bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The asymmetric contribution of consonants and vowels to phonological similarity
Authors: Turnbull Rory , Peperkamp Sharon
Published: March 2018

Lexical priming is known to arise from phonological similarity between prime and target, and this phenomenon is an important component of our understanding of the processes of lexical access and competition. However, the precise nature of the role of phonological similarity in lexical priming is understudied. In the present study, two experiments were conducted in which participants performed auditory lexical decision on CVC targets which were preceded by primes that either matched the target in all phonemes (CVC condition), in the first two phonemes (CV_ condition), the last two phonemes (_VC condition), the initial and last phonemes (C_C condition) or no phonemes (unrelated condition). Relative to the unrelated condition, all conditions except CV_ led to facilitation of response time to target words. The _VC and C_C conditions led to equivalent facilitation magnitude, while the CV_ condition showed neither facilitation nor inhibition. Accounting for these results requires appeal to processes of lexical competition and also to the notion that phonemes do not lend equivalent phonological similarity; that is, vowels and consonants are processed differently.
Pride and shame in collective memory of Russian and American youths
Authors: Kasamara Valeria , Sorokina Anna , Maximenkova Marina
Published: March 2018

This article examines collective attitudes of American and Russian students toward national historical events that elicit pride or shame. The authors use the results of a quantitative questionnaire and analysis of in-depth interviews among students of leading American and Russian universities to identify the temporal localization, the content structure, and the prevalence of either hard or soft power in students' attitudes of pride or shame. The authors argue that perceptions of the past have been a core component of national identity and may have an impact on citizens' political behavior in the present. The authors also stress that major differences in young people's understanding of the past may influence future US-Russia relations.
Properties of leaves particleboard for sheathing application
Authors: Nuryawan Arif , Rahmawaty
Published: March 2018

Manufacturing particleboard (PB) made of leaves was carried out to make non-structural building components, such as insulation, partition, wall, and sheathing. Raw materials used dry leaves originated from plantation (palm oil leaves) and forest plantation (magahony leaves). The adhesive used was interior type thermosetting commercial resins, namely 10% urea-formaldehyde (UF) based on oven dry leaves. Hardener used for UF resin was 1% and 3% ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) 20% (w/w), respectively. Technically, the target density of PB was 0.8 g/cm3 with the dimension’s size of (250 x 250 x 10) mm3. The pressure, temperature, and time of pressing of the hot press were 25 kgf/cm2, 120C, and 10 minutes, respectively. After conditioning for one week, the PB then was evaluated their physical and mechanical properties according to Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS) A 5908 (2003). Results of this work showed: 1) Both types of PB (palm oil and mahagony leaves) were feasible to be produced for non-structural applications; 2) Addition of hardener enhanced the physical and mechanical properties of PB; 3) It was recommended to enhance the performance of the PB by manipulation of the raw materials and the design.
Organizational performance comparative study of Jakarta and Medan city happy planet index
Authors: Tarigan Nuah Perdamenta
Published: March 2018

Comparative Study of Organizational Performance relating to the Happy Planet Index between Jakarta and Medan is quite challenging, the performance of the organization here is related to organizational arrangements relating to the potential associated with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), which is based on ISO 26000, how local leaders put the idea to build a city not only by the government budget each area, but also invite the participation of companies that have programs related to community empowerment is not a fund for cash, but the real form that is present in removing the great problems in society cities beyond than just its obligations but has become a conscious citizen that cares about its environment both natural and artificial. In the end of this research, we will see which one is the best based on the standard Happy Planet Index (HPI) which is phenomenal in the world now, connected again with 17 pieces of Sustainable Development Goals, particularly the goal of the 17th. The study was conducted by the research literature and implemented in a short time. However, a large study being conducted by the researcher.
Friendly vertical housing: case of walk-up flat housing development in Yogyakarta
Authors: Fosterharoldas Swasto Deva
Published: March 2018

In Yogyakarta Province, the local government have developed walk-up flats housing for more than ten years since the mid of the 2000s. Yogyakarta City and Sleman Regency was pioneering the construction with some blocks of flats in several locations. However, after this period, there is limited evaluation about the effectiveness of the occupancy. One of the issues is related to the sustainable housing development. Concerning this situation, it is proposed to examine how the development of walk-up flats housing in Yogyakarta City and Sleman Regency can be evaluated based on specific housing indicator, as a part of sustainable housing development concept. This paper would like to explore the phenomenon on how ‘friendly’ the flats is. The researcher will qualitatively asses variables from the walk-up flat cases in Yogyakarta City and Sleman Regency. The results suggested that the physical quality of the vertical housing situation could be enhanced to meet residents’ satisfaction.
People’s Preferences of Urban Design Qualities for Walking on a Commercial Street
Authors: Ernawati J , Surjono  , Sudarmo B S
Published: March 2018

