bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication and evaluation of electrohydrodynamic jet 3D printed polycaprolactone/chitosan cell carriers using human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts
Authors: Wu Yang , Sriram Gopu , Fawzy Amr S , Fuh Jerry YH , Rosa Vinicius , Cao Tong , Wong Yoke San
Published: June 2016

Biological function of adherent cells depends on the cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions in three-dimensional space. To understand the behavior of cells in 3D environment and their interactions with neighboring cells and matrix requires 3D culture systems. Here, we present a novel 3D cell carrier scaffold that provides an environment for routine 3D cell growth in vitro. We have developed thin, mechanically stable electrohydrodynamic jet (E-jet) 3D printed polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan macroporous scaffolds with precise fiber orientation for basic 3D cell culture application. We have evaluated the application of this technology by growing human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts within these 3D scaffolds. Assessment of cell viability and proliferation of cells seeded on polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan 3D-scaffolds show that the human embryonic stem cell-derived fibroblasts could adhere and proliferate on the scaffolds over time. Further, using confocal microscopy we demonstrate the ability to use fluorescence-labelled cells that could be microscopically monitored in real-time. Hence, these 3D printed polycaprolactone and polycaprolactone/Chitosan scaffolds could be used as a cell carrier for in vitro 3D cell culture-, bioreactor- and tissue engineering-related applications in the future.
Bridging Plate Development for Treatment of Segmental Bone Defects of the Canine Mandible
Authors: de Freitas Elisângela Perez , Rahal Sheila Canevese , Shimano Antonio Carlos , da Silva Jorge Vicente Lopes , Noritomi Pedro Yoshito , El-Warrak Alexander Oliveira , Melchert Alessandra
Published: June 2016

With regard to the canine mandible, a mistaken concept of application is to assume that systemic plate-bone resistance is provided by the implant so that biomechanical position could be ignored. Because the alveolar border of the mandible is a tensile zone, the plate would ideally be positioned near this area while avoiding important structures. The aim of this study was to develop 2 bridging plates for the treatment of a segmental bone defect of the canine mandible using monocortical screws to avoid damage to the tooth roots and remaining neurovascular structures. Computed tomography images of the heads of 4 dogs (rottweiler, Doberman, boxer, and miniature poodle breeds) were used as models to develop the project. The images were reconstructed in 3-dimensional (3D) format. For each dog breed, 6 mandible prototypes were produced, each with a segmental bone defect in the right mandible. The mandibular reconstruction was performed with pure titanium bridging plate and locking screws. One plate model was developed for medium- and large-breed dogs and another for small-breed dogs. Mechanical testing showed the plate-mandible system resists the bite forces in all dog breeds. All safety factors were greater than 1 in the platemandible system for medium- and large-breed dogs and greater than 10 in the plate-mandible system for small-breed dogs. Thus, bridging plates designed with differentiated geometry and monocortical locking screws showed mechanical resistance to support simulated induced bone model defects and were able to support at least 5 times the value of bite force for each evaluated dog.
Measuring Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) Tooth Growth and Eruption by Fluorescence Markers and Bur Marks
Authors: Wyss Fabia , Müller Jacqueline , Clauss Marcus , Kircher Patrick , Geyer Hans , von Rechenberg Brigitte , Hatt Jean-Michel
Published: June 2016

Rabbits ( Oryctolagus cuniculus) and rodents possess continuously growing teeth, and dental problems are a major health issue in these species. Knowledge of tooth growth characteristics is required to adequately treat dental problems and advise owners concerning diets. Most research was performed using bur marks and measuring eruption and wear manually. However, this method cannot be applied to teeth less rostral than the first premolar; therefore, for evaluation of molars, other methods are needed. We evaluated the use of fluorochromes xylenol orange and calcein green to measure growth rates of rabbit teeth and compared this method to results obtained by manually measuring the distance between a bur mark and the gingival margin of the same tooth (eruption) and by measuring the distance between the bur mark and the apex of the same tooth on computed tomography scans (growth). Apical fluorochrome measurements correlated well with eruption and growth rates obtained with bur marks, whereas measurements coronal to the pulp cavity did not. Growth rates were approximately 1.9 mm/wk for maxillary and 2.2 mm/wk for mandibular incisors. Growth rates of premolars were 2.14 ± 0.28 mm/wk in rabbits on a grass/rice hulls/sand pelleted diet and 0.93 ± 0.18 mm/wk in rabbits on a hay diet. Growth of molars could only be assessed using the measurement in dentin on the wall of the pulp cavity, which does not account for the real growth. However, being similar to this measurement in premolars, one could hypothesize similar growth in molars as in premolars. We conclude that the application of fluorochrome staining can be used to measure tooth growth in teeth that are not accessible for bur marks or in animals that are too small to assess tooth eruption or growth by bur marks.
Challenges Evaluating Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy in Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Mohrmann Caroline , Armer Jane , Hayashi Robert J.
Published: June 2016

