bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EviAtlas: a tool for visualising evidence synthesis databases
Authors: Haddaway Neal R. , Feierman Andrew , Grainger Matthew J. , Gray Charles T. , Tanriver-Ayder Ezgi , Dhaubanjar Sanita , Westgate Martin J.
Published: June 2019

Systematic mapping assesses the nature of an evidence base, answering how much evidence exists on a particular topic. Perhaps the most useful outputs of a systematic map are an interactive database of studies and their meta-data, along with visualisations of this database. Despite the rapid increase in systematic mapping as an evidence synthesis method, there is currently a lack of Open Source software for producing interactive visualisations of systematic map databases. In April 2018, as attendees at and coordinators of the first ever Evidence Synthesis Hackathon in Stockholm, we decided to address this issue by developing an R-based tool calledEviAtlas,an Open Access (i.e. free to use) and Open Source (i.e. software code is freely accessible and reproducible) tool for producing interactive, attractive tables and figures that summarise the evidence base. Here, we present our tool which includes the ability to generate vital visualisations for systematic maps and reviews as follows: a complete data table; a spatially explicit geographical information system (Evidence Atlas); Heat Maps that cross-tabulate two or more variables and display the number of studies belonging to multiple categories; and standard descriptive plots showing the nature of the evidence base, for example the number of studies published per year or number of studies per country. We believe thatEviAtlaswill provide a stimulus for the development of other exciting tools to facilitate evidence synthesis.
Unsupervised anomaly detection with compact deep features for wind turbine blade images taken by a drone
Authors: Wang Yinan , Yoshihashi Ryota , Kawakami Rei , You Shaodi , Harano Tohru , Ito Masahiko , Komagome Katsura , Iida Makoto , Naemura Takeshi
Published: June 2019

Detecting anomalies in wind turbine blades from aerial images taken by drones can reduce the costs of periodic inspections. Deep learning is useful for image recognition, but it requires large amounts of data to be collected on rare abnormalities. In this paper, we propose a method to distinguish normal and abnormal parts of a blade by combining one-class support vector machine, an unsupervised learning method, with deep features learned from a generic image dataset. The images taken by a drone are subsampled, projected to the feature space, and compressed by using principle component analysis (PCA) to make them learnable. Experiments show that features in the lower layers of deep nets are useful for detecting anomalies in blade images.
Young-onset dementia: scoping review of key pointers to diagnostic accuracy
Authors: O'Malley Mary , Parkes Jacqueline , Stamou Vasileios , LaFontaine Jenny , Oyebode Jan , Carter Janet
Published: June 2019

Background

Routine psychiatric assessments tailored to older patients are often insufficient to identify the complexity of presentation in younger patients with dementia. Significant overlap between psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative disease means that high rates of prior incorrect psychiatric diagnosis are common. Long delays to diagnosis, misdiagnosis and lack of knowledge from professionals are key concerns. No specific practice guidelines exist for diagnosis of young-onset dementia (YOD).

Aims

The review evaluates the current evidence about best practice in diagnosis to guide thorough assessment of the complex presentations of YOD with a view to upskilling professionals in the field.

Method

A comprehensive search of the literature adopting a scoping review methodology was conducted regarding essential elements of diagnosis in YOD, over and above those in current diagnostic criteria for disease subtypes. This methodology was chosen because research in this area is sparse and not amenable to a traditional systematic review.

Results

The quality of evidence identified is variable with the majority provided from expert opinion and evidence is lacking on some topics. Evidence appears weighted towards diagnosis in frontotemporal dementia and its subtypes and young-onset Alzheimer's disease.

Conclusions

The literature demonstrates that a clinically rigorous and systematic approach is necessary in order to avoid mis- or underdiagnosis for younger people. The advent of new disease-modifying treatments necessitates clinicians in the field to improve knowledge of new imaging techniques and genetics, with the goal of improving training and practice, and highlights the need for quality indicators and alignment of diagnostic procedures across clinical settings.

Declaration of interest

None.
Treatment-Related Toxicity Using Prostate-Only Versus Prostate and Pelvic Lymph Node Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy: A National Population-Based Study
Authors: Parry Matthew G. , Sujenthiran Arunan , Cowling Thomas E. , Nossiter Julie , Cathcart Paul , Clarke Noel W. , Payne Heather , van der Meulen Jan , Aggarwal Ajay
Published: June 2019

PURPOSE

There is a debate about the effectiveness and toxicity of pelvic lymph node (PLN) irradiation for the treatment of men with high-risk prostate cancer. This study compared the toxicity of intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to the prostate and the pelvic lymph nodes (PPLN-IMRT) with prostate-only IMRT (PO-IMRT).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with high-risk localized or locally advanced prostate cancer treated with IMRT in the English National Health Service between 2010 and 2013 were identified by using data from the Cancer Registry, the National Radiotherapy Dataset, and Hospital Episode Statistics, an administrative database of all hospital admissions. Follow-up was available up to December 31, 2015. Validated indicators were used to identify patients with severe toxicity according to the presence of both a procedure code and diagnostic code in patient Hospital Episode Statistics records. A competing risks regression analysis, with adjustment for patient and tumor characteristics, estimated subdistribution hazard ratios (sHRs) by comparing GI and genitourinary (GU) complications for PPLN-IMRT versus PO-IMRT.

