bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Life story work with looked after and adopted children: how professional training and experience determine perceptions of its value
Authors: Hooley Kate , Stokes Laura , Combes Helen
Published: September 2016

This study identifies perceptions on the features that are of greater or lesser value to successful life story work with looked after and adopted children. Using a Q-methodology approach, 29 participants from professional and service-user backgrounds ranked 57 statements designed to chart their views on the features they thought important for successful life story work. Participants clustered into three groups based on their views. In all three groups, respondents indicated that good life story work should involve helping a child to express and manage emotions that arise during the work. However, on other issues opinions were more varied. One group thought that life story work needs to provide a safe and supportive exploration of a coherent life narrative. A second one held that it needs to be a child-led, ongoing approach based on here-and-now relationships. The final group highlighted the need for a comprehensive and adaptable record. Links are made with attachment theory and existing models of life story work. Clinical and research implications are provided with an emphasis on the role for clinical psychologists in this work.
Distributed leadership in practice
Authors: Harris Alma , DeFlaminis John
Published: September 2016

This article takes a contemporary look at distributed leadership in practice by drawing upon empirical evidence from a large-scale project in the USA. Initially, it considers the existing knowledge base on distributed leadership and questions some of the assertions and assumptions in recent accounts of the literature. The article also addresses some persistent misconceptions associated with the concept of distributed leadership and points out that certain fundamental misunderstandings still prevail. The article concludes by proposing that more evidence from practice would significantly enhance the current evidential base and that the future development of distributed leadership would greatly benefit from more input from practitioners.
Integration of SWOT analysis with hybrid modified TOPSIS for the lean strategy evaluation
Authors: Prasad Suresh , Khanduja Dinesh , Sharma Surrender K
Published: September 2016

This article deals with the lean strategy evaluation process using SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) analysis aimed at identifying lean strategies and providing an initial decision framework. It involves specifying the objective of the industry and identification of internal and external factors and its sub-factors and lean strategies, which are either favourable or unfavourable in the accomplishment of the stated objective. However, the SWOT analysis method does not provide an analytical method to evaluate the priorities of identified decisive strategic factors. To overcome this limitation, this article presents a case study in an Indian foundry industry using two multiple criteria decision-making methods, that is, analytic network process and modified TOPSIS (technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution), to provide a computable basis in determining the rank of lean strategies. In this approach, the analytic network process is used to calculate the priorities of identified SWOT factors and sub-factors and the modified TOPSIS is applied to rank the lean strategies. A sensitivity analysis is also provided to illustrate how ‘sensitive’ the proposed model is to changes in the priorities of SWOT factors. The results show that the quantitative SWOT analysis–based approach is a feasible and exceedingly capable method that provides vital sensitivity in evaluating the priorities of lean strategies for an Indian foundry industry and can also be employed as an effective method for many other complex decision-making processes.
The altered liver microRNA profile in hepatotoxicity induced by rhizome Dioscorea bulbifera in mice
Authors: Yang Rui , Bai Qingyun , Zhang Jiaqi , Sheng Yuchen , Ji Lili
Published: September 2016

MicroRNA (miRNA) has been reported to play important roles in regulating drug-induced liver injury. Ethyl acetate extract isolated from rhizoma Dioscoreae bulbifera (EF) has been reported to induce hepatotoxicity in our previous studies. This study aims to observe the altered liver miRNA profile and its related signalling pathway involved in EF-induced hepatotoxicity. Serum alanine/aspartate aminotransferase assay showed that EF (450 mg/kg)-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Results of miRNA chip analysis showed that the expression of eight miRNAs was up-regulated and of other nine miRNAs was down-regulated in livers from EF-treated mice. Further, the altered expression of miR-200a-3p, miR-5132-5p and miR-5130 was validated using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. There were total seven predicted target genes of miR-200a-3p, miR-5132-5p and miR-5130. Only one kyoto encyclopedia genes and genomes pathway was annotated using those target genes, which is protein processing in endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Furthermore, liver expression of DnaJ subfamily A member 1, a key gene involved in protein processing in ER based on the altered miRNAs, was increased in EF-treated mice. In conclusion, the results demonstrated that EF altered the expression of liver miRNA profile and its related signalling pathway, which may be involved in EF-induced hepatotoxicity.
Book Review: Rajendra K. Srivastava and Gregory Metz Thomas, The Future of Branding
Authors: Chatterjee Rajashri
Published: September 2016

Rajendra K. Srivastava and Gregory Metz Thomas, The Future of Branding. New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2016, 468 pp., ₹1,295 (ISBN: 978-93-515-0316-3) (HB)
Use of Smartphone for Verbal Autopsy
Authors: Zhao Yi , Joshi Rohina , Rampatige Rasika , Sun Jixin , Huang Liping , Chen Shu , Wu Ruijun , Neal Bruce , Lopez Alan D , Stewart Andrea L. , Serina Peter T. , Li Cong , Zhang Jing , Zhang Jianxin , Zhang Yuhong , Yan Lijing L.
Published: September 2016

