bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Spillover of SOX on Earnings Quality in Non-U.S. Jurisdictions
Authors: Dutillieux Wouter , Francis Jere R. , Willekens Marleen
Published: August 2015

SYNOPSIS

In most European countries, U.S.-owned subsidiaries are required by law to file separate entity financial statements in local GAAP. We use this unique institutional setting to examine whether the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX) had a flow-through effect on the earnings quality of local GAAP financial reports for a sample of Belgian subsidiaries owned by U.S.-listed firms. Belgium has weaker institutions relative to the U.S. and this is a setting where the spillover effects of SOX might be expected to improve local GAAP earnings quality. Using a difference-in-differences research design, we compare changes in earnings quality before and after SOX for a treatment sample of Belgian subsidiaries owned by U.S.-listed companies (which are subject to SOX), with a control sample of Belgian-owned subsidiaries whose owners are not subject to SOX regulations. We find that the earnings quality of the U.S.-owned subsidiaries improved after SOX (smaller abnormal accruals and more timely loss recognition). In contrast, the earnings quality of the control sample was either unchanged or declined in the pre- versus post-SOX periods. These results suggest that SOX did have a flow-through effect on earnings quality in a non-U.S. jurisdiction, and that SOX has had a broader international effect beyond the original legislative intent.

Data Availability: Data are available from sources identified in the paper.
Social smile reproducibility using 3-D stereophotogrammetry and reverse engineering technology
Authors: Dindaroğlu Furkan , Duran Gökhan Serhat , Görgülü Serkan , Yetkiner Enver
Published: August 2015

Objective: 

To assess the range of social smile reproducibility using 3-D stereophotogrammetry and reverse engineering technology.

Materials and Methods: 

Social smile images of white adolescents (N  =  15, mean age  =  15.4 ±1.5 years; range  =  14–17 years) were obtained using 3dMDFlex (3dMD, Atlanta, Ga). Each participant was asked to produce 16 social smiles at 3-minute intervals. All images were obtained in natural head position. Alignment of images, segmentation of smile area, and 3-D deviation analysis were carried out using Geomagic Control software (3D Systems Inc, Cary, NC). A single image was taken as a reference, and the remaining 15 images were compared with the reference image to evaluate positive and negative deviations. The differences between the mean deviation limits of participants with the highest and the lowest deviations and the total mean deviations were evaluated using Bland-Altman Plots.

Results: 

Minimum and maximum deviations of a single image from the reference image were 0.34 and 2.69 mm, respectively. Lowest deviation between two images was within 0.5 mm and 1.54 mm among all participants (mean, 0.96 ± 0.21 mm), and the highest deviation was between 0.41 mm and 2.69 mm (mean, 1.53 ± 0.46 mm). For a single patient, when all alignments were considered together, the mean deviation was between 0.32 ± 0.10 mm and 0.59 ± 0.24 mm. Mean deviation for one image was between 0.14 and 1.21 mm.

Conclusions: 

The range of reproducibility of the social smile presented individual variability, but this variation was not clinically significant or detectable under routine clinical observation.
ABCC8 R1420H Loss-of-Function Variant in a Southwest American Indian Community: Association With Increased Birth Weight and Doubled Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Baier Leslie J. , Muller Yunhua Li , Remedi Maria Sara , Traurig Michael , Piaggi Paolo , Wiessner Gregory , Huang Ke , Stacy Alyssa , Kobes Sayuko , Krakoff Jonathan , Bennett Peter H. , Nelson Robert G. , Knowler William C. , Hanson Robert L. , Nichols Colin G. , Bogardus Clifton
Published: August 2015

