bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular Responses to Different Resistance Exercise Protocols in Elderly
Authors: Sardeli Amanda , do Carmo Santos Lucas , Ferreira Marina , Gáspari Arthur , Rodrigues Bruno , Cavaglieri Cláudia , Chacon-Mikahil Mara
Published: September 2017

Increase in muscle mass and strength through resistance exercise (RE) has been highly recommended for healthy aging. On the other hand, RE could lead to acute cardiovascular risks prompted mainly by intense blood pressure elevations and cardiac autonomic imbalance. We compared the cardiovascular responses to three different RE protocols performed by 21 healthy elderly on a leg press machine. The protocols tested were high load (80% 1RM) until muscular failure (HL); low load (30% 1RM) until muscular failure (LL); low load, 30 repetitions followed by 3 sets of 15 repetitions, with 50% blood flow restriction (LL-BFR); and a control session (CON). Based on heart rate variability analysis, only LL kept parasympathetic indexes lower than CON at 30 min recovery. By finger photoplethysmography, LL-BFR prompted higher systolic and mainly diastolic blood pressure increments in many sets. The heart rate and cardiac output increase, and total peripheral resistance reduction following exercise were not different among RE protocols. There was no significant post-exercise hypotension and carotid arterial compliance changes. HL seems to be the safer protocol to be recommended for the healthy elderly, because it induces lower blood pressure increments and faster parasympathetic recovery compared to LL and LL-BFR.
Variability Over Time of Normal-Sized Fetal Renal Pelvis During the Second Trimester Scan
Authors: Røset Maria , Blaas Harm-Gerd , Fagerli Tove , Eggebø Torbjørn
Published: September 2017

Purpose To investigate the variability of the normal-sized fetal renal pelvis (≤5 mm) over time and to analyze repeatability of measurements.

Materials and Methods 98 fetal renal pelvises and 49 fetal urinary bladders were analyzed at a gestational age of 17–20 weeks at St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim, Norway. The anterior-posterior diameter (APD) of the fetal renal pelvis and two diameters of the fetal bladder were measured with an interval of at least 30 min. Intra- and interobserver variations and variations over time and in association with bladder size were investigated.

Results The mean difference in renal pelvis size between the first and second measurements was 0.09 mm (95% CI, −0.09 to 0.26 mm). The variation over time was ≤1 mm in 85% of cases and the renal pelvis was ≤4 mm in both the first and second examinations in 92% of cases. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was 0.54 (95% CI: 0.31 to 0.69). We did not observe any association between variation of bladder size and variation of APD. The difference in fetal renal pelvis size was ≤1 mm in 70% of observations for the first examiner and 58% for the second examiner. The intraobserver ICCs were 0.71 (95% CI: 0.62–0.78) and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.50–0.70) for the two observers respectively. The interobserver difference was ≤1 mm in 72% of cases and the interobserver ICC was 0.56 (95% CI: 0.34–0.71).

Conclusion The variation of the APD of the fetal renal pelvis over time was small in fetuses with the APD in the lower range and can mainly be explained by intraobserver variation.
Hybrids of Steroid and Nitrogen Mustard as Antiproliferative Agents: Synthesis, In Vitro Evaluation and In Silico Inverse Screening
Authors: Acharya Pratap , Bansal Ranju , Kharkar Prashant
Published: September 2017

Hybrids of 16E-arylidene steroids and nitrogen mustard have been synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxic activity to develop tissue specific antineoplastic agents from steroids. These hybrids displayed specificity towards leukemia cell lines, however somewhat reduced potency was observed in comparison with the earlier reported 16E-arylidene steroids. The in silico reverse screening experiments were employed to find out the probable pharmacological mechanism of these hybrids. Molecular docking studies suggested glucocorticoid receptors as a probable target for the antileukemic action of these steroid-nitrogen mustard hybrids.
Cost-Effectiveness of Mobile App-Guided Training in Extended Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (eFAST): A Randomized Trial
Authors: Nilsson Philip , Todsen Tobias , Subhi Yousif , Graumann Ole , Nolsøe Christian , Tolsgaard Martin
Published: September 2017

Purpose Ultrasound training is associated with a long learning curve and use of substantial faculty resources. Self-directed ultrasound training may decrease the need for faculty-led teaching. Mobile apps seem promising for use in self-directed ultrasound training, but no studies have examined the cost-effectiveness of mobile app-guided training versus traditional formats such as textbook-guided training. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of mobile app-guided versus textbook-guided ultrasound training.

Material and methods First-year residents (n = 38) with no previous ultrasound experience were randomized into mobile app-guided versus textbook-guided self-directed ultrasound training groups. Participants completed a transfer test involving four patient cases and a theoretical test on diagnostic accuracy. Two ultrasound experts assessed the residents’ performance using the Objective Structured Assessment of Ultrasound Skills (OSAUS) scale. The costs of developing mobile app and textbook material were calculated and used for the analysis of cost-effectiveness.

