bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining science funding attitudes in the United States: The case for science interest
Authors: Motta Matthew
Published: August 2018

While most Americans recognize the importance of funding scientific research, many are satisfied with status quo funding, and only a minority see a need for increased federal support. This poses a potential challenge to scientists’ abilities to address complex policy problems, like climate change. Previous correlational research suggests that public opposition to science funding is (at least in part) the result of low levels of knowledge about the basics of science. Leveraging panel data from two nationally representative studies (2008–2014), I show that people who become more interested in science over time but not those who become more knowledgable are more likely to favor increasing public support for scientific research. These results hold when controlling for other known correlates of science funding attitudes (e.g. political ideology, religiosity). I conclude by discussing the potential benefits of prioritizing science communication and science education efforts to increase public science interest.
Family Routines and Next-Generation Engagement in Family Firms
Authors: Reay Trish
Published: August 2018

By focusing on the impact of different types of family routines and how they change, this commentary builds on concepts regarding the influence of perceived parental support and psychological control on next-generation engagement in family firms. Drawing on the organizational routines literature and the family studies literature, I propose that attention to family routines, and how these routines change (or not) over time can reveal additional insights regarding next-generation engagement in the family business.
POLST Facilitation in Complex Care Management: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Torke Alexia M. , Hickman Susan E. , Hammes Bernard , Counsell Steven R. , Inger Lev , Slaven James E. , Butler Dawn
Published: August 2018

Background:

The Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) form is an advance care planning tool designed for seriously ill patients. The discussions needed for high-quality POLST decision-making are time intensive and often do not occur in the outpatient setting.

Objective:

We conducted a single-arm feasibility study of POLST facilitation by nonphysicians using Respecting Choices Last Steps, a standardized, structured approach to facilitation of POLST conversations.

Setting/Participants:

Community-dwelling adults aged 65 and older enrolled in a complex care management program in a Midwestern urban hospital.

Measurements:

We assessed the feasibility and acceptability by determining the proportion of eligible patients who enrolled and completed the study, by adherence to the Respecting Choices protocol, and by responses to qualitative and quantitative survey items about the intervention.

Results:

We enrolled 18 (58.1%) of 31 eligible patients, with a mean age of 77.8 years (standard deviation: 6.95); 12 were African American. The POLST facilitation was delivered to all 18; 10 (55.6%) completed POLST forms. Direct observation of intervention delivery using a checklist found 85% of the required elements were performed by facilitators. We completed 6- to 8-week follow-up interviews in 16 of 18 patients (88.9%). We found 87.5% of decision makers agreed or strongly agreed that “Talking about the (POLST) form helped me think about what I really want.”

Conclusions:

The POLST facilitation can be successfully delivered to frail older adults in a complex care management setting, with high fidelity to protocol. Further research is needed to demonstrate the effects of this approach on decision quality and other patient-reported outcomes.
Patient-Perceived Barriers to Accessing Cleft Care at a Tertiary Referral Center in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Ise Ananda , Menezes Camila , Batista Neto Joao , Saluja Saurab , Amundson Julia R. , Jenny Hillary , Massenburg Ben , Citron Isabelle , Alonso Nivaldo
Published: August 2018

Background:

In low- and middle-income countries, poor access to care can result in delayed surgical repair of orofacial clefts leading to poor functional outcomes. Even in Brazil, an upper middle-income country with free comprehensive cleft care, delayed repair of orofacial clefts commonly occurs. This study aims to assess patient-perceived barriers to cleft care at a referral center in São Paulo.

Methods:

A 29-item questionnaire assessing the barriers to care was administered to 101 consecutive patients (or their guardians) undergoing orofacial cleft surgery in the Plastic Surgery Department in Hospital das Clínicas, in São Paulo, Brazil, between February 2016 and January 2017.

Results:

A total of 54.4% of patients had their first surgery beyond the recommended time frame of 6 months for a cleft lip or cleft lip and palate and 18 months for a cleft palate. There was a greater proportion of isolated cleft palates in the delayed group (66.7% vs 33.3%). Almost all patients had a timely diagnosis, but delays occurred from diagnosis to repair. The mean number of barriers reported for each patient was 3.8. The most frequently cited barriers related to lack of access to care include (1) lack of hospitals available to perform the surgery (54%) and (2) lack of availability of doctors (51%).

