bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of and factors associated with clinical response to methotrexate under daily life conditions in Asian patients with psoriasis: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Pongparit Kamolwan , Chularojanamontri Leena , Limphoka Pichaya , Silpa‐Archa Narumol , Wongpraparat Chanisada
Published: March 2018

Given the relative scarcity of data concerning the efficacy of methotrexate under daily life conditions in psoriasis, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of methotrexate in Asian psoriatic patients and to identify factors associated with clinical response. This observational retrospective cohort study included adult psoriatic patients who had been treated with or were going to start methotrexate. Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores at baseline and at 3, 6 and 12 months were recorded. At 3 months, patients achieving 50% or more reduction from baseline PASI score were defined as responders. One hundred, 74 and 61 patients were followed for 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. Mean follow‐up time was 15.3 ± 10.2 months. A reduction in PASI score of at least 75% was achieved in 26%, 32.5% and 45.2% at 3, 6 and 12 months, respectively. At 12 and 24 months, Kaplan–Meier analysis showed 68.7% and 52.1% probability of drug survival, respectively. Male sex, body mass index (BMI) of less than 25 kg/m2 and absence of abdominal obesity were factors associated with response to treatment in univariate analysis. Male sex was the only significant factor in multivariate analysis. The effectiveness of methotrexate in clinical practise seemed to be lower than in clinical trials, but effectiveness increased with longer duration of treatment. Problems associated with methotrexate use in clinical practise may be due to medication adherence rather than lack of medication effectiveness. Female sex, abdominal obesity and BMI of 25 kg/m2 or more might decrease response to methotrexate.
The Association Between Daily Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms and Pain Over the First 14 Days After Injury: An Experience Sampling Study
Authors: Pacella Maria L. , Girard Jeffrey M. , Wright Aidan G. C. , Suffoletto Brian , Callaway Clifton W.
Published: March 2018

Objectives

Psychosocial factors and responses to injury modify the transition from acute to chronic pain. Specifically, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms (reexperiencing, avoidance, and hyperarousal symptoms) exacerbate and cooccur with chronic pain. Yet no study has prospectively considered the associations among these psychological processes and pain reports using experience sampling methods (ESMs) during the acute aftermath of injury. This study appliedESMvia daily text messaging to monitor and detect relationships among psychosocial factors and postinjury pain across the first 14 days after emergency department (ED) discharge.

Methods

We recruited 75 adults (59% male; mean ± SDage = 34 ± 11.73 years) who experienced a potentially traumatic injury (i.e., involving life threat or serious injury) in the past 24 hours from theEDs of two Level I trauma centers. Participants received five questions per day via text messaging from Day 1 to Day 14 post–EDdischarge; three questions measuredPTSDsymptoms, one question measured perceived social support, and one question measured physical pain.

Results

Sixty‐seven participants provided sufficient data for inclusion in the final analyses, and the average response rate per subject was 86%. Pain severity score decreased from a mean ±SDof 7.2 ± 2.0 to 4.4 ± 2.69 over 14 days and 50% of the variance in daily pain scores was within person. In multilevel structural equation models, pain scores decreased over time, and daily fluctuations of hyperarousal (B = 0.22, 95% confidetnce interval = 0.08–0.36) were uniquely associated with daily fluctuations in reported pain level within each person.

Conclusions

Daily hyperarousal symptoms predict same‐day pain severity over the acute postinjury recovery period. We also demonstrated feasibility to screen and identify patients at risk for pain chronicity in the acute aftermath of injury. Early interventions aimed at addressing hyperarousal (e.g., anxiolytics) could potentially aid in reducing experience of pain.
Neurological injuries from skateboards in paediatric and adolescent populations: injury types and severity
Authors: Ma Norman , Mills Sarah , McBride Craig , Kimble Roy , Redmond Michael
Published: March 2018

Background

Skateboarding is a popular recreation among children and adolescents. Injuries that result in presentation to emergency departments are varied including head injuries. The study aims to assess the type and severity of neurological damage to the brain and spine in children from injuries incurred while using a skateboard.

Methods

After obtaining Ethics approval, a retrospective case review was performed of all admissions to all Brisbane, Australia public hospital neurosurgery departments of children 18 years and less who experienced injuries to the brain and spine for the years 2010–2014.

Results

There were 51 skateboard‐related admissions over the study period of which 94% were male. The mean age was 14.3 years. The Injury Severity Score (ISS) ranged from 1 to 38 with a mean of 11.4. A total of 70.5% of the ISS scores fell within the minor or moderate categories and 29.5% fell within the serious and severe categories. There were no ISS scores in the critical category. A total of 16 skull vault fractures and 14 skull base fractures were recorded. There were 13 extradural haematomas of which five were evacuated by craniotomy and one of whom experienced hemiplegia. There was a spinal cord injury with paraplegia. A range of other neurological complications occurred. There were no deaths.

Conclusion

Uncommon but serious neurological morbidity accompanies skateboard use. Concerns remain about the level of helmet use and choice of unsafe locations for skateboarding.
Risk factors for discontinuation of thyroid hormone replacement therapy in early pregnancy: a study from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study and the Medical Birth Registry of Norway
Authors: Frank Anna S. , Lupattelli Angela , Nordeng Hedvig
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Approximately 3–5% of pregnant women have hypothyroidism. Despite the potential impact of untreated hypothyroidism on infant neurodevelopment, few studies have investigated the risk factors associated with discontinuation of thyroid hormone replacement therapy (THRT) in pregnancy. We aimed to identify such factors in a population of women using THRT prior to pregnancy.

