bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formative Evaluation and Complex Health Improvement Initiatives: A Learning System to Improve Theory, Implementation, Support, and Evaluation
Authors: Scott V. C. , Alia K. , Scaccia J. , Ramaswamy R. , Saha S. , Leviton L. , Wandersman A.
Published: August 2019

Sustainable community health improvement often requires the implementation of complex interventions in complex systems. Drawing from the Four Keys to Success frame (theory, implementation, support, and evaluation), this article describes how we used a formative evaluation approach to foster a learning system capable of monitoring and addressing emerging community needs within the Spreading Community Accelerators Through Learning and Evaluation (SCALE) initiative—a national capacity-building effort to support 24 community coalitions’ progress toward a Culture of Health. The formative evaluation approach resulted in critical advancements to the theory, implementation, and nature of supports provided in SCALE. These improvements enabled the SCALE evaluation team to shift from the initial focus on program implementation issues to a greater emphasis on downstream factors (community-level outcomes). The ability of formative evaluation to grapple with the emerging challenges of implementing complex interventions in complex systems makes it particularly valuable for community health improvement initiatives.
Microbiome, Breastfeeding and Public Health Policy in the United States: The Case for Dietary Fiber
Authors: Çavdar Gamze , Papich Theresa , Ryan Elizabeth P
Published: August 2019

An emerging body of literature has highlighted the significance of breastmilk oligosaccharides and dietary fibers in complementary weaning foods for the development of the infant’s microbiome that has both short- and long-term health implications. This review highlights the newborns’ consumption of fiber and oligosaccharides as directly linked to the mother’s diet, and that current dietary recommendations for pregnant mothers in the United States and globally fall short in both addressing the importance of dietary fiber intake for enhancing mother’s health and establishing the developing infant microbiome. Although limited in data, there is suggestion for maternal dietary interventions to include healthy fibers as an effective means of promoting infant health via modification of breast milk composition. This paper argues that there is an urgent need for a two-fold national policy that addresses the significance of fiber in breastfeeding mothers’ diets and modifies the dietary recommendations accordingly, and provides a paid parental leave, which would enable mothers to not only breastfeed for at least six months, but to also effectively follow the dietary recommendations needed to support breast milk quality that is linked to their infants’ health.
Fertility Preservation Using GnRH Agonists: Rationale, Possible Mechanisms, and Explanation of Controversy
Authors: Blumenfeld Zeev
Published: August 2019

The only clinically accepted method of fertility preservation in young women facing gonadotoxic chemo- and/or radiotherapy for malignant or autoimmune diseases is cryopreservation of embryos or unfertilized ova, whereas cryopreservation of ovarian tissue for future reimplantation, or in vitro maturation of follicles, and the use of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) are still considered investigational, by several authorities. Whereas previous publications have raised the fear of GnRHa’s possible detrimental effects in patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have shown that it either improves or does not affect disease-free survival (DFS) in such patients. This review summarizes the pros and cons of GnRHa co-treatment for fertility preservation, suggesting 5 theoretical mechanisms for GnRHa action: (1) simulating the prepubertal hypogonadotropic milieu, (2) direct effect on GnRH receptors, (3) decreased ovarian perfusion, (4) upregulation of an ovarian-protecting molecule such as sphingosine-1-phosphate, and (5) protecting a possible germinative stem cell. We try to explain the reasons for the discrepancy between most publications that support the use of GnRHa for fertility preservation and the minority of publications that did not support its efficiency.
Retrieving how diplomacy writes subjects, space and time: a methodological contribution
Authors: de Orellana Pablo
Published: August 2019

How does diplomacy describe international actors? Diplomatic practices observe, analyse, prioritise and constitute information that is ultimately committed to text. Drawing on post-structuralist approaches to identity, diplomacy and textuality, this paper argues for consideration of the unique role of diplomatic text in constituting the state and especially its representation and understanding of Self and Other. It consequently develops a methodology to empirically analyse how the text of diplomatic communication describes people, places, time, politics, and informs policy. The analytical method proposed adjusts and expands post-structuralist discourse analysis, adapting it to the intertextual study of large collections of diplomatic knowledge production documents. It firstly determines data selection in relation to diplomacy’s own theory. Secondly, it develops an approach to retrieve how any diplomatic text constitutes representations of subjects and their contexts. Thirdly, it follows the development of representations across diplomatic knowledge production, identifying when they come to influence other international actors. This approach is demonstrated in the analysis of America’s 1945–1948 diplomatic road to involvement in Vietnam, showing how diplomacy’s representation of actors were vital to US involvement, and identifying hitherto unconsidered events, descriptions and actors. These analytics contribute to and empirically substantiate understanding of how diplomacy constitutes Self and Other, informs policy and shapes world politics.
Intuitive eating is associated with improved health indicators at 1-year postpartum in women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Quansah Dan Yedu , Gilbert Leah , Gross Justine , Horsch Antje , Puder Jardena J
Published: August 2019