Results 34 participants completed the transfer test. There was no statistically significant difference in test performance or diagnostic accuracy between the mobile app-guided (mean-OSAUS 42.3 % [95 %CI38.5 – 46.0 %]) and textbook-guided groups (mean-OSAUS 45.3 % [95 %CI39.3 – 51.3 %]) (d.f. [1.33] = 0.45, p = 0.41). However, development costs differed greatly for each instructional format. Textbook-guided training was significantly more cost-effective than mobile app-guided training (Incremental Cost Effectiveness Ratio -861 967 [95 %CI-1071.7 to-3.2] USD/pct. point change in OSAUS score).

Conclusion Mobile app-guided ultrasound training is less cost-effective than textbook-guided self-directed training. This study underlines the need for careful evaluation of cost-effectiveness when introducing technological innovations for clinical skills training.
Comparison of In Vitro Hepatic Scoparone 7-O-Demethylation between Humans and Experimental Animals
Authors: Fayyaz Anam , Makwinja Seddy , Auriola Seppo , Raunio Hannu , Juvonen Risto
Published: September 2017

Scoparone is a natural bioactive compound in Chinese herbal medicines. It has numerous pharmacological actions, including liver protective, hypolipidemic, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects. The primary metabolism route of scoparone is O-demethylation to scopoletin or isoscopoletin catalyzed by CYP enzymes. The aims of our study were to identify the human CYP enzymes catalyzing scoparone 7-O-demethylation to scopoletin and to compare this oxidation reaction in liver microsomes among different species. A high throughput fluorescent-based assay method was developed to determine the scoparone 7-O-demethylation to scopoletin rate. The rate was 100 – 400 nmol/(min×g protein) in mouse and rabbit liver microsomes, 10 – 20 nmol/(min×g protein) in pig microsomes, 1 – 3 nmol/(min×g protein) in human and less than 1 nmol/(min×g protein) in rat liver microsomes. Human CYP1A1 (Km 13 µM and Vmax 0.8 min−1), CYP1A2 (Km 48 µM and Vmax 0.3 min−1), and CYP2A13 (Km 10 µM and Vmax 22 min−1) were the most efficient catalysts of the reaction. The CYP2A6 selective inhibitor pilocarpine and an antibody against mouse CYP2A5 inhibited scoparone 7-O-demethylation to scopoletin in rabbit, mouse, and pig liver microsomes, indicating involvement of CYP2A enzymes in the reaction. Hepatic scoparone 7-O-demethylation to scopoletin differed between species both with respect to the rate of reaction and catalyzing enzymes. These species differences need to be taken into account when testing scoparone pharmacokinetics in animals and humans.
The Argentine portion of the soybean commodity chain
Authors: Sly Maria Jose Haro
Published: September 2017

Since the 1990s the soybean crop has increased in the Southern Cone of Latin America (LA). During this time, Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Bolivia and Paraguay have become soybean producers. This phenomenon was influenced by the rising soybean demand from China for use in animal feed as the country changed its diet patterns. South American soybean exports to China constitute an important percentage of the bilateral commerce. Basically, two views can be identified with regard to China’s relations with LA countries. One of them emphasizes opportunities for building mutually beneficial relations and underscores the economic complementarity between both regions. Yet, the critical literature on China and Latin American relations draws attention to the contradictions of this process by highlighting the deepening of neo-extractivism and the expansion of the agricultural frontier. Describing the Argentine portion of the soybean commodity chain this paper will present data to support this critical literature. It depicts the actors, strategies and the degree of monopolization of each of the nodes of soybean production based on secondary data. The article’s key findings are as follows: (1) there is high monopolization and foreignization of soybean production and commercialization; (2) as China has become a global player in genomics and agrochemicals, it has reproduced the same patterns as the core countries; (3) despite the win-win diplomatic statements of the People’s Republic of China, there are important asymmetries in trade, and the Argentine deficits have continually increased; (4) by expanding GM soybean production, Argentina has augmented the concentration of land, primarization and transnationalization of the economy and monoculture; (5) the Cristina F. de Kirchner progressive government failed to stop soybean expansion, and with the drop of the economic growth rate that is associated with the fall of commodity prices combined with the restriction of access to international credits, the government was put in check by various fronts. The distributive conflict contributed to the increasing social confusion that led to a right wing recovery in 2015. Therefore, this article shows that China’s increasing trade with Argentina in the soybean sector follows the existing structure of the global commodity chain and does not offer much space for progressive change in Argentina’s political economy. The data that are presented demystify Chinese win-win statements and counter expectations about China as an alternative globalizer that would bring more benefits to the global South than traditional core countries have.
Mapping cation diffusion through lattice defects in epitaxial oxide thin films on the water-soluble buffer layer Sr3Al2O6 using atomic resolution electron microscopy
Authors: Baek David J. , Lu Di , Hikita Yasuyuki , Hwang Harold Y. , Kourkoutis Lena F.
Published: September 2017

