bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applicability of near infrared spectroscopy for real-time soil detection during automatic dishwashing
Authors: Heidrich Pola , Lambert Edith , Kessler Arnd , Gerstenlauer Michaela , Heißler Heinz , Weber Thomas , Zipfel Johannes , Wüst Mattias , Stamminger Rainer
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this study was to utilize NIR spectrometry to develop a novel method to detect and determine concentrations of different soils in dishwashing liquor during automatic dishwashing in real-time. If it is possible to differentiate between soils, this could be an opportunity to react specifically to them (e.g. by increasing the water temperature if fat components are not sufficiently emulsifying). The possibility of an automatic adaptation of the dishwashing process to different soils and soil levels could lead to a shorter, more environmentally friendly and cost-reducing process. In a first approach, an emulsion containing three soil types (oatmeal, egg-yolk and butterfat), water and detergent were used to develop NIR spectrometry prediction models. Transmittance spectra obtained with an Fourier transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectrometer of testing standards of 76 automatic dishwashing cycles with seven samples per cycle were taken at various times during the main washing process for calibration (and validation) of the NIR spectrometry prediction models. The spectra were pretreated to develop NIR spectrometry prediction models for each type of soil using the partial least squares regression method with cross-validation. Overall, the coefficients of determination in cross-validation are R2 > 0.92 for all NIR spectrometry prediction models developed. The results of the prediction models developed show that NIR spectrometry technology is a promising method to predict different levels of predefined soils in dishwashing liquor. The NIR spectrometry models were applied to an automatic dishwashing process with soiled dishes instead of emulsions containing soils to test their applicability. The resulting dishwashing process could be tracked in real-time by the dissolved soil concentrations, observed in the dishwashing liquor.
The concept and coverage of institution
Authors: Farkas Zoltán
Published: January 2019

The concept of institution is a rather unclear concept in the contemporary social science literature. In the “Introduction,” I give a survey of the different interpretations of the concept of institution. In the first part, I make a distinction between loose norms and tight norms, and I define the concept of institution in connection with the concept of tight norm. Institution is a system of tight norms and additional norms specifying the validity scope of the tight norms as well as the control of their actual realization. Furthermore, I introduce the concept of quasi-institution to denote the typical transitions between norm systems of a different nature. In connection with the shaping of institutions and the control, I introduce the concept of the coverage of institution. The coverage of institution is the ability to shape and change the norms composing the given institution and to control the actions falling into the validity scope of institutional norms. In the second part, institutions are classified according to their coverage and distinction is made between externally covered, one-sidedly covered, and internally covered institutions. Concerning quasi-institutions, I make a distinction between its two typical forms: the norm system with one-person coverage and institutional morals.
HEATSTER: A Database and Web Server for Identification and Classification of Heat Stress Transcription Factors in Plants
Authors: Berz Jannik , Simm Stefan , Schuster Sebastian , Scharf Klaus-Dieter , Schleiff Enrico , Ebersberger Ingo
Published: January 2019

Heat stress transcription factors (HSFs) regulate transcriptional response to a large number of environmental influences, such as temperature fluctuations and chemical compound applications. Plant HSFs represent a large and diverse gene family. The HSF members vary substantially both in gene expression patterns and molecular functions. HEATSTER is a web resource for mining, annotating, and analyzing members of the different classes of HSFs in plants. A web-interface allows the identification and class assignment of HSFs, intuitive searches in the database and visualization of conserved motifs, and domains to classify novel HSFs.
The Effect of Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Patient’s Serum on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Viability
Authors: Patpan Nawapong , Banjerdpongchai Ratana , Tantiworawit Adisak , Poofery Juthathip , Komonrit Phimphan , Fanhchaksai Kanda , Rattanathammethee Thanawat , Chai-Adisaksopha Chatree , Rattarittamrong Ekarat , Norasetthada Lalita , Charoenkwan Pimlak
Published: January 2019

Iron overload is a major complication in transfusion-dependent thalassemia (TDT) patients. Chronic oxidative stress from iron overload may lead to cellular damage and viability. This is a cross-sectional study. Transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients aged ⩾18 years old were enrolled. Transfusion-dependent thalassemia patient’s serum and normal volunteer’s serum were separately incubated with healthy peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The cell viability was measured by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay at 24, 48, and 72 hours. Sixty-nine TDT patients and 22 healthy controls were enrolled. The mean of PBMCs viability after incubation with serum from TDT patients was lower than that with the controls (88.65% vs 103.56% at 24 hours, 78.77% vs 112.04%% at 48 hours, and 71.18% vs 132.16%% at 72 hours, respectively). High serum ferritin level (correlation −0.29, P < .05) and white blood cell (WBC) count negatively affected cell viability (correlation −2.86, P = .05). From multivariate analysis, serum ferritin level is the only significant risk factor that is independently associated with cell viability (correlation −11.42, P < .001). Our findings showed that TDT patient’s serum causes decreased cell viability. Serum ferritin level was a significant independent factor influencing cell viability.
The Nephroprotective Effect of Mannitol in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Receiving Cisplatin Therapy
Authors: Hägerström Erik , Lindberg Lotte , Bentzen Jens , Brødbæk Kasper , Zerahn Bo , Kristensen Bent
Published: January 2019

Introduction:

Cisplatin is used as treatment for several different malignancies and a well-known complication is irreversible kidney damage. To protect the kidneys, this treatment is often combined with mannitol infusion to promote osmotic diuresis. Earlier studies investigating the nephroprotective effect of mannitol have shown conflicting results.

