bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aortic stenosis and diabetes mellitus: An ominous combination
Authors: Banovic Marko , Athithan Lavanya , McCann Gerry P
Published: January 2019

Aortic stenosis and diabetes mellitus are both progressive diseases which, if left untreated, result in significant morbidity and mortality. There is evidence that the prevalence of diabetes is substantially increased in patients with aortic stenosis and those with diabetes have increased rates of progression from mild to severe aortic stenosis. There are good data supporting the hypothesis that aortic stenosis and diabetes mellitus are associated with diabetes mellitus being detrimental towards the quality of life and survival of patients. Thus, a thorough understanding of the pathogenesis of both of these disease processes and the relationship between them aids in designing appropriate preventive and therapeutic approaches. This review aims to give a comprehensive and up-to-date insight into the influence of diabetes mellitus on patients with degenerative aortic stenosis, as well as the prognosis and therapeutic approach to these patients.
The Regression-calibration Method for Fitting Generalized Linear Models with Additive Measurement Error
Authors: Hardin James W. , Schmiediche Henrik , Carroll Raymond J.
Published: January 2019

This paper discusses and illustrates the method of regression calibration. This is a straightforward technique for fitting models with additive measurement error. We present this discussion in terms of generalized linear models (GLMs) following the notation defined in Hardin and Carroll (2003). Discussion will include specified measurement error, measurement error estimated by replicate error-prone proxies, and measurement error estimated by instrumental variables. The discussion focuses on software developed as part of a small business innovation research (SBIR) grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Fitting Heterogeneous Choice Models with Oglm
Authors: Williams Richard
Published: January 2019

When a binary or ordinal regression model incorrectly assumes that error variances are the same for all cases, the standard errors are wrong and (unlike ordinary least squares regression) the parameter estimates are biased. Heterogeneous choice models (also known as location–scale models or heteroskedastic ordered models) explicitly specify the determinants of heteroskedasticity in an attempt to correct for it. Such models are also useful when the variance itself is of substantive interest. This article illustrates how the author's Stata program oglm (ordinal generalized linear models) can be used to fit heterogeneous choice and related models. It shows that two other models that have appeared in the literature (Allison's model for group comparisons and Hauser and Andrew's logistic response model with proportionality constraints) are special cases of a heterogeneous choice model and alternative parameterizations of it. The article further argues that heterogeneous choice models may sometimes be an attractive alternative to other ordinal regression models, such as the generalized ordered logit model fit by gologit2. Finally, the article offers guidelines on how to interpret, test, and modify heterogeneous choice models.
Frequentist Q-values for Multiple-test Procedures
Authors: Newson Roger B.
Published: January 2019

Multiple-test procedures are increasingly important as technology increases scientists’ ability to make large numbers of multiple measurements, as they do in genome scans. Multiple-test procedures were originally defined to input a vector of input p-values and an uncorrected critical p-value, interpreted as a familywise error rate or a false discovery rate, and to output a corrected critical p-value and a discovery set, defined as the subset of input p-values that are at or below the corrected critical p-value. A range of multiple-test procedures is implemented using the smileplot package in Stata (Newson and the ALSPAC Study Team 2003, Stata Journal 3: 109–132; 2010, Stata Journal 10: 691–692). The qqvalue command uses an alternative formulation of multiple-test procedures, which is also used by the R function p.adjust. qqvalue inputs a variable of p-values and outputs a variable of q-values that are equal in each observation to the minimum familywise error rate or false discovery rate that would result in the inclusion of the corresponding p-value in the discovery set if the specified multiple-test procedure was applied to the full set of input p-values. Formulas and examples are presented.
Estimating Receiver Operative Characteristic Curves for Time-dependent Outcomes: The Stroccurve Package
Authors: Cattaneo Mattia , Malighetti Paolo , Spinelli Daniele
Published: January 2019

Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves are an established method for assessing the predictive capacity of a continuous biomarker for a binary outcome. However, in some cases, outcomes are time dependent. Although the literature has proposed packages for performing ROC analysis of time-independent outcomes, a package is not yet available for analyzing the predictive capacity of continuous biomarkers when the binary outcome is time dependent. In this article, we present stroccurve, a new command for performing ROC analysis within a survival framework.
Are the health needs of children with disabilities being met at primary schools?
Authors: Kabasakal Esma , Özcebe Hilal , Arslan Umut
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to provide current information about the health profile and needs of mainstreamed primary school children with disabilities and special educational needs during their school hours. The Study population is composed of students with special educational needs and disabilities attending mainstream primary schools located in three selected Turkish districts with low, moderate, and high socioeconomic status and literacy rates separately. Parents of 404 students from 72 primary schools constituted the research sample. The study showed that 13.4% of the students with disabilities had chronic illnesses and 8.9% had health problems requiring access to emergency medical care when the condition recurs (such as epileptic seizures, fainting, or falling). Of the students with disabilities, 39.9% usually or sometimes needed medical care during school hours in the previous week. Health needs of nearly half of the students with disabilities were met at school. Special health needs and risks of children with disabilities also continue at school along with other possible health concerns.
Upregulation of bone morphogenetic protein 2 (Bmp2) in dorsal root ganglion in a rat model of bone cancer pain
Authors: Wang Wei , Jiang Qiliang , Wu Jingxiang , Tang Wei , Xu Meiying
Published: January 2019