Recent advances in the synthesis of oxide thin films have led to the discovery of novel functionalities that are not accessible in bulk structures. However, their physical properties are vulnerable to the presence of crystal defects, which can give rise to structural, chemical, and electronic modifications. These issues are central to optimizing the opportunities to create freestanding oxide films using the recently developed buffer layer Sr3Al2O6, which is soluble in room temperature water. To evaluate the general possibility to create atomic scale freestanding oxide heterostructures, it is critical to understand the formation, structure, and role of defects as this buffer layer is employed. Here, using aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy in combination with electron energy loss spectroscopy, we reveal cation segregation and diffusion along crystal defects that form during growth of an oxide multilayer structure on the Sr3Al2O6 buffer layer. We demonstrate that mass transport of film material can occur either through open dislocation core channels or site-specifically in the crystal lattice, causing local variations in stoichiometry. However, by reducing the thermal driving force for diffusion during growth, we suppress the role of extended defects as cation segregation sites, thereby retaining the inherent properties of the overlaying film.
Multiscale identification of local tetragonal distortion in NaNbO3-BaTiO3 weak relaxor ferroelectrics by Raman, synchrotron x-ray diffraction, and absorption spectra
Authors: Zuo Ruzhong , Qi He , Fu Jian , Li Jing-Feng , Li Longtu
Published: September 2017

Locally persistent tetragonal distortion in NaNbO3-BaTiO3 relaxor ferroelectrics was identified at multiple length scales by means of in-situ synchrotron x-ray diffraction, absorption fine structure, and Raman spectra although their average symmetry seemingly evolved from a tetragonal to a cubic-like phase with the increasing BaTiO3 content. Theoretical calculations of Nb-O peaks in the R range of 1–2 Å provided a clear evidence that Nb5+ in an NbO6 octahedron should be spontaneously shifted along [001]. The competition between B-site Nb5+ ([001]) and Ti4+ ([111]) spontaneous off-center displacement directions would contribute to the disruption of long-range polar ordering. Raman spectra suggested that A-site Ba2+ and Na+ cations should be located at the center of the cubes in the absence of the polar contribution unlike Pb2+/Bi3+ with lone-pairs. A relatively low field-induced strain in NN-BT relaxors was thus ascribed to the small spontaneous polarization magnitude and the absence of structural phase transition during electric loading.
How nanobubbles lose stability: Effects of surfactants
Authors: Xiao Qianxiang , Liu Yawei , Guo Zhenjiang , Liu Zhiping , Zhang Xianren
Published: September 2017

In contrast to stability theories of nanobubbles, the molecular mechanism of how nanobubbles lose stability is far from being understood. In this work, we try to interpret recent experimental observations that the addition of surfactants destabilizes nanobubbles with an unclear mechanism. Using molecular dynamics simulations, we identify two surfactant-induced molecular mechanisms for nanobubbles losing stability, either through depinning of a contact line or reducing vapor-liquid surface tension. One corresponds to the case with significant adsorption of surfactants on the substrates, which causes depinning of the nanobubble contact line and thus leads to nanobubble instability. The other stresses surfactant adsorption on the vapor-liquid interface of nanobubbles, especially for insoluble surfactants, which reduces the surface tension of the interface and leads to an irreversible liquid-to-vapor phase transition. Our finding can help improve our understanding in nanobubble stability, and the insight presented here has implications for surface nanobubbles involving with other amphiphilic molecules, such as proteins and contaminations.
A proposed method to analyze various impacts on the adoption of different sources of primary energy
Authors: Tao Zhang , Xu Xin-long , Tao Xiangnan , Chen Hsing Hung
Published: September 2017

Because of the urgent requirement of maintaining a healthy environment, the quick development of economic growth, and the unstable price of conventional energy sources, generating electricity from renewable and clear energy in China will become the main trend in the near future. However, how to adopt a suitable strategic planning for different energy sources among stakeholders has not been comprehensively discussed in previous literatures and is becoming more important and complex. Accordingly, the current work employs a proposed method, which incorporates the benefits, opportunities, costs, and risks, and integrates quantitative and qualitative data to help analyze various impacts on the adoption of different primary energy sources.
Floquet stability analysis in the wake of a NACA0015 airfoil at post-stall angles of attack
Authors: Deng Jian , Sun Liping , Shao Xueming
Published: September 2017

We perform a Floquet stability analysis in the wake of a NACA0015 airfoil, with four angles of attack, α=20°, 17.5°, 15°, and 12.5°, considered. The central aim is to predict the secondary instabilities at the fixed moderate angles of attack, which are sufficiently large for massive separation from the airfoil, while at the same time allowing the formation and travelling of surface vortex on the airfoil, differentiating from the cases with very large angles of attack. We divide the angles of attack into two groups. We report that mode C is the first unstable mode for both groups, and which is also the only unstable mode for the small angles of attack, i.e., α=15° and α=12.5°, while for the high angles of attack, i.e., α=20° and α=17.5°, four unstable modes are observed. They are mode A, mode quasi-periodic, mode SL, and mode SS. The modes SL and SS are both subharmonic but with different wave numbers. We conjecture that these two subharmonic modes are resulted from the splitting of mode C. A comparison in the base flow topologies between the two groups shows that the different instability behaviors are probably due to their different flow patterns of the base flows. Three-dimensional direct numerical simulations (DNSs) have also been employed to study the physical realizability of the dominant unstable modes. A good consistency between the Floquet analysis and the 3D DNS results is achieved, indicating that the dominance of the linear instability is responsible for such a three-dimensional flow as the Reynolds number is not far from the critical value. Moreover, we find that the critical Reynolds numbers for the onset of three-dimensional instability fall into the range of 159.7–234.2 by defining this new Reynolds number according to the width of the flow wake. These values are very close to that of a bluff body. Furthermore, we note that the corresponding Strouhal numbers are around 0.17 for all the angles of attack, implying the relevance of three-dimensional instabilities to the wake dynamics or more specifically the fluctuation in the wake.
Resolution improvement of low frequency AC magnetic field detection for modulated MR sensors
Authors: Hu Jinghua , Pan Mengchun , Hu Jiafei , Li Sizhong , Chen Dixiang , Tian Wugang , Sun Kun , Du Qingfa , Wang Yuan , Pan Long , Zhou Weihong , Zhang Qi , Li Peisen , Peng Junping , Qiu Weicheng , Zhou Jikun
Published: September 2017

