bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exile, Encounter, and the Articulation of Andalusī Identity in the Maghrib
Authors: Gómez-Rivas Camilo
Published: October 2014

This article explores how Ibn al-Khaṭīb’s historiographical perspective informed an Andalusī vision of the history of the western Mediterranean and how it articulated an Andalusī identity vis-à-vis the Maghrib, where it became deeply rooted. Through an examination of Ibn al-Khaṭīb’s historiographical and geographical work, and considering his own experience of exile and encounter in the Maghrib, I argue that Ibn al-Khaṭīb was both illustrative of a larger trend whereby Andalusīs argued for their cultural value as a displaced community in the Maghrib and a crucial actor in articulating and informing the long-term historiographical perspective on the history of the Islamic West and al-Andalus’s place in it.
Mystical Encounters: Locating Sufis and Sufism in the Biographical Writings of Ibn al-Khaṭīb
Authors: Jones Linda G.
Published: October 2014

Ibn al-Khaṭīb’s engagement with Sufism has received less attention among scholars than other aspects of his political and literary career. The existing research has focused primarily on the debate concerning the sincerity of his commitment to Sufism. This article proposes to locate Ibn al-Khaṭīb’s attitude toward Sufism and the Sufis of fourteenth-century Nasrid Granada by analyzing some of the notices he dedicated to Sufis in his biographical dictionary, al-Iḥāṭa fī akhbār Gharnāṭa. By studying a broad range of biographies, this article hopes to shed light on Ibn al-Khaṭīb’s views regarding the compatibility of Sufism with public service and to increase our knowledge about the activities of the Sufis of Nasrid Granada by illustrating the various roles they played in Nasrid society.
Beyond the Ḥaram: Ibn al-Khaṭīb and His Privileged Knowledge of Royal Nasrid Women
Authors: Boloix-Gallardo Bárbara
Published: October 2014

One of the most difficult tasks of specialists devoted to the study of medieval Islamic societies is to reconstruct the historical role of women. The patriarchal interpretation of Islamic scriptural sources by largely male Muslim chroniclers, as well as the masculine nature of Arabic historiography, produced by and for men, determined the relegation of women to the background in both history and society. As a consequence, the presence of women was usually veiled in the chronicles, due to the exacerbated respect towards their identities stipulated by Muslim sacred texts, which recommended preserving women within the private area of society. However, some authors went beyond these conventions and offered interesting data concerning the women of the dynasty that they served. This was the case of Ibn al-Khaṭīb, whose work is unique and fundamental to our knowledge of the female sultans of the Alhambra and the particularities of the Nasrid harem, as we will prove throughout this paper.
Convergence in European Nations’ Legal Rules Concerning the Use of Human Embryos in Research?
Authors: Zeegers Nicolle
Published: October 2014

In this article convergence in European countries’ legislative rules concerning the use of embryos in research is studied by looking at how such rules have been formulated in France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. An answer will be given as to whether these countries’ rules concerning the use of embryos in research have converged and if so what direction this convergence has taken, either liberalization or an extension of moral regulation by the state. This analysis shows to some extent that liberalization of the legislative rules concerning the use of embryos in research has taken place in these countries but also exposes how eu research funding policy has slowed it down. Subsequently, attention will be paid to the driving forces behind the liberalization as well as the countering forces it evokes.
New taxa of Agapetes (Ericaceae) from Myanmar
Authors: Tong Yi Hua , Xia Nian He
Published: October 2014

A new species and a new variety of the genus Agapetes from Kachin State, Myanmar are described and illustrated here. Agapetes putaoensis sp. nov. can be easily recognized by its very short peduncles and small cylindric-conical corollas divided more than a half, and Agapetes wardii var. heterotricha var. nov. differs from the typical variety in having longer pedicels and puberulous pedicels and calyxes sometimes with glandular setae. The distribution map of these two new taxa is also provided.
Systematics of Berberis sect. Wallichianae (Berberidaceae) of Taiwan and Luzon with description of three new species, B. schaaliae, B. ravenii, and B. pengii
Authors: Yu Chih-Chieh , Chung Kuo-Fang
Published: October 2014

Berberis sect. Wallichianae are species of evergreen shrubs that in Taiwan are found in subalpine and montane-temperate areas and which have a notoriously controversial taxonomic history. Based on multivariate statistical analyses of morphometric data and an explicitly stated species criterion, the taxonomy of the group in Taiwan and its close relative in Luzon (B. barandana) is revised and their endemicity is evaluated by molecular data. In addition to the six species recognized in the Flora of Taiwan, 2nd ed. (i.e., B. aristatoserrulata, B. brevisepala, B. chingshuiensis, B. kawakamii, B. mingetsensis, and B. tarokoensis), B. hayatana (synonymized under B. mingetsensis) and B. nantoensis (synonymized under B. brevisepala) are reinstated, and three new species (B. pengii, B. ravenii, and B. schaaliae) are described and illustrated. Phylogenetic analyses using three chloroplast DNA sequence regions (rbcL, ycf6-psbM, and psbA-trnH) place all Taiwanese species and B. barandana in a strongly supported clade derived from within the continental Asian species of sect. Wallichianae, indicating their independent evolutionary history and supporting their endemic status.
Novelties in Oxypetalum (Apocynaceae-Asclepiadoideae) for the Argentine Flora
Authors: Farinaccio Maria Ana , Keller Héctor Alejandro
Published: October 2014

