bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Induced by White Smoke Inhalation: a Potential Animal Model For Evaluating Pathological Changes and Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Cui Pei , Feng Xiaoyan , Zhu Feng , Yao Yongming , Xiao Shichu , Gong Zhenyu , Xin Haiming , Zhan Qiu , Yang Fuwang , Deng Chunjiang , Tang Zhiping , Tong Yalin , Xia Zhaofan
Published: July 2018

Background/Aims: White smoke inhalation (WSI) is an uncommon but potentially deadly cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, no clinical treatment protocol has been established for the treatment of WSI-induced ARDS. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate the effects of WSI in ARDS and the mechanisms underlying the effects of WSI to determine a novel therapeutic target. Methods: On the basis of the duration of continued inhalation of white smoke (3 min, 5 min, and 7 min), rats were divided into three groups (WSI-3 min, WSI-5 min, and WSI-7 min). The survival rate, pathological change, and computed tomography (CT) score were evaluated to determine the modeling conditions. In the established WSI-5 min models, evaluations were performed to evaluate the following: arterial blood gas levels, lung wet/dry weight ratio, the expression of inflammatory cytokines, and the effect of NF-κB signaling pathway. Results: The survival rate of rats at 72 h post-WSI in the WSI-3 min, WSI-5 min, and WSI-7 min groups was 83.33%, 75%, and 25%, respectively. Results from evaluation of H&E staining, CT scan, arterial blood gas levels, and lung wet/dry weight ratio suggest that the pathological changes in the rat in the WSI-5 min and WSI-7 min groups are very similar to those in patients with ARDS induced by WSI. Additionally, the expression of INF-γ, TGF-β1, TNF-α, and IL-1β were increased, and the NF-κB signaling pathway was activated in the WSI-5 min group. Conclusion: The rat model of WSI-5 min can be used as a WSI-induced ALI model for further experiments. The NF-κB signaling pathway may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of WSI- induced ARDS.
Protein Kinase Cθ Via Activating Transcription Factor 2-Mediated CD36 Expression and Foam Cell Formation of Ly6C
hi
Cells Contributes to Atherosclerosis
Authors: Raghavan Somasundaram , Singh Nikhlesh K. , Gali Sivaiah , Mani Arul M. , Rao Gadiparthi N.
Published: July 2018

Background:

Although the role of thrombin in atherothrombosis is well studied, its role in the pathogenesis of diet-induced atherosclerosis is not known.

Methods:

Using a mouse model of diet-induced atherosclerosis and molecular biological approaches, here we have explored the role of thrombin and its G protein-coupled receptor signaling in diet-induced atherosclerosis.

Results:

In exploring the role of G protein-coupled receptor signaling in atherogenesis, we found that thrombin triggers foam cell formation via inducing CD36 expression, and these events require Par1-mediated Gα12-Pyk2-Gab1-protein kinase C (PKC)θ-dependent ATF2 activation. Genetic deletion of PKCθ in apolipoprotein E (ApoE)
−/−
mice reduced Western diet-induced plaque formation. Furthermore, thrombin induced Pyk2, Gab1, PKCθ, and ATF2 phosphorylation, CD36 expression, and foam cell formation in peritoneal macrophages of ApoE
−/−
mice. In contrast, thrombin only stimulated Pyk2 and Gab1 but not ATF2 phosphorylation or its target gene CD36 expression in the peritoneal macrophages of ApoE
−/−
:PKCθ
−/−
mice, and it had no effect on foam cell formation. In addition, the aortic root cross-sections of Western diet-fed ApoE
−/−
mice showed increased Pyk2, Gab1, PKCθ, and ATF2 phosphorylation and CD36 expression as compared with ApoE
−/−
:PKCθ
−/−
mice. Furthermore, although the monocytes from peripheral blood and the aorta of Western diet-fed ApoE
−/−
mice were found to contain more of Ly6C
hi
cells than Ly6C
lo
cells, the monocytes from Western diet-fed ApoE
−/−
:PKCθ
−/−
mice were found to contain more Ly6C
lo
cells than Ly6C
hi
cells. It is interesting to note that the Ly6C
hi
cells showed higher CD36 expression with enhanced capacity to form foam cells as compared with Ly6C
lo
cells.

Conclusions:

These findings reveal for the first time that thrombin-mediated Par1-Gα12 signaling via targeting Pyk2-Gab1-PKCθ-ATF2-dependent CD36 expression might be playing a crucial role in diet-induced atherogenesis.
Genetic Lineage Tracing of Sca-1
+
Cells Reveals Endothelial but Not Myogenic Contribution to the Murine Heart
Authors: Vagnozzi Ronald J. , Sargent Michelle A. , Lin Suh-Chin J. , Palpant Nathan J. , Murry Charles E. , Molkentin Jeffery D.
Published: July 2018

Background:

The adult mammalian heart displays a cardiomyocyte turnover rate of ≈1%/y throughout postnatal life and after injuries such as myocardial infarction (MI), but the question of which cell types drive this low level of new cardiomyocyte formation remains contentious. Cardiac-resident stem cells marked by stem cell antigen-1 (Sca-1, gene name
Ly6a
) have been proposed as an important source of cardiomyocyte renewal. However, the in vivo contribution of endogenous Sca-1
+
cells to the heart at baseline or after MI has not been investigated.