Magnetic modulation methods especially Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) modulation can improve the sensitivity of magnetoresistive (MR) sensors dramatically, and pT level detection of Direct Current (DC) magnetic field can be realized. While in a Low Frequency Alternate Current (LFAC) magnetic field measurement situation, frequency measurement is limited by a serious spectrum aliasing problem caused by the remanence in sensors and geomagnetic field, leading to target information loss because frequency indicates the magnetic target characteristics. In this paper, a compensation field produced with integrated coils is applied to the MR sensor to remove DC magnetic field distortion, and a LFAC magnetic field frequency estimation algorithm is proposed based on a search of the database, which is derived from the numerical model revealing the relationship of the LFAC frequency and determination factor [defined by the ratio of Discrete Fourier Transform (DFT) coefficients]. In this algorithm, an inverse modulation of sensor signals is performed to detect jumping-off point of LFAC in the time domain; this step is exploited to determine sampling points to be processed. A determination factor is calculated and taken into database to figure out frequency with a binary search algorithm. Experimental results demonstrate that the frequency measurement resolution of the LFAC magnetic field is improved from 12.2 Hz to 0.8 Hz by the presented method, which, within the signal band of a magnetic anomaly (0.04-2 Hz), indicates that the proposed method may expand the applications of magnetoresistive (MR) sensors to human healthcare and magnetic anomaly detection (MAD).
Reflective polarization-modulation method of stress estimation using stress-induced birefringence
Authors: Kniazkov A. V.
Published: September 2017

This paper considers a scan method to measure mechanical stresses for a photoelastic material by the value of the reflection coefficient difference of orthogonal linearly polarized light waves. The results of the estimation of the stress state of a poly(methyl methacrylate) sample using the proposed reflective method are described. The dependencies of change induced by stress birefringence in the stressed sample from the displacement of the measuring beam transverse to the compression axis and along the axis are given. The case of almost normal incidence of light is considered.
Overcoming atomic structural defects in oxide film synthesis with low temperature
Authors: Kim Mark H.
Published: September 2017

Researchers identify a cause of quality degradation in oxide film synthesis and how to prevent it.
Nitrogen removal during the cold season by constructed floating wetlands planted with Oenanthe javanica
Authors: Wang Penghe , Jeelani Nasreen , Zuo Jie , Zhang Hui , Zhao Dehua , Zhu Zhengjie , Leng Xin , An Shuqing
Published: September 2017

Constructed floating wetlands (CFWs) are used to treat waste waters of various origins either alone or as part of waste water treatment trains. The aim of the present study was to determine the extent of nitrogen removal by CFWs planted with Oenanthe javanica (Blume) DC. at low temperatures (<10°C) and whether CFWs with vesuvianite as a substrate perform better than those without substrate. A batch model was used, with CFWs planted with O. javanica (Tc), CFWs without O. javanica (Ts), CFWs without substrate (Tp) and floating mats only (To) as a control. The average removal rates of NH4+-N, NO3–-N and total nitrogen were 78.3, 44.4 and 49.7% respectively in Tc; 72.0, 40.0 and 39.5% respectively in Ts; and 73.1, 33.7 and 44.0% respectively in Tp. In addition to a gradual increase in chemical oxygen demand during the experimental period, Tc had higher microbial richness and diversity, as well as a higher abundance of bacteria, archaea, anaerobic ammonium oxidation (Anammox) bacteria and key genes (ammonia mono-oxygenase, amoA, nitrous oxide reductase, nosZ, dissimilatory cd1-containing nitrite reductase, nirS, and dissimilatory copper-containing nitrite reductase, nirK) involved in nitrogen metabolism in the substrate than Ts. Further analysis of microbial community composition revealed a difference at multiple taxonomic levels among different systems. These results demonstrate the positive roles of O. javanica and vesuvianite in CFWs in nitrogen removal from waste water during the cold season (mean water temperature <10°C).
‘Victim playing’ as a form of verbal aggression in the Czech parliament
Authors: Berrocal Martina
Published: September 2017

