bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Educação médica apoiada em comunidade: projetos de intervenção coletiva como forma de aprendizado sobre criação de redes e intersetorialidade
Authors: Rebeis Marina Mattos , Silva Filho Mauricio Ricardo Moreira da , Xavier Neto Mauro , Messias Paula Malvezzi , Marotti Pedro França Pinto , Morales Priscila Cardoso , Póvoa Priscila Galvão , Toda Priscila , Assis Rachel De , Pisciolaro Rafael Faria , Simão Raif Restivo , Vianna Raphael , Mendonça Renata
Published: May 2017

INTRODUÇÃO: Considerando-se que os cuidados e a atenção à saúde transpassam as barreiras físicas do consultório médico e podem se efetivar em diversos âmbitos e por diferentes profissionais, buscou-se, por meio de dois projetos de intervenção, contribuir para a articulação entre os equipamentos sociais, a população e os funcionários de duas Unidades Básicas de Saúde (UBS). Tal atividade faz parte da formação de estudantes do curso de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo e teve como foco enfatizar o aspecto da intersetorialidade na prática médica e sua relação com a promoção da saúde. OBJETIVOS: Primariamente, descreve-se a construção de materiais informativos de fácil acesso (folder e cartilha) sobre os equipamentos sociais existentes na região e sua divulgação para funcionários e usuários da UBS. Secundariamente, espera-se refletir sobre os efeitos da condução desses projetos na educação médica. METODOLOGIA: São descritos os percursos de dois projetos de intervenção, bem como sua avaliação por parte dos profissionais de saúde, usuários dos serviços envolvidos e também como parte do processo de educação médica. Um quadro síntese aponta as semelhanças e as diferenças dos projetos. RESULTADOS: Notou-se que grande parte dos funcionários conhecia e, de certa forma, utilizava parte dos equipamentos existentes no território. O desconhecimento de outros equipamentos foi diretamente relacionado à maior distância desses em relação a UBS. A construção de material informativo na forma de cartilha e folder foi avaliado de forma positiva pelos serviços e pela comunidade envolvidos. CONCLUSÃO: Foi possível concluir que a confecção desses materiais atendeu a uma das demandas de saúde dessas comunidades e, apesar de simples, eles contribuirão para a estruturação de redes de cuidado. Ademais, a aproximação com o SUS e o desenvolvimento de conhecimentos, habilidades e atitudes ao longo da prática possibilitaram um aprendizado significativo.
Pregnancy Outcome After First Trimester Use of Methyldopa
Authors: Hoeltzenbein Maria , Beck Evelin , Fietz Anne-Katrin , Wernicke Juliane , Zinke Sandra , Kayser Angela , Padberg Stephanie , Weber-Schoendorfer Corinna , Meister Reinhard , Schaefer Christof
Published: May 2017

Published experience on first trimester exposure to methyldopa is still limited, although it is recommended as first-line treatment for hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in most countries. The primary aim of this prospective observational cohort study was to analyze the rate of major birth defects and spontaneous abortions in women with methyldopa therapy for chronic hypertension. Outcomes of 261 pregnancies with first trimester exposure to methyldopa and 526 comparison pregnancies without chronic hypertension reported to the German Embryotox pharmacovigilance institute were evaluated. The rate of major birth defects in the exposed cohort was not significantly increased compared with the comparison cohort (3.7% versus 2.5%; adjusted odds ratio, 1.24; 95% confidence interval, 0.4–4.0). There was a tendency toward a higher rate of spontaneous abortions in exposed women. The risk of preterm birth was significantly higher, and adjusted birth weight scores were significantly lower in the methyldopa group. Head circumferences were significantly reduced in exposed boys only. There was neither evidence for an increased risk for birth defects or increase in early pregnancy loss nor evidence for growth restriction or a reduced head circumference in a sensitivity analysis comparing monotherapies with methyldopa to metoprolol. However, the significantly increased risk of preterm birth in methyldopa-treated pregnancies was confirmed. In conclusion, our study does not indicate a teratogenic risk of methyldopa. Further studies are needed to confirm its safety in the first trimester and clarify the influence of hypertension and methyldopa on preterm birth and intrauterine growth.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
https://drks-neu.uniklinik-freiburg.de/drks_web/
. Unique identifier: DRKS00010502.
Chronic Stimulation of Renin Cells Leads to Vascular Pathology
Authors: Oka Masafumi , Medrano Silvia , Sequeira-Lόpez Maria Luisa S. , Gómez R. Ariel
Published: May 2017