Bone cancer pain is one of the most severe and intractable complications in patients suffering from primary or metastatic bone cancer and profoundly compromises the quality of life. Emerging evidence indicates that the dorsal root ganglion play an integral role in the modulation of pain hypersensitivity. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms during dorsal root ganglion-mediated bone cancer pain remain elusive. In this study, RNA-sequencing was used to detect the differentially expressed genes in dorsal root ganglion neurons of a rat bone cancer pain model established by intratibial inoculation of Walker 256 breast cancer cells. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes (fold change > 1.5; false discovery rate < 0.05) were enriched in the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathway, transforming growth factor-β signaling pathway, and positive regulation of cartilage development. Importantly, serum deprivation-response protein ( Sdpr), hephaestin ( Heph), transthyretin ( Ttr), insulin receptor substrate 1 ( Irs1), connective tissue growth factor ( Ctgf ), and Bmp2 genes were associated with bone pain and degeneration. Of note, Bmp2, a pleiotropic and secreted molecule mediating pain and inflammation, was one of the most significantly upregulated genes in dorsal root ganglion neurons in this bone cancer pain model. Consistent with these data, upregulation of Bmp2 in the bone cancer pain model was validated by immunohistochemistry, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and western blotting. Importantly, intrathecal administration of siRNA significantly reduced Bmp2 transcription and ameliorated bone cancer pain in rat as shown by paw withdrawal mechanical threshold and spontaneous and movement-evoked pain-like behaviors. In conclusion, we have characterized the comprehensive gene expression profile of dorsal root ganglion from a bone cancer pain rat model by RNA-sequencing and identified Bmp2 as a potential therapeutic target for bone cancer pain treatment.
‘Bisexual oysters’: A diachronic corpus-based critical discourse analysis of bisexual representation in The Times between 1957 and 2017
Authors: Wilkinson Mark
Published: January 2019

Recent decades have witnessed an increase in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI) visibility in the British media. Increased representation has not been equally distributed, however, as bisexuality remains an obscured sexual identity in discourses of sexuality. Through the use of diachronic corpus-based critical discourse analysis, this study seeks to uncover how bisexual people have been represented in the British press between 1957 and 2017. By specifically focusing on the discursive construction of bisexuality in The Times, the results reveal how bisexual people are represented as existing primarily in discourses of the past or in fiction. The Times corpus also reveals significant variation in the lexical meaning of bisexual throughout the 60 years in question. These findings contribute to contemporary theories of bisexual erasure which posit that bisexual people are denied the same ontological status as monosexual identities, that is, homosexuality and heterosexuality.
Should aspirin be suspended prior to robot-assisted radical prostatectomy? A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Carneiro Arie , Cha Jonathan Doyun , Baccaglini Willy , Husain Fatima Z. , Wroclawski Marcelo Langer , Nunes-Silva Igor , Sanchez-Salas Rafael , Ingels Alexandre , Kayano Paulo Priante , Claros Oliver Rojas , Saviano Moran Natasha Kouvaleski , Sotelo René , Lemos Gustavo Caserta
Published: January 2019

Background:

Low-dose aspirin use has been correlated with an increased risk of bleeding and overall complications in surgical and invasive diagnostic procedures. In this review, our aim was to analyze the current literature on whether robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) is feasible and safe in patients taking low-dose aspirin perioperatively.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed identifying a total of 767 studies, published between January 2000 and September 2017, with five of these studies meeting the inclusion criteria for the meta-analysis, totalizing 1481 patients underwent RARP. Patients were divided into two groups: taking aspirin (group A) and those not taking aspirin (group B) perioperatively.

Results:

There were no significant differences between groups in the overall [group A 10.7% versus group B 15.7%, risk ratio (RR) 0.83; p = 0.45; I2 = 0%] or major complication rates (group A 1% versus group B 3%, RR 0.98; p = 0.98; I² = 0%), rate of cardiovascular events (group A 1.4% and group B 0.5%, RR 2.06; p = 0.24; I2 = 9%), blood loss (group A 278 ml versus group B 307 ml, SMD −0.12; p = 0.91; I2 = 96%), or hospital length of stay [group A 4 days (3–5) and group B 4 days (3–4), SMD −0.09; p = 0.52; I² = 0%]. There was a slightly higher blood-transfusion rate in group A (2.6%) versus group B (1.6%) (RR, 5.05; p = 0.04; I2 = 0%).