Conclusion:

Delays from diagnosis to treatment result in patients receiving delayed primary repairs. The commonest patient-perceived barriers are related to a lack of access to cleft care, which may represent a lack of awareness of available services.
Childhood Adversity and Adult Health: The Role of Developmental Timing and Associations With Accelerated Aging
Authors: Riem Madelon M. E. , Karreman Annemiek
Published: August 2018

Childhood adversity has been associated with poor adult health. However, it is unclear whether timing of adversity matters in this association and whether adversity is related to poorer age-related physical health status. A representative sample of the adult Dutch population ( N = 3,586, age M = 54.94, age range = 18–92) completed surveys on health and diagnoses of age-related diseases. Information about weight and fat percentage was collected using weighing scales and childhood experiences were assessed retrospectively. Adversity was associated with higher body mass index and fat percentage, more physical problems, and high cholesterol, and this association was most pronounced in individuals with experiences of adversity during early adolescence. In addition, individuals with adversity more often reported physical problems or a medical diagnosis at a younger age. This study indicates that (1) timing of exposure to adversity matters in the relationship between experienced childhood adversity and health and (2) adversity is associated with a higher prevalence of age-related diseases at earlier ages.
“Unpacking” Cross-Disciplinary Research Collaboration in the Social Sciences and Humanities
Authors: Graham Bertolini Alison , Weber Christina D. , Strand Michael J. , Smith Angela
Published: August 2018

In this article, we, a team of scholars from Project Unpack, detail our process of successful cross-disciplinary collaboration. We include a discussion of the aims of our collaborative project, our process of collaboration and the roles of each individual organizer, the resources we used to support the collaboration, data sharing practices, and how our research approaches and methodologies have been influenced by engaging in collaborative research. Our collaboration has led us to record and develop a series of nexus points that bring people together, which enabled us to create space for people to tell their stories and listen to others.
Papery Graveyards: Sense and Silence With Archives
Authors: Pearce Cathie
Published: August 2018

This article seeks to explore the problematics of engaging with archives. In exploring how nonexperts may come to a new topic and area to ask pertinent questions, this article seeks to put to work the author’s own reflexive engagements with an archive. The archives drew the author in both material and bodily senses and invited thinking about how we might reuse data or at least reengage with materials. The article challenges notions that reflexivity is circular or upholds sameness and proposes that the movement is iterative and one which seeks critical engagement with difference.
Effect of industrial freezing on the physical and nutritional quality traits in broccoli
Authors: González-Hidalgo Inés , Moreno Diego A , García-Viguera Cristina , Ros-García José María
Published: August 2018

Broccoli was blanched and frozen at industrial scale to ascertain the physical and nutritional changes that take place in industrial processing. Colour, texture, ascorbic and dehydroascorbic acids, glucosinolates, phenolic compounds, antioxidant capacity, mineral nutrients and microstructure were evaluated. Blanching and freezing caused a decrease in lightness and firmness. Losses of phenolic compounds and ascorbic acid + dehydroascorbic acid reached about 57% and 30%, respectively. The antioxidant capacity was similar in fresh and treated broccoli, and the glucosinolates remained constant. These results show that frozen broccoli retains antioxidants compounds, vitamin C and glucosinolates even after industrial processing, meaning that industrially frozen broccoli intended for human consumption can be considered rather similar to the fresh product.
Treating pediatric conjunctivitis without an exam: An evaluation of outcomes and antibiotic usage
Authors: Penza Kristine S , Murray Martha A , Myers Jane F , Maxson Julie , Furst Joseph W , Pecina Jennifer L
Published: August 2018

Objective

The objective of this research paper is to compare antibiotic treatment, follow-up rates, and types of follow-up encounters among eVisits, phone calls, and in-person encounters for pediatric conjunctivitis.

Study design

A retrospective chart review of pediatric patients evaluated for conjunctivitis between May 1, 2016 and May 1, 2017, was performed. A total of 101 eVisits, 202 in-person retail clinic visits, and 202 nurse phone calls for conjunctivitis were manually reviewed for outcomes. Exclusion criteria included previous encounter for conjunctivitis in the past 14 days, treatment with an oral antibiotic at the initial encounter, or patient outside Minnesota at the time of encounter. Comparison among the three encounter types with regard to follow-up rates, follow-up encounter type within 14 days of initial evaluation, and prescribing rates was performed.

Results

Patients completing non-face-to-face encounters were significantly more likely to have follow-up care (34.6% and 45.5%) than those who had a face-to-face visit at the retail clinic (7.4%), p ≤ 0.0001. Patients initially evaluated by eVisit were more likely to have follow-up at the retail clinic while patients initially evaluated by phone call were more likely to have follow-up in their primary care office. Treatment rates with antibiotics were significantly higher in phone call encounters (41.6%) than in eVisits (25.7%) or face-to-face encounters (19.8%), p < 0.0001.