Experimental or spontaneous genomic mutations of the renin–angiotensin system or its pharmacological inhibition in early life leads to renal abnormalities, including poorly developed renal medulla, papillary atrophy, hydronephrosis, inability to concentrate the urine, polyuria, polydipsia, renal failure, and anemia. At the core of such complex phenotype is the presence of unique vascular abnormalities: the renal arterioles do not branch or elongate properly and they have disorganized, concentric hypertrophy. This lesion has been puzzling because it is often found in hypertensive individuals whereas mutant or pharmacologically inhibited animals are hypotensive. Remarkably, when renin cells are ablated with diphtheria toxin, the vascular hypertrophy does not occur, suggesting that renin cells per se may contribute to the vascular disease. To test this hypothesis, on a
Ren1

c
−/−

background, we generated mutant mice with reporter expression (
Ren1

c
−/−

;Ren1

c

-Cre;R26R.mTmG
and
Ren1

c
−/−

;Ren1

c

-Cre;R26R.LacZ
) to trace the fate of
renin

null

cells. To assess whether
renin

null

cells maintain their renin promoter active, we used
Ren1

c
−/−

;Ren1

c

-YFP
mice that transcribe YFP (yellow fluorescent protein) directed by the renin promoter. We also followed the expression of
Akr1b7
and miR-330-5p, markers of cells programmed for the renin phenotype. Contrary to what we expected,
renin

null

cells did not die or disappear. Instead, they survived, increased in number along the renal arterial tree, and maintained an active molecular memory of the myoepitheliod renin phenotype. Furthermore, null cells of the renin lineage occupied the walls of the arteries and arterioles in a chaotic, directionless pattern directly contributing to the concentric arterial hypertrophy.
PGC-1α (Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor γ Coactivator 1-α) Overexpression in Coronary Artery Disease Recruits NO and Hydrogen Peroxide During Flow-Mediated Dilation and Protects Against Increased Intraluminal Pressure
Authors: Kadlec Andrew O. , Chabowski Dawid S. , Ait-Aissa Karima , Hockenberry Joseph C. , Otterson Mary F. , Durand Matthew J. , Freed Julie K. , Beyer Andreas M. , Gutterman David D.
Published: May 2017

Blood flow through healthy human vessels releases NO to produce vasodilation, whereas in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), the mediator of dilation transitions to mitochondria-derived hydrogen peroxide (
mt
H
2
O
2
). Excessive
mt
H
2
O
2
production contributes to a proatherosclerotic vascular milieu. Loss of PGC-1α (peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor γ coactivator 1α) is implicated in the pathogenesis of CAD. We hypothesized that PGC-1α suppresses
mt
H
2
O
2
production to reestablish NO-mediated dilation in isolated vessels from patients with CAD. Isolated human adipose arterioles were cannulated, and changes in lumen diameter in response to graded increases in flow were recorded in the presence of PEG (polyethylene glycol)–catalase (H
2
O
2
scavenger) or L-NAME (
N
G
-nitro-
l
-arginine methyl ester; NOS inhibitor). In contrast to the exclusively NO- or H
2
O
2
-mediated dilation seen in either non-CAD or CAD conditions, respectively, flow-mediated dilation in CAD vessels was sensitive to both L-NAME and PEG-catalase after PGC-1α upregulation using ZLN005 and α-lipoic acid. PGC-1α overexpression in CAD vessels protected against the vascular dysfunction induced by an acute increase in intraluminal pressure. In contrast, downregulation of PGC-1α in non-CAD vessels produces a CAD-like phenotype characterized by
mt
H
2
O
2
-mediated dilation (no contribution of NO). Loss of PGC-1α may contribute to the shift toward the
mt
H
2
O
2
-mediated dilation observed in vessels from subjects with CAD. Strategies to boost PGC-1α levels may provide a therapeutic option in patients with CAD by shifting away from
mt
H
2
O
2
-mediated dilation, increasing NO bioavailability, and reducing levels of
mt
H
2
O
2
. Furthermore, increased expression of PGC-1α allows for simultaneous contributions of both NO and H
2
O
2
to flow-mediated dilation.
Locating Value in the Study of Religion
Authors: Newton Richard
Published: May 2017

Religious studies courses frequently justify their existence with the rhetoric of “value.” While appeasing the socio-economic concerns of college boards, this undermines the work of more critical approaches under the field’s big tent. The following paper responds to this disconcerting trend by casting religious studies as an analytical discipline that takes “evaluation” as its object of study. It details a way of navigating the critical turn using Michel de Certeau’s notion of “scriptural economy” as a pedagogical framework for three lower-level, undergraduate classes: REL-101Signifying Religion: An African American Worldview, REL-226Introduction to the New Testament, and REL-293Introduction to Islam. Students theorize religion as a heuristic for studying how bodies are conscribed, prescribed, described, and inscribed in relation to evaluative systems.
Lactuca pumila (Asteraceae, Cichorieae) revisited—additional evidence for a phytogeographical link between SE Zagros and Hindu Kush
Authors: DOOSTMOHAMMADI MOSLEM , KILIAN NORBERT
Published: May 2017

Lactuca pumila, so far known only from a single gathering from E Afghanistan, is shown to occur also in the SE Zagros range, Kerman province, southeastern Iran. The new locality extends the range of the species about 1000 km south-westward and this disjunction further highlights the floristic link between the SE Zagros and the Hindu Kush as well as Central Asian mountains. Fruiting plants, so far not known of the species, confirm it as a member of the L. rosularis group, which includes four closely related species of rosette herbs confined to rock crevices in the montane to alpine zone of the Iranian–Afghan highlands. The relationships of the two disjunctly distributed populations and of the species is corroborated by a molecular phylogenetic analysis. A key to the species of the L. rosularis group, a full description, photographs of life plants, SEM images of achenes and a distribution map of L. pumila are provided, and the generic classification is discussed.
The taxonomic status of two geophytic Euphorbia species (Euphorbiaceae) from Maharashtra, India
Authors: MANE ROHIT N. , NERLEKAR ASHISH N. , LAPALIKAR SAIRANDHRI A. , KAMBALE SHARAD S. , YADAV SHRIRANG R.
Published: May 2017