Conclusion:

Continued aspirin use in the perioperative period does not correlate with an increase in surgical morbidity, blood loss, or hospital length of stay. There was a slightly higher blood-transfusion rate in patients taking low-dose aspirin (group A) perioperatively.
Paratesticular sarcomas: a case series and literature review
Authors: Keenan Robert Anthony , Nic An Riogh Aisling U. , Stroiescu Andrea , Fuentes Adrian , Heneghan Joan , Cullen Ivor M. , Daly Padraig J.
Published: January 2019

Paratesticular soft tissue tumours are remarkably rare entities, with malignant subtypes accounting for approximately 30%. Due to the paucity of cases, a consensus on the best treatment has not yet been reached, presenting a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for clinicians. Although rare, three such cases presented to the care of our institution serving a population of approximately 400,000 in the space of 13 months. These were three gentlemen, aged 54, 82 and 86 years old, presenting with left sided testicular swellings. Ultrasound in each case confirmed an extratesticular mass. Only the second gentleman complained of associated pain, however he had experienced scrotal trauma in the preceding weeks. Only one patient had suspicions of metastatic disease, with a 9 mm pulmonary nodule on computed tomography. All patients underwent a radical inguinal orchidectomy with high ligation of the spermatic cord, in keeping with best accepted guidelines. Histology confirmed a well-differentiated liposarcoma, a dedifferentiated liposarcoma and a leiomyosarcoma respectively, all high grade. One gentleman returned to theatre for re-excision of margins. Our case series emphasises the need for full multidisciplinary team specialist sarcoma input, as well as radical resection with judicious margins in order to reduce the risk of local recurrence, in the treatment of these rare tumours.
Investigating the role of beliefs about emotions, emotional suppression and distress within a pain management programme for fibromyalgia
Authors: Bowers Hannah M , Pincus Tamar , Jones Gareth , Wroe Abigail L
Published: January 2019

Introduction:

This study aims to explore the relationships between beliefs about emotions, emotional suppression, distress and global impact (i.e. the extent to which a patient’s symptoms impact their life) in a longitudinal design with patients who are taking part in a pain management programme.

Methods:

A total of 40 participants with fibromyalgia took part in pain management programmes at multiple sites as part of their usual care in the National Health Service. Measures of beliefs about the unacceptability of experiencing and expressing emotions, emotional suppression, distress and global impact were completed before and after the programmes.

Results:

Beliefs about emotions significantly reduced following treatment, but emotional suppression did not. Changes in beliefs about emotion correlated with changes in emotional suppression. Changes in distress were related to changes in suppression and the relationship between global impact and beliefs about emotions was approaching significance.

Conclusion:

Emotional suppression and beliefs about emotions may play a role in the improvement in distress following treatment. However, future research should examine these variables as mediators of the effect of treatment compared to waitlist controls in a larger sample.
A rare case of concomitant bilateral nipple and vulval condyloma accuminatum
Authors: Mbodi Langanani , Smith Trudy , Wadee Reubina
Published: January 2019

In this case study, we have presented a rare case of concomitant human papillomavirus condylomata lesions of both breast nipples and giant vulval warts in an HIV-positive woman on antiretroviral therapy. The woman underwent successful surgical excision and reconstruction for both breast nipple condylomata and vulval warts. Histology of the excised breast nipple and vulval tissue confirmed low-risk human papillomavirus infection. Concomitant vulval and bilateral breast nipple condylomata pose a management dilemma. It is possible that the pathogenesis of these lesions is through both direct contact spread as well as haematogenous dissemination of the human papillomavirus.
The smoking behaviors of incarcerated smokers
Authors: Valera Pamela , Reid Andrea , Acuna Nicholas , Mackey Daniel
Published: January 2019

To determine smoking behaviors, quit attempts, and cessation preferences among incarcerated smokers, a cross-sectional survey was given to a sample of inmates from three state prison facilities in the United States. A majority of Black smokers (62%) identified as smokers, and 38% identified as ex-smokers, as compared to 46.4 percent of smokers (and 53.6% of ex-smokers) in the non-Black group. There were significant differences in the number of cigarettes smoked per day with non-Black smokers smoking one pack ( M = 20.44, standard deviation = 15.86) than Black smokers ( M = 14.49, standard deviation = 13.43; t = −2.50, p = 0.014). Smoking cessation interventions are needed to reduce smoking during incarceration.
LncRNA SNHG3 promotes cell growth by sponging miR-196a-5p and indicates the poor survival in osteosarcoma
Authors: Chen Jun , Wu Zhouyi , Zhang Yong
Published: January 2019

