bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Grinding-aided electrochemical discharge drilling in the light of electrochemistry
Authors: Ladeesh VG , Manu R
Published: June 2018

The electrically non-conductive materials like glass, ceramics, quartz, etc. are of great interest for many applications in modern industries. Machining them with high quality and at a faster rate is a challenging task. In this study, a novel technique called grinding aided electrochemical discharge drilling (G-ECDD) is demonstrated which uses a hollow diamond core drill as the tool for performing electrochemical discharge machining of borosilicate glass. The new hybrid technique enhances the material removal rate and machining accuracy to several folds by combining the thermal melting action of discharges and grinding action of the abrasive tool. This paper presents the experimental investigation on the material removal rate during G-ECDD of glass while using different electrolytes. An attempt has been made to explore the influence of electrolyte temperature on G-ECDD performance by maintaining the electrolyte at different temperatures. Experiments were conducted using three different electrolytes which include NaOH, KOH, and the mixture of both. The results obtained from this study revealed that an increase in temperature will favor chemical etching as well as electrochemical reaction rate. Also, it was observed that heating the electrolyte leads to an increase in the bubble density and enhances the ion mobility. This causes the formation of gas film at a faster rate and thereby improving the discharge activity. Thus, machining will be done at a faster rate. Better results are obtained while using a mixture of NaOH and KOH. From the microscopic images of the machined surface, it was observed that material removal mechanism in G-ECDD is a combination of grinding action, electrochemical discharges, and chemical etching. Response surface methodology was adopted for studying the influence of process parameters on the performance of G-ECDD. The new technique of grinding aided electrochemical discharge drilling proved its potential to machine borosilicate glass and simultaneously offers good material removal rate, repeatability, and accuracy.
Efficient experimental identification of three-dimensional tyre structural properties
Authors: Tsinias Vasilis , Mavros George
Published: June 2018

Modal testing is routinely applied to tyres for the identification of structural parameters and prediction of their vibration response to excitations. The present work focuses on the more demanding case of modal testing with the aim of constructing a full mathematical model of a tyre, appropriate for use in a generic time-based simulation. For this purpose, the less common free–free boundary condition is employed for the wheel, while the tyre belt is excited in all three directions, namely radial tangential and lateral. To improve efficiency, a novel partial identification method is developed for the mode shapes, whereby measured and predicted frequency responses are matched around distinct resonance peaks, while eliminating the effect of out-of-band modes. Axial symmetry of the tyre requires high purity mode shapes to avoid angular dependency of the tyre’s response. For this reason, experimental mode shapes are digitally filtered and combined with their orthogonal counterparts. Processed data reveal apparent repetition of selected mode shapes, and this is attributed to rim deflection.
The automotive ventilation test case: Investigation of the velocity field downstream of a benchmark vent using smoke visualization and hot-wire anemometry
Authors: Lizal Frantisek , Pech Ondrej , Jedelsky Jan , Tuhovcak Jan , Jicha Miroslav
Published: June 2018

Effective operation of ventilation outlets depends on more or less apparent details in their design and on the flow history in the supply channel. Regrettably, visual appearance of the dashboard commonly receives higher priority in design because of marketing demands. This leads to incorrectly designed ducts and vents, wrongly dimensioned fans and other faults. Having limited space due to the above-mentioned restrictions, ventilation system designers should be given detailed information on the effects of various changes in the design of the duct and vent. We have developed and experimentally investigated a benchmark ventilation channel which possesses main features of vents usually installed in panel boards and which allows incorporation of various components to facilitate the investigation of their influence on the flow. The jet emerging from the vent has been studied by smoke visualization and hot-wire anemometry in three basic configurations: a straight channel, a channel with a simple bend, and a channel with a bend equipped with turning vanes. The measurements proved that the effect of insertion of the bend to the channel is significant. It changes the shape of the jet core, while insertion of the turning vanes into the bend only causes homogenization of the core without changing the jet shape. This means that it is essential to always evaluate the performance of the ventilation outlet with its supply channel, as the flow history is difficult to eliminate by simple flow conditioning fixtures, such as turning vanes. The research results as well as digital geometry of the benchmark vent are freely available to all research groups that would like to use it for validation of their numerical simulations.
Intelligent air/fuel ratio control strategy with a PI-like fuzzy knowledge–based controller for gasoline direct injection engines
Authors: Li Ziyang , Li Ji , Zhou Quan , Zhang Yunfan , Xu Hongming
Published: June 2018

This paper proposes a new concept of PI-like fuzzy knowledge–based controller with self-tuning capability, high robustness and rapid development capability to regulate air/fuel ratio for gasoline direct injection engines. The proportional and integral terms of the PI-like fuzzy knowledge–based controller are nonlinear functions of the input signals and self-tuned in real time at operation points, which can reduce the effort spent on calibrating controller parameters. The PI-like fuzzy knowledge–based controller is implemented on a production gasoline direct injection engine and evaluated through case studies. The experimental results show that the proposed controller can regulate air/fuel ratio at stoichiometric value with less settling time and less oscillation compared with the conventional Proportional-Integral (PI) controller for transient operation.
Employee voice in Spanish subsidiaries of multinational firms
Authors: Belizón María Jesús
Published: June 2018

