bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Masses and Circulation in the Tropical Pacific off Central Mexico and Surrounding Areas
Authors: Portela Esther , Beier Emilio , Barton Eric D. , Castro Rubén , Godínez Victor , Palacios-Hernández Emilio , Fiedler Paul C. , Sánchez-Velasco Laura , Trasviña Armando
Published: August 2016

The seasonal variations and the interactions of the water masses in the tropical Pacific off central Mexico (TPCM) and four surrounding areas were examined based on an extensive new hydrographic database. The regional water masses were redefined in terms of absolute salinity (SA) and conservative temperature (Θ) according to the Thermodynamic Equation of Seawater 2010 (TEOS-10). Hydrographic data and the evaporation minus (precipitation + runoff) balance were used to investigate the origin and seasonality of two salinity minima in the area. The shallow (50–100 m) salinity minimum originates with the California Current System and becomes saltier as it extends southeastward and mixes with tropical subsurface waters while the surface salinity minimum extends farther north in the TPCM in summer and fall because of the northward advection of tropical surface waters. The interactions between water masses allow a characterization of the seasonal pattern of circulation of the Mexican Coastal Current (MCC), the tropical branch of the California Current, and the flows through the entrance of the Gulf of California. The seasonality of the MCC inferred from the distribution of the water masses largely coincides with the geostrophic circulation forced by an annual Rossby wave.
Health Promotion and Education
Authors: Lima Kenio Costa , Caldas Celia Pereira , Veras Renato Peixoto , Correa Renata de Freitas , Bonfada Diego , de Souza DyegoLeandro Bezerra , Jerez-Roig Javier
Published: August 2016

Considering the population aging and the failure of biologistic and hospital-based treatment model, health promotion programs based on scientific evidence are necessary. A comprehensive review of literature was performed, aiming to identify and analyze health promotion and education experiments focused on the aging process. Papers published in eight databases, together with the database of the Pan-American Health Organization, were selected based on review of titles and abstracts, followed by a full text review conducted by two independent reviewers. A total of 22 studies were included, the majority of which adopted a quantitative approach, with a sample larger than 100 elderly or pre-retirement individuals. The majority of studies reported positive results in terms of health promotion and education. One study obtained minimum improvement and one reported that no statistically significant improvement had occurred. The positive effects most indicated by authors were: general or self-perceived improvement in physical health, improvement in psychosocial aspects and in relation to the aging process, improvement in adherence to preventative actions and in healthy conduct and lifestyle, increase in level of physical activity, improvement in quality of life and/or physical well-being, and improvement in activities of daily living or reduction of the risk of developing disabilities.
Coccidioidomycosis-Associated Deaths in California, 2000–2013
Authors: Sondermeyer Gail L. , Lee Lauren A. , Gilliss Debra , Vugia Duc J.
Published: August 2016

The number of cases of coccidioidomycosis and associated hospitalizations increased in California during 2000–2013. During that period, a total of 1,098 death records listed coccidioidomycosis as a cause, averaging 78 deaths annually (range: 43–108). The death rate peaked in 2006 and was significantly higher among males than among females, among African American patients than among white patients, and among residents of the coccidioidomycosis–endemic region of California than among residents of the less endemic regions ( p<0.001). A higher death rate was associated with increasing age and was highest (8.8 per 1 million population) among adults aged ≥75 years. Of coccidioidomycosis-associated deaths, 31.9% had a contributing cause of death of severe/disseminated disease, 31.8% of unspecified -coccidioidomycosis, and 28.3% of pulmonary unspecified coccidioidomycosis, per International Classification of Diseases codes. Diabetes was a contributing cause in 19.3% of deaths, and other immunocompromising conditions were a contributing cause in 15.9% of deaths. Populations at higher risk for coccidioidomycosis--associated deaths are similar to those at higher risk for coccidioidomycosis-associated hospitalizations and infection. Awareness for coccidioidomycosis among these groups and their providers is important for proper diagnosis and care.
Assessment of Administrative Medical Claims Data for Public Health Surveillance of Invasive Group A Streptococcal Necrotizing Fasciitis in Tennessee
Authors: Lindegren Mary Lou , McCormack Leigh , Barnes Brenda , Mitchel Ed , Jones Stephen , Schaffner William
Published: August 2016

Objective.

Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a severe manifestation of invasive group A streptococcal (iGAS) infection. NF is a rapidly progressive infection of the subcutaneous tissues, including the fascia, and accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment are critical. Population-based surveillance is conducted for iGAS, including the severe manifestations of NF, by the federally funded Active Bacterial Core surveillance (ABCs) program.

Methods.

We used administrative claims data from a large managed care organization in Tennessee to enhance the public health surveillance for NF iGAS. For the period 2003–2012, we identified cases of NF in Tennessee by searching the claims database for diagnostic codes indicating the diagnosis of NF. We compared these cases with cases detected in selected Tennessee counties by ABCs.

Results.

Of 356 managed care patients with a diagnostic code indicating NF, we determined that 20 (6%) patients had been hospitalized with iGAS infection and, therefore, were likely to be true NF cases. Of these 20 patients, only 11 matched with patients identified by ABCs; nine patients had not been previously identified by ABCs. During the same time period, 54 patients with NF were ascertained by ABCs.

