bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Platelet Count and Size Indices in Adolescent Patients With Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Oświęcimska Joanna , Malczyk Żaneta , Szymlak Agnieszka , Mikołajczak Agata , Ziora Katarzyna , Zamlynski Jacek , Machura Edyta , Zajac Piotr , Koczy Bogdan , Kasperska-Zajac Alicja
Published: April 2017

The significance of platelet size indices has not been widely analyzed in anorexia nervosa (AN). It seems important to get more knowledge on the easily available indices of platelet function obtained by routine complete blood count analysis in patients with AN. We analyzed platelet count (PLT), platelet distribution width (PDW), and mean platelet volume using an automated blood cell counter in 25 females with AN and healthy age- and gender-matched nonatopic controls. Mean PLT was significantly lower in patients with AN than in the control group. Platelet distribution width values in patients with AN were significantly higher than those in the controls. Platelet distribution width values significantly correlated with the disease duration and rate of body weight loss in the anorectic patients. Anorexia nervosa in adolescents is associated with a decrease in PLT along with an increased PDW, which may be an indicator of dysregulated thrombopoiesis.
Prepartal Energy Intake Alters Blood Polymorphonuclear Leukocyte Transcriptome During the Peripartal Period in Holstein Cows
Authors: Agrawal A , Khan MJ , Graugnard DE , Vailati-Riboni M , Rodriguez-Zas SL , Osorio JS , Loor JJ
Published: April 2017

In the dairy industry, cow health and farmer profits depend on the balance between diet (ie, nutrient composition, daily intake) and metabolism. This is especially true during the transition period, where dramatic physiological changes foster vulnerability to immunosuppression, negative energy balance, and clinical and subclinical disorders. Using an Agilent microarray platform, this study examined changes in the transcriptome of bovine polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) due to prepartal dietary intake. Holstein cows were fed a high-straw, control-energy diet (CON; NEL = 1.34 Mcal/kg) or overfed a moderate-energy diet (OVE; NEL = 1.62 Mcal/kg) during the dry period. Blood for PMNL isolation and metabolite analysis was collected at −14 and +7 days relative to parturition. At an analysis of variance false discovery rate <0.05, energy intake (OVE vs CON) influenced 1806 genes. Dynamic Impact Approach bioinformatics analysis classified treatment effects on Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways, including activated oxidative phosphorylation and biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids and inhibited RNA polymerase, proteasome, and toll-like receptor signaling pathway. This analysis indicates that processes critical for energy metabolism and cellular and immune function were affected with mixed results. However, overall interpretation of the transcriptome data agreed in part with literature documenting a potentially detrimental, chronic activation of PMNL in response to overfeeding. The widespread, transcriptome-level changes captured here confirm the importance of dietary energy adjustments around calving on the immune system.
The effectiveness of telehealth on self-management for older adults with a chronic condition: A comprehensive narrative review of the literature
Authors: Guo Yuqi , Albright David
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Given the rapid global growth of older adults with chronic condition(s), the present study explored the effects of telehealth technologies on self-management among older adults with chronic condition(s).

Methods

Clinical trial studies on telehealth self-management for older adults with chronic condition(s) published in peer reviewed journals were reviewed systematically. In addition, the potential biases were assessed for included studies.

Results

This review identiﬁed 31 articles regarding the effectiveness of telehealth technologies on self-management among older adults.

Discussion

According to the findings of the present study, telehealth technologies have shown effectiveness on improving self-care skills, improving self-monitoring behaviours and improving clinical outcomes among older adults with chronic condition(s) in different settings. Using telehealth technologies is an advisable intervention for promoting older patients’ self-management. However, it is critical to consider racial diversity and culture-related health behaviour differences when using telehealth technologies.
Enduring somatic threat perceptions and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms in survivors of cardiac events
Authors: Meli Laura , Alcántara Carmela , Sumner Jennifer A , Swan Brendan , Chang Bernard P , Edmondson Donald
Published: April 2017

Post-traumatic stress disorder due to acute cardiovascular events may be uniquely defined by enduring perceptions of somatic threat. We tested whether post-traumatic stress disorder at 1 month post–acute coronary syndrome indeed required both high peritraumatic threat during the acute coronary syndrome and ongoing cardiac threat perceptions. We assessed peritraumatic threat during emergency department enrollment of 284 patients with a provisional acute coronary syndrome diagnosis and cardiac threat perceptions and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms 1 month post-discharge. In a multiple regression model with adjustment for important covariates, emergency department threat perceptions were associated with higher 1 month post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms only among those with high levels of ongoing cardiac threat.
Mixing methods, maximising results: Use of mixed methods research to investigate policy solutions for fuel poverty and energy vulnerability
Authors: O’Sullivan Kimberley , Howden-Chapman Philippa
Published: April 2017