Children treated for cancer are exposed to a variety of chemotherapeutic agents with known toxicity to the peripheral nervous system. The side effect of peripheral neuropathy can cause changes in sensation, function, and even cause pain. Although peripheral neuropathy is recognized by pediatric oncology nurses as an important and significant side effect, measuring neuropathy can be quite complex for clinical care and research efforts. With more children surviving a cancer diagnosis today, this issue is increasingly important for childhood cancer survivors. This article has reviewed existing literature examining peripheral neuropathy in childhood cancer survivors with particular interest paid to measurement tools available and needs for future research. It is important for nurses to choose appropriate measures for clinical care and research methods in order to have an impact on patients experiencing this condition.
High-frequency vibration energy harvesting from repeated impulsive forcing utilizing intentional dynamic instability caused by strong nonlinearity
Authors: Remick Kevin , Quinn D Dane , McFarland D Michael , Bergman Lawrence , Vakakis Alexander
Published: June 2016

The work in this study explores the excitation of high-frequency dynamic instabilities to enhance the performance of a strongly nonlinear vibration-based energy harvesting system subject to repeated impulsive excitations. These high-fraequency instabilities arise from transient resonance captures (TRCs) in the damped dynamics of the system, leading to large-amplitude oscillations in the mechanical system. Under proper forcing conditions, these high-frequency instabilities can be sustained. The primary system is composed of a grounded, weakly damped linear oscillator, which is directly subjected to impulsive forcing. A light-weight, damped nonlinear oscillator (nonlinear energy sink, NES) is coupled to the primary system using electromechanical coupling elements and strongly nonlinear stiffness elements. The essential (nonlinearizable) stiffness nonlinearity arises from geometric and kinematic effects resulting from the traverse deflection of a piano wire coupling the two oscillators. The electromechanical coupling is composed of a neodymium magnet and inductance coil, which harvests the energy in the mechanical system and transfers it to the electrical system which, in this present case, is composed of a simple resistive element. The energy dissipated in the circuit is inferred as a measure of energy harvesting capability. The large-amplitude TRCs result in strong, nearly irreversible energy transfer from the primary system to the NES, where the harvesting elements work to convert the mechanical energy to electrical energy. The primary goal of this work is to numerically and experimentally demonstrate the efficacy of inducing sustained high-frequency dynamic instability in a system of mechanical oscillators to achieve enhanced vibration energy harvesting performance. This work is a continuation of a companion paper (Remick K, Quinn D, McFarland D, et al. (2015) Journal of Sound and Vibration Final Publication) where vibration energy harvesting of the same system subject to single impulsive excitation is studied.
The Informal Economy
Authors: Chen Martha Alter
Published: June 2016

Informal employment represents more than half of nonagricultural employment in most developing regions, contributes to the overall economy, and provides pathways to reduction of poverty and inequality. Support to the informal economy should include the expansion of occupational health and safety to include informal workers, based on an analysis of their work places and work risks. The paper presents main schools of thought and argues for a holistic understanding of the different segments of the informal work force and for policies and interventions tailored to the needs and constraints of these different segments. The paper recommends a policy approach which seeks to extend social protection, including occupational health and safety services, to informal workers, and to increase the productivity of informal enterprises and informal workers through an enabling environment and support services. The paper calls for a new paradigm of a hybrid economy which would value and integrate the informal economy alongside the formal economies.
Stigma, Social Structure, and the Biomedical Framework: Exploring the Stigma Experiences of Inpatient Service Users in Two Belgian Psychiatric Hospitals
Authors: Sercu Charlotte , Bracke Piet
Published: June 2016

The study discusses the stigma experiences of service users in mental health care, within the debate on the role of the biomedical framework for mental health care and power relations in society. Interview data of inpatient users ( n = 42) and care providers ( n = 43) from two Belgian psychiatric hospitals were analyzed using a constructivist grounded theory approach: Findings offer insight into how stigma experiences are affected by social structure. Stigma seemed to be related to the relation between care providers and service users their social position. The concept “mental health literacy” is used to frame this finding. In paying attention to the specific cultural and normative context, which influences the relationship between mental health literacy and stigma, it is further possible to cast some light on the meaning of the biomedical model for the construction and maintenance of power relations in mental health care and broader society.
Heuristic-Driven Recommendations for Improving U.S. Voting
Authors: Gable Thomas M. , Chen Dar-Wei , Darling Cale M. , McGlynn Sean A. , Kazi Sadaf , Preusse Kimberly C. , Yoo Angela , Schaeffer Laura M.
Published: June 2016

