bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Development of Non-Peptide GnRH Antagonists
Authors: Tukun Feng-Ling , Olberg Dag Erlend , Riss Patrick J. , Haraldsen Ira , Kaass Anita , Klaveness Jo
Published: December 2017

The decapeptide gonadotropin-releasing hormone, also referred to as luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone with the sequence (pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-Gly-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH2) plays an important role in regulating the reproductive system. It stimulates differential release of the gonadotropins FSH and LH from pituitary tissue. To date, treatment of hormone-dependent diseases targeting the GnRH receptor, including peptide GnRH agonist and antagonists are now available on the market. The inherited issues associate with peptide agonists and antagonists have however, led to significant interest in developing orally active, small molecule, non-peptide antagonists. In this review, we will summarize all developed small molecule GnRH antagonists along with the most recent clinical data and therapeutic applications.
Hippeastrum reticulatum (Amaryllidaceae): Alkaloid Profiling, Biological Activities and Molecular Docking
Authors: Tallini Luciana , Osorio Edison , Santos Vanessa , Borges Warley , Kaiser Marcel , Viladomat Francesc , Zuanazzi José , Bastida Jaume
Published: December 2017

The Amaryllidaceae family has proven to be a rich source of active compounds, which are characterized by unique skeleton arrangements and a broad spectrum of biological activities. The aim of this work was to perform the first detailed study of the alkaloid constituents of Hippeastrum reticulatum (Amaryllidaceae) and to determine the anti-parasitological and cholinesterase (AChE and BuChE) inhibitory activities of the epimers (6α-hydroxymaritidine and 6β-hydroxymaritidine). Twelve alkaloids were identified in H. reticulatum: eight known alkaloids by GC-MS and four unknown (6α-hydroxymaritidine, 6β-hydroxymaritidine, reticulinine and isoreticulinine) by NMR. The epimer mixture (6α-hydroxymaritidine and 6β-hydroxymaritidine) showed low activity against all protozoan parasites tested and weak AChE-inhibitory activity. Finally, a molecular docking analysis of AChE and BuChE proteins showed that isoreticulinine may be classified as a potential inhibitory molecule since it can be stabilized in the active site through hydrogen bonds, π-π stacking and hydrophobic interactions.
Detection of Network Motif Based on a Novel Graph Canonization Algorithm from Transcriptional Regulation Networks
Authors: Hu Jialu , Shang Xuequn
Published: December 2017

Network motifs are patterns of complex networks occurring significantly more frequently than those in random networks. They have been considered as fundamental building blocks of complex networks. Therefore, the detection of network motifs in transcriptional regulation networks is a crucial step in understanding the mechanism of transcriptional regulation and network evolution. The search for network motifs is similar to solving subgraph searching problems, which has proven to be NP-complete. To quickly and effectively count subgraphs of a large biological network, we propose a novel graph canonization algorithm based on resolving sets. This method has been implemented in a command line interface (CLI) program sgip using the SeqAn library. Comparing to Babai’s algorithm, this approach has a tighter complexity bound, o ( exp ( n log 2 n + 4 log n ) ) , on strongly regular graphs. Results on several simulated datasets and transcriptional regulation networks indicate that sgip outperforms nauty on many graph cases. The source code of sgip is freely accessible in https://github.com/seqan/seqan/tree/master/apps/sgip and the binary code in http://packages.seqan.de/sgip/.
Preparation, Characterization, and Biological Activities of Topical Anti-Aging Ingredients in a Citrus junos Callus Extract
Authors: Adhikari Deepak , Panthi Vijay , Pangeni Rudra , Kim Hyun , Park Jin
Published: December 2017

In this study, we prepared and characterized a callus extract from Citrus junos and assessed its utility as a source of topical anti-aging ingredients. Callus extract was produced by aqueous extraction from Citrus junos grown on Murashige and Skoog medium with picloram as a growth regulator. After measuring the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, the major phenolic compound in calli was identified as p-hydroxycinnamoylmalic acid (1) by spectroscopic analysis. The total phenol content in the extract was determined to be 24.50 ± 0.43 mg/g of gallic acid equivalents; however, the total flavonoid content of the extract was not determined. The biological activities of the callus extract, in terms of skin anti-aging, were assessed by measuring the anti-tyrosinase activity in, and melanogenesis by, melanoma cells; and proliferation of, and procollagen synthesis by, human fibroblasts. The callus extract was incorporated into nanoliposomes (NLs) to improve its percutaneous absorption. Addition of the callus extract resulted in a 1.85-fold decrease in the melanin content of melanocytes compared with that with arbutin. The extract (500 μg/mL) significantly promoted the proliferation of, and procollagen synthesis by, fibroblasts (by 154% and 176%, respectively). In addition, the flux through the human epidermis of Citrus junos callus extract incorporated into NLs was 17.67-fold higher than that of the callus extract alone. These findings suggest that Citrus junos callus extract-loaded NLs have promise as an anti-aging cosmetic, as well as having a skin-lightening effect.
Ferrocene and Transition Metal Bis(Dicarbollides) as Platform for Design of Rotatory Molecular Switches
Authors: Sivaev Igor B.
Published: December 2017