Objective:

To investigate changes in kidney function in head and neck cancer patients treated with cisplatin with and without additional mannitol infusion.

Methods:

A single center, retrospective cohort study of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck receiving radiotherapy with cisplatin. Patient data were collected from November 2013 to December 2014.

Results:

After exclusion, a total of 78 patients were considered evaluable. They were equally distributed between a mannitol and a non-mannitol group and anthropomorphometrically similar. 51Cr-EDTA clearance declined in the mannitol group from 99.7 (19.9) to 96.4 (20.8) mL/min and in the non-mannitol group from 102.2 (17.8) to 92.3 (23.1) mL/min.

Conclusions:

There was a significantly smaller decrease in 51Cr-EDTA clearance in the mannitol group indicating a nephroprotective effect of mannitol.
Designing Places to Be Alone or Together: A Look at Independently Owned Minneapolis Coffeehouses
Authors: Broadway Michael J. , Engelhardt Olivia
Published: January 2019

Coffeehouses are third places, between home and work, where people meet, engage in conversation, establish ties, and form a community. Over the past 30 years, the number of coffeehouses in the United States has increased dramatically, thanks to the growth of the gourmet coffee market. But it is not clear what extra functions coffeehouses perform in the 21st century and specifically whether they still constitute a third place. This article explores this issue by examining whether face-to-face conversations occur within four coffeehouses in an upper income neighborhood of Minneapolis. The study found conversations were a minority activity in three of the four coffeehouses while they flourished in a coffeehouse that emphasized home amenities. These results indicate that designing coffeehouses with office amenities favors the creation of a work environment at the expense of face-to-face interaction.
The State of Feature Writing Today
Authors: Ricketson Matthew , Graham Caroline
Published: January 2019

This commentary considers the changing nature of feature writing within the contexts of: multimedia tools, the online publishing landscape, shrinking newsrooms, changing revenue models, freelance markets, audience and story analytics and journalism education.
Challenges Faced by Journalism Education in Sri Lanka
Authors: Dissanayake D.D. Nirosha Neranjala
Published: January 2019

Mass Media technologies are developing rapidly and media has become an integral part of our day to day life. In this context, the development of media and journalism education in schools, universities and other institutions has been confronted with many challenges. Although there are training courses and educators covering a range of skills for print journalism, broadcast, telecast and online media, there are still many issues pertaining to the quality control, practical relevance and affordability of media and journalism education. Human resource management policies of media companies do not recognize priority on continuation of education of journalists (Gunawardene, 2015).

This study focuses on challenges confronted by media education in Sri Lanka. The intensive interviews and focus group discussions have been applied to collect data and information. It has transpired during the research that media and journalism syllabi should be revised with more theoretical, conceptual and practical inputs based on media education and media literacy. It is necessary to make the public in general aware of media texts. The ever fluctuating dynamics of the media industry and media education has detrimentally affected the general perception on media.
The effect of the 2018 Giro d’Italia on Israel’s tourism firm value
Authors: Nicolau Juan Luis , Sharma Abhinav , Zarankin Tal
Published: January 2019

On September 18, 2017, the organizers of the 2018 Giro d’Italia announced that for the first time in its history, this world famous event would begin outside of Europe—in Israel. This article contributes to the literature by taking advantage of this unique opportunity of analysis; in particular, it tests the effect that this announcement had upon Israeli tourism companies’ market value. The results show that on the very same day the announcement was made, there was an increment in the firm value of these companies. We propose a conceptual model and argue that the hype generated helps enhance the country’s image, leading to higher expectations of incoming tourism. This article presents a contribution to the growing evidence regarding the impact of such announcements upon actual market value of tourism companies.
Anglo-Latino differences in parental concerns and service inequities for children at risk of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Blacher Jan , Stavropoulos Katherine , Bolourian Yasamine
Published: January 2019

In an evaluation of Anglo and Latina mothers and their children at risk of autism, this study compared mother-reported child behavioral concerns to staff-observed symptoms of autism. Within Latina mothers, the impact of primary language (English/Spanish), mothers’ education, and child age on ratings of developmental concerns was examined. Participants were 218 mothers (Anglo = 85; Latina = 133) of children referred to a no-cost autism screening clinic. Mothers reported on behavioral concerns, autism symptomology, and services received; children were administered the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule by certified staff. Results revealed that Anglo and Latino children did not differ by autism symptoms or classification. However, Anglo mothers reported significantly more concerns than Latina mothers. Within the Latina group, analyses revealed significant interaction effects of language and child age; Spanish-speaking mothers of preschoolers endorsed fewer concerns, while Spanish-speaking mothers of school-aged children endorsed more concerns. Despite these reports, Anglo children with a classification of autism spectrum disorder were receiving significantly more services than Latino children with autism spectrum disorder, suggesting early beginnings of a service divide as well as the need for improved parent education on child development and advocacy for Latino families.
Continuum damage mechanics-based ductile behavior and fatigue life estimation of low carbon steels: AISI 1020 and AISI 1030
Authors: Gautam Abhinav , Sarkar Prabir Kumar
Published: January 2019

