bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a palliative care outcome measurement tool supplemented by neurological symptoms (HOPE+): Identification of palliative concerns of neurological patients
Authors: Dillen Kim , Ebke Markus , Koch Andreas , Becker Ingrid , Ostgathe Christoph , Voltz Raymond , Golla Heidrun
Published: July 2019

Background:

There is growing interest to integrate palliative care and its structures into the care of neurological patients. However, in Germany there is no comprehensive assessment tool capturing the symptoms of patients with advanced neurological diseases.

Aim:

To validate a newly developed palliative care measurement tool based on an extension of the validated core documentation system Hospice and Palliative Care Evaluation considering additional neurological issues (HOPE+).

Design:

Prospective, observational study using HOPE+ and as external criteria, the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status and the 12 months “surprise” question (12-SQ) in a neurological population, and assessment for its construct validity and diagnostic accuracy.

Setting/participants:

All newly admitted patients to the Department of Neurorehabilitation, Dr. Becker Rhein-Sieg-Clinic aged 18–100 years (#DRKS00010947).

Results:

Data from 263 patients (63 ± 14 years of age) were analyzed. HOPE+ revealed a moderately correlated six-factor structure ( r = –0.543–0.525). Correlation analysis to evaluate discriminant validity using ECOG as external criterion was high ( rs(261) = 0.724, p < 0.001) and confirmed for severely affected patients by adding the 12-SQ (“No”-group: 48.00 ± 14.92 vs “Yes”-group: 18.67 ± 7.57, p < 0.009). Operating characteristics show satisfactory diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve: 0.746 ± 0.049, 95% confidence interval = 0.650–0.842).

Conclusion:

HOPE+ demonstrates promising psychometric properties. It helps to assess palliative care issues of patients in neurological settings and, in combination with the 12-SQ, conceivably conditions when to initiate the palliative care approach in a population underrepresented in palliative care structures so far.
Psychological Adjustment During Multiple Transitions Between Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: Gniewosz Gabriela , Gniewosz Burkhard
Published: July 2019

Based on the temporal framework of transition experiences, this study tested time-graded patterns of family resource effects on children’s and early adolescents’ psychological adjustment during a time of multiple transitions. Using data of a longitudinal study including 2,020 German children covering the age span between 8 and 12 ( nboys = 1,035, ngirls = 985), internalizing and externalizing problems were predicted by parent-child relationship and family’s educational background in a multi-group structural equation model, applying time-lagged autoregressive models. The results showed positive resource effects especially through parent-child relationship. The gender-specific effect patterns over time supported the assumption of stronger resource effects when early puberty onset and secondary school transition co-occurred. Thus, it is important to provide support for this vulnerable group during times of multiple transitions.
Comparison of clinical outcomes and postoperative quality of life after surgical treatment of type II submucous myoma via laparoscopy or hysteroscopy
Authors: Zhang Rui-chun , Wu Wei , Zou Qing , Zhao Hongmei
Published: July 2019

Objective

This study was performed to compare the clinical outcomes, advantages, and disadvantages of laparoscopic myomectomy (LM) and transcervical resection of myoma (TCRM) in the treatment of type II submucous myoma.

Methods

In total, 136 patients with type II submucous myoma with a tumour diameter of 4 to 5 cm were randomly assigned to the hysteroscopy group or laparoscopy group.

Results

The operative duration was shorter and the intraoperative bleeding volume was lower in the hysteroscopy than laparoscopy group. The success rate of the single-stage operation was obviously higher in the laparoscopy than hysteroscopy group. The duration of postoperative antibiotic use and the length of hospital stay were shorter in the hysteroscopy than laparoscopy group. The time to complete healing of the muscle layer was shorter in the hysteroscopy than laparoscopy group. The rate of intraoperative complications was lower in the hysteroscopy than laparoscopy group.

Conclusion

Both hysteroscopic and laparoscopic surgery have beneficial effects in the treatment of type II submucous myoma. Hysteroscopic surgery has the advantages of a short operative duration, low intraoperative bleeding volume, fast postoperative recovery, and high quality of life. Laparoscopic surgery involves many intraoperative complications and slow recovery of ovarian function.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of a single-use digital flexible cystoscope for double J removal
Authors: Oderda Marco , Antolini Jacopo , Falcone Marco , Lacquaniti Sergio , Fasolis Giuseppe
Published: July 2019

Introduction and objective:

The novel single-use digital flexible cystoscope Isiris™ has been developed to perform in-office JJ stent removal, without the need of special equipment nor limitations linked to the disinfection of a reusable device. The aim of our study was to perform a cost-effectiveness analysis of Isiris™ in our institution.

Patients and methods:

A total of 127 consecutive patients undergoing in-office stent removal with Isiris™ were prospectively included in study. After each procedure, the urologist filled a questionnaire specifically developed to evaluate the efficiency of the device and the invasiveness of the procedure. We performed a cost analysis of the main variables involved in JJ removal using Isiris™ versus the traditional Storz™ reusable flexible cystoscope used for all our previous patients.