Missense variants in KCNJ11 and ABCC8, which encode the KIR6.2 and SUR1 subunits of the β-cell KATP channel, have previously been implicated in type 2 diabetes, neonatal diabetes, and hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia of infancy (HHI). To determine whether variation in these genes affects risk for type 2 diabetes or increased birth weight as a consequence of fetal hyperinsulinemia in Pima Indians, missense and common noncoding variants were analyzed in individuals living in the Gila River Indian Community. A R1420H variant in SUR1 (ABCC8) was identified in 3.3% of the population (N = 7,710). R1420H carriers had higher mean birth weights and a twofold increased risk for type 2 diabetes with a 7-year earlier onset age despite being leaner than noncarriers. One individual homozygous for R1420H was identified; retrospective review of his medical records was consistent with HHI and a diagnosis of diabetes at age 3.5 years. In vitro studies showed that the R1420H substitution decreases KATP channel activity. Identification of this loss-of-function variant in ABCC8 with a carrier frequency of 3.3% affects clinical care as homozygous inheritance and potential HHI will occur in 1/3,600 births in this American Indian population.
Update on Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Light of Recent Evidence: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association and the American Diabetes Association
Authors: Fox Caroline S. , Golden Sherita Hill , Anderson Cheryl , Bray George A. , Burke Lora E. , de Boer Ian H. , Deedwania Prakash , Eckel Robert H. , Ershow Abby G. , Fradkin Judith , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Kosiborod Mikhail , Nelson Robert G. , Patel Mahesh J. , Pignone Michael , Quinn Laurie , Schauer Philip R. , Selvin Elizabeth , Vafiadis Dorothea K.
Published: August 2015

Cardiovascular disease risk factor control as primary prevention in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus has changed substantially in the past few years. The purpose of this scientific statement is to review the current literature and key clinical trials pertaining to blood pressure and blood glucose control, cholesterol management, aspirin therapy, and lifestyle modification. We present a synthesis of the recent literature, new guidelines, and clinical targets, including screening for kidney and subclinical cardiovascular disease for the contemporary management of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Determination of lime tree (Tilia begonifolia Stev.) stems form based on quantitative parameters (Study area: Shafaroud forests of Guilan province, Iran)
Authors: Nazari Sendi Mohammad Rasoul , Navroodi Iraj Hassanzad , Poorbabaei Hassan , Sheikhkanlu Milan Mohammad , Bakhshandeh Behzad
Published: August 2015

The lime tree is one of the rare and valuable species that found in the Hyrcanian moist forests with economic as well as ecological value. Identification of the quantitative and qualitative features of this species is important. In order to investigate the stem form of this species in the Shafaroud forests of Guilan Province, 141 lime trees in 39 plots were analyzed during the four stages of small pole, pole, saw-timber, and maturity. In each plot, stem-diameter at different heights was measured by using the Spiegel Relaskop. Measurements and analyses included diameter at breast height( d.b.h.) and total height. Same parameters was calculated: stem form factor based on diameter, stem form factor based on volume, form quotient, slenderness factor, ratio of stem height to total height, ratio of stem volume to total volume, correlation, and coefficient of determination to describe stem form factor. The results showed that the average stem form factor based on diameter was 0.554. The average stem form factor based on volume was 0.576, average form quotient was 2.32 and slenderness factor was 35.04%. The average ratio of stem height to total height was 82.45. In addition the results indicated a strong relationship between diameter at breast height and trunk coefficient. The ratio of stem volume to total volume revealed that 64.44 of lime volume is located in the bottom half of the trunk. The value of the parameters described here is towards a better description of stand characteristics. Obtained results indicating stability for natural lime tree in Iran.
Habitat preferences of royal fern Osmunda regalis L. in the ‘Baszków’ nature reserve
Authors: Gdula Anna K. , Dyderski Marcin K. , Jagodziński Andrzej M.
Published: August 2015

