bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Siniruangan Recipe on Proliferation, Apoptosis and Activation of Human Hepatic Stellate Cell Line LX-2
Authors: Liu Jinming , Zhao Guorong , Ai Bichen , He Yirong , Mei Ming , Zou Junju , Xiao Biyue , Yin Zhouan
Published: August 2019

Background: Experimental and clinical evidence suggests that liver fibrosis is potentially reversible. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a key role in the development of hepatic fibrosis. Previous clinical applications and researches showed that Siniruangan recipe (SNRG) reversed liver fibrosis and even liver cirrhosis. This experimental study aimed to elucidate the effects of SNRG on the proliferation, apoptosis and activation of HSCs. Methods: The human HSCs line LX-2 was cultured with normal culture medium and multi-dose SNRG water decoction for 48 h. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was used to detect the proliferation and cytotoxicity of LX-2 cells. Annexin V-FITC/PI double staining was performed to identify apoptotic cells. Immunofluorescence staining was used to determine the relative content of cleaved caspase-3, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in LX-2 cells. Western blot was used to detect the relative content of Bcl-2, Bax, α-smooth muscle actin, β-catenin and TIMP-1 protein expression in LX-2 cells. Results: The SNRG inhibited the proliferation of LX-2 and induced cell apoptosis through caspase-dependent and mitochondrial-dependent pathways. SNRG may inhibit the activation of LX-2 through the β-catenin pathway. The decrease in TIMP-1 and TGF-β1 protein induced by SNRG promoted the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM). Conclusions: SNRG induced LX-2 cell apoptosis, inhibited cell proliferation, decreased LX-2 cell activity and promoted the degradation of ECM in vitro, which may be important mechanisms for reversing liver fibrosis and liver cirrhosis.
Treatment Selection for Philadelphia Chromosome-Positive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia in the Era of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Ma Yingying , Zhang Quanchao , Kong Peiyan , Xiong Jingkang , Zhang Xi , Zhang Cheng
Published: August 2019

With the advent of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive (Ph+) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has entered a new era. The efficacy of TKIs compared with other ALL treatment options is emphasized by a rapid increase in the number of TKI clinical trials. Subsequently, the use of traditional approaches, such as combined chemotherapy and even allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT), for the treatment of ALL is being challenged in the clinic. In light of the increased use of TKIs in the clinic, several questions have been raised. First, is it necessary to use intensive chemotherapy during the induction course of therapy to achieve a minimal residual disease (MRD)-negative status? Must a patient reach a complete molecular response/major molecular response before receiving allo-HSCT? Does MRD status affect long-term survival after allo-HSCT? Is auto-HSCT an appropriate alternative for allo-HSCT in those Ph+ ALL patients who lack suitable donors? Here, we review the recent literature in an attempt to summarize the current status of TKI usage in the clinic, including several new therapeutic approaches, provide answers for the above questions, and speculate on the future direction of TKI utilization for the treatment of Ph+ ALL patients.
Use of Cardioprotective Dexrazoxane Is Associated with Increased Myelotoxicity in Anthracycline-Treated Soft-Tissue Sarcoma Patients
Authors: Spalato Ceruso Mariella , Napolitano Andrea , Silletta Marianna , Mazzocca Alessandro , Valeri Sergio , Improta Luca , Santini Daniele , Tonini Guiseppe , Badalamenti Giuseppe , Vincenzi Bruno
Published: August 2019

Background: Dexrazoxane (DEX) is indicated as a cardioprotective agent for breast cancer patients receiving the anthracycline doxorubicin. Two meta-analyses in metastatic breast cancer reported an apparent increase in the severity of myelosuppression when DEX was used. So far, no data in soft-tissue sarcoma (STS) patients are available. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed hematological toxicity data from 133 consecutive STS patients who received a chemotherapy regimen containing an anthracycline and ifosfamide (AI) in the perioperative or metastatic settings between January 2006 and December 2017. Of these, 46 received off-label DEX concurrently with the AI treatment. The differences between incidence of any of the explored outcomes were assessed according to the Fisher exact test. Results: Compared with the non-DEX group, DEX treatment was associated with significantly higher rates of grade 3/4 hematological toxicities: leukopenia (56.5 vs. 28.7%; p = 0.0014), neutropenia (69.6 vs. 24.1%; p = 0.0001), febrile neutropenia (52.2 vs. 20.7%; p = 0.0004), anemia (41.3 vs. 28.7%; p = 0.1758), and thrombocytopenia (54.3 vs. 32.1%; p = 0.0159). Similarly, in the DEX group dose reductions were more frequent compared to the non-DEX group (39.1 vs. 19.5%; p = 0.0221). Conclusion: Adding DEX to AI in STS patients leads to higher rates of bone marrow suppression in all blood components, as well as to more frequent events of febrile neutropenia and dose reductions.
Transarterial Embolization of Iatrogenic Cystic Artery Pseudoaneurysm
Authors: Proença Ana Luísa , Veloso Gomes Filipe , Costa Nuno , Bilhim Tiago , Luz José Hugo , Coimbra Élia
Published: August 2019

