bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the likelihood of decompression sickness during H2 biochemical decompression in pigs
Authors: Fahlman Andreas , Tikuisis Peter , Himm Jeffrey F. , Weathersby Paul K. , Kayar Susan R.
Published: December 2017

A probabilistic model was used to predict decompression sickness (DCS) outcome in pigs during exposures to hyperbaric H2 to quantify the effects of H2 biochemical decompression, a process in which metabolism of H2 by intestinal microbes facilitates decompression. The data set included 109 exposures to 22–26 atm, ca. 88% H2, 9% He, 2% O2, 1% N2, for 0.5–24 h. Single exponential kinetics described the tissue partial pressures (Ptis) of H2 and He at time t: Ptis = ∫ (Pamb − Ptis) · τ−1d t, where Pamb is ambient pressure and τ is a time constant. The probability of DCS [ P(DCS)] was predicted from the risk function: P(DCS) = 1 − e − r , where r = ∫ (Ptis h 2 + Ptis he − Thr − Pamb) · Pamb−1 d t, and Thr is a threshold parameter. Inclusion of a parameter ( A) to estimate the effect of H2 metabolism on P(DCS): Ptis h 2 = ∫ (Pamb − A − Ptis h 2 ) · τ−1d t, significantly improved the prediction of P(DCS). Thus lower P(DCS) was predicted by microbial H2 metabolism during H2 biochemical decompression.
Selected Contribution: Effects of gender on reduced-size liver ischemia and reperfusion injury
Authors: Harada Hirohisa , Pavlick Kevin P. , Hines Ian N. , Hoffman Jason M. , Bharwani Sulaiman , Gray Laura , Wolf Robert E. , Grisham Matthew B.
Published: December 2017

Hepatic resection with concomitant periods of ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) is a common occurrence in resectional surgery as well as reduced-size liver transplantation (e.g., split liver or living donor transplantation). However, the I/R induced by these types of surgical manipulations may impair liver regeneration, ultimately leading to liver failure. The objectives of the study were to develop a murine model of reduced-size liver I/R and assess the role of gender in this model of hepatocellular injury. We found that 100% of female mice survived the surgery indefinitely, whereas all male mice had greater initial liver injury and died within 5 days after surgery. The protective effect observed in females appeared to be due to ovarian 17β-estradiol, as ovariectomy of females or administration of a selective estrogen antagonist to female mice resulted in enhanced liver injury and greater mortality following reduced-size liver I/R. Conversely, 17β-estradiol-treated male mice exhibited less hepatocellular damage and survived indefinitely. Taken together, these data demonstrate an estrogen-mediated protective pathway(s) that limits or attenuates hepatocellular injury induced by reduced-size liver I/R.
Glycemic index of a meal fed before exercise alters substrate use and glucose flux in exercising horses
Authors: Jose-Cunilleras Eduard , Hinchcliff Kenneth W. , Sams Richard A. , Devor Steven T. , Linderman Jon K.
Published: December 2017

In a randomized, balanced, crossover study each of six fit, adult horses ran on a treadmill at 50% of maximal rate of oxygen consumption for 60 min after being denied access to food for 18 h and then 1) fed corn (51.4 kJ/kg digestible energy), or 2) fed an isocaloric amount of alfalfa 2–3 h before exercise, or 3) not fed before exercise. Feeding corn, compared with fasting, resulted in higher plasma glucose and serum insulin and lower serum nonesterified fatty acid concentrations before exercise ( P < 0.05) and in lower plasma glucose, serum glycerol, and serum nonesterified fatty acid concentrations and higher skeletal muscle utilization of blood-borne glucose during exercise ( P < 0.05). Feeding corn, compared with feeding alfalfa, resulted in higher carbohydrate oxidation and lower lipid oxidation during exercise ( P < 0.05). Feeding a soluble carbohydrate-rich meal (corn) to horses before exercise results in increased muscle utilization of blood-borne glucose and carbohydrate oxidation and in decreased lipid oxidation compared with a meal of insoluble carbohydrate (alfalfa) or not feeding. Carbohydrate feedings did not produce a sparing of muscle glycogen compared with fasting.
Effects of pulmonary vascular pressures and flow on airway and parenchymal mechanics in isolated rat lungs
Authors: Peták Ferenc , Habre Walid , Hantos Zoltán , Sly Peter D. , Morel Denis R.
Published: December 2017

Changes in pulmonary hemodynamics have been shown to alter the mechanical properties of the lungs, but the exact mechanisms are not clear. We therefore investigated the effects of alterations in pulmonary vascular pressure and flow (Q˙p) on the mechanical properties of the airways and the parenchyma by varying these parameters independently in three groups of isolated perfused normal rat lungs. The pulmonary capillary pressure (Pcest), estimated from the pulmonary arterial (Ppa) and left atrial pressure (Pla), was increased at constant Q˙p( n = 7), orQ˙pwas changed at Pcest= 10 mmHg ( n = 7) and at Pcest= 20 mmHg ( n = 6). In each condition, the airway resistance (Raw) and parenchymal damping (G) and elastance (H) were identified from the low-frequency pulmonary input impedance spectra. The results of measurements made under isogravimetric conditions were analyzed. The changes observed in the mechanical parameters were consistent with an altered Pla: monotonous increases in Raw were observed with increasing Pla, whereas G and H were minimal at Pla of ∼7–10 mmHg and increased at lower and higher Pla. The results indicate that Pla, and not Ppa or Q˙p, is the primary determinant of the mechanical condition of the lungs after acute changes in pulmonary hemodynamics: the parenchymal mechanics are impaired if Pla is lower or higher than physiological, whereas airway narrowing occurs at high Pla.
Influence of prior exercise and liver glycogen content on the sensitivity of the liver to glucagon
Authors: Bonjorn Victoria Matas , Latour Martin G. , Bélanger Patrice , Lavoie Jean-Marc
Published: December 2017

