bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a Dry Model for Assessing the Performance of Arthroscopic Hip Labral Repair
Authors: Phillips Lisa , Cheung Jeffrey J.H. , Whelan Daniel B. , Murnaghan Michael Lucas , Chahal Jas , Theodoropoulos John , Ogilvie-Harris Darrell , Macniven Ian , Dwyer Tim
Published: March 2017

Background:

Arthroscopic hip labral repair is a technically challenging and demanding surgical technique with a steep learning curve. Arthroscopic simulation allows trainees to develop these skills in a safe environment.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of a combination of assessment ratings for the performance of arthroscopic hip labral repair on a dry model.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 47 participants including orthopaedic surgery residents (n = 37), sports medicine fellows (n = 5), and staff surgeons (n = 5) performed arthroscopic hip labral repair on a dry model. Prior arthroscopic experience was noted. Participants were evaluated by 2 orthopaedic surgeons using a task-specific checklist, the Arthroscopic Surgical Skill Evaluation Tool (ASSET), task completion time, and a final global rating scale. All procedures were video-recorded and scored by an orthopaedic fellow blinded to the level of training of each participant.

Results:

The internal consistency/reliability (Cronbach alpha) using the total ASSET score for the procedure was high (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.9). One-way analysis of variance for the total ASSET score demonstrated a difference between participants based on the level of training ( F3,43 = 27.8, P < .001). A good correlation was seen between the ASSET score and previous exposure to arthroscopic procedures ( r = 0.52-0.73, P < .001). The interrater reliability for the ASSET score was excellent (>0.9).

Conclusion:

The results of this study demonstrate that the use of dry models to assess the performance of arthroscopic hip labral repair by trainees is both valid and reliable. Further research will be required to demonstrate a correlation with performance on cadaveric specimens or in the operating room.
Effect of NSAIDs on Recovery From Acute Skeletal Muscle Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Morelli Kimberly M. , Brown Laura B. , Warren Gordon L.
Published: March 2017

Background:

There is debate as to whether the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is beneficial after acute skeletal muscle injury. Some studies have suggested that NSAID use may be detrimental to injured muscle.

Purpose:

To determine whether NSAID use affects recovery from skeletal muscle injury as assessed by strength loss, soreness, and/or blood creatine kinase level.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

An extensive systematic review was completed searching 16 databases (eg, PubMed, Cochrane Library, EMBASE). Inclusion criteria were (1) acute injury to skeletal muscle, (2) use of a control condition, (3) certainty of the NSAID dose administered, and (4) use of 1 or more of the 3 desired outcome measures. A total of 5343 study reports were screened, of which 41 studies were deemed suitable for inclusion. The standardized mean difference was used as the effect size (ES) and was calculated such that a positive ES indicated NSAID efficacy. Meta-analyses were run using a random-effects model.

Results:

For all studies, time points after injury, and injury markers combined, NSAID use was found to elicit a small to medium, significant decrease in the markers of injury (overall ES = +0.34; P = .0001). Because heterogeneity in study ES was apparent (ie, Q− df = 52.4, P = .000005; I2 = 57%), subgroup meta-analyses and meta-regressions were run in an attempt to explain the heterogeneity. In human studies, study ESs were higher when lower body muscles were injured ( P = .045). In animal studies, study ESs were lower with longer NSAID administration durations ( P = .023) and at longer follow-up times after injury ( P = .010).

Conclusion:

Overall, our analysis supports NSAID use for reducing strength loss, soreness, and blood creatine kinase level after an acute muscle injury, at least for humans and in the short term. Additional research is required to determine why NSAID use appears to be more effective when lower-body muscles in humans are injured. It would also be important to determine why NSAID use appears detrimental at later times after injury in animals but not humans.
Suicide Ideation and Attempts among First Nations Peoples Living On-Reserve in Canada: The Intergenerational and Cumulative Effects of Indian Residential Schools
Authors: McQuaid Robyn Jane , Bombay Amy , McInnis Opal Arilla , Humeny Courtney , Matheson Kimberly , Anisman Hymie
Published: March 2017

Objective:

Suicide rates among Indigenous peoples in Canada are at least twice that of their non-Indigenous counterparts. Although contemporary stressors contribute to this increased risk, historical experiences such as the Indian Residential School (IRS) system may also have continuing links with the risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The current investigation examined the intergenerational and cumulative links between familial IRS attendance in relation to lifetime suicide ideation and attempts among First Nations adults living on-reserve.

Method:

Data from the 2008-2010 First Nations Regional Health Survey were analyzed, and participants comprised a representative sample of First Nations adults older than 18 years (weighted N = 127,338; IRS attendees were excluded). Of those who knew their familial IRS history, 38.0% had no history of attendance, 19.3% had a grandparent who attended, 16.2% had a parent who attended, and 26.5% had a parent and grandparent who attended.