In the present communication, we resurrect E. khandallensis and synonymize E. panchganiensis under it owing to the overlap of distinguishing characters, as inferred from literature and first hand observations. We further provide an amended description of E. khandallensis along with critical notes on its taxonomy and distribution.
Elaphoglossum maya and E. rojasii (Dryopteridaceae), replacement names for E. angustifrons and E. reptans, respectively
Authors: TÚLIO L. PENA NELSON , FREITAS JOELCIO , ALVES-ARAÚJO ANDERSON
Published: May 2017

Elaphoglossum Schott ex J.Sm. (in Smith 1841: 148) is a worldwide genus and comprises about 600 species. A total of 450 species is recorded in the Neotropics which is believed to be the diversity center of the genus (Mickel & Smith 2004). They are primarily epiphytic species, but terrestrial or rupicolous lifeforms are found as well (Tryon & Tryon 1982). Elaphoglossum is one of the largest genera of ferns and taxonomically is challenging as to species identification (Lóriga et al. 2013).
Temporal–Spatial Patterns of Relative Humidity and the Urban Dryness Island Effect in Beijing City
Authors: Yang Ping , Ren Guoyu , Hou Wei
Published: May 2017

Hourly datasets obtained by automatic weather stations in Beijing, China, are developed and employed to analyze the spatial and temporal characteristics of relative humidity (RH) and urban dryness island intensity (UDII) over built-up areas. A total of 36 stations inside the sixth ring road are considered as urban sites, while six stations in suburban belts surrounding the built-up areas are taken as reference sites. Results show that the RH is obviously smaller in urban areas than in suburban areas, indicating the effect of urbanization on near-surface atmospheric moisture and RH. A further analysis of relations between RH and temperature on varied time scales shows that the variations in RH in the urban areas are not due solely to changes in temperature. The annual and seasonal mean UDII are high in central urban areas, with the strongest UDII values occurring in autumn and the weakest values occurring in spring. The diurnal UDII variations are characterized by a steadily strong UDII stage from 2000 to 0800 LT and a minimum at 1500 or 1600 LT. The rapid shifts of UDII from high (low) to low (high) occur during the periods 0800–1600 LT (1600–2000 LT). The occurrence time of the peaks varies among different seasons: the peaks appear at 0700, 2100, 2000, and 0800 LT for spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. Further analysis shows that large UDII values appear in the evenings and early nights in late summer and early to midautumn and that low UDII values mainly occur in the afternoon hours of spring, winter, and late autumn.
Summer Rainfall Seesaw between Hetao and the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River and Its Relationship with the North Atlantic Oscillation
Authors: Jin Dachao , Guan Zhaoyong
Published: May 2017

Using the NCEP–NCAR reanalysis and other observational datasets, the authors have investigated the relationship of summer rainfall variations between the Hetao region of northern China and the middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River (MLRYR). The results have demonstrated that rainfall in Hetao varies out of phase with that in MLRYR on the interannual time scales. This phenomenon is referred to as the Hetao–Yangtze rainfall seesaw (HYRS). An HYRS index is defined to reveal both spatial and temporal features of HYRS. It is found that the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) affects the HYRS. In years when the NAO is in its positive phase, anomalous divergences in the lower troposphere and anomalous convergences in the upper troposphere are observed in regions of the Mediterranean and eastern Europe. The anomalous convergences in the upper troposphere occur as the positive Rossby wave source excites a circumglobal teleconnection (CGT) in the midlatitudes, exhibiting the eastward propagation of Rossby wave energy along the Asian jet. Meanwhile, the Eurasian–Pacific (EUP) teleconnection also affects the HYRS. Influenced mainly by the CGT pattern, the circulations over Hetao and MLRYR are consequently perturbed. The atmosphere over Hetao converges anomalously in the lower troposphere and diverges anomalously in the upper troposphere, facilitating more than normal rainfall there. At the same time, the atmosphere over MLRYR diverges anomalously in the lower troposphere and converges anomalously in the upper troposphere, resulting in more than normal summer rainfall in MLRYR. In this way, the north–south rainfall seesaw is formed. This NAO-induced rainfall seesaw is potentially useful for summer rainfall predictions in both MLRYR and the Hetao region of northern China.
Quantifying Residual, Eddy, and Mean Flow Effects on Mixing in an Idealized Circumpolar Current
Authors: Wolfram Phillip J. , Ringler Todd D.
Published: May 2017