This paper presents an experimental estimation of the ductile behavior and low-cycle fatigue life for widely used structural steels AISI 1020 and AISI 1030 based on continuum damage mechanics approach. This method identifies the deterioration in stiffness of a material arising from micromechanisms of formation, growth, and coalescence of microvoids. This helps the characterization of the ductile flow behavior of metals through a damage variable D, evaluated via load–unload cyclic tensile test. The influence of strain hardening exponent, commonly treated as a constant in ductile flow characterization, is also explored in the current investigation. Its determination uses the Hollomon constitutive relation. Estimated D at different strain levels defines the corresponding effective stress. Application of this stress to the strain equivalence theory then enables the prediction of the stress–strain curve. The model-based results closely approximate the experimental stress–strain curve up to the onset of necking. The agreement of experimental results for fatigue life of the materials from low-cycle fatigue tests with damage-based low-cycle fatigue model demonstrates the correctness of the experimental findings. The damage-based model additionally helps in the prediction of microcrack nucleation and crack propagation life separately. Fractographic examinations of test specimen exhibit usually observed morphology of involved failure mechanisms. The present study emphasizes the experimental means of damage-based ductile flow assessment involving strain hardening exponent term and also the low-cycle fatigue life estimation. The significance of varying strain hardening exponent is further expressed in terms of the corresponding damage magnitude. The material data obtained from this study depicts the damage state at different levels of plastic strain that may serve as a useful information for metal-forming process design.
Life diagrams: a methodological and analytical tool for accessing life histories
Authors: Söderström Johanna
Published: January 2019

The article argues for the utility of life diagrams as a methodological and analytical tool across various life history projects. Using research on post-war political mobilization among former combatants (in Colombia, Namibia and the United States), the article demonstrates how a life diagram can modify the interview and become a useful analytical tool. During the interview the diagram helps both the research participant and the interviewer to compare different events, weigh various experiences, and ensure that all periods of the life are covered even if the interview is not done chronologically. During the analysis, the diagram offers a contrast with the transcript of the interview, and the shape of the life diagram can be compared across interviews in search of similar types. This visual turn can help address issues of empowerment, through promoting the research participants’ own interpretation of their lives.
Skin Epidermis and Adnexa Regrowth Induced by Treatment With Artificial Dermal Template After Full-Thickness Skin Wound
Authors: Li Binghui , Xue Hang , Zhao Xiaobo , Weng Yuxiong , Li Gongchi , Wang Kun , Zhou Pan , Wu Youtong , Vankelecom Hugo , Chen Jianghai
Published: January 2019

Full-thickness skin wounds are common accidents. Although healing can be achieved by treatments like autologous skin grafts, donor site morbidity is hardly evitable. In this article, we provide compelling evidence demonstrating that artificial dermal template (ADT)-treated wound healing is achieved by regrowth of skin epidermis as well as adnexa without skin grafts by use of rodent models. First, by fixating a chamber to the wound edge, we confirmed that wound healing was achieved by regeneration instead of contracture. We found highly proliferative cells in adnexa in the newly formed skin. In the distal edge of newly formed skin, we identified immature hair follicles at early developing stages, suggesting they were newly regenerated. Second, we observed that the Lgr5-positive hair follicle stem cells contributed to formation of new hair follicles through a lineage tracing model. Also, Lgr6-positive cells were enriched in distal edge of newly developed skin. Finally, WNT signaling pathway mediators were highly expressed in the new skin epidermis and adnexa, implying a potential role of WNT signaling during ADT treatment-stimulated skin regrowth. Taken together, our findings demonstrated that full skin regrowth can be induced by ADT treatment alone, thus arguing for its wide clinical application in skin wound treatment.
The Effect of Parietin Isolated From Rheum ribes L on In Vitro Wound Model Using Human Dermal Fibroblast Cells
Authors: Gundogdu Gulsah , Gundogdu Koksal , Nalci Kemal Alp , Demirkaya Alper Kursat , Yılmaz Tascı Seymanur , Demirkaya Miloglu Fatma , Senol Onur , Hacimuftuoglu Ahmet
Published: January 2019

