bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drug-induced Physeal Abnormalities in Preclinical Toxicity Studies
Authors: Frazier Kendall S.
Published: June 2017

Most toxic physeal changes are characterized microscopically by altered chondrocyte development, proliferation, or maturation in the growth plate and eventually result in disordered appositional bone growth. Many therapeutic drugs directly or indirectly target proteins involved in chondrocytic differentiation and maturation pathways, so toxic physeal injury has become increasingly common in preclinical toxicologic pathology. While physeal dysplasia has been associated with several different drug classes including bisphosphonates, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor inhibitors, fibroblast growth factor receptor inhibitors, transforming growth factor beta receptor inhibitors, and vascular targeting agents, physeal changes often share similar morphologic features including thickening and disorganization of the hypertrophic layer, increased numbers of hypertrophic chondrocytes, altered mineralization of endochondral ossification, and/or increased thickness of subphyseal bone. Knowledge of genetic and nutritional diseases affecting bone growth has been important in helping to determine which specific target drugs may be affecting that could result in toxic physeal lesions. A pathophysiologic mechanism for most physeal toxicants has been determined in detail using a variety of investigative techniques. However, due to the signaling cross talk and the tight regulation required for chondrocyte maturation in the physis, several growth factor pathways are likely to be affected simultaneously with pharmacologic disruption of physeal homeostasis and inhibition of one factor necessary for chondrocyte function often affects others.
Application of genetic algorithm-support vector regression model to predict damping of cantilever beam with particle damper
Authors: Xia Zhaowang , Mao Kaijie , Wei Shoubei , Wang Xuetao , Fang Yuanyuan , Yang Shaopu
Published: June 2017

The performance of particle damper is strongly nonlinear, and the energy dissipation is derived from a combination of mechanisms including plastic collisions and friction between the particles and the walls and between the particles themselves. An optimized support vector regression model is built to predict the damping ratio of cantilever beam with particle damper. Then, the optimal parameters are adopted to construct the support vector regression models. In addition, genetic algorithm is used to select the optimal variables so as to improve the predictive ability of the models. Cross validation combined with support vector regression is used in this research and is compared with the genetic algorithm-support vector regression method. Genetic algorithm-support vector regression as research object to compare with the combination of cross validation and support vector regression. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed genetic algorithm-support vector regression model provides better prediction capability. Therefore, the genetic algorithm-support vector regression model is proven to be an effective approach to predict the damping ratio of cantilever beam with particle damper.
Experimentally validated dynamic results of a relaxation-type quarter car suspension with an adjustable damper
Authors: Thite AN , Coleman F , Doody M , Fisher N
Published: June 2017

Models of varying degree of sophistication are used in vehicle dynamic studies. For ride comfort, Kelvin–Voigt arrangement is preferred and for impact harshness analysis, a relaxation-type suspension model, Zener or Maxwell type is used. The nonconsideration of relaxation-type models in ride comfort studies can result in significant errors for frequencies below ∼30 Hz. The object of the paper is to show the influence of the series stiffness on the effective suspension damping both experimentally and numerically. A frequency domain analysis of two-degree of freedom Zener quarter car model is performed to find the complex relation between effective damping coefficient and the limiting value of damping ratio for a given series stiffness. The nonlinear relation between shock absorber damping and the natural frequencies is clearly illustrated. A novel four-post rig set-up is used to validate the results by measuring transmissibilities, giving damping ratios for varying shock absorber settings. A closed form solution, based on a simplified partial model, of optimal damping coefficient, which is a nonlinear function of stiffnesses, shows good agreement with numerical simulations of the complete system. The nonlinearities in shock absorbers also influence the outcome. These findings can be a great value at early design stage.
Teaching and Learning Biology With iPads for High School Students With Disabilities
Authors: Ok Min Wook , Hughes Joan E. , Boklage Audrey
Published: June 2017

This descriptive case study examined the first year of iPad-supported teaching and learning in a high school modified biology class. Results revealed that the iPad practices replaced, amplified, and transformed pedagogy and learning, but they predominantly supported general learning or instructional practices with little science specificity. A strong technology vision and collaborative planning with teachers were strong supports for iPad integration. The teacher’s deep pedagogical and content knowledge and positive attitude toward using iPads were significant in persevering through barriers to integration, such as increased time to plan lessons, little professional learning, and technical difficulties. While iPads effectively supported learning in this special education classroom, the discussion suggests for more content-focused iPad integration and deeper technological content knowledge among teachers.
Exploration of Factors in the Early Collaboration Phase Affecting Virtual Groups’ Overall Collaborative Learning Experiences
Authors: Liu Ying-Hsiu , Kwon Kyungbin , Johnson LaShaune P.
Published: June 2017

Collaboration skills have become a critical competency for health care providers. This study aims to understand how individual student characteristics and group process in the early phase of group development are associated with students’ perception of their overall collaborative learning experience. The study was conducted in two consecutive semesters with a total of 86 health sciences undergraduate students participating. The results show that quality communication in the beginning phase of group development and health-care work experiences are two major factors associated with students’ perception of overall collaborative learning. The findings confirm the importance of the initial phase of collaboration. Faculty should deliberately design collaborative learning experiences that offer orientation in enhancing the interactions among group members and allow quality communication to proliferate.
Tolerance for Intimate Partner Violence: A Comparative Study of Chinese and American College Students
Authors: Li Luye , Sun Ivan Y. , Button Deeanna M.
Published: June 2017