We evaluated the associations between intuitive eating during and after pregnancy with metabolic health at 1-year postpartum in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and in high-risk gestational diabetes mellitus subgroups. One hundred seventeen women who consented and completed the French intuitive eating questionnaire during and after pregnancy were included. We found an association between intuitive eating during and after pregnancy with lower body mass index, weight retention, fasting glucose, and HbA1c at 1-year postpartum in women with gestational diabetes mellitus and in high-risk gestational diabetes mellitus subgroups with overweight/obese or with prediabetes in the postpartum period. Our results suggest that intuitive eating could be an effective intervention for weight and glucose control in women with gestational diabetes mellitus.
The experience of living with restless legs syndrome: A qualitative study
Authors: Harrison Eloise G , Keating Jennifer L , Morgan Prue E
Published: August 2019

Restless legs syndrome is a sensorimotor disorder that significantly affects quality of life. This study explored the experience of people living with restless legs syndrome. Focus groups were analysed thematically resulting in five themes. Participants described disempowerment in managing symptoms, difficulty coping and poor understanding of the condition. Participants tried many therapies with little relief and were unable to monitor treatment effects. Concerns with healthcare services were common. Feeling understood provided validation and empowerment. Healthcare providers can help people with restless legs syndrome by improving restless legs syndrome awareness, providing psychosocial support and education, and assisting people to monitor treatment effects.
CYFRA21-1 tests in the diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer: A meta-analysis
Authors: Fu Lei , Wang Rong , Yin Ling , Shang Xiaopu , Zhang Runtong , Zhang Pengjun
Published: August 2019

Objective:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of soluble fragment of cytokeratin 19 (CYFRA21-1) tests in detecting non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), including squamous cell carcinoma, lung adenocarcinoma, and large cell carcinoma.

Methods:

The relevant studies were identified from PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library before November 2018. Summary estimates for sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and diagnostic odds ratio of CYFRA21-1 tests for the diagnosis of NSCLC were calculated using the random effects model. A summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve was used to assess the overall effectiveness of the test. Meta-DiSc 1.4 and Stata11.0 were applied to the statistical analysis. Publication bias was detected using Egger’s test.

Results:

A total of 22 studies consisting of 7910 NSCLC patients (squamous cell carcinoma/lung adenocarcinoma/large cell carcinoma) and 2630 benign lesions patients that met the inclusion criteria were included. The meta-analysis showed that CYFRA21-1 tests had a relatively high accuracy for squamous cell carcinoma detection and a lower accuracy for lung adenocarcinoma detection. The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, and diagnostic odds ratio of CYFRA21-1 tests for squamous cell carcinoma detection were 0.72 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.70, 0.74), 0.94 (95% CI 0.92, 0.95), 9.73 (95% CI 7.06, 13.40), 0.37 (95% CI 0.29, 0.47), and 27.30 (95% CI 17.68, 42.16), respectively. The area under the SROC curve was 0.9171 (Q* = 0.8500). No publication bias was tested in the squamous cell carcinoma (P = 0.567) and lung adenocarcinoma (P = 0.378) groups.

Conclusions:

CYFRA21-1 tests might be appropriate for detecting squamous cell carcinoma.
Analysis on the Constituents of Branches, Berries, and Leaves of Hippophae rhamnoides L. by UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activities
Authors: Zheng Wen-Hui , Bai Hai-Ying , Han Shu , Bao Fang , Zhang Kai-Xue , Sun Li-Li , Du Hong , Yang Zhi-Gang
Published: August 2019

Sea buckthorn ( Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is a medicinal plant widely distributed in Asia and Europe, containing plentiful bioactive substances. Our research aimed to promote the comprehensive utilization of the branches, leaves, and berries of sea buckthorn. Qualitative analysis of chemical constituents in branches, leaves, and berries of sea buckthorn was conducted by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography accurate mass quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS). As a result, the branch, leaf, and berry samples could be clearly separated in principal component analysis scores plot, and 24 significant markers were found to distinguish these parts by partial least squares regression discrimination analysis in Mass Profiler Professional software. Meanwhile, the compositional similarity of sea buckthorn leaves and branches was higher than that of leaves and berries. In addition, the inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production of different parts in macrophage RAW 264.7 cells was carried out. At the concentration of 10 μg/mL, sea buckthorn extracts showed good anti-inflammatory activities with NO inhibition values from 73% to 98%.
Analysis of Seasonal Variations of the Volatile Constituents in Artemisia princeps (Japanese Mugwort) Leaves by Metabolomic Approach
Authors: Nishidono Yuto , Chiyomatsu Takahiro , Sanuki Kazuyuki , Tezuka Yasuhiro , Tanaka Ken
Published: August 2019