Parietin is one of the well-known anthraquinone compounds that can be extracted from Rheum ribes L. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of parietin isolated from Rheum ribes L on an in vitro wound model using human dermal fibroblast cells and compare its effectiveness against zinc. The antioxidant effect of parietin was determined by using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazine (DPPH) method. Human dermal fibroblast cells were cultured in proculture medium and were kept until 100% confluence was achieved. The wound model was created by using a pipette tip. After that, different concentrations of parietin and zinc (final concentrations in the well to be 5-250 µM and 25-200 µM, respectively) were added into the medium. The proliferation-inducing effect on cell viability was determined by using MTT assay. Images of cells were taken at 0, 12, and 24 hours. According to the DPPH method, parietin exhibited have antioxidant activity. According to the MTT results, parietin exhibited significant proliferation-inducing effect on cell viability in a dose range of 5 to 10 M, and zinc showed significant proliferation-inducing effect on cell viability at dose 50 µM ( P < .05). In addition, the image of cell proliferation was also shown at the same doses at 24 hours. In this study, we claim that parietin induces cell proliferation at low doses in cases of dermal fibroblast loss. In conclusion, parietin as an alternative to zinc in wound healing could be used by clinicians in the future with more extensive studies.
Effects of Vitamin D Use on Health-Related Quality of Life of Breast Cancer Patients in Early Survivorship
Authors: Andersen M. Robyn , Sweet Erin , Hager Shelly , Gaul Marcia , Dowd Fred , Standish Leanna J.
Published: January 2019

Background: Vitamin D supplements may prevent recurrence, prolong survival, and improve mood for women with breast cancer, although evidence for these effects is preliminary. Methods: This report describes vitamin D supplement use by 553 breast cancer patient/survivors (193 who used a naturopathic oncology [NO] provider and 360 who did not) participating in a matched cohort study of breast cancer outcomes. Results: We found that more than half of breast cancer patients reported using vitamin D supplements. Women who received care from NO providers in early survivorship may be more likely to use vitamin D supplements ( P < .05). Approximately 30% of breast cancer patients with blood levels recorded in their medical chart were potentially vitamin D deficient (<30 ng/mL). Vitamin D supplement use at study enrollment was associated with higher levels of self-reported health-related quality of life (HRQOL) at enrollment ( P < .05) and predicted better HRQOL at 6-month follow-up ( P < .05). Sufficient blood levels of vitamin D recorded between enrollment and follow-up were also associated with better HRQOL at follow-up ( P < .05). Conclusions: Vitamin D supplementation by breast cancer patients is common both during and after treatment for breast cancer, but deficiency may also be common. NO and conventional providers may be able to promote vitamin D sufficiency through vitamin D supplementation and by encouraging healthy solar exposure. Further studies should be undertaken examining whether vitamin D supplementation and higher blood levels might improve HRQOL among women with breast cancer in early survivorship.
Serum 8-Hydroxy-2′-Deoxyguanosine Level as a Potential Biomarker of Oxidative DNA Damage Induced by Ionizing Radiation in Human Peripheral Blood
Authors: Gao Yu , Wang Ping , Wang Zhaonan , Han Lin , Li Jie , Tian Chongbin , Zhao Fengling , Wang Jianpo , Zhao Fang , Zhang Qiao , Lyu Yumin
Published: January 2019

In this study, the effect of ionizing radiation on 8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in human peripheral blood was investigated. Blood samples were collected from 230 radiation workers and 8 patients who underwent radiotherapy for population study. Blood samples from 2 healthy individuals were irradiated with different X-ray doses for in vitro experiment, and levels of 8-OHdG in serum and cell culture supernatants were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Observations demonstrated the positive relationships between serum 8-OHdG level and radiation dose and working period were observed, and serum 8-OHdG levels were higher among interventional radiation workers than among other hospital radiation workers. In addition, 8-OHdG yields in supernatants increased, peaked at 3 Gy of radiation dose, and then decreased with further increases in radiation; the dose–response curve obtained fitted a polynomial function. By contrast, a similar trend was not found in radiotherapy patients. The present study suggests that 8-OHdG may be a useful biomarker reflecting oxidative damage among workers occupationally exposed to low-dose radiation.
Does patriotism work in persuasion across countries? Consumer response to ads with a patriotic theme in South Korea and the U.S.
Authors: Yoo Jinyoung Jinnie , Lee Wei-Na
Published: January 2019

This study aims to explore how consumers' chronic and momentarily activated national identity affect their responses to patriotism-themed ads across countries. Specifically, this study examines (1) how consumer response to patriotism-themed ads varies across cultures in terms of chronic level of national identification; (2) how the activation of national identity influences consumer response to patriotism-themed ads and how this influence varies across cultures. Findings from this study suggest that consumers' cultural orientations influenced their responses to patriotism-themed ads. And, this influence was mediated by the chronic level of national identification. Specifically, Koreans (collectivistic) were likely to respond to patriotism-themed ads more favorably than were Americans (individualistic) due to their higher level of national identification. Results from this study further showed that, when national identity was made salient through an identity prime, consumers' evaluation of the patriotism-themed ads were increased significantly, regardless of their cultural backgrounds. However, such an effect of national identity activation was found to be significantly stronger among Koreans than among Americans.
Community versus hospital-acquired pneumonia in patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Park Chul , Na Soo Jin , Chung Chi Ryang , Cho Yang Hyun , Suh Gee Young , Jeon Kyeongman
Published: January 2019

Background:

Bacterial pneumonia is a major cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. However, it is unknown whether the type of pneumonia, community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) versus hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), should be considered when predicting outcomes for ARDS patients treated with ECMO.