Results:

The procedure was successful in all cases except for one, where the device did not work due to the failure of the grasper and had to be replaced. Overall, the performance of Isiris™ was judged by the physician “very good” and “good” in 90.6% of the cases. Both median pain and invasiveness felt by the patient were 0 (range = 0–8). The mean cost of procedure was estimated at €361 for in-office stent removal with Isiris™, and €1.126.8 for stent removal in operatory room with a reusable flexible cystoscope. Considering the 127 procedures performed in office, 64 h of operatory room time was saved.

Conclusion:

In institutions where JJ removal is performed in the operatory room, Isiris™ leads to a significant advantage in terms of money saved per procedure, operatory room time gained and patient satisfaction.
Renal artery pseudoaneurysm after open partial nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Kisa Erdem , Koc Gokhan , Yucel Cem , Keskin Mehmet Zeynel , Capar Ahmet Ergin , Kozacioglu Zafer
Published: July 2019

Introduction:

Renal artery pseudoaneurysm is a well-described complication of open and laparoscopic partial nephrectomy. Delayed bleeding from a renal artery pseudoaneurysm is rare after open partial nephrectomy.

Case description:

Here, we present a 75-year-old man who, 14 days after undergoing an open right partial nephrectomy for an endophytic 4.5 cm tumor, developed painless macroscopic hematuria. Prompt computer tomography angiography imaging, followed by therapeutic angio-embolization of segmental renal artery with coils, treated the pseudoaneurysm successfully.

Conclusion:

Renal artery pseudoaneurysm can be treated rapidly, effectively, and with minimal patient morbidity via percutaneous renal artery embolization.
Documentation of Advance Directives and Code Status in Electronic Medical Records to Honor Goals of Care
Authors: Weaver Meaghann S. , Anderson Betty , Cole Anne , Lyon Maureen E.
Published: July 2019

Advance care planning is a process that supports conversations about the values that matter most to patients and their family members. The documentation of advance directives and code status in a patient’s electronic health record (EHR) is a critical step to ensure treatment preferences are honored in the medical care received. The current approach to advanced care planning documentation in electronic medical records often remains disparate within and across EHR systems. Without a standardized format for documentation or centralized location for documentation, advance directives and even code status content are often difficult to access within electronic medical records. This case report launched our palliative care team into partnership with the Information Technology team for implementation of a centralized, standardized, longitudinal, functional documentation of advance care planning and code status in the electronic medical record system.
New series of organic–inorganic polymer nanocomposite membranes for fuel cell applications
Authors: Gandhimathi Sivasubramanian , Krishnan Hariharasubramanian , Paradesi Deivanayagam
Published: July 2019

Flexible organic–inorganic polymer nanocomposite membranes with uniformly distributed metal oxide nanoparticles were prepared using sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) as a base material and praseodymium oxide (PSO) as an inorganic additive. The degree of sulfonation of SPEEK was determined by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis and found to be 60%. The characteristic properties of the polymer nanocomposite membranes were examined by thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray diffraction, ion exchange capacity, water uptake ability, and proton conductivity. The incorporation of metal oxide into the polymer matrix was confirmed by scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses. The nanocomposite membrane exhibits good thermal stability when compared to that of the pristine membrane and SPEEK with 10 wt% of PSO loading was found to be stable up to 450°C. The assessment of polymer electrolyte membrane is accomplished by fabricating membrane electrode assemblies of pure SPEEK and SP-PSO-10 membranes and the latter produced maximum peak power density of 622 mW cm−2. The constructed SPEEK/PSO nanocomposite membranes offered superior physicochemical properties while applying these materials in an H2-O2 fuel cell.
Effect of bone fracture(s) on blood lead levels from retained lead pellets in craniomaxillofacial region
Authors: Edetanlen BE , Saheeb BD
Published: July 2019

Background:

Missile-related blood lead elevations and toxicity are well documented in the literature but reports on its associated risk factor(s) are few.

Objective:

To determine if bone fracture(s) contribute to an elevated lead blood level.

Method:

This is a prospective study of subjects with retained pellets in the craniomaxillofacial region following gunshot injuries who met the inclusion criteria. Blood samples were collected from the test subjects and their corresponding control subjects via venipuncture. Collected blood samples were used for blood lead measurement by the wet method of the atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Using appropriate statistical tests, p < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

A total number of 48 subjects were studied. The mean blood lead levels (BLLs) of the study population were 6.88 ± 1.17 µg/dl while that of the control group was 1.52 ± 0.87 µg/dl and the mean difference was statistically significant ( p = 0.03). The mean and standard deviation of BLL of subjects with fractures were 4.77 ± 0.9, 5.08 ± 1.0, and 5.22 ± 1.0 µg/dl at days 3, 21, and 42 postinjury, respectively, while for those without bone fractures were 3.07 ± 1.4, 3.70 ± 0.8, and 4.33 ± 1.7 µg/dl. The difference was statistically significant ( p = 0.04).