Cystic artery pseudoaneurysm (CAP) is a rare entity most often resulting from inflammatory conditions (acute cholecystitis or pancreatitis) or iatrogenic trauma (cholecystectomy). We report the case of a 73-year-old female who presented with abdominal pain and gastrointestinal bleeding after an episode of acute cholecystitis and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for choledocolithiasis removal. Computed tomography and angiography revealed a CAP measuring 5 cm. A right hepatic artery transcatheter embolization was performed with glue, excluding the pseudoaneurysm. The next day, the patient underwent open cholecystectomy with ligation of the cystic artery. Later, ischemic hepatitis and abscess developed.
Is Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction a Promising and Feasible Intervention for Patients Suffering from Migraine? A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Simshäuser Kathrin , Lüking Marianne , Kaube Holger , Schultz Claudia , Schmidt Stefan
Published: August 2019

Aim: We performed a pilot study in order to evaluate the feasibility and to estimate effect sizes of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) in a sample of patients suffering from migraine. Method: Migraine patients (n = 62, mean age 44 years, 92% female) were randomly allocated to either MBSR or an active control intervention based on progressive muscle relaxation and psychoeducation. The primary outcome was the number of migraine days per month assessed by headache diaries covering one month before and one month after the intervention. Secondary outcomes included functional impairment, use of medication, psychological symptoms, quality of life, pain acceptance, pain self-efficacy, pain perception and self-attributed mindfulness. To measure feasibility, questionnaires assessing study compliance and contentment were administered. Results: The primary outcome migraine frequency showed no significant group difference. Compared to the control group, the MBSR group showed greater improvements in variables of psychological symptoms, pain self-efficacy and sensory pain perception. Within the MBSR condition, all variables showed significant improvements over the course span with effect sizes ranging from d = 0.37 to 0.81, apart from the primary outcome (27% reduction in migraine days, p = 0.07). Compliance and contentment rates were good, supporting the feasibility of the MBSR intervention. Conclusion: Overall, participants in the MBSR group showed more adaptive coping strategies and decreased levels of psychological impairment compared to the control group, indicating a reduced impact of migraine on their everyday lives. It is concluded that this feasibility study demonstrates the ability of mindfulness-based interventions to reduce suffering in patients with migraine.
Vitamin D in Term Newborns: Relation with Maternal Concentrations and Birth Weight
Authors: Esmeraldo Carmem U.P. , Martins Maria Eliana P. , Maia Evanira R. , Leite Jéssica Lissandra A. , Ramos José Lucas S. , Gonçalves Jr Jucier , Neta Cicera M. , Suano-Souza Fabíola Isabel , Sarni Roseli O.S.
Published: August 2019

Objective: To evaluate vitamin D serum levels of term newborns and relate them to maternal concentrations and birth weight. Methods: Cross-sectional study carried out with 225 mothers and their term newborns. Data collected were maternal health, prenatal care, gestational, and anthropometric data of the newborns. The following laboratory tests were performed: serum levels of 25(OH)D, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and alkaline phosphatase. Results: Of the 225 newborns included in the study, 119 (52.9%) were males, the mean birth weight was 3,198 ± 421.4 g, and the gestational age was 39.1 ± 1.1 weeks. Of these, 20 (8.9%) were small and 12 (5.3%) were large for gestational age. A 25(OH)D sufficiency was found in 25.8% of mothers and 92% of newborns. The mean 25(OH)D concentrations of newborns was higher than that of the mothers 48.7 ± 15.2 ng/mL vs. 26.0 ± 6.7 ng/dL (p < 0.001), correlating inversely with birth weight (r = –0.249; p < 0.001). Small for gestational age (SGA) newborns had higher concentrations of 25(OH)D compared to adequate and large for age (p < 0.001). Conclusion: In conclusion, this study showed strong positive correlation between maternal and neonatal 25(OH)D concentrations, with higher values in newborns. The highest 25(OH)D concentrations were found in SGA term infants. We speculated these findings could be influenced by newborn body composition.
Serum Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Middle Childhood and Body Mass Index Change Through Adolescence
Authors: Flannagan Kerry S. , Gahagan Sheila , Das Arun K. , Burrows Raquel A. , Lozoff Betsy , Villamor Eduardo
Published: August 2019