Traditionally, verbal autopsies (VA) are collected on paper-based questionnaires and reviewed by physicians for cause of death assignment, it is resource intensive and time consuming. The Population Health Metrics Research Consortium VA questionnaires was made available on an Android-based application and cause of death was derived using the Tariff method. Over one year, all adult deaths occurring in 48 villages in 4 counties were identified and a VA interview was conducted using the smartphone VA application. A total of 507 adult deaths were recorded and VA interviews were conducted. Cardiovascular disease was the leading cause of death (35.3%) followed by injury (14.6%) and neoplasms (13.5%). The total cost of the pilot study was USD28 835 (USD0.42 per capita). The interviewers found use of smartphones to conduct interviews to be easier. The study showed that using a smartphone application for VA interviews was feasible for implementation in rural China.
Culturally Relevant Protective and Risk Factors of Youth Risk Behaviors Among Pakistani and Indian Students in Hong Kong: A Focus Group Study
Authors: Arat Gizem , Liu Lucia L. , Wong Paul W. C.
Published: September 2016

Purpose: The risk behaviors of Hong Kong ethnic minority students are understudied. This exploratory qualitative study aimed to explore culturally nuanced factors for the development and prevention of risk behaviors among Pakistani and Indian students in Hong Kong. Method: Twenty-three students participated in four focus groups. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The participants reported bullying, delinquency, gambling, alcohol, cigarette, and drug uses as risk behaviors. Four themes emerged in the development and prevention of risk behaviors: (a) Parental and peer influence, (b) An unsafe community environment were perceived by the participants as essential factors for the development of risk behaviors, (c) Parental monitoring, and (d) Strong religious beliefs were believed as protective factors for the prevention of risk behaviors. Conclusion: Further research and practice may investigate and focus on the factors embedded in the Hong Kong ethnic minorities’ sociocultural contexts to prevent risk behaviors.
Increasing the performance of negative capacitance shunts by enlarging the output voltage to the requirements of piezoelectric transducers
Authors: Pohl Martin
Published: September 2016

Piezoelectric shunt damping is investigated as one possible solution for improving the vibroacoustic behavior of noise-prone lightweight structures. The negative capacitance shunt circuit appears to be the best choice due to its broadband damping effect. Usually it is built from analog electronic components, such as operational amplifiers, resistors and capacitors. Laboratory tests are possible with this setup, but it is limited to low vibrational excitation levels, because the known circuits are not capable of accessing a sufficient voltage amplitude at the piezoelectric transducers, which is required for high vibration amplitudes. Therefore an improved approach is presented in this paper, which addresses the specific voltage requirements of a common piezoelectric transducer. It comprises a tailored power source and an appropriate concept for the negative capacitance shunt hardware. There only standard operational amplifiers together with an external high-voltage power amplifier circuit are used to cover the whole operating range of a piezoelectric transducer. A demonstrator board is developed and experimentally investigated at a test structure. Finally, the results are compared with a conventional setup. It can be shown that using the full voltage range of the piezoelectric transducer allows higher damping of structures without any saturation effects.
Nivolumab-induced vitiligo in a metastatic melanoma patient: A case report
Authors: Edmondson Lindsay A , Smith Leticia V , Mallik Alka
Published: September 2016

The programmed-death-1 inhibitors selectively block programmed-death-1 interaction with its receptor, which restores active T-cell response directed at tumor cells, inducing an anti-tumor effect. This nonspecific activation of the immune system can also lead to a wide spectrum of side effects. Nivolumab has been used effectively to prolong survival in patients with metastatic melanoma and is recommended as a category 1 agent for systemic therapy in metastatic or unresectable melanoma per the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines. We present a case of a 64-year-old woman who began nivolumab therapy for metastatic melanoma. After six doses of nivolumab therapy, the patient experienced generalized hypopigmentation on her face, chest, back, arms, and lower extremities. Although vitiligo has been reported in as many as 10.7% of patients undergoing nivolumab therapy in some clinical trials, we believe this is the first case to describe the progression of nivolumab-induced vitiligo in a metastatic melanoma patient. This case provides significant insight into the onset, symptoms, development, and treatment options for patients experiencing vitiligo as a result of nivolumab therapy.
An RCT of an Online Parenting Program for Parents of Preschool-Aged Children With ADHD Symptoms
Authors: Franke Nike , Keown Louise J. , Sanders Matthew R.
Published: September 2016

Objective: This randomized control trial evaluated the efficacy of an online self-help program in a sample of parents of preschoolers with ADHD symptoms. Method: Parents were randomly assigned to the intervention group ( n = 27) or the delayed intervention group ( n = 26). Child behavior measures were completed by mothers, fathers, and teachers, and parenting measures were completed by mothers. Results: Intent-to-treat analyses indicated significant post-intervention improvements in mother-rated child hyperactivity/inattention, restlessness/impulsivity, defiance/aggression, social functioning, and teacher-rated prosocial behavior, as well as significant improvements in maternal over-reactivity, verbosity, laxness, positive parenting, parenting satisfaction, self-efficacy, stress, and depression. At 6-month follow-up, effects were maintained for maternal over-reactivity and verbosity, parenting satisfaction and self-efficacy, and parental stress and depression. Conclusion: This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of an online self-help parenting program in reducing preschool inattentive behavior difficulties, and in increasing parenting competence, satisfaction in the parenting role, and maternal well-being.
Reach and Implementation of Physical Activity Breaks and Active Lessons in Elementary School Classrooms
Authors: Turner Lindsey , Chaloupka Frank J.
Published: September 2016

