bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Random walk with restart on multiplex and heterogeneous biological networks
Authors: Valdeolivas Alberto , Tichit Laurent , Navarro Claire , Perrin Sophie , Odelin Gaëlle , Levy Nicolas , Cau Pierre , Remy Elisabeth , Baudot Anaïs
Published: July 2018

Motivation

Recent years have witnessed an exponential growth in the number of identified interactions between biological molecules. These interactions are usually represented as large and complex networks, calling for the development of appropriated tools to exploit the functional information they contain. Random walk with restart (RWR) is the state-of-the-art guilt-by-association approach. It explores the network vicinity of gene/protein seeds to study their functions, based on the premise that nodes related to similar functions tend to lie close to each other in the networks.

Results

In this study, we extended the RWR algorithm to multiplex and heterogeneous networks. The walk can now explore different layers of physical and functional interactions between genes and proteins, such as protein–protein interactions and co-expression associations. In addition, the walk can also jump to a network containing different sets of edges and nodes, such as phenotype similarities between diseases. We devised a leave-one-out cross-validation strategy to evaluate the algorithms abilities to predict disease-associated genes. We demonstrate the increased performances of the multiplex-heterogeneous RWR as compared to several random walks on monoplex or heterogeneous networks. Overall, our framework is able to leverage the different interaction sources to outperform current approaches. Finally, we applied the algorithm to predict candidate genes for the Wiedemann–Rautenstrauch syndrome, and to explore the network vicinity of the SHORT syndrome.

Availability and implementation

The source code is available on GitHub at: https://github.com/alberto-valdeolivas/RWR-MH. In addition, an R package is freely available through Bioconductor at: http://bioconductor.org/packages/RandomWalkRestartMH/.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Translating the Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders Clinical Trial to Older Adults in a Real-World Community-Based Setting
Authors: Reid Kieran F , Laussen Jonathan , Bhatia Karan , Englund Davis A , Kirn Dylan R , Price Lori Lyn , Manini Todd M , Liu Christine K , Kowaleski Christopher , Fielding Roger A
Published: July 2018

Background

The Lifestyle Interventions and Independence for Elders (LIFE) clinical trial demonstrated that a structured program of physical activity (PA) reduced mobility-disability in older adults by up to 28%. It remains unknown whether the benefits of LIFE PA can be translated to older adults at risk for mobility-disability in real-world community-based settings. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted the ENhancing independence using Group-based community interventions for healthy AGing in Elders (ENGAGE) pilot study and examined the safety, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness of translating LIFE PA to a community-based senior center.

Methods

Forty older adults with severe lower extremity functional limitations (age: 76.9 ± 7.3 years; body mass index: 32.7 ± 8 kg/m2; 85% female; short physical performance battery score: 6.3 ± 2.2) were randomized to 24 weeks of PA or a health education control intervention.

Results

Community-based PA was safe (serious adverse events: PA vs health education, 0:2; nonserious adverse events: PA vs health education, 3:1) and participants successfully adhered to the PA intervention (65.2%). Compared to health education, PA participants who attended ≥25% of scheduled visits had meaningful and sustained short physical performance battery improvements at follow-up (between group short physical performance battery score differences: ~0.7 units).

Conclusions

ENGAGE has demonstrated the preliminary safety, feasibility, and effectiveness of LIFE PA in a real-world community-based setting. Larger-scale translational studies are needed to further disseminate the benefits of LIFE PA to vulnerable older adults in a variety of community-based settings.
Introduction
Authors: Chadi Nicholas , Levy Sharon , Radhakrishnan Rajiv , Ranganathan Mohini , Weiner Aaron S. B.
Published: July 2018

Marijuana policies and the plant itself have been changing in recent years. With respect to polices, many regions internationally now have decriminalization policies, and, as is the case in the United States, many states have legalized it for either medical or recreational purposes. The marijuana product itself is now characterized by increased potency and varying forms of administration, including food products. These shifts have placed renewed emphasis on the possible harms and medical value of marijuana. This book provides a summary of up-to-date research on marijuana and should serve as a bellwether volume pertaining to prevention, treatment, and policy development regarding this complex drug.
Clinical Characteristics of Cannabis Use Disorder
Authors: Chung Tammy A. , Winters Ken C.
Published: July 2018

This chapter reviews the signs and symptoms of cannabis use disorder (CUD). Core clinical characteristics of addiction as reflected by the fourth and fifth editions of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) apply to cannabis, although certain substance use disorder symptoms are less salient to cannabis relative to other substances. The chapter addresses cannabis use prevalence, onset and progression of cannabis use, and heterogeneity in the course of cannabis use. The core features of addiction and the DSM CUD diagnosis are described with reference to the prevalence of CUD based on the fourth edition of the DSM, differences between the fourth and fifth editions for the criteria for diagnosis, and DSM-based cannabis symptoms. The course of CUD and remission and recovery from CUD are also addressed. The chapter closes with a discussion of research and treatment gaps.
Impact of Marijuana Smoking on Lung Health
Authors: Tashkin Donald P.
Published: July 2018

