bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Development of a model for single-sided, wind-driven natural ventilation in buildings
Authors: Zhou Junli , Ye Cheng , Hu Yan , Hemida Hassan , Zhang Guoqiang , Yang Wei 
Published: March 2017

Natural ventilation is a simple and energy-efficient method to adjust the indoor environment. This study aims to develop a model for predicting the total flow rate of single-sided natural ventilation. It is motivated by the fact that the wind-driven ventilation itself is commonly considered to consist two components – a mean component and a fluctuating component. Pulsating flow rate, mean and broadband ventilation rate are discussed and considered in the model due to fluctuating wind velocity driven by the fluctuating pressures and unsteady flows around the opening. The new model shows that the total flow rate is majorly caused by pulsating flow when the area of opening is small, but it is mainly caused by mean flow in the case of large opening. Opening ratio can be taken as a boundary to distinguish the small opening area and the larger one from the case analyses in this study. Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stoke model, large eddy simulation, and other correlations are utilized to validate the developed model. The results of current method agree reasonably well with those of transient simulation. Finally, a simplified version of the model is developed which is useful for predicting the total flow rate of natural ventilation in buildings. Practical application: The model can be applied to predict the total flow rate of single-sided natural ventilation in buildings due to wind pressure. The model shows that the total flow rate is majorly caused by the pulsating flow when the area of opening is small, but it is mainly caused by the mean flow in the case of large opening. An opening ratio of 3% can be taken as a boundary to distinguish the small opening area and the large one from the cases analysed in this study.
Energy efficiency evaluation for the water supply systems in tall buildings
Authors: Wong LT , Mui KW , Zhou Y 
Published: March 2017

High-rise housing, a trend in densely populated cities around the world, increases energy use for water supply and corresponding greenhouse gas emissions. With emphasis on improving the energy efficiency in the water supply systems, this paper proposes an energy efficiency evaluation measure for the water supply system designs and demonstrates its potential applications in a typical high-rise water supply system. In the proposed measure, the energy efficiency in a water supply system is defined as the potential energy required at the demand locations divided by the pumping energy of the supply system. The outcome of this paper provides useful benchmark references not only for the water supply system designs but also for the water demand management programmes in buildings. Practical application: An energy efficiency evaluation measure for the water supply system designs is used to establish benchmark references for not only the water supply system designs but also for the water demand management programmes in buildings.
Strategies for Sustained Weight Management: Perspectives From African American Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Fitzpatrick Stephanie L. , Hill-Briggs Felicia 
Published: March 2017

Purpose The purpose of this study was to identify effective strategies for sustained weight management used by African American patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Methods In this study, nominal group technique was used to identify effective strategies for weight management used by 12 African Americans with overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes who successfully lost or maintained their weight after completing DECIDE (Decision-making Education for Choices In Diabetes Everyday), a 9-module, literacy-adapted diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD) education and problem-solving training program. Results Participants generated a list of 101 strategies that covered 4 domains: nutrition, physical activity, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and other. Self-monitoring and relying on social support were the top 2 strategies for weight maintenance. Conclusion Future obesity studies should consider including friends/family as well as electronic tools to facilitate self-monitoring and regular practice of behavioral strategies for long-term success.
High-resolution MRI of the ulnar and radial collateral ligaments of the wrist
Authors: Nozaki Taiki , Wu Wei Der , Kaneko Yasuhito , Rafijah Gregory , Yang Lily , Hitt Dave , Yoshioka Hiroshi 
Published: March 2017