Material and methods

Data from the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study were linked to records in the Medical Birth Registry of Norway. Pregnant women with hypothyroidism prior to pregnancy were categorized as discontinuers or continuers of THRT in pregnancy. The main analysis used generalized estimating equations based on multiply imputed data.

Results

Of 86 848 enrolled pregnant women, 2720 (3.2%) had a medically confirmed thyroid disorder and/or reported use of thyroid therapy. More than half (n = 1587; 57.8%) used THRT prior to pregnancy; of these, 207 (13.0%) discontinued and 1380 (86.9%) continued THRT during early pregnancy. Having a non‐medicated mental disorder [odds ratio (OR) 1.64, 95% CI 1.03–2.63] and non‐compliance with recommended nutritional supplementation (OR 2.51, 95% CI 1.82–3.47) increased the odds of discontinuing THRT. Women medicated for somatic comorbidities (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.33–0.98) had a 44% decreased odds of discontinuing THRT.

Conclusions

In Norway, around 13% of women with hypothyroidism discontinue THRT in early pregnancy. For discontinuers, non‐medicated mental comorbidity and non‐compliance with nutritional supplements presented increased risk, whereas having a medicated somatic disorder was protective. Health professionals advising women with hypothyroidism should be aware of risk factors associated with THRT discontinuation.
Arteriovenous differences in cord blood gas analysis and the prediction of adverse neonatal outcome
Authors: Knutzen Liv , Aye Christina , Anderson‐Knight Hannah , Svirko Elena , Impey Lawrence
Published: March 2018

Introduction

The aim of this paper was to determine whether arteriovenous differences of pH and pCO2 are useful predictors of adverse neonatal outcome in acidemic neonates.

Material and methods

An established database of 8759 term, singleton, non‐anomalous neonates with validated cord gases and outcomes [Encephalopathy (Grade 2/3), Apgar <7 at five minutes and composite neonatal outcomes of neurological and systemic involvement] was used. Analysis was of the cohort of the 520 acidemic (arterial pH <7.10) neonates. Chi‐square tests with odds ratio (OR), 95% CI were calculated for dichotomous cut‐offs of differences; hierarchical logistic regression was used to examine the predictive performance over and above arterial pH.

Results

Arteriovenous hydrogen ion concentration ([H+ ion]) differences do not predict neonatal outcomes except low Apgar scores, and large pCO2 differences are associated with worse neonatal outcomes. Nevertheless, neonates with large arteriovenous [H+ ion] and pCO2 differences have lower arterial pH values. Hierarchical regression demonstrates that arteriovenous pCO2 differences do not add predictive value beyond arterial pH and arteriovenous [H+ ion] adds only to the prediction of low Apgar scores.

Conclusions

Arteriovenous differences of [H+ ion] and pCO2 are not useful independent predictors of adverse neonatal outcomes in acidemic neonates.
Nearly half of the adolescents in an Italian school‐based study exceeded the recommended upper limits for daily caffeine consumption
Authors: Santangelo Barbara , Lapolla Rosa , Rutigliano Irene , Pettoello Mantovani Massimo , Campanozzi Angelo
Published: March 2018

Aim

No data are available on caffeine consumption among Italian adolescents. We investigated caffeine intake from coffee, soft drinks and energy drinks in a sample of Italian adolescents and determined if they exceeded the recommended limits.

Methods

The study comprised 1213 adolescents with a mean age of 15.1 years (range 12–19) from four schools in Foggia, southern Italy. Caffeine intake was assessed using an anonymous self‐reported questionnaire during the 2013/2014 school year. We calculated the percentage of daily caffeine consumers, their mean intake of caffeine from beverages and the contribution of each beverage category to the total caffeine intake.

Results

Approximately 76% of the sample consumed caffeine every day, amounting to 125.5 ± 69.2 mg/day and 2.1 ± 1.2 mg/kg/day. When we applied the reference values from the Academy of Pediatrics, we found that 46% of the adolescents exceeded the recommended upper limits. Coffee was the most frequently consumed caffeinated drink and the main contributor to daily caffeine intake.

Conclusion

More than three quarters (76%) of the Italian adolescents in our study drank coffee on a daily basis and nearly half (46%) exceeded the recommended upper limits. Strategies are needed to reduce caffeine consumption by adolescents.
Editorial: weight change, liver histology and the metabolic effects of obeticholic acid in NASH
Authors: Eslam M. , George J.
Published: March 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Hameed et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14492.
Editorial: older‐onset inflammatory bowel disease—is it time to start looking beyond a number?
Authors: Taleban S.
Published: March 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Mañosa et al paper. To view this paper visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14494.
Editorial: NAFLD in Asia—clinical associations with advanced disease become clearer
Authors: Hardy T. , McPherson S.
Published: March 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Chan et al papers. To view these articles visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14506 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14572.
Editorial: ulcerative colitis submucosal fibrosis and inflammation: more than just strictures
Authors: Magro F. , Sousa H. T.
Published: March 2018

