bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise Intolerance in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Houstis Nicholas E. , Eisman Aaron S. , Pappagianopoulos Paul P. , Wooster Luke , Bailey Cole S. , Wagner Peter D. , Lewis Gregory D.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a common syndrome with a pressing shortage of therapies. Exercise intolerance is a cardinal symptom of HFpEF, yet its pathophysiology remains uncertain.

Methods:

We investigated the mechanism of exercise intolerance in 134 patients referred for cardiopulmonary exercise testing: 79 with HFpEF and 55 controls. We performed cardiopulmonary exercise testing with invasive monitoring to measure hemodynamics, blood gases, and gas exchange during exercise. We used these measurements to quantify 6 steps of oxygen transport and utilization (the O
2
pathway) in each patient with HFpEF, identifying the defective steps that impair each one’s exercise capacity (peak Vo
2
). We then quantified the functional significance of each O
2
pathway defect by calculating the improvement in exercise capacity a patient could expect from correcting the defect.

Results:

Peak Vo
2
was reduced by 34±2% (mean±SEM,
P
<0.001) in HFpEF compared with controls of similar age, sex, and body mass index. The vast majority (97%) of patients with HFpEF harbored defects at multiple steps of the O
2
pathway, the identity and magnitude of which varied widely. Two of these steps, cardiac output and skeletal muscle O
2
diffusion, were impaired relative to controls by an average of 27±3% and 36±2%, respectively (
P
<0.001 for both). Due to interactions between a given patient’s defects, the predicted benefit of correcting any single one was often minor; on average, correcting a patient’s cardiac output led to a 7±0.5% predicted improvement in exercise intolerance, whereas correcting a patient’s muscle diffusion capacity led to a 27±1% improvement. At the individual level, the impact of any given O
2
pathway defect on a patient’s exercise capacity was strongly influenced by comorbid defects.

Conclusions:

Systematic analysis of the O
2
pathway in HFpEF showed that exercise capacity was undermined by multiple defects, including reductions in cardiac output and skeletal muscle diffusion capacity. An important source of disease heterogeneity stemmed from variation in each patient’s personal profile of defects. Personalized O
2
pathway analysis could identify patients most likely to benefit from treating a specific defect; however, the system properties of O
2
transport favor treating multiple defects at once, as with exercise training.
Visit-to-Visit Blood Pressure Variability in Young Adulthood and Hippocampal Volume and Integrity at Middle Age
Authors: Yano Yuichiro , Reis Jared P. , Levine Deborah A. , Bryan R. Nick , Viera Anthony J. , Shimbo Daichi , Tedla Yacob G. , Allen Norrina B. , Schreiner Pamela J. , Bancks Michael P. , Sidney Stephen , Pletcher Mark J. , Liu Kiang , Greenland Philip , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Launer Lenore J.
Published: October 2017

The aims of this study are to assess the relationships of visit-to-visit blood pressure (BP) variability in young adulthood to hippocampal volume and integrity at middle age. We used data over 8 examinations spanning 25 years collected in the CARDIA study (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults) of black and white adults (age, 18–30 years) started in 1985 to 1986. Visit-to-visit BP variability was defined as by SD
BP
and average real variability (ARV
BP
, defined as the absolute differences of BP between successive BP measurements). Hippocampal tissue volume standardized by intracranial volume (%) and integrity assessed by fractional anisotropy were measured by 3-Tesla magnetic resonance imaging at the year-25 examination (n=545; mean age, 51 years; 54% women and 34% African Americans). Mean systolic BP (SBP)/diastolic BP levels were 110/69 mm Hg at year 0 (baseline), 117/73 mm Hg at year 25, and ARV
SBP
and SD
SBP
were 7.7 and 7.9 mm Hg, respectively. In multivariable-adjusted linear models, higher ARV
SBP
was associated with lower hippocampal volume (unstandardized regression coefficient [standard error] with 1-SD higher ARV
SBP
: −0.006 [0.003]), and higher SD
SBP
with lower hippocampal fractional anisotropy (−0.02 [0.01]; all
P
<0.05), independent of cumulative exposure to SBP during follow-up. Conversely, cumulative exposure to SBP and diastolic BP was not associated with hippocampal volume. There was no interaction by sex or race between ARV
SBP
or SD
SBP
with hippocampal volume or integrity. In conclusion, visit-to-visit BP variability during young adulthood may be useful in assessing the potential risk for reductions in hippocampal volume and integrity in midlife.
Towards a Framework for Understanding the Outcomes of Economic Engagements with Africa: A Human Capital Development Perspective
Authors: Agbebi Motolani , Stenvall Jari , Virtanen Petri
Published: October 2017

In the last few decades, the world has experienced significant economic and political transformation, which has led to adjustments in economic interaction between countries. However, this new pattern of economic engagement has not attracted adequate investigation from management researchers. This paper aims to fill this gap in the literature by advancing a conceptual framework that can guide researchers towards investigating new patterns of economic engagement across countries. Chinese economic engagement in Africa is used to exemplify how the conceptual framework can be used. The paper concludes by providing directions for research.
Notes on taxonomy and nomenclature of Chenopodium acerifolium and C. betaceum (C. strictum auct.) (Chenopodiaceae)
Authors: MOSYAKIN SERGEI L.
Published: October 2017