Mixed methods research is particularly well suited to investigate complex policy problems such as fuel poverty, which require empirical evidence to inform intersectoral solutions. This paper draws on our theory-driven interdisciplinary studies in the built environment to analyse the outcomes and possible policy pathways to address fuel poverty. Insights are drawn from our own fuel poverty research using community-based mixed methods research to explore both the outcomes of interventions and the behaviour of people in indoor environments. Finally, we suggest future directions for mixed methods policy-focused fuel poverty research to leverage growing national and international political interest and policy recognition of the problem.
Living with interpersonal data: Observability and accountability in the age of pervasive ICT
Authors: Goulden Murray , Tolmie Peter , Mortier Richard , Lodge Tom , Pietilainen Anna-Kaisa , Teixeira Renata
Published: April 2017

The Internet of Things, alongside existing mobile digital technologies, heralds a world in which pervasive sensing constantly captures data about us. Simultaneous with this technology programme are moves by policymakers to shore up the digital economy through the legislating of new trust-building models of data management. These moves seek to give individuals control and oversight of their personal data. Within shared settings, the consequences of these changes are the large-scale generation of interpersonal data generated by and acting on the group rather than individual. We consider how such systems create new forms of observability and hence accountability among members of the home, and draw on the work of Simmel and Goffman to explore how these demands are managed. Such management mitigates the more extreme possibilities for domestic monitoring posited by these systems, yet without careful design there remains a considerable danger of unanticipated negative consequences.
Journalism, separation and independence: Newspaper coverage of the end of the British Mandate for Palestine, 1948
Authors: Rodgers James
Published: April 2017

This article examines the reporting of the end in 1948 of the British Mandate for Palestine in both British Newspapers and the New York Times. The research is focused on 50 news items published during the last few weeks of the Mandate, especially on and around 14th May 1948. The article seeks to explore the relationship between correspondents, the British authorities and the people then living in Palestine. The article argues that, despite various factors which might have influenced their work, the correspondents still struggled for, and achieved, a degree of independence in their reporting. In addition to these more overt influences, the article discusses whether correspondents may have been influenced by a broader mindset prevalent at the time in the society to which they belong. In doing so, it employs Edward Said’s work on Orientalism, especially where Orientalism ‘connotes the high-handed executive attitude of nineteenth-century, and early-twentieth-century European colonialism’. The coverage reveals much about the way the role of Britain in Palestine was portrayed to newspaper audiences at a time when Britain’s influence in the wider region was in decline. In conclusion, the article argues that, for all journalism’s association with political elites, the best reporting from that time provided its audience with valuable insight into the likely consequences of the end of the Mandate – insight which remains valuable today, especially in the year, 2017, which will see both the centenary and the 50th anniversary of, respectively, Balfour Declaration and the Six-Day War.
Role of the perceived justice of service recovery: A comparison of first-time and repeat visitors
Authors: Chen Peng , Kim Yeong Gug
Published: April 2017

The objectives of this study are to determine the effects of perceived justice on customers’ emotional response, which influences customer behavior, and to identify any distinction between first-time and repeat visitors’ perspectives of service recovery. After 550 self-administered questionnaires were distributed, 477 usable questionnaires were obtained. The relationships among seven constructs (distributive justice, procedural justice, interactional justice, positive emotion, negative emotion, overall satisfaction, and word-of-mouth intention) were measured using structural equation modeling, and the moderating role of first-time and repeat visitors in the relationships among constructs was determined. Although there are no significant relationships between procedural justice or interactional justice and negative emotion, other paths were significant. In addition, the moderating function of first-time and repeat visitors had significant impact on the relationships of positive emotion and negative emotion with overall satisfaction.
Evaluating the extent to which social researchers apply feminist and empowerment frameworks in photovoice studies with female participants: A literature review
Authors: Coemans Sara , Raymakers Anne-Leen , Vandenabeele Joke , Hannes Karin
Published: April 2017

In the last decades, we have witnessed a growing interest for the use of photovoice, also referred to as participatory photography, as a visual research method, particularly in social sciences. In this systematic review of the literature, we seek to explore how the methodology has been applied in studies that focus on research with, on and about women. We critically evaluate the potential of photovoice to ‘give’ voice to and empower female participants. Nineteen relevant articles were identified and analyzed using a descriptive within- and cross-case analysis. Several authors claimed their study was inspired by feminist theory; however, few were convincing in the way this was implemented in practice. Empowerment claims were made by many, however, seldom evaluated at the end of the studies. We outline how female voices can manifest themselves in different phases of a research process and present types of empowerment that can potentially be reached through photovoice.
Diagnosis and prognosis of slow speed bearing behavior under grease starvation condition
Authors: Elforjani Mohamed
Published: April 2017

The monitoring and diagnosis of rolling element bearings with acoustic emission and vibration measurements has evolved as one of the much used techniques for condition monitoring and diagnosis of rotating machinery. Furthermore, recent developments indicate the drive toward integration of diagnosis and prognosis algorithms in future integrated machine health management systems. With this in mind, this article is an experimental study of slow speed bearings in a starved lubricated contact. It investigates the influence of grease starvation conditions on detection and monitoring natural defect initiation and propagation using acoustic emission approach. The experiments are also aimed at a comparison of results acquired by acoustic emission and vibration diagnosis on full-scale axial bearing. In addition to this, the article concentrates on the estimation of the remaining useful life for bearings while in operation. To implement this, a multilayer artificial neural network model has been proposed to correlate the selected acoustic emission features with corresponding bearing wear throughout laboratory experiments. Experiments confirm that the obtained results were promising and selecting this appropriate signal processing technique can significantly affect the defect identification.
An off-axis, reflective system for uniform near-field illumination in optical microscopy
Authors: Ge P , Zhang K , Mao L , Zhang Y , Xu H
Published: April 2017

