bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Squeeze film dampers supporting high-speed rotors: Fluid inertia effects
Authors: Hamzehlouia Sina , Behdinan Kamran
Published: June 2019

This work represents closed-form analytical expressions for the operating parameters for short-length open-ended squeeze film dampers, including the lubricant velocity profiles, hydrodynamic pressure distribution, and lubricant reaction forces. The proposed closed-form expressions provide an accelerated calculation of the squeeze film damper parameters, specifically for rotordynamics applications. In order to determine the analytical solutions for the squeeze film damper parameters, the thin film equations for lubricant are introduced in the presence of the influence of lubricant inertia. Subsequently, two different analytical techniques, namely the momentum approximation method, and the perturbation method are applied to the thin film equations. Moreover, the solution for the lubricant flow equations are analytically determined to represent closed-form expressions for the hydrodynamic pressure distribution and the velocity component profiles in squeeze film dampers. Additionally, the expressions for the hydrodynamic pressure distribution are integrated over the journal surface, either numerically or analytically by using Booker’s integrals, to develop expressions for the fluid film reaction forces. Lastly, the developed squeeze film damper models are incorporated into simulation models in Matlab and Simulink®, and the results are compared against a well-established force coefficient model to verify the accuracy of the calculations. The results of the simulations verify the effect of the lubricant inertia components, namely the convective and temporal (i.e., unsteady) inertia components on the squeeze film damper dynamics, including hydrodynamic pressure distribution and fluid film reaction forces. Additionally, the simulation results suggest a close agreement between the proposed models and the results in the literature.
Fluoxetine in progressive multiple sclerosis: The FLUOX-PMS trial
Authors: Cambron Melissa , Mostert Jop , D’Hooghe Marie , Nagels Guy , Willekens Barbara , Debruyne Jan , Algoed Luc , Verhagen Wim , Hupperts Raymond , Heersema Dorothea , De Keyser Jacques , De Groot Liesbeth , De Bruyne Jan , Foselle Erwin , Guillaume Daniel , Merckx Henri , Vanopdenbosch Ludo , Vokaer Mathieu , Klippel Nina De , Nuytten Dirk , Van Remoortel Ann , Symons Anoek , D’haeseleer Miguel , Bissay Veronique , Van Merhaegen-Wieleman Annick , Van Lint Michel , Michiels Veronique , Haentjens Patrick , Van Wijmeersch Bart , Tillemans Bart , Van Hecke Wim , Hengstman Gerald
Published: June 2019

Background:

Preclinical studies suggest that fluoxetine has neuroprotective properties that might reduce axonal degeneration in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective:

To determine whether fluoxetine slows accumulation of disability in progressive MS.

Methods:

In a double-blind multicenter phase 2 trial, patients with primary or secondary progressive MS were randomized to fluoxetine 40 mg/day or placebo for a period of 108 weeks. Clinical assessments were performed every 12 weeks by trained study nurses who visited the patients at their home. The primary outcome was the time to a 12-week confirmed 20% increase in the Timed 25 Foot Walk or 9-Hole Peg test. Secondary outcomes included the Hauser ambulation index, cognitive tests, fatigue, and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Results:

In the efficacy analysis, 69 patients received fluoxetine and 68 patients received placebo. Using the log-rank test ( p = 0.258) and Cox regression analysis ( p = 0.253), we found no significant difference in the primary outcome between the two groups. Due to an unexpected slow rate of progression in the placebo group, there was insufficient statistical power to detect a potential benefit of fluoxetine. We found no differences between the two groups for secondary outcomes.

Conclusion:

The trial failed to demonstrate a neuroprotective effect of fluoxetine in patients with progressive MS.
Modifiable risk factors for poor health outcomes in multiple sclerosis: The urgent need for research to maximise smoking cessation success
Authors: Marck Claudia H , das Nair Roshan , Grech Lisa B , Borland Ron , Constantinescu Cris S
Published: June 2019

Tobacco smoking is a well-established risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS) onset, progression and poor health outcomes in people with MS. Despite smoking being a modifiable risk factor, no research has been undertaken to understand how, or who is best placed, to assess or understand smoking behaviour in people with MS, or how healthcare professionals can best assist people with MS to quit. People with MS may have unique motivators to continue smoking, or unique barriers to smoking cessation, that are not addressed by existing cessation tools. Research is urgently needed in this area if the aim is to maximise health outcomes for all people with MS.
Causal mechanisms in civil war mediation: Evidence from Syria
Authors: Lundgren Magnus
Published: June 2019

