bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on dynamic characteristics of boom system for balance hoist based on rigid-flexible coupling simulation
Authors: Liu Yu , Hao Jie , Sha Zhihua , Ma Fujian , Su Chong , Zhang Shengfang
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Aiming at the unbalancing problem of the neutral equilibrium characteristic for balance hoist in the loading process, the purpose of this paper is to establish a dynamic equation for multi-body using the Lagrange method. It is not difficult to find that the deformation of the boom system has a great influence on the stability of the whole system, through the simulation analysis of the multi-rigid-body system model.

Design/methodology/approach

Aiming at the unbalancing problem of the neutral equilibrium characteristic for balance hoist in the loading process, the dynamic equation for multi-body is established by Lagrange method. It is not difficult to find that the deformation of the boom system has a great influence on the stability of the whole system, through the simulation analysis of the multi-rigid-body system model.

Findings

Result shows that different weights have a great influence on the force deformation and vibration of the boom system of balance hoist. With the increase in lifting weight, the force and deformation of the boom system increase; lead to balance hoist unique with characteristics of indifferent equilibrium, proportional amplification, labor-saving operation will be lost, easy to cause the imbalance of balance hoist. Therefore, the appropriate increase in the basic length of the compression bar, reduction in the basic length of the tension rod and the increase stiffness of the boom system can improve the stability of balance hoist, which provides a reference for the optimization and manufacture of the balance hoist structure.

Originality/value

The simulation model was established by analyzing the working principle and the load condition of the balance hoist, and the simulation and dynamic characteristics of three typical working conditions are analyzed by using ADAMS; result shows that different weights have a great influence on the force deformation and vibration of the boom system of balance hoist. With the increase in lifting weight, the force and deformation of a boom system increase, lead to balance hoist unique with characteristics of indifferent equilibrium, proportional amplification, labor-saving operation will be lost, easy to cause the imbalance of balance hoist.
Using orthogonal Legendre polynomials to parameterize global geophysical optimizations: Applications to seismic‐petrophysical inversion and 1D elastic full‐waveform inversion
Authors: Aleardi Mattia
Published: December 2018

We use Legendre polynomials to reparameterize geophysical inversions solved through a particle swarm optimization. The subsurface model is expanded into series of Legendre polynomials that are used as basis functions. In this framework, the unknown parameters become the series of expansion coefficients associated with each polynomial. The aim of this peculiar parameterization is threefold: efficiently decreasing the number of unknowns, inherently imposing a 1D spatial correlation to the recovered subsurface model and searching for maximally decoupled parameters. The proposed approach is applied to two highly non‐linear geophysical optimization problems: seismic‐petrophysical inversion and 1D elastic full‐waveform inversion. In this work, with the aim to maintain the discussion at a simple level, we limit the attention to synthetic seismic data. This strategy allows us to draw general conclusions about the suitability of this peculiar parameterization for solving geophysical problems. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach ensures fast convergence rates together with accurate and stable final model predictions. In particular, the proposed parameterization reveals to be effective in reducing the ill conditioning of the optimization problem and in circumventing the so‐called curse‐of‐dimensionality issue. We also demonstrate that the implemented algorithm greatly outperforms the outcomes of the more standard approach to global inversion in which each subsurface parameter is considered as an independent unknown.
Measuring the unmeasurable
Authors: O’Connor Margaret
Published: December 2018

This article reviews how the presence of a bespoke assessment system can enable the measurement of what was previously ‘unmeasurable’ in a constructive and positive way. It highlights how tracking the small‐step progress of pupils with a diagnosis of special educational needs can support the identification of targets which not only support pupil progress but also increase understanding by professionals of how effective assessments can enable them to develop skills in planning and setting individual targets. This article shows how one school community has responded to the reforms implemented by central government by using them as an opportunity to draw on the strengths of the school, the experience they have in supporting SEND pupils and a deep commitment to providing all the pupils with the best possible education. The article reflects on the development of this system and its impact on teaching and learning across the whole school, using an illustrative case study.
Effect of growth media on natural starter culture composition and performance evaluated with a polyphasic approach
Authors: Chessa Luigi , Paba Antonio , Daga Elisabetta , Comunian Roberta
Published: December 2018

Three lyophilised scotta innesto natural starter cultures for Pecorino Romano PDO cheese, collected in the 1960s, were revitalised. The influence of M17 and MRS media, compared with the traditional scotta medium, on the microbiota rep‐PCR pattern, acidification ability, and viable cell concentration was investigated with the aim of testing the effects of alternative growth media to scotta, which does not enable high cell concentration. The cocci:bacilli ratio, the cultures’ acidification ability, as well as their molecular fingerprint, were affected by the cultivation medium. The development of a new medium that does not affect the cultures’ characteristics while increasing viable cell concentration, would be desirable.
IL‐27 signaling deficiency develops Th17‐enhanced Th2‐dominant inflammation in murine allergic conjunctivitis model
Authors: Chen Xin , Deng Ruzhi , Chi Wei , Hua Xia , Lu Fan , Bian Fang , Gao Ning , Li Zhijie , Pflugfelder Stephen C. , de Paiva Cintia S. , Li De‐Quan
Published: December 2018

Background

While most studies focus on pro‐allergic cytokines, the protective role of immunosuppressive cytokines in allergic inflammation is not well elucidated. This study was to explore a novel anti‐inflammatory role and cellular/molecular mechanism of IL‐27 in allergic inflammation.