The royal fern (Osmunda regalis L.) is a threatened species, which reaches the northeastern border of its natural range in Poland. The number of royal fern stands is decreasing due to decline of its natural habitat - alder carrs. The main aim of this paper was to compare features of stands in habitats representing different levels of anthropogenic transformation and to investigate all stands of the royal fern in the ‘Baszków’ nature reserve (3.76 ha; Krotoszyn Forest District, Poland). We distinguished four plant communities within the nature reserve: Carici elongatae-Alnetum, Molinio-Pinetum, Leucobryo-Pinetum and Pinus-Padus. In total, we found 144 royal fern specimens within the nature reserve area growing in 20 stands: 97 specimens in Carici-Alnetum (9 stands), 32 specimens in Molinio-Pinetum (4 stands) and 15 specimens along a drainage ditch (7 stands). Specimens from Carici-Alnetum had the highest proportion of sporophylles (41%), which shows the habitat preferences of the royal fern. Low proportion of sporophylles and the low number of specimens in the stands in ditches prove lower vitality of royal ferns and possibility of local extirpation in these stands. Royal fern populations in secondary habitats such as ditches and borders of forest divisions should be particularly monitored. Passive royal fern protection in the nature reserve gave positive results due to better availability of light, connected with mortality of some trees.
Longitudinal analysis of annual height increment differentiation in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) stands of different age classes
Authors: Zawieja Bogna , Kaźmierczak Katarzyna
Published: August 2015

In the study, the measurements of Scots pine height increments were used to compare the increments of pine trees of different age classes. All of the analyzed trees were growing in stands located on fresh mixed coniferous forest sites. The study concerned a 10-year period of growth of 8 tree age classes. Due to variation in climate conditions, all trees were studied over the same calendar period. Longitudinal analysis was used to compare different age classes of trees with reference to the increments in height. This procedure had not been previously used for such purpose. The results obtained did not confirm the hypothesis of parallel profiles implying that there existed differences in the growth of trees in various age groups.
Effect of mechanization level on manpower needs in forestry
Authors: Błuszkowska Urszula , Nurek Tomasz
Published: August 2015

High work consumption in forest operations is above all the result of the character and task realization mode in works undertaken in forestry. Development of mechanization in forest management activities allows to considerably decrease manpower needs. In the present study, there were analyzed the possibilities of reduction of work consumption by improving the mechanization level of forest works. The method was developed to consider the following assessments: 1) variant W1 - basic option comprising factual work consumption values in works carried out on the area administered by the Regional Directorate of State Forests (RDLP); 2) W2 - showing the effect of 25% upgrade of works to a higher level of mechanization; 3) W3 - showing the effect of 50% upgrade of works to a higher level of mechanization; 4) W4 - comprising analogous calculations to those in variant W1 , but work consumption upgrading was 75%. Simulation calculations revealed considerable differences in needs for labor of different categories of forest workers. On the other hand, with increasing mechanization level, there increase the demands concerning worker qualifications, e.g. a harvester operator must be trained for about 2 years, and the training has to include both simulator exercises (first using software and next - harvester simulator) and field work under supervision to gain sufficient experience. The introduction of higher levels of mechanization into forest operations, and hence considerable reduction of jobs for unqualified workers who are replaced by qualified employees, can help decreasing work consumption in forest operations.
Cultural traits of the future managers from generation Y – an example of young Europeans
Authors: Bartosik-Purgat Małgorzata
Published: August 2015

On the one hand, internationalization and globalization processes influence the fact that attitudes and behaviours of representatives of different cultures become similar. On the other one, opposite processes which aim at the manifestation of cultural differences can be observed.

The aim of this article is to find an answer to the question whether young people, students of higher schools of economics, future managers show similar cultural traits or whether the influence of the native environment is so strong that young Europeans manifest different values. In order to answer this question selected characteristics, which are significantly applicable at work in an enterprise have been used.