Conclusion:

Subjects with bone fractures were found to have higher BLLs than those without bone fractures, where pellets were retained in their bodies.
Ethical sensitivity and perceptiveness in palliative home care through co-creation
Authors: Hemberg Jessica , Bergdahl Elisabeth
Published: July 2019

Background:

In research on co-creation in nursing, a caring manner can be used to create opportunities whereby the patient’s quality of life can be increased in palliative home care. This can be described as an ethical cornerstone and the goal of palliative care. To promote quality of life, nurses must be sensitive to patients’ and their relatives’ needs in care encounters. Co-creation can be defined as the joint creation of vital goals for patients through the process of shared knowledge between nurses, patients and their relatives.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to explore nurses’ experiences of caring encounters and co-creation in palliative home care from an ethical perspective.

Research design, participants, and research context:

A hermeneutical approach was used. The material consisted of texts from interviews with 12 nurses in a home care context. The method was inspired by thematic analysis.

Ethical considerations:

Informed consent was sought from the participants regarding study participation and the storage and handling of data for research purposes.

Findings:

An overall theme, a main theme and four sub-themes emerged. Through ethical sensitivity and perceptivity, nurses can balance their actions in the moment and change their nursing care actions according to the patient’s wishes through co-creation in encounters. Here the time is crucial, as the time needed is unique to each patient.

Discussion:

The themes together can be considered prerequisites for good palliative home care. If nurses fail to be sensitive and perceptive in encounters with dying patients, good palliative home care cannot be achieved. Ethical sensitivity and perceptiveness can also be considered a part of nurses’ ethical competence.

Conclusion:

Patients’ dignity can be preserved through ethical sensitivity and perceptiveness, which is fundamental for good palliative care. Co-creation from patients’ perspectives should be the focus of future research.
Making pastel pop on dark skin: How fashion stylists dress Black NBA players
Authors: Spearman Lequez
Published: July 2019

The National Basketball Association is as popular as ever. A league dominated by Black players is in the midst of a fashion renaissance. The purpose of this paper is to explore how fashion stylists dress Black National Basketball Association players. Using a semi-structured interview protocol, the author interviewed 18 fashion stylists to investigate how they service Black National Basketball Association clients. After reviewing the transcripts and going through three rounds of coding, three themes were identified: The Black Body Is Different, It Should Be This Way, and Dress For Yourself And Dress For Others. Using Bourdieu’s cultural intermediary as a conceptual framework, I demonstrate how fashion stylists link the Black National Basketball Association player with high fashion, making National Basketball Association style more a reflection of middle-class ideology than individual clients.
Racial folklore, black masculinities and the reproduction of dominant racial ideologies: The case of Israel Folau
Authors: Parry Keith D , Cleland Jamie , Kavanagh Emma
Published: July 2019

This article examines the continued presence of racial folklore and the reproduction of dominant racial ideologies as presented by the media and fan interactions. The case of Israel (Izzy) Folau’s time at the Greater Western Sydney Giants Australian football club is presented, utilising an analysis of the club’s email communications, media coverage and discussions by sports fans on online message boards. The analysis identifies the significance of the player’s racialised body in constructions of masculinity and the extent to which it plays a role in the acceptance (or not) of an athlete. The article concludes that the narratives that are constructed around athletes are fluid and often change over time or in response to sporting performances or other external influences such as a change of team.
Factors Affecting Health-Promoting Lifestyle Behaviors Among Arab American Women
Authors: Hardan-Khalil Kholoud
Published: July 2019

Introduction: An estimated 3.6 million Arab Americans live in the United States. Limited studies have addressed Arab American women’s health needs. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between personal factors (sociodemographic factors, degree of acculturation, psychological stress), health self-efficacy, social support, and health-promoting lifestyle behaviors among Arab American women in California. Method: A cross-sectional, correlational survey study involved 267 women. The survey assessed women’s personal factors, health self-efficacy, social support, and health promotion behaviors. Results: Age, education, orientation to American culture, psychological stress, health self-efficacy, and social support were strongly correlated with health promotion behaviors and explained 46% of its variance among participants, F(18, 248) = 10.657, p = .000, R2 = .46. Discussion: Participants scored low on both the physical activity and stress management of the health promotion subscales. Culturally sensitive interventions are needed to improve engagement in health promotion behaviors among these women.
Management of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Pleasants Roy , Tighe Robert M.
Published: July 2019