Methods

A murine model of experimental allergic conjunctivitis (EAC) was induced in BALB/c, C57BL/6 or IL‐27Rα‐deficient (WSX‐1−/−) mice by short ragweed pollen, with untreated or PBS‐treated mice as controls. The serum, eyeballs, conjunctiva, cervical lymph nodes (CLNs) were used for study. Gene expression was determined by RT‐qPCR, and protein production and activation were evaluated by immunostaining, ELISA and Western blotting.

Results

Typical allergic manifestations and stimulated thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) signaling and Th2 responses were observed in ocular surface of EAC models in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. The decrease of IL‐27 at mRNA (IL‐27/EBI3) and protein levels were detected in serum, conjunctiva and CLN, as evaluated by RT‐qPCR, immunofluorescent staining, ELISA and Western blotting. EAC induced in WSX‐1−/− mice showed aggravated allergic signs with higher TSLP‐driven Th2‐dominant inflammation, accompanied by stimulated Th17 responses, including IL‐17A, IL‐17F, and transcription factor RORγt. In contrast, Th1 cytokine IFNγ and Treg marker IL‐10, with their respective transcription factors T‐bet and foxp3, were largely suppressed. Interestingly, imbalanced activation between reduced phosphor (P)‐STAT1 and stimulated P‐STAT6 were revealed in EAC, especially WSX‐1−/−‐EAC mice.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrated a natural protective mechanism by IL‐27, of which signaling deficiency develops a Th17‐type hyperresponse that further aggravates Th2‐dominant allergic inflammation.
Long‐term outcomes in chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Authors: Ojanguren Iñigo , Morell Ferran , Ramón María‐Antonia , Villar Ana , Romero Christian , Cruz María Jesús , Muñoz Xavier
Published: December 2018

Introduction

The objective of this study was to analyze mortality, possible predictors of long‐term survival, and health‐related quality of life of a large chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (CHP) patient sample.

Methods

Longitudinal study in patients diagnosed with CHP during 2004‐2013, followed for at least 1 year. Patients remaining alive and consenting to participate had a follow‐up visit during 2015, including a complete pulmonary function study and the EuroQol‐5D and Beck Depression and Anxiety Inventories.

Results

Out of the 160 patients finally included, 87 remained alive. Seventy‐three had died or underwent lung transplantation at the time of the study with a median survival of 7.0 (4.4‐14.5) years. A Cox proportional risk model showed that factors associated with lower survival were as follows: increased age, a low percentage of lymphocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), a decreased transfer factor of the lung for carbonmonoxide (DLCO), presence of honeycomb in the high‐resolution chest scan (HRCT), and the usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) histologic pattern. At follow‐up, all patients presented an EuroQol‐5D score <0.8 and 21(50%) and 9(28.6%) subjects presented a probable anxiety and depressive syndrome, respectively.

Conclusion

CHP is a severe disease with a bad mid‐term prognosis. Lymphocyte values in BAL and DLCO values at baseline, presence of honeycomb in HRCT, and UIP histologic pattern were found to be predictors of survival. Early accurate diagnosis of the disease is fundamental for prompt initiation of antigen avoidance.
Down‐regulation of steroidogenesis‐related genes and its accompanying fertility decline in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic male rats: ameliorative effect of metformin
Authors: Nna V. U. , Bakar A. B. A. , Ahmad A. , Mohamed M.
Published: December 2018

Background

Metformin has long been used for glycemic control in diabetic state. Recently, other benefits of metformin beyond blood glucose regulation have emerged.

Objectives

To investigate the effect of metformin on the expression of testicular steroidogenesis‐related genes, spermatogenesis, and fertility of male diabetic rats.

Materials and methods

Eighteen adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into three groups, namely normal control (NC), diabetic control (DC), and metformin‐treated (300 mg/kg body weight/day) diabetic rats (D+Met). Diabetes was induced using a single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg b.w.), followed by oral treatment with metformin for four weeks.

Results

Diabetes decreased serum and intratesticular testosterone levels and increased serum but not intratesticular levels of luteinizing hormone. Sperm count, motility, viability, and normal morphology were decreased, while sperm nuclear DNA fragmentation was increased in DC group, relative to NC group. Testicular mRNA levels of androgen receptor, luteinizing hormone receptor, cytochrome P450 enzyme (CYP11A1), steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD), and 17β‐HSD, as well as the level of StAR protein and activities of CYP11A1, 3β‐HSD, and 17β‐HSD, were decreased in DC group. Similarly, decreased activities of epididymal antioxidant enzymes and increased lipid peroxidation were observed in DC group. Consequently, decreased litter size, fetal weight, mating and fertility indices, and increased pre‐ and post‐implantation losses were recorded in DC group. Following intervention with metformin, we observed increases in serum and intratesticular testosterone levels, Leydig cell count, improved sperm parameters, and decreased sperm nuclear DNA fragmentation. Furthermore, mRNA levels and activities of steroidogenesis‐related enzymes were increased, with improved fertility outcome.