Background Accurate diagnosis of injuries to the collateral ligaments of the wrist is technically challenging on MRI. Purpose To investigate usefulness of high-resolution two-dimensional (2D) and isotropic three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for identifying and classifying the morphology of the ulnar and radial collateral ligaments (UCL and RCL) of the wrist. Material and Methods Thirty-seven participants were evaluated using 3T coronal 2D and isotropic 3D images by two radiologists independently. The UCL was classified into four types: 1a, narrow attachment to the tip of the ulnar styloid (Tip); 1b, broad attachment to the Tip; 2a, narrow attachment to the medial base of the ulnar styloid (Base); and 2b, broad attachment to the Base. The RCL was also classified into four types: 1a, separate radioscaphoid and scaphotrapezial ligaments (RS + ST) with narrow scaphoid attachment; 1b, RS + ST with broad scaphoid attachment; 2a, continuous radio-scapho-trapezial ligaments (RST) with narrow scaphoid attachment; and 2b, RST with broad scaphoid attachment. The inter-observer reliability of these classifications was calculated. Results Type 1a was the most common of both collateral ligaments. Of UCL classifications, 31.4% were revised after additional review of multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) images from isotropic data. The inter-observer reliability of UCL classification was substantial (k = 0.62) without MPR, and almost perfect (k = 0.84) with MPR. The inter-observer reliability of RCL classification was almost perfect (k = 0.89). Anatomic delineation between the two sequences was not statistically different. Conclusion The UCL and RCL were each identified on high-resolution 2D and isotropic 3D MRI equally well. MPR allows accurate identification of the UCL attachment to the ulnar styloid.
Pantarsal arthrodesis in cats using orthogonal plating
Authors: Alza Salvatierra Diego N , Witte Philip G , Scott Harry W , Catchpole Clare 
Published: March 2017

Case series summary Pantarsal arthrodesis (PTA) was performed in seven tarsi of six cats, using orthogonal (dorsal and medial) veterinary cuttable plates (VCPs) without postoperative external coaptation. Short-term outcomes, arthrodesis progression and complications were assessed using a retrospective review of case notes (veterinary examination) and radiographs. Long-term outcomes were assessed via owner questionnaire (Feline Musculoskeletal Pain Index [FMPI]). Mean angle of PTA was 136° (range 116–166°). Intraoperative complications were recorded in two cases, both involving failure of the drill bit during drilling for calcaneotibial screws. Postoperative complications were encountered in a case of bilateral single-session PTA. These included gastrocnemius myotendinopathy on the right, and long-term protrusion of a screw head from the skin on the left. Both complications were resolved surgically, through resection of the implicated gastrocnemius tendon of insertion and removal of the plate, respectively. FMPI assessment was performed for all six cats a mean of 8.8 months (range 6–16 months) following surgery. Mean score for the first part (assessing ability to perform normal activities) was 92.2% (range 80.9–97.1%). Mean score for the second part (owner perception of pain) was 95.8% (range 87.5–100%). Mean overall score (mean score for parts 1 and 2 combined) was 92.3% (range 81.6–97.4%). PTA may be performed in cats using orthogonal VCPs to treat severe tarsal injuries. It may be prudent to avoid single-session bilateral PTA in cats. Relevance and novel information This case series documents a novel technique as an alternative for PTA in cats with talocrural injuries. Long-term outcome and complications presented in this case series are evaluated and discussed.
Olfactory Neuroepithelial Neural Progenitor Cells from Subjects with Bipolar I Disorder
Authors: Gao Yonglin , Winstead Welby , Lei Zhenmin , Lu Chengliang , Roisen Fred J. , El-Mallakh Rif S. 
Published: March 2017

