such "doomed" fetuses. On the other hand, cesarean section may be the preferred route of delivery for fetuses with other malformations (eg, meningomyelocele). (J Child Neurol 1989;4:S107-S112).
Legal Issues in the Treatment of Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Ouellette Eileen M.
Published: February 2017

The treatment of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has raised a number of legal issues. Tort issues include medical malpractice and battery claims. Suits have charged physicians with negligent misdiagnosis of ADHD, and failure to obtain adequate informed consent for the use of stimulant medications, primarily by inadequate provision of information about side effects. Coercive use of medications by school systems, in the absence of parental consent, has raised issues about battery. Constitutional questions are present concerning limitations on parental rights to decline medical care for their children balanced against the State's interest in safeguarding the health and welfare of children. Children's own equal protection, due process, and privacy rights are also at issue, as well as their constitutional and statutory right to an education. (J Child Neurol 1991;6(Suppl):S66-S73).
The Neuroanatomy and Neurophysiology of Attention
Authors: Colby C.L.
Published: February 2017

Attention is a distributed process. The activity of neurons in many brain structures can be modulated by the attentional state of the animal. Attention directed toward a particular external stimulus is often reflected in an enhancement of the sensory response to that stimulus. Enhancement is spatially selective for neurons in many areas and explicitly eye-movement related in most. Attention directed toward the internal representation of a stimulus may be associated with a prolongation of neural activity. These modulations of neuronal responsiveness underscore the dynamic nature of neural processing. Competition between left- and right-brain structures in the control of attention is common. While attention is perceived as a unitary process, it is subserved by many brain structures. Given the wide distribution of attentional processes, it is not surprising that children diagnosed as having attentional deficits show considerable diversity in symptoms and etiology. (J Child Neurol 1991;6(Suppl):S88-S116).