The answer to the aforementioned question has been searched both in the literature on the subject as well as in empirical studies conducted in ten European countries (Belgium, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Portugal, Great Britain). Their results show significant similarities of cultural traits among the young respondents coming from the surveyed countries. These characteristics are manifested in various attitudes, hypothetical behaviours and the judgment of behaviour of others.
Chosen aspects of economic profitability in agricultural companies in the context of global economic crisis
Authors: Grzegorzewska Emilia
Published: August 2015

Negative consequences of the economic crisis, which began in the United Sates in 2007, affected economies of all countries. The unfavourable economic situation on world markets was also reflected in the financial condition of Polish companies. It also refers to agriculture which plays a significant role in Polish economy. The following paper covers change trends in economic profitability of a group of 10 agricultural companies. Chosen liquidity and profitability ratios have been presented as well as synthetic measure which is at the root of the compilation “Ranking of 300 best agricultural companies”. The presented findings cover the years 2007-2012.
Familiness and Born Globals: Rapid Internationalisation among Polish Family Firms
Authors: Wach Krzysztof
Published: August 2015

Rapid internationalisation is a very popular research theme internationally. Verifying the links between familiness of the investigated firms and the accelerated internationalisation among Polish family firms can be very promising. The objective of the paper is to identify the rapid internationalisation path of Polish family firms while going international from the comparative perspective of the familiness. The paper presents the research results of the survey conducted in the turn of 2013-2014 among 216 firms, including 88 family businesses. Based on the calculations we can assume that the average time of internationalisation measured from the establishment is the longer in case of family firms than non-family firms. It can be with the line to the statement that born globals are more frequently met among non-family firms.
Technical, Organizational and Cross-cultural issues associated with the deployment of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) in Transnational and Global Multicultural Organizations
Authors: Isern Germinal , Sena Giuseppe
Published: August 2015

In the past few years the way in which, organizations, companies and corporations structure themselves has given a 180 degrees turnaround, switching from a structure based in products to a structure based in customers. The first big change was the introduction and use of Enterprise Resource Planning Systems (ERP) like SAP and Oracle. Those ERP systems changed the way in which the information was managed in large corporations including now a central database and visualizing the structures and functions of the corporation by business processes and not by business areas. Also lately with the advent of the WEB 2.0, the boom of the social media and the big data analytics areas, business, marketing and the relation with the customer has totally changed. One of the most important drivers for this turnaround is the adoption of Customer Relationship Management (CRM). CRM is supporting software designed to improve the relation with the current customers (loyalty) using modern social media and massive marketing technologies.

This paper introduces the organizational issues of cross-cultural communication associated with the integration between marketing, customer service, and complaint management with information technology. In highly competitive environments a lot of organizations intent to construct a relationship with their current customers, since the cost involved in capturing new ones is a lot higher than the cost of retaining the current ones. The most crucial factor is the understanding of the clients and their values, norms, traditions, language, religions, perceptions, thoughts in few words their culture. So this cultural dimension analysis is essential and the development of a formal taxonomy or cultural concern framework a need. This paper will deal with the dimension concerns from the technical, cultural and organizational point of view needed to build this framework in order to avoid the terrible consequences of a wrong interaction with the customers due to cultural issues.
Opportunities for Learning Math in Elementary School
Authors: Bachman Heather J. , Votruba-Drzal Elizabeth , El Nokali Nermeen E. , Castle Heatly Melissa
Published: August 2015

The present study examined whether multiple opportunities to learn math were associated with smaller socioeconomic status (SES) disparities in fifth-grade math achievement using data from the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (SECCYD; N = 1,364). High amounts of procedural math instruction were associated with higher calculation and conceptual math skills. Children’s conceptual math skills were also positively associated with high amounts of science instruction. Income × instruction interactions were nonsignificant, but maternal education × math instruction interactions revealed narrower disparities in calculation skills when children were exposed to greater amounts of time in procedural and conceptual math instruction. Overall, the findings indicate that instructional influences on early math learning operate similarly for low and high SES children.
Galectin-3 binding protein in human preterm infant umbilical cord plasma
Authors: Chan C. , Bode L. , Kim J.
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Galectin-3 binding protein (Gal3BP) is a glycoprotein isolated in colostrum that may be an immunologically active component with effects on the neonatal immune system. This compound has been found in the blood of term newborn infants, but has not been studied in preterm infants.