Andrzejowski described in 1862 three species of Chenopodium from Ukraine. The standing lectotype (LE) of C. acerifolium was designated by Sukhorukov in 2014; it is represented by a single plant with a few cauline leaves, but without fruits. As a consequence, it is not properly diagnostic of and representative for the species according to its current concept in Chenopodium. An epitype is proposed here (Art. 9.8 of ICN), which is a specimen from the Besser collection at KW annotated by Andrzejowski, with a handwritten original description on the label. The first effective lectotypification of C. acerifolium has been done by Dvořák in 1987, based on a specimen from KW at that time sent on loan to BRNU. Unfortunately, this specimen is probably lost (not traced in KW and BRNU) but, if found, should be considered the non-supersedable lectotype. Lectotypes are designated also for C. betaceum and C. divaricatum. The name C. betaceum should be applied to most of European and western Asian plants currently called C. strictum sensu auct. The true C. strictum Roth belongs to a group of insufficiently known taxa from India and adjacent areas, and is not closely related to C. betaceum. The identity of C. divaricatum remains obscure. This name is definitely not a synonym of C. ficifolium (as it was suggested by Iljin) but might be an earlier name for C. suecicum.
Two new species of Hymenochaete (Hymenochaetaceae, Basidiomycota) and H. colliculosa new to China from Shanxi Province
Authors: HE SHUANG-HUI , LIU SHI-LIANG , LI HAI-JIAO , DAI YU-CHENG
Published: October 2017

Hymenochaete angustispora and H. verruculosa spp. nov. are described and illustrated from Shanxi Province, northern China. Hymenochaete angustispora was collected on Vitex negundo, and is characterized by resupinate basidiocarps, the absence of a hyphal layer, and narrowly cylindrical to allantoid basidiospores 5–7 × 1.8–2.2 µm. Hymenochaete verruculosa was collected on Cornus sp., and is distinct by the effuso-reflexed basidiocarps with a verruculose hymenophore, the presence of a cortex and hyphal layer, and small ellipsoid basidiospores 3.5–4.5 × 2–2.8 µm. Hymenochaete colliculosa, collected on Berberis sp., is reported in China for the first time. The phylogeny of 57 Hymenochaete species was inferred from a concatenated dataset of nuc rDNA ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 (ITS barcode) and D1-D2 domains of nuc 28S rDNA (28S) sequences.
Taxonomic status of Parotia berlepschi Kleinschmidt, 1897 based on analysis of external appearance, voice and behavior (Aves: Paradisaeidae)
Authors: SCHOLES EDWIN , BEEHLER BRUCE M. , LAMAN TIMOTHY G.
Published: October 2017

Described from trade-skins of unknown origins, Parotia berlepschi Kleinschmidt, 1897 was the subject of a longstanding ornithological mystery that remained unresolved for well over a century. With few specimens and no known wild population, most taxonomic assessments over the last century have treated P. berlepschi as a subspecies of Parotia carolae Meyer, 1894. Following discovery of its geographical home in 2005, most authorities returned to giving P. berlepschi full species status. However, evidence supporting the delineation of P. berlepschi from P. carolae has not yet been fully articulated in the literature. Here, we assess phenotypic differentiation and the taxonomic status of P. berlepschi relative to P. carolae based on specimens and recordings of wild birds. With regard to external appearance and voice, which are important intersexual signals among polygynous birds-of-paradise, our analysis confirms that P. berlepschi is well-differentiated from P. carolae and should be treated as specifically distinct. Evidence for differentiation in courtship behavior is inconclusive and requires further study.
Significant and Inevitable End-of-Twenty-First-Century Advances in Surface Runoff Timing in California’s Sierra Nevada
Authors: Schwartz Marla , Hall Alex , Sun Fengpeng , Walton Daniel , Berg Neil
Published: October 2017

Using hybrid dynamical–statistical downscaling, 3-km-resolution end-of-twenty-first-century runoff timing changes over California’s Sierra Nevada for all available global climate models (GCMs) from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) are projected. All four representative concentration pathways (RCPs) adopted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s Fifth Assessment Report are examined. These multimodel, multiscenario projections allow for quantification of ensemble-mean runoff timing changes and an associated range of possible outcomes due to both intermodel variability and choice of forcing scenario. Under a “business as usual” forcing scenario (RCP8.5), warming leads to a shift toward much earlier snowmelt-driven surface runoff in 2091–2100 compared to 1991–2000, with advances of as much as 80 days projected in the 35-model ensemble mean. For a realistic “mitigation” scenario (RCP4.5), the ensemble-mean change is smaller but still large (up to 30 days). For all plausible forcing scenarios and all GCMs, the simulated changes are statistically significant, so that a detectable change in runoff timing is inevitable. Even for the mitigation scenario, the ensemble-mean change is approximately equivalent to one standard deviation of the natural variability at most elevations. Thus, even when greenhouse gas emissions are curtailed, the runoff change is climatically significant. For the business-as-usual scenario, the ensemble-mean change is approximately two standard deviations of the natural variability at most elevations, portending a truly dramatic change in surface hydrology by the century’s end if greenhouse gas emissions continue unabated.
Multilayer Model of Pharmacy Participation in the Antimicrobial Stewardship Program at a Large Academic Medical Center
Authors: Dubrovskaya Yanina , Scipione Marco R. , Siegfried Justin , Jen Shin-Pung , Pham Vinh , Papadopoulos John , Decano Arnold , Lewis Tyler , Dabestani Arash
Published: October 2017