Tolerance for intimate partner violence (IPV) is an important correlate of interpersonal violent behavior. Although a large amount of research on IPV has been conducted in the West and a growing amount of studies on IPV in Chinese societies has been observed in recent years, only a small number of studies have analyzed IPV-related attitudes from an international and comparative perspective. Drawing on survey data collected from 1,178 college students from two Chinese and two U.S. universities, this study empirically compared and contrasted factors influencing students’ levels of tolerance for IPV. The results showed that Chinese college students had a higher level of tolerance for IPV than their U.S. counterparts. Regional variation was only detected in China with students in Beijing having a greater tolerance for IPV than students in Hong Kong. Both Chinese and U.S. students’ tolerance for IPV was affected primarily by their attitudes toward gender roles and gender-based violence and perceptions of IPV causes.
Dripping behavior of vertical burning thermally thin PMMA with different spacings to wall
Authors: Hui Zhu , Guoqing Zhu , Yunji Gao , Zhongri Hu
Published: June 2017

Experiments were carried out to study the dripping behavior of vertical burning thermally thin poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) with different spacings between the wall and PMMA. The dripping behavior was studied by infrared video image analysis with spacings of 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, and 25 mm. As the spacing increased, the dripping time and mass and burnout growth distance first increased and then decreased. The critical value was observed at the 13 mm case. The dripping behavior is assumed to correspond to the net heat flux to the surface, extensional viscosity, and gravitational force of melting PMMA. After the dripping, the pyrolysis and burnout spread rates become asymptotically equal.

In this study, the effects of spacing between the wall and fuels on the dripping behavior were investigated for the first time using uniform PMMA samples with 200 mm height, 50 mm width, and 2 mm thickness.
Conceptual design and analysis of hybrid airships with renewable energy
Authors: Zhang Lanchuan , Lv Mingyun , Meng Junhui , Du Huafei
Published: June 2017

An increasing focus on hybrid airships and the developments in renewable energies has allowed a methodology for conceptual design and analysis to be described. After a model presented and its aerodynamic characteristics obtained through a computational fluid dynamics method, two types of hybrid airships, solar powered at high altitudes and hydrogen powered for cargo, are demonstrated using a wing loading as their independent variable. Then the constraints determining the design point are presented. Parametric estimates of two types for component mass are then illustrated on distribution diagrams. And the sensitivity of wing loading and its effects on hybrid airships are discussed.
Book Review: Nisid Hajari, Midnight’s Furies: The Deadly Legacy of India’s Partition
Authors: Jha Swati
Published: June 2017

Nisid Hajari, Midnight’s Furies: The Deadly Legacy of India’s Partition. Gurgaon: Penguin, 2015, xx + 328 pp., ₹599.
Application of Whole Genome Sequencing Technology in the Investigation of Genetic Causes of Fetal, Perinatal, and Early Infant Death
Authors: Armes Jane E , Williams Mark , Price Gareth , Wallis Tristan , Gallagher Renee , Matsika Admire , Joy Christopher , Galea Melanie , Gardener Glenn , Leach Rick , Swagemakers Sigrid MA , Tearle Rick , Stubbs Andrew , Harraway James , van der Spek Peter J , Venter Deon J
Published: June 2017

Death in the fetal, perinatal, and early infant age-group has a multitude of causes, a proportion of which is presumed to be genetic. Defining a specific genetic aberration leading to the death is problematic at this young age, due to limited phenotype–genotype correlation inherent in the underdeveloped phenotype, the inability to assess certain phenotypic traits after death, and the problems of dealing with rare disorders. In this study, our aim was to increase the yield of identification of a defined genetic cause of an early death. Therefore, we employed whole genome sequencing and bioinformatic filtering techniques as a comprehensive, unbiased genetic investigation into 16 fetal, perinatal, and early infant deaths, which had undergone a full autopsy. A likely genetic cause was identified in two cases (in genes; COL2A1 and RYR1) and a speculative genetic cause in a further six cases (in genes: ARHGAP35, BBS7, CASZ1, CRIM1, DHCR7, HADHB, HAPLN3, HSPG2, MYO18B, and SRGAP2). This investigation indicates that whole genome sequencing is a significantly enabling technology when determining genetic causes of early death.
The burden of multiple sclerosis 2015: Methods of data collection, assessment and analysis of costs, quality of life and symptoms
Authors: Kobelt Gisela , Eriksson Jennifer , Phillips Glenn , Berg Jenny
Published: June 2017

Introduction:

This article describes the methods used to perform this large European-wide burden-of-illness study on multiple sclerosis (MS) using individual patient data.

Methods:

The study collected all MS-related resource consumption, workforce participation, prevalent disease symptoms and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Patients were recruited by national patient associations and, after informed consent, completed a specific questionnaire either on-line or on paper. Analyses were performed by country as well as for the study overall. Costs were estimated from the societal perspective, using publicly available unit costs and reported in national currencies and in EUR 2015 adjusted for purchasing power parity. The results are reported by disease severity groups according to self-assessed Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) (mild, moderate, severe) and by EDSS point to highlight the development of costs as disability progresses.

