bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Denaturation-Enhanced Droplet Digital PCR for Liquid Biopsies
Authors: Fitarelli-Kiehl Mariana , Yu Fangyan , Ashtaputre Ravina , Leong Ka Wai , Ladas Ioannis , Supplee Julianna , Paweletz Cloud , Mitra Devarati , Schoenfeld Jonathan D , Parangi Sareh , Makrigiorgos G Mike
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

Although interest in droplet-digital PCR technology (ddPCR) for cell-free circulating DNA (cfDNA) analysis is burgeoning, the technology is compromised by subsampling errors and the few clinical targets that can be analyzed from limited input DNA. The paucity of starting material acts as a “glass ceiling” in liquid biopsies because, irrespective how analytically sensitive ddPCR techniques are, detection limits cannot be improved past DNA input limitations.

METHODS

We applied denaturation-enhanced ddPCR (dddPCR) using fragmented genomic DNA (gDNA) with defined mutations. We then tested dddPCR on cfDNA from volunteers and patients with cancer for commonly-used mutations. gDNA and cfDNA were tested with and without end repair before denaturation and digital PCR.

RESULTS

By applying complete denaturation of double-stranded DNA before ddPCR droplet formation the number of positive droplets increased. dddPCR using gDNA resulted in a 1.9–2.0-fold increase in data-positive droplets, whereas dddPCR applied on highly-fragmented cfDNA resulted in a 1.6–1.7-fold increase. End repair of cfDNA before denaturation enabled cfDNA to display a 1.9–2.0-fold increase in data-positive signals, similar to gDNA. Doubling of data-positive droplets doubled the number of potential ddPCR assays that could be conducted from a given DNA input and improved ddPCR precision for cfDNA mutation detection.

CONCLUSIONS

dddPCR is a simple and useful modification in ddPCR that enables extraction of more information from low-input clinical samples with minor change in protocols. It should be applicable to all ddPCR platforms for mutation detection and, potentially, for gene copy-number analysis in cancer and prenatal screening.
A CONTINUIDADE/DESCONTINUIDADE NOS CURRÍCULOS DE EDUCAÇÃO INTEGRAL: REFLEXÕES A PARTIR DO PROGRAMA ENSINO MÉDIO INOVADOR EM CAMPINA GRANDE/PB
Authors: Salvino Francisca Pereira
Published: October 2018

As múltiplas “vozes” que dialogam neste texto objetivam analisar continuidades e descontinuidades na proposta de currículo para educação integral, evidenciadas com a reestruturação do Programa Ensino Médio Inovador (Pro-EMI), a partir de 2016. Decorre de pesquisa qualitativa nos moldes da análise documental, tomando como referência empírica escolas de Ensino Médio do município de Campina Grande/PB. Argumenta-se que o neoliberalismo, mais do que uma doutrina político-econômica, é um discurso com forte penetração na vida cotidiana, contudo as escolas não são meros espaços de reprodução de políticas neoliberais, mas microespaços de política cultural, nos quais textos/documentos são ressignificados e recontextualizados. Conclui que as continuidades e as descontinuidades evidenciadas no Programa situam-se no complexo processo de reordenação do capitalismo que, favorecido pelo avanço das tecnologias de informação e comunicação, intensifica as parcerias público-privadas, constituindo redes de políticas que dão novos sentidos à gestão da educação e do currículo, bem como às relações (globais/locais), às disputas e aos mecanismos de regulação em torno do currículo de educação integral.
A PESQUISA EM EDUCAÇÃO: APORTES PSICANALÍTICOS
Authors: Pisetta Maria Angélica Augusto de Mello , Charczuk Simone Bicca
Published: October 2018

No que se apresenta, propomo-nos a discutir a relação entre psicanálise e educação, analisando conceitos psicanalíticos fundamentais como operadores de leitura na realização de pesquisas. Problematizamos os conceitos de inconsciente e Outro, acentuando sua dimensão política. Encontros possíveis entre as duas áreas são pontuados, sublinhando a articulação entre psicanálise, educação e pesquisa. Especificidades da pesquisa são referenciadas e analisamos os conceitos de transferência, associação livre, discurso e escuta como ferramentas metodológicas na abordagem da pesquisa. Por fim, compartilhamos propostas de estudos realizadas atualmente nas quais se aplicam recursos metodológicos construídos pelo aporte psicanalítico.
TEORIAS DO CURRÍCULO: REFLEXÕES SOBRE AS SUAS INFLUÊNCIAS NO PROCESSO DE ESCOLARIZAÇÃO
Authors: Losso Claudia Regina  Castellano , Borges Martha Kaschny
Published: October 2018

Este estudo busca uma reflexão teórica sobre currículo no processo de escolarização, baseando-se em três textos de autores renomados na área, Joseph Schwab, José Augusto Pacheco e Michael Young. Traz como base para discussão os escritos sobre currículo, sendo eles “Un enfoque práctico como lenguaje para el currículum” de Schwab (1992); “Curriculum studies: what is the field today?” de Pacheco (2012) e “Currículo: conhecimento e avaliação” de Young (2013). Discorre sobre os principais tópicos de cada autor sobre o tema e aponta caminhos para a sua análise, ao entender que este é um campo específico de tensões, de disputas, de interesses.
Face Scan - Zur Rolle technischer Bildverfahren in den Porträts von Chuck Close
Authors: Jian Ce Christina
Published: September 2018