Purpose: Leveraging pharmacy personnel resources for the purpose of antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) operations presents a challenging task. We describe our experience integrating all pharmacists into an ASP, and evaluate the impact on ASP interventions, antimicrobial utilization, rate of selected hospital-onset infections and readmission. Summary: During a study period (January 1 to December 31, 2015), a total of 14 552 ASP-related pharmacy interventions were performed (ASP clinical pharmacotherapy specialists [CPS] n = 4025; non-ASP CPS n = 4888; hospital pharmacists n = 5639). Sixty percent of interventions by ASP CPS were initiated utilizing the dedicated ASP phone, and 40% through prospective audit and feedback. Non-ASP CPS performed interventions during bedside rounds (dose adjustment 23%, initiate new or alternative anti-infective 21%, discontinue antibiotic(s) 12%, therapeutic drug monitoring 11%, de-escalation 4%), whereas hospital pharmacists participated at the point of verification (dose adjustment 75%, restricted antibiotic verification 15%, and reporting major drug-drug interactions 4%). The acceptance rate of interventions by providers and clinicians was >90% for all groups. Annual aggregate antimicrobial use decreased by 6.4 days of therapy/1000 patient-days (DOT/1000 PD; P = 1.0). Ceftriaxone use increased by 8.4 DOT/1000 PD ( P = .029) without a significant compensatory increase in the use of antipseudomonal agents. Sustained low rates of hospital-onset Clostridium difficile (CDI) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) infections were observed in 2015 compared with the prior year (1.1 and 1.2 cases/1000 PD, 0.2 and 0.1 cases/1000 PD, respectively). Thirty-day readmission rate decreased by 0.6% ( P = .019). Conclusions: Integration of all pharmacists into ASP activities based on the level of patient care and responsibilities is an effective strategy to expand clinical services provided by ASP.
Cholesterol Ester Transfer Protein Inhibitor Review
Authors: Hu Jerry , Walker Scot
Published: October 2017

Treatment of blood cholesterol is part of a strategy to lower atherosclerotic cardiovascular (ASCVD) risk. While use of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors to modify cholesterol levels is the primary means of lowering the risk of an ASCVD event, residual risk remains. A new strategy being investigated is the use of cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors to raise the levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). While initial large-scale studies demonstrated no reduction of cardiovascular events, one CETP inhibitor, anacetrapib, has demonstrated a reduction in cardiovascular events in the REVEAL trial.
BACE Inhibitors and Tau Protein Targeting Drugs in Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Orf Jonathan , Walker Scot
Published: October 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a common disease in the United States with almost 10% of people older than 65 suffering from the disease. A few drugs provide some improvement in mental function in mild-to-moderate disease, but no treatments are available to prevent the development of AD. Two new classes of drugs being investigated for the treatment or prevention of AD include drugs to decrease beta amyloid accumulation and Tau protein aggregation inhibitors. After disappointing results for treatment of AD, both classes are being tested in prevention trials.
Health Lifestyles in Adolescence and Self-rated Health into Adulthood
Authors: Burdette Amy M. , Needham Belinda L. , Taylor Miles G. , Hill Terrence D.
Published: October 2017

Do health behaviors cluster together as health lifestyles in adolescence? Are these lifestyles socially patterned? Do these lifestyles impact physical health into adulthood? To answer these questions, we employed data from Waves 1 and 4 of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health ( n = 7,827). Our latent class analysis revealed four health lifestyles: (a) low risk, (b) moderate risk with substance use, (c) moderate risk with inactivity, and (d) high risk. As suggested by health lifestyle theory, membership in these classes varied according to gender, race-ethnicity, and family structure. Consistent with the life course perspective, regression analyses indicated that those in the high-risk lifestyle tend to exhibit worse health in adolescence and adulthood than those in the low-risk lifestyle. Our findings confirm that socially patterned lifestyles can be observed in adolescence, and these lifestyles are potentially important for understanding the distribution of physical health across the early life course.
A Qualitative Evaluation of an Online Expert-Facilitated Course on Tobacco Dependence Treatment
Authors: Ebn Ahmady Arezoo , Barker Megan , Dragonetti Rosa , Fahim Myra , Selby Peter
Published: October 2017