This chapter reviews the literature pertaining to the concern that regular smoking of marijuana contributes to the well-known respiratory consequences of regular tobacco smoking, including, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory cancer. Whereas regular marijuana smoking is associated with symptoms of acute and chronic bronchitis and evidence of microscopic injury to the cells lining the central airways, the majority of community- or population-based studies in regular smokers of marijuana have not found evidence of clinically significant impairment in lung function in comparison with nonsmokers that would be consistent with COPD. However, very few studies have been conducted in older marijuana smokers in the age range when COPD is generally diagnosed, and few longitudinal studies of change in lung function over time have been carried out in smokers of marijuana. Therefore, firm conclusions regarding the potential risks of marijuana for the development of COPD must await additional studies.
What Is the Evidence of Marijuana as Medicine?
Authors: Sabet Kevin A. , Atkinson David , Sabet Shayda M.
Published: July 2018

Marijuana as medicine is a controversial and often distorted topic. Medical marijuana in the United States has bypassed the standard process of scientific investigation that is required to determine approval of medicine and has created a political controversy among the American public and in the scientific community. This chapter discusses the science where the heart of the controversy lays—at the question of whether marijuana’s potential benefits outweigh its potential harms. We review the history of marijuana’s development as a medicine and summarize the impacts of medical marijuana laws in the United States and the challenges associated with doing so. We conclude that some benefits of marijuana’s core elements—tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol—are supported by a handful of controlled clinical trials for a very limited number of health problems.
Chronic Pain in Adults
Authors: Hadjistavropoulos Thomas , Gallant Natasha L. , Gagnon Michelle M.
Published: July 2018

Pain is widely regarded as a psychological experience that incorporates both physical and emotional components. It is well-documented that pain can be influenced by social, psychological as well as biological factors. The chapter focuses on the assessment of pain in adults. It begins with a discussion of pain and its communication followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed to inform (a) diagnosis, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations for the selection of specific instruments are also included.
Session 14: Reviewing Progress and Saying Goodbye
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 17 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the fourteenth (and last) session of family-based interpersonal therapy (FB-IPT), in which the preadolescent reviews with the therapist the ways in which the preadolescent has implemented new communication and problem-solving skills and how these skills could help in future situations. The therapist provides the preteen with the opportunity to explore his feelings about therapy termination. Together they review the preadolescent’s early warning signs and contract with the parent to regularly check-in with child after treatment ends. The therapist acknowledges the parent’s role in treatment and gives parent an opportunity to share her own feelings about ending therapy. Lastly, the therapist expresses appreciation to the parent-child dyad for their hard work. The therapist shares with the family that they may contact her at any time in the future with questions or concerns.
Working Channel Endoscopic Interlaminar Microdiscectomy: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Kolcun John Paul G , Wang Michael Y
Published: July 2018

This video demonstrates a working channel interlaminar microdiscectomy performed in a patient with significant back and leg pain due to a persistent disc herniation. We describe this technique in detail, describing the endoscopic anatomy and illustrating key steps to safely perform this operation. Due to the limited soft tissue destruction required to access the disc space with this approach, the patient was able to leave the hospital on the day of surgery, and required no pain medication by short-term follow-up a few weeks postoperatively.

All procedures performed in studies involving human participants were in accordance with the ethical standards of the institutional and/or national research committee and with the 1964 Helsinki declaration and its later amendments or comparable ethical standards.

The patient gave direct consent for the use of the endoscopic footage and associated information from this surgery for the making of this video.
Randomized factorial experiment of components of the SmokeFree Baby smartphone application to aid smoking cessation in pregnancy
Authors: Tombor Ildiko , Beard Emma , Brown Jamie , Shahab Lion , Michie Susan , West Robert
Published: July 2018

Smartphone applications (apps) might be able to reach pregnant smokers who do not engage with face-to-face support. However, we do not know how far pregnant smokers will engage with smoking cessation apps or what components are likely to be effective. This study aimed to assess pregnant smokers’ engagement with the SmokeFree Baby app (v1) and to assess the short-term efficacy of selected components (“modules”) for smoking abstinence. Positive outcomes would provide a basis for further development and evaluation. SmokeFree Baby was developed drawing on behavior change theories and relevant evidence. Pregnant smokers (18+) who were interested in quitting and set a quit date were recruited. Following multiphase optimization development principles, participants (N = 565) were randomly allocated to one of 32 (2 × 2 × 2 × 2 × 2) experimental groups in a full factorial design to evaluate five modules (each in minimal and full version: identity, health information, stress management, face-to-face support, and behavioral substitution). Measures of engagement included duration and frequency of engagement with the app. Smoking abstinence was measured by self-reported number of smoke-free days up to 4 weeks from the quit date. Participants engaged with the app for a mean of 4.5 days (SD = 8.5) and logged in a mean of 2.9 times (SD = 3.1). Main effects of the modules on the number of smoke-free days were not statistically significant (identity: p = .782, health information: p = .905, stress management: p = .103, face-to-face support: p = .397, behavioral substitution: p = .945). Despite systematic development and usability testing, engagement with SmokeFree Baby (v1) was low and the app did not appear to increase smoking abstinence during pregnancy.
Evaluation of a Barcode Medication Administration Information System
Authors: Lin Jen-Chun , Lee Ting-Ting , Mills Mary Etta
Published: July 2018