Objective: Provide information for pharmacists on idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and its treatment. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All articles with data from randomized controlled trials of nintedanib or pirfenidone were reviewed. Data Synthesis: IPF is a progressive and ultimately fatal interstitial lung disease characterized by decline in lung function and worsening dyspnea. It is uncommon and mainly occurs in individuals aged >60 years, particularly men with a history of smoking. Nintedanib and pirfenidone were approved in the United States for the treatment of IPF in 2014 and received conditional recommendations in the 2015 American Thoracic Society/European Respiratory Society/Japanese Respiratory Society/Latin American Thoracic Association treatment guidelines. These drugs slow the progression of IPF by reducing the rate of decline in lung function. Their adverse event profile is characterized mainly by gastrointestinal events, which can be managed through dose adjustment and symptom management. Management of IPF should also include smoking cessation, vaccinations, and supportive care such as patient education, pulmonary rehabilitation, and the use of supplemental oxygen as well as optimizing the management of comorbidities. Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: This review provides clinical pharmacists with information on the course of IPF, what can be expected of current treatments, and how to help patients manage their drug therapy. Conclusions: IPF is a progressive disease, but treatments are available that can slow the progression of the disease. Clinical pharmacists can play an important role in the care of patients with IPF through patient education, monitoring medication compliance and safety, ensuring drugs for comorbidities are optimized, and preventive strategies such as immunizations.
Doxycycline and Tooth Discoloration in Children: Changing of Recommendations Based on Evidence of Safety
Authors: Stultz Jeremy S. , Eiland Lea S.
Published: July 2019

Doxycycline use has historically been limited to children older than 8 years because of concerns regarding permanent tooth discoloration. Six studies assessed tooth discoloration in at least 338 patients exposed to doxycycline before 8 years of age. Six patients had potential discoloration, but studies consistently found no difference in tooth discoloration between exposed patients and controls. Recommendations have changed stating doxycycline, but not other tetracyclines, can be used for short courses (<21 days) regardless of age. Clinicians should be aware of these data because doxycycline use may extend to disease states apart from tick-borne illnesses in pediatric patients.
Validation of a Brief Self-Report Measure of Adolescent Bullying Perpetration and Victimization
Authors: Murray Aja Louise , Eisner Manuel , Ribeaud Denis , Kaiser Daniela , McKenzie Karen , Murray George
Published: July 2019

Although a wide range of measures of bullying have been developed, there remains a need for brief psychometrically supported measures for use in contexts in which there are constraints on the number of items that can be administered. We thus evaluated the reliability and validity of scores from a 10-item self-report measure of bullying victimization and perpetration in adolescents: the Zurich Brief Bullying Scales. The measure covers social exclusion, property destruction, verbal and physical aggression, and sexual bullying in both traditional and cyber forms. We evaluated factorial validity, internal consistency, developmental invariance, gender invariance, and convergent and divergent validity of the measure. Our sample was the normative longitudinal Zurich Project on Social Development from Childhood to Adulthood (z-proso) sample ( N = 1,304). The study involved the administration of Zurich Brief Bullying Scales to participants aged 11, 13, 15, and 17 years. Strengths and weaknesses of the measure and recommendations for utilizing and improving the measure were identified. Overall, results suggest that the items provide a reasonable general but brief measure of bullying victimization and perpetration that can be used across early to late adolescence and in both males and females.
Intra-lenticular caterpillar seta in ophthalmia nodosa
Authors: Singh Arshi , Behera Umesh Chandra , Agrawal Hitesh
Published: July 2019

Purpose:

To report the clinical course of ophthalmia nodosa with a retained lenticular seta misdiagnosed and treated as non-infectious posterior uveitis for 7 consecutive years.

Methods:

Meticulous clinical examination led to discovery of the caterpillar seta embedded in the crystalline lens and the intravitreal setae.

Results:

Lens-sparing pars plana vitrectomy and removal of free-floating vitreal seta resulted in complete resolution of vitritis and uveitis.

Conclusion:

Embedded seta within a clear lens may remain sequestered, and may be left untouched under close observation, precluding a clear lens extraction in such patients.
Inorganic Pollutants in the Water of Midland and Odessa, Permian Basin, West Texas
Authors: Rodriguez Jose , Heo Joonghyeok , Park Joonkyu , Lee Seong-Sun , Miranda Kristyn
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study is to evaluate the public water contamination in the cities of Midland and Odessa, West Texas. Even though both cities are geographically close, their sources of water for public use are different. For this study, the copper-, lead-, arsenic-, nitrate-, and chromium-level reports in drinking water, provided by the cities from 2008 to 2017, were organized and analyzed using Cubic Hermite Interpolation. The results for each contamination per city were compared and contrasted with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards. Also, this study proposed possible risks to human health, as well as potential origins of the pollutants. Finally, conclusions about the quality of water for human consumption and possible reasons behind the difference of results between the 2 cities were made.
Exploring and Addressing ‘Concerns’ for Significant Others to Extend the Understanding of Quality of Life With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ando Hikari , Cousins Rosanna , Young Carolyn A
Published: July 2019

Background:

The absence of curative medication for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) makes palliative care and understanding quality of life (QoL) in ALS a clinical priority. Previous qualitative research has explored the concept of QoL in terms of illness impact on life perspectives and sense of self.

