bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PI3K/Akt and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways involved in the hepatoprotective effect of verapamil against thioacetamide toxicity in rats
Authors: Mohamed MZ , Hafez HM , Hassan M , Ibrahim MA
Published: December 2018

Liver is a precious organ to maintain body life. Hepatotoxicity is a worldwide health problem that is still a challenge for research. Although countless pharmaceutical drugs and herbal compounds were screened for their hepatoprotective effects, the death from hepatotoxicity is increasing. Thus, there is continuous necessity of searching for the hepatoprotective effect of commonly used drugs. Accordingly, our aim was to examine a hepatoprotective potential for the antihypertensive drug, verapamil, and searching for new insights underlie its protective mechanism. Four groups of adult male rats were randomly arranged as controls, thioacetamide (TAA) hepatotoxic, and TAA + verapamil treated. Serum liver enzyme, hepatic antioxidant, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory parameters were assessed. Gene relative expression for heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), and serine/threonine-specific protein kinase (Akt) were quantified in hepatic tissue. TAA caused hepatic injury evident both histopathologically and biochemically by a decrease in all gene expressions. Verapamil alleviated the injury via its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that were suggested to be via upregulation of the previous gene expressions. In conclusion, the calcium channel blocker, verapamil, that is used widely as antihypertensive exhibits a valuable hepatoprotective effect. The protection partially rests on activation of Nrf2/HO-1 and PI3K/Akt pathways.
Fluoro-functionalized graphene oxide/polyaniline composite electrode material for supercapacitors
Authors: Li Yanan , Xing Ruiguang , Zhang Bangwen , Bulin Chaoke
Published: December 2018

A novel high-performance electrode material based on fluoro-functionalized graphene oxide (GOF)/polyaniline (PANI) composites was synthesized via in situ polymerization of monomer in the presence of GOF. The composite was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and the field emission scanning electron micrographs. The electrochemical properties of the composites were measured based on cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge, and AC impedance spectroscopy. When the obtained composites with a mass ratio is 3% GOF/PANI, the results showed that GOF as a support material provides additional electron transfer paths, as well as active sites, for the electrochemical redox reaction of PANI, which helps to increase its pseudocapacitance. A specific capacitance of 502 F·g−1 was obtained at a current density of 1.0 A·g−1 in 1 mol·L−1 H2SO4, as well as excellent cycling stability with 95% of its initial capacitance after 600 cycles. These encouraging results illustrate the exciting potential for high-performance, electrical energy storage devices based on this new class of carbon material.
Public land policy and urban planning in Greece: Diachronic continuities and abrupt reversals in a context of crisis
Authors: Vitopoulou Athina , Yiannakou Athena
Published: December 2018

Land ownership determines fundamental interests, prescribing a framework of alliances and oppositions around its development and use. The public sector constitutes one of the main categories of large landowners, although this type of ownership takes more than one form, due to the wide variety of public sector bodies holding property. Public land management became one of the focuses of austerity policies in many European countries after the burst of economic crisis in 2008–2009, externally imposed in those countries that went through bailout programmes. In Greece, the history of land policy shows that a fundamental objective of state policy was the distribution and liquidation of public land, a policy that contributed to the formation of an extensive system of small land ownership. From 2010 onwards, a plethora of formal legislation sought to accelerate development procedures for the remaining large-scale public property, as a background resource to attract large-scale, so-called “strategic”, investments. This paper explores the critical characteristics and outcomes of the reforms to transform public land policy, identifying the interactions with urban planning, before and during the economic crisis. Taking a longer temporal view, the paper highlights the entrenched relationships existing between public land policy, urban planning and property development processes and their significance in the diachronic continuities often concealed in major policy reversals and reforms. It argues that ultimately there is a lack of a coherent and sustainable public property valorisation policy, being deprived of any institutional innovation for new forms of urban development, as well as of social acceptance.
Clinical Outcomes Utilizing a “Modified Latham” Appliance for Presurgical Infant Orthopedics in Patients With Unilateral Complete Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Jodeh Diana S. , Ruso Stephen , Feldman Randy , Ruas Ernesto , Rottgers S. Alex
Published: December 2018

Presurgical infant orthopedic manipulation is utilized prior to cleft lip/nasal repair to facilitate a gingivoperiosteoplasty (GPP) and primary nasolabial repairs. The Latham dentomaxillary advancement appliance uses a screw that must be tightened daily to approximate the cleft segments in unilateral complete clefts. Our cleft center has been utilizing a “modified Latham” appliance since 1987, including an orthodontic elastic power chain to close the gap in a shorter amount of time. We performed a retrospective chart review of all patients undergoing treatment at Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital (JHACH) with a unilateral complete cleft lip and palate between 1987 and 2017. Patients were identified by the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision code (749.21). The majority of the patients represent the experience of the senior authors (E.R. and R.F.). Two hundred and eighty-one patients with unilateral complete cleft lip/palate were identified. Seventy-five patients were treated with a “modified Latham” appliance prior to their lip repair. The “modified Latham” appliance remained in place on average 20.6 days (range: 4-82), and average hospital stay after placement was 1.18 days. Nearly 96% of patients underwent a successful GPP at the time of nasolabial repair. Modification of the Latham appliance by utilizing an elastic power chain and eliminating the screw allows rapid closure of the alveolar cleft with limited need for adjustments and outpatient visits. Direct approximation of the palatal segments allows successful completion of a GPP in 95.9% of patients with limited dissection.
Predictors of Receipt of School Services in a National Sample of Youth With ADHD
Authors: DuPaul George J. , Chronis-Tuscano Andrea , Danielson Melissa L. , Visser Susanna N.
Published: December 2018