Including the results reported in this paper, there are 41 species of Oxypetalum (Apocynaceae, Asclepiadoideae) that occur in Argentina, eight of them endemic: O. arenicola, O. fontellae, O. gracile, O. lynchianum, O. longipedunculatum, O. pubescens, O. tucumanense and O. teyucuarense. The last is a new species from the Paraje Teyú Cuaré, San Ignacio, Misiones Province, Argentina, which is described and illustrated here. It shares some morphological features with O. jorgensenii, but, overall, it does not closely resemble any other species of the genus morphologically in its unique assemblage of characteristics. In addition to this new species, we here report two additional species for the first time in Argentina.
Systematics and natural history of Southeast Asian Rock Geckos (genus Cnemaspis Strauch, 1887) with descriptions of eight new species from Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia
Authors: GRISMER L. LEE , WOOD PERRY JR L. , ANUAR SHAHRUL , RIYANTO AWAL , AHMAD NORHAYATI , MUIN MOHD A. , SUMONTHA MONTRI , GRISMER JESSE L. , ONN CHAN KIN , QUAH EVAN S. H. , PAUWELS OLIVIER S. A.
Published: October 2014

A well-supported and well-resolved phylogeny based on a concatenated data set from one mitochondrial and two nuclear genes, six morphological characters, and nine color pattern characters for 44 of the 50 species of the Southeast Asian Rock Geckos (genus Cnemaspis Strauch, 1887) is consistent with the previous taxonomy of Cnemaspis based solely on morphology and color pattern. Cnemaspis is partitioned into four major clades that collectively contain six species groups. The monophyly of all clades and species groups is strongly supported and they are parapatrically distributed across well-established, biogeographical regions ranging from southern Vietnam westward through southern Indochina, southward through the Thai-Malay Peninsula, then eastward to Borneo. Eight new species (Cnemaspis omari sp. nov. from the Thai-Malaysian border; C. temiah sp. nov. from Cameron Highlands, Pahang, Malaysia; C. stongensis sp. nov. from Gunung Stong, Kelantan, Malaysia; C. hangus sp. nov. from Bukit Hangus, Pahang, Malaysia; C. sundagekko sp. nov. from Pulau Siantan, Indonesia; C. peninsularis sp. nov. from southern Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore, and C. mumpuniae sp. nov. and C. sundainsula sp. nov. from Pulau Natuna Besar, Indonesia) are described based on morphology and color pattern and all but C. sundagekko sp. nov. are included in the phylogenetic analyses. Cnemaspis kendallii is polyphyletic and a composite of six species. An updated taxonomy consistent with the phylogeny is proposed for all 50 species and is based on 25 morphological and 53 color pattern characters scored across 594 specimens. Cladogenetic events and biogeographical relationships within Cnemaspis were likely influenced by this group’s low vagility and the cyclical patterns of geographical and environmental changes in Sundaland over the last 25 million years and especially within the last 2.5 million years. The phylogeny indicates that nocturnality, diurnality, substrate preferences, and the presence of ocelli in the shoulder regions have evolved independently multiple times.
Local SST Impacts on the Summertime Mascarene High Variability
Authors: Morioka Yushi , Takaya Koutarou , Behera Swadhin K. , Masumoto Yukio
Published: October 2014

The interannual variations in the summertime Mascarene high have great impacts on the southern African climate as well as the sea surface temperature (SST) in the southern Indian Ocean. A set of coupled general circulation model (CGCM) experiments are performed to examine a role of the interannual SST variability in the southern Indian Ocean on the summertime Mascarene high variability. The dominant interannual variability in the summertime Mascarene high shows the strengthening (weakening) in its southern part throughout the austral summer (December–February). However, in the experiment where the interannual SST variability in the southern Indian Ocean is suppressed, the strengthening (weakening) of the Mascarene high in its southern part does not persist until February. Also, the Mascarene high variability and its associated SST anomalies in December and January are found to increase (decrease) the southern African rainfall via more (less) moisture supply from the southern Indian Ocean. The Mascarene high variability is actually associated with a meridional dipole of positive and negative SST anomalies, which in turn produces that of the meridional SST gradient anomaly. This causes a southward (northward) shift of the storm tracks and hence the westerly jet, favoring the strengthening (weakening) of the Mascarene high in its southern part. This local ocean–atmosphere feedback effectively operates in February, when the meridional dipole of the SST anomalies reaches the maximum. These results provide new insight into the important role of the local SST variability in the summertime Mascarene high variability and hence the southern African climate.
Blending Surface Currents from HF Radar Observations and Numerical Modeling: Tidal Hindcasts and Forecasts
Authors: Stanev E. V. , Ziemer F. , Schulz-Stellenfleth J. , Seemann J. , Staneva J. , Gurgel K.-W.
Published: October 2014

