bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Association Between Concomitant Ulnar Nerve Compression at the Elbow and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Shulman Brandon , Bekisz Jonathan , Lopez Christopher , Maliha Samantha , Mahure Siddharth , Hacquebord Jacques
Published: November 2018

Background: Many patients treated for ulnar nerve compression at the elbow (UNE) are concomitantly treated for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). We sought to investigate the association between the conditions. Methods: The Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) database was used to determine the number of patients with UNE concomitantly treated for CTS in New York State from 2003 to 2014. We then retrospectively reviewed each patient who received surgical treatment for UNE (n = 222 patients) or CTS (n = 1063 patients) at our tertiary care institution in 2014 and 2015 to assess concomitant treatment. Results: In the SPARCS database, the percentage of patients surgically treated for concomitant UNE and CTS steadily increased from 23% in 2003 to 45% in 2014. At our institution, 50 of 222 patients (23%) surgically treated for UNE underwent concomitant carpal tunnel releases. For concomitantly treated patients, 94% had examinations consistent with UNE and CTS, 87% of patients had median nerve compression on electrodiagnostic tests, and 72% of patients had UNE on electrodiagnostic tests. Conclusions: Most patients concomitantly treated for UNE and CTS have objective findings of both conditions. At least one-fourth of patients indicated for operative ulnar nerve release also require a carpal tunnel release—far beyond the prevalence of CTS in the general population. A diagnosis of UNE merits a comprehensive workup by the treating surgeon and a high suspicion for concomitant median nerve compression.
School leadership and local learning contexts in South Africa
Authors: Zuze Tia Linda , Juan Andrea
Published: November 2018

International research has shown that the quality of school leadership and management (SLM) is important for teaching and learning, particularly in schools where there is acute resource deprivation. This article explores the relationship between leadership and academic achievement in South African secondary schools with varying socio-economic conditions. The study is based on data from 12,154 South African Grade 9 learners, 334 mathematics teachers and 292 principals who participated in the 2015 Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS). Using indicators that represent different aspects of school leadership, this article examines whether the type of leadership and management practices depend on the school setting and whether better school leadership and management supports academic achievement. The analysis revealed distinct relationships between school leadership and management and academic achievement based on the socio-economic status of learner bodies. Potential policy responses are discussed.
Statins as secondary preventives in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Åsberg Signild , Farahmand Bahman , Henriksson Karin M , Appelros Peter
Published: November 2018

Background

Statins are important components of secondary stroke prevention, but there is a concern they may increase the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. Although this risk may have been overestimated, there is still an open question whether statin therapy should be continued, or even initiated, in patients who have had a recent intracerebral hemorrhage.

Aim

Our aim was to investigate the risk of statin use after an intracerebral hemorrhage with respect to recurrent intracerebral hemorrhage, stroke in general, and death.

Methods

This observational study was based on patients with a first intracerebral hemorrhage in 2004 through 2009. Clinical characteristics, index intracerebral hemorrhage, and recurrent intracerebral hemorrhages were identified by the Swedish Stroke Register; additional data on comorbidities and vital status were retrieved through record linkages to national registers. A propensity score for the likelihood of receiving statins at discharge was developed and used with other established risk factors in a multivariable analysis.

Results

Of 6082 intracerebral hemorrhage patients (mean age 69.6 years), 1097 (18%) were prescribed statins at discharge. During the follow-up (mean 3.1 years), 1434 (23.6%) deaths and 234 (3.8%) recurrent intracerebral hemorrhages were observed. Statin therapy was associated with a reduced risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.71; 95% confidence interval: 0.60–0.84) but not with the risk of recurrent intracerebral hemorrhage (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.82; 95% confidence interval: 0.55–1.22).

Conclusions

This study provides some reassurance that statins may be safe to use, in at least some patients, after an intracerebral hemorrhage. In patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, statin use was associated with a reduced risk of death, without an increased risk of recurrent intracerebral hemorrhage.
Digital games for international development: A field theory perspective
Authors: Fisher Jolene
Published: November 2018

While serious games have been used within the field of international development since 2005, their adoption as tools for social and behavior change has remained fairly limited. Using Bourdieu’s theory of practice as an analytical framework, this study examines the tensions created when the fields of international development and serious games are brought together. In-depth interviews with development practitioners and game experts responsible for creating the nonprofit Half the Sky Movement’s mobile phone and Facebook games are used to examine how logistical considerations and ideological conflicts between agents from differing fields shape the limitations and possibilities of bringing games into the development space. Further, this study analyzes the new forms of Bourdieu’s concepts of habitus and capital created through this overlap in fields, filling an existing gap in the extant literature on the production and use of games for international development.
Development of a non-destructive method to measure football facemask stiffness
Authors: Bina Alexander J , Batt Gregory S , DesJardins John D
Published: November 2018

