bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Motion and Compression Between the Plantaris and Achilles Tendons: A Contributing Factor to Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy?
Authors: Stephen Joanna M. , Marsland Daniel , Masci Lorenzo , Calder James D.F. , Daou Hadi El
Published: December 2017

Background:

The plantaris tendon (PT) has been thought to contribute to symptoms in a proportion of patients with Achilles midportion tendinopathy, with symptoms improving after PT excision.

Hypothesis:

There is compression and differential movement between the PT and Achilles tendon (AT) during ankle plantarflexion and dorsiflexion.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Eighteen fresh-frozen cadaveric ankles (mean ± SD age: 35 ± 7 years, range = 27-48 years; men, n = 9) were mounted in a customized testing rig, where the tibia was fixed but the forefoot could be moved freely. A Steinmann pin was drilled through the calcaneus, enabling a valgus torque to be applied. The soleus, gastrocnemius, and plantaris muscles were loaded with 63 N with a weighted pulley system. The test area was 40 to 80 mm above the os calcis, corresponding to where the injury is observed clinically. Medially, the AT and PT were exposed, and a calibrated flexible pressure sensor was inserted between the tendons. Pressure readings were recorded with the ankle in full dorsiflexion, full plantarflexion, and plantargrade and repeated in these positions with a 5 N·m torque, simulating increased hindfoot valgus. The pressure sensor was removed and the PT and AT marked with ink at the same level, with the foot held in neutral rotation and plantargrade. Videos and photographs were taken to assess differential motion between the tendons. After testing, specimens were dissected to identify the PT insertion. One-way analysis of variance and paired t tests were performed to make comparisons.

Results:

The PT tendons with an insertion separate from the AT demonstrated greater differential motion through range (14 ± 4 mm) when compared with those directly adherent to the AT (2 ± 2 mm) ( P < .001). Mean pressure between the PT and AT rose in terminal plantarflexion for all specimens ( P < .001) and was more pronounced with hindfoot valgus ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

The PT inserting directly into the calcaneus resulted in significantly greater differential motion as compared with the AT. Tendon compression was elevated in terminal plantarflexion, suggesting that adapting rehabilitation tendon-loading programs to avoid this position may be beneficial.

Clinical Relevance:

The insertion pattern of the PT may be a factor in plantaris-related midportion Achilles tendinopathy. Terminal range plantarflexion and hindfoot valgus both increased AT and PT compression, suggesting that these should be avoided in this patient population.
Barriers to Nursing Home Care for Nonelderly Rural Residents
Authors: Henning-Smith Carrie , Kozhimannil Katy , Prasad Shailendra
Published: December 2017

Rural residents experience higher disability, mortality, and poverty rates than their urban counterparts; they also have more barriers to accessing care, including nursing home care. Meanwhile, the proportion of nonelderly adult nursing home residents (<65 years old) is growing, yet little is known about this population and barriers they face trying to access care, especially in rural areas. This qualitative study uses data from 23 semistructured interviews with rural hospital discharge planners in five states to identify specific barriers to finding nursing home care for nonelderly rural residents. We grouped those barriers into three primary themes—payment status, fit, and medical complexity—as well as two minor themes—caregivers and bureaucratic processes—and discuss each in the article, along with potential policy and programmatic interventions to improve access to nursing home care for nonelderly rural residents.
Measurement Properties of the SEAM Questionnaire Using Rasch Analysis on Data From a Representative Danish Sample of 0- to 6-Year-Olds
Authors: Sjoe Nina Madsen , Bleses Dorthe , Dybdal Line , Nielsen Hanne , Sehested Karen Krag , Kirkeby Henriette , Kreiner Svend , Jensen Peter
Published: December 2017

In the current study, the strength-based questionnaire Social-Emotional Assessment/Evaluation Measure (SEAM)–Research Edition was for the first time applied in a nationally representative sample of 0- to 6-year-old children. The focus of this study was the measurement properties of a Danish adaptation of SEAM. Rasch analysis was used to examine the criterion-related construct validity as well as accuracy and reliability of the measurement. The primary goal was to determine whether the 10 SEAM benchmarks could be combined into one total score or into a limited number of subscores. Data were collected by child-care providers in nonparental child-care facilities, and the response rate was high (95%; N = 9,827). The 10 benchmarks were successfully combined into two overall indexes: Empathy and Self-regulation & Cooperation. The reliability coefficients ranged from adequate (0.79) to excellent (0.94). However, standard errors of measurements were relatively large for the two indexes.
Multi-functional magnetic nanoparticles as an effective drug carrier for the controlled anti-tumor treatment
Authors: Li Zhi , Zhang Junya , Guo Xiaonan , Guo Xinhong , Zhang Zhenzhong
Published: December 2017