Objective: The objective of the study is to describe the extent to which students with ADHD received school-based intervention services and identify demographic, diagnostic, and impairment-related variables that are associated with service receipt in a large, nationally drawn sample. Method: Parent-reported data were obtained for 2,495 children with ADHD aged 4 to 17 years from the National Survey of the Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD and Tourette Syndrome (NS-DATA). Results: The majority (69.3%) of students with ADHD currently receive one or more school services. Educational support (62.3%) was nearly twice as prevalent as classroom behavior management (32.0%). More than 3 times as many students with ADHD had an individualized education program (IEP; 42.9%) as a Section 504 plan (13.6%). Conclusion: At least one in five students with ADHD do not receive school services despite experiencing significant academic and social impairment, a gap that is particularly evident for adolescents and youth from non–English-speaking and/or lower income families.
Brinzolamide–brimonidine fixed combination for the prevention of intraocular pressure elevation after phacoemulsification
Authors: Georgakopoulos Constantine D , Kagkelaris Konstantinos , Pagoulatos Dionysios , Plotas Panagiotis , Makri Olga E
Published: December 2018

Aim:

To evaluate the effectiveness of brinzolamide–brimonidine fixed combination to control the intraocular pressure elevation throughout the first 24 h following uncomplicated phacoemulsification cataract surgery.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 62 patients who underwent phacoemulsification cataract surgery were included in this prospective randomized comparative case series. The brinzolamide–brimonidine fixed combination group (34 eyes) was administered a single dose of brinzolamide–brimonidine fixed combination immediately after phacoemulsification. No treatment was administered in the control group (28 eyes). Intraocular pressure was measured 1 day before surgery (baseline) and at 6, 12 and 24 h postoperatively.

Results:

The brinzolamide–brimonidine fixed combination group had significantly lower intraocular pressure at 6, 12 and 24 h after phacoemulsification compared to baseline (p < 0.0001 for all comparisons), while in control group, intraocular pressure was significantly higher at 6 and 12 h after surgery compared to baseline (p < 0.001 and p < 0.0001, respectively). In control group, an intraocular pressure elevation ⩾ 5 mm Hg was noted in 32.4% of the eyes at 6 and 12 h and in 5.9% of eyes at 24 h after surgery, while in brinzolamide–brimonidine fixed combination group, only 8.8% of the eyes at 6 h postoperatively had such an intraocular pressure elevation.

Conclusion:

The administration of a single drop of brinzolamide–brimonidine fixed combination effectively prevented intraocular pressure elevations and intraocular pressure spikes during the first 24 h after uneventful phacoemulsification.
Territorial sovereignty and the end of inter-cultural diplomacy along the “Southern frontier”
Authors: Schulz Carsten-Andreas
Published: December 2018

European politics at the turn of the 19th century saw a dramatic reduction in the number and diversity of polities as the territorial nation-state emerged as the dominant form of political organization. The transformation had a profound impact on the periphery. The study examines how embracing the principle of territoriality transformed relations between settler societies and indigenous peoples in South America. As this shift coincided with independence from Spain, Creole elites rapidly dismantled the remnants of imperial heteronomy, ending centuries of inter-cultural diplomacy. The study illustrates this shift in the case of the “Southern frontier,” where Spain had maintained a practice of treaty making with the Mapuche people since the mid-17th century. This long-standing practice broke down shortly after Chile gained independence in 1818. What followed was a policy of coercive assimilation through military conquest and forced displacement — a policy that settler societies implemented elsewhere in the 19th century. In contrast to explanations that emphasize the spread of capitalist agriculture and racist ideologies, this study argues that territoriality spelled the end of inter-cultural diplomacy along the “Southern frontier.”
Challenges for comparative fact-finding
Authors: Sullivan Sean P
Published: December 2018

A paradigm shift is underway in scholarship on legal fact-finding. Recent work clearly and consistently suggests that persuasion is the product of purely comparative assessments of factual propositions. This paper comments on the philosophical roots of the comparative paradigm. It also highlights two outstanding challenges for the comparative approach: (1) specification of a purely comparative test for the beyond a reasonable doubt standard, and (2) articulation of the mechanics by which unspecific or disjunctive factual propositions are supposed to be weighed in comparative fact-finding.
Can CPD enhance student-centred teaching and encourage explicit instruction of International Baccalaureate Approaches to Learning skills? A qualitative formative assessment and summative evaluation of an IB school’s in-house CPD programme
Authors: Forrest Sandra
Published: December 2018