Human factors/ergonomics (HF/E) can play a role in improving equal opportunity in U.S. voting through the redesign of inefficient voting processes that lead to low voter turnout. This article, which derives from the authors’ winning entry in the HFES 2014 “Voting Systems of Tomorrow” competition, outlines HF/E-driven recommendations for improving the American voting process. These recommendations include a “one-stop shop” for all voting-related information, personalized voter accounts, appointment systems, and several ballot design suggestions. Implementation of these recommendations, on any level, has the potential to improve the proficiency of polling places, lower all-too-common lengthy wait times, and ensure that ballots are accessible to all voters.
Locke on Equality
Authors: Hunt Bruce A.
Published: June 2016

Scholars overlook that Locke has two distinct concepts of equality entrenched in his political theory. By recovering the centrality of natural law in Locke, these two concepts of equality can be easily identified. The first I call “natural equality,” which includes every human being regardless of rational capacity, each possessing rights to life, liberty, and property. The second is “law-abiding equality,” which includes the subset of people who adequately recognize the dictates of natural law. This distinction is significant because it helps overcome the conflict in liberalism between universal dignity and the necessarily exclusionary character of citizenship.
The Constrained Governor
Authors: Cooper Christopher A. , Knotts H. Gibbs , Ragusa Jordan
Published: June 2016

In the vast majority of American states, governors have unrestricted authority to fill Senate vacancies, and in an average decade, one-third of all Americans have been represented by an appointed senator. Despite the importance of Senate appointments both theoretically and substantively, no published study has investigated the dynamics of gubernatorial selection. In this paper, we compile an original data set of Senate appointees as well as the list of the candidates the governor considered but did not select. We model the governor’s selection and discover that despite having no formal constraints on their appointment power, governors behave as constrained actors. In particular, we find that governors eschew the potential appointees who are closest to their policy views and instead appoint the candidate who is closest to the ideological position of the voters in their state. This effect is particularly pronounced when the governor is eligible for reelection within two years. These findings have both theoretical and normative implications for understanding Senate appointments, gubernatorial decision making, and the implicit power of the electorate.
Managing Extended Oral Anticoagulation After Unprovoked Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Joseph Lee , Bartholomew John R.
Published: June 2016

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is a major public health problem associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Despite the high recurrence risk associated with unprovoked VTE, extended anticoagulation remains controversial. Oral antithrombotic agents for extended VTE treatment comprise the vitamin K antagonists, aspirin, and the direct oral anticoagulants (also known as target-specific oral anticoagulants and formerly known as the new or novel oral anticoagulants) including rivaroxaban, dabigatran, apixaban, and edoxaban. The efficacy of these anticoagulants in reducing the risk of VTE recurrence (>80%-90% relative risk reduction) is offset by the risk of major bleeding that approaches 3% per year. Stratifying risks of recurrence and bleeding to identify patients at low, intermediate, or high risk and carefully considering the pharmacologic profile of the antithrombotic agents will help clinicians in choosing the optimal anticoagulant and duration and/or surveillance strategy. This review will discuss the current guidelines for extended VTE treatment, review the clinical trials involving the direct oral anticoagulants, and present the clinical considerations and concerns involving extended therapy.
Pulmonary Hypertensive Crisis on Induction of Anesthesia
Authors: Schisler Travis , Marquez Jose M , Hilmi Ibtesam , Subramaniam Kathirvel
Published: June 2016

Anesthesia for lung transplantation remains one of the highest risk surgeries in the domain of the cardiothoracic anesthesiologist. End-stage lung disease, pulmonary hypertension, and right heart dysfunction as well as other comorbid disease factors predispose the patient to cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic dysfunction during general anesthesia. Perhaps the highest risk phase of surgery in the patient with severe pulmonary hypertension is during the induction of anesthesia when the removal of intrinsic sympathetic tone and onset of positive pressure ventilation can decompensate a severely compromised cardiovascular system. Severe hypotension, cardiac arrest, and death have been reported previously. Here we present 2 high-risk patients for lung transplantation, their anesthetic induction course, and outcomes. We offer suggestions for the safe management of anesthetic induction to mitigate against hemodynamic and respiratory complications.
Effects of positive end-expiratory pressure and 30% inspired oxygen on pulmonary mechanics and atelectasis in cats undergoing non-bronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage
Authors: Bernhard Christa , Masseau Isabelle , Dodam John , Outi Hilton , Krumme Stacy , Bishop Kaitlin , Graham Amber , Reinero Carol
Published: June 2016

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine if modification of inspired oxygen concentration or positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) would alter bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL)-induced changes in pulmonary mechanics or atelectasis, as measured using ventilator-acquired pulmonary mechanics and thoracic CT.

