bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change in Hemoglobin Trajectory and Darbepoetin Dose Approaching End-Stage Renal Disease: Data from the Trial to Reduce Cardiovascular Events with Aranesp Therapy Trial
Authors: Mc Causland Finnian R. , Claggett Brian , Pfeffer Marc A. , Burdmann Emmanuel A. , Eckardt Kai-Uwe , Levey Andrew S. , McMurray John J.V. , Remuzzi Giuseppe , Singh Ajay K. , Solomon Scott D. , Toto Robert D. , Parfrey Patrick
Published: December 2017

Background: The pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease associated anemia is multifactorial and includes decreased production of erythropoietin (EPO), iron deficiency, inflammation, and EPO resistance. To better understand the trajectory of these parameters, we described temporal trends in hemoglobin (Hb), ferritin, transferrin saturation, C-reactive protein (CRP), and darbepoetin dosing in the Trial to Reduce cardiovascular Events with Aranesp Therapy (TREAT). Methods: We performed a post hoc analysis of 4,038 participants in TREAT. Mixed effects linear regression models were used to determine the trajectory of parameters of interest prior to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Likelihood ratio tests were used to determine the overall differences in biomarker values and differences in trajectories between those who did and did not develop ESRD. Results: Hb declined precipitously in the year prior to the development of ESRD (irrespective of treatment assignment), and was on average 1.15 g/dL (95% CI –1.26 to –1.04) lower in those who developed ESRD versus those who did not, at the time of ESRD/end of follow-up. Simultaneously, the mean darbepoetin dose and CRP concentration increased, while serum ferritin and transferrin saturations were >140 μg/L and 20%, respectively. Conclusions: Our analyses provide descriptive insights regarding the temporal changes of Hb, darbepoetin dose, and related parameters as ESRD approaches in participants of TREAT. Hb declined as much as 1–2 years prior to the development of ESRD, without biochemical evidence of iron deficiency. The most precipitous decline occurred in the months immediately prior to ESRD, despite administration of escalating doses of darbepoetin and in parallel with an increase in CRP.
Lord Adrian, MD, PRS, OM
Authors: Pearce John M.S.
Published: December 2017

Edgar Douglas Adrian was an outstandingly brilliant, Nobel prize-winning neurophysiologist. He is remembered for developing the all-or-none principle of muscle contraction, and for explaining the minutiae of motor and sensory nerve transmission. He showed that the afferent effect in a neuron depends on the pattern in time of the impulses travelling in it, thereby providing a quantitative basis of nervous behaviour. With Sir Charles Sherrington, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in 1932 for discoveries on the functions of the neurons.
Rs739837 Polymorphism in MiR-885-3p Binding Site Within 3’-Untranslated Region of Vitamin D Receptor is Associated with a Decreased Risk of Pressure Ulcers
Authors: Ji Xia , Mao Jinbao , Zhou Shuang
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: Accumulative evidence has shown that miR-885-3p plays a crucial role in human carcinogenesis. From miRNA database, we also found that rs739837 polymorphism in miR-885-3p binding site within 3’-untranslated region of Vitamin D receptor (VDR), compromising the suppressive effect of miR-885-3p on VDR. Moreover, Vitamin D is involved in controlling the cell immune response and may play a role in pressure ulcers development. However, whether this polymorphism is actually linked with pressure ulcers remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate the potential association between the rs739837 polymorphism and pressure ulcers, and to explore molecular mechanism of VDR in pressure ulcers. Methods: Luciferase assays were performed to validate the relationship between miR-885 and VDR, which was confirmed by western-blotting analysis. The relationship between rs739837 and the risk of pressure ulcers was explored using logistic regression analysis. Results: We first conducted statistical analysis to explore the association between the rs739837 genotype and risk of pressure ulcers, and found that the polymorphism genotype was significantly associated with the risk of pressure ulcers (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.43-0.95, P value = 0.02). We then searched the miRNA database online and identified VDR as a direct target. We established the negative regulatory relationship between miR-885-3p and VDR using luciferase assays. Meanwhile, we transfected cells with scramble control, miR-885-3p mimics, VDR siRNA and miR-885-3p inhibitors. The results further confirmed the negative regulatory relationship between miR-885-3p and VDR. Conclusion: VDR is a virtual target of miR-885-3p, and rs739837 might be a predictive biomarker for the risk of pressure ulcers.
Serum Biomarker Identification by Mass Spectrometry in Acute Aortic Dissection
Authors: Ren Yong , Tang Qizhu , Liu Wenwei , Tang Yongqian , Zhu Rui , Li Bin
Published: December 2017