RESULTS

Three-year cumulative incidence in the PPLN-IMRT (n = 780) and PO-IMRT (n = 3,065) groups was 14% for both groups for GI toxicity, and 9% and 8% for GU toxicity, respectively. Patients receiving PPLN-IMRT and PO-IMRT had similar levels of severe GI (adjusted sHR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.80 to 1.24; P = .97) and GU (adjusted sHR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.83 to 1.46; P = .50) toxicity rates.

CONCLUSION

Including PLNs in radiation fields for high-risk or locally advanced prostate cancer is not associated with increased GI or GU toxicity at 3 years. Additional follow-up is required to answer questions about its impact on late GU toxicity. Results from ongoing trials will provide insight into the anticancer effectiveness of PLN irradiation.
Time Intervals From Onset of Clinical Manifestations to Treatment in Patients With Cancer at Hospital General San Felipe, Tegucigalpa, Honduras
Authors: Sánchez José A. , Handal Mayra G. , Vílchez Rodriguez Juan F. , Mejía Sinthia I. , Pagoaga Annye P.
Published: June 2019

PURPOSE

In cancer, clinical staging is related to outcomes, and this is linked to the evolution of the disease over time. In Honduras, cancer mortality is high, and time intervals from onset of symptoms to treatment of cancer are not known. We conducted a cross-sectional study to determine these intervals.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This investigation was carried out from April 25 to August 30, 2018, and included 202 patients at the main cancer referral center in Honduras. For the purposes of the study, information was obtained from patients, their caregiver, medical records, or treatment cards. Patients older than age 18 years were included after informed consent was signed.

RESULTS

The mean time interval from onset of symptoms to cancer treatment was 232 days. Different intervals of time were identified, and the mean of these intervals was calculated in days as follows: 68 days from onset of symptoms to first medical evaluation; 146 days from first evaluation to oncologist consultation; 26 days from cancer specialist to the pathology report; and 86 days from the histopathologic diagnosis to the beginning of treatment. Once diagnosis was established, the average elapsed times to chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and chemoradiotherapy were 88, 102, 76, and 154 days, respectively ( P < .05, when surgery is compared against chemotherapy and radiotherapy).

CONCLUSION

The mean time interval from symptom presentation to treatment in patients with cancer is more than 7 months. This could explain the advanced stages of disease seen at the time of treatment in Honduras, which decrease chance of cure and increase the mortality rate of cancer). Appropriate intervention to decrease these intervals must be taken to reduce mortality.
Conversations About Financial Issues in Routine Oncology Practices: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Warsame Rahma , Kennedy Cassie C. , Kumbamu Ashok , Branda Megan , Fernandez Cara , Kimball Brittany , Leppin Aaron L. , O’Byrne Thomas , Jatoi Aminah , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Tilburt Jon C.
Published: June 2019

PURPOSE:

To describe the frequency, content, dynamics, and patterns of cost conversations in academic medical oncology across tumor types.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

We reviewed 529 audio recordings between May 3, 2012, to September 23, 2014, from a prospective three-site communication study in which patients at any stage of management for any solid tumor malignancy were seen in routine oncology appointments. Recordings were deidentified, transcribed, and flagged for any mention of cost. We coded encounters and used qualitative thematic analysis.

RESULTS:

Financial issues were discussed in 151 (28%) of 529 recordings. Conversations lasted shorter than 2 minutes on average. Patients/caregivers raised a majority of discussions (106 of 151), and 40% of cost concerns raised by patients/caregivers were not verbally acknowledged by clinicians. Social service referrals were made only six times. Themes from content analysis were related to insurance eligibility/process, work insecurity, cost of drugs, cost used as tool to influence medical decision making, health care–specific costs, and basic needs. Financial concerns influenced oncology work processes via test or medication coverage denials, creating paperwork for clinicians, potentially influencing patient involvement in trials, and leading to medication self-rationing or similar behaviors. Typically, financial concerns were associated with negative emotions.

CONCLUSION:

Financial issues were raised in approximately one in four academic oncology visits. These brief conversations were usually initiated by patients/caregivers, went frequently unaddressed by clinicians, and seemed to influence medical decision making and work processes and contribute to distress. Themes identified shed light on the kinds of gaps that must be addressed to help patients with cancer cope with the rising cost of care.
MiR-137's Tumor Suppression on Prolactinomas by Targeting MITF and Modulating Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lei Cao , Jing Guo , Jichao Wang , Xiaohui Lou , Fang Qiuyue , Hua Gao , Yazhou Miao , Zhang Yazhou
Published: June 2019

Context

Prolactinomas are the most common functional pituitary adenomas; the aggressive tumors still present challenge to clinicians. Aberrant expression of miRNAs has been functionally associated with prolactinomas.

Objective

Here we explored the role of miR-137 on the proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis of prolactinomas and its possible mechanism.