The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that a prior period of exercise is associated with an increase in hepatic glucagon sensitivity. Hepatic glucose production (HGP) was measured in four groups of anesthetized rats infused with glucagon (2 μg · kg−1 · min−1 iv) over a period of 60 min. Among these groups, two were normally fed and, therefore, had a normal level of liver glycogen (NG). One of these two groups was killed at rest (NG-Re) and the other after a period of exercise (NG-Ex; 60 min of running, 15–26 m/min, 0% grade). The two other groups of rats had a high hepatic glycogen level (HG), which had been increased by a fast-refed diet, and were also killed either at rest (HG-Re) or after exercise (HG-Ex). Plasma glucagon and insulin levels were increased similarly in all four conditions. Glucagon-induced hyperglycemia was higher ( P < 0.01) in the HG-Re group than in all other groups. HGP in the HG-Re group was not, however, on the whole more elevated than in the NG-Re group. Exercised rats (NG-Ex and HG-Ex) had higher hyperglycemia, HGP, and glucose utilization than rested rats in the first 10 min of the glucagon infusion. HG-Ex group had the highest HGP throughout the 60-min experiment. It is concluded that hyperglucagonemia-induced HGP is stimulated by a prior period of exercise, suggesting an increased sensitivity of the liver to glucagon during exercise.
Combined effect of repetitive work and cold on muscle function and fatigue
Authors: Oksa Juha , Ducharme Michel B. , Rintamäki Hannu
Published: December 2017

This study compared the effect of repetitive work in thermoneutral and cold conditions on forearm muscle electromyogram (EMG) and fatigue. We hypothesize that cold and repetitive work together cause higher EMG activity and fatigue than repetitive work only, thus creating a higher risk for overuse injuries. Eight men performed six 20-min work bouts at 25°C (W-25) and at 5°C while exposed to systemic (C-5) and local cooling (LC-5). The work was wrist flexion-extension exercise at 10% maximal voluntary contraction. The EMG activity of the forearm flexors and extensors was higher during C-5 (31 and 30%, respectively) and LC-5 (25 and 28%, respectively) than during W-25 ( P < 0.05). On the basis of fatigue index (calculated from changes in maximal flexor force and flexor EMG activity), the fatigue in the forearm flexors at the end of W-25 was 15%. The corresponding values at the end of C-5 and LC-5 were 37% ( P < 0.05 in relation to W-25) and 20%, respectively. Thus repetitive work in the cold causes higher EMG activity and fatigue than repetitive work in thermoneutral conditions.
Selected Contribution: Influence of genioglossus tonic activity on upper airway dynamics assessed by phrenic nerve stimulation
Authors: Sériès F. , Marc I.
Published: December 2017

Upper airway (UA) dynamics can be evaluated during wakefulness by using electrical phrenic nerve stimulation (EPNS) applied at end-expiration during exclusive nasal breathing by dissociating twitch flow and phasic activation of UA muscles. This technique can be used to quantify the influence of nonphasic electromyographic (EMG) activity on UA dynamics. UA dynamics was characterized by using EPNS when increasing tonic EMG activity with CO2 stimulation in six normal awake subjects. Instantaneous flow, esophageal and nasopharyngeal pressures, and genioglossal EMG activity were recorded during EPNS at baseline and during CO2 ventilatory stimulation. The proportion of twitches presenting an inspiratory-flow limitation pattern decreased from 100% at baseline to 78.7 ± 21.4% ( P = 10−4) during CO2rebreathing. During CO2 stimuli, maximal inspiratory twitch flow (V˙i max) of flow-limited twitches significantly rose, with the driving pressure at which flow limitation occurred being more negative. For the group as a whole, the increase inV˙i max and the decrease in pressure were significantly correlated with the rise in end-expiratory EMG activity. UA stability assessed by EPNS is dramatically modified during CO2 ventilatory stimulation. Changes in tonic genioglossus EMG activity significantly contribute to the improvement in UA stability.
Growth hormone responses to repeated maximal cycle ergometer exercise at different pedaling rates
Authors: Stokes K. A. , Nevill M. E. , Hall G. M. , Lakomy H. K. A.
Published: December 2017

The present study examined the growth hormone (GH) response to repeated bouts of maximal sprint cycling and the effect of cycling at different pedaling rates on postexercise serum GH concentrations. Ten male subjects completed two 30-s sprints, separated by 1 h of passive recovery on two occasions, against an applied resistance equal to 7.5% (fast trial) and 10% (slow trial) of their body mass, respectively. Blood samples were obtained at rest, between the two sprints, and for 1 h after the second sprint. Peak and mean pedal revolutions were greater in the fast than the slow trial, but there were no differences in peak or mean power output. Blood lactate and blood pH responses did not differ between trials or sprints. The first sprint in each trial elicited a serum GH response (fast: 40.8 ± 8.2 mU/l, slow: 20.8 ± 6.1 mU/l), and serum GH was still elevated 60 min after the first sprint. The second sprint in each trial did not elicit a serum GH response ( sprint 1 vs. sprint 2, P < 0.05). There was a trend for serum GH concentrations to be greater in the fast trial (mean GH area under the curve after sprint 1vs. after sprint 2: 1,697 ± 367 vs. 933 ± 306 min · mU−1 · l−1; P = 0.05). Repeated sprint cycling results in an attenuation of the GH response.
Oncogenic Ras Isoforms Signaling Specificity at the Membrane
Authors: Nussinov Ruth , Tsai Chung-Jung , Jang Hyunbum
Published: December 2017