Methods:

Here we generated
Ly6a
gene–targeted mice containing either a constitutive or an inducible Cre recombinase to perform genetic lineage tracing of Sca-1
+
cells in vivo.

Results:

We observed that the contribution of endogenous Sca-1
+
cells to the cardiomyocyte population in the heart was <0.005% throughout all of cardiac development, with aging, or after MI. In contrast, Sca-1
+
cells abundantly contributed to the cardiac vasculature in mice during physiological growth and in the post-MI heart during cardiac remodeling. Specifically, Sca-1 lineage-traced endothelial cells expanded postnatally in the mouse heart after birth and into adulthood. Moreover, pulse labeling of Sca-1
+
cells with an inducible
Ly6a
-MerCreMer allele also revealed a preferential expansion of Sca-1 lineage-traced endothelial cells after MI injury in the mouse.

Conclusions:

Cardiac-resident Sca-1
+
cells are not significant contributors to cardiomyocyte renewal in vivo. However, cardiac Sca-1
+
cells represent a subset of vascular endothelial cells that expand postnatally with enhanced responsiveness to pathological stress in vivo.
The relationship between generation gland morphology and armour in Dragon Lizards (Smaug): a reassessment of ancestral states for the Cordylidae
Authors: Mouton le Fras , Flemming Alexander , Bates Michael , Broeckhoven Chris
Published: July 2018

To substantiate the claim of a relationship between generation gland morphology and degree of body armour in cordylid lizards, we studied the nine species in the genus Smaug. We predicted that well armoured species in this clade will have multi-layer generation glands, and lightly armoured species two-layer glands. Gland type was determined using standard histological techniques after sectioning a glandular patch of one adult male per species. A total of 133 specimens were examined for data on tail and occipital spine lengths (which were used as indicators of armour). We found that species with multi-layer generation glands (S. giganteus, S. breyeri, and S. vandami) have relatively long tail and occipital spines, while species with two-layer glands (S. mossambicus, S. regius, S. barbertonensis, S. warreni, and an undescribed species) have relatively short spines. Smaug depressus possesses both multi-layer and two-layer glands, and this variation was linked to regional variation in spine length. An ancestral state reconstruction for the Cordylidae showed that the two-layer state always results from the reduction of layers from a multi-layer precursor, and that reduction always culminates in two-layer glands and not in one-layer glands. This finding suggests that the one-layer state in the Ninurta-Chamaesaura-Pseudocordylus clade is most probably plesiomorphic, and therefore the ancestral state at the Cordylidae and Cordylinae nodes. Given the observed relationship between type of generation gland and body armour, this finding would suggest that the most recent common ancestor of the Cordylidae was lightly armoured.
Critical checklist of the endemic vascular plants of Egypt
Authors: ABDELAAL MOHAMED , FOIS MAURO , FENU GIUSEPPE , BACCHETTA GIANLUIGI
Published: July 2018

After many recent findings regarding geographical distribution and nomenclatural changes, an updated and revised checklist of the Egyptian endemic flora was needed. This study provides an up to date checklist of vascular taxa exclusive to Egypt and their distribution within the administrative provinces. Egypt hosts 48 endemic taxa (including 35 species, seven subspecies and six varieties) belonging to 42 genera, 18 families and representing 2.3% of the total flora. The most represented families are Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Fabaceae, Asparagaceae and Brassicaceae, while the most represented genus is Silene (three endemic taxa). Therophytes and chamaephytes are the most represented life-forms among Egyptian endemics. The richest regions in Egyptian endemic taxa are Southern Sinai (14 taxa), Northern Sinai and Matrouh (12 taxa each). Agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) enabled the division of Egypt into three main regions based on the occurrence of endemic taxa: Eastern Egypt (31 taxa, 25 exclusive and six shared taxa), Western Egypt (14 taxa, seven exclusive and seven shared taxa) and Middle Egypt (12 taxa, eight exclusive and four shared taxa). This checklist will help to focus conservation efforts and provide a framework for research, protection and policy implementations for these endemic taxa.
A new species of the genus Leptolalax (Anura, Megophryidae) from Hunan, China
Authors: HOU YINMENG , ZHANG MENGFEI , HU FEI , LI SIYUAN , SHI SHENGCHAO , CHEN JUN , MO XIAOYANG , WANG BIN
Published: July 2018

A new species, Leptolalax mangshanensis sp. nov., is described from the Mangshan National Nature Reserve, in Hunan Province, China. The new species is genetically similar to Leptolalax liui, and morphologically similar to Leptolalax maoershanensis. Morphological characteristics that distinguish the new species from its congeners are a small body size (snout-vent length, SVL, 22.2 mm–27.8 mm in 27 adult males, and 30.2 mm in one adult female); nearly smooth dorsal skin with some small, orange, tubercles and irregular, dark brown stripes, throat and belly scattered with white speckles, weak lateral fringes on toes and rudimentary toe webbing; indistinct longitudinal ridges under toes, and not interrupted at the articulations, iris bicolored with bright orange in the upper half and greyish cream in the lower half. The new species is widely distributed in montane evergreen secondary forests and small bamboo forests in Mangshan Nature Reserve, at altitudes between 500–1600 m a.s.l.
Moriphila furva gen. and sp. nov. (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Homotomidae), a new jumping plant-louse from Korea associated with Morus australis (Moraceae)
Authors: BURCKHARDT DANIEL , CHO GEONHO , LEE SEUNGHWAN
Published: July 2018

