bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Energy Efficiency in QoS-Constrained Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Abdelaal Mohamed , Theel Oliver , Kuka Christian , Zhang Peilin , Gao Yang , Bashlovkina Vasilisa , Nicklas Daniela , Fränzle Martin
Published: May 2016

Energy saving is often achieved via “squeezing” other application-sensitive Quality of Service (QoS) parameters such as delay and throughput. Accordingly, energy-saving methods must consider those QoS parameters. In this paper, we survey the most recent work on energy efficiency in WSNs and we discuss the impacts of these methods on the QoS provided. Moreover, we propose a novel divide-and-conquer procedure to deal with the trade-off between energy consumption and other QoS parameters. The idea is to tackle a certain source of energy consumption to minimize the drawn energy. Subsequently, this energy-saving method is refined to consider other service qualities. To support the correctness of our claim, three energy-saving methods, taking the QoS issues into consideration, are given as examples. The first method exploits a so-called Fuzzy transform for shrinking the wireless traffic with highly precise lossy data compression. In the second method, the sensing module is targeted by employing reliable virtual sensors. Such sensors compensate the unavailability of main energy-hungry sensors during sleep periods. The third method exploits a self-adaptive mechanism to improve the QoS parameters via deliberately reducing the lifetime below the maximum time and exploiting design-time knowledge.
Gender and Age Related Effects While Watching TV Advertisements: An EEG Study
Authors: Cartocci Giulia , Cherubino Patrizia , Rossi Dario , Modica Enrica , Maglione Anton Giulio , di Flumeri Gianluca , Babiloni Fabio
Published: May 2016

The aim of the present paper is to show how the variation of the EEG frontal cortical asymmetry is related to the general appreciation perceived during the observation of TV advertisements, in particular considering the influence of the gender and age on it. In particular, we investigated the influence of the gender on the perception of a car advertisement (Experiment1) and the influence of the factor age on a chewing gum commercial (Experiment2). Experiment1results showed statistically significant higher approach values for the men group throughout the commercial. Results from Experiment2showed significant lower values by older adults for the spot, containing scenes not very enjoyed by them. In both studies, there was no statistical significant difference in the scene relative to the product offering between the experimental populations, suggesting the absence in our study of a bias towards the specific product in the evaluated populations. These evidences state the importance of the creativity in advertising, in order to attract the target population.
A Systematic Review of Point of Care Testing forChlamydia trachomatis,Neisseria gonorrhoeae, andTrichomonas vaginalis
Authors: Herbst de Cortina Sasha , Bristow Claire C. , Joseph Davey Dvora , Klausner Jeffrey D.
Published: May 2016

Objectives. Systematic review of point of care (POC) diagnostic tests for sexually transmitted infections:Chlamydia trachomatis(CT),Neisseria gonorrhoeae(NG), andTrichomonas vaginalis(TV).Methods. Literature search on PubMed for articles from January 2010 to August 2015, including original research in English on POC diagnostics for sexually transmitted CT, NG, and/or TV.Results. We identified 33 publications with original research on POC diagnostics for CT, NG, and/or TV. Thirteen articles evaluated test performance, yielding at least one test for each infection with sensitivity and specificity ≥90%. Each infection also had currently available tests with sensitivities <60%. Three articles analyzed cost effectiveness, and five publications discussed acceptability and feasibility. POC testing was acceptable to both providers and patients and was also demonstrated to be cost effective. Fourteen proof of concept articles introduced new tests.Conclusions. Highly sensitive and specific POC tests are available for CT, NG, and TV, but improvement is possible. Future research should focus on acceptability, feasibility, and cost of POC testing. While pregnant women specifically have not been studied, the results available in nonpregnant populations are encouraging for the ability to test and treat women in antenatal care to prevent adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes.
Pulmonary Embolism in Pneumonia: Still a Diagnostic Challenge? Results of a Case-Control Study in 100 Patients
Authors: Paparoupa Maria , Spineli Loukia , Framke Theodor , Ho Huy , Schuppert Frank , Gillissen Adrian
Published: May 2016

This study evaluated the diagnostic value of D-dimer, CRP, and leucocytes count to detect an underlying pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with pneumonia. A predictive model of an underlying PE, based on laboratory markers and clinical symptoms, was our ultimate objective. Overall 100 patients underwent a computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the lung: 54 with coexistence of PE and pneumonia (cases) and 46 with pneumonia without PE (controls). Cases and controls were matched 1 : 1. Symptoms and paraclinical findings were registered on admission. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, search for an optimal threshold, and conditional logistic regression analysis were conducted. D-dimer has a moderate ability to detect PE in pneumonia. Sensitivity of D-dimer was estimated at 97.78% and specificity at 11.11%. No optimal cut-point has acceptable diagnostic ability. After excluding patients with sepsis, sensitivity was reduced to 96.97%, whereas specificity increased to 16.13%. Consolidation in chest X-ray and positive D-dimer predict better an underlying PE as D-dimer itself. Thus, discriminatory power of the prediction model (AUC of 0.740) is not much greater than D-dimer (AUC of 0.703). No threshold that could increase the diagnostic value of D-dimer or a prediction model which is significantly better than D-dimer itself was identified.
A Dual-Band Printed End-Fire Antenna with DSPSL Feeding
Authors: Ye Daofeng , Li Yuanxin , Liang Zhixi , Long Yunliang
Published: May 2016