Despite heightened awareness of the need for more protective headgear in American football, facemask performance as an individual component of the helmet system has been overlooked. Current methods used to evaluate facemasks are ineffective in separating facemask performance from the performance of the full-helmet system. This article evaluates the use of a non-destructive, quasi-static loading method to measure the structural stiffness of 11 football facemask designs that represent various geometries and materials. The test method determined quantifiable differences in facemask stiffness, while limiting permanent facemask deformation to less than 3.175 mm. The reliability of the structural stiffness measurement process was assessed through a test–retest analysis of three facemask styles. The coefficient of variation for each style of facemask was between 1.1%–3.3%. This novel facemask stiffness test can be used for the non-destructive evaluation of facemasks by reconditioners, as well as facemask manufacturers to differentiate the potential impact performance of novel facemask designs.
The effect of ball temperature on ball speed and carry distance in golf drives
Authors: Carlsson Magnus , Nilsson Johnny , Hellström John , Tinmark Fredrik , Carlsson Tomas
Published: November 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of ball temperature on impact ball speed and carry distance during golf drives in a blind randomized test design. The balls were exposed to a temperature-controlled environment (4 °C, 18 °C, 32 °C, and 46 °C) for 24 h prior to the test and each temperature group consisted of 30 balls. The 120 drives were performed by an elite male golfer (handicap: 0.0) in an indoor driving range. All drives were measured by a Doppler-radar system to determine the club-head speed, launch angle, spin rate, ball speed, and carry distance. Differences between the groups were investigated using a one-way analysis of variance. The results indicated that ball-speed and carry-distance differences occurred within the four groups ( p < 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively). The post hoc analyses showed that the ball temperatures of 18 °C and 32 °C had greater ball speeds and carry distances than balls at 4 °C and 46 °C (all p < 0.05). The intervals for the between-group differences were 0.6–0.7 m s−1 and 2.9–3.9 m for ball speed and carry distance, respectively. Hence, the results showed that ball temperature influences both the ball speed and the carry distance. Based on the findings in this study, standardization of ball temperature should be factored into governing body regulation tests for golf equipment.
Examining the impact of QR codes on purchase intention and customer satisfaction on the basis of perceived flow
Authors: Hossain Md Shamim , Zhou Xiaoyan , Rahman Mst Farjana
Published: November 2018

The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of quick response (QR) codes on customer satisfaction and purchase intention in the online shopping context on the basis of perceived flow. This study also showed the impact of QR codes on perceived flow, followed by perceived flow on purchase intention and customer satisfaction, and finally the combination impact of perceived flow and customer satisfaction on purchase intention. Stimulus–Organism–Response theoretical model was used in this research. Data were collected by online questionnaires from 420 valid respondents who purchased a product online via QR code. The covariance-based structural equation modeling approach was used to analyze the structural model and measurements. This study showed that QR codes have a great impact on purchase intention and customer satisfaction. The findings of this article confirmed that QR codes influence perceived flow, combined effect of them, in turn, influenced online shoppers’ satisfaction and, finally, purchase intention. These findings are practically significant for both marketers and customers. Marketers should use QR codes as an embedded advertising tool with particular URLs that will lead to more profitability for shopping agency. Besides customers can also learn their behavior regarding QR codes in the online shopping context. This research has great real implications in the field of Internet shopping, online marketing, retailing, marketing promotion, and consumer behavior. Embedded QR codes with advertising are very helpful for advertisers to share and influence customer satisfaction and purchase intention. Sharing information via QR codes will influence customers to engage and share information with other customers in the online community, which will help to increase the volume of sales rapidly. To the best of our knowledge there is no research to evaluate the real impact of QR codes on purchase intention and customer satisfaction on the basis of perceived flow.
Reduction in Narcotic Use After Lumbar Decompression and Fusion in Patients With Symptomatic Lumbar Stenosis or Spondylolisthesis
Authors: Adogwa Owoicho , Davison Mark A. , Vuong Victoria D. , Khalid Syed , Lilly Daniel T. , Desai Shyam A. , Moreno Jessica , Cheng Joseph , Bagley Carlos
Published: November 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study is to assess change in opioid use before and after lumbar decompression and fusion surgery for patients with symptomatic lumbar stenosis or spondylolisthesis.

Methods:

A large insurance database was queried for patients with symptomatic lumbar stenosis or spondylolisthesis undergoing index lumbar decompression and fusion procedures between 2007 and 2016. This database consists of 20.9 million covered lives and includes private/commercially insured and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries. Opioid use 6 months preoperatively through 2 years postoperatively was assessed.

Results:

The study included 13 257 patients that underwent 1-, 2-, or 3-level posterior lumbar instrumented fusion. Overall, 57.8% of patients used opioids preoperatively. Throughout the 6-month preoperative period, 2 368 008 opioid pills were billed for (51.6 opioid pills/opioid user/month). When compared with preoperative opioid use, patients billed fewer opioid medications in the 2-year period postoperatively: 33.6 pills/patient/month (8 851 616 total pills). In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, obesity (odds ratio [OR] 1.10, 95% CI 1.004-1.212), preoperative narcotic use (OR 3.43, 95% CI 3.179-3.708), length of hospital stay (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.010-1.021), and receiving treatment in the South (OR 1.18, 95% CI 1.074-1.287) or West (OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.095-1.452) were independently associated with prolonged postoperative (>1 year) opioid use. Additionally, males (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.808-0.945) were less likely to use long-term opioid therapy.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates that reduction in opioid use was observed postoperatively in comparison with preoperative values in patients with symptomatic lumbar stenosis or spondylolisthesis that underwent lumbar decompression with fusion. Further prospective studies that are more methodologically stringent are needed to corroborate our findings.
An Examination of the Factors Affecting Employee Motivation in the Higher Education Sector
Authors: Hanaysha Jalal Rajeh , Hussain Suhaidah
Published: November 2018