Die Porträts von Chuck Close weisen seit den 1960er Jahren eine große Affinität zum Technischen auf: Seine seriellen Bildverfahren führen eine systematische Aneignung und Reflexion technischer Prinzipien mit malerischen Mitteln vor, die eine Zuordnung zum Fotorealismus widerlegen. Dieser technoide Grundzug reicht von der extremen Annäherung an die Fotografie bis zu quasi-digitalen Formen, die sich vor dem Hintergrund ihrer Zeit begreifen lassen. Sie antizipieren aber zugleich die technologisch veränderte Bildkultur und das Menschenbild der Gegenwart. Ce Christina Jian zeigt, dass Closes Werk für die Frage, wie Malerei auf neue Bildmedien reagieren kann, ohne ihren Eigenwert einzubüßen, nichts an Aktualität verloren hat.
PENGARUH FRAMING DAN URUTAN BUKTI TERHADAP AUDIT JUDGMENT: KOMPARASI DAN INTERAKSI KEPUTUSAN INDIVIDU-KELOMPOK
Authors: Haryanto Haryanto
Published: September 2018

This study aims to compare type of decision maker (individual-group) on the influence offraming and order effect for making an audit judgment by the auditor. A laboratoryexperiment approach with 120 auditors from The Audit Board of The Republic of Indonesia(Badan Pemeriksa Keuangan Republik Indonesia) as participants used to hypothesistesting. The results show that framing influences an audit judgment, and the interactionbetween framing and type of decision-maker affects on audit judgment. The study alsoshows that the order effect factor influences audit judgment. The interaction between theorder of evidence and the type of decision-maker also occurs, which indicates a decisionshift of individual-group in influencing an audit judgment. Consistent with several previousstudies, the group's decision is in line and greater or smaller then individual decision hasbeen made previously.
Analisis Dampak Tax Morale Terhadap Kepatuhan Pajak UMKM: Studi Kasus Kota Semarang
Authors: Mahmudah Muslimah , Iskandar Deden Dinar
Published: September 2018

This study aims to analyze the impact of tax morale on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) tax complianceSemarang City as the case study. This study uses primary data generated from 117 samples of MSMEs in Semarang. Data analysis is performed  using binary logistic regression analysis. The results showed that environmental, institutional, ethical, business, and business size variables significantly influence MSMEs tax compliance. On the other hand, variables whose effect on tax compliance is not statistically significant include happiness, religiosity, gender, age, education, and marital status.
ANALISIS PENGARUH INSTRUMEN PEMBAYARAN NON-TUNAI TERHADAP STABILITAS SISTEM KEUANGAN DI INDONESIA
Authors: Lintangsari Nastiti Ninda , Hidayati Nisaulfathona , Purnamasari Yeni , Carolina Hilda , Ramadhan Wiangga Febranto
Published: September 2018

The payment system is an important component in the economy especially to ensure the implementation of payment transactions made by the public and the business world. In addition, the payment system also plays an important role in supporting financial system stability and implementation of monetary policy. Along with rapid technological developments, patterns and payment systems in economic transactions are constantly changing. Technological advances in the payment instruments shift the role of cash as a means of payment in the form of more efficient and economical non-cash payments. Non-cash payment instruments used in this study are card-based payment instruments (APMK) and electronic money (e-money). The aim of this study is to examine the effect of non-cash payment instruments development on money supply (M1), velocity of money, inflation, interest rate, and financial system stability. A set of secondary data are assessed through official website of Bank Indonesia from year 2009-2017. Multiple regression analysis are employed to elaborate the results. The result showed that e-money and credit card transactions have a significant positive effect on M1, e-money transactions have a significant negative effect on interest rates, and credit card transactions have a significant positive effect on interest rates.
Efek Harga dan Perilaku Pemakaian Kontrasepsi
Authors: Darmawan Dody Harris
Published: September 2018

Abstract The behavior of spouses of fertile age (EFA) in choosing a contraceptive that will she wear is influenced by many factors. Previous research extensively covered socio-demographic factors correlated to the choice of contraception. Rationally, households in choosing a contraceptive based on the benefits of optimal and minimal costs. This study will discuss the price as reflecting rationality EFA determinant in choosing a contraceptive. By using data from the BKKBN Family Data Collection In 2015, this study will use the order logit models to determine causality or correlation between price and other determinants of the choice of contraception. It was found that the price of a statistically significant effect on the choice of contraception. Probability of contraceptive choices tend towards the long-term contraception with increases in the price of each contraception.
TRADISI MASYARAKAT NELAYAN RAWA PENING KELURAHAN BEJALEN KECAMATAN AMBARAWA KABUPATEN SEMARANG
Authors: Cristianawati Cristianawati
Published: September 2018

Bejalen village is located in Ambarawa subdistrict which has 470,720 hectars. There are 14,040 hectars of ponds and about 86 hectars rice fields as a good source for fish and agritultural production. The agricultural output reached 14,040 tons of crops and the production of fish amounted 1,533 tons. The Livelihood of community is fishermen. They work everyday based on the old generation tradition. The research purpose has gained more information about the fishermen culture, such as social, economic, and organisational condition.
POPOKAN, TRADISI PERANG LUMPUR Tradisi Desa Sendang, Kecamatan Bringin, Kabupaten Semarang
Authors: Hafidz Muh
Published: September 2018

