bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Best Coating Material for Hemoperfusion: Comparation of Cellulose Nitrate with Cellulose Acetate and Derivatives
Authors: Pişkin E. , Çakmakli Ç. , Özdural A.R.
Published: April 2018

In this study the clearance characteristics of the two most widely used membrane systems (cellulose nitrate and cellulose acetate) were compared in order to obtain the best coating material for hemoperfusion. The columns containing uncoated or coated charcoal granules were tested using creatinine, uric acid and vitamin B-12. The platelet loss were also analyzed using bovine blood. The membrane thickness was kept constant (0.5% by weight) in all membrane systems. Due to the simple coating procedure, cellulose nitrate coating, which also has good biocompatibility and high removal rates for toxins, was found to be preferable.
Hollow Fiber Immobilized L-asparaginase: In Vivo and in Vitro Immunological Studies
Authors: Callegaro L. , Assone F. , Cecconato E. , Malinverni A. , Pasteris V. , Rossi V.
Published: April 2018

The enzyme L-asparaginase was covalently immobilized on the inner surface of the hollow fibers utilized in a commercially available dialyzer by the periodate method. After sterilization with gamma radiation the bioreactor was able to metabolize in vivo, 90 per cent of circulating asparagine in two hours. The absence in blood of asparaginase-related protein fragments, released from the hollow fiber immobilized enzyme, was monitored using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Transverse Fractures of the Spinous Process of the 7th Cervical Vertebra in RDT Patients: An AI Related Disease?
Authors: Marumo F. , Nomura T. , Nishikawa H.
Published: April 2018

Transverse fractures of the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra were noted in 2 patients and of the 1st thoracic vertebra in 1 patient on maintenance hemodialysis. Two patients with aluminum (AI)- and/or iron-related bone disease complained of bone pain, relieved by deferoxamine therapy. In all three cases, the bone fractures had occurred suddenly while the patients were going about their daily work.

These observations indicate that AI- or iron-related bone disease with secondary hyperparathyroidism can induce bone fracture by only slight stress in patients maintained on hemodialysis.
Seven-day Storage of Single Donor Platelets in Polyolefin Bags: Clinical, Biochemical, Morphological and Microbiological Evaluation
Authors: Dragarli A. , lacone A. , Angelini A. , D'Antonio D. , Accorsi P. , Fioritoni G. , Geraci L. , Berardi A. , Quaglietta A. , Di Bartolomeo P. , Antonucci A. , Torlontano G.
Published: April 2018

We compared the in vitro and in vivo function of fresh and stored platelet concentrates (PCs) collected by an automated continuous-flow blood cell separator (CS 3000 Fenwal) in a closed-system apheresis kit in order to evaluate the possibility of extending the storage time to seven days with the polyolefin container (PL-732). The initial 220 ml platelet volume (5.14 ± 1.23 x 1011) was divided into two parts. Half was transfused and the other half was stored for 7 days. All cultured units were negative for bacterial contamination. Mean counts for fresh and stored platelets were respectively 2.34 ± 0.59 and 2.17 ± 0.50 x 1011/100 ml of PCs (mean recovery 88.7 ± 11.9%). The pO2 levels were maintained during storage (179.9 ± 30.5 mmHg) but pCO2, pH, LDH, osmolality, glucose consumption, bicarbonates, ATP, and osmotic stress values changed significantly after 7 days storage. From a clinical point of view, in 14 patients receiving a total of 38 PC transfusions no statistically significant change in corrected post-transfusional levels was observed between fresh and stored PC. Biochemical and morphological data and clinical results suggest that PCs collected with CS-3000 blood cell separator in a closed system and stored for 7 days in polyolefin bags (PL-732) can be satisfactorily employed in clinical practice.
Complement C3 and C5 Degradation Products during Hemodialysis Treatment: Study of an Index of Membrane Bioincompatibility
Authors: Freyria A.M. , Leitienne Ph. , Veysseyre C.N. , Bringuier J.P. , Traeger J.
Published: April 2018

In 10 hemodialyses (HD) with cuprophan (CU) and 10 with polyacrylonitrile (PAN), signs of complement activation were investigated by following arterial and venous levels of C3a, C3d and C5a, in order to propose a marker of bioincompatibility. Despite large individual variabilities, significant increases of these molecules were detected at t 20 min, particularly with CU device in the artery and more marked in the vein except for C3d with PAN. During the later stage of HD, while C3a and C5a levels gradually declined, but remained significantly higher than t 0 in all the patients treated with CU, the C3d concentration reached a plateau suggesting a continuous complement activation throughout HD. HD using PAN membranes were associated with a lower C3a, C3d and C5a generation and fewer dialyses generating these products. In some dialyses the higher arterial level of these molecules suggests an extra-dialyzer complement activation especially with PAN membrane. Although C5a venous levels appeared to be the more significant index of complement activation, for clinical purposes we propose the C3d arterial measurement as a reliable, non-expensive and technically simple indicator of membrane intolerance.
Heparin-Free Hemodialysis with Prophylactic Change of Dialyser and Blood Lines
Authors: Preuschof L. , Keller F. , Seemann J. , Offermann G.
Published: April 2018