This research aims to explore people’s preferences of urban design qualities for walking on a commercial street, with Kawi Street located in a commercial neighborhood in the town of Malang Indonesia as the case study. Based on a literature review, this study used eight urban design qualities, i.e., enclosure, legibility, human scale, transparency, complexity, coherence, linkage, and imageability. This study applied a survey research method using a self-administered paper-pencil questionnaire applying two measurement techniques: Likert scale was used to explore people’s evaluations of urban design qualities of the street, while multiple-rating scales were used to measure people’s preference for walking on the street. One hundred and ten people randomly selected as respondents. Regression analysis was employed to explore the influence of urban design qualities on people preference for walking. Results indicated four urban design qualities that affect people’s choice for walking on a commercial street, i.e., transparency, coherence, linkage, and imageability. Implications of the findings will be discussed in the paper.
Spirit of place of Merdeka corridor in Selatpanjang City
Authors: Aldy Pedia , Mira Dharma S
Published: March 2018

Historical city area was developing by an accumulation of developmental stages which influenced by various factors. The factors are political, economic, social, cultural, and modernization. The research will discuss the spirit of place of Merdeka corridor in Selatpanjang city, Meranti Islands. The purpose is to identify the spirit of place of Merdeka corridor and to find out the tourism concept by characters that support urban tourism in Selatpanjang city. The research method used is qualitative research method with the rationalistic paradigm. Based on cultural history, physical building, and spatial pattern, Merdeka corridor has unique characteristic, and it persists if compared by another in Selatpanjang city. However, damage of corridor, physical changes, and functions can slowly happen due to modernization and cannot avoid.
Directives in Professional Kitchens and Potential Learning Opportunities
Authors: Pang Priscilla
Published: March 2018

There has been to date a long tradition of research in workplace discourse. The bulk of the research has focused on professional white-collar workplaces, but a handful of studies have examined working-class settings such as factories and building sites. This area of research has, however, been concerned with interactions involving co-workers. Studies examining interactions between newcomers and experienced others, such as Holmes and Woodhams (2013), are rare. Using data collected in the working-class setting of the professional kitchen, the current study presents interactions between newcomer trainee cooks and the cooks they worked under. It focuses on the use of directives, which was a prevalent feature of their interactions. As individual utterances, the directives would seem to be designed to elicit specific, ad-hoc actions from trainees. However, closer analysis reveals that series of directives may serve important instructional purposes. Findings from the study are useful in raising the awareness of those assigned to mentor trainees in work settings and should enhance on-the-job workplace training as well as support newcomers as they adjust to their new workplaces.
Association Between Brain Activation and Functional Connectivity
Authors: Tomasi Dardo , Volkow Nora D
Published: March 2018

The origin of the “resting-state” brain activity recorded with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is still uncertain. Here we provide evidence for the neurovascular origins of the amplitude of the low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) and the local functional connectivity density (lFCD) by comparing them with task-induced blood-oxygen level dependent (BOLD) responses, which are considered a proxy for neuronal activation. Using fMRI data for 2 different tasks (Relational and Social) collected by the Human Connectome Project in 426 healthy adults, we show that ALFF and lFCD have linear associations with the BOLD response. This association was significantly attenuated by a novel task signal regression (TSR) procedure, indicating that task performance enhances lFCD and ALFF in activated regions. We also show that lFCD predicts BOLD activation patterns, as was recently shown for other functional connectivity metrics, which corroborates that resting functional connectivity architecture impacts brain activation responses. Thus, our findings indicate a common source for BOLD responses, ALFF and lFCD, which is consistent with the neurovascular origin of local hemodynamic synchrony presumably reflecting coordinated fluctuations in neuronal activity. This study also supports the development of task-evoked functional connectivity density mapping.
Mindfulness-based lifestyle programs for the self-management of Parkinson’s disease in Australia
Authors: Vandenberg Brooke E , Advocat Jenny , Hassed Craig , Hester Jennifer , Enticott Joanne , Russell Grant
Published: March 2018

Despite emerging evidence suggesting positive outcomes of mindfulness training for the self-management of other neurodegenerative diseases, limited research has explored its effect on the self-management of Parkinson’s disease (PD). We aimed to characterize the experiences of individuals participating in a facilitated, group mindfulness-based lifestyle program for community living adults with Stage 2 PD and explore how the program influenced beliefs about self-management of their disease. Our longitudinal qualitative study was embedded within a randomized controlled trial exploring the impact of a 6-week mindfulness-based lifestyle program on patient-reported function. The study was set in Melbourne, Australia in 2012–2013. We conducted semi-structured interviews with participants before, immediately after, and 6 months following participation in the program. Sixteen participants were interviewed prior to commencing the program. Of these, 12 were interviewed shortly after its conclusion, and 9 interviewed at 6 months. Prior to the program, participants felt a lack of control over their illness. A desire for control and a need for alternative tools for managing the progression of PD motivated many to engage with the program. Following the program, where participants experienced an increase in mindfulness, many became more accepting of disease progression and reported improved social relationships and self-confidence in managing their disease. Mindfulness-based lifestyle programs have the potential for increasing both participants’ sense of control over their reactions to disease symptoms as well as social connectedness. Community-based mindfulness training may provide participants with tools for self-managing a number of the consequences of Stage 2 PD.
Finnish NGOs promoting health equity in the context of welfare economy
Authors: Rouvinen-Wilenius Päivi , Ahokas Jussi , Kiukas Vertti , Aalto-Kallio Mervi
Published: March 2018