An observation network operating three Wellen Radars (WERAs) in the German Bight, which are part of the Coastal Observing System for Northern and Arctic Seas (COSYNA), is presented in detail. Major consideration is given to expanding the patchy observations over the entire German Bight on a 1-km grid and producing state estimates at intratidal scales, and 6- and 12-h forecasts. This was achieved with the help of the proposed spatiotemporal optimal interpolation (STOI) method, which efficiently uses observations and simulations from a free model run within an analysis window of one or two tidal cycles. In this way the method maximizes the use of available observations and can be considered as a step toward the “best surface current estimate.” The performance of the analysis was investigated based on the achieved reduction of the misfit between model and observations. The complex dynamics of the study domain was illustrated based on the spatial and temporal changes of tidal ellipses for the M2 and M4 constituents from HF radar observations. It was demonstrated that blending observations and numerical modeling facilitates physical interpretation of processes such as the nonlinear distortion of the Kelvin wave in the coastal zone and in particular in front of the Elbe and Weser estuaries. Comparisons with in situ data acquired outside the area covered by the HF radar demonstrated that the analysis method is able to propagate the HF radar information to larger spatial scales.
Dynamic Interpolation of Sea Surface Height and Potential Applications for Future High-Resolution Altimetry Mapping
Authors: Ubelmann Clement , Klein Patrice , Fu Lee-Lueng
Published: October 2014

Many issues may challenge standard interpolation techniques to produce high-resolution gridded maps of sea surface height in the context of future missions like Surface Water and Ocean Topography (SWOT). The present study proposes a new method to address these challenges. Based on the conservation of potential vorticity, the method provides a simple dynamic approach to interpolation through temporal gaps between high spatial resolution observations. For gaps shorter than 20 days, the dynamic interpolation is extremely efficient and allows for the reconstruction of the time evolution of small mesoscale eddies (below 100 km) that would be smoothed out by conventional methods based on optimal mapping. Such a simple approach offers some perspectives for developing high-level products from high-resolution altimetry data in the future.
Myiasis of the Ear
Authors: Jervis-Bardy Joshua , Fitzpatrick Nick , Masood Ajmal , Crossland Graeme , Patel Hemi
Published: October 2014

Objective:

Myiasis is the infestation of live humans (or animals) by fly larvae. Although the diagnosis is relatively straightforward, how to best treat aural myiasis has not been well described in the literature. This comprehensive literature review, therefore, was performed to identify current management principles in aural myiasis, especially with regard to the causative fly family. In addition, we explore the possible relationship between aural myiasis and the highly lethal intracranial myiasis.

Data Sources:

Literature review using the Medline database (PubMed), Scopus, and Google Scholar.

Review Methods:

Manuscripts published in the English language between January 1, 1992, and December 31, 2012, were included.

Results:

Forty-five cases of aural myiasis were reported in 34 manuscripts. Most cases were caused by species of the Sarcophagidae family (n = 26/45, 57.8%). The majority of cases (n = 40/45, 88.9%) were successfully treated with simple aural toilet and topical treatments alone. No deaths were reported and no cases were seen in conjunction with intracranial myiasis.

Conclusion:

Aural myiasis is a rare but benign fly infestation of the ear, most commonly by species of the Sarcophagidae family. The overwhelming majority of cases can be successfully managed without the need for surgical intervention.
Effort in Human Factors Performance and Decision Making
Authors: Wickens Christopher D.
Published: October 2014

Objective:

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the importance of effort in human factors.

Background:

Effort has made its appearance in several diverse formats and applications. Eight of these are integrated in the current writing related to learning, looking, task switching, visual search termination, information access, choosing decision strategies, and behaving safely.

Method:

This is based upon a literature review.

Results:

The common elements of these different effort applications are highlighted, particularly, their manifestations in either implicit or explicit expected value decisions.

Conclusions:

There is a need to show how the metrics of effort and workload assessment influence decisions in human factors, particularly, those related to safety.
Transition into adult healthcare services in Scotland: findings from a study concerning service users at the Scottish Spina Bifida Association
Authors: Levy Sharon , Wynd Andrew HD , Carachi Robert
Published: October 2014

Background and Aims

Literature on interventions that enable young people with spina bifida and/or hydrocephalus to have smooth transition, into adult healthcare services, stress the need for the process to start early and to include all family members. The study reported here was set to quantify and articulate the experiences of service users who are or due to be going through the transition process in Scotland today.

Methods and Results

Focus group sessions, in the North of Scotland and in the ‘Central Belt’, captured rich qualitative data. A survey, sent to eligible participants on the Spina Bifida National database, offered complimentary data source. Despite the fact that the number of returned questionnaires was low ( n = 20), data analysis identified a number of core recurring themes. These include issues concerning Communications, Respect, Choice and Control. Findings suggest that there is a significant chasm between the political rhetoric and the reality faced by young people with spina bifida moving to adult healthcare services.