Conclusion.

Administrative claims data have the potential to augment disease surveillance but require a large investment in resources compared with the few NF cases identified.
Effects of Health Level 7 Messaging on Data Quality in New York City’s Immunization Information System, 2014
Authors: Metroka Amy E. , Papadouka Vikki , Ternier Alexandra , Zucker Jane R.
Published: August 2016

Objective.

We compared the quality of data reported to New York City’s immunization information system, the Citywide Immunization Registry (CIR), through its real-time Health Level 7 (HL7) Web service from electronic health records (EHRs), with data submitted through other methods.

Methods.

We stratified immunizations administered and reported to the CIR in 2014 for patients aged 0–18 years by reporting method: ( 1) sending HL7 messages from EHRs through the Web service, ( 2) manual data entry, and ( 3) upload of a non-standard flat file from EHRs. We assessed completeness of reporting by measuring the percentage of immunizations reported with lot number, manufacturer, and Vaccines for Children (VFC) program eligibility. We assessed timeliness of reporting by determining the number of days from date of administration to date entered into the CIR.

Results.

HL7 reporting accounted for the largest percentage (46.3%) of the 3.8 million immunizations reported in 2014. Of immunizations reported using HL7, 97.9% included the lot number and 92.6% included the manufacturer, compared with 50.4% and 48.0% for manual entry, and 65.9% and 48.8% for non-standard flat file, respectively. VFC eligibility was 96.9% complete when reported by manual data entry, 95.3% complete for HL7 reporting, and 87.2% complete for non-standard flat file reporting. Of the three reporting methods, HL7 was the most timely: 77.6% of immunizations were reported by HL7 in <1 day, compared with 53.6% of immunizations reported through manual data entry and 18.1% of immunizations reported through non-standard flat file.

Conclusion.

HL7 reporting from EHRs resulted in more complete and timely data in the CIR compared with other reporting methods. Providing resources to facilitate HL7 reporting from EHRs to immunization information systems to increase data quality should be a priority for public health.
Dielectric properties of paper-based composites at microwave frequency
Authors: Sun Yao , Wang Yi , Xu Guilong , Cheng Fangjing , Hu Jian
Published: August 2016

A kind of paper-based composite was prepared with short carbon fibers (CFs) and para-aramid fibrids through the process of papermaking. The dielectric properties of the paper-based composites at microwave frequency were investigated. Based on the Lichtenecker Rule, the dielectric constants of CFs in composites at different CF concentrations were calculated. The absorbing performances of paper-based composites were calculated from the test results of electromagnetic parameters. It was shown that for the composites loaded with 1 mm CFs, the real part of complex permittivity rises at first then tends to be stable with the increase of the CF content, and the imaginary part rises at first then falls slightly, while for composites loaded with 3 or 6 mm CFs, both the real and imaginary part of complex permittivity grows at first and then falls rapidly with the CF content increasing. When the CF content is below 10 wt%, the composites containing longer CFs have larger permittivity at the same concentration. The Lichtenecker Rule is found to be not suitable for the system studied in this paper, especially when the content of CFs is high. The variations of reflectance and absorbance with the content of CFs generally have analogous trends . It is also found that to achieve better absorbing performance, the length and content of CFs together with the thickness of composites should be considered. In this study, the lowest reflection loss at 10 GHz reaches –27.59 dB when the paper-based composite is loaded with 1 mm CFs at the concentration of 10 wt% and the optimum thickness of 1.84 mm.
The giving and taking of wounds: Friendship and hagiography in Frederick Buechner’s Godric
Authors: Kilpatrick Nathan
Published: August 2016

Reading Frederick Buechner’s novel Godric against the conventions of the hagiographic genre, this article examines Buechner’s innovation to the tradition of the saint’s life. Focusing on the novel’s structure—including its direct address to the reader, its varied chronology, and its depiction of five friends who reconstitute the wounds of Christ—the article argues that Buechner introduces the spiritual practice of Christian friendship as a rhetorical alternative to the traditional hagiographic relationship between narrative and reader, thus inviting the reader to become friends with both Christ and the titular protagonist through the act of reading.
Indirect Calorimetry in Mechanically Ventilated Patients: A Prospective, Randomized, Clinical Validation of 2 Devices Against a Gold Standard
Authors: Allingstrup Matilde Jo , Kondrup Jens , Perner Anders , Christensen Poul Lunau , Jensen Tom Hartvig , Henneberg Steen Winther
Published: August 2016