Heparinization during hemodialysis may cause severe bleeding complications in patients with high bleeding risk. Heparin-free hemodialyses (n=208) were performed in 46 unselected patients with high bleeding risk after kidney transplantation (n=25), after major surgery (n=10), and with bleeding disorders (n=11). Dialyser and blood lines were primed without heparin. In addition to the established measures (high blood flow, intermittent rinsing), system clotting was prevented by prophylactically changing the dialyser and blood lines in 107 of 208 dialyses (52 percent). Total system clotting with blood loss ranging from 100 to 250 ml occurred in six cases (3 percent). Mean hemodialysis time (± SD) was 4.1 hours (± 0.4), rising volume of the extracorporeal system 1.4 liters/hour (± 0.6), blood flow 244 ml/min (± 38), clotting time 12 min (+ 4), and weight loss 2.5 kg (± 1.5). Mean hemodialysis creatinine clearance was 110 ml/min (± 34) and BUN clearance 138 ml/min (± 48). Heparin-free hemodialysis with prophylactic change of system is thus a safe and practical method of treatment for patients at high bleeding risk, but it is less effective, more expensive and the patient requires closer care.
Plasma-Exchange in Myasthenia Gravis: A Study in 20 Patients
Authors: Taiuti R. , Avanzi G. , Paoletti P. , Marconi G.
Published: April 2018

Twenty patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) of generalized 2A and 2B types according to the Ossermann classification were treated with a course of nine plasma exchanges (PE) every two days. Before starting of the course, at the fourth exchange, and at the end of the course, the muscle balance was assessed following a special protocol. Other functions, such as respiratory function, stapedial reflex, phonation, and electro-oculographic activity were assessed and a Desmedt test was done.

Three patients showed complete remission of symptoms, 8 showed good improvement and 6 mild improvement. Three showed no improvement. In total 85% of patients gained from PE. The onset of improvement was rapid in all patients but in some it lasted only a short time while in others it persisted for several weeks and even months, without the need for immunosuppressive therapy.
Cardiac Perforation by a Guide Wire during Subclavian Catheter Insertion
Authors: Blake P.G. , Uldall R.
Published: April 2018

We report a patient in whom cardiac perforation was directly caused by a straight soft tipped guide wire used to introduce a subclavian dialysis catheter. We recommend the use of J tip guide wires to avoid this life threatening complication.
Loss of Residual Renal Function in Patients on Regular Haemodialysis
Authors: Iest C.G. , Vanholder R.C. , Ringoir S.M.
Published: April 2018

The literature offers scant data on loss of residual renal function in chronic haemodialysis patients. The present study was undertaken in 34 patients, to evaluate residual creatinine clearances (CCr) before the start of haemodialysis and after 3, 12 and 24 months. CCr progressively declined from 6.15± 2.61 (before) to 1.40± 1.29 ml.min–1 (after 24 months: p<0.01). The decrease was largest during the first three months of dialysis therapy (slope - 0.99± 1.01 ml.min–1. month-–1 for the first three months vs. – 0.23± 0.12 ml.min–1. month–1 for the entire 24-month period: p<0.01). The decline in Ccr during the first three months was significantly more pronounced in glomerular disease than in tubulo-interstitial disease (p<0.05). This could not be attributed to differences in blood pressure, body weight or hypotensive medications. Age and sex also had no influence. Our data indicate that there is a characteristic progressive loss of renal function in haemodialyzed patients and that the early decline is most pronounced in patients with glomerular disease. Regular assessment of residual renal function at least every three months is indicated in patients starting chronic haemodialysis treatment.
Multiprogrammable Pacemakers: Are Their Advantages Fully Employed?
Authors: Novák M. , Smola M. , Tošovský J.
Published: April 2018

Out of 1265 pacemakers implanted between 1981 and 1987 in our center, 50 (4.0 percent) were of SSI M mode. Utilization of the programming capability of these multiprogrammable single-chamber pulse generators was investigated. All devices were programmed to the “energy saving mode” ensuring the longest lifetime possible. Half of them did not have to be reprogrammed for any other reason, the other half had to be programmed for cardiological and/or technical dysfunctions. Full utilization has been made of the programmability of these sophisticated and expensive units and their wide application is justified.
Peritoneal Leucocyte Response to Bacterial Peritonitis in Patients Receiving Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Shah G.M. , Sabo A. , Winer R.L. , Ross E.A. , Kirschenbaum M.A.
Published: April 2018