How do Ras isoforms attain oncogenic specificity at the membrane? Oncogenic KRas, HRas, and NRas (K-Ras, H-Ras, and N-Ras) differentially populate distinct cancers. How they selectively activate effectors and why is KRas4B the most prevalent are highly significant questions. Here, we consider determinants that may bias isoform-specific effector activation and signaling at the membrane. We merge functional data with a conformational view to provide mechanistic insight. Cell-specific expression levels, pathway cross-talk, and distinct interactions are the key, but conformational trends can modulate selectivity. There are two major pathways in oncogenic Ras-driven proliferation: MAPK (Raf/MEK/ERK) and PI3Kα/Akt/mTOR. All membrane-anchored, proximally located, oncogenic Ras isoforms can promote Raf dimerization and fully activate MAPK signaling. So why the differential statistics of oncogenic isoforms in distinct cancers and what makes KRas so highly oncogenic? Many cell-specific factors may be at play, including higher KRAS mRNA levels. As a key factor, we suggest that because only KRas4B binds calmodulin, only KRas can fully activate PI3Kα/Akt signaling. We propose that full activation of both MAPK and PI3Kα/Akt proliferative pathways by oncogenic KRas4B—but not by HRas or NRas—may help explain why the KRas4B isoform is especially highly populated in certain cancers. We further discuss pharmacologic implications. Cancer Res; 78(3); 593–602. ©2017 AACR.
Missed Opportunities in Symptomatic Patients before a First Acute Coronary Syndrome: The EPIHeart Cohort Study
Authors: Araújo Carla , Laszczyńska Olga , Viana Marta , Dias Paula , Maciel Maria Júlia , Moreira Ilídio , Azevedo Ana
Published: December 2017

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the proportion of patients with a first episode of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) reporting preceding chest pain, having previously sought medical care and undergone the performance of exams, and to identify the determinants of seeking medical advice and undergoing electrocardiogram (ECG). Methods: Within a cohort study, 690 patients with a first episode of ACS were evaluated. A questionnaire was applied to assess chest pain within the preceding 6 months of the event and health system resources utilization. Determinants were identified by logistic regression. Results: Preceding chest pain was reported by 61% of patients, 43% of these sought medical help, of whom less than half underwent ECG, and in 39% pain was attributed to a problem of the heart. Patients with hypertension were more likely to seek medical care (adjusted odds ratio, OR, 2.13, 95% CI 1.29-3.51), and former smokers (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.28-0.99) and patients of a higher social class (OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.05-0.48) were less likely to seek medical care. The performance of ECG was associated with male sex (OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.11-5.87), health subsystem coverage (OR 3.88, 95% CI 1.11-13.53), and living in the northeastern region (OR 9.07, 95% CI 4.07-20.24), whereas cognitive impairment (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.15-0.92) and being employed (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.14-0.97) were inversely associated. Conclusions: These results suggest there are opportunities to improve the diagnosis of myocardial ischemia before acute coronary events.
Hand-Holding during Cystoscopy Decreases Patient Anxiety, Pain, and Dissatisfaction: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kwon Whi-An , Lee Jae Whan , Seo Ho Kyung , Oh Tae Hoon , Park Seung Chol , Jeong Hee Jong , Seo Ill Young
Published: December 2017

Objective: Often a sick or an anxious person can experience pain or anxiety relief if another person holds his or her hand. In this study, we conducted investigations to determine whether hand-holding during cystoscopy decreases patient anxiety, pain, and dissatisfaction while at the same time increasing patient comfort and tolerance during the procedure. Patients and Methods: Eighty-six male patients who underwent flexible cystoscopy between November 2015 and March 2017 were randomized as follows: hand-holding (group I, n = 43) or non-hand-holding (group II, n = 43) during the procedure. Before flexible cystoscopy, lidocaine gel was instilled in the urethra. Patients’ anxiety levels were quantified using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. A visual analog scale (0–10) was used for self-assessment of satisfaction, discomfort, and willingness to undergo repeat cystoscopy. Results: Demographic characteristics, mean age, procedure duration, procedure indications, and preprocedural analyses did not differ significantly between the 2 groups. In group I, the postprocedural mean anxiety level, pain score, heart rate, and systolic blood pressure were significantly lower compared with those in group II (p = 0.009, p = 0.003, p = 0.022, and p = 0.014, respectively). In group I, postprocedural mean satisfaction score were higher, and patients were more likely to undergo a repeat cystoscopy, compared with those in group II (p = 0.001 and p = 0.004, respectively). Conclusions: Hand-holding during cystoscopy significantly reduced patients’ feelings of anxiety, pain, discomfort, and dissatisfaction. Hand-holding served as a simple, inexpensive, and effective adjunct to sedation during cystoscopy.
Comparison of Glycemic Markers in Chronic Hemodialysis Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Divani Maria , Georgianos Panagiotis I. , Didangelos Triantafyllos , Iliadis Fotios , Makedou Areti , Hatzitolios Apostolos , Liakopoulos Vassilios , Grekas Dimitrios M.
Published: December 2017