Results:

Exposure of one previous familial generation to the IRS experience was associated with increased risk for lifetime suicide ideation (odds ratio [OR], 1.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.16 to 1.84; P = 0.001) and attempts (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.94; P < 0.016) compared with those with no IRS history. Having 2 generations of IRS familial history was associated with greater odds of reporting a suicide attempt compared with having one generation (OR, 1.35; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.75; P = 0.022), which was reduced when current levels of distress and ideation were accounted for.

Conclusion:

Findings support the existence of linkages between intergenerational exposure to IRS and risk for suicidal ideation and attempts and for a potential cumulative risk in relation to suicide attempts across generations.
Serum Uric Acid Level as a Prognostic Marker in Patients With Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Lee Hyun Woo , Choi Sun Mi , Lee Jinwoo , Park Young Sik , Lee Chang-Hoon , Yim Jae-Joon , Yoo Chul-Gyu , Kim Young Whan , Han Sung Koo , Lee Sang-Min
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

Uric acid acts as both a pathogenic inflammatory mediator and an antioxidative agent. Several studies have shown that uric acid level correlates with the incidence, severity, and prognosis of pulmonary diseases. However, the association between uric acid level and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has not been studied. This study was conducted to elucidate how serum uric acid level is related with clinical prognosis of ARDS.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study with propensity score matching was conducted at a medical intensive care unit of a tertiary teaching hospital. The medical records of patients diagnosed with ARDS admitted from 2005 through 2011 were reviewed.

Results:

Two hundred thirty-seven patients with ARDS met the inclusion criteria. Patients with a serum uric acid level <3.0 mg/dL were classified into the low uric acid group, and those with a level ≥3 mg/dL were classified into the normal to high uric acid group. We selected 40 patients in each group using propensity score matching. A higher percentage of patients in the low uric acid group experienced clinical improvement in ARDS. More patients died from sepsis in the normal to high uric acid group. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that a low serum uric acid level was significantly associated with better survival rate.

Conclusion:

In patients with ARDS, a low serum uric acid level may be a prognostic marker of a low risk of in-hospital mortality.
Pharmacological Management of Psychiatric Symptoms in Frontotemporal Dementia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Buoli Massimiliano , Serati Marta , Caldiroli Alice , Galimberti Daniela , Scarpini Elio , Altamura Alfredo Carlo
Published: March 2017

Psychiatric symptoms in patients with frontotemporal dementia (FTD) are highly prevalent and may complicate clinical management of these patients. Purpose of the present article is to present and discuss available data about the pharmacological treatment of psychiatric symptoms in patients with FTD. A research in the main database sources has been conducted to obtain an overview of the pharmacological management of psychiatric symptoms in patients with FTD. The search strategy included the following terms—“FTD and psychiatry,” “FTD and behavioural disturbances,” and “FTD and treatment”. Pathophysiology of psychiatric symptoms in FTD is different from other types of dementia. Although drugs for Alzheimer disease appear to be ineffective for the treatment of psychiatric symptoms of FTD, preliminary evidence supports a possible usefulness of serotonergic antidepressants for these patients. Data are too scanty to draw definitive conclusions, but antidepressant treatment, particularly with serotonergic compounds, may improve psychiatric symptoms in patients with FTD. Large observational studies are needed to confirm this preliminary evidence, and a lot of effort and collaboration between neurologists and psychiatrists will be definitely crucial for future research of effective treatments for FTD.
Organizational Socialization Learning, Organizational Career Growth, and Work Outcomes: A Moderated Mediation Model
Authors: Spagnoli Paola
Published: March 2017

The current study aimed at examining a moderated mediation model based on the theoretical framework of organizational socialization. In particular, the mediating effect of organizational career growth (OCG) in the relationship between organizational socialization learning and work outcomes (job satisfaction and performance) was assessed through a multigroup approach on an overall sample of 474 Italian employees. Specifically, structural equation modeling through the bootstrap method was used to test the mediation hypotheses on three dichotomous moderating variables: gender (men/women), parenthood (parents/not parents), and tenure (newcomers/expert employees). Results showed a moderated mediation effect (total mediation) of OCG in the relationship between organizational socialization learning and performance and a mediation effect of OCG in the relationship between organizational socialization learning and job satisfaction. Results are discussed on the light of the original contribution provided, as well as limitations, suggestions for further research and practical implications.
Licensed to skill? The impact of occupational regulation on fitness instructors
Authors: Lloyd Caroline , Payne Jonathan
Published: March 2017

Occupational licensing, which restricts entry to a job to those with certain qualifications, has traditionally been associated with professionals. Can such forms of occupational regulation support skill development and higher wages lower down the labour market? Cross-national comparisons of a specific occupation can highlight differences in regulation and the interaction between skill formation and industrial relations institutions. We compare the regulation of the occupation of fitness instructor in the UK, France and Norway, focusing on the impact on skills and wages, and suggest that while licensing offers some beneficial outcomes, the relationship with these other institutions is critical.
Promising therapeutic role of miR-27b in tumor
Authors: Ding Li , Ni Jie , Yang Fan , Huang Lingli , Deng Heng , Wu Yang , Ding Xuansheng , Tang Jinhai
Published: March 2017