This study aims to examine the effect of employee empowerment, employee training and teamwork on employee motivation at Malaysian public universities. Based on the review of published literature, it is evident that there are limited studies on employee motivation in the Asian context, particularly in higher education. Therefore, this study intends to provide empirical evidence towards the link between the selected variables. The data were obtained from the participants using an online survey method from a total of 242 academic and administrative staff at public universities in the northern region of Malaysia. For ease of data collection, convenience sampling approach was adopted. The findings indicated that employee empowerment has a significant positive impact on employee motivation. The outcomes also showed that employee training and teamwork have significant positive effects on employee motivation.
Managing Fuel Efficiency in the Aviation Sector: Challenges, Accomplishments and Opportunities
Authors: Singh Jagroop , Sharma Somesh Kumar , Srivastava Rajnish
Published: November 2018

Aviation is one of the fastest mode of transportation in the world, and demand for air transportation is growing continuously. The past oil crises, volatile fuel prices, depleting fuel stocks, and increasing environmental concerns have drawn the significant attention of aviation industry towards the need for judicious use of aviation fuel. Thus, economic and environmental sustainability concerns have led to dramatic progress in aviation fuel efficiency improvements in the past decades. However, significant efforts to improve the fuel efficiency through more advanced designs, techniques, and strategies will remain a priority. This article provides an overview of the challenging issues, accomplishments, and opportunities in relation to the aviation industry, focusing on aviation fuel consumption. This article offers insights for the aviation industry, that is, aircraft manufacturers and airlines to move toward more fuel-efficient options in future.
Biomimetics in Endodontics: A Review of the Changing Trends in Endodontics
Authors: Patel Jalak , Sheth Tejal , Thakore Dhwanit , Dhamat Dharmesh
Published: November 2018

Newer scientific technological advancement in dentistry provides an array of projects such as molecular biology, cell culturing, tissue grafting, and tissue engineering. Conventional root canal treatment, apexification with biomaterials, and extractions are the procedures of choice to treat a nonvital tooth. These treatment options do not give predictable outcomes in the regeneration of the pulp tissue. This can be easily achieved by regenerative endodontics wherein the diseased or a nonvital tooth is replaced by a healthy and functional pulp-dentin complex. The rationale for regenerative endodontics follows tissue engineering techniques. This article reviews the shift in regenerative endodontic techniques.
Nurses’ and Care Workers’ Perception of Care Quality in Japanese Long-Term Care Wards: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Yamamoto-Mitani Noriko , Saito Yumiko , Takaoka Manami , Takai Yukari , Igarashi Ayumi
Published: November 2018

Despite the growing importance of long-term care for older adults, there has been limited attention to its quality assurance issues in Japan. To start planning the initiation of continuous quality improvement in long-term care hospitals, we explored how nurses and care workers themselves perceived current approaches to quality assurance and improvement on their ward. We interviewed 16 licensed nurses and nine care workers, transcribed and analyzed data using qualitative content analysis techniques, and derived six categories: keeping clients alive is barely possible, the absence of a long-term care practice model, the lack of quality indicators, long-term care hospitals as places for castaways, client quality of life as a source of satisfaction, and conflict between staff and client well-being. To develop continuous quality improvement in Japanese long-term care hospitals, it may be first necessary to introduce a practice model of long-term care and mechanisms to evaluate quality.
Conducting Research With Older Adults With Vision Impairment: Lessons Learned and Recommended Best Practices
Authors: Trujillo Tanner Corinna , Caserta Michael S. , Kleinschmidt Julia J. , Clayton Margaret S. , Bernstein Paul S. , Guo Jia Wen
Published: November 2018

Older adults are underrepresented in research, and a potential barrier to their participation may be the increasing prevalence of vision loss and lack of accommodation for this challenge. Although vision loss may initially pose a challenge to research participation, its effects can be mitigated with early, in-depth planning. For example, recruitment is more inclusive when best practices identified in the literature are used in the preparation of written materials to reduce glare and improve readability and legibility. Alternatives to obtaining written consent may be used. Interviews are made accessible when done verbally and the author uses cueing and good diction. Remaining vision can be optimized through seating arrangement, lighting, and magnification. Challenges encountered and resolved in a recent study with severely visually impaired older adults are offered here as exemplars. Methodology for identifying and recruiting a sample comprised exclusively of visually impaired older adults is also offered herein.
Does Labor Union Utility Increase Workers’ Organizational Commitment and Job Satisfaction? The Moderating Role of Labor Union Membership
Authors: Choi Intae
Published: November 2018

The purpose of this study is to address whether labor union members’ organizational commitment and job satisfaction are more influenced by labor union utility than those of nonunion employees. This study uses data from the Korean Labor and Income Panel Study published by the Korea Labor Institute. The study’s methodology employs panel data regression analysis. The findings are that labor union utility increases workers’ organizational commitment and job satisfaction and that these effects are positively greater for labor union members than nonunion employees.
Identification of Deregulated Signaling Pathways in Jurkat Cells in Response to a Novel Acylspermidine Analogue-N4-Erucoyl Spermidine
Authors: Razvi Syed Shoeb , Choudhry Hani , Hasan Mohammed Nihal , Hassan Mohammed A , Moselhy Said Salama , Abualnaja Khalid Omer , Zamzami Mazin A , Kumosani Taha Abduallah , Al-Malki Abdulrahman Labeed , Halwani Majed A , Ibrahim Abdulkhaleg , Hamiche Ali , Bronner Christian , Asami Tadao , Alhosin Mahmoud
Published: November 2018