Abnormal expression of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is closely associated with the pathogenesis of multiple malignancies, and lncRNA small nucleolar RNA host genes (SNHGs) play critical roles in tumor progression. However, the mechanism by which SNHG3 contributes to osteosarcoma (OS) remains elusive. The association between SNHG3 expression and the clinicopathological characteristics in OS patients was analyzed using the TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) dataset. Cell viability and colony number were estimated by MTT and colony formation assays. MiR-196a-5p-specific binding with SNHG3 or HOXC8 was confirmed by the luciferase report assay. As a result, the expression of SNHG3 was dramatically increased in OS tissue as compared with the adjacent normal tissues. High expression of SNHG3 was associated with tumor size and acted as an independent prognostic factor of poor survival in OS patients. Knockdown of SNHG3 inhibited cell viability and colony formation, but its overexpression reversed these effects. SNHG3 was further identified to act as a sponge of miR-196a-5p, which counteracted the tumor-promoting effects caused by SNHG3 in OS cells. The expression of miR-196a-5p had a negative correlation with SNHG3 and the poor survival in OS patients. In conclusion, lncRNA SNHG3 promoted cell growth by sponging miR-196a-5p and indicated a poor prognosis in OS patients.
Approaches to Establish Extracardiac Total Cavopulmonary Connections in Animal Models—A Review
Authors: Granegger Marcus , Valencia Anna , Quandt Daniel , Dave Hitendu , Kretschmar Oliver , Hübler Michael , Schweiger Martin
Published: January 2019

Background:

Long-term survival of patients with a single ventricle palliated with a Fontan procedure is still limited. No curative treatment options are available. To investigate the pathophysiology and potential treatment options, such as mechanical circulatory support (MCS), appropriate large animal models are required. The aim of this review was to analyze all full-text manuscripts presenting approaches for an extracardiac total cavopulmonary connection (TCPC) animal model to identify the feasibility and limitations in the acute and chronic setting.

Methods:

A literature search was performed for full-text publications presenting large animal models with extracardiac TCPCs on Pubmed and Embase. Out of 454 reviewed papers, 23 manuscripts fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Surgical procedures were categorized and hemodynamic changes at the transition from the biventricular to the univentricular condition analyzed.

Results:

Surgical procedures varied especially regarding coronary venous flow handling and anatomic shape of the TCPC. In most studies (n = 14), the main pulmonary artery was clamped and the coronary venous flow redirected by additional surgical interventions. Only in five reports, the caval veins were connected to the right pulmonary artery to create a true TCPC shape, whereas in all others (n = 18), the veins were connected to the main pulmonary artery. An elevated pulmonary vascular resistance was identified as a limiting hemodynamic factor for TCPC completion in healthy animals.

Conclusions:

A variety of acute TCPC animal models were successfully established with and without MCS, reflecting the most important hemodynamic features of a Fontan circulation; however, chronic animal models were not reported.
Direct Medical Costs of Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease Surgery in a Belgian University Hospital
Authors: Willems Ruben , Tack Philip , François Katrien , Annemans Lieven
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

The recent trend to optimize the efficiency of health-care systems requires objective clinical and economic data. European data on the cost of surgical procedures to repair or palliate congenital heart disease in pediatric patients are lacking.

Methods:

A single-center study was conducted. Bootstrap analysis of variance and bootstrap independent t test assessed the excess direct medical costs associated with minor and major complications in nine surgical procedure types, from a health-care payer perspective. Generalized linear models with log-link function and inverse Gaussian family were used to determine associated covariates with the total hospitalization cost. Descriptive statistics show the repartition between out-of-pocket expenditures and reimbursed costs.

Results:

Four hundred thirty-seven patients were included. Mean hospitalization costs ranged from €11,106 (atrial septal defect repair) to €33,865 (Norwood operation). Operations with major complications yielded excess costs compared to operations with no complications, ranging from €7,105 (+65.2%) for a truncus arteriosus repair to €27,438 (+251.7%) for a tetralogy of Fallot repair. Differences in costs were limited between operations with minor versus no complications. Age at procedure, intensive care unit stay, procedure risk category, reintervention, and postoperative mechanical circulatory support were associated with higher total hospitalization costs. Out-of-pocket expenditures represented 6% of total hospitalization costs.

Conclusion:

Operations with major complications yield excess costs, compared to operations with minor or no complications. Cost data and attribution are important to improve clinical practice in a cost-effective manner. The health-care system benefits from strategies and technological advancements that have an impact on modifiable cost-affecting parameters.
Congenitally Corrected Transposition Presenting in the First Year of Life: Survival and Fate of the Systemic Right Ventricle
Authors: Smood Benjamin , Kirklin James K. , Pavnica Jozef , Tresler Margaret , Johnson Walter H. , Cleveland David C. , Mauchley David C. , Dabal Robert J.
Published: January 2019

Introduction:

Knowledge gaps exist in the life expectancy and functional outcome of patients with congenitally corrected transposition (ccTGA) presenting early in life, which is relevant in the evaluation of early anatomic repair.

Methods:

In a single-center analysis, 91 patients with ccTGA were identified over 25 years, of which 31 presented with biventricular anatomy in the first year of life and formed the study cohort. End points for analysis included survival, moderate or worse tricuspid valve regurgitation, and systemic right ventricle (RV) dysfunction. Median follow-up was 4.9 years (range: 7 days to 20 years).