Results

Low expression of miR-137 was correlated with the invasive behavior of human prolactinomas and predicted high recurrence. MiR-137 inhibited cell proliferation, invasion, and survivals of MMQ and GH3 cells and reduced tumor volume in F344 rat prolactinomas. The luciferase reporter assay confirmed that microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) was the direct target of miR-137. In addition, miR-137 mimics could inhibit MITF expression in vivo and in vitro. Upregulation of MITF expression promoted cell proliferation, invasion, and survivals and reversed the antitumor effect of miR-137 in vivo and in vitro. Furthermore, miR-137 could also upregulate wnt-inhibitory factor-1 and inhibit nuclear translocation of β-catenin. Upregulation of wnt-inhibitory factor-1 with decitabine can enhance the inhibition on cell proliferation of miR-137. A glycogen synthase kinase-3 inhibitor, SB 216763, promoted cell proliferation by upregulation of total/cytoplasmic/nuclear β-catenin and reversed tumor suppression of miR-137 mimics.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that miR-137 possesses a tumor invasive suppressor function with a prognostic value in prolactinomas by targeting MITF and modulating Wnt-β-catenin signaling pathway.
Yeast ceramide synthases, Lag1 and Lac1, have distinct substrate specificity
Authors: Megyeri Márton , Prasad Rupali , Volpert Giora , Sliwa-Gonzalez Andrzej , Galih Augustinus , Aguilera-Romero Auxiliadora , Riezman Howard , Barral Yves , Futerman Anthony H. , Schuldiner Maya
Published: June 2019

Lag1 was the first longevity assurance gene, discovered in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Lag1 is a ceramide synthase and its homolog, Lac1, has a similar enzymatic function but no role in aging. Lag1 and Lac1 lay in an enzymatic branchpoint of the sphingolipid pathway that is interconnected by the activity of the C4-hydroxylase, Sur2. By uncoupling the enzymatic branch point and using lipidomic mass spectrometry, metabolic labeling and in vitro assays we show that Lag1 preferentially synthesizes phyto-sphingolipids. Using photo-bleaching experiments we show that the Lag1 protein is uniquely required for the establishment of a lateral diffusion barrier in the nuclear envelope, which depends on phytoceramide. Given the role of this diffusion barrier in the retention of aging factors in the mother cell, we suggest that the different specificities of the two ceramide synthases, and the specific effect of Lag1 on asymmetrical inheritance, may explain why Δlag1 cells have an increased lifespan while Δlac1 cells do not.
Thermotropic Columnar Liquid Crystals Based on Wedge-Shaped Phenylphosphonic Acids
Authors: Kumar K R Sunil , Gupta Monika , Sakamoto Takeshi , Kato Takashi
Published: June 2019

Wedge-shaped phenylphosphonic acids with variation in the peripheral alkoxy chains have been synthesized. These derivatives show a hexagonal columnar liquid-crystalline behavior upon thermal treatment. These materials have potential to be used as efficient anisotropic proton conductors.
Evaluation of Induced Circular Dichroism via Through-Space Chirality Transfer in α-Cyclodextrin-Based Rotaxanes Directed toward Fine Tuning
Authors: Akae Yosuke , Sogawa Hiromitsu , Takata Toshikazu
Published: June 2019

α-Cyclodextrin (CD)-based rotaxanes showed induced circular dichroism (ICD) from the α-CD to the axle component via a through-space chirality transfer. The chirality induction was evaluated in detail to clarify the induction mechanism. The ICD sign and pattern were largely dependent on the coverage of the axle end groups by the rotaxane wheel. The observed ICD sensitively reflected the wheel position on the axle, suggesting the possibility of easy chirality transfer and applications toward various functional materials.
Theoretical Study of N2 Coordination to Titanocene(III) Monochloride in Ionic Liquid
Authors: Katayama Akira , Wasada-Tsutsui Yuko , Inomata Tomohiko , Ozawa Tomohiro , Masuda Hideki
Published: June 2019

A N2 coordination to titanocene monochloride, [Cp2TiCl], in an ionic liquid (IL), 1-butyl-1-methylpyrrolidinium tris(pentafluoroethyl)trifluorophosphate (Pyr4FAP), was detected by frozen solution EPR spectroscopy, although such a formation was not detected in toluene and THF. To understand the effect of IL toward the N2 coordination to [Cp2TiCl], density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out applying dielectric permittivity (ε) of solvents (toluene and IL) for the following six model structures; dimeric [(Cp2TiCl)2] in the singlet (1) and triplet states (2), monomeric [Cp2TiCl] (3), [Cp2TiCl(N2)] (4), and [Cp2TiCl(N2)]‡ in the transition state (4-TS). The DFT calculations have revealed that the model complexes, such as 1 and 2, with a small ε value are stabilized by solvents with a small value. To consider the effect of FAP anion toward titanocene complexes, we further performed the calculations for 3, 4 and 4-TS complexes interacting with FAP anion, 3′-FAP, 4′-FAP and 4′-FAP-TS, using empirical corrections (GD3BJ). Although the core structures of titanocenes in 3′-FAP and 4′-FAP are similar to those without FAP anion, F atoms in FAP anion show weak interaction toward H atoms on Cp rings. These findings suggest that the N2 coordination to [Cp2TiCl] in IL could have been induced by interaction of the metal complex with a polar domain in Pyr4FAP.
Iron-catalyzed Versatile and Efficient C(sp2)-H Borylation
Authors: Kamitani Masahiro , Kusaka Haruki , Yuge Hidetaka
Published: June 2019