Natural polyamines such as putrescine, spermidine, and spermine are crucial in the cell proliferation and maintenance in all the eukaryotes. However, the requirement of polyamines in tumor cells is stepped up to maintain tumorigenicity. Many synthetic polyamine analogues have been designed recently to target the polyamine metabolism in tumors to induce apoptosis. N4-Erucoyl spermidine (designed as N4-Eru), a novel acylspermidine derivative, has been shown to exert selective inhibitory effects on both hematological and solid tumors, but its mechanisms of action are unknown. In this study, RNA sequencing was performed to investigate the anticancer mechanisms of N4-Eru-treated T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell line (Jurkat cells), and gene expression was examined through different tools. We could show that many key oncogenes including NDRG1, CACNA1G, TGFBR2, NOTCH1,2,3, UHRF1, DNMT1,3, HDAC1,3, KDM3A, KDM4B, KDM4C, FOS, and SATB1 were downregulated, whereas several tumor suppressor genes such as CDKN2AIPNL, KISS1, DDIT3, TP53I13, PPARG, FOXP1 were upregulated. Data obtained through RNA-Seq further showed that N4-Eru inhibited the NOTCH/Wnt/JAK-STAT axis. This study also indicated that N4-Eru-induced apoptosis could involve several key signaling pathways in cancer. Altogether, our results suggest that N4-Eru is a promising drug to treat ALL.
Prenatal Diagnosis of a Vanishing Gastroschisis With Subsequent Neonatal Bowel Complications: A Case Study
Authors: Vignes Katherine , Hiett A. Kinney , Draus John M. , Barton John R.
Published: November 2018

Background:

Gastroschisis is a well-known birth defect in which bowel protrudes through a perforation in the fetal abdominal wall. High antenatal detection rates typically lead to good outcomes with modern neonatal treatments.

Case:

We describe a rare phenomenon in which gastroschisis appears to resolve antenatally, with associated bowel dilation and polyhydramnios. No evidence of an abdominal wall defect was seen at birth, but imaging was suggestive of bowel atresia. Surgical exploration showed a microcolon and most of the small bowel was absent. An extensive surgical repair was required, which resulted in short bowel syndrome.

Conclusion:

Gastroschisis that undergoes apparent resolution on sonography can be associated with necrosis due to strangulation of the exteriorized bowel and short bowel syndrome. This is associated with high neonatal morbidity and mortality.
Megakaryocytes and platelets from a novel human adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cell line
Authors: Tozawa Keiichi , Ono-Uruga Yukako , Yazawa Masaki , Mori Taisuke , Murata Mitsuru , Okamoto Shinichiro , Ikeda Yasuo , Matsubara Yumiko
Published: November 2018

The clinical need for platelet transfusions is increasing; however, donor-dependent platelet transfusions are associated with practical problems, such as the limited supply and the risk of infection. Thus, we developed a manufacturing system for platelets from a donor-independent cell source: a human adipose-derived mesenchymal stromal/stem cell line (ASCL). The ASCL was obtained using an upside-down culture flask method and satisfied the minimal criteria for defining mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) by The International Society for Cellular Therapy. The ASCL showed its proliferation capacity for ≥2 months without any abnormal karyotypes. The ASCL was cultured in megakaryocyte induction media. ASCL-derived megakaryocytes were obtained, with a peak at day 8 of culture, and ASCL-derived platelets (ASCL-PLTs) were obtained, with a peak at day 12 of culture. We observed that CD42b+ cells expressed an MSC marker (CD90) which is related to cell adhesion. Compared with peripheral platelets, ASCL-PLTs exhibit higher levels of PAC1 binding, P-selectin surface exposure, ristocetin-induced platelet aggregation, and ADP-induced platelet aggregation, as well as similar levels of fibrinogen binding and collagen-induced platelet aggregation. ASCL-PLTs have lower epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation. The pattern of in vivo kinetics after infusion into irradiated immunodeficient NOD.Cg-PrkdcscidIl2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ mice was similar to that of platelet concentrates. ASCL-PLTs have similar characteristics to those of peripheral platelets and might have an additional function as MSCs. The establishment of the ASCL and its differentiation into ASCL-PLTs do not require gene transfer, and endogenous thrombopoietin is used for differentiation. The present protocol is a simple method that does not require feeder cells, further enhancing the clinical application of our approach.
The kinases IKBKE and TBK1 regulate MYC-dependent survival pathways through YB-1 in AML and are targets for therapy
Authors: Liu Suhu , Marneth Anna E. , Alexe Gabriela , Walker Sarah R. , Gandler Helen I. , Ye Darwin Q. , Labella Katherine , Mathur Radhika , Toniolo Patricia A. , Tillgren Michelle , Gokhale Prafulla C. , Barbie David , Mullally Ann , Stegmaier Kimberly , Frank David A.
Published: November 2018