In traditional optical microsopy the uniformity of off-axis illumination is poor. In this paper we propose a novel LED optical system for near-field illumination in microscopy. The system includes a LED light source, an optical collimator and a freeform, micro-reflective lens array. The Monte Carlo method is used to simulate the system. The simulation results show that the illumination uniformity can be better than 85% in the observation zone. The optical system can be put at the side of the main optical axis of the microscope. The illumination uniformity is not varied when the observation distance changes so it has good stablilty.
Clinical Study of Orthogonal-View Phase-Matched Digital Tomosynthesis for Lung Tumor Localization
Authors: Zhang You , Ren Lei , Vergalasova Irina , Yin Fang-Fang
Published: April 2017

Background and Purpose:

Compared to cone-beam computed tomography, digital tomosynthesis imaging has the benefits of shorter scanning time, less imaging dose, and better mechanical clearance for tumor localization in radiation therapy. However, for lung tumors, the localization accuracy of the conventional digital tomosynthesis technique is affected by the lack of depth information and the existence of lung tumor motion. This study investigates the clinical feasibility of using an orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique to improve the accuracy of lung tumor localization.

Materials and Methods:

The proposed orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique benefits from 2 major features: (1) it acquires orthogonal-view projections to improve the depth information in reconstructed digital tomosynthesis images and (2) it applies respiratory phase-matching to incorporate patient motion information into the synthesized reference digital tomosynthesis sets, which helps to improve the localization accuracy of moving lung tumors. A retrospective study enrolling 14 patients was performed to evaluate the accuracy of the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique. Phantom studies were also performed using an anthropomorphic phantom to investigate the feasibility of using intratreatment aggregated kV and beams’ eye view cine MV projections for orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis imaging. The localization accuracy of the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique was compared to that of the single-view digital tomosynthesis techniques and the digital tomosynthesis techniques without phase-matching.

Results:

The orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique outperforms the other digital tomosynthesis techniques in tumor localization accuracy for both the patient study and the phantom study. For the patient study, the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique localizes the tumor to an average (± standard deviation) error of 1.8 (0.7) mm for a 30° total scan angle. For the phantom study using aggregated kV–MV projections, the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis localizes the tumor to an average error within 1 mm for varying magnitudes of scan angles.

Conclusion:

The pilot clinical study shows that the orthogonal-view phase-matched digital tomosynthesis technique enables fast and accurate localization of moving lung tumors.
Mobile access to virtual randomization for investigator-initiated trials
Authors: Deserno Thomas M , Keszei András P
Published: April 2017

Background/aims

Randomization is indispensable in clinical trials in order to provide unbiased treatment allocation and a valid statistical inference. Improper handling of allocation lists can be avoided using central systems, for example, human-based services. However, central systems are unaffordable for investigator-initiated trials and might be inaccessible from some places, where study subjects need allocations. We propose mobile access to virtual randomization, where the randomization lists are non-existent and the appropriate allocation is computed on demand.

Methods

The core of the system architecture is an electronic data capture system or a clinical trial management system, which is extended by an R interface connecting the R server using the Java R Interface. Mobile devices communicate via the representational state transfer web services. Furthermore, a simple web-based setup allows configuring the appropriate statistics by non-statisticians. Our comprehensive R script supports simple randomization, restricted randomization using a random allocation rule, block randomization, and stratified randomization for un-blinded, single-blinded, and double-blinded trials. For each trial, the electronic data capture system or the clinical trial management system stores the randomization parameters and the subject assignments.

Results

Apps are provided for iOS and Android and subjects are randomized using smartphones. After logging onto the system, the user selects the trial and the subject, and the allocation number and treatment arm are displayed instantaneously and stored in the core system. So far, 156 subjects have been allocated from mobile devices serving five investigator-initiated trials.

Conclusion

Transforming pre-printed allocation lists into virtual ones ensures the correct conduct of trials and guarantees a strictly sequential processing in all trial sites. Covering 88% of all randomization models that are used in recent trials, virtual randomization becomes available for investigator-initiated trials and potentially for large multi-center trials.
Luminous Connections: Risk, Value and Responsibility in a Late Nineteenth-Century High Wire Bicycle Stunt
Authors: Smith Kirstin
Published: April 2017

