bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Suspension with Motorization to Measure the Speed of Gravity
Authors: Linares Henrique , Frajuca Carlos , Bortoli Fabio S. , Santos Givanildo A. , Nakamoto Francisco Y.
Published: August 2017

This work aims to design a magnetic suspension for an experiment to measure gravitys velocity. Such device must rotate two objects symmetrically with the greatest mass and largest radius as possible, at the speed of [Formula: see text], which means this device falls into the high-speed machines category. The guidelines and solutions proposed in this paper constitute a contribution to this class of engineering problems and were based on an extensive literature search, contacts with experts, the tutors and author’s experience, as well as on experimental results. The main solution proposed is a hybrid bearing that combines a radial passive magnetic bearing with an axial sliding bearing, here called MPS (Magnetic Passive and Sliding) bearing.
On Slowly Rotating Magnetized White Dwarfs
Authors: Terrero Diana Alvear , Paret Daryel Manreza , Martínez Aurora Pérez
Published: August 2017

Rotating magnetized white dwarfs are studied within the framework of general relativity using Hartle’s formalism. Matter inside magnetized white dwarfs is described by an equation of state of particles under the action of a constant magnetic field which introduces anisotropic pressures. Our study is done for values of magnetic field below [Formula: see text] G - a threshold of the maximum magnetic field obtained by the cylindrical metric solution - and typical densities of WDs. The effects of the rotation and magnetic field combined are discussed, we compute relevant magnitudes such as the moment of inertia, quadrupole moment and eccentricity.
SGRs/AXPs as Rotation-Powered Neutron Stars
Authors: de Lima Rafael C. R. , Coelho Jaziel G. , Malheiro Manuel , Rueda Jorge A. , Ruffini Remo
Published: August 2017

We show that nine soft gamma repeaters (SGRs) and Anomalous X-ray Pulsars (AXPs) of the twenty three known sources can be described as rotation-powered canonical pulsars. To accomplish this we use realistic parameters of rotating neutron stars obtained from numerical integration of the self-consistent axisymmetric general relativistic equations of equilibrium. We present limits to the NS mass where the sources can be rotation-powered.
Maxwell Equation Violation by Density Dependent Magnetic Fields in Neutron Stars
Authors: Alloy Marcelo D. , Menezes Débora P.
Published: August 2017

We show that the widely used density dependent magnetic field prescriptions, necessary to account for the variation of the field intensity from the crust to the core of neutron stars violate one of the Maxwell equations. We estimate how strong the violation is when different equations of state are used and check for which cases the pathological problem can be cured. We then propose a simple solution that allows for the usual prescriptions to be used without violating a fundamental equation of physics.
Evidence for Two Neutrino Bursts from SN1987A
Authors: Valentim Rodolfo , Horvath Jorge E. , Rangel Eraldo M.
Published: August 2017

The SN1987A in the Giant Magellanic Cloud was an amazing and extraordinary event because it was detected in real time for different neutrinos experiments ([Formula: see text]s) around the world. Approximate [Formula: see text] events were observed in three different experiments: Kamiokande II (KII) [Formula: see text], Irvine-Michigan-Brookhaven (IMB) [Formula: see text] e Baksan [Formula: see text], plus a contrived burst at Mont Blanc (Liquid Scintillator Detector - LSD) later dismissed because of energetic requirements (Aglietta et al. 1988). The neutrinos have an important play role into the neutron star newborn: at the moment when the supernova explodes the compact object remnant is freezing by neutrinos ([Formula: see text] energy is lost in the few seconds of the explosion). The work is motivated by neutrinos’ event in relation arrival times where there is a temporal gap between set of events ([Formula: see text]). The first part of dataset came from the ordinary mechanism of freezing and the second part suggests different mechanism of neutrinos production. We tested two models of cooling for neutrinos from SN1987A: 1st an exponential cooling is an ordinary model of cooling and 2nd a two-step temperature model that it considers two bursts separated with temporal gap. Our analysis was done with Bayesian tools (Bayesian Information Criterion - BIC) The result showed strong evidence in favor of a two-step model against one single exponential cooling ([Formula: see text]), and suggests the existence of two neutrino bursts at the moment the neutron star was born.
Exploring Hot Quark Matter in Strong Magnetic Fields
Authors: Farias Ricardo L. S. , Timóteo Varese S. , Avancini Sidney S. , Pinto Marcus B. , Krein Gastão I.
Published: August 2017

Considering LQCD results for the quark condensates we determine the thermomagnetic dependence of NJL model coupling and then study the thermodynamical properties of hot magnetized quark matter.
Chiral Symmetry Restoration for Quark Matter with a Chiral Chemical Potential
Authors: Farias Ricardo L. S. , Duarte Dyana C. , Krein Gastão , Ramos Rudnei O.
Published: August 2017

In this work we study the chiral transition in quark matter at finite temperature and in the presence of a chiral imbalance in the Nambu–Jona-Lasinio model. We use the Medium Separation Scheme (MSS) to rewrite divergent momentum integrals that appear in the model in such way that we can conciliate results obtained with the model and recent lattice results for the chiral transition.
About Bonnor Solution and Gravitational Redshift
Authors: Troconis Orlenys , Alfradique Viviane , Negreiros Rodrigo
Published: August 2017