Objective:

In this research, we explored ‘concerns’ – one of the four aspects in the World Health Organisation’s conceptualisation of QoL – towards adding to the literature.

Methods:

In-depth interviews with 26 individuals with ALS were subjected to thematic analysis involving both inductive and deductive approaches to explore participant’s concerns, and to evaluate the relevance of their concerns for understanding QoL in ALS.

Findings:

The analysis showed that concerns for significant others contribute to participant’s QoL because of their existential value. It was important for participants to minimise the impact of limitations and burdens associated with ALS on significant others, even at a cost to self.

Discussion:

The current study supports a holistic approach in service provision, ensuring the inclusion of relevant significant others. It is further suggested that clinicians explore the specifics of burdens perceived by patients in order to support them in minimising the burdens for their significant others.
Association of ABO Blood Groups and Risk of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Yu Hao , Xu Na , Li Zhong-Kun , Xia Hong , Ren Hong-Tao , Li Na , Wei Jan-Biao , Bao Hui-Zheng
Published: July 2019

Objective:

This study sought to investigate the relationship between ABO blood groups and the risk of gastric cancer as well as clinical pathological parameters and prognosis.

Methods:

Gastric cancer patient data were collected from January 1995 to January 2012 at Jilin Cancer Hospital, and the blood group information of the blood donors at Jilin City Blood Center was recorded. The relationships between ABO blood group and both clinicopathological parameters and the risk of gastric cancer were analyzed retrospectively. The impact of ABO blood type on the 5-year survival rate of patients with gastric cancer was evaluated through outpatient and telephone interviews.

Results:

(1) Compared with the healthy population, the frequency distribution of gastric cancer patients with the A blood group was significantly increased (χ2 = 4.708, P = 0.000), whereas the frequency distribution of gastric cancer patients with the AB blood group was significantly decreased (χ2 = 9.630, P = 0.002). However, there was no significant difference in the distributions of the B blood group and O blood group (P > 0.05). (2) The risk of gastric cancer in people with the A blood group was higher, whereas the risk of gastric cancer in people with the AB blood group was lower. There was no significant difference in the risk of gastric cancer between type B and type O patients (P > 0.05). (3) The ABO blood group was not related to pathological factors, including the size of the gastric tumor or the T stage or N stage of the disease (P > 0.05). (4) Univariate analysis results showed that the degree of differentiation, tumor size, T stage, lymph node metastasis, and type O blood were factors affecting the 5-year survival rate of gastric cancer patients (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis results showed that tumor size, T stage, lymph node metastasis, and O blood group were independent prognostic factors. The 5-year survival rate for gastric cancer was significantly better in patients with type O blood (hazard ratio = 0.97, 95% confidence interval = 1.67–3.92).

Conclusion:

(1) The risk of gastric cancer was higher in patients with the A blood group and lower in those with the AB blood group. (2) The ABO blood group showed no significant effect on the clinicopathological parameters of gastric cancer. (3) The O blood group may be a prognostic factor for gastric cancer patients.
The feminist politics of naming violence
Authors: Frazer Elizabeth , Hutchings Kimberly
Published: July 2019

The naming of violence in feminist political campaigns and in the context of feminist theory has rhetorical and political effects. Feminist contention about the scope and meaning of ‘Violence against Women' (VAW) and ‘Sex and Gender-Based Violence' (SGBV), and about the concepts of gender and of violence itself, are fundamentally debates about the politics of feminist contestation, and the goals, strategies and tactics of feminist organisation, campaigns and action. This article examines the propulsion since the late twentieth century of the problems of VAW and SGBV on to global and national political agendas. The feminist theory that underpins the uptake of this new agenda is contested by opponents of feminism. More significantly for the article it is also contested within feminism, in disputes about how feminist political aims should be furthered, through what institutions and with what strategic goals in view. The article aims to show that theoretical and philosophical controversy about the concepts of violence, and sex and gender, are always political, both in the sense that they are an aspect of feminist competition about how feminist politics should proceed, and in the sense that the political implications of concepts and theory must always be a significant factor in their salience for feminist action.
Bayesian modelling of nonlinear negative binomial integer-valued GARCHX models
Authors: Chen Cathy WS , Khamthong K
Published: July 2019

This study focuses on modelling dengue cases in northeastern Thailand through two meteorological covariates: cumulative rainfall and average maximum temperature. We propose two nonlinear integer-valued GARCHX models (Markov switching and threshold specification) with a negative binomial distribution, as they take into account the stylized features of weekly dengue haemorrhagic fever cases, which contain nonlinear dynamics, lagged dependence, overdispersion, consecutive zeros and asymmetric effects of meteorological covariates. We conduct parameter estimation and one-step-ahead forecasting for two proposed models based on Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. A simulation study illustrates that the adaptive MCMC sampling scheme performs well. The empirical results offer strong support for the Markov switching integer-valued GARCHX model over its competitors via Bayes factor and deviance information criterion. We also provide one-step-ahead forecasting based on the prediction interval that offers a useful early warning signal of outbreak detection.
Association of serum FAM19A5 with metabolic and vascular risk factors in human subjects with or without type 2 diabetes
Authors: Lee You-Bin , Hwang Hwan-Jin , Kim Jung A , Hwang Soon Young , Roh Eun , Hong So-hyeon , Choi Kyung Mook , Baik Sei Hyun , Yoo Hye Jin
Published: July 2019

