bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Epidemiology of Coronary Heart Disease and HRT What are the Contentious Issues?
Authors: Newton John N 
Published: July 2017

Coronary heart disease (CHD) in women is an important public health problem although not one that generates much public concern. Most doctors seem to believe that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can reduce the incidence of heart disease in women after the menopause but the evidence for this is contentious. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown a cardioprotective effect for HRT. Critics suggest that these studies are flawed because women who take HRT may be healthier than others in ways that have not been assessed in the studies. Large primary prevention trials are under way but such studies are extremely difficult to design and conduct and may yet fail to provide the conclusive results needed to resolve the debate. An important randomised trial of HRT in secondary prevention has recently been published showing no benefit in the short term but a possible long term benefit. In practice, the potential public health impact of HRT in the prevention of CHD will be limited by current public attitudes to the safety of HRT, and the reluctance of older women to take HRT for prolonged periods. Women with established CHD or diabetes might benefit more from HRT, but are currently less likely to receive it.
Preaching to the Converted - or Teaching the Unconverted A Format for Education on the Menopause for Medical Practitioners
Authors: Mander AM , Edozien GY 
Published: July 2017

The general state of education regarding the menopause at undergraduate, postgraduate and senior doctor level in the primary and secondary health care fields is reviewed. It covers the problems of awareness of the menopause, the potential for preventing mortality and morbidity amongst the ageing female population and discusses why existing clinical knowledge currently available is not in fact widely utilised in clinical practice. It concludes that there are serious problems with medical education in this area, especially amongst established senior doctors in many disciplines. The article suggests the format for education about the menopause for undergraduates, including the mention of problem based learning on the new curriculum. It includes the flexible format for education on the menopause and concludes that unless widespread audits are done to establish improve benefits both in healthcare provision in the reduction of disease and also showing the enormous economic benefits it is unlikely that much will be achieved in implementing existing knowledge into clinical practice. If this is to happen, then medical practitioners should be adequately trained and educated about the menopause and its management.
The Evolution of the Ageing Ovary
Authors: Motta Pietro M. , Makabe Sayoko 
Published: July 2017

This review updates the three-dimensional (3-D) microanatomic evolution of the ageing human ovary in a novel dynamic fashion, taking advantage of integrated scanning, transmission, corrosion casts and correlated techniques developed by ourselves. Tissues were collected from ovaries of women (aged between 28 and 70 years) during open surgery or endoscopic procedures. Our findings are as follows: the volume of the postmenopausal ovary was about one half of that present during reproductive years; postmenopausally the ovary became progressively atrophic and fibrotic. Particularly it showed a decrease of papillae and crypts which made its surface smoother than that of premenopausal tissue. In perimenopausal women (aged 45–55 years) the superficial cells covering the ovary were irregularly polyhedral and flattened. Their cytoplasm showed few organelles and in some instances apoptotic and/or necrotic cells. These features increased in most aged ovaries. Consequently the zones of the ovarian cortex (tunica albugina) could occasionally appear as consisting of dense fibrous collagen structures. Here only a few altered and swollen small follicles could be found. In the medullary regions variously sized cysts, some of which were blood filled (corpora atretica and hemorragica), were present along with retracted scars (corpora albicantia). In older women (aged 55–70 years) follicles were never observed. Instead, areas of thick density of collagen fibres and numerous sized scars (corpora albicantia) were present. A drastic reduction of the ovarian vasculature along with thickened vessel walls was commonly found. These typical features were already noted in perimenopausal women, but to a lesser extent. The detailed fine cell alterations of the ovary would appear to reflect the progressive decline in steroid hormone production as the ovary ages.
Development and Evaporation of Group-Hole Nozzle Sprays under Various Surrounding and Impinging Conditions of Direct-Injection Diesel Engines
Authors: Moon S , Zhang W , Nishida K , Matsumoto Y , Gao J 
Published: July 2017