Initially the tradition of popokan is the original tradition of Sendang village. It is developed into a unique tradition in Semarang Regency. The tradition is not only limited to the tradition of mud war among villagers of Sendang Village, but also modified with various processions in the form of cleaning wells or water sources, tumpengan (food offering), carnival and popokan war. Popokan tradition is an expression of gratitude to God the Almighty as the Ruler of the Universe, in order to keep away from various disasters and calamities. This tradition is also an expression of artistic ability and creativity of citizens, especially after the Tourism Office of Semarang Regency manages it in order to preserve local wisdom from the tradition of the local ancestors.
Association of serum sphingomyelin profile with clinical outcomes in patients with lower respiratory tract infections: results of an observational, prospective 6-year follow-up study
Authors: Baumgartner Thomas , Zurauskaite Giedre , Steuer Christian , Bernasconi Luca , Huber Andreas , Mueller Beat , Schuetz Philipp
Published: September 2018

Background

Sphingolipids – the structural cell membrane components – and their metabolites are involved in signal transduction and participate in the regulation of immunity. We investigated the prognostic implications of sphingolipid metabolic profiling on mortality in a large cohort of patients with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs).

Methods

We measured 15 different sphingomyelin (SM) types in patients with LRTIs from a previous Swiss multicenter trial that examined the impact of procalcitonin-guided antibiotic therapy on total antibiotic use and rates and duration of hospitalization. Primary and secondary end points were adverse outcomes – defined as death or intensive care unit admission within 30 days – and 6-year mortality.

Results

Of 360 patients, 8.9% experienced an adverse outcome within 30 days and 46% died within 6 years. Levels of all SM types were significantly lower in pneumonia patients vs. those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation (p<0.0001 for all comparisons). Sphingomyelin subspecies SM (OH) C22:1 and SM (OH) C22:2 were associated with lower risk for short-term adverse outcomes (sex-, gender- and comorbidity-adjusted odds ratios [OR]: 0.036; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.002–0.600; p=0.021 and 0.037; 95% CI, 0.001–0.848; p=0.039, respectively). We found no significant associations with 6-year mortality for any SM.

Conclusions

Circulating sphingolipid levels are lower in inflammatory conditions such as pneumonia and correlate with adverse short-term outcomes. Further characterization of the physiological, pathophysiological and metabolic roles of sphingolipids under inflammatory conditions may facilitate understanding of their roles in infectious disease.
Über einige Aspekte der Arbeit von Peter Scholze
Authors: Wedhorn Torsten
Published: September 2018

Im August 2018 erhielt Peter Scholze die Fieldsmedaille for transforming arithmetic algebraic geometry over p-adic fields through his introduction of perfectoid spaces, with application to Galois representations, and for the development of new cohomology theories.
Es ist wahrscheinlich nicht möglich, auf wenigen Seiten eine präzise Version oder auch nur einen
einigermaßen vollständigen Eindruck der Vielzahl von bahnbrechenden Resultaten von Scholze
zu geben. Selbst eine genaue Erklärung der obigen Kurzlaudatio der internationalen
Mathematikunion würde sicherlich einen sehr viel längeren Text erfordern. Aber vielleicht ist es
möglich, eine vage Idee des Begriffs eines perfektoiden Raumes zu geben und einen Eindruck zu
vermitteln, warum diese Räume einen großen Teil der arithmetischen algebraischen Geometrie
revolutioniert haben. Dies ist ein Versuch.
Indiskrete Logarithmen?
Authors: Zumbrägel Jens
Published: September 2018

Die moderne Public-Key-Kryptographie, begründet durch die bahnbrechende Arbeit von Diffie und Hellman, ist seit jeher mit der Schwierigkeit des diskreten Logarithmusproblems verbunden. Allerdings ist in Körpern kleiner Charakteristik die Hartnäckigkeit dieses Problems nicht so hoch, wie
lange Zeit angenommen. Daraus resultieren beträchtliche Rekordberechnungen, sowie Konsequenzen für die Sicherheit einiger Kryptosysteme.
Fußball-WM-Design
Authors: Bjelde Antje
Published: September 2018

Der Gewinn eines großen Turniers, wie zum Beispiel der Fußballweltmeisterschaft, hängt nicht nur von
dem eigenen Können, sondern auch von der Reihenfolge der Spiele und Gegner ab. Wie diese
Reihenfolge „gut“ gewählt werden kann, kann mit Mechanismusdesign, einem Teilgebiet der
Spieltheorie, modelliert werden. Die Fußballweltmeisterschaft berührt also nicht nur kombinatorische
Fragen – „Wie viele mögliche Gruppenaufteilungen gibt es?“ –, sondern liefert uns auch den Einstieg in
diesen Artikel. Neben einem Einblick in das junge und spannende Gebiet des Mechanismusdesign
betrachten wir einige Auswahlmechanismen näher, wie sie beispielsweise bei Klassensprecherwahlen
Anwendung finden. Ein Artikel für die Kaffeepause mit Fußball, Pizza und Diktatoren.
Optimierung und Klinische Entscheidungsunterstützung
Authors: Sager Sebastian
Published: September 2018

Mediziner müssen täglich viele wichtige Entscheidungen treffen. Ein klinisches Beispiel ist die Planung und
Dosierung einer Chemotherapie. Ein zweites Beispiel ist die Unterscheidung zwischen verschiedenen
Herzrhythmusstörungen basierend auf EKG-Daten. Das notwendige (oftmals unbewusste) Expertenwissen
ist nicht leicht transferierbar und beispielsweise im ländlichen Raum nicht immer verfügbar. Wir erläutern,
wie durch eine Kombination von Mathematik, modelliertem Expertenwissen und klinischen Daten
neuartige automatisierte Systeme zur Entscheidungsunterstützung entstehen.
A short history of written Wu, Part II: Written Shanghainese
Authors: Snow Don , Senyao Shen , Xiayun Zhou
Published: September 2018

The recent publication of the novelMagnificent Flowers(Fan Hua繁花) has attracted attention not only because of critical acclaim and market success, but also because of its use of Shanghainese. WhileMagnificent Flowersis the most notable recent book to make substantial use of Shanghainese, it is not alone, and the recent increase in the number of books that are written partially or even entirely in Shanghainese raises the question of whether written Shanghainese may develop a role in Chinese print culture, especially that of Shanghai and the surrounding region, similar to that attained by written Cantonese in and around Hong Kong.