This study aimed to involve International Baccalaureate (IB) teachers in formative assessment and summative evaluation of a continuing professional development (CPD) programme designed to facilitate a student-centred, process-focused approach in which the ‘Approaches to Learning’ (ATL) element of the IB curriculum takes a central role. Given its emphasis on participants’ collective perspectives, focus groups were selected as the data collection method. Respondents were twelve teachers with diverse backgrounds and experience, from different school departments, with varying teaching styles, epistemological beliefs and views regarding ATL. This study includes a discussion of the literature with reference to teachers’ beliefs, attitudes, values and knowledge, the role these play in teaching practices, the extent to which CPD may be able to influence them, and the elements of CPD which make teachers’ development more likely.

Findings indicate that formatively assessing teachers’ development from CPD, and development itself, are ‘messy’ processes, as is trying to distinguish between ‘student-centred’ and ‘teacher-centred’ teaching in relation to facilitating self-regulated learning. Differences were identified in how experienced teachers, particularly those with Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) certification and new teachers, particularly those without a PGCE, reacted to CPD and developed in relation to the aims of CPD. However, these issues were mitigated over time by the CPD programme’s emphasis on collegiality and its coherence with previous CPD and IB standards for teaching and learning. Students’ increasing competence with, and acceptance of, student-centred teaching also made it easier for teachers to develop their practice, illuminating the nature of enculturation as a driver of learning. Importantly, formative assessment helped the researcher to understand the complex and incremental nature of teachers’ development as well as gain insights into how CPD contributed to that development. This investigation demonstrates that brief experiences of top down, whole school, ‘training model’ CPD can, indeed, enhance teachers’ student-centredness and facilitate explicit instruction of ATL skills, and illustrates the utility of using focus groups to formatively assess, and summatively evaluate, teachers’ CPD.
International University Students in Thailand: Shifting from Universalistic Models to an Ethnicity Matters Approach
Authors: Rhein Douglas
Published: December 2018

Historically, much of the research on acculturation and adjustment was conducted on migrant and refugee populations. The start of the twenty first century has seen a surprising surge in a new immigrant class, mobile students, their characteristics differing from the social, political and economic refugees of the twentieth century. This article provides an overview of the literature related to the salient features of acculturation, adaptation and adjustment models as applied to international university students and the stressors they most frequently encounter. It recommends that future research transitions from universalistic mode-based inquiry to more nuanced approaches which emphasize an individual’s characteristics from country of origin or perceived ethnic identity. A social constructivist position which emphasizes the historical and ethnic relationships among the visiting students and the host nationals is most beneficial to understanding the contemporary international student adjustment paradigm.
Feasibility and Impact of a Multicomponent Exercise Intervention in Patients With Alzheimer’s Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Borges-Machado Flávia , Ribeiro Óscar , Sampaio Arnaldina , Marques-Aleixo Inês , Meireles Joana , Carvalho Joana
Published: December 2018

This quasi-experimental, nonrandomized study examined the feasibility and impact of a multicomponent (MT) intervention on 7 community-dwelling individuals diagnosed with probable Alzheimer’s disease (AD) at mild to moderate stage. During 6 months, patients with AD and their caregivers were submitted to a biweekly exercise program, including muscle strengthening, aerobics, balance, and postural exercises. The following tests were used: Senior Fitness Test and Incremental Treadmill Test, Disability Assessment for Dementia Scale, Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale–Cognitive, and Quality of Life–Alzheimer’s. Attendance and retention mean rates were high (86% and 78%, respectively). No adverse events occurred. Results revealed a significant beneficial effect on cardiorespiratory fitness ( P = .028), upper ( P = .018) and lower ( P = .026) body muscle strength, agility ( P = .018), and ability to perform daily activities ( P = .018). Data suggest that a biweekly MT intervention is feasible to conduct in patients with AD. Findings also suggest a potential positive effect on mitigating cognitive decline and in positively influencing quality of life.
Human Semen Quality, Sperm DNA Damage, and the Level of Urinary Concentrations of 1N and TCPY, the Biomarkers of Nonpersistent Insecticides
Authors: Dziewirska Emila , Radwan Michał , Wielgomas Bartosz , Klimowska Anna , Radwan Paweł , Kałużny Paweł , Hanke Wojciech , Słodki Maciej , Jurewicz Joanna
Published: December 2018

The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between environmental exposure to nonpersistent insecticides and semen quality (concentration, motility, morphology, computer-aided semen analysis [CASA] parameters, and sperm DNA damage). Urine samples ( n = 315) collected from men who attended the infertility clinic with normal semen concentration of 15 to 300 mln/ml and age under 45 years were analyzed for two metabolites (1-naphthol [1N] and 3,5,6-trichloro-2-pyridinol [TCPY]) of nonpersistent insecticides. Participants provided semen, blood, and saliva samples; additionally, men filled a detailed questionnaire. The results identified that urinary TCPY concentration was significantly associated with a decrease in motility; also there was a positive association between TCPY and DNA fragmentation index (DFI). 1N concentration was negatively associated with a percentage of sperm with normal morphology and positively with one of the CASA parameters (curvilinear velocity [VCL]). The results suggest that environmental exposure to nonpersistent insecticides may have an impact on semen quality parameters and sperm DNA damage.
Use of Infrared Thermography to Improve the Melt Spinning and Processing of Polyester Fibers
Authors: Gibson Glenn , Tincher Mark
Published: December 2018