Methods

Six experimentally asthmatic cats underwent anesthesia and non-bronchoscopic BAL, each under four randomized treatment conditions: 100% oxygen, zero PEEP; 30% oxygen, zero PEEP; 100% oxygen, PEEP 2 cmH2O; and 30% oxygen, PEEP 2 cmH2O. Pulse oximetry was used to estimate oxygen saturation (SpO2). Ventilator-acquired pulmonary mechanics and thoracic CT scans were collected prior to BAL and at 1, 5 and 15 mins post-BAL.

Results

While receiving 100% oxygen, no cat had SpO2 <91%. Some cats receiving 30% oxygen had decreased saturation immediately post-BAL (mean ± SD 70.8 ± 31%), but 6/8 of these had SpO2 >90% by 1 min later. There was a significant increase in airway resistance and a decrease in lung compliance following BAL, but there was no significant difference between treatment groups. Cats receiving no PEEP and 30% oxygen conserved better aeration of the lung parenchyma in BAL-sampled areas than those receiving no PEEP and 100% oxygen.

Conclusions and relevance

Alterations in pulmonary mechanics or atelectasis may not be reflected by SpO2 following BAL. The use of 30% inspired oxygen concentration failed to show any significant improvement in pulmonary mechanics but did diminish atelectasis. In some cats, it was also associated with desaturation of hemoglobin. The use of PEEP in this study did not show any effect on our outcome parameters. Further studies using higher PEEP (5–10 cmH2O) and intermediate inspired oxygen concentration (40–60%) are warranted to determine if they would confer clinical benefit in cats undergoing diagnostic BAL.
Hegemonic masculinity at work in the gay adult film industry
Authors: Burke Nathaniel B
Published: June 2016

This article discusses how staff at a gay adult film studio produce a local form of hegemonic masculinity to which adult film performers are held accountable, requiring performers to orient their gender strategies in specific ways to obtain employment. These findings contribute to understandings of how hegemonic masculinity is embodied, racialized, and sexualized at work in ways that subordinate femininity while affording privileges to those who meet these criteria. I conclude with a discussion of how this local form relates to regional hegemonic forms, implications for the workplace experiences of marginalized men, and how gay adult film studios may be complicit in the domination of gay and effeminate men.
Investigation of residual stress and mechanical properties of equal channel angular rolled St12 strips
Authors: Honarpisheh M , Haghighat E , Kotobi M
Published: June 2016

Equal channel angular rolling process is defined as a severe plastic deformation method that imposes very large plastic strain on a material in order to enhance its mechanical properties and grain structure refinement. In this study, residual stress profiles through the thickness of St12 strips that were subjected to different passes of equal channel angular rolling were investigated by slitting method. Also, the effects of different routes of equal channel angular rolling (A and C) were studied on the mechanical properties and residual stress. Furthermore, the effect of post annealing on the mechanical properties and residual stress of 4-pass equal channel angular rolled strip was examined. The results showed significant increase in the yield strength, ultimate tensile strength, and micro hardness of the samples in both routes. But the elongation decreased. Considerable magnitude of residual stress was created through the thickness of equal channel angular rolled samples such that the maximum tensile residual stress of some samples raised to about half of the corresponding yield strength. The maximum magnitude of residual stress in route C was smaller than that in route A.
ICT-supported social work interventions with youth: A critical review
Authors: Chan Chitat
Published: June 2016

In youth social work, the trend of using various forms of information and communication technology (ICT) is increasing. However, evidence showing in what ways ICT has enhanced intervention effectiveness is loosely organized. This study conducted a systematic review of ICT-supported social work interventions with youth, targeting peer-reviewed articles in 64 social work journals published between 2000 and 2014. The included studies ( N = 13) were analysed with particular reference to their level of evidence, internal validity and approach to evaluating the role of ICT.

Findings

All the included studies presented positive outcomes: 54% of them provided level-I evidence (RCTs), 15% provided level-II evidence (case–control trials without randomization) and 31% provided level-III evidence (case reports). All of them were of ‘good’ or ‘fair’ quality in terms of their internal validity. However, there were only three studies which could provide direct evidence indicating that interventions using ICT were more effective than interventions without using ICT. Most of the remainder provided indirect evidence suggesting that the use of ICT might be associated with positive intervention outcomes.

Applications

These studies provide useful insights that help advance social work knowledge. Yet there is room for improvement in the conceptualization of ICT, and in research designs for evaluating the role of ICT.
Admission and completion of social work programs: Who drops out and who finishes?
Authors: Levinger Miriam , Segev Einav
Published: June 2016

This study explored differences between 389 Israeli students in a Social Work department who finished their studies and 120 students who began, but did not complete their degree. Three groups of variables were compared: demographic variables (gender and age), test scores (on the matriculation and psychometric exams), and assessment of participation in a group interview prior to acceptance.