When a medication administration error occurs, patient safety is endangered. Barcode medication administration system usage has been implemented to reduce medication errors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate barcode medication administration system usage outcomes. A survey based on DeLone and McLean's model of information systems success was utilized. The questionnaire, composed of 27 items, explored system quality, information quality, service quality, user satisfaction, and usage benefits. It was completed by 232 nurses. User satisfaction received the highest average score, and quality of information was the most critical factor related to this result (r = 0.83, P < .01). Medication errors occurring before and after barcode medication administration use were collected, and the reasons for errors related to work process were explored. Medication errors decreased from 405 at preimplementation to 314 at postimplementation (t = 77.62, P < .001). The main reason for medication errors related to work process was “not following the standard procedure,” followed by “other factors.” While technology is deployed to support individual practice, organizational elements also remain important to technology adoption.
AFLIBERCEPT FOR PERSISTENT DIABETIC MACULAR EDEMA
Authors: Bahrami Bobak , Hong Thomas , Schlub Timothy E. , Chang Andrew A.
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To evaluate functional and anatomical outcomes after a switch from intravitreal bevacizumab to aflibercept in patients with persistent diabetic macular edema.

Methods:

Prospective, single-arm, open-label clinical trial of patients with persistent diabetic macular edema, despite previous treatment with bevacizumab. Five loading doses of intravitreal aflibercept were administered every 4 weeks with subsequent injections administered every 8 weeks. Patients were reviewed every 4 weeks, and best-corrected visual acuity and central macular thickness were recorded. Primary outcome measures included change in central macular thickness and best-corrected visual acuity at week 48 compared with baseline. Paired t-tests were used to assess change between baseline and follow-up visits.

Results:

At baseline, 43 eyes from 43 patients were recruited with a median (interquartile range) of 12 (7–24) previous intravitreal anti–vascular endothelial growth factor injections over a period of 18 (8–34) months. Mean ± SD central macular thickness reduced by 59 ± 114 μm (P = 0.002), and best-corrected visual acuity improved by 3.9 ± 7.0 letters (P = 0.001) after 48 weeks in the 41 patients who completed the trial. Best-corrected visual acuity improvements were more marked in patients who gained ≥5 letters after the first injection (8.9 ± 5.7 vs. 1.8 ± 6.5 letter gain at 48 weeks, P = 0.002), a difference which remained significant after regression analysis with baseline best-corrected visual acuity . Vision gains and central macular thickness reduction were similar in 9 fellow eyes eligible for inclusion being concurrently treated for diabetic macular edema with bevacizumab.

Conclusion:

Intravitreal aflibercept was effective in improving anatomical and visual outcomes among patients with an incomplete response to intravitreal bevacizumab with 48 weeks of follow-up. Patients with a good early response subsequent to switching had a better improvement in vision at 48 weeks.
ANATOMICAL AND FUNCTIONAL TESTING IN DIABETIC PATIENTS WITHOUT RETINOPATHY
Authors: Meshi Amit , Chen Kevin C. , You Qi Sheng , Dans Kunny , Lin Tiezhu , Bartsch Dirk-Uwe , Cheng Lingyun , Amador-Patarroyo Manuel J. , Muftuoglu Ilkay Kilic , Gomez Maria L. , Nudleman Eric , Freeman William R.
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To assess early retinal microvascular and functional changes in diabetic patients without clinical evidence of diabetic retinopathy with optical coherence tomography angiography and central visual analyzer.

Methods:

This was an observational case–control study of diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy and nondiabetic controls. Patients underwent optical coherence tomography angiography imaging and visual acuity testing using the central visual analyzer. The foveal avascular zone area and the capillary density in the superficial and deep capillary plexuses were measured manually by a masked grader.

