bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substantial effects of empowerment case management on physical health of type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Tsai Chin‐Yun , Li I‐Chuan , Lai Fu‐Chih
Published: November 2017

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the effects of empowerment case management on the physical health of patients with type 2 diabetes.

Background

Diabetes is a global health issue. Case management is often used on diabetes management at various levels. Empowerment has been used for chronic situation management, but its effects have not been widely studied in diabetic populations.

Design

Purposive sampling was used to recruit 125 participants with type 2 diabetes aged 18 years or older from a regional teaching hospital in Taiwan.

Methods

Empowerment case management was applied for 42 participants, while the other 83 received normal case management. Survey items included demographics, preprandial (AC) and postprandial (PC) blood sugar levels, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1C), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, and the presence or absence of acute and chronic complications. Descriptive statistics and a generalised estimating equation were used to analyse the model's effects on the two groups.

Results

The PC blood sugar levels of patients receiving empowerment case management declined at 3 months (B = −34.26, p < .01), and this decrease was maintained at 6 months (B = −83.66, p < .001). As of 6 months after starting the intervention, patients receiving empowerment case management enjoyed better physical health. These patients' AC blood sugar levels (B = −50.16, p < .001), HbA1C (B = −0.98, p < .001), systolic blood pressure (B = −8.24, p < .001), diastolic blood pressure (B = −5.73, p < .01) and total cholesterol (B = −13.74, p < .05) all experienced a continuous drop and were controlled well, and no diabetes‐related acute or chronic complications were observed either. Patients with type 2 diabetes who received empowerment case management managed their physical health better. Moreover, its greatest effect was that patients were able to form exercise groups and continue to maintain their health.

Conclusions

Empowerment case management was shown to have a substantial effect on the physical health and self‐care of patients with diabetes, thus making it a suitable intervention tool for managing diabetes cases.

Relevance to clinical practice

The study results showed that empowerment case management is suitable for managing diabetes cases. It has a substantial effect on the maintenance of physical health, occurrence of complications and effectiveness of self‐care among patients with diabetes. For better care outcomes, empowerment case management should be integrated into the guidelines of diabetes management.
Absence Seizures as a Feature of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy in Rhodesian Ridgeback Dogs
Authors: Wielaender F. , James F.M.K. , Cortez M.A. , Kluger G. , Neßler J.N. , Tipold A. , Lohi H. , Fischer A.
Published: November 2017

Myoclonic epilepsy in Rhodesian Ridgeback (RR) dogs is characterized by myoclonic seizures occurring mainly during relaxation periods, a juvenile age of onset and generalized tonic‐clonic seizures in one‐third of patients. An 8‐month‐old female intact RR was presented for myoclonic seizures and staring episodes that both started at 10 weeks of age. Testing for the DIRAS1 variant indicated a homozygous mutant genotype. Unsedated wireless video‐electroencephalography (EEG) identified frequent, bilaterally synchronous, generalized 4 Hz spike‐and‐wave complexes (SWC) during the staring episodes in addition to the characteristic myoclonic seizures with generalized 4–5 Hz SWC or 4–5 Hz slowing. Photic stimulation did not evoke a photoparoxysmal response. Repeat video‐EEG 2 months after initiation of levetiracetam treatment disclosed a >95% decrease in frequency of myoclonic seizures, and absence seizures were no longer evident. Absence seizures represent another seizure type in juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) in RR dogs, which reinforces its parallels to JME in humans.
The effects of acaricide treatment of sheep on red grouseLagopus lagopus scoticatick burdens and productivity in a multi‐host system
Authors: FLETCHER K. , BAINES D.
Published: November 2017

Ixodes ricinus(Ixodida: Ixodidae) ticks are of economic and pathogenic importance across Europe. Within the uplands of the U.K., management to reduce ticks is undertaken to benefit red grouseLagopus lagopus scotica(Galliformes: Phasianidae). Management strategies focus on the acaricide treatment of domestic sheepOvis aries(Artiodactyla: Bovidae), but the effectiveness of this is less certain in the presence of wild hosts, particularly red deerCervus elaphus(Artiodactyla: Cervidae) and mountain hareLepus timidus(Lagomorpha: Leporidae). This study examines the effects of sheep management on grouse tick burdens and productivity using sites with a range of wild host densities. Sites at which applications of acaricide were more frequent had lower tick burdens; this relationship was similar on sites with a range of deer densities. However, no direct link was detected between acaricide treatment interval and grouse productivity. Sites with higher deer densities had higher grouse tick burdens and lower productivity [mean ± standard error (SE) young : adult ratio: 1.2 ± 0.2] compared with sites with lower deer densities (mean ± SE young : adult ratio: 1.8 ± 0.1). Sites with higher grouse brood sizes and higher proportions of hens with broods were also those with higher mountain hare abundance indices. This study highlights the importance of the frequent treatment of sheep with acaricide to reduce tick burdens on grouse, even in the presence of wild hosts.
UbiGate: a synthetic biology toolbox to analyse ubiquitination
Authors: Kowarschik Kathrin , Hoehenwarter Wolfgang , Marillonnet Sylvestre , Trujillo Marco
Published: November 2017

Ubiquitination is mediated by an enzymatic cascade that results in the modification of substrate proteins, redefining their fate. This post‐translational modification is involved in most cellular processes, yet its analysis faces manifold obstacles due to its complex and ubiquitous nature. Reconstitution of the ubiquitination cascade in bacterial systems circumvents several of these problems and was shown to faithfully recapitulate the process.