Health inequality is a national challenge in Finland. The WHO global strategy of Health for All implies that all people should have an equal opportunity to develop and maintain their health through fair and just access to health resources. This article examines the role of Finnish Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) in strengthening the health equity. The article presents the strategy and specific criteria constructed by the NGOs to promote health equity in society. The health equity criteria and welfare economy strategy are combined to a framework which NGOs can utilize in their work to promote health equity. The welfare economy strategy describes the important issues that NGOs have to address when working towards a specific societal goal, in this case equity. The health equity criteria in turn are an instrument for the practical implementation of the preconditions of equity.
Implementing empowerment-based Lay Health Worker programs: a preliminary study
Authors: D’Arcy Catherine , Taket Ann , Hanna Lisa
Published: March 2018

Lay Health Worker (LHW) programs have been shown to be effective in engaging community members in health promotion. While successful LHW program implementation requires an understanding of factors influencing program effectiveness, evidence informing such understanding is lacking for empowerment and ecological theory-based LHW programs. This descriptive study explores how enablers and barriers, identified from LHW literature apply (from the LHWs’ perspective) in the context of implementing an empowerment and ecological theory-based LHW model in Melbourne, Victoria. A qualitative case study was carried out. Data were collected from participating LHWs (n = 11) via anonymized online activity logs (n = 7) and semi-structured interviews (n = 7). Deductive-inductive thematic analysis was guided by five a priori themes identified from the literature: community relationships; intrinsic traits, values and motivations; capacity building; program design; and work conditions. Data supported the enablers and barriers to program effectiveness and implementation reported by previous research. Subthemes identified the importance of the LHW bridging role; the empowerment model; integrating the program; and program inclusiveness. This research contributes to the growing practice literature regarding how to effectively implement diverse LHW models in diverse settings. It also contributes to social ecological and complex systems-based health promotion practice evidence in suggesting LHWs to be potentially useful elements which may add to the effectiveness of ecologically based health promotion interventions.
A method to automatically detect fish aggregations using horizontally scanning sonar
Authors: Vatnehol Sindre , Peña Hector , Handegard Nils Olav
Published: March 2018

Pelagic fishes are a major source of protein and unsaturated fatty acids, and robust management is critical to avoid overfishing. Fisheries management is often supported by indices from scientific acoustic-trawl surveys, where vertically aligned echo sounders and trawl samples are used to provide an estimate of abundance. Survey biases may be introduced when fish are located near the sea surface or if they avoid the survey vessel. Horizontally scanning acoustic equipment, such as fish-detection sonars, have been proposed as a method to quantify such biases; however, manual interpretation of the data hamper further development. An automated method for identifying fish aggregations within large volumes of sonar data has been developed. It exploits the fact that near-stationary targets, i.e. a fish school, have distinct patterns through the data. The algorithm is not instrument specific, and was tested on data collected from several acoustic-trawl surveys in the Norwegian Sea. The automatic algorithm had a similar performance to manual interpretation, and the main cause of discrepancies was aggregations overlooked in the manual work. These discrepancies were substantially reduced in a second round of manual interpretation. We envision that this method will facilitate a labour efficient and more objective analysis of sonar data and provide information to support fisheries management for pelagic fish.
Target strength of skipjack tuna (Katsuwanus pelamis) associated with fish aggregating devices (FADs)
Authors: Boyra Guillermo , Moreno Gala , Sobradillo Bea , Pérez-Arjona Isabel , Sancristobal Igor , Demer David A
Published: March 2018

This paper presents measures of target strength (TS; dB re 1 m2) and models of TS vs. fork length (L; cm), i.e. TS=20logL+b20, for skipjack tuna associated with fish aggregating devices (FADs) in the Central Pacific Ocean. Measurements were made using 38-, 120-, and 200-kHz split-beam echosounders on a purse-seine workboat during fishing operations. To mitigate potential bias due to unresolved targets, TS measurements were rejected if they were not simultaneously detected with multiple echosounder frequencies in approximately the same location. The filtered TS and concomitantly sampled L data were used to estimate b20 = −76, −71, and −70.5 dB for 38, 120, and 200 kHz, respectively, using the method of least squares. For comparison, quasi-independent estimates of TS and b20 were calculated from acoustic echo-integration and catch data representing entire aggregations around the FADs. The results differed by ≤1 dB for all three frequencies. The sensitivities of these results to variations in fish morphology and behaviour were explored using a simulation of TS for fish without swimbladders. The utility of the results on acoustic properties of skipjack tuna and next research steps to achieve selective fishing at FADs are discussed.
Asymptotically compatible discretization of multidimensional nonlocal diffusion models and approximation of nonlocal Green’s functions
Authors: Du Qiang , Tao Yunzhe , Tian Xiaochuan , Yang Jiang
Published: March 2018