Because of the complications and mutability of cancers, combination of chemotherapy and other therapy with multi-mechanisms would be a bright future for the treatment of cancer. Thus, development of multi-functional tumor-targeted drug delivery systems with two or more than two functions should be of great significance. In the study, the Fe3O4@C nanoparticles linked with thermoresponsive copolymer (MTC-NPs) were synthesized, after that, the magnetic properties and photothermal effects of MTC NPs were evaluated. Compared to the pure water, MTC-NPs absorbed more energy and transform it into heat under the 808 nm laser irradiation, and the temperature could increase over 60℃. In addition, the grafted copolymer with coil-to-globule transition acts as a gatekeeper for the temperature-controlled release of mitoxantrone molecules. The super paramagnetic behavior of MTC-NPs certified by the hysteresis loop gives a negligible coercivity at room temperature. Both in vitro and in vivo studies confirmed that the synergistic combination of magnetic targeting, drug controlled release, and thermochemotherapy improve the anti-tumor efficacy with lower side effects. This nanoparticle is a great potential drug carrier in anti-tumor drugs, which can improve the effect of hyperthermia, increase target distribution in tumor, and enhance curative effect for tumor while reducing normal tissue toxicity.
Surface nanotopography-induced favorable modulation of bioactivity and osteoconductive potential of anodized 3D printed Ti-6Al-4V alloy mesh structure
Authors: Nune KC , Misra RDK , Gai X , Li SJ , Hao YL
Published: December 2017

The objective of the study described here is to fundamentally elucidate the biological response of 3D printed Ti-6Al-4V alloy mesh structures that were surface modified to introduce titania nanotubes with an average pore size of ∼80 nm via an electrochemical anodization process from the perspective of enhancing bioactivity. The bioactivity of the mesh structures were analyzed through immersion test in simulated body fluid, which confirmed the nucleation and growth of fine globular nanoscale apatite on the nanoporous titania-modified (anodized) mesh structure surface, and agglomerated apatite with fine flakes of apatite crystals on as-fabricated mesh structure surface, that were rich in calcium and phosphorous. The cellular activity of bioactive anodized mesh structure was explored in terms of cell–material interactions involving adhesion, proliferation, synthesis of extracellular and intracellular proteins, differentiation, and mineralization. Cells adhered with a sheet-like morphology on as-fabricated mesh structure, whereas, on anodized mesh structure, numerous filopodia-like cellular extensions interacting with nanotube pores were observed. The formation of a bioactive nanoscale apatite, cell–nanotube interactions as imaged via electron microscopy, higher expression of proteins (actin, vinculin, fibronectin, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)), and calcium content points toward the determining role of anodized mesh structure in modulating osteoblasts functions. The unique combination of nanoporous bioactive titania and interconnected porous architecture of anodized titanium alloy mesh structure provided a multimodal roughness surface ranging from nano to micro to macroscale, which helps in attaining strong primary and secondary fixation of the implant device along with the pathway for supply of nutrients and oxygen to cells and tissue.
College Students’ Beliefs About Domestic Violence: A Replication and Extension
Authors: Wagers Shelly M. , Wareham Jennifer , Boots Denise Paquette
Published: December 2017

In recent decades, significant effort and money have been spent to change social and legal responses to domestic violence and affect public perceptions. A small body of research has examined individuals’ opinions about what behaviors are considered domestic violence. Using a sample of college students, the present study examined a modified version of a somewhat popular instrument used to measure beliefs about domestic violence, extending previous work done by Carlson and Worden. Results indicated beliefs about domestic violence are multidimensional, depending on the nature of the behavior and, in part, the gender of the perpetrator. Opinions about the lawfulness of these behaviors fit the same factor structure as beliefs about domestic violence. Demographic characteristics, current relationship status, secondhand experiences with domestic violence, and perceived prevalence of domestic violence in the community are generally not related to beliefs about domestic violence or the lawfulness of these behaviors. However, attributions of blame on the victim are negatively related to domestic violence beliefs and lawfulness. Moreover, lawfulness is a key covariate for domestic violence beliefs. In addition, results also indicate that the gender of the perpetrator is an important variable affecting student’s beliefs about sexual assault behaviors. Results from this study support the prevailing ideas behind the Battered Women’s Movement that enacting policies and educational programs deeming domestic violence socially, morally, and legally wrong could shift long-standing sociocultural beliefs about men’s use of violence against women. Implications of this study for research and policy specific to college students are discussed.
The Effect of Music Listening on Pain, Heart Rate Variability, and Range of Motion in Older Adults After Total Knee Replacement
Authors: Hsu Chih-Chung , Chen Su-Ru , Lee Pi-Hsia , Lin Pi-Chu
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects that listening and not listening to music had on pain relief, heart rate variability (HRV), and knee range of motion in total knee replacement (TKR) patients who underwent continuous passive motion (CPM) rehabilitation. We adopted a single-group quasi-experimental design. A sample of 49 TKR patients listened to music for 25 min during one session of CPM and no music during another session of CPM the same day for a total of 2 days. Results indicated that during CPM, patients exhibited a significant decrease in the pain level ( p < .05), an increase in the CPM knee flexion angle ( p < .05), a decrease in the low-frequency/high-frequency ratio (LF/HF) and normalized LF (nLF) of the HRV ( p < .01), and an increase in the normalized HF (nHF) and standard deviation of all normal-to-normal intervals (SDNN; p < .01) when listening to music compared with no music. This study demonstrated that listening to music can effectively decrease pain during CPM rehabilitation and improve the joint range of motion in patients who underwent TKR surgery.
The Evolution of Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support
Authors: Koegel Robert L.
Published: December 2017