In the present study, penetration and evaporation of the diesel sprays injected by a group of two closely spaced orifices (a group-hole nozzle) were investigated and compared with those of conventional single-hole nozzle sprays under various engine loads and wall-impinging conditions of direct-injection (DI) diesel engines. Both free and wall-impinging conditions were considered. The experiments were performed inside a constant-volume vessel under simulated ambient conditions for low and high engine loads of DI diesel engines. To investigate the effect of spray targeting, two impinging conditions (impingement angles of 45° and 90° with the same impingement distance) were applied. Geometry and liquid/vapour mass distributions of the evaporating diesel sprays were analysed using a laser absorption scattering (LAS) technique. Under a free spray condition, fuel evaporation of the group-hole nozzle spray was improved compared with that of the single-hole nozzle spray at low load conditions, while it showed simultaneous deterioration in fuel evaporation and spray tip penetration at high load conditions. Jet axes deflection of the two jets from the group-hole nozzle, which generated a dense liquid region at the central region of the spray, was responsible for this deteriorated evaporation at high load conditions. Under a vertical impingement condition (impingement angle of 90°), the group-hole nozzle spray showed simultaneous improvement in spray tip penetration and fuel evaporation at both low and high load conditions from strong momentum interaction of the two jets on the impingement wall. However, this improvement from the group-hole nozzle did not appear at an inclined wall-impingement condition (impingement angle of 45°) owing to weakened and delayed momentum interaction of the two jets. Both spray tip penetration and fuel evaporation of the group-hole nozzle spray were deteriorated at the inclined wall-impinging condition.
Power Window Control Location Stereotypes
Authors: Kweon O'Seong , Schlegel Robert E. , Purswell Jerry L. 
Published: July 2017

A paper-and-pencil survey instrument and an operational test were used to assess stereotype strength for automobile power window controls. Control panel layout (square vs. linear) and mounting plane were examined along with stereotype differences between subjects with technical backgrounds and those with non-technical backgrounds. A total of 273 participants ranging in age from 16 to 50 completed the survey instrument which requested responses to questions about which control was expected to activate a specified window. Subject preference for a particular control configuration was also solicited. A square control layout mounted on the instrument panel exhibited the strongest stereotype (94% of consistent responses for a single pattern) although it was the least preferred (22%). A square configuration mounted on the door panel possessed the second strongest stereotype (67% and 28% of consistent responses for the top two response patterns) and the highest preference (47%). A linear configuration mounted on the door panel exhibited a weaker stereotype (57% and 36% of consistent responses for the top two response patterns) and was preferred by 31% of the subjects. Preference tended to follow familiarity with controls in existing vehicles rather than ease of use or isomorphic arrangement. Twenty-four of the survey participants were also tested using actual power window controls mounted in a vehicle mockup. The subject's task involved moving the left hand as quickly as possible from the steering wheel to the subject's selected control upon presentation of a pictorial or verbal cue to raise or lower a specific window. Cue presentation and measurement of reaction time and movement time were provided by a PC. The square control layout mounted on the instrument panel was superior in terms of response time, stereotype strength and response consistency.
Operation of Controls on Everyday Products
Authors: Schoorlemmer W. , Kanis H. 
Published: July 2017

Previous research shows that the self-reliance of physically impaired people can be seriously jeopardized by their inability to operate controls on everyday products. In the research reported in this paper a study is made into the operational difficulties faced by people suffering from Parkinson's disease, from spasticism, from visual impairments, and by physically non-impaired subjects. This paper reports the forces that can be exerted by these subjects, the way they actually manipulate controls, and the operational difficulties the subjects experience including both the force exertion and other operational difficulties. Finally, design implications are briefly looked into.
Using Transportation Accident Databases in Human Factors Research
Authors: Mayer David L. , Ellingstad Vernon S. 
Published: July 2017