We evaluated the quantitative peritoneal leucocyte response to antibiotic therapy in 25 CAPD patients with 57 episodes of bacterial peritonitis. Eighty-eight percent of the peritonitis episodes were initially treated with a first generation cephalosporin, but results of microbial sensitivity studies led to a change in the initial antibiotic regimen in 23 episodes. Overall, 47/57 (82%) episodes were cured by antibiotic therapy alone (responders), while 10/57 (18%) required removal of the peritoneal catheter as a curative procedure (nonresponder). Neither the duration of symptoms on initial presentation nor the status of being a nonresponder could be related to the baseline peritoneal leucocyte values, either the total (PLC) or polymorphonuclear counts (PMN). Since the baseline PLC and PMN showed a 500-fold variation, subsequent changes were expressed as a percent [PLC (%) and PMN-PLC (%)] of the baseline value. On day 3 of peritonitis, PLC (%) and PMN-PLC (%) were less in responders (26% and 10%) than nonresponders (251% and 254%) (p<0.001). Differentiation between responders and nonresponders based on PLC (%) and PMN-PLC (%) was associated with a high degreee of sensitivity (90%) and specificity (90%). Similar results were obtained for day 4. These data suggest that the temporal pattern of PLC and PMN, when expressed as a percentage of the baseline value, may be useful in predicting those episodes of peritonitis which require removal of the peritoneal catheter.
Anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a Adsorption on Acrylonitrile Membrane of Hollow-fiber and Plate Dialyzer – an in Vivo Study
Authors: Kandus A. , Ponikvar R. , Drinovec J. , Kladnik S. , Ivanovich P.
Published: April 2018

We studied the adsorption of anaphylatoxins C3a and C5a on acrylonitrile (AN69) hollow-fiber (AN69HF) and plate (AN69P) dialyzers in 8 patients during 4-hour hemodialyses (HD). Blood passed first through a cuprophan dialyzer and then through AN69 dialyzers that were not in contact with dialysis fluid. Plasma C3a and C5a were measured in samples taken from the afferent and efferent blood lines of the acrylonitrile dialyzers at 15, 60 and 240 min. Plasma C3a concentrations decreased significantly in blood that had passed through AN69 dialyzers. This decrease, indicating membrane adsorption, was maximal (by 65% in AN69HF and by 59% in AN69P) at 15 min and minimal (by 53% in AN69HF and by 18% in AN69P) at 240 min. The decrease in plasma C5a concentrations was smaller and significant throughout HD only with AN69HF. The amount of C3a adsorbed was at least 45,000 μg in AN69HF and 18,000 μg in AN69P.

These findings demonstrate that acrylonitrile dialyzers adsorb more C3a and C5a than they produce. This membrane adsorption may explain why the increase of plasma C3a and C5a is inhibited during HD.
Hemodialysis-Associated Febrile Episodes: Surveillance before and after Major Alteration in the Water Treatment System
Authors: Gaynes R. , Friedman C. , Maclaren C. , Foley K. , Swartz R.
Published: April 2018

Surveillance for bacteremic or pyrogenic episodes associated with hemodialysis was undertaken before and after the reconstruction of the water treatment system at our University medical center. The new water system included a holding tank with iodination treatment. The water delivered to individual dialysis stations had only occasional positive bacterial cultures (3 of 21 samples before completion of construction, 2 of 16 samples afterwards) and intermittent detection of endotoxin (6 of 21 samples before completion of construction, 9 of 16 samples afterwards) at monthly sampling. Among 51 individual dialysis treatments (25 patients) before reconstruction and 56 treatments (29 patients), after, only 2 and 3 febrile events were identified, respectively. All of these were associated with underlying infectious illness and not with the hemodialysis procedure itself. Overall, we conclude that pyrogenic episodes associated directly with hemodialysis treatment are infrequent, and that the addition of a water storage tank with iodination treatment does not appear to increase the risk of bacteremia or pyrogenic episodes.
Kinetics of Pulmonary Leukocyte Sequestration in Man during Hemodialysis with Different Membrane-Types
Authors: Kolb G. , Höffken H. , Müller T. , Havemann K. , Joseph K. , Lange H.
Published: April 2018

Although it has been suggested that pulmonary sequestration of leukocytes could account for membrane-dependent white blood cell depletion in HD, direct evidence in patients is still lacking. Therefore a study was initiated to test whether and how leukocytes distribute in the lung circulation during HD with different membranes. Thirteen patients suffering from chronic renal failure underwent lung scintigraphy during HD with cuprophane (n = 3), hemophane (n = 8) and polysulfone (n = 2) lowflux capillary dialyzers. Isolated autologous leukocytes were labelled with 99m-Technetium and reinfused before starting HD. Distribution of leukocyte related activity was registered by lung scintigraphy. In comparison to normal lung scintigraphy performed without HD, an impressive redistribution peak was demonstrated 10-20 min after the start of HD with cuprophane and also to a lesser extent with hemophane. When HD was performed with polysulfone the decrease in activity was delayed but no real redistribution was obtained.