The efficient C-H borylation of a variety of aromatic hydrocarbons and heteroarenes has been achieved using an iron complex bearing a quinoline-based PNN pincer ligand. Mechanistic studies revealed the formation of a bis-boryl complex, which plays a crucial role in the catalytic cycle. The methodology allows the borylation of unactivated arenes using iron catalysts.
Contraceptive implant failures among women using antiretroviral therapy in western Kenya: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pfitzer Anne , Wille Jacqueline , Wambua Jonesmus , Stender Stacie C , Strachan Molly , Ayuyo Christine Maricha , Muhavi Timothy F. Kibidi , Wabwile Valentino , Mehta Supriya D. , Sasser Elizabeth
Published: June 2019

Background: Women living with HIV have the right to choose whether, when and how many children to have. Access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and contraceptives, including implants, continues to increase due to a multitude of efforts. In Kenya, 4.8% of adults are living with HIV, and in 2017, 54% were receiving an efavirenz-based ART regimen. Meanwhile, 16.1% of all Kenyan married (and 10.4% of unmarried) women used implants. Studies have reported drug interactions leading to contraceptive failures among implant users on ART. This retrospective record review aimed to determine unintentional pregnancy rates among women 15-49 years of age, living with HIV and concurrently using implants and ART in western Kenya between 2011 and 2015.

Methods: We reviewed charts of women with more than three months of concurrent implant and ART use. Implant failure was defined as implant removal due to pregnancy or birth after implant placement, but prior to scheduled removal date. The incidence of unintended pregnancy was calculated by woman-years at risk, assuming a constant rate.

Results: Data from 1,152 charts were abstracted, resulting in 1,190 implant and ART combinations. We identified 115 pregnancies, yielding a pregnancy incidence rate of 6.32 (5.27–7.59), with 9.26 among ETG and 4.74 among LNG implant users, respectively. No pregnancies were recorded among women on non-NNRTI-based regimens, whereas pregnancy rates for efavirenz and nevirapine-containing regimens were similar, at 6.41 (4.70–8.73) and 6.44 (5.13–8.07), respectively.

Conclusions: Our findings highlight the implications of drug interaction on women’s choices for contraception.
Approach to Assessing the Effectiveness of Labor Protection Using Methods of Statistical Modeling
Authors: Штанделис Е. , Shtandelis E. , Ефремов С. , Efremov S. , Андреев А. , Andreev A.
Published: June 2019

The concept of workplace micro injury has existed for several decades, but due to the fact that micro injuries have a slight negative impact on the health of an employee, microinjury is not recorded in the labor protection system and a system of assistance for this type of injury is not created. However, in recent years, a look at the contribution of micro injuries to production efficiency has begun to change — a number of legislative initiatives have been introduced, providing for a system of measures to account for micro injuries and optimize the provision of assistance for these injuries. Thus, the task of assessing the performance of the first aid system for micro injuries arose. This article describes an approach to solving the above problem. The approach is based on the hypothesis of attributing the first aid system for micro injuries to a queuing system. Based on this hypothesis, the article justifies the choice of the type of queuing system that correctly describes the first aid system for micro injuries, and formulates a set of mathematical dependencies that allow to optimize the operation of this system.
Performance of Work on Infrastructure Facilities to be Eliminated after the Destruction of Chemical Weapons
Authors: Седнев В. , Sednev V. , Охотников Ю. , Ohotnikov Yu.
Published: June 2019

The article considers the status of the issue of the destruction of chemical weapons in Russia, the composition, nature, characteristics and hazards of decommissioning and elimination of the consequences of the activities of the former facility for the destruction of chemical weapons.
Culturology
Authors: Викторов Вячеслав , Viktorov Vyachyeslav
Published: June 2019

The textbook reflects the current state of cultural science and allows students to form an idea of the role and place of culture in modern society. The author analyzes the causes of the death of civilizations, dwells on the situation prevailing at the beginning of the third millennium, forcing him to think about the fate of the currently existing cultural and historical communities.
Proof positive
Authors: Siraj Iram , Kingston Denise
Published: June 2019

A study in Australia has shown the benefits of evidence-based training for children and staff. By Professor Iram Siraj and Dr Denise Kingston
EYFS training: part 5 – 18 to 36 months: Twos up
Authors: Goddard Charlotte
Published: June 2019

Charlotte Goddard looks at the training and support available to early years practitioners responsible for children in the 18 to 36 months age group
Ofsted: best practice guide: People management
Authors: Crown Hannah
Published: June 2019

What is good practice when it comes to managing staff? The Village Nursery Group, based around Manchester, has some tips. By Hannah Crown
Slaughterhouses sustainability analysis in special capital region of Jakarta Province, Indonesia
Authors: Sidabalok H. A. , Macfud Macfud , Ramli N. , Pandjaitan N. K.
Published: June 2019