The integration of physical activity into elementary school classrooms, through brief activity breaks (ABs) and lessons that incorporate movement into instruction as active lessons (ALs), are key parts of school physical activity programming and can improve children’s health and academic outcomes. With nationally representative survey data from 640 public elementary schools in the United States, we examined the use of these practices and the extent of implementation within classrooms. ALs were used in 71.7% of schools, and ABs were used in 75.6% of schools. In multivariate models, ALs were significantly less likely to be used in majority-Latino schools (adjusted odds ratio = 0.48, 95% confidence interval [0.25, 0.93], p < .05) than in predominantly White schools. ABs were significantly less likely to be used in lower socioeconomic schools (adjusted odds ratio = 0.57, 95% confidence interval [0.34, 0.95], p < .05) than in higher socioeconomic schools. At schools where ABs were ever used, they were used by 45.6% of teachers, but fewer teachers used them at larger schools (β = −.08, p < .01) and at lower socioeconomic schools (β = −.09, p < .05). The reach of ALs and ABs is modest and classroom-level implementation is quite low. Additional dissemination and support is warranted to improve the reach and implementation of these strategies in elementary schools. Such efforts could improve the school-day experience in ways that benefit millions of young children.
Cefazolin pharmacokinetics in cats under surgical conditions
Authors: Albarellos Gabriela A , Montoya Laura , Passini Sabrina M , Lupi Martín P , Lorenzini Paula M , Landoni María F
Published: September 2016

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the plasma pharmacokinetic profile, tissue concentrations and urine elimination of cefazolin in cats under surgical conditions after a single intravenous dose of 20 mg/kg.

Methods

Intravenous cefazolin (20 mg/kg) was administered to nine young mixed-breed cats 30 mins before they underwent surgical procedures (ovariectomy or orchiectomy). After antibiotic administration, samples from blood, some tissues and urine were taken. Cefazolin concentrations were determined in all biological matrices and pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated.

Results

Initial plasma concentrations were high (Cp(0), 134.80 ± 40.54 µg/ml), with fast and moderately wide distribution (distribution half-life [t½(d)] 0.16 ± 0.15 h; volume of distribution at steady state [V(d[ss])] 0.29 ± 0.10 l/kg) and rapid elimination (body clearance [ClB], 0.21 ± 0.06 l/h/kg; elimination half-life [t½], 1.18 ± 0.27 h; mean residence time 1.42 ± 0.36 h). Thirty to 60 mins after intravenous administration, cefazolin tissue concentrations ranged from 9.24 µg/ml (subcutaneous tissue) to 26.44 µg/ml (ovary). The tissue/plasma concentration ratio ranged from 0.18 (muscle) to 0.58 (ovary). Cefazolin urine concentrations were high with 84.2% of the administered dose being eliminated in the first 6 h postadministration.

Conclusions and relevance

Cefazolin plasma concentrations remained above a minimum inhibitory concentration of ⩽2 µg/ml up to 4 h in all the studied cats. This suggests that a single intravenous dose of 20 mg/kg cefazolin would be adequate for perioperative prophylactic use in cats.
Vibration-based experimental damage detection of a small-scale wind turbine blade
Authors: Ou Yaowen , Chatzi Eleni N , Dertimanis Vasilis K , Spiridonakos Minas D
Published: September 2016

Structural health monitoring offers an attractive tool for condition assessment, fault prognosis and life-cycle management of wind turbine components. However, owing to the intense loading conditions, geometrical nonlinearities, complex material properties and the lack of real-time information on induced structural response, damage detection and characterization of structural components comprise a challenging task. This study is focused on the problem of damage detection for a small-scale wind turbine (Sonkyo Energy Windspot 3.5 kW) experimental blade. To this end, the blade is dynamically tested in both its nominal (healthy) condition and for artificially induced damage of varying types and intensities. The response is monitored via a set of accelerometers; the acquired signals serve for damage detection via the use of appropriate statistical and modal damage detection methods. The former rely on extraction of a characteristic statistical quantity and establishment of an associated statistical hypothesis test, while the latter rely on tracking of damage-sensitive variations of modal properties. The results indicate that statistical-based methods outperform modal-based ones, succeeding in the detection of induced damage, even at low levels.
Entering through the Porta dos Fundos: The Changing Landscape of Brazilian Television Fiction
Authors: Carter Eli
Published: September 2016