As the core of political discourse is the struggle for power and scarce resources, conflict seems to be an essential component of political action and interaction. In addition, conflicts in parliament are manifested in many different ways. They range from disputes during the plenary sessions to more personal attacks in the question time. This paper, however, examines an atypical display of parliamentary discourse, namely a speech by a social democratic MP David Rath, which regarded a vote on his extradition and was delivered on 5 June 2012. This speech obviously did not fulfil the primary function of the parliamentary sessions, i.e. legislating and decision-making. Here the MP was given the opportunity to present his own version of events and ask fellow MPs to maintain his parliamentary immunity. The analysis revealed two intertwining discourse strategies. On the one hand, the MP who is charged with several criminal acts presents himself as a victim of a conspiracy. In that, he aims to divert attention from the criminal case while calling for sympathy and providing self-justification. On the other hand, he uses his time to verbally complain about his arrest, the conditions in which he is held in custody, and the people he holds responsible for his current situation; he uses verbal attacks to undermine and disqualify a number of overt and covert enemies. The key aim of the analysis is to explore how victimhood is constructed in discourse, what discourse strategies are observable at the macro-level and how they are reflected in the discourse structure and in the linguistic style.
“Please protect the Jews”
Authors: Burke Shani
Published: September 2017

This research examined Facebook comments in response to Britain First’s ‘solidarity patrol’ video, in which
Britain First is shown patrolling in Golders Green, North London, ostensibly to show support for the Jewish
community after the shooting in the Kosher supermarket in Paris following the Charlie Hebdo attack. A Critical Discursive
Psychological analysis was conducted on comments. Initial comments were identified as showing support and gratitude towards
Britain First; however, comments became progressively anti-Semitic (e.g. by posing the rhetorical question,
what benefits have Jews brought to Britain?). Results are discussed in terms of how Britain First has managed to
achieve anti-Islamic rhetoric whilst trying to maintain support from the mainstream. This research has identified that discussions
on Facebook have transitioned from Jews being constructed as vulnerable at the hands of Islamic extremism, to Jews being
problematic and the aggressors.
What is conflict? What is aggression? Are these challenging questions?
Authors: Janicki Karol
Published: September 2017

This paper takes up the question of definitions in general and definitions as related to research on language and conflict in particular. I anchor my discussion in the proceedings of the panel ‘Researching and Understanding the Language of Aggression and Conflict’ held at the recent IPrA conference (Antwerp, July 2015). However, I also refer to a selection of articles in theJournal of Language Aggression and Conflict (JLAC)and books on language and conflict. I point to the fact that disagreements about what words such as ‘conflict’’, ‘aggression’, and ‘hate’ mean often lead to unrewarding debates. I trace such disagreements to the philosophical commitments that researchers make (consciously or subliminally). Subsequently, I argue against the essentialist philosophical position, which encourages seeking one satisfactory definition of any concept/term/word. As an alternative, I try to promote a non-essentialist position that encourages us to proceed only with working definitions. Moreover, I advocate working definitions that relate to objects and activities that are as tangible as possible. This way we can avoid unrewarding disputes and contribute to making our research more meaningful and convincing.
Satire in the Paintings of “Mohammad-e Siāh Qalam”
Authors: White James
Published: September 2017

A considerable amount of scholarship has been produced on just over sixty paintings of humans and demons, many of which bear ascriptions to the unidentified artist Mohammad-e Siāh Qalam, and which are now mostly housed in albums H.2153 and H.2160 in the Topkapı Palace Library. Although methods of formal comparison have led to general agreement that the paintings can be dated to either the fourteenth century or the fifteenth, strikingly little attention has been paid to the question of what these images depict. This paper studies the paintings within the context of documentary, legal and literary material in Persian and Arabic, and identifies a set of common motifs shared between the Siāh Qalam paintings and a number of later images. While it has been supposed by several scholars that the paintings document life in a marginal geographical environment and faithfully reflect the practices of a syncretic culture, this paper suggests that they engage with a field of satirical ideas which were widespread in the Islamic world in the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, and which parodied common types of behavior that were deemed by some observers to be illicit or absurd.
Grief, loss and end of life processes / Duelo, pérdida y procesos de final de vida
Authors: Fernández-Alcántara Manuel , Pérez-Marfil Ma Nieves , Catena-Martínez Andrés , Cruz-Quintana Francisco
Published: September 2017

This special issue is dedicated to the study of the processes of grief, loss and end of life. Previous research has shown the different paths and ways of coping with losses, as well as the existence of disenfranchised griefs and the implications that this has for health professionals who are present during this process. We present several research studies by authors of great international renown; in their articles, they address current models of grief and coping, emotional and cognitive disturbances associated with complicated grief, disenfranchised griefs, the development of instruments to evaluate these processes in Spanish and the implications of health care professionals during the end of life process.
Systematic review of computational methods for identifying miRNA-mediated RNA-RNA crosstalk
Authors: Li Yongsheng , Jin Xiyun , Wang Zishan , Li Lili , Chen Hong , Lin Xiaoyu , Yi Song , Zhang Yunpeng , Xu Juan
Published: September 2017