Here, we present UbiGate − a synthetic biology toolbox, together with an inducible bacterial expression system – to enable the straightforward reconstitution of the ubiquitination cascades of different organisms in Escherichia coli by ‘Golden Gate’ cloning.

This inclusive toolbox uses a hierarchical modular cloning system to assemble complex DNA molecules encoding the multiple genetic elements of the ubiquitination cascade in a predefined order, to generate polycistronic operons for expression.

We demonstrate the efficiency of UbiGate in generating a variety of expression elements to reconstitute autoubiquitination by different E3 ligases and the modification of their substrates, as well as its usefulness for dissecting the process in a time‐ and cost‐effective manner.
Development of the gingival sulcus at the time of tooth eruption and the influence of genetic factors
Authors: Nibali Luigi
Published: November 2017

Tooth eruption is characterized by a concert of mechanisms that result in the emergence of teeth in the oral cavity. Genetic variants seem to regulate this process and the formation of a gingival sulcus around the teeth. Interindividual variability in the response to microbial triggers in the sulcus plays an important role in the onset and progression of periodontal diseases. Host genetic variants can influence this variability, affecting the response of the host to the subgingival biofilm. Genetic factors affecting tooth eruption could potentially influence susceptibility to periodontal diseases and, specifically, susceptibility to localized aggressive periodontitis. This review aims to discuss the evidence available for the role of host genetic variants in tooth eruption and to and to give some directions for prospective research in this topic.
Bacterial modulators of bone remodeling in the periodontal pocket
Authors: Henderson Brian , Kaiser Frank
Published: November 2017

The signaling network involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease is not yet fully understood. This review aims to describe possible mechanisms through which the bacterial modulators may be linked directly or indirectly to the process of alveolar bone loss in periodontitis. From the late 1970s to present, new paradigm shifts have been developed regarding our understanding of pathological bone remodeling in periodontal disease. Upcoming evidence suggests that in periodontal disease the local immune response is exacerbated and involves the existence of signaling pathways that have been shown to modulate bone‐cell function leading to alveolar bone loss. Those complex signaling pathways have been observed not only between bacteria but also between bacteria and the gingival surface of the host. More specifically, it has been shown that bacteria, through their secretion molecules, may interact indirectly and directly with immune‐type cells of the host, resulting in the production of osteolytic agents that enhance bone resorption. Further research is required to provide a clear understanding of the role of these molecules in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease, and the availability of new technologies, such as next‐generation sequencing and metagenomic analysis, may be useful tools in achieving this.
Model-Based Optimization and Pressure Fluctuation Control of Pressure Reservoir in Electrically Controlled Fuel Injection System for Single Cylinder Diesel Engine
Authors: Zhang Ke , Xie Zhifeng , Zhou Ming
Published: November 2017

Single-cylinder diesel engines usually employ mechanically actuated or time-type electrically controlled fuel injection systems. But due to the lack of flexibility to provide high pressure and fully varying injection parameters, fuel efficiency and emissions are poor. Although modern multi-cylinder engines have employed high pressure common rail fuel injection system for a long time, this technology has not been demonstrated in single-cylinder diesel engines. Due to the small installation space and little fuel injection amount of single cylinder diesel engine, high pressure common rail fuel injection system cannot be employed directly. In this study an electrically controlled high pressure fuel injection system of time-pressure-type (PTFS) for single-cylinder diesel engine was demonstrated. PTFS integrated the fuel pump and pressure reservoir (PR) to reduce installation space, which enabled it to match various kinds of single-cylinder diesel engines. However, the volume of the PR of PTFS is still limited, leading to obvious pressure fluctuation induced by periodic fuel pumping and injection. Pressure fluctuation might affect the stability and consistency of fuel injection, deteriorating the combustion and emissions of the engine further. This work established a mathematical model for the system, and studied the effect of the main parameters of the PR to the pressure fluctuations in the PR. The structure and dimensions of the system were optimized and a damping mechanism was proposed to reduce the pressure fluctuation. The optimized pressure fluctuation of PTFS achieved an acceptable level which can support steady and effective fuel injection. As a result, the fuel consumption efficiency and emission level of single cylinder diesel engine were enhanced.
Development of a Numerical Model for Ignition Phenomena in a Micro Pilot Ignited Dual Fuel Engine With External Mixture Formation
Authors: Schiffner Michael , Grochowina Marcus , Sattelmayer Thomas
Published: November 2017