Employee voice in multinational companies has been mainly studied in voluntarist, Anglophone industrial relations systems, and much less in other European countries. This article examines employee voice in foreign-owned multinational companies operating in Spain, using a sample of over 240 companies. It identifies the determinant factors in employee voice at macro and micro levels. The findings are interpreted in a comparative perspective, considering those approaches predominantly used in Anglophone and other west European countries, such as France and Germany.
Significant Improvement of Acute Complete Spinal Cord Injury Patients Diagnosed by a Combined Criteria Implanted with NeuroRegen Scaffolds and Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Xiao Zhifeng , Tang Fengwu , Zhao Yannan , Han Guang , Yin Na , Li Xing , Chen Bing , Han Sufang , Jiang Xianfeng , Yun Chen , Zhao Changyu , Cheng Shixiang , Zhang Sai , Dai Jianwu
Published: June 2018

Stem cells and biomaterials transplantation hold a promising treatment for functional recovery in spinal cord injury (SCI) animal models. However, the functional recovery of complete SCI patients was still a huge challenge in clinic. Additionally, there is no clinical standard procedure available to diagnose precisely an acute patient as complete SCI. Here, two acute SCI patients, with injury at thoracic 11 (T11) and cervical 4 (C4) level respectively, were judged as complete injury by a stricter method combined with American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nerve electrophysiology. Collagen scaffolds, named NeuroRegen scaffolds, with human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were transplanted into the injury site. During 1 year follow up, no obvious adverse symptoms related to the functional scaffolds implantation were found after treatment. The recovery of the sensory and motor functions was observed in the two patients. The sensory level expanded below the injury level, and the patients regained the sense function in bowel and bladder. The thoracic SCI patient could walk voluntary with the hip under the help of brace. The cervical SCI patient could raise his lower legs against the gravity in the wheelchair and shake his toes under control. The injury status of the two patients was improved from ASIA A complete injury to ASIA C incomplete injury. Furthermore, the improvement of sensory and motor functions was accompanied with the recovery of the interrupted neural conduction. These results showed that the supraspinal control of movements below the injury was regained by functional scaffolds implantation in the two patients who were judged as the complete injury with combined criteria, it suggested that functional scaffolds transplantation could serve as an effective treatment for acute complete SCI patients.
Dual Effects of Human Placenta-Derived Neural Cells on Neuroprotection and the Inhibition of Neuroinflammation in a Rodent Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kim Han Wool , Lee Hyun-Seob , Kang Jun Mo , Bae Sang-Hun , Kim Chul , Lee Sang-Hun , Schwarz Johannes , Kim Gi Jin , Kim Jin-Su , Cha Dong Hyun , Kim Joopyung , Chang Sung Woon , Lee Tae Hee , Moon Jisook
Published: June 2018

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common age-related neurodegenerative disease in the elderly and the patients suffer from uncontrolled movement disorders due to loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons on substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). We previously reported that transplantation of human fetal midbrain-derived neural precursor cells restored the functional deficits of a 6-hydroxy dopamine (6-OHDA)-treated rodent model of PD but its low viability and ethical issues still remain to be solved. Albeit immune privilege and neural differentiation potentials suggest mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from various tissues including human placenta MSCs (hpMSCs) for an alternative source, our understanding of their therapeutic mechanisms is still limited. To expand our knowledge on the MSC-mediated PD treatment, we here investigated the therapeutic mechanism of hpMSCs and hpMSC-derived neural phenotype cells (hpNPCs) using a PD rat model. Whereas both hpMSCs and hpNPCs protected DA neurons in the SNpc at comparable levels, the hpNPC transplantation into 6-OHDA treated rats exhibited longer lasting recovery in motor deficits than either the saline or the hpMSC treated rats. The injected hpNPCs induced delta-like ligand (DLL)1 and neurotrophic factors, and influenced environments prone to neuroprotection. Compared with hpMSCs, co-cultured hpNPCs more efficiently protected primary neural precursor cells from midbrain against 6-OHDA as well as induced their differentiation into DA neurons. Further experiments with conditioned media from hpNPCs revealed that the secreted factors from hpNPCs modulated immune responses and neural protection. Taken together, both DLL1-mediated contact signals and paracrine factors play critical roles in hpNPC-mediated improvement. First showing here that hpMSCs and their neural derivative hpNPCs were able to restore the PD-associated deficits via dual mechanisms, neuroprotection and immunosuppression, this study expanded our knowledge of therapeutic mechanisms in PD and other age-related diseases.
Sequential combined Treatment of Pifithrin-α and Posiphen Enhances Neurogenesis and Functional Recovery After Stroke
Authors: Turcato Flavia , Kim Paul , Barnett Austin , Jin Yongming , Scerba Mike , Casey Anthony , Selman Warren , Greig Nigel H. , Luo Yu
Published: June 2018

Objective:

Although cerebral ischemia can activate endogenous reparative processes, such as proliferation of endogenous neural stem cells (NSCs) in the subventricular zone (SVZ) and subgranular zone (SGZ), the majority of these new cells die shortly after injury and do not appropriately differentiate into neurons, or migrate and functionally integrate into the brain. The purpose of this study was to examine a novel strategy for treatment of stroke after injury by optimizing the survival of ischemia-induced endogenous NSCs in the SVZ and SGZ.