Background and Aims: The 2 currently available indirect calorimeters, CCM Express Indirect Calorimeter (MedGraphics, St Paul, MN) and Quark RMR ICU Indirect Calorimeter (COSMED, Rome, Italy), have not been validated against a gold standard in mechanically ventilated patients. Our aim was to do so using a gold‐standard, modified Tissot bell‐spirometer method in mechanically ventilated patients who were hemodynamically, respiratory, and metabolically stable. Methods: We studied 30 patients undergoing general anesthesia and major gynecological surgery. We measured oxygen consumption (O2) and resting energy expenditure (REE) in a randomized, sequential, crossover design with double determination of each device. Results: Compared with the modified Tissot bell‐spirometer, the CCM Express Indirect Calorimeter demonstrated a mean Δ‐REE of +361 kcal/d, corresponding to a 31% overestimation of energy requirements. Bland‐Altman analysis for REE showed a mean (SD) bias of 384 (124) with limits of agreement 142–627 kcal/d. QUARK RMR ICU demonstrated a mean Δ‐REE of 81 kcal/d, corresponding to a 7% overestimation of energy requirements. Bland‐Altman plot analysis showed a mean (SD) bias of 77 (167) with limits of agreement −249 to 404 kcal/d. Conclusions: The QUARK RMR ICU Indirect Calorimeter compared better with the gold standard for values of O2 and REE than did the CCM Express Indirect Calorimeter in mechanically ventilated patients who were circulatory and respiratory stable. Both indirect calorimeters had low precision.
Diphenhydramine as a selective probe to study H+-antiporter function at the blood–brain barrier: Application to [11C]diphenhydramine positron emission tomography imaging
Authors: Auvity Sylvain , Chapy Hélène , Goutal Sébastien , Caillé Fabien , Hosten Benoit , Smirnova Maria , Declèves Xavier , Tournier Nicolas , Cisternino Salvatore
Published: August 2016

Diphenhydramine, a sedative histamine H1-receptor (H1R) antagonist, was evaluated as a probe to measure drug/H+-antiporter function at the blood–brain barrier. In situ brain perfusion experiments in mice and rats showed that diphenhydramine transport at the blood–brain barrier was saturable, following Michaelis–Menten kinetics with a Km = 2.99 mM and Vmax = 179.5 nmol s−1 g−1. In the pharmacological plasma concentration range the carrier-mediated component accounted for 77% of diphenhydramine influx while passive diffusion accounted for only 23%. [14C]Diphenhydramine blood–brain barrier transport was proton and clonidine sensitive but was influenced by neither tetraethylammonium, a MATE1 (SLC47A1), and OCT/OCTN (SLC22A1-5) modulator, nor P-gp/Bcrp (ABCB1a/1b/ABCG2) deficiency. Brain and plasma kinetics of [11C]diphenhydramine were measured by positron emission tomography imaging in rats. [11C]Diphenhydramine kinetics in different brain regions were not influenced by displacement with 1 mg kg−1 unlabeled diphenhydramine, indicating the specificity of the brain positron emission tomography signal for blood–brain barrier transport activity over binding to any central nervous system target in vivo. [11C]Diphenhydramine radiometabolites were not detected in the brain 15 min after injection, allowing for the reliable calculation of [11C]diphenhydramine brain uptake clearance (Clup = 0.99 ± 0.18 mL min−1 cm−3). Diphenhydramine is a selective and specific H+-antiporter substrate. [11C]Diphenhydramine positron emission tomography imaging offers a reliable and noninvasive method to evaluate H+-antiporter function at the blood–brain barrier.
Intracranial stenosis in cognitive impairment and dementia
Authors: Hilal Saima , Xu Xin , Ikram M Kamran , Vrooman Henri , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Chen Christopher
Published: August 2016

Intracranial stenosis is a common vascular lesion observed in Asian and other non-Caucasian stroke populations. However, its role in cognitive impairment and dementia has been under-studied. We, therefore, examined the association of intracranial stenosis with cognitive impairment, dementia and their subtypes in a memory clinic case-control study, where all subjects underwent detailed neuropsychological assessment and 3 T neuroimaging including three-dimensional time-of-flight magnetic resonance angiography. Intracranial stenosis was defined as ≥50% narrowing in any of the intracranial arteries. A total of 424 subjects were recruited of whom 97 were classified as no cognitive impairment, 107 as cognitive impairment no dementia, 70 vascular cognitive impairment no dementia, 121 Alzheimer’s Disease, and 30 vascular dementia. Intracranial stenosis was associated with dementia (age/gender/education – adjusted odds ratios (OR): 4.73, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.93–11.60) and vascular cognitive impairment no dementia (OR: 3.98, 95% CI: 1.59–9.93). These associations were independent of cardiovascular risk factors and MRI markers. However, the association with Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia became attenuated in the presence of white matter hyperintensities. Intracranial stenosis is associated with vascular cognitive impairment no dementia independent of MRI markers. In Alzheimer’s Disease and vascular dementia, this association is mediated by cerebrovascular disease. Future studies focusing on perfusion and functional markers are needed to determine the pathophysiological mechanism(s) linking intracranial stenosis and cognition so as to identify treatment strategies.
Personality traits and alcohol consumption of classical and heavy metal musicians
Authors: Butkovic Ana , Rancic Dopudj Dunja
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to compare personality traits using the Big Five personality taxonomy and alcohol consumption of classical and heavy metal musicians. Also, we compared personality traits of classical and heavy metal musicians with norms for the Croatian population, and data on alcohol consumption with a representative sample of the general Croatian population. Participants in the study were men ( N = 249) playing either classical ( N = 113) or heavy metal music ( N = 136). Personality was measured with the IPIP-50 personality questionnaire and participants answered several questions about alcohol consumption. We found no significant differences in personality traits between classical and heavy metal musicians, but both classical and heavy metal musicians differed significantly in personality from the norms, having higher scores on extraversion, agreeableness, and especially intellect. Belonging to a heavy metal musicians group was associated with consuming alcohol more often. Also, frequency of alcohol consumption was statistically higher for heavy metal musicians than in the general population.
The Prevalence of Reading Fluency and Vocabulary Difficulties Among Adolescents Struggling With Reading Comprehension
Authors: Clemens Nathan H. , Simmons Deborah , Simmons Leslie E. , Wang Huan , Kwok Oi-man
Published: August 2016