MicroRNAs are small nonprotein-encoding RNAs ranging from 18 to 25 nucleotides in size and regulate multiple biological pathways via directly targeting a variety of associated genes in cancers. MicroRNA-27b is a highly conserved MicroRNA throughout vertebrates and there are two homologs (hsa-miR-27a and hsa-miR-27b) in humans. MicroRNA-27b is an intragenic microRNA located on chromosome 9q22.1 within the C9orf3 gene, clustering with miR-23b and miR-24-1 in human. As a frequently dysregulated microRNA in human cancers, microRNA-27b could function as a tumor suppressor or an oncogenic microRNA. More and more studies indicate that microRNA-27b is involved in affecting various biological processes, such as angiogenesis, proliferation, metastasis, and drug resistance, and thus may act as a promising therapeutic target in human cancers. In this review, we discuss the role of microRNA-27b in detail and offer novel insights into molecular targeting therapy for cancers.
EphA4 promotes cell proliferation and cell adhesion–mediated drug resistance via the AKT pathway in multiple myeloma
Authors: Ding Linlin , Shen Yaodong , Ni Jing , Ou Yiqing , Ou Yangyu , Liu Hong
Published: March 2017

Eph receptor A4 (EphA4), a member of the erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular (Eph) family, has been reported to upregulate in several tumors. However, the role of EphA4 in multiple myeloma has not been clarified yet. In this study, we found that EphA4 promoted proliferation of multiple myeloma cells via the regulation of cell cycle. Besides, EphA4 was closely related to cell adhesion of multiple myeloma cells and promoted cell adhesion–mediated drug resistance by enhancing the phosphorylation levels of Akt (p-AKT) expression in multiple myeloma. More interestingly, we discovered that EphA4 can interact with cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) and regulate its expression in multiple myeloma. CDK5 has been reported to be overexpressed in multiple myeloma which mediated bortezomib resistance and also participated in AKT pathway. And we have also proved the fact. So, we supposed that EphA4 interacted with CDK5 and promoted its expression which in turn enhanced p-AKT expression and promoted cell adhesion–mediated drug resistance in multiple myeloma. Therefore, this study clarifies the molecular mechanism of cell adhesion–mediated drug resistance and may be useful in identifying potential target for treatment of multiple myeloma.
Splicing factor hnRNPA2B1 contributes to tumorigenic potential of breast cancer cells through STAT3 and ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: Hu Ying , Sun Zihan , Deng Jinmu , Hu Baoquan , Yan Wenting , Wei Hongyi , Jiang Jun
Published: March 2017

Increasing evidence has indicated that the splicing factor hnRNPA2B1 plays a direct role in cancer development, progression, gene expression, and signal transduction. Previous studies have shown that knocking down hnRNPA2B1 in breast cancer cells induces apoptosis, but the mechanism and other functions of hnRNPA2B1 in breast cancer are unknown. The goal of this study was to investigate the biological function, clinical significance, and mechanism of hnRNPA2B1 in breast cancer. The expression of hnRNPA2B1 in 92 breast cancer and adjacent normal tissue pairs was analyzed by immunohistochemical staining. Stable clones exhibiting knockdown of hnRNPA2B1 via small hairpin RNA expression were generated using RNA interference technology in breast cancer cell lines. The effects of hnRNPA2B1 on cell proliferation were examined by MTT and EdU assay, and cellular apoptosis and the cell cycle were examined by flow cytometry. A nude mouse xenograft model was established to elucidate the function of hnRNPA2B1 in tumorigenesis in vivo. The role of hnRNPA2B1 in signaling pathways was investigated in vitro. Our data revealed that hnRNPA2B1 was overexpressed in breast cancer tissue specimens and cell lines. Knockdown of hnRNPA2B1 reduced breast cancer cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and prolonged the S phase of the cell cycle in vitro. In addition, hnRNPA2B1 knockdown suppressed subcutaneous tumorigenicity in vivo. On a molecular level, hnRNPA2B1 knockdown decreased signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 and extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 phosphorylation. We concluded that hnRNPA2B1 promotes the tumorigenic potential of breast cancer cells, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, through the extracellular-signal-regulated kinase 1/2 or signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 pathway, which may serve as a target for future therapies.
Recognizing and managing on toxicities in cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Yang Liu , Yu Huifang , Dong Shuang , Zhong Yi , Hu Sheng
Published: March 2017

Over the past 4 years, cancer immunotherapy has significantly prolonged survival time of patients with prostate cancer, melanoma, lung cancer, and liver cancer, but its side effects are also impressive. Different types of the immune therapeutic agents have different on-target or off-target toxicity due to high affinity or weak specificity, respectively. Treatment toxicity spectrums vary greatly even in patients with the same type of cancer. Common toxicities are fevers, chills, diarrhea colitis, maculopapular rash, hepatitis, and hormone gland disorder; therefore, routine monitoring of thyroid function, liver function, renal function, and complete blood count are absolutely necessary once treatment begins. Some side effects are reversible, and can be processed through the standard medicines. However, serious toxicities are lethal, which should be frequently followed-up, identified at an early stage and immediately symptomatic treated by high-dose immunosuppressors. In this case, thereafter, the same agent should not be challenged again.
The prognostic efficacy and improvements of the 7th edition Union for International Cancer Control tumor–node–metastasis classifications for Chinese patients with gastric cancer: Results based on a retrospective three-decade population study
Authors: Gu Huizi , Li Dongmei , Zhu Haitao , Zhang Hao , Yu Ying , Qin Dongxue , Yi Mei , Li Xiang , Lu Ping
Published: March 2017