In this paper, a numerical investigation of the ignition process of dual fuel engines is presented. Optical measurements revealed that a homogeneous natural gas charge ignited by a small diesel pilot comprises the combustion phenomena of compression ignition of the pilot fuel as well as premixed flame propagation. The 3-Zones Extended Coherent Flame Model (ECFM3Z) was selected, since it can treat auto-ignition, pre-mixed flame propagation and diffusion flame aspects. Usually combustion models in multi-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software packages are designed to handle only one reactive species representing the fuel concentration. In the context of the ECFM3Z model the concept of a multi-component fuel is applied to dual fuel operation. Since the available ignition models were not able to accurately describe the ignition characteristics of the investigated setup, a new dual fuel auto-ignition model was developed. Ignition delay times of the fuel blend are tabulated using a detailed reaction mechanism for n-heptane. Thereby, the local progress of pre-ignition reactions in the CFD simulation can be calculated. The ignition model is validated against experiments conducted with a periodically chargeable constant volume combustion chamber. The proposed model is capable to reproduce the ignition delay as well as the location of the flame kernels. The CFD simulations show the effect of temperature stratification and variations in the injection pressure on the apparent ignition delay of the micro pilot.
Investigation of PVD Piston Ring Coatings With Different Lubricant Formulations
Authors: Tomanik Eduardo , Fujita Hiroshi , Sato Shinya , Paes Eliel , Galvao Ciro , Morais Paulo
Published: November 2017

Chromium nitride (CrN) is the main protecting coating applied to top rings for gasoline and diesel engines, due to its excellent wear resistance, low friction and minor environmental impacts, especially in modern engines operating with low viscosity oils. Recently, diamond like carbon (DLC) coatings reported improved tribological performance, but at a higher cost. Therefore, in the present work, wear and friction of CrN and DLC coated rings were evaluated on reciprocating and floating liner engine tests running on 0W-20 and 0W-16 lubricant formulations, which additives tailored for different markets (Japanese, European and Emerging). DLC outperformed CrN for both friction and wear when running on lubricant formulations without molybdenum additives. On opposite, with high molybdenum content additives, CrN presented synergic effects that significantly reduced friction and wear, whilst DLC did not. Same comparison on floating liner engine tests demonstrated again superior performance of CrN by 9% reduction on friction losses, running on oils containing molybdenum additives, whilst DLC lowered 6%. From that, it can be estimated 0.4% fuel saving at urban conditions by combining Japanese lubricant oil formulation and CrN top rings.
Multi-Dimensional Computational Combustion of Highly Dilute, Premixed Spark-Ignited Opposed-Piston Gasoline Engine Using Direct Chemistry With a New Primary Reference Fuel Mechanism
Authors: Mittal Anshul , Wijeyakulasuriya Sameera D. , Probst Dan , Banerjee Siddhartha , Finney Charles E. A. , Edwards K. Dean , Willcox Michael , Naber Clayton
Published: November 2017

This work presents a modeling approach for multidimensional combustion simulations of a highly dilute opposed-piston spark-ignited gasoline engine. Detailed chemical kinetics is used to model combustion with no sub-grid correction for reaction rates based on the turbulent fluctuations of temperature and species mass fractions. Turbulence is modeled using RNG k-ε model and the RANS-length scales resolution is done efficiently by the use of automatic mesh refinement when and where the flow parameter curvature (2nd derivative) is large. The laminar flame is thickened by the RANS viscosity and a constant turbulent Schmidt (Sc) number and a refined mesh (sufficient to resolve the thickened turbulent flame) is used to get accurate predictions of turbulent flame speeds. An accurate chemical kinetics mechanism is required to model flame kinetics and fuel burn rates under the conditions of interest. For practical computational fluid dynamics applications, use of large detailed chemistry mechanisms with 1000s of species is both costly as well as memory intensive. For this reason, skeletal mechanisms with a lower number of species (typically ∼100) reduced under specific operating conditions are often used. In this work, a new primary reference fuel chemical mechanism is developed to better correlate with the laminar flame speed data, relevant for highly dilute engine conditions. Simulations are carried out in a dilute gasoline engine with opposed piston architecture, and results are presented here across various dilution conditions.
Considerations in Using Photometer Instruments for Measuring Total Particulate Matter Mass Concentration in Diesel Engine Exhaust
Authors: Northrop William F. , Zarling Darrick , Li Xuesong
Published: November 2017

In this work, engine-out particulate matter (PM) mass emissions from an off-highway diesel engine measured using a low-cost photometer, scanning mobility particle sizer, elemental versus organic carbon analysis, and a photo-acoustic analyzer are compared. Tested engine operating modes spanned the range of those known to result in high semi-volatile particle concentration and those that emit primarily solid particles. Photometer measurements were taken following a primary dilution stage and a sample conditioner to control relative humidity prior to the instrument. Results of the study show that the photometer could qualitatively track total particle mass trends over the tested engine conditions though it was not accurate in measuring total carbon mass concentration. Further, the required photometric calibration factor (PCF) required to accurately measure total PM mass changes with the organic carbon (OC) fraction of the particles. Variables that influence PCF include particle effective density, which changes both as a function of particle diameter and OC fraction. Differences in refractive index between semi-volatile and solid particles are also significant and contribute to high error associated with measurement of total PM using the photometer. This work illustrates that it may be too difficult to accurately measure total engine PM mass with a photometer without knowing additional information about the sampled particles. However, removing semi-volatile organic materials prior to the instrument may allow the accurate estimation of elemental carbon mass concentration alone.
An Experimental Investigation of Combustion Process of a Turbo-Charged SI Stoichiometric Off-Road Engine Operated on Gaseous Fuel
Authors: Yao Allan , Li Hailin , Shi Xin , Xiao Fuming , Zeng Pin
Published: November 2017