A novel dual-band printed end-fired antenna with double-sided parallel-strip line (DSPSL) feeding is presented. The DSPSL acts in wideband transition using balanced transmission. Two different modes of the parasitic patches allow the antenna to work in different bands. The printed antenna is designed as a quasi-Yagi structure to achieve directivity in the lower band, and the parallel rectangular patches serve as the parasitic director. These patches act as radiation patches with end-fire direction characteristics in the upper band. The measured bandwidths were 18.3% for the lower frequency band (2.28–2.74 GHz) and 12.6% for the upper frequency band (5.46–6.2 GHz).
A Cancer Research UK First Time in Human Phase I Trial of IMA950 (Novel Multipeptide Therapeutic Vaccine) in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma
Authors: Rampling Roy , Peoples Sharon , Mulholland Paul J. , James Allan , Al-Salihi Omar , Twelves Christopher J. , McBain Catherine , Jefferies Sarah , Jackson Alan , Stewart Willie , Lindner Juha , Kutscher Sarah , Hilf Norbert , McGuigan Lesley , Peters Jane , Hill Karen , Schoor Oliver , Singh-Jasuja Harpreet , Halford Sarah E. , Ritchie James W.A.
Published: May 2016

Purpose: To perform a two-cohort, phase I safety and immunogenicity study of IMA950 in addition to standard chemoradiotherapy and adjuvant temozolomide in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma. IMA950 is a novel glioblastoma-specific therapeutic vaccine containing 11 tumor-associated peptides (TUMAP), identified on human leukocyte antigen (HLA) surface receptors in primary human glioblastoma tissue.

Experimental Design: Patients were HLA-A*02–positive and had undergone tumor resection. Vaccination comprised 11 intradermal injections with IMA950 plus granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) over a 24-week period, beginning 7 to 14 days prior to initiation of chemoradiotherapy (Cohort 1) or 7 days after chemoradiotherapy (Cohort 2). Safety was assessed according to NCI CTCAE Version 4.0 and TUMAP-specific T-cell immune responses determined. Secondary observations included progression-free survival (PFS), pretreatment regulatory T cell (Treg) levels, and the effect of steroids on T-cell responses.

Results: Forty-five patients were recruited. Related adverse events included minor injection site reactions, rash, pruritus, fatigue, neutropenia and single cases of allergic reaction, anemia and anaphylaxis. Two patients experienced grade 3 dose-limiting toxicity of fatigue and anaphylaxis. Of 40 evaluable patients, 36 were TUMAP responders and 20 were multi-TUMAP responders, with no important differences between cohorts. No effect of pretreatment Treg levels on IMA950 immunogenicity was observed, and steroids did not affect TUMAP responses. PFS rates were 74% at 6 months and 31% at 9 months.

Conclusions: IMA950 plus GM-CSF was well-tolerated with the primary immunogenicity endpoint of observing multi-TUMAP responses in at least 30% of patients exceeded. Further development of IMA950 is encouraged. Clin Cancer Res; 22(19); 4776–85. ©2016 AACR.

See related commentary by Lowenstein and Castro, p. 4760
Expression of PD-L1 Identifies a Subgroup of More Aggressive Non-Small Cell Carcinomas of the Lung
Authors: Sterlacci William , Fiegl Michael , Droeser Raoul A. , Tzankov Alexandar
Published: May 2016

Objectives: In light of various trials showing impressive response rates when treating non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with anti PD-1/PD-L1 antibodies, the currently equivocal role of PD-L1 expression in NSCLC is in need of further clarification. Methods: We therefore analyzed the expression of PD-L1 on 293 well-documented NSCLC cases and correlated the results with clinical, histopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics. Results: The expression of PD-L1 on NSCLC was a poor prognostic factor for patients with nodal-negative adenocarcinoma (ACA) and, independent of other covariates, in tumors with increased CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Expression of PD-L1 was more commonly seen in ACA and in male patients with a past and current smoking history. Finally, PD-L1+ TILs were more often found in squamous and large cell carcinomas. Conclusions: Should the expression of PD-L1 be on the verge of becoming an additional biomarker for routine diagnostics in NSCLC, our findings will provide important further insight and could contribute towards more effectively stratifying patients. These results may single out certain patient groups with a potential for increased benefit from anti PD-1/PD-L1 treatment strategies and should be considered in future trials.
MiR-221 Promotes Capan-2 Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells Proliferation by Targeting PTEN-Akt
Authors: Yang Wenzhuo , Yang Yanning , Xia Lu , Yang Yuefeng , Wang Fei , Song Meiyi , Chen Xiaoyu , Liu Jingqi , Song Yang , Zhao Yingying , Yang Changqing
Published: May 2016