Brazil is both a leading television producer in the Global South and home to TV Globo, one of the largest and most commercially successful networks in the world. Indeed, for nearly fifty years of its sixty-five year history, TV Globo and its standardized production of extremely popular telenovelas have largely come to characterize Brazilian television fiction as a whole. In this article, I situate the meteoric rise of the independent production company and YouTube sensation, Porta dos Fundos, within the broader context of TV Globo’s declining audience share and the wide-ranging effects of the Pay Television Law (2011). In doing so, I argue that Porta dos Fundos’s audiovisual production for the Internet and prime-time television serves as an illustrative case for understanding the interrelated ways in which recent policy, new distribution platforms, emerging independent production companies, and an influx of locally produced content are helping to shape the changing landscape of Brazilian television fiction as it transitions out of a six-decade-long network era.
Failure of Wrist Hemiarthroplasty
Authors: Huish Eric G. , Lum Zachary , Bamberger H. Brent , Trzeciak Marc A.
Published: September 2016

Background: Wrist hemiarthroplasty has emerged as a motion-sparing option for severe wrist arthritis. It is technically easy with advantages of limited bone resection and no risk of nonunion. Given the relative infancy of the procedure in clinical practice, there are limited data on patient outcomes. Methods: Eleven patients were treated with wrist reconstructive hemiarthroplasty. Indications included 1 patient with scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse, 9 patients with scapholunate advanced collapse, and 1 patient with capitolunate arthritis. Average age was 63 years; average follow-up was 4 years. Objective parameters included Disabilities of the Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH), grip strength, and range of motion. Implant failure defined by necessity of revision procedure. Results: DASH scores initially improved postoperatively but were not statistically significant. Grip strength was 60% of contralateral side. Postoperative range of motion at 6 months was flexion 40.3°, extension 39.3°, supination 87.0°, pronation 77.8°, radial deviation 14.5°, and ulnar deviation 13.8°. A 45% failure rate was observed. Complications included failure with conversion to Total Wrist Arthroplasty (TWA; n = 2) or wrist fusion (n = 3) secondary to development of ulnar-sided wrist pain. One additional patient experienced severe wrist pain but declined additional surgery. Conclusions: Wrist hemiarthroplasty in our series had a significant failure rate. In each case of failure, the patient developed ulnar-sided wrist pain. In the presence of more reliable procedures, wrist hemiarthroplasty is not indicated in its current incarnation.
Incidence and predictors of headache relief after endovascular treatment in patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Ji Wenjun , Liu Aihua , Yang Xinjian , Li Youxiang , Jiang Chuhan , Wu Zhongxue
Published: September 2016

Objective

Patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms often present with headaches. We retrospectively determined the incidence of headache relief in patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms after endovascular treatment, with the main goals of preventing aneurysmal haemorrhage and identifying factors associated with headache relief in a cohort study.

Methods

From a cohort of patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms who were treated with endovascular coiling and admitted between January 2012 and December 2014, we included 123 patients who had headaches and underwent regular follow-up. The severity of headache was assessed by a quantitative 11-point headache scale for all patients before and after the endovascular treatment. Headache relief was defined as a decrease in the headache score. We determined the incidence and predictors of headache relief using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression analysis.

Results

Of the 123 patients with a mean follow-up of 14.1 months (range 1–39 months), 69 had headache relief. The overall cumulative incidence of headache relief was 62.3% (95% confidence interval (CI) 54.2%, 69.4%). On multivariate Cox regression analysis, the side of headache ipsilateral to the aneurysm (adjusted hazard ratio 0.540; 95% CI 0.408, 0.715; P < 0.001) and aneurysm size (adjusted hazard ratio 1.753; 95% CI 1.074, 2.863; P = 0.025) were significant predictors of headache relief.

Conclusions

Endovascular treatment relieved preoperative headaches for most patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms. The side of headache ipsilateral to the aneurysm and aneurysm size >10 mm were significant predictors of headache relief.
Using mixed methods to understand the healing trajectory for rural Irish women years after leaving abuse
Authors: Saint Arnault Denise , O’Halloran Sharon
Published: September 2016

Research on effectiveness and satisfaction with domestic violence (DV) services is aimed at women who have accessed these services, leaving us little information about those who believe they cannot or choose not to do so. In addition, this research focuses exclusively on the structural barriers to access of information, or navigating systems to escape the abusive situation. Few studies have examined the sociocultural barriers to help seeking, either for escape from violence or for healing after safety has been established. This study uses mixed qualitative and quantitative methods to understand the healing journeys of 21 women receiving DV services in a rural region of Ireland. Qualitative findings reveal persistent physical and emotional symptoms years after establishing safety, feeling “frozen,” stigma and social conflict, and social isolation. Quantitative analysis to determine the relationship of symptoms, social support, and social conflict to help-seeking barriers finds no relationship with structural barriers. However, sociocultural barriers such as shame, hopelessness, social conflict, and feeling “frozen” were related. A trauma-informed nursing practice model is proposed, and implications for intervention and health policy are suggested.
Does stride length play a role in cricket fast bowling performance outcomes? An observational, cross-sectional study
Authors: Spratford Wayne , Kenneally-Dabrowski Claire , Byrne Sean , Hicks Amy , Portus Marc
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of delivery stride length on the performance outcomes of ball release speed, accuracy and ball release height within a large cohort of elite male cricket fast bowlers. Data for this observational, cross-sectional study were collected from national under 19, senior state and international level players over a four-year period. No statistically significant differences were found between the three stride length groups (short, medium and long). However, a functional difference in accuracy was evident between short and long stride length groups, with the long stride length group being less accurate (effect size (ES) = 0.8; ES confidence interval (CI) = 0.2–1.4). Therefore, it can be concluded, given the results of the current study and previous injury-related research, that in no way is it advantageous for bowlers to have a stride length that exceeds the recommended 75–85% of standing height.
Clinical application of a free radial artery superficial palmar branch flap for soft-tissue reconstruction of digital injuries
Authors: Lee S. H. , Cheon S. J. , Kim Y. J.
Published: September 2016