Background: Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) status in childhood may be associated with adiposity development. Objective: To assess associations of serum PUFA biomarkers in childhood with change in body mass index (BMI)-for-age Z scores (BMIZ) through adolescence. Methods: We quantified serum PUFA at ages 5 and 10 years among 418 children from Santiago, Chile. BMI was measured at 5, 10, and 16 years. We compared BMIZ change through age 16 years between quartiles of PUFA at 5 and 10 years and PUFA change 5–10 years by fitting growth curves from mixed effects models. Results: At age 5 years, serum docosahexaenoic acid was inversely associated with BMIZ change from ages 5 to 16 years. At age 10 years, arachidonic acid (AA) was nonlinearly positively related to BMIZ change from ages 10 to 16 years. Change in AA and the Δ5-desaturase (D5D) activity index between 5 and 10 years were each positively associated with BMIZ change from ages 10 to 16 years. Change in eicosapentaenoic acid was inversely associated with change in BMIZ. Conclusions: Serum long-chain n-3 PUFA in middle childhood were associated with less BMI gain through adolescence, whereas AA and D5D activity was related to greater BMI gain.
A Case of “New Soviet Internationalism”: Relations between the USSR and Chile's Christian Democratic Government, 1964–1970
Authors: Pedemonte Rafael
Published: August 2019

After Iosif Stalin's death in 1953, the Soviet Union emerged from its isolation and began to show an interest in traditionally marginalized foreign societies. As the example of the Chilean-Soviet rapprochement under Eduardo Frei's administration (1964–1970) shows, Soviet leaders viewed state-to-state relations with “progressive” Latin American regimes as an appropriate means of undermining U.S. influence in the region without risking an armed confrontation with “imperialism.” The reformist project of the Chilean Christian Democratic government, which included a diplomatic opening to the Soviet bloc, provided a testing ground for the suitability of Moscow's new global approach. The surge of cultural and political exchanges indicate that the Soviet authorities were keenly interested in the Chilean experience. In addition, the considerable growth of travel and official missions beyond the Iron Curtain also demonstrates that Santiago wished to benefit by diversifying its international partners.
The “Cuban Question” and the Cold War in Latin America, 1959–1964
Authors: Harmer Tanya
Published: August 2019

This article explains how Latin American governments responded to the Cuban revolution and how the “Cuban question” played out in the inter-American system in the first five years of Fidel Castro's regime, from 1959 to 1964, when the Organization of American States imposed sanctions against the island. Drawing on recently declassified sources from Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Uruguay, and the United States, the article complicates U.S.-centric accounts of the inter-American system. It also adds to our understanding of how the Cold War was perceived within the region. The article makes clear that U.S. policymakers were not the only ones who feared Castro's triumph, the prospect of greater Soviet intervention, and the Cuban missile crisis. By seeking to understand why local states opposed Castro's ascendance and what they wanted to do to counter his regime, the account here offers new insight into the Cuban revolution's international impact and allows us to evaluate U.S. influence in the region during key years of the Cold War.
The Mandrake in East Caucasian Folk Beliefs
Authors: Khapizov Shakhban
Published: August 2019

The article focuses on folk beliefs related to the cult of plants and particularly that of the mandrake in the Eastern Caucasus, revealed predominantly in folk magical procedures. The research is based on field materials, including those reflected in relevant publications, as well as on sporadic data found in historical sources.
Variability in Noun Classes Assignment in Zilo Andi: Experimental Data
Authors: Moroz George , Verhees Samira
Published: August 2019

This paper evaluates the inter speaker variation in noun class assignment among speakers of the Zilo dialect of Andi (a Nakh-Daghestanian language spoken in the Republic of Daghestan). The nominal lexicon in Andi is divided in three to six classes, depending on the dialect. In dialects with more numerous classes, there are two to three classes for inanimate objects with no obvious semantic distinction between them, while the remaining three classes (male, female, non-human animate) are semantically transparent and predictably refer to either male, female or non-human animate referents respectively. We designed an experiment to test whether the assignment of inanimate noun classes is consistent across speakers in different layers of the lexicon, including native words, older loan words, and more recent borrowings from Russian. As we will show, speakers are fairly consistent in assigning certain noun classes, though some variation occurs in all layers of the lexicon; variation is considerably higher with respect to more recent loanwords and among younger speakers.
Applicability of Transcutaneous Oxygen Tension Measurement in the Assessment of Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia
Authors: Leenstra Bernard , Wijnand Joep , Verhoeven Bart , Koning Olivier , Teraa Martin , Verhaar Marianne C. , de Borst Gert J.
Published: August 2019

Transcutaneous oxygen tension measurement (TcPO2) is widely applied for the evaluation of chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Nevertheless, studies that focused on the clinical value of TcPO2 have shown varying results. We identified factors that potentially play a role in TcPO2 measurement variation such as probe placement, probe temperature, and the use of a reference probe. In this review of the current literature, we assessed the application of these factors. A systematic search was conducted. Parameters that were assessed were probe placement, probe temperature, and mentioning and/or use of a reference probe. In total, 36 articles were eligible for analysis. In 24 (67%) studies, probes were placed on specific anatomical locations. Seven (19%) studies placed probes, regardless of the location of the ulcer, adjacent to an ischemic lesion or ulcer (perilesion). Selected temperature setting of the probe differed; in 18 (50%), a default probe temperature of 44°C was selected, and in 13 (36%), a different temperature was selected. In 31 (84%) studies, the use of a reference probe was not reported. Transcutaneous oxygen tension measurement is applied diversely in patients with CLTI. Homogeneity in TcPO2 protocols is warranted for reliable clinical application and to compare future TcPO2 research.
Undifferentiated Abdominal Pain in Children Presenting to the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Harris Brendan R. , Chinta Sri S. , Colvin Ryan , Schnadower David , Tarr Phillip I. , Sayuk Gregory S.
Published: August 2019