Meridional diffusivity is assessed for a baroclinically unstable jet in a high-latitude idealized circumpolar current (ICC) using the Model for Prediction across Scales Ocean (MPAS-O) and the online Lagrangian in Situ Global High-Performance Particle Tracking (LIGHT) diagnostic via space–time dispersion of particle clusters over 120 monthly realizations of O(106) particles on 11 potential density surfaces. Diffusivity in the jet reaches values of O(6000) m2 s−1 and is largest near the critical layer supporting mixing suppression and critical layer theory. Values in the vicinity of the shelf break are suppressed to O(100) m2 s−1 because of the presence of westward slope front currents. Diffusivity attenuates less rapidly with depth in the jet than both eddy velocity and kinetic energy scalings would suggest. Removal of the mean flow via high-pass filtering shifts the nonlinear parameter (ratio of the eddy velocity to eddy phase speed) into the linear wave regime by increasing the eddy phase speed via the depth-mean flow. Low-pass filtering, in contrast, quantifies the effect of mean shear. Diffusivity is decomposed into mean flow shear, linear waves, and the residual nonhomogeneous turbulence components, where turbulence dominates and eddy-produced filamentation strained by background mean shear enhances mixing, accounting for ≥80% of the total diffusivity relative to mean shear [O(100) m2 s−1], linear waves [O(1000) m2 s−1], and undecomposed full diffusivity [O(6000) m2 s−1]. Diffusivity parameterizations accounting for both the nonhomogeneous turbulence residual and depth variability are needed.
Gallium In-Depth Profile in Bromine- Etched Copper–Indium–Galium–(Di)selenide (CIGS) Thin Films Inspected Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Parravicini Jacopo , Acciarri Maurizio , Lomuscio Alberto , Murabito Matteo , Le Donne Alessia , Gasparotto Andrea , Binetti Simona
Published: May 2017

In the thin film solar cells domain, copper indium galium (di)selenide (CIGS) is a material with well-established photovoltaic purpose. Here the presence of a suitable [Ga]/([Ga]+[In]) (GGI) in-depth profile has proved to play a key role in the performance of cells. The implementation of a routine method based on reliable but easily available experimental techniques is mandatory to obtain information on the GGI profile of any CIGS layer, in order to achieve high efficiency chalcogenide layers. In this vein, we here propose and systematically test a simple method for the GGI profile determination based on repeated bromine etching of CIGS thin films followed by Raman analysis of the A1 peak position. The reliability of the proposed approach is verified using a methodical comparison with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analysis and secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) profiles, showing a good agreement with the GGI in-depth profiles determined using Raman analysis on bromine etched samples.
Applications of Raman Spectroscopy in Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing: A Short Review
Authors: Buckley Kevin , Ryder Alan G.
Published: May 2017

The production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) is currently undergoing its biggest transformation in a century. The changes are based on the rapid and dramatic introduction of protein- and macromolecule-based drugs (collectively known as biopharmaceuticals) and can be traced back to the huge investment in biomedical science (in particular in genomics and proteomics) that has been ongoing since the 1970s. Biopharmaceuticals (or biologics) are manufactured using biological-expression systems (such as mammalian, bacterial, insect cells, etc.) and have spawned a large (>€35 billion sales annually in Europe) and growing biopharmaceutical industry (BioPharma). The structural and chemical complexity of biologics, combined with the intricacy of cell-based manufacturing, imposes a huge analytical burden to correctly characterize and quantify both processes (upstream) and products (downstream). In small molecule manufacturing, advances in analytical and computational methods have been extensively exploited to generate process analytical technologies (PAT) that are now used for routine process control, leading to more efficient processes and safer medicines. In the analytical domain, biologic manufacturing is considerably behind and there is both a huge scope and need to produce relevant PAT tools with which to better control processes, and better characterize product macromolecules. Raman spectroscopy, a vibrational spectroscopy with a number of useful properties (nondestructive, non-contact, robustness) has significant potential advantages in BioPharma. Key among them are intrinsically high molecular specificity, the ability to measure in water, the requirement for minimal (or no) sample pre-treatment, the flexibility of sampling configurations, and suitability for automation. Here, we review and discuss a representative selection of the more important Raman applications in BioPharma (with particular emphasis on mammalian cell culture). The review shows that the properties of Raman have been successfully exploited to deliver unique and useful analytical solutions, particularly for online process monitoring. However, it also shows that its inherent susceptibility to fluorescence interference and the weakness of the Raman effect mean that it can never be a panacea. In particular, Raman-based methods are intrinsically limited by the chemical complexity and wide analyte-concentration-profiles of cell culture media/bioprocessing broths which limit their use for quantitative analysis. Nevertheless, with appropriate foreknowledge of these limitations and good experimental design, robust analytical methods can be produced. In addition, new technological developments such as time-resolved detectors, advanced lasers, and plasmonics offer potential of new Raman-based methods to resolve existing limitations and/or provide new analytical insights.
To Vote or Not to Vote
Authors: Ley Sandra
Published: May 2017