Design of rotatory molecular switches based on extremely stable sandwich organometallic complexes ferrocene and bis(dicarbollide) complexes of transition metals is reviewed. The “on”–“off” switching in these systems can be controlled by various external stimuli such as change of the solution pH, interactions with coordinating species or redox reactions involving the central atom or substituents in the ligands.
The Effect of Polyphenol-Rich Interventions on Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Haemodialysis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Marx Wolfgang , Kelly Jaimon , Marshall Skye , Nakos Stacey , Campbell Katrina , Itsiopoulos Catherine
Published: December 2017

End-stage kidney disease is a strong risk factor for cardiovascular-specific mortality. Polyphenol-rich interventions may attenuate cardiovascular disease risk factors; however, this has not been systematically evaluated in the hemodialysis population. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, the following databases were searched: Cochrane Library (http://www.cochranelibrary.com/), MEDLINE (https://health.ebsco.com/products/medline-with-full-text), Embase (https://www.elsevier.com/solutions/embase-biomedical-research), and CINAHL (https://www.ebscohost.com/nursing/products/cinahl-databases/cinahl-complete). Meta-analyses were conducted for measures of lipid profile, inflammation, oxidative stress, and blood pressure. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool and quality of the body of evidence was assessed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. Twelve studies were included for review. Polyphenol-rich interventions included soy, cocoa, pomegranate, grape, and turmeric. Polyphenol-rich interventions significantly improved diastolic blood pressure (Mean Difference (MD) −5.62 mmHg (95% Confidence Interval (CI) −8.47, −2.78); I2 = 2%; p = 0.0001), triglyceride levels (MD −26.52 mg/dL (95% CI −47.22, −5.83); I2 = 57%; p = 0.01), and myeloperoxidase (MD −90.10 (95% CI −135.84, −44.36); I2 = 0%; p = 0.0001). Included studies generally had low or unclear risks of bias. The results of this review provide preliminary support for the use of polyphenol-rich interventions for improving cardiovascular risk markers in haemodialysis patients. Due to the limited number of studies for individual polyphenol interventions, further studies are required to provide recommendations regarding individual polyphenol intervention and dose.
Microglia M2A Polarization as Potential Link between Food Allergy and Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Kalkman Hans , Feuerbach Dominik
Published: December 2017

Atopic diseases are frequently co-morbid with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Allergic responses are associated with an activation of mast cells, innate lymphoid cells, and Th2 cells. These cells produce type-2 cytokines (IL4 and IL13), which stimulate microglia and macrophages to adopt a phenotype referred to as ‘alternative activation’ or ‘M2A’. M2A-polarized macrophages and microglia play a physiological role in tissue repair by secreting growth factors such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin-like growth factor-1. In ASD there is evidence for increased type-2 cytokines, microglia activation, M2A polarization, and increased levels of growth factors. In neurons, these growth factors drive a signal transduction pathway that leads to activation of the enzyme mammalian Target of Rapamycin (mTOR), and thereby to the inhibition of autophagy. Activation of mTOR is an effect that is also common to several of the genetic forms of autism. In the central nervous system, redundant synapses are removed via an autophagic process. Activation of mTOR would diminish the pruning of redundant synapses, which in the context of ASD is likely to be undesired. Based on this line of reasoning, atopic diseases like food allergy, eczema or asthma would represent risk factors for autism spectrum disorders.
Effects of Acid and Salt Solutions on the Pasting, Rheology and Texture of Lotus Root Starch–Konjac Glucomannan Mixture
Authors: Zhang Fusheng , Liu Min , Mo Fang , Zhang Meixia , Zheng Jiong
Published: December 2017

To explore the functional properties of mixed biopolymer systems affected by acid and salts. The effects of acid and salt solutions (i.e., NaCl, KCl and CaCl2) on the pasting, rheology, texture and microstructure of lotus root starch–konjac glucomannan (LRS/KGM) mixtures were assessed. Acid (citric acid buffer) treatment worsened the pasting (except for breakdown viscosity), rheological (except for fluid index), and textural properties, thereby inhibiting retrogradation, weakening pseudoplasticity and thickening, and reducing mixture viscoelasticity. Furthermore, it led to destructive ruptures and large pores in the internal microstructure. Salt treatment worsened the pasting properties (except for setback viscosity), thus inhibiting retrogradation and weakening pseudoplasticity, but enhanced the rheological properties, improving thickening and fluctuating viscoelasticity of the mixture. Moreover, salt addition decreased the hardness while increasing mixture cohesiveness, and modified the elasticity, adhesiveness and internal microstructure in a salt type- and concentration-dependent manner. A salt solution concentration of 0.5 mol/L NaCl, 0.1 mol/L KCl, and 0.5 mol/L CaCl2 led to the mixture with the best texture and gel network.
Editorial for Special Issue “Radar Systems for the Societal Challenges”
Authors: Soldovieri Francesco , Persico Raffaele
Published: December 2017

The special issue (SI) “Radar Systems for the Societal Challenges” is an updated survey of recent advances in radar systems, encompassing several application fields and related to the impact on society [...]
Hybrid Signal Processing Technique to Improve the Defect Estimation in Ultrasonic Non-Destructive Testing of Composite Structures
Authors: Tiwari Kumar , Raisutis Renaldas , Samaitis Vykintas
Published: December 2017