This article analyses risk, value and responsibility in a high wire cycling stunt which took place in Brooklyn in 1897. The stunt involved the performer’s bicycle completing an electrical circuit to illuminate his body and wheels with coloured lights, using electricity siphoned from a nearby Brooklyn trolley route. I explore the connections and distinctions between stunts and circus, and the status of risk and responsibility in each. I then analyse what is known about the contract between the performer and the railroad company, and the types of exchange it involved. I compare these modes of exchange and investment to Randy Martin’s concept of a ‘derivative’, which encompasses a mode of sociality as well as a type of financial investment. Martin argued for conjoint critiques of performance and value abstractions, holding that the ‘intricate acrobatics of high finance have all manner of parallel expression in dances on the ground’. Pursuing this parallel between bodily movement and value abstraction, I read this bicycle act, and stunts more broadly, as embodied derivatives.
Are Traditional Journalism Principles Still Alive and Well in Today’s Local TV Newsrooms?
Authors: Henderson Keren , Cremedas Michael
Published: April 2017

This study surveyed 348 local TV journalists to learn whether—given the demands of the contemporary, conglomerated television news industry—they still adhere to traditional journalistic principles. The findings suggest that, by and large, reporters believe they make a determined effort to uphold good journalism practices despite management pressures to produce increasingly higher volumes of news content more quickly and with fewer resources. Findings suggest further scholarly attention to two journalism principles in particular may be needed: the principle of verifying facts before publication as it pertains to social media adoption in newsrooms and, secondly, changes in newsroom organization related to the principle of watchdog journalism.
Comparison of diffusion-weighted imaging and enhanced T1-weighted sequencing in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Abolhasani Foroughi Amin , Salahi Roohollah , Nikseresht Alireza , Heidari Hora , Nazeri Masoume , Khorsand Ali
Published: April 2017

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to assess whether demographic, brain anatomical regions and contrast enhancement show differences in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients with increased diffusion lesions (ID group) compared with diffusion restriction (DR group).

Method

MRI protocol comprised T1- and T2-weighted sequences with and without gadolinium (Gd), and sagittal three-dimensional FLAIR sequence, DWI and ADC maps were prospectively performed in 126 MS patients from January to December 2015. The investigation was conducted to evaluate differences in demographic, cord and brain regional, technical, and positive or negative Gd contrast imaging parameters in two groups of ID and DR. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS.

Results

A total of 9.6% of patients showed DR. In the DR group, 66.6% of the patients showed contrast enhancement of plaques, whereas 29.2% of the IR group showed enhancement of plaques. The most prevalent group was non-enhanced plaques in the ID group, followed by Gd-enhanced plaques in the ID group. Patients in the ID group (90.4%) were significantly more than in the DR group (9.6%). Out of the 40 patients with Gd-enhanced plaques, 80.5% was from the ID group and 19.5% from the DR group.

Conclusion

MRI of the brain, unlike of the cord, with Gd demonstrates significant difference in enhancement between the two groups ( p < 0.05). No significant difference was seen in demographic, cord and brain regional, and technical parameters, EDSS, disease duration, and attack rate as well as demographic and regional parameters between the ID and decrease diffusion groups ( p > 0.05).
Construct and Concurrent Validity of the Positive Metacognitions and Positive Meta-Emotions Questionnaire in the Polish Population
Authors: Konarski Roman , Brycz Hanna
Published: April 2017

The Positive Metacognitions and Positive Meta-Emotions Questionnaire (PMCEQ) of Beer and Moneta measures adaptive metacognitive beliefs when facing challenging situations. The psychometric properties of a Polish version of the PMCEQ are reported. The cultural adaptation of the instrument was conducted in a representative sample of adult Poles ( n = 600). The original three-factor structure of the PMCEQ was corroborated by confirmatory factor analysis. Further psychometric analyses indicated that the instrument produces valid and reliable measurements of adaptive metacognitive beliefs in the Polish population.
Evaluation of Apixaban for the Treatment of Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation With Regard to Dosing and Safety in a Community Hospital
Authors: Tellor Katie B. , Wang Michelle , Green Melissa S. , Armbruster Anastasia L.
Published: April 2017

Background: Apixaban, a direct factor Xa inhibitor, is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for prevention of stroke and systemic embolism in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Apixaban’s compelling safety and efficacy data, combined with minimal laboratory monitoring, make it an attractive anticoagulant. Objectives: To characterize and evaluate the dosing and safety of apixaban for the treatment of nonvalvular atrial fibrillation at a community hospital. Design/Patients: A retrospective chart review evaluated patients ≥18 years of age who received at least 2 consecutive doses of apixaban from January 1, 2013 to June 30, 2016. Patients with multiple admissions were evaluated for each hospitalization. Patients were excluded if height, weight, or serum creatinine was not documented during hospital admission. Patients who received apixaban for the treatment or prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism were excluded. Prescribing patterns were characterized based on FDA-approved dosing regimens and patient demographics. Safety outcomes included incidences of major, clinically relevant nonmajor, and minor bleeding. Results: Of the 707 patients evaluated, 82% received an FDA-approved apixaban regimen. Of the 127 patients (18%) who received an unapproved regimen, 5.5% (7 patients) received an unapproved frequency and 94.5% (120 patients) received an unapproved dose. The majority (98 patients, 81.7%) were underdosed. Composite bleeding rates were 2.7%, with 1.8% major bleeds, 0.7% clinically relevant nonmajor bleeds, and 0.1% minor bleeds. Conclusions: The use of apixaban must be monitored in order to ensure FDA-approved dosing regimens are being prescribed and patients are not being underdosed.
Osteoblasts support megakaryopoiesis through production of interleukin-9
Authors: Xiao Min , Wang Yongkui , Tao Chen , Wang Zhenyu , Yang Jun , Chen Zhenguo , Zou Zhipeng , Li Mangmang , Liu Anling , Jia Chunhong , Huang Bin , Yan Bo , Lai Pinglin , Ding Changhai , Cai Daozhang , Xiao Guozhi , Jiang Yu , Bai Xiaochun
Published: April 2017