We consider the analytical Bonnor solution for a relativistic neutron star and discuss about the limit in which this solution satisfies Einstein-Maxwell equations. We study the gravitational redshift for Bonnor solution without electric charge. We find that for stars with magnetic fields up to [Formula: see text] in the center, the gravitational redshift for Bonnor metric differs from the Schwarzschild solution on a term that depends on magnetic dipole moment and the polar angle of the emission signal.
Exploring the BEC-BCS Crossover in a Cold and Magnetized 2-Color QCD
Authors: Duarte Dyana C. , Allen Pablo G. , Farias Ricardo L. S. , Manso Patrícia H. A. , Scoccola Norberto N.
Published: August 2017

We study the BEC-BCS crossover in the presence of an external magnetic field for a two color NJL model with diquark interactions, giving special attention to the regularization scheme. We found a inverse magnetic catalysis on the critical chemical potentials, both for BEC phase transition and the BEC-BCS crossover for small values of magnetic fields, and a magnetic catalysis for large [Formula: see text].
The Ds1(2536)+ Decay Widths in the C3P0 Model
Authors: Rodrigues Hercules B. , da Silva Daniel T. , Hadjimichef Dimiter
Published: August 2017

The Fock-Tani representation is a field theory formalism appropriated for the simultaneous treatment of composite particles and their constituents. The 3P0 model is a typical decay model which considers only OZI-allowed strong decays. The model considers a quark-antiquark pair created with the vacuum quantum numbers in the presence of the initial state meson. It is described as the non-relativistic limit of the pair creation Hamiltonian. Applying the Fock-Tani transformation to the microscopic Hamiltonian of the pair creation produces the characteristic expansion in powers of the wavefunction, where the 3P0 model is the lowest order in the expansion. The corrected 3P0 model (C3P0) is obtained from higher orders in the expansion, by the introduction of the bound state kernel [Formula: see text], called the bound state correction. The goal of this work is to study the application of the 3P0 model and C3P0 model in detail for the strange charmed meson sector ([Formula: see text] meson). In particular, we shall calculate the decay amplitudes and decay rates of the [Formula: see text].
Sparse Online Learning of Image Similarity
Authors: Gao Xingyu , Hoi Steven C. H. , Zhang Yongdong , Zhou Jianshe , Wan Ji , Chen Zhenyu , Li Jintao , Zhu Jianke
Published: August 2017

Learning image similarity plays a critical role in real-world multimedia information retrieval applications, especially in Content-Based Image Retrieval (CBIR) tasks, in which an accurate retrieval of visually similar objects largely relies on an effective image similarity function. Crafting a good similarity function is very challenging because visual contents of images are often represented as feature vectors in high-dimensional spaces, for example, via bag-of-words (BoW) representations, and traditional rigid similarity functions, for example, cosine similarity, are often suboptimal for CBIR tasks. In this article, we address this fundamental problem, that is, learning to optimize image similarity with sparse and high-dimensional representations from large-scale training data, and propose a novel scheme of Sparse Online Learning of Image Similarity (SOLIS). In contrast to many existing image-similarity learning algorithms that are designed to work with low-dimensional data, SOLIS is able to learn image similarity from large-scale image data in sparse and high-dimensional spaces. Our encouraging results showed that the proposed new technique achieves highly competitive accuracy as compared to the state-of-the-art approaches but enjoys significant advantages in computational efficiency, model sparsity, and retrieval scalability, making it more practical for real-world multimedia retrieval applications.
Atrial Fibrillation Ablation
Authors: Latchamsetty Rakesh , Morady Fred
Published: August 2017

The prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) has risen significantly over the past two decades. Catheter ablation is an increasingly utilized treatment strategy and has evolved significantly over the same time period. Successful ablation improves patient symptoms, reduces stroke risk, and can preserve or improve cardiac function. Recurrences following ablation can occur, particularly in patients with persistent AF. Procedural efficacy can best be improved through continued advancements in ablation technology and strategy, better understanding of the mechanisms of AF initiation and perpetuation, and rigorous integration of ablation into a multidisciplinary AF management approach.
Experimental Research on Vibration Fatigue of CFRP and Its Influence Factors Based on Vibration Testing
Authors: Fan Zhengwei , Jiang Yu , Zhang Shufeng , Chen Xun
Published: August 2017

A new research method based on vibration testing for the vibration fatigue of FRP was proposed in this paper. Through the testing on a closed-loop controlled vibration fatigue test system, the vibration fatigue phenomenon of typical carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) cantilevered laminate specimens was carefully studied. Moreover, a method based on the frequency response function was proposed to monitor the fatigue damage accumulation of specimens. On the basis of that, the influence factors that affect the vibration fatigue life of CFRP were experimentally studied. The influence of amplitude probability distribution of the vibration load spectrum on the fatigue life was deeply explored. Compared with Gaussian random vibration, the non-Gaussian random load has a significant impact on the vibration fatigue life of CFRP. The experimental results also showed that the magnitude of power spectral density (PSD) has a significant effect on the vibration fatigue life of specimens. For Gaussian vibration load, the frequency bandwidth almost has no effects on the vibration fatigue life of CFRP. However, for non-Gaussian vibration load, it has a great impact on the fatigue life. When PSD magnitude and frequency bandwidth are constant, the root mean square (RMS) is proportional to the vibration fatigue life of composites.
Risk of Contamination of Gametes and Embryos during Cryopreservation and Measures to Prevent Cross-Contamination
Authors: Joaquim Daniel C. , Borges Eduardo D. , Viana Iara G. R. , Navarro Paula A. , Vireque Alessandra A.
Published: August 2017