Studies of conflict management by international organizations have demonstrated correlations between institutional characteristics and outcomes, but questions remain as to whether these correlations have causal properties. To examine how institutional characteristics condition the nature of international organization interventions, I examine mediation and ceasefire monitoring by the Arab League and the United Nations during the first phase of the Syrian civil war (2011–2012). Using micro-evidence sourced from unique interview material, day-to-day fatality statistics, and international organization documentation, I detail causal pathways from organizational characteristics, via intervention strategies, to intervention outcomes. I find that both international organizations relied on comparable intervention strategies. While mediating, they counseled on the costs of conflict, provided coordination points, and managed the bargaining context so as to sideline spoilers and generate leverage. While monitoring, they verified violent events, engaged in reassurance patrols, and brokered local truces. The execution of these strategies was conditioned on organizational capabilities and member state preferences in ways that help explain both variation in short-term conflict abatement and the long-term failure of both international organizations. In contrast to the Arab League, the United Nations intervention, supported by more expansive resources and expertise, temporarily shifted conflict parties away from a violent equilibrium. Both organizations ultimately failed as disunity among international organization member state principals cut interventions short and reduced the credibility of international organization mediators.
Affective War: Wounded Bodies as Political Technologies
Authors: Dawney Leila
Published: June 2019

This article argues that wounded military bodies are affective technologies in the production of supportive publics in war. It builds on Elaine Scarry’s concept of substantiation, suggesting that the damaged or altered body functions in war as a vehicle for the making material of immaterial beliefs, values and ideas. Scarry’s focus on the affective force of the wounded body is elaborated and pushed further, by asserting that the concept of substantiation needs to be supplemented by an analysis of the work that wounded bodies do as political technologies. These arguments are mobilised through two examples of the public staging of wounded military bodies in the United Kingdom during and after recent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. These examples provide an analysis of the political processes of substantiation: the specific mechanisms through which wounded bodies are rendered visible and through which their affective capacities to compel and grip are mediated.
Unintended consequences of negative campaigning: Backlash and second-preference boost effects in a multi-party context
Authors: Walter Annemarie S , van der Eijk Cees
Published: June 2019

This study examines effects of negative campaigning by political parties on citizens’ electoral preferences in the 2015 General Election in England. We do so by using a large Internet panel study and an operationalisation of (perceived) negative campaigning that avoids social desirability. Our study acknowledges England’s multiparty system by distinguishing between the campaign tones of all parties. Potential problems of endogeneity are addressed by leveraging the panel structure of the data and by extensive controls. We find that electoral preferences are weakened for parties engaging in negative campaigning and that this backlash effect gets stronger over the course of the campaign. We also find support for a second-preferences boost hypothesis: preferences for one’s second-most preferred party are strengthened if its campaign is more positive than that of one’s most-preferred party.
Outcomes of Triggering the Emergency Response Team at a High-Volume Arthroplasty Center
Authors: Saku S. A. , Linko R. , Madanat R.
Published: June 2019

Background and Aims:

Emergency Response Teams have been employed by hospitals to evaluate and manage patients whose condition is rapidly deteriorating. In this study, we aimed to assess the outcomes of triggering the Emergency Response Teams at a high-volume arthroplasty center, determine which factors trigger the Emergency Response Teams, and investigate the main reasons for an unplanned intensive care unit admission following Emergency Response Team intervention.

Material and Methods:

We gathered data by evaluating all Emergency Response Team forms filled out during a 4-year period (2014–2017), and by assessing the medical records. The collected data included age, gender, time of and reason for the Emergency Response Teams call, and interventions performed during the Emergency Response Teams intervention. The results are reported as percentages, mean ± standard deviation, or median (interquartile range), where appropriate. All patients were monitored for 30 days to identify possible intensive care unit admissions, surgeries, and death.

Results:

The mean patient age was 72 (46–92) years and 40 patients (62%) were female. The Emergency Response Teams was triggered a total of 65 times (61 patients). The most common Emergency Response Team call criteria were low oxygen saturation, loss or reduction of consciousness, and hypotension. Following the Emergency Response Team call, 36 patients (55%) could be treated in the ward, and 29 patients (45%) were transferred to the intensive care unit. The emergency that triggered the Emergency Response Teams was most commonly caused by drug-related side effects (12%), pneumonia (8%), pulmonary embolism (8%), and sepsis (6%). Seven patients (11%) died during the first 30 days after the Emergency Response Teams call.

Conclusion:

Although all 65 patients met the Emergency Response Teams call criteria, potentially having severe emergencies, half of the patients could be treated in the arthroplasty ward. Emergency Response Team intervention appears useful in addressing concerns that can potentially lead to unplanned intensive care unit admission, and the Emergency Response Teams trigger threshold seems appropriate as only 3% of the Emergency Response Teams calls required no intervention.
Multimodal engagement strategy focusing on a multi-layered voice concept: theory of persuasion in Japanese insurance TV commercials
Authors: Svetanant Chavalin , Okuizumi Kaori
Published: June 2019

Multimodal literacy, or the capability to critically produce, interpret and interact with the various forms of semiotic resources, has become one of the essential skills in contemporary discourse practice. Employing Multimodal Discourse Analysis and the Engagement System of Appraisal, this article discusses how the engagement choices used in popular Japanese TV commercials have constructed certain axiological positions, how they convince and motivate the audience, and how they reflect dominant ideologies in a given society. The findings reveal three dimensions of engagement choices: viewer alignment, dialogic engagement and reflection of ideologies. The study also offers an analytical framework of voice system, in examining the dialogic engagement and the mechanisms of how the socio-cultural ideologies such as beliefs, values and expectations are reflected in advertising discourse.
A hybrid clustering routing protocol based on machine learning and graph theory for energy conservation and hole detection in wireless sensor network
Authors: Masoud Mohammad Z , Jaradat Yousef , Jannoud Ismael , Al Sibahee Mustafa A
Published: June 2019