Key Points

Osteoblast-produced IL-9 supports megakaryopoiesis and platelet formation. IL-9 is a promising therapeutic agent for treatment of thrombocytopenia.
Management of venous thromboembolism during thrombocytopenia after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Li Ang , Davis Chris , Wu Qian , Li Shan , Kesten Madeline F. , Holmberg Leona A. , Gopal Ajay K. , Garcia David A.
Published: April 2017

Key Points

Anticoagulation continuation vs cessation during thrombocytopenia did not affect recurrent thrombosis or bleeding after autologous HCT. Among anticoagulated patients undergoing autologous HCT, higher platelet counts were not associated with a lower risk of bleeding.
The landscape of BRAF transcript and protein variants in human cancer
Authors: Marranci Andrea , Jiang Zhijie , Vitiello Marianna , Guzzolino Elena , Comelli Laura , Sarti Samanta , Lubrano Simone , Franchin Cinzia , Echevarría-Vargas Ileabett , Tuccoli Andrea , Mercatanti Alberto , Evangelista Monica , Sportoletti Paolo , Cozza Giorgio , Luzi Ettore , Capobianco Enrico , Villanueva Jessie , Arrigoni Giorgio , Signore Giovanni , Rocchiccioli Silvia , Pitto Letizia , Tsinoremas Nicholas , Poliseno Laura
Published: April 2017

Background

The BRAF protein kinase is widely studied as a cancer driver and therapeutic target. However, the regulation of its expression is not completely understood.

Results

Taking advantage of the RNA-seq data of more than 4800 patients belonging to 9 different cancer types, we show that BRAF mRNA exists as a pool of 3 isoforms (reference BRAF, BRAF-X1, and BRAF-X2) that differ in the last part of their coding sequences, as well as in the length (BRAF-ref: 76 nt; BRAF-X1 and BRAF-X2: up to 7 kb) and in the sequence of their 3’UTRs. The expression levels of BRAF-ref and BRAF-X1/X2 are inversely correlated, while the most prevalent among the three isoforms varies from cancer type to cancer type. In melanoma cells, the X1 isoform is expressed at the highest level in both therapy-naïve cells and cells with acquired resistance to vemurafenib driven by BRAF gene amplification or expression of the Δ[3–10] splicing variant. In addition to the BRAF-ref protein, the BRAF-X1 protein (the full length as well as the Δ[3–10] variant) is also translated. The expression levels of the BRAF-ref and BRAF-X1 proteins are similar, and together they account for BRAF functional activities. In contrast, the endogenous BRAF-X2 protein is hard to detect because the C-terminal domain is selectively recognized by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway and targeted for degradation.

Conclusions

By shedding light on the repertoire of BRAF mRNA and protein variants, and on the complex regulation of their expression, our work paves the way to a deeper understanding of a crucially important player in human cancer and to a more informed development of new therapeutic strategies.
Thyroid Function Variation in the Normal Range, Energy Expenditure, and Body Composition in L-T4–Treated Subjects
Authors: Samuels Mary H. , Kolobova Irina , Antosik Megan , Niederhausen Meike , Purnell Jonathan Q. , Schuff Kathryn G.
Published: April 2017

Purpose:

It is not clear whether upper limits of the thyrotropin (TSH) reference range should be lowered. This debate can be better informed by investigation of whether variations in thyroid function within the reference range have clinical effects. Thyroid hormone plays a critical role in determining energy expenditure, body mass, and body composition, and therefore clinically relevant variations in these parameters may occur across the normal range of thyroid function.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study of 140 otherwise healthy hypothyroid subjects receiving chronic replacement therapy with levothyroxine (L-T4) who had TSH levels across the full span of the laboratory reference range (0.34 to 5.6 mU/L). Subjects underwent detailed tests of energy expenditure (total and resting energy expenditure, thermic effect of food, physical activity energy expenditure), substrate oxidation, diet intake, and body composition.

Results:

Subjects with low-normal (≤2.5 mU/L) and high-normal (>2.5 mU/L) TSH levels did not differ in any of the outcome measures. However, across the entire group, serum free triiodothyronine (fT3) levels were directly correlated with resting energy expenditure, body mass index (BMI), body fat mass, and visceral fat mass, with clinically relevant variations in these outcomes.