Conclusions

Non-face-to-face visits have significantly higher rates of follow-up when compared to face-to-face encounters. Antibiotic prescribing is greater with phone call triage encounters; however, there was no significant difference in antibiotic prescribing rates between eVisits and face-to-face visits. Follow-up type varied according to site of initial encounter.
Fatigue behavior of interference fitted Al-alloy 7075-T651 specimens subjected to bolt tightening
Authors: Taghizadeh H , Chakherlou TN
Published: August 2018

Interference fit process is extensively used in bolted and pined joints having different fatigue behavior compared to plain hole specimens. In the present research, fatigue behavior of interference fitted specimens subjected to bolt clamping force has been investigated. The objective of the present study is to extend the present knowledge about the fatigue behavior of interference fitted holes by investigating the subsequent bolt clamping force effect based on the experimental and numerical results in Al-alloy 7075-T651 plates. To investigate the effect of bolt tightening on the fatigue life of interference fitted specimens two tightening torque levels were employed. Fatigue tests were performed to obtain S–N curves and failure modes of interference fitted bolt clamped specimens. Circumferential pre-stress distribution created by interference fit and bolt clamping has been analyzed by finite element method. The finite element analyses justify the experimentally observed fatigue test behavior. The fatigue test results demonstrate that bolt clamping force applied on interference fit plays a positive effect on fatigue behavior and prolongs the fatigue life.
The effect of filler metal and butter layer on microstructural and mechanical properties of pure Cu to AISI304 stainless steel dissimilar joint
Authors: Rafiei M , Mostaan H
Published: August 2018

In this research, dissimilar joint properties of pure Cu to AISI304 stainless steel using three different filler metals were studied. In this regard, the welding process was done with gas tungsten arc welding process using ER308L, ER309L, and ERNiCrMo3 filler metals and ERNi1 butter layer. The microstructural evaluations were carried out using optical microscope and scanning electron microscope. The mechanical tests were conducted by microhardness, tensile, bending and impact tests, and the fracture surfaces of impact and tensile tests were studied by scanning electron microscope. The results show that there is no crack or discontinuity in the welded samples. Energy-dispersive spectroscopy analysis revealed that the diffusion of Cu from base metal to butter layer has been occurred during welding. The microhardness profiles indicated the increase of hardness in heat-affected zone and butter layer. The welded sample with ERNiCrMo3 filler metal showed higher microhardness (200 HV) as compared with two other welded samples. The welded sample with ER309L filler metal had lower microhardness of about 150 HV. The tensile test revealed that the welded sample with ER309L filler metal showed maximum (193 MPa) and the welded sample with ER308L showed minimum (147 MPa) of ultimate tensile strength. In bending test of the welded samples with ER308L and ERNiCrMo3 filler metals, the crack and discontinuity were revealed in weld metal and heat-affected zone of Cu, respectively, while in the welded sample with ER309L filler metal no crack and discontinuity were seen. Also the welded sample with ER309L filler metal had highest impact energy of about 90 J as compared to other samples (81 and 88 J for the welded samples with ER308L and ERNiCrMo3 filler metals, respectively). The welded sample with ER309L filler metal showed more ductile fracture surface as compared with other samples.
Red zone blues: Violence and nostalgia in Guatemala City
Authors: Saunders-Hastings Katherine
Published: August 2018

Based on ethnographic research in a Guatemala City mara territory, this article examines the place of nostalgia in residents’ accounts of spiralling insecurity and gang violence. Anchoring many depictions of their circumstances past and present, emotional and narrative structures of decline and nostalgia pervaded interviews, interactions, and the research experience here. While discourses of loss and longing pose certain methodological quandaries for attempts to reconstruct processes of change in a volatile environment, I propose that they do communicate true and valuable information for understanding the social experience of violence in Guatemala City’s gang territories. I also argue for understanding nostalgia as a resource – for inhabitants and for ethnographers alike – in the face of ‘ontological insecurity’ in violent fields. Providing reassuring narratives and tools for articulating normative claims for our informants, nostalgia also holds a strong appeal for ethnographers, presenting both dilemmas and possibilities in researching and representing contemporary insecurity.
Ethics in educational research: Review boards, ethical issues and researcher development
Authors: Head George
Published: August 2018

Educational research, and research in the Social Sciences more generally, has experienced a growth in the introduction of ethical review boards since the 1990s. Increasingly, universities have set up ethics review procedures that require researchers to submit applications seeking approval to conduct research. Review boards and the rules and conditions under which they operate have been criticised as obstructive, unnecessarily bureaucratic, and even unethical. At the same time, review boards and their procedures have been acknowledged as contributing to consideration of the ethical conduct of research. This paper explores the issues related to ethical review and examines the wider ethical considerations that may arise during the research process. The paper concludes that a purely administrative process of review is inadequate to ensure the ethical conduct of research, especially qualitative research. Rather, it is argued that ethical research entails the resolution of a potential series of ethical dilemmas as they arise during research. As such, the ethical conduct of research is a matter of researcher formation and development.
A life estimation model applied to organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Zhang JP , Zong Y , Meng Y , Pan WG , Tang JS
Published: August 2018