Background/Aims: Aortic dissection (AD) is also known as intramural hematoma. This study aimed to screen peripheral blood biomarkers of small molecule metabolites for AD using high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Methods: Sera from 25 healthy subjects, 25 patients with well-established AD, and 25 patients with well-established hypertension were investigated by HPLC-MS to detect metabolites, screen differentially expressed metabolites, and analyze metabolic pathways. Results: Twenty-six and four metabolites were significantly up- and down-regulated in the hypertensive patients compared with the healthy subjects; 165 metabolites were significantly up-regulated and 109 significantly down-regulated in the AD patients compared with the hypertensive patients. Of these metabolites, 35 were up-regulated and 105 down-regulated only in AD patients. The metabolites that were differentially expressed in AD are mainly involved in tryptophan, histidine, glycerophospholipid, ether lipid, and choline metabolic pathways. As AD alters the peripheral blood metabolome, analysis of peripheral blood metabolites can be used in auxiliary diagnosis of AD. Conclusion: Eight metabolites are potential biomarkers for AD, 3 of which were differentially expressed and can be used for auxiliary diagnosis of AD and evaluation of treatment effectiveness.
Por que é importante a prevenção quaternária na prevenção?
Authors: Tesser Charles Dalcanale
Published: December 2017

A prevenção quaternária consiste na identificação de pessoas em risco de medicalização excessiva e sua proteção contra novas intervenções desnecessárias, evitando danos iatrogênicos. Aqui, argumentamos sobre a importância da prevenção quaternária na prevenção primária específica e secundária. O grande desenvolvimento recente da medicina preventiva, da biomedicalização dos riscos e seu tratamento como se fossem doenças e a influência poderosa dos interesses comerciais das indústrias farmacêuticas sobre a produção de conhecimento médico-sanitário alteram classificações, criam doenças e pré-doenças, rebaixam pontos de corte e apagam a distinção entre prevenção e cura. Isso converte maiores proporções de pessoas assintomáticas em doentes e desvia a atenção clínica e os recursos dos mais doentes para os saudáveis, dos idosos para os jovens e dos pobres para os ricos. A prevenção quaternária facilita e induz o desenvolvimento e sistematização de saberes e diretrizes operacionais para a contenção da hipermedicalização e dos danos das ações preventivas no cuidado profissional, sobretudo na atenção primária à saúde.
A violência urbana é a maior causa de acidente de trabalho fatal no Brasil
Authors: Cordeiro Ricardo , Luz Verônica Gronau , Hennington Élida Azevedo , Martins Ana Cláudia Alves , Tófoli Luís Fernando
Published: December 2017

OBJETIVO: Este estudo visou quantificar a ocorrência de mortes diretamente associadas à violência urbana dentre os acidentes de trabalho fatais. MÉTODOS: Foram realizadas autópsias verbais com familiares e colegas de trabalho de moradores de Campinas, SP, falecidos por causas externas no ano 2015. Também foram analisados boletins de ocorrência e laudos do Instituto Médio Legal relativos a essas mortes. RESULTADOS: Foram identificados 82 acidentes de trabalho fatais em Campinas em 2015, dos quais 25 foram assassinatos, 35 foram acidentes de trânsito não diretamente decorrentes de atividades laborais e três foram suicídios no trabalho. A mortalidade proporcional por homicídios, acidentes de trânsito e suicídios entre os acidentes de trabalho fatais foi estimada em 30,5%, 42,7% e 3,7%, respectivamente. CONCLUSÕES: A violência urbana foi responsável por 3/4 dos acidentes de trabalho fatais contabilizados no período estudado.
SNRK (Sucrose Nonfermenting 1-Related Kinase) Promotes Angiogenesis In Vivo
Authors: Lu Qiulun , Xie Zhonglin , Yan Chenghui , Ding Ye , Ma Zejun , Wu Shengnan , Qiu Yu , Cossette Stephanie M. , Bordas Michelle , Ramchandran Ramani , Zou Ming-Hui
Published: December 2017

Objective—

SNRK (sucrose nonfermenting 1-related kinase) is a novel member of the AMPK (adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase)-related superfamily that is activated in the process of angiogenesis. Currently, little is known about the function of SNRK in angiogenesis in the physiological and pathological conditions.

Approach and Results—

In this study, in
Snrk
global heterozygous knockout mice, retina angiogenesis and neovessel formation after hindlimb ischemia were suppressed. Consistently, mice with endothelial cell (EC)-specific
Snrk
deletion exhibited impaired retina angiogenesis, and delayed perfusion recovery and exacerbated muscle apoptosis in ischemic hindlimbs, compared with those of littermate wide-type mice. Endothelial SNRK expression was increased in the extremity vessel samples from nonischemic human. In ECs cultured in hypoxic conditions, HIF1α (hypoxia inducible factor 1α) bound to the
SNRK
promoter to upregulate
SNRK
expression. In the nuclei of hypoxic ECs, SNRK complexed with SP1 (specificity protein 1), and together, they bound to an SP1-binding motif in the ITGB1 (β1 integrin) promoter, resulting in enhanced ITGB1 expression and promoted EC migration. Furthermore,
SNRK
or
SP1
deficiency in ECs ameliorated hypoxia-induced ITGB1 expression and, consequently, inhibited EC migration and angiogenesis.

Conclusions—

Taken together, our data have revealed that SNRK/SP1-ITGB1 signaling axis promotes angiogenesis in vivo.
Near-Field Ultrasound Imaging During Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation
Authors: Haines David E. , Wright Matthew , Harks Erik , Deladi Szabolcs , Fokkenrood Steven , Brink Rob , Belt Harm , Kolen Alexander F. , Mihajlovic Nenad , Zuo Fei , Rankin Darrell , Stoffregen William , Cockayne Debra , Cefalu Joseph
Published: December 2017

Background

Safe and successful radiofrequency catheter ablation depends on creation of transmural lesions without collateral injury to contiguous structures. Near-field ultrasound (NFUS) imaging through transducers in the tip of an ablation catheter may provide important information about catheter contact, wall thickness, and ablation lesion formation.