To identify novel therapeutic targets in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), we examined kinase expression patterns in primary AML samples. We found that the serine/threonine kinase IKBKE, a noncanonical IkB kinase, is expressed at higher levels in myeloid leukemia cells compared with normal hematopoietic cells. Inhibiting IKBKE, or its close homolog TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), by either short hairpin RNA knockdown or pharmacological compounds, induces apoptosis and reduces the viability of AML cells. Using gene expression profiling and gene set enrichment analysis, we found that IKBKE/TBK1-sensitive AML cells typically possess an MYC oncogenic signature. Consistent with this finding, the MYC oncoprotein was significantly downregulated upon IKBKE/TBK1 inhibition. Using proteomic analysis, we found that the oncogenic gene regulator YB-1 was activated by IKBKE/TBK1 through phosphorylation, and that YB-1 binds to the MYC promoter to enhance MYC gene transcription. Momelotinib (CYT387), a pharmacological inhibitor of IKBKE/TBK1, inhibits MYC expression, reduces viability and clonogenicity of primary AML cells, and demonstrates efficacy in a murine model of AML. Together, these data identify IKBKE/TBK1 as a promising therapeutic target in AML.
The genomics of desmoplastic small round cell tumor reveals the deregulation of genes related to DNA damage response, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and immune response
Authors: Devecchi Andrea , De Cecco Loris , Dugo Matteo , Penso Donata , Dagrada Gianpaolo , Brich Silvia , Stacchiotti Silvia , Sensi Marialuisa , Canevari Silvana , Pilotti Silvana
Published: November 2018

Background

Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a rare, aggressive, and poorly investigated simple sarcoma with a low frequency of genetic deregulation other than an Ewing sarcoma RNA binding protein 1 (EWSR1)‐Wilm's tumor suppressor (WT1) translocation. We used whole‐exome sequencing to interrogate six consecutive pre‐treated DSRCTs whose gene expression was previously investigated.

Methods

DNA libraries were prepared from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded archival tissue specimens following the Agilent SureSelectXT2 target enrichment protocol and sequenced on Illumina NextSeq 500. Raw sequence data were aligned to the reference genome with Burrows–Wheeler Aligner algorithm. Somatic mutations and copy number alterations (CNAs) were identified using MuTect2 and EXCAVATOR2, respectively. Biological functions associated with altered genes were investigated through Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) software.

Results

A total of 137 unique somatic mutations were identified: 133 mutated genes were case‐specific, and 2 were mutated in two cases but in different positions. Among the 135 mutated genes, 27% were related to two biological categories: DNA damage‐response (DDR) network that was also identified through IPA and mesenchymal–epithelial reverse transition (MErT)/epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) already demonstrated to be relevant in DSRCT. The mutated genes in the DDR network were involved in various steps of transcription and particularly affected pre‐mRNA. Half of these genes encoded RNA‐binding proteins or DNA/RNA‐binding proteins, which were recently recognized as a new class of DDR players. CNAs in genes/gene families, involved in MErT/EMT and DDR, were recurrent across patients and mostly segregated in the MErT/EMT category. In addition, recurrent gains of regions in chromosome 1 involving many MErT/EMT gene families and loss of one arm or the entire chromosome 6 affecting relevant immune‐regulatory genes were recorded.

Conclusions

The emerging picture is an extreme inter‐tumor heterogeneity, characterized by the concurrent deregulation of the DDR and MErT/EMT dynamic and plastic programs that could favour genomic instability and explain the refractory DSRCT profile.
Effects of Sahaj Samadhi meditation on heart rate variability and depressive symptoms in patients with late-life depression – RETRACTED
Authors: Ionson Emily , Limbachia Jayneel , Rej Soham , Puka Klajdi , Newman Ronnie I. , Wetmore Stephen , Burhan Amer M. , Vasudev Akshya
Published: November 2018

Background

Late-life depression (LLD) is a disabling disorder and antidepressants are ineffective in as many as 60% of cases. Converging evidence shows a strong correlation between LLD and subsequent risk of cardiovascular disease. There is a need for new, well-tolerated, non-pharmacological augmentation interventions that can treat depressive symptoms as well as improve heart rate variability (HRV), an important prognostic marker for development of subsequent cardiovascular disease. Meditation-based techniques are of interest based on positive findings in other samples.

Aims

We aimed to assess the efficacy of Sahaj Samadhi meditation (SSM), an underevaluated, standardised and manualised meditation intervention, on HRV and depressive symptoms.

Method

Eighty-three men and women aged 60–85 years, with mild to moderate depression and receiving treatment as usual (TAU) were randomised to either the SSM or TAU arm. Those allocated to SSM attended 4 consecutive days of group meditation training, using personalised mantras followed by 11 weekly reinforcement sessions. HRV and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD; 17-item) score were measured at baseline and 12 weeks.

Results

All time and frequency domain measures of HRV did not significantly change in either arm. However, there was significant improvement in the SSM arm, compared with TAU, on the HRSD (difference in mean, 2.66; 95% CI 0.26–5.05; P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Compared with TAU, SSM is associated with improvements in depressive symptoms but does not significantly improve HRV in patients with LLD. These results need to be replicated in subsequent studies incorporating a group-based, active control arm.