Although common, little is known about the characteristics and management of undifferentiated abdominal pain (UAP) in the pediatric emergency department (ED). This study was a 12-month retrospective study for “abdominal pain” ED visits. Patients without an identifiable diagnosis were categorized as “UAP,” while others with identified disease processes were categorized as “structural gastrointestinal diagnosis (SGID).” We included 2383 (72%) visits with 869 (36.5%) UAP visits and 1514 (63.5%) SGID visits. SGID patients had more laboratory tests (811 [53.6%] vs 422 [48.6%], P = .0186), and often had multiple tests performed (565 [69.7%] vs 264 [62.6%], P = .0116). Computed tomography and ultrasound scans were more common in SGID (computed tomography: 108 [7.1%] vs 27 [3.1%], P = .0004; ultrasound: 377 [24.9%] vs 172 [19.9%], P = .0044), and laboratory results (white blood cell count, hemoglobin, albumin, C-reactive protein) were abnormal at significantly higher rates. Analyses revealed the duration of pain as primary covariate in variance of pain etiology. Clinical features, such as duration of pain, may be augmented by laboratory tests to facilitate recognition of UAP in the ED.
Analysis of Vasopressor Discontinuation and the Incidence of Rebound Hypotension in Patients With Septic Shock
Authors: Buckley Christopher T. , Turner Ben , Walsh Dalton , Garrett Meghan J. , Ooka Vishal N.
Published: August 2019

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the incidence of rebound hypotension in patients with septic shock requiring both norepinephrine and vasopressin infusions once discontinuation of 1 of these agents is warranted. Methods: A multicenter, retrospective study was conducted in 3 hospitals within a single health system between January 1, 2016, and December 31, 2017. The study population included adults, 18 years and older, diagnosed with septic shock and requiring concurrent infusions of norepinephrine and vasopressin. The primary outcome evaluated the incidence of rebound hypotension within 24 hours after the first vasopressor was discontinued. Secondary outcomes included intensive care unit length of stay, hospital length of stay, total vasopressor duration, and the time to rebound hypotension after first vasopressor discontinuation. Results: A total of 69 patients were included in the study, 38 in the vasopressin discontinued first group and 31 in the norepinephrine discontinued first group. Rebound hypotension occurred in 82% of patients in the vasopressin discontinued first group compared with 48% in the norepinephrine discontinued first group ( P = .004). No differences were observed in secondary outcomes, including intensive care unit or hospital length of stay, total vasopressor duration, or the time to rebound hypotension. Conclusions: Discontinuation of norepinephrine before vasopressin may lead to less incidence of rebound hypotension in patients with septic shock who require concurrent norepinephrine and vasopressin infusions. Similar to previous studies, this study found no difference in secondary outcomes.
Late-Emerging Developmental Language Disorders in English-Speaking Monolinguals and English-Language Learners: A Longitudinal Perspective
Authors: Farnia Fataneh , Geva Esther
Published: August 2019

Research involving monolinguals has demonstrated that language impairment can be noticed in the early years and tends to persist into adolescence. More recently, research has begun to address the challenges of identifying and treating Developmental Language Disorders (DLD) in English Language Learners (ELLs). Developmental patterns of DLD are not necessarily consistent over time, and we hypothesized that some monolinguals and ELLs go “under the radar” in lower grades but their language difficulties become more pronounced in later years, as syntactic demands increase, hence “late-emerging DLD”. This longitudinal study examined (a) the existence of late-emerging DLD in Grades 4-6 in English-speaking monolinguals and ELLs, and (b) the Grade 1 and 3 cognitive and language profiles that predict late-emerging DLD. This study involved monolinguals (n = 149), and ELLs (n = 402) coming from diverse home language backgrounds. Cognitive (working memory, phonological short-term memory, processing speed), language (vocabulary and syntax), and word reading skills were assessed annually from grades 1 to 6. Separate parallel analyses in the monolingual and ELL samples confirmed that late-emerging DLD exists in both groups. In comparison with their typically developing peers, late-emerging DLD can be identified as early as Grade 1 based on poorer performance on phonological awareness, naming speed, and working memory.
Media Coverage of Firms: Background, Integration, and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Graf-Vlachy Lorenz , Oliver Abbie Griffith , Banfield Richard , König Andreas , Bundy Jonathan
Published: August 2019