For predicting life for light-emitting devices quickly and accurately, a novel life prediction model, namely an extrapolation model of accelerated life and stress, has been proposed. In this model, a Weibull function is employed to fit luminance decay data under multiple groups of accelerated stresses, and the corresponding accelerated life is obtained. By determination coefficients and root mean square errors, a power function is determined as an extrapolated function to describe the relationship between accelerated life and stress and the life of the light-emitting devices. For organic light-emitting diodes, three groups of constant-stress accelerated degradation tests were conducted by increasing current stress. An extrapolation model of accelerated life and stress was applied to process the collected luminance decay data and was evaluated by a careful comparison with organic light-emitting diode life. The results indicate that the self-designed experimental scheme for organic light-emitting diode is feasible and versatile; the predicted life is 17,113 hours, which is close to the service life derived from user feedback, and the relative error is only 2.2%. This shows that the extrapolation model of accelerated life and stress has high precision; the model reveals the expected law of luminance changing with time and intuitively depicts the life characteristics under accelerated stresses without conventional life tests. This will pave the way for a new method to predict and evaluate the life of modern light-emitting devices.
Probucol prevents blood–brain barrier dysfunction and cognitive decline in mice maintained on pro-diabetic diet
Authors: Mamo John CL , Lam Virginie , Brook Emily , Mooranian Armin , Al-Salami Hani , Fimognari Nicholas , Nesbit Michael , Takechi Ryusuke
Published: August 2018

An emerging body of evidence consistently suggests that compromised blood–brain barrier integrity may be causally associated with cognitive decline induced by type-2 diabetes. Our previous studies demonstrated that selected anti-inflammatory/anti-oxidative agents can preserve the integrity of blood–brain barrier and prevent neuroinflammation in mouse models of dysfunctional blood–brain barrier. Therefore, we have tested whether the previously proven blood–brain barrier protective agent, probucol, can prevent blood–brain barrier breakdown and cognitive decline in a dietary-induced murine model of diabetic insulin resistance. After 6-month chronic ingestion of a diet high in fat and fructose, the mice became insulin resistant. The high-fat and high-fructose-fed mice showed significant cognitive decline assessed by Morris water maze, concomitant with significant elevations in cortical and hippocampal glial acidic fibrillary protein and Fluoro Jade-C staining, indicating heightened neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, respectively. The integrity of blood–brain barrier in high-fat and high-fructose-fed mice was substantially compromised, and this showed a significant association with heightened neurodegeneration. Co-provision of probucol with high-fat and high-fructose diet completely prevented the cognitive decline and blood–brain barrier dysfunction. Similarly, metformin was able to restore the cognitive function in high-fat and high-fructose-fed mice, while its blood–brain barrier protective effects were modest. These data suggest that probucol may prevent cognitive decline induced by insulin resistance by preserving the integrity of blood–brain barrier, whereas metformin’s neuroprotective effects may be mediated through a separate pathway.
Identifying Culturally Consistent Early Interventions for Latino Caregivers
Authors: Guiberson Mark M. , Ferris Kyliah Petrita
Published: August 2018

A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was applied to identify promising culturally consistent early intervention (EI) approaches with Latino caregivers. The researchers collected multiple sources of data, analyzed them separately, and then integrated relevant findings with other sources to identify promising EI approaches. Data included acculturation level, coded caregiver interaction style, and reported caregiver preferred activities. Based on the integration of these data and other sources, several themes and promising interventions were identified for Latino caregivers of young children. The use of imperatives, asking questions to redirect attention, and explicit teaching are discussed as well as ways to expand upon these behaviors through request for clarification, use of expansions, focused stimulation, and dialogic reading. Identifying culturally congruent interventions that fit with caregiver’s style and prepares the child for academic settings is also discussed.
A Comparison of Full and Quasi Filters for Autobiographical Questions
Authors: Olson Kristen , Watanabe Megumi , Smyth Jolene D.
Published: August 2018

Some survey questions do not apply to all respondents. How to design these questions for both eligible and ineligible respondents is unclear. This article compares full filter (FF) and quasi filter (QF) designs for autobiographical questions in mail surveys. Using data from National Health, Well-being, and Perspectives Study, we examine the effect of type of filter on item nonresponse rates, response errors, and response distributions. We find that QF questions are more confusing to respondents, resulting in higher rates of item nonresponse and response errors than FF questions. Additionally, FF questions more successfully identify ineligible respondents, bringing estimates closer to national benchmarks. We recommend that survey designers use FF designs rather than QF designs for autobiographical questions in mail surveys.
Treatment Strategies and Outcomes of Symptomatic Spontaneous Isolated Superior Mesenteric Artery Dissection: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Zhu Yating , Peng Yanghong , Xu Mingyue , Wei Yingqi , Wu Shanshan , Guo Wei , Wu Zhongyin , Xiong Jiang
Published: August 2018