Background: Research into the pathophysiology of bipolar disorder (BD) is limited by the inability to examine brain cellular processes in subjects with the illness. Methods: Endoscopic biopsy was performed in subjects with bipolar I disorder to establish olfactory neural progenitor (ONP) cell lines. Olfactory function was assessed prebiopsy and postbiopsy using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT). Cells were characterized to determine their lineage. Results: There were no significant complications associated with the biopsy procedure, including olfaction. Outpatient olfactory neuroepithelial biopsy yielded ONP cells in three out of 13 biopsy attempts (23.1%). ONPs were positive for neuron-specific proteins (β-tubulin III, nestin, hexaribonucleotide binding protein-3, and peripherin) and glia-specific proteins (glial fibrillary acidic protein and myelin basic protein). Conclusions: ONP cells can be obtained safely from awake outpatients and are potentially useful for pathophysiological studies of bipolar illness and perhaps other neuropsychiatric conditions. Such cells allow for the investigation of potential pathological cellular processes without the confounding factors of genetic manipulation, which is required for induced pluripotent cells.
Cerebrospinal fluid mtDNA concentration is elevated in multiple sclerosis disease and responds to treatment
Authors: Leurs Cyra E , Podlesniy Petar , Trullas Ramon , Balk Lisanne , Steenwijk Martijn D , Malekzadeh Arjan , Piehl Fredrik , Uitdehaag Bernard MJ , Killestein Joep , van Horssen Jack , Teunissen CE 
Published: March 2017

Background: Mitochondrial dysfunction is increasingly recognized as an important feature of multiple sclerosis (MS) pathology and may be relevant for clinical disease progression. However, it is unknown whether mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) associate with disease progression and therapeutic response. Objectives: To evaluate whether CSF concentrations of mtDNA in MS patients can serve as a marker of ongoing neuropathology and may be helpful to differentiate between MS disease subtypes. To explore the effect of disease-modifying therapies on mtDNA levels in the CSF. Methods: CSF mtDNA was measured using a digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) CSF mtDNA in two independent MS cohorts. The cohorts included 92 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients, 40 progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS) patients (27 secondary progressive and 13 primary progressive), 50 various neurologic disease controls, and 5 healthy controls. Results: Patients with PMS showed a significant increase in CSF mtDNA compared to non-inflammatory neurologic disease controls. Patients with higher T2 lesion volumes and lower normalized brain volumes showed increased concentration of mtDNA. Patients treated with fingolimod had significantly lower mtDNA copy levels at follow-up compared to baseline. Conclusion: Our results showed a non-specific elevation of concentration of mtDNA in PMS patients. mtDNA concentrations respond to fingolimod and may be used to monitor biological effect of this treatment.
New voices: The usefulness of a narrative approach to social work research
Authors: Hill Cath , Burrows Geoff 
Published: March 2017

For many new academics, coming to a decision about which research methodology to employ for their doctoral studies can be daunting. Faced with numerous options, sometimes contradictory advice from experienced scholars and a desire to find the perfect match for a research question, one can find the decision to opt for a particular methodological path a huge step, and it can be hindered by nagging concerns and a lack of academic experience. This article draws together two short pieces of writing from PhD students at Lancaster University, who attended and were inspired by a workshop on narrative methods, led by Professor Catherine Kohler Riessman. The first piece is a reflective account of why the author was drawn to narrative methods for her research. It explores the impact of charities and how this is articulated qualitatively, within the context of a mixed market approach to welfare and health service provision in the UK. It discusses what she observes to be the parallels between a narrative research approach and her practice as a social worker and details her experience of completing her first narrative interview. The second is about how the author was inspired by the workshop to produce a pilot study on attitudes of male offenders towards violence against women using the narrative approach and including excerpts from his research data. Finally, it draws together their thoughts about the workshop and how they intend to continue working with narratives in their future.
Nonvitamin-K-antagonist oral anticoagulants versus warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation and previous stroke or transient ischemic attack: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Ntaios George , Papavasileiou Vasileios , Diener Hans-Chris , Makaritsis Konstantinos , Michel Patrik 
Published: March 2017