Methods:

Adult SVZ and SGZ NSCs were grown as neurospheres in culture and treated with a p53 inactivator, pifithrin-α (PFT-α), and an amyloid precursor protein (APP)-lowering drug, posiphen, and effects on neurosphere number, size and neuronal differentiation were evaluated. This combined sequential treatment approach was then evaluated in mice challenged with middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo). Locomotor behavior and cognition were evaluated at 4 weeks, and the number of new surviving neurons was quantified in nestin creERT2-YFP mice.

Results:

PFT-α and posiphen enhanced the self-renewal, proliferation rate and neuronal differentiation of adult SVZ and SGZ NSCs in culture. Their sequential combination in mice challenged with MCAo-induced stroke mitigated locomotor and cognitive impairments and increased the survival of SVZ and SGZ NSCs cells. PFT-α and the combined posiphen+PFT-α treatment similarly improved locomotion behavior in stroke challenged mice. Notably, however, the combined treatment provided significantly more potent cognitive function enhancement in stroke mice, as compared with PFT-α single treatment.

Interpretation:

Delayed combined sequential treatment with an inhibitor of p53 dependent apoptosis (PFT-α) and APP synthesis (posiphen) proved able to enhance stroke-induced endogenous neurogenesis and improve the functional recovery in stroke animals. Whereas the combined sequential treatment provided no further improvement in locomotor function, as compared with PFT-α alone treatment, suggesting a potential ceiling in the locomotion behavioral outcome in stroke animals, combined treatment more potently augmented cognitive function recovery after stroke.
Stem Cell Factor in Combination with Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor reduces Cerebral Capillary Thrombosis in a Mouse Model of CADASIL
Authors: Ping Suning , Qiu Xuecheng , Gonzalez-Toledo Maria E , Liu Xiaoyun , Zhao Li-Ru
Published: June 2018

Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leucoencephalopathy (CADASIL) is a cerebral small vascular disease caused by NOTCH3 mutation-induced vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) degeneration, leading to ischemic stroke and vascular dementia. Our previous study has demonstrated that repeated treatment with a combination of stem cell factor (SCF) and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) reduces VSMC degeneration and cerebral endothelial cell (EC) damage and improves cognitive function in a mouse model of CADASIL (TgNotch3R90C). This study aimed to determine whether cerebral thrombosis occurs in TgNotch3R90C mice and whether repeated SCF+G-CSF treatment reduces cerebral thrombosis in TgNotch3R90C mice. Using the approaches of bone marrow transplantation to track bone marrow-derived cells and confocal imaging, we observed bone marrow-derived blood cell occlusion in cerebral small vessels and capillaries (thrombosis). Most thrombosis occurred in the cerebral capillaries (93% of total occluded vessels), and the thrombosis showed an increased frequency in the regions of capillary bifurcation. Degenerated capillary ECs were seen inside and surrounding the thrombosis, and the bone marrow-derived ECs were also found next to the thrombosis. IgG extravasation was seen in and next to the areas of thrombosis. SCF+G-CSF treatment significantly reduced cerebral capillary thrombosis and IgG extravasation. These data suggest that the EC damage is associated with thrombosis and blood–brain barrier leakage in the cerebral capillaries under the CADASIL-like condition, whereas SCF+G-CSF treatment diminishes these pathological alterations. This study provides new insight into the involvement of cerebral capillary thrombosis in the development of CADASIL and potential approaches to reduce the thrombosis, which may restrict the pathological progression of CADASIL.
Fibroblast cell-based therapy prevents induction of alopecia areata in an experimental model
Authors: Jalili Reza B , Kilani Ruhangiz T , Li Yunyuan , Khosravi-maharlooie Mohsen , Nabai Layla , Wang Eddy Hsi Chun , McElwee Kevin J , Ghahary Aziz
Published: June 2018

Alopecia areata (AA) is an autoimmune hair loss disease with infiltration of proinflammatory cells into hair follicles. Current therapeutic regimens are unsatisfactory mainly because of the potential for side effects and/or limited efficacy. Here we report that cultured, transduced fibroblasts, which express the immunomodulatory molecule indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), can be applied to prevent hair loss in an experimental AA model. A single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of IDO-expressing primary dermal fibroblasts was given to C3H/HeJ mice at the time of AA induction. While 60–70% of mice that received either control fibroblasts or vehicle injections developed extensive AA, none of the IDO-expressing fibroblast-treated mice showed new hair loss up to 20 weeks post injection. IDO cell therapy significantly reduced infiltration of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells into hair follicles and resulted in decreased expression of TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-17 in the skin. Skin draining lymph nodes of IDO fibroblast-treated mice were significantly smaller, with more CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+ regulatory T cells and fewer Th17 cells than those of control fibroblast and vehicle-injected mice. These findings indicate that IP injected IDO-expressing dermal fibroblasts can control inflammation and thereby prevent AA hair loss.
The Roles of MicroRNAs in Stroke: Possible Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Xu Weilin , Gao Liansheng , Zheng Jingwei , Li Tao , Shao Anwen , Reis Cesar , Chen Sheng , Zhang Jianmin
Published: June 2018