This study aimed to evaluate survival trends for patients with gastric cancer in northeast China in the most recent three decades and analyze the applicability of the UICC tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) classification 7th edition for Chinese patients with gastric cancer. A review of all inpatient and outpatient records of patients with gastric cancer was conducted in the first hospital of China Medical University and the Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute. All patients who met the inclusion criteria and were seen from January 1980 through December 2009 were included in the study. The primary outcome was 5-year survival, which was analyzed according to decade of diagnosis and TNM classifications. From 1980 through 2009, the 5-year survival rates for patients with gastric cancer (n=2414) increased from 39.1% to 57.3%. Decade of diagnosis was significantly associated with patient survival (p = 0.013), and the 5-year survival rate in the 2000s was remarkably higher than that in the 1980s and 1990s (p = 0.004 and 0.049, respectively). When classified according to the UICC TNM classification of gastric cancer 7th edition, the prognoses of stage IIIA and stage IIIB patients were not significantly different (p = 0.077). However, if stage T4b and stage N0 patients were classified as stage IIIA, the prognoses of stage IIIA and stage IIIB patients were significantly different (p < 0.001). Hence, there was a significant difference in survival during the three time periods in Northeast China. Classifying stage T4b and stage N0 patients as stage IIIA according to the 7th edition of UICC gastric cancer TNM classifications better stratified Chinese patients and predicted prognoses.
MTA3 regulates malignant progression of colorectal cancer through Wnt signaling pathway
Authors: Jiao Taiwei , Li Yue , Gao Tong , Zhang Yining , Feng Mingliang , Liu Mengyuan , Zhou Huan , Sun Mingjun
Published: March 2017

MTA3 overexpression has been implicated in carcinogenesis. The aim of the present study was to explore the clinical significance and biological roles of MTA3 in human colorectal cancer and colorectal cancer cells. A total of 80 cases of colorectal cancer tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry for MTA3 protein expression. We analyzed the relationship between MTA3 and clinical factors and the results showed that MTA3 was overexpressed in 51.25% (41/80) cancer cases. There was significant associations between MTA3 overexpression and advanced TNM stage (p = 0.0086) and Ki67 index (p = 0.001). We overexpressed MTA3 in LoVo cells and depleted its expression in HCT15 cells. The results showed that MTA3 promoted cancer cell proliferation, invasion, migration, and cell cycle progression, and inhibited 5-fluorouracil-induced apoptosis in LoVo cell line. MTA3 depletion in HCT15 cell line showed the opposite effects. In addition, we found that MTA3 positively regulated cell cycle proteins including cyclin D1 and cyclin E. It also upregulated Bcl2 and downregulated Bax expression. Furthermore, we found that MTA3 could activate Wnt signaling pathway by upregulating Wnt target proteins. Our results demonstrated that MTA3 overexpression contributes to colorectal cancer carcinogenesis, progression, and chemoresistance. MTA3 could serve as a potential therapeutic target in colorectal cancer.
Stratified aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index accurately predicts survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients undergoing curative liver resection
Authors: Yang Hao-Jie , Jiang Jing-Hang , Yang Yu-Ting , Guo Zhe , Li Ji-jia , Liu Xuan-han , Lu Fei , Zeng Feng-Hua , Ye Jin-Song , Zhang Ke-Lan , Chen Neng-Zhi , Xiang Bang-De , Li Le-Qun
Published: March 2017

The aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index has been reported to predict prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma. This study examined the prognostic potential of stratified aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index for hepatocellular carcinoma patients undergoing curative liver resection. A total of 661 hepatocellular carcinoma patients were retrieved and the associations between aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index and clinicopathological variables and survivals (overall survival and disease-free survival) were analyzed. Higher aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index quartiles were significantly associated with poorer overall survival (p = 0.002) and disease-free survival (p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index to be an independent risk factor for overall survival (p = 0.018) and disease-free survival (p = 0.01).