Objectives:

A recent experimental study revealed that family with sequence similarity 19 [chemokine (C-C motif)-like] member A5 (FAM19A5), a novel secreted adipokine, has inhibitory effects on vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and migration, and on neointima formation in injured arteries. We investigated the associations between serum FAM19A5 concentration and cardio-metabolic risk factors for the first time in human subjects.

Methods:

Circulating FAM19A5 concentrations and their associations with cardio-metabolic risk factors were explored in 223 individuals (45 without diabetes and 178 with type 2 diabetes).

Results:

Serum FAM19A5 concentrations (pg/mL) were greater in patients with type 2 diabetes [median (interquartile range), 172.70 (116.19, 286.42)] compared with non-diabetic subjects [92.09 (70.32, 147.24)] ( p < 0.001). Increasing serum FAM19A5 tertile was associated with trends of increasing waist-to-hip ratio, fasting plasma glucose, glycated haemoglobin and mean brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity. Serum FAM19A5 was positively correlated with waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, alanine aminotransferase, fasting plasma glucose, glycated haemoglobin and mean brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity. Multiple stepwise regression analyses identified waist-to-hip ratio, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity as determining factors for log-transformed serum FAM19A5 concentration (R2 = 0.0689).

Conclusion:

A novel adipokine FAM19A5 was related to various metabolic and vascular risk factors in humans, suggesting its potential as a biomarker of cardio-metabolic disease.
CTA Assessment of Midterm Morphological Changes to Chimney Grafts Used in the Treatment of Juxtarenal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Hahtapornsawan Suteekhanit , Lazaridis Konstantinos , Criado Frank J. , Torsello Giovanni Federico , Bisdas Theodosios , Austermann Martin , Donas Konstantinos P.
Published: July 2019

Purpose: To evaluate chimney stent-graft position and morphological changes of the aneurysm sac as visualized by postoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) over a minimum 24-month follow-up period. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one patients (mean age 75.7±8.6 years; 20 men) with juxtarenal aortic aneurysms who underwent successful chimney endovascular aneurysm repair (ch-EVAR) with the Endurant stent-graft and had 2 postoperative CTAs separated by at least 24 months were included in the study. CTA-based measurements of aortic stent-graft migration, target vessel angle, and chimney angle were compared between the serial scans. Results: During a mean follow-up of 34.9 months (range 24–69.2), the mean migration of the aortic stent-grafts was under 5 mm (2.76±2.4 mm). The average migration distance per year was 1.15 mm. The aneurysm diameter reduced a mean 3.25 mm (p=0.048). The right renal artery angle moved significantly upward 6.72° (p=0.025), while the right renal chimney stent-graft moved significantly downward 7.83° (p=0.042). The left renal artery angle also moved upward 1.87° (p=0.388) and the corresponding chimney moved downward 5.68° (p=0.133). During the study period, no type I/III endoleak or chimney occlusion was observed. Conclusion: Midterm morphometric assessment of ch-EVAR using CTA showed significant aneurysm sac shrinkage and a stable 3-year position of the abdominal devices, with the mean downward migration of the aortic stent-graft being <5 mm in the majority of cases. The chimney grafts seem to be prone to take an oblique rather than parallel configuration during follow-up. However, there was no relevant clinical consequence related to this phenomenon.
Migration and Mobility in a Digital Age: (Re)Mapping Connectivity and Belonging
Authors: Ponzanesi Sandra
Published: July 2019

This article charts new directions in digital media and migration studies from a gendered, postcolonial, and multidisciplinary perspective. In particular, the focus is on the ways in which the experience of displacement is resignified and transformed by new digital affordances from different vantage points, engaging with recent developments in datafication, visualization, biometric technologies, platformization, securitization, and extended reality (XR) as part of a drastically changed global mediascape. This article explores the role of new media technologies in rethinking the dynamics of migration and globalization by focusing in particular on the role of migrant users as “connected” and active participants, as well as “screened” and subject to biometric datafication, visualization, and surveillance. Elaborating on concepts such as “migration” and “mobility,” the article analyzes some of the paradoxes offered by our globalized world of intermittent connectivity and troubled belonging, seen as relational definitions that are always fluid, negotiable, and porous.
Virtually Present, Physically Invisible: Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s Mixed Reality Installation Carne y Arena
Authors: Raessens Joost
Published: July 2019