Conclusions:

Variations in thyroid function within the laboratory reference range have clinically relevant correlations with resting energy expenditure, BMI, and body composition in L-T4–treated subjects. However, salutary effects of higher fT3 levels on energy expenditure may be counteracted by deleterious effects on body weight and composition. Further studies are needed before these outcomes should be used as a basis for altering L-T4 doses in L-T4–treated subjects.
Large Reduction in Adiponectin During Pregnancy Is Associated With Large-for-Gestational-Age Newborns
Authors: Lekva Tove , Roland Marie Cecilie Paasche , Michelsen Annika E. , Friis Camilla Margrethe , Aukrust Pål , Bollerslev Jens , Henriksen Tore , Ueland Thor
Published: April 2017

Context:

Fetuses exposed to an obese intrauterine environment are more likely to be born large-for-gestational age (LGA) and are at increased risk of obesity in childhood and cardiovascular disease and/or type 2 diabetes mellitus as adults, but which factors that influence the intrauterine environment is less clear.

Objective:

To investigate the association between circulating levels of leptin and adiponectin, measured multiple times during pregnancy, and birth weight and prevalence of LGA or small-for-gestational-age infants. The association between birth weight and messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of adiponectin receptors and genes involved in nutrient transport in the placenta was also investigated.

Design:

Population-based prospective cohort [substudy of the STORK study (STORe barn og Komplikasjoner, translated as Large Babies and Complications)] from 2001 to 2008.

Setting:

University hospital. Patients or other participants: 300 women.

Main Outcome Measures:

Oral glucose tolerance test was performed twice along with adiponectin and leptin levels measured four times during pregnancy.

Results:

Circulating adiponectin was lower in mothers who gave birth to LGA offspring or had fetuses with high intrauterine abdominal circumference late in pregnancy. Adiponectin decreased most from early to late pregnancy in mothers who gave birth to LGA offspring, and the decrease was an independent predictor of birth weight. Adiponectin receptor 2 and system A amino acid transporter mRNA expression in placentas was negatively correlated with birth weight and was lower in placentas from LGA infants.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that maternal adiponectin may be an important predictor of fetal growth and birth weight, independent of body mass index and insulin resistance.
Analysis of Production, Impact, and Scientific Collaboration on Difficult Airway Through the Web of Science and Scopus (1981–2013)
Authors: García-Aroca Miguel Ángel , Pandiella-Dominique Andrés , Navarro-Suay Ricardo , Alonso-Arroyo Adolfo , Granda-Orive José Ignacio , Anguita-Rodríguez Francisco , López-García Andrés
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND:

Bibliometrics, the statistical analysis of written publications, is an increasingly popular approach to the assessment of scientific activity. Bibliometrics allows researchers to assess the impact of a field, or research area, and has been used to make decisions regarding research funding. Through bibliometric analysis, we hypothesized that a bibliometric analysis of difficult airway research would demonstrate a growth in authors and articles over time.

METHODS:

Using the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases, we conducted a search of published manuscripts on the difficult airway from January 1981 to December 2013. After removal of duplicates, we identified 2412 articles. We then analyzed the articles as a group to assess indicators of productivity, collaboration, and impact over this time period.

RESULTS:

We found an increase in productivity over the study period, with 37 manuscripts published between 1981 and 1990, and 1268 between 2001 and 2010 (P < .001). The difficult airway papers growth rate was bigger than that of anesthesiology research in general, with CAGR (cumulative average growth rate) since 1999 for difficult airway >9% for both WoS and Scopus, and CAGR for anesthesiology as a whole =0.64% in WoS, and =3.30% in Scopus. Furthermore, we found a positive correlation between the number of papers published per author and the number of coauthored manuscripts (P < .001). We also found an increase in the number of coauthored manuscripts, in international cooperation between institutions, and in the number of citations for each manuscript. For any author, we also identified a positive relationship between the number of citations per manuscript and the number of papers published (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

We found a greater increase over time in the number of difficult airway manuscripts than for anesthesiology research overall. We found that collaboration between authors increases their impact, and that an increase in collaboration increases citation rates. Publishing in English and in certain journals, and collaborating with certain authors and institutions, increases the visibility of manuscripts published on this subject.
Tetrodotoxin, Epinephrine, and Chemical Permeation Enhancer Combinations in Peripheral Nerve Blockade
Authors: Santamaria Claudia M. , Zhan Changyou , McAlvin J. Brian , Zurakowski David , Kohane Daniel S.
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND:

Chemical permeation enhancers (CPEs) have the potential to improve nerve blockade by site 1 sodium channel blockers such as tetrodotoxin (TTX). Here, we investigated the efficacy and toxicity of CPE-enhanced nerve blockade across a range of TTX concentrations using 2 CPEs (sodium octyl sulfate and octyl trimethyl ammonium bromide). We also tested the hypothesis that CPEs could be used to reduce the concentrations of TTX and/or of a second adjuvant drug (in this case, epinephrine) needed to achieve prolonged local anesthesia

METHODS:

Sprague-Dawley rats were injected at the sciatic nerve with combinations of TTX and CPEs, with and without epinephrine. Sensory and motor nerve blockade were assessed using a modified hot plate test and a weight-bearing test, respectively. Systemic and local toxicities of the different combinations were assessed.