The introduction and widespread application of vitrification are one of the most important achievements in human assisted reproduction techniques (ART) of the past decade despite controversy and unclarified issues, mostly related to concerns about disease transmission. Guidance documents published by US Food and Drug Administration, which focused on the safety of tissue/organ donations during Zika virus spread in 2016, as well as some reports of virus, bacteria, and fungi survival to cryogenic temperatures, highlighted the need for a review of the way how potentially infectious material is handled and stored in ART-related procedures. It was experimentally demonstrated that cross-contamination between liquid nitrogen (LN2) and embryos may occur when infectious agents are present in LN2 and oocytes/embryos are not protected by a hermetically sealed device. Thus, this review summarizes pertinent data and opinions regarding the potential hazard of infectious transmission through cryopreserved and banked reproductive cells and tissues in LN2. Special attention is given to the survival of pathogens in LN2, the risk of cross-contamination, vitrification methods, sterility of LN2, and the risks associated with the use of straws, cryovials, and storage dewars.
MicroRNA Profiling in Cartilage Ageing
Authors: Balaskas Panagiotis , Goljanek-Whysall Katarzyna , Clegg Peter , Fang Yongxiang , Cremers Andy , Emans Pieter , Welting Tim , Peffers Mandy
Published: August 2017

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common age-related joint disorder in man. MicroRNAs (miRNA), a class of small noncoding RNAs, are potential therapeutic targets for regulating molecular mechanisms in both disease and ageing. Whilst there is an increasing amount of research on the roles of miRNAs in ageing, there has been scant research on age-related changes in miRNA in a cartilage. We undertook a microarray study on young and old human cartilages. Findings were validated in an independent cohort. Contrasts between these samples identified twenty differentially expressed miRNAs in a cartilage from old donors, derived from an OA environment which clustered based on OA severity. We identified a number of recognised and novel miRNAs changing in cartilage ageing and OA including miR-126: a potential new candidate with a role in OA pathogenesis. These analyses represent important candidates that have the potential as cartilage ageing and OA biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Vulnerability Analysis of Interdependent Scale-Free Networks with Complex Coupling
Authors: Cao Chunjie , Zhang Zhiqiang , Sun Jingzhang , Wang Xianpeng , Huang Mengxing
Published: August 2017

Recent studies have shown that random nodes are vulnerable in interdependent networks with simple coupling. However, relationships in actual networks are interrelated and complex coupling. This paper analyzes the vulnerability of interdependent scale-free networks with complex coupling based on the BA model. The results indicate that these networks have the same vulnerability against the maximum node attack, the load of the maximum node attack, and the random node attack, which explain that the coupling relationship between network nodes is an important factor in network design.
Particulate Matter Exposure and Stress Hormone Levels
Authors: Li Huichu , Cai Jing , Chen Renjie , Zhao Zhuohui , Ying Zhekang , Wang Lin , Chen Jianmin , Hao Ke , Kinney Patrick L. , Chen Honglei , Kan Haidong
Published: August 2017

Background:

Exposure to ambient particulate matter (PM) is associated with a number of adverse health outcomes, but potential mechanisms are largely unknown. Metabolomics represents a powerful approach to study global metabolic changes in response to environmental exposures. We therefore conducted this study to investigate changes in serum metabolites in response to the reduction of PM exposure among healthy college students.

Methods:

We conducted a randomized, double-blind crossover trial in 55 healthy college students in Shanghai, China. Real and sham air purifiers were placed in participants’ dormitories in random order for 9 days with a 12-day washout period. Serum metabolites were quantified by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Between-treatment differences in metabolites were examined using orthogonal partial least square-discriminant analysis and mixed-effect models. Secondary outcomes include blood pressure, corticotropin-releasing hormone, adrenocorticotropic hormone, insulin resistance, and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Results:

The average personal exposure to PMs with aerodynamic diameters ≤2.5 μm was 24.3 μg/m
3
during the real purification and 53.1 μg/m
3
during the sham purification. Metabolomics analysis showed that higher exposure to PMs with aerodynamic diameters ≤2.5 μm led to significant increases in cortisol, cortisone, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Between-treatment differences were also observed for glucose, amino acids, fatty acids, and lipids. We found significantly higher blood pressure, hormones, insulin resistance, and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation among individuals exposed to higher PMs with aerodynamic diameters ≤2.5 μm.