Discussion and conclusion

Diabetes mellitus is associated with dysregulation of steroidogenesis, abnormal spermatogenesis, and fertility decline. Controlling hyperglycemia is therefore crucial in preserving male reproductive function. Metformin not only regulates blood glucose level, but also preserves male fertility in diabetic state.
A clinical trial on the acute effects of methadone and buprenorphine on actual driving and cognitive function of healthy volunteers
Authors: Strand Maren Cecilie , Vindenes Vigdis , Gjerde Hallvard , Mørland Jørg Gustav , Ramaekers Johannes G.
Published: December 2018

Aims

The present study assessed the acute effects of methadone and buprenorphine on actual on‐road driving performance and neurocognitive function.

Methods

Methadone (5 and 10 mg per os) and buprenorphine (0.2 and 0.4 mg sublingual) were administered to 22 healthy volunteers in a five‐way, double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐dummy, cross‐over study. Driving performance was assessed with an on‐road driving test. The primary outcome measure was standard deviation of lateral position (SDLP), a measure of road tracking control. Laboratory tests were used to measure cognitive function (e.g. reaction time and attention) and questionnaires were used to assess subjective measures of mood and sedation.

Results

There was no significant main effect of treatment on SDLP. Yet, analysis of individual drug‐placebo contrast data revealed that buprenorphine 0.4 mg significantly increased SDLP. Driving impairment was mild and below the impairment threshold of a blood alcohol concentration of 0.5 mg ml−1. Four participants stopped their driving test while under the influence of either opioid due to sleepiness. Both opioids produced impairments of cognitive task performance and increased sleepiness particularly at the highest dose.

Conclusions

Analgesic doses of buprenorphine produced mild impairing effects on driving and related cognitive skills, while methadone impaired cognitive task performance but not driving performance. Large individual variations were observed for both drugs. Patients should be informed about the possibility of driving impairment when initiating opioid treatment.
Considerations for Implementing Precision Therapeutics for Children
Authors: McLaughlin Matthew J. , Wagner Jonathan , Shahknovich Valentina , Carleton Bruce , Leeder J. Steven
Published: December 2018

Improving the utilization of pharmacologic agents in the pediatric population yields significant, perhaps life‐long, benefits. Genetic factors related to the disposition of a medication or an alteration at the target receptor site contributes to the observed variability of exposure and response between individuals. An additional source of this variability specific to the pediatric population is ontogeny, where age‐specific changes during development may require dose adjustments to obtain the same levels of drug exposure and response. With significant improvements in characterizing both the ontogeny and genetic contributions of drug metabolizing enzymes, the time is right to begin placing more emphasis on response rather than only the dose‐exposure relationship. The amount of drug target receptors and the relative affinity for binding at that target site may require different levels of systemic exposure to achieve a desired response. Concentration‐controlled studies can identify the needed exposure for a response at the drug target, the level of expression of the target site in an individual patient, and the tools required to individualize response. Although pediatrics represents a large spectrum of growth and development, developing tools to improve drug delivery for each individual patient across the spectrum of the ages treated by clinicians remains valuable.
Supreme audit institutions and public value: Demonstrating relevance
Authors: Cordery Carolyn J. , Hay David
Published: December 2018

Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) have an important role in ensuring public sector accountability; their main activities being managing the audit of public sector entities’ financial statements and assessing probity/compliance, providing advice to parliamentary committees, and undertaking performance audits. Standards issued by the International Organization of SAIs encourage SAIs to recognize the value they deliver through their activities and to demonstrate that to citizens, Parliament, and other stakeholders. The recognition of the need to be democratically accountable for efficiency and effectiveness is one aspect of public value, which is also concerned with the just use of authority (Moore, 2013). The purpose of this article is to develop the components of a SAI's public value and, through a comparative international study, to analyze how SAIs’ report on the public value they deliver. Analyzing reporting against the model developed in this article indicates that SAIs reporting prioritizes critiques to increase public sector efficiency and effectiveness, rather than government policy. In addition, it finds SAIs generally fail to discuss any negative consequences of their work. SAIs are encouraged to develop new ways to demonstrate their ongoing relevance.
Willow production during 12 consecutive years—The effects of harvest rotation, planting density and cultivar on biomass yield
Authors: Stolarski Mariusz Jerzy , Szczukowski Stefan , Tworkowski Józef , Krzyżaniak Michał , Załuski Dariusz
Published: December 2018

Willow biomass produced in short rotation coppice systems can potentially be used as biomass feedstock in Europe, the United States and Canada. However, most researchers focus on data from the first harvest rotation only, whereas multiple rotations have been rarely investigated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of cultivar (5), planting density (12,000–96,000 cuttings/ha) and harvest rotation (annual, biennial, triennial) on willow biomass yields during 12 consecutive years in northern Poland. Every experimental factor and the interactions between factors significantly impacted willow yields. Biomass yield was highest in the triennial harvest rotation (13.3 Mg ha−1 year−1), 15.9% lower in the biennial rotation and 26.9% lower in the annual rotation. The highest average yield (14.6 Mg ha−1 year−1) was noted at a planting density of 24,000 cuttings/ha, and yields were 9.3%–46.0% lower at the remaining densities. Cultivar UWM 095 had the highest average yield (13.0 Mg ha−1 year−1), whereas the yield of the remaining cultivars was 4.6%–32.4% lower. During the 12‐year period, yields were higher after the first harvest in annual, biennial and triennial harvest rotations. This above implies that high biomass yields can be obtained after the first harvest rotation if willows are cultivated on fertile soils at higher planting density, well managed and coppiced after the first year. However, yields are unlikely to be higher in successive harvest rotations, and they can even be lower, but more stable than in the first harvest rotation.
Cellulosic biofuel crops alter evapotranspiration and drainage fluxes: Direct quantification using automated equilibrium tension lysimeters
Authors: Parish Autumn L. , Kendall Anthony D. , Thompson Anita M. , Stenjem Ryan S. , Hyndman David W.
Published: December 2018