Results:

A total of 16,808 patients in 16 countries participated in the study: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.

Conclusion:

This study, endorsed by the European Platform of MS Societies, provides up-to-date information on costs and expands the previously available information on HRQoL and symptoms.
New insights into the burden and costs of multiple sclerosis in Europe: Results for Belgium
Authors: Dubois Benedicte , Kobelt Gisela , Berg Jenny , Capsa Daniela , Gannedahl Mia ,   The European Multiple Sclerosis Platform
Published: June 2017

Introduction:

In order to estimate the value of interventions in multiple sclerosis (MS) – where lifetime costs and outcomes cannot be observed – outcome data have to be combined with costs. This requires that cost data be regularly updated.

Objectives and methods:

This study is part of a cross-sectional retrospective study in 16 countries collecting data on resource consumption and work capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and prevalent symptoms for patients with MS. Descriptive analyses are presented by level of severity, from the societal perspective, in EUR 2015.

Results:

A total of 1856 patients (mean age: 54 years) participated in Belgium; 66% were below retirement age, and of these, 44% were employed. Employment was related to disease severity, and MS affected productivity at work in 85% of the patients. Overall, 95% and 72% of the patients experienced fatigue and cognitive difficulties, respectively, as a problem. Mean utility and annual costs were 0.703 and €26,400 at Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 0–3, 0.478 and €45,300 at EDSS 4–6.5, and 0.193 and €62,000 at EDSS 7–9. The mean cost of a relapse was estimated to be €3000.

Conclusion:

This study provides current data on MS in Belgium that are important for development of health policies and for estimating the value of current and future treatments.
New insights into the burden and costs of multiple sclerosis in Europe: Results for France
Authors: Lebrun-Frenay Christine , Kobelt Gisela , Berg Jenny , Capsa Daniela , Gannedahl Mia ,   The European Multiple Sclerosis Platform
Published: June 2017

Introduction:

To estimate the value of interventions in multiple sclerosis (MS) – where lifetime costs and outcomes cannot be observed – outcome data have to be combined with costs. This requires that cost data be regularly updated.

Objectives and methods:

This study is part of a cross-sectional retrospective study in 16 countries collecting data on resource consumption and work capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and prevalent symptoms for patients with MS. Descriptive analyses are presented by level of severity, in the societal perspective, in EUR 2015.

Results:

A total of 491 patients (mean age 47 years) participated; 82% were below retirement age, and of these 56% were employed. Employment was related to disease severity, and MS affected productivity at work for 90% of patients. Overall, 95% and 67% of patients experienced fatigue and cognition as a problem, respectively. The mean utility and annual costs were 0.735 and €22,600 at Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 0–3, 0.500 and €38,100 at EDSS 4–6.5, and 0.337 and €48,100 at EDSS 7–9, respectively. The average cost of a relapse was estimated at €2300.

Conclusion:

This study provides current data on MS in France that are important for developments of health policies and to estimate the value of current and future treatments.
New insights into the burden and costs of multiple sclerosis in Europe: Results for Switzerland
Authors: Calabrese Pasquale , Kobelt Gisela , Berg Jenny , Capsa Daniela , Eriksson Jennifer ,   The European Multiple Sclerosis Platform
Published: June 2017

Introduction:

To estimate the value of interventions in multiple sclerosis (MS) – where lifetime costs and outcomes cannot be observed – outcome data have to be combined with costs. This requires that cost data be regularly updated.

Objectives and methods:

This study is part of a cross-sectional retrospective study in 16 countries collecting data on resource consumption and work capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and prevalent symptoms for patients with MS. Descriptive analyses are presented by level of severity, from the societal perspective, in CHF 2015.

Results:

A total of 721 patients (mean age 48 years) participated in Switzerland; 90% were below retirement age, and of these, 65% were employed. Employment was related to disease severity, and MS affected productivity at work for 69% of patients. Overall, 93% and 64% of patients experienced fatigue and cognition as a problem, respectively. The mean utility and annual costs were 0.799 and 29,600CHF at Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 0–3, 0.614 and 66,800CHF at EDSS 4–6.5 and 0.348 and 110,800CHF at EDSS 7–9, respectively. The mean cost of a relapse was estimated at 7600CHF.

Conclusion:

This study provides current data on MS in Switzerland that are important for development of health policies and to estimate the value of current and future treatments.
New insights into the burden and costs of multiple sclerosis in Europe: Results for the United Kingdom
Authors: Thompson Alan , Kobelt Gisela , Berg Jenny , Capsa Daniela , Eriksson Jennifer , Miller David ,   The European Multiple Sclerosis Platform
Published: June 2017

Introduction:

In order to estimate the value of interventions in multiple sclerosis (MS) – where lifetime costs and outcomes cannot be observed – outcome data have to be combined with costs. This requires that cost data be regularly updated.

Objectives and methods:

This study is part of a cross-sectional retrospective study in 16 countries collecting data on resource consumption and work capacity, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and prevalent symptoms for patients with MS. Descriptive analyses are presented by level of disability, from the societal perspective, in EUR (2015).