This study examines the history of written Shanghainese in print culture. Growing out of the older written Suzhounese tradition, during the early decades of the twentieth century a distinctly Shanghainese form of written Wu emerged in the print culture of Shanghai, and Shanghainese continued to play a role in Shanghai’s print culture through the twentieth century, albeit quite a modest one. In the first decade of the twenty-first century Shanghainese began to receive increased public attention and to play a greater role in Shanghai media, and since 2009 there has been an increase in the number of books and other kinds of texts that use Shanghainese and also the degree to which they use it.

This study argues that in important ways this phenomenon does parallel the growing role played by written Cantonese in Hong Kong, but that it also differs in several critical regards. The most important difference is that, to date, written Shanghainese appears almost exclusively in texts that look back to “old Shanghai” and/or to traditional alley life in Shanghai, and that a role of the type written Cantonese has in Hong Kong is not likely to be attained unless or until Shanghainese texts that are associated with modern urban Shanghai life, especially youth culture, begin to appear.
Hydrodynamics Modeling of an LSCFB Reactor Using Multigene Genetic Programming Approach: Effect of Particles Size and Shape
Authors: Razzak Shaikh A.
Published: September 2018

The multigene genetic programming (MGGP) technique based hydrodynamics models were developed to predict the solids holdups of a liquid-solid circulating fluidized bed (LSCFB) riser. Four different particles were considered to investigate the effects of particle size, shape and density on hydrodynamics behavior of the LSCFB riser. In this regard, two spherical shape glass bead particles (500 and 1200 μm), two irregular shape lava rock particles (500 and 920 μm) were employed as solid phase and water as liquid phase. The MGGP models were developed, relating the solids holdup (${\varepsilon _s}$, output parameter) with eight input parameters. The developed models were first validated by comparing the model predicted and experimental data of solids holdups. The average solids holdups decreased with the increase of net superficial liquid velocity (${U_l} - {U_t}$) and normalized superficial liquid velocity$\left( {\frac{{{U_l}}}{{{U_t}}}} \right)$. Uniform axial solids holdups observed in axial locations (H) except close to the liquid-solid distributor of the riser. The radial non-uniformity of solids holdup observed all radial positions (r/R). In the central region almost flat but increased toward the wall region. The radial profiles of the solid holdup are approximately identical at a fixed average cross-sectional solid holdup for all of the three LSCFB systems of this study. The statistical performance indicators such as the mean absolute percentage error and correlation coefficient are also found to be within acceptable range. All these findings of suggest that the MGGP modeling approach is suitable for predicting effect of particle size and shape on hydrodynamics behavior of the LSCFB system
A Symmetric Van ’t Hoff Equation and Equilibrium Temperature Gradients
Authors: Sheehan D. P.
Published: September 2018

Thermodynamically isolated systems normally relax to equilibria characterized by single temperatures; however, in recent years several systems have been identified that challenge this presumption, demonstrating stationary temperature gradients at equilibrium. These temperature gradients, most pronounced in systems involving epicatalysis, can be explained via an underappreciated symmetry in the Van ’t Hoff equation.
Threshold models with time-varying threshold values and their application in estimating regime-sensitive Taylor rules
Authors: Zhu Yanli , Chen Haiqiang , Lin Ming
Published: September 2018

The literature of time series models with threshold effects makes the assumption of a constant threshold value over different periods. However, this time-homogeneity assumption tends to be too restrictive owing to the fact that the threshold value that triggers regime switching could possibly be time-varying. This study herein proposes a threshold model in which the threshold value is assumed to be a latent variable following an autoregressive (AR) process. The newly proposed model was estimated using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm under a Bayesian framework. The Monte Carlo simulations are presented to assess the effectiveness of the Bayesian approaches. An illustration of the model was made through an application to a regime-sensitive Taylor rule employing U.S. data.
A new aspect of the “pseudo water” concept of bis(trimethylsilyl)carbodiimide – “pseudohydrates” of aluminum
Authors: Krupinski Katrin , Brendler Erica , Gericke Robert , Wagler Jörg , Kroke Edwin
Published: September 2018