Results:

Sixty eyes from 35 diabetic patients were included in the study group, and 45 eyes from 31 nondiabetic patients were included in the control group. The foveal avascular zone area was not significantly different between the diabetic group and controls (both P > 0.05). The mean capillary density in the deep capillary plexus was significantly lower in diabetic eyes compared with control eyes (P = 0.04). The mean visual acuity in all central visual analyzer modules was significantly decreased in diabetic patients compared with controls (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Optical coherence tomography angiography was able to detect retinal microvascular changes in the deep capillary plexus, and the central visual analyzer showed signs of decreased visual acuity under conditions simulating suboptimal contrast and glare in diabetic patients without diabetic retinopathy.
TRANSCORNEAL SUTURELESS SILICONE OIL REMOVAL USING 23-GAUGE TROCAR SYSTEM IN APHAKIA
Authors: Sayman Muslubas Isil , Hocaoglu Mumin , Ersoz Mehmet Giray , Arf Serra , Karacorlu Murat
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To describe transcorneal sutureless silicone oil removal using 23-gauge trocars as an alternative surgical technique in an aphakic eye.

Methods:

We retrospectively evaluated the management of a 50-year-old male patient who had a history of bilateral congenital cataract removal at the age of 5 and developed rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. A 3-port 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy, removal of the vitreous up to the vitreous base, 60° temporal retinotomy, and anterior flap retinectomy were performed. Silicone oil (1,000 cSt) was selected as a tamponading agent. The patients underwent active silicone oil removal at subsequent surgery 2 months after the initial vitrectomy.

Results:

The silicone oil was successfully extracted from the aphakic eye by using transcorneal 23-gauge trocars. No suture was needed at the corneal wound sites. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications.

Conclusion:

Transcorneal silicone oil removal using 23-gauge trocars can be performed easily with today's modern vitreoretinal surgery systems as an alternative treatment modality.
MULTIMODAL IMAGING IN DIDANOSINE RETINOPATHY
Authors: Shifera Amde Selassie , Singh Mandeep
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To present the multimodal retinal imaging findings in didanosine retinopathy in a patient who presented 6.5 years after stopping the use of didanosine and to highlight the absence of progression during a 1.5-year follow-up.

Methods:

Case report involving clinical examination, fundus photography, fundus autofluorescence, fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, Goldmann kinetic perimetry, and full-field electroretinography.

Results:

A 52-year-old patient presented with bilateral retinopathy 6.5 years after stopping didanosine having used the medication for 8.5 years. Fundus examination showed a ring-shaped zone of atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium involving the midperiphery. On autofluorescence imaging, there was diffuse hypoautofluorescence involving the midperipheral retina in both eyes. On fluorescein angiography, there was a granular mottled pattern of diffuse hyperfluorescence in the midperiphery in both eyes, with baring of the large choroidal vessels in some areas. On Goldmann kinetic perimetry, both eyes showed marked constriction of the isopter to the I4e stimulus, and there was a temporal scotoma to the III4e target in both eyes. Full-field electroretinography showed generalized rod and cone photoreceptor dysfunction in both eyes. During a follow-up for 1.5 years, there was no evidence of progression.

Conclusion:

Patients who have used didanosine should be evaluated for the presence of retinopathy, which involves the midperipheral retina.
Long-term pain relief in canine osteoarthritis by a single intra-articular injection of resiniferatoxin, a potent TRPV1 agonist
Authors: Iadarola Michael J. , Sapio Matthew R. , Raithel Stephen J. , Mannes Andrew J. , Brown Dorothy Cimino
Published: July 2018

The translational potential of analgesic approaches emerging from basic research can be augmented by client-owned dog trials. We report on a peripheral interventional approach that uses intra-articular injection of the ultrapotent TRPV1 agonist resiniferatoxin (RTX) to produce a selective long-term chemoinactivation of nociceptive primary afferent nerve endings for pain control in naturally occurring canine osteoarthritis. A single injection of 10 µg of RTX, produced suppression of pain, improvement in gait, weight bearing, and improvement in the dog's activities of daily living lasting 4 months or longer. Two to 3 years after the injection, there are no alterations to suggest that removal of inflammatory pain caused accelerated joint degeneration (Charcot joint) in any of the dogs. To amplify the effective use of canine subjects in translational analgesia research, we report a high-quality canine dorsal root ganglion transcriptome. Some targets for analgesia are highly conserved both in protein sequence and level of expression within a target tissue while others diverge substantially from the human. This knowledge is especially important for development of analgesics aimed at peripheral molecular targets and provides a template for informed translational research. The peripheral site of action, long duration of analgesia, apparent safety, and retention of coordination, all resulting from a single dose suggest that intra-articular RTX may be an effective intervention for osteoarthritis pain with few or no side effects and lead to an improved quality of life.
Prevention of hospital-acquired pneumonia
Authors: Lyons Patrick G. , Kollef Marin H.
Published: July 2018

Purpose of review

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is the leading cause of death from hospital-acquired infection. Little work has been done on strategies for prevention of HAP. This review aims to describe potential HAP prevention strategies and the evidence supporting them. Oral care and aspiration precautions may attenuate some risk for HAP. Oral and digestive decontamination with antibiotics may be effective but could increase risk for resistant organisms. Other preventive measures, including isolation practices, remain theoretical or experimental.