Methods and Results

NFUS imaging was performed using a specially designed open-irrigated radiofrequency ablation catheter incorporating 4 ultrasound transducers. Tissue/phantom thickness was measured in vitro with varying contact angles. In vivo testing was performed in 19 dogs with NFUS catheters positioned in 4 chambers. Wall thickness measurements were made at 222 sites (excluding the left ventricle) and compared with measurements from intracardiac echocardiography. Imaging was used to identify the epicardium with saline infusion into the pericardial space at 39 sites. In vitro, the measured exceeded actual tissue/phantom thickness by 13% to 20%. In vivo, NFUS reliably visualized electrode-tissue contact, but sensitivity of epicardial imaging was 92%. The chamber wall thickness measured by NFUS correlated well with intracardiac echocardiography (
r
=0.86;
P
<0.0001). Sensitivity of lesion identification by NFUS was 94% for atrial and 95% for ventricular ablations. NFUS was the best parameter to predict lesion depth in right and left ventricle (
r
=0.47;
P
<0.0001; multiple regression
P
=0.0025). Lesion transmurality was correctly identified in 87% of atrial lesions.

Conclusions

NFUS catheter imaging reliably assesses electrode-tissue contact and wall thickness. Its use during radiofrequency catheter ablation may allow the operator to assess the depth of ablation required for transmural lesion formation to optimize power delivery.
Change in Cognitive Function in the Month After Hospitalization for Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Saczynski Jane S. , McManus David D. , Waring Molly E. , Lessard Darleen , Anatchkova Milena D. , Gurwitz Jerry H. , Allison Jeroan , Ash Arlene S. , McManus Richard H. , Parish David C. , Goldberg Robert J. , Kiefe Catarina I.
Published: December 2017

Background—

Cognitive function is often impaired during hospitalization, but whether this impairment resolves or persists after discharge is unknown.

Methods and Results—

We enrolled (April 2011–May 2013) and interviewed during hospitalization and 1-month post-discharge 1521 nondemented acute coronary syndrome survivors enrolled in TRACE (Transitions, Risks and Actions in Coronary Events). Cognitive function was assessed using the Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status (range: 0–41) at both time points. Patients reported demographic and psychosocial characteristics and medical records were abstracted. Using the Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status cut point of ≤28, we defined 4 groups of cognitive change based on cognitive status during hospitalization and 1 month later: consistently impaired, transiently impaired, newly impaired, and consistently nonimpaired. Characteristics associated with cognitive change categories were examined using multinomial logistic regression. Participants were 67% male, 84% non-Hispanic white, with mean age±SD 62±11 years; 16% (n=237) were cognitively impaired during hospitalization, and 11% (n=174) were impaired 1 month after discharge. Overall, 80% were consistently nonimpaired, 9% transiently impaired, 7% consistently impaired, and 4% newly impaired. Lower education level, minority status, low health literacy and numeracy, and higher severity of disease were independently associated with cognitive impairment during and after hospitalization. Male sex was associated with increased risk of cognitive impairment after hospital discharge.

Conclusions—

Cognitive function changes during the transition from hospital to home after acute coronary syndrome are less favorable for men and those with psychosocial vulnerability. Assessing cognitive status both in hospital and post-discharge is important for detecting patients who could benefit from tailored transitional care including early follow-up and booster discharge instructions.
A Notion of Semantic Coherence for Underspecified Semantic Representation
Authors: Manshadi Mehdi , Gildea Daniel , Allen James F.
Published: December 2017

The general problem of finding satisfying solutions to constraint-based underspecified representations of quantifier scope is NP-complete. Existing frameworks, including Dominance Graphs, Minimal Recursion Semantics, and Hole Semantics, have struggled to balance expressivity and tractability in order to cover real natural language sentences with efficient algorithms. We address this trade-off with a general principle of coherence, which requires that every variable introduced in the domain of discourse must contribute to the overall semantics of the sentence. We show that every underspecified representation meeting this criterion can be efficiently processed, and that our set of representations subsumes all previously identified tractable sets.
Cache Transition Systems for Graph Parsing
Authors: Gildea Daniel , Satta Giorgio , Peng Xiaochang
Published: December 2017

Motivated by the task of semantic parsing, we describe a transition system that generalizes standard transition-based dependency parsing techniques to generate a graph rather than a tree. Our system includes a cache with fixed size m, and we characterize the relationship between the parameter m and the class of graphs that can be produced through the graph-theoretic concept of tree decomposition. We find empirically that small cache sizes cover a high percentage of sentences in existing semantic corpora.
Bulbophyllum yunxiaoense sp. nov. (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Malaxideae) from Fujian, China: Morphological and molecular analyses
Authors: LI MING-HE , YUAN XUE-YAN , LIU DING-KUN , LIU JIANG-FENG , CHEN SHI-PIN
Published: December 2017