Bis(trimethylsilyl)carbodiimide (BTSC), so-called “pseudo water” because of some analogies such as similar (group)electronegativities of Me3Si– vs. H– and –N=C=N– vs. –O–, may form two different kinds of “pseudo hydrates” of metals (M), i.e. M–N(SiMe3)=C=N(SiMe3) and M–N≡C–N(SiMe3)2, derived from its carbodiimide and cyanamide isomeric forms, respectively. With anhydrous AlCl3 in Me3SiCl solution BTSC was shown to be capable of forming both kinds of solvates, i.e. Cl3Al–N(SiMe3)–C≡N(SiMe3) (1) and ((Cl3Al)(Me3Si)NCN)3–Al–(N≡C–N(SiMe3)2)3 (2). Both compounds were isolated as crystalline solids, which undergo condensation reactions upon storage. By single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis the constitution of 1 was confirmed unambiguously, and quantum chemical calculations (B3LYP/6-311++g(d,p)) confirmed that compound 1 is 6 kcal mol−1 more stable than its hypothetical N,N-bis(trimethylsilyl)cyanamide isomer Cl3Al–N≡C–N(SiMe3)2. Compound 1 represents the first crystallographically confirmed disilylcarbodiimide complex of a metal salt. The molecules of compound 2 are heavily disordered in the solid state (positional disorder of N≡C–N(SiMe3)2 vs. N≡C–N(SiMe3)(AlCl3) and positional disorder of SiMe3 vs. AlCl3 groups in the latter). Therefore, the identity of 2 was additionally confirmed by 13C, 15N, 27Al and 29Si CP/MAS NMR spectroscopy.
Relationship Between Maximal Dynamic Force in the Deep Back Squat and Sprinting Performance in Consecutive Segments Up to 30 m
Authors: Möck Sebastian , Hartmann René , Wirth Klaus , Rosenkranz Gregor , Mickel Christoph
Published: September 2018

Möck, S, Hartmann, R, Wirth, K, Rosenkranz, G, and Mickel, C. Relationship between maximal dynamic force in the deep back squat and sprinting performance in consecutive segments up to 30 m. J Strength Cond Res 35(4): 1039–1043, 2021—The sprint (in track and field athletics) is characterized by a fluent transition from predominantly knee extending musculature during the initial acceleration phase toward dominance of the hamstring muscle group thereafter. Because of this change in technique, it can be assumed that there is a decrease of correlation of the maximal dynamic force of the deep back squat and sprinting performance with increasing distance. Therefore, sprinting performance for consecutive intervals (0–5, 5–10, 10–15, 15–20, 20–25, and 25–30 m) as well as the 1 repetition maximum (1RM) were determined. Our results show statistically significant (p < 0.01) correlations for both the relationships with the absolute 1RM (r = −0.614 to −0.808) and the relative 1RM (r = −0.646 to −0.749). However, the expected decrease in correlation over distance was not found. The results show that the maximal dynamic force of hip and knee extensors are a basic performance requirement in short-distance sprinting and should be considered in training recommendations.
Injury Prevention Programs Based on Flywheel vs. Body Weight Resistance in Recreational Athletes
Authors: Monajati Alireza , Larumbe-Zabala Eneko , Goss-Sampson Mark , Naclerio Fernando
Published: September 2018

Monajati, A, Larumbe-Zabala, E, Sampson, MG, and Naclerio, F. Injury prevention programs based on flywheel vs. body weight resistance in recreational athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(2S): S188–S196, 2021—This study compares the effect of an isoinertial flywheel technology vs. a traditional gravity-dependent exercise protocol on modifiable factors associated with the incidence of hamstring strain (HAM) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. Furthermore, the effect on repeated sprint ability was also considered. Eighteen recreationally trained volleyball players completed one of the following 6-week protocols: (a) flywheel (FY) included 3 exercises using a YoYo isoinertial-squat machine and 3 exercises with a Versa-Pulley isoinertial device, and (b) gravity-dependent (GT) involved 6 similar exercises with no external resistance (participants' body weight). Both programs consisted in 2 sessions·wk−1 performing 2 sets of 8 repetitions with 2 minutes of rest. Outcomes included a 10-second tuck jump assessment (TJA), landing knee valgus score, hamstring and quadriceps concentric and eccentric isokinetic 60°·s−1 peak torque, optimal peak torque localization, conventional and functional hamstring-to-quadriceps ratio, and 30-m repeated shuttle sprint ability (RSSA) test. FY improved TJA (−2, interquartile range [IQR] = −3 to −1) and valgus (−1, IQR = −1 to 0) scores, hamstring eccentric (20.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 9.27–31.47 N·m) and concentric (17.87, 95% CI = 0.40–35.34 N·m) peak torque, as well as the RSSA (−0.28, 95% CI = −0.45 to −0.10 seconds), whereas GT only improved hamstring eccentric peak torque (21.41, 95% CI = 9.00–33.82 N·m). A 6-week protocol using flywheel technology seems to elicit better positive adaptations to protect athletes from HAM and ACL injuries and to enhance RSSA performance compared to exercising with no external resistance other than athletes' body weight.
Resistance to thyroid hormone accompanied by atrial fibrillation
Authors: Sato Haruhiro , Tomita Yuichiro
Published: October 2018

Resistance to thyroid hormone (RTH), which is primarily caused by mutations in the thyroid hormone (TH) receptor beta (THRB) gene, is dominantly inherited syndrome of variable tissue hyposensitivity to TH. We herein describe a case involving a 22-year-old Japanese man with RTH and atrial fibrillation (AF) complaining of palpitation and general fatigue. Electrocardiography results revealed AF. He exhibited elevated TH levels and an inappropriately normal level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Despite being negative for anti-TSH receptor antibody, thyroid-stimulating antibody and anti-thyroperoxidase antibody, the patient was positive for anti-thyroglobulin (Tg) antibody. Genetic analysis of the THRB gene identified a missense mutation, F269L, leading to the diagnosis of RTH. Normal sinus rhythm was achieved after 1 week of oral bisoprolol fumarate (5 mg/day) administration. After 3 years on bisoprolol fumarate, the patient had been doing well with normal sinus rhythm, syndrome of inappropriate secretion of TSH (SITSH) and positive titer of anti-Tg antibody.