Over the past years, media coverage of firms has received significant scholarly attention. However, the resulting literature is spread across multiple disciplines and, therefore, varies with regard to its theoretical underpinnings and contextual settings. This makes it challenging for scholars to understand the contributions of this literature, to identify areas of inquiry, and to develop an encompassing research agenda. In this review, we address these issues by surveying the diverse literature on media coverage of firms to develop an integrative framework of the antecedents and consequences of media coverage that highlights paths for future research. Specifically, we identify the three theoretical perspectives—economic, institutional, and social-psychological—that the literature generally assumes on the news media. In addition, we highlight differences between strategy, finance, governance, and crisis contexts and review results from articles examining media coverage of firms in aggregate. In each context, we identify the primary functions of the news media as well as antecedents and consequences of media coverage. We proceed to develop an integrative framework for media coverage of firms by building on these findings and by examining the empirical methods used to measure media coverage, particularly regarding the measurement of specific coverage attributes. We highlight the gaps in current knowledge that our framework exposes and derive opportunities for future research that can further scholars’ and practitioners’ understanding of firm media coverage.
Redefining Dharma in a Time of Transition: Ānṛśaṃsya in the Mahābhārata as an Alternative End of Human Life
Authors: Sinha Kanad
Published: August 2019

Classical Indian thought has often stated that human life has four ends: dharma (social righteousness), artha (material profit), kāma (sensual pleasure) and mokṣa (spiritual liberation). The historical tradition called itihāsa claims itself as a comprehensive commentary on these four. The principal itihāsa text available to us, the Mahābhārata, boasts of containing everything that exists on these. However, the ultimate goal of human life in the Mahābhārata is predominantly dharma. But, the dharma the Mahābhārata speaks of is not necessarily what dharma came to represent in classical Brahmanical orthodoxy: a combination of the institutions of varṇa and āśrama Rather, in the narrative sections of the Mahābhārata, which possibly originated in the context of the Later Vedic Kuru kingdom of c. 1000–800 BCE, there is often a questioning of the traditional hereditary varṇadharma. Through the character of Yudhiṣṭhira, the Mahābhārata unfolds an alternative understanding of dharma, known as ānṛśaṁsya (non-cruelty). Scholars have often considered it as an alternative to the heterodox notion of ahiṁsā (non-violence). This paper shows the gradual evolution of the ideal to show that its fundamental opposition is not with the heterodox ahiṁsā, but with the orthodox varṇadharma, particularly kṣātradharma, the martial heroism expected of the kṣatriya.
On the Descriptive and Expressive Function of Derogatory Group Labels: An Experimental Test
Authors: Bianchi Mauro , Carnaghi Andrea , Piccoli Valentina , Stragà Marta , Zotti Davide
Published: August 2019

By using a pseudoword paradigm, we tested whether derogatory labels (e.g., pejorative labels addressing group members) differed from category labels and general slur in their descriptive (i.e., pointing to group membership) and expressive functions (i.e., perceived offensiveness and social acceptability). Results indicated that derogatory labels were similar to category labels in their descriptive function, and had higher expressive function than slurs. Participants’ prejudice toward the groups that were targets of derogatory label reduced their perceived offensiveness than in turn increased their social acceptability.
Effects of the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit on plasma levels of ceftolozane
Authors: Argudo Eduard , Riera Jordi , Luque Sonia , Los-Arcos Ibai , López-Meseguer Manuel , Sandiumenge Alberto , Nuvials Xavier , Grau Santiago , Ferrer Ricard
Published: August 2019

Introduction:

New antibiotics with bactericidal activity against multi-drug-resistant bacteria are increasingly used in the intensive care units. Here, we aimed to evaluate the influence of the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on plasma levels of ceftolozane.

Case report:

A 34-year-old female was admitted to the intensive care unit after bilateral lung transplantation, complicated by primary graft dysfunction and cardiogenic shock needing venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Ceftolozane/tazobactam was started. Plasma ceftolozane levels were monitored on the first and third days of antibiotic treatment. A non-compartment pharmacokinetic analysis was performed and the extraction rate through the oxygenator was calculated.

Discussion:

The extracorporeal circuit of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may alter the pharmacokinetics of antibiotics, to varying degrees due to drug sequestration and increased distribution volume. In this case, the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit had little impact on the ceftolozane plasma concentration.

Conclusion:

Plasma levels of ceftolozane are stable in the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit, suggesting that adjustment of standard doses of ceftolozane in patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support may not be needed.
Usefulness of right ventricular contraction pressure index to predict short-term mortality and right heart failure in patients who underwent continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation
Authors: Kalenderoğlu Koray , Güvenç Tolga Sinan , Mete Müge Taşdemir , Kuplay Hüseyin , Ağustos Semra , Güzelburç Özge Çalbayram , Yıldırımtürk Özlem , Kozan Ömer , Aka Serap Aykut
Published: August 2019

Background:

Right ventricular stroke work index is a useful but invasively measured parameter that can be used to predict right heart failure following continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation. Right ventricular contraction pressure index is a novel parameter that was developed to measure right ventricular stroke work index with echocardiography. We aimed to investigate the clinical usefulness of right ventricular contraction pressure index to predict short-term mortality and right heart failure in patients who underwent continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation.