Infrared thermography (infrared camera and software) has long been used to detect thermal irregularities before failure in electrical and mechanical equipment. It has also proven to be very beneficial in troubleshooting and identifying specific thermal variations in the melt spinning and processing of polyester fibers, enabling such processes to be brought under tighter control. Typical results include greater uniformity, better efficiency and improved quality. This paper provides insights on the use of this effective tool.
Surface Modification of Fibers via Graft-Site Amplifying Polymers
Authors: Michielsen Stephen
Published: December 2018

The surface properties of fibers play critical roles in many applications such as wicking, soil resistance, adhesion, and bio-compatibility. This paper will discuss a new approach to surface modification in which polymers are grafted to naturally occurring graft-sites on the substrate. The surface modifying polymers contain a large number of new graft-sites, thus amplifying the potential graft-sites up to several thousand-fold. Subsequent modification of the graft-site amplifying polymer can be used to alter the surface charge, wettability, and dye-uptake. Critical features of this technology will be presented along with specific examples.
Liquid Extrusion Techniques for Pore Structure Evaluation of Nonwovens
Authors: Jena Akshaya , Gupta Krishna
Published: December 2018

Two variations of the liquid extrusion technique for pore structure analysis have been analyzed and results obtained using nonwoven materials have been discussed. Strengths and limitations of the techniques have been evaluated. The techniques can measure all the important pore characteristics of nonwovens without using any toxic material or high pressures.
Pore Volume of Nanofiber Nonwovens
Authors: Jena Akshaya , Gupta Krishna
Published: December 2018

Pore volume, pore diameter, pore volume distribution and pore throat diameters of nanofiber mats were measured using mercury intrusion porosimetry, liquid extrusion porosimetry and capillary flow porometry. Analysis of results showed that mercury intrusion distorts the structure due to application of high pressure. Liquid extrusion does not require high pressures, gives good resolution and measures pore structure relevant for application. Capillary flow porometry uses low pressures, measures pore throat diameter, but does not measure pore volume.
Nanofibers from Natural and Inorganic Polymers via Electrospinning
Authors: Thomas Helga , Heine Elisabeth , Wollseifen Rainer , Cimpeanu Corina
Published: December 2018

In the present work the formation of nanofibre webs from natural polymers accessible from waste materials and SiO2-precursors was studied at environmentally acceptable electro-spinning conditions, thus excluding the use of hazardous organic solvents for the preparation of spinning solutions. For these purposes water-based solutions of S-sulfo-kerateins isolated from wool, chitosan and precondensated tertraethyl orthosilicate were investigated with special regard to their propensity in nanofibre formation.
An Image Analysis for Inspecting Nonwoven Defect
Authors: Lai H. Y. , Lin J. H. , Lu C. K. , Yao S. C.
Published: December 2018

Quality and uniformity in nonwoven fabrics is very important, especially when utilized for highly technical purposes. Therefore, the standards for uniformity of nonwovens are growing stricter in applications like filters and battery separators. Traditionally, uniformity evaluation for nonwovens has been the analysis of coefficient of variance (COV), which is often found to be insufficient for inspecting and identifying small defects in the fabric. This paper presents a novel technique based on image segmenting and watershed analysis to inspect defects in the nonwoven. The exact defect areas can be quantified and described through precise calculations. A number of defective nonwoven samples have been tested, showing the method's successful detection and quantification of defects. In addition, the size of investigated image does not appear to greatly affect the result of analysis. Based upon the inspiring findings above, the method should be applicable for on-line monitoring during nonwoven manufacture and promises to reduce manual inspection and costs.
Process Property Studies of Melt Blown Thermoplastic Polyurethane Polymers for Protective Apparel
Authors: Eung Lee Youn , Wadsworth Larry C.
Published: December 2018

The primary goal of this research was to determine optimum processing conditions to produce commercially acceptable melt blown (MB) thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) non-woven fabrics. The 20-inch wide Accurate Products MB pilot line at the Textiles and Nonwovens Development Center (TANDEC), The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, was utilized for this study. MB TPU webs having small fiber diameters were obtained from film-forming and highly elastic fiber-forming TPUs and the webs were mechanically strong and durable to abrasion compared to MB PP. The basic MB process was found to be fundamentally valid for the MB TPU process; however, the MB process was more complicated for TPU than PP, because web structures and properties of MB TPUs are very sensitive to MB process conditions. Furthermore, different TPU polymers responded very differently to MB processing and exhibited different web structure and properties, although uniform elastic MB webs were produced with average fiber diameters as small as 5.0μm. Preliminary research leading to this study was funded the Army Research Office (ARO) and the findings were used by ARO towards the development of an elastic chemical protective liner with better overall comfort attributes and protection against chemical warfare agents.
Soil Nutrients Influence Plant Community Assembly in Two Tropical Coastal Secondary Forests
Authors: Long Cheng , Yang Xiaobo , Long Wenxing , Li Donghai , Zhou Wei , Zhang Hui
Published: December 2018