Organized crime-related violence has important electoral consequences. Analyses of aggregate panel data on Mexican elections and an original postelectoral survey conducted in Mexico show that the strategic use of violence by organized crime groups during electoral campaigns demobilizes voters at large. Regions where criminal organizations attempted to influence elections and politics by targeting government officials and party candidates exhibited significantly lower levels of electoral participation. Consistently, at the individual level, results reveal that voters living in regions where organized crime engaged in high-profile violence were more cautious when deciding whether to vote or not. Prior research has focused on the role of crime victimization in nonelectoral participation, but the empirical evidence presented here suggests that the impact of a criminal context on turnout transcends personal victimization experiences.
Otitis Media with Effusion: Our National Practice
Authors: Roditi Rachel E. , Rosenfeld Richard M. , Shin Jennifer J.
Published: May 2017

Otitis media with effusion (OME) is the focus of an updated multidisciplinary clinical practice guideline published by the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO‐HNSF) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Based on data from clinical trials, the guideline recommends against using antihistamines, antibiotics, oral steroids, and intranasal steroids for OME. To understand practice patterns related to these guidelines, we assessed nationally representative data. Despite controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and other potential confounders individualized for each medication class, an increased risk of antihistamine (odds ratio [OR], 3.53), antibiotic (OR, 4.31), and intranasal steroid administration (OR, 3.58) was seen when OME was diagnosed. These analyses have demonstrated opportunities for quality improvement in the care of patients with OME, quantifying gaps in practice relevant to proposed quality measures. Education targeted according to practice setting may facilitate appropriate therapy and/or referral for definitive intervention in children with OME.
Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder: Otolaryngological Manifestations and Management
Authors: Heyes Richard , Northfelt Donald W. , Lott David G.
Published: May 2017

Objective

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a unifying term for a spectrum of lymphoid expansion entities brought about by immunosuppression and is strongly associated with Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV). Otolaryngological findings tend to present early in the clinical course; therefore, disease awareness among otolaryngologists is of utmost importance. This review synthesizes the body of literature pertaining to PTLD involving the head and neck, summarizes contemporary management, and highlights areas for future research.

Data Sources

PubMed/Medline.

Review Methods

Primary literature search of the Medline database was performed for all titles published in the past 10 years pertaining to PTLD. The database search included PTLD combined with a collection of otolaryngological MeSH terms. Full manuscripts were reviewed based on relevance of their title and abstract. Selection into this review was according to clinical and scientific relevance.

Conclusion

Adenotonsillar focus is common in children in whom adenotonsillectomy may be diagnostic and prevents potentially morbid airway obstruction. Sinonasal PTLD may mimic fungal infection. Laryngotracheal involvement predominately presents in children with symptoms of airway obstruction. PTLD limited to the esophagus is rare. Oral PTLD is rare and phenotypically varied. Cutaneous presentation of PTLD is infrequent, yet one‐third of cases affects the head and neck. PTLD may present as cervical lymphadenopathy.

Implications for Practice

PTLD consideration is vital when evaluating posttransplant patients. Children and EBV‐seronegative patients should receive otolaryngological follow‐up after transplant. PTLD treatment is multidisciplinary and typically led by lymphoma specialists. Formal partnerships between otolaryngologists and transplant centers may improve patient care and research quality.
Effect of parathyroid hormone on healing in osteoporotic fractures via a phospholipase C-independent pathway
Authors: Li Wei-Long , Yu Xiao , Huang Zhi-Ping , Pang Qing-Jiang
Published: May 2017

Objective

This study was performed to investigate the effect of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on healing in osteoporotic fractures via a phospholipase C (PLC)-independent pathway and explore the mechanism of PTH-mediated bone formation.

Methods

Ninety-six 12-week-old C57BL/6J female mice underwent bilateral ovariectomy. One month later, the lower third of the femur was fractured and the mice were treated using saline, PTH(1-28), PTH(1-34), zoledronic acid (ZA), PTH(1-28)+ZA, and PTH(1-34)+ZA. The mice were killed at weeks 2 and 4 in each group. Biomechanical testing and micro-computed tomography were performed.

Results

The formation and strength of the callus increased in all but the saline group. The mice treated with PTH(1-34) showed a significantly higher ultimate bending force, bending rigidity, bone mineral density, percent bone volume, and trabecular thickness than those treated with PTH(1-28). The PTH(1-34)+ZA group demonstrated the greatest improvements in the ultimate bending force, bending rigidity, bone mineral density, and relative bone volume.

Conclusions

PTH can promote fracture healing and callus hardness in ovariectomized mice by increasing callus formation and reconstructing trabecular bone via a PLC-independent pathway. PTH combined with ZA has a cumulative effect on the healing of fractures in ovariectomized mice.
Risk factors for lymph node metastasis (LNM) in patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC): role of preoperative ultrasound
Authors: Zhao Cheng , Jiang Wenbin , Gao Yuxiu , Niu Weidong , Zhang Xiaojuan , Xin Lei
Published: May 2017

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the risk factors and clinical value of lymph node metastasis (LNM) and missed central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) using preoperative ultrasound (US) in patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC).

Methods

This retrospective study included 521 patients who underwent thyroidectomy for confirmed PTMC based on a final histological examination between January 2014 and June 2015. Based on the presence of LNM, 521 cases were divided into two groups: metastasis (218) and non-metastasis (303). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to analyse the US and clinical characteristics of the primary tumour.