Stroke is one of the most devastating diseases worldwide. In recent years, a great number of studies have focused on the effects of microRNAs (miRNAs) on stroke and the results demonstrated that the expressions of miRNAs are associated with the prognosis of stroke. In the present study, we review relevant articles regarding miRNAs and stroke and will explain the complex link between both. The miRNAs participate extensively in the pathophysiology following the stroke, including apoptosis, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption and brain edema. The information about the stroke–miRNA system may be helpful for therapeutic and diagnostic methods in stroke treatment.
Human Cord Blood Serum-Derived APP α-Secretase Cleavage Activity is Mediated by C1 Complement
Authors: Habib Ahsan , Sawmiller Darrell , Hou Huayan , Kanithi Manasa , Tian Jun , Zeng Jin , Zi Dan , He Zhi-Xu , Sanberg Paul R. , Tan Jun
Published: June 2018

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia in the elderly. In healthy individuals, amyloid precursor protein (APP) is cleaved by α-secretase, generating soluble α-amyloid precursor protein (sAPPα), which contributes neuroprotective functions in the neuronal environment. In contrast, in the neurodegenerative environment of AD patients, amyloid-β-peptide (Aβ) of either 40 or 42 residues are generated by increased activity of β- and γ-secretase. These proteins amalgamate in specific regions of the brain, which disrupts neuronal functions and leads to cognitive impairment. Human umbilical cord blood cells (HUCBC) have proven useful as potential immunomodulatory therapies in various models of neurodegenerative diseases, including AD. Our most recent work studied the impact of umbilical cord blood serum (CBS) on modulation of sAPPα production. Heat-sensitive CBS significantly promoted sAPPα production, indicating that heat-sensitive factor(s) play(s) a role in this process. Liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis was used to determine the molecular source of α-secretase in purified CBS and aged blood serum (AgBS) fraction. Of the proteins identified, the subunits of C1 complex (C1q, C1r, and C1s) and alpha-2-macroglobulin showed significantly greater levels in purified α-CBS fraction (α-CBSF) compared with the AgBS fraction (AgBSF). Specifically, C1 markedly increased sAPPα and alpha-carboxyl-terminal fragment (α-CTF) production in a dose-dependent fashion, whereas C1q alone only minimally increased and C3 did not increase sAPPα production in the absence of sera. Furthermore, C1q markedly increased sAPPα and α-CTF, while decreasing Aβ, in CHO/APPwt cells cultured in the presence of whole sera. These results confirm our initial assumption that APP α-secretase activity in human blood serum is mediated by complement C1, opening a potential therapeutic modality for the future of AD.
Intra- and inter-firm dynamics in combinatorial knowledge bases
Authors: Marques Pedro
Published: June 2018

Research on innovation has often concentrated on a narrow set of sectors and activities, and on the experiences of the most advanced regions in the world. However, innovation, when defined in a broad sense, incorporates a variety of processes and outputs that cut across organisational, sectoral, territorial and knowledge boundaries. This paper seeks to make a contribution to this literature by focusing on the experiences of less developed regions, and by examining how different knowledge bases contribute to technological upgrading and higher added value for firms. It argues that in regions where access to advanced knowledge and technology is restricted, or where firms do not have the absorptive capacity to access, absorb and exploit such knowledge, combining existing knowledge in innovative ways may be the best strategy for firms to become more innovative and competitive. It also argues that this combination can happen through vertical integration within the firm, or by the creation and maintenance of inter-firm mechanisms that stimulate knowledge dissemination. These themes are discussed by drawing on the evolution of the wine industry in three Portuguese regions. These regions have all experienced different trajectories, in terms of the renewal of their wine industry, and it is argued that this is in part the result of endogenous regional characteristics.
Evaluation ofRhodiola crenulataon growth and metabolism of NB-1691, an MYCN-amplified neuroblastoma cell line
Authors: Wong Kaitlyn E , Mora Maria C , Sultana Nazneen , Moriarty Kevin P , Arenas Richard B , Yadava Nagendra , Schneider Sallie S , Tirabassi Michael V
Published: June 2018