Background: Glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) among diabetic hemodialysis patients continues to be the standard of care, although its limitations are well recognized. This study evaluated glycated albumin (GA) and glycated serum protein (GSP) as alternatives to HbA1c in detecting glycemic control among diabetic hemodialysis patients using continuous-glucose-monitoring (CGM)-derived glucose as reference standard. Methods: A CGM system (iPRO) was applied for 7 days in 37 diabetic hemodialysis patients to determine glycemic control. The accuracy of GA and GSP versus HbA1c in detecting a 7-day average glucose ≥184 mg/dL was evaluated via receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results: CGM-derived glucose exhibited strong correlation (r = 0.970, p < 0.001) and acceptable agreement with corresponding capillary glucose measurements obtained by the patients themselves in 1,169 time-points over the 7-day-long CGM. The area under ROC curve (AUC) for GA, GSP, and HbA1c to detect poor glycemic control was 0.976 (0.862–1.000), 0.682 (0.502–0.862), and 0.776 (0.629–0.923) respectively. GA levels >20.3% had 90.9% sensitivity and 96.1% specificity in detecting a 7-day average glucose ≥184 mg/dL. The AUC for GA was significantly higher than the AUC for GSP (difference between areas: 0.294, p < 0.001) and the AUC for HbA1c (difference between areas: 0.199, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Among diabetic hemodialysis patients, GA is a stronger indicator of poor glycemic control assessed with 7-day-long CGM when compared to GSP and HbA1c.
Consumo colaborativo: perspectivas, olhares e abordagens para um conceito em construção
Authors: Barros Ana Cirne Paes de , Patriota Karla Regina Macena Pereira
Published: December 2017

Apesar de evidente nas práticas contemporâneas de consumo e comunicação, o que se convencionou chamar de “consumo colaborativo” ainda agrupa uma série de questionamentos e reflexões em torno de sua semântica. Este artigo, ancorado na perspectiva bibliométrica, analisa os trabalhos disponíveis no Portal de Periódicos da Capes/MEC e na Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações que contenham em sua proposta de pesquisa a expressão “consumo colaborativo” para investigar de que modo os pesquisadores brasileiros abordam o conceito e, em seguida, problematiza suas postulações.
Teorias sobre voz nas décadas de 1960 e 1970 e cinema contemporâneo
Authors: Da Costa Fernando Morais
Published: December 2017

A partir da recente redescoberta de determinados textos sobre voz escritos no decorrer das décadas de 1960 e 1970 por Derrida, Barthes e pelo menos evidente mas central para esta comunicação, Don Ihde, propomos, ao mesmo tempo em que fazemos a aproximação de diferentes campos com o cinema, a seguinte questão: o que tais trabalhos, conhecidos, antigos, mas recentemente reeditados, podem acrescentar ao que pensamos sobre som no cinema contemporâneo?
Dentistry in Bandeira Cientifica 2015 Project - Limoeiro de Anadia - AL
Authors: Frias Antonio Carlos , Talebi Ana Carolina , Souza Daniela , Macedo Mary Caroline Skelton , Nakamae Atlas Edson Moleros
Published: December 2017

O Projeto Bandeira Científica é uma atividade de extensão universitária que atua em localidades vulneráveis do Brasil. Desde 2006 a Faculdade de Odontologia da USP é responsável pela saúde bucal. As atividades foram desenvolvidas entre 8 e 20 de dezembro de 2015, em Limoeiro de Anadia - AL. Participaram 28 alunos da graduação FO-USP e FO-UFAL, 2 professores e 5 Cirurgiões Dentistas em ações de promoção em saúde em 1.454 crianças de 20 escolas de Ensino Fundamental, Educação Infantil e População da Comunidade. Todos os escolares participaram das atividades de educação em saúde bucal e escovação supervisionada, ações prioritárias do projeto. Foi desenvolvido um levantamento epidemiológico de saúde bucal, foram distribuídos 2.500 kits de escovação infantil e realizadas 1.454 aplicações de flúor tópico, 752 escolares receberam atendimento clínico: tratamento restaurador atraumático com ionômero de vidro (1.588); selamento de cavidades com cimento provisório (11); medicação endodôntica (2); exodontia de decíduos (429) e permanentes (50); raspagem periodontal (20), totalizando 2.165 procedimentos clínicos e 296 procedimentos preventivos: aplicação de cariostático (123); aplicação de selante (160) e aplicação de verniz fluoretado (13), foram confeccionadas 24 próteses totais para 12 moradores e foram encaminhadas 358 crianças para tratamento de maior complexidade para a Unidade Básica de Saúde.
EACH in Movement: A Report of Extension Projects Related to Gymnastics
Authors: Tsukamoto Mariana Harumi Cruz , Barros Joana Paula De , Lee Cristina Landgraf
Published: December 2017

O presente relato tem como objetivo descrever as ações realizadas em dois projetos desenvolvidos na Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades da Universidade de São Paulo. Ambos possuem como ponto em comum o fato de se basearem em atividades ginásticas, apesar de se tratarem de práticas distintas. O projeto “Ginástica para Todos na EACH” se propôs, entre outras coisas, a disseminar a prática desta modalidade entre a comunidade interna da unidade, além de se constituir como uma opção de atividade física para um grupo formado, primordialmente, por estudantes dos diversos cursos de graduação da unidade. Por outro lado, o projeto “Ginástica Laboral para funcionários da EACH” promoveu ao longo de seus três anos de existência, uma grande variedade de atividades para este grupo específico. Além da vertente do atendimento à comunidade, os projetos aqui descritos também se constituíram em um importante espaço de formação, enriquecendo as experiências acadêmicas dos monitores envolvidos.
Radiologia Básica (Odontologia), Vinte Anos de Experiência no Ensino Baseado em Problemas Modificado (EPBM)
Authors: Watanabe Plauto Christopher Aranha , Pardini Luiz Carlos
Published: December 2017