The leaves of Artemisia princeps (Japanese mugwort, “Yomogi”) are traditionally used as a food ingredient to provide a fresh aroma and a deep green color. In this study, the seasonal variations of the volatile constituents in Japanese mugwort leaves collected from several parts of the plants were investigated using gas chromatography and multivariate analysis in order to determine the best time to harvest them and the best parts of the plants from which the leaves can be gathered and utilized as an ingredient in food. As a result, it was clarified that the balance between the amounts of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes is an important factor that determines the quality of Japanese mugwort. In addition, the amount of β-caryophyllene was found to be the important factor that determines the best time and from which parts of the plant to harvest high-quality Japanese mugwort.
Biased attention to threat and anxiety: On taking a developmental approach
Authors: Burris Jessica L. , Buss Kristin , LoBue Vanessa , Pérez-Edgar Koraly , Field Andy P.
Published: August 2019

Several researchers have proposed a causal relation between biased attention to threat and the development and maintenance of anxiety disorders in both children and adults. However, despite the widely documented correlation between attention bias to threat and anxiety, developmental research in this domain is limited. In this review, we highlight the importance of taking a developmental approach to studying attention biases to threat and anxiety. First, we discuss how recent developmental work on attention to threat fits into existing theoretical frameworks for the development of anxiety and how attention biases might interact with other risk factors across development. Then we review the developmental literature on attention bias to threat and anxiety and describe how classic methodologies can be modified to study attention biases in even the youngest infants. Finally, we discuss limitations and future directions in this domain, emphasizing the need for future longitudinal research beginning in early infancy that tracks concurrent developments in both biased attention and anxiety. Altogether, we hope that by highlighting the importance of development in the study of attention bias to threat and anxiety, we can provide a road map for how researchers might implement developmental approaches to studying a potential core mechanism in anxiety.
The role of pragmatic cultural schema in analysing public relations communication strategies
Authors: Almutairi Talal M. , Sharoufi Hussain Al , Dashti Ali A.
Published: August 2019

This article adopts a critical approach to public relations by applying a new model for analysing public relations discourse in the context of the Kuwaiti Police. It further attempts to apply a new pragmatic framework that might provide a new alternative for analysing public relations practices thus shedding more light on this professional area. Hence, it is suggested in this article that the use of Sharifian’s cultural pragmatic framework could be effective in anchoring overarching meanings in public relations discourse. Three Officers from the Kuwaiti Police were consequently interviewed for this study, with their interviews being analysed in light of the new framework, thereby exploring the issue of cultural influence in public relations discourse and testing the efficacy of applying the new framework on public relation practices. The application of this framework subsequently generates four themes related to Police public relations discourse.
School Counselors’ Use of Technology for Program Management
Authors: Mason Erin C. M. , Griffith Catherine , Belser Christopher T.
Published: August 2019

The use of technology in school counseling remains largely underinvestigated. In this descriptive study, researchers surveyed school counselors to examine ways in which they are using technology to manage their programs. Findings indicate that technology is underutilized by school counselors and is more likely to be used for program management tasks in the area of organization than for communication with and presentation of information to stakeholder groups. We discuss implications for practice, preparation and training, and future research.
Development and Assessment of a Social Network Service-Based Lifestyle-Modification Program for Workers at High Risk of Developing Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Woo Soo Hee , Oh Eui Geum , Kim Kyung-SOO , Chu Sang Hui , Kim Gwang Suk , Nam Chung Mo
Published: August 2019

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of mortality in the United States. This study examined the cardiovascular disease risk factors and health beliefs of workers for the purpose of developing a social network service (SNS)-based (e.g., Facebook and KakaoTalk) lifestyle-modification program for workers. Participants included 68 hospital workers (aged 25-60 years), with more than two metabolic syndrome or cardiovascular disease risk factors. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: SNS intervention group ( n = 23), education-only intervention group ( n = 19), or nonintervention group ( n = 26). Data were collected to compare changes in risk indicators according to the intervention method and time and analyzed using repeated-measures analyses of variance. Compared to the education and nonintervention groups, the SNS intervention group demonstrated significant improvements in waist circumference, body mass index, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, health promotion behaviors, and self-efficacy. This type of program has potential for allowing occupational health professionals to work with workers to improve lifestyle behaviors that promote health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Investigating the Motivational and Psychosocial Dynamics of Dysregulated Gaming: Evidence From a Preregistered Cohort Study
Authors: Przybylski Andrew K. , Weinstein Netta
Published: August 2019

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) and World Health Organization (WHO) have called for research investigating the clinical relevance of dysregulated video-game play. A growing number of exploratory studies have applied self-determination theory to probe the psychological dynamics of problematic gaming, but little is known about these dynamics in adolescents—the targets of most concerns—or the extent to which dysregulated gaming, in turn, affects functioning. In our study of British adolescents and their caregivers ( n = 2,008), we adopted a confirmatory lens to test the extent to which basic psychological need satisfactions and frustrations underlie dysfunctional gaming behavior. The results, in line with preregistered sampling and data-analysis plans, indicated the frustrations, but not the absence of satisfactions, of psychological needs predicted adolescents’ dysregulated gaming and psychosocial functioning. Our discussion focuses on the clinical significance of gaming dysregulation and the advantages of transparent scientific practices for research informed by, and meant to inform, APA and WHO guidance.
Transforaminal Thoracic Interbody Fusion for Thoracic Disc Prolapse: Surgicoradiological Analysis of 18 Cases
Authors: Krishnan Ajay , Degulmadi Devanand , Mayi Shivanand , Kulkarni Mahesh , Reddy Chaitanya , Singh Mreetunjay , Rai Ravi Ranjan , Dave Bharat R.
Published: August 2019

Study Design:

Retrospective observational study.