Nonlocal diffusion equations and their numerical approximations have attracted much attention in the literature as nonlocal modeling becomes popular in various applications. This paper continues the study of robust discretization schemes for the numerical solution of nonlocal models. In particular, we present quadrature-based finite difference approximations of some linear nonlocal diffusion equations in multidimensions. These approximations are able to preserve various nice properties of the nonlocal continuum models such as the maximum principle and they are shown to be asymptotically compatible in the sense that as the nonlocality vanishes, the numerical solutions can give consistent local limits. The approximation errors are proved to be of optimal order in both nonlocal and asymptotically local settings. The numerical schemes involve a unique design of quadrature weights that reflect the multidimensional nature and require technical estimates on nonconventional divided differences for their numerical analysis. We also study numerical approximations of nonlocal Green’s functions associated with nonlocal models. Unlike their local counterparts, nonlocal Green’s functions might become singular measures that are not well defined pointwise. We demonstrate how to combine a splitting technique with the asymptotically compatible schemes to provide effective numerical approximations of these singular measures.
Hyperbolicity of Varieties Supporting a Variation of Hodge Structure
Authors: Brunebarbe Yohan , Cadorel Benoît
Published: March 2018

We generalize former results of Zuo and the 1st author showing some hyperbolicity properties of varieties supporting a variation of Hodge structure. Our proof only uses the special curvature properties of period domains. In particular, in contrast to the former approaches, it does not use any result on the asymptotic behavior of the Hodge metric.
Rigidity Results for Elliptic Boundary Value Problems: Stable Solutions for Quasilinear Equations with Neumann or Robin Boundary Conditions
Authors: Dipierro Serena , Pinamonti Andrea , Valdinoci Enrico
Published: March 2018

We provide a general approach to the classification results of stable solutions of (possibly nonlinear) elliptic problems with Robin conditions. The method is based on a geometric formula of Poincaré type, which is inspired by a classical work of Sternberg and Zumbrun and which gives an accurate description of the curvatures of the level sets of the stable solutions. From this, we show that the stable solutions of a quasilinear problem with Neumann data are necessarily constant. As a byproduct of this, we obtain an alternative proof of a celebrated result of Casten and Holland, and Matano. In addition, we will obtain as a consequence a new proof of a result recently established by Bandle, Mastrolia, Monticelli, and Punzo.
Does health informatics have a replication crisis?
Authors: Coiera Enrico , Ammenwerth Elske , Georgiou Andrew , Magrabi Farah
Published: March 2018

Objective

Many research fields, including psychology and basic medical sciences, struggle with poor reproducibility of reported studies. Biomedical and health informatics is unlikely to be immune to these challenges. This paper explores replication in informatics and the unique challenges the discipline faces.

Methods

Narrative review of recent literature on research replication challenges.

Results

While there is growing interest in re-analysis of existing data, experimental replication studies appear uncommon in informatics. Context effects are a particular challenge as they make ensuring replication fidelity difficult, and the same intervention will never quite reproduce the same result in different settings. Replication studies take many forms, trading-off testing validity of past findings against testing generalizability. Exact and partial replication designs emphasize testing validity while quasi and conceptual studies test generalizability of an underlying model or hypothesis with different methods or in a different setting.

Conclusions

The cost of poor replication is a weakening in the quality of published research and the evidence-based foundation of health informatics. The benefits of replication include increased rigor in research, and the development of evaluation methods that distinguish the impact of context and the nonreproducibility of research. Taking replication seriously is essential if biomedical and health informatics is to be an evidence-based discipline.
Updating Data Semantics
Authors: Gillies Anthony S
Published: March 2018

This paper has three main goals. First, to motivate a puzzle about how ignorance-expressing terms like maybe and if interact: they (surprisingly) iterate, and when they do they exhibit scopelessness. Second, to argue that there is an ambiguity in our theoretical toolbox, and that exposing that opens the door to a solution to the puzzle. And third, to explore the reach of that solution (it turns out to do work in unexpected places). Along the way, the paper highlights a number of pleasing properties of two elegant semantic theories (data semantics and update semantics), explores some meta-theoretic properties of dynamic notions of meaning, dips its toe into some hazardous waters (epistemic contradictions and presupposition projection), and offers characterization theorems for the space of meanings an indicative conditional can have.
Breast cancer brain metastasis: molecular mechanisms and directions for treatment
Authors: Pedrosa Rute M S M , Mustafa Dana A , Soffietti Riccardo , Kros Johan M
Published: March 2018

The development of brain metastasis (BM) of breast cancer is usually a late event with deleterious effect on the prognosis. Treatment options for intracerebral seeding of breast cancer are limited and, so far, nonspecific. Molecular detailing of subsequent events of penetration, seeding, and outgrowth in brain is highly relevant for developing therapeutic strategies to treat, or prevent, BM.