This article focuses on an analysis of trends in the Journal of Positive Behavorial Interventions (JPBI) since its inception. The primary emphasis is on the variables that contributed to the origin of the journal. Key researchers and other professionals felt that there was a need for a new field (with a new journal) in order to meet an unfullfilled demand. This new field would need to emphasize values of human dignity, nonaversive behavioral interventions, and data to support claims of effectiveness. Thus, both values and science were key elements of JPBI right from the very start, and have continued until the present time. These emphases have resulted in JPBI becoming one of the premier journals in the behavioral sciences, with an enthusiastic, competent, and ever growing number of members. The future looks bright.
Wind from the North, don’t go forth? Gender equality and the rise of populist nationalism in Finland
Authors: Askola Heli
Published: December 2017

The article considers the future prospects of the struggle for gender equality in light of the growing appeal and electoral success of parties embracing populist nationalism and anti-immigration as their platform. Considering many such parties are known for viewing the promotion of gender equality as unnecessary or even harmful – except when they highlight immigration as a threat to female emancipation – it is important to explore what, if anything, the electoral success of populist-nationalist parties means for the direction of gender equality policies. The article examines this question in the Finnish context. Though the Finnish state’s commitment to gender equality is well-established, questions can be asked about the future prospects of gender equality policies in light of the electoral rise of the populist anti-immigration party Perussuomalaiset (or ‘True Finns’), especially since the party joined government in May 2015. The article scrutinises the recent record of PS in parliament and government, elucidating on the challenges that populist-nationalist parties create for gender equality in (allegedly) ‘women-friendly’ welfare states. The case study particularly focuses on gender equality in the context of balancing work and family and freedom from violence, discrimination and harassment. It raises questions that are of broader relevance to the future of gender equality in Europe, considering the Nordic states have been viewed as models for a gender egalitarian society and frontrunners in the promotion of gender equality within the EU.
The effect of particle size on the dispersion and wear protection ability of MoS2 particles in polyalphaolefin and trimethylolpropane ester
Authors: Gulzar M , Mahmood Khalid , Zahid Rehan , Alabdulkarem Abdullah , Masjuki HH , Kalam MA , Varman M , Zulkifli NWM , Ahmad Pervaiz , Malik MSS
Published: December 2017

The effect of particle size and surfactant on dispersion stability and wear protection ability was experimentally evaluated for polyalphaolefin (PAO 10) and bio-based base oil (palm trimethylolpropane ester) added with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) particles. Nanolubricants were developed by adding 1 wt% of MoS2 particles that varied in size. In addition to the variation in particle size, an anionic surfactant was also used to analyze its interaction with both types of nanoparticles for stable suspensions and for the related effects on the antiwear characteristics. The wear protection characteristics of the formulations were evaluated by four-ball extreme pressure tests and piston ring on cylinder sliding wear tests. The wear surfaces were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy along with an energy-dispersive X-ray and an atomic force microscopy. The MoS2 nanoparticles with a nominal size of 20 nm exhibited a better load-carrying capacity, while better sliding wear protection was provided by nanoparticles with a nominal size of 50 nm.
Influence of occupational factors on regional differences in sick leave: A prospective population study
Authors: Sterud Tom , Johannessen Håkon A.
Published: December 2017

Aims: Number of sick leave days vary by county, but little is known about the extent to which this gradient may be explained by differences pertaining to occupational composition and occupational exposure. Methods: A randomly drawn cohort from the general population in Norway, aged 18–69 years, was interviewed by telephone in the second half of 2009 ( n=12,255; response at baseline=60.9%) and followed up in national registries to the end of 2010. Eligible respondents were registered with an active employee relationship in 2009 and 2010 ( n=8275). Information on counties ( n=19) was based on the administrative register. The outcome of interest was the number of physician-certified sick-leave days divided by scheduled man-days during 2010 (i.e. sick-leave percentage (SLP)). Results: The average SLP during 2010 was 5.2%. The between-county variation in SLP ranged from 4.0% to 7.2%. Compared to the age- and gender-adjusted model, adjustment for occupation, economic sector and self-reported occupational exposure reduced the median difference in SLP between the county with the lowest SLP (reference county) and the SLP in the other counties by 1.08 percentage points (i.e. a 58% reduction). The impact of occupational composition and occupational exposure on the total between-county variance in SLP was a 16% reduction. Conclusions: Occupational composition and self-reported occupational exposure help to explain a significant part of the difference in SLP between counties, and appear to be more important explanatory factors than demographic variables, self-reported health and smoking.
Reconceptualising sleep: Relational principles inside and outside the pram
Authors: Ulla Bente
Published: December 2017