We have described and illustrated a new species, Bulbophyllum yunxiaoense (Malaxideae, Epidendroideae, Orchidaceae), from Fujian Province in southeast China. The size and overall floral morphology of the new species are similar to those of Bulbophyllum pingtungense, a species endemic to Taiwan Island on the southeast coast of China and its closest relative according to a cladistic analysis of nuclear (ITS) and plastid (matK, trnL-F, and atpI-atpH) DNA sequences. However, B. yunxiaoense is distinguishable from B. pingtungense by flower colour, shorter scape, and longer lateral sepal.
Facebook jako źródło wykluczenia społecznego ery Web 2.0
Authors: Sobczak Katarzyna Natalia
Published: December 2017

Facebook as a new source of social exclusion in Web 2.0 eraSocial life in the 21st century is no longer composed simply of direct communication but also of technology-mediated one. Moreover, these two patterns of communication are both equally important. In such cyberreal world the Internet not only is the equalizing force which reduces traditionally understood social divisions but also offers additional opportunities and creates a new kind of social exclusion – the social network exclusion. The main aim of this article is an analysis of the mechanisms created by Facebook that exclude and limit the access to its content, as compared with the traditional forms of social life and exclusion. Facebook jako źródło wykluczenia społecznego ery Web 2.0W XXI wieku życie społeczne opiera się już nie tylko na komunikacji bezpośredniej, ale jest również zapośredniczone cyfrowo, przy czym obie te sfery są sobie równoważne. W tak rozumianym cyberrealnym świecie internet nie jest wyłącznie siłą zacierającą tradycyjne podziały społeczne, lecz oferuje techniczne możliwości i sprzyja tworzeniu nowego typu wykluczenia – społecznościowego. Głównym celem niniejszego artykułu jest analiza portalu Facebook pod kątem mechanizmów wykluczających i ograniczających dostęp do zgromadzonych w serwisie treści w kontekście tradycyjnych form życia i wykluczenia społecznego.
Enhance Your Teaching Effectiveness with a Chamber Music in the Studio
Authors: Hambourg Klement , Rudoff Mark
Published: December 2017

“This is fun!” A typical response when we play duets in the studio. As soon as she entered the room, the student asked if we could commence with the assigned duet. And from that moment on, I could tell she was tuned in to what was happening and had an intrinsic desire to work on the piece.
Stringed Instrument • Maintenance & Repair: in the Studio or Classroom
Authors: Sibert Polly
Published: December 2017

String teachers encounter a variety of technical problems with student instruments and bows. Some problems require expert repairs by an experienced repairperson. Less advanced repairs may be accomplished by the teacher in the studio or classroom. Limited repair budgets and the desire for students to continue their regular practice routines are reasons for teachers to learn simple repairs that may be accomplished with a minimum of tools, supplies, time, and knowledge.
Extension and Contraction
Authors: Starkweather David , Winold Helga U.
Published: December 2017

David Starkweather is the cellist on the faculty of the University of Georgia. He grew up near San Francisco, then attended the Eastman School of Music. This was followed by four years of graduate work at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, where he studied cello with Bernard Greenhouse. In 1985, Starkweather spent half a year in Switzerland for intensive work with Pierre Fournier, earning the famous French cellist's accolade as “one of the best cellists of his generation.” He was awarded a certificate of merit as a semi-finalist in the 1986 Tchaikovsky Competition.

Starkweather has been featured on the National Public Radio show Performance Today and in. a PBS one-hour recital program televised nationwide. A review in the Atlanta Constitution praised his “sensitive phrasing and Starkweather's obvious technical facility.” His previous articles for AST were “Methods of Shifting” (Winter 1988) and “Choice of Fingerings” (Summer 1990).
Three perspectives on just war
Authors: Johnson James Turner
Published: December 2017

This essay critically examines three recent books on just war by noted scholars in different fields of study related to International Relations. Not only are their perspectives different, but each understands the idea of just war somewhat differently, and each draws the meaning of this idea out differently for thinking about international relations. Rengger and Biggar, in distinctive ways, draw on history to develop their thinking, while Fabre offers a philosophical ‘cosmopolitan’ approach centered on the meaning of the ideal of justice. Together these books span the breadth of contemporary discourse on just war and international relations, and while each has its own particular value for reading and reflection, much can be said for reading all three of these distinctive contributions to this ongoing discourse.
Interpersonal Contact and Attitudes Toward Adolescents Who Abuse Substances
Authors: Richardson George B. , Montgomery LaTrice , Brubaker Michael D.
Published: December 2017

Only 7.6% of adolescents in need of substance abuse treatment actually receive it. Many adolescents are hesitant to seek treatment due to public stigma (i.e., negative attitudes and beliefs of the general public toward individuals who abuse substances). However, decades of research indicate that interpersonal contact with stigmatized groups helps reduce stigma. This study used structural equations and data from 638 undergraduate students to test the relationships between students’ total interpersonal contact with individuals who abuse substances and their attitudes toward those individuals. We found that total contact did not have significant effects on stigma and was associated with better helping attitudes toward adolescents who abuse alcohol but not marijuana. In addition, African Americans and females endorsed greater stigmatization of adolescents who abuse alcohol but better helping attitudes toward those who had received treatment. Increasing contact with individuals who abuse substances, irrespective of type and valence, may not be widely useful as a way of improving attitudes toward such people.
Theban Harbours and Waterscapes Survey, 2014*
Authors: Graham Angus , Strutt Kristian D. , Hunter Morag A. , Pennington Benjamin T. , Toonen Willem H. J. , Barker Dominic S.
Published: December 2017