In this work, a new hybrid clustering routing protocol is proposed to prolong network life time through detecting holes and edges nodes. The detection process attempts to generate a connected graph without any isolated nodes or clusters that have no connection with the sink node. To this end, soft clustering/estimation maximization with graph metrics, PageRank, node degree, and local cluster coefficient, has been utilized. Holes and edges detection process is performed by the sink node to reduce energy consumption of wireless sensor network nodes. The clustering process is dynamic among sensor nodes. Hybrid clustering routing protocol–hole detection converts the network into a number of rings to overcome transmission distances. We compared hybrid clustering routing protocol–hole detection with four different protocols. The accuracy of detection reached 98%. Moreover, network life time has prolonged 10%. Finally, hybrid clustering routing protocol–hole detection has eliminated the disconnectivity in the network for more than 80% of network life time.
The lifetime soundtrack ‘on the move’: Music, autobiographical memory and mobilities
Authors: Istvandity Lauren
Published: June 2019

Music can easily become associated with many activities in everyday life, often recorded within personal memory archives, sometimes maintaining a personal meaning across the lifetime. This article convenes on the interactions between music, memory and mobilities, as it explores the recollection of musical memories that incorporate both music mobilities and corporeal mobilities related to personal travel and movement. Drawing on empirical interview data, this research seeks to understand how music can both accompany and signify acts of ‘being mobile’, where unique conditions of time and space provide for the formation of musical memories. Concurrently, the article considers how autobiographical remembering is affected by the dual activities of music listening and travel, through the conceptual lens of the ‘lifetime soundtrack’. Contrasting with previous research, the memory narratives presented here reveal diversity in the way music, memory and mobilities are simultaneously enacted, and looks to the long-term significance such memories may hold for individuals.
Iterative CT reconstruction in abdominal low-dose CT used for hybrid SPECT-CT applications: effect on image quality, image noise, detectability, and reader’s confidence
Authors: Grosser Oliver S , Ruf Juri , Kupitz Dennis , Czuczwara Damian , Loewenthal David , Thormann Markus , Furth Christian , Ricke Jens , Denecke Timm , Pech Maciej , Kreissl Michael C , Amthauer Holger
Published: June 2019

Background

Iterative computed tomography (CT) image reconstruction shows high potential for the preservation of image quality in diagnostic CT while reducing patients’ exposure; it has become available for low-dose CT (LD-CT) in high-end hybrid imaging systems (e.g. single-photon emission computed tomography [SPECT]-CT).

Purpose

To examine the effect of an iterative CT reconstruction algorithm on image quality, image noise, detectability, and the reader’s confidence for LD-CT data by a subjective assessment.

Material and Methods

The LD-CT data were validated for 40 patients examined by an abdominal hybrid SPECT-CT (U = 120 kV, I = 40 mA, pitch = 1.375). LD-CT was reconstructed using either filtered back projection (FBP) or an iterative image reconstruction algorithm (Adaptive Statistical Iterative Reconstruction [ASIR]®) with different parameters (ASIR levels 50% and 100%). The data were validated by two independent blinded readers using a scoring system for image quality, image noise, detectability, and reader confidence, for a predefined set of 16 anatomic substructures.

Results

The image quality was significantly improved by iterative reconstruction of the LD-CT data compared with FBP ( P ≤ 0.0001). While detectability increased in only 2/16 structures ( P ≤ 0.03), the reader’s confidence increased significantly due to iterative reconstruction ( P ≤ 0.002). Meanwhile, at the ASIR level of 100%, the detectability in bone structure was highly reduced ( P = 0.003).

Conclusion

An ASIR level of 50% represents a good compromise in abdominal LD-CT image reconstruction. The specific ASIR level improved image quality (reduced image noise) and reader confidence, while preserving detectability of bone structure.
Immigration, Visible-Minority Status, Gender, and Depression
Authors: Montazer Shirin
Published: June 2019

This study examines if the association between length of residence and mental health—as measured by depression—of immigrants post-arrival in the host country is altered by visible-minority status and gender among a sample of immigrants to Toronto, Canada, as compared to the native-born. The analytic sample excluded refugees. Of the 1,911 adults included, 23 percent were foreign-born. Adjusted multivariate results indicate a significant and positive association between depression and length of residence in the host country—but only among visible-minority immigrant men as compared to Canadian-born men. The positive association between depression and length of residence among visible-minority immigrant men is found to be due to a parallel rise in perceived discrimination and the experience of anger with tenure in the host country.
Venous Thromboprophylaxis in Spine Surgery
Authors: Alvarado Anthony M. , Porto Guilherme B. F. , Wessell Jeffrey , Buchholz Avery L. , Arnold Paul M.
Published: June 2019

Study Design:

Review article.

Objective:

A review of the literature on postoperative initiation of thrombophylactic agents following spine surgery.