Declaration of interest

R.I.N. is the Director of Research and Health Promotion for the Art of Living Foundation, Canada and supervised the staff providing Sahaj Samadhi meditation. S.R. has received research funding from Satellite Healthcare for a mindfulness meditation trial in patients on haemodialysis. The remaining authors report no financial or other relationship relevant to the subject of this article.
Development of a multicomponent psychological mobile application (app) for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
Authors: El-Jawahri Areej , Greer Joseph , Wright Emily M. , Vanbenschoten Olivia , Waldman Lauren , Temel Jennifer S.
Published: November 2018

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Background: Patients newly diagnosed with AML experience substantial psychological distress as they confront a life-threatening diagnosis requiring an urgent 4-6 week hospitalization to initiate chemotherapy. Interventions to address psychological distress in this population are lacking. Methods: We used a five-step app development process to create a psychological intervention app targeting patients’ needs during the initial hospitalization following a new diagnosis of AML. Patients, caregivers, oncologists, psychologists, and nurses served as stakeholders and were involved in 1) developing a conceptual framework for the intervention; 2) creating an intervention manual that incorporates medical information, psychoeducation, and psychosocial skill-building corresponding to the illness trajectory; 3) translating the intervention manual into a storyline with gamification to enhance patient engagement; 4) creating initial wireframes of the app modules; and 5) refining the app through iterative testing. Results: The app consists of five 20-minute modules which the patient will complete weekly over a 5-week period. The modules consist of 1) supportive psychotherapy to address the initial shock of diagnosis; 2) psychoeducation to manage expectations and mobilize social supports; 3) psychosocial skill-building to promote effective coping; 4) self-care to promote positive health behaviors; and 4) a summary module to reinforce learning points from prior modules. Two bonus modules are available for patients who wish to engage in additional cognitive-based restructuring strategies. We utilized gamification strategies to enhance patient engagement including a) creating an app storyline focused on the patient’s journey during hospitalization; 2) creating a guide character doctor that accompanies the patient through their journey; 3) incorporating videos of AML survivors; and 4) developing a point reward system for completing the modules. Conclusions: We developed a novel psychological intervention app for patients with AML using an iterative development process. Future studies should assess the efficacy of the app in improving outcomes for patients with AML.
Contemporarity
Authors: McFadden Patricia
Published: November 2018

This essay theorizes contemporarity as a new framework for Black feminist resistances—personal and sociopolitical—and explores reimagined lived realities as a crucial site for the generation of new feminist epistemologies and alternative ways of living. Given the failures of neocolonial and neoliberal state regimes across the African continent and the globe to respond equitably to the imperatives of human emancipation, the paper argues for a return to and closer interrogation of personal politics and feminist relationships to the self and the ecosystems that nurture both. The challenge is to find new sources of creative imaginaries and resistance that will lead to the unfolding of discourses, practices, and ways of living that offer an alternative to neoliberal capitalism. From the experience of sustaining oneself through ecological balance, a respectful interaction with nature, and nonmarket practices of sufficiency, the paper proposes to glean the knowledge and inherent integrity embedded in such processes to create new radical social knowledge and practices.
miRNA length variation during macrophage stimulation confounds the interpretation of results: implications for miRNA quantification by RT-qPCR
Authors: Pillman Katherine A. , Goodall Gregory J. , Bracken Cameron P. , Gantier Michael P.
Published: November 2018

Most microRNAs (miRNAs) are expressed as a mix of length isoforms (referred to as isomiRs). IsomiR stoichiometry can be differentially impacted upon cell stimulation, as recently evidenced by our group in the context of immune responses induced by type-I interferon (IFN). Here, we revisit published RNA-seq data sets of human and mouse macrophages stimulated with bacterial products at the isomiR level. We demonstrate that for several miRNAs, macrophage stimulation induces changes in isomiR stoichiometry. Critically, we find that changes in miRNA expression can be misinterpreted when miRNAs are quantified by RT-qPCR, as primers directed against canonical miRNA sequences may not equally target the different isomiRs that are regulated endogenously. Beyond the case of phagocyte stimulation, our analyses reinforce the concept that analysis of miRNA expression at the isoform level should become standard practice.
In vitro inhibitory and biofilm disruptive activities of ginger oil against Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Mohd-Said Shahida , Kweh Wee Wee , Than Chong Yi , Zainal-Abidin Zamirah , Adnan Siti Noor Adnalizawati , Baharin Safura Anita , Soo Eason
Published: November 2018

Background: This study investigated the antibacterial effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale) oil against a common resistant root canal pathogen known as Enterococcus faecalis. The aim of the study was to determine the inhibition of E. faecalis growth in culture suspension and ability to inhibit growth of bacteria through disruption of pre-formed monospecies biofilm.

Methods: Ginger rhizome oil was prepared in two-fold concentration series from 0.04 to 5.00 mg/mL and mixed with brain heart infusion broth inoculated with E. faecalis in anaerobic condition. Among the antibacterial tests performed were the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations using microdilution assays, and anti-biofilm assay on 3-day old pre-form monospecies biofilm on a 94 well-plate. Ampicillin was used as a positive control.

Results: The result showed an in vitro dose-dependent bacteriostatic activity towards E. faecalis in suspension broth (MIC 0.04mg/mL) but no bactericidal activity within the tested concentration range. It was also found that the ginger oil inhibitory activity against E. faecalis was comparably less in anti-biofilm activity than against bacteria cultured in suspension solution.