Learning points:

Atrial fibrillation can occur in patients with RTH.

Only a few cases have been reported on the coexistence of RTH and atrial fibrillation.

No consensus exists regarding the management of atrial fibrillation in patients with RTH.

Administration of bisoprolol fumarate, a beta-blocker, can ameliorate atrial fibrillation in RTH.
A novel CASR mutation (p.Glu757Lys) causing autosomal dominant hypocalcaemia type 1
Authors: Kwan Benjamin , Champion Bernard , Boyages Steven , Munns Craig F , Clifton-Bligh Roderick , Luxford Catherine , Crawford Bronwyn
Published: October 2018

Autosomal dominant hypocalcaemia type 1 (ADH1) is a rare familial disorder characterised by low serum calcium and low or inappropriately normal serum PTH. It is caused by activating CASR mutations, which produces a left-shift in the set point for extracellular calcium. We describe an Australian family with a novel heterozygous missense mutation in CASR causing ADH1. Mild neuromuscular symptoms (paraesthesia, carpopedal spasm) were present in most affected individuals and required treatment with calcium and calcitriol. Basal ganglia calcification was present in three out of four affected family members. This case highlights the importance of correctly identifying genetic causes of hypocalcaemia to allow for proper management and screening of family members.

Learning points:

ADH1 is a rare cause of hypoparathyroidism due to activating CASR mutations and is the mirror image of familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia.

In patients with ADH1, symptoms of hypocalcaemia may be mild or absent. Basal ganglia calcification may be present in over a third of patients.

CASR mutation analysis is required for diagnostic confirmation and to facilitate proper management, screening and genetic counselling of affected family members.

Treatment with calcium and activated vitamin D analogues should be reserved for symptomatic individuals due to the risk of exacerbating hypercalciuria and its associated complications.
BMP Signaling Determines Body Size via Transcriptional Regulation of Collagen Genes in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Madaan Uday , Yzeiraj Edlira , Meade Michael , Clark James F , Rushlow Christine A , Savage-Dunn Cathy
Published: October 2018

Body size is a tightly regulated phenotype in metazoans that depends on both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. While signaling pathways are known to control organ and body size, the downstream effectors that mediate their effects remain poorly understood. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, a Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP)-related signaling pathway is the major regulator of growth and body size. We investigated the transcriptional network through which the BMP pathway regulates body size and identified cuticle collagen genes as major effectors of growth control. We demonstrate that cuticle collagens can act as positive regulators (col-41), negative regulators (col-141), or dose-sensitive regulators (rol-6) of body size. Moreover, we find a requirement of BMP signaling for stage-specific expression of cuticle collagen genes. We show that the Smad signal transducers directly bind conserved Smad-binding elements in regulatory regions of col-141 and col-142, but not of col-41. Hence, cuticle collagen genes may be directly and indirectly regulated via the BMP pathway. Our work thus connects a conserved signaling pathway with its critical downstream effectors, advancing insight into how body size is specified. Since collagen mutations and misregulation are implicated in numerous human genetic disorders and injury sequelae, understanding how collagen gene expression is regulated has broad implications.
What about the other 50 percent of the Canadian population? Food allergies ignored in national policy plan
Authors: Elliott Susan , Cardwell Francesca
Published: October 2018

Food allergy is a growing public health epidemic in Canada, affecting 50 percent of Canadian households either directly or indirectly. Despite the physical, psychosocial and quality of life impacts to those affected, food allergy has recently been ignored in the Canadian policy context. While the complete etiology of food allergy remains unknown, we have enough information to make strong policy choices that can maximize choice and minimize risk for affected Canadians, and place Canada at the forefront of food allergy management and research. Policy recognizing food allergy as a chronic health issue that represents a significant public health problem in Canada is critical.
Special issue on building an integrated Food Policy for Canada: An open letter to the Canadian food policy community
Authors: Andrée Peter , Levkoe Charles Z. , Wilson Amanda
Published: October 2018

This editorial introduces the special issue of Canadian Food Studies, “Building an integrated Food Policy for Canada”. In a letter to the food policy community, the guest editors assert that the federal government’s development of a Food Policy for Canada will be just the beginning. Many pressing questions remain about how the policy will be implemented and what mechanisms will be used to ensure its realization. This special issue is intended to be a contribution to the crucial work ahead.
New Model of Density Distribution for Fermionic Dark Matter Halos
Authors: Rudakovskyi A. V. , Savchenko D. O.
Published: October 2018

We formulate a new model of density distribution for halos made of warm dark matter (WDM) particles. The model is described by a single microphysical parameter – the mass (or, equivalently, the maximal value of the initial phase-space density distribution) of dark matter particles. Given the WDM particle mass and the parameters of a dark matter density profile at the halo periphery, this model predicts the inner density profile. In the case of initial Fermi–Dirac distribution, we successfully reproduce cored dark matter profiles from N-body simulations. We calculate also the core radii of warm dark matter halos of dwarf spheroidal galaxies for particle masses mFD = 100, 200, 300, and 400 eV.
Modeling of Bacterial Chemotaxis in a Medium with a Repellent
Authors: Vasilev O. M. , Karpenko V. O.
Published: October 2018