Background In a previous systematic review and meta-analysis, we assessed the efficacy and safety of nonvitamin-K antagonist oral anticoagulants versus warfarin in patients with atrial fibrillation and stroke or transient ischemic attack. Since then, new information became available. Aim The aim of the present work was to update the results of the previous systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods We searched PubMed until 24 August 2016 for randomized controlled trials using the following search items: “atrial fibrillation” and “anticoagulation” and “warfarin” and “previous stroke or transient ischemic attack.” Eligible studies had to be phase III trials in patients with atrial fibrillation comparing warfarin with nonvitamin-K antagonist oral anticoagulants currently on the market or with the intention to be brought to the market in North America or Europe. The outcomes assessed in the efficacy analysis included stroke or systemic embolism, stroke, ischemic or unknown stroke, disabling or fatal stroke, hemorrhagic stroke, cardiovascular death, death from any cause, and myocardial infarction. The outcomes assessed in the safety analysis included major bleeding, intracranial bleeding, and major gastrointestinal bleeding. We performed fixed effects analyses on intention-to-treat basis. Results Among 183 potentially eligible articles, four were included in the meta-analysis. In 20,500 patients, compared to warfarin, nonvitamin-K antagonist oral anticoagulants were associated with a significant reduction of stroke/systemic embolism (relative risk reduction: 13.7%, absolute risk reduction: 0.78%, number needed to treat to prevent one event: 127), hemorrhagic stroke (relative risk reduction: 50.0%, absolute risk reduction: 0.63%, number needed to treat: 157), any stroke (relative risk reduction: 13.1%, absolute risk reduction: 0.7%, number needed to treat: 142), and intracranial hemorrhage (relative risk reduction: 46.1%, absolute risk reduction: 0.88%, number needed to treat: 113) over 1.8–2.8 years. Conclusions This updated meta-analysis in 20,500 atrial fibrillation patients with previous stroke or transient ischemic attack shows that compared to warfarin non-vitamin-K antagonist oral anticoagulants are associated with a significant reduction of stroke, stroke or systemic embolism, hemorrhagic stroke, and intracranial bleeding.
Effect of high-intensity training on endothelial function in patients with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease: A systematic review
Authors: Kolmos Mia , Krawcyk Rikke Steen , Kruuse Christina 
Published: March 2017

Objectives: Exercise improves endothelial dysfunction, the key manifestation of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease, and is recommended in both cardiovascular and cerebrovascular rehabilitation. Disagreement remains, however, on the role of intensity of exercise. The purpose of this review was to gather current knowledge on the effects of high-intensity training versus moderate-intensity continuous exercise on endothelial function in cardiovascular and cerebrovascular patients. Methods: A systematic review was performed in PubMed database, Embase and Cochrane libraries and on PEDro using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Studies were restricted to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular patients, and healthy subjects as general reference. Interventions comprised of high-intensity training alone, high-intensity training compared to moderate-intensity continuous exercise, or no training, with endothelial function as outcome measure. Endothelial function was measured either physiologically by flow-mediated dilatation and/or by systemic biomarkers. Data were analyzed descriptively due to non-comparability for a meta-analysis to be performed. Results: A total of 20 studies were included in the review. Although there was great heterogenecity in design, population and exercise protocols, all studies found high-intensity training to be safe. High-intensity training was equal to moderate-intensity continuous exercise through improvement in endothelial function in 15 of the 20 selected studies, as measured by flow-mediated dilatation, nitric oxide bioavailability and circulating biomarkers. Only a few studies examined high-intensity training in cerebrovascular patients, none with endothelial function as outcome. Conclusion: High-intensity training is promising as a time-efficient exercise strategy in cardiovascular rehabilitation, but data on endothelial effects in cerebrovascular rehabilitation are warranted. Agreement on a more uniform exercise protocol is essential to further investigate the optimal exercise mode for cerebrovascular rehabilitation.
Performance of a cognitive load inventory during simulated handoffs: Evidence for validity
Authors: Young John Q , Boscardin Christy K , van Dijk Savannah M , Abdullah Ruqayyah , Irby David M , Sewell Justin L , Ten Cate Olle , O’Sullivan Patricia S 
Published: March 2017