This work proposes a novel hybrid signal processing technique to extract information on disbond-type defects from a single B-scan in the process of non-destructive testing (NDT) of glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) material using ultrasonic guided waves (GW). The selected GFRP sample has been a segment of wind turbine blade, which possessed an aerodynamic shape. Two disbond type defects having diameters of 15 mm and 25 mm were artificially constructed on its trailing edge. The experiment has been performed using the low-frequency ultrasonic system developed at the Ultrasound Institute of Kaunas University of Technology and only one side of the sample was accessed. A special configuration of the transmitting and receiving transducers fixed on a movable panel with a separation distance of 50 mm was proposed for recording the ultrasonic guided wave signals at each one-millimeter step along the scanning distance up to 500 mm. Finally, the hybrid signal processing technique comprising the valuable features of the three most promising signal processing techniques: cross-correlation, wavelet transform, and Hilbert–Huang transform has been applied to the received signals for the extraction of defects information from a single B-scan image. The wavelet transform and cross-correlation techniques have been combined in order to extract the approximated size and location of the defects and measurements of time delays. Thereafter, Hilbert–Huang transform has been applied to the wavelet transformed signal to compare the variation of instantaneous frequencies and instantaneous amplitudes of the defect-free and defective signals.
A Hybrid Feature Model and Deep-Learning-Based Bearing Fault Diagnosis
Authors: Sohaib Muhammad , Kim Cheol-Hong , Kim Jong-Myon
Published: December 2017

Bearing fault diagnosis is imperative for the maintenance, reliability, and durability of rotary machines. It can reduce economical losses by eliminating unexpected downtime in industry due to failure of rotary machines. Though widely investigated in the past couple of decades, continued advancement is still desirable to improve upon existing fault diagnosis techniques. Vibration acceleration signals collected from machine bearings exhibit nonstationary behavior due to variable working conditions and multiple fault severities. In the current work, a two-layered bearing fault diagnosis scheme is proposed for the identification of fault pattern and crack size for a given fault type. A hybrid feature pool is used in combination with sparse stacked autoencoder (SAE)-based deep neural networks (DNNs) to perform effective diagnosis of bearing faults of multiple severities. The hybrid feature pool can extract more discriminating information from the raw vibration signals, to overcome the nonstationary behavior of the signals caused by multiple crack sizes. More discriminating information helps the subsequent classifier to effectively classify data into the respective classes. The results indicate that the proposed scheme provides satisfactory performance in diagnosing bearing defects of multiple severities. Moreover, the results also demonstrate that the proposed model outperforms other state-of-the-art algorithms, i.e., support vector machines (SVMs) and backpropagation neural networks (BPNNs).
Active Wireless System for Structural Health Monitoring Applications
Authors: Perera Ricardo , Pérez Alberto , García-Diéguez Marta , Zapico-Valle José
Published: December 2017

The use of wireless sensors in Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) has increased significantly in the last years. Piezoelectric-based lead zirconium titanate (PZT) sensors have been on the rise in SHM due to their superior sensing abilities. They are applicable in different technologies such as electromechanical impedance (EMI)-based SHM. This work develops a flexible wireless smart sensor (WSS) framework based on the EMI method using active sensors for full-scale and autonomous SHM. In contrast to passive sensors, the self-sensing properties of the PZTs allow interrogating with or exciting a structure when desired. The system integrates the necessary software and hardware within a service-oriented architecture approach able to provide in a modular way the services suitable to satisfy the key requirements of a WSS. The framework developed in this work has been validated on different experimental applications. Initially, the reliability of the EMI method when carried out with the proposed wireless sensor system is evaluated by comparison with the wireless counterpart. Afterwards, the performance of the system is evaluated in terms of software stability and reliability of functioning.
Residents of Central Queensland, Australia Are Aware of Healthy Eating Practices but Consume Unhealthy Diets
Authors: Dalbo Vincent , Hiskens Matthew , Teramoto Masaru , Kingsley Michael , Young Kaelin , Scanlan Aaron
Published: December 2017

We aimed to determine nutritional knowledge and behaviors of normal weight, overweight, and obese residents of Central Queensland, Australia. Data were collected as part of the 2010 Central Queensland Social Survey (N = 1289). Residents were asked questions assessing nutritional knowledge and behaviors. Statistical analyses were performed to examine differences in nutritional knowledge and behaviors by body mass index (BMI) classification: normal weight, overweight, and obese. Independent of BMI, residents ate fewer than the recommended daily servings of vegetables (p < 0.05) and fruits (p < 0.05) with no differences found between BMI classifications. Overweight (OR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.13–2.04) and obese (OR: 1.43; 95% CI: 1.04–1.98) residents were more likely to have eaten fast food the week of the survey than normal weight residents. Residents correctly identified the amount of kilocalories required to maintain current body weight with no differences between BMI classifications. Each BMI classification underestimated the amount of kilojoules required to maintain current body weight (p < 0.05). Nutritional knowledge may not be the limiting factor preventing residents from making proper nutritional choices.
Does Hazy Weather Influence Earnings Management of Heavy-Polluting Enterprises? A Chinese Empirical Study from the Perspective of Negative Social Concerns
Authors: Zhu Xiaodong , Gu Rongrong , Wu Bingbing , Managi Shunsuke
Published: December 2017