This study sought to better understand the prevalence of concurrent and specific difficulties in reading fluency and vocabulary among adolescents with low reading comprehension. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify a sample of 180 students in sixth through eighth grades with reading comprehension difficulties. A subsequent LCA identified subgroups of students with common patterns of strengths and weaknesses in reading fluency and vocabulary. Results indicated that more than 96% of the students demonstrated deficits in at least one area, with the largest subgroup exhibiting co-occurring difficulties in fluency and vocabulary. Difficulties in fluency were more common than difficulties in vocabulary. Students with low reading comprehension but adequate scores in reading fluency or vocabulary represented only a very small portion of the sample. Coupled with findings from prior studies, results indicate that large numbers of adolescents with reading comprehension difficulties are likely in need of intervention in foundational skill and knowledge areas, which may not be viewed as instructional priorities among secondary educators.
Propofol Is Mitochondrion-Toxic and May Unmask a Mitochondrial Disorder
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Frank Marlies
Published: August 2016

There are indications that preexisting mitochondrial disorders or beta-oxidation defects predispose for propofol infusion syndrome. This review aimed at investigating if propofol infusion syndrome occurs exclusively in patients with mitochondrial disorder and if propofol can unmask a mitochondrial disorder. Propofol infusion syndrome has been reported in genetically confirmed mitochondrial disorder patients. In addition, muscle biopsy of patients with propofol infusion syndrome revealed complex IV or complex II deficiency. In animal studies propofol disrupted the electron flow along the respiratory chain and decreased complex I, complex II, and complex III of the respiratory chain. In addition, propofol disrupted the permeability transition pore and reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential. In conclusion, propofol is mitochondrion-toxic and mitochondrial disorder patients should not receive propofol in high dosages over a prolonged period of time. Short-term application of propofol should be safe even in mitochondrial disorder patients. Not only does propofol infusion syndrome occur in mitochondrial disorder patients, but mitochondrial disorder patients are likely at higher risk to develop propofol infusion syndrome. Patients who develop propofol infusion syndrome should be screened for mitochondrial disorder. Propofol infusion syndrome is preventable if risk factors are thoroughly assessed, and if long-term propofol is avoided in patients at risk for propofol infusion syndrome.
Accuracy analysis and form-finding design of uncertain mesh reflectors based on interval force density method
Authors: Li Tuanjie , Deng Hanqing , Tang Yaqiong , Jiang Jie , Ma Xiaofei
Published: August 2016

Mesh reflectors are uncertain structures because of the existing errors of dimension and material in the procedure of design and manufacture. These uncertainties have significant impacts on the mechanical and electrical properties, which must be considered during the design phase. Three directly related factors of cable uncertainties in mesh reflectors are considered in this paper, including the initial length, cross-sectional area, and elastic modulus. The analytical relationship between the cable uncertainties and the surface accuracy of mesh reflectors is deduced by interval analysis, and an interval force density method is thus proposed. First, this method is used to analyze the influence of the cable uncertainties on the surface accuracy. Then it is applied into the form-finding optimization of uncertain mesh reflectors to minimize the influence of cable uncertainties on the surface accuracy. Three kinds of cable nets of mesh reflectors are illustrated to analyze the influence of the cable uncertainties on the surface accuracy, and the mesh reflectors with high surface accuracy are obtained by the proposed method. Finally, the influences of both the design values and deviation amplitudes of cable uncertainties on the surface accuracy are revealed.
An overview of methods for network meta-analysis using individual participant data: when do benefits arise?
Authors: Debray Thomas PA , Schuit Ewoud , Efthimiou Orestis , Reitsma Johannes B , Ioannidis John PA , Salanti Georgia , Moons Karel GM ,   on behalf of GetReal Workpackage
Published: August 2016