Findings

Except for gender, there were no significant differences between the students who finished their studies and those who dropped out. Among the students who completed their degree, only women, who received a higher score on the psychometric test, finished their studies with a higher grade point average. Only the men, who had a higher score on their matriculation exams, ended with a higher grade point average. The results also showed that, for the men, there was a significant positive correlation between the assessment of their performance on the interview and the final grade point average. Furthermore, there were significant correlations between the way the candidates were categorized by the interviewers and the overall assessment they received on this criterion.

Applications

The results of this study add support to previous research that showed that gender and the scores on the matriculation and psychometric exams are connected to success in social work programs. In addition, it was found that the pre-acceptance group interview can differentiate between those candidates who will complete their studies and those who will not. These findings can hopefully help social work departments improve the procedures they use in their admissions’ mechanisms.
Re-engaging with community work as a method of practice in social work: A view from Northern Ireland
Authors: Das Chaitali , O’Neill Martin , Pinkerton John
Published: June 2016

This article investigates community work as a method in social work in Northern Ireland. It traces the processes that have led to the marginalisation of community work within social work practices and the complex relationship between community development and social work. Nonetheless, the welfare state is undergoing change, wherein new agendas of personalisation, service user involvement, community engagement and partnership are emerging, which are changing the occupational space of social work. We argue that this change can be an opportunity through which social work can and must re-engage with community development, particularly within the existing political arrangements and sectarian context of Northern Ireland. However, social work’s engagement in the community presents risks given its current relationship with the state and loss of trust within the Northern Irish community. We discuss these risks and further possibilities.

Findings

The article draws from contemporary literature on the current context of community development and service provision in Northern Ireland social work’s involvement. The possibilities for community social work are explored through recent policy initiatives and the current situation of the community sector. Risks that stem from social work’s relationship with the state, and with community organisations as well as the contradiction between discourses of partnership in service delivery and the ground reality are considered.

Applications

Our analysis suggests the need for (a) collective action by social workers through collective representation, (b) a new conceptualisation of professionalism that incorporates partnerships with other workers in the care sector and (c) education that has contemporary resonance.
Use of Mindfulness Sitting Meditation in Chinese American Women in Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Liu Shan , Qiu Guang , Louie Wendy
Published: June 2016

Background. Very few studies have been conducted to examine the prevalence, frequency, perceived effectiveness, and possible influencing factors of use of meditation in patients with cancer. Objectives. To examine use of mindfulness sitting medication (MSM) in Chinese American women in treatment of cancer, its relationship to specific symptom distress, and possible influencing factors of MSM. Methods. Volunteer participants were recruited through the American Cancer Society support groups. The participants completed a demographic data form, a researcher-developed criteria and checklist for MSM, and the Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale–Short Form. Results. Eighty-nine Chinese American women with a mean age of 58 years completed the questionnaires. Twenty-one patients (24%) reported the use of MSM during active treatment of cancer. Patients who had higher education, better income, better English proficiency, and health insurance were more likely to use MSM. Patients who had more symptom distress also reported to use more MSM. Most patients (20/21) who used meditation considered it effective. After controlling other variables, better English proficiency, breast cancer, and higher symptom distress predicted the use of MSM in Chinese American women in treatment of cancer. Conclusions. About 24% of Chinese American women used MSM in the treatment of cancer and most of them considered it effective. Symptom distress and English proficiency levels predicted the use of MSM. Implications for Practice. Given the effectiveness of MSM, oncology nurses could recommend using MSM in Chinese American women in treatment of cancer, especially for patients who had higher symptom distress.
A Digital Mixed Methods Research Design: Integrating Multimodal Analysis With Data Mining and Information Visualization for Big Data Analytics
Authors: O’Halloran Kay L. , Tan Sabine , Pham Duc-Son , Bateman John , Vande Moere Andrew
Published: June 2016

This article demonstrates how a digital environment offers new opportunities for transforming qualitative data into quantitative data in order to use data mining and information visualization for mixed methods research. The digital approach to mixed methods research is illustrated by a framework which combines qualitative methods of multimodal discourse analysis with quantitative methods of data mining and information visualization in a multilevel, contextual model that will result in an integrated, theoretically well-founded, and empirically evaluated technology for analyzing large data sets of multimodal texts. The framework is applicable to situations in which critical information needs to be extracted from geotagged public data: for example, in crisis informatics, where public reports of extreme events provide valuable data sources for disaster management.
Myeloid cell-specific inositol polyphosphate-4-phosphatase type I knockout mice impair bacteria clearance in a murine peritonitis model
Authors: Morioka Shin , Nigorikawa Kiyomi , Sasaki Junko , Hazeki Kaoru , Kasuu Yoshihiro , Sasaki Takehiko , Hazeki Osamu
Published: June 2016