In accordance with other phenomena, such as peripheral leukopenia and changes in granulocyte oxidative metabolism, pulmonary sequestration of leukocytes takes place in man in the initial phase of HD and appears to be strongly dependent on the type of membrane. (Int J Artif Organs 1990; 13: 729-36)
Secretion of Erythropoietin from Microencapsulated Rat Kidney Cells: Preliminary Results
Authors: Koo J. , Chang T.M.S.
Published: April 2018

Rat kidney epithelial cells were microencapsulated within alginate-poly(L)lysinealginate membrane. The microencapsulated cells were incubated using a culture media containing cobalt and another without cobalt. The viability was measured by trypan blue exclusion test. Secretion of erythropoietin (EPO) was measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). Viability of free cells was 53%. The viability of microencapsulated cells increased to 72% after 12 days of incubation and remained at this level. Samples of the culture media were collected every 2 days for RIA. Samples within the microcapsules were collected by breaking the microcapsules open. RIA of these samples showed the following for the media containing cobalt. Between day 16 and day 32 the concentrations of EPO were 5.3 mU/ml inside and 18.3 mU/ml outside the microcapsule. The medium from the same number of free cells contained 21.2 mU/ml of EPO. Culture media without cobalt collected during the same period contained 1.8 mU/ml inside and 9.9 mU/ml outside the microcapsules. The free cell culture with this media during the same period contained 8.3 mU/ml.
Effect of Intradialytic Parenteral Nutrition on Quality of Life in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Siskind M.S. , Lien Y-H. H.
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of intradialytic parenteral nutrition (IDPN) on the quality of life of malnourished patients with end-stage renal disease on high-efficiency and high-flux hemodialysis therapy. Patients, who met the Medicare eligibility requirements for IDPN, were asked to fill out and extensive questionnaire covering several measures of quality of life prior to initiating and again after completing four months of IDPN therapy. Although the IDPN improved serum albumin levels significantly, aside from improved sleep patterns, no significant improvements in quality of life could be demonstrated. The mortality rate of these enrolled patients was as high as 28% within 4 months. We concluded that the limited amount of nutrition delivered over the course of a short dialysis session may not be enough to appreciably change the lives of our malnourished patients.
Static State Hemodynamic Variables Estimation Model for the Moving-Actuator Type Total Artificial Heart Part. I - Cardiac Output Estimation
Authors: Om K.S. , Ahn J.M. , Min B.G.
Published: April 2018

Cardiac output estimation is a very important study for the artificial heart. In this paper, we developed a cardiac output estimation model for the moving-actuator type total artificial heart (MA-TAH) that was developed at Seoul National University Hospital. The proposed model is simple and provides beat-by-beat mean cardiac output estimation. Moreover, it uses non-invasively acquired signals. Model parameters were adjusted with in vitro data by least mean square (LMS) algorithm. Results showed that the proposed scheme gives a mean estimation error of about 0.1 (l/min) for the given data. This ensures the suitability of the proposed model.
Rolling element bearing weak fault diagnosis based on optimal wavelet scale cyclic frequency extraction
Authors: Yang Rui , Li Hongkun , He Changbo , Zhang Zhixin
Published: April 2018

Rolling element bearing fault characteristic information is within the second-order cyclic stationary signal. However, it is susceptible to noise interference. In this article, a new method is proposed for rolling element bearing early fault characteristic extraction according to the cyclic periodogram method. The wavelet transform coefficients are processed and analyzed using the cyclostationary theory. As a result, the implicit cyclic characteristics are contained in wavelet transform coefficients. Therefore, using the modulus or envelope of wavelet transform coefficients instead of the calculation of the cyclic statistics can avoid the window function length selection while maintaining the computation rate. In addition, the calculation of correlated kurtosis is introduced into frequency domain to select optimal wavelet scales. The larger the correlated kurtosis, the stronger the cycle impact characteristic in wavelet coefficients. Calculating the cyclic frequency in the optimal wavelet scale range can accurately extract the weak fault characteristic information. The data processing results demonstrated that the proposed method outperforms existing cyclostationary signal analysis methods in weak fault feature extraction for rolling element bearing.
Methods to Induce Chronic Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Dey Ashim , Manthey Abby L. , Chiu Kin , Do Chi-Wai
Published: April 2018

Glaucoma, a form of progressive optic neuropathy, is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. Being a prominent disease affecting vision, substantial efforts are being made to better understand glaucoma pathogenesis and to develop novel treatment options including neuroprotective and neuroregenerative approaches. Cell transplantation has the potential to play a neuroprotective and/or neuroregenerative role for various ocular cell types (e.g., retinal cells, trabecular meshwork). Notably, glaucoma is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure, and over the past 2 decades, several rodent models of chronic ocular hypertension (COH) have been developed that reflect these changes in pressure. However, the underlying pathophysiology of glaucoma in these models and how they compare to the human condition remains unclear. This limitation is the primary barrier for using rodent models to develop novel therapies to manage glaucoma and glaucoma-related blindness. Here, we review the current techniques used to induce COH-related glaucoma in various rodent models, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of the each, in order to provide a more complete understanding of how these models can be best utilized. To so do, we have separated them based on the target tissue (pre-trabecular, trabecular, and post-trabecular) in order to provide the reader with an encompassing reference describing the most appropriate rodent COH models for their research. We begin with an initial overview of the current use of these models in the evaluation of cell transplantation therapies.
A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Human Umbilical Cord Blood Mesenchymal Stem Cell Infusion for Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Huang Li , Zhang Che , Gu Jiaowei , Wu Wei , Shen Zhujun , Zhou Xihui , Lu Haixia
Published: April 2018