We scrutinize recent literature for molecules and pathways that are operative in the formation of breast cancer BM. We also summarize current data on therapeutic efforts to specifically address BM of breast cancer. Data on molecular pathways underlying the formation of BM of breast cancer are sketchy and to some extent inconsistent. The molecular makeup of BM differs from that of the primary tumors, as well as from metastases at other sites. Current efforts to treat breast cancer BM are limited, and drugs used have proven effects on the primary tumors but lack specificity for the intracerebral tumors.

More basic research is necessary to better characterize BM of breast cancer. Apart from the identification of drug targets defined by the intracerebral tumors, also targets in the molecular pathways involved in passing the blood–brain barrier and intracerebral tumor cell growth should be revealed.
Cost-Effectiveness in Adult Spinal Deformity Surgery
Authors: Arutyunyan Grigoriy G , Angevine Peter D , Berven Sigurd
Published: March 2018

The complexity and heterogeneity of adult spinal deformity (ASD) creates significant difficulties in performing high-quality, complete economic analyses. For the same reasons, however, such studies are immensely valuable to clinicians and health policy experts. There has been a paradigm shift towards value-based healthcare provision and as such, there is an increasing focus on demonstrating not just the value ASD surgery, but the provision of care at large. Health-related quality of life measures are an important tool for assessing value of an intervention and its effect on a quality-adjusted life year (QALY). Currently, there are no definitive criteria in regard to assigning the appropriate value to a QALY. A general accepted threshold discussed in literature is $100 000 per QALY gained. However, this figure may be variable across populations, and may not necessarily be applicable in today's economy, or in all healthcare economies. Fundamentally, an effective treatment method may be associated with a high upfront cost, however, if durable, will be cost-effective over time.

The emphasis on cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis in the field of adult spine deformity is relatively recent; therefore, there is a limited amount of data on cost-effectiveness analyses. Continued efforts with emphasis on value-based outcomes are needed with long-term follow-up studies.
Tuberculosis in Visceral Leishmaniasis-Human Immunodeficiency Virus Coinfection: An Evidence Gap in Improving Patient Outcomes?
Authors: van Griensven Johan , Mohammed Rezika , Ritmeijer Koert , Burza Sakib , Diro Ermias
Published: March 2018

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL)-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) coinfection remains a major problem in Ethiopia, India, and Brazil. Tuberculosis (TB), a treatable factor, could contribute to high mortality (up to 25%) in VL-HIV coinfection. However, the current evidence on the prevalence and clinical impact of TB in VL-HIV coinfection is very limited. In previous reports on routine care, TB prevalence ranged from 5.7% to 29.7%, but information on how and when TB was diagnosed was lacking.

Methods

Field observations suggest that TB work-up is often not done systematically, and it is only done in patients who do not respond well to VL treatment. Here, we advocate high-quality diagnostic studies in VL-HIV-coinfected patients, during which all patients are systematically screened for TB, including a comprehensive work-up, to obtain reliable estimates.

Results

Cost-effective and feasible diagnostic algorithms can be developed for field use, and this can be integrated in VL clinical guidelines.

Conclusions

An accurate diagnosis of TB can allow clinicians to assess its clinical impact and evaluate the impact of early TB diagnosis.
Characterization of Reactions to Laterally Directed Perturbations in People With Chronic Stroke
Authors: Schinkel-Ivy Alison , Aqui Anthony , Danells Cynthia J , Mansfield Avril
Published: March 2018

Background

Reactive balance control is often impaired poststroke. Studies addressing responses to laterally directed perturbations in this population are currently lacking. Given that stroke-related motor impairments are unilateral, a better understanding of reactive balance responses to these types of perturbations is critical.

Objective

This study aimed to quantify differences in reactive balance control in response to laterally directed perturbations in people with chronic stroke, based on perturbation direction and ability to step with either limb.

Design

This study used a cross-sectional design.

Methods

Participants with chronic stroke (N = 19) were divided into groups representing their ability to step with either limb, based on performance on a reactive balance task in a baseline assessment. The preferred stepping limb was also identified during this assessment. Each participant then underwent a series of laterally directed perturbations on a motion platform. Behavioral measures were compared between platform direction and group.

Results

Trials with extra steps, step initiation with the preferred limb, and crossover steps were more common with platform motion toward the preferred limb compared to the nonpreferred limb; the latter effect was only observed for participants with an impaired ability to step with either limb. Side-step sequences were more common in those able to step with either limb when the platform moved toward the preferred limb.

Limitations

The participant sample was likely higher functioning than the general population of stroke survivors due to equipment constraints. Additionally, participants may have developed strategies to use the platform's motion characteristics to aid with balance recovery.