Objectives:

Thoracic disc prolapse (TDP) surgeries have reported complications ranging from paraplegia to approach related complications. This study is to present a series of TDP patients surgically treated with transforaminal thoracic interbody fusion (TTIF). Emphasis on surgical technique and strategies to avoid complications are analyzed.

Methods:

Eighteen patients with TDP were included. Imagings were analyzed for end-plate changes and calcification. Type of disc prolapse (central/para-central) and percentage of canal occupancy were noted. Objective outcome was quantified with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), modified Nurick’s grade, and ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) score. All complications were noted.

Results:

Eighteen patients (average age 43.65 years) having total 22 levels operated, that included double level (n = 2) and missed level (n = 2) are reported. All patients had myelopathy. Calcification of disc (n = 13), central disc prolapses (n = 9), para-central (n = 11) and more than 50% canal occupancy (n = 8) were noted. VAS back pain, modified Nurick’s grade and ASIA grade improved significantly in all patients. One patient had postoperative transient deficit. The functional score achieved its maximum at 1 year follow-up and remained static at final follow-up of 65.05 months. Union was achieved in all patients.

Conclusions:

The most important factor for outcome in TDP is the technical aspect of avoiding cord manhandling and avoiding wrong level surgeries. TTIF is not devoid of complications but can give good results to posterior approach trained surgeons.
Irreparable Rotator Cuff Tears: A Biomechanical Comparison of Superior Capsuloligamentous Complex Reconstruction Techniques and an Interpositional Graft Technique
Authors: Leschinger Tim , Besch Katharina , Aydin Cansu , Staat Manfred , Scaal Martin , Müller Lars Peter , Wegmann Kilian
Published: August 2019

Background:

Irreparable rotator cuff tears lead to superior translation of the humeral head. Numerous surgical management options are available to treat the condition.

Purpose:

To compare superior capsule stability among different types of patch grafting in irreparable rotator cuff tears.

Methods:

Six cadaveric shoulders were tested in a custom-designed shoulder testing system. Superior translation of the humerus and subacromial contact pressure were quantified in an intact condition (condition 1), after cutting the supraspinatus tendon (condition 2), and after additionally cutting the superior capsuloligamentous complex (condition 3). The results were compared among 3 types of patch grafting, in which capsule reconstruction was achieved by glenoidal 3-point (condition 4) or 2-point (condition 5) fixation or by affixing a graft below the acromion (condition 6).

Results:

No significant difference in subacromial pressure was measured by reconstruction with 2 or 3 anchors compared with conditions 1 and 2 ( P > .05). However, with 3-point fixation, lower levels of pressure were measured than with 2-point fixation. Moreover, superior translation values were lower with 3-point fixation; the same applied for values of the preserved capsule as compared with the torn capsule. In condition 6, a significant increase in pressure in the neutral position was documented ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

The superior capsuloligamentous complex plays an important role in stabilizing the glenohumeral joint. The results suggest that with additional medial anchoring at the coracoid base, the depressing and centering effect of the superior complex can probably be regained in a more physiological way compared with a reconstructed capsule with 2 glenoid attachments or with an interpositional graft below the acromion.
Primary Students’ Emic Views of Reading Intervention: A Qualitative Case Study of Motivation
Authors: Erickson Joy Dangora
Published: August 2019

Although research indicates that motivation influences reading development and achievement, studies examining the motivation of primary-age readers are scarce and limited. Assuming school experiences play a role in shaping motivation, it is imperative that younger children’s motivation to read within the context of reading intervention programs be examined. This qualitative case study takes a step toward addressing the gap in the literature. The motivation and engagement of eight children identified as “at risk” for reading difficulties (four first graders and four second graders) specific to a pullout reading intervention program were investigated via researcher field notes and video logs, reading specialist engagement questionnaires and interviews, and participatory student interviews. Findings reveal that reports of engagement were mainly consistent with children’s preferences for doing reading in the classroom or in the intervention setting; however, children’s own perceptions were essential in understanding how the benefits and costs each associated with the intervention combined to influence motivation.
Elevated serum IgE, oral corticosteroid dependence and IL-17/22 expression in highly neutrophilic asthma
Authors: Bullone Michela , Carriero Vitina , Bertolini Francesca , Folino Anna , Mannelli Alessandro , Di Stefano Antonino , Gnemmi Isabella , Torchio Roberto , Ricciardolo Fabio L.M.
Published: August 2019

Information on the clinical traits associated with bronchial neutrophilia in asthma is scant, preventing its recognition and adequate treatment. We aimed to assess the clinical, functional and biological features of neutrophilic asthma and identify possible predictors of bronchial neutrophilia.