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a common disability which results in permanent chronic motor disability appearing in early childhood. Recently human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cell (hUCB-MSC) infusion has emerged as a promising therapeutic strategy for CP, and the treatment efficacy remains to be confirmed by clinical trials. All 54 patients received basic rehabilitation as a background treatment. The infusion group comprising 27 patients received 4 infusions of hUCB-MSCs (intravenous infusions at a fixed dose of 5 × 107) and basic rehabilitation treatment, whereas 27 patients in the control group received 0.9% normal saline and basic rehabilitation treatment. Several indices were tested from baseline up to 24 months posttreatment regarding efficacy and safety evaluations, including the gross motor function measurement 88 (GMFM-88) scores, the comprehensive function assessment (CFA), lab tests, electroencephalogram (EEG), routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and adverse events. The changes in the total proportion of GMFM-88 and total scores of CFA in the hUCB-MSC infusion group were significantly higher than that in control group at 3, 6, 12, 24 months posttreatment. Less diffuse slow waves were noticed after hUCB-MSC infusion in patients with slowing of EEG background rhythms at baseline. Based on the routine MRI exams, improvements in cerebral structures were rare after treatment. Serious adverse events were not observed during the whole study period. The results of the study indicated that hUCB-MSC infusion with basic rehabilitation was safe and effective in improving gross motor and comprehensive functions in children with CP.
Using tickets in employment standards inspections: Deterrence as effective enforcement in Ontario, Canada?
Authors: Casey Rebecca , Tucker Eric , Vosko Leah F , Noack Andrea M
Published: April 2018

It is widely agreed that there is a crisis in labour/employment standards enforcement. A key issue is the role of deterrence measures that penalise violations. Employment standards enforcement in Ontario, like in most jurisdictions, is based mainly on a compliance framework promoting voluntary resolution of complaints and, if that fails, ordering restitution. Deterrence measures that penalise violations are rarely invoked. However, the Ontario government has recently increased the role of proactive inspections and tickets, a low-level deterrence measure which imposes fines of CAD295 plus victim surcharges. In examining the effectiveness of the use of tickets in inspections, we begin by looking at this development in the broader context of employment standards enforcement and its historical trajectory. Then, using administrative data from the Ministry of Labour, we examine when and why tickets are issued in the course of workplace inspections. After demonstrating that even when ticketable violations are detected, tickets are issued only rarely, we explore factors associated with an increased likelihood of an inspector issuing a ticket. Finally, we consider how the overall deterrent effect of workplace inspections is influenced by the use or non-use of deterrence tools.
Supreme indifference: The new Alice Springs/Mparntwe Supreme Court building
Authors: McManus Pip
Published: April 2018

This article examines some of the underlying contextual issues – architectural, cultural and spatial – inherent in such a significant civic infrastructure project and draws comparisons to other major buildings of similar design or purpose.
Measuring Value in Internal Medicine Residency Training Hospitals Using Publicly Reported Measures
Authors: Schickedanz Adam , Gupta Reshma , Arora Vineet M. , Braddock Clarence H.
Published: April 2018

Graduate medical education (GME) lacks measures of resident preparation for high-quality, cost-conscious practice. The authors used publicly reported teaching hospital value measures to compare internal medicine residency programs on high-value care training and to validate these measures against program director perceptions of value. Program-level value training scores were constructed using Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Value-Based Purchasing (VBP) Program hospital quality and cost-efficiency data. Correlations with Association of Program Directors in Internal Medicine Annual Survey high-value care training measures were examined using logistic regression. For every point increase in program-level VBP score, residency directors were more likely to agree that GME programs have a responsibility to contain health care costs (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.18, P = .04), their faculty model high-value care (aOR 1.07, P = .03), and residents are prepared to make high-value medical decisions (aOR 1.07, P = .09). Publicly reported clinical data offer valid measures of GME value training.
The Role of Biomarkers in Research on Caregivers for Cancer Patients: A Scoping Review
Authors: Park Jumin , Ross Alyson , Klagholz Stephen D. , Bevans Margaret F.
Published: April 2018

Background:

Biomarkers can be used as prognostic, predictive, or monitoring indicators of an associated outcome. The purpose of this review was to provide a comprehensive summary of the research examining the use of biomarkers as surrogate end points for clinical outcomes in family caregivers for cancer patients, identify gaps, and make recommendations for future research.

Methods:

A scoping review, a process of mapping the existing literature, was conducted. Studies comparing biomarkers across caregivers and controls and/or examining relationships between biomarkers and psychological health were reviewed.

Results:

The studies ( N = 18) of caregivers for cancer patients who were identified used biomarkers to predict outcomes ( n = 13) and to monitor the efficacy of interventions ( n = 6). Biomarkers were divided into two categories based on physiological systems involved: (1) neuroendocrine function (sympathetic–adrenal–medullary axis activity, hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activity) and (2) immune function. Predictive biomarkers were sensitive to differences between caregivers and controls. The biomarkers were used to evaluate outcomes frequently associated with stress, depression, and anxiety. Cortisol was the biomarker most commonly measured to monitor the efficacy of interventions.