Moriphila furva Burckhardt & Cho, gen. and sp. nov., is described from the mountain region in north eastern South Korea. Adults were collected on Morus australis which is a likely host. We provide morphological evidence that the new monotypic genus constitutes the probable sister group of the afrotropical Phytolyma whose species develop on Milicia and Morus (Moraceae). Differences between the two genera are detailed and the phylogenetic relationships to other members of Homotomidae: Macrohomotominae, to which the new genus belongs, are discussed. The host relationships of Psylloidea associated with Moraceae are reviewed. The latter constitutes the fifth most important host taxon of Psylloidea even though it is only a moderately large family of angiosperms in terms of constituent species. Moraceae have been colonised by psyllids at least five times independently. Following new combinations are proposed: Homotoma brevis (Li, 1993), comb. nov. and Homotoma microphyllae (Li & Yang, 1991), comb. nov. (both from Caenohomotoma Yang & Li, 1981).
The transformation of urban food systems in Ghana: Findings from inventories of processed products
Authors: Andam Kwaw S , Tschirley David , Asante Seth B , Al-Hassan Ramatu M , Diao Xinshen
Published: July 2018

Urban food systems in Ghana are changing, along with rapid urbanization and growth in household incomes. Using data from retail inventories of packaged products carried out in eight cities in 2015 and 2016, we find that the interplay of urbanization, imports and domestic processing and packaging has led to some surprising outcomes. Imports are dominant, especially for milled rice and tomato paste, and the shares are higher in smaller cities than in Accra. Imported products are more prevalent in traditional retail outlets than in modern retail outlets. Moreover, imported products come mainly from East Asia; excluding South Africa, which accounts for 6% of imports, less than 3% of imported products were from other African countries.
Fibrillatory conduction in a simulated two-dimensional model of human atrial tissue: effect of the interaction of two ectopic foci
Authors: Tobón Catalina , Saiz Javier
Published: July 2018

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common tachyarrhythmia. It has been demonstrated that extra-stimuli could act as triggers for AF. In many patients it is possible that multiple ectopic foci co-exist, and their interactions may generate complex conduction patterns. Our goal is to investigate the influence of the focus frequency, conduction velocity, and anisotropy on fibrillatory pattern generation during the interaction of multiple ectopic activities under electrical remodeling conditions.

Our results support the broadly accepted theory that ectopic activity acting in remodeled tissue is an initiator of reentrant mechanisms. These reentrant circuits can generate fibrillatory activity when interacting with other rapid ectopic foci and under the following conditions: high ectopic focus frequency, slow conduction velocity, and anisotropic tissue. Analyses of electrogram polymorphism allow determination of which zones of tissue permit one to know in which zone of tissue unstable activity exists.

Our results give useful insights into the electrophysiological parameters that determine the initiation and maintenance of fibrillatory conduction by two ectopic foci interaction in a simulated two-dimensional sheet of human atrial cells, under chronic AF conditions.
HybRecSys: Content-based contextual hybrid venue recommender system
Authors: Bozanta Aysun , Kutlu Birgul
Published: July 2018

The popularity of location-based social networks has prompted researchers to study recommendation systems for location-based services. When used separately, each existing venue recommendation system algorithm has its own drawbacks (e.g. cold start, data sparsity, scalability). Another issue is that critical information about context is not commonly used in venue recommendation systems. This article proposes a hybrid recommendation model that combines contextual information, user-based and item-based collaborative filtering and content-based filtering. For this purpose, we collected user visit histories, venue-related information (distance, category, popularity and price) and contextual information (weather, season, date and time of visits) related to individual user visits from Twitter, Foursquare and Weather Underground. Experimental evaluation of the proposed hybrid system (HybRecSys) using a real-world dataset shows better results than baseline approaches.
Endoscopic vs Microscopic Overlay Tympanoplasty for Correcting Large Tympanic Membrane Perforations: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Plodpai Yuvatiya
Published: July 2018

Objective

Although overlay grafting for complicated tympanic perforations offers a high success rate, potential complications may outweigh its advantages. This study aimed to assess endoscopic overlay tympanoplasty (EOT), compared with microscopic overlay tympanoplasty (MOT), to optimize outcomes while minimizing complications associated with large tympanic perforations.

Study Design

Nonmasked, randomized.

Setting

Tertiary care university hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Altogether, 70 patients with large tympanic perforations were randomized to undergo overlay tympanoplasty between June 2014 and July 2016. Primary outcome was the visual analog scale (VAS) of pain. Secondary outcomes were anatomic closure, hearing results, middle ear findings, and postoperative complications.

Results

Overall, 34 EOT patients and 30 MOT patients completed the follow‐up. VAS scores at 4, 24, and 48 hours in EOT and MOT groups were, respectively, 3 and 8, 1.7 and 6.0, and 0.6 and 4.1. Postoperative pain was less in the EOT group (P <. 001), and canalplasty was not required (P =. 003). Graft “take” rates for EOT and MOT were 97.1% and 93.3%, respectively (P =. 60). Postoperative air‐bone gap was lower with EOT (5.0 vs 10.3 dB) (P =. 01). Various middle ear structures were more visible after EOT than after MOT (P <. 001). Ear protrusion (P =. 008) and postauricular numbness (P <. 001) occurred after 50 MOTs.