Methods:

A total of 49 patients who participated in institutional advanced heart failure registry and underwent continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation with a bridge-to-candidacy indication were analyzed retrospectively. Right ventricular contraction pressure index was calculated using offline measurements. Demographic, clinical and outcome data were obtained from the registry data. Patients were grouped according to right ventricular contraction pressure index quartiles.

Results:

Patients within the lowest right ventricular contraction pressure index quartile had a trend toward higher short-term mortality (46.2%, p = 0.056) and combined short-term mortality and definitive right heart failure (53.8%, p = 0.054) at 15th day postoperatively. Similarly, short-term survival or survival free of definite right heart failure were significantly lower in the lowest right ventricular contraction pressure index quartile (log-rank p = 0.045 and log-rank p = 0.03, respectively). In a proportional hazards model that included echocardiographic parameters, right ventricular contraction pressure index was an independent predictor for short-term mortality (odds ratio: 6.777, 95% confidence interval: 1.118–41.098, p = 0.037), but not for combined short-term mortality and definite right heart failure. No such associations were found for long-term mortality. Right ventricular contraction pressure index had a statistically significant correlation with invasively measured pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance, mean pulmonary pressure, and right ventricular stroke work index.

Conclusion:

Right ventricular contraction pressure index was found as a useful parameter for determining short-term postoperative mortality in patients undergoing continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation.
Self-help groups and incest trauma
Authors: Pietri Mariel , Roques Marie-Anais , Bouteyre Evelyne
Published: August 2019

The aim of this study is to assess the effects of a self-help group on the discourse of incest victims. Sharing a traumatic experience and talking about its main consequences with other participants provides victims with a safe space encouraging verbalization and psychical working out. This research was conducted at Marseille in France, in collaboration with the international association for incest victims. Data were collected during the monthly self-help groups. We compared the evolution of the participants’ discourse between September 2015 and June 2016. A semantic analysis was conducted using Tropes and Emotaix software. Through support, listening and a feeling of belonging, self-help groups create an environment of trust and security that encourages sharing processes and working out processes by offering a safe environment for talking and listening. Self-help groups also provide additional support to conventional, individual therapies where victims can talk about their traumatic experience.
Effect of compaction roller on layup quality and defects formation in automated fiber placement
Authors: Bakhshi Nima , Hojjati Mehdi
Published: August 2019

Application of automated fiber placement is limited by defects formed in the prepreg tows during the layup process. An extensive experimental study is performed to investigate the effect of compaction roller on the quality of the layup. Five different compaction rollers with different stiffness and architectures were manufactured and employed to dispense prepreg tows at various process conditions. Layup quality was examined and different defects including tow buckling and blister were identified. In addition to automated fiber placement trials, static testing and finite element simulations were performed to probe the pressure distribution and contact width of each roller. This data was used to support and understand the results of the automated fiber placement trials. Results indicate the solid elastomer rollers that are compliant enough to produce the same level of contact width under similar levels of compaction forces are superior to the perforated rollers in terms of achievable layup quality.
Splicing the Clock to Maintain and Entrain Circadian Rhythms
Authors: Shakhmantsir Iryna , Sehgal Amita
Published: August 2019

Circadian clocks drive daily rhythms of physiology and behavior in multiple organisms and synchronize these rhythms to environmental cycles of light and temperature. The basic mechanism of the clock consists of a transcription-translation feedback loop, in which key clock proteins negatively regulate their own transcription. Although much of the focus with respect to clock mechanisms has been on the regulation of transcription and on the stability and activity of clock proteins, it is clear that other regulatory processes also have to be involved to explain aspects of clock function. Here, we review the role of alternative splicing in circadian clocks. Starting with a discussion of the Drosophila clock and then extending to other major circadian model systems, we describe how the control of alternative splicing enables organisms to maintain their circadian clocks as well as to respond to environmental inputs, in particular to temperature changes.
Ultrasound Guidance for Central Venous Access: Current Evidence and Clinical Recommendations
Authors: Leibowitz Akiva , Oren-Grinberg Achikam , Matyal Robina
Published: August 2019

Ultrasound-guided central line placement has been shown to decrease the number of needle puncture attempts, complication, and failure rates. In order to obtain successful central access, it is important to have adequate cognitive knowledge, workflow understanding, and manual dexterity to safely execute this invasive procedure. The operator should also be familiar with the anatomical variations, equipment operations, and potential complications and their prevention. In this article, we present a detailed review of ultrasound-guided central venous access. It includes a description of anatomy, operative technique, equipment operation, and techniques for specific situations. We describe the use of ultrasound guidance to avoid and identify various complications associated with this procedure. We have also reviewed recent recommendations and guidelines for the use of ultrasound for central venous access and the current evidence pertaining to the recommendations for the expected level of training, methodology, and metrics for establishing competency.
Influence of Tai Chi on Self-Efficacy, Quality of Life, and Fatigue Among Patients With Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy: A Pilot Study Brief
Authors: Murley Brittany , Haas Barbara , Hermanns Melinda , Wang Yong Tai , Stocks Eric
Published: August 2019