This paper presents the engine performance, combustion process, and exhaust emissions from of a turbocharged spark ignition (SI) WP-10 off-road engine developed to operate on gaseous fuels applicable to a wide range of the higher heating value (HHV) (900 to 1400 BTU). The HHV of the fuels was varied by blending of propane or carbon dioxide (CO2) into natural gas (NG). The developed engine was designed to operate at 1800 rpm and 175 kW.

A new method of calculating the specific heat ratio of the bulk gases with the calculated bulk gas temperature and composition was proposed. The specific heat ratio calculated using this method was lower than the value derived from the conventional Log P-Log V method. The application of the specific heat ratio calculated in calculating the heat release process increased the heat release rate (HRR) and the total heat released during combustion. In addition, it also resulted in retarded phasing of CA50 and CA95 defined as the crank angle location when 50% and 95% of total energy was released.

The effects of the fuel composition on engine performance, combustion process, and exhaust emissions were experimentally investigated. It achieved a brake thermal efficiency of about 32.8%. The exhaust emissions are in compliance with both EPA and CARB regulations. The addition of propane to NG increased the HRR, accelerated the combustion process, and shortened the combustion duration. This was the result of the quicker flame propagation property of propane. The HRR observed with propane blending was featured with two heat release peaks. The peak HRR observed with 1400 BTU fuel was about 10% higher than that observed with NG only operation. As expected, the blending of CO2 to NG was shown to slow down the combustion process, and retarded the combustion phasing, especially during the completion of combustion.
Imaging paleoslabs in the D″ layer beneath Central America and the Caribbean using seismic waveform inversion
Authors: Borgeaud Anselme F. E. , Kawai Kenji , Konishi Kensuke , Geller Robert J.
Published: November 2017

Seismic images of the lowermost mantle under Central America show two distinct paleoslabs subducted ~150 to 200 Ma.
Spectroscopic signatures of localization with interacting photons in superconducting qubits
Authors: Roushan P. , Neill C. , Tangpanitanon J. , Bastidas V. M. , Megrant A. , Barends R. , Chen Y. , Chen Z. , Chiaro B. , Dunsworth A. , Fowler A. , Foxen B. , Giustina M. , Jeffrey E. , Kelly J. , Lucero E. , Mutus J. , Neeley M. , Quintana C. , Sank D. , Vainsencher A. , Wenner J. , White T. , Neven H. , Angelakis D. G. , Martinis J.
Published: November 2017

Putting photons to work

Interacting quantum particles can behave in peculiar ways. To understand that behavior, physicists have turned to quantum simulation, in which a tunable and clean system can be monitored as it evolves under the influence of interactions. Roushan
et al.
used a chain of nine superconducting qubits to create effective interactions between normally noninteracting photons and directly measured the energy levels of their system. The interplay of interactions and disorder gave rise to a transition to a localized state. With an increase in the number of qubits, the technique should be able to tackle problems that are inaccessible to classical computers.

Science
, this issue p.
1175
To frack or not to frack
The Fracking Debate: The Risks, Benefits, and Uncertainties of the Shale Revolution
Daniel Raimi
Columbia University Press, 2017. 274 pp.
Authors: Aczel Miriam R.
Published: November 2017

A straightforward guide offers a nuanced look at unconventional fossil fuel extraction
Infrared reflectance spectroscopy of MgAl2O4 nanoparticles substituted by K+ ions
Authors: Ahmad Javed , Qadeer Awan M. , Yasmin Roomana , Sabir Maria , Anwar Shafiq , Ehsan Mazhar M. , Hamad Bukhari Syed
Published: November 2017

The infrared reflectivity spectra for potassium-doped polycrystalline magnesium aluminates Mg[Formula: see text]K[Formula: see text]Al2O4 (x=0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1) are measured in the frequency range between 10–15, 500 cm[Formula: see text] using FTIR spectrometer at room-temperature. Four optical phonon modes are observed in measured spectra, which are fitted by Lorentz oscillator model for semiconducting behavior and Lorentz–Drude model for metallic behavior. Moreover, optical parameters are also determined for these modes which may attribute to spinel structure for samples Mg[Formula: see text]K[Formula: see text]Al2O4, their reflectivity spectra shows a typical semiconducting nature. To study ionicity and effect of polarization, Born and Szigeti effective charges are calculated from longitudinal optical and transverse optical (LO–TO) splitting of modes for all samples. Optical bandgap has been estimated through optical conductivity ([Formula: see text]([Formula: see text])) and found to be x dependent.
Dynamical analysis for a scalar–tensor model with kinetic and nonminimal couplings
Authors: Granda L. N. , Jimenez D. F.
Published: November 2017