Methods:

A review of the literature and synthesis of the data to provide an update on venous thromboprophylaxis following spine surgery.

Results:

Postoperative regimens of venous thromboprophylaxis measures following spine surgery remain a controversial issue. Recommendations regarding mechanical versus chemical prophylaxis vary greatly among institutions.

Conclusion:

Postoperative spine surgery initiation of thromboprophylaxis remains controversial regarding optimal timing and agent selection. The benefits of deep vein thrombosis/pulmonary embolism prophylaxis must be weighed against the possible postoperative complications associated with spine surgery.
Developing an Accident and Emergency HIV Testing Program in Belize City: Recommendations from Key Stakeholders
Authors: Wiskel Tess , Merchant Roland , Habet Marta , Mackey Joy
Published: June 2019

With the ultimate goal of developing an accident and emergency (A&E) department HIV testing program in Belize City, Belize, we sought input from key stakeholders on program components and potential facilitators and barriers to HIV testing in emergency care. We conducted semistructured interviews among 4 key stakeholder groups at Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority (KHMHA) in Belize City: (1) 20 A&E patients, (2) 5 A&E physicians, (3) 5 A&E nurses, and (4) 5 KHMHA administrators. We performed a qualitative content analysis of the interview transcripts and isolated important themes. Major themes included: (1) Patient selection: patients preferred to test all A&E patients. All other stakeholder groups preferred testing specific patient groups. (2) Training: Specific training should be completed for staff. (3) Confidentiality: integral for testing. (4) Facilitators and barriers: facilitators included respectful relationships, privacy, resources, coordination, and education. Barriers included stigmatization, patient willingness, inadequate resources, privacy, and testing biases.
The political institutionalization of the social economy in Ecuador: Indigeneity and institutional logics
Authors: Calvo Sara , Syrett Stephen , Morales Andres
Published: June 2019

How differing social economy traditions within the global South can combine with state and market sectors to provide alternative development paths has increasingly become a focus of political and policy debate. This paper uses an institutional logics perspective to analyse the interaction between indigenous collective traditions and other institutional logics in Ecuador’s social economy. Results demonstrate how indigenous practice has interacted with other social economy elements to produce novel organizational and institutional forms. Findings from original primary research identify processes of co-existence, accommodation and conflict in the interaction of differing institutional civil society, state and market logics and the institutionalization of the social economy. Critically, processes of conflict generated by contradictory logics have over time helped close down many of the new political spaces, limiting the ongoing inclusion of indigenous institutions and the ability to construct an alternative, pluralistic path to development.
Prevalence and phenotypes of JAK2 V617F and calreticulin mutations in a Danish general population
Authors: Cordua Sabrina , Kjaer Lasse , Skov Vibe , Pallisgaard Niels , Hasselbalch Hans C. , Ellervik Christina
Published: June 2019

The JAK2 V617F and calreticulin mutations (CALR) are frequent within myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs). JAK2 V617F has been detected in the general population, but no studies have previously investigated the CALR prevalence. Thus, we aimed to determine the CALR and JAK2 V617F population prevalence and assess the biochemical profile and lifestyle factors in mutation-positive individuals with and without MPN. 19 958 eligible participants, enrolled from 2010-2013, from the Danish General Suburban Population Study were screened for JAK2 V617F and CALR by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction with (3.2%) mutation positives of which 16 (2.5%) had MPN at baseline. Of 645 participants, 613 were JAK2 V617F positive, and 32 were CALR positive, corresponding to a population prevalence of 3.1% (confidence interval [CI], 2.8-3.3) and 0.16% (CI, 0.11-0.23), respectively. Increasing age, smoking, and alcohol were risk factors for the mutations. JAK2 V617F positives with and without MPN presented elevated odds for prevalent venous thromboembolism. The odds ratio for a diagnosis of MPN per percentage allele burden was 1.14 (95% CI, 1.09-1.18; P = 1.6 × 10−10). Mutation positives displayed higher blood cell counts than nonmutated participants, and 42% of mutation positives without MPN presented elevation of ≥1 blood cell counts; 80 (13%) even presented blood cell counts in accordance with current MPN diagnostic criteria. In conclusion, we present a novel population prevalence of CALR and a JAK2 V617F prevalence that is 3 to 30 times higher compared with less sensitive methods. Mutation-positive non-MPNs with elevated blood cell counts raise concerns of MPN underdiagnosis in the population.
Machine learning techniques for personalized breast cancer risk prediction: comparison with the BCRAT and BOADICEA models
Authors: Ming Chang , Viassolo Valeria , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Chappuis Pierre O. , Dinov Ivo D. , Katapodi Maria C.
Published: June 2019

Background

Comprehensive breast cancer risk prediction models enable identifying and targeting women at high-risk, while reducing interventions in those at low-risk. Breast cancer risk prediction models used in clinical practice have low discriminatory accuracy (0.53–0.64). Machine learning (ML) offers an alternative approach to standard prediction modeling that may address current limitations and improve accuracy of those tools. The purpose of this study was to compare the discriminatory accuracy of ML-based estimates against a pair of established methods—the Breast Cancer Risk Assessment Tool (BCRAT) and Breast and Ovarian Analysis of Disease Incidence and Carrier Estimation Algorithm (BOADICEA) models.