Discussion:

Biomarkers are most commonly incorporated into caregiver studies to predict group membership and psychological health. Neuroendocrine biomarkers, specifically cortisol, are most frequently assessed. Future research should include biomarkers of other physiologic functions (e.g., cardiovascular function, cognitive dysfunction, and cell aging) and those that serve as multisystem indicators. Expanding the scientific study of biomarkers will contribute to our understanding of the mechanisms through which stress may influence caregiver health.
To move more but sit less: The roles of students’ attitudes and knowledge
Authors: Chen Senlin , Gu Xiangli , Liu Yang
Published: April 2018

An important goal of physical education (PE) is to educate children to become physically literate and active of their own accord. This study capitalized on examining the roles of students’ attitudes toward PE and physical activity and fitness (PAF) knowledge in physical activity and sedentary behavior participation. Students from a public middle school in a Midwestern state in the United States of America responded to two surveys. One survey consisted of demographic and PAF knowledge questions for middle school students, and the other survey included the Attitude Toward Physical Education Questionnaire and the Youth Activity Profile. Structural equation models showed that perceived enjoyment and perceived usefulness, as affective and cognitive dimensions of attitude toward PE respectively, demonstrated small effects on physical activity and sedentary behavior, while perceived enjoyment further showed a moderate effect on PAF knowledge, after controlling for gender and grade. These findings indicate the need to deliberately foster students’ positive attitudes toward PE in middle school years. It is argued that future pedagogy research on youth physical activity should also include sedentary behavior as a focal variable.
Online distant witnessing and live-streaming activism: Emerging differences in the activation of networked publics
Authors: Martini Michele
Published: April 2018

Since its formal approval, the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) project raised public concern about environmental sustainability and security. Thanks to the systematic use of Internet and communication technologies (ICTs), the nonviolent resistance organized by the Sioux tribes of Standing Rock Reservation to oppose the planned construction rapidly attracted public attention. In view of their strategic use of online video-sharing for documentation and counter-surveillance purposes, this study aims at describing how diverse modes of user activity are triggered by two different forms of distant witnessing: online video and live streaming. To this aim, this study analyzes the user activity which took place on the Digital Smoke Signals Facebook page, one of the most widely followed information outlets of the NO DAPL movement. Findings suggest that online video and live streaming trigger different forms of connective activity. The highlighted differences reflect the ways in which synchronous and asynchronous forms of online audio-visual communication impact users’ everyday life.
Honouring a life and narrative work: John’s story
Authors: Ryan Sara
Published: April 2018

The importance of witnessing broken narratives and somehow writing or representing these is matched by the challenges associated with trying to do this within a context of normativity and expected academic practice. We have to be convincing in our work, both in terms of rigour and dependability but also in terms of the way we make sense of the stories we are told. In this essay, I examine the narrative of John, a 63-year-old British man diagnosed with autism. I explore how, by interrupting John’s narrative in search of the story I wanted and anticipated, I was disrupting his attempts to understand, form and reform his experiences within the interview setting. I argue we have a commitment to ignore the ‘rules’ of interviews and narrative in order to open up space for people to explore and make sense of their experiences beyond the tyranny of our research questions.
Postdoctoral scholars in a faculty of education: Navigating liminal spaces and marginal identities
Authors: Burke Lydia E Carol-Ann , Hall Jennifer , de Paiva Wilson A , Alberga Angela , Mu Guanglun M , Leigh Jeanna P , Vazquez Monica S
Published: April 2018

The last decade has seen a slow but steady increase in the number of postdoctoral scholars employed in faculties of education. In this article, seven postdoctoral scholars who worked in the same Canadian faculty of education explore their past positionings within the postdoctoral space. We share personal narratives related to issues of agency and identity in our relatively ill-defined positions. Similar to other early career academics, our reflections expose key concerns surrounding clarity of expectations, workload and work/life balance, and issues related to community and collegiality. In addition, we identify institutional or structural constraints that need to be reconciled in order to support postdoctoral scholars in their aspirations for success on personal and institutional levels. We provide recommendations and invite dialogue with regard to this emerging role in faculties of education.
Robust modeling and planning of radio-frequency identification network in logistics under uncertainties
Authors: Xu Bowei , Li Junjun , Yang Yongsheng , Postolache Octavian , Wu Huafeng
Published: April 2018

To realize higher coverage rate, lower reading interference, and cost efficiency of radio-frequency identification network in logistics under uncertainties, a novel robust radio-frequency identification network planning model is built and a robust particle swarm optimization is proposed. In radio-frequency identification network planning model, coverage is established by referring the probabilistic sensing model of sensor with uncertain sensing range; reading interference is calculated by concentric map–based Monte Carlo method; cost efficiency is described with the quantity of readers. In robust particle swarm optimization, a sampling method, the sampling size of which varies with iterations, is put forward to improve the robustness of robust particle swarm optimization within limited sampling size. In particular, the exploitation speed in the prophase of robust particle swarm optimization is quickened by smaller expected sampling size; the exploitation precision in the anaphase of robust particle swarm optimization is ensured by larger expected sampling size. Simulation results show that, compared with the other three methods, the planning solution obtained by this work is more conducive to enhance the coverage rate and reduce interference and cost.
The Samsung–Apple patent war: Socio-cultural comparative study of news frames in a business conflict issue
Authors: Lee Wan-Soo , Lee Min-Kyu , Kang Seok , Yoo Jae-Woong
Published: April 2018