This article explores sleep among kindergarten infants and toddlers. Although the collective order of sleep in kindergarten makes it a relational issue, the search here is for relations that extend beyond human actors and beyond the idea of the pram as a sleep container used by a sleeping subject. Here, sleep is seen as entangled with bodies and prams; it has a rhythm and a tempo, as well as the power to challenge the capitalist call for productivity. The article addresses sleep in terms of spatial configurations and contextualises it within a web of political relations rather than as a leftover of life. Informed by Foucault’s notions of heterotopia, the article characterises sleep as a world within a world, drawing attention to relational principles and material-discursive spaces that are characterised as ‘different’, on the understanding that sleep is not an intermission from life or relationships. Moving beyond the conceptualisation of sleep as a health and medical issue, it is reframed as embodied and embedded, enabling exploration of sleep in kindergarten as relational.
Authenticity and empathy in education
Authors: Bialystok Lauren , Kukar Polina
Published: December 2017

The educational enthusiasm for both authenticity and empathy makes a number of assumptions about universal virtues, selfhood, the role of emotion in education, and the role of the teacher. In this article, we argue that authenticity and empathy are both nebulous virtues that teachers and students are called to embody with little reflection on how they are developed, taught, and modeled. Moreover, we propose that authenticity and empathy are engaged in a give-and-take relationship whereby they may not be fully actualized at the same time. By exploring some of the ways that authenticity and empathy make competing demands on the students’ and teacher’s selves, we suggest that they produce uncomfortable tensions, especially when confronted with the challenges of social justice education.
Directional Atherectomy With Antirestenotic Therapy vs Drug-Coated Balloon Angioplasty Alone for Common Femoral Artery Atherosclerotic Disease
Authors: Stavroulakis Konstantinos , Schwindt Arne , Torsello Giovanni , Beropoulis Efthymios , Stachmann Arne , Hericks Christiane , Bollenberg Leonie , Bisdas Theodosios
Published: December 2017

Purpose: To report an experience using directional atherectomy (DA) with antirestenotic therapy (DAART) in the form of drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty vs DCB angioplasty alone in common femoral artery (CFA) occlusive lesions. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of 47 consecutive patients (mean age 71 years; 26 men) treated between October 2011 and July 2016 using either DCB angioplasty alone (n=26) or DAART (n=21) for CFA lesions. The majority of patients had lifestyle-limiting claudication (14 DCB and 15 DAART). Mean lesion length (39±14 mm DCB and 34±16 mm DAART) and vessel calcification (17/26 DCB and 11/21 DAART) were comparable between the groups. There were 4 chronic total occlusions, all in the DAART group. The main outcome measure was primary patency. Key secondary outcomes were technical success, secondary patency, and freedom from clinically-driven target lesion revascularization (TLR). Results: Technical success rates were 89% following DCB angioplasty and 95% for DAART (p=0.41). The 88% 12-month primary patency and 89% freedom from TLR for DAART were higher than the 68% and 75% estimates following DCB angioplasty alone, but neither difference was statistically significant. However, the secondary patency estimate at 12 months was significantly higher in the DAART group (100% vs 81% for DCB, p=0.03). Bailout stenting (1 DCB vs 1 DAART), vessel perforation (1 DCB vs 0 DAART), access site complications (4 DCB vs 3 DAART), and distal embolization (0 DCB vs 1 DAART) were comparable, whereas DCB angioplasty had more non-flow-limiting dissections (8 vs 1 for DAART, p=0.02). Conclusion: Preparation of the atherosclerotic CFA with directional atherectomy was not associated with statistically significantly higher primary patency or freedom from TLR compared to DCB angioplasty alone at 12 months. Nonetheless, both modalities had promising outcomes in a primarily surgically treated vascular territory.
Bridging the Gap: Classroom Strategies Assessment System–Observer Form
Authors: Kettler Ryan J. , Reddy Linda A. , Glover Todd A. , Kurz Alexander
Published: December 2017

The Classroom Strategies Assessment System–Observer Form (CSAS-O) is a classroom observational system that combines direct observations and rating scales to assess teacher instructional and behavioral management practices, inform goals, plan professional development interventions, and monitor progress. CSAS-O Strategy Rating Scales yield scores indicating the discrepancy between the frequency with which observed teachers use evidence-based strategies and the recommended frequency with which they should use strategies during specific lessons. An illustrative example is provided along with a summary of reliability and validity evidence. Dudek, Reddy, Lekwa, & Hua write about Improving Universal Classroom Practices through Teacher Formative Assessment and Coaching using the CSAS-O in the current issue.
Conflicting Cultural Pressures and the Adjustment of Latino College Students
Authors: Rischall Emily , Meyers Steven A.
Published: December 2017

The risk and protective variables for Latino students’ experience of depression, college adjustment, and drop-out intentions were examined. Perceived bicultural competence emerged as a protective factor, and cultural incongruity, negative perceptions of the university environment, and intragroup marginalization emerged as risk factors associated with these psychological and academic outcomes. Multiple regressions revealed cultural incongruity predicted depression and college adjustment, and bicultural competence predicted college adjustment and drop-out intentions when other variables were controlled.
A Conceptual and Clinical Model of Youth Violence in America
Authors: Ahmad Aqueil
Published: December 2017

This work is based on the assumption that youth violence continues to be a serious problem in American society. It is exacerbated by the history of violence, cultural factors, and the nature and quality of interpersonal relations encountered by youth in their daily lives. The metaphor of “a nation at war with itself” is used to highlight the fact that more Americans are regularly killed by other Americans at home than those killed in foreign wars. These conditions set the stage for the development of a psycho-social model of youth violence in America today.