Recent findings

Hospital-acquired pneumonia occurs because of pharyngeal colonization with pathogenic organisms and subsequent aspiration of these pathogens.

Most potential HAP prevention strategies remain unproven.
Development and Validity of the Nursing Care Scale and Nurse’s Difficulty Scale in Caring for Dying Patients With Cancer and Their Families in General Hospitals in Japan
Authors: Kanno Yusuke , Sato Kazuki , Shimizu Megumi , Funamizu Yuko , Andoh Hideaki , Kishino Megumi , Senaga Tomomi , Takahashi Tetsu , Miyashita Mitsunori
Published: July 2018

This study develops and examines the validity and reliability of 2 scales, respectively, for evaluating nursing care and the experience of difficulties providing nursing care for dying patients with cancer and their families. A cross-sectional anonymous questionnaire was administered to nursing staff caring for dying patients with cancer and their families in 4 general hospitals and a university hospital in Japan. The instruments assessed were the Nursing Care Scale for Dying Patients and Their Families (NCD) and the Nurse’s Difficulty Scale for Dying Patients and Their Families (NDD). Of the 497 questionnaires sent to nurses, 401 responses (80%) were analyzed. Factor analyses revealed that the NCD and NDD consisted of 12 items with 4 subscales: “symptom management,” “reassessment of current treatment and nursing care,” “explanation to family,” and “respect for the patient and family’s dignity before and after death.” These scales had sufficient convergent and discriminative validity, sufficient internal consistency (αof subscales: NCD, 0.71-0.87; NDD, 0.74-0.93), and sufficient test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient of subscales: NCD, 0.59-0.81; NDD, 0.67-0.82) to be used as self-assessments and evaluation tools in education programs to improve the quality of nursing care for the dying patients and their families.
Combining Cognitive Rehearsal, Simulation, and Evidence-Based Scripting to Address Incivility
Authors: Clark Cynthia M.
Published: July 2018

Background

Nurses have a professional and ethical obligation to foster civility and healthy work environments to protect patient safety. Evidence-based teaching strategies are needed to prepare nursing students to address acts of incivility that threaten patient safety.

Problem

Incivility in health care must be effectively addressed because the delivery of safe patient care may depend on these vital skills.

Approach

Cognitive rehearsal (CR) is an evidence-based technique where learners practice addressing workplace incivility in a nonthreatening environment with a skilled facilitator. The author describes the unique combination of CR, simulation, evidence-based scripting, deliberate practice, and debriefing to prepare nursing students to address uncivil encounters.

Outcomes

Learners who participated in CR identified benefits using this approach.

Conclusions

Combining CR with simulation, evidence-based scripting, repeated dosing through deliberate practice, and skillful debriefing is an effective method to provide nursing students with the skills needed to address incivility, thereby increasing the likelihood of protecting patient safety.
Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Functioning After In Utero Exposure to Triple-NRTI vs. Dual-NRTI + PI ART in a Randomized Trial, Botswana
Authors: Kacanek Deborah , Williams Paige L. , Mayondi Gloria , Holding Penny , Leidner Jean , Moabi Kebaiphe , Tepper Vicki , Nichols Sharon , Makhema Joseph , Jibril Haruna , Madidimalo Tebogo , Shapiro Roger , Lockman Shahin , Kammerer Betsy
Published: July 2018

Background:

In utero exposure to nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI)-containing antiretroviral treatment (ART) regimens may be associated with poor neurodevelopmental functioning in children of HIV-infected mothers. We investigated neurodevelopmental outcomes of HIV-exposed uninfected (HEU) children of HIV-infected women enrolled in a randomized trial of abacavir/zidovudine/lamivudine (triple-NRTI regimen) vs. lopinavir/ritonavir/zidovudine/lamivudine [dual-NRTI + protease inhibitor (PI) regimen].

Setting:

The Mma Bana randomized trial was conducted in urban and rural sites in Botswana.

Methods:

The Mma Bana study randomized HIV-infected pregnant women with CD4 ≥200 cells per mm3 to a triple-NRTI vs. dual-NRTI + PI regimen from 26- to 34-week gestation through planned weaning at 6-month postpartum. Partway through the study, neurodevelopmental assessments were added at 24 months of age, including the Developmental Milestones Checklist, the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development third edition, Ten Questions Questionnaire, and Profile of Social Emotional Development. We evaluated differences in mean scores between the 2 arms using unadjusted and adjusted linear regression.

Results:

A total of 197 HEU infants (48% male) completed a neurodevelopmental assessment (101 in triple-NRTI arm and 96 in dual-NRTI + PI-exposed arm). Mean values for all neurodevelopmental outcomes were similar for children of mothers randomized to either ART regimen, with no significant differences in either unadjusted or adjusted models (estimated effect sizes ranging from −0.12 to 0.14).