Understanding the responses of species diversity and dominant species to soil nutrient dynamics can enhance our knowledge of species coexistence and the recovery of secondary forests. Here, we assessed how species diversity and the abundance of dominant species varied as a function of soil nutrients at early- and mid-successional stages in two tropical monsoon coastal secondary forests in southern China. Results showed that species diversity was higher in the mid-successional stage. Species diversity was significantly correlated with organic matter and available P in both stages. The abundance of dominant species was significantly associated with organic matter, K, P, and N. Soil nutrients are therefore likely to play vitally important roles in the successional trajectory and restoration of these tropical coastal secondary forests.
The role of perioperative cardiorespiratory support in post infarction ventricular septal rupture-related cardiogenic shock
Authors: Ariza-Solé Albert , Sánchez-Salado José C , Sbraga Fabrizio , Ortiz Daniel , González-Costello José , Blasco-Lucas Arnau , Alegre Oriol , Toral David , Lorente Victòria , Santafosta Eva , Toscano Jacobo , Izquierdo Andrea , Miralles Albert , Cequier Ángel
Published: December 2018

Background:

Current guidelines recommend emergency surgical correction in patients with post infarction ventricular septal rupture (PIVSR), but patients with multiorgan failure are commonly managed conservatively because of high surgical risk. We assessed characteristics and outcomes of operated PIVSR patients with or without the use of short-term ventricular assist devices (ST-VADs). We also assessed the impact of a ST-VAD on the performance of surgery

Methods:

We retrospectively analysed all consecutive patients with PIVSR between January 2004 and May 2017. Baseline clinical characteristics, use of ST-VAD and performance of surgery during admission were assessed. The main outcome measured was in-hospital mortality.

Results:

A total of 28 patients were included. Mean age was 69.2 years. Most patients (20/28, 71.4%) underwent surgical repair. ST-VADs were used in 11/28 patients (39.3%). This percentage progressively increased across the study period, from 22.2% (2/9) in 2004–2011 to 58.3% (7/12) in 2015–2017 ( p=0.091). Patients undergoing ST-VAD use had poorer INTERMACS status, higher values of creatinine, lactate and alanine aminotransferase and lower left ventricular ejection fraction as compared with operated patients without support. In-hospital mortality did not differ according to the use of ST-VADs in operated patients (27.3% without ST-VAD vs. 22.2% with ST-VAD, p=0.604). All five patients undergoing early preoperative venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenator support and delayed surgery survived at hospital discharge.

Conclusions:

ST-VAD use increased in patients with PIVSR. Despite a higher risk profile in operated patients undergoing ST-VAD use, mortality was not significantly different in these patients. Early preoperative venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation should be considered for very high risk PIVSR patients.
Detection of neuraminidase inhibitor-resistant influenza A (H1N1)pdm09 viruses obtained from influenza surveillance in Indonesia
Authors: Pawestri Hana Apsari , Nugraha Arie Ardiansyah , Hariastuti Nur Ika , Setiawaty Vivi
Published: December 2018

Background:

Influenza antiviral resistance has been shown to occur in many countries and is commonly found in influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 and A(H3N2). In this study, we monitored and investigated the neuraminidase inhibitor resistance of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses through the influenza surveillance system in Indonesia.

Methods:

A total of 4752 clinical specimens were collected from patients with influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory infection during the year 2016. An allelic discrimination assay was conducted by a single base substitution or a single-nucleotide polymorphism that is specific to the H275 wild-type and Y275 mutant. Sequencing was performed to confirm the H275Y mutations, and we analysed the phylogenetic relationship.

Results:

The first occurrence of oseltamivir-resistant influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 was observed in the samples from the influenza-like illness surveillance. Two H275Y oseltamivir-resistant viruses (0.74%) out of 272 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 positives were found. Both of them were collected from untreated patients.

Conclusion:

The number of oseltamivir-resistant influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses in Indonesia is very low. However, it is necessary to continue with active surveillance for oseltamivir resistance in severe and mild cases.
An evaluation of the impact of a burn camp on children and young people’s concerns about social situations, satisfaction with appearance and behaviour
Authors: Armstrong-James Laura , Cadogan Julia , Williamson Heidi , Rumsey Nichola , Harcourt Diana
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

[Formula: see text] This evaluation aimed to assess the impact of a burn camp on children and young people’s concerns about social situations, satisfaction with appearance and behaviour.