Conclusions:

This study suggests that higher PM may induce metabolic alterations that are consistent with activations of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal and sympathetic-adrenal-medullary axes, adding potential mechanistic insights into the adverse health outcomes associated with PM. Furthermore, our study demonstrated short-term reductions in stress hormone following indoor air purification.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT02712333.
SHEFFER’S STROKE: A STUDY IN PROOF-THEORETIC HARMONY
Authors: Read Stephen
Published: August 2017

In order to explicate Gentzen’s famous remark that the introduction-rules for logical constants give their meaning, the elimination-rules being simply consequences of the meaning so given, we develop natural deduction rules for Sheffer’s stroke, alternative denial. The first system turns out to lack Double Negation. Strengthening the introduction-rules by allowing the introduction of Sheffer’s stroke into a disjunctive context produces a complete system of classical logic, one which preserves the harmony between the rules which Gentzen wanted: all indirect proof reduces to direct proof.
Factors Associated with the Climate Change Vulnerability and the Adaptive Capacity of People with Disability: A Systematic Review
Authors: Gaskin Cadeyrn J. , Taylor Davina , Kinnear Susan , Mann Julie , Hillman Wendy , Moran Monica
Published: August 2017

People with disability experience multidimensional inequalities, which heighten their vulnerability to climate change. An understanding of the vulnerability and adaptive capacity of people with disability can be gained through considering how they have fared during the types of events associated with climate change, such as droughts, floods, heat waves, hurricanes, and wildfires. A systematic review was conducted to identify factors associated with climate change vulnerability and adaptive capacity of people with disability. Papers were sourced from 12 electronic databases, the Google search engine, the websites of 21 organizations, and the reference lists of included papers; 34 papers (relating to 28 studies) met the selection criteria. Most studies were located in the United States, and almost half were focused on hurricane events. Factors contributing to vulnerability included personal factors (e.g., female gender, uncoupled or living alone, nonwhite ethnicity, and low income), environmental factors (commonly, limited practical support from government agencies and disability organizations), bodily impairments (cognitive impairments, hearing impairments, progression of impairments, relapse/exacerbation of symptoms, and thermoregulation difficulties), and activity limitations and participation restrictions (limited preparedness, difficulties with evacuation, and difficulties reassembling individual accommodations and repairing or replacing adaptive equipment). Factors relating to their adaptive capacity included personal factors (e.g., formal education), environmental factors (practical support from mainstream organizations, disability organizations, family, and friends), and activities and participation (emergency planning, keeping an emergency pack, and seeking information). People with disability are vulnerable to climate change largely due to inequalities and their exclusion from adaptation and mitigation efforts.
To capitalise or not to capitalise? Public agencies versus urban residents
Authors: Hananel Ravit , Berechman Joseph
Published: August 2017

In recent decades, urban residents in various countries have faced the dilemma of whether to accept offers, made by public authorities’ agencies, to increase their property rights in the housing units in which they live or to maintain their existing status and pay higher annual fees. These offers, involving a broad range of housing ownership policies, have often met with indifference or only marginal acceptance. In this paper we analyse the factors that seem to underlie the tenants’ (or lessees’) preferences and the housing authorities’ proposals. To explain the results we use a sequential game approach, in which the two sides, the lessees and the authorities, base their decisions on their respective payoffs and the response of the other party. The data regarding the acceptance or rejection of the authorities’ proposals are from the Israeli housing market, where fees and property rights are the key variables.
‘Media events’: first quarter of a century and the next
Authors: Lee Chin-Chuan , Li Hongtao
Published: August 2017

We argue that the concept ‘media events’ has renewed the relevance of many existing studies, sharpened the significance of other studies, and inspired a stream of research. We then review our work on media events in relation to the grand narratives of national interest and collective memory. To reinvigorate the conceptual viability of ‘media events’, we put forward four questions for consideration in the larger theoretical, technological, and globalized contexts.
The High and Lofty One Dwelling in the Heights and with his Servants: Intertextual Connections of Theological Significance between Isaiah 6, 53 and 57
Authors: Dekker Jaap
Published: August 2017

Within the book of Isaiah the statement of 57.15 about the High and Lofty One and his dwelling in the heights refers to the throne vision of Isaiah 6. Surprisingly, the exaltation of the Servant in 52.13 is described using verbs of the same Hebrew stem as are used for the Holy One and his throne. The Servant will be exalted and lifted up, though according to the book of Isaiah it is a divine prerogative to be exalted (2.11, 17) and Yhwh will not give his glory to another (42.8; 48.11). The statement of 57.15, at the same time, proclaims that the High and Lofty One dwells with the contrite and humble in spirit, pointing to the servants of the Lord, but in the first instance using a noun that refers to the Servant of Isaiah 53 who, preceding his exaltation, has been crushed for the iniquities of his people (53.5, 10). These observations invite us to study these and other intertextual connections between Isaiah 6, 53 and 57, and to explore their significance for understanding the God talk of the book of Isaiah. In this article it is argued that within the context of the book the prophecy of Isaiah 53 functions as the missing link between the different statements which Isaiah 6 and 57 make about the High and Lofty One.
Lack of compassion or poor discretion? Ways of addressing malpractice
Authors: Tveit Bodil , Raustøl Anne
Published: August 2017