Qualitative evaluations of courses prove difficult due to low response rates. Online courses may permit the analysis of qualitative feedback provided by health care providers (HCPs) during and after the course is completed. This study describes the use of qualitative methods for an online continuing medical education (CME) course through the analysis of HCP feedback for the purpose of quality improvement. We used formative and summative feedback from HCPs about their self-reported experiences of completing an online expert-facilitated course on tobacco dependence treatment (the Training Enhancement in Applied Cessation Counselling and Health [TEACH] Project). Phenomenological, inductive, and deductive approaches were applied to develop themes. QSR NVivo 11 was used to analyze the themes derived from free-text comments and responses to open-ended questions. A total of 277 out of 287 participants (96.5%) completed the course evaluations and provided 690 comments focused on how to improve the program. Five themes emerged from the formative evaluations: overall quality, content, delivery method, support, and time. The majority of comments (22.6%) in the formative evaluation expressed satisfaction with overall course quality. Suggestions for improvement were mostly for course content and delivery method (20.4% and 17.8%, respectively). Five themes emerged from the summative evaluation: feedback related to learning objectives, interprofessional collaboration, future topics of relevance, overall modifications, and overall satisfaction. Comments on course content, website function, timing, and support were the identified areas for improvement. This study provides a model to evaluate the effectiveness of online educational interventions. Significantly, this constructive approach to evaluation allows CME providers to take rapid corrective action.
(Not) getting the credit: women, liminal subjectivity and resisting neoliberalism in documentary production
Authors: O’Brien Anne
Published: October 2017

Women experience positive engagements with documentary as an enclave that values their gendered contribution, but also suffer negative encounters with it as a genre that restricts their full involvement, by promoting masculinist practices as normative. This gendered dynamic means that women occupy a liminal space with regard to documentary. Women’s liminal status is experienced negatively in a number of ways: first, during commissioning, where their approach to narrative, budgets and directing are questioned; second, in terms of work relationships where they are required to be relentlessly ‘likeable’; and third, when credits for work performed are withheld. Women’s subjective identities are constructed around this negative liminal positioning but it can become a position or form of positive adaptation to gendered and neoliberal subjectivity in their working lives. Resistance occurs when women conduct practices such as, first, enhancing the status of affective labour; second, when they undo or reject working through normative hierarchies; and third, when they collaborate in documentary production to negate neoliberal logics of individualization. Liminality, thus, constitutes both a way of understanding women’s negative experiences of gender inequality in documentary production but also a potentially positive form of resistance to the gendered precarity that characterizes creative labour.
Middle Ear Histopathology Following Magnetic Delivery to the Cochlea of Prednisolone-loaded Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Rats
Authors: Lafond Jean-Francois , Shimoji Mika , Ramaswamy Bharath , Shukoor Mohammed I. , Malik Pulkit , Shapiro Benjamin , Depireux Didier A.
Published: October 2017

Delivery of therapy to the cochlea is a challenge and limits the efficacy of therapies meant to treat hearing loss, reverse tinnitus, and protect hearing from chemotherapy regimens. Magnetic injection is a technique that uses magnetic fields to inject nanoparticles from the middle ear into the cochlea, where they can then elute therapy to treat hearing disorders. To evaluate the safety of this treatment in the middle ear, 30 rats were subdivided into 6 groups and treated by single or multiple intratympanic injections of saline, prednisolone, nanoparticles, or nanoparticles loaded with prednisolone. A specially designed magnet array was used to magnetically inject the particles from the middle ear to the cochlea. Treatment began at study day 0, and animals were euthanized on study day 2, 30, or 90. Temporal bones were collected and prepared for histopathological examination. Intratympanic administration of magnetic nanoparticles and/or prednisolone resulted in minimal to mild inflammatory changes in all treated groups. The incidence and severity of the inflammatory changes observed appeared slightly increased in animals administered nanoparticles, with or without prednisolone, when compared to animals administered prednisolone alone. At study day 90, there was partial reversibility of the findings noted at study day 2 and 30. Repeat administration did not appear to cause greater inflammatory changes.
Review: Dawn Nafus (ed.), Quantified: Biosensing Technologies in Everyday Life
Authors: Moore Phoebe
Published: October 2017

We have, in the 21st century, moved into a new series of fascinations with biosensing, where our autonomic systems or an autonomic ‘self’, largely out of bounds for our own knowledge and understanding before now, are available. ‘Autonomic’ refers to the nervous system of a physiological self, but the extent of our autonomic selves would not otherwise be knowable or known but through sensory tracking devices now available to us. Biosensing, biohacking, biometrics and biopower are all part of a contemporary movement of intimate and intensified measure and are terms that Dawn Nafus's collection Quantified: Biosensing Technologies in Everyday Life deals with. The book discusses questions of measurement and tracking with the use of sensory technology and methods. This review considers where this collection sits in the literature and theoretical debates.
Influence of hydrophilicity on adsorption of caffeine onto montmorillonite
Authors: Yamamoto Kenichiro , Shiono Takashi , Yoshimura Ryoto , Matsui Yasuto , Yoneda Minoru
Published: October 2017