During the 2014 APEC Conference, there was a long presence of blue sky (APEC Blue) after a long-time occurrence of hazy weather in Beijing, China, which prompted the public’s attention to heavy-polluting enterprises to reach a new peak. Will the public’s negative concern about the incident will affect the operation of heavy-polluting enterprises? In this paper, we analyzed the influence of the haze-related exogenous events before and after the “APEC Blue” on earnings management of heavy-polluting enterprises from a new perspective of negative social attention. We carry out research from three perspectives for further research, which involve the growth in the demand for accounting information disclosure, the increase of consumers’ low-carbon consciousness and differences in the amount of attention on enterprises with different properties and scales. Results indicate that heavy-polluting enterprises have stronger preference for downward earnings management, especially in those enterprises that are large in scale, non-state owned, or have a direct relationship with consumers.
A Burkholderia pseudomallei Outer Membrane Vesicle Vaccine Provides Cross Protection against Inhalational Glanders in Mice and Non-Human Primates
Authors: Baker Sarah , Davitt Christopher , Motyka Natalya , Kikendall Nicole , Russell-Lodrigue Kasi , Roy Chad , Morici Lisa
Published: December 2017

Burkholderia mallei is a Gram-negative, non-motile, facultative intracellular bacillus and the causative agent of glanders, a highly contagious zoonotic disease. B. mallei is naturally resistant to multiple antibiotics and there is concern for its potential use as a bioweapon, making the development of a vaccine against B. mallei of critical importance. We have previously demonstrated that immunization with multivalent outer membrane vesicles (OMV) derived from B. pseudomallei provide significant protection against pneumonic melioidosis. Given that many virulence determinants are highly conserved between the two species, we sought to determine if the B. pseudomallei OMV vaccine could cross-protect against B. mallei. We immunized C57Bl/6 mice and rhesus macaques with B. pseudomallei OMVs and subsequently challenged animals with aerosolized B. mallei. Immunization with B. pseudomallei OMVs significantly protected mice against B. mallei and the protection observed was comparable to that achieved with a live attenuated vaccine. OMV immunization induced the production of B.mallei-specific serum IgG and a mixed Th1/Th17 CD4 and CD8 T cell response in mice. Additionally, immunization of rhesus macaques with B. pseudomallei OMVs provided protection against glanders and induced B.mallei-specific serum IgG in non-human primates. These results demonstrate the ability of the multivalent OMV vaccine platform to elicit cross-protection against closely-related intracellular pathogens and to induce robust humoral and cellular immune responses against shared protective antigens.
Discovery of Periodic Dips in the Brightest Hard X-Ray Source of M31 with EXTraS
Authors: Marelli Martino , Tiengo Andrea , Luca Andrea De , Salvetti David , Saronni Luca , Sidoli Lara , Paizis Adamantia , Salvaterra Ruben , Belfiore Andrea , Israel Gianluca , Haberl Frank , D’Agostino Daniele
Published: December 2017

We performed a search for eclipsing and dipping sources in the archive of the EXTraS project—a systematic characterization of the temporal behavior of XMM-Newton point sources. We discovered dips in the X-ray light curve of 3XMM J004232.1+411314, which has been recently associated with the hard X-ray source dominating the emission of M31. A systematic analysis of XMM-Newton observations revealed 13 dips in 40 observations (total exposure time of ∼0.8 Ms). Among them, four observations show two dips, separated by ∼4.01 hr. Dip depths and durations are variable. The dips occur only during low-luminosity states (

erg s−1), while the source reaches

erg s−1. We propose that this system is a new dipping low-mass X-ray binary in M31 seen at high inclination (60°–80°); the observed dipping periodicity is the orbital period of the system. A blue HST source within the Chandra error circle is the most likely optical counterpart of the accretion disk. The high luminosity of the system makes it the most luminous (not ULX) dipper known to date.
ALMA Observations of Elias 2–24: A Protoplanetary Disk with Multiple Gaps in the Ophiuchus Molecular Cloud
Authors: Cieza Lucas A. , Casassus Simon , Pérez Sebastian , Hales Antonio , Cárcamo Miguel , Ansdell Megan , Avenhaus Henning , Bayo Amelia , Bertrang Gesa H.-M. , Cánovas Hector , Christiaens Valentin , Dent William , Ferrero Gabriel , Gamen Roberto , Olofsson Johan , Orcajo Santiago , Osses Axel , Peña-Ramirez Karla , Principe David , Ruíz-Rodríguez Dary , Schreiber Matthias R. , Plas Gerrit van der , Williams Jonathan P. , Zurlo Alice
Published: December 2017

We present ALMA 1.3 mm continuum observations at

(25 au) resolution of Elias 2–24, one of the largest and brightest protoplanetary disks in the Ophiuchus Molecular Cloud, and we report the presence of three partially resolved concentric gaps located at ∼20, 52, and 87 au from the star. We perform radiative transfer modeling of the disk to constrain its surface density and temperature radial profile and place the disk structure in the context of mechanisms capable of forming narrow gaps such as condensation fronts and dynamical clearing by actively forming planets. In particular, we estimate the disk temperature at the locations of the gaps to be 23, 15, and 12 K (at 20, 52, and 87 au, respectively), very close to the expected snowlines of CO (23–28 K) and N2 (12–15 K). Similarly, by assuming that the widths of the gaps correspond to 4–8× the Hill radii of forming planets (as suggested by numerical simulations), we estimate planet masses in the range of

,

, and

for the inner, middle, and outer gap, respectively. Given the surface density profile of the disk, the amount of “missing mass” at the location of each one of these gaps (between 4 and 20