The model is a take-off from the author's earlier hypothesis that all violence may be construed as a powerful reaction to overcome powerlessness. It identifies four correlates of powerlessness: disconnection, anonymity, selfishness, and lack of adult-youth communication about violence. These variables are subsequently integrated into an explanatory and predictive device for one category of violence only, homicides committed by youth. The model may, however, apply to other categories of interpersonal violence as well. It is dedicated to the urgent task of curbing youth violence in America, and by implication, in other similar cultural contexts.
Hazardous Sites and Local Taxes: An Application of Social Cost Theory
Authors: Krieg Eric J.
Published: December 2017

Recent studies overwhelmingly conclude that ecological hazards disproportionately impact low income and people of color communities. This article analyzes the association between commercial and industrial taxes and hazardous sites. A statewide analysis using census data, municipal tax data, and hazardous site data shows a bias against lower income communities. The analysis shows that lower income communities receive less compensation per hazardous site. The results indicate that the production of ecological hazards is a political economic process in which compensation for pollution varies by income.
The Power Line: A Model for Generating a Systemic Focus on Organizational Health
Authors: Schuyler Kathryn Goldman , Branagan Linda
Published: December 2017

The Power Line model identifies a series of critical leverage points to which leaders must attend, including an overarching vision, teams that implement effectively, and individuals willing to bring their energy to the organization. By emphasizing the need to work on purpose, action, and energy at the systemwide, group, and individual levels, we can develop leaders able to take integrated actions that will engender and sustain deep levels of change.
Illness Trajectory, the Diagnostic Discovery of Hepatitis C Disease, and “The Accidental Tourist”
Authors: Mueller Mary-Rose , Gilbert Tari , Instone Susan L.
Published: December 2017

This article presents a set of observations on some of the ways in which individuals come to learn that they are infected with the hepatitis C virus (HCV). In doing so, we draw on field data collected in a study of informed consent in HCV clinical research and published reports on HCV surveillance and testing. The concept of illness trajectory is used to illustrate the process of disease discovery. Various circumstances, some related and some unrelated to HCV symptoms, initiate the illness trajectory and the diagnostic search for HCV disease. We borrow the concept of “The Accidental Tourist” to illustrate the unexpected journey of HCV disease discovery. We conclude by considering some implications of the diagnostic search phase of the HCV trajectory for HCV social policy, clinical care, and future research.
Service-Learning Outcomes Research: The Role and Scarcity of Replication Studies
Authors: Adams A. Troy , Ajrouch Kristine J. , Henderson Howard , Heard Irene
Published: December 2017

The effect of service-learning on college and university students has attracted considerable scholarly attention in the last decade. However, few attempts to replicate studies are conducted. The purpose of the research reported in this article is threefold: (1) to assess the reliability of a modified version of Kelly, Chase, and Tucker's (1979) taxonomy to discriminate accurately between sub-categories of replication in studies of service-learning outcomes; (2) to determine the extent of replications in the service-learning outcomes literature; and (3) to make recommendations based on the study's results. The research sample consists of data-based articles published in peer-reviewed journals between[space] 1993 and 2004. The taxonomy's ability to discriminate [between] types of replications yields an inter-rater reliability of 88 percent. The results indicated that 31 (70.4 percent) of the studies were classified as either operational or constructive replications. Many of the studies were “within-study” replications, meaning that researchers are replicating their own research. Several recommendations for improving the quality of service-learning outcomes research are proposed.
Client-Sponsored Applied Sociology: Educating the Client
Authors: Embry Elizabeth , Rodabough Tillman
Published: December 2017

Because much of the research conducted by applied sociologists is frequently at the request of a client, agreement between client and researcher on the methods used to acquire the data is imperative. Clients' lack of methodological and statistical sophistication can lead to diverging opinions on how the project should be conducted. Researcher acquiescence to client demands can have disastrous effects on data quality and the project's completion. This paper uses a recently completed research project as a case study to illustrate (1) the divergence between clients' desires and their needs that may arise and (2) how sociologists can address this divergence.
Narrative as Vital Methodology in Clinical Sociology
Authors: Hall C. Margaret
Published: December 2017