The inflammatory phenotype of 70 mild-to-severe asthma patients was studied cross-sectionally based on the eosinophilic/neutrophilic counts in their bronchial lamina propria. Patients were classified as neutrophilic or non-neutrophilic. Neutrophilic asthma patients (neutrophil count cut-off: 47.17 neutrophils·mm−2; range: 47.17–198.11 neutrophils·mm−2; median: 94.34 neutrophils·mm−2) were further classified as high (≥94.34 neutrophils·mm−2) or intermediate (47.17– <94.34 neutrophils·mm−2). The effect of smoking ≥10 pack-years was also assessed.

Neutrophilic asthma patients (n=38; 36 mixed eosinophilic/neutrophilic) had greater disease severity, functional residual capacity, inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) dose and exacerbations, and lower forced vital capacity (FVC) % pred and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) reversibility than non-neutrophilic asthma patients (n=32; 28 eosinophilic and four paucigranulocytic). Neutrophilic asthma patients had similar eosinophil counts, increased bronchial CD8+, interleukin (IL)-17-F+and IL-22+cells, and decreased mast cells compared with non-neutrophilic asthma patients. FEV1and FVC reversibility were independent predictors of bronchial neutrophilia in our cohort. High neutrophilic patients (n=21) had increased serum IgE levels, sensitivity to perennial allergens, exacerbation rate, oral corticosteroid dependence, and CD4+and IL-17F+cells in their bronchial mucosa. Excluding smokers revealed increased IL-17A+and IL-22+cells in highly neutrophilic patients.

We provide new evidence linking the presence of high bronchial neutrophilia in asthma to an adaptive immune response associated with allergy (IgE) and IL-17/22 cytokine expression. High bronchial neutrophilia may discriminate a new endotype of asthma. Further research is warranted on the relationship between bronchoreversibility and bronchial neutrophilia.
The role of the 17q21 genotype in the prevention of early childhood asthma and recurrent wheeze by vitamin D
Authors: Kelly Rachel S. , Chawes Bo L. , Guo Feng , Zhang Li , Blighe Kevin , Litonjua Augusto A. , Raby Benjamin A. , Levy Bruce D. , Rago Daniela , Stokholm Jakob , Bønnelykke Klaus , Bisgaard Hans , Zhou Xiaobo , Lasky-Su Jessica A. , Weiss Scott T.
Published: August 2019

Evidence suggests vitamin D has preventive potential in asthma; however, not all children benefit from this intervention. This study aimed to investigate whether variation in the functional 17q21 single nucleotide polymorphism rs12936231 affects the preventive potential of vitamin D against asthma.

A combined secondary analysis of two randomised controlled trials of prenatal vitamin D supplementation for the prevention of asthma in offspring (Vitamin D Antenatal Asthma Reduction Trial (VDAART) and Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood 2010 (COPSAC2010)) was performed, stratifying by genotype and integrating metabolite data to explore underlying mechanisms.

The protective effect of vitamin D on asthma/wheeze was evident among children with the low-risk rs12936231 GG genotype (hazard ratio (HR) 0.49, 95% CI 0.26–0.94, p=0.032) but not the high-risk CC genotype (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.69–1.69, p=0.751). In VDAART, in the GG genotype vitamin D supplementation was associated with increased plasma levels of sphingolipids, including sphingosine-1-phosphate (β 0.022, 95% CI 0.001–0.044, p=0.038), but this was not evident with the CC genotype, known to be associated with increased expression ofORMDL3in bronchial epithelial cells. Sphingolipid levels were associated with decreased risk of asthma/wheeze, and there was evidence of interactions between sphingolipid levels, vitamin D and genotype (p-interactionvitaminD*genotype*sphingosine-1-phosphate=0.035). In a cellular model, there was a significant difference in the induction of sphingosine-1-phosphate by vitamin D between a control human bronchial epithelial cell line and a cell line overexpressingORMDL3(p=0.002).

Results suggest prenatal vitamin D supplementation may reduce the risk of early childhood asthma/wheezeviaalterations of sphingolipid metabolism dependent on the 17q21 genotype.
Pilot study of a two-arm non-randomized controlled cluster trial of a psychosocial intervention to improve late life depression in socioeconomically deprived areas of São Paulo, Brazil (PROACTIVE): feasibility study of a psychosocial intervention for late life depression in São Paulo
Authors: Scazufca Marcia , de Paula Couto Maria Clara P. , Henrique Maiara Garcia , Mendes Ana Vilela , Matijasevich Alicia , Pereda Paula Carvalho , Franzin Renato M. , Seabra Antônio Carlos , van de Ven Pepijn , Hollingworth William , Peters Tim J. , Araya Ricardo
Published: August 2019

Background

Depression is a common and recurrent condition among older adults and is associated with poor quality of life and increased health care utilization and costs. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of delivering a psychosocial intervention targeting depression, and to develop the procedures to conduct a cluster randomized controlled trial among older adults registered with primary care clinics in poor neighbourhoods of São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods

We conducted a pilot study of a two-arm cluster, non-randomized controlled trial. Two primary care clinics adhering to the Family Health Strategy were allocated to either the intervention or the control arm. In the control arm, patients received enhanced usual care consisting of staff training for improved recognition and management of depression. In the intervention arm, alongside the enhanced usual care, patients received a 17-week psychosocial intervention delivered by health workers assisted with an application installed in a tablet.