Results:

A total of 779 patients (mean age = 57 years) participated; 72% were below retirement age and of these, 36% were employed. Employment was related to disease severity, and MS affected productivity at work for 84% of patients. Overall, 96% and 72% of the patients experienced fatigue and cognition as a problem. Mean utility and annual costs were 0.735 and 11,400GBP at Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) = 0–3, 0.534 and 22,700GBP at EDSS = 4–6.5, and 0.135 and 36,500GBP at EDSS = 7–9. The mean cost of a relapse was estimated at 790GBP.

Conclusion:

This study illustrates the burden of MS on UK patients and provides current data on MS that are important for development of health policies.
Blog fiction and its successors
Authors: Segar Emma
Published: June 2017

The appearance of the blogging platform created a new epistolary form for writers, with an inbuilt means of instant publication. Blog fiction could be serialized in real time, distributed between multiple online spaces and supplemented in commentary sections by other bloggers, real and fictional. Bad Influences (Segar, 2013a) was an experimental blog fiction making narrative use of these distributions in time, space and authorship (Walker Rettberg, 2004) as well as many other formal blog characteristics, including character avatars, interactive quizzes, aggregated feeds and blog design elements. As the story progressed, it became apparent that the processes of writing, reading and interacting, both within and outside of the text, created relations between the writer/creator and readers/participants who were an essential factor in the realization of the narrative. This led to the conclusion that blog fiction has a relational poetics. Coined by van Rooden (2011) after Bourriaud’s Relational Aesthetics (2002), this term is used here to describe a narrative process that relies on the human relations surrounding the text as much as on the text itself. Similarly relational forms of fiction are developing on the newer social networks, particularly Twitter, and transmediality holds yet more potential.
Survey of Hand and Upper Extremity Injuries Among Rock Climbers
Authors: Nelson Clayton E. , Rayan Ghazi M. , Judd Dustin I. , Ding Kai , Stoner Julie A.
Published: June 2017

Background: Rock climbing first evolved as a sport in the late 18th century. With its growing popularity, the number of rock climbing–related injuries has potential to increase, spurring a rise in the number of articles associated with it. Despite the available literature, there remains a paucity of information about upper extremity injuries sustained by rock climbers, and no studies to date have focused on gender-specific injuries. Methods: A 24-question online survey was distributed to rock climbers about upper extremity injuries sustained during rock climbing. Statistical analysis was used to study association between participants’ demographics and injuries. Results: A total of 397 participants responded to the survey. Mean age was 32.5 years with males comprising 85%. No significant differences in demographics or climbing behaviors were found between males and females. Ninety percent of participants reported sustaining an upper extremity injury. Fingers were the most common injury followed by shoulder/arm and elbow/forearm. Our study found females to be more likely to report a rock climbing–related injury, and more likely to undergo surgery for it. Conclusion: Female rock climbers were significantly more likely to report a shoulder/upper arm injury and were also more likely to report undergoing surgery compared with males, where these differences were not due to age or climbing behaviors. Further investigation is warranted into the association between shoulder injuries and female athletes to determine how the gender differences relate to extent of injury as well as health service utilization behaviors.
Latino Health Behavior: An Exploratory Analysis of Health Risk and Health Protective Factors in a Community Sample
Authors: Gast Julie , Peak Terry , Hunt Anne
Published: June 2017

Background. Demographic and cultural factors have been found to affect health behaviors in Latinos in both positive and negative ways, but few studies have examined the impact of culture and adherence to machismo norms on health behaviors in a mixed gender community sample of Latinos. Of particular interest was if positive ( caballerismo) or negative aspects of machismo would affect Latino health behaviors. Methods. A paper survey was given to a community sample of Latinos in northern Utah to explore the variables that affect both health promoting and health risking behaviors in this cross-sectional study (final N = 144 participants). Results. Life satisfaction, self-reported health, health insurance status, language preference, and gender were significantly related to overall health score. Surprisingly, the cultural variables of fatalism, machismo, and caballerismo were nonsignificant in all analyses. Conclusion. Access to health care mediated by health insurance and self-reported health status may be the most effective way to encourage Latinos to engage in protective health behaviors.
Renal dysfunction and chronic kidney disease in ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack: A population-based study
Authors: Hayden Derek , McCarthy Christine , Akijian Layan , Callaly Elizabeth , Ní Chróinín Danielle , Horgan Gillian , Kyne Lorraine , Duggan Joseph , Dolan Eamon , O’ Rourke Killian , Williams David , Murphy Sean , O’Meara Yvonne , Kelly Peter J
Published: June 2017

Background and purpose

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 for ≥3 months, chronic kidney disease (CKD)) in ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) is unknown, as estimates have been based on single-point estimates of renal function. Studies investigating the effect of renal dysfunction (eGFR < 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2, renal dysfunction) on post-stroke outcomes are limited to hospitalized cohorts and have provided conflicting results.

Methods

We investigated rates, determinants and outcomes of renal dysfunction in ischemic stroke and TIA in the North Dublin Population Stroke Study. We also investigate the persistence of renal dysfunction in 90-day survivors to determine the prevalence of CKD. Ascertainment included hot and cold pursuit using multiple overlapping sources. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox proportional hazards modeling.