Methods:

We divided a sample of adult patients receiving ECMO for acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by bacterial pneumonia between January 2012 and December 2016 into CAP ( n = 21) and HAP ( n = 35) groups and compared clinical and bacteriological characteristics and outcomes.

Results:

The median acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II and sequential organ failure assessment scores were 22 and 8, respectively, in the CAP and HAP groups. The most commonly identified organism in the CAP group was Streptococcus pneumonia ( n = 12, 57.1%), while Acinectobacter baumanii was the most commonly identified in the HAP group ( n = 13, 37.1%). However, the incidence of multidrug resistant bacteria was not different between groups (57.1% versus 74.3%, p = 0.125). Of the 56 patients in the study, 26 were successfully weaned from ECMO, and 20 were discharged from the hospital. There were no significant differences in ECMO weaning rate (47.6% versus 45.7%, p > 0.999) or survival to discharge rate (33.3% versus 37.1%, p > 0.999) between the two groups. The 30-day and 90-day mortality rates were also similar.

Conclusion:

Patients with CAP and HAP who received ECMO for respiratory support had similar characteristics and clinical outcomes.
Detection rates of recurrent prostate cancer: 68Gallium (Ga)-labelled prostate-specific membrane antigen versus choline PET/CT scans. A systematic review
Authors: Moghul Masood , Somani Bhaskar , Lane Tim , Vasdev Nikhil , Chaplin Brian , Peedell Clive , KandaSwamy Gokul Vignesh , Rai Bhavan Prasad
Published: January 2019

Background:

The aim of this work was to assess the use of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-labelled radiotracers in detecting the recurrence of prostate cancer. PSMA is thought to have higher detection rates when utilized in positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) scans, particularly at lower prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels, compared with choline-based scans.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted comparing choline and PSMA PET/CT scans in patients with recurrent prostate cancer following an initial curative attempt. The primary outcomes were overall detection rates, detection rates at low PSA thresholds, difference in detection rates and exclusive detection rates on a per-person analysis. Secondary outcome measures were total number of lesions, exclusive detection by each scan on a per-lesion basis and adverse side effects.

Results:

Overall detection rates were 79.8% for PSMA and 66.7% for choline. There was a statistically significant difference in detection rates favouring PSMA [OR (M–H, random, 95% confidence interval (CI)) 2.27 (1.06, 4.85), p = 0.04]. Direct comparison was limited to PSA < 2 ng/ml in two studies, with no statistically significant difference in detection rates between the scans [OR (M–H, random, 95% CI) 2.37 (0.61, 9.17) p = 0.21]. The difference in detection on the per-patient analysis was significantly higher in the PSMA scans ( p < 0.00001). All three studies reported higher lymph node, bone metastasis and locoregional recurrence rates in PSMA.

Conclusions:

PSMA PET/CT has a better performance compared with choline PET/CT in detecting recurrent disease both on per-patient and per-lesion analysis and should be the imaging modality of choice while deciding on salvage and nonsystematic metastasis-directed therapy strategies.
Development of the Intercultural Diabetes Online Community Research Council: Codesign and Social Media Processes
Authors: Greenwood Deborah A. , Litchman Michelle L. , Ng Ashley H. , Gee Perry M. , Young Heather M. , Ferrer Mila , Ferrer Jimmy , Memering Chris E. , Eichorst Barbara , Scibilia Renza , Miller Lisa M. S.
Published: January 2019

Background:

This case study describes the formation of the Intercultural Diabetes Online Community Research council (iDOCr) and community advisory board (CAB) to engage the diabetes community and researchers in the codesign of community-based participatory research (CBPR) to examine online peer support in type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Method:

Social media engagement was the foundation for CBPR knowledge generation. During the project, the iDOCr council and CAB (n = 27) met quarterly via video conferencing and three times in person during national diabetes meetings. Data from four Twitter chats were used to explore the usefulness and utility of Twitter data to learn about concerns and priorities of the diabetes online community (DOC) and supported the evolution of iDOCr, the development of a research question and the design of a CBPR study.

Results:

The iDOCr project (1) created a diverse CAB; (2) raised awareness of iDOCr and online peer support, which resulted in support and trust from key opinion leaders within the DOC to enable future partnerships for research and funding; (3) engaged with English- and Spanish-speaking DOC users through social media; and (4) designed a CBPR study supported by Twitter chat data analyses.

Conclusions:

Integrating the voice of people with diabetes (PWD) and the DOC in designing CBPR, through use of a CAB, ensures the most important and relevant research questions are asked. Additional research focused on online peer support may increase health care provider confidence in referring PWD to this low-cost and relatively accessible resource with the potential power to advance health.
Bioinformatics-Based Approaches Predict That MIR-17-5P Functions in the Pathogenesis of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis Through Regulating ABCA1 and CD69
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Ren Yu , Sun Xiaolei , Huang Haiyun , Liu Xiaojia
Published: January 2019

Objective

As the most prevalent type of rhinitis, allergic rhinitis is consisted of seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) and perennial allergic rhinitis. This study is carried out for revealing the mechanisms of SAR.