Outcomes of children with high grade neuroblastoma remain poor despite multi-agent chemotherapy regimens. Rhodiola crenulata extracts display anti-neoplastic properties against several cancers including breast cancer, melanoma, and glioblastoma. In this study, we evaluated the anti-neoplastic potential of Rhodiola crenulata extracts on human neuroblastoma cells. Through this work, cell viability and proliferation were evaluated following treatments with ethanol (vehicle control) or Rhodiola crenulata extract in neuroblastoma, NB-1691 or SK-N-AS cells, in vitro. HIF-1 transcriptional activity was evaluated using a dual luciferase assay. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was utilized to assess the expression of HIF-1 targets. Selected metabolic intermediates were evaluated for their ability to rescue cells from Rhodiola crenulata extract-induced death. Lactate dehydrogenase, pyruvate kinase, and pyruvate dehydrogenase activities and NAD+/NADH levels were assayed in vehicle and Rhodiola crenulata extract-treated cells. The effects of Rhodiola crenulata extracts on metabolism were assessed by respirometry and metabolic phenotyping/fingerprinting. Our results revealed striking cytotoxic effects upon Rhodiola crenulata extract treatment, especially prominent in NB-1691 cells. As a greater response was observed in NB-1691 cells therefore it was used for remaining experiments. Upon Rhodiola crenulata extract treatment, HIF-1 transcriptional activity was increased. This increase in activity correlated with changes in HIF-1 targets involved in cellular metabolism. Serendipitously, we observed that addition of pyruvate protected against the cytotoxic effects of Rhodiola crenulata extracts. Therefore, we focused on the metabolic effects of Rhodiola crenulata extracts on NB-1691 cells. We observed that while the activities of pyruvate kinase and pyruvate dehydrogenase activities were increased, the activity of lactate dehydrogenase activity was decreased upon Rhodiola crenulata extract treatment. We also noted a decline in the total NAD pool following Rhodiola crenulata extract treatment. This correlated with decreased cellular respiration and suppressed utilization of carbon substrates. Through this work, we observed significant cytotoxic effects of Rhodiola crenulata extract treatment upon treatment on NB-1691 cells, a human neuroblastoma cell line with MYCN amplification. Our studies suggest that these cytotoxic effects could be secondary to metabolic effect induced by treatment with Rhodiola crenulata extract.
Optimal treatment for blunt trauma patients with cardiopulmonary arrest: An account of a successful case and review of the literature
Authors: Kondo Yutaka , Abe Toshikazu , Fukami Masataka , Kukita Ichiro
Published: June 2018

Introduction:

Prognosis of cardiopulmonary arrest occurring in patients with blunt trauma is very poor; patients rarely recover from this condition. We either do not attempt cardiopulmonary resuscitation or terminate it after some time in blunt trauma–cardiopulmonary arrest cases. We presented a rare case of successful resuscitation of a patient with blunt trauma–cardiopulmonary arrest.

Case presentation:

A 54-year-old man was admitted to our emergency department after being injured in a traffic accident. The patient suffered from ventricular fibrillation, and spontaneous circulation was restored by a defibrillator. The estimated arrest time was 20 min.

Discussion:

On arrival of our emergency department, the patient showed intra-abdominal hemorrhage and we performed emergency surgery; 10 days after admission, the patient suffered from pulseless ventricular tachycardia—coronary angiography was performed, which revealed that the patient had coronary artery stenosis.

Conclusion:

We experienced trauma patients concealed with coronary artery stenosis. In traumatic arrest with ventricular fibrillation, it may be due to a medical reason, and more prolonged and intensive resuscitation may be considered.
A fatal case of chlorfenapyr poisoning following dermal exposure
Authors: Han Sang-Kyoon , Yeom Seok-Ran , Lee Sung-Hwa , Park Soon-Chang , Kim Hyung-Bin , Cho Young-Mo , Park Sung-Wook
Published: June 2018

Introduction:

Chlorfenapyr is a pyrrole-based pro-insecticide. The main activity of this agent is the inhibition of adenosine triphosphate synthesis, and it is used in agriculture to control several insects and mites resistant to carbamate, organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticide. The World Health Organization classifies this agent as a class II toxin (moderately hazardous).

Case presentation:

All previously reported cases of chlorfenapyr poisoning in humans occurred following oral ingestion except one case involving exposure to chlorfenapyr vapour.

Discussion:

In this report, we describe a case of chlorfenapyr intoxication after skin exposure in a 49-year-old patient who died 5 days after exposure. Conclusion: This case demonstrates that similar to oral ingestion, dermal absorption of chlorfenapyr may also be fatal.
Music listening as a potential aid in reducing emotional eating: An exploratory study
Authors: van den Tol Annemieke J. M. , Coulthard Helen , Hanser Waldie E.
Published: June 2018