Conclusion

EOT for repairing large tympanic perforations provides more favorable anatomical and audiometric outcomes. It also offers superior visibility of middle ear structures without lifting the annulus, with fewer complications and less invasiveness than MOT.
Novel Surgical and Radiologic Classification of the Subtympanic Sinus: Implications for Endoscopic Ear Surgery
Authors: Anschuetz Lukas , Alicandri‐Ciufelli Matteo , Bonali Marco , Fermi Matteo , Caversaccio Marco , Presutti Livio , Marchioni Daniele
Published: July 2018

Objective

The aim of this study is to describe the endoscopic anatomy of the subtympanic sinus (STS), establish a classification according to its extension regarding the level of the facial nerve (FN), and assess the feasibility of the transcanal endoscopic approach to the STS.

Study Design

Experimental anatomic research.

Setting

Temporal bone laboratory.

Methods

We performed endoscopic dissection of 34 human whole head and ear block specimens. Of those, 29 underwent high‐resolution computed tomography. The STS was classified according to its extension regarding the level of the FN: type A, no extension medial to the FN; type B, extension to the medial limit of the FN; type C, extension of the sinus medially and posteriorly from the FN into the mastoid cavity.

Results

The majority of cases (n = 21, 72%) showed a shallow type A STS. We observed a deep type B configuration in 6 cases (21%) and a type C in 2 cases (7%). The STS was completely exposable with a 0° endoscope in 44% of the specimens. Using a 45° endoscope, we gained complete insight in 79%. However, in 21% of the cases, the posteromedial extension of the STS was too deep to be completely explored by an endoscopic transcanal approach.

Conclusion

The majority of the STS is shallow and does not extend medially from the FN. This morphologic variant allows complete transcanal endoscopic visualization. In more excavated STS, a complete endoscopic exploration is not achievable, and a retrofacial approach may be adopted to completely access the STS.
A Call for Research on Sex Offender Treatment Programs
Authors: Jones Ashley C. T. , Neal Tess M. S.
Published: July 2018

The effects of sex offender treatment programs have been addressed in the literature, but there are opportunities to expand research and potentially improve existing sex offender treatment programs. The Federal Bureau of Prison’s Sex Offender Treatment Program gives offenders the opportunity to change their behavior by reducing criminality and recidivism, and receive transition services as offenders exit the prison system and reenter society. This program is evidence-based and utilizes landmark research in sex offender treatment, however there are a few details that may present limitations to the effectiveness of the treatment program within the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Entry requirements, such as literacy, cognitive, and remaining sentence requirements, as well as the treatment program environment, present opportunities for research to evaluate the effects of these variables on the convicted sex offender population.
Marine Spatial Planning: Exploring the Role of Planning Practice and Research
Authors: Retzlaff Rebecca , LeBleu Charlene
Published: July 2018

Marine spatial planning (MSP) is a tool for managing and improving marine environments. The field is dominated by natural scientists and has not been commonly associated with planning. This research analyzes the MSP literature to explore how planners can contribute to MSP research and practice. We organize the literature into eight themes, focusing on how planners may be able to contribute to MSP research and practice: ocean zoning, defining boundaries, planning in dynamic environments, stakeholder involvement, information needs, integrating ocean and land-use management, managing multiple and conflicting uses, and transboundary institutional structures. We conclude that planners have a lot to contribute in these eight areas.
Presessions to the National Diabetes Prevention Program May be a Promising Strategy to Improve Attendance and Weight Loss Outcomes
Authors: Ritchie Natalie D. , Kaufmann Peter G. , Gritz R. Mark , Sauder Katherine A. , Holtrop Jodi Summers
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

The National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) is a widely disseminated lifestyle intervention. Attendance is problematic, leading to suboptimal weight loss, especially among racial/ethnic minority participants. We conducted a novel “presession” protocol to improve engagement of diverse NDPP candidates, comparing NDPP participants who attended a presession to those who did not on attendance and weight loss outcomes.

Design:

Longitudinal cohort study.

Setting:

A safety net health-care system.

Participants:

A total of 1140 patients with diabetes risks (58.9% Hispanic, 19.8% non-Hispanic black, 61.8% low income).

Intervention:

The NDPP has been delivered in a Denver, Colorado health-care system since 2013. The program included 22 to 25 sessions over 1 year. Beginning September 2016, individuals were required to attend a presession before enrollment that focused on (1) increasing risk awareness, (2) motivational interviewing to participate in the NDPP, and (3) problem-solving around engagement barriers.

Measures:

Duration and intensity of NDPP attendance and weight loss.

Analysis:

Outcomes of 75 presession participants who enrolled in the NDPP were compared to 1065 prior participants using analysis of covariance and multivariable logistic regression.