Patients in the highest aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index quartile were at 44% greater risk of death than patients in the first quartile (hazard ratio = 1.445, 95% confidence interval = 1.081 – 1.931, p = 0.013), as well as 49% greater risk of recurrence (hazard ratio = 1.49, 95% confidence interval = 1.112–1.998, p = 0.008). Subgroup analysis also showed aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index to be an independent predictor of poor overall survival and disease-free survival in patients positive for hepatitis B surface antigen or with cirrhosis (both p < 0.05). Similar results were obtained when aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index was analyzed as a dichotomous variable with cutoff values of 0.25 and 0.62. Elevated preoperative aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index may be independently associated with poor overall survival and disease-free survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients following curative resection.
B-cell lymphoma 2 inhibitor ABT-737 induces Beclin1- and reactive oxygen species-dependent autophagy in Adriamycin-resistant human hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Yao Xiaoxiao , Li Xiaoning , Zhang Dan , Xie Yingjun , Sun Baozhen , Li Hang , Sun Liankun , Zhang Xuewen
Published: March 2017

ABT-737, a B-cell lymphoma 2 homology 3 mimetic, not only induces cell apoptosis by inhibiting the interaction of B-cell lymphoma 2 and Bax but also induces cell autophagy by interrupting the interaction of B-cell lymphoma 2 and Beclin1. Several recent studies have reported that ABT-737 has antitumor efficacy in diverse cancers. However, another study showed that hepatocellular carcinoma cells with high B-cell lymphoma 2 expression were resistant to ABT-737 compared to hepatocellular carcinoma cells with low B-cell lymphoma 2 expression. It was also found that ABT-737-induced autophagy is crucial for drug resistance. Here, we observed that of B-cell lymphoma 2 expression in Adriamycin-resistant human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2/ADM cells is higher than that in human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 cells. Therefore, we further confirmed the mechanism and effect of autophagy induced by ABT-737 on apoptosis in HepG2/ADM cells with high B-cell lymphoma 2 expression. Our results showed that ABT-737 induced apoptosis and autophagy in time- and dose-dependent manner in HepG2/ADM cells, and this ABT-737-induced autophagy was Beclin1-dependent. In addition, we demonstrated that ABT-737 induced reactive oxygen species-mediated autophagy, and the reactive oxygen species-inhibitor N-acetyl-l-cysteine suppressed the reactive oxygen species-induced autophagy and ABT-737-induced increase in HepG2/ADM cell apoptosis. Furthermore, autophagy inhibitors increased HepG2/ADM cell apoptosis. In conclusion, our study further confirms that Beclin1- and reactive oxygen species-dependent autophagy induced by ABT-737 also plays a protective function in HepG2/ADM cells, which show B-cell lymphoma 2 expression higher than that in HepG2 cells.
Expression of lactate dehydrogenase C correlates with poor prognosis in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Hua Yibo , Liang Chao , Zhu Jundong , Miao Chenkui , Yu Yajie , Xu Aimin , Zhang Jianzhong , Li Pu , Li Shuang , Bao Meiling , Yang Jie , Qin Chao , Wang Zengjun
Published: March 2017

Lactate dehydrogenase C is an isoenzyme of lactate dehydrogenase and a member of the cancer–testis antigens family. In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression and functional role of lactate dehydrogenase C and its basic mechanisms in renal cell carcinoma. First, a total of 133 cases of renal cell carcinoma samples were analysed in a tissue microarray, and Kaplan–Meier survival curve analyses were performed to investigate the correlation between lactate dehydrogenase C expression and renal cell carcinoma progression. Lactate dehydrogenase C protein levels and messenger RNA levels were significantly upregulated in renal cell carcinoma tissues, and the patients with positive lactate dehydrogenase C expression had a shorter progression-free survival, indicating the oncogenic role of lactate dehydrogenase C in renal cell carcinoma. In addition, further cytological experiments demonstrated that lactate dehydrogenase C could prompt renal cell carcinoma cells to produce lactate, and increase metastatic and invasive potential of renal cell carcinoma cells. Furthermore, lactate dehydrogenase C could induce the epithelial–mesenchymal transition process and matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression. In summary, these findings showed lactate dehydrogenase C was associated with poor prognosis in renal cell carcinoma and played a pivotal role in the migration and invasion of renal cell carcinoma cells. Lactate dehydrogenase C may act as a novel biomarker for renal cell carcinoma progression and a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma.
Extraovarian Fibroma With Minor Sex Cord Elements: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Omori Makiko , Kondo Tetsuo , Fukushima Jiro , Oi Megumi , Watanabe Yumika , Nakazawa Tadao , Hashi Akihiko , Hirata Shuji
Published: March 2017

Extraovarian sex cord–stromal tumor is an exceedingly uncommon entity that may cause a diagnostic dilemma clinically. We report a case of extraovarian fibroma with minor sex cord elements arising in the left broad ligament. The patient was a 66-year-old woman presenting with an intra-abdominal solid mass near the left ovary on magnetic resonance imaging. The tumor was located in the left broad ligament in contact with the left ovary and fallopian tube based on laparotomy findings. Histological examination revealed that the tumor was a fibroma that contained cell nests with aggregates resembling the Call-Exner bodies of granulosa cell tumors and irregularly shaped cell nests composed of undifferentiated sex cord–type cells. Cellular atypia or mitotic figures were not identified in any of the components. It was speculated that the possible site of origin of this tumor might be a supernumerary ovary in the broad ligament that was thought to be derived from embryonic remnants.
The Human Central Pattern Generator for Locomotion: Does It Exist and Contribute to Walking?
Authors: Minassian Karen , Hofstoetter Ursula S. , Dzeladini Florin , Guertin Pierre A. , Ijspeert Auke
Published: March 2017