Results:

Among 31 patients presenting in the first year of life, 9 (29%) never received cardiac surgery, while 22 (71%) underwent 36 cardiac operations. Overall freedom from moderate or severe systemic RV dysfunction was 75% at 10 years. Overall survival was 82% at 10 years. Surgical mortality was 5.6% (2/36). Among survivors with a systemic RV, 23 (100%) of 23 were Ross or NYHA class I or II at last follow-up.

Conclusions:

Congenitally corrected transposition presenting in the first year of life and maintaining a systemic RV can expect (1) long-term survival of more than 80% at 10 years, (2) low expected surgical mortality (overall 6%), and (3) 75% late freedom from major RV dysfunction at 10 years. Pending multi-institutional analyses, this experience with a systemic RV in ccTGA provides an initial benchmark for comparison when considering early elective anatomic correction.
Relevant Factors for Success as an Online Entrepreneur in Thailand
Authors: Phonthanukitithaworn Chanchai , Ketkaew Chavis , Naruetharadhol Phaninee
Published: January 2019

This research aims to study the success factors of an online entrepreneur. With the recent rapid growth of the online market for different goods and services, the need to investigate the business strategy of online entrepreneurs in specific markets such as in Thailand and extract relevant success factors is dire. The researcher collected data by using a seven-point Likert-type scale that measured the responses of 180 online businesses in Bangkok, Thailand. The study used Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for statistical analysis. The results indicated that the thirteen most relevant factors related to an online entrepreneur are ACO, EOU, government support, networking, risk-taking propensity, reliability, AFF, BIM, logistics and transportation, product quality, product price, advertising on social media and staff and employee.
Losing and Regaining Grip: Depression and Everyday Life
Authors: Hänninen Vilma , Valkonen Jukka
Published: January 2019

Despite increased interest and research into personal accounts of depression, it has seldom been studied specifically from the point of view everyday life. Our aim is to highlight how depression progresses in relation to everyday activities, and to interpret the process using a theory of everyday life. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 55 persons (31 women, 24 men) in their 40s who self-identified as having been depressed. Depression typically progressed as follows: It originated in a difficult life situation, which was coped with by trying to manage or by escaping to drinking. Eventually, it was not possible to carry out everyday duties. Seeking treatment and sick leave signified a disconnection from everyday obligations. Leisure activities as well as support from close people helped in coping, and gradually a new, more meaningful and enjoyable everyday life developed. Disconnection, rest, reflection, reorientation, and reorganization of life seemed to build a pathway out of depression. Thus, a depressive episode could be interpreted as a process in which the person first disengaged from the unreflected everyday and then reflectively re-engaged to it.
Gender Perspective on Water Use and Management in the Context of Climate Change: A Case Study of Melamchi Watershed Area, Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Shobha , Chapagain Prem Sagar , Ghimire Motilal
Published: January 2019

Increasing trend of the burden of household water management is exemplified by recent literature as the effect of climate change on women. The current study explores a gender role in household water management in the context of climate change in the Melamchi watershed area of Nepal. The study shows that decreasing water volume compounded with the geographical proximity of water sources determines workload women have to bear regarding distance cover, time spent, and frequency for water collection. Search for new water sources is potential risk perceived by women, whereas scarcity of household water is the apparent perceived risk at the community level. Climate change effect is gradual and hence perceived as less important over other immediate problems by individual and community. Sensitization over awareness at individual, household, and community level is hence indispensable attitudinal and motivational capacity for climate change adaptation to increasing water stress borne by women.
Infantile Spasms in Children With Down Syndrome: Identification and Treatment Response
Authors: Daniels Dee , Knupp Kelly , Benke Tim , Wolter-Warmerdam Kristine , Moran Maura , Hickey Fran
Published: January 2019

Objectives. To evaluate infantile spasms in children with Down syndrome including assessment of efficacy of treatments, presence of treatment lag, and to identify risk factors that may predict the occurrence of infantile spasms in this population. Methods. Medical charts, electroencephalograms, and brain magnetic resonance images were evaluated in 37 children treated for infantile spasms at a single institution from 2005 to 2015. Results. Mean age at diagnosis was 9.16 months, with an average 1.38-month lag from spasms onset to start of medication. Prevalence of heart defects and pulmonary hypertension were significantly higher in those with infantile spams compared with those without. Eighty-one percent receiving adrenocorticotropic hormone as initial treatment experienced remission within 2 weeks, 94.1% had remission at 3 months compared with 18.8% at 2 weeks and 35.3% at 3 months for other first-line treatments. Type of treatment was the only predictor of good outcome. Conclusions. Results stress the importance of early recognition and adrenocorticotropic hormone treatment for this seizure disorder in children with Down syndrome.
Bacteriuria With CTX-M-8 Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase–Producing Escherichia coli in a Patient With Incomplete Kawasaki Disease
Authors: Kamijo Kaori , Abe Yoshifusa , Kagami Takehi , Ugajin Kazuhisa , Mikawa Takeshi , Fukuchi Kunihiko , Tatsuno Masaru , Itabashi Kazuo
Published: January 2019