Background/Aims: MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) have emerged as critical regulators of cancer cell proliferation. The effect of miR-221 on cancer cell growth could be significantly changeable in different cell lines. Although miR-221 was reported to promote the cell growth of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) cells, its role in Capan-2 cell line is largely unknown. Methods: Capan-2 cells were transfected with miR-221 mimics, inhibitors, or negative controls. Cell Counting Kit-8 was used to determine cell viability. EdU staining and cell cycle analysis were used to measure cell proliferation. Western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of PTEN and phospho-Akt. The PI3K-Akt pathway activator SC-79 and inhibitor LY294002 were used to perform the rescue experiment in determining cell proliferation. Results: Overexpressing miR-221 significantly increased cell vitality and promoted cell proliferation and G1-to-S phase transition of the cell cycle in Capan-2 cells, while inhibition of miR-221 decreased that. The protein level of PTEN in Capan-2 cells was downregulated by overexpressing miR-221, while upregulated by inhibiting miR-221. Consistently, enhanced phosphorylation of AktSer473 was observed in miR-221 overexpressed Capan-2 cells, and the opposite result was found in miR-221 inhibited cells. LY294002 restored the pro-proliferation effect of miR-221 on Capan-2 cells, while SC-79 had no additional effect on cell proliferation in Capan-2 cells transfected with miR-221 mimics. Conclusion: Our study indicates that miR-221 is an oncogenic miRNA which promotes Capan-2 cells proliferation by targeting PTEN-Akt pathway.
Human Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Inhibits Tau Phosphorylation via the PI3K/Akt-GSK3β Signaling Pathway in a 6-Hydroxydopamine-Induced Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Yang Peng-hui , Zhu Jian-xiu , Huang Ya-dong , Zhang Xian-ying , Lei Peng , Bush Ashley I. , Xiang Qi , Su Zhi-jian , Zhang Qi-hao
Published: May 2016

Background: Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has been increasingly investigated due to its neuroprotection in neurodegenerative disorders. Because there are still no cures for any of these disorders, it is crucial to identify new therapeutic targets and screen potential drugs. The increased phosphorylation of tau at Ser396 leads to intracellular tau accumulation, which forms neurofibrillary tangles in Parkinson's disease (PD). In this study, neuroprotection by bFGF was observed, and the mechanisms related to its regulation of phosphorylated tau were investigated. Methods: bFGF-loaded liposome carriers were intranasally administered to rats. The neuroprotective effects of bFGF were assessed in a PD model induced by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) in vivo and in vitro. The phosphorylation of tau was measured, and the PI3K/Akt-GSK3β signaling pathway was investigated. Results: Our study demonstrated that liposomes markedly assisted in the delivery of bFGF to the striatum and substantia nigra of rats and enhanced the neuroprotective effects of bFGF on dopaminergic neurons. bFGF treatment significantly ameliorated the behavioral deficits induced by 6-OHDA, rescued the loss of tyrosine hydroxylase-positive neurons and increased the number of Nissl bodies. bFGF reduced the phosphorylation of tau and GSK3β and increased the phosphorylation of PI3K/Akt. Conclusion: Liposomes markedly assisted in the delivery of bFGF to the brain and enhanced the neuroprotective effects of bFGF by inhibiting the phosphorylation of tau. bFGF down-regulated the phosphorylation of tau by increasing the phosphorylation of GSK3β via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. These findings provide a new vision of bFGF as a potential therapy for PD.
Agomelatine Improves Apathy in Frontotemporal Dementia
Authors: Callegari Ilaria , Mattei Chiara , Benassi Francesca , Krueger Frank , Grafman Jordan , Yaldizli Özgür , Sassos Davide , Massucco Davide , Scialò Carlo , Nobili Flavio , Serrati Carlo , Amore Mario , Cocito Leonardo , Emberti Gialloreti Leonardo , Pardini Matteo
Published: May 2016

Background/Aims: Apathy is the most common initial symptom of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and has been linked to frontal-subcortical dopaminergic system dysfunction. No pharmacological therapy has been approved for the treatment of apathy, but, on the basis of its physiopathological mechanism, we suspected that increasing prefrontal dopaminergic innervation could improve this disabling symptom. Methods: We evaluated a group of 24 nondepressed patients with a diagnosis of the behavioral variant of FTD, in order to determine the effectiveness on apathy of agomelatine, an antidepressant with MT1 and MT2 receptor agonism and 5-HT2C receptor antagonism; the latter leads to an increase in prefrontal dopaminergic and noradrenergic tone. To try to tease out the effects of 5-HT2C antagonism on apathy, patients were randomized, using a cross-over design, to receive either agomelatine 50 mg/day or sustained release melatonin 10 mg/day for 10 weeks in a double-blind procedure. At the end of the follow-up period, subjects receiving melatonin switched to agomelatine for the following 10 weeks. Results: Agomelatine, but not melatonin, was associated with a significant reduction of apathy in FTD subjects and of caregiver distress due to patients' apathy. The switch from melatonin to agomelatine was associated with a reduction in apathetic behavior. Agomelatine was well-tolerated by all enrolled subjects. Conclusions: Our data, albeit preliminary, suggest that agomelatine could represent a novel useful approach to the treatment of apathy in FTD patients.
Lower Blood Pressure-Induced Renal Hypoperfusion Promotes Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Mizuno Tomohiro , Hayashi Takahiro , Shimabukuro Yuka , Murase Maho , Hayashi Hiroki , Ishikawa Kazuhiro , Takahashi Kazuo , Yuzawa Yukio , Yamada Shigeki , Nagamatsu Tadashi
Published: May 2016