Conclusions:

Neurodevelopmental outcomes in 24-month-old HEU children of HIV-infected mothers with baseline CD4 ≥200 were similar in those randomized to a dual-NRTI + PI–based vs. a triple-NRTI–based ART regimen, suggestive of lack of short-term toxicity. Monitoring of long-term toxicity and newer regimens is warranted.
Whole-Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Oncology Setting: An Overview and Update on Recent Advances
Authors: Bezerra Regis Otaviano França , Recchimuzzi Débora Zachello , dos Santos Mota Micaela Maciel , Garcia Marcio Ricardo Taveira , de Menezes Marcos Roberto , Mazo Paulo Eduardo , Cerri Giovanni Guido
Published: July 2018

Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging is becoming an important tool in oncology as a nonirradiating imaging technique since recent technological advances allowed the incorporation of high-quality imaging in an adequate time. Moreover, the noninjection of radioisotope/intravenous contrast, low cost compared with traditional nuclear medicine techniques, and fast acquisition times are another distinct feature. Thus, the purpose of this article is to review the whole-body magnetic resonance imaging protocol and its main applications in the oncology setting.
99mTc Sodium Pertechnetate Uptake in Ectopic Mediastinal Thyroid Tissue on Hybrid Thyroid Scintigraphy
Authors: Siddique Maimoona , Bashir Humayun
Published: July 2018

Ectopic thyroid is a rare/incidental imaging finding. When discovered, 90% of ectopic thyroid is found typically along the pathway of embryologic migration of thyroid tissue, whereas around 10% have been discovered in other anatomical locations including the mediastinum and the heart. Thyroid scintigraphy with 99mTc sodium pertechnetate (TcO4) is peculiar for thyroid tissue uptake. The current case, clinically euthyroid, had heterogeneous uptake in multinodular goiter with uptake in the ectopic thyroid tissue in right paratracheal location on functional imaging with TcO4. Subsequent single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) imaging confirmed the ectopic thyroid tissue.
Recurrent/Residual Intracranial Phosphaturic Mesenchymal Tumor Revealed on 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT
Authors: Ding Jie , Wang Ling , Zhang Shu , Li Fang , Huo Li
Published: July 2018

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumors are benign tumors causing majority of tumor-induced osteomalacia. These tumors are most commonly located in the lower extremities followed by craniofacial regions. However, intracranial lesion is very rare. Here we describe 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT findings of a recurrent intracranial phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor in a 68 year old woman.
Normal Patterns of Nasometric Values in Adult Jordanian Speakers of Arabic
Authors: Khwaileh Fadwa A. , Alfwaress Firas S.D.
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

The study sought to establish normative nasometric values for adult Jordanian speakers of Arabic. Gender-related differences and intraspeaker variability of nasalance scores were investigated.

Methods:

A total of 113 adult speakers of Jordanian Arabic (56 men and 57 women) without speech-language and hearing impairments or craniofacial anomalies ranging in age between 18 and 55 participated in the study. Nasometer II, Model 6400 was used to obtain nasalance scores as speakers produced 3 recitations for each of the 3 standardized passages consisting of an oral passage, an oronasal passage, and nasal sentences. Descriptive statistics of nasalance scores for each passage were obtained and gender-related differences were determined by ANOVA. Standard deviation for the 3 repetitions for each passage was considered an index for intraspeaker variability.

Results:

Average nasalance for each passage was (11.23%) for the oral passage, (25.48%) for the oronasal passage, and (51.92%) for the nasal sentence. There was no gender effect on nasalance on the oral passage, however women exhibited higher nasalance scores than men on the both oronasal passage (P = 0.002) and nasal sentences (P = 0.017). Intraspeaker variability for all speakers fell below 4.5% with repeated readings.

Conclusion:

The study provides normative nasometric data for Arabic speaking Jordanian adults to serve as references for the assessment of velopharyngeal dysfunction in craniofacial clinics. Arabic speakers demonstrated different nasalance scores than speakers of other languages. Gender differences can be attributed to variations in anatomical structure and velopharyngeal function between men and women.
The integrated motivational–volitional model of suicidal behaviour
Authors: O'Connor Rory C. , Kirtley Olivia J.
Published: July 2018

Suicide is a major public health concern accounting for 800 000 deaths globally each year. Although there have been many advances in understanding suicide risk in recent decades, our ability to predict suicide is no better now than it was 50 years ago. There are many potential explanations for this lack of progress, but the absence, until recently, of comprehensive theoretical models that predict the emergence of suicidal ideation distinct from the transition between suicidal ideation and suicide attempts/suicide is key to this lack of progress. The current article presents the integrated motivational–volitional (IMV) model of suicidal behaviour, one such theoretical model. We propose that defeat and entrapment drive the emergence of suicidal ideation and that a group of factors, entitled volitional moderators (VMs), govern the transition from suicidal ideation to suicidal behaviour. According to the IMV model, VMs include access to the means of suicide, exposure to suicidal behaviour, capability for suicide (fearlessness about death and increased physical pain tolerance), planning, impulsivity, mental imagery and past suicidal behaviour. In this article, we describe the theoretical origins of the IMV model, the key premises underpinning the model, empirical tests of the model and future research directions.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Evolutionary thanatology: impacts of the dead on the living in humans and other animals'.
Seeing versus Knowing: The Temporal Dynamics of Real and Implied Colour Processing in the Human Brain
Authors: Teichmann Lina , Grootswagers Tijl , Carlson Thomas , Rich Anina N.
Published: July 2018