Network meta-analysis (NMA) is a common approach to summarizing relative treatment effects from randomized trials with different treatment comparisons. Most NMAs are based on published aggregate data (AD) and have limited possibilities for investigating the extent of network consistency and between-study heterogeneity. Given that individual participant data (IPD) are considered the gold standard in evidence synthesis, we explored statistical methods for IPD-NMA and investigated their potential advantages and limitations, compared with AD-NMA. We discuss several one-stage random-effects NMA models that account for within-trial imbalances, treatment effect modifiers, missing response data and longitudinal responses. We illustrate all models in a case study of 18 antidepressant trials with a continuous endpoint (the Hamilton Depression Score). All trials suffered from drop-out; missingness of longitudinal responses ranged from 21 to 41% after 6 weeks follow-up. Our results indicate that NMA based on IPD may lead to increased precision of estimated treatment effects. Furthermore, it can help to improve network consistency and explain between-study heterogeneity by adjusting for participant-level effect modifiers and adopting more advanced models for dealing with missing response data. We conclude that implementation of IPD-NMA should be considered when trials are affected by substantial drop-out rate, and when treatment effects are potentially influenced by participant-level covariates.
Meta-analysis for the comparison of two diagnostic tests to a common gold standard: A generalized linear mixed model approach
Authors: Hoyer Annika , Kuss Oliver
Published: August 2016

Meta-analysis of diagnostic studies is still a rapidly developing area of biostatistical research. Especially, there is an increasing interest in methods to compare different diagnostic tests to a common gold standard. Restricting to the case of two diagnostic tests, in these meta-analyses the parameters of interest are the differences of sensitivities and specificities (with their corresponding confidence intervals) between the two diagnostic tests while accounting for the various associations across single studies and between the two tests. We propose statistical models with a quadrivariate response (where sensitivity of test 1, specificity of test 1, sensitivity of test 2, and specificity of test 2 are the four responses) as a sensible approach to this task. Using a quadrivariate generalized linear mixed model naturally generalizes the common standard bivariate model of meta-analysis for a single diagnostic test. If information on several thresholds of the tests is available, the quadrivariate model can be further generalized to yield a comparison of full receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. We illustrate our model by an example where two screening methods for the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes are compared.
Inverse problems of damage mechanics for a hub of a friction pair
Authors: Mirsalimov Vagif M , Akhundova Parvana
Published: August 2016

We consider a problem of fracture mechanics for a hub of a friction pair during operation. It is assumed that near the friction surface the hub has a rectilinear crack of length 2 ℓ1. A criterion and a method for solving the inverse problem of fracture mechanics on definition of the function of displacements of external contour points of the hub of a friction pair with regard to temperature drop in the details of friction pair is given. The found function of displacements of external contacts points of the hub provides increase of load-carrying capacity of the friction pair. Calculation for a friction pair applied to the borehole sucker-rod oil pumps was considered as an example.
Safety Assessment of Hydroxypropyl Bis(N-Hydroxyethyl-p-Phenylenediamine) HCl as Used in Cosmetics
Authors: Becker Lillian C. , Bergfeld Wilma F. , Belsito Donald V. , Hill Ronald A. , Klaassen Curtis D. , Liebler Daniel C. , Marks James G. , Shank Ronald C. , Slaga Thomas J. , Snyder Paul W. , Andersen F. Alan
Published: August 2016

The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel (CIR Panel) reviewed the safety of hydroxypropyl bis( N-Hydroxyethyl- p-Phenylenediamine) HCl, which functions as an oxidative hair dye ingredient. The Panel considered relevant animal and human data provided in this safety assessment and concluded that hydroxypropyl bis( N-hydroxyethyl- p-phenylenediamine) HCl is safe for use in oxidative hair dye formulations as described in this safety assessment.
The social and historical construction of social constructionism: Prof. KJ Gergen in dialogue
Authors: Wang Bo
Published: August 2016

This article is an edited transcript of an interview with Prof Kenneth J Gergen, conducted by Dr Bo Wang. The discussion was initiated in September 2014 at Nanjing Grand Hotel, China and continued by exchanging ideas through e-mail. The focus of the interview was Prof Kenneth J Gergen’s engagement with social constructionism. It is primarily concerned with the historical context, recent trends, and prospects for the future of social constructionism and its possible impact on Chinese psychology and society.
Rethinking digital media and political change
Authors: Schroeder Ralph
Published: August 2016

The role of new digital media in politics has often been discussed for individual countries and technologies, or at a general level. So far, there are few studies which compare countries and treat new media in the context of the media system as a whole, including traditional and new digital media. The main contribution of this article is to compare two countries at the extremes of the political spectrum and with quite different media systems, the United States and Sweden. It synthesizes what is known to date about digital media in these two cases, including about the uses of Twitter, Facebook and other new media. The article discusses the shortcomings of existing analyses of political communication and of how digital media work in a way that is different from traditional or mass media. The argument is that new media expand input from people into the political systems only at the margins, where they can circumvent established agenda setting and gatekeeping mechanisms. The article develops a framework for understanding digital media which highlights how they extend and diversify the public sphere, even as this sphere is monitored and managed, and still faces the constraint of the limited attention devoted to political issues.
Psychometric properties of the Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory–Revised for pregnant women in Mexico
Authors: Ibarra-Yruegas Beatriz , Lara Ma. Asunción , Navarrete Laura , Nieto Lourdes , Kawas Valle Omar
Published: August 2016