Conclusion

A possible way to facilitate successful transition of young people is using personal healthcare information as the locus for needed change. More research is needed to ascertain whether a ‘Person-Centred Record’, which is set to empower young people on their transition pathway, is an appropriate transition tool.
Diversity in Alliance Portfolios and Performance Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lee Donghun (Don) , Kirkpatrick-Husk Katie , Madhavan Ravi
Published: October 2014

Given the increasing interest in alliance portfolios, alliance portfolio diversity (APD) has been the focus of many recent studies. Yet, the performance consequences of APD—or of diversity in general—are neither theoretically clear nor empirically consistent. With meta-analytic analyses, we assess extant research on the APD–performance link. Across studies, APD has a positive impact on performance, although the level of analysis and how performance is measured influence the relationship. Going beyond conventional quantitative synthesis, however, we also systematically uncover patterns in how theoretical orientation and the operationalization of diversity moderate the APD–performance relationship. Our study serves as an invitation for future APD studies to employ more sophisticated theoretical and operationalization approaches as they expand our knowledge of diversity in alliance portfolios.
Efficacy of Thickened Liquids for Eliminating Aspiration in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Barbon Carly E. A. , Steele Catriona M.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To appraise the current videofluoroscopic evidence on the reduction of aspiration using thickened liquids in the head and neck cancer population.

Data Sources

Search terms relating to deglutition or dysphagia or swallow and neoplasms and oncology or head and neck cancer and viscosity or texture and apira or residu* were combined with honey or nectar, xerostomia, and respiratory aspiration using Boolean operators.

Review Methods

A multiengine literature search identified 337 nonduplicate articles, of which 6 were judged to be relevant. These underwent detailed review for study quality and qualitative synthesis.

Results

The articles reviewed in detail predominantly described heterogeneous study samples with small sample sizes, making for difficult interpretation and generalization of results. Rates of aspiration were typically not reported by bolus consistency, despite the fact that a variety of stimulus consistencies was used during a videofluoroscopic swallowing study. Studies confirmed that aspiration is a major concern in the head and neck cancer population and reported a trend toward more frequent aspiration after (chemo)radiotherapy.

Conclusion

Overall, the literature on thickened liquids as an intervention to eliminate aspiration in the head and neck cancer population is limited. Because aspiration is known to be prevalent in the head and neck cancer population and thickened liquids are known to eliminate aspiration in other populations, it is important to determine the effectiveness of thickened liquids for reducing aspiration in the head and neck cancer population.
Cooking, eating and digesting: Notes on the emergent normativities of food and speeds
Authors: Abrahamsson Sebastian
Published: October 2014

This article analyses conflicting versions of speed and temporal work that are involved in engaging with food. The dominant discourses around fast and slow food are challenged and extended by juxtaposing three kinds of food-related activities: cooking, eating, and digesting. Drawing on a wide range of empirical and theoretical examples and dietary advice, I illustrate how modes of engaging with foods also produce and come with specific “goods” and “bads.” Problematizing these normativities, I use the Swedish word ‘lagom’ to denote a temporal and spatial normativity that is always located in a specific situation.
Bilateral maculopathy associated with sertraline
Authors: Ewe Shaun YP , Abell Robin G , Vote Brendan J
Published: October 2014

Objective:

We report a rare case of bilateral maculopathy that developed with the initiation of sertraline.

Methods:

We conducted a case report and review of the literature.

Results:

A 23-year-old man rapidly developed maculopathy with associated visual blurring after the initiation of sertraline. Treatment was ceased with the patient subsequently reporting mild improvement in visual symptoms.

Conclusions:

Maculopathy associated with sertraline use has yet to be established and recognized as an adverse side effect. With only one previous reported case in the literature, this condition requires further awareness.
A Monitoring Tool of Infant and Toddler Movement Skills
Authors: Leitschuh Carol A. , Harring Jeffrey R. , Dunn Winnie
Published: October 2014

Physical activity in infancy is essential for early brain development. Development in the early years is the most rapid at any time during life. Monitoring functional movement skills of infants and toddlers frequently (3-week intervals) and quickly (minutes) produces information on whether development is on track or in need of intervention. To meet this need, we present the development of the Early Movement Monitoring Assessment (EMMA). Using coded observations with standardized toys in a 2-min session, 42 children (5 to 36 months at start) were assessed at 3-week intervals. A linear mixed-effects model was employed to investigate the sensitivity of the tool to developmental change in frequency of total movements across seven assessment sessions. The results indicate that across developmental time, each cohort “grew in movement skill.” Within each cohort, the movement skills increased as the children aged and the sessions progressed.
Treatment of Hypertrophic Distal Tibia Nonunion and Early Malunion With Callus Distraction
Authors: Schoenleber Scott Jacob , Hutson James Jackson
Published: October 2014

Background:

Hypertrophic nonunions and early malunions of pilon and distal tibia fractures result in complex, challenging to treat deformities. Callus distraction histiogenesis is an option for their management, allowing for the simultaneous correction of multiplanar deformity and limb length discrepancy.

Methods:

A single-surgeon, retrospective case series was performed. Eight patients (6 males and 2 females) who were treated with callus distraction from 1991 to 2011 were reviewed. Six of 8 patients had varus deformities (range, 8-19 degrees) and 2 patients had valgus deformities (both 16 degrees) of the distal tibia metaphysis. Six of 8 had apex anterior deformities (range, 2-21 degrees) and 2 had apex posterior deformity (range, 9-20 degrees). An Ilizarov fixator or Taylor Spatial Frame (Smith & Nephew, Memphis, TN) was used to distract the nonunion or early malunion to correct alignment and shortening. Preoperative and postoperative radiographic outcomes, limb alignment, and ankle-hindfoot scores were reviewed.