Results

We randomly selected 579 of 2020 older adults registered in the intervention clinic to participate in the study. Among these individuals, 353 were assessed for depression and 40 (11.0%) scored at least 10 on the PHQ-9 and were therefore invited to participate. The consent rate was 33/40 (82%) with a resulting yield of 33/579 (5.7%). In the control arm, we randomly selected 320 older adults among 1482 registered in the clinic, 223 were assessed for depression and 28 (12.6%) scored 10 or above on the PHQ-9. The consent rate was 25/28 (89%), with a resulting yield of 25/320 (7.8%). Of the 33 who consented in the intervention arm, 19 (59.4%) completed all sessions. The mean PHQ-9 at follow-up (approximately 30 weeks after inclusion) were 12.3 (SD = 3.7) and 3.8 (SD = 3.9) in the control and intervention arms, respectively. Follow-up rates were 92 and 94% in control and intervention arms, respectively.

Conclusions

Identification and engagement of clinics, randomization, recruitment of individuals, measures, and baseline and follow-up assessments all proved to be feasible in primary care clinics in São Paulo, Brazil. Results support the development of a definitive cluster randomized controlled trial.

Trial registration

This study was retrospectively registered with Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (ReBEC), number RBR-5nf6wd. Registered 06 August 2018.
NEAT1/miR-23a-3p/KLF3: a novel regulatory axis in melanoma cancer progression
Authors: Ding Fei , Lai Jindong , Gao Yang , Wang Genhui , Shang Jingwen , Zhang Daojun , Zheng Shumao
Published: August 2019

Background

Melanoma is an extremely aggressive malignant skin tumor with high mortality. Many types of long noncoding RNAs and microRNAs have been reported to be associated with the oncogenesis of melanoma. However, a novel lncRNA-NEAT has not been thoroughly investigated in melanoma cancer. The purposes of this study were to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism in a novel couple of lnc-NEAT1 and miR-23a-3p, as well as the function role of KLF3 in the regulation of melanoma cancer.

Methods

28 groups of tumor tissues and normal tissues were obtained from melanoma cancer patients. We performed a series of experiments and analysis, including RT-qPCR, western blots, CCK-8 assay, and migration/invasion assay, to investigate the expressions of NEAT1, miR-23a-5p and KLF3, cell viabilities, and tumor growth in vivo.

Results

In this study, we observed that the expression of NEAT1 was significantly upregulated in melanoma tissues, which remarkedly promoted the cells’ proliferation, cell migration, and invasion in melanoma cell lines. Besides, NEAT1 could directly bind to miR-23a-3p, which was found to reverse the effect caused by NEAT1. MiR-23a-3p was discovered to bind to 3′UTR of KLF3, which reduced KLF3 expression. In addition, the overexpression of KLF3 could lower the effects of miR-23a-3p caused on melanoma cancer cell development.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrated that NEAT1 could sponge miR-23a-3p and functions via the expression of KLF3. This axis of NEAT1/miR-23a-5p/KLF3 could together regulate melanoma cancer proliferation. This might provide a new therapeutic strategy for melanoma skin cancer.

Trial registration HBTCM38574839, registered 12 October 2012
Estimation of horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratios (ellipticity) of Rayleigh waves from multistation active-seismic records
Authors: Mi Binbin , Hu Yue , Xia Jianghai , Socco Laura Valentina
Published: August 2019

The horizontal-to-vertical spectral-ratio (HVSR) analysis of ambient noise recordings is a popular reconnaissance tool used worldwide for seismic microzonation and earthquake site characterization. We have expanded this single-station passive HVSR technique to active multicomponent data. We focus on the calculation of the HVSR of Rayleigh waves from active-seismic records. We separate different modes of Rayleigh waves in seismic dispersion spectra and then estimate the HVSR for the fundamental mode. The mode separation is implemented in the frequency-phase velocity ([Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]) domain through the high-resolution linear Radon transformation. The estimated Rayleigh-wave HVSR curve after mode separation is consistent with the theoretical HVSR curve, which is computed by solving the Rayleigh-wave eigenproblem in the laterally homogeneous layered medium. We find that the HVSR peak and trough frequencies are very sensitive to velocity contrast and interface depth and that HVSR curves contain information on lateral velocity variations. Using synthetic and field data, we determine the validity of estimating active Rayleigh-wave HVSR after mode separation. Our approach can be a viable and more accurate alternative to the empirical HVSR analysis method and brings a novel approach for the analysis of active multicomponent seismic data.
microRNA-29b knocks down collagen type I production in cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) cardiac fibroblasts
Authors: Johnston Elizabeth F. , Cadonic Ivan G. , Craig Paul M. , Gillis Todd E.
Published: August 2019