This study assessed the reliability and concurrent validity of the prenatal section of the Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory–Revised for 250 pregnant women receiving prenatal care in Mexico. The Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory–Revised has shown adequate psychometric properties for English-speaking perinatal women, but no similar data have been reported for Spanish-speaking samples. The results show that the Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory–Revised is highly reliable and exhibits adequate concurrent validity compared to the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. These findings suggest that the Postpartum Depression Predictors Inventory–Revised can be a reliable instrument in prenatal care services for detecting risk factors for perinatal depression in Mexican women and potentially in other Spanish-speaking populations.
Shifting blame: Buprenorphine prescribers, addiction treatment, and prescription monitoring in middle-class America
Authors: Mendoza Sonia , Rivera-Cabrero Allyssa S. , Hansen Helena
Published: August 2016

Growing nonmedical prescription opioid analgesic use among suburban and rural Whites has changed the public’s perception of the nature of opioid addiction, and of appropriate interventions. Opioid addiction has been recast as a biological disorder in which patients are victims of their neurotransmitters and opioid prescribers are irresponsible purveyors of dangerous substances requiring controls. This framing has led to a different set of policy responses than the “War on Drugs” that has focused on heroin trade in poor urban communities; in response to prescription opioid addiction, prescription drug monitoring programs and tamper-resistant opioid formulations have arisen as primary interventions in place of law enforcement. Through the analysis of preliminary findings from interviews with physicians who are certified to manage opioid addiction with the opioid pharmaceutical buprenorphine, we argue that an increase in prescriber monitoring has shifted the focus from addicted people to prescribers as a threat, paradoxically driving users to illicit markets and constricting their access to pharmaceutical treatment for opioid addiction. Prescriber monitoring is also altering clinical cultures of care, as general physicians respond to heightened surveillance and the psychosocial complexities of treating addiction with either rejection of opioid dependent patients, or with resourceful attempts to create support systems for their treatment where none exists.
Angiotensin II Type 1 receptor (AGTR1) gene polymorphisms are associated with vascular manifestations in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc)
Authors: Rodríguez-Reyna Tatiana S , Núñez-Alvarez Carlos , Cruz-Lagunas Alfredo , Posadas-Sánchez Rosalinda , Pérez-Hernández Nonanzit , Jiménez-Alvarez Luis , Ramírez-Martínez Gustavo , Granados Julio , Vargas-Alarcón Gilberto , Zúñiga Joaquín
Published: August 2016

Introduction:

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) shows variable clinical expression in different ethnic groups; vascular abnormalities are a prominent feature of this disease and its clinical expression may be influenced by genetic factors.

Patients and methods:

Herein, we describe 15 polymorphisms of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone pathway in 170 Mexican admixed SSc patients (defined as patients with Mexican ancestry for at least 3 generations) and 199 healthy controls. We determined the presence of angiotensin II Type 1 receptor (AGTR1), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and Endothelin 1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using 5’ exonuclease TaqMan genotyping assays on a 7900HT real-time fast polymerase chain reaction (PCR) system.

Results:

These polymorphisms had a similar distribution between SSc patients and controls, but we found that the AGTR1 G-680T (rs275652) ( p = 0.02; OR 3.5; 95%CI 1.2–10.4) and AGTR1 A-119G (rs275653) ( p = 0.008; OR 4.2; 95% CI 1.5–12.1) polymorphisms were associated with severe vascular involvement in our SSc patients.

Conclusions:

This is the first report of the association of these polymorphisms with vasculopathy in Mexican admixed SSc patients. Our findings suggested that the angiotensin II Type 1 receptor genotype may influence the clinical expression of vasculopathy in these patients. Functional analyses should follow.
Outcomes of Surface Replacement Proximal Interphalangeal Joint Arthroplasty Through a Volar Approach: A Prospective Study
Authors: Trumble Thomas E. , Heaton Dennis J.
Published: August 2016

Background: The dorsal approach to the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint provides the advantage of improved visualization of the articular surface, while the disadvantage of a dorsal approach is the disruption of the central slip and extensor mechanism requiring a delay in range of motion exercises. A volar approach keeps the central slip and extensor mechanism intact, allowing for early range of motion. The goal of this study was to evaluate patient outcomes of surface replacement (SR) PIP joint arthroplasty performed through a volar approach. Methods: Twenty-one patients were evaluated with primary osteoarthritis of a single PIP joint and underwent SR arthroplasty using the Stryker SR PIP joint implants. Patients included in this study were exclusively treated through a volar approach. Preoperative range of motion, coronal plan deformity, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), and patient satisfaction were measured and compared with postoperative measurements using a paired Student t test. Results: The average length of follow-up was 34 months (± 9 months). Postoperative arc of motion for the PIP and distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints measured 87° (±12°) and 36° (±11°), respectively. The average improvement in PIP arc of motion was 58°, DASH score measured 14 (±5), satisfaction measured 4 (±1), and coronal plane deviation measured 2° (±2°). No evidence of implant subsidence was found on postoperative radiographs. Four patients required an extensor tendon tenolysis, and 1 patient suffered a superficial surgical site infection. Conclusion: SR arthroplasty, when performed through a volar approach, allows for early range of motion and greater improvements in arc of motion, DASH score, and patient satisfaction.
Entropy generation during fluid flow in sharp edge wavy channels with horizontal pitch
Authors: Bahaidarah Haitham MS
Published: August 2016