The ability of dedicated spinal circuits, referred to as central pattern generators (CPGs), to produce the basic rhythm and neural activation patterns underlying locomotion can be demonstrated under specific experimental conditions in reduced animal preparations. The existence of CPGs in humans is a matter of debate. Equally elusive is the contribution of CPGs to normal bipedal locomotion. To address these points, we focus on human studies that utilized spinal cord stimulation or pharmacological neuromodulation to generate rhythmic activity in individuals with spinal cord injury, and on neuromechanical modeling of human locomotion. In the absence of volitional motor control and step-specific sensory feedback, the human lumbar spinal cord can produce rhythmic muscle activation patterns that closely resemble CPG-induced neural activity of the isolated animal spinal cord. In this sense, CPGs in humans can be defined by the activity they produce. During normal locomotion, CPGs could contribute to the activation patterns during specific phases of the step cycle and simplify supraspinal control of step cycle frequency as a feedforward component to achieve a targeted speed. Determining how the human CPGs operate will be essential to advance the theory of neural control of locomotion and develop new locomotor neurorehabilitation paradigms.
Steady periodic response for a vibration system with distributed order derivatives to periodic excitation
Authors: Duan Jun-Sheng , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: March 2017

Steady-state periodic responses for a vibration system with distributed order derivatives are investigated, where the fractional derivative operator [Formula: see text] is utilized. The response to complex harmonic excitation is derived and the amplitude–frequency and phase–frequency relations are obtained. For a periodic excitation, we decompose it into the Fourier series, and then make use of the principle of superposition and the results of harmonic excitations to obtain the response. Finally, we examine three numerical examples by using the proposed method.
Linear models for thin plates of polymer gels
Authors: Paroni Roberto , Tomassetti Giuseppe
Published: March 2017

Within the linearized three-dimensional theory of polymer gels, we consider a sequence of problems formulated on a family of cylindrical domains whose height tends to zero. We assume that the fluid pressure is controlled at the top and bottom faces of the cylinder, and we consider two different scaling regimes for the diffusivity tensor. Through asymptotic-analysis techniques we obtain two plate models where the transverse displacement is governed by a plate equation with an extra contribution from the fluid pressure. In the limit obtained within the first scaling regime the fluid pressure is affine across the thickness and hence it is determined by its instantaneous trace on the top and bottom faces. In the second model, instead, the value of the fluid pressure is governed by a three-dimensional diffusion equation.
The Short-term Effects of the Kansas Income Tax Cuts on Employment Growth
Authors: Turner Tracy M. , Blagg Brandon
Published: March 2017

The state of Kansas made dramatic changes to the structure of its personal income tax by eliminating taxation of business income and lowering marginal tax rates on other personal income sources. Proponents of the legislation maintain that the tax reductions will stimulate employment growth. Using a difference-in-differences approach, we estimate the impact of the tax changes on private-sector employment in the state of Kansas, relative to its border states, using data on the number of establishment employees and proprietors. We apply multistate county fixed effect model and county-border matching approaches to identify tax effects. Our findings indicate that two years post enactment, the tax law changes have not yielded a net increase in private-sector employment.
Analysis of surface-erosion mechanism due to impacts of freely rotating angular particles using smoothed particle hydrodynamics erosion model
Authors: Dong Xiangwei , Li Zengliang , Zhang Qi , Zeng Wei , Liu G.R.
Published: March 2017

The free rotation of an angular particle during its impact on ductile surfaces is an important factor that influences the erosion mechanism. However, the phenomenon cannot be easily revealed experimentally because the incident conditions cannot be accurately controlled. In this study, a novel erosion model based on smoothed particle hydrodynamics method is proposed to simulate single and multiple impacts of particles with specified angularities on a ductile surface. The model can simulate a particle having free rotation during the impact process and initial rotation prior to the impact. The results show that the impact angle and initial orientation significantly affect the tumbling behavior, which determines the erosion mechanism. Moreover, the initial rotation is investigated by assigning an initial angular velocity to the particle at the onset of impact. The proposed smoothed particle hydrodynamics erosion model is proven to be a promising complementary method that supports experimental techniques. This study provides insight for understanding the fundamental mechanisms of surface erosion due to angular particles.
PACE team response shows a disregard for the principles of science
Authors: Edwards Jonathan
Published: March 2017

The PACE trial of cognitive behavioural therapy and graded exercise therapy for chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis has raised serious questions about research methodology. An editorial article by Geraghty gives a fair account of the problems involved, if anything understating the case. The response by White et al. fails to address the key design flaw, of an unblinded study with subjective outcome measures, apparently demonstrating a lack of understanding of basic trial design requirements. The failure of the academic community to recognise the weakness of trials of this type suggests that a major overhaul of quality control is needed.
Officer attitudes toward citizen review and professional accountability
Authors: Lee Heeuk D , Collins Peter A , Hsieh Ming-Li , Boateng Francis D , Brody David
Published: March 2017