This article proposes a media and philosophical analysis of Carne y Arena (2017), an immersive mixed reality installation by Mexican director Alejandro G. Iñárritu. Drawing from Chouliaraki’s notion of the “distant sufferer,” the article compares the medium specificity of television with the characteristics of mixed reality to question whether the gap between spectator and migrant can be bridged. The article analyzes how Carne y Arena positions its users not as spectators but as visitors or participants, thereby turning the “distant” sufferer into a “close and proximate” sufferer. To better understand how this immediacy effect is realized, the article introduces the concept of “intuition,” as theorized by the French philosopher Henri Bergson (1859–1941). In its closing section, the article discusses the ways in which Iñárritu’s work is part of a political intervention that proposes to challenge the limits of mediation and to promote social justice through feeling, acting, and knowing otherwise.
Ajwa Nanopreparation Prevents Doxorubicin-Associated Cardiac Dysfunction: Effect on Cardiac Ischemia and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Al-Jaouni Soad , Abdul-Hady Seham , El-Bassossy Hany , Salah Numan , Hagras Magda
Published: July 2019

Background: This study evaluated the cardioprotective effect of Ajwa nano-preparation against doxorubicin-associated cardiotoxicity. Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats (200-250 g) were divided into 3 groups. One group was given the nanopreparation containing both Ajwa fruit and pit in a dose of 1.4 g/kg orally 1 hour before doxorubicin infusion (Dates-DOX group). Another group was given the vehicle for 1 hour before doxorubicin infusion (DOX group). The third group received the vehicle but no DOX infusion (time control). Cardiac hemodynamics, blood pressure, cardiac contractility, and conductivity were recorded before and after 45 minutes of infusion of doxorubicin (15 mg/kg, slow intravenous over 45 minutes). Blood samples were collected before and after doxorubicin infusion. Heart tissue samples were collected and snap frozen until assay of reduced glutathione. Results: Rats pre-administered Ajwa nanopreparation were protected from doxorubicin-associated systolic and diastolic dysfunction based on the significant elevation in the rate of rise in left ventricular pressure (d p/d tmax) and (d p/d tmin) compared with the DOX group. In addition, it prevented the doxorubicin-associated ischemia based on the significant shortening in QT interval, JT interval, and Tpeak- Tend interval versus the DOX group. There was no effect on atrial conductivity (PR interval and P duration). Ajwa pretreatment increased the antioxidant capacity of cardiac tissue, as evidenced by increasing the cardiac content of reduced glutathione compared with the untreated doxorubicin group. Conclusion: Ajwa nanopreparation protects from doxorubicin-associated cardiotoxicity through alleviating cardiac ischemia and increasing cardiac antioxidant capacity.
Borderline Personality and Bipolar Disorders Cannot Be Differentiated Electrophysiologically
Authors: Arikan Mehmet Kemal , Metin Barış , Günver Mehmet Güven , Tarhan Nevzat
Published: July 2019

Objectives. Certain studies have claimed that borderline personality disorder (BPD) could be evaluated as a subtype of bipolar disorder (BD), whereas others have argued that BPD should be regarded as an independent disorder because of its distinct clinical features. The aim of this study was to investigate if there was a difference between these 2 disorders biologically based on EEG recordings. Methods. A total of 111 subjects (11 healthy, 25 BPD, 75 BD) who had resting EEG recordings were included. The EEGs were analyzed to compute absolute power values. Results. One-way analysis of variance results revealed statistically significant differences among the 3 groups on 55 out of 229 EEG variables. However, post hoc analysis indicated that all of the significant changes were between healthy and patient groups and no significant differences were found between 2 clinical groups. Conclusion. The findings suggested that these 2 clinical entities are biologically similar; however, further research should be performed to explain the basis clinical differences between the 2 disorders.
Exploring the factors associated with non-urgent emergency department utilisation for mental health care
Authors: Mowbray Fabrice I , Omar Abeer E , Pfaff Kathyrn , El-Masri Maher M
Published: July 2019

Background

Emergency department visits for mental health care are on the rise across North America. Patients with mental illness are at an increased risk for frequent and non-urgent emergency department visitation.

Aims

The purpose of this study was to examine the independent predictors of non-urgent emergency department use for mental health care.

Methods

A secondary data analysis was conducted with archived data provided by the Erie St. Clair Local Health Integration Network in Ontario.

Results

A total of 13,114 mental health-related emergency department visits were analysed using logistic regression with generalised estimating equations modelling. The findings suggest the following characteristics are predictive of non-urgent emergency department use for mental health care: age, season, time of day, access to primary health care, mode of arrival, hospital type, referral source and patient diagnosis.