Narratives are clients' spoken thoughts, feelings, ideas, and ideals about their social worlds. In this study narratives are largely client-driven, being facilitated by clinicians' questions and concerns when needed. Narratives that most influence clients' decisionmaking and behavior are deliberately de-constructed and re-constructed through clinical exchanges, to make these narratives more effective and more dependable for clients. Advantages of using objectivity and research orientations in problem-solving throughout clinical exchanges are considered, as well as fact-finding strategies about families, religions or beliefs, social classes, cultures, and societies. Clinicians and clients are encouraged to discuss trends in histories, social systems, and cultures to de-construct false narratives and re-construct more realistic narratives. Best practice narratives guide substantive exchanges between clients and clinicians, and improve the quality of clinical outcomes during and after consultations.
The future of labour law in Europe
Authors: Weiss Manfred
Published: December 2017

This contribution contains the text of the first Roger Blanpain Lecture held at the Law Faculty of the University of Leuven on 8 May 2017. The Roger Blanpain Lecture Series aims to bring a renowned expert in the field of labour law and labour relations to the Law Faculty of the KU Leuven once per year. The idea is to stay close to the academic approach of professor Blanpain and the Institute for Labour Law, which implies the study of labour law from an international, comparative and cross-disciplinary perspective. The lecture aims to offer a ‘window to the world’ to our students and the Institute’s academic and professional partners as well as the wider public.
Systemic delivery of MicroRNA mimics with polyethylenimine elevates pulmonary microRNA levels, but lacks pulmonary selectivity
Authors: Schlosser Kenny , Taha Mohamad , Deng Yupu , Stewart Duncan J.
Published: December 2017

Reversing pathologic alterations in vascular microRNA (miRNA) expression represents a potential therapeutic strategy for pulmonary hypertension. While polyethylenimine (PEI) has previously been shown to be an effective vehicle for vascular lung‐directed delivery of plasmid DNA, it remains unclear whether this utility is generalizable to miRNAs. Here we show that despite elevated lung levels, the intravenous infusion of PEI–miRNA mimic complexes fails to provide lung‐selective delivery in rats.
Pasteurella infections in a tertiary centre – from cellulitis to multiple-organ failure: Retrospective case series
Authors: Vesza Zsófia , Boattini Matteo , Pinto Margarida , Marques da Silva Pedro
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this article is to review the clinical features of pasteurellosis in a tertiary centre over a period of 4½ years. We have identified eight cases of Pasteurella multocida and one case of Pasteurella canis infection, with a large diversity of clinical pictures and outcomes. All patients were elderly and/or immunocompromised and 55.6% reported animal exposure. Soft tissue infections were the most prevalent (55.6%), followed by pneumonia (22.2%) and sepsis (22.2 %). All isolates were susceptible to beta-lactam antibiotics using in vitro sensitivity testing. The overall mortality was 33.3%, which occurred in patients with no evidence of animal contact.
How I treat disseminated intravascular coagulation
Authors: Levi Marcel , Scully Marie
Published: December 2017

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a condition characterized by systemic activation of coagulation, potentially leading to thrombotic obstruction of small and midsize vessels, thereby contributing to organ dysfunction. At the same time, ongoing consumption of platelets and coagulation proteins results in thrombocytopenia and low concentrations of clotting factors, which may cause profuse hemorrhagic complications. DIC is always secondary to an underlying condition, such as severe infections, solid or hematologic malignancies, trauma, or obstetric calamities. A reliable diagnosis of DIC can be made through simple scoring algorithms based on readily available routine hemostatic parameters. The cornerstone of supportive treatment of this coagulopathy is management of the underlying condition. Additionally, administration of heparin may be useful, and restoration of physiological anticoagulants has been suggested, but has not been proven successful in improving clinically relevant outcomes so far. In patients with major bleeding or at risk for hemorrhagic complications, administration of platelet concentrates, plasma, or coagulation factor concentrates should be considered.
Temporal stability of multitrigger and episodic viral wheeze in early childhood
Authors: Spycher Ben D. , Cochrane Cara , Granell Raquel , Sterne Jonathan A.C. , Silverman Michael , Pedersen Eva , Gaillard Erol A. , Henderson John , Kuehni Claudia E.
Published: December 2017

The distinction between episodic viral wheeze (EVW) and multitrigger wheeze (MTW) is used to guide management of preschool wheeze. It has been questioned whether these phenotypes are stable over time. We examined the temporal stability of MTW and EVW in two large population-based cohorts.

We classified children from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (n=10 970) and the Leicester Respiratory Cohorts ((LRCs), n=3263) into EVW, MTW and no wheeze at ages 2, 4 and 6 years based on parent-reported symptoms. Using multinomial regression, we estimated relative risk ratios for EVW and MTW at follow-up (no wheeze as reference category) with and without adjusting for wheeze severity.

Although large proportions of children with EVW and MTW became asymptomatic, those that continued to wheeze showed a tendency to remain in the same phenotype: among children with MTW at 4 years in the LRCs, the adjusted relative risk ratio was 15.6 (95% CI 8.3–29.2) for MTW (stable phenotype) compared to 7.0 (95% CI 2.6–18.9) for EVW (phenotype switching) at 6 years. The tendency to persist was weaker for EVW and from 2–4 years. Results were similar across cohorts.