We study the autonomous system for a scalar–tensor model of dark energy with nonminimal coupling to curvature and nonminimal kinetic coupling to the Einstein tensor. The critical points describe important stable asymptotic scenarios including quintessence, phantom and de Sitter attractor solutions. Two functional forms for the coupling functions and the scalar potential were considered: power-law and exponential functions of the scalar field. For power-law couplings, the restrictions on stable quintessence and phantom solutions lead to asymptotic freedom regime for the gravitational interaction. For the exponential functions, the stable quintessence, phantom or de Sitter solutions allow asymptotic behaviors where the effective Newtonian coupling can reach either the asymptotic freedom regime or constant value. The phantom solutions could be realized without appealing to ghost degrees of freedom. Transient inflationary and radiation dominated phases can also be described.
Olaratumab Exerts Antitumor Activity in Preclinical Models of Pediatric Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors through Inhibition of Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor α
Authors: Lowery Caitlin D. , Blosser Wayne , Dowless Michele , Knoche Shelby , Stephens Jennifer , Li Huiling , Surguladze David , Loizos Nick , Luffer-Atlas Debra , Oakley Gerard J. , Guo Qianxu , Iyer Seema , Rubin Brian P. , Stancato Louis
Published: November 2017

Purpose: Platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα) is implicated in several adult and pediatric malignancies, where activated signaling in tumor cells and/or cells within the microenvironment drive tumorigenesis and disease progression. Olaratumab (LY3012207/IMC-3G3) is a human mAb that exclusively binds to PDGFRα and recently received accelerated FDA approval and conditional EMA approval for treatment of advanced adult sarcoma patients in combination with doxorubicin. In this study, we investigated olaratumab in preclinical models of pediatric bone and soft tissue tumors.

Experimental Design: PDGFRα expression was evaluated by qPCR and Western blot analysis. Olaratumab was investigated in in vitro cell proliferation and invasion assays using pediatric osteosarcoma and rhabdoid tumor cell lines. In vivo activity of olaratumab was assessed in preclinical mouse models of pediatric osteosarcoma and malignant rhabdoid tumor.

Results: In vitro olaratumab treatment of osteosarcoma and rhabdoid tumor cell lines reduced proliferation and inhibited invasion driven by individual platelet-derived growth factors (PDGFs) or serum. Furthermore, olaratumab delayed primary tumor growth in mouse models of pediatric osteosarcoma and malignant rhabdoid tumor, and this activity was enhanced by combination with either doxorubicin or cisplatin.

Conclusions: Overall, these data indicate that olaratumab, alone and in combination with standard of care, blocks the growth of some preclinical PDGFRα-expressing pediatric bone and soft tissue tumor models. Clin Cancer Res; 24(4); 847–57. ©2017 AACR.
How Survey Design Affects Monkey Counts: A Case Study on Individually Recognized Spider Monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi)
Authors: Spaan Denise , Ramos-Fernández Gabriel , Schaffner Colleen M. , Pinacho-Guendulain Braulio , Aureli Filippo
Published: November 2017

The fast movement and high degree of fission-fusion dynamics of spider monkeys (Ateles spp.) make them notoriously difficult to survey. We examined which aspects of survey design affect spider monkey sightings along transects in a group of individually recognized spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) in Punta Laguna, Yucatan, Mexico. We calculated the number of monkeys and subgroups sighted per transect walk. Using generalized linear models, we found no effect of the number of observers, transect type (new vs. existing), walking speed, or time of day on individual monkey counts or subgroup counts. Recounting of individuals was relatively rare and occurred when transects were walked relatively slowly. We missed more young than adult monkeys. The group composition based on survey data was similar to the known group composition. Based on our findings we recommend that surveys performed on relatively flat terrain be conducted at speeds similar to or faster than the moving speed of spider monkeys to minimize recounting of individuals and that young:adult female ratios based on survey data be interpreted as conservative indicators of population health. The novel methods presented to determine sources of bias in population estimates are applicable to a wide range of primates that are difficult to survey.
Axial Length/Corneal Radius of Curvature Ratio Assessment of Posterior Sclera Reinforcement for Pathologic Myopia
Authors: Hu Huiling , Zhao Guangyu , Wu Ruifeng , Zhong Huahong , Fang Min , Deng Hongwei
Published: November 2017

Purpose: The aim of this study was to assess the axial length/corneal radius of curvature ratio changes after posterior scleral reinforcement (PSR) for pathologic myopia. Procedures: This study enrolled 32 pathologically myopic eyes treated with PSR and 35 untreated pathologically myopic eyes. Axial length, refractive error, best corrected visual acuity, corneal radius of curvature, and the axial length/corneal radius of curvature ratio were evaluated during the 1-year follow-up. Results: There were no statistical differences in each parameter between the 2 groups at baseline. Significant differences were found between the 2 groups in both axial elongation and best corrected visual acuity improvement. The average axial length/horizontal corneal radius of curvature ratio significantly decreased in the PSR group. Conclusion: The PSR surgery can effectively delay the axial elongation in pathological myopia. Axial length/horizontal corneal radius of curvature ratio significantly decreased, which may indicate less myopic progression after surgery.
Phenotyping of Sleep‐Disordered Breathing in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction—the SchlaHF Registry
Authors: Arzt Michael , Oldenburg Olaf , Graml Andrea , Erdmann Erland , Teschler Helmut , Wegscheider Karl , Suling Anna , Woehrle Holger ,   the SchlaHF Investigators
Published: November 2017

Background

Different sleep‐disordered breathing (
SDB
) phenotypes, including coexisting obstructive and central sleep apnea (
OSA
‐
CSA
), have not yet been characterized in a large sample of patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (
HF
r
EF
) receiving guideline‐based therapies. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine the proportion of
OSA
,
CSA
, and
OSA
‐
CSA
, as well as periodic breathing, in
HF
r
EF
patients with
SDB
.