Conclusions

The findings of this study can be utilised to assist clinicians and policy makers in identifying and managing patients using the emergency department for non-urgent mental health care.
Synthesis and Configurational Analysis of a Dimer of Oxyresveratrol Tetramethyl Ether
Authors: Alesso Elba N. , Finkielsztein Liliana M. , Lantaño Beatriz , Aguirre José M. , Iglesias Graciela Y. Moltrasio
Published: July 2019

The diasteroisomers of 2-(3,5-dimethoxybenzyl)-1,2-di(2,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-5,7-dimethoxyindane are prepared and stereochemically characterized.
Kinetics and Mechanism of the Oxidation of Aliphatic Aldehydes by Benzyltrimethylammonium Chlorobromate
Authors: Bohra Anupama , Sharma Pradeep K. , Banerji Kalyan K.
Published: July 2019

Oxidation of aliphatic aldehydes by benzyltrimethylammonium chlorobromate to the corresponding carboxylic acid proceeds via the transfer of a hydride ion from the aldehyde hydrate to the oxidant.
The Preparation and Microbiological Hydroxylation of 10β,11-Oxido-4α,5α,7β-eremophilane
Authors: Arantes Simone F. , Hanson James R. , Hitchcock Peter B.
Published: July 2019

The preparation of 10β,11-oxido-4α,5α,7β-eremophilane by the oxymercuration of valencene, its microbiological hydroxylation at C-1, C-3, C-6, C-7 and C-8 by the fungus, Mucor plumbeus, and the X-ray crystal structures of two of the metabolites, are described.
Hydrogen Peroxide Bleaching of Amaranth Catalysed by Nickel(II) Nitrilotriacetic Acid
Authors: Paradis Paul M.
Published: July 2019

The complex of NiII with nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) (but not other aminocarboxylate complexes) autocatalyses the hydrogen peroxide bleaching of amaranth, although the reaction is inhibited by the absence of light or presence of alcohol, suggesting a radical-based mechanism.
Stereoselective Synthesis of (E)-Cinnamonitriles with the Sml2/THF/MeOH System
Authors: Guo Hongyun , Zhang Yongmin
Published: July 2019

α-Phenylsulfonylcinnamonitriles are readily reduced by Sml2/THF/MeOH to give the corresponding ( E)-cinnamonitriles in good yields under mild conditions.
The National Institute for Health Research Critical Care Research Priority Setting Survey 2018
Authors: Tatham Kate C , McAuley Daniel F , Borthwick Mark , Henderson Neil G , Bashevoy Gemma , Brett Stephen J
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Defining research priorities in intensive care is key to determining appropriate allocation of funding. Several topics were identified from the 2014 James Lind Alliance priority setting exercise conducted with the Intensive Care Society. The James Lind Alliance process included significant (and vital) patient/public contribution, but excluded professionals without a bedside role. As a result it may have failed to identify potential early-stage translational research topics, which are more likely identified by medical and/or academic members of relevant specialist basic science groups. The objective of the present project was to complement the James Lind Alliance project by generating an updated list of research priorities by facilitating academic research input.

Method

A survey was conducted by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) to identify the key research priorities from intensive care clinicians, including allied health professionals and academics, along with any evolving themes arising from translational research. Feasibility of all identified topics were then discussed and allocated to themes by a joint clinical academics/NIHR focus group.

Results

The survey was completed by 94 intensive care clinicians (including subspecialists), academics and allied health professions. In total, 203 research questions were identified, with the top five themes focusing on: appropriate case selection (e.g. who and when to treat; 24%), ventilation (7%), sepsis (6%), delirium (5%) and rehabilitation (5%).

Discussion

Utilising a methodology distinct from that employed by the James Lind Alliance process, from a broad spectrum of intensive care clinicians/scientists, enabled identification of a variety of priority research areas. These topics can now inform not only the investigator-led research agenda, but will also be considered in due course by the NIHR for potential future funding calls.
The effect of a novel impact management strategy on maximum principal strain for reconstructions of American football concussive events
Authors: Taylor Karen , Post Andrew , Hoshizaki Thomas Blaine , Gilchrist Michael D
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to test the effectiveness of a helmet to reduce maximum principal strain by decoupling the head–helmet interface in reconstructions of head-to-head concussive impacts in American football. The primary goal of the American football helmet has been protection of players against skull fractures and other traumatic brain injuries. The modern-day helmet has evolved and been designed to mitigate traumatic brain injury, but it does not offer optimized protection against concussive injury. Studies to determine the influence of decoupling strategies on changes to brain motion and the resulting influence on maximum principal strain, a metric associated with concussive injury, have not yet been examined under concussive impact conditions. In this study, 19 helmet-to-helmet concussive events from professional American football were reconstructed using a pneumatically driven linear impactor to determine the components (resultant and dominant) of linear and rotational acceleration. The University of College Dublin Brain Trauma Model was used to determine maximum principal strain values. A prototype helmet with a decoupling liner strategy was shown to significantly reduce maximum principal strain in seven of the head-to-head concussive impact reconstructions. In each case, the prototype helmet significantly reduced the dominant coordinate component of rotational acceleration. The results of this study indicate the potential of a helmet liner decoupling system in reducing maximum principal strain for reconstructions of concussive events in American football.