Linked Content

This article is linked to Gordon et al paper. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.14526.
Further Insight into Mesoamerican Paint Technology: Unveiling the Colour Palette of the Pre‐Columbian Codex Fejérváry‐Mayer by Means of Non‐invasive Analysis
Authors: Buti D. , Domenici D. , Grazia C. , Ostapkowicz J. , Watts S. , Romani A. , Presciutti F. , Brunetti B. G. , Sgamellotti A. , Miliani C.
Published: March 2018

Here, we report on the analytical findings and their cultural implications of a multidisciplinary study of the pre‐Columbian Codex Fejérváry‐Mayer. Today conserved at the World Museum in Liverpool, it is one of the finest Mesoamerican codices among the few extant. Thanks to the exploitation of non‐invasive analytical methodologies accessible through the MOLAB European mobile facility, the study allowed us to disclose the chemical composition of the painting materials used in the codex, which have never been analysed before. The results are discussed and compared with the outcomes of previous studies on other Mesoamerican codices.
Electrical Resistivity Tomography with Angular Separation for Characterization of Burial Mounds in Southern China
Authors: Chen R. , Tian G. , Zhao W. , Wang Y. , Yang Q.
Published: March 2018

The study aims at providing the spatial distribution and potential structure of the burial mounds at the Sifangling site, Hepu Han Tombs, in southern China. We implemented an electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) technique to obtain high‐resolution imaging of archaeological targets, considering the challenging environment and the depth of the burials. Three ERT profiles were tested above a small ancient mound previously detected by exhaustive archaeological drillings, following which 18 ERT profiles with angular separation were performed on the largest mound at the test site, without any a priori archaeological evidence below the surface. Then, a series of two‐dimensional (2D) profiles were combined as a ‘pseudo‐3D’ volume, which allowed a detailed characterization of the burial mound, and iso‐resistivity surfaces were also calculated to emphasize the location and spatial extent of the target. The results gave an effective identification of the funeral chamber and its structural details, and allowed detailed pre‐excavation planning.
Therapeutic effects of stem cells in rodent models of Huntington's disease: Review and electrophysiological findings
Authors: Holley Sandra M. , Kamdjou Talia , Reidling Jack C. , Fury Brian , Coleal‐Bergum Dane , Bauer Gerhard , Thompson Leslie M. , Levine Michael S. , Cepeda Carlos
Published: March 2018

The principal symptoms of Huntington's disease (HD), chorea, cognitive deficits, and psychiatric symptoms are associated with the massive loss of striatal and cortical projection neurons. As current drug therapies only partially alleviate symptoms, finding alternative treatments has become peremptory. Cell replacement using stem cells is a rapidly expanding field that offers such an alternative. In this review, we examine recent studies that use mesenchymal cells, as well as pluripotent, cell‐derived products in animal models of HD. Additionally, we provide further electrophysiological characterization of a human neural stem cell line, ESI‐017, which has already demonstrated disease‐modifying properties in two mouse models of HD. Overall, the field of regenerative medicine represents a viable and promising avenue for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders including HD.
Mean body size predicts colony performance in the common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens)
Authors: Herrmann John D. , Haddad Nick M. , Levey Douglas J.
Published: March 2018

1. Prior studies suggest that both the mean and variation of worker size predict the performance of bumble bee colonies. The ‘variation hypothesis’ posits that colony performance increases with variation of worker body size due to more efficient division of labour within colonies. The ‘mean size hypothesis’ posits that colony performance increases with mean bumble bee size, as each individual's efficiency tends to increase with body size.

2. The present study tested these non‐mutually exclusive hypotheses by establishing 62 Bombus impatiens Cresson (Hymenoptera, Apidae) nest boxes in 32 semi‐natural savanna fragments within large‐scale experimental landscapes in South Carolina (U.S.A.).

3. Based on measurements of > 24 000 individuals and on colony growth over ∼7 weeks, our results support the mean size hypothesis, not the variation hypothesis.
Exploring functional impairment in young people at ultra‐high risk for psychosis: A qualitative study
Authors: Cotter Jack , Bucci Sandra , Drake Richard J. , Yung Alison R. , Carney Rebekah , Edge Dawn
Published: March 2018

Aim

Many young people at ultra‐high risk (UHR) of developing psychosis exhibit marked and persistent impairments in social and occupational functioning. We aimed to explore UHR patients' subjective experiences of these difficulties and their causes.

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 20 UHR individuals recruited from Early Detection and Intervention Teams in Northwest England. Topics covered included how participants spent their time, their interpersonal relationships, academic and occupational performance, premorbid functioning and clinical treatment. Thematic analysis was used to examine the prevailing themes.

Results

The sample included individuals with varying degrees of functional impairment, ranging from mild to severe difficulties in functioning. Analysis of the qualitative data elicited themes around 2 topics: breadth of functional difficulties and subjective reasons for poor functioning. Participants reported a range of impairments in their social and occupational functioning which they attributed to a combination of clinical, cognitive and psychological factors. These included variables previously identified in the quantitative literature such as psychiatric symptoms, adverse life experiences and cognitive deficits. However, our findings also included other factors which have received comparably little attention such as self‐stigmatizing attitudes and dysfunctional metacognitive beliefs.