Results

In 547 patients (ischemic stroke in 76.4%, TIA in 23.6%), the mean eGFR at presentation was 63.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 (SD 22.1). Renal dysfunction was observed in 44.6% (244/547). Among 90-day survivors, 31.2% (139/446) met criteria for CKD. After adjusting for age and stroke severity, eGFR < 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (hazard ratio 2.53, p = 0.01) independently predicted 28-day fatality but not at two years. Poor post-stroke functional outcome (Modified Rankin Scale 3–5) at two years was more common in those with renal dysfunction (52.5% vs. 20.6%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age, stroke severity and pre-stroke disability, renal dysfunction (OR 2.17, p = 0.04) predicted poor functional outcome.

Conclusion

Renal dysfunction and CKD are common in ischemic stroke and TIA. Renal dysfunction is associated with considerable post-stroke morbidity and mortality. Further studies are needed to investigate if modifiable mechanisms underlie these associations.
Raptor Functional Diversity in Scrubland-Agricultural Landscapes of Northern-Central-Mexican Dryland Environments
Authors: Tinajero Romeo , Barragán Felipe , Chapa-Vargas Leonardo
Published: June 2017

Raptor birds have widespread distributions in different environments throughout the planet. Yet, they are highly sensitive to landscape disturbances. We studied raptors in northern-central Mexico at the Highland plateau of San Luis Potosí and Zacatecas, in three landscape types that differed in proportion of agriculture. Our main goal was to determine whether small proportion of agriculture at the landscape level influences species richness, ecological diversity, and functional diversity. We conducted raptor road surveys during 1 year, from April 2015 to February 2016. We registered a total of 332 birds belonging to 14 diurnal raptor species. The most abundant species were Cathartes aura (turkey vulture), Falco sparverius (American kestrel), Caracara cheriway (crested caracara), and Buteo jamaicensis (red-tailed hawk). Three species: Aquila chrysaetos (golden eagle), Pandion haliaetus (osprey), and Falco columbarius (merlin) were exclusively recorded in the less-degraded, scrubland landscapes. However, no significant differences on average diversity were found between landscape types. Contrastingly, scrubland landscapes had the highest average functional diversity, followed by mixed landscapes, and then by agricultural landscapes, with significant differences in functional diversity between scrubland and agricultural landscapes. Overall, observed species richness in the study area formed four functional groups. These groups change and loose species as proportion of agriculture in the landscape progressively increases. The results suggested that the contribution of species richness to functional diversity, both for scrubland landscapes, which have the greatest functional diversity, and agricultural landscapes, which hold the smallest functional diversity, is important because there is substantial functional redundancy among landscape types.
Advanced neuroimaging of carbon monoxide poisoning
Authors: Varrassi Marco , Di Sibio Alessandra , Gianneramo Camilla , Perri Marco , Saltelli Giorgia , Splendiani Alessandra , Masciocchi Carlo
Published: June 2017

Carbon monoxide (CO) inhalation is nowadays the most common cause of fatal poisoning worldwide. CO binds to haemoglobin 230–270 times more avidly than oxygen, thus leading to formation of carboxyhaemoglobin with subsequent reduction of tissue oxygenation. Brain is mainly affected due to its high oxygen requirement. Up to two-thirds of patients who survive the acute phase of this pathology present a delayed leukoencephalopathy, usually in a period ranging from two to 40 days. White matter damage closely relates to long-term prognosis of these patients. On the other hand CO seems to play a fundamental role as a possible neuro-protective agent in ischaemic stroke. Diagnostic imaging, with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging, especially magnetic resonance spectroscopy, is very useful to depict the presence and extension of this pathology, in both acute and late phase. Nevertheless, a correlation of imaging studies with clinical history and laboratory data is fundamental to perform the correct diagnosis. The purpose of this article is to highlight the imaging features of brain CO poisoning in acute and late phase, describing a case report of a 56-year-old man found unconscious at home.
Stroke-like migraine attacks after radiation therapy syndrome: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Singh Achint K , Tantiwongkosi Bundhit , Moise Anna-Marieta , Altmeyer Wilson B
Published: June 2017

A 26-year-old female presented with vision loss accompanied by migraine-like headaches. A contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was performed which revealed findings suggestive of stroke-like migraine attacks after radiation therapy (SMART) syndrome. SMART syndrome is a delayed complication of brain radiation characterized by neurologic symptoms including migraine-like headaches, seizures, and hemispheric impairment. The purpose of this article is to make the readers aware of this rare complication of brain irradiation. Appropriate diagnosis of SMART syndrome is essential to avoid invasive tests.
Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the assessment of choroid plexus aging
Authors: Alicioglu Banu , Yilmaz Guliz , Tosun Ozgur , Bulakbasi Nail
Published: June 2017