OBJECTIVE: Compare umbilical cord plasma Gal3BP concentration between preterm and term infants.

STUDY DESIGN: Observational study of mother-infant pairs consented at UCSD Medical Center comparing umbilical cord plasma Gal3BP concentration in preterm and term infants. Umbilical cord plasma was collected at birth and stored at −80°C before Gal3BP analysis by ELISA. This study was powered to evaluate differences in preterm and term infant Gal3BP concentration. The secondary aim was to determine the effect of maternal and infant clinical factors on Gal3BP concentration.

RESULTS: A total of 64 preterm and 30 term umbilical cord plasma samples were analyzed. By univariate analysis, Gal3BP concentration was elevated in the setting of prematurity, maternal diabetes, antenatal steroid exposure, and increasing maternal parity ( p <  0.05); and decreased in chorioamnionitis ( p = 0.03). Using a multiple linear regression model prematurity, chorioamnionitis and maternal diabetes remained significant.

CONCLUSIONS: Umbilical cord plasma Gal3BP concentration is elevated in prematurity. This may reflect inflammatory states in infant and mother, but further study is warranted.
Early extubation attempts reduce length of stay in extremely preterm infants even if re-intubation is necessary
Authors: Robbins M. , Trittmann J. , Martin E. , Reber Kristina M. , Nelin L. , Shepherd E.
Published: August 2015

OBJECTIVE: Prolonged mechanical ventilation in the extremely premature infant is associated with the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Clinically, the decision to extubate the extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infant can be difficult. There is continued debate regarding whether it is better for an ELBW infant to remain on the ventilator or to extubate to nasal constant positive airway pressure (nCPAP). It has also been argued that repeated intubations may be detrimental to ELBW infants. We tested the hypothesis that earlier extubation attempts would decrease length of hospital stay and BPD.

STUDY DESIGN: A database maintained on infants born at <27 completed weeks gestation admitted to our all referral NICU for a 36 month period was queried ( n = 224).

RESULTS: Day of life (DOL) of the first extubation attempt was inversely correlated with birth weight ( p <  0.001) and gestational age ( p <  0.01). The DOL of the 1st extubation attempt correlated with the need for re-intubation ( p <  0.001), but not with mortality ( p = 0.27). In survivors, earlier DOL of 1st extubation attempt was associated with shorter LOS ( p <  0.001). Earlier DOL of the 1st extubation attempt was associated with less need for supplemental oxygen ( p <  0.001) at 36 weeks CGA, while re-intubation was not ( p = 0.50).

CONCLUSION: In our cohort of extremely premature infants, the earlier the first extubation attempt the sooner the patient was discharged home and the less likely to develop BPD. Our study suggests that extubation should not be delayed in extremely premature infants due to fears of need for re-intubation.
Hyperglycemia is associated with poor outcome in newborn infants undergoing therapeutic hypothermia for hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy
Authors: Chouthai Nitin S. , Sobczak Holly , Khan Reshma , Subramanian Divya , Raman Sim , Rao Raghavendra
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) improves survival and neurodevelopmental outcome in neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Both, hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia are common in infants with HIE. The relationship between hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and immediate outcome has not been well described.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of newborn infants with HIE ( N = 56) was conducted. Blood glucose concentrations recorded during the first 96 hours were noted. Glucose levels of infants who underwent TH (TH group, N = 20) were compared with those that did not undergo TH (No-TH group, N = 36). The relationship between blood glucose and mortality and/or moderate/severe disability was determined.

RESULTS: Mean ± SD blood glucose concentration during the first 24 hours of age was significantly higher in the TH group (148 ± 65 mg/dl), compared with the No-TH group (113 ± 50 mg/dl; p = 0.02), despite a lower glucose infusion rate in the former (4.05 ± 1.77 mg/kg/hr vs. 5.36 ± 2.51 mg/kg/hr; p = 0.04). One hundred percent of infants ( n = 9) in the TH group with blood glucose levels >200 mg/dl during the first 24 hours of age died or had moderate/severe disability, compared with 54.5% of those with blood glucose <200 mg/dl in this group ( p = 0.03). A similar effect was not present in the No-TH group.