) is more than sufficient to account for the formation of such planets.
SDSS-IV MaNGA: Spatially Resolved Star Formation Main Sequence and LI(N)ER Sequence
Authors: Hsieh B. C. , Lin Lihwai , Lin J. H. , Pan H. A. , Hsu C. H. , Sánchez S. F. , Cano-Díaz M. , Zhang K. , Yan R. , Barrera-Ballesteros J. K. , Boquien M. , Riffel R. , Brownstein J. , Cruz-González I. , Hagen A. , Ibarra H. , Pan K. , Bizyaev D. , Oravetz D. , Simmons A.
Published: December 2017

We present our study on the spatially resolved Hα and M
* relation for 536 star-forming and 424 quiescent galaxies taken from the MaNGA survey. We show that the star formation rate surface density (

), derived based on the Hα emissions, is strongly correlated with the M
* surface density (

) on kiloparsec scales for star-forming galaxies and can be directly connected to the global star-forming sequence. This suggests that the global main sequence may be a consequence of a more fundamental relation on small scales. On the other hand, our result suggests that ∼20% of quiescent galaxies in our sample still have star formation activities in the outer region with lower specific star formation rate (SSFR) than typical star-forming galaxies. Meanwhile, we also find a tight correlation between

 and

 for LI(N)ER regions, named the resolved “LI(N)ER” sequence, in quiescent galaxies, which is consistent with the scenario that LI(N)ER emissions are primarily powered by the hot, evolved stars as suggested in the literature.
The Use of Capsular Tension Rings to Reduce Refractive Shift in Patients With Implantation of Trifocal Intraocular Lenses
Authors: Nistad Kristin , Göransson Frida , Støle Eivind , Shams Hossein , Gjerdrum Björn
Published: December 2017

PURPOSE:

To determine whether use of a capsular tension ring (CTR) can increase refractive stability in patients with implantation of two different trifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs).

METHODS:

A prospective, consecutive series of eyes underwent refractive lens exchange with implantation of two different trifocal IOL designs: FineVision Micro F (non-toric) and FineVision POD FT (toric) (PhysIOL, Liege, Belgium). Power calculation was determined using the Haigis formula. Refractive lens exchange surgery was performed according to the standard Memira protocol. Refractive results and stability were assessed at 2 weeks and 3 months postoperatively.

RESULTS:

Three hundred eighty-eight eyes were included in the analysis. Overall, 71% and 76% of MicroF eyes implanted with (n = 139) and without (n = 104) a CTR, respectively, had hyperopic shift; 9% of MicroF eyes with a CTR had a shift of greater than +0.50 to +0.75 or less diopters (D) and 4% had a shift of greater than +0.75 D. In MicroF eyes without a CTR, 12% and 3% of eyes experienced a refractive shift of greater than +0.50 to +0.75 D or less and greater than +0.75 D, respectively. In the POD FT group, 72% and 69% of eyes with (n = 81) and without (n = 64) a CTR, respectively, had hyperopic shift; 10% of POD FT eyes with a CTR had a change of greater than +0.50 to +0.75 D or less and 7% had a shift of greater than +0.75 D. In POD FT eyes without a CTR, 13% and 3% experienced a refractive shift of greater than +0.50 to +0.75 D or less and greater than +0.75 D, respectively. For the MicroF design, the best refractive stability was found in the CTR group and the poorest stability in the non-CTR group (
P
= .084). For the POD FT design, the best refractive stability was found in the non-CTR group and the poorest stability in the CTR group (
P
= .297).

CONCLUSIONS:

Up to 7% of eyes implanted with FineVision trifocal IOLs had a hyperopic shift of greater than +0.75 D approximately 2 weeks to 3 months postoperatively. Using a CTR in MicroF eyes had no statistically significant effect on refractive stability. Placing a CTR with POD FT IOLs appeared to reduce refractive stability, although not significantly.

[
J Refract Surg.
2017;33(12):802–806.]
Efficacy and Safety Comparison Between Suberoylanilide Hydroxamic Acid and Mitomycin C in Reducing the Risk of Corneal Haze After PRK Treatment In Vivo
Authors: Anumanthan Govindaraj , Sharma Ajay , Waggoner Michael , Hamm Chuck W. , Gupta Suneel , Hesemann Nathan P. , Mohan Rajiv R.
Published: December 2017

PURPOSE:

This study compared the efficacy and safety of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA) and mitomycin C (MMC) up to 4 months in the prevention of corneal haze induced by photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) in rabbits in vivo.

METHODS:

Corneal haze in rabbits was produced with −9.00 diopter PRK. A single application of SAHA (25
μ
M) or MMC (0.02%) was applied topically immediately after PRK. Effects of the two drugs were analyzed by slit-lamp microscope, specular microscope, TUNEL assay, and immunofluorescence.

RESULTS:

Single topical adjunct use of SAHA (25
μ
M) or MMC (0.02%) after PRK attenuated more than 95% corneal haze and myofibroblast formation (
P
< .001). SAHA did not reduce keratocyte density, cause keratocyte apoptosis, or increase immune cell infiltration compared to MMC (
P
< .01 or .001). Furthermore, SAHA dosing did not compromise corneal endothelial phenotype, density, or function in rabbit eyes, whereas MMC application did (
P
< .01 or .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

SAHA and MMC significantly decreased corneal haze after PRK in rabbits in vivo. SAHA exhibited significantly reduced short- and long-term damage to the corneal endothelium compared to MMC in rabbits. SAHA is an effective and potentially safer alternative to MMC for the prevention of corneal haze after PRK. Clinical trials are warranted.