Results:

Presession participants stayed in the NDPP 99.8 days longer ( P < .001) and attended 14.3% more sessions ( P < .001) on average than those without a presession. Presession participants lost 2.0% more weight ( P < .001) and were 3.5 times more likely to achieve the 5% weight loss target ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Presessions may improve NDPP outcomes for individuals from diverse backgrounds. A full-scale trial is needed to determine whether presessions reliably improve NDPP effectiveness.
Sulfonated polyimide/phosphotungstic acid composite membrane for vanadium redox flow battery applications
Authors: Xu Yumei , Wei Wei , Cui Yanjun , Liang Huiguang , Nian Fang
Published: July 2018

A novel sulfonated polyimide (SPI) membrane embedded with the phosphotungstic acid (SPI/PWA membrane) for vanadium redox flow battery (VRB) has been prepared with low capacity loss, low cost, and high energy efficiency (EE); the proportion of PWA in the composite membrane is 15%. The mechanical strength, vanadium ions permeability, and performance of the membrane in the VRB single cell were characterized. Results showed that the SPI/PWA membrane possessed low permeability of vanadium ions, accompanied by higher mechanical strength than the Nafion117 membrane. The VRB single cell with SPI/PWA composite membrane showed 7.6% higher coulombic efficiency, 4.6% higher EE, but lower capacity loss in comparison with the one with Nafion117 membrane at the current density 40 mA cm−2. The good cell performance, low capacity loss, and high vanadium ions barrier properties of the blend membrane is of significant interest for VRB applications.
The Power of Peers: Applying User-Generated Content to Health Behaviors “Off-Line”
Authors: Willis Erin
Published: July 2018

Many patients seek and share information online regarding health, especially those diagnosed with chronic disease. The social cognitive theory is used as the theoretical framework for analyzing how members learn within online health communities. This study conducted in-depth interviews with members from online health communities related to arthritis to understand their motivation for participating in the community and how the content exchanged therein is applied to managing their disease. Four themes were identified: processing disease diagnosis, collaborating to solve problem, recognizing personal limitations, and appreciating that health is variable. Topical communication within the online communities was often tailored to members’ situational needs with the ultimate goal being better self-management. The findings demonstrate the online health community is an environment that invites members who share common characteristics to engage with one another and with the shared content for the purpose of learning arthritis self-management strategies. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Improving Qualitative Research Findings Presentations
Authors: Bekker Sheree , Clark Alexander M.
Published: July 2018

Every year thousands of presentations of qualitative research findings are made at conferences, departmental seminars, meetings, and student defenses. Yet scant scholarship has been devoted to these presentations, their nature and relevance to qualitative research, and how they can be improved. This article addresses this important gap by positioning “research findings” presentations as a distinctive genre, part of qualitative method, and an expression of scholarly discourse. From the theoretical basis of genre theory, a number of common and damaging mistakes are found to be evident in the manner in which qualitative research findings are usually presented. These have negative implications: reducing the methodological quality of, engagement with, and overall influence of the qualitative research presented. We draw on genre theory to make recommendations for future qualitative research findings presentations to improve the rigor, influence, and impact of such presentations.
Design, path planning improvement and test of a portable massage robot on human back
Authors: Wang Wendong , Zhang Peng , Liang Chaohong , Shi Yikai
Published: July 2018

A massage robot that helps to improve the quality of human life has attracted more interests of researchers and consumers. A portable back massage robot that is compact and space-saving was designed to be used on human back instead of a traditional large-scale structure robot. To design the massage robot, the models of electric circuit, magnetic circuit and mechanics were analyzed to achieve optimal massage force. Parameters of the massage actuator are determined based on the influence analysis of the coil current, the coil turns and the distance between the moving core and the yoke on the electromagnetic force. The massage coverage of human back, which is used to calculate the massage effect, could be improved by an excellent path planning algorithm. This article proposed an efficient full covered path planning algorithm for the designed massage robot, and the relevant algorithm models were established. Simulation results show that the coil current is much more sensitive to electromagnetic force of the moving core compared to the other two factors, and the presented path planning algorithm completes full coverage of the massage robot on the back area. The experimental platform of the massage robot was built, and the influence of the input signal duty cycle, the input signal voltage and the hardness of the massage object on the massage effect was discussed by testing the values of acceleration. The tested results show that the massage effect is best when the duty cycle is in the range of 1/8–1/2. Meanwhile, the hardness of massage parts affects the massage intensity. The consistency between the tested results of path planning and simulation verifies the feasibility of the simulation procedure and indicates that the massage robot can attain the desired massage performance and realize the planned paths.
Development and testing of a framework for analysing health literacy in public policy documents
Authors: Trezona Anita , Dodson Sarity , Mech Paulina , Osborne Richard H.
Published: July 2018

Health literacy is a driver of community empowerment and a key determinant of health and equity. The World Health Organisation has established a strong global mandate for addressing health literacy through public policy action, by positioning it as one of three key pillars for achieving sustainable development and health equity in the Shanghai Declaration on Health Promotion. Policy document analysis is a useful way of determining the strengths and limitations of past and current policies, as well as the likely success of their implementation and impact on health outcomes. In this study, we developed a framework for analysing policy documents to assess the extent to which they prioritise and operationalise an emergent public health issue, in this case health literacy. Specifically, the framework enables a systematic exploration of (i) the stated policy goals and strategic objectives; (ii) the stated policy actions; and (iii) whether there is an intention to resource and monitor the stated policy activities. We tested the utility of the framework by applying it to a set of public policies in the Australian context. The framework presented in this study may be a useful tool for systematically analysing policy documents to reveal their strengths and limitations, and the extent to which they prioritise and operationalise health literacy.
Positioning Readers in One-on-One Conferences
Authors: Hikida Michiko , Lee Jungmin
Published: July 2018