Conclusion: The study suggests that at determined concentrations, ginger oil has the potential to be used as an antibacterial agent in the management of root canal infections particularly where newly formed E. faecalis is involved.
РАЗРАБОТКА МЕТОДИКИ ПОЛУЧЕНИЯ МАГНИТНЫХ НАНОЧАСТИЦ Fe3O4 ДЛЯ ДИАГНОСТИКИ И ЛЕЧЕНИЯ РАКОВЫХ ЗАБОЛЕВАНИЙ
Authors: Tyurikova Irina Andreevna
Published: November 2018

Цель работы: Разработка методики получения магнитных наночастиц Fe3O4 для диагностики и лечения онкологических заболеваний с учетом требований к их физическим параметрам, используемым прекурсорам и биосовместимому стабилизирующему веществу, обеспечивающему устойчивость и стабильность состава и характеристик частиц.Методология проведения работы: Обозначены принципы, в соответствии с которыми произведен подбор веществ, участвующих в получении наноразмерного Fe3O4 стабильного состава и характеристик. Разработка методики получения магнитных наночастиц осуществлялась согласно требованиям для различных медицинских приложений. Изучение полученных наночастиц производилось методами рентгенофазового анализа, посредством микроскопии и анализа размерных характеристик, а также исследований магнитных свойств образцов с использованием специально спроектированной и сконструированной для данной цели установки.Результаты: Показано соответствие параметров магнитных наночастиц Fe3O4 (размер 10–13 нм, узкое распределение частиц по размерам, удельная намагниченность насыщения 69 – 81 Гс⋅см3/г, стабильность состава, обеспечиваемая последовательностью приготовления магнитной жидкости) и предложенной методики их получения, разработанной с учетом токсикологических принципов и требований, предъявляемых к объектам, применяемым в медицине, позволяющие рекомендовать полученные наночастицы для дальнейших клинических испытаний.Область применения результатов: диагностика и лечение раковых заболеваний, магнитно-резонансная томография, адресная доставка лекарственных средств, гипертермия.
ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА ПАРАМЕТРОВ ХОДЬБЫ У ЖЕНЩИН ПОЖИЛОГО ВОЗРАСТА ПРИ ИЗБЫТОЧНОЙ МАССЕ ТЕЛА
Authors: Moroz Taisiia Petrovna , Fedotov Denis Mikhailovich , Popova Olga Nikolaevna , Pashchenko Vladimir Petrovich , Gribanov Anatoly Vladimirovich
Published: November 2018

Цель. Выявить особенности ходьбы у женщин пожилого возраста с избыточной массой тела (МТ).Методы. В исследовании приняли участие 323 женщины в возрасте 55–74 лет. Измерение длины тела (ДТ) и массы тела (МТ) производилось по стандартной методике. Расчет индекса МТ (ИМТ) производился по формуле: МТ (кг) ДТ2 (см). В первую группу – группу исследования (ГИ) – вошли женщины, с избыточной МТ (n=162). Во вторую группу – группу сравнения (ГС) – женщины, с нормальной МТ (n=161). Особенности ходьбы изучали с помощью следующих тестов компьютерного стабилометрического комплекса «Balance Manager»: 1) Вставание из положения сидя; 2) Простая ходьба; 3) Тандемная ходьба. Статистическая обработка результатов проводилась с использованием пакета программ «SPSS 23.0».Результаты. У пожилых женщин с избытком МТ отмечается значимое снижение величины индекса подъема на 13,8% (р=0,020) и возрастание скорости колебания ЦТ на 12,8% (р=0,002). Также в ГИ установлено снижение длины шага на 6% (р=0,015) и скорости ходьбы на 3,8% (р=0,023) с одновременным возрастанием ширины шага (на 9,4% (р=0,001),) могут рассматриваться как признаки адаптивных перестроек параметров простой ходьбы при увеличении массы тела.Заключение. Таким образом, при оценке пространственно-временных характеристик движения у женщин 55–74 лет в зависимости от ИМТ нами выявлены изменения, свидетельствующие об ухудшении функционирования нейрофизиологических механизмов обеспечивающих удержание вертикальной позы.
ПРЯНЫЕ И АРОМАТИЧЕСКИЕ РАСТЕНИЯ В ПСИХИАТРИИ И НЕВРОЛОГИИ: НАУЧНЫЙ ОБЗОР. ЧАСТЬ II.
Authors: Bekker Roman Aleksandrovich , Bykov Yuriy Vitalevich
Published: November 2018