This study explored a comparative analysis of how the South Korean and United States media framed the Samsung–Apple patent lawsuit. The South Korean and U.S. media have a tendency to report Samsung–Apple patent disputes in a completely different angle. While framing in favor of Samsung was frequent in South Korea, neutral frames were dominant in the United States. The South Korean newspapers showed a stronger nationalism in favor of Samsung, whereas the U.S. newspapers portrayed the business conflict in the market logic. The South Korean and U.S. newspapers also showed differences in framing according to the ideological characteristics of the newspaper. In South Korea, the main conservative newspaper ( Chosun Ilbo) framed the issue in favor of Samsung and the largest liberal newspaper ( Hankyoreh) revealed a tendency to frame it in favor of Apple. However, in the United States, only the main business newspaper ( Wall Street Journal) favored Apple. This study contributes to news framing research in that socio-cultural divergences, framing pool (e.g., generic frames vs. issue-specific frames), and journalistic contexts considered systematically.
Population impact of the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines compared with the 2013 ESH/ESC guidelines for hypertension management
Authors: Vaucher Julien , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Waeber Gérard , Vollenweider Peter
Published: April 2018

Background

The 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines on hypertension management recommend the introduction of antihypertensive treatment for patients with new stage 1 hypertension thresholds (130–139/80–89 mm Hg) and with a cardiovascular disease or related condition. We compared the Swiss population and economic impact of antihypertensive treatment of the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines with the 2013 European guidelines.

Methods

Analyses were based on 4438 participants (aged 45–85 years; 2448 women) of the CoLaus|PsyCoLaus study recruited between 2014-2017. Participants eligible for antihypertensive treatment according to the 2017 ACC/AHA and 2013 European guidelines were sex and age standardised using the Swiss population for 2016. In addition, we estimated the population-wide annual costs of antihypertensive treatment.

Results

Individuals eligible for antihypertensive treatment were 40.3% (95% confidence interval 38.5–42.1) and 31.3% (29.7–32.9) according to the 2017 ACC/AHA and 2013 European guidelines, respectively. That difference would translate into approximately 250,000 additional individuals eligible for antihypertensive treatment, corresponding to an additional annual cost of 72.5 million CHF (63.0 million EUR).

Conclusion

The 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines on the management of hypertension substantially increase the number of individuals eligible for antihypertensive treatment compared to the 2013 European guidelines. While implementation of the 2017 ACC/AHA guidelines is expected to lead to cost reduction by preventing cardiovascular diseases, that reduction might be mitigated by the costs incurred by antihypertensive treatments in a larger proportion of the population.
Postmarketing Modifications of Drug Labels for Cancer Drugs Approved by the US Food and Drug Administration Between 2006 and 2016 With and Without Supporting Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Shepshelovich Daniel , Tibau Ariadna , Goldvaser Hadar , Molto Consolación , Ocana Alberto , Seruga Bostjan , Amir Eitan
Published: April 2018

Purpose

Modifications in cancer drug indications, dosing, and related toxicities after Food and Drug Administration approval are common. It is unclear whether drug approval without a supporting randomized controlled trial (RCT) influences the probability of such modifications.

Methods

We searched the Drugs@FDA Web site for new drug indications for solid tumors approved between January 2006 and December 2016. Study characteristics, regulatory pathways, and label modifications from approval to October 2017 were collected from drug labels. Label modifications were considered to be major if defined as such in the drug label. Indications approved with and without supporting RCTs were compared using logistic regression. The Benjamini-Hochberg false discovery rate method was used to adjust for multiplicity.

Results

We identified 59 individual drugs for 109 solid tumor indications. Of these, 17 indications (15.6%) were not supported by an RCT, with no change over time. Indications not supported by RCTs were more likely to require companion diagnostic tests (odds ratio [OR], 3.90; P = .02), to include surrogate end points as primary outcomes (OR, 7.88; P < .001), and to receive breakthrough therapy designation (OR, 7.62; P = .006) or accelerated approval (OR, 17.67; P < .001). Indications not supported by RCTs were associated with significantly higher odds of postapproval modifications in common adverse events (71% v 29%; OR, 5.78; P = .002). A nonsignificantly higher odds of postapproval major modifications in warnings and precautions was also observed (88% v 62%; OR, 4.61; P = .051). Postapproval major modifications in indication and usage, dosing and administration, boxed warnings, and contraindications were comparable in the two groups.