Warm acclimation of rainbow trout can cause a decrease in the collagen content of the heart. This ability to remove cardiac collagen is particularly interesting considering that collagen deposition in the mammalian heart, following an injury, is permanent. We hypothesized that collagen removal can be facilitated by microRNA-29b, a highly conserved, small, non-coding RNA, as a reduction in this microRNA has been reported during the development of fibrosis in the mammalian heart. We also used a bioinformatics approach to investigate the binding potential of miR-29b to the seed sequences of vertebrate collagen isoforms. Cultured trout cardiac fibroblasts were transfected with zebrafish mature miR-29b mimic for 7 d with re-transfection occurring after 3 d. Transfection induced a 17.8-fold increase in miR-29b transcript abundance (P<0.05) as well as a 54% decrease in the transcript levels of col1a3, compared to non-transfected controls (P<0.05). Western blotting demonstrated that the levels of collagen type I protein was 85% lower in cells transfected with miR-29b than in control cells (P<0.05). Finally, bioinformatic analysis suggested that the predicted 3'UTR of rainbow trout col1a3 has a comparatively higher binding affinity for miR-29b than the 3'UTR of col1a1. Together these results suggest that miR-29b is a highly conserved regulator of collagen type I protein in vertebrates and that this microRNA decreases collagen in the trout heart by targeting col1a3.
Adjustments in control of mitochondrial respiratory capacity while facing temperature fluctuations
Authors: Scott Katrina Y. , Matthew Rebecca , Woolcock Jennifer , Silva Maise , Lemieux Hélène
Published: August 2019

As the world's climate changes, life faces an evolving thermal environment. Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) is critical to ensure sufficient cellular energy production, and it is strongly influenced by temperature. The thermally-induced changes to the regulation by specific steps within the OXPHOS process are poorly understood. In our study, we used the eurythermal species of planarian Dugesia tigrina to study the thermal sensitivity of the OXPHOS process at 10, 15, 20, 25, 30°C. We conducted cold acclimation experiments where we measured the adjustment of specific steps at two assay temperatures (10 and 20°C) following four weeks of acclimation under normal (22°C) or low (5°C) temperature conditions. At the low temperature, the contribution of the NADH pathway to the maximal OXPHOS capacity, in a combined pathway (NADH and succinate) was reduced. There was partial compensation by an increased contribution of the succinate pathway. As the temperature decreases, OXPHOS becomes more limited by the capacity of the phosphorylation system. Acclimation to the low temperature resulted in positive adjustments of the NADH pathway capacity due, at least in part, to an increase in complex I activity. The acclimation also resulted in a better match between OXPHOS and phosphorylation system capacities. Both of these adjustments following acclimation were specific to the low assay temperature. We conclude that there is substantial plasticity in the mitochondrial OXPHOS process following thermal acclimation in D. tigrina, and this is likely contributing to the wide thermal range of the species.
Anion-Capture-Induced Fluorescence Enhancement of Bis(cyanostyryl)pyrrole Based on Restricted Access to a Conical Intersection
Authors: Yokoyama Soichi , Ito Akitaka , Asahara Haruyasu , Nishiwaki Nagatoshi
Published: August 2019

Understanding the mechanism of fluorescence enhancement of a fluorophore via anion addition is of critical importance for designing anion sensors. The distyrylpyrrole framework with cyano groups on olefin has a low rotation barrier in the excited state, which results in easy access to the conical intersection and, thus, fast non-radiative decay. In this study, it was proposed that the anion capture of a molecule with protons on the pyrrole and olefin moieties with a high anion affinity should induce fluorescence enhancement via restricted access to the conical intersection. It was revealed that the pyrrole derivative possessing cyano groups in the α-position of the pyrrole showed a strong enhancement in the fluorescence quantum yield up to 60% with an increasing concentration of anions in solution. NMR and X-ray single crystal diffraction revealed that the molecule formed a 1:1 complex with a chloride anion in solution and in the single crystal state. The fluorescence lifetime of the compound was prolonged via the addition of the chloride anion, indicating that fast non-radiative decay was suppressed by anion capture. The results support that the anion capture of the molecule can restrict access to the conical intersection to produce a fluorescence enhancement.
Root mass may affect soil water infiltration more strongly than the incorporated residue
Authors: Oda Masato , Rasyid Burhanuddin , Omae Hide
Published: August 2019