Some types of montmorillonite containing different interlayer ions were prepared and the changes in the interlayer spacings, the hydrophilicity, and the characteristics of adsorption of caffeine in solution were observed. Ion exchange treatments were performed using Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs, Mg, Ca, Sr, or Ba. As a result, Li- and Na-type montmorillonite showed larger interlayer distance (1.31–1.53 nm), than K, Rb, and Cs-type montmorillonite (1.23–1.26 nm). In the measurement of hydrophilicity using a pulse NMR-based particle interface analyzer, Li- and Na-type montmorillonite showed higher hydrophilicity. In addition, KLang, which indicates the interaction with caffeine, was 0.25–0.32 l/mmol, which is lower than K-, Rb-, and Cs-type montmorillonite (1.14–1.60 l/mmol). It is possible that adsorption of water molecules inhibits caffeine from adsorbing. Because of the difficulty of exchange between caffeine and water molecules in interlayer of the Li- and Na-type montmorillonite, the interaction with caffeine decreased. Alternatively, another possibility is that when highly hydrophilic montmorillonite retains many water molecules, the caffeine adsorption sites are blocked by water molecules. In either case, hydrophilicity has a large influence on the adsorption of caffeine onto montmorillonite.
Stand-down and deliver
Authors: Robinson Gwen
Published: October 2017

This article considers the recent and rapid evolution of Pre-Sentence Reports (PSRs) in England and Wales, which has entailed changes in both the speed of production and the mode of delivery of reports prepared by probation teams. The article analyses the main drivers behind these changes before going on to consider the implications for how the quality of contemporary reports should be assessed. It argues for a reconsideration of quality in the PSR context: one which takes into account the structural and cultural changes that have impacted upon PSR production in recent years, is flexible enough to cope with the different forms (oral/written) that reports may take, and takes into account the needs and expectations of the key stakeholders involved in the production and use of reports. It concludes that, in the new court culture of speed, timeliness (as featured in current National Standards) is an important quality for PSRs, but as a sole measure of quality it leaves a great deal to be desired.
The subclinical psychopath in love: Mediating effects of attachment styles
Authors: Unrau Alexis M. , Morry Marian M.
Published: October 2017

Central to both psychopathy and insecure attachment is a failure to bond with others. In addition, avoidance is linked to both primary and secondary psychopathic variants. To date, there have been no published studies that examine psychopathic traits, attachment, and romantic relationships. We tested whether attachment avoidance mediated the psychopathy–interpersonal outcome relations. University students ( N = 167) in a romantic relationship completed measures of psychopathic traits, attachment, and romantic relationship variables. Linear regressions, univariate analyses, and multivariate analyses indicated that secondary, but not primary, traits were associated with poor relationship quality, more active prowling and less willful disinterest in alternative partners, and more deactivation and hyperactivation. Avoidance significantly mediated these relations. Therefore, improving attachment impairments may benefit individuals high in secondary traits.
What is the impact of population ageing on the future provision of end-of-life care? Population-based projections of place of death
Authors: Bone Anna E , Gomes Barbara , Etkind Simon N , Verne Julia , Murtagh Fliss EM , Evans Catherine J , Higginson Irene J
Published: October 2017

Background:

Population ageing represents a global challenge for future end-of-life care. Given new trends in place of death, it is vital to examine where the rising number of deaths will occur in future years and implications for health and social care.

Aim:

To project where people will die from 2015 to 2040 across all care settings in England and Wales.

Design:

Population-based trend analysis and projections using simple linear modelling. Age- and gender-specific proportions of deaths in hospital, care home, home, hospice and ‘other’ were applied to numbers of expected future deaths.

Setting/population:

All deaths (2004–2014) from death registration data and predicted deaths (2015–2040) from official population forecasts in England and Wales.

Results:

Annual deaths are projected to increase from 501,424 in 2014 (38.8% aged 85 years and over) to 635,814 in 2040 (53.6% aged 85 years and over). Between 2004 and 2014, proportions of home and care home deaths increased (18.3%–22.9% and 16.7%– 21.2%) while hospital deaths declined (57.9%–48.1%). If current trends continue, numbers of deaths in care homes and homes will increase by 108.1% and 88.6%, with care home the most common place of death by 2040. If care home capacity does not expand and additional deaths occur in hospital, hospital deaths will start rising by 2023.

Conclusion:

To sustain current trends, end-of-life care provision in care homes and the community needs to double by 2040. An infrastructure across care settings that supports rising annual deaths is urgently needed; otherwise, hospital deaths will increase.
Risky Sexual Behavior of Senior Secondary School Students in an Urban Community of Oyo State, South West Nigeria
Authors: Idowu Ajibola , Ayodele Aremu O. , Omotade Popoola G. , Anu Olowookere S. , Omolola Fehintola F.
Published: October 2017

Background:

Young people worldwide are now at increased risk of unsafe sexual behavior; it is thus imperative to understand the determinants of such practices among them.

Study objective:

To assess factors associated with Risky Sexual Behavior (RSB) among secondary school students in Nigeria.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was conducted using multistage sampling technique among 375 secondary school students in Ogbomoso, Nigeria. A pretested questionnaire was used for data collection; chi-square test and binary logistic regression analysis were done.