Purpose: To analyze the published treatment experience with symptomatic spontaneous isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection (SISMAD). Methods: A literature search of the PubMed and Cochrane databases was conducted for articles on symptomatic SISMAD published in English from January 2007 to January 2018. Case series reporting on both treatment modalities and outcomes were included, while those on traumatic or iatrogenic SMA dissection or SMA dissection accompanied by aortic or other visceral artery dissection were excluded. Overall event rates for treated symptomatic SISMAD were calculated using pooled analyses. The rate of initial conservative treatment, the success rate, the rate of conversion to intervention, and the failure rate in patients with vs without antithrombotic therapy were calculated for each study and compared using a meta-analysis of proportions. Results: The 25 articles selected encompassed 616 SISMAD cases, of which 514 were symptomatic cases eligible for the analysis. Among the latter, initial treatment consisted of conservative therapy in 447 (87.0%) patients and surgical interventions in 67 (13.0%) patients [45 (8.7%) endovascular procedures and 22 (4.3%) open surgeries]. Among conservative cases, 238 (53.2%) received antithrombotic therapy while 172 (38.5%) did not; 50 (11.2%) cases were converted to intervention [42 (84%) endovascular]. Conservative treatment was initially used in 85.2% of pooled cases with an 84.7% success rate, a 14.3% rate of conversion to intervention, and conservative treatment failure rates of 17.8% and 10.1% in patients treated with vs without antithrombotic therapy, respectively (p=0.103). Conclusion: Conservative treatment appeared safe and effective in >80% of symptomatic SISMAD cases, without apparent benefit for antithrombotic agent use. Initial or secondary intervention was more often endovascular, with favorable success rates and short-term outcomes. Large, prospective randomized trials with long-term follow-up are warranted on the treatment for symptomatic SISMAD.
Examining coaching practices and philosophy through the lens of organizational culture in a Danish high-performance swimming environment
Authors: Junggren Stephan E , Elbæk Lars , Stambulova Natalia B
Published: August 2018

Interest in coaching and coaches, as well as coach–athlete relationships, has for a long time been a traditional and solid part of talent development literature. In recent times, talent development research has employed a holistic ecological approach and emphasized the important role of a broader athletic environment in athletes’ development and a constitutive role of organizational culture in the success of such an environment. This case study uses the holistic ecological perspective to examine coaching practices and philosophy through the lens of organizational culture in a Danish high-performance swimming environment. The environment was selected based on its performance success but also because of its nontraditional organization compared to typical Danish swimming clubs. Data were generated from in-depth interviews with six coaches, 30 h of participant observation of training and meetings, and analysis of related documents. Thematic data analysis was guided by Schein’s model of organizational culture. The findings revealed the organizational culture that incorporates specific features of coaching practices and philosophy through cultural artifacts, espoused values, and basic assumptions. In the artifacts, coaching practices were explicit (e.g. flexible training groups and schedules) and philosophy implicit (e.g. ongoing flow of feedback), while in the espoused values, coaching philosophy was explicit (e.g. swimmers as whole persons, long-term development focus) and consistent with basic cultural assumptions (e.g. swimmers’ autonomy as a basis for progress). The study revealed that the cultural lens was helpful in exploring consistency between what coaches communicate about what they do (and how and why they do it) and what they actually did (and how they did it).
Semi-competing risk model to predict perioperative and oncologic outcomes after radical cystectomy
Authors: Peak Taylor , Chapple Andrew , Coon Grayson , Hemal Ashok
Published: August 2018

Background:

To utilize a semi-competing risk model to predict perioperative and oncologic outcomes after radical cystectomy and to compare the findings with the univariate Cox regression model.

Methods:

We reviewed the Institutional Review Board approved database of radical cystectomy of 316 patients who had undergone robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) or open radical cystectomy between 2006 and 2016. Demographic data, perioperative outcomes, complications, metastasis, and survival were analyzed. The Bayesian variable selection method was utilized to obtain models for each hazard function in the semi-competing risks.

Results:

Of 316 patients treated, 48% and 18% experienced any or major complication respectively within 30 days. Intracorporeal RARC was associated with decreased metastasis risk. Extracorporeal RARC was associated with marginally decreased risks of overall complications or major complications. Patients with advanced cancer had an increased risk of metastasis, death after metastasis and death after complication. Positive nodes were associated with an increased risk of death without overall or major complications and increased risk of death after metastasis occurs. When a serious complication was taken into account there was no significant difference in mortality, irrespective of disease stage.

Conclusions:

A semi-competing risk model provides relatively more accurate information in comparison to Cox regression analysis in predicting risk factors for complications and metastasis in patients undergoing radical cystectomy.
Liquid biopsy of cancer: a multimodal diagnostic tool in clinical oncology
Authors: Palmirotta Raffaele , Lovero Domenica , Cafforio Paola , Felici Claudia , Mannavola Francesco , Pellè Eleonora , Quaresmini Davide , Tucci Marco , Silvestris Franco
Published: August 2018