Unsuccessful reconstruction of injured fingers can lead to poor outcomes. The aim of this article was to investigate the clinical application of the radial artery superficial palmar branch flap for soft-tissue reconstruction of the finger. We treated 125 patients with various finger injuries who underwent free radial artery superficial palmar branch flap reconstruction between October 2010 and March 2015. There were 46 distal finger injuries, 25 distal finger amputation following failed replantation and 54 palmar digital injuries with tendon, bone or joint exposure requiring soft-tissue reconstruction. Of the 125 cases, 114 flap reconstructions were considered successful. We believe that a free radial artery superficial palmar branch flap transfer is credible and useful for reconstructing various finger injuries.

Level of Evidence: III
Combination therapy using PSE and TIO ameliorates hepatic encephalopathy due to intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt in idiopathic portal hypertension
Authors: Kojima Seiichiro , Ito Hiroyuki , Takashimizu Shinji , Ichikawa Hitoshi , Matsumoto Tomohiro , Hasebe Terumitsu , Watanabe Norihito
Published: September 2016

A 64-year-old woman treated for anemia and ascites exhibited hepatic encephalopathy. Abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) showed communication between the portal vein and the middle hepatic vein, indicating an intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunt (PSS). Since hepatic encephalopathy of the patient was resistant to medical treatment, interventional radiology was performed for the treatment of shunt obliteration. Hepatic venography showed anastomosis between the hepatic vein branches, supporting the diagnosis of idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH). To minimize the increase in portal vein pressure after shunt obliteration, partial splenic artery embolization (PSE) was first performed to reduce portal vein blood flow. Transileocolic venous obliteration (TIO) was then performed, and intrahepatic PSS was successfully obliterated using coils with n-butyl-2-cyanoacrylate (NBCA). In the present case, hepatic encephalopathy due to intrahepatic PSS in the patient with IPH was successfully treated by combination therapy using PSE and TIO.
Identifying Sociodemographic Characteristics Associated With Burden Among Caregivers of the Urban Homebound
Authors: Wajnberg Ania , Soones Tacara N. , Smith Kristofer L. , Russell David , Ross Joseph S. , Federman Alex
Published: September 2016

Limited research has explored whether the burden associated with caring for homebound patients varies across racial groups or by relationship status. We examined these variations for this vulnerable population. Patients self-identified informal caregivers and caregiver burden/depression were assessed using the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies–Depression scale (CES-D). Forty-nine informal caregivers completed the interview. Mean age was 58 ( SD = 14), 78% were female, 37% Black, 35% Hispanic, and 46% had completed high school. Over 60% of caregivers had moderate or severe caregiver burden and 30% had significant depression. White caregivers had greater burden than Black and Hispanic caregivers ( p = .02). Mean caregiver burden was higher among spouse/partner caregivers, versus those who identified as children or other family or friends ( p = .004). Additional research is needed to better understand the experience of racial and ethnic minorities and spouses in providing informal care to homebound adults.
A robust data scaling algorithm to improve classification accuracies in biomedical data
Authors: Cao Xi Hang , Stojkovic Ivan , Obradovic Zoran
Published: September 2016

Background

Machine learning models have been adapted in biomedical research and practice for knowledge discovery and decision support. While mainstream biomedical informatics research focuses on developing more accurate models, the importance of data preprocessing draws less attention. We propose the Generalized Logistic (GL) algorithm that scales data uniformly to an appropriate interval by learning a generalized logistic function to fit the empirical cumulative distribution function of the data. The GL algorithm is simple yet effective; it is intrinsically robust to outliers, so it is particularly suitable for diagnostic/classification models in clinical/medical applications where the number of samples is usually small; it scales the data in a nonlinear fashion, which leads to potential improvement in accuracy.

Results

To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, we conducted experiments on 16 binary classification tasks with different variable types and cover a wide range of applications. The resultant performance in terms of area under the receiver operation characteristic curve (AUROC) and percentage of correct classification showed that models learned using data scaled by the GL algorithm outperform the ones using data scaled by the Min-max and the Z-score algorithm, which are the most commonly used data scaling algorithms.