Emotional Eating (EE) is understood as a maladaptive self-regulation strategy to satisfy emotional needs instead of hunger. Consequently, EE has been associated with negative health consequences. Enjoyment of food and music share similar neural activations in the brain and are both used by people for regulating affect. This suggests that music listening could potentially be a healthier alternative to EE. The present study was designed to investigate associations between EE, disordered mood, and music-related mood regulation. A total of 571 participants completed measures of EE, music listening strategies, and disordered mood. Associations between seven different music listening strategies and EE were examined, and also whether these regulation strategies were associated with depression, anxiety, and stress. Finally, we explored associations between music listening and EE in people with low and high (non-clinical) levels of disordered mood (depression, anxiety, and stress). The findings of this research indicated that music listening for discharge (releasing anger or sadness through music that expresses these same emotions) and EE were positively associated with one another. In addition, EE and the music listening strategies of entertainment, diversion or mental work were associated in people with low levels of disordered mood. When disordered mood was high, EE was higher, but was not associated with music listening strategies. These associations point towards the possibility of some music listening strategies being useful as healthier alternatives for EE.
Member Profile Differences Between Florida and National OLLI Institutes
Authors: Lee Jung Min , Rogers Aracelis , Young William
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study was to identify selected characteristics of current Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) members in Florida and then compare the results between Florida and non-Florida institutes. This study was primarily quantitative and employed the Demographic and Behavioral Trends Survey (DBTS) with the addition of four open-ended response options. The data resulting from this comparison indicated that demographic factors, technology use, and time related to relocation after retirement were significantly different between a national sample and a sample of Florida OLLI members. These findings suggest that it is important for adult education field educators, administrators, and OLLI instructors to recognize the growing diversity and technical proficiency of current retirees to continue to promote effective lifelong learning practice.
A dynamic loading system for high-speed motorized spindle with magnetorheological fluid
Authors: Tian Shengli , Chen Xiaoan , He Ye , Chen Tianchi , Li Peiming
Published: June 2018

A high-speed dynamic loading test is a key step when testing the dynamic performance and running quality of a high-speed motorized spindle. A loading test is very difficult to perform at high speeds. Based on the rheological behavior of the magnetorheological fluid, a novel high-speed dynamic loading system for a high-speed motorized spindle was designed, fabricated, and tested. The working principles and structure of this loading system are described. The torque model of the loader was derived based on the Herschel–Bulkley model and electromagnetic simulation using the finite element method. In addition, the torque–current relationship under different speeds was analyzed by experiments, and we found non-linear relationships between the viscosity and shear stress of the magnetorheological fluid with the shear rate. The Herschel–Bulkley model was corrected by fitting for the experimental results. The loading torque, calculated by the modified model, complied with the experimental results. This lays the foundation for the design of a high-speed transmission device based on the magnetorheological shear principle. Experiments of torque stability, temperature stability, and reusability verified the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed loading system. It provides a novel method to test the dynamic loading performance of high-speed motorized spindles.
Controlled, Constrained, or Flexible? How Self-Management Goals Are Shaped By Patient–Provider Interactions
Authors: Franklin Marika , Lewis Sophie , Willis Karen , Rogers Anne , Venville Annie , Smith Lorraine
Published: June 2018

A person-centered approach to goal-setting, involving collaboration between patients and health professionals, is advocated in policy to support self-management. However, this is difficult to achieve in practice, reducing the potential effectiveness of self-management support. Drawing on observations of consultations between patients and health professionals, we examined how goal-setting is shaped in patient–provider interactions. Analysis revealed three distinct interactional styles. In controlled interactions, health professionals determine patients’ goals based on biomedical reference points and present these goals as something patients should do. In constrained interactions, patients are invited to present goals, yet health professionals’ language and questions orientate goals toward biomedical issues. In flexible interactions, patients and professionals both contribute to goal-setting, as health professionals use less directive language, create openings, and allow patients to decide on their goals. Findings suggest that interactional style of health professionals could be the focus of interventions when aiming to increase the effectiveness of goal-setting.
Mothers and Mentors: Exploring Perinatal Addiction and Recovery Through Digital Storytelling
Authors: Paterno Mary T. , Low Maud , Gubrium Aline , Sanger Kirk
Published: June 2018

Substance use disorders (SUDs) are a growing problem for pregnant and parenting women. Woman-to-woman peer support may positively influence perinatal outcomes but little is known about the impact of such support on the women who are providing support. The purpose of this study was to describe experiences of addiction in pregnancy, recovery, and subsequently serving as a peer mentor to other pregnant women with active SUD among women in recovery in a rural setting. We conducted one digital storytelling workshop with five women serving as peer mentors with lived experience of perinatal SUD. The mentors faced significant stigma in pregnancy. They had each done the “inside work” to achieve recovery, and maintained recovery by staying balanced. Peer mentoring supported their own recovery, and story sharing was integral to this process. Peer-led support models may be an effective, self-sustaining method of providing pregnancy-specific peer support for SUD.
Evaluation of Thrombocytopenia in Critically Ill Patients Receiving Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Droege Christopher A. , Ernst Neil E. , Messinger Nicholas J. , Burns Allison M. , Mueller Eric W.
Published: June 2018