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling has been implicated in the anti-inflammatory response in a mouse model of endotoxemia and sepsis. The present study focused on the role of inositol polyphosphate-4-phosphatase type I (Inpp4a), which dephosphorylates PtdIns(3,4)P2 to PtdIns(3)P, in bacterial infections. We prepared myeloid cell-specific Inpp4a-conditional knockout mice. Macrophages from these mice showed increased Akt phosphorylation and reduced production of inflammatory cytokines in response to LPS or Escherichia coli in vitro. The Inpp4a knockout mice survived for a shorter time than wild type mice after i.p. infection with E. coli, with less production of inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, E. coli clearance from blood and lung was significantly impaired in the knockout mice. A likely mechanism is that the Inpp4a-catalyzed dephosphorylation of PtdIns(3,4)P2 down-regulates Akt pathways, which, in turn, increases the production of inflammatory mediators. This mechanism at least fits the decreased E. coli clearance and short survival in the Inpp4a knockout mice.
The treatment of multidirectional instability of the shoulder with a rehabilitation program: Part 1
Authors: Watson Lyn , Warby Sarah , Balster Simon , Lenssen Ross , Pizzari Tania
Published: June 2016

Background

The most commonly recommended initial treatment for multidirectional instability is a rehabilitation program. Although there is evidence to support the effect of conservative management on this condition, the published literature provides little information on the exercise parameters of such programs. In addition, current published rehabilitation programs for multidirectional instability do not focus on scapula stability or exercise drills into functional and sports-specific positions, which are often important aspects to consider in this patient population.

Methods

The aim of this paper (Part 1) is to outline the first two stages of a six-stage rehabilitation program for the conservative management of multidirectional instability with a focus on scapula control and exercise drills into functional positions.

Results and Conclusions

This clinical protocol is currently being tested for efficacy as part of a randomized controlled trial (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry #ACTRN12613001240730). The information in this paper and additional online supplementary files will provide therapists with adequate detail to replicate the rehabilitation program in the clinical setting.
The treatment of multidirectional instability of the shoulder with a rehabilitation programme: Part 2
Authors: Watson Lyn , Warby Sarah , Balster Simon , Lenssen Ross , Pizzari Tania
Published: June 2016

Background

The most commonly recommended initial treatment for multidirectional instability is a rehabilitation program. Although there is evidence to support the effect of conservative management on this condition, the published literature provides little information on the exercise parameters of such programs.

Methods

This paper is the second part of a two-part series that outlines a six-stage rehabilitation program for multidirectional instability with a focus on scapula control and exercise drills into functional positions. This paper outlines stages 3 to 6 of this rehabilitation program.

Results and Conclusions

This clinical protocol is currently being tested for efficacy as part of a randomized controlled trial (Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry #ACTRN12613001240730). The information in this paper and additional online supplementary files will provide therapists with adequate detail to replicate the rehabilitation program in the clinical setting.
Is a Picture Worth a Thousand Words? Few Evidence-Based Features of Dietary Interventions Included in Photo Diet Tracking Mobile Apps for Weight Loss
Authors: Hales Sarah , Dunn Caroline , Wilcox Sara , Turner-McGrievy Gabrielle M.
Published: June 2016

Background:

Apps using digital photos to track dietary intake and provide feedback are common, but currently there has been no research examining what evidence-based strategies are included in these apps.

Methods:

A content analysis of mobile apps for photo diet tracking was conducted, including whether effective techniques for interventions promoting behavior change, including self-regulation, for healthy eating (HE) are targeted. An initial search of app stores yielded 34 apps (n = 8 Android and Apple; n = 11 Android; n = 15 Apple). One app was removed (unable to download), and other apps (n = 4) were unable to be rated (no longer available). Remaining apps (n = 29) were downloaded, reviewed, and coded by 2 independent reviewers to determine the number of known effective self-regulation and other behavior change techniques included. The raters met to compare their coding of the apps, calculate interrater agreement, resolve any discrepancies, and come to a consensus.

Results:

Six apps (21%) did not utilize any of the behavior change techniques examined. Three apps (10%) provided feedback to users via crowdsourcing or collective feedback from other users and professionals, 7 apps (24%) used crowdsourcing or collective feedback, 1 app (3%) used professionals, and 18 apps (62%) did not provide any dietary feedback to users.