Accident databases commonly contain factual information about the time and date of each accident, vehicle characteristics, number of persons killed and injured, and other kinds of factual data. These attributes of the environment and equipment are usually directly represented in databases. In contrast, detailed analysis of accident causes, including human factors information, are frequently not represented because they are much more difficult to obtain and code. This paper explores the suitability of transportation accident databases for use in human factors research. Given the goal of reducing the number and severity of transportation accidents, it is useful to use accident data as a tool to understand the common causes of accidents. Problems arise, however, because existing databases were typically not created explicitly for research purposes, and coding systems and file structures often omit or obscure useful information. Improved coding schemes and file structures that promote the use of databases for human factors research are discussed. Accident investigation methodologies that can improve the quality of human factors information in databases are also considered. Finally, problems associated with the use of existing databases are noted.
The Potential Value of a Front-to-Rear-End Collision Warning System Based on Factors of Driver Behavior, Visual Perception and Brake Reaction Time
Authors: McGehee Daniel V. , Dingus Thomas A. , Horowitz Avraham D. 
Published: July 2017

The potential value of a front-to-rear-end collision warning system based on factors of driver behavior, visual perception and brake reaction time is examined in this paper. Twenty-four percent of all motor vehicle crashes involving two or more vehicles are front-to-rear-end collisions. These collisions demonstrate that several driver performance factors are common. The literature indicates that drivers use the relative size and the visual angle of the vehicle ahead when making judgments regarding depth. In addition, drivers often have difficulty gauging velocity differences and depth cues between themselves and the vehicle they are following. Finally, drivers often follow at distances that are closer than brake-reaction time permits for accident avoidance. It is apparent that the comfort level of close following behavior increases over time due to the rarity of consequences. Experience also teaches drivers that the vehicle in front does not suddenly slow down very often. On the basis of these driver behavior and human performance issues, a front-to-rear-end collision warning system that provides headway/following distance and velocity change information is considered. Based on the driver performance issues, display design recommendations are outlined. The value of such a device may be demonstrated by the added driver safety and situation awareness provided. The long-term goal would ultimately be the reduction of one of the most frequent type of automobile crashes.
Comparing the Responsiveness over Time of Two Tactile Gnosis Tests: Two-Point Discrimination and the STI-Test
Authors: Rosén Brigitta , Jerosch-Herold Christina 
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the responsiveness over time of a new instrument for the assessment of tactile gnosis after nerve repair to the hand - the shape texture identification (STI) test and to compare this to an existing tactile gnosis test - the two-point discrimination test (2PD). In order to assess the instruments ability to detect clinical change over time a cohort of 32 patients with 37 complete or partial median and/or ulnar nerve repair or double digital nerve repairs were assessed on three occasions over a six months period. Only patients with a touch detection threshold of 2g (Semmes-Weinstein Monofilament 4.31) or less, indicating presence of some protective sensibility, were included in the study. All patients received the same information and were given a standard sensory re-education programme after the initial assessment. The results from the STI test were analysed longitudinally with the Wilcoxon signed rank test and Standard Response Mean (SRM) was used to estimate the responsiveness and size of change over time. The results were compared to results from the two-point discrimination test. Between the first and second follow-up the STI-test detected improvements which were statistically significant (p=0.001). An improvement was also noted between the second and third test occasion, however this did not reach statistical significance. Results from the two-point discrimination test showed a flooring effect and change was only detected in the partial nerve repairs, between the first and last assessment. We conclude that the STI test is sensitive to change and should be used as an alternative to or at least complement the 2PD test when evaluating tactile gnosis after nerve repair.
The Role of the Fifth Metacarpophalangeal Joint in the Recovery of the Burnt Hand - is it Great or Small?
Authors: Collings Jenny 
Published: July 2017

Clinical observation has shown that despite complying with text book regimes of exercises and splinting the outcome for some patients with partial thickness burns is extension contracture of the Fifth Metacarpophalangeal Joint (5th MCP joint). This observation led to a review of the architecture and biomechanics of the hand in order to consider what could improve hand function following recovery of a thermal injury. This paper reviews the architecture and biomechanics of the burnt hand and suggests that in the short term, the 5th MCP joint plays a central role in returning the hand to maximum function. With this in mind a modified form of treatment has been adopted focusing attention on the 5th MCP joint and related structures.
Strict tropism for CD71+/CD234+ human reticulocytes limits the zoonotic potential of Plasmodium cynomolgi
Authors: Kosaisavee Varakorn , Suwanarusk Rossarin , Chua Adeline C. Y. , Kyle Dennis E. , Malleret Benoit , Zhang Rou , Imwong Mallika , Imerbsin Rawiwan , Ubalee Ratawan , Sámano-Sánchez Hugo , Yeung Bryan K. S. , Ong Jessica J. Y. , Lombardini Eric , Nosten François , Tan Kevin S. W. , Bifani Pablo , Snounou Georges , Rénia Laurent , Russell Bruce 
Published: July 2017