Цель исследования: Представить читателю подробный исторический обзор о применении пряных и ароматических растений в психиатрии и неврологии, а также данные современных исследований об их эффективности в терапии различных психических и психосоматических патологий, нейродегенеративных заболеваний.Методология проведения работы: В качестве начальной отправной точки для нашей работы мы взяли список всех применяемых в кулинарии различных народов специй и приправ из английской Википедии, как один из наиболее полных подобных списков в Интернете (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_spices). Затем мы изучили современную доказательную базу и исторические данные о применении каждого из упомянутых в данном списке растений, используя поисковые системы PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Web of Science, и представили найденные данные в настоящем обзоре.Результаты: Полученные нами в результате составления настоящего обзора данные свидетельствуют о значительном терапевтическом потенциале многих пряных и ароматических растений в психиатрии и неврологии, в особенности в лечении лёгких форм тревожных и депрессивных расстройств, лёгких когнитивных нарушений, а также в лечении таких психосоматических заболеваний, как синдром раздражённого кишечника, мигрень, синдром предменструального напряжения, климактерические расстройства. Доказательная база для применения в психиатрии и неврологии разных пряных и ароматических растений различна по качеству. Для одних пряных и ароматических растений и извлечённых из них биологически активных веществ пока существуют лишь данные экспериментов на животных в сочетании с эмпирическим опытом народной медицины, для других – имеются предварительные обнадёживающие результаты открытых пилотных исследований на человеке, для третьих, таких, как куркумин, сафранал – положительные результаты небольших рандомизированных клинических испытаний. Важно, однако, то, что исследование психотропного и нейротропного потенциала пряных и ароматических растений, судя по количеству публикаций именно в последние годы (2013–2017), рассматривается как одно из перспективных направлений для поиска новых антидепрессантов, анксиолитиков и антидементных препаратов.Область применения результатов: Полученные нами результаты дают теоретические и практические основания для применения экстрактов из некоторых пряных и ароматических растений, таких, как куркумин, сафранал, пиперин, эфирное масло лаванды, в лечении лёгких форм тревожных и депрессивных состояний, лёгких когнитивных нарушений, особенно у пациентов, отказывающихся от фармакотерапии или плохо её переносящих.
РЕАКТИВНОСТЬ ЭРИТРОЦИТОВ КРЫС В УСЛОВИЯХ ФИЗИЧЕСКОЙ НАГРУЗКИ РАЗНОЙ ИНТЕНСИВНОСТИ
Authors: Mongalev Nikolay Petrovich , Rubtsova Lidiya Yurevna , Shadrina Vera Dmitrievna , Chernykh Aleksey Anatol’evich , Vahnina Nadezhda Alekseevna , Makarova Irina Aleksandrovna , Romanova Anastasiya Mikhaylovna , Alisultanova Nadezhda Zhafarovna , Vasilenko Tatyana Fedorovna , Boyko Evgeniy Rafailovich
Published: November 2018

Цель. Изучить морфофункциональное состояние красной крови крыс в зависимости от физической нагрузки «до отказа».Материалы и методы. В исследовании использовали практически здоровых половозрелых крыс-самцов Wistar: контроль, нахождение в воде без движения, свободное плавание и плавание с грузом 2%, 6%, 8%, 10% и 15% от массы тела «до отказа» согласно протоколу по биоэтике утвержденному ИФ Коми НЦ УрО РАН. В крови определяли уровень гемоглобина, гематокрита, количество эритроцитов и ретикулоцитов. Измеряли диаметр 100 эритроцитов окрашенных по Романовскому-Гимза и бриллиантовым крезиловым синим. Статистическую значимость различий реакций исследованных животных оценивали с помощью непараметрического критерия Крускала-Уоллиса.Результаты. Физическая нагрузка «до отказа» характеризовалась повышением величины гематокрита, гемоглобина, количеством эритроцитов в крови крыс и физиологическим ретикулоцитозом, наряду со снижением концентрации гемоглобина в эритроците. Отмечено, что распределение ретикулоцитов по диаметру в пределах 6.4–6.7 мкм у плавающих крыс с грузом 8% от массы тела соответствует кривой Прайс-Джонса интактных животных.Заключение. У крыс в зависимости от характера и интенсивности физической нагрузки проявились разнонаправленные сдвиги в клеточном составе красной крови. Практическое использование только тестового плавания крыс с грузом 8 % от массы тела, судя по реакции эритроцитов, является физиологически обоснованным.
ОЦЕНКА КОМПОНЕНТОВ СТРЕСС-РEЗИСТЕНТНОСТИ У ЮНОШЕЙ И ДЕВУШЕК ТУВИНСКОГО УНИВЕРСИТЕТА
Authors: Buduk-ool Larissa Kara Salona , Hovalyg Ayana Mangushevna
Published: November 2018

Цель. Изучить показатели стресс-резистентности юношей и девушек Тувинского государственного университета.Материалы и методы. В исследовании приняли участие 236 студентов-первокурсников Тувинского государственного университета, средний возраст 19,40,1 лет. Определяли индексы стресса и морфофункционального состояния, скорость биологического старения, цену адаптации и адаптационные возможности организма. Оценка реактивной (РТ) и личностной (ЛТ) тревожности проводилась по опроснику Ч.Д. Спилбергера в модификации Ю.Л. Ханина [10] по «НС-Психотест» ООО «Нейрософт».Результаты. Высокий уровень РТ выявлен у 1,3% девушек (у юношей таковые отсутствуют), а ЛТ – у 45% девушек и всего 19,5% юношей (р≤0,05). У девушек выше (55,8%) доля лиц характеризующихся сниженным уровнем функционального состояния. 7,0% девушек и 13,6% юношей (р≤0,05)имеют скорость биологического старения выше возрастной нормы, 2,3% девушек характеризуются состоянием некомпенсированного дистресса, среди юношей таковые отсутствуют. Высокая цена адаптации, связанная с напряженным периодом жизни, с повышением затраты энергии наблюдается у 9,1% юношей и 7,0% девушек.Заключение. Таким образом, проведенное исследование показателей стрессоустойчивости позволило выявить более высокие ЛТ и РТ, стрессового напряжения в сочетании с низкими показателями адаптивных возможностей организма и морфофункционального состояния у девушек, однако у них меньше скорость биологического старения организма. Студенты-юноши при высоких показателях морфофункционального состояния, низкой тревожности и напряжения, характерных для состояния эустресса с оптимальным уровнем реагирования на стрессирующие факторы, обладают более высокими адаптивными возможностями организма.