Methods:

Young people completed the Perceived Stigmatisation Questionnaire (PSQ), Social Comfort Questionnaire (SCQ) and Satisfaction with Appearance Scale (SWAP) one month before camp (n=23), on the last day of camp (n=21) and at a three-month follow-up (n=13). Parents completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) one month before camp (n = 22) and at follow-up (n=12). Parents and young people also completed open-ended questions before camp and at the follow-up.

Results:

Results in this evaluation were mixed. While parents’ reported scores on the SDQ were poorer after camp, young people’s reported outcomes on all three measures improved at the end of camp. PSQ and SWAP scores were maintained and improved, respectively, at the follow-up. Qualitative responses were generally consistent with these scores. Significant improvements were found between the scores before camp and at the three-month follow-up for both the SWAP and PSQ. These results indicate that the burn camp may help to improve young people’s satisfaction with their appearance and concerns about social situations. However, there was no comparison group and there was a significant loss of participants at follow-up.

Conclusion:

Burn camps may therefore offer a range of psychosocial benefits to young people with burn injuries. This was the first evaluation to demonstrate a positive impact of a burn camp on satisfaction with appearance and concerns about social situations using outcome measures validated with the burns population.
Clinical outcomes of the reverse McLaughlin procedure for Hill–Sachs lesions in anterior shoulder instability
Authors: Han Fucai , Chin Brendan Yi Yao , Tan Bryan Hsi Ming , Lim Chin Tat , Kumar V Prem
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

Engaging Hill–Sachs lesions in recurrent anterior shoulder dislocation have been managed with the remplissage procedure. Clinical and cadaveric studies have reported limitation of rotation after this procedure. We introduce the reverse McLaughlin procedure where the infraspinatus and the underlying capsule are detached and approximated into the Hill–Sachs defect with transosseous sutures. This is a preliminary report using this technique.

Methods:

Seventeen patients with recurrent anterior shoulder dislocations and an engaging Hill–Sachs lesion underwent a Bankart repair and remplissage procedure (n = 9) or the reverse McLaughlin procedure ( n = 8). Patients were evaluated using the SF-36, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Constant scores. Clinical assessment of the shoulders was also performed.

Results:

At the final follow-up, all patients in both groups achieved comparable clinical outcome scores. No significant differences were reported in the range of motion of the shoulders between the two groups. There was one dislocation of the operated shoulder in each group after an injury.

Conclusion:

The reverse McLaughlin procedure for engaging Hill–Sachs lesions is simple, easy to perform, and associated with functional outcomes and range of motion at least equivalent to those obtained via the remplissage technique. It may be an alternative to the latter procedure.

Level of Evidence:

III, Retrospective Comparative Study
Visualizing Stochastic Actor-based Model Microsteps
Authors: adams jimi , Schaefer David R.
Published: December 2018

This visualization provides a dynamic representation of the microsteps involved in modeling network and behavior change with a stochastic actor-based model. This video illustrates how (1) observed time is broken up into a series of simulated microsteps and (2) these microsteps serve as the opportunity for actors to change their network ties or behavior. The example model comes from a widely used tutorial, and we provide code to allow for adapting the visualization to one’s own model.
Treatment of Hallux Valgus Deformity Using a Suture Button Device: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Gonzalez Tyler A. , Smith Jeremy T. , Bluman Eric M. , Ready Lauren V. , Ciurylo William , Chiodo Christopher P.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Hallux valgus (HV) is commonly treated with proximal or distal first metatarsal osteotomy. Despite good correction, these procedures have inherent risks such as malunion, nonunion, metatarsal shortening, loss of fixation, and avascular necrosis. Suture button fixation has been used for HV treatment. It avoids the risks of corrective osteotomies while maintaining reduction of the intermetatarsal angle (IMA). The goal of this study was to assess the radiographic and functional outcomes of patients undergoing HV correction with a distal soft tissue procedure and proximal suture button fixation.

Methods:

The authors retrospectively reviewed the charts and radiographs of 22 patients who had undergone HV correction using a distal soft tissue correction and proximal fixation with a miniature suture button device (Mini TightRope; Arthrex, Inc, Naples, FL). Mean follow-up was 27.7 months. The IMA, hallux valgus angle (HVA), and sesamoid station were measured on radiographs obtained preoperatively as well as in the immediate postoperative period and at final follow-up. Preoperative and postoperative Short Form-36 (SF-36) and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) scores were collected. Postoperative complications, and any additional operative procedures performed were also recorded.

Results:

The mean preoperative IMA and HVA were 16.9 and 32.6 degrees, respectively. The mean immediate postoperative IMA was 5.2 degrees ( P < .0001) and the mean HVA was 9.8 degrees ( P < .0001). At final follow-up, the mean IMA was 8.2 degrees ( P < .0001) and the mean HVA was 16.7 degrees ( P < .0001). The average change in HVA from preoperative to final follow-up was 16.0 degrees and the average change in IMA from preoperative to final follow-up was 8.6 degrees ( P < .0001). Sesamoid station assessment at the 2-week follow-up showed that 22 patients (100%) were in the normal position group; at final follow-up, 17 patients (77%) had normal position and 5 patients (23%) had displaced position. Although there were no clinically symptomatic recurrences, asymptomatic radiographic recurrence was noted in 5 patients (23%) who had a final HVA >20 degrees. All components of the FAAM and the SF-36 showed improvement from preoperative to final follow-up, although these changes were not statistically significant. Three patients experienced complications, including an intraoperative second metatarsal fracture, a postoperative second metatarsal stress fracture, and a postoperative deep vein thrombosis.