Conclusion

The proposed GL algorithm is simple and effective. It is robust to outliers, so no additional denoising or outlier detection step is needed in data preprocessing. Empirical results also show models learned from data scaled by the GL algorithm have higher accuracy compared to the commonly used data scaling algorithms.
Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells from patients with atherosclerotic renovascular disease have increased DNA damage and reduced angiogenesis that can be modified by hypoxia
Authors: Saad Ahmed , Zhu Xiang-Yang , Herrmann Sandra , Hickson LaTonya , Tang Hui , Dietz Allan B. , van Wijnen Andre J. , Lerman Lilach , Textor Stephen
Published: September 2016

Background

Adipose-derived MSC (AMSCs) possess angiogenic and immunomodulatory properties that may modulate kidney regeneration. Whether these properties are retained in older patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease is poorly understood. Hypoxic conditions are known to modify properties and growth characteristics of AMSCs. We tested the hypothesis that AMSCs from older patients with atherosclerotic renovascular disease (RVD) differ from normal kidney donors, and whether hypoxia changes their functional and molecular properties to promote angiogenesis.

Methods

AMSCs from 11 patients with RVD (mean age =74.5 years) and 10 healthy kidney donors (mean age = 51.2 years) were cultured under normoxia (20 % O2) and hypoxia (1 % O2) for 3–4 days until they reached 80 % confluency. We analyzed expression of genes and microRNAs using RNA sequencing and real-time quantitative rt-PCR. Protein expression of selected angiogenic factors (VEGF, IGF, HGF and EGF) were quantified in conditioned media using ELISAs. Apoptosis was tested using Annexin IV staining.

Results

Normoxic AMSC from RVD patients grew normally, but exhibited increased DNA damage and reduced migration. VEGF protein secretion was significantly lower in the RVD AMSCs (0.08 vs 2.4 ng/mL/ cell, p <0.05) while HGF was higher. Both trends were reversed during growth under hypoxic conditions. Hypoxia upregulated pro-angiogenic mRNAs expression in AMSCs (VEGF, FGF, STC and ANGPTL4), and downregulated expression of many miRNAs (e.g., miR-15a, miR-16, miR-93, miR-424, 126, 132, 221) except miR-210.

Conclusions

Thus, although AMSC from patients with RVD had increased DNA damage and reduced migration, hypoxia stimulated pro-angiogenic responses via increased expression of angiogenic genes, VEGF secretion and induction of the hypoxia-inducible miR-210, while downregulating angiogenesis-related miRNAs.
Comparing induced polarization responses from airborne inductive and galvanic ground systems: Lewis Ponds, New South Wales
Authors: Hine Kate , Macnae James
Published: September 2016

We have evaluated the mapping of polarizable material using a Cole-Cole model to fit second-order effects in concentric-loop airborne electromagnetic system responses. At Lewis Ponds in New South Wales, an inverted ground dipole-dipole array data has accurately imaged in 3D disseminated sulfide extending above and around ore grade massive sulfides. The polarizable zone is present in the near-surface, where, from modeling, airborne systems may have sensitivity to the small inductive induced polarization effects. Although the inverted chargeability measured from galvanic current injection into the ground was spatially coincident with the mineralized target, the estimated chargeabilities from induced polarization effects in an airborne versatile time-domain electromagnetic survey were substantially displaced to the east. The airborne induced polarization response may be associated with finer grained mineralization in the hanging wall of the sulfide deposits, or have a quite different source, such as clays associated with faulting.
Medieval Corporeality and the Eucharistic Body in Julian of Norwich's A Revelation of Love
Authors: Milbank Arabella
Published: September 2016

This essay questions the current critical attitude toward medieval understandings of the body. It tests the limits of the contemporary “corporeal turn” by reassessing a textual crux in Julian of Norwich's A Revelation of Love. Contesting the dominant, defecatory reading of the “fair purse” passage, it argues that interpretation of the image of the purse has suffered at the expense of current preoccupation with the material and allegedly digressive body. The essay uses lexical evidence to demonstrate the significance of ingestion as much as digestion to Julian's image, and to align the passage with her thought elsewhere in A Revelation. Ultimately, it argues that the full resonance of the passage lies in its relationship to the sacrament of the altar. This article thus contributes to debates on religion and the body, and more specifically to underexamined eucharistic dimensions of the body in Julian's theology.
A basal cell defect promotes budding of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia
Authors: Wang Mengdie , Nagle Raymond B. , Knudsen Beatrice S. , Rogers Gregory C. , Cress Anne E.
Published: September 2016

Basal cells in a simple secretory epithelium adhere to the ECM, providing contextual cues for ordered repopulation of the luminal cell layer. Early high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HG-PIN) has enlarged nuclei/nucleoli, luminal layer expansion and genomic instability. Additional HG-PIN markers include loss of α6β4 integrin or its ligand, laminin-332, and budding of tumor clusters into laminin-511 rich stroma. We modeled the invasive budding phenotype by reducing expression of α6β4 integrin in spheroids formed from two normal human, stable isogenic prostate epithelial cell lines (RWPE-1 and PrEC 11220). Normal cells continuously spin in culture forming multicellular spheroids containing an outer laminin-332 layer, basal cells (expressing α6β4 integrin, high molecular weight cytokeratin, p63), and luminal cells that secrete PSA. Basal cells were optimally positioned relative to the laminin-332 layer as determined by spindle orientation. β4 defective spheroids contained a discontinuous laminin-332 layer corresponding to regions of abnormal budding. The 3D model can be readily used to study mechanisms that disrupt laminin-332 continuity, e.g. defects of the essential adhesion receptor (β4 integrin), laminin-332 or abnormal luminal expansion during HG-PIN progression.
Calsequestrin interacts directly with the cardiac ryanodine receptor luminal domain
Authors: Handhle Ahmed , Ormonde Chloe E. , Thomas N. Lowri , Bralesford Catherine , Williams Alan J. , Lai F. Anthony , Zissimopoulos Spyros
Published: September 2016