In this article, our point of departure is the ‘compassion crisis’ in the National Health Service in the UK and the initiatives introduced in the aftermath of scandals that were intended to strengthen healthcare professionals’ ability to show compassion. We look at the two main strategies, which we term the ‘recruitment and staff development strategy’ and the ‘amelioration of the quality systems strategy’ and the debate that has arisen related to them. Based on this analysis, we question whether compassion really is a helpful concept to understand the crisis and hence to underpin relevant strategies. We introduce the concept of discretion as an alternative and better concept to comprehend the situation. One of the benefits of the concept of discretion is that it clarifies how problems can be addressed, both as structural problems and as epistemic problems and how these aspects are intertwined. It also helps us to see how solving these problems is complicated and demands comprehensive, in-depth approaches, involving formative aspects related to healthcare education, as well as development of new healthcare policies.
Public health messages about antibiotic treatment for respiratory tract infection may increase perceived symptom severity reporting
Authors: Lawrence Claire , Ferguson Eamonn
Published: August 2017

Public health campaigns to reduce expectations for antibiotic treatment for respiratory tract infections have shown little or no effect on antibiotic prescribing and consumption. We examined whether such messages can increase respiratory tract infection symptom reporting. Participants ( N = 318) received one of four campaign messages, a combination of all four messages, or no message. Respiratory tract infection symptoms increased for those who received information that emphasized the ineffectiveness of antibiotic treatment for respiratory tract infections. As symptom severity is associated with greater contact with primary healthcare and receiving antibiotic prescriptions, campaigns to encourage antimicrobial stewardship should consider the side effects of antibiotic ineffectiveness messages.
The aging population in China: Subjective well-being of empty nesters in rural eastern China
Authors: Liang Ying , Niu Xueting , Lu Peiyi
Published: August 2017

In this article, we explore the subjective well-being of empty nesters who lived in rural eastern China ( N = 967). The Memorial University of Newfoundland Scale of Happiness is used to measure subjective well-being. The results indicate that Memorial University of Newfoundland Scale of Happiness is appropriate for empty nesters in rural China due to its reliability and validity. Generally, male empty nesters report greater subjective well-being scores than females. Negative factors include low levels of education, being a widow or widower, or being unmarried. It is argued that the empty nesters’ incapability to access adequate social service and home care leads to their poor subjective well-being.
Effects of multidimensional child poverty on children’s mental health in Mainland China
Authors: Li Chunkai , Yin Xican , Jiang Shan
Published: August 2017

This study aimed to investigate the effects of multidimensional child poverty on children’s mental health in Mainland China. The data were based on a survey of children in 2015 conducted by multi-stage cluster random sampling method in Xiushui, where levels of poverty are very high. Structural equation model was adopted to analyze the data and test the hypothesized model. Results showed that multidimensional child poverty had a significant effect on both negative mental health and positive mental health of children, and the seven indicators of multidimensional child poverty all had slightly different effects on children’s mental health.
Enhancing the Alignment of the Preclinical and Clinical Stroke Recovery Research Pipeline: Consensus-Based Core Recommendations From the Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable Translational Working Group
Authors: Corbett Dale , Carmichael S. Thomas , Murphy Timothy H. , Jones Theresa A. , Schwab Martin E. , Jolkkonen Jukka , Clarkson Andrew N. , Dancause Numa , Weiloch Tadeusz , Johansen-Berg Heidi , Nilsson Michael , McCullough Louise D. , Joy Mary T.
Published: August 2017

Stroke recovery research involves distinct biological and clinical targets compared to the study of acute stroke. Guidelines are proposed for the pre-clinical modeling of stroke recovery and for the alignment of pre-clinical studies to clinical trials in stroke recovery.
The lncRNA, Nespas, Is Associated with Osteoarthritis Progression and Serves as a Potential New Prognostic Biomarker
Authors: Park Sujung , Lee Myeungsoo , Chun Churl-Hong , Jin Eun-Jung
Published: August 2017

Introduction. In this article, we explored the hypothesis that the long noncoding RNA, Nespas, promotes osteoarthritis (OA) by supporting abnormal lipid metabolism in human chondrocytes. Materials and Methods. Human articular chondrocytes from osteoarthritis patients were used and expression level of Nespas were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Introduction of Nespas and Nespas-associated genes/miRNAs were performed by using a lentiviral system. The effect of Nespas on mitochondrial function was determined by staining mitochondria and analyzing mitopotential and mitochondrial genes. Moreover, to identify the responsible molecules in Nespas-induced pathogenesis, profiling of peroxisomal genes and miRNAs were applied and interactome analysis was performed. Results. Highly elevated levels of Nespas and Acyl-CoA synthetase 6 (ACSL6) were observed in OA patients. Both Nespas overexpression and ACSL6 upregulation into human chondrocytes induced typical OA characteristics, such as downregulation of type II collagen; upregulation of type I collagen, metalloproteinase 13, and caspase-1 and -3; and dysfunction of mitochondria and peroxisome. Co-expression of Nespas and ACSL6 siRNA reduced caspase-1 and -3 levels. Moreover, Nespas overexpression significantly suppressed levels of miR-291a-3p, -196a-5p, -23a-3p, -24-3p, and let-7a-5p, and these miRs are known to potentially target ACSL6 according to ingenuity pathway analysis. We also confirmed that these miRs were significantly suppressed in human OA chondrocytes. Overexpression of miR-291a-3p, -196a-5p, -23a-3p, -24-3p, or let-7a-5p in the presence of Nespas suppressed levels of ACSL6, caspase-1 and -3. Discussion. Overall, we suggest that elevated Nespas level in OA are associated with OA pathogenesis by suppressing miRs targeting ACSL6 and subsequent ACSL6 upregulation.
Related factors of outcomes of pharyngeal foreign bodies in children
Authors: Huang Zhenghua , Li Peng , Xie Lisheng , Li Jing , Zhou Honggen , Li Qi
Published: August 2017

Objective:

This study aimed to identify factors related to outcomes of the pharyngeal foreign bodies in children and to improve the management protocol of this disease.