This suggests that MTW, and to a lesser extent EVW, tend to persist regardless of wheeze severity.
Report from the 2016 CrossConnects workshop: improving data mobility & management for bioinformatics
Authors: Mace Kathryn Petersen , Jacobson Daniel , Gore Brooklin , Rotman Lauren , Schopf Jennifer , Hester Mary , Radulovic Predrag , Barnett William
Published: December 2017

Due to significant declines in the price of genome sequencing technology, the bioinformatics sciences are experiencing a massive upswing in data generation resulting in an increasing need for data distribution and access. The sheer number of biological areas of study, many of which benefit from the scientific breakthroughs of one another, are adding to the increase of shared data usage. The need for effective data management, analysis, and access are becoming more critical. While there are commonalities facing both precision medicine and metagenomics, each area has its own unique challenges and needs. A workshop was held in April 2016 at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory that brought together scientists from both fields, along with experts in computing and networking. Presenters and attendees discussed current research and pressing data issues facing the bioinformatics field today and in the near future.
Adaptive finite element for 3D time-domain airborne electromagnetic modeling based on hybrid posterior error estimation
Authors: Zhang Bo , Yin Changchun , Ren Xiuyan , Liu Yunhe , Qi Yanfu
Published: December 2017

Airborne electromagnetic (AEM) forward modeling has been extensively developed in past years. However, not much attention has been paid to the adaptive numerical algorithms for time-domain electromagnetic modeling. We have created an adaptive method that can generate an effective mesh for time-domain 3D AEM full-wave modeling using an unstructured finite-element method and a backward Euler scheme. For the estimation of the posterior error in the adaptive process, we use a hybrid technique based on the continuity of the normal current density for modeling the off-time channels, and on the continuity of the tangential magnetic field for the on-time channels. To improve the stability of the forward modeling and control the number of grids in the adaptive process, a random grid-selection technique is applied. We check the modeling accuracy of the algorithm by comparing our adaptive results with the semianalytical solution for a time-domain AEM system over a homogeneous half-space. Furthermore, we test the effectiveness of our algorithm for multiple-source time-domain AEM systems by analyzing the meshes generated by the adaptive method and the model results. Finally, we study the topographic effect by calculating time-domain AEM responses over a hill model with an abnormal body embedded.
Preoperative Blood Tests Conducted Before Low-Risk Surgery in Japan: A Retrospective Observational Study Using a Nationwide Insurance Claims Database
Authors: Yonekura Hiroshi , Seto Kahori , Ide Kazuki , Kawasaki Yohei , Tanaka Shiro , Nahara Isao , Takeda Chikashi , Kawakami Koji
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND:

Routine preoperative testing is discouraged before low-risk surgery because testing does not provide any beneficial effect in terms of patient outcome. However, few studies have assessed the utilization of hospital health care resources in terms of preoperative tests in a real-world setting. Here, we aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with preoperative blood tests before low-risk surgery in Japan.

METHODS:

In this retrospective observational study, we used the nationwide insurance claims data of Japan. Patients who underwent low-risk surgeries between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2016, were included. Our primary outcome was the receipt of any preoperative tests within 60 days before an index procedure: complete blood count, basic metabolic panel, coagulation tests, and liver function tests. We performed a descriptive analysis to estimate the proportions of preoperative blood tests, and examined the associations between patient-level and institutional-level factors and preoperative blood tests, using multilevel logistic regression analysis. Interinstitutional variation in the utilization of preoperative tests was summarized using the median odds ratio (OR).

RESULTS:

The study sample included 59,818 patients (mean [standard deviation] age, 44.0 [11.3] years; 33,574 [56.1%] women) from 9746 institutions. The overall proportion of each test was: complete blood count, 58.7%; metabolic panel, 47.8%; coagulation tests, 36.6%; and liver function tests, 48.5%. The proportion receiving any preoperative tests in the overall sample was 59.5%. Multilevel logistic regression analysis indicated that preoperative blood tests were associated with the Charlson comorbidity index score (score ≥3: adjusted OR, 4.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.69–4.80), anticoagulant use (adjusted OR, 4.12; 95% CI, 2.35–7.22), type of anesthesia (general anesthesia: adjusted OR, 5.69; 95% CI, 4.85–6.68; regional anesthesia: adjusted OR, 3.76; 95% CI, 3.28–4.30), surgical setting (inpatient procedure: adjusted OR, 3.64; 95% CI, 3.30–4.00), and number of beds (≥100 beds: adjusted OR, 3.61; 95% CI, 3.19–4.08). The median institutional-specific proportion of preoperative tests was 40.0% (interquartile range, 0%–100%). The median OR for interinstitutional variation in ordering preoperative tests was 4.34. These findings were consistent across a sensitivity analysis.