Background and Aims: Cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity primarily occurs in the proximal tubules, and tubular injuries reduce glomerular filtration rates. Lower blood pressure causes renal hypoperfusion, which promotes ischemic acute kidney injury (AKI). Our study examined the relationship between lower blood pressure-induced renal hypoperfusion and cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Methods: The relationship between cisplatin use and hypoalbuminemia is not clear. This study consisted of Japanese patients who received cisplatin as the first-line chemotherapy at Fujita Health University Hospital from April 2006 to December 2012. Hypoalbuminemia was defined as serum albumin levels ≤3.5 mg/dl. Results: Patients who experienced lower blood pressure during chemotherapy were included in the lower blood pressure group (n = 229), and those who did not were included in the normal blood pressure group (n = 743). Total cisplatin dose in the normal blood pressure and lower blood pressure groups was 58.9 ± 23.8 and 55.0 ± 20.4 mg/m2, respectively. The rate of severe nephrotoxicity was higher and overall survival was shorter in the lower blood pressure group than in the normal blood pressure group. In a multivariable analysis, lower blood pressure significantly correlated with hypoalbuminemia. Conclusions: To prevent ischemic AKI, nutrition and cachexia controlling are important parts of cancer treatment.
Molecular Targets in Advanced Therapeutics of Cancers: The Role of Pharmacogenetics
Authors: Abubakar Murtala B. , Gan Siew Hua
Published: May 2016

The advent of advanced molecular targeted therapy has resulted in improved prognoses for patients with advanced malignancies. However, despite the significant success and specificity of this advocated targeted therapy, significant on- and off-target adverse effects and inter-individual variability in treatment responses have been reported. The interpatient variability in drug response has been suggested to be partly due to variations in patient genomes. Therefore, the identification of genetic biomarkers by conducting pharmacogenetics studies can help predict patient responses to targeted therapy and may serve as a basis for individualized treatment. In this review, both clinically established and potential molecular targets are highlighted. Overall, current literature suggests that individualization of targeted therapy is promising; however, integrating the clinical benefits of identified biomarkers into clinical practice for personalized medicine remains a major challenge, and further studies to validate these markers and identify novel therapeutic approaches are needed.
Smoking History as a Predictor of Pemetrexed Monotherapy in Patients with Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Igawa Satoshi , Sasaki Jiichiro , Otani Sakiko , Shirasawa Masayuki , Niwa Hideyuki , Kusuhara Seiichiro , Harada Shinya , Kubota Masaru , Katagiri Masato , Masuda Noriyuki
Published: May 2016

Background: Pemetrexed monotherapy has come to be recognized as the standard of care for second-line therapy of non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Thymidylate synthase (TS) expression is recognized as a potential predictor of the response to pemetrexed-based chemotherapy in patients with advanced NSCLC. The purpose of this study was to identify useful predictors of the response to pemetrexed other than TS expression. Methods: The records of non-squamous NSCLC patients without driver mutations who received pemetrexed monotherapy as a second or later line of chemotherapy at Kitasato University Hospital between March 2009 and October 2015 were retrospectively reviewed, and the treatment outcomes were evaluated. Results: In the 116 patients with non-squamous NSCLC, the overall response rate and progression-free survival (PFS) were 10.3% and 2.1 months, respectively. The disease control rate and PFS differed significantly among current smokers and never-smokers/former light smokers (44.9 vs. 65.8%, and 1.8 vs. 4.0 months, respectively). Furthermore, multivariate analysis identified Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status and smoking status as independent predictors of the PFS. Conclusion: The clinical data obtained in this study may provide a valuable basis for the use of smoking status as a predictor of pemetrexed monotherapy in wild-type NSCLC patients.
Epidemiology of Obesity and Diabetes and Their Cardiovascular Complications
Authors: Bhupathiraju Shilpa N. , Hu Frank B.
Published: May 2016

Obesity and diabetes mellitus have reached epidemic proportions in the past few years. During 2011 to 2012, more than one-third of the US population was obese. Although recent trend data indicate that the epidemic has leveled off, prevalence of abdominal obesity continues to rise, especially among adults. As seen for obesity, the past few decades have seen a doubling of the diabetes mellitus incidence with an increasing number of type 2 diabetes mellitus cases being diagnosed in children. Significant racial and ethnic disparities exist in the prevalence and trends of obesity and diabetes mellitus. In general, in both adults and children, non-Hispanic blacks and Mexican Americans seem to be at a high risk than their non-Hispanic white counterparts. Secular changes in agricultural policies, diet, food environment, physical activity, and sleep have all contributed to the upward trends in the diabesity epidemic. Despite marginal improvements in physical activity and the US diet, the food environment has changed drastically to an obesogenic one with increased portion sizes and limited access to healthy food choices especially for disadvantaged populations. Interventions that improve the food environment are critical as both obesity and diabetes mellitus raise the risk of cardiovascular disease by ≈2-fold. Among those with type 2 diabetes mellitus, significant sex differences occur in the risk of cardiovascular disease such that diabetes mellitus completely eliminates or attenuates the advantages of being female. Given the substantial burden of obesity and diabetes mellitus, future research efforts should adopt a translational approach to find sustainable and holistic solutions in preventing these costly diseases.
Obesity-Induced Changes in Adipose Tissue Microenvironment and Their Impact on Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Fuster José J. , Ouchi Noriyuki , Gokce Noyan , Walsh Kenneth
Published: May 2016