Colour is a defining feature of many objects, playing a crucial role in our ability to rapidly recognise things in the world around us and make categorical distinctions. For example, colour is a useful cue when distinguishing lemons from limes or blackberries from raspberries. That means our representation of many objects includes key colour-related information. The question addressed here is whether the neural representation activated byknowingthat something is red is the same as that activated when weactually seesomething red, particularly in regard to timing. We addressed this question using neural timeseries (magnetoencephalography, MEG) data to contrast real colour perception and implied object colour activation. We applied multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) to analyse the brain activationpatternsevoked by colour accessed via real colour perception and implied colour activation. Applying MVPA to MEG data allows us here to focus on the temporal dynamics of these processes. Male and female human participants (N=18) viewed isoluminant red and green shapes and grey-scale, luminance-matched pictures of fruits and vegetables that are red (e.g., tomato) or green (e.g., kiwifruit) in nature. We show that the brain activation pattern evoked by real colour perception is similar to implied colour activation, but that this pattern is instantiated at a later time. These results suggest that a common colour representation can be triggered by activating object representations from memory and perceiving colours.
Cell-type specific D1 dopamine receptor modulation of projection neurons and interneurons in the prefrontal cortex
Authors: Anastasiades Paul G. , Boada Christina , Carter Adam G.
Published: July 2018

Dopamine modulation in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) mediates diverse effects on neuronal physiology and function, but the expression of dopamine receptors at sub-populations of pyramidal neurons and interneurons remains unresolved. Here, we examine D1 receptor expression and modulation at specific cell types and layers in the mouse prelimbic PFC. We first show that D1 receptors are enriched in pyramidal neurons in both layers 5 and 6, and that these cells project intra-telencephalically, rather than to sub-cortical structures. We then find that D1 receptors are also present in interneurons, and enriched in VIP+ interneurons that co-expresses calretinin, but absent from PV+ and SOM+ interneurons. Finally, we determine that D1 receptors strongly and selectively enhance action potential firing in only a subset of these cortico-cortical neurons and VIP+ interneurons. Our findings define several novel sub-populations of D1+ neurons, highlighting how modulation via D1 receptors can influence both excitatory and disinhibitory micro-circuits in the PFC.
Parallel mediation model of social capital, learning and the adoption of best crop management practices
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Ahmad Malik Imran
Published: July 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of social capital on the adoption of best crop management practices and testified the mediatory role of learning in the relationship between social capital and the adoption of best crop management practices. Then the authors examined the role of education as the moderator of the interrelations between social capital, learning and the adoption of crop management practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a survey of 317 small farmers from three districts of Southern Punjab, the authors used structural equation modeling and bootstrapping to test these relationships.

Findings

The study confirms that bonding social capital and bridging social capital are positively related to the adoption of best crop management practices. Moreover, the authors empirically demonstrate that exploitative and explorative learning act as the parallel mediators between social capital and the adoption of best crop management practices.

Practical implications

By focusing on building social capital and maintaining meaningful interactions with the social networks, the small farmers can improve their existing methods and practices of managing the existing varieties of crops.

Originality/value

The extant literature has highlighted, but usually not explored, the imperative interrelations between social capital, learning and the adoption of best crop management practices. The authors provide empirical evidence about these relationships.
Task constrained motion planning for 7-degree of freedom manipulators with parameterized submanifolds
Authors: Qiu Qiang , Cao Qixin
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to use the redundancy of a 7-DOF (degree of freedom) serial manipulator to solve motion planning problems along a given 6D Cartesian tool path, in the presence of geometric constraints, namely, obstacles and joint limits.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes an explicit expression of the task submanifolds for a 7-DOF redundant robot, and the submanifolds can be parameterized by two parameters with this explicit expression. Therefore, the global search method can find the feasible path on this parameterized graph.

Findings

The proposed planning algorithm is resolution complete and resolution optimal for 7-DOF manipulators, and the planned path can satisfy task constraint as well as avoiding singularity and collision. The experiments on Motoman SDA robot are reported to show the effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

This algorithm is still time-consuming, and it can be improved by applying parallel collision detection method or lazy collision detection, adopting new constraints and implementing more effective graph search algorithms.