Methods and Results

The German Schla
HF
registry enrolled patients with
HF
r
EF
receiving guideline‐based therapies, who underwent portable
SDB
monitoring. Polysomnography (n=2365) was performed in patients with suspected
SDB
. Type of
SDB
(
OSA
,
CSA
, or
OSA
‐
CSA
), the occurrence of periodic breathing (proportion of Cheyne‐Stokes respiration ≥20%), and blood gases were determined in 1557
HF
r
EF
patients with confirmed
SDB
.
OSA
,
OSA
‐
CSA
, and
CSA
were found in 29%, 40%, and 31% of patients, respectively; 41% showed periodic breathing. Characteristics differed significantly among
SDB
groups and in those with versus without periodic breathing. There was a relationship between greater proportions of
CSA
and the presence of periodic breathing. Risk factors for having
CSA
rather than
OSA
were male sex, older age, presence of atrial fibrillation, lower ejection fraction, and lower awake carbon dioxide pressure (
pco
2
). Periodic breathing was more likely in men, patients with atrial fibrillation, older patients, and as left ventricular ejection fraction and awake
pco
2
decreased, and less likely as body mass index increased and minimum oxygen saturation decreased.

Conclusions

Schla
HF
data show that there is wide interindividual variability in the
SDB
phenotype of
HF
r
EF
patients, suggesting that individualized management is appropriate.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/
. Unique identifier:
NCT
01500759.
Value of Excess Pressure Integral for Predicting 15‐Year All‐Cause and Cardiovascular Mortalities in End‐Stage Renal Disease Patients
Authors: Huang Jui‐Tzu , Cheng Hao‐Min , Yu Wen‐Chung , Lin Yao‐Ping , Sung Shih‐Hsien , Wang Jiun‐Jr , Wu Chung‐Li , Chen Chen‐Huan
Published: November 2017

Background

The excess pressure integral (
XSPI
), derived from analysis of the arterial pressure curve, may be a significant predictor of cardiovascular events in high‐risk patients. We comprehensively investigated the prognostic value of
XSPI
for predicting long‐term mortality in end‐stage renal disease patients undergoing regular hemodialysis.

Methods and Results

A total of 267 uremic patients (50.2% female; mean age 54.2±14.9 years) receiving regular hemodialysis for more than 6 months were enrolled. Cardiovascular parameters were obtained by echocardiography and applanation tonometry. Calibrated carotid arterial pressure waveforms were analyzed according to the wave‐transmission and reservoir‐wave theories. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models were constructed to account for age, sex, diabetes mellitus, albumin, body mass index, and hemodialysis treatment adequacy. Incremental utility of the parameters to risk stratification was assessed by net reclassification improvement. During a median follow‐up of 15.3 years, 124 deaths (46.4%) incurred. Baseline
XSPI
was significantly predictive of all‐cause (hazard ratio per 1
SD
1.4, 95% confidence interval 1.15‐1.70,
P
=0.0006) and cardiovascular mortalities (1.47, 1.18‐1.84,
P
=0.0006) after accounting for the covariates. The addition of
XSPI
to the base prognostic model significantly improved prediction of both all‐cause mortality (net reclassification improvement=0.1549,
P
=0.0012) and cardiovascular mortality (net reclassification improvement=0.1535,
P
=0.0033).
XSPI
was superior to carotid‐pulse wave velocity, forward and backward wave amplitudes, and left ventricular ejection fraction in consideration of overall independent and incremental prognostics values.

Conclusions

In end‐stage renal disease patients undergoing regular hemodialysis,
XSPI
was significantly predictive of long‐term mortality and demonstrated an incremental value to conventional prognostic factors.
The “Historical Turn” in the Social Sciences
Authors: Klein Herbert S.
Published: November 2017

The first professional societies in the United States, from the 1880s to the 1910s, understood history to be closely associated with the other social sciences. Even in the mid-twentieth century, history was still grouped with the other social sciences, along with economics, sociology, political science, and anthropology. But in the past few decades, history and anthropology in the United States (though not necessarily in other countries) have moved away from the social sciences to ally themselves with the humanities—paradoxically, just when the other social sciences are becoming more committed to historical research.
Angiogenesis in chicken chorioallantoic membrane under hypoxic incubations
Authors: Zhang Hongliang , Shang Peng , Zhang Yawen , Zhang Ying , Tian Xiaolong , Zhang Hao
Published: November 2017