Conclusion:

Few photo diet-tracking apps include evidence-based strategies to improve dietary intake. Use of photos to self-monitor dietary intake and receive feedback has the potential to reduce user burden for self-monitoring, yet photo diet tracking apps need to incorporate known effective behavior strategies for HE, including self-regulation.
State of the art: Oral antiplatelet therapy
Authors: Gurbel Paul A , Myat Aung , Kubica Jacek , Tantry Udaya S
Published: June 2016

Platelet adhesion, activation, and aggregation are central to the propagation of coronary thrombosis following rupture, fissure, or erosion of an atherosclerotic plaque. This chain of deleterious events underlies the pathophysiological process leading to an acute coronary syndrome. Therefore, oral antiplatelet therapy has become the cornerstone of therapy for the management of acute coronary syndrome and the prevention of ischemic complications associated with percutaneous coronary intervention. Landmark trials have established aspirin, and the addition of clopidogrel to aspirin, as key therapeutic agents in the context of acute coronary syndrome and percutaneous coronary intervention. Dual antiplatelet therapy has been the guideline-mandated standard of care in acute coronary syndrome and percutaneous coronary intervention. Despite the proven efficacy of dual antiplatelet therapy, adverse ischemic events continue to occur and this has stimulated the development of novel, more potent antiplatelet agents. We focus this state-of-the-art review on the most recent advances in oral antiplatelet therapy, treading the tightrope of potency versus bleeding risk, the quest to determine the optimal duration of dual antiplatelet therapy and future of personalized antiplatelet therapy.
Undertaking field research
Authors: Soukup Tayana , Lamb Benjamin W , Sevdalis Nick , Green James SA
Published: June 2016

Ethnography, also known as field research, is a social science approach to studying people and groups in their natural setting. The methodology employed is qualitative, including observations and interviews. Analysis of documents, meta-ethnography and further mixed methods to obtain and analyse data collected from the field can be used to complement this. There is a general lack of field research within the healthcare setting, although it is particularly useful for understanding complex systems, and has been employed successfully in recent years to study cultures, safety and to improve quality.
Global voice and social television: Exploring microblogging responses to “The Voice” shows in China and Germany
Authors: Shao Lingwei , Zhang Hong
Published: June 2016

This study examines the audiences’ discussions on the local adaptations of The Voice of China and The Voice of Germany through a content analysis of 128 microblogging posts. Specifically, this research explores the content, language and tone of the sampled posts on Sina Weibo and Twitter, respectively. The study found that while German audiences take notice of various topics relating to the show, Chinese audiences mainly focus on talents. The Chinese audiences have also paid attention to the talents’ age in accordance with their respect to the elderly in the society. Compared to the German audiences, the Chinese audiences post in their mother tongue exclusively and they are more critical. The findings suggest marked differences of the audiences’ responses to the shows on microblogging websites in different national contexts, but also partly challenge the traditional cultural values proposed by Hall and Hofstede based on researches of offline behaviors.
Prognostic impact of cytogenetic aberrations in AL amyloidosis patients after high-dose melphalan: a long-term follow-up study
Authors: Bochtler Tilmann , Hegenbart Ute , Kunz Christina , Benner Axel , Kimmich Christoph , Seckinger Anja , Hose Dirk , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Granzow Martin , Dreger Peter , Ho Anthony D. , Jauch Anna , Schönland Stefan O.
Published: June 2016

Key Points

Translocation t(11;14) confers a favorable prognosis in AL amyloidosis patients treated with HDM.
Limiting prothrombin activation to meizothrombin is compatible with survival but significantly alters hemostasis in mice
Authors: Shaw Maureen A. , Kombrinck Keith W. , McElhinney Kathryn E. , Sweet David R. , Flick Matthew J. , Palumbo Joseph S. , Cheng Mei , Esmon Naomi L. , Esmon Charles T. , Brill Alexander , Wagner Denisa D. , Degen Jay L. , Mullins Eric S.
Published: June 2016

Key Points

Mice expressing a form of prothrombin with limited activation potential to meizothrombin are viable and are reproductively successful. Meizothrombin directly activates platelets but has diminished positive regulation of hemostatic factor activation.
SUSHI: an exquisite recipe for fully documented, reproducible and reusable NGS data analysis
Authors: Hatakeyama Masaomi , Opitz Lennart , Russo Giancarlo , Qi Weihong , Schlapbach Ralph , Rehrauer Hubert
Published: June 2016

Background

Next generation sequencing (NGS) produces massive datasets consisting of billions of reads and up to thousands of samples. Subsequent bioinformatic analysis is typically done with the help of open source tools, where each application performs a single step towards the final result. This situation leaves the bioinformaticians with the tasks to combine the tools, manage the data files and meta-information, document the analysis, and ensure reproducibility.

Results

We present SUSHI, an agile data analysis framework that relieves bioinformaticians from the administrative challenges of their data analysis. SUSHI lets users build reproducible data analysis workflows from individual applications and manages the input data, the parameters, meta-information with user-driven semantics, and the job scripts. As distinguishing features, SUSHI provides an expert command line interface as well as a convenient web interface to run bioinformatics tools. SUSHI datasets are self-contained and self-documented on the file system. This makes them fully reproducible and ready to be shared. With the associated meta-information being formatted as plain text tables, the datasets can be readily further analyzed and interpreted outside SUSHI.