An increasing number of crops are being considered as potential sources of biomass for both conventional (e.g., maize/corn) and cellulosic (e.g., switchgrass, miscanthus, and hybrid poplar) biofuels. Studies investigating the hydrologic characteristics of these crops are often conducted at either the field scale with a focus on evapotranspiration (ET) or at the plot scale where experiments generally rely on soil water storage dynamics and residual water balances. While this has led to many important insights into crop–soil water interactions under these crops, there does not appear to be any multiyear direct comparisons of the drainage fluxes under this range of biofuel crops. Furthermore, important advancements in drainage flux measurement technologies have yet to be applied to quantify hydrologic fluxes below a range of biofuel crops. Here, we use soil water content (SWC) probes and automated equilibrium tension lysimeters (AETL) to characterize detailed differences in soil water storage and drainage fluxes under conventional and cellulosic biofuel crops. The results of this study suggest that there are significant differences between subsurface water fluxes under some conventional and cellulosic biofuel crops, such as 75% greater average annual drainage and more rapid drainage accumulation under switchgrass relative to maize.
Migraine and Markers of Carotid Atherosclerosis in Middle‐Aged Women: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Magalhães João Eudes , Barros Isly Maria Lucena de , Pedrosa Rodrigo Pinto , Sampaio Rocha‐Filho Pedro Augusto
Published: December 2018

Objective

This study evaluated the association between migraine and the markers of carotid artery disease.

Background

Migraine increases the risk of cardiovascular events, but its relationship with vascular dysfunction is unclear.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, middle‐aged women with no known cardiovascular diseases underwent clinical, neurological, and laboratory evaluations; pulse wave velocity (PWV) assessment; and carotid artery ultrasonography. We divided the participants based on the presence of migraine and, further, based on the type of migraine. Associations between migraine and carotid thickening (intima‐media thickness >0.9 mm), carotid plaques, or arterial stiffening (PWV >10 m/s) were evaluated using a multiple regression analysis.

Results

The study comprised 112/277 (40%) women with migraine, of whom 46/277 (17%) reported having an aura. Compared to the non‐migraineurs, the migraine with aura group had an increased risk of diffuse carotid thickening (3/46 [6.8%] vs 2/165 [1.3%], adjusted OR = 7.12, 95% CI 1.05–48.49). Migraine without aura was associated with a low risk of carotid plaques (3/66 [4.7%] vs 26/165 [16.7%], adjusted OR = 0.28, 95% CI 0.08–0.99) and arterial stiffening (21/66 [34.4%] vs 82/165 [51.2%], adjusted OR = 0.39, 95% CI 0.19–0.79). There were no correlations between migraine characteristics and arterial stiffness or carotid thickness measurements.

Conclusion

Migraine with aura is associated with an increased risk of carotid thickening, and migraine without aura is associated with a low risk of carotid plaques and arterial stiffening.
HER2 immunohistochemical scores provide prognostic information for patients with HER2‐type invasive breast cancer
Authors: Tsai Yi‐Fang , Tseng Ling‐Ming , Lien Pei‐Ju , Hsu Chih‐Yi , Lin Yen‐Shu , King Kuang‐Liang , Wang Yu‐Ling , Chao Ta‐Chung , Liu Chun‐Yu , Chiu Jen‐Hwey , Yang Muh‐Hwa
Published: December 2018

Aims

Invasive breast cancer patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) immunohistochemical (IHC) scores of 3+ or 2+ with reflex in‐situ hybridisation (ISH) positivity are suitable for anti‐HER2 therapies. The aim of this study is to investigate whether the prognoses between IHC 3+ patients and IHC 2+/ISH+ patients are different.

Methods and results

We analysed the clinicopathological information of 886 consecutive cases of HER2‐positive early breast cancer. The influences of the patients’ age, cancer stage, hormone receptor status and anti‐HER2 treatment were adjusted using a multivariate Cox regression model. Both HER2 copy numbers and HER2 ISH ratios of the IHC 3+ group were significantly higher than those of the IHC 2+/ISH+ group. The outcomes of IHC 3+ patients were significantly better than those of IHC 2+/ISH+ patients in the univariate and multivariate analyses. HER2 copy numbers of ≥8 represented the best prognostic value, and it was chosen to be the cut‐off value. The reflex ISH for IHC 2+ patients with high HER2 copy numbers (≥8) predicted a better overall survival than that for those with low HER2 copy numbers.

Conclusion

HER2 IHC scores and HER2 copy numbers can provide prognostic information for patients with HER2‐positive invasive breast cancer. Both IHC 3+ and IHC 2+ patients with high HER2 copy numbers had a better prognosis.
Geographical variation in the prevalence of obesity and metabolic syndrome among US adolescents
Authors: DeBoer M. D. , Filipp S. L. , Gurka M. J.
Published: December 2018

Background

Among adolescents, obesity and the metabolic syndrome (MetS) contribute to adult cardiovascular disease risk. By parent report, obesity prevalence in the USA was highest in the South.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of obesity and MetS by US division and region.