Methods

We quantified and compared the performance of eight different ML methods to the performance of BCRAT and BOADICEA using eight simulated datasets and two retrospective samples: a random population-based sample of U.S. breast cancer patients and their cancer-free female relatives (N = 1143), and a clinical sample of Swiss breast cancer patients and cancer-free women seeking genetic evaluation and/or testing (N = 2481).

Results

Predictive accuracy (AU-ROC curve) reached 88.28% using ML-Adaptive Boosting and 88.89% using ML-random forest versus 62.40% with BCRAT for the U.S. population-based sample. Predictive accuracy reached 90.17% using ML-adaptive boosting and 89.32% using ML-Markov chain Monte Carlo generalized linear mixed model versus 59.31% with BOADICEA for the Swiss clinic-based sample.

Conclusions

There was a striking improvement in the accuracy of classification of women with and without breast cancer achieved with ML algorithms compared to the state-of-the-art model-based approaches. High-accuracy prediction techniques are important in personalized medicine because they facilitate stratification of prevention strategies and individualized clinical management.
Androgens Enhance Adult Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Males but Not Females in an Age-Dependent Manner
Authors: Duarte-Guterman Paula , Lieblich Stephanie E , Wainwright Steven R , Chow Carmen , Chaiton Jessica A , Watson Neil V , Galea Liisa A M
Published: June 2019

Androgens (testosterone and DHT) increase adult hippocampal neurogenesis by increasing survival of new neurons in male rats and mice via an androgen receptor pathway, but it is not known whether androgens regulate neurogenesis in female rats and whether the effect is age-dependent. We investigated the effects of DHT, a potent androgen, on neurogenesis in young adult and middle-aged male and female rats. Rats were gonadectomized and injected with the DNA synthesis marker bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). The following day, rats began receiving daily injections of oil or DHT for 30 days. We evaluated cell proliferation (Ki67) and survival of new neurons (BrdU and BrdU/NeuN) in the hippocampus of male and female rats by using immunohistochemistry. As expected, DHT increased the number of BrdU+ cells in young males but surprisingly not in middle-aged males or in young and middle-aged females. In middle age, DHT increased the proportion of BrdU/NeuN cells, an effect driven by females. Androgen receptor expression also increased with aging in both female and male rats, which may contribute to a lack of DHT neurogenic effect in middle age. Our results indicate that DHT regulates adult hippocampal neurogenesis in a sex- and age-dependent manner.
Macronutrient-Mediated Inflammation and Oxidative Stress: Relevance to Insulin Resistance, Obesity, and Atherogenesis
Authors: Biobaku Fatimo , Ghanim Husam , Batra Manav , Dandona Paresh
Published: June 2019

Context

The intake of macronutrients as components of a Western dietary pattern leads to oxidative stress and inflammation.

Evidence Acquisition

Data were largely retrieved from our previous and most recent work. PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for recent articles on the effect of macronutrients/dietary intake on inflammation, insulin resistance, obesity, and atherogenesis. The most relevant, high-quality articles were included in our review.

Evidence Synthesis

Our previous work has demonstrated the molecular mechanisms of macronutrient-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation. With the induction of inflammation, proinflammatory molecules potentially interfere with insulin signal transduction, thus causing insulin resistance. In addition, other molecules promote atherogenic inflammation. More recently, our work has also shown that certain foods are noninflammatory or anti-inflammatory and thus, do not interfere with insulin signaling. Finally, as obesity is induced by chronic excessive caloric intake, it is characterized by an increase in the expression of proinflammatory molecules, which are induced acutely by a Western diet. Caloric restriction, including fasting, is associated with a reduction in oxidative and inflammatory stress.

Conclusions

This review summarizes and attempts to provide an up-to-date profile of the molecular mechanisms involved in macronutrient-mediated oxidative/inflammatory stress and its potential consequences. An understanding of these underlying mechanisms is crucial for making appropriate dietary choices.
Endometriosis Triggers Excessive Activation of Primordial Follicles via PI3K-PTEN-Akt-Foxo3 Pathway
Authors: Takeuchi Arisa , Koga Kaori , Satake Erina , Makabe Tomoko , Taguchi Ayumi , Miyashita Mariko , Takamura Masashi , Harada Miyuki , Hirata Tetsuya , Hirota Yasushi , Yoshino Osamu , Wada-Hiraike Osamu , Fujii Tomoyuki , Osuga Yutaka
Published: June 2019

Context

The ovarian reserve is reduced in patients with endometriosis. We hypothesize that the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) Akt-Forkhead box O (Foxo3) pathway is involved in reducing the ovarian reserve.

Objective

To elucidate the signaling mechanism by which endometriosis decreases ovarian reserve.