Over the last decades, the concept of precision medicine has dramatically renewed the field of medical oncology; the introduction of patient-tailored therapies has significantly improved all measurable outcomes. Liquid biopsy is a revolutionary technique that is opening previously unexpected perspectives. It consists of the detection and isolation of circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor DNA and exosomes, as a source of genomic and proteomic information in patients with cancer. Many technical hurdles have been resolved thanks to newly developed techniques and next-generation sequencing analyses, allowing a broad application of liquid biopsy in a wide range of settings. Initially correlated to prognosis, liquid biopsy data are now being studied for cancer diagnosis, hopefully including screenings, and most importantly for the prediction of response or resistance to given treatments. In particular, the identification of specific mutations in target genes can aid in therapeutic decisions, both in the appropriateness of treatment and in the advanced identification of secondary resistance, aiming to early diagnose disease progression. Still application is far from reality but ongoing research is leading the way to a new era in oncology. This review summarizes the main techniques and applications of liquid biopsy in cancer.
Hummingbird Diversity and Assemblage Composition in a Disturbed Tropical Dry Forest of Guatemala
Authors: Bustamante-Castillo Michelle , Hernández-Baños Blanca Estela , Arizmendi María del Coro
Published: August 2018

Central American dry forest has experienced high rates of deforestation and intense human-induced disturbance. As a consequence, the remaining forests exist almost entirely as small, degraded, and isolated fragments. Until now, the effect of anthropogenic disturbance on the diversity of Central American tropical dry forest is largely unexplored, making it difficult to understand the consequences for plant and animal communities and the provision of ecological services. Here, we address the impact of small-scale anthropogenic disturbance on local richness and abundance of hummingbirds in a dry forest of Guatemala. To do this, we established 15 point counts on nine transects located within patches of dry forest with different levels of human-induced disturbance. Visits to each site were done twice during the dry season and twice during the rainy season. We found differences in overall number of hummingbird registered between the dry and the wet seasons; we registered higher number of hummingbirds at the end of the wet season and beginning of the dry season, when the availability of flowers was higher. These data suggest that seasonal resource variation could be an important factor influencing the variation in the number of hummingbird present at our study area. Our results also showed resilience of hummingbirds to different levels of disturbance probably related to the generalist behavior of the dominant resident species and the availability of food resources for hummingbirds at different levels of disturbance.
Effects of Micronized Cartilage Matrix on Cartilage Repair in Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Authors: Shieh Alvin K. , Singh Sohni G. , Nathe Connor , Lian Evan , Haudenschild Dominik R. , Nolta Jan A. , Lee Cassandra A. , Giza Eric , Kreulen Christopher D.
Published: August 2018

Background

The repair of osteochondral lesions remains a challenge due to its poor vascularity and limited healing potential. Micronized cartilage matrix (MCM) is dehydrated, decellularized, micronized allogeneic cartilage matrix that contains the components of native articular tissue and is hypothesized to serve as a scaffold for the formation of hyaline-like tissue. Our objective was to demonstrate in vitro that the use of MCM combined with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can lead to the formation of hyaline-like cartilage tissue in a single-stage treatment model.

Design

In group 1 (no wash), 250 µL MCM was reconstituted in 150 µL Dulbecco’s phosphate-buffered saline (DPBS) for 5 minutes. Group 2 (saline wash) included 250 µL MCM washed in 20 mL DPBS for 30 minutes, then aspirated to remove all DPBS and reconstituted in 150 µL DPBS. Group 3 (serum wash): 250µL MCM washed in 20 mL DPBS for 30 minutes, then aspirated and reconstituted in 150 µL fetal bovine serum. Each group was then added to 50 µL solution of MSC suspended in DPBS at a concentration of 1.2 × 106 cells/350 µL. After 3 weeks, the defects were extracted and sectioned to perform viability and histologic analyses.

Results

Stem cells without rehydration of the MCM showed almost no viability whereas near complete cell viability was seen after rehydration with serum or saline solution, ultimately leading to chondrogenic differentiation and adhesion to the MCM particles.

Conclusion

We have shown in this proof-of-concept in vitro study that MCM can serve as a scaffold for the growth of cartilage tissue for the treatment of osteochondral lesions.
Recognize: A Social Norms Campaign to Reduce Rumor Spreading in a Junior High School
Authors: Cross Jennifer E. , Peisner William
Published: August 2018

This article studied changes in rumor spreading and perceptions of peers’ rumor spreading among students atone public junior high school following a social norms marketing campaign. Results of the study show that perceptions of peer rumor spreading fell following the campaign, but self-reports of rumor spreading did not decrease. Results suggest that a social norms marketing campaign conducted by a professional school counselor and delivered to students in a junior’ high can reduce misperceptions of negative social behaviors.
Ethnic Labeling in Mexican-Origin Youth: A Qualitative Assessment
Authors: Malott Krista M. , Alessandria Kathryn P. , Megan Kirkpatrick , Justine Carandang
Published: August 2018

Outcomes are reported from a qualitative investigation addressing ethnic label selection, meaning, use, and influences upon Mexican-origin youth. Participants selected multiple labels with distinct meanings and influences. Findings indicate a need for school counselors to honor student label selection and to advocate for variable label use by school professionals and in school documentation. School counselors can provide resources and venues to facilitate student exploration of ethnic labels, as one key component of ethnic identity development.
Teacher Perceptions of the Professional School Counselor Role: A National Study
Authors: Reiner Summer M. , Colbert Robert D. , Pérusse Rachelle
Published: August 2018