Crop residue incorporation increases stable soil pores and soil water infiltration, consequently, reduces surface water runoff and soil erosion. However, few studies have examined the relationship between crop residue incorporation and water infiltration. A previous study showed that water infiltration increases depending on the quantity of applied wheat straw. In this study, we examined whether the relationship is applicable to different crop residues in a crop rotation. We grew corn, rose grass, and okra in crop rotation under greenhouses and measured the water infiltration rate at the time of ridge making. A strong correlation was found between the quantity of applied residue and the soil water infiltration rate ( r = 0.953), although there were outliers in the case of no prior crop. By contrast, aboveground biomass of the prior crop showed a stronger correlation with water infiltration rate ( r = 0.965), without outliers. Previous studies have revealed the exponential relation between plant root mass and soil erosion. Our data also show a positive relationship between resistance to erosion and root mass when assuming that aboveground biomass is proportional to the underground biomass. The result also showed that the effect of the prior crop root mass disappears within the next crop period. This suggests that maintaining a large root mass is crucial for reducing soil erosion.
Narrative Ethics of Post-Modern Visual Culture between Chinese “Diors Series” and Western “Loser Series” in Comparative Perspective
Authors: Zheng Shaomin
Published: August 2019

The main characteristics of the post-modern culture such as counterculture, non-conformism, virtualization, fragmentation, mass culture, business culture and irrationalism etc., decide the post-modernity of visual culture. “Film”, as an indispensable element of visual culture, has a narrative ethics that can be used for an interpretation of ethical orientation and ethical values in post-modern visual culture. This article, by comparing “Diors image” in Chinese Diors series with “loser image” in western loser series, the typical post-modern visual image, takes the post-modern context as the focal point and makes a further study of “Diors culture” or “loser culture”, which is formed in the phenomenon of post-modern culture, and thus explores narrative ethics and ethical values in post-modern visual culture.
Interferenz statt Verspätung – Die Polysystemtheorie als Beschreibungsmodell für ‚kleine‘ Literaturen
Authors: Gilbertz Fabienne
Published: August 2019

Interference instead of Belatedness – Polysystem Theory as a Descriptive Model for ‘Small’ Literatures. Luxembourg literature can be considered a ‘small’ literature from various angles. Its small size, young age and the existence of a sparsely diffused language within a multilingual setting are features that also apply to other small European literary systems and that affect their self-perception fundamentally. In that context, Jeanne E. Glesener has identified a “discourse on smallness” which is developed by the literary centres and unconsciously internalized by the actors of small literary systems themselves: this discourse is essentially shaped by the ideas of creative sterility, poor visibility and, particularly, literary belatedness. However, as Glesener points out with respect to Pascale Casanova’s concept of literary time, the notion of belatedness wrongly implies that all literary systems sooner or later generate the same literary phenomena; it is therefore highly problematic. This paper introduces Itamar Even-Zohar’s polysystem theory – which has been designed in view of the Israeli literary system – as an alternative descriptive model for ‘small’ and multilingual literatures. Proceeding from the example of Luxembourg ‘Heimatliteratur’ in the second half of the 20th century, I would like to argue that by openly acknowledging every system’s historical and sociological characteristics and by excluding the notion of comparison from the analysis, the concept of ‘polysystemic interference’ allows for a more neutral study of literary contacts and literary change.
Difficult airway management for the anaesthetist
Authors: Hews J , El-Boghdadly K , Ahmad I
Published: August 2019

This article reviews the key considerations when managing a patient with a difficult airway. The difficult airway may be anticipated from preassessment allowing time for investigations and preparation. Alternatively, the unanticipated difficult airway can present in an emergency situation, or unexpectedly during a routine anaesthetic. The main airway management techniques are discussed with a description of their advantages and limitations. Current guidelines are included that demonstrate how the techniques are incorporated into an overall strategy with a plan A–D when failure occurs. It is critical to progress through such an algorithm in a timely manner to prevent the onset of hypoxia.
Diagnosis of ulnar-sided wrist pain: a pragmatic approach for the non-specialist
Authors: Sevenoaks Hannah , Khan Shah HM , Younis Fizan
Published: August 2019

Ulnar-sided wrist pain is often unfairly labelled as the ‘back pain’ of the wrist. This reputation comes from the complexity of diagnosing problems related to this area of the wrist. This article summarizes the anatomy and biomechanics of the wrist and presents a logical approach to diagnosing the aetiology of the pain. The problems are categorised based on the anatomical structure from which the pain arises: either bony, soft tissue-related or arising from nerves or vascular structures. The article also outlines the relevant examination findings and the most appropriate investigation that would yield a diagnosis with any given presentation. A linked article detailing the imaging of ulnar-sided wrist pain is included in this issue ( 10.12968/hmed.2019.80.8.461 ).
Imaging of ulnar-sided wrist pain
Authors: Lauder Joshua , Younis Fizan , Khan Shah HM
Published: August 2019

Ulnar-sided wrist pain is a complex entity to diagnose clinically and frequently requires imaging to help confirm or determine the diagnosis. This article reviews the imaging and the logical imaging pathway of the common causes of ulnar-sided wrist pain, and illustrates various pathologies. It also discusses appropriate imaging modalities for various conditions. The causes of ulnar-sided wrist pain are stratified according to the affected anatomical structures, such as bony, soft tissue or neurovascular aetiologies. This review provides a handy imaging framework for non-radiologist clinicians of the common conditions producing ulnar-sided wrist pain. A linked article ( 10.12968/hmed.2019.80.8.456 ) detailing the diagnosis of ulnar-sided wrist pain is included in this issue.