RESULTS:

Addition of increasing concentrations of TTX to fixed concentrations of CPEs produced a marked concentration-dependent improvement in the rate of successful nerve blocks and in nerve block duration. CPEs did not affect systemic toxicity. At some concentrations, the addition of sodium octyl sulfate increased the duration of block from TTX plus epinephrine, and epinephrine increased that from TTX plus CPEs. The addition of epinephrine did not cause an increase in local toxicity, and it markedly reduced systemic toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS:

CPEs can prolong the duration of nerve blockade across a range of concentrations of TTX. CPEs could also be used to reduce the concentration of epinephrine needed to achieve a given degree of nerve block. CPEs may be useful in enhancing nerve blockade from site 1 sodium channel blockers.
Thousands of RNA-cached copies of whole chromosomes are present in the ciliate Oxytricha during development
Authors: Lindblad Kelsi A. , Bracht John R. , Williams April E. , Landweber Laura F.
Published: April 2017

The ciliate Oxytricha trifallax maintains two genomes: a germline genome that is active only during sexual conjugation and a transcriptionally active, somatic genome that derives from the germline via extensive sequence reduction and rearrangement. Previously, we found that long noncoding (lnc) RNA “templates”—telomere-containing, RNA-cached copies of mature chromosomes—provide the information to program the rearrangement process. Here we used a modified RNA-seq approach to conduct the first genome-wide search for endogenous, telomere-to-telomere RNA transcripts. We find that during development, Oxytricha produces long noncoding RNA copies for over 10,000 of its 16,000 somatic chromosomes, consistent with a model in which Oxytricha transmits an RNA-cached copy of its somatic genome to the sexual progeny. Both the primary sequence and expression profile of a somatic chromosome influence the temporal distribution and abundance of individual template RNAs. This suggests that Oxytricha may undergo multiple rounds of DNA rearrangement during development. These observations implicate a complex set of thousands of long RNA molecules in the wiring and maintenance of a highly elaborate somatic genome architecture.
P53-miR-191-SOX4 regulatory loop affects apoptosis in breast cancer
Authors: Sharma Shivani , Nagpal Neha , Ghosh Prahlad C. , Kulshreshtha Ritu
Published: April 2017

miRNAs have emerged as key participants of p53 signaling pathways because they regulate or are regulated by p53. Here, we provide the first study demonstrating direct regulation of an oncogenic miRNA, miR-191-5p, by p53 and existence of a regulatory feedback loop. Using a combination of qRT-PCR, promoter-luciferase, and chromatin-immunoprecipitation assays, we show that p53 brings about down-regulation of miR-191-5p in breast cancer. miR-191-5p overexpression brought about inhibition of apoptosis in breast cancer cell lines (MCF7 and ZR-75) as demonstrated by reduction in annexin-V stained cells and caspase 3/7 activity, whereas miR-191-5p down-regulation showed the opposite. We further unveiled that SOX4 was a direct target of miR-191-5p. SOX4 overexpression was shown to increase p53 protein levels in MCF7 cells. miR-191-5p overexpression brought about down-regulation of SOX4 and thus p53 levels, suggesting the existence of a regulatory feedback loop. Breast cancer treatment by doxorubicin, an anti-cancer drug, involves induction of apoptosis by p53; we thus wanted to check whether miR-191-5p affects doxorubicin sensitivity. Interestingly, Anti-miR-191 treatment significantly decreased the IC50 of the doxorubicin drug and thus sensitized breast cancer cells to doxorubicin treatment by promoting apoptosis. Overall, this work highlights the importance of the p53-miR-191-SOX4 axis in the regulation of apoptosis and drug resistance in breast cancer and offers a preclinical proof-of-concept for use of an Anti-miR-191 and doxorubicin combination as a rational approach to pursue for better breast cancer treatment.
Hand decontamination in clinical practice: a review of the evidence
Authors: Rigby Ruth , Pegram Anne , Woodward Sue
Published: April 2017

Hand decontamination is known to significantly reduce the spread of hospital-acquired infections but, despite a wealth of guidelines and education campaigns, evidence suggests that many healthcare workers are non-compliant with hand decontamination. The behaviours that prevent hand decontamination are complex. Studies look at attitudes towards dirt, disgust, self-protective hand washing and familiarity with patients. Self-protection behaviours manifest themselves in washing hands more often after certain tasks. Professional issues are also reported to have an impact on hand decontamination, mainly lack of time, heavy workloads, understaffing and frequency of admissions to the clinical area. Further research needs to be undertaken to include comparison between self-reported studies and observational studies, as it has been shown that healthcare workers may rationalise their behaviour and that self-reporting can be unreliable.
A life less invisible
Authors: Biscuit Jules
Published: April 2017

Many in the profession consider dentistry the ‘Cinderella’ of NHS services. With the health of the nation's mouths at risk, can dental nurses ensure a happier ending for some of our patients?
Secrets of a male dental nurse
Authors: Keir-Rawlings Alex , Allen Dom
Published: April 2017

A chance ‘meeting’ on our Facebook page led Alex Keir-Rawlings and Dom Allen to discuss the ups and downs of being a man in a woman's world. We listened in…
New mums, old tricks
Authors: Allen Gemma
Published: April 2017