Cardiac muscle contraction requires sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ release mediated by the quaternary complex comprising the ryanodine receptor 2 (RyR2), calsequestrin 2 (CSQ2), junctin (encoded by ASPH) and triadin. Here, we demonstrate that a direct interaction exists between RyR2 and CSQ2. Topologically, CSQ2 binding occurs at the first luminal loop of RyR2. Co-expression of RyR2 and CSQ2 in a human cell line devoid of the other quaternary complex proteins results in altered Ca2+-release dynamics compared to cells expressing RyR2 only. These findings provide a new perspective for understanding the SR luminal Ca2+ sensor and its involvement in cardiac physiology and disease.
Additional in-series compliance reduces muscle force summation and alters the time course of force relaxation during fixed-end contractions
Authors: Mayfield Dean L. , Launikonis Bradley S. , Cresswell Andrew G. , Lichtwark Glen A.
Published: September 2016

There are high mechanical demands placed on skeletal muscles in movements requiring rapid acceleration of the body or its limbs. Tendons are responsible for transmitting muscle forces, but, due to their elasticity, can manipulate the mechanics of the internal contractile apparatus. Shortening of the contractile apparatus against the stretch of tendon affects force generation according to known mechanical properties, however, the extent to which differences in tendon compliance alter force development in response to a burst of electrical impulses is unclear. To establish the influence of series compliance on force summation, we studied electrically evoked doublet contractions in the cane toad peroneus muscle in the presence and absence of a compliant artificial tendon. Additional series compliance reduced tetanic force by two-thirds, a finding predicted based on the force-length property of skeletal muscle. Doublet force and force-time integral expressed relative to the twitch were also reduced by additional series compliance. Active shortening over a larger range of the ascending limb of the force-length curve and at a higher velocity, leading to a progressive reduction in force-generating potential, could be responsible. Muscle-tendon interaction may also explain the accelerated time course of force relaxation in the presence of additional compliance. Our findings suggest that a compliant tendon limits force summation under constant-length conditions. However, high series compliance can be mechanically advantageous when a muscle-tendon unit is actively stretched, permitting muscle fibres to generate force almost isometrically, as shown during stretch-shorten cycles in locomotor activities. Restricting active shortening would likely favour rapid force development.
Previous motor activity affects transition from uncertainty to decision-making in snails
Authors: Korshunova T. A. , Vorontsov D. D. , Dyakonova V. E.
Published: September 2016

One of the most commonly accepted benefits of enhanced physical activity is the improvement in the symptoms of depression, including the facilitation of decision-making. Up until now, these effects have been shown in rodents and humans only. Little is known about their evolutionary origin or biological basis, and the underlying cellular mechanisms also remain relatively elusive. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that preceding motor activity accelerates decision-making in an invertebrate, the pond snail Lymnaea stagnalis. To investigate decision-making in a novel environment, snails, which normally live in water, were placed on a flat dry surface to simulate the potentially threatening consequence of being in an arid environment. This stimulus initiated two distinct phases in snail behavior: slow circular movements, followed by intense locomotion in a chosen direction. The first phase was prolonged when the test arena was symmetrically lit, compared to one with an apparent gradient of light. However, forced muscular locomotion for two hours prior to the test promoted the transition from random circular motions to a directional crawl, accompanied by an increase in crawling speed but with no effect on the choice of direction. Two hours of intense locomotion produced also strong excitatory effect on the activity of serotonergic neurons in L. stagnalis. Our results suggest that the beneficial effects of physical exercise on cognitive performance in mammals might have deep roots in evolution, granting the opportunity to unravel the origins of such effects at the single neuron and network levels.
Tests, scans, investigations 2. Full blood count
Authors: Peate Ian
Published: September 2016

One of the most common blood tests undertaken is a full blood count (FBC) (sometimes this is referred to as a complete blood count (CBC)). This article discusses FBC, the reasons why it may be performed and how the test is undertaken.

The article identifies issues that may arise when the blood has been taken and the relevance of some of the results.

When the HCA and AP have an understanding of this particular blood test, then they will be in a better position to offer patients safer and more effective care in a patient-centred way.
Thermal territories of the abdomen after caesarean section birth: infrared thermography and analysis
Authors: Childs C. , Siraj M.R. , Fair F.J. , Selvan A.N. , Soltani H. , Wilmott J. , Farrell T.
Published: September 2016

Objective:

To develop and refine qualitative mapping and quantitative analysis techniques to define ‘thermal territories’ of the post-partum abdomen, the caesarean section site and the infected surgical wound. In addition, to explore women's perspectives on thermal imaging and acceptability as a method for infection screening.