Results:

Union was achieved in all patients at a mean of 5.8 months (range, 4.1-7.6 months). The 3 patients treated with an Ilizarov-type fixator had deformity correction to within 5 degrees of neutral in 1 plane and to within 10 degrees in the other plane. All 5 patients treated with a Taylor Spatial Frame had correction to within 5 degrees of neutral alignment in both coronal and sagittal planes. There were 2 complications requiring reoperation and 1 persistent limb length discrepancy (2 cm) after treatment. Median AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 82.5 (range, 53-90) at an average follow-up of 30.4 months (range, 8-92).

Conclusions:

Callus distraction histiogenesis was a minimally invasive technique that can successfully treat patients with hypertrophic nonunion and early malunion of the distal tibia. We believe the application of a computer-assisted 6-axis frame to correct the deformity improved the correction of these multiplanar deformities.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.
Popular Climate Science and Painless Consumer Choices
Authors: Katz-Kimchi Merav , Atkinson Lucy
Published: October 2014

Using critical discourse analysis, we examine the communicative potential of science centers to engage the public in climate change science. Drawing on a theoretical framework combining climate change engagement and communication, science centers as sites of engagement and communication, ecological citizenship, and insights from social cognitive theory, our analysis shows that along with popularizing climate science and making it accessible to the general public, the Hot Pink Flamingos exhibit prioritized individual, marketplace-based action on climate change over solutions requiring large-scale social change or collective action. Responsibility for climate change was individualized, and the political realm was mostly reduced to lifestyle choices.
The Patient’s Perspective on the Link Between ADHD and Substance Use
Authors: Nehlin Christina , Nyberg Fred , Öster Caisa
Published: October 2014

Objective: The primary aim of this study was to investigate how adult individuals with ADHD perceive the role of alcohol and drugs in their lives. A secondary aim was to identify factors that those individuals consider useful in the treatment and prevention of co-occurring ADHD and substance use disorders (SUDs). Method: A qualitative interview study with ADHD outpatients ( n = 14) at a psychiatric clinic. Data were analyzed based on pre-defined areas of interest using a deductive content analysis method. Results: The yearning for belongingness was identified as an important driving force underlying substance use. The participants felt that alcohol/drugs helped them being normal and thus respected and accepted. Early diagnosis of ADHD was perceived essential to avoid SUD. Conclusion: Adults with ADHD may have strong rational and emotional reasons for the use of alcohol and drugs. When planning for the treatment of adult ADHD, investigation of personal reasons for alcohol/drug use deserves a place.
May BDNF Be Implicated in the Exercise-Mediated Regulation of Inflammation? Critical Review and Synthesis of Evidence
Authors: Papathanassoglou Elizabeth D. E. , Miltiadous Panagiota , Karanikola Maria N.
Published: October 2014

Introduction:

Exercise attenuates inflammation and enhances levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Exercise also enhances parasympathetic tone, although its role in activating the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway is unclear. The physiological pathways of exercise’s effect on inflammation are obscure.

Aims:

To critically review the evidence on the role of BDNF in the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise and its potential involvement in the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway.

Methods:

Critical literature review of studies published in MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, and Cochrane databases.

Results:

BDNF is critically involved in the bidirectional signaling between immune and neurosensory cells and in the regulation of parasympathetic system responses. BDNF is also intricately involved in the inflammatory response: inflammation induces BDNF production, and, in turn, BDNF exerts pro- and/or anti-inflammatory effects. Although exercise modulates BDNF and its receptors in lymphocytes, data on BDNF’s immunoregulatory/anti-inflammatory effects in relation to exercise are scarce. Moreover, BDNF increases cholinergic activity and is modulated by parasympathetic system activation. However, its involvement in the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway has not been investigated.

Conclusion:

Converging lines of evidence implicate BDNF in exercise-mediated regulation of inflammation; however, data are insufficient to draw concrete conclusions. We suggest that there is a need to investigate BDNF as a potential modulator/mediator of the anti-inflammatory effects of exercise and of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway during exercise. Such research would have implications for a wide range of inflammatory diseases and for planning targeted exercise protocols.
Imagining engagement
Authors: Dumitrica Delia
Published: October 2014

The case of the 2010 municipal elections in Calgary, Canada, is used here to explore the discursive construction of social media in relation to political engagement. This article examines the way in which 59 undergraduate students at the University of Calgary discuss political engagement through Facebook and Twitter. Participants enthusiastically constructed a vision of ‘engagement’ fostered by social media’s alleged intrinsic features. Social media, it was argued, create a feeling of community, provide access to information as well as the ability to share it, and open up new means of building personal connections between politicians and citizens. In this articulation, social media appeared as both the tool that produced engagement and the space where this engagement unfolded. The focus of the article is on questioning the implications of this discursive construction by asking what political possibilities are opened up or closed down in this articulation? The construction of social media as the solution to the problems of democracy remains highly problematic, yet also indicative of a deep preoccupation with the conditions of modern life, and particularly the desire to find solutions to the increased complexity of the social systems.
Non-invasive respiratory volume monitoring in patients with traumatic thoracic injuries
Authors: Galvagno Samuel M , Brayanov Jordan , Corneille Michael G , Voscopoulos Christopher J , Sordo Salvador , Ladd Diane , Freeman Jenny
Published: October 2014

Background

Respiratory decompensation is common after traumatic thoracic injuries such as multiple rib fractures and pulmonary contusions. A continuous, non-invasive, impedance-based respiratory volume monitor generates right and left tidal volume measurements, reflecting air exchange in the lungs and derives an instantaneous respiratory rate. The feasibility of using unilateral respiratory volume monitor–based tidal impedance measurements to monitor respiratory status in trauma patients is evaluated.