Conclusions

We propose a model that attempts to explain how these variables interact to drive and sustain functional impairment in the UHR population. This will assist in the development of clinical interventions aimed at promoting functional recovery among UHR individuals.
Flunarizine in migraine‐related headache prevention: results from 200 patients treated in the UK
Authors: Karsan N. , Palethorpe D. , Rattanawong W. , Marin J. C. , Bhola R. , Goadsby P. J.
Published: March 2018

Background and purpose

For over 20 years, as a group we have been using flunarizine in primary headache disorders. Flunarizine is widely used in Europe, but not licensed in the UK. In September 2014, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence published supportive guidelines for flunarizine use in migraine, based on randomized controlled evidence that it is as effective as propranolol and topiramate in adults.

Methods

We reviewed a cohort of adult patients (n = 200) treated with flunarizine from our practice. The clinical information of these patients, i.e. diagnosis, dose, efficacy, side effects and duration of treatment, was collected.

Results

The most common indication for flunarizine use was chronic migraine, followed by migraine with aura, sporadic hemiplegic migraine, familial hemiplegic migraine and new daily persistent headache with migrainous features. Flunarizine was generally effective, with only 24% (n = 47) of patients reporting no clinical effect. The most common dose used was 10 mg per day. Duration of treatment information was available for 39% (n = 78) of patients. Of these patients, 64% (n = 50) continued treatment for more than 1 year. Doses up to 15 mg were generally well tolerated, with only 10.5% (n = 21) of patients stopping treatment due to adverse effects. The most common adverse events were tiredness, mood change and weight gain.

Conclusion

The data provide supportive evidence from tertiary headache practice in the UK for the use of flunarizine in migraine. The data encourages development of future guidance regarding flunarizine use in headache centres in countries where its use is not routine.
FGA formation mechanism for X10CrNiMoV12‐2‐2 and 34CrNiMo6 for constant and variable amplitude tests under the influence of applied mean loads
Authors: Ritz F. , Stäcker C. , Beck T. , Sander M.
Published: March 2018

The aim of the present work is to clarify the fine granular area (FGA) formation mechanism in two steels (tempered 34CrNiMo6 and X10CrNiMoV12‐2‐2) causing grain refinement in the early state of fatigue for internal crack initiation and propagation in the very high cycle fatigue regime at pure tension‐compression loading (R = −1) and for applied mean stresses (R ≠ −1). Fatigue tests were performed with constant and variable amplitude at several R values using ultrasonic fatigue testing setups. Failed specimens were investigated using high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy and focused ion beam technique with special attention paid to the crack origin and the surrounding microstructure. To prove models for FGA formation proposed in literature, a numerical model to evaluate effective R values and contact stresses between the fracture surfaces depending on the crack length has been realised. The aim of these investigations is to estimate the influence of crack closure effects on FGA formation. FGA formation due to repeating contact of the fracture surfaces according to the model postulated by Hong et al correlates well with the findings for numerical simulations.
Fatigue life assessment of steel samples under various multiaxial loading spectra by means of Smith‐Watson‐Topper type damage descriptions
Authors: Ahmadzadeh G.R. , Varvani‐Farahani A.
Published: March 2018

Fatigue damage and life of SS304, S45C, and SNCM630 steel samples tested at various irregular axial‐torsional loading spectra were evaluated by means of 7 Smith‐Watson‐Topper (SWT) type damage descriptions. The overall damage was calculated over peak‐valley events of counted cycles by means of the product of stress and strain corresponding to the areas within stress‐strain hysteresis loops. Fatigue lives of 304 steel samples predicted by the SWT, Lorenzo‐Laird, Szolwinski‐Farris, and Chen‐Xu‐Huang models were found noticeably larger than those of experimentally obtained at various loading spectra. Predicted lives by these descriptions were found moderately in agreement with experimental data of S45C and SNCM630 steel samples. The predicted lives of steel samples by Socie, Lv et al, and the one presented in this study were closely agreed with experimental data due to their different descriptions. The modified SWT model further included the product of maximum shear stress and shear strain amplitude and related the overall damage to fatigue life through Coffin‐Manson equation. The choice of model descriptions for damage assessment was discussed based on their terms, areas underneath of hysteresis loops, and material damage mechanism.
Finite Fracture Mechanics crack initiation from a circular hole
Authors: Sapora A. , Torabi A.R. , Etesam S. , Cornetti P.
Published: March 2018

The brittle crack initiation from a circular hole in an infinite slab under uniaxial remote tensile load is investigated. The analysis consists of two parts. The former is focused on the difference between symmetric and asymmetric crack propagation. Different criteria in the framework of the Theory of Critical Distances are implemented, and the potentiality of coupled Finite Fracture Mechanics (FFM) approaches is highlighted from a theoretical point of view. The latter presents the experimental results obtained by carrying out ad‐hoc tensile tests on polymethyl‐methacrylate (PMMA) and general‐purpose polystyrene (GPPS) notched samples and the related FFM investigation. It is shown that FFM predictions are in very good agreement with the experimental results for both tested materials.
Immersive technologies and language learning
Authors: Blyth Carl
Published: March 2018