Recent studies have pointed out dysfunction and histopathological changes of the choroid plexuses (CPs) with aging. This paper reviews apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of the CPs for age-related changes. All the brain MR images of the patients between January 2013 and June 2014 in our Radiology Department were retrospectively investigated. Patients with major cranial abnormalities (brain tumors, hyperacute or acute ischemia, developmental anomalies, hemorrhage, hydrocephaly) were excluded. Diffusion-weighted images were obtained at the parameter values of b = 1000 s/mm2 in the axial plane. The transverse diameters of the lateral ventricles (LVs) and ADC values of both CPs were measured. Brain MRIs of 202 individuals, 97 men (48%), 105 women (52%), were studied. There were statistically significant positive correlations between the ADC values of CP and patient ages. (Right CP: r = 0.623; p < 0.05. Left CP: r = 0.654; p < 0.05). There were positive correlations between LV diameters and age ( r = 0.624, p < 0.05 for the right LV; r = 0.621, p < 0.05 for the left LV). The ADC values of age groups significantly differed ( p < 0.05); the ≥61-year-old group was significantly higher compared to younger individuals. There is a progressive increase of water diffusivity in the CPs during aging. ADC values should be considered as a neuroimaging quantitative biomarker in normal aging-dementia syndromes.
Factors Affecting the Outcomes of Arthroscopically Repaired Traumatic Vertical Longitudinal Medial Meniscal Tears
Authors: Uzun Erdal , Misir Abdulhamit , Kizkapan Turan Bilge , Ozcamdalli Mustafa , Akkurt Soner , Guney Ahmet
Published: June 2017

Background:

Although numerous studies have assessed arthroscopic medial meniscal repairs, few studies have focused on factors affecting outcomes of vertical longitudinal and bucket-handle repairs.

Purpose:

To evaluate the factors affecting clinical outcomes of arthroscopically repaired traumatic vertical longitudinal and bucket-handle medial meniscal tears.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A total of 223 patients underwent arthroscopic repair for medial meniscal tears between 2007 and 2012; 140 patients had isolated tears or concurrent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, and 80 patients (76 men, 4 women; mean age, 29.1 years; range, 18-49 years) had vertical longitudinal tears and were included in the study. Pre- and postoperative functional status was assessed using physical examinations with Lysholm and International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores. Barrett criteria were used for clinical assessment of meniscal healing, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used as the radiologic assessment method. The effects of tear location, length, chronicity, and type; suturing technique; concurrent ACL reconstruction; and patient age, sex, and smoking habits were also investigated.

Results:

The mean follow-up period was 51.2 ± 9.4 months (range, 34-85 months). The mean Lysholm and IKDC scores improved at final follow-up (both Ps <.001). According to clinical scores, Barrett criteria, and MRI, failure was noted in 12 patients (15%). There were no significant differences in age, tear length, tear type, concurrent ACL rupture, suturing technique, or location of the meniscal repair between the success and failure groups. Failure rates were higher for red-white zone tears than for red-red zone tears (10/30, 33.3% vs 2/50, 4%; P = .004). Tear chronicity significantly affected failure rates. Early repairs had higher healing rates than late repairs (100% vs 73.4%; P = .008). Failure rates were higher for smokers than for nonsmokers (9/24, 37.5% vs 3/56, 5.3%; P = .008).

Conclusion:

Peripheral tears and early repairs have better outcomes and patient satisfaction. Smoking adversely affects meniscal healing.
Oxynatromicrolite,
(Na,Ca,U)2Ta2O6(O,F), a new member of
the pyrochlore supergroup from Guanpo, Henan Province, China
Authors: Guang Fan , Xiangkun Ge , Guowu Li , Apeng Yu , Ganfu Shen
Published: June 2017

A new mineral species of the pyrochlore supergroup, oxynatromicrolite
(IMA2013-063), (Na,Ca,U)2Ta2O6O, was found
in the No. 309 rare-metal granitic pegmatite vein, Guanpo, Lushi county,
Henan Province, China, which is characterized by tantalum at theB site and
oxygen at the Y site and is Na dominant at the A site. The mineral occurs as
strongly metamict, and mostly euhedral octahedral crystals up to 0.05–0.20
mm across. The measured density of an unheated sample is 6.580(4) g
cm–3, and the calculatedone is 6.506 g cm–3.
Optically, the mineral is isotropic, with an index of refraction 1.999(5)
and a reflectance of 11.88% (470 nm). When heated to 1000°C for 4 hours in
N2, the mineral recrystallizes in the cubic system, with space
group Fd3mand with unit-cell parameters
similar those of other pyrochlore supergroup species: a =
10.420(6) Å, V = 1131.4(2) Å3. Electron
microprobe analyses revealed the following composition of the mineral (in
wt.%): Na2O 5.41, CaO 4.56, UO214.60,
La2O3 0.16, Ce2O3 0.11,
Nd2O3 0.13, PbO 0.62, Ta2O5
61.52, Nb2O5 8.21, Sb2O5 0.23,
TiO2 0.05, SiO2 0.56, SnO2 0.29, F1.04,
H2O 1.50 (calculated to correspond to 0.47 H2O pfu), F≡O
–0.44, sum = 98.53%, which corresponds to the empirical formula
(Na0.99Ca0.46U0.31Pb0.02La0.01H2O0.21)∑2.00(Ta1.58Nb0.35Si0.05Sn0.01Sb0.01)∑2.00O6
(O0.43F0.31H2O0.26)∑1.00,
represented by the simplified formula
(Na,Ca,U)2(Ta,Nb)2O6(O,F).Oxynatromicrolite
crystallized during the late-stage of formation for the No. 309 pegmatite
dyke and is associated with quartz, albite, potassium feldspar, muscovite,
kaolinite, tantalite-Mn, stibiotantalite, pollucite, spodumene,
montebrasite, Hf-rich zircon, a red tourmaline,
polylithionite,trilithionite, luanshiweiite-2M1 (IMA2011-102) and a hydrated derivative of
oxynatromicrolite.
Lymphadenopathy driven by TCR-Vγ8Vδ1 T-cell expansion in FAS-related autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome
Authors: Vavassori Stefano , Galson Jacob D. , Trück Johannes , van den Berg Anke , Tamminga Rienk Y. J. , Magerus-Chatinet Aude , Pellé Olivier , Camenisch Gross Ulrike , Marques Maggio Ewerton , Prader Seraina , Opitz Lennart , Nüesch Ursina , Mauracher Andrea , Volkmer Benjamin , Speer Oliver , Suda Luzia , Röthlisberger Benno , Zimmermann Dieter Robert , Müller Rouven , Diepstra Arjan , Visser Lydia , Haralambieva Eugenia , Neven Bénédicte , Rieux-Laucat Frédéric , Pachlopnik Schmid Jana
Published: June 2017