Purpose: While exercise is an effective intervention used to minimize side effects associated with chemotherapy, tai chi (TC) exercise for persons actively receiving chemotherapy remains understudied. The purposes of this study were to (a) evaluate the effects of TC on self-efficacy, quality of life (QOL), and cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and (b) understand the experience and perceived benefits of patients taking chemotherapy involved in a TC program. Design: An explanatory sequential mixed methods study with a dominant qualitative strand was used to explore the differences between an intervention group participating in TC ( n = 3) and a nonexercising, wait-listed comparison group ( n = 3). Method: Following 8-weeks of TC classes, a focus group was conducted with the intervention group. Pretest/posttest scores for CRF, self-efficacy, and QOL were analyzed using t tests to compare the means between and within groups. Thematic analysis was used to interpret transcripts. Quantitative and qualitative results were compared to determine congruence between findings. Findings: Qualitative findings revealed increased mind/body strength. Quantitative scores trended toward improved CRF, self-efficacy, and QOL. Findings from the two strands supported one another. Conclusions: Tai chi is an effective and feasible exercise for individuals with cancer receiving chemotherapy. This mind–body exercise appears to provide benefits beyond improved physical functioning.
Nonlinear dynamic stability of an imperfect shear deformable orthotropic functionally graded material toroidal shell segments under the longitudinal constant velocity
Authors: Ali Ahmed Y , Hasan Hamad M
Published: August 2019

This study investigates the nonlinear dynamic buckling of the exponentially functionally graded orthotropic toroidal shell segments under constant loading rates under the shear deformation theory with the damping influence. The properties of the shell material are assumed to be graded according to the exponential distribution function through the shell thickness direction. The shear deformation theory with von Karman nonlinearity, Stein and McElman assumption, initial imperfection, and damping effect are adopted to create the theoretical formulations. Nonlinear dynamic stability equation is solved using Galerkin's procedure and the fourth-order Runge–Kutta technique. The dynamic buckling loads are evaluated by using Budiansky–Roth criterion. Moreover, different parameter influences such as geometrical parameters, velocity, imperfections, damping ratios, and nonhomogeneous parameters on the dynamic buckling are examined in detail. The obtained results are validated with the previous publications and the good agreements are shown.
Prevention of vehicle rollover after wheel lift-off using energy-based controller with proportional gain augmentation
Authors: Nair Hari M , Sujatha C
Published: August 2019

Vehicle rollovers are the most fatal type of vehicle crashes among all road vehicle accidents. Off-road vehicles with a high centre of gravity are highly susceptible to rollovers, which can be either tripped or untripped, caused by external impacts or during high-speed manoeuvres, respectively. Currently, rollover prediction systems are used to indicate any potential wheel lift-off in real time. Subsequently, rollover prevention systems mitigate the impending wheel lift-off. In a severe near-rollover wheel lift-off scenario, the existing anti-rollover control systems are not effective in reinstating the vehicle to safety, as the designed range of operation is limited only to the near-wheel lift-off region. Even after the wheel lift-off occurs, the vehicle can be brought safely back to the ground with the timely intervention of the anti-rollover controller. This study proposes a novel energy-based anti-rollover controller with proportional gain augmentation using steering wheel input to reinstate a vehicle from a high-speed on-road near-rollover scenario with wheels on one side in the lifted-off condition. Use of an energy-based controller facilitates the least complicated implementation with minimum computation time for a severe scenario where the response time available is very small. A nonlinear underactuated inverted double pendulum on a cart model is used for predicting the dynamics of the vehicle in a near-rollover scenario. The design of the energy-based controller is done using the Lyapunov-based controller design method. An enhancement in the performance is obtained with the incorporation of an additional proportional gain controller. The behaviour of the designed anti-rollover controller is studied using the inverted double pendulum on a cart model. The effectiveness of the anti-rollover controller in a real-life scenario was studied using the co-simulation of a sophisticated four-wheeled pick-up model available in TruckSim® vehicle dynamic simulation software and the anti-rollover control system implemented in MATLAB®/Simulink® environment.
Visual experiment and numerical simulation of cavitation instability in a high-speed inducer
Authors: Cui Baoling , Chen Jie
Published: August 2019