This article briefly traces the historical conceptualization of linguistic and cultural immersion through technological applications, from the early days of locally networked computers to the cutting‐edge technologies known as virtual reality and augmented reality. Next, the article explores the challenges of immersive technologies for the field of foreign language education. Finally, a set of priority areas and research questions is posited to guide the thinking of foreign language educators over the next 50 years in their understanding of what constitutes immersion—virtual or otherwise.
Driving instruction at high speed on a race circuit: Issues in action formation and sequence organization
Authors: Mondada Lorenza
Published: March 2018

The paper deals with instructions in a specific instructional setting, in which a driver learns to drive on a race circuit, assisted by a coach helping him to improve his performance and speed. This setting opens up both original issues for the study of learning to drive a car and general issues concerning the praxeological, multimodal, and sequential analysis of instructions in an ethnomethodological and conversation analytic (EMCA) perspective. On the basis of a systematic analysis of the coach's instructions and the driver's responses, the paper reveals the situated methodic production and understanding of these instructions and their organization in sequences and series of sequences. Training to drive at high speed appears as a perspicuous setting for investigating the ecology and the indexicality of instructed action, its temporal features, and the way these feature affect sequentiality—in particular action formation and sequence organization.
Platelet impedance adhesiometry: A novel technique for the measurement of platelet adhesion and spreading
Authors: Polgár L. , Soós P. , Lajkó E. , Láng O. , Merkely B. , Kőhidai L.
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Thrombogenesis plays an important role in today's morbidity and mortality. Antithrombotics are among the most frequently prescribed drugs. Thorough knowledge of platelet function is needed for optimal clinical care. Platelet adhesion is a separate subprocess of platelet thrombus formation; still, no well‐standardized technique for the isolated measurement of platelet adhesion exists. Impedimetry is one of the most reliable, state‐of‐art techniques to analyze cell adhesion, proliferation, viability, and cytotoxicity. We propose impedimetry as a feasible novel method for the isolated measurement of 2 significant platelet functions: adhesion and spreading.

Methods

Laboratory reference platelet agonists (epinephrine, ADP, and collagen) were applied to characterize platelet functions by impedimetry using the xCELLigence SP system. Platelet samples were obtained from 20 healthy patients under no drug therapy. Standard laboratory parameters and clinical patient history were also analyzed.

Results

Epinephrine and ADP increased platelet adhesion in a concentration‐dependent manner, while collagen tended to have a negative effect. Serum sodium and calcium levels and age had a negative correlation with platelet adhesion induced by epinephrine and ADP, while increased immunoreactivity connected with allergic diseases was associated with increased platelet adhesion induced by epinephrine and ADP. ADP increased platelet spreading in a concentration‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

Impedimetry proved to be a useful and sensitive method for the qualitative and quantitated measurement of platelet adhesion, even differentiating between subgroups of a healthy population. This novel technique is offered as an important method in the further investigation of platelet function.
Non‐pharmacological interventions during childbirth for pain relief, anxiety, and neuroendocrine stress parameters: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Henrique Angelita José , Gabrielloni Maria Cristina , Rodney Patricia , Barbieri Márcia
Published: March 2018

Aim

This study aimed to investigate the effect of warm shower hydrotherapy and perineal exercises with a ball on pain, anxiety, and neuroendocrine stress parameters during childbirth.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted with 128 women during childbirth, admitted for hospital birth in São Paulo, Brazil, from June 2013 to February 2014. The participants were randomly assigned into one of the following intervention groups: received warm shower hydrotherapy (GA); performed perineal exercises with a ball (GB); and combined intervention group, which received warm shower hydrotherapy and perineal exercises with a ball (GC) (n = 39). Pre‐and post‐intervention parameters were evaluated using visual analogue scales for pain and anxiety, and salivary samples were collected for the stress hormones analysis.

Results

Pain, anxiety, and epinephrine release decreased in the group performing perineal exercises with a ball (GB). β‐endorphin levels increased in this group (GB) after the intervention and showed significant difference in capacity to cause this effect (P = .007). However, no significant differences were observed in cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine levels.

Conclusions

Warm showers and perineal exercises could be considered as adjunct therapy for women suffering from pain, anxiety, and stress during childbirth.

Clinical Trial Registry RBR‐84xprt.
Part 1: A study on the properties of synthetic hydroxyledgrewite
Authors: Dambrauskas Tadas , Baltakys Kestutis
Published: March 2018

In this work, for the first time chemical and physical properties of hydroxyledgrewite synthesized under hydrothermal conditions were examined. Hydroxyledgrewite was synthesized in the primary mixture consisted of CaO and amorphous SiO2·nH2O, when the molar ratio of CaO/SiO2 was equal to 2.25. The synthesis has been carried out in unstirred suspensions under saturated steam pressure at 200°C temperature for 48 hours. It was proved that synthetic hydroxyledgrewite is stable till 675°C and at higher temperature recrystallized to γ‐C2S, ‐C2S, while upon subsequent cooling transformed into β‐C2S. In addition to this, it was also determined that the density and specific heat capacity at 25°C are equal to 2.668 ± 5 g/cm3 and 0.928 J/(g·K), respectively. Synthetic hydroxyledgrewite showed disordered aggregates of plate‐like particles, while calculated SBET value is equal to 13.961 m2/g. According gas adsorption results, it was obtained that hydroxyledgrewite is a mesoporous material. Also, it was obtained that after 72 hours of activated hydroxyledgrewite hydration, the amount of released heat was equal to 74.34 J/g. The product of synthesis and calcination were characterized by XRD, STA, DSC, SEM, TEM, FT‐IR analyses, and BET method.
ETS1 and SP1 drive DHX15 expression in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Chen Xiang‐Lei , Cai Yuan‐Hua , Liu Qiao , Pan Li‐Li , Shi Shui‐Ling , Liu Xiao‐Li , Chen Yuan , Li Jing‐Gang , Wang Jing , Li Yang , Li Xiao‐Fan , Wang Shao‐Yuan
Published: March 2018