In a national survey, teachers were asked about their perceptions of the professional school counselor role as defined by the American School Counselor Association (ASCA, 2005). Teachers were questioned about the extent that they believed that school counselors should engage in and were engaged in a variety of tasks endorsed as appropriate or inappropriate by ASCA. This research revealed that teachers agreed that school counselors should engage in 13 and were engaged in 12 of the 16 appropriate responsibilities.
Cellulite Reduction by Modified Thai Herbal Compresses; A Randomized Double-Blind Trial
Authors: Ngamdokmai Ngamrayu , Waranuch Neti , Chootip Krongkarn , Jampachaisri Katechan , Scholfield C. Norman , Ingkaninan Kornkanok
Published: August 2018

Cellulite remains an obstinate clinical and cosmetic problem. In this study, we adapted the Thai traditional noninvasive treatment formulated with 5 additional herbals to improve blood flow, edema, and lipolysis, thereby augmenting cellulite treatment. This was a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled paired trial. Twenty-one women (20-55 years) having cellulite (grade ≥2) were treated with steamed placebo or herbal compresses randomly assigned to one or other thigh twice weekly for 8 weeks with 2 weeks washout. Cellulite reduction was assessed from standardized photographs by 3 blinded evaluators at baseline and every 2 weeks; also assessed were thigh circumferences and cutaneous skin-fold thicknesses, trial diaries, and participant feedback. After 8 weeks, herbal compress treatment reduced Nürnberger-Müller cellulite scores from 12.6 ± 2.0 to 9.9 ± 2.4 compared with 12.5 ± 2.1 to 12.1 ± 2.0 (means ± SEM) for contralateral placebo-treated thighs ( P < .0001; effect size [ES] = 1.16, confidence interval [CI] = 0.48-1.83). Thigh circumferences diminished by 2.2 ± 0.9 cm (herbal) and 1.4 ± 0.7 cm (placebo) (ES = 0.96, CI = 0.30-1.61) and correspondingly skin-folds by 5.6 ± 2.2 and 2.4 ± 1.3 mm (ES = 1.72, CI = 0.99-2.45). No adverse actions were reported, and there were no dropouts, no missing data, and 100% adherence. Herbal compresses were efficacious against cellulite and thigh sizes. The herbal formula might be adapted to other delivery options, and rationally added herbals may increase effectiveness of traditional therapies and more sustainable actions.
The broad spectrum of lung diseases in primary antibody deficiencies
Authors: Cinetto Francesco , Scarpa Riccardo , Rattazzi Marcello , Agostini Carlo
Published: August 2018

Human primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs) represent a heterogeneous group of more than 350 disorders. They are rare diseases, but their global incidence is more relevant than generally thought. The underlying defect may involve different branches of the innate and/or adaptive immune response. Thus, the clinical picture may range from severe phenotypes characterised by a broad spectrum of infections to milder infectious phenotypes due to more selective (and frequent) immune defects. Moreover, infections may not be the main clinical features in some PIDs that might present with autoimmunity, auto-inflammation and/or cancer. Primary antibody deficiencies (PADs) represent a small percentage of the known PIDs but they are the most frequently diagnosed, particularly in adulthood. Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most prevalent symptomatic PAD.

PAD patients share a significant susceptibility to respiratory diseases that represent a relevant cause of morbidity and mortality. Pulmonary complications include acute and chronic infection-related diseases, such as pneumonia and bronchiectasis. They also include immune-mediated interstitial lung diseases, such as granulomatous-lymphocytic interstitial lung disease (GLILD) and cancer. Herein we will discuss the main pulmonary manifestations of PADs, the associated functional and imaging findings, and the relevant role of pulmonologists and chest radiologists in diagnosis and surveillance.
How long is too long? A scoping review of health system delays in lung cancer
Authors: Malalasekera Ashanya , Nahm Sharon , Blinman Prunella L. , Kao Steven C. , Dhillon Haryana M. , Vardy Janette L.
Published: August 2018

Earlier access to lung cancer specialist (LCS) care improves survival, highlighting the need for streamlined patient referral. International guidelines recommend 14-day maximum time intervals from general practitioner (GP) referral to first LCS appointment (“GP–LCS interval”), and diagnosis to treatment (“treatment interval”). We compared time intervals in lung cancer care against timeframe benchmarks, and explored barriers and facilitators to timely care.

We conducted a scoping review of literature from MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus and hand searches. Primary end-points were GP–LCS and treatment intervals. Performance against guidelines and factors responsible for delays were explored. We used descriptive statistics and nonparametric Wilcoxon rank sum tests to compare intervals in studies reporting fast-track interventions.