Methods:

The medical records of 131 children with pharyngeal foreign bodies hospitalized in the hospital were retrospectively reviewed.

Results:

Significant differences were observed between the two groups (dislodgement and removal group) with respect to location of pharyngeal foreign bodies and age, while sex, time of pharyngeal foreign bodies, and nature of pharyngeal foreign bodies had no significant differences. Moreover, results suggested that location of pharyngeal foreign bodies and nature of pharyngeal foreign bodies were risk factors correlated with complications.

Conclusion:

Pharyngeal foreign body in children has a high rate of dislodgement (>50%). Foreign bodies in the oropharynx were more likely to dislodge compared with the foreign bodies in the laryngopharynx. Younger children were more likely to dislodge compared with older children. Although the risk of complications was very low, attention needs to be paid to the potential risks: local infection, deep abscess, and migration of foreign bodies. Because the possibility of complications caused by bone fragments and foreign bodies in the laryngopharynx increase obviously, hence, it is suggested to remove these kinds of foreign bodies as soon as possible to prevent complications.
Toward a Status Anxiety Theory of Macro-level Firearm Demand
Authors: Steidley Trent , Kosla Martin T.
Published: August 2017

Previous research has paid little attention to legal firearm demand, instead often focusing on illegal firearm demand. This study expands sociological research on firearms by theoretically identifying and empirically examining a new type of legal firearm demand, status anxiety demand, while also examining recreational and security firearm demand. We use unique background check data from the National Instant Criminal Background Check System to measure firearm demand and test our hypotheses using random effects pooled time-series generalized least squares (GLS) regressions. Findings indicate that our measures for recreational demand and status anxiety demand both affect overall firearm sales, but that actual crime risk and the number of police in a state do not. We find that both increases in National Rifle Association (NRA) membership and Democratic Party strength in the federal government increase firearm demand, suggesting that changes in legal firearm demand are associated with political factors and not just recreational or self-defense motivations.
Intragenic amplification of PAX5: a novel subgroup in B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia?
Authors: Schwab Claire , Nebral Karin , Chilton Lucy , Leschi Cristina , Waanders Esmé , Boer Judith M. , Žaliová Markéta , Sutton Rosemary , Öfverholm Ingegerd Ivanov , Ohki Kentaro , Yamashita Yuka , Groeneveld-Krentz Stefanie , Froňková Eva , Bakkus Marleen , Tchinda Joelle , Barbosa Thayana da Conceição , Fazio Grazia , Mlynarski Wojciech , Pastorczak Agata , Cazzaniga Giovanni , Pombo-de-Oliveira Maria S. , Trka Jan , Kirschner-Schwabe Renate , Imamura Toshihiko , Barbany Gisela , Stanulla Martin , Attarbaschi Andishe , Panzer-Grümayer Renate , Kuiper Roland P. , den Boer Monique L. , Cavé Hélène , Moorman Anthony V. , Harrison Christine J. , Strehl Sabine
Published: August 2017

Key Points

Intragenic PAX5 amplification defines a novel, relapse-prone subtype of B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia with a poor outcome.
Systemic Therapy for Stage IV Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline Update
Authors: Hanna Nasser , Johnson David , Temin Sarah , Baker Sherman , Brahmer Julie , Ellis Peter M. , Giaccone Giuseppe , Hesketh Paul J. , Jaiyesimi Ishmael , Leighl Natasha B. , Riely Gregory J. , Schiller Joan H. , Schneider Bryan J. , Smith Thomas J. , Tashbar Joan , Biermann William A. , Masters Gregory
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Provide evidence-based recommendations updating the 2015 ASCO guideline on systemic therapy for patients with stage IV non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

The ASCO NSCLC Expert Panel made recommendations based on a systematic review of randomized controlled trials from February 2014 to December 2016 plus the Cancer Care Ontario Program in Evidence-Based Care’s update of a previous ASCO search.

Results

This guideline update reflects changes in evidence since the previous guideline update. Fourteen randomized controlled trials provide the evidence base; earlier phase trials also informed recommendation development.