Posttranscriptional crosstalk and communication between RNAs yield large regulatory competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks via shared microRNAs (miRNAs), as well as miRNA synergistic networks. The ceRNA crosstalk represents a novel layer of gene regulation that controls both physiological and pathological processes such as development and complex diseases. The rapidly expanding catalogue of ceRNA regulation has provided evidence for exploitation as a general model to predict the ceRNAs in silico. In this article, we first reviewed the current progress of RNA-RNA crosstalk in human complex diseases. Then, the widely used computational methods for modeling ceRNA-ceRNA interaction networks are further summarized into five types: two types of global ceRNA regulation prediction methods and three types of context-specific prediction methods, which are based on miRNA-messenger RNA regulation alone, or by integrating heterogeneous data, respectively. To provide guidance in the computational prediction of ceRNA-ceRNA interactions, we finally performed a comparative study of different combinations of miRNA–target methods as well as five types of ceRNA identification methods by using literature-curated ceRNA regulation and gene perturbation. The results revealed that integration of different miRNA–target prediction methods and context-specific miRNA/gene expression profiles increased the performance for identifying ceRNA regulation. Moreover, different computational methods were complementary in identifying ceRNA regulation and captured different functional parts of similar pathways. We believe that the application of these computational techniques provides valuable functional insights into ceRNA regulation and is a crucial step for informing subsequent functional validation studies.
Can visual methods actually challenge hierarchies? A case study from Papua New Guinea
Authors: Simpson Reeves Laura , Hinthorne Lauren Leigh
Published: September 2017

Visual research methods continue to be explored as a viable tool within community development, particularly amongst advocates for participatory approaches. It is widely agreed that visual research methods can assist participants in externalizing abstract concepts and create spaces for reflective dialogue. However, these methods are frequently used across the sector with little theorizing or critical reflection. Moreover, visual research methods and participatory processes are often conflated. There is also an assumption that visual research methods, particularly when used in development contexts, can disrupt power structures. This research draws on a case study from Papua New Guinea (PNG) to modestly challenge this assumption and, in doing so, argues for more critical and reflexive practice across community development. The article critically analyses a workshop held in rural PNG in 2013 that employed a visual multimethod approach. The workshop took place over four days with the aim of creating a local community development plan. Perhaps unsurprisingly, we found that while the visual research methods used in PNG demonstrated evidence of shifting some power structures, this was not necessarily because of the method or methods themselves, and was actually more closely linked to the locale in which we facilitated the method(s).
Predictors of Persistent Infant Car Seat Challenge Failure
Authors: Mandell Laura , Rhein Lawrence M. , Feldman Henry A. , Bergling Emily , Porter Courtney , DeGrazia Michele
Published: September 2017

Background:

Premature and other at-risk infants can experience cardiorespiratory problems when positioned in their car seats. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all premature and at-risk infants undergo a period of observation in their car seat to monitor for apnea, bradycardia, and oxygen desaturation before hospital discharge. This Infant Car Seat Challenge (ICSC) is used to determine readiness for infant travel in a car seat. Infants failing the ICSC are discharged home in car beds and referred for a follow-up screen in the outpatient clinic.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to identify predictors for infants failing the follow-up ICSC after hospital discharge.

Methods/Search Strategy:

A retrospective, cross-sectional study design was used to examine charts of 436 infants referred from across New England, to Boston Children's Hospital's, Center for Healthy Infant Lung Development clinic between August 2008 and May 2015 for a follow-up ICSC.

Findings/Results:

Infants who failed the follow-up ICSC had statistically significant lower weights (0.27 ± 0.14 kg, difference ± standard error, P = .03) and younger postmenstrual ages (0.9 ± 0.4 weeks, P = .03). History of a cardiac condition (odds ratio, 3.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.5-8.5; P = .005) and respiratory illness (odds ratio, 2.1; confidence interval, 1.1 to 4.2; P = .03) were significant predictors of ICSC failure.

Implications for Practice:

A follow-up ICSC is recommended for the safe transition of infants from a car bed to a car seat.

Implications for Research:

Further research is needed to investigate the causes of ICSC failure among high-risk infant populations.
Bony reconstruction of hip in cerebral palsy children Gross Motor Function Classification System levels III to V: a systematic review
Authors: EL-Sobky Tamer A. , Fayyad Tamer A. , Kotb Ahmed M. , Kaldas Beshoy
Published: September 2017

Hip dislocation is a common source of disability in cerebral palsy children. It has been remedied by various reconstructive procedures. This review aims at providing the best evidence for bony reconstructive procedures in cerebral palsy hip migration. The literature extraction process yielded 36 articles for inclusion in this review. There is fair evidence to indicate that the comparative effectiveness of femoral versus combined pelvifemoral reconstruction favours pelvifemoral reconstruction. All except one were retrospective articles with a significant degree of selection and performance bias and confounding variables that limited the validity and generalizability of the conclusions. The findings of this systematic review provide fair evidence for the use of adequate soft tissue and combined pelvifemoral reconstruction in the management of hip migration in none and minimally ambulatory cerebral palsy children in the short and long term. This has been shown in studies with a summed sizable patient population. There is limited evidence available that would support the use of soft-tissue and isolated femoral reconstruction. In the context of these retrospective and biased studies, it is extremely difficult to identify, with great precision, predictors of surgical success. Future studies should consider prospective designs that allow for bias control, strict patient selection criteria and incorporation of validated quality-of-life scales.
Effects of morphine/CP55940 mixtures on an impulsive choice task in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Minervini Vanessa , France Charles P.
Published: September 2017