Obesity is causally linked with the development of cardiovascular disorders. Accumulating evidence indicates that cardiovascular disease is the collateral damage of obesity-driven adipose tissue dysfunction that promotes a chronic inflammatory state within the organism. Adipose tissues secrete bioactive substances, referred to as adipokines, which largely function as modulators of inflammation. The microenvironment of adipose tissue will affect the adipokine secretome, having actions on remote tissues. Obesity typically leads to the upregulation of proinflammatory adipokines and the downregulation of anti-inflammatory adipokines, thereby contributing to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we focus on the microenvironment of adipose tissue and how it influences cardiovascular disorders, including atherosclerosis and ischemic heart diseases, through the systemic actions of adipokines.
Size-assortative copulation in the simultaneously hermaphroditic pond snail Radix auricularia (Gastropoda: Pulmonata)
Authors: Yu Tong Lei , Deng Yao Hui , Zhang Juan , Duan Li Peng
Published: May 2016

To better understand the importance of body size in hermaphroditic mating, we studied the mating behaviour of the pond snail Radix auricularia. This simultaneous hermaphrodite exhibits a positive correlation between body size and egg production and provides weak evidence for size-assortative mating. In addition to this mating pattern, the partner performing the male role was significantly smaller than the mounted partner, performing the female role. In this study, two laboratory experiments were done to test whether body size has (1) an effect on mate choice of the sperm donor, and (2) poses mechanical constraints. These snails did not display physical limitation in mating with a much larger or smaller partner. In the mate choice experiment, we found no evidence for significant preferences for large partners. Therefore, mate choice of sperm donor and mechanical constraints are not likely to contribute to the formation of size-assortatively mating pairs in this species, which contributes to understanding about how these processes work in hermaphrodites.
Francis of Assisi and the Sultan
Authors: Freeman Gerard Pieter
Published: May 2016

In 1219, Francis of Assisi had an encounter with Sultan Melek al-Kamil in Egypt. The interpretation of this meeting is controversial. On the one hand it is seen as a paradigm of a peaceful interreligious dialogue; on the other, mediaevalists think this idea was inconceivable in the 13th century. The mediaeval sources are contradictory. This article raises the question if Francis’s deed was a breach in the spirituality of his days, and if so, how that is traceable. The sources tend to adapt Francis’s attitude to the expectations of his age. The oldest source states that Francis “made little progress” in converting the Sultan but also that the Sultan and the Saint understood each other. Francis’s Rule, written at the same time, shows that he advocated a peaceful attitude towards the Muslims. Because this was so uncommon, both his contemporaries and historians have difficulties in perceiving this breach.
Narrative and Ideology
Authors: Houston Sam
Published: May 2016

With its focus on “narrative” and theology as an ethnographic enterprise, the “postliberalism” of Hans W. Frei and George A. Lindbeck sought to incorporate insights from the linguistic turn in modern thought. However, it has faced criticisms ranging from sectarianism to concern with its overly static and homogeneous conceptions of “narrative” and “Christian community” that fail to recognize the church’s participation in many overlapping communities of discourse. In this essay, I explore such criticisms and their recognition of the varied narratives and discursive practices by which Christian communities are formed, in ways both recognized and unrecognized. I then examine the work of Ugandan Catholic theologian Emmanuel Katongole which gives due attention to “narrative” and ideology, and in doing so, demonstrates “postliberal” theology’s insights while also compensating for its weaknesses.
Impact of Assimilating Wind Profiling Radar Observations on Convection-Permitting Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts during SCMREX
Authors: Zhang Xubin , Luo Yali , Wan Qilin , Ding Weiyu , Sun Jiaxiang
Published: May 2016

To improve the prediction of heavy rainfall in southern China during the prerainy season, horizontal wind data from wind profiling radars (WPRs) were assimilated in the partial-cycle data assimilation (DA) system based on a three-dimensional variational method. The analyses from the DA system are used as initial conditions for the convection-permitting Global/Regional Assimilation and Prediction System (GRAPES) model. The impact of assimilating WPR data on the quantitative precipitation forecast (QPF) in southern China was evaluated over the period of the Southern China Monsoon Rainfall Experiment (SCMREX) in May 2014, by comparing the results of a control experiment with WPR data assimilated and a denial experiment without WPR data. The positive impact of WPR DA was significant on the forecasts of atmospheric variables in the vertical and diagnostic fields at the surface, especially those of surface wind fields in the 0–6-h range. The inclusion of WPR data also improved the QPF skill of light and heavy rainfall throughout the 12-h forecast period by reducing the predicted spurious precipitation (thereby alleviating overestimations and false alarms), with the largest improvement in 6-h heavy rainfall forecasts. WPR DA considerably alleviated the spinup problem, remarkably improving the QPF of heavy rainfall (especially extreme rainfall). The improved representation of wind and moisture at lower levels in the analyses due to WPR DA was the physical cause of the QPF improvement, as is illustrated using a case study.
Serum Endothelial Cell–Specific Molecule 1 (Endocan) Levels in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Qiu Chong-Rong , Fu Qiang , Sui Jian , Zhang Qian , Wei Peng , Wu Yan , Zhu Ke , Lu Yi , Zong Bing
Published: May 2016