CONCLUSIONS:

Preoperative blood tests were performed before 59.5% of low-risk surgeries. Preoperative tests were associated with the type of anesthesia, patient characteristics, and medical facility status. There was a substantial interinstitutional variation in the utilization of preoperative tests.
Different modes of APC/C activation control growth and neuron-glia interaction in the developing Drosophila eye
Authors: Neuert Helen , Yuva-Aydemir Yeliz , Silies Marion , Klämbt Christian
Published: December 2017

The development of the nervous system requires tight control of cell division, fate specification and migration. The anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) is an E3 ubiquitin ligase that affects different steps of cell cycle progression, as well as having postmitotic functions in nervous system development. It can therefore link different developmental stages in one tissue. The two adaptor proteins, Fizzy/Cdc20 and Fizzy-related/Cdh1, confer APC/C substrate specificity. Here, we show that two distinct modes of APC/C function act during Drosophila eye development. Fizzy/Cdc20 controls the early growth of the eye disc anlage and the concomitant entry of glial cells onto the disc. In contrast, fzr/cdh1 acts during neuronal patterning and photoreceptor axon growth, and subsequently affects neuron-glia interaction. To further address the postmitotic role of Fzr/Cdh1 in controlling neuron-glia interaction, we identified a series of novel APC/C candidate substrates. Four of our candidate genes are required for fzr/cdh1-dependent neuron-glia interaction, including the dynein light chain Dlc90F. Taken together, our data show how different modes of APC/C activation can couple early growth and neuron-glia interaction during eye disc development.
Sophisticated lessons from simple organisms: appreciating the value of curiosity-driven research
Authors: Duronio Robert J. , O'Farrell Patrick H. , Sluder Greenfield , Su Tin Tin
Published: December 2017

For hundreds of years, biologists have studied accessible organisms such as garden peas, sea urchins collected at low tide, newt eggs, and flies circling rotten fruit. These organisms help us to understand the world around us, attracting and inspiring each new generation of biologists with the promise of mystery and discovery. Time and time again, what we learn from such simple organisms has emphasized our common biological origins by proving to be applicable to more complex organisms, including humans. Yet, biologists are increasingly being tasked with developing applications from the known, rather than being allowed to follow a path to discovery of the as yet unknown. Here, we provide examples of important lessons learned from research using selected non-vertebrate organisms. We argue that, for the purpose of understanding human disease, simple organisms cannot and should not be replaced solely by human cell-based culture systems. Rather, these organisms serve as powerful discovery tools for new knowledge that could subsequently be tested for conservation in human cell-based culture systems. In this way, curiosity-driven biological research in simple organisms has and will continue to pay huge dividends in both the short and long run for improving the human condition.
Systemic HIV-1 infection produces a unique glial footprint in humanized mouse brains
Authors: Li Weizhe , Gorantla Santhi , Gendelman Howard E. , Poluektova Larisa Y.
Published: December 2017

Studies of innate glial cell responses for progressive human immunodeficiency virus type one (HIV-1) infection are limited by a dearth of human disease relevant small-animal models. To overcome this obstacle, newborn NOD/SCID/IL2Rγc−/− (NSG) mice were reconstituted with a humanized brain and immune systems. NSG animals of both sexes were transplanted with human neuroglial progenitors (NPC) and hematopoietic stem cells. Intraventricular injection of NPC symmetrically repopulated the mouse brain parenchyma with human astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. Human glia were in periventricular areas, white matter tracts, the olfactory bulb and the brain stem. HIV-1 infection led to meningeal and perivascular human leukocyte infiltration into brain. Species-specific viral-neuroimmune interactions were identified by deep RNA sequencing. In the corpus callosum and hippocampus overlapping human-specific transcriptional alterations for interferon type 1 and 2 signaling pathways (STAT1, 2, IRF9, ISG15, IFI6) and a range of host antiviral responses (MX1, OAS1, RSAD2, BST2, SAMHD1) were seen in infected animals. Glial cytoskeleton reorganization, oligodendrocyte differentiation and myelin ensheathment (MBP, MOBP, PLP1, MAG and ZNF488) were downregulated. The data sets were confirmed by real-time PCR. These viral defense-signaling patterns paralleled neuroimmune communication networks seen in HIV-1 infected human brains. In this manner, new mouse model of neuroAIDS can facilitate diagnostic, therapeutic and viral eradication strategies for an infected nervous system.
Streamlining air import operations by trade facilitation measures
Authors: Ferreira Yuri da Cunha , Morini Cristiano , Santa-Eulalia Luis Antonio de
Published: December 2017

Global operations are subject to considerable uncertainties. Due to the Trade Facilitation Agreement that became effective in February 2017, the study of measures to streamline customs controls is urgent. This study aims to assess the impact of trade facilitation measures on import flows. An experimental study was performed in the largest cargo airport in South America through discrete-event simulation and design of experiments. Operation impacts of three trade facilitation measures are assessed on import flow by air. We shed light in the following trade facilitation measures: the use of X-ray equipment for physical inspection; increase of the number of qualified companies in the trade facilitation program; performance targets for customs officials. All trade facilitation measures used indicated potential to provide more predictability, cost savings, time reduction, and increase in security in international supply chain.