DHX15 plays a role in leukaemogenesis and leukaemia relapse. However, the mechanism underlying the transcriptional regulation of DHX15 in ALL has not been elucidated. Our present study aimed to explore the functional promoter region of DHX15 and to investigate the transcription factors controlling the transcription of this gene. A luciferase assay performed with several truncated constructs identified a 501‐bp region as the core promoter region of DHX15. Site‐directed mutagenesis, electrophoretic mobility shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed that ETS1 and SP1 occupied the DHX15 promoter. Furthermore, knockdown of ETS1 and SP1 resulted in suppression of DHX15, whereas the overexpression of these genes led to up‐regulation of DHX15. Interestingly, in samples obtained from patients with ALL at diagnosis, both ETS1 and SP1 correlated positively with DHX15 expression. Additionally, differences in methylation of the DHX15 core promoter region were not observed between the patients and controls. In conclusion, we identified the core promoter region of DHX15 and demonstrated that ETS1 and SP1 regulated DHX15 expression in ALL.
DW2008S and its major constituents from Justicia procumbens exert anti‐asthmatic effect via multitargeting activity
Authors: Youm Jihyun , Lee Hyunyong , Choi Youngwoo , Yoon Joobyoung
Published: March 2018

Our previous study revealed that the ethanolic extract of Justicia procumbens ameliorates ovalbumin‐induced airway inflammation and airway hyper‐responsiveness in a mouse model of asthma. However, the mechanism of action of the extract remains unknown. In this study, we prepared DW2008S, an optimized and standardized powder extracted from J. procumbens using anhydrous ethanol, and investigated its anti‐asthmatic effect and mechanism of action. Our results showed that DW2008S contains two major ingredients, justicidin A (JA) and justicidin B (JB), which selectively inhibit T helper 2 (Th2) cell responses in concanavalin A‐activated spleen cells and polarized Th2 cells. Blockade of T cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine‐based inhibition motif domains (TIGIT) using a neutralizing antibody also selectively inhibited Th2 cell responses. Furthermore, DW2008S regulated TIGIT expression in the mice and cultured cells. Additionally, DW2008S and JA antagonized human adenosine receptor A3 (A3 AR), which mediates mast cell‐dependent inflammation and bronchoconstriction. DW2008S and JB inhibited human phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4), which is known to cause bronchoconstriction; however, the required concentrations were higher than those needed to affect TIGIT . These findings suggest that DW2008S can potentially ameliorate Th2‐driven airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction through negative regulation of TIGIT and blockade of A3 AR and PDE4 activities.
Haemin attenuates intermittent hypoxia‐induced cardiac injury via inhibiting mitochondrial fission
Authors: Han Qian , Li Guihua , Ip Mary SiuMan , Zhang Yuelin , Zhen Zhe , Mak Judith ChoiWo , Zhang Nuofu
Published: March 2018

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) characterized by intermittent hypoxia (IH) is closely associated with cardiovascular diseases. IH confers cardiac injury via accelerating cardiomyocyte apoptosis, whereas the underlying mechanism has remained largely enigmatic. This study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms involved in the IH‐induced cardiac damage performed with the IH‐exposed cell and animal models and to investigate the protective effects of haemin, a potent haeme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) activator, on the cardiac injury induced by IH. Neonatal rat cardiomyocyte (NRC) was treated with or without haemin before IH exposure. Eighteen male Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats were randomized into three groups: control group, IH group (PBS, ip) and IH + haemin group (haemin, 4 mg/kg, ip). The cardiac function was determined by echocardiography. Mitochondrial fission was evaluated by Mitotracker staining. The mitochondrial dynamics‐related proteins (mitochondrial fusion protein, Mfn2; mitochondrial fission protein, Drp1) were determined by Western blot. The apoptosis of cardiomyocytes and heart sections was examined by TUNEL. IH regulated mitochondrial dynamics‐related proteins (decreased Mfn2 and increased Drp1 expressions, respectively), thereby leading to mitochondrial fragmentation and cell apoptosis in cardiomyocytes in vitro and in vivo, while haemin‐induced HO‐1 up‐regulation attenuated IH‐induced mitochondrial fragmentation and cell apoptosis. Moreover, IH resulted in left ventricular hypertrophy and impaired contractile function in vivo, while haemin ameliorated IH‐induced cardiac dysfunction. This study demonstrates that pharmacological activation of HO‐1 pathway protects against IH‐induced cardiac dysfunction and myocardial fibrosis through the inhibition of mitochondrial fission and cell apoptosis.
Down‐regulation of PKM2 enhances anticancer efficiency of THP on bladder cancer
Authors: Su Qiongli , Tao Ting , Tang Lei , Deng Jun , Darko Kwame Oteng , Zhou Sichun , Peng Mei , He Shanping , Zeng Qing , Chen Alex F. , Yang Xiaoping
Published: March 2018

Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) regulates the final step of glycolysis levels that are correlated with the sensitivity of anticancer chemotherapeutic drugs. THP is one of the major drugs used in non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer instillation chemotherapy. However, low response ratio of THP (19.7%) treatment to human genitourinary tumours using collagen gel matrix has been observed. This study aims to investigate the effect of down‐regulation of PKM2 on THP efficiency. Via inhibitor or siRNA, the effects of reduced PKM2 on the efficiency of THP were determined in 2 human and 1 murine bladder cancer cell lines, using MTT, cologenic and fluorescence approaches. Molecular mechanisms of PKM2 on THP sensitization were explored by probing p‐AMPK and p‐STAT3 levels via WB. Syngeneic orthotopic bladder tumour model was applied to evaluate this efficiency in vivo, analysed by Kaplan‐Meier survival curves, body and bladder weights plus immunohistochemistric tumour biomarkers. PKM2 was overexpressed in bladder cancer cells and tissues, and down‐regulation of PKM2 enhanced the sensitivity of THP in vitro. Activation of AMPK is essential for THP to exert anti‐bladder cancer activities. On the other hand, down‐regulating PKM2 activates AMPK and inhibits STAT3, correlated with THP sensitivity. Compared with THP alone (400 μmol L−1, 50 μL), the combination with metformin (60 mmol L−1, 50 μL) stopped growth of bladder cancer completely in vivo (combination group VS normal group P = .078). Down‐regulating the expression of PKM2 enhances the anticancer efficiency of THP. This study provides a new insight for improving the chemotherapeutic effect of THP.
The role of the dermatologist in Raynaud's phenomenon: a clinical challenge
Authors: Matucci‐Cerinic C. , Nagaraja V. , Prignano F. , Kahaleh B. , Bellando‐Randone S.
Published: March 2018

Raynaud's phenomenon (RP) is a functional vascular disorder involving extremities. In his practice, the dermatologist may frequently encounter RP which affects mainly women and is categorized into a primary benign form and a secondary form associated with different diseases (infections, drugs, autoimmune and vascular conditions, haematologic, rheumatologic and endocrinologic disorders). Still today, the differential diagnosis is a clinical challenge. Therefore, a careful history and a physical examination, together with laboratory tests and nailfold capillaroscopy, is mandatory. RP is generally benign, but a scheduled follow‐up for primary RP patients should be established, due to risk of evolution to secondary RP. A combination of conservative measures and medications can help in the management of RP. The importance of avoiding all potential physical, chemical and emotional triggers, as well as quitting smoking, should be strongly suggested to the patient. As first‐line treatment, dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers should be used. If this approach is not sufficient, prostacyclin derivatives, phosphodiesterases inhibitors and endothelin receptor antagonists can be considered as second‐line treatment. In cases of acute ischaemia, nifedipine and intravenous prostanoids are helpful. In refractory cases, botulinum injections have shown a significant benefit. The approach to the RP patients requires therefore a coordinated care of specialists together with the primary care physician.
Evaluation of water diffusivity in wheat hydration (Triticum spp): Isothermal and periodic operation
Authors: Mattioda Fernanda , Jorge Luiz Mario de Matos , Jorge Regina Maria Matos
Published: March 2018

In this study, kinetic and diffusivity of water in the isothermal and periodic hydration of the BRS220 wheat cultivar, were investigated. The isothermal hydration tests were carried out for 600 min at 30, 40, 50, and 60 °C. The periodic operation experiments were performed considering the temperature of 40 °C. The periodic hydration of 20 °C amplitude, which was performed in 40‐min periods, was more efficient in comparison with the isothermal at 40 °C, since the former presented 84% moisture absorption in Phase I of the hydration, and increased the diffusion coefficient (D) in 26.7%. The diffusion model and the generalized equation presented good fit to the experimental data, with p values from 1.28 to 3.04% and RMSE from 5.28 × 10−2 to 12.5 × 10−2%. The hydration tests with colorants indicated that the water enters the wheat grain through the micropyle and then through the grain pericarp, by capillarity.

Practical applications

This research presents kinetics and water diffusivity in isothermal and periodic hydration of wheat. Periodic hydration is efficient compared to isothermal hydration due to the increased water absorption rate in the grain. This influences directly the reduction of time and energy savings of the industrial process. The results presented can be used by industries interested in increasing the efficiency of grain processing with lower energy expenditure. In addition, this work reveals the water uptake behavior inside the wheat grain, which until now has not been in depth presented in previous literature.
A Couple in Love Entangled in Enigmatic Episodes: A Semantic Analysis
Authors: Ugazio Valeria , Guarnieri Stella
Published: March 2018

The article presents a semantic analysis inspired by the theory of family semantic polarities developed by Ugazio (,) applying two versions of a coding system, the Family Semantic Grid (FSG), to a couple session with Tom Andersen as a consultant. One version (FSG II) detects the narrated semantic polarities (NSPs) emerging during the session from the transcript, whereas the other (FSG III) identifies the interactive semantic polarities (ISPs) from the video recording. Both theNSPs and theISPs are classified according to four sets of meaning called the semantic of freedom, goodness, power, and belonging. The analysis puts forward some hypothesis about the pattern that entangles the couple and highlights Andersen's contributions to overcome the problem troubling the couple.
WILL THE “TRUE” LABOR SHARE STAND UP? AN APPLIED SURVEY ON LABOR SHARE MEASURES
Authors: Mućk Jakub , McAdam Peter , Growiec Jakub
Published: March 2018