Report on the 2014 season of the Theban Harbours and Waterscapes Survey. The paper discusses topographic survey and data correction for the West Bank of Thebes and geoarchaeological investigation of the Temple of Millions of Years of Amenhotep III and the area to the east of the Ramesseum.
The Fourth-Century AD Expansion of the Graeco-Roman Settlement of Karanis (Kom Aushim) in the Northern Fayum*
Authors: Barnard Hans , Wendrich Willeke Z. , Nigra Ben T. , Simpson Bethany L. , Cappers René T. J.
Published: December 2017

The Graeco-Roman town of Karanis, founded during the Ptolemaic Period in the north-eastern Fayum in the third century bc and long thought to have been abandoned in the third century ad actually saw a substantial expansion during the fourth century AD. With the creation of an 3 extension towards the west and the expansion of the eastern part, the town grew in both directions. We argue that this expansion may be related to a sudden rise of the water level in Lake Moeris (Lake Qarun), perhaps linked to a catastrophic dam breach in the eastern part of the Fayum, and the subsequent relocation of the inhabitants of the low-lying settlements north and east of the lake.
Hwt jh(w)t, The Administration of the Western Delta and the ‘Libyan Question’ in the Third Millennium BC*
Authors: García Juan Carlos Moreno
Published: December 2017

Third millennium Hwt jh(w)t is a locality that stands apart from other Lower Egyptian sites. Its unique archaeological and epigraphic record provides an invaluable view of the role played by a Delta centre within the administrative and productive organisation of the kingdom in the third millennium bc. It thus appears that Hwt jh(w)t was a kind of checkpoint regulating access to grazing land and plant resources in the underpopulated Western Delta. Furthermore, this was a region where Libyan populations historically settled and exploited its pasture land. Finally, traces of exchange networks in the hands of both mobile desert populations (Libyans in the oases and the north, Nubians in the south) and autonomous Egyptians, apparently operating outside any institutional framework, are becoming increasingly evident across Egypt. The resulting picture is that of a complex interaction of partly complementary, partly competing interests involving nomad pastoral populations, Egyptian settlers, and the Pharaonic state. Occasional conflicts should therefore be interpreted in the light of such interests, as the consequence of competing strategies seeking to control local resources, exchange networks and flows of wealth. Thus, concepts such as ‘Libyan invasions’, stereotyped views of Libyans as poor wandering nomads, or the alleged contrast between sedentary Egyptians and nomad Libyans as distinct, opposed ethnic and productive entities should also be revised.
P. Louvre E 3228: some late cursive (abnormal) hieratic gems from the Louvre
Authors: Van Heel Koen Donker
Published: December 2017

Announcement of the publication of the late cursive (abnormal) hieratic P. Louvre E 3228, consisting of eight documentary texts from the reign of Shabaka and Taharqa. The texts, of which two were previously unknown, all come from the archive of the Theban choachyte Petebaste, son of Peteamunip.
Role of geometrical cues in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell survival, growth and osteogenic differentiation
Authors: Gupta Dhanak , Grant David M , Zakir Hossain Kazi M , Ahmed Ifty , Sottile Virginie
Published: December 2017

Mesenchymal stem cells play a vital role in bone formation process by differentiating into osteoblasts, in a tissue that offers not a flat but a discontinuous three-dimensional (3D) topography in vivo. In order to understand how geometry may be affecting mesenchymal stem cells, this study explored the influence of 3D geometry on mesenchymal stem cell-fate by comparing cell growth, viability and osteogenic potential using monolayer (two-dimensional, 2D) with microsphere (3D) culture systems normalised to surface area. The results suggested lower cell viability and reduced cell growth in 3D. Alkaline phosphatase activity was higher in 3D; however, both collagen and mineral deposition appeared significantly lower in 3D, even after osteogenic supplementation. Also, there were signs of patchy mineralisation in 3D with or without osteogenic supplementation as early as day 7. These results suggest that the convex surfaces on microspheres and inter-particulate porosity may have led to variable cell morphology and fate within the 3D culture. This study provides deeper insights into geometrical regulation of mesenchymal stem cell responses applicable for bone tissue engineering.
Managing cancer care through service delivery networks: The role of professional collaboration in two European cancer networks
Authors: Prades Joan , Morando Verdiana , Tozzi Valeria D , Verhoeven Didier , Germà Jose R , Borras Josep M
Published: December 2017

Background

The study examines two meso-strategic cancer networks, exploring to what extent collaboration can strengthen or hamper network effectiveness. Unlike macro-strategic networks, meso-strategic networks have no hierarchical governance structures nor are they institutionalised within healthcare services’ delivery systems. This study aims to analyse the models of professional cooperation and the tools developed for managing clinical practice within two meso-strategic, European cancer networks.

Methods

Multiple case study design based on the comparative analysis of two cancer networks: Iridium, in Antwerp, Belgium and the Institut Català d’Oncologia in Catalonia, Spain. The case studies applied mixed methods, with qualitative research based on semi-structured interviews ( n = 35) together with case-site observation and material collection.