Background: Continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) may be associated with thrombocytopenia in critically ill patients. A confounding factor is concomitant use of unfractionated heparin (UFH) and suspicion for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Objective: To determine the impact of CRRT on platelet count and development of thrombocytopenia. Methods: Retrospective analyses evaluated the intrapatient change in platelet count following CRRT initiation. Critically ill adult patients who received CRRT for at least 48 hours were included. The primary outcome was intrapatient change in platelet count from CRRT initiation through the first 5 days of therapy. Secondary outcomes included thrombocytopenia incidence, identification of concomitant factors associated with thrombocytopenia, and frequency of HIT. Results: 80 patients were included. Median platelet count at CRRT initiation (D0) was 128000/µL (81500-212500/µL), which was higher than those on subsequent post-CRRT days (D1: 104500/µL [63000-166750/µL]; D2: 88500/µL [53500-136750/µL]; D3: 91000/µL [49000-138000/µL]; D4: 93000/µL [46000-134000/µL]; and D5: 76000/µL [45500-151000/µL]; P < 0.05 for all). Twenty-five (35%) patients had thrombocytopenia on CRRT D0 compared with D2 (56.3%), D3 (58.7%), and D5 (59.1%); P < 0.05 for all. Controlling for potential confounders, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score at the time of CRRT initiation was the only independent factor associated with thrombocytopenia. One (1.3%) patient had confirmed HIT. Conclusion and Relevance: This study is the first to demonstrate serial decreases in platelet count across multiple days after CRRT initiation. These data may provide additional insight to thrombocytopenia development in critically ill patients receiving heparin while on CRRT that is not associated with HIT.
Impact of a Bilingual Pharmacy Diabetes Service in a Federally Qualified Health Center
Authors: Chavez Benjamin , Kosirog Emily , Brunner Jason M.
Published: June 2018

Background: Diabetes and its complications disproportionately affect Hispanic patients, many of whom receive care at federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) and prefer to receive care in a language other than English. There is little published data on clinical pharmacy diabetes services in this setting. Objective: This study aims to measure the impact of a Collaborative Drug Therapy Management–driven bilingual clinical pharmacy service on diabetes outcomes in an FQHC that primarily serves Hispanic patients, many of whom prefer to receive their care in Spanish. Methods: Patients were included if they had a diagnosis of diabetes and initial pharmacy visit between July 1, 2015, and March 31, 2016. Individual charts were analyzed for changes in hemoglobin A1C (A1C), changes in blood pressure (BP), number of visits, ethnicity, and primary language preference. Data for these patients were collected through September 30, 2016. Results: The median preintervention A1C was 10.5%; the median postintervention A1C was 9.1% (n = 211; P < 0.0001). Statistically significant BP reductions were also found in patients with uncontrolled hypertension at baseline. There were no statistically significant differences in A1C improvement based on ethnicity or language preference. Conclusion and Relevance: Patients with diabetes managed by Spanish-speaking clinical pharmacists had significant improvement in their A1C. Hispanic and non-Hispanic patients, as well as patients who preferred their care in Spanish, had similar improvements in A1C. Clinical pharmacists who speak Spanish may help reduce diabetes-related health disparities in this population. This collaborative care model could be replicated at other institutions to help underserved patients.
Safety and Efficacy of Apixaban Versus Warfarin in Patients With Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Schafer Joseph H. , Casey Ashley L. , Dupre Kristina A. , Staubes Britta A.
Published: June 2018

Background: Because of a lack of comparative data on anticoagulant use in the advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) population, guidelines recommend warfarin for atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism (VTE) treatment in these patients. However, apixaban has specific dosing recommendations in CKD leading to use in clinical practice. Objective: To evaluate major bleeding, stroke, and thromboembolism rates in patients with CKD stage 4, stage 5, and dialysis on apixaban or warfarin therapy. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with advanced CKD receiving apixaban or warfarin. The primary outcome was the occurrence of major bleeding at 3 months after enrollment. Secondary outcomes included occurrence of major bleeding, occurrence of ischemic stroke, and recurrence of VTE at 3 to 6 and 6 to 12 months. Results: A total of 604 patients were included in the analysis. The percentage of apixaban and warfarin patients with a major bleed at 0 to 3, 3 to 6, and 6 to 12 months were 8.3% versus 9.9% ( P=0.48), 1.4% versus 4% ( P=0.07), and 1.5% versus 8.4% ( P<0.001), respectively. There were no differences in rates of ischemic stroke or recurrent VTE at any time period. Conclusion and Relevance: Patients with advanced CKD taking apixaban had similar bleeding rates at 3 months compared with those taking warfarin. However, those who continued therapy had higher major bleeding rates with warfarin between 6 and 12 months. This study provides knowledge on the effects of a direct oral anticoagulant in a population that was excluded from all major trials.
Comparison of 3 Ways of Dissecting the Pancreatoduodenectomy Specimen and Their Impact in the Lymph Node Count and the Lymph Node Metastatic Ratio
Authors: Lino-Silva Leonardo S. , Salcedo-Hernández Rosa A. , Segales-Rojas Patricia , Zepeda-Najar César
Published: June 2018