Cavitation instabilities in a high-speed inducer at a design flow rate were investigated for different cavitation numbers in numerical simulations and visual experiments. On the basis of a shear stress transport k–ω turbulence model and Zwart–Gerber–Belamri cavitation model, the transient cavitating flow in a high-speed centrifugal pump with an inducer is numerically simulated using ANSYS-CFX 15.0 software. Visual experiments were carried out to capture the evolution of cavitating flow in the inducer by using a high-speed camera. The performance and cavitation characteristic curves from numerical simulation agree with those from experiment. With a decreasing cavitation number, the cavitation development in the high-speed inducer goes through incipient cavitation, developing cavitation, critical cavitation, and deteriorated cavitation and presents vortex cavitation, sheet cavitation, cloud cavitation, backflow cavitation, and a cavitation surge. The region having a high vapor volume fraction basically coincides with the region of low local pressure at the same cavitation number. The position of largish blade loading on the inducer changes with the development of cavitation. A cavitation surge as one type of cavitation instability appears in the inducer at lower cavitation numbers. The drop or rise of the head coefficient is affected by an increasing or decreasing cavitation area in the cycle of a cavitation surge.
Science communication activism: Protesting Traditional Chinese Medicine in China
Authors: Zhu Qiaoyan , Horst Maja
Published: August 2019

This article investigates how activists use science communication to protest the regulation and use of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China. The article reports on a participant observation study of the motivations of the activists as well as the form and content of their activities. The article hereby questions the apparently close links between the systems of state and science in China. It also points to different configurations of the relationship between scientists, activists, science communication and publics than what has been common in analyses of science communication and activism in Western countries.
Logic, Fast and Slow: Advances in Dual-Process Theorizing
Authors: De Neys Wim , Pennycook Gordon
Published: August 2019

Studies on human reasoning have long established that intuitions can bias inference and lead to violations of logical norms. Popular dual-process models, which characterize thinking as an interaction between intuitive (System 1) and deliberate (System 2) thought processes, have presented an appealing explanation for this observation. According to this account, logical reasoning is traditionally considered as a prototypical example of a task that requires effortful deliberate thinking. In recent years, however, a number of findings obtained with new experimental paradigms have brought into question the traditional dual-process characterization. A key observation is that people can process logical principles in classic reasoning tasks intuitively and without deliberation. We review the paradigms and sketch how this work is leading to the development of revised dual-process models.
The Great Challenge of Our Time: Awakening to a New Story
Authors: Baring Anne
Published: August 2019

In the first part of this article I will explore the reasons for the loss of the Divine Feminine and the powerful mythologies and beliefs which have structured our present view of reality. These have split Nature from Spirit and mind from soul and led to the idea of our dominance of Nature rather than to a caring relationship with it. In the second part I will explore the transformation of this outdated view as our consciousness moves to a new level of understanding and embraces a New Story. The greatest challenge of our time is to heal the split between Spirit and Nature and reconnect our rational mind with our neglected soul.
The Missing Link in Regional Integration in South Asia: The Case for Regional and Sub-regional Political Institutions
Authors: Thangasamy Andrew
Published: August 2019

Regional governance efforts in South Asia have been missing regional political institutions. There is no shortage of ideas and suggestions by scholars, practitioners, diplomats and others in terms of areas for integration in South Asia. And yet, regional integration continues in a piecemeal like stuttering fashion. Integration lags not because there are questions about the efficacy of regional integration or questions about where or what to integrate, it lags because of the path forward—in terms of how—is unclear. Regional or sub-regional political institutions vested with the decision-making authority can aid in integration better than the status quo. Political institutions in contrast to forums or summit-convening authorities can make decisions of their own benefiting the interests of those whom they represent. This article examines the current state of regional governance efforts in South Asia and evaluates the argument for regional and sub-regional political institutions.
E-health and its Impact on Indian Health Care: An Analysis
Authors: Kaur Sukhpreet , Kaur Rajinder , Aggarwal Rashmi
Published: August 2019

Healthcare sector is progressing towards digitalization in every aspect such as e-consultations, health surveillance, health education and various other healthcare services. Developing countries like India lacks infrastructure to conduct studies to evaluate impact of these e-health services on patient outcomes. Various developed countries have electronic health records which makes evaluation of patient outcomes much easier. This paper aims to evaluate effect of e-health on patient outcomes in Indian healthcare scenario and future consequences of these e-health services. The integrative literature searches were conducted using various databases such as pubmed, google scholar and SCC web edition using keywords such as ‘e-health’, ‘telemedicine’, ‘mhealth’, ‘electronic health records’, ‘patient outcomes’ and ‘data protection laws’. From the papers retrieved only few papers studied impact of e health services in patient outcomes. Other papers assessed e-health on basis of accessibility, feasibility and medium of education in clinical practice. It was concluded that e-health services such as diagnostic services like teleopthalmology and tele ECG, distant consultation with specialist through telemedicine and adherence aids like automated voice reminder and pictorial messaging have positive impact on patient outcomes. Though e-health services can help us in various ways but it will also open the new Pandora box of problems in handling personal information. The information technology rules in India have certain grey areas in protection of digital data. In future, besides improving the data content of information system to analyse the impact of various services provided to the patients, we will have to relook the legal system to protect the data.