In this study, the volumetric entropy generation rate is analyzed in sharp edge wavy channels. A two-dimensional steadily developing fluid flow is considered. Air is considered as the working fluid in the numerical analysis. Two parameters, Reynolds number (Re) and the horizontal-pitch-to-module-length ratio, are considered as variables. The effect of these variables on the volumetric entropy generation is analyzed numerically using a finite volume technique. Domain discretization was made using a body-fitted coordinate system. The volumetric entropy generation profiles for varying Re number and the horizontal pitch are discussed. It is found that the total entropy generation increases considerably with the increase in the Re number. For the Re number range of 25–400, the total entropy generation in the second module near the inlet varied from 0.38 to 18922.67 W/K, respectively. However, the entropy generation rate was found to decrease along the channel through the modules, as the periodic steady conditions were approached in the subsequent modules.
Recruitment methods in a clinical trial of provoked vulvodynia: Predictors of enrollment
Authors: Bachour Candi C , Bachmann Gloria A , Foster David C , Wan Jim Y , Rawlinson Leslie A , Brown Candace S ,   Gabapentin Study Group (GABAgroup)
Published: August 2016

Background:

Successful recruitment in clinical trials for chronic pain conditions is challenging, especially in women with provoked vulvodynia due to reluctance in discussing pain associated with sexual intercourse. The most successful recruitment methods and the characteristics of women reached with these methods are unknown.

Objective:

To compare the effectiveness and efficiency of four recruitment methods and to determine socioeconomic predictors for successful enrollment in a National Institutes of Health–sponsored multicenter clinical trial evaluating a gabapentin intervention in women with provoked vulvodynia.

Methods:

Recruitment methods utilized mass mailing, media, clinician referrals and community outreach. Effectiveness (number of participants enrolled) and efficiency (proportion screened who enrolled) were determined. Socioeconomic variables including race, educational level, annual household income, relationship status, age, menopausal status and employment status were also evaluated regarding which recruitment strategies were best at targeting specific cohorts.

Results:

Of 868 potential study participants, 219 were enrolled. The most effective recruitment method in enrolling participants was mass mailing ( p < 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in efficiency between recruitment methods ( p = 0.11). Relative to clinician referral, black women were 13 times as likely to be enrolled through mass mailing (adjusted odds ratio 12.5, 95% confidence interval, 3.6–43.1) as white women. There were no differences in enrollment according to educational level, annual income, relationship status, age, menopausal status, or employment status and recruitment method.

Conclusion:

In this clinical trial, mass mailing was the most effective recruitment method. Race of participants enrolled in a provoked vulvodynia trial was related to the recruitment method.
Human Articular Chondrocytes Induce Interleukin-2 Nonresponsiveness to Allogeneic Lymphocytes
Authors: Abe Satomi , Nochi Hitoshi , Ito Hiroshi
Published: August 2016

Introduction

We previously showed that articular chondrocytes (ACs) have immune privilege and immunomodulatory functions like those of mesenchymal stem cells. To elucidate these mechanisms, we focused on interleukin-2 (IL-2), which plays critical roles in lymphocyte mitogenic activity. The purpose of this study was to explore whether ACs affect the role of IL-2 underlying immunomodulatory functions.

Material and Methods

Irradiated human ACs from osteoarthritis donors were used. Third-party ACs were added to the mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) with or without recombinant human IL-2 (rhIL-2), and the levels of IL-2 and the soluble form of the IL-2 receptor α (sIL-2Rα) protein in supernatant were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Recombinant human IL-2 (rhIL-2) was also added to the MLR. To detect the expression of IL-2 receptor α (CD25) on lymphocytes in the MLR, flow cytometric analysis was performed. Last, ACs and allogeneic activated CD4+T cell were co-cultured, and the expression of CD25 on activated T cells was examined by flow cytometry.

Results

Third-party ACs significantly inhibited the MLR and reduced the level of sIL-2Rα in a dose-dependent manner, but did not affect the concentration of IL-2. Exogenous rhIL-2 accelerated MLR but did not rescue the inhibitory effect of ACs. ACs inhibited the expression of CD25 on activated CD4+T cells.

Discussion

Our results showed that third-party ACs inhibited the proliferation of allogeneic activated lymphocytes, thereby inhibiting production sIL-2Rα, although ACs did not affect IL-2 secretion from lymphocytes. Also, ACs inhibited CD25 expression on activated CD4+T cells. Thus, ACs inhibited the immune response of allogeneic lymphocytes by inducing IL-2 nonresponsiveness.
Perspectives of caregivers towards physiotherapy treatment for children with burns in Harare, Zimbabwe: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chiwaridzo Matthew , Zinyando Vimbayinashe Juliet , Dambi Jermaine Matewu , Kaseke Farayi , Munambah Nyaradzai , Mudawarima Tapfuma
Published: August 2016

Background

Physiotherapy is an integral part of treatment for paediatric burns. In Zimbabwe, children are admitted in paediatric burn unit with their caregivers, who play important roles such as providing explanation and obtaining cooperation of the child during physiotherapy, which is often uncomfortable or painful to the patient. The aim of this study was to determine the perspectives of caregivers towards physiotherapy interventions administered to hospitalized children at central hospitals in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using self-administered questionnaires. The study was carried out at two large central hospitals (Parirenyatwa Hospital and Harare Central Hospital). The study targeted all the caregivers of children below the age of 12 years with a diagnosis of burns, irrespective of severity or area affected, who were admitted in the two paediatric burn units. Of the 34 caregivers eligible to participate, 31 (91.1 %) questionnaires had complete data and were analysed. The analyses were done using Statistica version 12.0.