We report the case of a 2-month-old infant with incomplete Kawasaki disease that presented as an apparent urinary tract infection. The patient’s fever persisted despite antibiotic treatment. Intravenous immunoglobulin and aspirin therapy cured both the incomplete Kawasaki disease and bacterial pyuria. Renal sonography, voiding cystourethrography, and renal parenchyma radionuclide scanning did not detect any abnormalities. Temporary dilation of the coronary artery was noted. In a urine specimen obtained through transurethral catheterization, the growth of 105 colony-forming units/mL of extended-spectrum β-lactamase–producing Escherichia coli was detected. Polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the enzyme genotype was CTX-M-8, which is a rare type in Japan. In conclusion, attention should be paid to a misleading initial presentation of fever and pyuria, which might be interpreted as urinary tract infection in patients with Kawasaki disease. Furthermore, pediatricians should consider incomplete Kawasaki disease when patients present with fever and pyuria, which are consistent with urinary tract infection, but do not respond to antibiotic treatment.
From policy community to issue networks: Implementing social sustainability in a Swedish urban development programme
Authors: Elander Ingemar , Gustavsson Eva
Published: January 2019

In this article a “sustainable urban development” programme in Sweden (Delegation for Sustainable Cities, 2008–2012) is analysed, with a particular focus on the social dimension, and in the light of a commonly held assumption of a general shift in politics over time “from government to governance”. However, on closer examination the programme comes out as something quite different. Taking “policy community” as our conceptual point of departure the article first portrays how post-war housing policy in Sweden was implemented jointly by a potent central government, strong local governments, public housing companies and major interest organisations. The Delegation for Sustainable Cities, on the other hand, was launched as “a national arena for sustainable urban development” with a multifaceted mission, including the production and dissemination of knowledge through best practice; the promotion of multi-actor dialogue and coordination; and the use and export of green technology. Implementation of the programme was delegated to a small number of projects in selected housing districts. In relation to the narrative “from government to governance”, the Delegation for Sustainable Cities rather indicates the opposite, i.e. government steering by a combination of structural non-intervention, rhetorical flair and selective fragmentation into project-bound issue networks. The sustainability discourse thus turned out to be a perfect umbrella for the fragmented implementation structure of the Delegation for Sustainable Cities programme. Instead of a tight, multi-level, national governance structure (policy community) we thus have a case of governing at some distance by a combination of what in recent literature have been labelled the Regulatory State and the Networked Polity.
lncRNA SNHG6 regulates EZH2 expression by sponging miR-26a/b and miR-214 in colorectal cancer
Authors: Xu Mu , Chen Xiaoxiang , Lin Kang , Zeng Kaixuan , Liu Xiangxiang , Xu Xueni , Pan Bei , Xu Tao , Sun Li , He Bangshun , Pan Yuqin , Sun Huiling , Wang Shukui
Published: January 2019

Background

Abnormal expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been found in almost all human tumors, providing numerous potential diagnostic biomarkers, prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic targets.

Methods

We analyzed RNA sequencing data to explore abnormally expressed lncRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC). The functions of small nucleolar RNA host gene 6 (SNHG6) were investigated through in vitro and in vivo assays (CCK-8 assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry assay, EdU assay, wound healing assay, transwell assay, and xenograft model). The mechanism of action of SNHG6 was explored through bioinformatics, RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization, luciferase reporter assay, RNA pull-down assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation assay.

Results

We identified aberrantly expressed lncRNAs in CRC. We found that elevated SNHG6 expression was associated with poor prognosis and CRC progression. We also demonstrated that the high SNHG6 expression was partly due to DNA copy number gains and SP1 induction. Functional studies showed that SNHG6 promoted CRC cell growth, migration, and invasion both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, we found that SNHG6 expressed predominantly in the cytoplasm. SNHG6 could interact with miR-26a, miR-26b, and miR-214 and regulate their common target EZH2.

Conclusions

Our study elucidated that SNHG6 acted as an oncogene in CRC, which might serve as a novel target for CRC diagnosis and therapy.
Embodied meaning: a systemic functional perspective on paralanguage
Authors: Martin J. R. , Zappavigna Michele
Published: January 2019

This paper develops a framework for analysing paralanguage, initially inspired by systemic functional linguistic (hereafter SFL) research on early child language development. A distinction is drawn between non-semiotic behaviour (somasis) and meaning (semiosis), and within semiosis between language and paralanguage (using the term paralanguage to refer to semiosis dependent on language and realised through both sound quality and body language, the latter including facial expression, gesture, posture and movement). Within paralanguage a distinction is drawn between sonovergent resources in sync with or in tune with the prosodic phonology of spoken language, and semovergent resources supporting the ideational, interpersonal and textual meaning resources of spoken language’s content plane. The paper closes with a brief discussion of the intermodal relations among language, paralanguage and other modalities of communication.
Recent Improvements in the Production of Solar Fuels: From CO2 Reduction to Water Splitting and Artificial Photosynthesis
Authors: Roy Nitish , Suzuki Norihiro , Terashima Chiaki , Fujishima Akira
Published: January 2019

This account deals with recent trends and challenges regarding photo(electro)chemical solar fuels produced by CO2 reduction and water splitting.