Conclusions

These findings provide an indication of responses to laterally directed perturbations in people with chronic stroke and may help inform strategies for improving reactive balance control during stroke rehabilitation.
Host–Pathogen Interaction in Fusarium oxysporum Infections: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Husaini Amjad M. , Sakina Aafreen , Cambay Souliha R.
Published: March 2018

Fusarium oxysporum, a ubiquitous soilborne pathogen, causes devastating vascular wilt in more than 100 plant species and ranks 5th among the top 10 fungal plant pathogens. It has emerged as a human pathogen, too, causing infections in immune-compromised patients. Therefore, it is important to gain insight into the molecular processes involved in the pathogenesis of this transkingdom pathogen. A complex network comprising interconnected and overlapping signal pathways—mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, Ras proteins, G-protein signaling components and their downstream pathways, components of the velvet (LaeA/VeA/VelB) complex, and cAMP pathways—is involved in perceiving the host. This network regulates the expression of various pathogenicity genes. However, plants have evolved an elaborate protection system to combat this attack. They, too, possess intricate mechanisms at the molecular level which, once triggered by pathogen attack, transduce signals to activate defense response. This review focuses on understanding and presenting a wholistic picture of the molecular mechanisms of F. oxysporum–host interactions in plant immunity.
Pectobacterium and Dickeya Responsible for Potato Blackleg Disease in New York State in 2016
Authors: Ma Xing , Schloop Allison , Swingle Bryan , Perry Keith L.
Published: March 2018

Beginning in 2014, outbreaks of blackleg disease compromised potato (Solanum tuberosum) production in the northeastern United States. Disease severity was atypical for plantings with certified seed. During 2016, 43 samples with blackleg symptoms were analyzed, originating from more than 20 farms operating in New York State. A combination of techniques was employed to identify the blackleg pathogens: isolation in vitro, diagnostic PCR assays for Pectobacterium and Dickeya sp., pathogenicity assays, and DNA sequencing. Twenty-three bacterial isolates were obtained, the majority of which were designated D. dianthicola or P. parmentieri; two of the isolates were designated P. atrosepticum. All isolates were pathogenic in stem lesion and tuber soft rot assays and exhibited pectin degrading activity (pitting) in crystal violet pectate agar medium. Phylogenetic analyses of dnaX gene sequences placed all but one of the isolates into clades corresponding to D. dianthicola, P. parmentieri, or P. atrosepticum. One atypical isolate clustered with P. carotovorum subspecies. Data are consistent with the hypothesis that D. dianthicola from New York and the northeast are part of a single clade, and at least three different soft rot bacteria were associated with blackleg during 2016 in New York.
Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Meloxicam in Patients With Moderate-to-Severe Pain Following Bunionectomy
Authors: Pollak Richard A. , Gottlieb Ira J. , Hakakian Fardin , Zimmerman John C. , McCallum Stewart W. , Mack Randall J. , Keller Rosemary , Freyer Alex , Du Wei
Published: March 2018

Objective:

To evaluate the analgesic efficacy and safety of a novel intravenous (IV) formulation of meloxicam (30 mg) in patients with moderate-to-severe pain following a standardized, unilateral bunionectomy with first metatarsal osteotomy and internal fixation.

Materials and Methods:

Patients who met the criteria for moderate-to-severe postoperative pain were randomized to receive bolus injections of meloxicam IV 30 mg (n=100) or placebo (n=101) administered once daily. The primary efficacy endpoint was the Summed Pain Intensity Difference over 48 hours (SPID48). Secondary efficacy endpoints included sum of time-weighted pain intensity differences (SPID) values at other timepoints/intervals, time to first use of rescue analgesia, and number of rescue doses taken. Safety assessments included the incidence of adverse events (AEs), physical examinations, laboratory tests, 12-lead electrocardiography, and wound healing.

Results:

Patients randomized to meloxicam IV 30 mg exhibited a statistically significant difference in SPID48 versus the placebo group (P=0.0034). Statistically significant differences favoring meloxicam IV over placebo were also observed for secondary efficacy endpoints, including SPID at other times/intervals (SPID6: P=0.0153; SPID12: P=0.0053; SPID24: P=0.0084; and SPID24-48: P=0.0050) and first use of rescue medication (P=0.0076). Safety findings indicated that meloxicam IV 30 mg was generally well tolerated; no serious AEs or bleeding events were observed. Most AEs were assessed by the investigator to be mild in intensity, and no patients discontinued due to AEs. There were no meaningful differences between the study groups in vital signs, electrocardiographic findings, or laboratory assessments. In most cases, investigators found that wound healing followed a normal course and mean wound-healing satisfaction scores were similar for meloxicam IV 30 mg and placebo.

Discussion:

Meloxicam IV doses of 30 mg provided effective pain relief when administered once daily by bolus injection to patients with moderate-to-severe pain following bunionectomy, and had an acceptable safety profile.
Comparison of 6-year Follow-up Result of Hybrid Surgery and Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion for the Treatment of Contiguous Two-segment Cervical Degenerative Disc Diseases
Authors: Xiong Yang , Xu Lin , Yu Xing , Yang Yongdong , Zhao Dingyan , Hu Zhengguo , Li Chuanhong , Zhao He , Duan Lijun , Zhang Bingbing , Chen Sixue , Liu Tao
Published: March 2018

Study Design.

A retrospective study.

Objective.