Conclusion

Cancer drug indications not supported initially by RCTs are associated with more postmarketing safety-related label modifications. Health care professionals should be vigilant for unrecognized adverse effects when prescribing drugs approved without a supporting RCT.
Oncology Guidelines Usage in a Low- and Middle-Income Country
Authors: Ismaila Nofisat , Salako Omolola , Mutiu Jimoh , Adebayo Oladeji
Published: April 2018

Purpose

There is a paucity of data about current usage of oncology guidelines in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), specifically in terms of the availability and quality of those guidelines. Our objective was to determine usage of oncology guidelines and the barriers and facilitators to their usage among radiation oncologists in LMICs.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among practicing radiation oncologists in Nigeria via e-mail and the social media database of the Association of Radiation and Clinical Oncologists of Nigeria. In addition, paper questionnaires were administered at regional clinical meetings.

Results

The survey response rate was 53.4% in a sample of 101 radiation oncologists from the database. Sixty-nine percent of respondents were consultants and 30% were residents. Approximately 43% had < 5 years’ experience. All of the respondents were involved in administering chemotherapy during the treatment of patients with cancer, whereas approximately half were involved in diagnosing cancer. Ninety-three percent reported using guidelines in treating patients, the top two guidelines being those from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (90%) and the American Society of Clinical Oncology (50%). The two major barriers to guideline usage were that facilities were inadequate for proper guideline implementation and that the information in guidelines were too complex to understand. Potential facilitators included providing adequate facilities, developing local guidelines, and increasing awareness of guideline usage.

Conclusion

Our study shows that clinicians involved in the treatment of patients with cancer in LMICs are aware of cancer treatment guidelines. However, implementation of these guidelines hinders their usage because the facilities are inadequate, guidelines are not applicable to the local setting, and the information in the guidelines is too complex.
Priorities in the Cardiovascular Care of Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Ky Bonnie
Published: April 2018

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women with more than 3 million breast cancer survivors in the United States alone. Survivors of breast cancer suffer from an increased burden of cardiovascular risk factors and disease. The focus of this review is to describe the epidemiology of cardiovascular disease in breast cancer survivors, including the cardiovascular concerns observed with common cancer therapies. Strategies to improve upon the early detection and treatment of cardiovascular disease, including clinical prediction algorithms, biomarkers, and imaging measures are also reviewed, and the use of cardioprotective therapies to mitigate risk are summarized. Finally, the need for evidence-based research to inform and improve upon the multidisciplinary care of this growing population is highlighted.
Regulator of calcineurin-2 is a centriolar protein with a role in cilia length control
Authors: Stevenson Nicola L. , Bergen Dylan J. M. , Xu Amadeus , Wyatt Emily , Henry Freya , McCaughey Janine , Vuolo Laura , Hammond Chrissy L. , Stephens David J.
Published: April 2018

Almost every cell in the human body extends a primary cilium. Defective cilia function leads to a set of disorders known as ciliopathies, which are characterised by debilitating developmental defects that affect many tissues. Here, we report a new role for regulator of calcineurin 2 (RCAN2) in primary cilia function. It localises to centrioles and the basal body and is required to maintain normal cilia length. RCAN2 was identified as the most strongly upregulated gene from a comparative RNAseq analysis of cells in which expression of the Golgi matrix protein giantin had been abolished by gene editing. In contrast to previous work where we showed that depletion of giantin by RNAi results in defects in ciliogenesis and in cilia length control, giantin knockout cells generate normal cilia after serum withdrawal. Furthermore, giantin knockout zebrafish show increased expression of RCAN2. Importantly, suppression of RCAN2 expression in giantin knockout cells results in the same defects in the control of cilia length that are seen upon RNAi of giantin itself. Together, these data define RCAN2 as a regulator of cilia function that can compensate for the loss of giantin function.
Is Exercise the Right Medicine for Dystrophic Muscle?
Authors: SPAULDING HANNAH R. , SELSBY JOSHUA T.
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a neuromuscular disease caused by a dystrophin protein deficiency. Dystrophin functions to stabilize and protect the muscle fiber during muscle contraction; thus, the absence of functional dystrophin protein leads to muscle injury. DMD patients experience progressive muscle necrosis, loss of function, and ultimately succumb to respiratory failure or cardiomyopathy. Exercise is known to improve muscle health and strength in healthy individuals as well as positively affect other systems. Because of this, exercise has been investigated as a potential therapeutic approach for DMD.

Methods

This review aims to provide a concise presentation of the exercise literature with a focus on dystrophin-deficient muscle. Our intent was to identify trends and gaps in knowledge with an appreciation of exercise modality.

Results

After compiling data from mouse and human studies, it became apparent that endurance exercises such as a swimming and voluntary wheel running have therapeutic potential in limb muscles of mice and respiratory training was beneficial in humans. However, in the comparatively few long-term investigations, the effect of low-intensity training on cardiac and respiratory muscles was contradictory. In addition, the effect of exercise on other systems is largely unknown.

Conclusions

To safely prescribe exercise as a therapy to DMD patients, multisystemic investigations are needed including the evaluation of respiratory and cardiac muscle.