Methods

Three intensive care unit patients with three or more rib fractures following blunt trauma had continuous respiratory volume monitor measurements with a novel non-invasive impedance-based device (ExSpiron, Respiratory Motion Inc., Waltham, MA) and corresponding clinical data to permit analysis. Tidal impedance measurements were collected from both the injured and non-injured sides and converted into bilateral respiratory volume monitor measurements using advanced algorithms.

Results

In Patient 1, following evacuation of a pneumothorax, the respiratory volume monitor showed a significant increase in tidal measurements coupled with a compensatory decrease in tidal measurements on the uninjured side and a decrease in respiratory rate. In Patient 2, tidal measurements were only slightly decreased on both the injured side and uninjured side; respiratory rate remained unchanged. This patient remained stable and required no intervention. Patient 3 demonstrated a sustained decrease in tidal measurements on the injured side that corresponded with radiograph findings and clinical deterioration leading to the need for endotracheal intubation.

Conclusions

The results from these cases demonstrate that respiratory volume monitor can generate unilateral respiratory tidal measurements and respiratory rate in patients with traumatic thoracic injuries. Continuous respiratory volume monitor in patients with thoracic trauma has strong potential for application in the military, aeromedical, and other austere environments where respiratory monitoring is problematic. Future studies to investigate the utility of this technology are warranted.
Interventions Promoting Testicular Self-Examination (TSE) Performance
Authors: Rovito Michael J. , Cavayero Chase , Leone James E. , Harlin Stephen
Published: October 2014

Testicular cancer is one of the greatest threats to health and wellness among 15- to 40-year old males. A concerted effort in the literature promoting awareness, risk factors, and preventative measures is warranted. There is limited discussion on the validity of interventions aimed at promoting testicular self-examination (TSE) performance; the existing body of evidence offers little discussion on what specific factors motivate performance. To assist in making Healthy People 2020 an all-inclusive success, a comprehensive assessment of existing evidence is necessary to assist in closing this research gap. A systematic review of interventions promoting TSE performance discovered moderate levels of effectiveness among 10 studies promoting the behavior. Concerning methodological quality, nine were of average quality and one was of high quality. In terms of significant TSE reporting between intervention and control/comparison groups, 3 out of 10 did not achieve the statistical causal threshold. Based on our assessment of TSE intervention quality and outcomes pertaining to behavior adoption, a best-practices guideline is presented for researchers in the field to consult as they design their interventions. This guideline aims to improve on internal and external validity of TSE promotion research in order to make them more effective.
Both mature KIR+ and immature KIR− NK cells control pediatric acute B-cell precursor leukemia in NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid IL2rgtmWjl/Sz mice
Authors: Kübler Ayline , Woiterski Jeanette , Witte Kai-Erik , Bühring Hans-Jörg , Hartwig Udo F. , Ebinger Martin , Oevermann Lena , Mezger Markus , Herr Wolfgang , Lang Peter , Handgretinger Rupert , Münz Christian , André Maya C.
Published: October 2014

Key Points

Both mature KIR+ and immature KIR− NK cells exert antileukemic activity toward pediatric BCP-ALL in vivo. In vivo treatment with low-dose 5-aza-cytidine enhances immature and mature NK-cell counts and promotes antitumor response.
Essential role of IRF4 and MYC signaling for survival of anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Authors: Weilemann Andre , Grau Michael , Erdmann Tabea , Merkel Olaf , Sobhiafshar Ulduz , Anagnostopoulos Ioannis , Hummel Michael , Siegert Antje , Hayford Claudia , Madle Hannelore , Wollert-Wulf Brigitte , Fichtner Iduna , Dörken Bernd , Dirnhofer Stephan , Mathas Stephan , Janz Martin , Emre N. C. Tolga , Rosenwald Andreas , Ott German , Lenz Peter , Tzankov Alexandar , Lenz Georg
Published: October 2014

Key Points

IRF4 regulates MYC expression in ALCL. ALCL survival depends on IRF4/MYC signaling.
An official European Respiratory Society statement on physical activity in COPD
Authors: Watz Henrik , Pitta Fabio , Rochester Carolyn L. , Garcia-Aymerich Judith , ZuWallack Richard , Troosters Thierry , Vaes Anouk W. , Puhan Milo A. , Jehn Melissa , Polkey Michael I. , Vogiatzis Ioannis , Clini Enrico M. , Toth Michael , Gimeno-Santos Elena , Waschki Benjamin , Esteban Cristobal , Hayot Maurice , Casaburi Richard , Porszasz Janos , McAuley Edward , Singh Sally J. , Langer Daniel , Wouters Emiel F.M. , Magnussen Helgo , Spruit Martijn A.
Published: October 2014

This European Respiratory Society (ERS) statement provides a comprehensive overview on physical activity in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A multidisciplinary Task Force of experts representing the ERS Scientific Group 01.02 “Rehabilitation and Chronic Care” determined the overall scope of this statement through consensus. Focused literature reviews were conducted in key topic areas and the final content of this Statement was agreed upon by all members.