Results

The analysis identified four levels of collaborative intensity within medical specialties as well as in multidisciplinary settings, which became both platforms for crosscutting clinical work between hubs’ experts and local care teams and the levers for network-based tools development. The organisation of clinical practice relied on professional-based cooperative processes and tiers, lacking vertical integration mechanisms.

Conclusions

The intensity of professional linkages largely shaped the potential of meso-strategic cancer networks to influence clinical practice organisation. Conversely, the introduction of managerial techniques or network governance structures, without introducing vertical hierarchies, was found to be critical solutions.
On the Use of Spline Regression in the Study of Congruence in Organizational Research
Authors: Edwards Jeffrey R. , Parry Mark E.
Published: December 2017

The study of congruence is central to organizational research. Congruence refers to the fit, match, similarity, or agreement between two constructs and is typically framed as a predictor of outcomes relevant to individuals and organizations. Previous studies often operationalized congruence as the algebraic, absolute, or squared difference between two component variables. Difference scores suffer from numerous methodological problems, which stimulated the development of alternative procedures. For algebraic and squared difference scores, the primary alternatives involve linear and quadratic regression equations. For absolute difference scores, the extant alternative is piecewise regression, which avoids certain problems with absolute difference scores but relies on untested assumptions that are central to congruence research. In this article, we develop an alternative to absolute difference scores based on spline regression, yielding a comprehensive approach for testing hypotheses that underlie absolute difference scores while avoiding the shortcomings of piecewise regression analysis. We demonstrate the advantages of spline regression over absolute difference scores and piecewise regression using an empirical example.
Passion, Relational Mobility, and Proof of Commitment: A Comparative Socio–Ecological Analysis of an Adaptive Emotion in a Sexual Market
Authors: Yamada Junko , Kito Mie , Yuki Masaki
Published: December 2017

Although monogamy, the exclusive bonding with a specific partner, is one characteristic of modern human mating, long-term romantic relationships inherently possess the commitment problem, which is the conflict between maintaining a relationship with a certain partner and seeking attractive alternatives. Frank has argued that love and passion help solve this problem because they make individuals commit voluntarily to the relationship, leading the other party to also be committed with less concern over being cheated on or rejected. Combining this idea with the comparative socio‐ecological approach, we hypothesize that passion will be more pronounced in social environments in which people have greater freedom to choose and replace their partners (i.e., high relational mobility) than in societies in which relationships tend to be more stable and hard to change (i.e., low relational mobility). To test this hypothesis, we compared Americans (living in a society with high relational mobility) and Japanese (living in a society with low relational mobility). As predicted, Americans were more passionate toward their romantic partners than Japanese, and this cultural difference was partially explained by the levels of perceived relational mobility in participants’ local ecology. Moreover, more intense passion was found to lead to greater commitment behaviors in both societies. The importance of taking socioecological factors into consideration for the theory of the adaptive function of interpersonal emotions is also discussed.
Endovascular Treatment of Thromboangiitis Obliterans (Buerger’s Disease)
Authors: Modaghegh Mohammad-Hadi S. , Hafezi Shahab
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

When critical limb ischemia (CLI) occurs in patients with thromboangiitis obliterans (TAO) or Buerger’s disease, smoking cessation alone may be insufficient to relieve rest pain and promote wound healing. Accordingly, adjunctive measures are warranted to restore adequate blood flow required for limb salvage. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for the treatment of patients with TAO and CLI. In addition, a review of the literature on endovascular management of TAO is included.

Methods:

Between April 2012 and June 2017, all patients with TAO and CLI who underwent PTA were studied retrospectively. Patient demographics, presentation, procedural details, and clinical response were recorded. Patients were monitored at 1 week, 1, 2, 3, and 6 months after revascularization and at least every 6 months thereafter.

Results:

Thirteen patients with TAO and CLI, who presented with rest pain only (n = 1), ischemic ulcer (n = 4), or gangrene (n = 8) underwent endovascular interventions with primary and assisted primary technical success of 85% and 92%, respectively. A below-knee amputation was eventually done in the only patient with technical failure (limb salvage rate: 92%). Following the procedures, 11 patients had clinical response, one of whom also received intra-arterial vasodilator to achieve complete symptom relief. The other patient who failed PTA underwent a successful lumbar sympathectomy. In addition, all ulcers healed and eight minor amputations were performed due to already established gangrene. During follow-up (mean: 19.4 months), four patients needed reintervention. Patients who continued to smoke experienced more severe ischemia ( P = .017) and were more likely to require reintervention ( P = .009).

Conclusion:

Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty can be considered as a technically feasible and potentially effective treatment for patients with TAO and CLI, as well as a last resort for limb salvage when other options have failed. However, reintervention may be required, especially in patients who continue smoking.
In vitro angiographic comparison of the flow-diversion performance of five neurovascular stents
Authors: Dholakia Ronak J , Kappel Ari D , Pagano Andrew , Woo Henry H , Lieber Baruch B , Fiorella David J , Sadasivan Chander
Published: December 2017

Background and purpose

Data differentiating flow diversion properties of commercially available low- and high-porosity stents are limited. This in vitro study applies angiographic analysis of intra-aneurysmal flow to compare the flow-diversion performance of five neurovascular devices in idealized sidewall and bifurcation aneurysm models.