Result:

Overall, 23.0% of the respondents had at least one RSB; students not in steady relationships were 5 times more likely to have RSB ( OR = 4.50, 95% CI [2.66, 7.71]). Also, respondents who had positive attitude toward RSB had 24% increased odds of RSB practice compared with those with negative attitude ( OR = 23.75, 95%CI [2.48, 22.78]). Conclusion: The burden of RSB is high among secondary school students in South West Nigeria. There is urgent need for reprogramming of sex education for the Nigerian secondary school students.
Factors Influencing the Initiation of Smokeless Tobacco Consumption Among Low Socioeconomic Community in Bangladesh: A Qualitative Investigation
Authors: Shahjahan Md. , Harun Md. Golam Dostogir , Chowdhury A. B. M. Alauddin , Ahmed Kapil , Khan Hafiz T. A.
Published: October 2017

This study explored factors influencing the initiation of smokeless tobacco (SLT) consumption in a low socioeconomic urban community in Bangladesh. The study conducted four focus group discussions among 33 informants involves school teachers, community leaders, women, and betel-nut shops owners. The results were prepared by thematic analysis of the transcripts where informants mean age was 30 ( SD ± 6.8) years with varying level of education. Tradition of hospitality, curiosity, offer from an elderly person, and avoiding nausea during pregnancy and at time of quitting smoking were key factors for the initiation of SLT consumption. The results also revealed most people were aware about the danger of SLT consumption but, in practice, consumed frequently. The research suggested that doctors might advise people not to use any form of SLT while they seeking health services. Furthermore, community-based awareness program could minimize the wider use of SLT among low-income community in Bangladesh.
Everything You Always Wanted to Know about Sex (in IR) But were Afraid to Ask: The ‘Queer Turn’ in International Relations
Authors: Richter-Montpetit Melanie
Published: October 2017

Queer International Relations’ momentum in the past four years has made it inconceivable for disciplinary IR to make it ‘appear as if there is no Queer International Theory’. The ‘queer turn’ has given rise to vibrant research programmes across IR subfields. Queer research is not only not a frivolous distraction from the ‘hard’ issues of IR, but queer analytics crack open for investigation fundamental dimensions of international politics that have hitherto been missed, misunderstood or trivialised by mainstream and critical approaches to IR. As queer research is making significant inroads into IR theorising, a fault line has emerged in IR scholarship on sexuality and queerness. Reflecting the tensions between Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Studies and Queer Theory in the academy more broadly, the IR literature on (homo)sexuality largely coalesces into two distinct approaches: LGBT and Queer approaches. The article will lay out the basic tenets of Queer Theory and discuss how it diverges from LGBT Studies. The article then turns to the books under review and focuses on the ways in which they take up the most prominent issue in contemporary debates in Queer Theory: the increasing inclusion of LGBT people into international human rights regimes and liberal states and markets. The article finishes with a brief reflection on citation practices, queer methodologies and the ethics of queer research.
National awareness campaign to prevent medication-overuse headache in Denmark
Authors: Carlsen Louise Ninett , Westergaard Maria Lurenda , Bisgaard Mette , Schytz Julie Brogaard , Jensen Rigmor Højland
Published: October 2017

Background

Medication-overuse headache is prevalent, but in principle preventable.

Objective

To describe the Danish national awareness campaign for medication-overuse headache.

Methods

The Danish Headache Center, the Association of Danish Pharmacies, and headache patient organizations implemented a four-month medication-overuse headache awareness campaign in 2016. Target groups were the general public, general practitioners, and pharmacists. Key messages were: Overuse of pain-medication can worsen headaches; pain-medication should be used rationally; and medication-overuse headache is treatable. A range of communication technologies was used. A survey on the public’s awareness of medication-overuse headache was conducted.

Results

The Danish adult population is 4.2 million. Online videos were viewed 297,000 times in three weeks. All 400 pharmacies received campaign materials. Over 28,000 leaflets were distributed. Two radio interviews were conducted. A television broadcast about headache reached an audience of 520,000. Forty articles were published in print media. Information was accessible at 32 reputable websites and five online news agencies. Three scientific papers were published. Information was available at an annual conference of general practitioners, including a headache lecture. The survey showed an increase in percentage of the public who knew about medication-overuse headache (from 31% to 38%).

Conclusion

A concerted campaign to prevent medication-overuse headache can be implemented through involvement of key stakeholders.
Validation of an Instrument for Preservice Teachers and an Investigation of Their New Media Literacy
Authors: Kara Mehmet , Caner Sonay , Günay Gökben Ayşe , Cengiz Ceyda , İşgör Şimşek Esra , Yıldırım Soner
Published: October 2017

This study aims to validate a recent new media literacy (NML) instrument and investigating NML levels of Turkish preservice teachers. A refined NML framework formed the theoretical basis of the study. The data were collected from 972 preservice teachers enrolled in 11 teacher training programs in 5 public universities in Turkey. The language equivalency, construct validity, internal consistency, item consistency, and item discrimination were provided for the validity and reliability of the adapted scales. The results indicated that preservice teachers had the highest level of literacy in Functional Consuming Skills and the lowest level of literacy in Critical Prosuming Participation while differences were found in terms of gender and teacher training program. The results also expanded the new media literature and promoted the generalizability of the current NML framework with the participation of preservice teachers while producing similar findings with those of the previous ones.
Making Queer and Trans of Color Counterpublics
Authors: Chin Matthew
Published: October 2017