Of 1343 identified studies, 128 full-text articles were eligible. Only 33 (26%) studies reported GP–LCS intervals, with an overall median of 7 days and distributions largely meeting guidelines. Overall, 52 (41%) studies reported treatment intervals, with a median of 27 days, and distributions of times falling short of guidelines. There was no effect of fast-track interventions on reducing time intervals. Lack of symptoms and multiple procedures or specialist visits were suggested causes for delay.

Although most patients with lung cancer see a specialist within a reasonable timeframe, treatment commencement is often delayed. There is regional variation in establishing timeliness of care.
Pulmonary hypertension associated with neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Jutant Etienne-Marie , Girerd Barbara , Jaïs Xavier , Savale Laurent , O'Connell Caroline , Perros Frederic , Sitbon Olivier , Humbert Marc , Montani David
Published: August 2018

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), also known as von Recklinghausen disease, is a frequent autosomal dominant genetic disorder with a prevalence of 1 in 3000. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) associated with NF1 (PH-NF1) is a rare but severe complication of NF1 and is classified as Group 5 PH, defined as “PH with unclear and/or multifactorial mechanisms”. A literature review in PubMed on the association between NF1 and PH identified 18 articles describing 31 cases. PH-NF1 was characterised by a female predominance, an advanced age at diagnosis, an association with parenchymal lung disease in two out of three cases and poor long-term prognosis. NF1 is generally associated with interstitial lung disease but some cases of severe PH without parenchymal lung disease suggest that there could be a specific pulmonary vascular disease. There is no data available on the efficacy of specific pulmonary arterial hypertension treatment in PH-NF1. Therefore, these patients should be evaluated in expert PH centres and referred for lung transplantation at an early stage. As these patients have an increased risk of malignancy, careful assessment of the post-transplant malignancy risk prior to listing for transplantation is necessary. Clinical trials are needed to evaluate promising treatments targeting the RAS-downstream signalling pathways.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: The effect of uterine artery ligation in patients with central placenta pevia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sanad Ahmad Sameer , Mahran Ahmad E. , Aboulfotouh Mahmoud Elmorsi , Kamel Hany Hassan , Mohammed Hashem Fares , Bahaa Haitham A. , Elkateeb Reham R. , Abdelazim Alaa Gamal , El-Din Mohamed Ahmed Zeen , Shawki Hossam El-Din
Published: August 2018

Background

Placenta previa is major obstetric surgical risk as it is associated with higher percentage of intraoperative and postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), increased requirement of blood transfusion and further surgical procedures. The current study aimed to evaluate uterine artery ligation prior to uterine incision as a procedure to minimize blood loss during cesarean section in patients with central placenta previa.

Methods

One hundred and four patients diagnosed with central placenta previa antenatally and planned to have elective caesarean section were recruited from the antenatal clinic at Minia Maternity University hospital. Patients were randomly allocated into either ligation group or control group.

Results

Both groups were similar regarding demographic features and preoperative risk factors for bleeding. The intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the ligation group as compared with the control group (569.3 ± 202.1 mL vs. 805.1 ± 224.5 mL respectively, p = 0.002). There was a significant increase in the requirement for blood transfusion in the control group as compared with the ligation group (786 ± 83 mL vs. 755 ± 56 mL respectively, p = 0.03) Three cases in the control group required further surgical interventions to control intraoperative bleeding, while no cases in the ligation required further surgical techniques and that was statistically significant (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Uterine artery ligation prior to uterine incision may be a helpful procedure to minimize intraoperative and postpartum blood loss in cases with central placenta previa.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered in ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02002026- December 8, 2013.
Vitamin D binding protein is not affected by high-dose vitamin D supplementation: a post hoc analysis of a randomised, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Björkhem-Bergman Linda , Torefalk Emelie , Ekström Lena , Bergman Peter
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) is the main transporter of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25-OHD) in the circulation. The aim of this study was to investigate if VDBP is affected by high dose vitamin D supplementation and if VDBP-levels correlate with free 25-OHD. Correlation between free 25-OHD measured with ELISA and total 25-OHD in the circulation was also analysed. Plasma samples from a randomized, controlled trial in which persistent MRSA-carriers were randomized to treatment with vitamin D, 4000 IE/day, (n = 27) or placebo (n = 32) for 12 months were used. Plasma from baseline and after 6 months of treatment were analysed for VDBP, 25-OHD and free 25-OHD.

Results

VDBP levels were not affected by vitamin D treatment, although the 25-OHD levels increased significantly in the vitamin D treated subjects. There was a strong correlation between 25-OHD and free 25-OHD (r2 = 0.68, p < 0.0001), while there was no correlation between VDBP and free 25-OHD. Thus, our data shows that VDBP are not affected by vitamin D supplementation and the levels of VDBP are not associated with the free fraction of 25-OHD. Since there was a strong correlation between free 25-OHD and total 25-OHD it appears to be sufficient to measure only total 25-OHD.

Trial registrationhttp://www.clinicaltrials.gov; NCT02178488. Date of registration: June 30, 2014; Date of enrolment of the first participant: Dec 1, 2014