O Ensino Baseado em Problemas Modificado (PBLM) pode ser uma abordagem inovadora para o ensino das habilidades em Odontologia. O aluno, nas atividades teóricas e práticas (laboratório), deverá resolver problemas sobre os conteúdos da disciplina de radiologia básica, orientado por roteiros de estudo dirigido, que incluem vários exercícios com questões problema, de iniciativa individual e finalização em grupo. A característica especial é a plena integração das atividades teóricas e práticas de maneira indissociável, com base em exercícios e experimentos (iniciação científica) realizados pelos alunos, sendo o professor o incentivador, o tutor. Assim, nosso objetivo com este artigo é trazer à comunidade uspiana essa experiência de vinte anos no ensino da Radiologia Básica, tendo como metodologia de ensino o EPBM.
Newly Identified NO‐Sensor Guanylyl Cyclase/Connexin 43 Association Is Involved in Cardiac Electrical Function
Authors: Crassous Pierre‐Antoine , Shu Ping , Huang Can , Gordan Richard , Brouckaert Peter , Lampe Paul D. , Xie Lai‐Hua , Beuve Annie
Published: December 2017

Background

Guanylyl cyclase, a heme‐containing α1β1 heterodimer (
GC
1), produces
cGMP
in response to Nitric oxide (
NO
) stimulation. The
NO
‐
GC1
‐
cGMP
pathway negatively regulates cardiomyocyte contractility and protects against cardiac hypertrophy–related remodeling. We recently reported that the β1 subunit of
GC
1 is detected at the intercalated disc with connexin 43 (Cx43). Cx43 forms gap junctions (
GJs
) at the intercalated disc that are responsible for electrical propagation. We sought to determine whether there is a functional association between
GC
1 and Cx43 and its role in cardiac homeostasis.

Methods and Results

GC
1 and Cx43 immunostaining at the intercalated disc and coimmunoprecipitation from membrane fraction indicate that
GC
1 and Cx43 are associated. Mice lacking the α subunit of
GC
1 (
GC
α1 knockout mice) displayed a significant decrease in
GJ
function (dye‐spread assay) and Cx43 membrane lateralization. In a cardiac‐hypertrophic model, angiotensin
II
treatment disrupted the GC1‐Cx43 association and induced significant Cx43 membrane lateralization, which was exacerbated in
GC
α1 knockout mice. Cx43 lateralization correlated with decreased Cx43‐containing
GJs
at the intercalated disc, predictors of electrical dysfunction. Accordingly, an ECG revealed that angiotensin
II
–treated
GC
α1 knockout mice had impaired ventricular electrical propagation. The phosphorylation level of Cx43 at serine 365, a protein‐kinase A upregulated site involved in trafficking/assembly of
GJs
, was decreased in these models.

Conclusions

GC
1 modulates ventricular Cx43 location, hence
GJ
function, and partially protects from electrical dysfunction in an angiotensin
II
hypertrophy model. Disruption of the
NO
‐
cGMP
pathway is associated with cardiac electrical disturbance and abnormal Cx43 phosphorylation. This previously unknown
NO
/Cx43 signaling could be a protective mechanism against stress‐induced arrhythmia.
Association Between
APOL1
Genotypes and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in MESA (Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis)
Authors: Chen Teresa K. , Katz Ronit , Estrella Michelle M. , Gutierrez Orlando M. , Kramer Holly , Post Wendy S. , Shlipak Michael G. , Wassel Christina L. , Peralta Carmen A.
Published: December 2017

Background

APOL
1

genetic variants confer an increased risk for kidney disease. Their associations with cardiovascular disease (
CVD
) are less certain. We aimed to compare the prevalence of subclinical
CVD
and incidence of atherosclerotic
CVD
and heart failure by

APOL
1

genotypes among self‐identified black participants of MESA (Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis).

Methods and Results

Cross‐sectional associations of

APOL
1

genotypes (high‐risk=2 alleles; low‐risk=0 or 1 allele) with coronary artery calcification, carotid‐intimal media thickness, and left ventricular mass were evaluated using logistic and linear regression. Longitudinal associations of

APOL
1

genotypes with incident myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary heart disease, and congestive heart failure were examined using Cox regression. We adjusted for African ancestry, age, and sex. We also evaluated whether hypertension or kidney function markers explained the observed associations. Among 1746 participants with

APOL
1

genotyping (mean age 62 years, 55% women, mean cystatin C–based estimated glomerular filtration rate 89 mL/min per 1.73 m
2
, 12% with albuminuria), 12% had the high‐risk genotypes. We found no difference in prevalence or severity of coronary artery calcification, carotid‐intimal media thickness, or left ventricular mass by

APOL
1

genotypes. The

APOL
1

high‐risk group was 82% more likely to develop incident heart failure compared with the low‐risk group (95% confidence interval, 1.01–3.28). Adjusting for hypertension (hazard ratio, 1.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.00–3.24) but not markers of kidney function (hazard ratio, 1.86; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–3.35) slightly attenuated this association. The

APOL
1

high‐risk genotypes were not significantly associated with other clinical
CVD
outcomes.