Under hypoxic conditions, angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane exhibits a sensitive response depending on the developmental timing and intensity and duration of the hypoxia. Furthermore, the effects of hypoxia on vascularization in the chorioallantoic membrane are controversial. In this study, we used microscopy to determine the vascular density index of chicken embryonic chorioallantoic membrane and quantitative PCR to examine the expression of the HIF-1α and VEGFA genes. Two levels of hypoxia (15% and 13% O2) and three durations (days 0–10, 11–18, and 0–18) were applied. The results showed that 13% O2 incubation restrained angiogenesis in the chorioallantoic membrane at an early stage of embryonic development as seen on day 6, but incubation under 13% or 15% O2 efficiently stimulated vascularization of the chorioallantoic membrane as seen on days 16 and 18. Notably, 13% O2 incubation caused visible curling of the blood vessels in the chorioallantoic membrane on day 18. The increased vascular density index under hypoxia was accompanied by an increase in the expression of VEGFA and HIF-1α. Curled blood vessels were observed on day 18 under 13% O2 incubation; however, the curling was not a result of VEGFA overexpression. Thus, the present study helps in elucidating vascularization of the chorioallantoic membrane under hypoxic conditions.
Dolichocephala Macquart of Thailand (Diptera: Empididae: Clinocerinae)
Authors: SINCLAIR BRADLEY J. , PLANT ADRIAN R.
Published: November 2017

Seven new species of Dolichocephala Macquart from Thailand are described (D. bicolor sp. nov., D. curvata sp. nov., D. immaculata sp. nov., D. incus sp. nov., D. longicerca sp. nov., D. srisukai sp. nov., D. thailandensis sp. nov.). A key to species is provided, distributions mapped and phenology and biogeography discussed.
Assisted Technologies of Social Reproduction
Authors: Hansen Helena
Published: November 2017

This article examines the symbolic work of gender as it intersects with race and class in popular media and in local community discourses surrounding the “suburban opioid epidemic,” in which national drug policies, and White futures, are thought to be at stake. The study starts with an analysis of the White, middle-class, female “new face of addiction” that has been cultivated by national press coverage of prescription opioid-cum-heroin overdoses in the U.S. and then turns to interviews with community physicians in the front line of a clinical response to the “epidemic” in Staten Island, a White suburban enclave within New York City that is experiencing 3–4 times the opioid overdose rate of any other City borough. Physicians use the language of family membership to indicate identification with their opioid addiction patients, and many go to lengths to provide holistic care and to incorporate family support for their patients despite lack of insurance reimbursement. White, educated patients describe buprenorphine as a way to maintain their professional identities, while low-income Black and Latino patients describe pharmaceutical maintenance as a socially alienating arm of the criminal justice system. Together, media and clinical responses make up strategies of White racial rescue from threatened social reproduction in an era of substance-induced White downward mobility.
From Modern to Postmodern Skyscraper Urbanism and the Rise of Historic Preservation in Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, 1969-1988
Authors: Lesh James P.
Published: November 2017

From the late 1960s to the mid-1980s, the Australian city transitioned from modern to postmodern skyscraper urbanism. This article examines three Australian skyscrapers spanning this transition: the Mutual Life & Citizens Assurance Company (MLC) Centre in Sydney (1977), the Rialto Towers in Melbourne (1986), and the Bond Tower in Perth (1988). Despite a backlash against skyscrapers, in part brought about by heritage activists, these prominent and sizable towers were realized in historic environments. With the authorization of heritage regulators and consultants, tower builders made architectural and functional compromises for preservation, to the dissatisfaction of activists. Local and transnational forces coalesced to bring about this mode of skyscraper development, including improved construction technologies, the continued association of towers with boosterism, an intensification of economic processes, and advancements in participatory urbanism. These Australian developments exemplify the changing relationship between postmodern skyscrapers, heritage conservation, and urban planning and design.
Does attending community music interventions lead to changes in wider musical behaviours? The effect of mother–infant singing classes on musical behaviours amongst mothers with symptoms of postnatal depression
Authors: Fancourt Daisy , Perkins Rosie
Published: November 2017

There is a growing body of research exploring how music interventions impact on wider behaviours in people’s lives, such as anti-social behaviours, classroom behaviours and consumer behaviours. However, an understudied area is whether engagement in structured music programmes leads to wider changes in musical behaviours amongst participants. This study explored this question in relation to women with symptoms of postnatal depression (PND). Ninety-three women up to 40 weeks post-birth with symptoms of PND were randomised to 10 weeks of group singing classes or usual care. Women who attended the singing workshops had a significantly greater increase than those in the control group in the frequency of their singing, their confidence in singing and the repertoire they knew. There were also indications that the partners of women in the singing group also increased their frequency of singing, suggesting effects can extend to the wider family unit. However, there was no impact on wider musical behaviours such as listening to music. This is the first demonstration that weekly singing programmes can alter musical behaviours in new mothers. Analyses explore the optimum number of singing classes required to trigger a wider behaviour change and health psychology theories around behaviour change that could account for these results are discussed.
Engineered tubular structures based on chitosan for tissue engineering applications
Authors: Silva Joana M , Rodrigues Luísa C , Silva Simone S , Reis Rui L , Duarte Ana Rita C
Published: November 2017