The current knowledge regarding physical activity in COPD is presented, including the definition of physical activity, the consequences of physical inactivity on lung function decline and COPD incidence, physical activity assessment, prevalence of physical inactivity in COPD, clinical correlates of physical activity, effects of physical inactivity on hospitalisations and mortality, and treatment strategies to improve physical activity in patients with COPD.

This Task Force identified multiple major areas of research that need to be addressed further in the coming years. These include, but are not limited to, the disease-modifying potential of increased physical activity, and to further understand how improvements in exercise capacity, dyspnoea and self-efficacy following interventions may translate into increased physical activity.

The Task Force recommends that this ERS statement should be reviewed periodically (e.g.every 5–8 years).
The lung cancer patient, the pneumologist and palliative care: a developing alliance
Authors: Blum Torsten , Schönfeld Nicolas
Published: October 2014

Considerable evidence is now available on the value of palliative care for lung cancer patients in all stages and at all times during the course of the disease. However, pneumologists and their institutions seem to be widely in arrears with the implementation of palliative care concepts and the development of integrated structures.

This review focuses on the available evidence and experience of various frequently unmet needs of lung cancer patients, especially psychological, social, spiritual and cultural ones. A PubMed search for evidence on these aspects of palliative care as well as on barriers to the implementation, on outcome parameters and effectiveness, and on structure and process quality was performed with a special focus on lung cancer patients.

As a consequence, this review particularly draws pneumologists’ attention to improving their skills in communication with the patients, their relatives and among themselves, and to establish team structures with more far-reaching competences and continuity than existing multilateral cooperations and conferences can provide. Ideally, any process of structural and procedural improvement should be accompanied by scientific evaluation and measures for quality optimisation.
Validity of the European short list of respiratory diseases: a 40-year autopsy study
Authors: Gulsvik Anne K. , Henriksen Andreas H. , Svendsen Einar , Humerfelt Sjur , Gulsvik Amund
Published: October 2014

The predictors of autopsy and the accuracy of European short list (E) codes of respiratory diseases lack recent knowledge.

A 10% random sample (n=6811) of inhabitants of Bergen, Norway, aged 20–70 years, was invited to participate in a survey in 1965–1971 (participation rate 83%).

By December 31, 2005, 4387 (64%) participants had died and 1163 (27% of the deceased) had been given an autopsy. Causes of death were tuberculosis (E02, 0.2%), lung malignancy (E15, 3.5%), influenza (E38, 0.2%), pneumonia (E39, 6.5%) and chronic lower respiratory diseases (E40, 3.2%). Male sex, early deaths in the surveillance period and E15 were positive predictors of an autopsy examination, whereas old age and E39 were strong negative predictors. Among those referred for apost mortemexamination, the cause of death was verified as tuberculosis in 0.3%, lung cancer in 8.1%, acute pneumonia in 2.0% and chronic obstructive lung diseases in 4.9%. Cohen’s kappa coefficients (E codesversusautopsy) were 0.91 (95% CI 0.86–0.96) for E15, 0.37 (95% CI 0.20–0.54) for E39 and 0.65 (95% CI 0.54–0.76) for E40.

These findings matter when deaths from respiratory diseases are used as end-points in epidemiological association studies and clinical trials.
Maternal vitamin D and E intakes during pregnancy are associated with asthma in children
Authors: Allan Keith M. , Prabhu Nanda , Craig Leone C.A. , McNeill Geraldine , Kirby Bradley , McLay James , Helms Peter J. , Ayres Jon G. , Seaton Anthony , Turner Stephen W. , Devereux Graham
Published: October 2014

Are maternal vitamin D and E intakes during pregnancy associated with asthma in 10-year-old children?

In a longitudinal study of 1924 children born to women recruited during pregnancy, maternal vitamin D intake during pregnancy was assessed by the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and vitamin E by FFQ and plasma α-tocopherol; respiratory questionnaires were completed for the 10-year-old children. Their treatment for asthma was also ascertained using administrative data. Longitudinal analyses included data collected at 1, 2, 5 and 10 years.

Symptom data were available for 934 (49%) children and use of asthma medication for 1748 (91%). In the children maternal vitamin D intake during pregnancy was negatively associated with doctor-diagnosed asthma at 10 years of age (OR per intake quintile 0.86, 95% CI 0.74–0.99) and over the first 10 years (hazard ratio 0.90, 95% CI 0.81–1.00). Maternal plasma α-tocopherol at 11 weeks gestation was negatively associated with children receiving asthma treatment (OR per standard deviation increase 0.52, 95% CI 0.31–0.87). Maternal vitamin E intake was negatively associated with doctor-diagnosed asthma (OR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81–0.99) in the first 10 years.