Conclusions

Among blacks without baseline
CVD
, the

APOL
1

high‐risk variants may be associated with increased risk for incident heart failure but not subclinical
CVD
or incident clinical atherosclerotic
CVD
.
PROMIS GH (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global Health) Scale in Stroke
Authors: Katzan Irene L. , Lapin Brittany
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose—

The International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement recently included the 10-item PROMIS GH (Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Global Health) scale as part of their recommended Standard Set of Stroke Outcome Measures. Before collection of PROMIS GH is broadly implemented, it is necessary to assess its performance in the stroke population. The objective of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of PROMIS GH in patients with ischemic stroke and intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods—

PROMIS GH and 6 PROMIS domain scales measuring same/similar constructs were electronically collected on 1102 patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes at various stages of recovery from their stroke who were seen in a cerebrovascular clinic from October 12, 2015, through June 2, 2017. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to evaluate the adequacy of 2-factor structure of component scores. Test–retest reliability and convergent validity of PROMIS GH items and component scores were assessed. Discriminant validity and responsiveness were compared between PROMIS GH and PROMIS domain scales measuring the same or related constructs. Analyses were repeated stratified by stroke subtype and modified Rankin Scale score <2 versus ≥2.

Results—

There was moderate internal reliability (ordinal α, 0.82–0.88) and marginal model fit for the 2-factor solution for component scores (root mean square error of approximation, 0.11). Convergent validity was good with significant correlations between all PROMIS GH items and PROMIS domain scales (
P
<0.001 for all). There was excellent discrimination for all PROMIS GH items and component scores across modified Rankin Scale levels. Good responsiveness (effect size, >0.5) was demonstrated for 8 of the 10 PROMIS GH items. Reliability and validity remained consistent across stroke subtype and disability level (modified Rankin Scale, <2 versus ≥2).

Conclusions—

PROMIS GH exhibits acceptable performance in patients with stroke. Our findings support International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement recommendation to use PROMIS GH as part of the standard set of outcome measures in stroke.
Microfinance in India, Indonesia, and the United States: Implications for social work
Authors: Widyaningrum Nurul , Bhat Meera , Lee Wonhyung
Published: December 2017

This study explores the relevance of microfinance to social work in India, Indonesia, and the United States. Interviews with microfinance practitioners and social work educators and a comparison of the Master of Social Work (MSW) curricula in these countries identified the values, skills, and educational opportunities shared between the two fields. Microfinance resonates with core social work values and benefits from social work skills such as holistic assessment, interpersonal and group skills, and community organizing. Although the connection was most evident in India, microfinance has potential to be further engaged in social work profession and education in other countries.
First application of the marine differential electric dipole for groundwater investigations: A case study from Bat Yam, Israel
Authors: Haroon Amir , Lippert Klaus , Mogilatov Vladimir , Tezkan Bülent
Published: December 2017

The marine differential electric dipole (DED) is applied for the first time to study a subseafloor groundwater body in the coastal region of Bat Yam, Israel. Previous marine long-offset transient electromagnetic applications detected this freshwater body underneath the Mediterranean seafloor. We have applied the novel DED method for the first time in the marine environment to further investigate this natural phenomenon. The main objectives are to locate the freshwater-seawater interface at the western aquifer edge and to identify the mechanism controlling this freshwater occurrence beneath the seafloor. The acquired step-on signals allow one to detect the freshwater body in the vicinity of the Israeli coastline at a depth of approximately 70 m beneath the seafloor. However, aquifer thickness is only poorly determined and may vary between 40 and 100 m. A lateral resistivity contrast is observable between adjacent 1D inversion models and also apparent in data profile curves that constrain the seaward extent of the detected resistive body to a distance of less than 4 km from the coastline. A subsequent 2.5D forward-modeling study aims to find a subseafloor resistivity distribution that adequately explains all measured DED data simultaneously. The results further constrain the lateral extent of the resistive aquifer to approximately 3.6–3.7 km from the Israeli coast. Furthermore, the data indicate that the aquifer system may be susceptible to seawater intrusion, as a superior data fit is achieved if a brackish water zone of approximately [Formula: see text] with a lateral extent of less than 300 m is located at the head of the freshwater body.
3D seismic characterization of fractures in a dipping layer using the double-beam method
Authors: Hu Hao , Zheng Yingcai
Published: December 2017

The characterization of natural and induced fractures, in terms of fracture orientation, fracture spacing (or density), and fracture compliance, is critical in reservoir development. Given the multiscale nature of the fracture distribution, the commonly used effective anisotropy assumption may not be valid. The recently proposed double-beam method to characterize the fractured reservoir has the potential to invert for the spatially dependent fracture network information for a horizontal reservoir layer. However, the inverted results can be biased if the fractured reservoir layer is dipping. As a result, it is essential to estimate and include the dip-angle information of reservoir layers in applying the double-beam method. We used forward modeling to demonstrate the bias, and we developed a new method to correct for the error caused by the reservoir layer dip angle. For a dipping layer, our new method can correctly invert for the fracture parameters, including the fracture orientation and fracture spacing.
Application of 3D marine controlled-source electromagnetic finite-element forward modeling to hydrocarbon exploration in the Flemish Pass Basin offshore Newfoundland, Canada
Authors: Dunham Michael W. , Ansari SeyedMasoud , Farquharson Colin G.
Published: December 2017