Endothelial dysfunction is involved in the process of acute myocardial infarction (AMI), that is, the endothelial cell–specific molecule 1 (ESM-1; endocan) is a novel endothelial dysfunction marker. However, the relationship between patients with AMI and serum ESM-1 levels is not very clear. Patients with AMI (n = 216) and a control group (n = 60) without AMI were included in the study. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) was measured, and the severity of AMI was assessed by a modified Gensini stenosis scoring system. Serum ESM-1 levels were significantly higher in the AMI group ( P < .05). High-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels were also significantly higher in the AMI group ( P < .05). In patients with AMI, serum ESM-1 levels were not significantly correlated with hsCRP levels. There was no significant correlation between serum ESM-1 level and Gensini score. Our findings suggest that serum ESM-1 levels may be a novel biomarker of endothelial dysfunction in patients with AMI.
Multidimensional Extension of Multiple Indicators Multiple Causes Models to Detect DIF
Authors: Lee Soo , Bulut Okan , Suh Youngsuk
Published: May 2016

A number of studies have found multiple indicators multiple causes (MIMIC) models to be an effective tool in detecting uniform differential item functioning (DIF) for individual items and item bundles. A recently developed MIMIC-interaction model is capable of detecting both uniform and nonuniform DIF in the unidimensional item response theory (IRT) framework. The goal of the current study is to extend the MIMIC-interaction model for detecting DIF in the context of multidimensional IRT modelling and examine the performance of the multidimensional MIMIC-interaction model under various simulation conditions with respect to Type I error and power rates. Simulation conditions include DIF pattern and magnitude, test length, correlation between latent traits, sample size, and latent mean differences between focal and reference groups. The results of this study indicate that power rates of the multidimensional MIMIC-interaction model under uniform DIF conditions were higher than those of nonuniform DIF conditions. When anchor item length and sample size increased, power for detecting DIF increased. Also, the equal latent mean condition tended to produce higher power rates than the different mean condition. Although the multidimensional MIMIC-interaction model was found to be a reasonably useful tool for identifying uniform DIF, the performance of the model in detecting nonuniform DIF appeared to be questionable.
The Moon in the Oxford Tables of 1348
Authors: Chabás José , Goldstein Bernard R
Published: May 2016

Shortly after being recast in Paris in the 1320s, the Alfonsine Tables reached England. There, the otherwise unknown Oxford scholar William Batecombe compiled a set of tables based on them, some of which display a clever and compact presentation. The author composed double argument tables for the five planets and the Moon whose entries depend on two variables. In the case of the planets, the entries are their true longitudes and latitudes, whereas for the Moon the entries are the true elongation of the Moon from the Sun. Thus, the user is able to avoid the long and cumbersome calculations that are required when using tables where the entries in each column depend on a single variable. Batecombe’s tables are extant in many Latin manuscripts, where they are usually called Tabule anglicane, as well as in medieval Hebrew versions. In this paper, we analyze one of these double argument tables not addressed previously, that for the Moon.
Further Inspection Into the Effects of Correctional Officers’ Sex, Race, and Perceptions of Safety on Job-Related Attitudes
Authors: Wooldredge John , Steiner Benjamin
Published: May 2016

This article examines more closely the empirical relationships between correctional officers’ job attitudes and officer demographics and perceptions of safety. Bi-level analyses from 1,740 officers in 45 prisons revealed that officers’ sex and race mattered for shaping an officer’s pride with co-workers, consideration of transferring to another facility, and perceptions of co-workers’ job satisfaction, but only as they were linked to perceptions of sexism and racism. Perceptions of safety also mattered. Yet, levels of inmate crime and victimization were irrelevant for shaping attitudes. Positive attitudes were also more common in facilities housing higher risk populations, and in facilities for men.
Grounded theology: A new method to explore luck
Authors: Stevens Bruce A.
Published: May 2016

The idea of luck has been explored, but not well developed, in three disciplines: philosophy, psychology, and theology. This article uses grounded theory to explore the theme of luck through 15 qualitative interviews with subjects aged between 60 and 75. The sample represented a variety of agnostic and Christian perspectives. The idea of luck was found to be a messy concept, but revealed aspects of participants’ worldviews and how they make meaning. This led to two conclusions. The idea of luck is subversive and emotionally messy. This article introduces the idea that grounded theory might be useful as a theological methodology, which could be termed grounded theology.
The State of Multiculturalism and Diversity in Undergraduate Psychology Training
Authors: Fuentes Milton A. , Shannon Casey R.
Published: May 2016