Conclusion:

The use of a distal soft tissue procedure in conjunction with proximal suture button fixation is a safe and effective procedure for treating symptomatic HV deformity. Our results show that this technique can correct the IMA, HVA, and sesamoid station without the need for osteotomy.

Level of evidence:

Level IV.
CapTCR-seq: hybrid capture for T-cell receptor repertoire profiling
Authors: Mulder David T. , Mahé Etienne R. , Dowar Mark , Hanna Youstina , Li Tiantian , Nguyen Linh T. , Butler Marcus O. , Hirano Naoto , Delabie Jan , Ohashi Pamela S. , Pugh Trevor J.
Published: December 2018

Mature T-cell lymphomas consisting of an expanded clonal population of T cells that possess common rearrangements of the T-cell receptor (TCR) encoding genes can be identified and monitored using molecular methods of T-cell repertoire analysis. We have developed a hybrid-capture method that enriches DNA sequencing libraries for fragments encoding rearranged TCR genes from all 4 loci in a single reaction. We use this method to describe the TCR repertoires of 63 putative lymphoma clinical isolates, 7 peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) populations, and a collection of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes. Dominant Variable (V) and Joining (J) gene pair rearrangements in cancer cells were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and Sanger sequencing; clonality assessment of clinical isolates using BIOMED-2 methods showed agreement for 73% and 77% of samples at the β and γ loci, respectively, whereas β locus V and J allele prevalence in PBMCs were well correlated with results from commercial PCR-based DNA sequencing assays (r2 = 0.94 with Adaptive ImmunoSEQ, 0.77-0.83 with Invivoscribe LymphoTrack TRB Assay). CapTCR-seq allows for rapid, high-throughput and flexible characterization of dominant clones within TCR repertoire that will facilitate quantitative analysis of patient samples and enhance sensitivity of tumor surveillance over time.
Social determinants, health status and 10-year mortality among 10,906 older adults from the English longitudinal study of aging: the ATHLOS project
Authors: Kollia Natasa , Caballero Francisco Félix , Sánchez-Niubó Albert , Tyrovolas Stefanos , Ayuso-Mateos José Luis , Haro Josep Maria , Chatterji Somnath , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B.
Published: December 2018

Background

In either rich or poor countries, people’s health widely depends on the social conditions in which they live and work – the social determinants of health. The aim of the present work was to explore the association of educational and financial status with healthy aging and mortality.

Methods

Data from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA) were studied (n = 10,906 participants, 64 ± 11 years, 55% women). A set of 45 self-reported health items and measured tests were used to generate a latent health metric reflecting levels of functioning referred to as health metric (higher values indicated better health status). Overall mortality after 10-years of follow-up (2002–2012) was recorded.

Results

Both education and household wealth over time were positively associated with the health metric (p < 0.001) and negatively with overall mortality (p < 0.001). Lifestyle behaviors (i.e., physical activity, smoking habits and alcohol consumption) mediated the effect of education and household wealth on the health metric and the latter mediated their effect on overall mortality.

Conclusions

In conclusion, reducing socioeconomic disparities in health by improving the access to education and by providing financial opportunities should be among the priorities in improving the health of older adults.
Proportional modes versus pressure support ventilation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kataoka Jun , Kuriyama Akira , Norisue Yasuhiro , Fujitani Shigeki
Published: December 2018

Background

Proportional modes (proportional assist ventilation, PAV, and neurally adjusted ventilatory assist, NAVA) could improve patient–ventilator interaction and consequently may be efficient as a weaning mode. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine whether proportional modes improved patient–ventilator interaction and whether they had an impact on the weaning success and length of mechanical ventilation, in comparison with PSV.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception through May 13, 2018. We included both parallel-group and crossover randomized studies that examined the efficacy of proportional modes in comparison with PSV in mechanically ventilated adults. The primary outcomes were (1) asynchrony index (AI), (2) weaning failure, and (3) duration of mechanical ventilation.

Results

We included 15 studies (four evaluated PAV, ten evaluated NAVA, and one evaluated both modes). Although the use of proportional modes was not associated with a reduction in AI (WMD − 1.43; 95% CI − 3.11 to 0.25; p = 0.096; PAV—one study, and NAVA—seven studies), the use of proportional modes was associated with a reduction in patients with AI > 10% (RR 0.15; 95% CI 0.04–0.58; p = 0.006; PAV—two studies, and NAVA—five studies), compared with PSV. There was a significant heterogeneity among studies for AI, especially with NAVA. Compared with PSV, use of proportional modes was associated with a reduction in weaning failure (RR 0.44; 95% CI 0.26–0.75; p = 0.003; PAV—three studies) and duration of mechanical ventilation (WMD − 1.78 days; 95% CI − 3.24 to − 0.32; p = 0.017; PAV—three studies, and NAVA—two studies). Reduced duration of mechanical ventilation was found with PAV but not with NAVA.