Recommendations

New or revised recommendations include the following. Regarding first-line treatment for patients with non–squamous cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma (without positive markers, eg, EGFR/ALK /ROS1), if the patient has high programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, pembrolizumab should be used alone; if the patient has low PD-L1 expression, clinicians should offer standard chemotherapy. All other clinical scenarios follow 2015 recommendations. Regarding second-line treatment in patients who received first-line chemotherapy, without prior immune checkpoint therapy, if NSCLC tumor is positive for PD-L1 expression, clinicians should use single-agent nivolumab, pembrolizumab, or atezolizumab; if tumor has negative or unknown PD-L1 expression, clinicians should use nivolumab or atezolizumab. All immune checkpoint therapy is recommended alone plus in the absence of contraindications. For patients who received a prior first-line immune checkpoint inhibitor, clinicians should offer standard chemotherapy. For patients who cannot receive immune checkpoint inhibitor after chemotherapy, docetaxel is recommended; in patients with nonsquamous NSCLC, pemetrexed is recommended. In patients with a sensitizing EGFR mutation, disease progression after first-line epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy, and T790M mutation, osimertinib is recommended; if NSCLC lacks the T790M mutation, then chemotherapy is recommended. Patients with ROS1 gene rearrangement without prior crizotinib may be offered crizotinib, or if they previously received crizotinib, they may be offered chemotherapy.
Circulating tumor cells: silent predictors of metastasis
Authors: Zhou LanLan , Dicker David T. , Matthew Elizabeth , El-Deiry Wafik S. , Alpaugh R. Katherine
Published: August 2017

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) were added to the arsenal of clinical testing in 2004 for three cancer types: metastatic breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer. CTCs were found to be an independent prognostic indicator of survival for these three diseases. Multiple enrichment/isolation strategies have been developed and numerous assay applications have been performed using both single and pooled captured/enriched CTCs. We have reviewed the isolation techniques and touched on many analyses. The true utility of a CTC is that it acts as a “silent” predictor of metastatic disease. The mere presence of a single CTC is an indication that disease has spread from the primary site. Comments and suggestions have been set forth for CTCs and cell-free DNA to be used as a screening panel for the early detection of disease recurrence and metastatic spread, providing the opportunity for early intervention with curative intent to treat metastatic disease.
An analysis of characteristics of post-authorisation studies registered on the ENCePP EU PAS Register
Authors: Carroll Robert , Ramagopalan Sreeram V. , Cid-Ruzafa Javier , Lambrelli Dimitra , McDonald Laura
Published: August 2017

Background: The objective of this study was to investigate the study design characteristics of Post-Authorisation Studies (PAS) requested by the European Medicines Agency which were recorded on the European Union (EU) PAS Register held by the European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance (ENCePP).

Methods: We undertook a cross-sectional descriptive analysis of all studies registered on the EU PAS Register as of 18th October 2016.

Results: We identified a total of 314 studies on the EU PAS Register, including 81 (26%) finalised, 160 (51%) ongoing and 73 (23%) planned. Of those studies identified, 205 (65%) included risk assessment in their scope, 133 (42%) included drug utilisation and 94 (30%) included effectiveness evaluation. Just over half of the studies (175; 56%) used primary data capture, 135 (43%) used secondary data and 4 (1%) used a hybrid design combining both approaches. Risk assessment and effectiveness studies were more likely to use primary data capture (60% and 85% respectively as compared to 39% and 14% respectively for secondary). The converse was true for drug utilisation studies where 59% were secondary vs. 39% for primary. For type 2 diabetes mellitus, database studies were more commonly used (80% vs 3% chart review, 3% hybrid and 13% primary data capture study designs) whereas for studies in oncology, primary data capture were more likely to be used (85% vs 4% chart review, and 11% database study designs).

Conclusions: Results of this analysis show that study objectives and therapeutic area influence PAS design in terms of type of data capture used.
Theory of State and Law
Authors: Честнов  , Chestnov Il'ya
Published: August 2017

The publication contains the main characteristics of modern concepts of state and law as social phenomena, their place in society. The author uses the post-classical methodology as applied to the analysis of state-legal phenomena.
Meets the requirements of Federal state educational standard of higher education of the last generation.
If You Book It, Will They Come? Attendance at Postdischarge Follow‐Up Visits Scheduled by Inpatient Providers
Authors: Banerjee Rahul , Suarez Alex , Kier Melanie , Jr. Steve Honeywell , Feng Weiwei , Mitra Nandita , Grande David T. , Myers Jennifer S.
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Postdischarge follow‐up visits (PDFVs) are widely recommended to improve inpatient‐outpatient transitions of care.

OBJECTIVE

To measure PDFV attendance rates.

DESIGN

Observational cohort study.

SETTING

Medical units at an academic quaternary‐care hospital and its affiliated outpatient clinics.

PATIENTS

Adult patients hospitalized between April 2014 and March 2015 for whom at least 1 PDFV with our health system was scheduled. Exclusion criteria included nonprovider visits, visits cancelled before discharge, nonaccepted health insurance, and visits scheduled for deceased patients.

MEASUREMENTS

The study outcome was the incidence of PDFVs resulting in no‐shows or same‐day cancellations (NS/SDCs).