Background: Advancing patient safety during handoffs remains a public health priority. The application of cognitive load theory offers promise, but is currently limited by the inability to measure cognitive load types. Objective: To develop and collect validity evidence for a revised self-report inventory that measures cognitive load types during a handoff. Methods: Based on prior published work, input from experts in cognitive load theory and handoffs, and a think-aloud exercise with residents, a revised Cognitive Load Inventory for Handoffs was developed. The Cognitive Load Inventory for Handoffs has items for intrinsic, extraneous, and germane load. Students who were second- and sixth-year students recruited from a Dutch medical school participated in four simulated handoffs (two simple and two complex cases). At the end of each handoff, study participants completed the Cognitive Load Inventory for Handoffs, Paas’ Cognitive Load Scale, and one global rating item for intrinsic load, extraneous load, and germane load, respectively. Factor and correlational analyses were performed to collect evidence for validity. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis yielded a single factor that combined intrinsic and germane loads. The extraneous load items performed poorly and were removed from the model. The score from the combined intrinsic and germane load items associated, as predicted by cognitive load theory, with a commonly used measure of overall cognitive load (Pearson’s r = 0.83, p < 0.001), case complexity (beta = 0.74, p < 0.001), level of experience (beta = −0.96, p < 0.001), and handoff accuracy (r = −0.34, p < 0.001). Conclusion: These results offer encouragement that intrinsic load during handoffs may be measured via a self-report measure. Additional work is required to develop an adequate measure of extraneous load.
Effectiveness of an early mobilization program on functional capacity after coronary artery bypass surgery: A randomized controlled trial protocol
Authors: da Costa Torres Daniel , dos Santos Priscila Maria Ramos , Reis Helder José Lima , Paisani Denise Moraes , Chiavegato Luciana Dias 
Published: March 2017

Background: Muscle atrophy and prolonged inactivity are associated with an increased sensation of fatigue and reduced functional capacity in the postoperative period in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Cardiac rehabilitation after hospital discharge is highly recommended and contributes to improvement in functional capacity and quality of life. However, few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of early mobilization protocols during hospitalization on the patterns of physical activity and functional capacity after coronary artery bypass grafting. Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of an early mobilization program on the functional capacity of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting in the short and long term. Methods: This is a prospective, randomized, controlled, single-blind trial protocol that will evaluate 66 consecutive patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Patients will be randomized into two training groups: the control group (N = 33), which will perform breathing exercises and the intervention group (N = 33), which will perform breathing exercises and aerobic exercises. The groups will receive treatment from first to the seventh postoperative day, twice daily. In the preoperative period, the following outcomes will be assessed: physical activity level (Baecke Questionnaire), Functional Independence Measure, and functional capacity (6-min walking test). Functional capacity will be reassessed after the 7th and 60th postoperative day. Pulmonary complications and length of hospital stay will also be evaluated. Statistical analysis will be calculated using linear mixed models and will be based on intention-to-treat. The level of significance will be set at α = 5%.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with increased risk of pancreatic cancer: A veteran administration registry study
Authors: Makhoul Issam , Yacoub Abdulraheem , Siegel Eric 
Published: March 2017

Background: The etiology of pancreatic cancer remains elusive. Several studies have suggested a role for diabetes mellitus, but the magnitude of its contribution remains controversial. Objectives: Utilizing a large administrative database, this retrospective cohort study was designed to investigate the relationship between type 2 diabetes mellitus and pancreatic cancer. Patients and design: Using the Veterans Integrated Services Network 16 database, 322,614 subjects were enrolled in the study, including 110,919 with type 2 diabetes mellitus and 211,695 diabetes-free controls matched by gender, year of birth and healthcare facility. Results: A significantly higher incidence of pancreatic cancer was observed in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with an adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) of 2.17 (1.70–2.77) for type 2 diabetes mellitus compared to controls (p < 10−9) after controlling for the matching factors. Conclusion: The association between type 2 diabetes mellitus and pancreatic cancer was statistically significant and may, in part, explain the rising incidence of pancreatic cancer.