[
J Refract Surg.
2017;33(12):834–839.]
Comparison of Methodologies Using Estimated or Measured Values of Total Corneal Astigmatism for Toric Intraocular Lens Power Calculation
Authors: Ferreira Tiago B. , Ribeiro Paulo , Ribeiro Filomena J. , O'Neill João G.
Published: December 2017

PURPOSE:

To compare the prediction error in the calculation of toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) associated with methods that estimate the power of the posterior corneal surface (ie, Barrett toric calculator and Abulafia–Koch formula) with that of methods that consider real measures obtained using Scheimpflug imaging: a software that uses vectorial calculation (Panacea toric calculator:
http://www.panaceaiolandtoriccalculator.com
) and a ray tracing software (PhacoOptics, Aarhus Nord, Denmark).

METHODS:

In 107 eyes of 107 patients undergoing cataract surgery with toric IOL implantation (Acrysof IQ Toric; Alcon Laboratories, Inc., Fort Worth, TX), predicted residual astigmatism by each calculation method was compared with manifest refractive astigmatism. Prediction error in residual astigmatism was calculated using vector analysis.

RESULTS:

All calculation methods resulted in overcorrection of with-the-rule astigmatism and undercorrection of against-the-rule astigmatism. Both estimation methods resulted in lower mean and centroid astigmatic prediction errors, and a larger number of eyes within 0.50 diopters (D) of absolute prediction error than methods considering real measures (
P
< .001). Centroid prediction error (CPE) was 0.07 D at 172° for the Barrett toric calculator and 0.13 D at 174° for the Abulafia–Koch formula (combined with Holladay calculator). For methods using real posterior corneal surface measurements, CPE was 0.25 D at 173° for the Panacea calculator and 0.29 D at 171° for the ray tracing software.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Barrett toric calculator and Abulafia–Koch formula yielded the lowest astigmatic prediction errors. Directly evaluating total corneal power for toric IOL calculation was not superior to estimating it.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2017;33(12):794–800.]
Pediatric Scoliosis and Kyphosis: An Overview of Diagnosis, Management, and Surgical Treatment
Authors: Sheehan Diane Dudas , Grayhack John
Published: December 2017

Evaluation of pediatric spinal deformity requires knowledge of special orthopaedic testing and radiographic interpretation. The determination of recommendations for treatment of spinal abnormalities in children can be challenging and at times complex, as treatment options are dependent upon a variety of factors. The etiology of scoliosis or kyphosis, presence or absence of vertebral anomalies, symptoms, magnitude of the curve, physiologic/skeletal age, and evidence of and risk of progression all require consideration and play a role in the shared decision-making process. This article provides an overview of relevant information and includes research outcomes to support the care of pediatric patients with spinal deformities.

[
Pediatr Ann.
2017;46(12):e472–e480.]
Pediatric Poisoning by Ingestion: Developmental Overview and Synopsis of National Trends
Authors: Lee Vincent R. , Connolly Michael , Calello Diane P.
Published: December 2017

The American Association of Poison Control Centers' National Poison Data Surveillance System provides real-time toxico-surveillance and epidemiologic trends, and pediatric ingestions comprise most of those reports. The sequences in social and physical developmental milestones from young childhood to adolescence reveal the vulnerability of these age groups to a wide variety of potential poisonous ingestions. Most pediatric ingestions are exploratory. Some common agents associated with pediatric fatalities include disc batteries, laundry detergent “pods,” opioid analgesics, acetaminophen, benzodiazepines, and amphetamines. The pediatric provider can be a valuable resource at all points throughout a child's life, offering anticipatory guidance to caregivers targeting developmental changes associated with poisonous ingestions.

[
Pediatr Ann.
2017;46(12):e443–e448.]
Validating the Health Literacy Promotion Practices Assessment Instrument
Authors: Squires Allison P. , Yin H. Shonna , Jones Simon A. , Greenberg Sherry A. , Moore Ronnie , Cortes Tara A.
Published: December 2017

Background:

How health care professionals address health literacy as part of the provider-client relationship is important for prevention and promoting self-management and symptom management. Research usually focuses on patients' health literacy and fails to examine provider practices, thus leaving a gap in the literature and patient outcomes analyses.

Objective:

The study tested the reliability and validity of a series of questions developed to evaluate health care provider health literacy promotion practices on an interprofessional sample.

Methods:

This exploratory cross-sectional study took place between 2013 and 2015. Participants included graduate level health professions students from nursing, midwifery, medicine, pharmacy, and social work. Exploratory factor analyses with varimax rotation examined the reliability and validity of the instrument as a measure of health literacy promotion practices.

Key Results:

Of the participants in the programs, 198 completed the health literacy questions in the online survey. Exploratory factor analysis showed that questions loaded on two factors connected with either individual or organizational characteristics that facilitated health literacy promotion practices. The Cronbach's alpha for the instrument was 0.95.

Conclusions:

This study helped determine the reliability and validity of the items as measures of providers' health literacy practices. Future research will help to further establish the stability of the instrument as a measure and increase its potential reliability when linking provider practices to health literacy sensitive client outcomes. Testing the instrument separately and concurrently with each health profession is recommended until instrument stability across professional roles has been established.

[
Health Literacy Research and Practice
. 2017;1(4):e239–e246.]