Aim: The objective of this research was understanding slaughterhouses sustainability and the prospection status in special region of Jakarta Province Indonesia. Materials and Methods: The concept of sustainable slaughterhouse was formed based on social, economy, ecology, technology, and institutional dimension. Research objects were three types of slaughterhouses in Special Capital Region of Jakarta Indonesia; pig slaughterhouse, chicken slaughterhouse, and ruminant slaughterhouse. Tools used were questionnaires to assess the perception of people living around slaughterhouses, assessment of the knowledge, attitude, and practice from slaughterhouse management, along with assessment and focus group discussion for sustainability test. Methods used were descriptive analysis and sustainability test by multidimensional scaling method. Data collected consisted of primary and secondary data. Primary data were obtained by field survey, interview, questionnaire, measurement of the waste threshold, and microbe contamination, whereas secondary data were obtained from slaughterhouse agency. Data were analyzed with IBM statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS®) version 18 to calculate characteristic, variables correlation, sustainability test with Rapfish® modified into Rap slaughterhouse, and prospective analysis with PPA. Results: The level of sustainability for pig slaughterhouse was moderately sustainable with 0.5173 index value, ruminant slaughterhouse was moderately sustainable with 0.5171 index value, and chicken slaughterhouse was moderately unsustainable with 0.4530 index value. Conclusion: Scenario on policies that should be applied in ruminant slaughterhouse was increasing the use of waste as biogas; for chicken slaughterhouse was increasing promotion and for pig slaughterhouse was increasing product quality control. The implication of this research was to provide input based on a scientific study for the local government of Jakarta in managing the slaughterhouses.
Az óravigília Peftjauneith koporsóján
Authors: Priskin Gyula
Published: June 2019

According to the Graeco-Roman zodiacs, the appearance of the full moon on the day of the autumnal equinox signified the moment in the astral myth of Osiris when the god was resurrected. The paper argues that the concise version of the hour vigil on the interior surface of the lid of Peftjauneith’s coffin refers to the same mythical episode. Similarly to a few other coffins of the 26th dynasty, Peftjauneith’s composition includes a short exhortative text, a visual list of the hour goddesses, together with their names (twelve for the day, and twelve for the night), and the figure of Nut who is unusually depicted as swallowing the sun and giving birth to the moon.
The even distribution of the hours points to the equinox, while the juxtaposition of the sun and the moon captures the rising of the full lunar disc. The whole scene thus refers to a detail of the hour vigil not documented elsewhere, namely, that it was ideally performed when the full moon coincided with the day of the equinox. With its setup, the hour vigil of Osiris on Peftjauneith’s coffin is a forerunner of the later Graeco-Roman zodiacs.
Troesmis város törvénye a Kr. u. 2. század végérõl
Authors: Illés Imre Áron
Published: June 2019

The fragments of the lex municipalis Troesmensium – two almost intact bronze tablets – were found by illegal treasure-hunters in 2002 and were reclaimed by the Romanian state in 2015. The complete text with introduction, commentaries and German translation was published in 2016. This small contribution contains the Hungarian translation of the text with introduction, short commentaries and some suggestions for the better understanding of the charter.
Néhány megjegyzés a kαρακάλλiov kapcsán
Authors: Harrauer Hermann , Kovács István
Published: June 2019

This article will be published in the Analecta Papyrologica [Messina] 2019 in German. In this study we would like to give a short presentation about the origin and meaning of the word kαρακάλλiov In the first part we cite the literary sources, in the second part we would like to give evidence about the papyri which contain the word, and in the third part we try to count the different types of hooded cloaks known as Καρακάλλiα.
Language learning experience of first year English majors as they see it
Authors: Dupák Karina
Published: June 2019

The results of previous surveys carried out at the Department of English Language Teacher Education and Applied Linguistics of the University of Szeged show that the majority of English majors is not prepared enough for their studies, their level of proficiency and study skills are often not satisfactory, and they have difficulty in assessing their own strengths, weaknesses and the reasons for being unsuccessful (Doró, 2010). Arising from the previously mentioned conclusions, the present paper aims to find out more about first-year English majors’ study skills, strategies and self-perception in the form of five semi-structured group interviews. The students’ answers shed light on what aspects of studying students have problems with, how they monitor and adjust their own studying process, what their goals are and what methods they use to become more fluent speakers and better students.
Adjunctive Ischemic Lower-Limb Perfusion during Aortic Repair with Cardiopulmonary Bypass Prevents Fatal Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Kurisu Kazuhiro , Kimura Satoshi , Mitsuo Hiroshi , Ueno Yasutaka
Published: June 2019

Acute aortic dissection can be complicated by malperfusion syndromes, including ischemia of the lower limbs. In some cases, delayed correction of leg ischemia leads to reperfusion injury, potentially resulting in renal failure. We describe the case of a 64-year-old woman who presented with acute aortic dissection manifesting itself as lower-limb ischemia. During and after aortic surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass, the patient developed myonephropathic metabolic syndrome. Hyperkalemia was corrected and acute kidney injury was prevented by infusing large volumes of intravenous fluids and administering human atrial natriuretic peptide. Peripheral bypass surgery was unnecessary. This case suggests that restoring blood flow to an ischemic leg by means of adjunctive perfusion during aortic repair with cardiopulmonary bypass is a viable way to overcome the biochemical instability associated with prolonged ischemia, especially hyperkalemia in the early phase of reperfusion.
Surgical Repair of a Giant Aorto–Left Ventricular Fistula
Authors: Mve Mvondo Charles , Pugliese Marta , Dailor Ellen M.
Published: June 2019