Methods

Five commercial devices (Enterprise, Neuroform, LVIS, FRED, and Pipeline) were implanted in silicone sidewall and bifurcation aneurysm models under physiological average flow of blood analog fluid. High-speed angiographic images were acquired pre- and post-device implantation and contrast concentration-time curves within the aneurysm were recorded. The curves were quantified with five parameters to assess changes in contrast transport, and thus aneurysm hemodynamics, due to each device.

Results

Inter-device flow-diversion performance was more easily distinguished in the sidewall model than the bifurcation model. There were no obvious overall statistical trends in the bifurcation parameters but the Pipeline performed marginally better than the other devices. In the sidewall geometry, overall evidence suggests that the LVIS performed better than the Neuroform and Enterprise. The Pipeline and FRED devices were statistically superior to the three stents and Pipeline was superior to FRED in all sidewall parameters evaluated.

Conclusions

Based on this specific set of experiments, lower-porosity flow diverters perform significantly better in reducing intra-aneurysmal flow activity than higher-porosity stents in sidewall-type geometries. The LVIS device is potentially a better flow diverter than the Neuroform and Enterprise devices, while the Pipeline is potentially better than the FRED.
Falls, Cognitive Function, and Balance Profiles of Singapore Community-Dwelling Elderly Individuals: Key Risk Factors
Authors: Woo Mei Teng , Davids Keith , Liukkonen Jarmo , Chow Jia Yi , Jaakkola Timo
Published: December 2017

Objective:

This study compared occurrence of falls, cognitive function, and balance profiles across participants in elderly age categories, investigating associations between the 3 aspects in a sample of Singapore’s elderly population.

Method:

Community-dwelling elderly individuals (N = 385) were randomly recruited and grouped into “young-old (65-74 years),” “medium-old (75-84 years),” and “oldest-old (above 85 years)” groups. The Fallproof Health and Activity questionnaire, adapted Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) tests were used to survey information related to falls, cognition, and balance profiles.

Results:

Findings revealed significant differences in MMSE and BBS scores across the age groups. Participants with mild cognitive impairment (odds ratio [OR] = 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-3.25) and BBS score ≤40 (OR = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.14-0.46) were at the highest risk of falling.

Conclusion:

Community-dwelling elderly individuals with subtle cognitive impairment and BBS scores ≤40 displayed an increased risk of falling.
Hypoxia promotes IL-32 expression in myeloma cells, and high expression is associated with poor survival and bone loss
Authors: Zahoor Muhammad , Westhrin Marita , Aass Kristin Roseth , Moen Siv Helen , Misund Kristine , Psonka-Antonczyk Katarzyna Maria , Giliberto Mariaserena , Buene Glenn , Sundan Anders , Waage Anders , Sponaas Anne-Marit , Standal Therese
Published: December 2017

Key Points

IL-32 is a proinflammatory cytokine expressed by plasma cells in a subset of MM patients, and high expression correlates with poor survival. IL-32 is induced by hypoxia and secreted from MM cells in EVs that promote bone destruction.
Apparent Wave Velocity and Site Amplification at the California Strong Motion Instrumentation Program Carquinez Bridge Geotechnical Arrays during the 2014 M6.0 South Napa Earthquake
Authors: Kishida Tadahiro , Haddadi Hamid , Darragh Robert B. , Kayen Robert E. , Silva Walter J. , Bozorgnia Yousef
Published: December 2017

The Carquinez Bridge geotechnical arrays are operated by the California Strong Motion Instrumentation Program (CSMIP) and recorded a peak ground acceleration (PGA) of approximately 1.0g at ground surface during the 2014 South Napa earthquake. The recorded PGA was significantly larger than those at the nearby surface sites. This study considers surface and downhole recordings from the additional 28 earthquakes recorded at the same arrays to understand the effects of wave propagation and site response at these arrays. Several site response analyses are performed to understand soil nonlinearity using the observed ground accelerations during the 2014 South Napa sequence. Apparent shear wave velocities are calculated from downhole records, which show clear reduction as ground motion intensity increases. Empirical transfer functions (EFTs) are also calculated in which the resonance frequencies became lower during strong shaking during the 2014 South Napa main shock. The in-situ critical damping ratio appears to be frequency dependent in the soft clay deposits. Lower damping at frequencies greater than about 5 Hz may have contributed to the observed PGA at Array #1 during the main shock.
Surveillance or Metastasis-Directed Therapy for Oligometastatic Prostate Cancer Recurrence: A Prospective, Randomized, Multicenter Phase II Trial
Authors: Ost Piet , Reynders Dries , Decaestecker Karel , Fonteyne Valérie , Lumen Nicolaas , De Bruycker Aurélie , Lambert Bieke , Delrue Louke , Bultijnck Renée , Claeys Tom , Goetghebeur Els , Villeirs Geert , De Man Kathia , Ameye Filip , Billiet Ignace , Joniau Steven , Vanhaverbeke Friedl , De Meerleer Gert
Published: December 2017

Purpose

Retrospective studies suggest that metastasis-directed therapy (MDT) for oligorecurrent prostate cancer (PCa) improves progression-free survival. We aimed to assess the benefit of MDT in a randomized phase II trial.