µ-Opioid receptor agonists are commonly used to treat pain despite their adverse effects. In preclinical studies, cannabinoid receptor agonists increase the potency of opioids for producing antinociceptive but not reinforcing effects. It is unknown whether other adverse effects of these drugs, such as impairment of complex behavior, are enhanced by their co-administration. This study characterized the effects of morphine (µ-opioid receptor agonist; 0.32–5.6 mg/kg, subcutaneously) and CP55940 (CB1/CB2 cannabinoid receptor agonist; 0.0032–0.32 mg/kg, subcutaneously), alone and in mixtures, in monkeys (n=3) choosing between one pellet delivered immediately and two pellets delivered after a delay. Two consecutive choices of the immediate or delayed reward decreased or increased, respectively, the delay. The median adjusted delay, indicating indifference between the immediate and delayed reinforcers, was increased by morphine (3.2 mg/kg) and CP55940 (0.01–0.032 mg/kg). Performance after administration of morphine (0.32 and 1 mg/kg)/CP55940 (0.0032–0.032 mg/kg) mixtures was not different from performance after CP55940 alone. Neither morphine, CP55940, nor mixtures decreased the median adjusted delay (i.e. increased impulsivity). These findings failed to confirm previous studies showing that morphine increases impulsivity, perhaps because of procedural differences among studies. Treatment of pain often requires repeated drug administration; thus, it remains to be determined whether the present findings predict the effects of chronically administered morphine/CP5540 mixtures on impulsive choice.
Comparative Effectiveness of Needle Aponeurotomy and Collagenase Injection for Dupuytren’s Contracture: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Zhou Chao , Hovius Steven E. R. , Pieters Adriana J. , Slijper Harm P. , Feitz Reinier , Selles Ruud W.
Published: September 2017

Background:

Although the efficacy of collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH) injections has been demonstrated by randomized clinical trials, the relative effectiveness of CCH remains uncertain. Our aim was to compare the outcomes of CCH with those of percutaneous needle aponeurotomy (PNA) in daily clinical practice.

Methods:

We analyzed data from patients undergoing PNA or CCH between 2011 and 2014 at 7 practice sites in the Netherlands. We examined the degree of improvement in contracture and adverse effects at 6–12 weeks after surgery or the last injection. Additionally, we invited patients to complete the Michigan Hand Questionnaire before and at 6–12 months follow-up. To minimize the risk of bias, we used propensity score matching.

Results:

Among 130 matched patients (93% Tubiana I or II) undergoing PNA (n = 46) and CCH (n = 84), improvement in contracture was similar: 26 degrees (65% improvement from baseline) for PNA versus 31 degrees (71%) for CCH for affected metacarpophalangeal joints (P = 0.163). This was 16 degrees (50% improvement) versus 17 degrees (42%) for affected proximal interphalangeal joints (P = 0.395), respectively. No serious adverse effects occurred in either of the 2 treatment groups. Of the mild adverse effects, only skin fissures and sensory disturbances were seen in both groups. Through 1-year follow-up, patients reported similar improvements in the overall Michigan Hand Questionnaire score (PNA 5.3 points versus CCH 4.9 points; P = 0.912).

Conclusions:

In patients with mild contractures (Tubiana I or II), CCH was as effective as PNA in reducing contractures. Both treatments were safe and improved hand function to a similar extent in daily practice.
Chronic pain-related changes in cardiovascular regulation and impact on comorbid hypertension in a general population: the Tromsø study
Authors: Bruehl Stephen , Olsen Roy Bjørkholt , Tronstad Christian , Sevre Knut , Burns John W. , Schirmer Henrik , Nielsen Christopher Sivert , Stubhaug Audun , Rosseland Leiv Arne
Published: September 2017

Heart rate variability (HRV) and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) are indexes reflecting the ability to maintain cardiovascular homeostasis amidst changing conditions. Evidence primarily from small studies suggests that both HRV and BRS may be reduced in individuals with chronic pain (CP), with potential implications for cardiovascular risk. We compared HRV and BRS between individuals with CP (broadly defined) and pain-free controls in a large unselected population sample. Participants were 1143 individuals reporting clinically meaningful CP and 5640 pain-free controls who completed a 106-second cold pressor test (CPT). Participants self-reported hypertension status. Resting HRV and BRS were derived from continuous beat-to-beat blood pressure recordings obtained before and after the CPT. Hierarchical regressions for the pre-CPT period indicated that beyond effects of age, sex, and body mass index, the CP group displayed significantly lower HRV in both the time domain (SDNN and rMSSD) and frequency domain (high-frequency HRV power), as well as lower BRS. Results were somewhat weaker for the post-CPT period. Mediation analyses indicated that for 6 of 7 HRV and BRS measures tested, there were significant indirect (mediated) effects of CP status on the presence of comorbid hypertension via reduced HRV or BRS. Results confirm in the largest and broadest sample tested to date that the presence of CP is linked to impaired cardiovascular regulation and for the first time provide support for the hypothesis that links between CP and comorbid hypertension reported in previous population studies may be due in part to CP-related decrements in cardiovascular regulation.
Cost Estimates for Designing and Implementing a Novel Team Care Model for Chronically Ill Patients
Authors: Panattoni Laura , Dillon Ellis , Hurlimann Lily , Durbin Meg , Tai-Seale Ming
Published: September 2017