The development of versatile tubular structures is a subject of broad interest in tissue engineering applications. Herein, we demonstrate the production of tubular structures based on chitosan through a combination of dipping, freeze-drying and supercritical technology approaches. The combination of these techniques yields versatile tubes with a perfectly defined hollow imprint, which upon chemical cross-linking with genipin acquire enhanced mechanical properties (Young Modulus ( E) and ultimate tensile stress (σmax)), as well as improved stability in wet conditions. The biological performance reveals that cells remain attached, well-spread and viable on the surface of cross-linked tubes. As so, is envisioned that our methodology opens up new avenues on tissue engineering approaches, where the design of tubular structures with tuned length, diameter and elasticity is required.
Preferences and Ratings of Partner Traits in Female Survivors of Childhood Abuse With PTSD and Healthy Controls
Authors: Lieberz Klara A. , Müller-Engelmann Meike , Priebe Kathlen , Friedmann Franziska , Görg Nora , Herzog Julia Isabell , Steil Regina
Published: November 2017

There is growing empirical evidence for an association between childhood abuse (CA) and intimate partner violence (IPV) in adulthood. We tested whether revictimized survivors of severe to extreme severities of child sexual abuse (CSA) and severe severities of child physical abuse (CPA) differed from nonvictimized healthy controls in their trait preferences in intimate partners and their current mate choice. In a sample of 52 revictimized female patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after CSA/CPA and 52 female healthy controls, the validated Intimate Partner Preferences Questionnaire (IPPQ) was used to assess (a) the desirability of tenderness, dominance, and aggression traits in potential partners, and (b) the presence of these traits in their current intimate partners. Factors potentially associated with partner preference and mate choice, for example, chronicity of traumatic events and lower self-esteem, were explored. Our results showed that, in general, revictimized PTSD patients did not have a preference for dominant or aggressive partners. However, revictimized women displayed a significantly larger discrepancy than did healthy controls between their preferences for tenderness traits and their ratings of the presence of tenderness traits in their current partners. Our results indicated that revictimized patients had lower self-esteem values; however, these values were associated with higher demands for tenderness traits. Furthermore, our results revealed that compared with patients who experienced early-onset childhood abuse (CA), those who experienced later onset CA were more accepting of dominant traits in potential partners. Women who had experienced IPV rated their current partners to be overly dominant. A higher tolerance of dominance traits might increase the risk of IPV in a specific subgroup of abused women (women with a later onset of abuse experiences and experiences of IPV).
Poly-Victimization and Coping Profiles: Relationship With Externalizing Symptoms in Adolescents
Authors: Guerra Cristóbal , Pereda Noemí , Guilera Georgina
Published: November 2017

Externalizing symptoms correspond to a set of behavioral problems related to aggressiveness and the violation of norms. These disorders are common during adolescence, especially in poly-victimized populations. However, not much is known about the mechanism underlying the relationship between poly-victimization and symptoms or about the factors that could play a protective role in this relationship. It is necessary to understand the factors that influence the development of these disorders to prevent them. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationships among coping strategies, poly-victimization, and externalizing symptoms. The participants were 144 adolescent outpatients ( M = 14.31, SD = 1.48) attending child and adolescent mental health services. The participants responded to three scales that examined their coping strategies, poly-victimization levels, and externalizing symptoms. The results showed that both poly-victimization and nonproductive coping were directly associated with externalizing symptomatology. In contrast, coping in reference to others and productive coping had inverse relationships with externalizing symptoms. Finally, the results of a cluster analysis revealed three groups of adolescents with different coping strategy profiles. The group with the least externalizing symptomatology was the “active-balanced” group (high use of coping in reference to others and productive coping combined with moderate use of nonproductive coping). The group with the greatest symptomatology was the “lonely” group (high use of productive and nonproductive coping but low use of coping in reference to others). The results suggest that poly-victimization and style of coping has an impact on the development of externalizing problems. These results may be useful for designing programs to prevent or treat externalizing disorders in adolescents.
Spousal Coping Strategies in the Shadow of Terrorism
Authors: Shechory-Bitton Mally , Cohen-Louck Keren
Published: November 2017

The present study focuses on spousal differences in reaction to ongoing exposure to terror and security threats. Sixty-eight married couples with children living in a region exposed to ongoing security threats were evaluated. All participants completed questionnaires on objective exposure (number of incidents) and subjective exposure (sense of fear) to terrorism and security threats, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, and their coping strategies with this ongoing exposure. Mothers reported higher levels of fear and PTSD symptoms, although their objective levels of exposure did not differ from those of their husbands. Similarities were found in coping strategies adopted by mothers and fathers to cope with life in the shadow of terrorism. Both mothers and fathers integrated emotion- and problem-focused coping strategies, with greater use of the latter. These similarities partially contradict research findings suggesting gender differences in coping with exposure to security threats. The results support the need for further research into investigating the role of dyadic coping in the context of prolonged exposure to security threats.