Originality/value

Compared with other task constrained planning methods, the proposed algorithm archives better performance. This method finds the explicit expression of the two-dimensional task sub-manifolds, so it’s resolution complete and resolution optimal.
The Product Service System Lean Design Methodology (PSSLDM)
Authors: Pezzotta Giuditta , Sassanelli Claudio , Pirola Fabiana , Sala Roberto , Rossi Monica , Fotia Sophia , Koutoupes Angelos , Terzi Sergio , Mourtzis Dimitris
Published: July 2018

Purpose

Nowadays manufacturers companies are increasingly compelled to navigate towards servitization. Different methods and approaches were proposed in literature to support them to switch from traditional product-based business model to product service systems (PSSs). However, new knowledge, capabilities and skills were needed to consistently develop PSSs, since they need a joint focus on both customer’s perspective and company’s internal performance and at the same time a proper support for the integration of product and service design. The purpose of this paper is to propose the Product Service System Lean Design Methodology (PSSLDM), a structured methodology to develop PSSs along their entire lifecycle.

Design/methodology/approach

Retrieving concepts from interpretative, interactive and system development research traditions, and strongly reminding the design research methodology framework, the adopted research methodology is composed of three main phases (observation and conceptualization, theory building and tool development, validation) and involved three heterogeneous companies.

Findings

This paper provides an overview of the PSSLDM, explaining how the different methods supporting its conduction should contribute to properly design an integrated PSS. Moreover, companies highlighted several benefits in the different stages along the PSS lifecycle deriving by the adoption of the PSSLDM.

Research limitations/implications

The development of a platform based on the PSSLDM methodology raises a discussion on the possible changes needed by current Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) models and systems when they have to do with PSSs.

Originality/value

The PSSLDM enriches the already proposed SErvice Engineering Methodology, introducing new several components linked by lean rules in each of its phases (starting from customer analysis, going through solution concept and detailed design, until the offering analysis) and better supprting the deatil design of both prodcut and service components.
Reproductive medicine: still more ART than science?
Authors: Wilkinson J , Bhattacharya S , Duffy JMN , Kamath MS , Marjoribanks J , Repping S , Vail A , van Wely M , Farquhar CM
Published: July 2018

This article includes Author Insights, a video abstract available at https://vimeo.com/rcog/authorinsights15409
New Fellows Early Career Survey 2014–2017: Shift of trends in emergency medicine workforce
Authors: Lim Jolene CJ , Papanastasiou Cerissa , Moore Katie
Published: July 2018

Objective

Within the complex and dynamic emergency medicine workforce setting, the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) New Fellows (FACEMs) Early Career Survey was established in 2014 to capture information on the work profiles, future career plans and challenges experienced among new FACEMs.

Methods

The voluntary online survey is distributed twice yearly to new FACEMs who gained their Fellowship the preceding 6–12 months. Eligible new FACEMs were contacted by email and invited to participate.

Results

A representative sample of 348 (53%) of 660 eligible new FACEMs responded to the survey from 2014 to 2017. New Fellows in the 2017 cohort were less likely to have secured a specialist position at attainment of Fellowship or 6–12 months later. Compared with new FACEMs in earlier cohorts, they were significantly more likely to be working in regional areas, across multiple workplaces and in more than one area of clinical/professional practice. The proportion of new FACEMs working part‐time or in casual positions (42%) remained reasonably consistent across the 4 years. Finding a specialist position and securing a permanent position were among the main challenges experienced by new FACEMs after attaining their Fellowship.

Conclusion

A shift in the employment profile of early career Fellows was observed between 2014 and 2017, with the potential push factor of limited specialist positions in metropolitan areas now starting to result in an increase in new FACEMs choosing to work in regional and rural areas and in the number working across multiple workplaces.
Intraocular Pressure Changes During Hemodialysis or Hemodiafiltration in End‐Stage Renal Disease Patients
Authors: Saavedra‐Fuentes Nadia , Pérez‐Grovas Héctor , Navarrete Ruth , Lerma Claudia
Published: July 2018

The aim of this study was to evaluate the intraocular pressure during hemodialysis and hemodiafiltration. Fifteen patients were enrolled (seven treated with hemodialysis therapy and eight with hemodiafiltration). The intraocular pressure was measured before and after dialysis and every 30 min during dialysis. Before dialysis, both groups had similar dialysis prescription, blood pressure, and biochemical parameters. At the end of dialysis, potassium, and osmolarity decreased in both groups, while systolic blood pressure and sodium decreased in the hemodialysis group, and glucose decreased in the hemodiafiltration group. Mean intraocular pressure was similar between groups at all measured times and had no significant changes during hemodialysis. During minute 120 of hemodiafiltration, mean intraocular pressure in the left eye decreased significantly compared to minute 90. This suggests a high intra‐individual variability of intraocular pressure during both types of dialysis, which could be relevant particularly among those with the risk of glaucoma.