Methods

Microarray data set GSE43523 (including 7 SAR nasal epithelial cells and 5 nonallergic control nasal epithelial cells) was extracted from Gene Expression Omnibus database. Based on limma package, differential expression analysis for the 2 groups was performed to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Using Multifaceted Analysis Tool for Human Transcriptome online tool, the functions involving the DEGs were predicted by enrichment analysis. Combined with Cytoscape software, protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was built and a significant network module was acquired. In addition, transcription factor (TF)-target and miRNA-target pairs were predicted using WebGestalt tool, and then TF-miRNA-target regulatory network was built by Cytoscape software.

Results

There were 274 DEGs between rhinitis and control samples, including 144 upregulated genes and 130 downregulated genes. After PPI for the DEGs was built, a significant network module was identified. In the TF-miRNA-target regulatory network, ABCA1, CPEB4, CD69, MIR-17-5P, and CREB had higher degrees. Furthermore, both ABCA1 and CD69 were targeted by MIR-17-5P in the regulatory network.

Conclusion

CPEB4 and CREB might be implicated in the pathogenesis of SAR. Besides, MIR-17-5P might also act in SAR via targeting ABCA1 and CD69.
Isometric knee extension force in Japanese type 2 diabetic patients without apparent diabetic polyneuropathy: Data from the Multicenter Survey of the Isometric Lower Extremity Strength in Type 2 Diabetes study
Authors: Nomura Takuo , Ishiguro Tomoyasu , Ohira Masayoshi , Oka Hiroyuki , Ikeda Yukio
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

To determine standard reference values for isometric knee extension force using a cohort of Japanese type 2 diabetic patients without diabetic polyneuropathy.

Methods:

Patient data were collected from the Multicenter Survey of the Isometric Lower Extremity Strength in Type 2 Diabetes study and compared with previously published data of healthy control subjects. In total, we enrolled 898 patients with type 2 diabetes aged 30–87 years, who did not have diabetic polyneuropathy. The control group included 510 healthy subjects aged 30–88 years. Maximum isometric knee extension force (KEF) values were obtained by using a hand-held dynamometer with belt stabilization. In addition, KEF (kgf) was adjusted for bodyweight (kg) to calculate %KEF.

Results:

KEF and %KEF decreased with age in both patients with diabetes and healthy control subjects. The mean values of KEF and %KEF in patients with diabetes were reduced by 9.7% and 20.8%, respectively, in males, and by 11.6% and 23.0%, respectively, in females compared to the values in healthy control subjects.

Conclusion:

KEF and %KEF in patients with type 2 diabetes without diabetic polyneuropathy may reduce by approximately 10% and 20%, respectively, compared to these values in healthy control subjects. This study provides reference values for isometric KEF with respect to sex in a population covering a wide age range.
Hypertensive heart disease: Benefit of carvedilol in hemodynamic, left ventricular remodeling, and survival
Authors: Dominguez Renata F , da Costa-Hong Valeria A , Ferretti Luan , Fernandes Fabio , Bortolotto Luiz A , Consolim-Colombo Fernanda M , Egan Brent M , Lopes Heno F
Published: January 2019

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine if carvedilol improved structural and functional changes in the left ventricle and reduced mortality in patients with hypertensive heart disease.

Methods:

Blood pressure, heart rate, echocardiographic parameters, and laboratory variables, were assessed pre and post treatment with carvedilol in 98 eligible patients.

Results:

Carvedilol at a median dose of 50 mg/day during the treatment period in hypertensive heart disease lowered blood pressure 10/10 mmHg, heart rate 10 beats/min, improved left ventricular ejection fraction from baseline to follow-up (median: 6 years) (36%–47%)) and reduced left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic dimensions (62 vs 56 mm; 53 vs 42 mm, respectively, all p-values <0.01). Left ventricular ejection fraction increased in 69% of patients. Patients who did not have improved left ventricular ejection fraction had nearly six-fold higher mortality than those that improved (relative risk; 5.7, 95% confidence interval: 1.3–25, p = 0.022).

Conclusion:

Carvedilol reduced cardiac dimensions and improved left ventricular ejection fraction and cardiac remodeling in patients with hypertensive heart disease. These treatment-related changes had a favorable effect on survival.
When data is capital: Datafication, accumulation, and extraction
Authors: Sadowski Jathan
Published: January 2019

The collection and circulation of data is now a central element of increasingly more sectors of contemporary capitalism. This article analyses data as a form of capital that is distinct from, but has its roots in, economic capital. Data collection is driven by the perpetual cycle of capital accumulation, which in turn drives capital to construct and rely upon a universe in which everything is made of data. The imperative to capture all data, from all sources, by any means possible influences many key decisions about business models, political governance, and technological development. This article argues that many common practices of data accumulation should actually be understood in terms of data extraction, wherein data is taken with little regard for consent and compensation. By understanding data as a form capital, we can better analyse the meaning, practices, and implications of datafication as a political economic regime.
Laboratory Estimation of Occupational Exposures to Volatile Organic Compounds During Nail Polish Application
Authors: Heaton Tasha , Hurst Laura K. , Amiri Azita , Lungu Claudiu T. , Oh Jonghwa
Published: January 2019