Design

Studies were conducted by using a mouse model for endometriosis and human ovaries. The endometriosis mouse model was established and ammonium trichloro (dioxoethylene-o,o′) tellurate (AS101), an inhibitor of PI3K-PTEN-Akt pathway, was administered to experimental mice. Human ovaries were collected during surgery from patients with endometrioma or from patients with no ovarian pathology (control ovaries). The number of follicles and expression of Foxo3, PTEN, phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin and phosphorylated Akt by oocytes in primordial follicles in mouse and human ovaries were detected by immunohistochemical staining and evaluated.

Results

In the endometriosis mouse model, the proportion of primordial follicles was diminished, and the proportion of primary, secondary, antral, and growing follicles was increased in comparison with controls. In both mouse and human ovaries, the PI3K-PTEN-Akt-Foxo3 pathway was activated in samples from endometriosis. Administration of AS101 restored the proportion of primordial follicles in endometriotic mice ovaries to control levels.

Conclusions

The current study describes the excessive activation of primordial follicles and the role of the PI3K-PTEN-Akt-Foxo3 pathway in the reduction of ovarian reserve associated with endometriosis. Our results suggest that a PI3K-PTEN-Akt inhibitor should be considered for further investigation as promising medicines for the prevention of the ovarian reserve reduction in patients with endometriosis.
A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial of Low-Dose Testosterone Therapy in Women With Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Kimball Allison , Schorr Melanie , Meenaghan Erinne , Bachmann Katherine N , Eddy Kamryn T , Misra Madhusmita , Lawson Elizabeth A , Kreiger-Benson Elana , Herzog David B , Koman Stuart , Keane Robert J , Ebrahimi Seda , Schoenfeld David , Klibanski Anne , Miller Karen K
Published: June 2019

Context

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric illness with considerable morbidity and no approved medical therapies. We have shown that relative androgen deficiency in AN is associated with greater depression and anxiety symptom severity.

Objective

To determine whether low-dose testosterone therapy is an effective endocrine-targeted therapy for AN.

Design

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Setting

Clinical research center.

Participants

Ninety women, 18 to 45 years, with AN and free testosterone levels below the median for healthy women.

Intervention

Transdermal testosterone, 300 μg daily, or placebo patch for 24 weeks.

Main Outcome Measures

Primary end point: body mass index (BMI). Secondary end points: depression symptom severity [Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D)], anxiety symptom severity [Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A)], and eating disorder psychopathology and behaviors.

Results

Mean BMI increased by 0.0 ± 1.0 kg/m2 in the testosterone group and 0.5 ± 1.1 kg/m2 in the placebo group (P = 0.03) over 24 weeks. At 4 weeks, there was a trend toward a greater decrease in HAM-D score (P = 0.09) in the testosterone vs placebo group. At 24 weeks, mean HAM-D and HAM-A scores decreased similarly in both groups [HAM-D: −2.9 ± 4.9 (testosterone) vs −3.0 ± 5.0 (placebo), P = 0.72; HAM-A: −4.5 ± 5.3 (testosterone) vs −4.3 ± 4.4 (placebo), P = 0.25]. There were no significant differences in eating disorder scores between groups. Testosterone therapy was safe and well tolerated with no increase in androgenic side effects compared with placebo.

Conclusion

Low-dose testosterone therapy for 24 weeks was associated with less weight gain—and did not lead to sustained improvements in depression, anxiety, or disordered eating symptoms—compared with placebo in women with AN.
Radiation dosimetry changes in radiotherapy treatment plans for adult patients arising from the selection of the CT image reconstruction kernel
Authors: Davis Anne T , Muscat Sarah , Palmer Antony L. , Buckle David , Earley James , Williams Matthew G.J. , Nisbet Andrew
Published: June 2019

Objective:

The reconstruction kernel used for a CT scan strongly influences the image quality. This work investigates the changes in Hounsfield units (HUs) which can arise when altering the image reconstruction kernel for planning CT images and the associated changes in dose in the radiotherapy treatment plan if the treatment planning system (TPS) is not re-calibrated.

Methods:

Head and neck, prostate and lung CT images from four centres were used. For a specific scan, the base image was acquired using the original reconstruction kernel (used when the TPS was calibrated) and the treatment plan produced. The treatment plan was applied to all images from the other reconstruction kernels. Differences in dose-volume metrics for the planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OARs) were noted and HU differences between images measured for air, soft tissue and bone.

Results: 

HU change in soft tissue had the greatest influence on dose change. When within ±20 HU for soft tissue and ±50 HU for bone and air the dose change in the PTV and OAR was within ±0.5% and ±1% respectively.

Conclusions: 

When imaging parameters were changed, if HU change was within ±20 HU for soft tissue and ±50 HU for bone and air, the change in the PTV and OAR doses was below 1%.