Drawing on 2 years of ethnographic fieldwork, this article examines the accessibility organizing efforts of queer and transgender of color community initiatives in Toronto, Canada. I argue that these efforts constitute a kind of counterpublic making in which queer and trans of color organizers discursively construct the marginalized populations that they seek to include. In contrast to approaches to accessibility that prioritize conventional service institutions as the locus of social transformation, this article illustrates the significance of social workers supporting the work of existing community initiatives in their drive toward an intersectional politics of inclusion.
Hydroxychloroquine desensitization, an effective method to overcome hypersensitivity—a multicenter experience
Authors: Tal Y , Maoz Segal R , Langevitz P , Kivity S , Darnizki Z , Agmon-Levin N
Published: October 2017

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is widely used to treat autoimmune/rheumatic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The immune modulation effects of HCQ have been highlighted as beneficial for maintaining remission of SLE as well as ameliorating skin, joint and other manifestations. Moreover, HCQ exposure for prolonged periods as well as during pregnancy is considered safe, therefore it is recommended for the vast majority of SLE patients. Although HCQ therapy requires follow-up by a specialist, its most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal disturbances, sensitivity to light and skin rashes. Of these side effects, hypersensitivity skin reactions have been suggested to play a role in reduced compliance to HCQ therapy. In the current study we present a two-stage HCQ desensitization protocol that was successfully implemented among 12 out of 13 patients. We exhibit that prolonged HCQ oral desensitization is an effective method for overcoming mild to moderate late hypersensitivity reactions and thoroughly address possible mechanisms of action.
Overconfidence and Disposition Effect in Indian Equity Market: An Empirical Evidence
Authors: Prosad Jaya M. , Kapoor Sujata , Sengupta Jhumur , Roychoudhary Saurav
Published: October 2017

The article investigates the presence of the disposition effect and overconfidence in the Indian equity market during 2006–2013 and provides some robust empirical evidence. It applies bivariate and trivariate vector autoregression (VAR) models and associated impulse response functions on the Indian equity market from NIFTY 50 index and individual security returns. The study arrives at three key findings. First, the presence of the biases, overconfidence and the disposition effect is detected in Indian equity market for our sample period. Second, the impact of these two biases can be distinctly segregated for 20 companies among the companies in the index. Lastly, the overconfidence bias is found to be predominant of the two. The study endorses the fact that like other developing markets, the Indian markets are not so efficient with respect to overconfidence and the disposition effect. This article is one of the few to provide empirical evidence for the behavioural issues (i.e., overconfidence and the disposition effect) at a market level that is otherwise studied at the individual investor level.
Mutations in TET2 and DNMT3A genes are associated with changes in global and gene-specific methylation in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Ponciano-Gómez Alberto , Martínez-Tovar Adolfo , Vela-Ojeda Jorge , Olarte-Carrillo Irma , Centeno-Cruz Federico , Garrido Efraín
Published: October 2017

Acute myeloid leukemia is characterized by its high biological and clinical heterogeneity, which represents an important barrier for a precise disease classification and accurate therapy. While epigenetic aberrations play a pivotal role in acute myeloid leukemia pathophysiology, molecular signatures such as change in the DNA methylation patterns and genetic mutations in enzymes needed to the methylation process can also be helpful for classifying acute myeloid leukemia. Our study aims to unveil the relevance of DNMT3A and TET2 genes in global and specific methylation patterns in acute myeloid leukemia. Peripheral blood samples from 110 untreated patients with acute myeloid leukemia and 15 healthy control individuals were collected. Global 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in genomic DNA from peripheral blood leukocytes were measured by using the MethylFlashTM Quantification kits. DNMT3A and TET2 expression levels were evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The R882A hotspot of DNMT3A and exons 6–10 of TET2 were amplified by polymerase chain reaction and sequenced using the Sanger method. Methylation patterns of 16 gene promoters were evaluated by pyrosequencing after treating DNA with sodium bisulfite, and their transcriptional products were measured by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Here, we demonstrate altered levels of 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine and highly variable transcript levels of DNMT3A and TET2 in peripheral blood leukocytes from acute myeloid leukemia patients. We found a mutation prevalence of 2.7% for DNMT3A and 11.8% for TET2 in the Mexican population with this disease. The average overall survival of acute myeloid leukemia patients with DNMT3A mutations was only 4 months. In addition, we showed that mutations in DNMT3A and TET2 may cause irregular DNA methylation patterns and transcriptional expression levels in 16 genes known to be involved in acute myeloid leukemia pathogenesis. Our findings suggest that alterations in DNMT3A and TET2 may be associated with acute myeloid leukemia prognosis. Furthermore, alterations in these enzymes affect normal methylation patterns in acute myeloid leukemia– specific genes, which in turn, may influence patient survival.
Suvorexant: scientifically interesting, utility uncertain
Authors: Keks Nicholas A , Hope Judy , Keogh Simone
Published: October 2017

Objective:

Suvorexant, a new hypnotic, is indicated for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep onset and/or sleep maintenance, and is used long-term. This paper will briefly review suvorexant.