The practice of citizen review has developed as one method for improving the accountability of law enforcement officers to the general public and to their respective criminal justice organizations. However, little information is available regarding officers’ general perceptions of the citizen review process, as well as the perceptions of those officers who have actually been subject to formal review. This study provides analysis of data collected via a survey of commissioned officers in a large metropolitan police department in the Pacific Northwest. Their attitudes and perceptions of their professional and civilian oversight board, the Offices of Professional Accountability (OPA), were measured, and this study found that police officers with a deeper understating of the OPA system were more willing to report misconduct. Also, police officers who possess higher satisfaction attitudes toward the OPA were more likely to report grievances to it.
Fear, anger and enthusiasm about the European Union: Effects of emotional reactions on public preferences towards European integration
Authors: Vasilopoulou Sofia , Wagner Markus
Published: March 2017

How do emotions affect public opinion on the European Union? This article advances existing literature that focuses on cue-taking, utilitarianism and identity by arguing that emotional reactions are important to understanding citizen attitudes towards the European Union. This is because discrete emotions such as fear, anger and enthusiasm affect how individuals deal with threats and how they seek out, process and use information. We hypothesise that, compared to anxious citizens, those angry with the European Union are more likely to wish to leave the European Union, less receptive to cost–benefit considerations, and less nuanced in their opinions about integration. Our analyses, carried out using a survey conducted in the UK in April 2015, support our hypotheses. These results help us predict the effectiveness of political strategies, e.g. in referendum campaigns.
A pedagogy for space: Visually framing the 2011 Chilean student movement
Authors: Wubbena Zane
Published: March 2017

The 2011 Chilean student protests were a powerful social movement aimed at transforming education and, with it, the social spaces and formations of daily life. This social movement was pedagogical because students transformed the city into a classroom to gain control over the production of space. In this vein, the student movement provided a catalyst for reconstituting public education as a universal social right. Based on the perspective of spatial educational theory, I conducted a visual framing analysis of three photographs taken during the 2011 Chilean student movement. I employed a four-tiered visual framing method. The three photographs were purposefully selected from different media sources to represent the three dimensions of spatial educational theory, including learning in conceived space, studying in lived space, and teaching in perceived space. In doing so, this article provides a novel way to explain spatial educational theory by visually operationalizing it as a pedagogy for space during the Chilean student movement. This article also works to broaden our conceptualization of student movements as pedagogical events for social transformation.
Disturbance observer–based control of flexible hypersonic flight vehicle
Authors: Ren Jianxin , Yang Daipeng
Published: March 2017

In this article, the disturbance observer–based control is designed for a flexible hypersonic flight vehicle with the external disturbance. The aircraft structure is easy to cause elastic vibration, thus leading to serious change in structural configuration or even disintegration. Therefore, the impact of elasticity modal for altitude subsystem is described as a system disturbance, and then, the equivalent model is established. On this basis, considering the model structure and composition of nonlinear systems, the disturbance observer is used to eliminate the information of the disturbance. Finally, the simulation results make an offer to show that the disturbance observer–based control can provide a good tracking performance.
The urgent need for health impact assessment: proposing a transdisciplinary approach to the e-waste crisis in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Tetteh Dinah , Lengel Lara
Published: March 2017

Electronic waste (e-waste) is a growing health and environmental concern in developing countries. In the sub-Saharan African region e-waste is considered a crisis with no end in sight yet; there is lack of structures and regulations to manage the problem. In this article, we discuss the potential of Health Impact Assessment (HIA) in addressing the health, environmental, and social impacts of e-waste in sub-Saharan Africa. We draw from environmental policy, environmental communication, global health policy, and health communication to argue that managing e-waste could be framed as ongoing HIA where all the steps of HIA are performed on a rolling basis with input from local communities. Further, we suggest that HIA should be infused into recycling legislation to help streamline the practice in order to make it safe for health and the environment and to maximize the economic benefits.
Freeze-drying storage method based on pectin for gold nanoparticles
Authors: Jauregui-Gomez Daniel , Bermejo-Gallardo Oscar M , Moreno-Medrano Edgar D , Perez-Garcia M Guadalupe , Ceja Israel , Soto Victor , Carvajal-Ramos Francisco , Gutierrez-Becerra Alberto
Published: March 2017

A cheap, reproducible, environmentally friendly, and biocompatible method for stabilizing and storing gold nanoparticles for prolonged time is presented. Adding a diluted pectin solution immediately after the synthesis of gold nanoparticles increases the stability of the aqueous nanoparticle dispersion, avoiding agglomeration and further precipitation, regardless of the initial size and shape of the nanoparticles. When the gold nanoparticles–pectin solution is freeze-dried, a sponge-like solid is obtained, improving significantly the pectin capacity to stabilize gold nanoparticles. Because the gold nanoparticles are immobilized into the freeze-dried pectin matrix, the size, size distribution, and shape remain unchanged, regardless of how long the solid is stored. The solid can be redispersed in water to obtain a solution that is able to maintain the stability of the gold nanoparticles, even for more than 20 weeks. This solution can be freeze-dried again, with no changes in the gold nanoparticles size. The proposed method is an alternative for stabilizing nanoparticles with no toxic agents, increasing significantly the storage time.
Resting state fMRI: A review on methods in resting state connectivity analysis and resting state networks
Authors: Smitha KA , Akhil Raja K , Arun KM , Rajesh PG , Thomas Bejoy , Kapilamoorthy TR , Kesavadas Chandrasekharan
Published: March 2017