To compare the mid-term outcomes of hybrid surgery (HS) and anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for the treatment of contiguous two-segment cervical degenerative disc diseases.

Summary of Background Data.

HS has become one of the most controversial subjects in spine communities, and the comparative studies of HS and ACDF in the mid- and long-term follow-up are rarely reported.

Methods.

From 2009 to 2012, 42 patients who underwent HS (n = 20) or ACDF (n = 22) surgery for symptomatic contiguous two-level cervical degenerative disc diseases were included. Clinical and radiological records, including Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA), Neck Disability Index (NDI), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), local cervical lordosis, and range of motion (ROM), were reviewed retrospectively. Complications were recorded and evaluated.

Results.

Mean follow-up was 77.25 and 79.68 months in HS group and ACDF group, respectively (P > 0.05). Both in HS group and ACDF group, significant improvement for the mean JOA, NDI, and VAS scores was found at 2-week postoperation and at the last follow-up (P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05). At the last follow-up, the range of motion (ROM) of superior adjacent segments in ACDF group was significantly larger than HS group (P < 0.05), while the ROM of C2-C7 was significantly smaller (P < 0.05). In the HS group, two (10%) sagittal wedge deformities, one (5%) heterotopic ossification, and one (5%) anterior migration of the Byran disc prosthesis were found. No symptomatic adjacent segment degeneration occurred in two groups.

Conclusion.

HS appears to be an acceptable option in the management of contiguous two-segment cervical degenerative disc diseases. It yielded similar mid-term clinical improvement to ACDF, and demonstrated better preservation of cervical ROM. The incidence of postoperative sagittal wedge deformity was low; however, it can significantly reduce the cervical lordosis.

Level of Evidence: 4
Medial Approach to Lateral Sesamoid Removal and Presentation of Case Series
Authors: Harris Thomas G. , Orden Michael , Maiyuran Harinee J.
Published: March 2018

Sesamoidectomy is a common procedure for the foot and ankle surgeon. Traditionally, the lateral sesamoid has been accessed through the dorsolateral or plantar approach. Although these approaches reliably access the fibular sesamoid they have associated complications. Here, we provide our technique for medial approach to the lateral sesamoid as well as an overview of our results.

Level of Evidence: Diagnostic Level V. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Effects of High Salt-Low Potassium Diet on Blood Pressure and Vascular Reactivity in Male Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Mokotedi Lebogang , Michel Frederic S. , Woodiwiss Angela J. , Norton Gavin R. , Millen Aletta M. E.
Published: March 2018

Sodium (Na+) intake increases vascular reactivity. Whether low potassium (K+) intake affects vascular reactivity–associated blood pressure (BP) changes is uncertain. This study aimed to determine whether Na+-induced increases in BP and vascular reactivity are altered by low K+ intake. Male Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to 3 dietary groups for 6 weeks: a standard Na+-K+ diet (control, n = 12), a high Na+-normal K+ diet (HS-NormK, n = 12), and a high Na+-low K+ diet (HS-LowK, n = 12). BP was measured at baseline and after the dietary intervention. Na+ and K+ excretions and vascular reactivity were measured after the dietary intervention. The Na+/K+ ratio was significantly higher in the HS-LowK compared with the other groups. Systolic and diastolic BPs increased significantly in the HS-NormK and HS-LowK groups. In mesenteric arteries, the dose–response curves for phenylephrine-induced contractions shifted to the left and the EC50 (mean ± SD) was significantly lower in the HS-NormK (0.51 ± 0.17 μM, P = 0.003) and HS-LowK (0.69 ± 0.14 μM, P = 0.005) groups compared with the control (3.24 ± 0.79 μM). Systolic (r = −0.58 P = 0.002) and diastolic (r = −0.61 P = 0.001) BPs were associated with the EC50 of phenylephrine-induced contraction in mesenteric arteries. High Na+ intake induces increased alpha-1 receptor responsiveness in mesenteric arteries, which may be responsible for the increase in BP and is not affected by low dietary K+ intake.
PANRETINAL RITONAVIR-INDUCED RETINOPATHY: A REPORT OF LONG-TERM USE
Authors: Mesquita Leonardo R. C. , da Fonseca Maria L. G. , da Silva Rodrigo M. , Morizot Eduardo H.
Published: March 2018

Purpose:

To report a case involving a patient with presumed panretinal ritonavir-induced retinopathy.

Methods:

A 52-year-old, HIV-positive patient, with no criteria for AIDS associated with the use of ritonavir for more than 10 years, underwent clinical examination, fundus photography, spectral domain optical coherence tomography, and fundus autofluorescence imaging.

Results:

Fundus examination revealed areas of atrophy and hypertrophy in the retinal pigment epithelium throughout the retina. Laboratory tests for other diseases were all negative.