Little is known about the cost of implementing chronic care models. We estimate the human resource cost of implementing a novel team-based chronic care model “Champion,” at a large multispecialty group practice. We used activity-based costing to calculate costs from development through rollout and stabilization in 1 clinic with 12 000 chronic care patients. Data analyzed included Microsoft Outlook meeting metadata, supporting documents, and 2014 employee wages. Implementation took more than 29 months, involved 168 employees, and cost the organization $2 304 787. Payers may need to consider a mixed-payment model to support the both implementation and maintenance costs of team-based chronic care.
Effect of Impella During Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation on Pulmonary Artery Flow as Assessed by End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Eliet Jacob , Gaudard Philippe , Zeroual Norddine , Rouvière Philippe , Albat Bernard , Mourad Marc , Colson Pascal H.
Published: September 2017

Peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) exposes the patient to a pulmonary blood flow bypass and a left ventricle afterload increase. Impella, a catheter-mounted microaxial rotary pump, has been proposed for left ventricle (LV) unloading in combination with VA ECMO. In order to assess the effect of Impella on pulmonary flow and LV preload, we checked Doppler pulmonary artery velocity–time integral (pVTI) and LV diastolic diameter (LVED) by transesophageal echocardiography and end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) during a step-by-step increase in Impella flow (Impella ramp test). From 134 patients on VA ECMO retrieved from our database, 27 (20%) have benefited secondary Impella implantation, out of which 11 patients had available EtCO2, pVTI, and LVED measurements at various levels of Impella speeds. We observed a proportional increases in pVTI and EtCO2 and decrease in LVED (p ≤ 0.001) during Impella flow increase. There was a significant correlation between EtCO2 and pVTI (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.64; p = 0.006). The study shows that Impella improves pulmonary flow, an effect that can be easily measured by EtCO2 monitoring, and ensures LV discharge, allowing adapting Impella flow adequately to patient’s individual needs.
Association of Heparin‐binding EGF‐like Growth Factor Polymorphisms With Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Preterm Infants
Authors: Ma Fei , Li Sitao , Hao Hu , Gao Pingmin , Dai Yiheng , Himani Chhetri , Liu Weidong , Gao Xiaoyan , Xiao Xin
Published: September 2017

Heparin‐binding epidermal growth factor (EGF)‐like growth factor (HB‐EGF) protects the intestines from injury in experimental necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). We hypothesized that polymorphisms in the HB‐EGF gene lead to low HB‐EGF production in peripheral blood and increased risk of NEC in the Chinese Han population. To test this hypothesis, 30 NEC patients and 80 control subjects were selected. Five HB‐EGF single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and its plasma levels were measured by genotyping and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. Only 1 out of the 5 SNPs showed a notable result. The notable SNP (rs4912711) was associated with NEC in its minor allele frequency and its “G/T” genotype distribution. In addition, plasma HB‐EGF levels were reduced especially the “G/T” genotype in NEC patients. Our data suggest that if validated in larger studies screening for HB‐EGF SNPs/genotypes and plasma levels may be useful as a risk factor for NEC in the future.
Can Basic Characteristics Estimate Body Composition in Early Infancy?
Authors: Liotto Nadia , Roggero Paola , Bracco Beatrice , Menis Camilla , Morniroli Daniela , Perrone Michela , Giannì Maria L. , Mosca Fabio
Published: September 2017

Objectives:

Increasing evidence demonstrates that body composition in early life contributes to the programming of health later in life in both full‐term and preterm infants. Given the important role of body composition, the increased availability of easy, noninvasive, and accurate techniques for its assessment has been recommended. The aim of the present study was to identify basic characteristics and anthropometric measurements that best correlate with body composition in infants.

Methods:

Anthropometric measurements and body composition assessed by air‐displacement plethysmography were assessed either at birth or at term‐corrected age in 1239 infants (654 full‐term, 585 preterm). The associations of sex, GA (gestational age), and weight with FFM (fat‐free mass) and FM (fat mass) adjusted by length (g/cm) were investigated by multiple linear regression models. Bland‐Altman tests were performed, and an equation for calculating FFM was determined.

Results:

Preterm infants exhibited increased FM and reduced FFM compared with full‐term infants (477.6 ± 204 vs 259.7 ± 147 g and 2583 ± 494 vs 2770 ± 364 g, respectively). GA, male sex, and weight were positively associated with FFM (r2 = 0.806, P < 0.0001; 6.1 g of average bias). GA and male sex were negatively associated with FM, whereas weight was positively associated with FM (r2 = 0.641, P < 0.0001; 4.9 g of average bias).

Conclusions:

The assessment of body composition represents the criterion standard. When body composition assessment is not feasible, the equation based on sex, GA, and anthropometric measurements can be useful in predicting body composition in both full‐term and preterm infants.