Aortoventricular fistula, a rare congenital or acquired defect of the aortic wall, is characterized by an abnormal connection between the aorta and one of the ventricles. Symptom severity correlates with the diameter of the fistula and with the acute or chronic timing of presentation. The diagnosis is usually made by using echocardiography, and surgical treatment is necessary to avoid progression to heart failure. We describe the case of a 27-year-old woman who underwent successful surgical repair of an aortoventricular fistula that originated from the right coronary sinus and extended into the left ventricle through the interventricular septum. In addition to the patient's case, we briefly discuss this unusual condition
Unconventional 2:1 Ventricular Pacing in a Neonate with Congenital Heart Block and Biventricular Noncompaction
Authors: Schneider Andrew E. , Wackel Philip L.
Published: June 2019

Congenital complete heart block with concomitant biventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy has been reported once previously. Although not universal, when restrictive physiology is present, impaired diastolic filling may pose a distinct challenge to pacing during the neonatal period. We present the case of a neonate with congenital complete heart block and biventricular noncompaction that resulted in severe diastolic dysfunction and atrioventricular dyssynchrony. We intentionally used 2:1 ventricular pacing to provide atrioventricular synchrony with every paced beat, and this resulted in hemodynamic and clinical improvement. This unconventional pacing technique may be beneficial in other neonates who have complete heart block and diastolic dysfunction.
Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome Associated with Coronary Artery Vasospasm
Authors: Laeeq Rida , Berman Jeffrey S. , Khalid Umair , Lakkis Nasser M. , Tabbaa Rashed
Published: June 2019

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is a rare disorder associated with neurologic symptoms secondary to diffuse cerebral vasospasm. Cardiac involvement in this disease is exceedingly rare.

A 50-year-old woman was admitted to our hospital for evaluation of chest pain. During a 3-year period, she had been admitted multiple times because of chest pain and elevated serum cardiac enzymes. Transthoracic echocardiograms showed transient wall-motion abnormalities; however, coronary angiograms revealed no coronary artery disease. At the current admission, she had a thunderclap headache, and cerebral angiograms revealed diffuse cerebral vasoconstriction that improved after verapamil infusion, confirming the diagnosis of reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. The patient was treated successfully with oral diltiazem and had no recurrence of symptoms.

We describe what we think is the first reported case of coronary artery spasm in association with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Future research should be focused on identifying treatment options and defining the mechanisms by which the cerebral and coronary vasculature are affected.
Use of a Covered CP Stent to Exclude an Aortic–Brachiocephalic Conduit Pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Chen Ronnie C. , Kwon Murray , Levi Daniel , Moriarty John M.
Published: June 2019

A 63-year-old woman was incidentally found to have a thoracic aortic aneurysm. We performed hybrid repair involving aortic arch debranching and endovascular stent-graft placement. Four months later, an asymptomatic pseudoaneurysm had formed at the aortic conduit–brachiocephalic artery anastomosis. To exclude the pseudoaneurysm, we deployed a Covered CP Stent across the anastomosis through a surgically created right axillary artery conduit. We discuss the patient's case and our choice of treatment.
Effectiveness of Artificial Neochordae Implantation in Tricuspid Valve Repair
Authors: Salihi Salih , Kiziltan H. Tarik , Huraibat Ahmad , Korkmaz Askin Ali , Kara Ibrahim , Guden Mustafa
Published: June 2019

Various techniques for treating tricuspid regurgitation have been described; however, because of scarce data about the long-term outcomes of different repairs, the optimal technique has not been established. We evaluated the effectiveness and durability of artificial neochordae implantation in the treatment of tricuspid regurgitation.

From 2009 through 2014, 507 patients underwent tricuspid valve repair at our institution. Of those, 48 patients implanted with artificial neochordae were included in our study. The median age of the participants was 62 years (range, 4–77 yr) and 50% were women. Thirty patients (63%) were in New York Heart Association functional class III, and 11 (23%) were in class II. The cause of tricuspid regurgitation was functional in 33 patients (69%) and rheumatic in 15 (31%). In 46 patients, neochordae implantation was performed in addition to Kay annuloplasty (n=13) or ring annuloplasty (n=33).

Forty-two patients were discharged from the hospital with absent or mild tricuspid regurgitation. The mean follow-up period was 44.3 ± 20.2 months. Follow-up echocardiograms revealed that tricuspid regurgitation was absent, minimal, or mild in 38 patients (80.8%), moderate in 7, and severe in 2.

Our results indicate that the use of artificial neochordae implantation as an adjunct procedure to annuloplasty leads to effective and durable repair in comparison with conventional techniques for treating tricuspid regurgitation.
Effect of Percutaneous Suction Thromboembolectomy on Improved Right Ventricular Function
Authors: Akhmerov Akbarshakh , Reich Heidi , Mirocha James , Ramzy Danny
Published: June 2019

Venous thromboembolism is a leading cause of cardiovascular death. Historically, surgical intervention has been associated with high morbidity rates. Pharmacologic therapy alone can be inadequate for patients with substantial hemodynamic compromise, so minimally invasive procedures are being developed to reduce clot burden. We describe our initial experience with using the AngioVac system to remove thromboemboli percutaneously.