Methods

We used in‐person assessment of 4600 US adolescents age 12–19 years participating in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999–2014.

Results

Prevalence of obesity was highest in the East North Central division (21.3%) and the three census divisions in the South (all >20%), compared with lower prevalence in the Mountain and New England divisions (both <15%). MetS was most prevalent in the two divisions in the Midwest (both >10%) and lowest in the Mountain and New England divisions (both <6%). For the amount of obesity in each division, there was a higher prevalence of MetS in the West North Central division (obesity 17.1%, MetS 13.6%) and lower prevalence in the East South Central (obesity 23.5%, MetS 6.6%) and South Atlantic divisions (obesity 20.4%, MetS 6.7%).

Conclusions

The degree of obesity‐related and MetS‐related risk among adolescents in the Midwest is higher than suggested from previous parent‐reported weight data. The Midwest and South may warrant particularly strong cardiovascular disease prevention efforts.
Impact of motivational interviewing on engagement in a parent‐exclusive paediatric obesity intervention: randomized controlled trial of NOURISH+MI
Authors: Bean M. K. , Thornton L. M. , Jeffers A. J. , Gow R. W. , Mazzeo S. E.
Published: December 2018

Background

Attrition and treatment adherence are notorious challenges in paediatric obesity interventions.

Objective

To evaluate if brief, pretreatment motivational interviewing (MI) can improve retention (at baseline, post‐assessment and follow‐up assessment) and adherence (i.e. attendance) in a parent‐exclusive paediatric obesity intervention.

Methods

MI was implemented with parents as an adjunct to a larger randomized controlled trial of Nourishing Our Understanding of Role‐modeling to Improve Support and Health (NOURISH+), a parent intervention for children with overweight ages 5–11 years. Parents (N = 112) were randomized to receive two MI sessions (one telephone and one in person) or reminder calls.

Results

Parents (91% women; 52% African American) who completed one telephone MI session were more likely to attend baseline (74%) compared with parents who received reminder calls only (53%, p < .001). After a second MI session, there were no group differences in treatment initiation (p > .05). Treatment attendance, post or 4‐month follow‐up assessment completion did not differ between conditions (p > .05).

Conclusion

One MI session implemented prior to treatment can improve baseline attendance; a second MI session did not enhance these effects. A single‐session telephone‐based MI pretreatment might be a cost and time‐effective strategy to enhance recruitment efforts. Further strategies to address retention and treatment attendance are needed.
High diabetes prevalence and insulin medication errors in hospital patients
Authors: Taylor Joanne E. , Campbell Lesley V. , Zhang Lulu , Greenfield Jerry R.
Published: December 2018

We conducted three single‐day point type 2 diabetes prevalence surveys of all inpatient clinical records in November 2013, 2014 and 2016. The prevalence of diabetes was 19.7–25.3%. The majority (63.4–76%) had type 2 diabetes. Twenty‐one percent (n = 21) in 2013, 12% (n = 9) in 2014 and 22.6% (n = 21) in 2016 were diagnosed with diabetes during hospital admission; 41.8% (n = 41) in 2013, 46.7% (n = 35) in 2014 and 51.6% (n = 48) in 2016 required insulin. The high prevalence of diabetes among inpatients mandates active detection and specialist management of diabetes during the admission.
Permanent peritoneal ports for the management of recurrent malignant ascites: a retrospective review of safety and efficacy
Authors: Chen Benson S. , Wong Stephen H. C. , Hawkins Stewart , Huggins Linda
Published: December 2018

Large volume paracentesis is effective in relieving the symptoms of malignant ascites, but frequent procedures are often required. Permanent peritoneal ports are an alternative to repeated procedures. We describe our experience with the use of peritoneal ports in patients at Middlemore Hospital (Auckland, New Zealand) who had a port inserted for the drainage of malignant ascites. Twenty‐eight ports were inserted in 26 patients and accessed a total of 257 times with acceptably low rates of complications including cellulitis, peritonitis and wound dehiscence.
Bi0.5K0.5TiO3–CaTiO3 ceramics: Appearance of the pseudocubic structure and ferroelectric‐relaxor transition characters
Authors: Wei Yongxing , Zhang Ning , Jin Changqing , Zhu Weitong , Zeng Yiming , Xu Gang , Gao Ling , Jian Zengyun
Published: December 2018