The bacterial chemotaxis in a one-dimensional system with a repellent has been considered. The process of bacterial redistribution in the system is analyzed, and a corresponding phenomenological model is proposed, which makes allowance for the diffusion of bacteria and their motion caused by the repellent gradient. The repellent injection into the system is governed by boundary conditions. In the framework of this model, the chemotaxis sensitivity function, a numerical characteristic, which describes the nonuniformity in the bacterial distribution, is calculated. A dependence of the chemotaxis sensitivity function on the repellent concentration at the system boundaries is obtained. A relation between the bacterial distribution and the parameters of repellent distribution is found.
Hypoalgesic effect of Spirulina platensis on the sciatic neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury in male rats
Authors: Safakhah Hossein Ali , Tamimi Farzaneh , Moradi kor Nasroallah , Reza Bandegi Ahmad , Ghanbari Ali
Published: September 2018

Background: It has been revealed that herbal medicines have a palliative effect on pain. In the present study, the hypoalgesic effect of Spirulina platensis (microalgae) on the neuropathic pain induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) was investigated.
Methods: In the present study, 74 adult male Wistar rats weighing 200-220 grams were used. For inducing neuropathic pain, CCI was performed on the left sciatic nerve. Spirulina platensis was intragastrically administered daily for 3 weeks. Mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were assessed by Von Frey hairs and plantar test device, respectively. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TOC) were detected in the serum using thiobarbituric acid and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP), respectively.
Results: CCI of the sciatic nerve led to mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia at three weeks as well as two weeks post surgery. Three weeks of Spirulina therapy significantly (P<0.05) decreased paw withdrawal response to mechanical and thermal stimulations, compared to control. FRAP, but not MDA, significantly decreased three weeks after CCI, and Spirulina therapy significantly reversed its level towards control.
Conclusion: Chronic intragastric administration of Spirulina platensis alleviates CCI-induced neuropathic pain by modulating oxidative stress through increasing FRAP levels in male rats.
Care Standardization Reduces Blood Donor Exposures and Transfusion in Complex Cranial Vault Reconstruction
Authors: Muhly Wallis T. , Tan Jonathan M. , Hsu Grace , Sesok-Pizzini Deborah A. , Fiadjoe John E. , Taylor Jesse A. , Bartlett Scott P. , Stricker Paul A.
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND:

Complex cranial vault reconstruction (CCVR) often requires a large-volume transfusion of blood products. We implemented a series of improvement interventions to reduce blood donor exposures (BDE) and transfusion requirements in CCVR.

METHODS:

We implemented interventions over 4 epochs: (E1) reconstituted blood (1:1 ratio of donor-matched red blood cells and fresh-frozen plasma) for intraoperative transfusions, (E2) reconstituted blood plus postoperative transfusion guidelines, (E3) reconstituted blood plus intraoperative antifibrinolytics and postoperative guidelines, and (E4) fresh whole blood for intraoperative transfusion, antifibrinolytics, and postoperative guidelines. Primary outcomes, BDE, and total volume of blood products transfused are presented by using statistical process control charts, with statistical comparisons between each epoch and baseline data.

RESULTS:

We included 347 patients <72 months old who underwent CCVR between 2008 and 2016 (E1: n = 50; E2: n = 41; E3: n = 87; and E4: n = 169). They were compared with a baseline sample group of 138 patients who were managed between 2001 and 2006. Compared with our baseline group, patients in each epoch had a significant reduction in BDE (P = .02–<.0001). Conversely, compared with the baseline group, we observed an increase the volume of blood products transfused in E1 (P = .004), no difference in E2 (P = .6) or E3 (P = .46), and a reduction in the volume of blood products transfused in E4 (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The implementation of sequential clinical improvement strategies resulted in a sustained reduction in BDE whereas only the use of whole blood resulted in a significant reduction in the total volume of blood products transfused in children undergoing CCVR.
Nutritional and Gastrointestinal Management of the Patient With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Brumbaugh David , Watne Laura , Gottrand Frederic , Gulyas Ann , Kaul Ajay , Larson Jacqueline , Tomezsko Jean
Published: October 2018

Advances in treatment and multidisciplinary management have resulted in improved survival of individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Updated DMD treatment recommendations as found in the 2018 DMD Care Considerations are aimed to assist multidisciplinary care teams in providing standardized care to their patients, including attention to nutritional and gastrointestinal health. Challenges remain for care teams in accurately estimating height and nutritional status for individuals with DMD. It can be difficult for patients to maintain a healthy weight. Risk factors for obesity include glucocorticoid therapy and loss of ambulation. In contrast, in the later stages of the disease, swallowing dysfunction can lead to poor nutrition and consideration for gastrostomy tube placement. Constipation is highly prevalent, underrecognized, and undertreated in DMD. With this article, we address the assessment and management of gastrointestinal and nutritional issues, as well as clinical controversies.
Respiratory Management of the Patient With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Sheehan Daniel W. , Birnkrant David J. , Benditt Joshua O. , Eagle Michelle , Finder Jonathan D. , Kissel John , Kravitz Richard M. , Sawnani Hemant , Shell Richard , Sussman Michael D. , Wolfe Lisa F.
Published: October 2018