In recent years, marine controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) surveying has become an effective supplemental interpretation tool to the seismic reflection method to help mitigate risk in an offshore exploration setting. Interpretation of marine CSEM data is commonly achieved via finite-difference inversions on rectilinear meshes, which has its merits, but the results are typically of very low resolution. The alternative is forward modeling, which requires a model to be known a priori, but the detail of the model can be created to reflect realistic geologic conditions. What is typically seen in the literature are applications of EM forward modeling codes to synthetic, and sometimes complex synthetic, models. However, what the literature is missing is an application that overcomes the challenges of applying a 3D forward modeling method to real models constructed from real information. We have developed an application of a 3D marine CSEM finite-element forward modeling method to the Bay du Nord prospect in the Flemish Pass Basin offshore Newfoundland. The 3D resistivity model, composed of four topographical layers and the Bay du Nord reservoir body, was built using 2D seismic data, one well log, and a marine CSEM inversion. Although other mesh representations have their merits, we chose to discretize our 3D model into an unstructured tetrahedral mesh because its flexibility enabled the accurate representation of complex structures while minimizing the number of unknowns. The availability of measured marine CSEM data allowed for the resistivities of each layer in the 3D model to be refined, and it also allowed for the simulated data to be assessed in the context of the real noise levels. A subsequent sensitivity analysis of the forward modeling results provided insights regarding the detectability of the Bay du Nord reservoir.
Alternative Outpatient Chemotherapy Scheduling Method to Improve Patient Service Quality and Nurse Satisfaction
Authors: Huang Yu-Li , Bryce Alan H. , Culbertson Tracy , Connor Sarah L. , Looker Sherry A. , Altman Kristin M. , Collins James G. , Stellner Winston , McWilliams Robert R. , Moreno-Aspitia Alvaro , Ailawadhi Sikander , Mesa Ruben A.
Published: December 2017

Introduction:

Optimal scheduling and calendar management in an outpatient chemotherapy unit is a complex process that is driven by a need to focus on safety while accommodating a high degree of variability. Primary constraints are infusion times, staffing resources, chair availability, and unit hours.

Methods:

We undertook a process to analyze our existing management models across multiple practice settings in our health care system, then developed a model to optimize safety and efficiency. The model was tested in one of the community chemotherapy units. We assessed staffing violations as measured by nurse-to-patient ratios throughout the workday and at key points during treatment. Staffing violations were tracked before and after the implementation of the new model.

Results:

The new model reduced staffing violations by nearly 50% and required fewer chairs to treat the same number of patients for the selected clinic day. Actual implementation results indicated that the new model leveled the distribution of patients across the workday with an 18% reduction in maximum chair utilization and a 27% reduction in staffing violations. Subsequently, a positive impact on peak pharmacy workload reduced delays by as much as 35 minutes. Nursing staff satisfaction with the new model was positive.

Conclusion:

We conclude that the proposed optimization approach with regard to nursing resource assignment and workload balance throughout a day effectively improves patient service quality and staff satisfaction.
Development and Feasibility of Bundled Payments for the Multidisciplinary Treatment of Head and Neck Cancer: A Pilot Program
Authors: Spinks Tracy , Guzman Alexis , Beadle Beth M. , Lee Seohyun , Jones Delrose , Walters Ron , Incalcaterra Jim , Hanna Ehab , Hessel Amy , Weber Randal , Denney Sandra , Newcomer Lee , Feeley Thomas W.
Published: December 2017

Purpose:

Despite growing interest in bundled payments to reduce the costs of care, this payment method remains largely untested in cancer. This 3-year pilot tested the feasibility of a 1-year bundled payment for the multidisciplinary treatment of head and neck cancers.

Methods:

Four prospective treatment-based bundles were developed for patients with selected head and neck cancers. These risk-adjusted bundles covered 1 year of care that began with primary cancer treatment. Manual processes were developed for patient identification, enrollment, billing, and payment. Patients were prospectively identified and enrolled, and bundled payments were made at treatment start. Operational metrics tracked incremental effort for pilot processes and average payment cycle time compared with fee-for-service (FFS) payments.

Results:

This pilot confirmed the feasibility of a 1-year prospective bundled payment for head and neck cancers. Between November 2014 and October 2016, 88 patients were enrolled successfully with prospective bundled payments. Through September 2017, 94% of patients completed the pilot with 6% still enrolled. Manual pilot processes required more effort than anticipated; claims processing was the most time-consuming activity. The production of a bundle bill took an additional 15 minutes versus FFS billing. The average payment cycle time was 37 days (range, 15 to 141 days) compared with a 15-day average under FFS.

Conclusion:

Prospective bundled payments were successfully implemented in this pilot. Additional pilots should study this payment method in higher-volume cancers. Robust systems are needed to automate patient identification, enrollment, billing, and payment along with policies that reduce administrative burden and allow for the introduction of novel cancer therapies.
Effects of mechanical disturbance and salinity stress on bioenergetics and burrowing behavior of the soft shell clamMya arenaria
Authors: Haider Fouzia , Sokolov Eugene P. , Sokolova Inna M.
Published: December 2017

Bioturbation of sediments by burrowing organisms plays a key role in the functioning of the coastal ecosystems. Burrowing is considered an energetically expensive activity, yet the energy costs of burrowing and the potential impacts of multiple stressors (such as salinity stress and wave action) on bioenergetics and burrowing performance of marine bioturbators are not well understood. We investigated the effects of mechanical disturbance and salinity stress on the burrowing behavior, aerobic capacity and energy expense of digging in a common marine bioturbator, the soft clam Mya arenaria from the Baltic Sea (control salinity 15). M. arenaria showed large individual variability in the burrowing efficiency, with an average of ∼7% of the body energy reserves used per burial. Clams with higher mitochondrial capacity and lower energy expenditure per burial showed higher endurance. Acclimation for 3-4 weeks to low (5) or fluctuating (5-15) salinity reduced the burrowing speed and the number of times the clams can re-bury but did not affect the mitochondrial capacity of the whole body or the gill. Acclimation to the fluctuating salinity shifted the predominant fuel use for burrowing from proteins to lipids. Our data indicate that the reduced burrowing performance of clams under the salinity stress is not due to the limitations of energy availability or aerobic capacity but must involve other mechanisms (such as impaired muscle performance). The reduction in the burrowing capacity of clams due to salinity stress may have important implications for survival, activity and ecological functions of the clams in shallow coastal ecosystems.
Hyperpolarized gas MRI in pulmonology
Authors: Kern Agilo Luitger , Vogel-Claussen Jens
Published: December 2017