In this study, solid solution ceramics of (1−x)Bi0.5K0.5TiO3–xCaTiO3 (BKT‐CT, x = 0, 0.12, 0.15, 0.18, 0.21, and 0.25) were prepared. A phase transition from the tetragonal symmetry to the pseudocubic symmetry is discovered near x = 0.25. The reasons for the appearance of the pseudocubic phase were discussed. The compositions of x ≤ 0.21 show the ferroelectric ordering at room temperature. The remnant polarization (Pr) is 22.4 μC/cm2 for the x = 0.15 composition. The temperature dependence of the relative permittivity suggests two dielectric anomalies for x ≤ 0.18. The dielectric anomaly in the low‐temperature range is related to a spontaneous transition between the ferroelectric and relaxor states. The temperature (TF‐R) for the transition decreases with the CT addition, falling from 211°C for x = 0.12‐134°C for x = 0.18. Only one relaxor‐like dielectric anomaly was observed for x ≥ 0.21. The thin double ferroelectric hysteresis loops have been observed during the ferroelectric‐relaxor transition process for x ≥ 0.21. The maximum electrostrain (Sm) reaches 0.155% at 100°C for x = 0.21. The low‐temperature Raman measurement suggests the intrinsic tetragonal distortions for x = 0.25.
Ischaemia alters the effects of cardiomyocyte‐derived extracellular vesicles on macrophage activation
Authors: Almeida Paiva Rafael , Martins‐Marques Tania , Jesus Katia , Ribeiro‐Rodrigues Teresa , Zuzarte Monica , Silva Ana , Reis Liliana , da Silva Maria , Pereira Paulo , Vader Pieter , Petrus Gerardus Sluijter Joost , Gonçalves Lino , Cruz Maria Teresa , Girao Henrique
Published: December 2018

Myocardial ischaemia is associated with an exacerbated inflammatory response, as well as with a deregulation of intercellular communication systems. Macrophages have been implicated in the maintenance of heart homeostasis and in the progression and resolution of the ischaemic injury. Nevertheless, the mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between cardiomyocytes and macrophages remain largely underexplored. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key players of cell‐cell communication in cardiac health and disease. Hence, the main objective of this study was to characterize the impact of cardiomyocyte‐derived EVs upon macrophage activation. Results obtained demonstrate that EVs released by H9c2 cells induced a pro‐inflammatory profile in macrophages, via p38MAPK activation and increased expression of iNOS, IL‐1β and IL‐6, being these effects less pronounced with ischaemic EVs. EVs derived from neonatal cardiomyocytes, maintained either in control or ischaemia, induced a similar pattern of p38MAPK activation, expression of iNOS, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10 and TNFα. Importantly, adhesion of macrophages to fibronectin was enhanced by EVs released by cardiomyocytes under ischaemia, whereas phagocytic capacity and adhesion to cardiomyocytes were higher in macrophages incubated with control EVs. Additionally, serum‐circulating EVs isolated from human controls or acute myocardial infarction patients induce macrophage activation.

According to our model, in basal conditions, cardiomyocyte‐derived EVs maintain a macrophage profile that ensure heart homeostasis, whereas during ischaemia, this crosstalk is affected, likely impacting healing and post‐infarction remodelling.
Annual Research Review: Maternal antidepressant use during pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopmental problems – a critical review and recommendations for future research
Authors: Sujan Ayesha C. , Öberg A. Sara , Quinn Patrick D. , D'Onofrio Brian M.
Published: December 2018

Children of women treated with antidepressants during pregnancy are more likely to develop neurodevelopmental problems than are unexposed children. Associations between prenatal antidepressant exposure and neurodevelopmental problems could reflect a causal effect or could be partially or fully explained by other factors that differ between exposed and unexposed offspring, including having mothers with conditions requiring antidepressant treatment (e.g. depression), environmental risk factors, and/or genetic risk factors shared across disorders. This translational review aims to provide a brief overview of findings from rodent experiments and critically evaluate observational studies in humans to assess the extent to which associations between prenatal antidepressant exposure and neurodevelopmental problems are due to causal mechanisms versus other influences. We focus our review on two important neurodevelopmental outcomes – autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In general, rodent studies have reported adverse effects of perinatal antidepressant exposure on neurodevelopment. Between‐species differences raise questions about the generalizability of these findings to humans. Indeed, converging evidence from studies using multiple designs and approaches suggest that observed associations between prenatal antidepressant exposure and neurodevelopmental problems in humans are largely due to confounding factors. We also provide specific recommendations for future research. Animal research should explicitly evaluate the impact of timing of exposure and dosage of medications, as well as better map outcome measures in rodents to human neurodevelopmental problems. Observational studies should investigate specific confounding factors, specific antidepressant drugs and classes, the potential impact of timing of exposure, and a wider range of other potential offspring outcomes. The findings summarized in this review may help women and their doctors make informed decisions about antidepressant use during pregnancy by providing reassurance that use of these medications during pregnancy is unlikely to substantially increase the risk of ASD and ADHD.
Novel psychosocial factor involved in diabetes self‐care in the Japanese cultural context
Authors: Mano Fumika , Ikeda Kaori , Uchida Yukiko , Liu I‐Ting Huai‐Ching , Joo Erina , Okura Mizuyo , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: December 2018

Aims/Introduction

Recent evidence shows that cultural context can influence the management of diabetes mellitus. The aim of the present study was to examine the relationship between interdependence, which is valued in the Eastern cultural context, and diabetes self‐care behavior in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Material and Methods

We carried out a cross‐sectional survey of 161 Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus using well‐established questionnaires. The association of an interdependent tendency with diabetes self‐care activities was analyzed using multiple regression analysis.

Results

Diabetes self‐care activities had a negative correlation with interdependent tendency (r = −0.16, P = 0.047), and they had positive correlations with age (r = 0.42, P < 0.001), emotional support (r = 0.25, P = 0.001) and diabetes self‐care support (r = 0.36, P < 0.001). When patients were divided into two groups at the median age (68 years), multiple regressions showed that interdependent tendency (β = −0.20, P = 0.048), male sex (β = −0.24, P = 0.023), emotional support (β = 0.22, P = 0.028) and diabetes self‐care support (β = 0.39, P < 0.001) were significant determinants of diabetes self‐care activities only in the younger group.