Results

We defined LNM based on the tumour diameter with an optimal critical value of 0.55 cm using ROC analysis with a sensitivity of 65.6% and specificity of 59.6%. We defined US-missed CLNM based on the optimal critical value of 0.65 cm using diagnostic ROC analysis with a sensitivity of 66.0% and specificity of 73.0%. The odds ratios of significant factors with LNM by US were 10.3 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 6.2–17.0), 5.3 (95% CI, 3.3–8.7), 2.7 (95% CI, 1.1–6.5), 4.3 (95% CI, 1.7–10.5), 2.5 (95% CI, 1.5–4.1), and 2.7 (95% CI, 1.7–4.4) for extrathyroidal invasion, blood flow, multifocality, tumour diameter greater than 0.55 cm, male sex, and age younger than 47 years, respectively.

Conclusions

US characteristics, such as extrathyroidal invasion, blood flow, tumour diameter, sex, and age, may improve the efficacy of predicting LNM and facilitating diagnosis of PTMC. Furthermore, tumour invasion to the extracapsular thyroid and a diameter greater than 0.65 cm indicate CLNM.
Regional topographic classification in the North Shaanxi Loess Plateau based on catchment boundary profiles
Authors: Li Min , Yang Xin , Na Jiaming , Liu Kai , Jia Yini , Xiong Liyang
Published: May 2017

Topographic classification and mapping are fundamental topics in geomorphology and have many promising applications. This study aimed to achieve landform classification using the catchment boundary profile (CBP) in the area of the North Shaanxi Province. CBPs were extracted, and seven indices were proposed and calculated to describe the profile features. Spatial maps of these indices were generated by interpolating 81 sample areas in the North Shaanxi Province of China. Finally, a topographic regional map was generated through multi-resolution segmentation after integrating the spatial maps of the seven indices. Results showed that the CBP indices were typical and representative to describe the terrain characteristics in the North Shaanxi Province and revealed their diverse spatial patterns. The investigated area was classified into 14 topographic units. The requirements of maximizing internal homogeneity while minimizing external homogeneity in terms of morphological characteristics were satisfied through the analysis of the terrain texture, topographic features, and land surface parameters. A comparison with the reference map showed that the regional classification differed from the geomorphologic map, given the different classification systems. However, the regional classification provided new knowledge of topographic features and spatial patterns in the macro scale. A comparison with other classification method indicated the advantage of the CBP-based method, which could distinguish the landforms of loess tableland, loess ridge, and loess hill that are the typical characteristics of loess landforms. The sensitivity analysis revealed that the differences in CBP indices, except for roughness and fractal dimension (FD) from different landforms, would increase with the digital elevation model (DEM) resolution becoming coarser, which indicates that the CBP-based method could be applied on a coarser resolution DEM if the differences of roughness and FD from different landforms could be identified at this coarse DEM level.
A Long Preoperative Duration of Symptoms Is Associated With Worse Functional Outcomes After 1-Stage Arthroscopic Treatment of Rotator Cuff Tears With Shoulder Stiffness
Authors: Chen Yuzhou , Chen Shiyi , Qiao Yang , Ge Yunshen , Li Hong , Chen Jiwu , Hua Yinghui , Li Yunxia
Published: May 2017

Background:

Rotator cuff tears with shoulder stiffness remain a difficult issue. Despite the reported satisfactory results of 1-stage surgery, little information is available regarding the factors that affect clinical outcomes.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the 1-stage arthroscopic treatment of rotator cuff tears with shoulder stiffness and to present the influence of duration of symptoms (DOS) on postoperative functional outcomes. The hypothesis was that a long preoperative DOS is related to worse functional outcomes.

Hypothesis:

A long preoperative DOS is related to worse functional outcomes.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A cohort study was performed with consecutive patients who underwent 1-stage surgery between January 2012 and July 2014. Forty-four patients were enrolled in the long DOS group (DOS ≥6 months or LDOS), and 38 were enrolled in the short DOS group (DOS <6 months or SDOS). There were no significant differences in the other variables between the groups. The patients were followed for a mean of 33.8 months, and the functional and radiographic outcomes were compared.

Results:

Both groups achieved apparent functional postoperative improvements in terms of range of motion, pain, strength, and functional scores ( P < .001 for all). Despite the overall improvements, the patients in the SDOS group had significantly better outcomes according to all functional instruments. The mean postoperative abduction and external rotation at the side in the SDOS group were higher than in the LDOS group (abduction: 162.2° vs 152.8°, respectively [ P = .002]; external rotation: 64.7° vs 56.9°, respectively [ P = .004]). The mean postoperative functional scores in the SDOS group were all higher than in the LDOS group (American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] score: 91.1 vs 81.9, respectively; Constant-Murley score: 76.9 vs 71.8, respectively; Fudan University Shoulder Score [FUSS], 90.6 vs 81.1, respectively), and the mean postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain in the SDOS group was lower (0.7 vs 1.8, respectively) ( P < .001 for all). The difference in the retear rates was not significant, with 7 retears in the SDOS group and 4 in the LDOS group ( P = .216).