Conclusion:

HIV-positive patients undergoing ritonavir therapy should be carefully followed in the presence of low-acuity vision complaints and retinal changes.
Quantitative Assessment of Aqueous Flare After Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty for Fuchs Endothelial Dystrophy
Authors: Baydoun Lamis , Lam Fook Chang , Schaal Sontje , Hsien Shugi , Oellerich Silke , van Dijk Korine , Melles Gerrit R. J.
Published: March 2018

Purpose:

To assess aqueous flare as a measure of subclinical inflammation after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) for Fuchs endothelial dystrophy.

Methods:

In this prospective cross-sectional and longitudinal case series at a tertiary referral center, 173 DMEK eyes of 169 patients and 19 age-matched healthy control eyes were included. Aqueous flare [photon count per millisecond (ph/ms)] was assessed by laser flare photometry at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month after DMEK in group I (evaluation of postsurgical blood–aqueous barrier recovery; n = 25) and on average 28 (±19) months (range, 3–86 months) after DMEK in group II (evaluation of long-term inflammation; n = 148).

Results:

In group I, flare levels decreased from 1 day to 1 week [25.1 (±9.1) ph/ms vs. 13.4 (±4.8) ph/ms;P= 0.003] and remained stable up to 1 month after DMEK [12.1 (±3.2) ph/ms;P= 0.387]. However, average flare at 1 month was higher than that in healthy controls (P< 0.001). The long-term flare value after DMEK (group II) was 9.6 (±4.2) ph/ms and was higher in eyes associated with allograft rejection (n = 6) versus those without rejection [16.7 (±7.8) ph/ms vs. 9.3 (±3.8) ph/ms, respectively,P< 0.001]. All eyes associated with rejection had flare values above 10 ph/ms.

Conclusions:

Aqueous flare after DMEK quickly decreased within the first postoperative month, indicating fast recovery of the blood–aqueous barrier. Long-term flare levels were higher in eyes associated with rejection, suggesting persistent subclinical inflammation. A flare level above 10 ph/ms may be used as a threshold for identifying eyes associated with or at risk of allograft rejection after DMEK.
Early workplace dialogue in physiotherapy practice improved work ability at 1-year follow-up—WorkUp, a randomised controlled trial in primary care
Authors: Sennehed Charlotte P. , Holmberg Sara , Axén Iben , Stigmar Kjerstin , Forsbrand Malin , Petersson Ingemar F. , Grahn Birgitta
Published: March 2018

Workplace involvement in rehabilitation for patients with musculoskeletal pain may improve work ability. Convergence Dialogue Meeting (CDM) is a model aimed at helping the patient, the care giver, and the employer to support work ability and return-to-work. Our aim was to study the effect on work ability when adding a workplace dialogue according to CDM in physiotherapy practice for patients with pain in ordinary primary care. We conducted a prospective pairwise cluster randomised controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02609750) in primary care involving 20 primary care rehabilitation units with 1-year follow-up. Adult patients with acute/subacute neck and back pain, worked ≥4 weeks past year and not currently on sick leave or no more than 60 days of sick leave and considered at-risk of sick leave were included (n = 352). All patients received structured physiotherapy and the intervention was the addition of CDM, delivered by the treating physiotherapist. The main confirmatory outcome, work ability (defined as working at least 4 consecutive weeks at follow-up), was assessed by a weekly short text message question on number of sick leave days past week. Work ability was reached by significantly more patients in the intervention group (108/127, 85%) compared with the reference group (127/171, 74%) (P= 0.02). The intervention increased the odds of having work ability at 1-year follow-up, also after adjustment for baseline health-related quality of life (odds ratio 1.85, confidence interval 1.01-3.38). We conclude that an early workplace dialogue in addition to structured physiotherapy improved work ability significantly.
Apolipoprotein C-III in triglyceride-rich lipoprotein metabolism
Authors: Ramms Bastian , Gordts Philip L.S.M.
Published: March 2018

Purpose of review

Apolipoprotein (apo) C-III is a key player in triglyceride-rich lipoprotein metabolism and strongly associated with elevated plasma triglyceride levels. Several new studies added important insights on apoC-III and its physiological function confirming its promise as a valid therapeutic target.

Recent findings

APOC3 is expressed in liver and intestine and regulates triglyceride-rich lipoprotein (TRL) catabolism and anabolism. The transcriptional regulation in both organs requires different regulatory elements. Clinical and preclinical studies established that apoC-III raises plasma triglyceride levels predominantly by inhibiting hepatic TRL clearance. Mechanistic insights into missense variants indicate accelerated renal clearance of apoC-III variants resulting in enhanced TRL catabolism. In contrast, an APOC3 gain-of-function variant enhances de novo lipogenesis and hepatic TRL production. Multiple studies confirmed the correlation between increased apoC-III levels and cardiovascular disease. This has opened up new therapeutic avenues allowing targeting of specific apoC-III properties in triglyceride metabolism.

Novel in vivo models and APOC3 missense variants revealed unique mechanisms by which apoC-III inhibits TRL catabolism. Clinical trials with Volanesorsen, an APOC3 antisense oligonucleotide, report very promising lipid-lowering outcomes. However, future studies will need to address if acute apoC-III lowering will have the same clinical benefits as a life-long reduction.