Conclusion

The use of proportional modes was associated with a reduction in the incidence with AI > 10%, weaning failure and duration of mechanical ventilation, compared with PSV. However, reduced weaning failure and duration of mechanical ventilation were found with only PAV. Due to a significant heterogeneity among studies and an insufficient number of studies, further investigation seems warranted to better understand the impact of proportional modes.

Clinical trial registration PROSPERO registration number, CRD42017059791. Registered 20 March 2017
Stable Iodine Distribution Among Children After the 2011 Fukushima Nuclear Disaster in Japan: An Observational Study
Authors: Nishikawa Yoshitaka , Kohno Ayako , Takahashi Yoshimitsu , Suzuki Chiaki , Kinoshita Hirokatsu , Nakayama Takeo , Tsubokura Masaharu
Published: December 2018

Context

Intake of stable iodine helps prevent childhood thyroid cancer in nuclear emergencies, but there is limited case information.

Objective

We identified the intake rate and the factors associated with no intake among children who did not take stable iodine after the Fukushima disaster.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

Data were obtained from thyroid cancer screenings performed from August through November 2017.

Participants

Children in Miharu Town, Fukushima, Japan.

Intervention

No intervention.

Main Outcome Measures

We performed multilevel logistic regression analysis at the regional and individual levels. We qualitatively examined the reasons for no intake of stable iodine based on closed- and open-ended questions.

Results

The rate of distribution was 94.9%, but the intake rate was only 63.5%. Intake was lower in those aged 0 to 2 years compared with those aged ≥3 years (OR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.11 to 0.36). Parents’ intake was positively associated with their children’s intake (OR, 61.0; 95% CI, 37.9 to 102.9). The variance partition coefficient for regions was 0.021, suggesting that the intake of stable iodine was more likely affected by individual than by regional factors. Closed-ended questions showed that the main reason for avoiding intake was concern about safety. Open-ended questions for other reasons revealed issues related to the distribution method, information about the effects and adverse effects of iodine, and instructions for iodine intake. There were no symptomatic adverse effects claimed to the town.

Conclusions

The distribution and consumption of stable iodine occurred in Miharu Town after the Fukushima disaster. To prepare for future nuclear emergencies, it is important to explain to both children and parents the need for intake of stable iodine, particularly among young children.
Low cholesterol is not always good: low cholesterol levels are associated with decreased serotonin and increased aggression in fish
Authors: Aguiar Ariane , Giaquinto Percília Cardoso
Published: December 2018

The inverse relationship between serum cholesterol and levels of aggression led to the cholesterol-serotonin hypothesis. According to this hypothesis, low dietary cholesterol intake leads to depressed central serotonergic activity, which is associated with increased aggression. Here we present the hypothesis about the evolutionary origins of low cholesterol and aggressive behavior, investigating the relationship between low levels of plasma cholesterol and aggressive behavior in fish. We used Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), a species of aggressive fish with a clear dominant subordinate relation, as an experimental model. The fish were treated with statin, a cholesterol-lowering drug. Aggressive behavior, brain serotonin (5-HT) concentrations, 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA, the major 5-HT metabolite) and plasma cholesterol were analyzed after chronic administration of statin. Our results show that fish treated with statin exhibited reduced plasma cholesterol, reduced telencephalic indexes of 5-HIAA/5-HT and increased aggressive behavior compared to control fish. These results indicate that changes in plasma cholesterol may affect neurochemical processes underlying aggressive behavior in fish, suggesting an evolutionary mechanism conserved among vertebrates. Such mechanisms may be important for the control of aggression in many vertebrate species, not just mammals, as has been demonstrated so far.
AGata4nuclear GFP transcriptional reporter to study endoderm and cardiac development in the mouse
Authors: Simon Claire S. , Zhang Lu , Wu Tao , Cai Weibin , Saiz Nestor , Nowotschin Sonja , Cai Chen-Leng , Hadjantonakis Anna-Katerina
Published: December 2018

The GATA zinc-finger transcription factor GATA4 is expressed in a variety of tissues during mouse embryonic development and in adult organs. These include the primitive endoderm of the blastocyst, visceral endoderm of the early post-implantation embryo, as well as lateral plate mesoderm, developing heart, liver, lung and gonads. Here, we generate a novel Gata4 targeted allele used to generate both a Gata4H2B-GFP transcriptional reporter and a Gata4FLAG fusion protein to analyse dynamic expression domains. We demonstrate that the Gata4H2B-GFP transcriptional reporter faithfully recapitulates known sites of Gata4 mRNA expression and correlates with endogenous GATA4 protein levels. This reporter labels nuclei of Gata4 expressing cells and is suitable for time-lapse imaging and single cell analyses. As such, this Gata4H2B-GFP allele will be a useful tool for studying Gata4 expression and transcriptional regulation.

This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.