Conclusion:

One-stage surgery effectively achieved overall improvements. A preoperative DOS of ≥6 months led to poorer functional outcomes, which suggests that surgeons should propose a surgical treatment for this condition before symptoms persist for 6 months.
Backlash compensation for plants with saturating actuators
Authors: Rodríguez-Liñán María del Carmen , Heath William P.
Published: May 2017

A compensation scheme is proposed for plants subject to both saturation and backlash in series at the actuator. It is shown that the series connection of a backlash inverse, saturation and the backlash itself is equivalent to a saturation function at a different level to the original saturation, and we call this the ‘saturation equivalence’. Therefore, it is proposed to include such a backlash inverse in the compensator. This is shown to be optimal in a sense defined in the article. It is then straightforward to devise a compensator scheme based on traditional anti-windup. This is illustrated in both simulation and on a laboratory scale rig with severe backlash. A correction for the chattering observed in the control signal due to the discontinuous nature of the nonlinearity inverse is also presented.
Efficacy of a short-term intense piano training program for cognitive aging: A pilot study
Authors: Bugos Jennifer , Kochar Simran
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the efficacy of a short-term intense piano training program on executive functions in healthy older adults. Thirty-four adult participants with little to no formal music training were recruited and completed a battery of standardized cognitive measures at three time points: pre-training, pre-training two (upon completion of a control time period), and post-training. The piano training program included 30 hours of focused music theory, finger dexterity exercises, bimanual coordination exercises, technical exercises, performance duets, and standard piano repertoire. Results of a Repeated Measures MANOVA show significantly enhanced verbal fluency and processing speed, post-training; however, no difference was found in verbal memory performance. Data suggest that a short-term intense piano training program may benefit cognitive performance in areas of verbal fluency and processing speed. Short-term intense music programs may be an appropriate structure for a cognitive training program with the added benefit of increased interest in continued music participation.
Empathy and Romantic Relationship Quality Among Cohabitating Couples
Authors: Ulloa Emilio C. , Hammett Julia F. , Meda Nicole A. , Rubalcaba Salvador J.
Published: May 2017

This study employed a dyadic data analysis approach to examine the association between partners’ empathy and relationship quality among cohabitating couples. Data were collected from 374 cohabitating but nonmarried couples who were participants in the Wave 3 romantic pairs subsample of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health). Men’s higher empathy was related to their own perceptions of better relationship quality and women’s higher empathy was related to their own as well as their partner’s perceptions of better relationship quality. These findings show that individuals’ abilities to be understanding, compassionate, and sympathetic may be related to the overall feeling of satisfaction and love in romantic relationships. The only effect that did not reach statistical significance was the partner effect from men’s empathy to women’s relationship quality. Although previous research with married couples has shown that men’s empathy may play a more important role in shaping couples’ perceptions of relationship quality, according to the current findings, these findings may not extend to cohabitating couples. The current results provide beneficial guidance to clinicians working with distressed, nonmarried couples.
Children as negative externalities?
Authors: Olsaretti Serena
Published: May 2017

Egalitarian theories assume, without defending it, the view that the costs of children should be shared between non-parents and parents. This standard position is called into question by the Parental Provision view. Drawing on the familiar idea that people should be held responsible for the consequences of their choices, the Parental Provision view holds that under certain conditions egalitarian justice requires parents to pay for the full costs of their children, as it would be unfair for non-parents to bear the negative externalities of others’ choices to have children. This article examines closely the Parental Provision view and argues that various possible justifications for it are unsuccessful. In so doing, it brings to light respects in which the choice to have and rear children is special and may not be treated as being on a par with other choices for which we think people should be held responsible.
Women in science: The persistence of traditional gender roles. A case study on work–life interface
Authors: Cervia Silvia , Biancheri Rita
Published: May 2017

The underrepresentation of women in academe has been the focus of both academic literature and European policy-makers. However, albeit the number of female scientists has increased, true gender equality has yet to be achieved. When examining the reasons for this, we have to consider the interconnection between the expectations surrounding gender and what it means to work in the scientific profession, operating at individual, interactional, and institutional levels. This paper presents the results (and methods) of a survey exploring work–life interfaces from a gender-sensitive perspective.

Our survey focused on the researchers and professors working in the medicine and engineering departments of the University of Pisa, where the gradient of female exclusion is most pronounced. The results allow for an interpretation of the ‘leaky pipeline’ (macro level), through a gender-sensitive analysis of gender-based social obligations and those associated with the scientific profession (micro perspective), by integrating said reading through a description of the dynamics of continuous negotiation in private and public life (university) (meso level). Essentially, science is a greedy institution, as is family life, which is a problem for a woman’s career, unless she is willing to make considerable concessions at home.
How do you take time? Work–life balance policies versus neoliberal, social and cultural incentive mechanisms in Icelandic higher education
Authors: Smidt Thomas Brorsen , Pétursdóttir Gyða Margrét , Einarsdóttir Þorgerður
Published: May 2017