Over the last few decades, scholars have conceptualized academic struggle, including learning disabilities, as socially constructed. When students, especially students of color, are constructed as struggling with school-based literacy, they can experience a variety of negative outcomes including higher dropout rates. In an attempt to unpack how academic struggle was constructed and deconstructed for two fifth-grade readers of color, we conducted a micoanalysis of the interactions between these readers and their teacher in one-on-one reading conferences. We examine how positions of struggle were (de)constructed, and findings suggest that the interactional key of the conferences, which was set by the teacher, seemed to contribute to how the students were positioned as readers within the conferring space.
The Post Ischaemic Stroke Cardiovascular Exercise Study: Protocol for a randomised controlled trial of fitness training for brain health
Authors: Johnson Liam , Werden Emilio , Shirbin Chris , Bird Laura , Landau Elizabeth , Cumming Toby , Churilov Leonid , Bernhardt Julie A , Thijs Vincent , Brodtmann Amy
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Compared to healthy individuals, stroke patients have five times the rate of dementia diagnosis within three years. Aerobic exercise may induce neuroprotective mechanisms that help to preserve, and even increase, brain volume and cognition. We seek to determine whether aerobic fitness training helps to protect brain volume and cognitive function after stroke compared to an active, non-aerobic control.

Methods

In this Phase IIb, single blind, randomised controlled trial, 100 ischaemic stroke participants, recruited at two months post-stroke, will be randomly allocated to either the intervention (aerobic and strength exercise) or active control (stretching and balance training). Participants will attend one-hour, individualised exercise sessions, three days-per-week for eight weeks. Assessments at two months (baseline), four months (post-intervention), and one year (follow-up) post-stroke will measure brain volume, cognition, mood, cardiorespiratory fitness, physical activity, blood pressure and blood biomarkers. Study outcome: Our primary outcome measure is hippocampal volume at four months after stroke. We hypothesise that participants who undertake the prescribed intervention will have preserved hippocampal volume at four months compared to the control group. We also hypothesise that this group will have preserved total brain volume and cognition, better mood, fitness, and higher levels of physical activity, than those receiving stretching and balance training.

Discussion

The promise of exercise training to prevent, or slow, the accelerated rates of brain atrophy and cognitive decline experienced by stroke survivors needs to be tested. Post Ischaemic Stroke Cardiovascular Exercise Study has the potential, if proven efficacious, to identify a new treatment that could be readily translated to the clinic.
Unusually Y-rich monazite-(Ce) with 6–14 wt.% Y2O3 in a granulite from the Bohemian Massif: implications for high-temperature monazite growth from the monazite-xenotime miscibility gap thermometry
Authors: Krenn E. , Finger F.
Published: July 2018

Accessory monazite-(Ce) with an extraordinarily high proportion of the xenotime component in solid solution of 21–42 mol.% (6.5–14 wt.% Y2O3, 6–11 wt.% HREE2O3) was discovered in a retrogressed Variscan high-pressure, high-temperature granulite from the southern Bohemian Massif, Austria. The grains with the highest proportion of xenotime (XXno ~0.4) should have had a minimum formation temperature of ~1050°C, according to published monazite-xenotime miscibility gap thermometers. This high temperature is consistent with previous petrological studies on the south Bohemian granulites indicating ~1000°C/16 kbar for the peak metamorphic stage.
Atrioventricular Disruption After Aortic Valve Surgery: Early Detection by Intraoperative Echocardiography: A Case Report
Authors: Sreeram Gautam , Hyatt Darren , Fischer Sophia , Thourani Vinod H. , Duggan Michael
Published: July 2018

Atrioventricular groove separation is a rare complication of mitral valve surgery. We present a case occurring during aortic valve surgery that was detected by the anesthesiologist using transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). During weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass after uneventful replacement of a severely calcified aortic valve, blood flow was seen on TEE leaving the left ventricular outflow tract just below the annulus of the aortic valve. This blood flow expanded into the aorto-mitral curtain during systole, consistent with atrioventricular groove separation. We review the pathophysiology behind groove separations and discuss diagnosis of these rare conditions using TEE.
Successful Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Acute Myocardial Infarction During Resuscitation From Cardiac Arrest by Combined Mechanical Chest Compressions and Intra-aortic Balloon Pump Counterpulsation: A Case Report
Authors: Kalogeropoulos Andreas S. , Kennon Simon , Karamasis Grigoris V. , Smith Elliot J. , Rees Paul
Published: July 2018

Prolonged cardiac arrest (CA) in patients with acute myocardial infarction can be associated with poor prognosis. Successful revascularization with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI) remains the reference therapy for these patients. However, performing a pPCI during CA is challenging and the use of automatic chest compression devices or mechanical support systems might be warranted to facilitate the pPCI procedure and achieve good outcomes. We present a patient with inferior myocardial infarction and cardiogenic shock, followed by refractory CA who underwent successful pPCI with a novel approach integrating the simultaneous use of an automated chest compression system and intra-aortic balloon pump counterpulsation.
The Therapeutic Activity Goal for Acute Postoperative Pain Management
Authors: Dieterichs Chad , Davis James D. , Uhler Lauren , Vetter Thomas R.
Published: July 2018