RESULTS

Of all hospitalizations, 6136 (52%) with 9258 PD‐FVs were analyzed. Twenty‐five percent of PDFVs were NS/SDCs, 23% were cancelled before the visit, and 52% were attended as scheduled. In multivariable regression models, NS/SDC risk factors included black race (odds ratio [OR] 1.94, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.63‐2.32), longer lengths of stay (hospitalizations ≥15 days: OR 1.51, 95% CI, 1.22‐1.88), and discharge to facility (OR 2.10, 95% CI, 1.70‐2.60). Conversely, NS/SDC visits were less likely with advancing age (age ≥65 years: OR 0.39, 95% CI, 0.31‐0.49) and driving distance (highest quartile: OR 0.65, 95% CI, 0.52‐0.81). Primary care visits had higher NS/SDC rates (OR 2.62, 95% CI, 2.03‐3.38) than oncologic visits. The time interval between discharge and PDFV was not associated with NS/SDC rates.

CONCLUSIONS

PDFVs were scheduled for more than half of hospitalizations, but 25% resulted in NS/SDCs. New strategies are needed to improve PDFV attendance.
We Want to Know: Eliciting Hospitalized Patients' Perspectives on Breakdowns in Care
Authors: Fisher Kimberly A. , Smith Kelly M. , Gallagher Thomas H. , Burns Laura , MS Crystal Morales , Mazor Kathleen M.
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

There is increasing recognition that patients have critical insights into care experiences, including about breakdowns in care. Harnessing patient perspectives for hospital improvement requires an in‐depth understanding of the types of breakdowns patients identify and the impact of these events.

METHODS

We interviewed a broad sample of patients during hospitalization and postdischarge to elicit patient perspectives on breakdowns in care. Through an iterative process, we developed a categorization of patient‐perceived breakdowns called the Patient Experience Coding Tool.

RESULTS

Of 979 interviewees, 386 (39.4%) believed they had experienced at least one breakdown in care. The most common reported breakdowns involved information exchange (n = 158; 16.1%), medications (n = 120; 12.3%), delays in admission (n = 90; 9.2%), team communication (n = 65; 6.6%), providers' manner (n = 62; 6.3%), and discharge (n = 56; 5.7%). Of the 386 interviewees who reported a breakdown, 140 (36.3%) perceived associated harm. Patient‐perceived harms included physical (eg, pain), emotional (eg, distress, worry), damage to relationship with providers, need for additional care or prolonged hospital stay, and life disruption. We found higher rates of reporting breakdowns among younger (<60 years old) patients (45.4% vs 34.5%; P < .001), those with at least some college education (46.8% vs 32.7%; P < .001), and those with another person (family or friend) present during the interview or interviewed in lieu of the patient (53.4% vs 37.8%; P = .002).

CONCLUSIONS

When asked directly, almost 4 out of 10 hospitalized patients reported a breakdown in their care. Patient‐perceived breakdowns in care are frequently associated with perceived harm, illustrating the importance of detecting and addressing these events.
A Contemporary Assessment of Mechanical Complication Rates and Trainee Perceptions of Central Venous Catheter Insertion
Authors: Heidemann Lauren , Nathani Niket , Sagana Rommel , Chopra Vineet , Heung Michael
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist regarding rates of mechanical complications of ultrasound‐guided, nontunneled central venous catheters (CVC). Similarly, trainee perceptions surrounding CVC complications are largely unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate contemporary CVC mechanical complication rates, associated risk factors, and trainee perspectives.

DESIGN

A single‐center retrospective review of CVC procedures between June 1, 2014, and May 1, 2015. Electronic survey distributed to internal medicine trainees.

SETTING

Intensive care units and the emergency department at an academic hospital.

MEASUREMENTS

Electronic health records of patients with CVC procedures were reviewed for complications. Demographic and procedural characteristics were compared for complicated vs uncomplicated procedures. Student t tests and chi‐square tests were used to compare continuous and categorical variables, respectively.

RESULTS

Of the 730 reviewed records, 14 serious mechanical complications occurred due to pneumothorax (n = 5), bleeding (n = 3), vascular injury (n = 3), stroke (n = 1), and death (n = 2). Risk factors for complicated vs uncomplicated CVC placement included subclavian location (21.4% vs 7.8%, P = 0.001), number of attempts (2.2 vs 1.5, P = 0.02), unsuccessful CVC (21.4% vs. 4.3%, P = 0.001), attending supervision (61.5% vs 34.7%, P = 0.04), low body mass index (mean 25.7 kg/m2 vs 31.5 kg/m2, P = 0.001), anticoagulation (28.6% vs 20.6%, P = 0.048), and ventilation (78.5% vs 66.5%, P = 0.001). Survey data suggested deficiencies in managing unsuccessful CVC procedures; specifically, only 35% (N = 21/60) of trainees regularly perform chest x‐rays after failed CVC attempt.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed a 1.9% rate of mechanical complications associated with CVC placement. Our study confirms historical data that unsuccessful CVC attempts are an important risk factor for complications. Education regarding unsuccessful CVC placement may improve patient safety.
Ammonia Levels and Hepatic Encephalopathy in Patients with Known Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Ninan Jacob , Feldman Leonard
Published: August 2017

The “Things We Do for No Reason” series reviews practices which have become common parts of hospital care but which may provide little value to our patients. Practices reviewed in the TWDFNR series do not represent “black and white” conclusions or clinical practice standards, but are meant as a starting place for research and active discussions among hospitalists and patients. We invite you to be part of that discussion.