The CO2 reduction process is limited by product selectivity, catalyst stability, and its complex reaction mechanism. A variety of catalysts—including thermocatalysts, photocatalysts, electrocatalysts, and combinations of photo- and electrocatalysts—have been employed to facilitate selective and durable CO2 reduction. In addition, the roles of the supporting electrolyte, pH, reaction temperature, chemical environment, and catalyst surface chemistry in efficient CO2 reduction have been thoroughly studied in recent years.

Effective use of solar light is a significant part of realizing efficient solar-to-hydrogen conversion during the water splitting process, and so the response of photo(electro)systems to visible light is key. To this end, several strategies have been studied in detail, including band engineering of photocatalysts, photocatalytic systems that mimic natural photosynthesis, and the development of photoanodes and their combination with photovoltaic systems.

Here, we summarize recent developments surrounding the CO2-reduction and water-splitting reactions and progress towards achieving artificial photosynthesis.
A Simple Method to Quantify the V˙O2 Mean Response Time of Ramp-Incremental Exercise
Authors: IANNETTA DANILO , MURIAS JUAN M. , KEIR DANIEL A.
Published: January 2019

During ramp-incremental exercise, the mean response time (MRT) of oxygen uptake (V˙O2) represents the time delay for changes in muscle V˙O2 to be reflected at the level of the mouth and is generally calculated by linear (MRTLIN) and monoexponential (τ′) fitting of V˙O2 data. However, these methods yield MRT values that are highly variable from test-to-test.

Purpose

Therefore, we examined the validity and the reproducibility of a novel method to calculate the MRT.

Methods

On two occasions, 12 healthy men (age, 30 ± 10 yr; V˙O2max: 4.14 ± 0.47 L·min−1, 53.5 ± 7.3 mL·kg−1·min−1) performed a ramp-incremental cycling test (30 W·min−1) that was preceded by a step transition to 100 W. The ramp power output corresponding to the steady-state V˙O2 at 100 W was determined and the difference between that power output and 100 W was converted to time to quantify the MRT (MRTSS).

Results

The values of MRTLIN, τ′, and MRTSS were 28 ± 16 s, 27 ± 12 s, and 26 ± 11 s, respectively, which were not different (P > 0.05) from each other. However, compared to the MRT parameters derived from the fitting-based methods, MRTSS had a higher correlation coefficient (R = 0.87) and a smaller coefficient of variation (15% ± 9%) from test-to-test.

Conclusions

In conclusion, the novel method proposed in the current study was found to be valid and highly reproducible in a test-retest design. Therefore, we advocate the use of this approach when a precise and accurate determination of the MRT is needed to properly align the V˙O2 data with power output during ramp-incremental exercise.
Kinetics of Oil Sorption by Material Based on Leaf Litter
Authors: Алексеева А. , Alekseeva A. , Степанова С. , Stepanova S.
Published: January 2019

Studies of leaf litter as a sorption material with respect to oil at various temperatures have been carried out. It has been revealed that with process temperature increasing, the samples sorption capacity decreases. The oil sorption mechanism has been studied. It has been shown that the active sorption time was in the interval from 60 to 600 seconds. It has been proved that at the time of oil and sorption material contact for more than 600 seconds, the desorption process began. Kinetic dependencies of oil absorption by the proposed sorption material have been constructed and analyzed. The reaction order determination by a graphic method has showed that obtained functions with a high degree of correlation can be attributed to first-order heterogeneous reactions. Have been calculated thermodynamic parameters confirming the absence of a chemical reaction between oil and leaf litter. The carried out researches determine the most acceptable parameters of oil sorption by material based on leaf litter.
Spontaneous haemothorax in juvenile dogs: a case series
Authors: Stallwood Jennifer , Allen Shelley , Allerton Fergus , Adamantos Sophie , Black Vicki
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

To describe the clinical features, treatment, and outcome of juvenile dogs presenting with spontaneous haemothorax.

Methods:

Retrospective multi-centre referral-based study. Hospital databases were searched for dogs aged 1–24 months with a diagnosis of spontaneous haemothorax. Dogs were defined as having spontaneous haemothorax provided there was no history of trauma, evidence of a coagulopathy or intrathoracic neoplastic mass. Data extracted for analysis included signalment, history, investigation findings, treatment, and outcome.

Results:

Seven dogs from two referral centres were identified. Median age was 11 months (range 3.5–20 months); four of the seven were female. There were two Chihuahuas and two Whippets; remaining breeds were represented once. Commonly reported clinical signs included lethargy (n=7) and pyrexia (n=6). Thymic pathology was suspected in six dogs based on thoracic imaging. Three dogs required surgical management and four were managed conservatively. Histopathology of thymic tissue was available from the surgically managed dogs and compatible with thymic haemorrhage in all cases. Two out of three dogs managed surgically died; recorded reasons were phrenic nerve dysfunction secondary to thoracotomy and acute lung injury following mechanical ventilation. All four dogs managed conservatively survived with no recorded recurrence.