Acute pain intensity has conventionally been assessed with a patient self-reported, unidimensional pain scale. This approach can inadvertently underestimate analgesia and result in large cumulative opioid doses and greater dose-dependent side effects and complications. We have thus created the Therapeutic Activity Goal (TAG) as an alternate, more comprehensive way to assess acute postoperative pain, and even more so, to define and determine adequate postoperative analgesia. The TAG comprises the level of acceptable pain intensity, the level and types of desired activities, and accomplishing other patient-centered functional goals. The TAG evolves throughout the patient’s hospitalization to promote timely discharge.
Morphology and performance of polyvinyl chloride membrane modified with Pluronic F127
Authors: Arahman Nasrul , Fahrina Afrilia , Wahab Mukramah Yusuf , Fathanah Umi
Published: July 2018

Background: Attempts to modify the morphology of membrane for application in industrial separation are being undertaken by many researchers. The present study discusses the morphological modification of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) membrane by combining the hydrophilic surfactant Pluronic F127 (PF127) in a polymer solution to improve the performance of the membrane. 

Method: The membrane is formed using the non-solvent induced-phase separation (NIPS) method. PF127 is added to the membrane solution as a membrane modifying agent. The effects of the surfactant concentration in the dope solution on the permeability of pure water, solute rejection, hydrophilic characteristics, and membrane morphology are investigated.

Results: Higher concentrations of PF127 had a significant effect on the permeability of pure water. The highest membrane permeation was 45.65 l/m2.hr.atm with the addition of 7% PF127 additive.

Conclusion: PF127 is successfully proposed as a membrane pore-forming agent in this work; the blending of this additive in appropriate amounts in the polymer solution is adequate to improve the performance of the PVC membrane.
Statistical studies of duration of low-power solar flares
Authors: Боровик Александр , Borovik Aleksandr , Жданов Антон , Zhdanov Anton
Published: July 2018

This paper is a sequel to papers dealing with time parameters of solar flares in the Hα line. Using data from the international flare patrol for 1972–2010, we have determined the mean duration of flares of different importance and classes of area. We have established that 94.6 % of flares last more than 60 min. The duration of 90 % of flares with min is 2.1–3.3 hrs. In rare cases, flares can last about 12 hrs. The duration of powerful solar flares does not exceed 8.3 hrs. We have found that the duration of solar flares depends on features of their development. Flares with one brilliant point in the flare region have the shortest duration; two-ribbon flares and flares exhibiting several intensity maxima have the longest duration. We have confirmed that the duration of flares increases with increasing classes of area and brightness.
The prevalence and risk factors of orthorexia nervosa among school-age youth of Pomeranian and Warmian-Masurian voivodeships
Authors: Łucka Izabela , Domarecki Patryk , Janikowska-Hołoweńko Dorota , Plenikowska-Ślusarz Teresa , Domarecka Małgorzata
Published: July 2018

Cel pracy

Celem pracy było zbadanie prewalencji ortoreksji w populacji uczącej się młodzieży województw: pomorskiego i warmińsko-mazurskiego oraz wyłonienie czynników zwiększających ryzyko wystąpienia zaburzenia. Podjęto próbę znalezienia różnic w występowaniu ortoreksji w populacji młodzieży dużego i małego miasta.

Metoda

Grupę badaną stanowiły 864 osoby, w tym 599 kobiet i 265 mężczyzn. Średnia wieku kobiet wynosiła 20,21 +/- 3,27 lat zaś mężczyzn - 18,93 +/- 3,67 lat. W badaniu zastosowano autorski kwestionariusz zbierający podstawowe informacje o osobach badanych oraz kwestionariusze diagnostyczne: ORTO-15 opracowany przez Doniniego i wsp., (walidacja w Polsce – Janas-Kozik i wsp.), EAT-26 autorstwa Garnera i Garfinkela, MOCI (Maudsley Obsessive Compulsive Inventory) przygotowany przez Hodgsona i Rachmana oraz BDI - II (Beck Depression Inventory II) opracowany przez Becka. Wyniki opracowano za pomocą metod statystycznych.

Wyniki

Ryzyko występowania ortoreksji stwierdzono u 27% badanych (za punkt odcięcia przyjęto wynik 35). Najwyższy wskaźnik ryzyka ortoreksji zaobserwowano w grupie gimnazjalistów, najniższe nasilenie zachowań ortorektycznych wśród licealistów. Nie stwierdzono znamiennych różnic w ryzyku ortoreksji pomiędzy osobami pochodzącymi z małego i dużego miasta. Badane czynniki społeczne nie wykazują wpływu na ryzyko wystąpienia ortoreksji. Osoby, u których można podejrzewać ortoreksję mają istotnie wyższy wskaźnik BMI. Nie stwierdzono istotnych statystycznie różnic zarówno w występowaniu, jak i w głębokości depresji w badanej grupie. Depresja występowała u 25% badanych, nie potwierdzono jej związku z ortoreksją.

Wnioski

Grupą najbardziej zagrożoną wystąpieniem ortoreksji są gimnazjaliści, a także osoby o wyższym wskaźniku BMI.Bardziej diagnostyczne jest przyjęcie progu odcięcia dla ortoreksji w teście ORTO-15, na poziomie 35, z uwagi na generowanie dużej nadrozpoznawalności zjawiska przy progu 40-punktowym.
EXPEDIENTE - v17n1
Authors: Soares Adriana Benevides , Tsallis Alexandra Cleopatre , Mendes Deise Maria Leal Fernandes , Valentim Renata Patrícia Forain de , Barros Rita Maria Manso de
Published: July 2018

EXPEDIENTE - v17n1
Combined generic-specialist multimorbidity rehabilitation post acute cardiac event
Authors: Cowie Aynsley , McKay Janet , Keenan Alison
Published: July 2018

Aim:

This project examined service users' perceptions of a 10-week multimorbidity rehabilitation programme and aimed to establish whether a generic-specialist approach can meet the needs of those attending post-acute cardiac event.