The inquisitiveness about what happens in the brain has been there since the beginning of humankind. Functional magnetic resonance imaging is a prominent tool which helps in the non-invasive examination, localisation as well as lateralisation of brain functions such as language, memory, etc. In recent years, there is an apparent shift in the focus of neuroscience research to studies dealing with a brain at ‘resting state’. Here the spotlight is on the intrinsic activity within the brain, in the absence of any sensory or cognitive stimulus. The analyses of functional brain connectivity in the state of rest have revealed different resting state networks, which depict specific functions and varied spatial topology. However, different statistical methods have been introduced to study resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging connectivity, yet producing consistent results. In this article, we introduce the concept of resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging in detail, then discuss three most widely used methods for analysis, describe a few of the resting state networks featuring the brain regions, associated cognitive functions and clinical applications of resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging. This review aims to highlight the utility and importance of studying resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging connectivity, underlining its complementary nature to the task-based functional magnetic resonance imaging.
Is knee pain information on YouTube videos perceived to be helpful? An analysis of user comments and implications for dissemination on social media
Authors: Meldrum Sarah , Savarimuthu Bastin TR , Licorish Sherlock , Tahir Amjed , Bosu Michael , Jayakaran Prasath
Published: March 2017

Objective

There is little research that characterises knee pain related information disseminated via social media. However, variances in the content and quality of such sources could compromise optimal patient care. This study explored the nature of the comments on YouTube videos related to non-specific knee pain, to determine their helpfulness to the users.

Methods

A systematic search identified 900 videos related to knee pain on the YouTube database. A total of 3537 comments from 58 videos were included in the study. A categorisation scheme was developed and 1000 randomly selected comments were analysed according to this scheme.

Results

The most common category was the users providing personal information or describing a personal situation (19%), followed by appreciation or acknowledgement of others’ inputs (17%) and asking questions (15%). Of the questions, 33% were related to seeking help in relation to a specific situation. Over 10% of the comments contained negativity or disagreement; while 4.4% of comments reported they intended to pursue an action, based on the information presented in the video and/or from user comments.

Conclusion

It was observed that individuals commenting on YouTube videos on knee pain were most often soliciting advice and information specific to their condition. The analysis of comments from the most commented videos using a keyword-based search approach suggests that the YouTube videos can be used for disseminating general advice on knee pain.
The Pediatric/Adolescent Shoulder Survey (PASS): A Reliable Youth Questionnaire With Discriminant Validity and Responsiveness to Change
Authors: Edmonds Eric W. , Bastrom Tracey P. , Roocroft Joanna H. , Calandra-Young Valerie A. , Pennock Andrew T.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Health-related quality of life tools for shoulder pathology in adults have been developed, such as the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) or QuickDASH. However, some content is not applicable to or readily grasped by a younger population.

Purpose:

To evaluate the psychometric properties of a new 13-item pediatric/adolescent shoulder survey (PASS).

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

An initial development cohort of children was given the PASS, QuickDASH, and single assessment numeric evaluation (SANE) in a prospective fashion. Internal reliability and concurrent validity were evaluated. Subsequent to this, the PASS, along with the QuickDASH, was incorporated into routine clinical evaluation of shoulder injuries. The secondary cohort was established via a retrospective review of patients (age <18 years) evaluated in our sports clinics for shoulder complaints. Discriminant validity and floor/ceiling effects were evaluated. A subset of patients with scores available both pre- and within 6 months postoperatively was analyzed to assess responsiveness to treatment.

Results:

Overall internal reliability of the shoulder survey was good in the development cohort of 127 patients, with Cronbach α = 0.86. Total score averaged 59.7% ± 17.9% in this cohort (range, 18.75%-100%). Significant correlations between all surveys were observed ( r = 0.51-0.79, P < .05). A total of 127 surveys were available for the secondary cohort. The QuickDASH demonstrated significant differences between sexes with regard to scores ( P < .05). Both tools were able to discriminate between patients with acute injuries and diminished clinical examinations ( P < .05). A significant correlation was observed between duration of symptoms and scores on the PASS. The subset of 25 patients with pre- and postoperative data showed significant change in total score and the symptoms/limitations domain of the PASS, with significant correlation with length of time since surgery.

Conclusion:

This 13-question pediatric/adolescent-focused shoulder survey shows excellent psychometric properties, good discriminant ability, and early evidence of responsiveness to change, especially when compared with an adult-formatted questionnaire.