Conclusions

Interdependence might influence diabetes self‐care behavior, and intervention focusing on support from close others might lead patients to more successful care among Japanese adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus, especially those aged <68 years.
Fish larvae distribution among different habitats in coastal East Africa
Authors: Hedberg Per , Rybak Fanny F. , Gullström Martin , Jiddawi Narriman S. , Winder Monika
Published: December 2018

Fish larvae abundances, diversity and trophic position across shallow seagrass, coral reef and open water habitats were examined to characterize their distribution in coastal East Africa. Larvae were identified to family and analysed for abundance differences between sites and habitats, trophic level using stable‐isotope analysis and parental spawning mode. Abundances differed greatly between sites with the highest numbers of larvae occurring in the open‐water and seagrass habitats. Larval fish diversity was high across habitats with 51 families identified with small differences between sites and among habitats. Notably, larvae of abundant large herbivorous fishes present in reef and seagrass habitats were almost completely absent at all sampling locations. In the seagrass, demersal spawned larvae were more abundant compared with the reef and open‐water habitats. Stable‐isotope analysis revealed that fish larvae have a varied diet, occupying trophic level two to three and utilizing planktonic prey. This study offers new insights into distributional aspects of fish larvae along the East African coast where such information is sparse.
Reply to: Frailty and Pulmonary Function in Older Women
Authors: Son Da‐Hye , Lee Yong‐Jae
Published: December 2018

This letter comments on the letter by Sultan et al.
Treatment for patients with recurrent fetal losses positive for anti‐cardiolipin beta2 glycoprotein I antibody using Sairei‐to (Chai‐ling‐tang) and low‐dose aspirin
Authors: Nonaka Taro , Takahashi Makiko , Nonaka Chika , Haino Kazufumi , Yamaguchi Masayuki , Enomoto Takayuki , Takakuwa Koichi
Published: December 2018

Aim

Recently, it is widely recognized that positivity for anti‐phospholipid antibodies is a causative factor for a range of reproductive failures. Anti‐cardiolipin beta2 glycoprotein I antibody (anti‐CL‐beta2‐GPI) is a representative anti‐phospholipid antibody, which strongly correlates with the development of thrombotic events and diversity of adverse pregnancies. In this series, we aimed to elucidate effective treatment for patients with recurrent fetal losses positive for anti‐CL‐beta2‐GPI using Japanese‐modified Chinese herbal medicine.

Methods

Twenty‐one patients with recurrent fetal losses who were positive for anti‐CL‐beta2‐GPI were treated with the Japanese‐modified Chinese herbal medicine, Sairei‐to (Chai‐ling‐tang), and low‐dose aspirin with or without adrenal corticosteroid hormone. Of the 21 patients, the value of anti‐CL‐beta2‐GPI ranged from 1.9 to 3.4 in 10 patients, and it was over 3.5 in 11 patients.

Results

Of the 21 patients treated with the current protocol, the pregnancy successfully continued in 17 patients (success rate: 81.0%). Of the four patients who showed repeated abortion, chromosome abnormality of chorionic villi was observed in two; thus, the success rate would be 89.5% (17 of 19 cases) on excluding these cases from the evaluation.

Conclusion

The efficacy of the current treatment adopting the modified Japanese version of the Chinese herbal medicine Sairei‐to for patients with recurrent fetal losses positive for anti‐CL‐beta2‐GPI was indicated.
Melatonin attenuates myocardial ischemia‐reperfusion injury via improving mitochondrial fusion/mitophagy and activating the AMPK‐OPA1 signaling pathways
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Yue , Xu Junnan , Tian Feng , Hu Shunying , Chen Yundai , Fu Zhenhong
Published: December 2018

Optic atrophy 1 (OPA1)‐related mitochondrial fusion and mitophagy are vital to sustain mitochondrial homeostasis under stress conditions. However, no study has confirmed whether OPA1‐related mitochondrial fusion/mitophagy is activated by melatonin and, consequently, attenuates cardiomyocyte death and mitochondrial stress in the setting of cardiac ischemia‐reperfusion (I/R) injury. Our results indicated that OPA1, mitochondrial fusion, and mitophagy were significantly repressed by I/R injury, accompanied by infarction area expansion, heart dysfunction, myocardial inflammation, and cardiomyocyte oxidative stress. However, melatonin treatment maintained myocardial function and cardiomyocyte viability, and these effects were highly dependent on OPA1‐related mitochondrial fusion/mitophagy. At the molecular level, OPA1‐related mitochondrial fusion/mitophagy, which was normalized by melatonin, substantially rectified the excessive mitochondrial fission, promoted mitochondria energy metabolism, sustained mitochondrial function, and blocked cardiomyocyte caspase‐9‐involved mitochondrial apoptosis. However, genetic approaches with a cardiac‐specific knockout of OPA1 abolished the beneficial effects of melatonin on cardiomyocyte survival and mitochondrial homeostasis in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, we demonstrated that melatonin affected OPA1 stabilization via the AMPK signaling pathway and that blockade of AMPK repressed OPA1 expression and compromised the cardioprotective action of melatonin. Overall, our results confirm that OPA1‐related mitochondrial fusion/mitophagy is actually modulated by melatonin in the setting of cardiac I/R injury. Moreover, manipulation of the AMPK‐OPA1‐mitochondrial fusion/mitophagy axis via melatonin may be a novel therapeutic approach to reduce cardiac I/R injury.
The Teaching Focus of Adult‐Reading Teachers When Developing Word Reading Skills
Authors: McHardy Janet , Chapman Elaine
Published: December 2018