It is suggested that the realization of work–life balance policies at the University of Iceland is compromised by an emphasis on neoliberal notions of growth and performance measurements in the form of new public management strategies. This is sustained by overt and covert incentive mechanisms, which in turn create a range of different gendered implications for academic staff. The results from semi-structured interviews suggest that while this tension field affects all academic staff, it is generally less favourable to women than to men. If women were granted time for the sake of family obligations, they risked a setback in their academic career due to decreased research activity. Women tended to view academic flexibility as an opportunity to engage in domestic responsibilities more so than men; and male interviewees tended to view the prioritization of family as a choice, while women tended to view it as a condition.
The prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in hookah smokers
Authors: Bahtouee Mehrzad , Maleki Nasrollah , Nekouee Fatemeh
Published: May 2017

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Hookah smoking is growing worldwide and particularly in Iran. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of obstructive pulmonary dysfunction in hookah smokers. We conducted a population-based study in Bushehr Province, Iran. A total of 245 subjects aged 35 years or older who were taking hookah for at least 15 years and 245 healthy controls were enrolled in the study and spirometry was done. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS for windows software version 19. The prevalence of COPD among the exposed group of hookah smoke was 10.2%, with the rate being significantly higher in the patients with older age ( p < 0.001), duration of hookah smoking ( p < 0.001), men ( p = 0.026), ≥3 hookahs/day ( p = 0.006), history of cough for ≥2 years ( p = 0.002), in patients with a history of sputum for ≥2 years ( p = 0.031), and in patients with a history of dyspnea for ≥2 years ( p = 0.001). The results of the logistic regression analysis demonstrated that older age, male gender, smoking, and occupational exposure were independent predictive factors for COPD. The results of our study suggest that hookah smoking significantly increases the risk of COPD. Given the importance of COPD in the global burden of diseases, it is necessary to carry out further studies on the relationship between hookah use and COPD.
Antioxidant Supplementation: A Linchpin in Radiation-Induced Enteritis
Authors: Anwar Mumtaz , Ahmad Shabeer , Akhtar Reyhan , Mahmood Akhtar , Mahmood Safrun
Published: May 2017

Radiation enteritis is one of the most feared complications of abdominal and pelvic regions. Thus, radiation to abdominal or pelvic malignancies unavoidably injures the intestine. Because of rapid cell turnover, the intestine is highly sensitive to radiation injury, which is the limiting factor in the permissible dosage of irradiation. Bowel injuries such as fistulas, strictures, and chronic malabsorption are potentially life-threatening complications and have an impact on patient quality of life. The incidence of radiation enteritis is increasing because of the current trend of combined chemotherapy and radiation. The consequences of radiation damage to the intestine may result in considerable morbidity and even mortality. The observed effects of ionizing radiation are mediated mainly by oxygen-free radicals that are generated by its action on water and are involved in several steps of signal transduction cascade, leading to apoptosis. The oxyradicals also induce DNA strand breaks and protein oxidation. An important line of defense against free radical damage is the presence of antioxidants. Therefore, administration of antioxidants may ameliorate the radiation-induced damage to the intestine.
Experiences of establishing an academic early phase clinical trials unit
Authors: Brown Sarah R , Sherratt Debbie , Booth Gill , Brown Julia , Collinson Fiona , Gregory Walter , Flanagan Louise
Published: May 2017

Background:

Early phase trials are essential in drug development, determining appropriate dose levels and assessing preliminary activity. These trials are undertaken by industry and academia, with increasing collaborations between the two. There is pressure to perform these trials quickly, safely, and robustly. However, there are inherent differences between developing and managing early phase, compared to late phase, drug trials. This article describes an approach to establishing an academically led early phase trial portfolio, highlighting lessons learned and sharing experiences.

Methods:

In 2009, the University of Leeds Clinical Trials Research Unit became the Clinical Trials Coordinating Office for Myeloma UK’s phase I and II trials. We embarked on a transition from working extensively in phase III to early phase trials development and conduct. This involved evaluating and revising our well-established standard operating procedures, visiting other academic early phase units, and developing essential new documentation and processes.

Results:

A core team of trial and data managers and statisticians was established to facilitate expertise and knowledge retention. A detailed training plan was implemented focussing on essential standard practices for early phase. These included pharmacovigilance, recruitment, trial design and set-up, data and site monitoring, and oversight committees. Training in statistical methods for early phase trials was incorporated.

Conclusion:

Initial scoping of early phase trial management and conduct was essential in establishing this early phase portfolio. Many of the processes developed were successful. However, regular review and evaluation were implemented to enable changes and ensure efficiencies. It is recommended that others embarking on this venture build on the experiences described in this article.
You Can’t Post That!
Authors: Adornato Anthony C. , Lysak Suzanne
Published: May 2017

The use of social media by journalists raises new ethical and professional dilemmas. As a result, news outlets are implementing policies addressing what is and what is not permitted on social media platforms. Through a nationwide survey of local television (TV) news directors, this study examines the prevalence of social media policies in TV newsrooms, the source of those policies, and the application in newsrooms. This study provides a framework for newsroom policies and further empirical investigation. The authors identify and explore five areas to be used as guidelines in formulating newsroom social media policies: personal and professional social media activity of reporters, social media sourcing and content, audience complaints on social media, the use of social media while reporting in the field, and ownership of social media accounts. The authors investigate how the policies address emerging issues in each of those five areas and provide policy recommendations.