Key PointsZoonotic P cynomolgi switches red cell tropism for reticulocytes expressing Trf1 (CD71+) and DARC (CD234+). In the human host, P cynomolgi displays an almost identical rheopathobiology to P vivax.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Ang II-AT2R increases mesenchymal stem cell migration by signaling through the FAK and RhoA/Cdc42 pathways in vitro
Authors: Xu Xiu-ping , He Hong-li , Hu Shu-ling , Han Ji-bin , Huang Li-li , Xu Jing-yuan , Xie Jian-feng , Liu Ai-ran , Yang Yi , Qiu Hai-bo 
Published: July 2017

Abstract
Background
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) migrate via the bloodstream to sites of injury and are possibly attracted by inflammatory factors. As a proinflammatory mediator, angiotensin II (Ang II) reportedly enhances the migration of various cell types by signaling via the Ang II receptor in vitro. However, few studies have focused on the effects of Ang II on MSC migration and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods
Human bone marrow MSCs migration was measured using wound healing and Boyden chamber migration assays after treatments with different concentrations of Ang II, an AT1R antagonist (Losartan), and/or an AT2R antagonist (PD-123319). To exclude the effect of proliferation on MSC migration, we measured MSC proliferation after stimulation with the same concentration of Ang II. Additionally, we employed the focal adhesion kinase (FAK) inhibitor PF-573228, RhoA inhibitor C3 transferase, Rac1 inhibitor NSC23766, or Cdc42 inhibitor ML141 to investigate the role of cell adhesion proteins and the Rho-GTPase protein family (RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42) in Ang II-mediated MSC migration. Cell adhesion proteins (FAK, Talin, and Vinculin) were detected by western blot analysis. The Rho-GTPase family protein activities were assessed by G-LISA and F-actin levels, which reflect actin cytoskeletal organization, were detected by using immunofluorescence.

Results
Human bone marrow MSCs constitutively expressed AT1R and AT2R. Additionally, Ang II increased MSC migration in an AT2R-dependent manner. Notably, Ang II-enhanced migration was not mediated by Ang II-mediated cell proliferation. Interestingly, Ang II-enhanced migration was mediated by FAK activation, which was critical for the formation of focal contacts, as evidenced by increased Talin and Vinculin expression. Moreover, RhoA and Cdc42 were activated by FAK to increase cytoskeletal organization, thus promoting cell contraction. Furthermore, FAK, Talin, and Vinculin activation and F-actin reorganization in response to Ang II were prevented by PD-123319 but not Losartan, indicating that FAK activation and F-actin reorganization were downstream of AT2R.

Conclusions
These data indicate that Ang II-AT2R regulates human bone marrow MSC migration by signaling through the FAK and RhoA/Cdc42 pathways. This study provides insights into the mechanisms by which MSCs home to injury sites and will enable the rational design of targeted therapies to improve MSC engraftment.
HIV and HIV-Tat inhibit LPS-induced IL-27 production in human macrophages by distinct intracellular signaling pathways
Authors: Gajanayaka Niranjala , O'Hara Shifawn , Konarski Yulia , Fernandes Jason , Muthumani Kar , Kozlowski Maya , Angel Jonathan B , Kumar Ashok 
Published: July 2017