Method:

Prospective feasibility study undertaken at a large University teaching hospital, Sheffield UK. Infrared thermal imaging of the abdomen was undertaken at the bedside on the first two days after elective caesarean section. Target recruitment: six women in each of three body mass index (BMI) categories (normal, 18.5–24.9 kg/m²; overweight 25–29.9 kg/m²; obese ≥30 kg/m²). Additionally, women presenting to the ward with wound infection were eligible for inclusion in the study. Perspectives on the use of thermal imaging and its practicality were also explored via semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic content analysis.

Results:

We recruited 20 women who had all undergone caesarean section. From the booking BMI, eight women were obese (including two women with infected wounds), seven women were overweight and five women had a normal BMI. Temperature (ºC) profiling and pixel clustering segmentation (hierarchical clustering-based segmentation, HCS) revealed characteristic features of thermal territories between scar and adjacent regions. Differences in scar thermal intensity profiles exist between healthy scars and infected wounds; features that have potential for wound surveillance. The maximum temperature differences (∆T) between healthy skin and the wound site exceed 2º C in women with established wound infection. At day two, two women had a scar thermogram with features observed in the ‘infected’ wound thermogram.

Conclusion:

Thermal imaging at early and later times after caesarean birth is feasible and acceptable. Women reported potential benefits of the technique for future wound infection screening. Thermal intensity profiling and HCS for pixel cluster dissimilarity between scar and adjacent healthy skin has potential as a method for the development of techniques targeted to early infection surveillance in women after caesarean section.
Clinical evaluation of a dressing with poly absorbent fibres and a silver matrix for managing chronic wounds at risk of infection: a non comparative trial
Authors: Dalac S. , Sigal L. , Addala A. , Chahim M. , Faivre-Carrere C. , Lemdjadi Z. , Bohbot S.
Published: September 2016

Objective:

To assess the efficacy, safety and acceptability of a new silver poly absorbent dressing (UrgoCleanAg) in the local management of exudative chronic wounds at risk of infection, with inflammatory signs suggesting heavy bacterial load.

Method:

This prospective, multicentre, non-comparative clinical trial was conducted in French hospital wards (dermatology and vascular medicine) or specialised private-practice physicians. Patients were considered at high-risk of infection when presenting with at least three of five selected inflammatory clinical signs, suggesting a heavy bacterial load (pain between two dressing changes, erythema, oedema, malodorous wound and presence of a heavy exudate). They were treated for a maximum period of four weeks, and followed by the physician on a weekly basis, including a clinical examination, area tracings and photographs. The primary efficacy criterion of the trial was the relative wound surface area reduction at the end of the four weeks of treatment. Acceptability was documented by the nursing staff at each dressing change between the weekly evaluations.

Results:

We recruited 37 patients with chronic wounds. Wound surface area, mostly covered by sloughy tissue, was reduced by 32.5% at the end of the treatment (median value), while the clinical score (maximum value of 5, based on inflammatory clinical signs) decreased from 4.0 to 2.0. Effective debridement properties were documented (62.5% relative reduction of sloughy tissue at week 4; 58.8% of debrided wounds at week 4) and improvement of the periwound skin status was noted (healthy for 28.6% of the patients at week 4 versus 2.7% at baseline). In addition, the tested wound dressing presented a good safety profile associated to a high level of acceptability, noted by both patients and nursing staff.

Conclusion:

These clinical data support that the tested dressing is a credible therapeutic alternative for the management of chronic wounds at risk of infection with inflammatory signs suggesting heavy bacterial load.
Contact dermatitis in patients with chronic leg ulcers: a common and neglected problem: a review 2000–2015
Authors: D'Erme A. Massimiliano , Iannone M. , Dini V. , Romanelli M.
Published: September 2016

Objective:

Contact allergies can occur frequently in patients with chronic leg ulcers (CLUs), even in those with a short duration of ulcerative disease. The wide spectrum of therapeutic products promotes development of the delayed type of hypersensitivity and continuous changes in the allergens pattern, which make the diagnosis and treatment extremely difficult in many cases. A prompt diagnosis and treatment of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) in patients suffering from CLUs is very important for a best clinical outcome of these two common diseases. Thus, this review aims to highlight a common, challenging and often neglected problem.

Method:

The search included all studies published between 2000 and September 2015. Keyword used were: ‘allergic contact dermatitis leg ulcer’, ‘contact dermatitis leg ulcers’ ‘contact dermatitis wound care’ ‘contact dermatitis non-healing wounds’ ‘contact sensitisation non-healing wounds’.

Results:

Contact allergy and polysensitisation are very frequent in patients suffering from CLUs. Although it is believed modern dressings have a lower potential for inducing cutaneous sensitisation, positive patch test reactions to modern dressing are becoming common: hydrogels, followed by hydrocolloid and the ionic silver-containing wound dressing seem to be the principal causes of ACD.

Conclusion:

This review wanted to highlighted ACD in CLUs as a common and neglected disease whose economic and social burden has not previously been estimated, giving new insights for clinical and therapeutic management.