Plain Language Summary:

We sought to develop a survey instrument people could use to assess how health care providers help patients understand their health better. After getting responses from 198 health care providers, we ran statistical tests to check the quality of the questions for measuring provider practices. We found the questions were good at evaluating provider practices around promoting patient understanding of health issues.
Calculation and Simulation of Transmission Reliability in Wireless Sensor Network Based on Network Coding
Authors: Luan Zhifu
Published: December 2017

The wireless sensor network (WSN) has penetrated into every corner in our lives, ranging from national defense, biological medicine, environmental monitoring, to traffic management. It is of great significance to study the reliability of data transmission, a key determinant of the results of monitoring events. The network reliability lies in fault tolerance: when some nodes or links in the network fail, the data can be recovered at the sink node by selecting the appropriate finite domain space. In this paper, network coding is used to improve the reliability of WSN. Firstly, the author calculated the data transmission reliability and average energy consumption of network coding in single-path and multi-path scenarios. Then, the average energy consumption of network coding was compared with that of the traditional method. Finally, the reliabilities of the two different methods were simulated on MATLAB at different channel loss rates. The experimental results show that the reliability of the network coding technique is better than the traditional one at the expense of a small amount of energy.
Design of NarrowBand-IoT Oriented Wireless Sensor Network in Urban Smart Parking
Authors: Zhai Wei
Published: December 2017

With the rapid growth of economy, the process of urbanization is picking up speed. The ensuing fast increase in the number of motor vehicles has aggravated the contradiction between the growing parking demand and the limited parking space in urban areas, which impedes the sustainable development of urban traffic. The traditional parking lot, featured by low efficiency and poor automation, fails to satisfy the soaring parking demand. To improve the traffic management across the city, it is necessary to develop an integrated management platform for urban parking lots. In view of the unique advantage of NarrowBand-Internet of Things (NB-IoT), this paper proposes an urban smart parking management platform based on the NB-IoT and wireless sensor network (WSN), aiming to unlock the full potential of urban parking resources. After briefly introducing the NB-IOT wireless communication and license plate recognition (LPR), the author explained the overall architecture and the image processing algorithm of the NB-IoT oriented urban smart parking plan. Then, the proposed plan was contrasted with traditional wireless communication technology. The results prove that the proposed plan outperformed its traditional counterpart. This research will give a great impetus to the development of the IoT although NB-IoT is still in its nascence
Corrigendum: The effectiveness of the South African Triage Tool use in Mahalapye District Hospital – Emergency Department, Botswana
Authors: Tshitenge Stephane T. , Ogunbanjo Gboyega A. , Mbuka Deogratias O.
Published: December 2017

No abstract available.
Evaluación participativa en habilidades para comunicar en 3º de grado de enfermería en el curso 2009/10, la escenificación como método docente y de evaluación.
Authors: Fernández Díaz María Ángeles , González Pascual Juan Luis , López Martín Inmaculada , Manso Martínez María Esperanza
Published: December 2017

La materia “Habilidades para Comunicar y Educar en Salud” incluye la comprensión de la enfermería como una relación humana cliente - enfermero/a para identificar y responder a la necesidad de ayuda, desarrollando la comunicación como principal instrumento para la prestación de cuidados.

Para alcanzar las competencias en esta asignatura, durante el curso 2009-10, se desarrolló una metodología activa basada en un aprendizaje significativo. La evaluación se realizó a través de la demostración práctica de la adquisición de habilidades en comunicación verbal y no verbal, mediante técnicas de dramatización evaluadas por el profesorado y complementada por una evaluación entre iguales. Este sistema supuso un desafío tanto para estudiantes como para profesores.

Con objeto de conocer: grado de acuerdo del alumnado con esta metodología de aprendizaje y evaluación, concordancia de resultados en evaluaciones de profesorado - alumnado y nivel de consecución de los objetivos de aprendizaje respecto al bloque temático de Comunicación y Relación de Ayuda, se diseñó un estudio descriptivo transversal con 95 alumnos/as. Los resultados mostraron la satisfacción de los alumnos/as, la falta de concordancia en las evaluaciones de profesorado y alumnado (coincidiendo con otros estudios) y evidenciaron la eficacia de esta metodología para adquirir habilidades específicas en comunicación.

 
Nuevo enfoque multidisciplinar en el el proyecto fin de carrera en ingeniería civil. Experiencia en la UEM.
Authors: Millán Muñoz Miguel Ángel , Medina Villaverde José María
Published: December 2017

En el Departamento de Ingeniería Civil de la UEM se ha tratado de aproximar la experiencia del Proyecto Fin de Carrera a la realidad profesional, mediante la creación de equipos multidisciplinares que resuelvan un “proyecto global” de desarrollo de una zona determinada mediante obras civiles que dependen unas de otras. Este proyecto se realiza en dos fases. La primera fase es un “Anteproyecto multidisciplinar en grupo” (que constituye el enfoque innovador). Cada alumno se constituye en experto de una de las disciplinas implicadas y, entre todos, estudian un conjunto de alternativas interrelacionadas que respondan de forma óptima a las necesidades del problema, eligiendo la mejor. La solución elegida para cada disciplina se desarrolla ya individualmente en una segunda fase, constituyendo esta la redacción del proyecto de construcción clásico. Como ejemplo, se han proyectado puertos deportivos incluyendo una playa como medida compensatoria al impacto en la costa, con el correspondiente desarrollo urbanístico, con accesos mediante una carretera que salva un cauce con un viaducto. Esta innovación ha presentado sus fortalezas obvias, pero también debilidades (muchas relacionadas con la implementación práctica), ofreciendo en conjunto una gran oportunidad de aprendizaje mucho más completa, en la opinión de los autores, que el concepto clásico.
Análisis, diseño y desarrollo de un juego educativo para ordenador sobre enfermedades tropicales y salud internacional: una herramienta docente más de apoyo al profesor.
Authors: Giménez Pardo Consuelo , Pagés Arévalo Carmen , Martínez Herráiz José Javier
Published: December 2017