Despite widescale literacy interventions, reading difficulties persist in the adult population. Results from international surveys report that millions of adults around the world remain unable to read the texts they require for daily life and work. Adult reading difficulties are diverse and under‐researched, and adult‐reading teachers are generally underprepared to build reading skills, particularly at word level reading where many adults report difficulties. This study examined (i) the teaching foci that 60 adult‐reading teachers prioritised in determining how to teach a hypothetical adult reader with difficulties at the word level and (ii) the teacher attributes by which these decisions varied. Around 40% of teachers indicated that they would prioritise non‐word level components in deciding how to teach the hypothetical reader with word level difficulties, and these decisions varied with teachers' training/qualifications. To make sense of the persistence of low reading levels in the adult population, it is necessary to understand more about what teachers teach and why they teach the way they do. The findings of this study may provide an important step towards this goal.
Infant and young child feeding learning sessions during savings groups are feasible and acceptable for HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative women in Malawi
Authors: Flax Valerie L. , Chapola John , Mokiwa Lemekeza , Mofolo Innocent , Swira Henry , Hosseinipour Mina C. , Maman Suzanne
Published: December 2018

Based on formative research, HIV‐positive women in Lilongwe District, Malawi receive little infant and young child feeding (IYCF) counselling postpartum and want more support for IYCF from their husbands. To address these gaps, we implemented a behaviour change communication intervention promoting IYCF in village savings and loan associations (VSLAs) that included HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative women. The intervention consisted of 15 IYCF learning sessions facilitated by VSLA volunteers during regular VSLA meetings and included four sessions to which husbands were invited. We assessed the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention through learning session participation logs, structured observations of learning sessions, and in‐depth interviews with HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative VSLA members, husbands of members, and VSLA volunteers. Nine VSLA volunteers conducted learning sessions with approximately 300–400 women, about one quarter of whom were lactating, and 25–35 men. VSLA volunteers consistently communicated technical information correctly, followed the learning session steps, and used visual aids. Sessions averaged 46 min, with <20% of observed sessions completed within the recommended time (20–25 min). Key themes from interviews were the following: (a) learning sessions were useful; (b) including HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative women in the sessions was acceptable; (c) information learned during sessions encouraged families to change IYCF practices; (d) IYCF messages were shared with others in the community; and (e) male participation was low because men considered VSLAs and IYCF to be women's activities. In conclusion, integrating IYCF learning sessions into VLSAs was feasible and acceptable for mixed groups of HIV‐positive and HIV‐negative women. Future research should test other strategies for involving men in IYCF.
Early career biomedical grantsmanship self‐efficacy: validation of an abbreviated self‐assessment tool
Authors: Harwood Eileen M. , Jones Amy R. , Erickson Darin , Buchwald Dedra , Johnson‐Hemming Japera , Jones Harlan P. , Manson Spero , McGee Richard , Smith Ann , Steer Clifford J. , Vishwanatha Jamboor K. , Weber‐Main Anne M. , Okuyemi Kolawole S.
Published: December 2018

A hallmark of success for early career biomedical researchers is the acquisition of research funding. There are marked disparities among principal investigators who submit grants and the likelihood of receiving national funding. The National Research Mentoring Network was funded by the National Institutes of Health to diversify the biomedical research workforce and included grantsmanship training for early career researchers. Self‐efficacy in developing research grant applications is significantly improved over time with training and experience. We created a 19‐item self‐efficacy assessment inventory. Our aims were to confirm the internal consistency of a three‐factor solution for grantsmanship confidence and to test the likelihood that self‐efficacy influences grant proposal submission timing. We gathered data from 190 diverse biomedical trainees who completed NRMN grantsmanship training between August 2015 and June 2017. Findings revealed high internal consistency for items in each of three factors. There was a statistically significant association between self‐efficacy mean scores and grant submission timing predicting that, for every one‐point increase in the mean score, the odds of submitting a grant 6 months post‐training increased by 69%. An abbreviated inventory of grantsmanship skills self‐efficacy is a promising tool for monitoring changes over time in early career researchers and for promoting tailored grantsmanship interventions.
Cryoablation of atrial fibrillation with the fourth‐generation balloon: The first reported case
Authors: Moltrasio Massimo , Tundo Fabrizio , Fassini Gaetano , Sicuso Rita , Cellucci Selene , Tondo Claudio
Published: December 2018

Cryoballoon ablation was developed as a new treatment for pulmonary vein (PV) isolation and has demonstrated high procedural success and comforting long‐term clinical outcome. However, some improvements are necessary for real‐time visualization of PV signals that appeared important to increase the efficacy and reduce ineffective cryoapplications. We report, for the first time, a cryoablation procedure using the fourth‐generation cryoballoon, describing betterment in vein signal recording and acute procedural success.