Abstract
Monocyte-derived Mϕs (MDMs) from HIV-infected patients and MDM infected in vitro with HIV exhibit a reduced ability to secrete various cytokines, including IL-12. Recently, IL-27, an IL-12 family cytokine, was shown to inhibit HIV replication in Mϕ. Whether HIV infection or HIV accessory protein(s) impact IL-27 production in Mϕs remains unknown. Herein, we show that in vitro HIV infection, as well as intracellular HIV-Tat (Tat) and Tat peptides, inhibit LPS-induced IL-27 production in human MDMs, suggesting impairment of the TLR4 signaling pathway. To understand the signaling pathways governing HIV or Tat-mediated inhibition of LPS-induced IL-27 production, we first demonstrated that p38 MAPK, PI3K, Src-homology region 2 domain-containing tyrosine phosphatase 1 (SHP-1), and Src kinases regulate LPS-induced IL-27 production in MDMs. Tat caused down-regulation of TNFR-associated factor (TRAF)-6 and inhibitor of apoptosis 1 (cIAP-1) and subsequently decreased phosphorylation of downstream PI3K and p38 MAPKs, which were implicated in LPS-induced IL-27 production. Whereas SHP-1 and Src kinases regulated LPS-induced IL-27 production, Tat did not inhibit these kinases, suggesting that they were not involved in Tat-mediated inhibition of LPS-induced IL-27 production. In contrast to Tat, in vitro HIV infection of MDM inhibited LPS-induced IL-27 production via inhibition of p38 MAPK activation. Overall, HIV and Tat inhibit LPS-induced IL-27 production in human macrophages via distinct mechanisms: Tat through the inhibition of cIAP-1–TRAF-6 and subsequent inhibition of PI3K and p38 MAPKs, whereas HIV through the inhibition of p38 MAPK activation.
Abnormal Calcium Levels During Trauma Resuscitation Are Associated With Increased Mortality, Increased Blood Product Use, and Greater Hospital Resource Consumption: A Pilot Investigation
Authors: MacKay Emily J. , Stubna Michael D. , Holena Daniel N. , Reilly Patrick M. , Seamon Mark J. , Smith Brian P. , Kaplan Lewis J. , Cannon Jeremy W. 
Published: July 2017

BACKGROUND:
Admission hypocalcemia predicts both massive transfusion and mortality in severely injured patients. However, the effect of calcium derangements during resuscitation remains unexplored. We hypothesize that any hypocalcemia or hypercalcemia (either primary or from overcorrection) in the first 24 hours after severe injury is associated with increased mortality.

METHODS:
All patients at our institution with massive transfusion protocol activation from January 2013 through December 2014 were identified. Patients transferred from another hospital, those not transfused, those with no ionized calcium (Ca2+) measured, and those who expired in the trauma bay were excluded. Hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia were defined as any level outside the normal range of Ca2+ at our institution (1–1.25 mmol/L). Receiver operator curve analysis was also used to further examine significant thresholds for both hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia. Hospital mortality was compared between groups. Secondary outcomes included advanced cardiovascular life support, damage control surgery, ventilator days, and intensive care unit days.

RESULTS:
The massive transfusion protocol was activated for 77 patients of whom 36 were excluded leaving 41 for analysis. Hypocalcemia occurred in 35 (85%) patients and hypercalcemia occurred in 9 (22%). Mortality was no different in hypocalcemia versus no hypocalcemia (29% vs 0%; P = .13) but was greater in hypercalcemia versus no hypercalcemia (78% vs 9%; P < .01). Receiver operator curve analysis identified inflection points in mortality outside a Ca2+ range of 0.84 to 1.30 mmol/L. Using these extreme values, 15 (37%) had hypocalcemia with a 60% mortality (vs 4%; P < .01) and 9 (22%) had hypercalcemia with a 78% mortality (vs 9%; P < .01). Patients with extreme hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia also received more red blood cells, plasma, platelets, and calcium repletion.

CONCLUSIONS:
Hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia occur commonly during the initial resuscitation of severely injured patients. Mild hypocalcemia may be tolerable, but more extreme hypocalcemia and any hypercalcemia should be avoided. Further assessment to define best practice for calcium management during resuscitation is warranted.