Key Points

FAS-dependent apoptosis in Vδ1 T cells makes the latter possible culprits for the lymphadenopathy observed in patients with FAS mutations. Rapamycin and methylprednisolone resistance should prompt clinicians to look for Vδ1 T cell proliferation in ALPS-FAS patients.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Role of inhibitors of serine peptidases in protecting Leishmania donovani against the hydrolytic peptidases of sand fly midgut
Authors: Verma Sudha , Das Sushmita , Mandal Abhishek , Ansari Md Yousuf , Kumari Sujata , Mansuri Rani , Kumar Ajay , Singh Ruby , Saini Savita , Abhishek Kumar , Kumar Vijay , Sahoo Ganesh Chandra , Das Pradeep
Published: June 2017

Background

In vector-borne diseases such as leishmaniasis, the sand fly midgut is considered to be an important site for vector-parasite interaction. Digestive enzymes including serine peptidases such as trypsin and chymotrypsin, which are secreted in the midgut are one of the obstacles for Leishmania in establishing a successful infection. The presence of some natural inhibitors of serine peptidases (ISPs) has recently been reported in Leishmania. In the present study, we deciphered the role of these ISPs in the survival of Leishmania donovani in the hostile sand fly midgut environment.

Methods

In silico and co-immunoprecipitation studies were performed to observe the interaction of L. donovani ISPs with trypsin and chymotrypsin. Zymography and in vitro enzyme assays were carried out to observe the inhibitory effect of purified recombinant ISPs of L. donovani (rLdISPs) on trypsin, chymotrypsin and the sand fly midgut peptidases. The expression of ISPs in the amastigote to promastigote transition stages were studied by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot. The role of LdISP on the survival of ISP overexpressed (OE) and ISP knocked down (KD) Leishmania parasites inside the sand fly gut was investigated by in vitro and in vivo cell viability assays.

Results

We identified two ecotin-like genes in L. donovani, LdISP1 and LdISP2. In silico and co-immunoprecipitation results clearly suggest a strong interaction of LdISP molecules with trypsin and chymotrypsin. Zymography and in vitro enzyme assay confirmed the inhibitory effect of rLdISP on trypsin, chymotrypsin and the sand fly midgut peptidases. The expression of LdISP2 was found to be strongly associated with the amastigote to promastigote phase transition. The activities of the digestive enzymes were found to be significantly reduced in the infected sand flies when compared to uninfected. To our knowledge, our study is the first report showing the possible reduction of chymotrypsin activity in L. donovani infected sand flies compared to uninfected. Interestingly, during the early transition stage, substantial killing was observed in ISP2 knocked down (ISP2KD) parasites compared to wild type (WT), whereas ISP1 knocked down (ISP1KD) parasites remained viable. Therefore, our study clearly indicates that LdISP2 is a more effective inhibitor of serine peptidases than LdISP1.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the lack of ISP2 is detrimental to the parasites during the early transition from amastigotes to promastigotes. Moreover, the results of the present study demonstrated for the first time that LdISP2 has an important role in the inhibition of peptidases and promoting L. donovani survival inside the Phlebotomus argentipes midgut.
Rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis synovial fluids stimulate prolactin production by macrophages
Authors: Tang Man Wai , Garcia Samuel , Fernandez Beatriz Malvar , Gerlag Danielle M , Tak Paul-Peter , Reedquist Kris A
Published: June 2017