In 2010, Care Considerations for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, was published in Lancet Neurology, and in 2018, these guidelines were updated. Since the publication of the first set of guidelines, survival of individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy has increased. With contemporary medical management, survival often extends into the fourth decade of life and beyond. Effective transition of respiratory care from pediatric to adult medicine is vital to optimize patient safety, prognosis, and quality of life. With genetic and other emerging drug therapies in development, standardization of care is necessary to accurately assess treatment effects in clinical trials. This revision of respiratory recommendations preserves a fundamental strength of the original guidelines: namely, reliance on a limited number of respiratory tests to guide patient assessment and management. A progressive therapeutic strategy is presented that includes lung volume recruitment, assisted coughing, and assisted ventilation (initially nocturnally, with the subsequent addition of daytime ventilation for progressive respiratory failure). This revision also stresses the need for serial monitoring of respiratory muscle strength to characterize an individual’s respiratory phenotype of severity as well as provide baseline assessments for clinical trials. Clinical controversies and emerging areas are included.
Orthopedic and Surgical Management of the Patient With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Apkon Susan D. , Alman Ben , Birnkrant David J. , Fitch Robert , Lark Robert , Mackenzie William , Weidner Norbert , Sussman Michael
Published: October 2018

Orthopedic care is an important aspect of the overall management of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). In addition to progressive muscle weakness and loss of function, patients may develop joint contractures, scoliosis, and osteoporosis, causing fractures; all of these necessitate intervention by a multidisciplinary team including an orthopedic surgeon as well as rehabilitation specialists such as physio- and occupational therapists. The causes of these musculoskeletal complications are multifactorial and are related to primary effects on the muscles from the disease itself, secondary effects from weak muscles, and the related side effects of treatments, such as glucocorticoid use that affect bone strength. The musculoskeletal manifestations of DMD change over time as the disease progresses, and therefore, musculoskeletal management needs change throughout the life span of an individual with DMD. In this review, we target pediatricians, neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, rehabilitation physicians, anesthesiologists, and other individuals involved in the management of patients with DMD by providing specific recommendations to guide clinical practice related to orthopedic issues and surgical management in this setting.
Infección del tracto urinario en niños, una de las enfermedades infecciosas más prevalentes
Authors: Pinzón-Fernández María Virginia , Zúñiga-Cerón Luisa Fernanda , Saavedra-Torres Jhan Sebastián
Published: October 2018

La infección del tracto urinario (ITU) es una patología frecuente en la infancia y una de las causas más comunes de consulta en el servicio de urgencias pediátricas. Las manifestaciones clínicas pueden ser inespecíficas en los lactantes y niños pequeños; sin embargo, en los niños mayores la sintomatología es más específica, con la aparición de fiebre, dolor en flanco, puño percusión renal positiva y signos de irritación vesical como disuria, polaquiuria, tenesmo e incontinencia. El diagnóstico definitivo confirmatorio se realiza mediante cultivo de orina. El conocimiento sobre los factores de riesgo, junto con ciertas consideraciones de valoración clínica y epidemiologia, son esenciales para encaminar las estrategias preventivas de las infecciones urinarias.
Inducción de tolerancia inmunológica: alotrasplantes compuestos vascularizados y trasplantes de órgano sólido
Authors: Espinel-Pinzón Daniel Alejandro , Figueroa-Bohorquez David , Lozano-Márquez Eyner
Published: October 2018

Introducción. La inducción de tolerancia inmunológica solucionaría los problemas asociados con la inmunosupresión de por vida, necesaria para evitar el rechazo de aloinjertos.Objetivos. Revisar aspectos inmunológicos, modelos clínicos utilizados y resultados obtenidos en la tolerancia y comparar los resultados obtenidos con trasplante de órgano sólido y alotrasplante compuesto vascularizado.Materiales y métodos. Se realizó una búsqueda en la base de datos PubMed que arrojó 299 resultados; se revisaron las bibliografías de los artículos y se consultaron las referencias pertinentes. Al final se seleccionaron 83 artículos.Resultados. Existen mecanismos centrales y periféricos para mantener la tolerancia a antígenos propios; en la práctica clínica, la tolerancia central ha sido más utilizada, esto se ha hecho mediante estrategias que utilizan trasplante conjunto de medula ósea. Varios ensayos clínicos, la mayoría en pacientes con trasplante renal, han mostrado resultados prometedores pero inconsistentes.Conclusiones. En trasplantes renales fue posible suspender de forma exitosa la inmunosupresión, mientras que en trasplantes de mano se logró disminuirla considerablemente. El quimerismo inmunológico parece ser indispensable para el desarrollo de tolerancia a aloinjertos, por lo que es necesario desarrollar protocolos para inducir quimerismo mixto persistente.
Manejo de pacientes diabéticos hospitalizados
Authors: Román-Gonzalez Alejandro , Cardona Andrés , Gutiérrez Johnayro , Palacio Andrés
Published: October 2018

La diabetes es una enfermedad con importante prevalencia en todo el mundo. Se calcula que cerca de 415 millones de personas la padecen en la actualidad y que para el año 2040 esta cifra aumentará poco más del 50%. Debido a esto, se estima que gran parte de los ingresos por urgencias serán de pacientes diabéticos o sujetos a los cuales esta patología se les diagnosticará en dicha hospitalización; esta situación hace necesario conocer los lineamientos y las recomendaciones de las guías para el manejo intrahospitalario de los pacientes con hiperglucemia.El pilar fundamental del manejo hospitalario de diabetes es la monitorización intensiva, junto con la educación al paciente y la administración de insulina. El control glicémico es clave debido a que disminuye complicaciones intrahospitalarias. Cabe resaltar que el control estricto puede llevar a hipoglucemias, por lo que los episodios deben ser debidamente documentados y su causa corregida de inmediato.