Methods:

Twenty-eight service users (mean: 66 years; 22 male/6 female; 21 with chronic multimorbidity; 7 attending post-acute cardiac event) participated in four focus groups. Three key discussion themes were generated: changing perceptions; changing behaviour; and support.

Findings:

Service users attained awareness of their capabilities, which helped with confidence, activity levels, setting activity goals and attaining control over condition(s). Goal-setting enhanced motivation for physical activity and other ‘healthy’ behaviours. Within the family, worry and dependence were reduced and socialising increased. Staff support alleviated pre-participation apprehension, and trepidation about peers dissipated as confidence, motivation, support and social interaction were gained from classmates. Those attending post acute cardiac event vocalised heightened support needs which must be acknowledged to enable these service users to independently self-manage long-term.
Looking back 70 years at the evolution of the paramedic
Authors: Chamberlain Douglas
Published: July 2018

As the National Health Service (NHS) celebrates its 70-year-anniversary this month, Douglas Chamberlain, founder of the first paramedic unit in Europe, looks back at the evolution of the paramedic since the NHS was founded in 1948.
Manchester Arena attack: a reflection 1 year on…
Authors: Poland Derek
Published: July 2018

The recent anniversary of the Manchester Arena bomb attack had many reflecting on the events of that night. This was especially true of the emergency services who responded to the incident. In this personal reflection, NWAS Commander, Derek Poland, reflects on the way the night unfolded, and the way he and others pulled together for Manchester
Can we justify combined orthodontic and orthognathic surgery treatment?
Authors: Good John , Jones Ross , Sood Vikas , Kelly Clare
Published: July 2018

Abstract: Patients requiring combined orthodontic and orthognathic surgical treatment make up 7% of a UK-based Orthodontic Consultant's caseload. This has significant time and cost implications within the NHS. In a climate of spending cuts across our health service, a need has arisen to justify service provision. Accordingly, a new index has been devised to aid in the prioritization and provision of care for orthognathic patients.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: To carry out a retrospective audit of 44 patients who had orthognathic surgery in the NHS between May 2012 and October 2014, assign each an Index of Orthognathic Functional and Orthodontic Treatment Need, IOFTN and IOTN, score, respectively and identify any differences.
Phytochemical composition of crude extracts derived from Vernonia spp. and its larvicidal activity against Anopheles gambiae
Authors: TARWISH BEATRICE , NGERANWA JOSEPH J. N. , MATASYOH JOSPHAT C.
Published: July 2018

Tarwish B, Ngeranwa JJN, Matasyoh JC. 2017. Larvicidal activity and phytochemical composition of crude extracts derived from Vernonia spp. against Anopheles gambiae. Bonorowo Wetlands 1: 108-116. This study aimed to elucidate the larvicidal activity of three species of Vernonia, i.e., Vernonia lasiopus, V. auriculifera and V. galamensis against the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae. Dried samples from leaves and roots of the three plants were sequentially extracted with hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol, and water. Following rotor evaporation of the solvents, the extracts were subjected to phytochemical analysis and larvicidal assays against the third instar larvae of A. gambiae. The phytochemical screening revealed the presence of steroids, saponins, flavonoids, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides in all extracts. Tannins were present in methanol and water extracts of all the three plants and acetone extract of V. lasiopus roots, V. auriculifera root, and V. galamensis leaf. Phlobatannins were absent in all extracts. Percent mortality for different concentration 125, 250, 500, 750 and 1000 ppm of the extracts was calculated and subsequently subjected to probit regression analysis to determine LC50 and LC90 values. The most active extract recorded was that of acetone root extract of V. galamensis with an LC50 of 22.85. Vernonia auriculifera and V. lasiopus recorded the highest activity in acetone root extract, and ethyl acetate root extract with an LC50 value of 37.7 and 205.9 respectively. One-Way ANOVA test was performed to compare the mean mortality of all tested groups. At all exposure hours except at 3 hours, the differences were found to be significant. The Tukey post hoc tests indicated that the mortality rate for V. galamensis was substantially different from the mortality rates of V. lasiopus and V. auriculifera after 24 hours. This study underlines V. lasiopus, V. auriculifera, and V. galamensis as an alternative source of new, cheap and readily available larvicides for control of the mosquito vector A. gambiae. Further study is required to determine what secondary metabolites in Vernonia extracts are responsible for the larvicidal activity.
Power struggles: gender equality in political representation
Authors: Celis Karen , Lovenduski Joni
Published: July 2018

Gender inequality in political representation remains despite widespread and long-standing feminist campaigns for representative equality. This article suggests that in order to increase our understanding of why men’s over-representation in politics persists, gender equality in descriptive and substantive representation should be analysed as power struggles. Power is operationalised as positional power and active power, and struggle as the interaction between feminist strategies and resistance. The article offers a rereading of the scholarship on gender equality and political representation through the lens of power struggles and concludes with highlighting some future research tracks.