Prolactin (PRL) is a neuroendocrine hormone that can promote inflammation. We examined the synovial tissue and fluid levels of PRL in patients with inflammatory arthritis, PRL expression in differentiated Mϕs from patients with arthritis and from healthy donors, and the effects of different stimuli on PRL production by Mϕs. PRL levels were measured in paired synovial fluid (SF) and peripheral blood of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA, n = 19), psoriatic arthritis (PsA, n = 11), and gout (n = 11). Synovial-tissue PRL mRNA expression was measured by quantitative PCR in patients with RA (n = 25), PsA (n = 11), and gout (n = 12) and in Mϕs differentiated in SF of patients with RA, PsA, other subtypes of spondyloarthritis (SpA), and gout. Synovial-tissue PRL mRNA expression correlated significantly with clinical disease parameters in patients with RA and PsA, including erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR, r = 0.424; P = 0.049) and disease activity score evaluated in 28 joints (DAS28, r = 0.729; P = 0.017). Synovial-tissue PRL expression was similar in RA, PsA, and gout. PRL mRNA expression was detected in monocyte-derived Mϕs from patients with RA and was significantly higher (P ≤ 0.01) in Mϕs differentiated in pooled SF from patients with RA and PsA compared with SpA or gout. PRL production by Mϕ differentiation in the SF from patients with RA was not further regulated by stimulation with CD40L, IgG, LPS, or TNF. PRL is produced locally in the synovium of patients with inflammatory arthritis. The production of PRL by Mϕs was increased by unknown components of RA and PsA SF, where it could contribute to disease progression.
Reducing drilling risk using advanced depth imaging: A land case study
Authors: Hermant Olivier , Al Maamari Abdullah , Hassan Hany , Ng Jack , Al Maani Sulaim
Published: June 2017

Accurately positioning wells with respect to faults is critical. This is especially true for appraisal or development wells. Depending on the reservoir structure, wells may need to be as close as feasibly possible to faults. In such situations, the imaging and positioning of the faults are the key success factors and they rely heavily on the quality of the seismic imaging and interpretation. We found out how advanced depth imaging on a land data set leads to reduced drilling risk by improving the lateral positioning of the faults. We will use a real example of a well that was positioned using a legacy narrow-azimuth data set image and unexpectedly reached a fault. We will explain how using full-azimuth data and updating the depth-velocity model produces a prestack depth-migrated (PreSDM) image that gives a more accurate interpretation of the fault. A postmortem analysis of the well indicates that using interpreted horizons and faults from the new PreSDM volume provided a correct fit with the well data. We evaluated some examples of full-waveform inversion results on the same data set, which may lead to near-future improvements in the resolution of the depth-velocity model and the corresponding migrated image.
Staff experiences and perceptions of working with in-patients who are suicidal: qualitative analysis
Authors: Awenat Yvonne , Peters Sarah , Shaw-Nunez Emma , Gooding Patricia , Pratt Daniel , Haddock Gillian
Published: June 2017

Background

Suicidal behaviour is frequent in psychiatric in-patients and much staff time and resources are devoted to assessing and managing suicide risk. However, little is known about staff experiences of working with in-patients who are suicidal.

Aims

To investigate staff experiences of working with in-patients who are suicidal.

Method

Qualitative study guided by thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with mental health staff with experience of psychiatric in-patient care.

Results

Twenty Staff participated. All had encountered in-patient suicide deaths or attempts. Three key themes were identified: (a) experiences of suicidality, (b) conceptualising suicidality and (c) talking about suicide.

Conclusions

Suicidal behaviour in psychiatric wards has a large impact on staff feelings, practice and behaviour. Staff felt inadequately equipped to deal with such behaviours, with detrimental consequences for patients and themselves. Organisational support is lacking. Training and support should extend beyond risk assessment to improving staff skills in developing therapeutic interactions with in-patients who are suicidal.
A reporter mouse model forin vivotracing andin vitromolecular studies of melanocytic lineage cells and their diseases
Authors: Crawford Melissa , Leclerc Valerie , Dagnino Lina
Published: June 2017

Alterations in melanocytic lineage cells give rise to a plethora of distinct human diseases, including neurocristopathies, cutaneous pigmentation disorders, loss of vision and hearing, as well as melanoma. Understanding the ontogeny and biology of melanocytic cells, as well as how they interact with their surrounding environment, are key steps in the development of therapies for diseases that involve this cell lineage. Efforts to culture and characterize primary melanocytes from normal or genetically engineered mouse models have at times yielded contrasting observations. This is due, in part, to differences in the conditions used to isolate, purify and culture these cells in individual studies. By breeding ROSAmT/mG and Tyr::CreERT2 mice, we generated animals in which melanocytic lineage cells are identified through expression of green fluorescent protein. We also used defined conditions to systematically investigate the proliferation and migration responses of primary melanocytes on various extracellular matrix (ECM) substrates. Under our culture conditions, mouse melanocytes exhibit doubling times in the range of 10 days, and retain exponential proliferative capacity for 50-60 days. In culture, these melanocytes showed distinct responses to different ECM substrates. Specifically, laminin-332 promoted cell spreading, formation of dendrites, random motility and directional migration. In contrast, low or intermediate concentrations of collagen I promoted adhesion and acquisition of a bipolar morphology, and interfered with melanocyte forward movements. Our systematic evaluation of primary melanocyte responses emphasizes the importance of clearly defining culture conditions for these cells. This, in turn, is essential for the interpretation of melanocyte responses to extracellular cues and to understand the molecular basis of disorders involving the melanocytic cell lineage.