Low maternal vitamin D and E intakes during pregnancy are associated with increased risk of children developing asthma in the first 10 years of life. These associations may have significant public health implications.
An international ISHLT/ATS/ERS clinical practice guideline: diagnosis and management of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome
Authors: Meyer Keith C. , Raghu Ganesh , Verleden Geert M. , Corris Paul A. , Aurora Paul , Wilson Kevin C. , Brozek Jan , Glanville Allan R. ,   the ISHLT/ATS/ERS BOS Task Force Committee
Published: October 2014

Bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) is a major complication of lung transplantation that is associated with poor survival. The International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation, American Thoracic Society, and European Respiratory Society convened a committee of international experts to describe and/or provide recommendations for 1) the definition of BOS, 2) the risk factors for developing BOS, 3) the diagnosis of BOS, and 4) the management and prevention of BOS.

A pragmatic evidence synthesis was performed to identify all unique citations related to BOS published from 1980 through to March, 2013. The expert committee discussed the available research evidence upon which the updated definition of BOS, identified risk factors and recommendations are based. The committee followed the GRADE (Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) approach to develop specific clinical recommendations.

The term BOS should be used to describe a delayed allograft dysfunction with persistent decline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s that is not caused by other known and potentially reversible causes of post-transplant loss of lung function. The committee formulated specific recommendations about the use of systemic corticosteroids, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, azithromycin and about re-transplantation in patients with suspected and confirmed BOS.

The diagnosis of BOS requires the careful exclusion of other post-transplant complications that can cause delayed lung allograft dysfunction, and several risk factors have been identified that have a significant association with the onset of BOS. Currently available therapies have not been proven to result in significant benefit in the prevention or treatment of BOS. Adequately designed and executed randomised controlled trials that properly measure and report all patient-important outcomes are needed to identify optimal therapies for established BOS and effective strategies for its prevention.
Smoking adversely affects treatment response, outcome and relapse in tuberculosis
Authors: Leung Chi C. , Yew Wing W. , Chan Chi K. , Chang Kwok C. , Law Wing S. , Lee Shuk N. , Tai Lai B. , Leung Eric C.C. , Au Ronald K.F. , Huang Shan S. , Tam Cheuk M.
Published: October 2014

The impact of smoking on tuberculosis outcome was evaluated in a territory-wide treatment programme.

16 345 consecutive patients undergoing chemotherapy for active tuberculosis in government chest clinics in Hong Kong from 2001 to 2003 were followed up prospectively for 2 years for treatment outcome and subsequently tracked through the territory-wide tuberculosis notification registry for relapse until the end of 2012.

Smoking was associated with more extensive lung disease, lung cavitation and positive sputum smear and culture at the baseline. In both current smokers and ex-smokers, sputum smears and cultures were significantly more likely to remain positive after 2 months of treatment. Both categories of smokers were significantly less likely to achieve cure or treatment completion within 2 years. Overall, 16.7% of unsuccessful treatment outcomes were attributable to smoking, with the key contributor being default in current smokers and death in ex-smokers. Among successful treatment completers, there was a clear gradient (hazard ratios of 1.00, 1.33 and 1.63) of relapse risk from never-smokers to ex-smokers and current smokers, with an overall population attributable risk of 19.4% (current smokers: 12.2%; ex-smokers: 7.2%).

Smoking adversely affects baseline disease severity, bacteriological response, treatment outcome and relapse in tuberculosis. Smoking cessation likely reduces relapse and secondary transmission.
INSTEAD: a randomised switch trial of indacaterolversussalmeterol/fluticasone in moderate COPD
Authors: Rossi Andrea , van der Molen Thys , Olmo Ricardo del , Papi Alberto , Wehbe Luis , Quinn Matthew , Lu Chengxing , Young David , Cameron Ray , Bucchioni Enrica , Altman Pablo
Published: October 2014

The Indacaterol: Switching Non-exacerbating Patients with Moderate COPD From Salmeterol/Fluticasone to Indacaterol (INSTEAD) study investigated the effect of switching patients at low risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations from salmeterol/fluticasone (SFC; inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) regimen) to indacaterol monotherapy (non-ICS regimen).

This 26-week, double-blind, double-dummy, parallel-group, phase IV study, randomised 581 patients with moderate COPD to indacaterol 150 μg once daily or SFC 50/500 μg twice daily. Patients had been receiving SFC 50/500 μg for ≥3 months, with no COPD exacerbations for more than a year before the study (patients for whom ICS is not recommended). The primary objective was to demonstrate non-inferiority of indacaterol to SFC, measured by trough forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) after 12 weeks (non-inferiority margin of 0.06 L).

The primary objective was met, with a mean treatment difference of 9 mL (95% CI -45–26 mL). There were no significant differences between treatments in terms of breathlessness (transition dyspnoea index) or health status (Saint George’s Respiratory Questionnaire) at weeks 12 or 26, or rescue medication use or COPD exacerbation rates over 26 weeks. Safety profiles of both treatments were as expected.

This study demonstrated that patients with moderate COPD and no exacerbations in the previous year can be switched from SFC to indacaterol 150 μg with no efficacy loss.