We reviewed all suction thromboembolectomy procedures performed at our institution from March 2013 through August 2015. The main indications for the procedure were failed catheter-directed therapy, contraindication to thrombolysis, bleeding-related complications, and clot-in-transit phenomena. We collected details on patient characteristics, procedural indications, thrombus location, hemodynamic values, cardiac function, pharmacologic support, and survival to discharge from the hospital. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for statistical analysis.

Thirteen patients (mean age, 56 ± 15 yr; 10 men) underwent suction thromboembolectomy; 10 (77%) survived to hospital discharge. The median follow-up time was 74 days (interquartile range [IQR], 23–221 d). Preprocedurally, 8 patients (62%) had severe right ventricular dysfunction; afterwards, 11 (85%) had normal function or mild-to-moderate dysfunction, and only 2 (17%) had severe dysfunction (P=0.031).

Percutaneous suction thromboembolectomy, a promising therapeutic option for patients, appears to be safe, and we found it to be associated with improved right ventricular function.
Minimally Invasive Endovascular Repair of Ascending Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm with Use of Local Anesthesia and Conscious Sedation
Authors: Almanfi Abdelkader , Krajcer Zvonimir
Published: June 2019

Ascending thoracic aortic aneurysm (ATAA) is typically treated surgically. No commercially available device has been specifically designed for endovascular ATAA repair, and currently, multiple anatomic and technical challenges affect its feasibility. Previously, such repairs have been performed with the patients under general anesthesia.

We describe a novel, minimally invasive approach to endovascular repair of ATAA, involving local anesthesia, conscious sedation, and 24-hour hospitalization. Two consecutive male patients (ages, 79 and 54 yr) who had comorbidities underwent percutaneous transfemoral endovascular ATAA repair with use of commercially available endografts. Patient 1 had a saccular aneurysm, and Patient 2 had a pseudoaneurysm consequent to recent surgical ATAA repair. The patients were discharged from the hospital 24 hours after technically successful, uncomplicated procedures. At 2 months, computed tomograms showed no endoleak or stent-graft migration. Our experience shows that minimally invasive endovascular ATAA repair is feasible for selected high-risk patients. We describe the procedure, access and closure devices, and challenges associated with this approach.
Transcriptomic analysis of vitamin D responses in uterine and peripheral NK cells
Authors: Tamblyn J A , Jeffery L E , Susarla R , Lissauer D M , Coort S L , Garcia A Muñoz , Knoblich K , Fletcher A L , Bulmer J N , Kilby M D , Hewison M
Published: June 2019

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent in pregnant women and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, in particular disorders of malplacentation. The active form of vitamin D, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3), is a potent regulator of innate and adaptive immunity, but its immune effects during pregnancy remain poorly understood. During early gestation, the predominant immune cells in maternal decidua are uterine natural killer cells (uNK), but the responsivity of these cells to 1,25(OH)2D3 is unknown despite high levels of 1,25(OH)2D3 in decidua. Transcriptomic responses to 1,25(OH)2D3 were characterised in paired donor uNK and peripheral natural killer cells (pNK) following cytokine (CK) stimulation. RNA-seq analyses indicated 911 genes were differentially expressed in CK-stimulated uNK versus CK-stimulated pNK in the absence of 1,25(OH)2D3, with predominant differentially expressed pathways being associated with glycolysis and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ). RNA-seq also showed that the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and its heterodimer partner retinoid X receptor were differentially expressed in CK-stimulated uNK vs CK-stimulated pNK. Further analyses confirmed increased expression of VDR mRNA and protein, as well as VDR-RXR target in CK-stimulated uNK. RNA-seq analysis showed that in CK-stimulated pNK, 1,25(OH)2D3 induced 38 and suppressed 33 transcripts, whilst in CK-stimulated uNK 1,25(OH)2D3 induced 46 and suppressed 19 genes. However, multiple comparison analysis of transcriptomic data indicated that 1,25(OH)2D3 had no significant overall effect on gene expression in either CK-stimulated pNK or uNK. These data indicate that CK-stimulated uNK are transcriptionally distinct from pNK and, despite expressing abundant VDR, neither pNK nor uNK are sensitive targets for vitamin D.
FLAVONOIDS ISOLATED FROM THE FLOWERS OF CAMELLIA CHRYSANTHA
Authors: Nguyen Hong Van Thi , Pham Bach Cao , Cam Inh Thi , Doan Phuong Lan , Le Thanh Tat , Tran Toan Quoc , Pham Long Quoc
Published: June 2019

Camellia chrysantha (the golden camellia, golden tea) is a species of evergreen shrub or small tree belonging to the family Theaceae. The flowers and the leaves of this plant are used as tea and drank for its health benefits. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical constituents of the flowers of Camellia chrysantha. Five flavonoids were isolated from the flowers of Camellia chrysantha (Theaceae), including (+)-catechin (1), (-)-epicatechin (2), quercetin (3), quercetin-3-O-methyl ether (4) and kaempferol (5). Their chemical structures were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis and by comparison with those reported in the literature. Among five compounds, compounds 4 was isolated for the first time from this species.
INVESTIGATION OF COUPLED EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE AND RELATIVE HUMIDITY ON DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE OF MEMS CANTILEVER RESONATORS IN GAS RAREFACTION
Authors: Cuong Nguyen Chi , Thang Trinh Xuan , Phat Truong Van , Giap Vu Manh , Thanh Ngo Vo Ke
Published: June 2019