Se lleva a cabo el análisis, diseño y desarrollo de un juego virtual educativo dirigido a estudiantes universitarios como instrumento para mejorar la difusión de conceptos relacionados con Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Internacional en un entorno fácil y ameno. Se considera una herramienta de aprendizaje con posibilidad de incorporarla a las plataformas virtuales habituales. Se han trabajado cuestiones técnicas y pedagógicas, desarrollando del juego en un entorno científico, difundiendo los contenidos a través de tecnología puntera pero accesible.

El diseño simula un juego de tablero con dado, casillas de avance, parada y retroceso con diferentes niveles de dificultad (baja, media y alta) y preguntas al azar que el jugador debe responder correctamente para avanzar. Los niveles de dificultad hacen que el juego sea desafiante, pero no desesperante. Al final del recorrido se recibe información útil sobre el tema del juego. Está diseñado para ser multi-usuario (hasta cuatro jugadores), bilingüe (Inglés / Español, con posibilidad de ampliar a otros idiomas) y dos opciones de aplicación: “stand-alone” e “Internet”. El juego está siendo  ampliado para su uso en móviles.

La adaptación a diferentes áreas de conocimiento sólo implica cambiar el interfaz de usuario y los criterios de selección de las preguntas.
El sistema modular de enseñanza: una alternativa curricular de educación superior universitaria en México
Authors: Padilla Arias Alberto
Published: December 2017

El trabajo pretende, en un espacio sumamente breve, exponer las características de nuestro modelo educativo, denominado Sistema Modular, en particular por lo que hace a su estructura curricular basado en objetos de transformación, concepto de origen piagetiano, que a su vez se amalgamó con los conceptos de interdisciplina y grupo operativo. Se describe todo ello en el contexto de tres etapas históricas: la emergente o proceso instituyente, la formativa o proceso de institucionalización y su consolidación, con algunas reflexiones en torno a un balance general del sistema en la actualidad. Se hace necesario destacar que la Universidad que dio origen a este modelo en México, es la Unidad Xochimilco de la Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana. Es también conveniente señalar, que el Sistema Modular cuenta con 37 años de evolución y se encuentra en la encrucijada de asociar, al modelo, las TIC, punta de lanza de la revolución tecnológica en materia de información y comunicación. Finamente destacamos que el modelo se ha difundido en algunas universidades hermanas de nuestro País de Centro y Sudamérica, con relativo éxito.

 

 
Andamiando el desarrollo de los Grados de Magisterio: la cooperación educativa en el contexto universitario
Authors: García García Mayka , Cotrina García Manuel J.
Published: December 2017

 La cooperación educativa inunda el lenguaje universitario desde la llegada del Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior. A través de una propuesta de investigación-acción colaborativa, un conjunto de profesores y profesoras implicados en los grados de magisterio ha analizado la esencia y el sentido de su prácticas pedagógicas cooperativas. El proyecto ha supuesto un ejercicio de desarrollo profesional que ha abierto espacios de colaboración, reflexión y acción conjunta, es decir, un andamiaje al desarrollo de los nuevos grados. Este artículo presenta el análisis del sentido de prácticas cooperativas en la universidad, así como las luces y sombras en su práctica que emergen de nuestros debates y aprendizajes compartidos.

 

 
Propuestas para un nuevo modelo de Prácticum en la Facultad de Educación de Toledo
Authors: Elwes Aguilar Olga , Fernández Muñoz Ricardo , Rivas Rebaque Begoña
Published: December 2017

Con la entrada en vigor de los nuevos Planes de Estudio para las especialidades de Maestro en Educación Infantil y Primaria según el Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior, nos hallamos ante el reto de convertir los ya extintos títulos de Diplomados en Magisterio (con sus correspondientes especialidades) en el marco actual de Grado. La transformación no sólo ha sido de implementación de un curso académico más, sino que ha supuesto una revisión, reconfiguración y replanteamiento de materias (asignaturas/ áreas). Desde el punto de vista de las prácticas de enseñanza para la capacitación en la futura profesión, se han experimentado igualmente cambios motivados fundamentalmente por la constatación de la relevancia de la necesaria conexión de teoría y práctica dentro de la formación inicial del profesorado.

Nuestro objetivo en este trabajo es triple: en primer lugar y tras una breve justificación, abordamos la perspectiva de la gestión y organización del nuevo Practicum en la Facultad de Educación de Toledo, de otro lado, presentamos un modelo de seguimiento docente del mismo desde un enfoque semipresencial, a través del campus virtual de la Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha y, finalmente, participamos algunas reflexiones sobre la experiencia del alumnado como agente y principal protagonista  de este dinámico proceso de aprendizaje. 

 

 