Over the past few decades, diversity and multiculturalism have received considerable attention in the field of psychology. While there have been notable efforts to ensure these important areas are addressed in undergraduate psychology training, little is known about this undertaking. The present study examined how diversity and multiculturalism were addressed in the course titles and course descriptions of 200 undergraduate, psychology programs across North America and their corresponding general education programs. Analyses revealed that while most undergraduate psychology programs offered diversity or multicultural courses, very few programs required these courses. Moreover, when these courses were offered, they typically examined diversity or multiculturalism in a singular fashion, giving very little attention to the intersectionality that exists among cultural factors. With respect to the institutions’ general education programs, we found that while some institutions had a multicultural awareness requirement, few offered or required psychology-based diversity or multicultural courses of their psychology students. Implications of these finding are considered, and several recommendations and resources for improving undergraduate psychology programs are provided.
Postbaccalaureate Salaries of Psychology Majors From a Historically Black University
Authors: Sibulkin Amy E. , Butler J. S.
Published: May 2016

A sample of predominantly African American psychology major baccalaureates from a historically Black university self-reported job types, salaries, and master’s degree completion. For this pre-2009 recession sample, we found that (a) the rates of employment were quite high; (b) most jobs were related to health, mental health, social work, and education; and (c) the average salary was comparable to national estimates. After controlling for GPA, completion of a master’s degree predicted substantially higher salaries.
Global asymptotic synchronization of a class of non-linear systems via sampled-data feedback
Authors: Yan Song , Qian Chunjiang , Huang Tingwen
Published: May 2016

In this paper, we investigate the problem of using sampled-data feedback to synchronize a slave (driven) system with a master (driver) system. Based on the domination approach, both state-feedback and output-feedback control methods using sampled-data are proposed to make the tracking error converge to zero. The problem is of practical importance since in practice the system state is transmitted as sampled signal, and very often only the output is measurable. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is illustrated by the simulation for a chaotic Chua oscillator.
Children’s interpretation of a label for an individuated object: Dependence on age and ontological kind
Authors: Hartin Travis L. , Merriman William E.
Published: May 2016

Three experiments examined whether the experience of individuating an object would affect the way that children of different ages would interpret its label. Participants were asked to remember a novel object and pick it out from sets containing either two similar objects (similar condition) or no similar objects (dissimilar condition). They were then taught a label for the object and tested for how broadly they generalized it. Because children in the similar condition had formed a more detailed representation of the object, they were expected to generalize its label less broadly. For artifacts, this effect was observed in 4- and 5-year-olds as well as first and second graders, but not in 3-year-olds or adults. For toy animals, no age group showed this effect, and the three oldest groups of children showed the opposite effect. Various explanations for why the consequences of individuating an object for the interpretation of its label depend on age of the learner and the object’s ontological kind are discussed.
Relationship Between Physical and Psychological Status of Cancer Patients and Caregivers
Authors: Douglas Sara L. , Daly Barbara J. , Lipson Amy R.
Published: May 2016

The purpose of this study was to describe the relationship between patient physical and emotional status and caregiver mood state for patients with advanced cancer. Data were collected from 299 cancer patients and their caregivers from a cancer center. We used a longitudinal design and collected data through interviews. The relationships between patient and caregiver emotional states over time were moderate and statistically significant at all three points in time ( p values = .012-.0001). Patient physical and emotional status predicted caregiver mood state at all points in time (βs = −.22 to −.25) and caregiver mood state at baseline predicted patient emotional status at 3 months (β = −.16, p = .013). Relationships between patient emotional status and caregiver mood state were moderately strong. Addressing the emotional needs of both patients and caregivers has the potential to yield improved emotional outcomes for both over time.
Mobile Endoscopy vs Video Tower
Authors: Liu Hao , Akiki Salwa , Barrowman Nicholas J. , Bromwich Matthew
Published: May 2016

Objective

To determine if any significant difference exists between endoscopic videos captured with a mobile adaptor and videos captured with a traditional tower.

Study Design

Prospective controlled blinded comparison of mobile endoscopic videos captured through 2 methods.

Methods

Thirty randomly selected patients underwent video endoscopy with both mobile and video tower recording methods. Sixty videos were edited into a series of 10‐second clips. Thirteen otolaryngology staff and residents rated the video quality and provided a diagnosis for each video.

Results

We found no significant difference in the video quality ratings between mobile and tower videos (mean difference, −0.07; P <. 37). Similarly, we found no significant difference in the observers’ diagnostic accuracy (mean difference, 1.54%; P <. 686).