‘It's never too early to brush’ – Gemma Allen says she is ‘just a small cog to the wheels in motion trying to improve the nation's oral health’. She shares her story…
Unlocking success
Authors: Dawson Trudie
Published: April 2017

A look at the key points in the process of mentoring within the dental profession, with Trudie Dawson
Children's oral health and the role of fluoride
Authors: Greener-Simon Carly
Published: April 2017

Carly Greener-Simon discusses a dental nurse's role in educating patients and parents on the risk factors and consequences of dental decay
Vitamin E diffused highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty at five years
Authors: Nebergall A. K. , Greene M. E. , Laursen M. B. , Nielsen P. T. , Malchau H. , Troelsen A.
Published: April 2017

Aims

The objective of this five-year prospective, blinded, randomised controlled trial (RCT) was to compare femoral head penetration into a vitamin E diffused highly cross-linked polyethylene (HXLPE) liner with penetration into a medium cross-linked polyethylene control liner using radiostereometric analysis.

Patients and Methods

Patients scheduled for total hip arthroplasty (THA) were randomised to receive either the study E1 (32 patients) or the control ArComXL polyethylene (35 patients). The median age (range) of the overall cohort was 66 years (40 to 76).

Results

The five-year median (interquartile range) proximal femoral head penetration into the E1 was -0.05 mm (-0.13 to -0.02) and 0.07 mm (-0.03 to 0.16) for ArComXL. At three and five years, the penetration was significantly greater in the ArComXL group compared with the E1 group (p = 0.029 and p = 0.019, respectively). All patient-reported outcomes (PROs) improved significantly from the pre-operative interval compared with those at one year, and remained favourable at five years. There were no differences between the two groups at any interval.

Conclusion

The five-year results showed that E1 polyethylene does not wear more than the control, ArComXL. This is the longest-term RCT comparing the wear performance and clinical outcome of vitamin E diffused HXLPE with a previous generation of medium cross-linked polyethylene. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:577–84.
Use of inlet radiographs in the assessment of reduction after the surgical treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Massa B. S. F. , Guarniero R. , Godoy Jr R. M. , Rodrigues J. C. , Montenegro N. B. , Cordeiro F. G.
Published: April 2017

Aims

This pilot study aimed to evaluate prospectively the use of inlet radiographs of the hip as an alternative method of the assessment of reduction after the surgical treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH).

Patients and Methods

The children in this study underwent surgery between January 2013 and January 2015. All had inlet radiographs and CT scans post-operatively. Data were analysed by determining inter-observer reliability and intra-observer reproducibility, using the kappa value (K). Differences were settled by discussion between the two observers until a consensus was reached. The sensitivity and specificity of the radiographic and CT results were compared. A total of 26 radiographs were obtained from 23 children, with a mean age of 2.38 years (one to five).

Results

Similar high levels of intra- and inter-observer agreement were observed (K = 0.834, 95% confidence interval (CI)). There was a high agreement between the radiographic and CT results (K = 0.834, 5% CI), with excellent sensitivity and a specificity of 95.5%.

Conclusion

These results suggest that inlet radiographs may be a reliable method of assessing the reduction of the hip after the surgical treatment of DDH. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:697–701.
Errata
Authors: Haddad F. S.
Published: April 2017

Bsat S, Frei H, Beaulé PE The acetabular labrum: review of its function. Bone Joint J;2016;98-B:730-735.
Management of massive acetabular bone defects in revision arthroplasty of the hip using a reconstruction cage and porous metal augment
Authors: Mäkinen T. J. , Abolghasemian M. , Watts E. , Fichman S. G. , Kuzyk P. , Safir O. A. , Gross A. E.
Published: April 2017

Aims

It may not be possible to undertake revision total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the presence of massive loss of acetabular bone stock using standard cementless hemispherical acetabular components and metal augments, as satisfactory stability cannot always be achieved. We aimed to study the outcome using a reconstruction cage and a porous metal augment in these patients.

Patients and Methods

A total of 22 acetabular revisions in 19 patients were performed using a combination of a reconstruction cage and porous metal augments. The augments were used in place of structural allografts. The mean age of the patients at the time of surgery was 70 years (27 to 85) and the mean follow-up was 39 months (27 to 58). The mean number of previous THAs was 1.9 (1 to 3). All patients had segmental defects involving more than 50% of the acetabulum and seven hips had an associated pelvic discontinuity.

Results

Three failures were observed in two hips, both of which had undergone a previous resection of a tumour affecting the acetabulum. Other complications included a late arterial injury, a sciatic nerve palsy, a dislocation treated with a femoral revision, a deep infection treated with irrigation and debridement and a fracture of the greater trochanter treated conservatively. The mean Oxford Hip Score significantly increased from 13.9 (2 to 23) to 28.7 (13 to 38) (p < 0.00001). The mean vertical distance between the centre of rotation of the hip and its normal location decreased from 30 mm to 10 mm.

Conclusions

Acceptable early survivorship can be achieved using this novel technique, but it may be unsuitable for use in patients who have previously undergone the resection of a tumour involving the acetabulum. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:607–13.