The modified molecular gas lubrication (MMGL) equation with the effective viscosity of moist air is utilized to solve for the squeeze film damping (SFD) problem on the dynamic performance of MEMS cantilever resonators. Thus, the coupled effects of temperature and relative humidity are discussed on the Q-factors of MEMS cantilever resonators in a wide range of gas rarefaction (pressure, p and accommodation coefficients, ACs) and resonant mode of vibration. The results showed that the Q-factor of moist air decreases more significantly as temperature and relative humidity increase at higher gas rarefaction (lower p, and ACs) conditions.
A METHOD TO IMPROVE THE TIME OF COMPUTING BETWEENNESS CENTRALITY IN SOCIAL NETWORK GRAPH
Authors: Nguyen Dung Xuan , Doan Ban Van , Do Ngoc Thi Bich
Published: June 2019

The Betweenness centrality is an important metric in the graph theory and can be applied in the analyzing social network. The main researches about Betweenness centrality often focus on reducing the complexity. Nowadays, the number of users in the social networks is huge. Thus, improving the computing time of Betweenness centrality to apply in the social network is neccessary. In this paper, we propose the algorithm of computing Betweenness centrality by reduce the similar nodes in the graph in order to reducing computing time. Our experiments with graph networks result shows that the computing time of the proposed algorithm is less than Brandes algorithm. The proposed algorithm is compared with the Brandes algorithm [3] in term of execution time.
Percepciones sobre los medios de comunicación de profesores universitarios de la educación infantil en Chile
Authors: Andrada Pablo , Cabalin Cristian
Published: June 2019

Cada vez más los avances tecnológicos como los televisores inteligentes, computadores, tablets o pizarras digitales interactivas son parte del inventario de los jardines infantiles. Estas adquisiciones no han ido acompañadas de una educación mediática que permita que los niños y niñas aprendan a convivir con los medios desde la educación infantil. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo conocer cuáles son las percepciones sobre los medios de comunicación que tienen los profesores universitarios de la educación infantil chilena, lo que permitirá, a su vez, aproximarnos a establecer cómo es incorporada la educación mediática en la formación docente de este nivel educativo. Para ello, se aplicó un cuestionario a distancia a profesores de universidades chilenas que imparten cursos relacionados con los medios de comunicación en carreras de educación infantil. Los resultados muestran que los profesores que enseñan sobre lenguaje y comunicación responden más a la tradición apocalíptica de los medios, mientras los de TIC siguen la tradición apologética.
Technologies and children up to 8 years old: what changes in one year?
Authors: Brito Rita , Dias Patrícia
Published: June 2019

In this chapter, we present a longitudinal study which aims to explore the involvement of children up to 8 years old and their families with digital technologies, focusing perceptions and use, during a one-year period. In a first phase, ten families with children up to 8 years old were interviewed. In a second phase, we interviewed eight of the initial ten families. In both moments, children elected the tablet as their favourite device, and their preferred activities were playing games and watching videos on YouTube. Due to an increase in their reading and writing skills, on the second visit to families, we observed that children had become more autonomous in their digital practices, being able to search about their interests and refine such searches. In addition, parents showed more positive perceptions regarding the use of technologies by their kids, promoting their use for scholar searches. The type of parental mediation is related to the parents’ perceptions about technologies: parents who consider their use beneficial for more pedagogic purposes, encourage their children, monitoring and supporting them, thus leading to their children using and perceiving the Web as an important tool to explore personal and school interests; parents who hold a less positive view about digital media do not encourage their use, not even for pedagogic purposes, frequently restricting screen-time, and therefore their children use the devices for limited time and mostly for play activities.
La sección Cultura hoy: De las descripciones teóricas a la realidad práctica. Estudio de caso de medios impresos en España
Authors: Jurado Martín Montserrat
Published: June 2019

Este artículo estudia la sección Cultura de los medios impresos con el objetivo de concretar la coherencia entre las propuestas teóricas de los investigadores y el ejercicio práctico de la profesión tomando como referencia el caso de España. Se desarrolla una amplia revisión bibliográfica de propuestas teóricas y empíricas, poniendo en relación los trabajos que sugieren cómo debería ser esta especialización y los resultados de investigación de quiénes describen cómo es en la práctica. ¿Hay una brecha entre ambos? Y si fuera así, ¿dónde estriban las diferencias? La presión digital favorece los desequilibrios entre las aportaciones científicas y académicas y las rutinas de trabajo. Este planteamiento sirve de base para el estudio de caso en las versiones impresas de El País, ABC y El Mundo, donde se ha aplicado el método del análisis de contenido comparativo. Se observa el peso que ocupa la sección en relación al resto del diario, temáticas, géneros periodísticos y elementos complementarios empleados. El trabajo concluye que hay aspectos teóricos que se cumplen y otros que se quedan en utopías, así como la evidencia de que esta especialización se encuentra en un proceso de transformación e innovación en parte influenciada por su entorno digital.