Conclusion

With adequate power, our study was unable to demonstrate a difference between mobile adapter videos and tower videos. Our findings suggest that mobile adapter videos may reasonably be used in lieu of tower videos in clinical practice.
The effects of age, gender, and gender role ideology on adolescents’ social perspective-taking ability and tendency in friendships
Authors: Flannery Kaitlin M. , Smith Rhiannon L.
Published: May 2016

Social perspective taking (SPT; i.e., the social-cognitive process of inferring another person’s thoughts and feelings) is commonly thought to be essential for successful social relationships, yet the bulk of past work on the development of SPT does not consider youths’ tendency to engage in SPT in the context of their close relationships. The current study of adolescents (ages 12–17, N = 158) helps move the field forward by distinguishing between adolescents’ SPT ability (i.e., whether they are developmentally capable of SPT) and their tendency to apply this ability in their actual social relationships, namely, friendships, and considering the roles of gender and age. Results indicate that SPT ability and SPT tendency are distinct, suggesting that youths do not always put to use the SPT skills that they possess. Girls scored higher than boys on both SPT ability and SPT tendency. Boys and girls had significant gains in SPT ability across adolescence. Surprisingly, however, boys’ SPT tendency decreased from early to later adolescence, indicating that older boys tend to engage in less SPT in their friendships despite increasing ability to do so. This is worrisome given the importance of SPT in promoting high-quality relationships. Importantly, gender role ideology predicted this tendency in boys, such that boys with more stereotypical gender beliefs tended to engage in less SPT with their friends. Thus, the current findings point to the importance of going beyond mean-level gender differences to consider gendered beliefs and suggest that interventions aimed at promoting egalitarian views may help foster SPT and successful friendships among boys.
VAVD vacuum may cause bubble transgression in membrane oxygenators
Authors: Nygaard K , Thiara AS , Tronstad C , Ringdal MA , Fiane AE
Published: May 2016

Background:

Vacuum-assisted venous drainage (VAVD) is widely used to enhance venous blood return from patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). This vacuum can accidentally reach the oxygenator of the heart-lung machine and draw gas bubbles into the blood. This is known as bubble transgression (BT) and may cause air emboli in the arterial blood line. In order to avoid BT and minimize the risk of patient injury, knowledge of oxygenator tolerance to vacuum load is critical. Thus, the main aim of this thesis was to investigate how much vacuum a membrane oxygenator can withstand before BT appears.

Methods:

We investigated four different adult oxygenators: Quadrox-i, Affinity Fusion, Capiox RX25 and Inspire 6M. They were tested in an in vitro setup where VAVD vacuum was allowed to reach the oxygenator through a non-occlusive roller pump. An ultrasonic clinical bubble counter, Gampt BCC 200, was used to count bubbles on the arterial line when the arterial pump was restarted.

Results:

We observed a significant increase in bubble count for two of the oxygenators, caused by -30 mmHg of VAVD vacuum in the blood reservoir (Affinity Fusion and Inspire 6M). Massive air ingress was shown in two of the oxygenators, caused by -30 mmHg of VAVD vacuum in the reservoir (Capiox RX25) and -40 mmHg of VAVD vacuum in the reservoir (Affinity Fusion).

Conclusion:

VAVD vacuum may cause bubble transgression in an oxygenator. This was shown for all the oxygenators in this test. VAVD vacuum may cause visible massive air ingress in an oxygenator. This was shown for two of the oxygenators in this test (Capiox RX25 and Affinity Fusion). An alarm triggering on negative pressure in the oxygenator or a pressure relief valve might improve safety when using VAVD.
Creating Value in Marketing and Business Simulations
Authors: Cadotte Ernest R.
Published: May 2016

Simulations are a form of competitive training that can provide transformational learning. Participants are pushed by the competition and their own desire to win as well as the continual feedback, encouragement, and guidance of a Business Coach. Simulations enable students to apply their knowledge and practice their business skills over and over. Taken all together, these conditions help students develop their competence in marketing and business. Competitive business simulations are inherently valuable learning experiences, but this potential can be greatly enriched. The purpose of this article is to summarize the development process of a modern business simulation, illustrating how a valued pedagogy can be enhanced through careful planning and thoughtful consideration of the goals, strategy, features, and benefits of the learning experience.
Recurrent coma and fever in familial hemiplegic migraine type 2. A prospective 15-year follow-up of a large family with a novelATP1A2mutation
Authors: Pelzer N , Blom DE , Stam AH , Vijfhuizen LS , Hageman ATM , van Vliet JA , Ferrari MD , van den Maagdenberg AMJM , Haan J , Terwindt GM
Published: May 2016

Background

Familial hemiplegic migraine (FHM) is a rare monogenic migraine subtype characterised by attacks associated with transient motor weakness. Clinical information is mainly based on reports of small families with only short follow-up. Here, we document a prospective 15-year follow-up of an extended family with FHM type 2.

Patients and methods

After diagnosing FHM in a patient with severe attacks associated with coma and fever, we identified eight more family members with FHM and one with possible FHM. All family members were prospectively followed for 15 years. In total 13 clinically affected and 21 clinically non-affected family members were genetically tested and repeatedly investigated.

Results

A novel p.Arg348Pro ATP1A2 mutation was found in 14 family members: 12 with clinical FHM, one with psychomotor retardation and possible FHM, and one without FHM features. In 9/12 (75%) family members with genetically confirmed FHM, attacks were severe, long-lasting, and often associated with impaired consciousness and fever. Such attacks were frequently misdiagnosed and treated as viral meningitis or stroke. Epilepsy was reported in three family members with FHM and in the one with psychomotor retardation and possible FHM. Ataxia was not observed.

Conclusion

FHM should be considered in patients with recurrent coma and fever.