Advances in knowledge:

The degree of dose change in the treatment plan with HU change is demonstrated for current TPS algorithms. This adds to the limited evidence base for recommendations on HU tolerances as a tool for radiotherapy CT protocol optimization.
A refinement to the formalin test in mice
Authors: Lopes Douglas M , Cater Heather L , Thakur Matthew , Wells Sara , McMahon Stephen B
Published: June 2019

The constant refinement of tests used in animal research is crucial for the scientific community. This is particularly true for the field of pain research, where ethical standards are notably sensitive. The formalin test is widely used in pain research and some of its mechanisms resemble those underlying clinical pain in humans. Immediately upon injection, formalin triggers two waves (an early and a late phase) of strong, nociceptive behaviour, characterised by licking, biting, lifting and shaking the injected paw of the animal. Although well characterised at the behaviour level, since its proposal over four decades ago, there has not been any significant refinement to the formalin test, especially those combining minimisation of animal distress and preservation of behavioural outcomes of the test.  Here, we propose a modified and improved method for the formalin test. We show that anaesthetising the animal with the inhalable anaesthetic sevoflurane at the time of the injection can produce reliable, robust and reproducible results whilst animal distress during the initial phase is reduced. Importantly, our results were validated by pharmacological suppression of the behaviour during the late phase of the test with gabapentin, the anaesthetic showing no interference with the drug. In addition, we demonstrate that this is also a useful method to screen for changes in pain behaviour in response to formalin in transgenic lines.
The effects of interventions preventing self-harm and suicide in children and adolescents: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Morken Ida Sund , Dahlgren Astrid , Lunde Ingeborg , Toven Siri
Published: June 2019

Background: Self-harm and suicide in children and adolescents are of serious consequence and increase during the adolescent years. Consequently, there is need for interventions that prevent such behaviour. The objective of this paper: to evaluate the effects of interventions preventing self-harm and suicide in children and adolescents in an overview of systematic reviews.

Methods: We conducted a review of systematic reviews (OoO). We included reviews evaluating any preventive or therapeutic intervention. The quality of the included reviews was assessed independently, and data was extracted by two reviewers. We report the review findings descriptively. The certainty of the evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results: Moderate certainty evidence suggests that school-based interventions prevent suicidal ideation and attempts short term, and possibly with long term effects on suicide attempts. The effects of community-based interventions following suicide clusters and local suicide plans are uncertain, as are the benefits and harms of screening young people for suicide risk.

The effects of most interventions targeting children and adolescents with known self-harm are uncertain. However, low certainty evidence suggests that dialectical behavioural therapy and developmental group therapy are equally as effective on repetition of self-harm as enhanced treatment as usual.

Conclusions: Research on several recommended practices, such as local suicide plans, prevention of suicide clusters and approaches to risk assessment, is lacking. When implemented, these interventions should be closely evaluated. There also is need for more research on treatment for repeated self-harm, including long term follow-up, and in general: possible harmful effects.

Policy makers and health providers should consider evidence from population-based studies and adults in preventing self-harm and suicide in children and adolescents. Also, approaches showing promise in treatment of conditions associated with self-harm and/or suicidality, such as depression and psychosis, should be considered.

PROSPERO registration: CRD42019117942 08/02/19.
Assessment of a neuro-developmental screening tool in children in Bhutan
Authors: Wong Brian , Grundy Sara , Tshering Lhab , Tshering Kinley , Mateen Farrah J.
Published: June 2019

Background:Developmental screening tools are designed to fit the cultural context in which they are utilized, yet often find a wider international audience. This study evaluates the efficacy of one such tool, the Parental Evaluation of Developmental Status: Developmental Milestones (PEDS:DM), developed in the United States and tested in the lower income Asian country of Bhutan. We aimed to test the PEDS:DM instrument to measure neurodevelopmental delay in children in Bhutan.

Methods:In total, 96 community-dwelling Bhutanese children (3-7 years old) without diagnosed neurocognitive conditions were recruited from ambulatory clinics in urban Bhutan in 2016 as part of a larger study on retinal imaging and cognitive and growth parameters. Scoring was based on neurocognitive domains (gross and fine motor, receptive and expressive speech, self-help, social-emotional). Rates of failure (meant to indicate delay) within domains were calculated.

Results:Modifications of some standard questions was deemed necessary by the study staff to suit the cultural context, such as replacing kickball with football in a question regarding games played with rules to maintain local relevance. In a modified PEDS:DM test with these improvised modifications, the mean percentage of age-appropriate domains failed was 58.8% and the mean percent delay was 12.3% (range 0-41.4%, available in n=83). The highest prevalence of failures was 59.4% for receptive language and 76.3% for expressive language, much higher than the lowest rate of failure seen in self-help (5.4%). 

Conclusions:The PEDS:DM requires further modifications and validation studies before it can be reliably implemented to assess developmental delay in children in Bhutan. In this pilot study, the rate of delay as reported by the PEDS:DM would be scored as markedly elevated, especially when compared to available epidemiologic studies in the region.
Sobre as funções e a materialidade linguística da ficção
Authors: Chagas Pedro D. , Bittencourt Náira
Published: June 2019