Results:

Orexin is a hypothalamic peptide which promotes wakefulness. By blocking orexin receptors, suvorexant induces sleep. Peaking 2 h after ingestion, it has a half-life of 12 h and is hepatically metabolized mainly by CYP3A. Kinetics are not affected by age but concentrations are higher in females and obese patients. There may be interactions with benzodiazepines, antidepressants and antipsychotics. Suvorexant is available in 15 mg and 20 mg doses at which benefits are moderate: after three months’ treatment users fell asleep 6 min faster and slept 16 min longer than those on placebo. Studies with 40 mg showed greater benefits but more side effects: next day somnolence, fatigue, xerostomia and peripheral oedema. Hallucinations, sleep paralysis and somnambulism occur rarely. Tolerance, withdrawal and rebound do not generally occur at recommended doses.

Conclusion:

Suvorexant has not been trialled against other hypnotics, is expensive and its utility for insomnia in patients with psychiatric disorders is unknown. Currently, use of suvorexant could be considered where more established treatments are inappropriate.
PTSD symptoms associated with myocardial infarction: practical clinical implications
Authors: Akosile Wole , Young Ross , Lawford Bruce , Voisey Joanne , Colquhoun David
Published: October 2017

Objectives:

Several studies have demonstrated a link between post-traumatic stress disorder and myocardial infarction. We aim to determine what phenotypic features or symptom profile associated with cardiovascular disease may help with early detection and intervention.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study. The study population comprises trauma-exposed Vietnam War veterans.

Results:

Variables significantly associated with myocardial infarction from the bivariate analysis were avoidance memories, avoidance reminders and sleep disturbance. These variables were put into a logistic regression with known risk factors for myocardial infarction. Only sleep disturbance retained its effect, with a p-value of 0.015.

Conclusions:

It is concluded that sleep disturbance may be a modifiable risk factor in the treatment and prevention of myocardial infarction.
Finite element based system simulation for piezoelectric vibration energy harvesting devices
Authors: Gedeon Dominik , Rupitsch Stefan J
Published: October 2017

We present a system simulation approach for piezoelectric vibration energy harvesting devices. Accurate modeling of the electromechanical structure is achieved by the finite element method. For consideration of power electronic circuits as a means of energy extraction, the finite element model is iteratively coupled to electric circuits via Simulink. The high computational cost of conventional finite element calculations is overcome by a specialized modal truncation method for general linear piezoelectric structures. In doing so, the simulation approach allows efficient prediction of mechanical quantities (e.g. displacements, stresses) as well as electric potentials in the continuum under the influence of arbitrary electrical circuits. Several examples are studied to validate the truncation approach against analytical models and full finite element models. The applicability of the method is demonstrated for a piezoelectric vibration energy harvester in conjunction with a power electronic circuit.
An Integrated Model for Counselor Social Justice Advocacy in Child Welfare
Authors: Ackerman Ashley M.
Published: October 2017

This article provides direction for counselor social justice advocacy within the child welfare system. Four primary concerns are identified: (1) racial disproportionality, (2) organizational issues, (3) the inaccessibility of adequate services for families, and (4) the recruitment and retention of foster parent caregivers. Although counselors are uniquely qualified to engage in social justice advocacy efforts, a review of the literature indicates that little research attention has been devoted to advocacy in child welfare from a counseling perspective. A distinctive social justice–oriented, integrated model for counselor advocacy within the child welfare system has been developed with consideration of the American Counseling Association’s competencies for counselor advocacy, multicultural counseling, and social justice competencies, and an advocacy model developed specifically for the child welfare system. Strategies for leadership and advocacy are explored, and ideas for future research are proposed.
Health-Related Quality of Life and Association With Arthropathy in Greek Patients with Hemophilia
Authors: Varaklioti Agoritsa , Kontodimopoulos Nick , Niakas Dimitris , Kouramba Anna , Katsarou Olga
Published: October 2017

Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is increasingly implicated in contemporary hemophilia management. This study focuses on the assessment of HRQoL in Greek patients with hemophilia and the comparison with normative data from the general population, as well as on the extent arthropathy may affect the patients’ HRQoL. One hundred and nine adult patients completed the Greek social functioning (SF-36) and Haem-A-QoL questionnaires. Arthropathy was assessed by both the World Federation of Hemophilia clinical score and Pettersson radiological score. The most impaired domains of Haem-A-QoL were sports/leisure (SL) and physical health (PH; mean scores 61.2 and 42.2, respectively). The patients experienced statistically significant lower mean scores in all SF-36 domains than the normative sample, especially in role physical (RPH), bodily pain (BP), and general health (GH) subscales. Among Haem-A-QoL subscales, SL and PH were found strongly associated with severity of arthropathy using both orthopedic scores ( P < .001), and maintained the statistical significance after adjustment for age ( P < .05). A poor orthopedic status was also negatively associated with certain SF-36 subscales. However, none of these correlations remained after adjustment with age. Compared to normative data from Greece, patients with hemophilia showed deterioration in all HRQoL subscales, with a more pronounced effect in RPH, BP, and GH subscales. Health-related quality of life was strongly influenced by arthropathy, mainly in the physical aspects of HRQoL. The use of the disease-specific Haem-A-QoL tool can capture additional associations between HRQoL and hemophilic arthropathy.