Results

The median age of the caregivers was 28 years (IQR = 24–33 years). Female caregivers constituted 90.3 % of the sample. The majority of the caregivers (n = 26, 83.9 %) were biological mothers to the hospitalised child. The majority of children (n = 20, 64.5 %) hospitalised were between 0 and 4 years. The commonest cause of burns was scalding (n = 19, 61.2 %). The burns were mainly in the upper extremities (n = 11, 35.5 %). Physiotherapy for the burns was mainly active and passive joint range of motion exercises (n = 30, 96.8 %). The caregivers’ perceptions towards physiotherapy were mainly positive (n = 20, 64.5 %) indicating that physiotherapy plays an important role in burn management. Of the 21 caregivers given a ward exercise programme, 13 (61.9 %) were not compliant.

Conclusions

Caregivers’ perspectives towards physiotherapy were largely positive and are similar to those found in other studies. The majority of the caregivers indicated that physiotherapy was important in the overall management of burns leading to proper healing of the wounds without complications.
New insights from geophysical data on the regional structure and geometry of the southwest Thelon Basin and its basement, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Tschirhart Victoria , Pehrsson Sally J.
Published: August 2016

Detailed analysis of gravity and aeromagnetic data covering the southwest Thelon Basin, Northwest Territories, Canada, has provided insight into basement geology that has significance to exploration for uranium and possibly other economic metals in a remote frontier region. Interpretation of basement geology has been constrained by the calibration of gravity and magnetic signatures with Precambrian geology adjacent to the basin and sparse seismic data within the basin, creating the first basement geologic map of the southwest Thelon Basin. The basement to the overlying sedimentary units is dominated by magnetic felsic and mafic bodies variably overlying and intruding the gneissic crystalline basement. Supracrustal belts located outside the basin margins are interpreted to continue below the basin fill. Major structures have been delineated geophysically including the Howard Lake Shear Zone and the Bathurst and McDonald fault systems. Northwest-trending structures forming part of the Bathurst fault system appear to control the unconformity surface morphology and the location of basin depocenters. The geologic interpretations are corroborated by joint gravity and magnetic modeling of profiles that reveal the deepest part of the Thelon Basin reaches depths of [Formula: see text] in an area of subdued magnetic and gravimetric response to the north. The basin is a focus of active exploration for uranium, and we have found that areas along the south and eastern margins underlain by U-rich granitoid rocks may have significant potential where intersected by reactivated faults.
USA Defense Industry Companies’ Development in Current Conditions: Trends and Prospects
Authors: Савченко  , Savchenko Evgeniy
Published: August 2016

The article considers the particular characteristics of functioning of USA defense

industry companies in current conditions. These characteristics are marked by

continuation of crisis trends in the USA economy and negative changes in the

USA defense budget. The latter means not only spending reduction, but also

changes in budget balance not in favor of procurement of new weapons systems

and R&D. The situation determines the necessity of USA defense industry companies’

business-model structural adjustments. However, the implementation of

the structural adjustments remains in question.
Modern Consulting: Professional Consulting Problems
Authors: Агаева  , Agaeva A. , Баурина  , Baurina Svetlana
Published: August 2016

This article is devoted to research of problems of professional consulting in the market of consulting services. The typical management problems are designated which are need to be solved by professional consultants. The typology of consultants in the market in the field of management consulting is considered.
Knowledge Management Strategies: an analytical study in institutions of information in Iraq
Authors: Hassan Haider
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate on the reality the practice of information institutions in Iraq ، the activities of management knowledge ، and to clarify the importance of knowledge management strategies and contemporary concept in order to help information institutions to raise the level of information services and contribute to building a society of knowledge economy and to achieve the objectives of the study were research questionnaires the design and distribution of the sample consisting of (152) Researched The study found the following results:1- The degree of most of the activities of Knowledge Management was a medium degree exception of cognitive activity audit were high while the activities of each of knowledge possession ، knowledge dissemination and exchange of information ، knowledge development ، knowledge society ، the degree of exercise is weak.2- There are statistically significant statistical relationship between the nature of knowledge management strategy and how much exercise Activity construction of knowledge ، and possession knowledge ، and storage of knowledge and documentation ، and auditing knowledge ، and application of knowledge ، and dissemination of knowledge and exchange ، and the development of knowledge ، and community knowledge.The study reached the initiative to adopt the concept of knowledge management strategies through the practice of the activities that are included in this concept ،and provide the necessary ingredients to practice those activities.