Patients and Methods

In this multicenter, randomized, phase II study, patients with asymptomatic PCa were eligible if they had had a biochemical recurrence after primary PCa treatment with curative intent, three or fewer extracranial metastatic lesions on choline positron emission tomography–computed tomography, and serum testosterone levels > 50 ng/mL. Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to either surveillance or MDT of all detected lesions (surgery or stereotactic body radiotherapy). Surveillance was performed with prostate-specific antigen (PSA) follow-up every 3 months, with repeated imaging at PSA progression or clinical suspicion for progression. Random assignment was balanced dynamically on the basis of two factors: PSA doubling time (≤ 3 v > 3 months) and nodal versus non-nodal metastases. The primary end point was androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)–free survival. ADT was started at symptomatic progression, progression to more than three metastases, or local progression of known metastases.

Results

Between August 2012 and August 2015, 62 patients were enrolled. At a median follow-up time of 3 years (interquartile range, 2.3-3.75 years), the median ADT-free survival was 13 months (80% CI, 12 to 17 months) for the surveillance group and 21 months (80% CI, 14 to 29 months) for the MDT group (hazard ratio, 0.60 [80% CI, 0.40 to 0.90]; log-rank P = .11). Quality of life was similar between arms at baseline and remained comparable at 3-month and 1-year follow-up. Six patients developed grade 1 toxicity in the MDT arm. No grade 2 to 5 toxicity was observed.

Conclusion

ADT-free survival was longer with MDT than with surveillance alone for oligorecurrent PCa, suggesting that MDT should be explored further in phase III trials.
The evolution of honey bee dance communication: a mechanistic perspective
Authors: Barron Andrew B. , Plath Jenny Aino
Published: December 2017

Honey bee dance has been intensively studied as a communication system, and yet we still know very little about the neurobiological mechanisms supporting how dances are produced and interpreted. Here, we discuss how new information on the functions of the central complex (CX) of the insect brain might shed some light on possible neural mechanisms of dance behaviour. We summarise the features of dance communication across the species of the genus Apis. We then propose that neural mechanisms of orientation and spatial processing found to be supported by the CX may function in dance communication also, and that this mechanistic link could explain some specific features of the dance form. This is purely a hypothesis, but in proposing this hypothesis, and how it might be investigated, we hope to stimulate new mechanistic analyses of dance communication.
Control surfaces of aquatic vertebrates: active and passive design and function
Authors: Fish Frank E. , Lauder George V.
Published: December 2017

Aquatic vertebrates display a variety of control surfaces that are used for propulsion, stabilization, trim and maneuvering. Control surfaces include paired and median fins in fishes, and flippers and flukes in secondarily aquatic tetrapods. These structures initially evolved from embryonic fin folds in fishes and have been modified into complex control surfaces in derived aquatic tetrapods. Control surfaces function both actively and passively to produce torque about the center of mass by the generation of either lift or drag, or both, and thus produce vector forces to effect rectilinear locomotion, trim control and maneuvers. In addition to fins and flippers, there are other structures that act as control surfaces and enhance functionality. The entire body can act as a control surface and generate lift for stability in destabilizing flow regimes. Furthermore, control surfaces can undergo active shape change to enhance their performance, and a number of features act as secondary control structures: leading edge tubercles, wing-like canards, multiple fins in series, finlets, keels and trailing edge structures. These modifications to control surface design can alter flow to increase lift, reduce drag and enhance thrust in the case of propulsive fin-based systems in fishes and marine mammals, and are particularly interesting subjects for future research and application to engineered systems. Here, we review how modifications to control surfaces can alter flow and increase hydrodynamic performance.
Ocellar structure is driven by the mode of locomotion and activity time in Myrmecia ants
Authors: Narendra Ajay , Ribi Willi A.
Published: December 2017

Insects have exquisitely adapted their compound eyes to suit the ambient light intensity in the different temporal niches they occupy. In addition to the compound eye, most flying insects have simple eyes known as ocelli, which assist in flight stabilisation, horizon detection and orientation. Among ants, typically the flying alates have ocelli while the pedestrian workers lack this structure. The Australian ant genus Myrmecia is one of the few ant genera in which both workers and alates have three ocellar lenses. Here, we studied the variation in the ocellar structure in four sympatric species of Myrmecia that are active at different times of the day. In addition, we took advantage of the walking and flying modes of locomotion in workers and males, respectively, to ask whether the type of movement influences the ocellar structure. We found that ants active in dim light had larger ocellar lenses and wider rhabdoms compared with those in bright-light conditions. In the ocellar rhabdoms of workers active in dim-light habitats, typically each retinula cell contributed microvilli in more than one direction, probably destroying polarisation sensitivity. The organisation of the ocellar retina in the day-active workers and the males suggests that in these animals some cells are sensitive to the pattern of polarised skylight. We found that the night-flying males had a tapetum that reflects light back to the rhabdom, increasing their optical sensitivity. We discuss the possible functions of ocelli to suit the different modes of locomotion and the discrete temporal niches that animals occupy.