Impact:

Spontaneous haemothorax can occur in young dogs. Pyrexia was a common feature although causality is not established. The outcome with conservative management appeared to be superior to surgery in this small cohort of dogs.
Ultrasound machine ‘knobology’
Authors: Bradley Kate
Published: January 2019

Being a ‘real time’ imaging modality, ultrasound images are almost always interpreted by the operator at the time of examination. Obtaining optimal image quality throughout the scan is therefore essential to maximise the clinical information that can be obtained. This article aims to discuss the main control features that are likely to be present on most machines, such as gain, depth and focal points, as well as some other options that may be available to the operator, such as tissue harmonic imaging and speckle reduction. Examples of different settings are shown, with reference to how they may be optimised to obtain the best possible image quality.
Parasite roundup 2018
Authors: Stokes Laura , Wright Ian
Published: January 2019

This article draws from information published in the European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP) UK & Ireland Parasite Forecasts, recently published data and events of note. It provides a roundup of parasitology-related activities and events in 2018, including identifying the key themes of 2018, analysing trends and interest from the public, and providing updates on a number of parasites and diseases that have been of interest during the past year.
CatCareforLife
Authors: Sparkes Andy
Published: January 2019

CatCareforLife is a new preventative healthcare plan for veterinary practices, developed by International Cat Care, which aims to provide a clear platform for veterinary surgeons and owners, to ensure cats can enjoy long and happy lives through an effective and appropriate preventive healthcare programme.
Management of massive blood loss in a dog under general anaesthesia during a sternotomy
Authors: Chevallier Delphine Le , Love Emma
Published: January 2019

A 2-year-old male neutered American Staffordshire Terrier was presented collapsed, with tachycardia, dyspnoea and pale mucous membranes. An emergency sternotomy and lateral thoracotomy was performed. Before surgery the dog's blood was typed and found to be DEA negative. The dog lost the equivalent of its entire blood volume (estimated) during the first hour of surgery. Cardiovascular parameters initially responded to boluses of crystalloids and colloids. He also received transfusions of DEA negative packed red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma. Due to ongoing haemorrhage, the dog's clinical condition, and a lack of availability of any more DEA negative blood products, the decision was made to give a unit of DEA positive packed red blood cells. The dog recovered uneventfully, although following diagnosis of an aggressive soft tissue sarcoma the dog was later euthanased. This report discusses the management of massive blood loss in veterinary medicine and the implications, potential options for management, and treatment of these cases perioperatively.
Causes of malnutrition in older adults and what can be done to prevent it
Authors: McEvilly Aimee
Published: January 2019

With malnutrition affecting over 3 million people in the UK, Aimee McEvilly explains how early identification and intervention are vital measures in maintaining effective elderly health

Malnutrition affects over 3 million people in the UK alone, and 93% of these people are living in the community ( Elia and Russell, 2009 ). Malnutrition can be treated, and early identification and intervention is vital. This article aims to give a brief overview of the potential contributing factors of malnutrition. It will briefly discuss how these factors can be addressed and what can be done to prevent or manage them. This article will also discuss how and when screening for malnutrition should take place in the community and the appropriate actions to take when malnutrition is identified. Finally this article aims to motivate and encourage local communities to look again at their services and ensure that the nutrition and hydration needs of older people are being met.
Research Roundup
Authors: Winter George
Published: January 2019

George Winter provides an overview of recently published articles that may be of interest to practice nurses. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Therapy For Unilateral Lower Extremity Lymphedema With Compression Bandage Only Or Compression Bandage Combined With Surgery
Authors: Hakim Intan Frischilla , Sudjatmiko Gentur
Published: January 2019

Background: Lymphedema on lower extremity is a disorder which is still hard to manage nowadays. Many therapeutic modalities had been done, but there weren’t any satisfying outcome. It is all due to the continuous exudation of the lymph which is rich in protein to extravascular that induce tissue inflammation and soft tissue fibrosis process. In case of constriction band, the lymph trapped in the lower extremity, so it also requires surgical procedure.Patient and Method : We reported 2 cases, a woman 71 years old with right limb lymphedema with vulva polyp and a man 58 years old with constriction band on chronic left limb lymphedema and right limb poliomyelitis. We conducted circumference measurement of afected limb 5 minutes after application compression bandage in first two weeks. Case one had quiet good result with compression bandage only while in case two continued with surgical procedure consist of mass reduction using suction-assisted lipectomy, z-plasty constriction band release continue with excise skin redundancy. In both patients pressure garment used for daily treatment.Results : Both patients gave aceptable result on compression bandage in acute case and in chronic case was continued with surgery. Summary : Management for lymphedema can be done by conservative therapy in acute case when edema is in pitting formor combined with surgery when in chronic case, then pressure.