In the United States, there are more than 120,000 nail salons in which workers could be potentially exposed to a number of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in various procedures. Measuring workers exposure in the field is time-consuming and could be very expensive. The purpose of this study was to estimate the VOC levels in the proximity of workers in nail salons through simulating the application process of some popular nail polishes in a laboratory chamber. The worst-case scenario was defined as a worker’s exposure during nail polish application to one set of fingernails every 15 minutes for an 8-hour shift (total nail sets = 32). Nail polish was applied on paper plates in a flow-controlled test chamber. Air was sampled during the application of five different nail polishes for 8 hours using passive air samplers and the experiment was triplicated. Passive samplers were used for VOCs and formaldehyde. In this worst-case scenario setting, a total of 17 VOCs were detected, with eight that were found in all the samples. The mean concentration of butyl acetate (161-330 ppm, parts per million) and ethyl acetate (440 ppm) exceeded the threshold limit value (TLV) of 150 ppm and 400 ppm, respectively. Formaldehyde was analyzed separately and the mean concentrations exceeded the TLV of 0.10 ppm in all types of nail polish, ranging from 0.12 ppm to 0.22 ppm. Occupational safety and health professionals could use these data to increase awareness of workers’ potential exposure to high levels of VOCs in nail salons and recommend practical measures to reduce potential exposures.
Comparative analysis of functional outcome of anatomical precontoured locking plate versus reconstruction plate in the management of displaced midshaft clavicular fractures
Authors: Kingsly P , Sathish M , Ismail N Deen Muhammad
Published: January 2019

Introduction:

For the fixation of displaced midshaft clavicular fractures, different plates are available, each with its specific pros and cons. The ideal plating choice remains subject to ongoing discussion. Reconstruction plates are cheap and easily bendable, but their strength and stability have been questioned. The anatomical precontoured locking plates provide better stability and strength compared with the reconstruction plate.

Materials and methods:

We have analyzed both prospectively and retrospectively 55 cases of displaced midshaft clavicular fractures treated surgically using precontoured anatomical locking plate (24 cases) or reconstruction plate (31 cases) for patients admitted in our institute between January 2011 and December 2017. The clinical and radiological outcomes between the reconstruction plate and precontoured anatomical locking plate were compared using Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score and plain radiographs, respectively.

Results:

The mean time to union was 16.3 weeks in the reconstruction plate group compared with 13.4 weeks in the precontoured locking plate group. The mean score in Quick DASH was 32.65 in the reconstruction group and 25.44 points in the precontoured locking plate group. We had complications such as hypertrophic scar, painful shoulder, and restricted range of motion in both the groups, whereas screw cutout and plate failure were noted only in the reconstruction plate group, which needed implant removal. The mean follow-up period was 16.44 months (14–31 months). The removal of implant was carried out in three patients in the reconstruction group. None of the group had nonunion.

Conclusion:

Surgical management of fresh middle third clavicle fractures with anatomical precontoured locking plate provided stable fixation, faster union, and better functional outcome compared with the reconstruction plating. Anatomical plate had the advantage of less soft tissue stripping, and there is less need for lag screw fixation of the plate for fracture stability as precontoured plate itself provides a rigid construct.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction With Hamstring Autograft: A Matched Cohort Comparison of the All-Inside and Complete Tibial Tunnel Techniques
Authors: Desai Vishal S. , Anderson Gregory R. , Wu Isabella T. , Levy Bruce A. , Dahm Diane L. , Camp Christopher L. , Krych Aaron J. , Stuart Michael J.
Published: January 2019

Background:

Surgical reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the most common orthopaedic procedures, with an estimated 100,000 to 175,000 procedures performed annually. Recently, the all-inside reconstruction technique has come into favor and is theorized to be superior to the complete tibial tunnel technique.

Purpose:

To compare clinical and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) for hamstring autograft ACL reconstruction (ACLR) performed with an all-inside versus a complete tibial tunnel technique.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients who underwent hamstring autograft ACLR via either an all-inside approach (femoral and tibial sockets) or a complete tibial tunnel approach (femoral socket and full-length, transtibial tunnel) at a single institution between July 2011 and July 2015 were reviewed. Demographic information, preoperative comorbidities, surgical details, physical examination findings, and follow-up outcomes were extracted from the medical record. Physical examination data included pivot-shift, Lachman, and range of motion examinations, whereas PROs included the Tegner activity scale, Lysholm score, and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score at a minimum of 2 years after surgery. Return to sport and risk factors for failure were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 82 patients (mean ± SD age, 25.8 ± 10.2 years) who underwent all-inside reconstruction (median PRO follow-up, 30.1 months; range, 24.7-72.9 months) and 54 patients (mean ± SD age, 21.1 ± 7.3 years) who underwent complete tibial tunnel reconstruction (median PRO follow-up, 25.8 months; range, 23.9-74.5 months) met the inclusion criteria. PRO scores at latest follow-up were comparable between the all-inside versus the complete tibial tunnel groups (Lysholm score, 93.8 vs 94.4, P = .621; IKDC score, 93.5 vs 93.3, P = .497; Tegner activity score, 6.4 vs 6.8, P = .048). Complications (including graft failure) were experienced by 20% of patients in the all-inside group compared with 24% in the complete tibial tunnel group ( P = .530). Graft failure before the final follow-up was experienced by 10% of patients in the all-inside group compared with 19% in the complete tibial tunnel group ( P = .200). Mean return to sport was 12.5 months in the all-inside group versus 9.9 months in the complete tibial tunnel group ( P = .028).

Conclusion:

All-inside and complete tibial tunnel hamstring autograft ACLR resulted in excellent physical examination findings and PROs at minimum 2-year follow-up. Both techniques successfully restored knee stability and patient function.
Lin28b regulates age-dependent differences in murine platelet function
Authors: Stolla Massiel Chavez , Catherman Seana C. , Kingsley Paul D. , Rowe R. Grant , Koniski Anne D. , Fegan Katherine , Vit Leah , McGrath Kathleen E. , Daley George Q. , Palis James
Published: January 2019

Platelets are essential for hemostasis; however, several studies have identified age-dependent differences in platelet function. To better understand the origins of fetal platelet function, we have evaluated the contribution of the fetal-specific RNA binding protein Lin28b in the megakaryocyte/platelet lineage. Because activated fetal platelets have very low levels of P-selectin, we hypothesized that the expression of platelet P-selectin is part of a fetal-specific hematopoietic program conferred by Lin28b. Using the mouse as a model, we find that activated fetal platelets have low levels of P-selectin and do not readily associate with granulocytes in vitro and in vivo, relative to adult controls. Transcriptional analysis revealed high levels of Lin28b and Hmga2 in fetal, but not adult, megakaryocytes. Overexpression of LIN28B in adult mice significantly reduces the expression of P-selectin in platelets, and therefore identifies Lin28b as a negative regulator of P-selectin expression. Transplantation of fetal hematopoietic progenitors resulted in the production of platelets with low levels of P-selectin, suggesting that the developmental regulation of P-selectin is intrinsic and independent of differences between fetal and adult microenvironments. Last, we observe that the upregulation of P-selectin expression occurs postnatally, and the temporal kinetics of this upregulation are recapitulated by transplantation of fetal hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells into adult recipients. Taken together, these studies identify Lin28b as a new intrinsic regulator of fetal platelet function.
Experience of finding footwear and factors contributing to footwear choice in people with gout: a mixed methods study using a web‐based survey
Authors: Brenton‐Rule Angela , Dalbeth Nicola , Edwards N. Lawrence , Rome Keith
Published: January 2019

Background

Gout frequently affects the foot, particularly the first metatarsophalangeal joint. People with gout commonly wear ill‐fitting footwear that lacks cushioning and support, which may further contribute to foot pain and disability. Footwear with good cushioning and motion control may be an effective non‐pharmacological intervention. Currently, there is limited understanding about the footwear experience in people with gout. The aim was to understand footwear characteristics, experience of finding footwear, and factors contributing to footwear choice, in people with gout.

Methods

A web‐based survey of people visiting a gout education website. Participants self‐reported a diagnosis of gout. The 17‐item survey included questions to elicit demographic and clinical characteristics, type of footwear worn, level of difficulty finding appropriate footwear, and factors contributing to choices about footwear. A mixed quantitative and qualitative methodology was used to report survey findings.

Results

Survey respondents (n = 83) were predominately White/Caucasian (84%), male (58%), and aged between 46 and 75 years‐old (73%). Thirty‐nine percent were newly diagnosed (< 12 months), 43% had gout for 1–10 years, and 19% had disease over 10 years. Gout flares in the feet were reported by 77 (93%) respondents, mostly in the big toe joint (73%). Seventy‐six (92%) participants completed questions about footwear. Closed‐in athletic shoes (88%), sturdy walking shoes (79%), and casual closed‐in slip‐on shoes (63%) were most frequently worn. Orthopaedic shoes were worn least often (16%). Comfort, fit, support, and ease to put on/take off were the features most often rated as important or very important when choosing footwear. Over half the respondents (64%) reported difficulty in finding footwear. Three categories, encompassing seven subcategories, were identified from the qualitative analysis to describe experiences of footwear. Categories included difficulty finding suitable shoes; impact of shoes on activity; and preferred footwear.

Conclusions

People with gout need comfortable shoes that conform to the foot, have a wide opening, made from pliable materials with adjustable straps. The main barriers related to footwear include difficulty finding shoes that are wide enough, suitable for work and aesthetically pleasing. These findings provide clinicians with important insights into the priorities and needs of people with gout that should be considered when developing footwear interventions.