Conclusion

SUSHI provides an exquisite recipe for analysing NGS data. By following the SUSHI recipe, SUSHI makes data analysis straightforward and takes care of documentation and administration tasks. Thus, the user can fully dedicate his time to the analysis itself. SUSHI is suitable for use by bioinformaticians as well as life science researchers. It is targeted for, but by no means constrained to, NGS data analysis. Our SUSHI instance is in productive use and has served as data analysis interface for more than 1000 data analysis projects. SUSHI source code as well as a demo server are freely available.
Adhesive organ regeneration in Macrostomum lignano
Authors: Lengerer Birgit , Hennebert Elise , Flammang Patrick , Salvenmoser Willi , Ladurner Peter
Published: June 2016

Background

Flatworms possess pluripotent stem cells that can give rise to all cell types, which allows them to restore lost body parts after injury or amputation. This makes flatworms excellent model systems for studying regeneration. In this study, we present the adhesive organs of a marine flatworm as a simple model system for organ regeneration. Macrostomum lignano has approximately 130 adhesive organs at the ventral side of its tail plate. One adhesive organ consists of three interacting cells: one adhesive gland cell, one releasing gland cell, and one modified epidermal cell, called an anchor cell. However, no specific markers for these cell types were available to study the regeneration of adhesive organs.

Results

We tested 15 commercially available lectins for their ability to label adhesive organs and found one lectin (peanut agglutinin) to be specific to adhesive gland cells. We visualized the morphology of regenerating adhesive organs using lectin- and antibody staining as well as transmission electron microscopy. Our findings indicate that the two gland cells differentiate earlier than the connected anchor cells. Using EdU/lectin staining of partially amputated adhesive organs, we showed that their regeneration can proceed in two ways. First, adhesive gland cell bodies are able to survive partial amputation and reconnect with newly formed anchor cells. Second, adhesive gland cell bodies are cleared away, and the entire adhesive organ is build anew.

Conclusion

Our results provide the first insights into adhesive organ regeneration and describe ten new markers for differentiated cells and tissues in M. lignano. The position of adhesive organ cells within the blastema and their chronological differentiation have been shown for the first time. M. lignano can regenerate adhesive organs de novo but also replace individual anchor cells in an injured organ. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of organogenesis in flatworms and enable further molecular investigations of cell-fate decisions during regeneration.
Analysis on the effect of ZnO on Carbon nanotube by spray pyrolysis method
Authors: Ayeshamariam A. , Saravanakkumar D. , Kashif M. , Sivaranjani S. , Ravikumar B.
Published: June 2016

Background

ZnO/CNT nanocomposites were prepared using Zinc acetate source materials and with the assistance of copper plate, glycine and sugar solution. The combined behavior between these two materials may give rise to the production of advanced materials with a wide range of applications in electronics and optoelectronics.

Methods

The ZnO-CNT nanostructures are successfully prepared by simple perfume spray pyrolysis method on copper substrate. The possible growth mechanism of ZnO-CNT nanocrystals formation by this method has been tried to explore the sensor and optical properties has been demonstrated.

Results

The as-synthesized ZnO-CNT nanostructures were characterized using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern measured with Cu Kα radiation. Studies of the morphologies of the ZnO-coated CNTs revealed no significant change in the internal structures single walled graphite sheets and the diameters of the CNTs, but the ZnO appeared to form a layer of thinfilm single crystalline particles attaching to the surface of the nanotubes. The photoluminescence (PL) measurements excited by the 380 nm were done at room temperature. CNTs are easy to be entangled and agglomerate due to their long length and low diffusive mobility in base fluids.

Conclusion

The lower mobility was found to occur for the ZnO/CNT composite where a linear sensitivity behavior was measured and it reaches high at the temperature of 200 °C. The samples luminescence is dominated by well-structured ultraviolet band emission and almost no deep level emission was observed, revealing a high optical quality of the produced structures.
Multilevel Assessment of Middle School Students’ Interest in the Health Sciences: Development and Validation of a New Measurement Tool
Authors: Romine William L. , Miller Michele E. , Knese Shawn A. , Folk William R.
Published: June 2016

Using the context of a 2-wk instructional unit focused on eye and vision health, we developed and validated a multilevel measure of middle school students’ interest in science and health careers. This survey contained three subscales positioned differently with respect to curricular content. Interest in Vision Care was most related, but less transferrable to other contexts. Interest in Science was most general, and Interest in Healthcare was positioned between the two. We found that, with two exceptions, items fitted well with validity expectations and were stable across a 2-wk intervention. Further, measures of interest in science, health, and vision-care careers were shown to be reliable and valid. We found that ease of facilitating change across the intervention was generally greater in subscales closely related to the curricular context but that the average magnitude of change in Interest in Healthcare and Interest in Science was not significantly different. We discuss use of these measures in informing instructional efforts and advise that changes in students’ perceptions of how science and healthcare relate should be considered in longitudinal analyses.