Labor's share of income is a key variable in economics. It plays a leading role in analysis of (in)equality, globalization, technical change, growth theories, etc. Notwithstanding this broad application, there are many different definitions of the labor share. Understanding and synthesizing those differences is the purpose of this applied survey. Empirical measures may vary reflecting the allocation of income components that cannot be directly ascribed to capital or labor. We examine the alternative assumptions made in the literature in this regard and quantify and motivate the resulting discrepancies. Focusing (mostly) on US data, we show that different measures can have very distinct properties in terms of the observed stochastic trends, shares of short‐, medium‐, and long‐run variation and volatilities, persistence and mean‐reversion properties, and susceptibility to structural breaks. For instance, while “short‐run” properties of the surveyed labor share measures are relatively consistent across all definitions (and countercyclical), their “medium‐” and “long‐run” trends may diverge substantially (and are procyclical). To substantiate our analysis, we document the implications of discrepancies in the empirical labor share definition for growth accounting, analyzing the effect of technology shocks, and for estimating inflation dynamics.
Treatment as Prevention for Hepatitis C (TraP Hep C) – a nationwide elimination programme in Iceland using direct‐acting antiviral agents
Authors: Olafsson S. , Tyrfingsson T. , Runarsdottir V. , Bergmann O. M. , Hansdottir I. , Björnsson E. S. , Johannsson B. , Sigurdardottir B. , Fridriksdottir R. H. , Löve A. , Hellard M. , Löve T. J. , Gudnason T. , Heimisdottir M. , Gottfredsson M.
Published: March 2018

A nationwide programme for the treatment of all patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) was launched in Iceland in January 2016. By providing universal access to direct‐acting antiviral agents to the entire patient population, the two key aims of the project were to (i) offer a cure to patients and thus reduce the long‐term sequelae of chronic hepatitis C, and (ii) to reduce domestic incidence of HCV in the population by 80% prior to the WHO goal of HCV elimination by the year 2030. An important part of the programme is that vast majority of cases will be treated within 36 months from the launch of the project, during 2016–2018. Emphasis is placed on early case finding and treatment of patients at high risk for transmitting HCV, that is people who inject drugs (PWID), as well as patients with advanced liver disease. In addition to treatment scale‐up, the project also entails intensification of harm reduction efforts, improved access to diagnostic tests, as well as educational campaigns to curtail spread, facilitate early detection and improve linkage to care. With these efforts, Iceland is anticipated to achieve the WHO hepatitis C elimination goals well before 2030. This article describes the background and organization of this project. Clinical trial number: NCT02647879.
Camera‐trapping provides insights into adult sex ratio variability in felids
Authors: Anile Stefano , Devillard Sebastien
Published: March 2018

Adult sex ratio (ASR) plays a pivotal role in many ecological processes, such as population dynamics in time and space, extinction risk and reproductive success, but few patterns in the variability in ASR have been found across species. Due to the socio‐spatial structure and polygynous mating system found in felids, ASR is expected to be female‐biased in felids in a finite area; however, ASR is also commonly found to be either balanced or male‐biased in this taxonomic group. Therefore, investigating ecological correlates of the pattern of ASR variability in felids is of prime importance both for a better understanding of evolutionary ecology and for a more evidence‐based conservation of these threatened taxa.

The aim of this review was to investigate whether the expected female‐biased ASR occurs in felids, and whether ASR is influenced by the size of the study area, the species’ body mass and the population density, taking into account the species‐specific home‐range requirements.

We reviewed the camera‐trapping literature on felids to build a large global multi‐species data set on ASR variation. We used general linear mixed models to investigate ecological correlates of ASR.

In small study areas, the ASR was balanced for all species, but in large areas the ASR was female‐biased for large and medium cats and male‐biased for small cats; sampling designs that are unsuitable for small cats (due to ‘gaps’ within the trapping grid) might explain this latter finding. Moreover, in large study areas, an increase in cat density was associated with more females, whereas in small areas the reverse was true.

Our study provides a scientifically sound background for management and conservation actions of these flagship‐threatened taxa of carnivores, by indicating the importance of the study area on ASR in felids. Large areas can promote the recovery of large and medium cats, as more females can be hosted.
Testing a Goodwin model with general capital accumulation rate
Authors: Grasselli Matheus R. , Maheshwari Aditya
Published: March 2018

We perform econometric tests on a modified Goodwin model where the capital accumulation rate is constant but not necessarily equal to one as in the original model (Goodwin, ). In addition to this modification, we find that addressing the methodological and reporting issues in Harvie () leads to remarkably better results, with near perfect agreement between the estimates of equilibrium employment rates and the corresponding empirical averages, as well as significantly improved estimates of equilibrium wage shares. Despite its simplicity and obvious limitations, the performance of the modified Goodwin model implied by our results show that it can be used as a starting point for more sophisticated models for endogenous growth cycles.