Proposição da homeostase, conforme definida por António Damásio, como função dominante da ficção. Proposição do prazer na leitura como explicação do interesse pela literatura; explicação desse prazer como resultado da homeostase proporcionada pela leitura. Seguindo Damásio, compreenderemos a homeostase como um tipo de equilíbrio psíquico proporcionado pela experiência da arte, que permite, no decorrer da sua fruição, que indivíduos e coletividades processem problemas sociais ainda não propriamente interpretados e nomeados. Como esse equilíbrio não é apenas conscientemente processado, é preciso explicar como os componentes semânticos nele implicados podem se efetivar infraconscientemente; para tanto, recorremos aos conceitos de affordances e relevância. Inspirados pela apropriação de Terence Cave da proposição original de James J. Gibson, propomos que affordances textuais orientam o leitor na postura assumida diante do texto. Quanto Ã  teoria da relevância de Dan Sperber e Deirdre Wilson, ela nos inspira a propor os modos pelos quais os conteúdos textuais produzem o equilíbrio homeostático proposto como função da ficção. Ao final, discutimos a extensão da nossa teorização e os possíveis limites à sua universalização.
Design and Development of an Automatic Watering System Based on Bash Shell with OpenWRT Platform on Chili Plants
Authors: Son’Aniy Irham , Sugiantoro Bambang
Published: June 2019

Indonesia is an agrarian country. Because of the wide agriculture area, Indonesia became the exporter country in agriculture sector. Nowadays,  the developments in every fields are  always  increasing. One of those field is technology. Technology should  give some  contributions which can develop the agriculture field. One of the contribution that can be done is automatic watering system on chili, so it become easier for the farmers to control the chili. The automatic watering system use internet technology to control a device from distance. This chili’s automatic watering system based on bash shell with openWRT platform. This  system  was  made to help farmers watering the chili automatically. The methods that used in this system can be based on the soil’s moisture, time, or manual. Soil’s moisture based method used soil moisture, that tool can measure the ground’s  moisture and automatically send order to the device. This system can reduce delays of the chili’s daily treatment, so the  chili’s  production  will  be  increasing.  This  system development used SLDC (Systems Development Life Cycle) method. Automatic watering system with openWRT platform can help farmers in watering and controlling chili. The system can perform the function of automatic watering feature and functionality can run well.
E-Kiosk : Digitizing the Sonobudoyo Museum Collections
Authors: Prasetyawan Daru , Mulyanto Agus
Published: June 2019

E-kiosk is one of the medias in culture and tourism development in Indonesia. E-kiosks can provide information that can add to the curiosity of tourists towards cultural heritage objects, especially museum collections in Indonesia. This research aims to build e-kiosk applications with experimental design method to develop applications that are integrated with the database. The e-kiosk application was developed in collaboration with Flash programs, ActionScript, PHP, XML, and Microsoft Accsess so as to produce a multimedia application that is integrated with the database.
Engaging Northern Indigenous Communities in Biophysical Research: Pitfalls and Successful Approaches
Authors: Eerkes-Medrano Laura , Huntington Henry P. , Castro Arturo Ortiz , Atkinson David E.
Published: June 2019

Guidelines and best practices to engage Indigenous people in Arctic regions in biophysical research have emerged since the 1990s. Despite these guidelines, mainstream scientists still struggle to create effective working relationships with Indigenous people and engage them in their research. We encountered this issue when we visited three communities on Alaska’s west coast to study impactful weather events and the formation of “slush ice berms,” which can protect towns from storm surges. As we worked to build relationships with residents of the towns, we found the existing guidelines are often helpful for telling us what to do—for example, they emphasize the importance of face-to-face communication—but researchers also need to think about how to do it (skills) and how to be (personal attributes). To demonstrate to Indigenous people that we value and respect their culture, researchers could learn to use language that is understandable and that reflects a collaborative rather than a top-down approach. We should be ready to adjust our schedules and to help the community we are visiting, rather than simply focusing on our own needs. We might look for benefits for the community and ensure residents understand and are satisfied with the research we are doing. Some of the necessary attributes we identified are curiosity, honesty, interpersonal awareness, empathy, flexibility, and openness. Although the skills and attributes presented here are useful to bridge the gap between cultures, we caution that there is no specific formula that can guarantee success.
When Do Ideas of an Arctic Treaty Become Prominent in Arctic Governance Debates?
Authors: Rahbek-Clemmensen Jon
Published: June 2019

As climate change and globalization are opening the Arctic to human activities, the debate about how best to organize Arctic institutions in order to facilitate regional governance has been invigorated. One of the most controversial ideas in this debate has been the notion that a comprehensive treaty should govern the Arctic. Depending on its exact design, such a treaty could radically transform regional decision-making procedures and substantial issue areas. It has been opposed by several regional stakeholders, including most regional states. This article examines how specific factors determine the prominence of the idea of an Arctic treaty in governance debates, and whether it is likely to become a crucial feature in future discussions. It argues that there are multiple ideas concerning the content and purpose of an Arctic treaty. Some of its proponents favor radical transformation of the regional order, while others envision more moderate reforms of existing institutions. It maps how the Arctic treaty debate has developed in four phases from 1970 until today, showing that it has been driven by a combination of functional gaps in the regional institutional setup, changing public political discourses about Arctic governance, and the degree of opposition among regional stakeholders. As some of these factors persist, the Arctic treaty will most likely continue to play a role in regional governance debates. In case of a regional crisis, it can once again become a focal point for discussion.