Background. Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is a strong prognostic factor in the cancer of the pancreatobiliary tree, but it is influenced by the number of lymph nodes (LNs). The lymph node ratio (LNR) is considered a more reliable factor than the number of LNM. The aim was to examine the LN retrieval and the LNR of 3 pathologic work-up strategies. Methods. Pancreaticoduodenectomies (n = 165) were analyzed comparing 3 pathological dissection techniques, classified as “control,” “Verbeke method,” and “Adsay method” groups. Results. The mean of the dissected LNs and the number of cases with >20 LNs were superior in the Adsay method group, compared with the other groups ( P < .001). The LNR was different between the Adsay and Verbeke groups (0.144 vs 0.069, P = .032). The median of the 3 positive LNs was associated with decreased survival compared with an absence of LNM (3-year specific survival of 48% vs 22%, P = .011). In the multivariate analysis, LNM (hazard ratio = 6.148, 95% confidence interval = 2.02-8.1, P = .042) and the evaluation of >15 LNs (hazard ratio = 12.52, 95% confidence interval = 5.51-21.01, P = .001) were independent predictors of survival. Conclusion. The Adsay technique for LN retrieval was associated with a better LN count, more cases with LNM, and an LNR >0.1.
Measuring Symptoms of Psychopathology in Zambian Orphans and Vulnerable Children: Scale Validation and Psychometric Evaluation
Authors: Murray Sarah McIvor , Bolton Paul , Kane Jeremy C. , Lakin Daniel P. , Skavenski Van Wyk Stephanie , Paul Ravi , Murray Laura K.
Published: June 2018

There is a paucity of validated mental health measures for assessing psychological well-being among HIV-affected youth. We sought to explore the psychometric properties and validity of the Achenbach Youth Self-Report and Child Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Scale among orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) living in Lusaka, Zambia. These scales were administered to 210 OVC aged 13 to 17 years via audio computer-assisted self-interview. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess scale structure, Cronbach’s alpha for internal consistency, and correlations between scales related to mental or psychosocial health for construct validity. A known-groups validation was conducted using local identifications of youth with and without significant psychosocial problems, and test–retest reliability was assessed. Scales exhibited good internal reliability (α > .80), adequate criterion validity (area under the curve > .70), and moderate test–retest reliability (.62-.68). Findings support the utility of these symptom scales for identifying OVC experiencing significant psychosocial problems in Zambia.
Police Response to Children Present at Domestic Violence Incidents
Authors: Swerin Danielle D. , Bostaph Lisa Growette , King Laura L. , Gillespie Lane Kirkland
Published: June 2018

Police response to domestic violence (DV) has continued to change and expand over the past several decades. Although DV was originally considered a private matter, it now represents one of the most common calls for service received by police agencies. While police response to DV incidents has improved substantially, intervention when children are present remains an undeveloped area of research and practice. The present study examined 345 police reports from an agency in the Northwestern United States to explore police response to DV incidents when children are present. Regression analyses indicated that child presence was a statistically significant predictor of victim-directed intervention, victim-directed follow-up, and arrest although in differing directions. While child presence increased the odds of victim-directed intervention and victim-directed follow-up, it decreased the odds of arrest. Findings further indicated that the frequency of police interaction with children present at DV incidents was minimal. Based on these findings, recommendations for policy and practice are discussed.
The Effect of Preference Stability and Extremity on Personalized Advertising
Authors: Li Cong , Liu Jiangmeng , Hong Cheng
Published: June 2018

Personalized advertising is widely believed to be an effective persuasion strategy. A typical personalized advertising process consists of two phases: The message sender first “learns” the message receiver’s preferences, and then “matches” the message to that person according to his or her preferences. The present study argues that this process may be problematic because it assumes that an individual’s preferences are always stable (i.e., preferences remain the same over time) and extreme (i.e., preferences are highly polarized). Through a 2 (message type: personalized vs. nonpersonalized) × 2 (preference stability: high vs. low) × 2 (preference extremity: high vs. low) between-participants experiment ( N = 227), it is shown that the effectiveness of personalized advertising is moderated by preference stability and extremity. A new conceptualization of personalization is proposed based on the study results, and how the two phases of personalized advertising may be refined is highlighted.
Safety of dose-reduced pemetrexed in patients with renal insufficiency
Authors: Hill Jordan , Vargo Craig , Smith Michael , Streeter Jessica , Carbone David P
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Pemetrexed has been shown to be effective in the treatment of advanced and metastatic nonsquamous nonsmall cell lung cancer. In this population, renal insufficiency is common; however, pemetrexed is not recommended in patients with a creatinine clearance (CrCl) < 45 ml/min due to increased myelosuppression reported in phase I trials. The primary objective of this study is to determine the safety of dose-reduced pemetrexed in patients with a CrCl < 45 ml/min.

Methods

This is a retrospective case series describing the incidence of grade 3 or higher toxicity in patients with CrCl < 45 ml/min treated with dose-reduced pemetrexed at The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute at The Ohio State University.

Results

A total of eighteen patients were included. Seven (39%) patients experienced a grade ≥ 3 toxicity. Only 18% of administrations led to a grade ≥ 3 toxicity. Four (22%) patients had grade ≥ 3 hematologic toxicity; three of which were receiving concomitant platinum agents. The fourth patient had a CrCl < 30 ml/min. No patients receiving single-agent pemetrexed with a CrCl > 30 ml/min experienced grade ≥ 3 hematologic toxicity.

Conclusions

Dose-adjusted pemetrexed may be cautiously administered to patients with a CrCl between 30 and 45 ml/min. Extra caution is warranted in patients receiving concomitant chemotherapy with a platinum agent as well as those with a CrCl < 30 ml/min. Pemetrexed in combination with a platinum agent should not be routinely recommended for patients with a CrCl < 30 ml/min.