Lung diseases have a high prevalence amongst the world population and their early diagnosis has been pointed out to be key for successful treatment. However, there is still a lack of non-invasive examination methods with sensitivity to early, local deterioration of lung function. Proton-based lung MRI is particularly challenging due to short T  2  * times and low proton density within the lung tissue. Hyperpolarized gas MRI is aan emerging technology providing a richness of methodologies which overcome the aforementioned problems. Unlike proton-based MRI, lung MRI of hyperpolarized gases may rely on imaging of spins in the lung’s gas spaces or inside the lung tissue and thereby add substantial value and diagnostic potential to lung MRI. This review article gives an introduction to the MR physics of hyperpolarized media and presents the current state of hyperpolarized gas MRI of 3Headvasd and 129Xe in pulmonology. Key applications, ranging from static and dynamic ventilation imaging as well as oxygen-pressure mapping to 129Xe dissolved-phase imaging and spectroscopy are presented. Hyperpolarized gas MRI is compared to alternative examination methods based on MRI and future directions of hyperpolarized gas MRI are discussed.
Effects of contrast administration on cardiac MRI volumetric, flow and pulse wave velocity quantification using manual and software-based analysis
Authors: Fathi Amir , Weir-McCall Jonathan R , Struthers Allan D , Lipworth Brian J , Houston Graeme
Published: December 2017

Objective:

The aim of the current study was to determine the effects of gadolinium contrast agent on right (RV) and left ventricular (LV) volumetric, aortic flow and pulse wave velocity (PWV) quantification using manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic analysis techniques.

Methods:

61 participants free from known cardiovascular disease were recruited. Cardiac MR was performed on a 3 T scanner. A balanced steady-state free precession stack was acquired of the ventricles with phase contrast imaging of the aorta performed pre- and post-administration of 10 ml 0.5 mmol ml−1 gadoterate meglumine. The images were analysed manually, and using a semi-automated and a fully automated technique.

Results:

54 completed the study. Gadolinium-based contrast administration significantly increase the signal-to-noise ratio (pre: 830 ± 398 vs post: 1028 ± 540, p = 0.003) with no significant change in contrast-to-noise ratio (pre: 583 ± 302 vs post: 559 ± 346, p = 0.54). On LV analysis, post-contrast analysis yielded significantly higher end systolic volume (54 ± 20 vs 57 ± 18 ml, p = 0.04), and lower ejection fraction (59 ± 9 vs 57 ± 8%, p = 0.023). On RV analysis, gadolinium contrast resulted in no significant differences. Similar results were seen using the semi-automated and fully-automated techniques but with a larger magnitude of difference. Conversely, using both manual and software analysis aortic flow and PWV quantification proved robust to the effects of contrast agent producing only small non-significant differences.

Conclusion:

Gadolinium contrast administration significantly alters LV endocardial contour detection with this effect amplified when using semi-automated analysis techniques. In comparison, RV and PWV analysis is robust to these effects.

Advances in knowledge:

Contrast administration alters LV quantification but not flow analysis. However, these differences are small.
A high 18F-FDOPA uptake is associated with a slow growth rate in diffuse Grade II–III gliomas
Authors: Isal Sibel , Gauchotte Guillaume , Rech Fabien , Blonski Marie , Planel Sophie , Chawki Mohammad B , Karcher Gilles , Marie Pierre-Yves , Taillandier Luc , Verger Antoine
Published: December 2017

Objective:

In diffuse Grade II–III gliomas, a high3,4-dihydroxy-6-(18F)-fluoro-L-phenylalanine (18F-FDOPA) positron emission tomography (PET) uptake, with a standardized uptake value (SUVmax)/contralateral brain tissue ratio greater than 1.8, was previously found to be consistently associated with the presence of an isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation, whereas this mutation is typically associated with a better prognosis. This pilot study was aimed to ascertain the prognostic value of this high 18F-FDOPA uptake in diffuse Grade II–III gliomas with regard to the velocity of diameter expansion (VDE), which represents an established landmark of better prognosis when below 4 mm per year.

Methods:

20 patients (42 ± 10 years, 10 female) with newly-diagnosed diffuse Grade II–III gliomas (17 with IDH mutation) were retrospectively included. All had a 18F-FDOPA PET, quantified with SUVmax ratio, along with a serial MRI enabling VDE determination.

Results:

SUVmax ratio was above 1.8 in 5 patients (25%) all of whom had a VDE <4 mm/year (100%) and IDH mutation (100%). Moreover, a SUVmax ratio above 1.8 was associated with higher rates of VDE <4 mm/year in the overall population (45 vs 0%, p = 0.04) and also in the subgroup of patients with IDH mutation (45 vs 0%, p = 0.10).

Conclusion:

This pilot study shows that in diffuse Grade II–III gliomas, a high 18F-FDOPA uptake would be predictive of low tumour growth, with a different prognostic significance than IDH mutation.

Advances in knowledge:

18F-FDOPA PET in a single session imaging could have prognostic value in initial diagnosis of diffuse Grade II–III gliomas.
Coincidence of topological Jacobson radicals in topological algebras
Authors: Abel Mart , Abel Mati , Tammo Paul
Published: December 2017

Several classes of topological algebras for which the left topological Jacobson radical coincides with the right topological Jacobson radical are described.