CONCLUSION: Hyperglycemia on the first day portends poor outcome in newborn infants undergoing TH for HIE.
Monitoring mesenteric tissue oxygenation with near-infrared spectroscopy during packed red blood cell transfusion in preterm infants
Authors: White L. , Said M. , Rais-Bahrami K.
Published: August 2015

OBJECTIVE: To monitor altered mesenteric tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) before and after blood transfusion.

METHODS: We placed a 4-wavelength NIRS sensor (FORE-SIGHT, CASMED, Branford, CT USA) on the right lower abdominal quadrant prior to transfusion and measured StO2 for up to 48 hours post transfusion. Pulse oximetry (SpO2) data was collected simultaneously, with fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE) and the [SpO2–StO2] difference calculated to normalize for hypoxic episodes. All data was combined and averaged in 30 minute windows for events before, during, and post transfusion to determine long term trends and analyzed using Repeated Measures ANOVA. 24 infants were enrolled in this study with 36 hours of data collected for 23 subjects and 48 hours for 16 subjects.

RESULTS: We found no significant differences in any of the parameters when compared pre and post transfusion values at 3, 6, 12, 24 and 36 hours post transfusion. For the 16 subjects monitored to 48 hours, there was a significant decrease in FTOE and near significant increase in StO2 and reciprocal decrease in [SpO2 – StO2] at 48 hours post transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS: There are several plausible mechanisms that may explain the relationship between necrotizing enterocolitis and PRBC transfusion; however, mesenteric tissue oxygen saturation changes did not clearly show that ischemia or re-perfusion injury to be one of the potential mechanisms.
Comparison of intermittent versus continuous vancomycin infusion for the treatment of late-onset sepsis in preterm infants
Authors: Demirel B. , İmamoglu E. , Gursoy T. , Demirel U. , Topçuoglu S. , Karatekin G. , Ovali F.
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND: Vancomycin a frequently used antimicrobial for the treatment of late-onset neonatal sepsis. It can be infused either intermittently or continuously, however, there is no consensus on the optimal dosing regimen.

AIM: To evaluate microbiological outcomes, clinical response and adverse events of vancomycin when administered via continuos intravenous infusion.

METHODS: The files of preterm infants (<34 weeks), who received either intermittent (group I, n = 41) or continuous (group II, n = 36) vancomycin infusion for the treatment of late-onset sepsis, were investigated retrospectively. Clinical and demographic features were recorded.

RESULTS: Clinical improvement rates, Töllner scores and microbiological outcomes did not differ significantly between groups. At 48th hour of vancomycin infusion, 52.8% of infants achieved therapeutic concentrations of vancomycin in group II compared with 34.1% of patients in group I ( p = 0.002). Thirty-nine percent of infants in group I had supratherapeutic concentrations of vancomycin at 48th hour compared with 5.6% in group II ( p = 0.002). Dose adjustment rate in group I did not differ than group II (65.9% vs. 52.8% respectively, p = 0.3). However, when we subdivide group I into two according to dosing intervals, dose adjustment rates were more common in infants with a gestational age <29 weeks for whom intermittent infusion was performed in 18 hours intervals (92.9% vs 51.9% , p = 0.014).

CONCLUSION: In preterm infants, continuous and intermittent infusions of vancomycin have similar clinical efficacies. Continuous infusion is well-tolerated and require less blood sampling compared to intermittent infusion especially in infants less than 29 weeks of gestational age.
Morphological diversity and evolution of Centrolepidaceae (Poales), a species‐poor clade with diverse body plans and developmental patterns
Authors: Sokoloff Dmitry D. , Remizowa Margarita V. , Barrett Matthew D. , Conran John G. , Rudall Paula J.
Published: August 2015

• Premise of the study: The small primarily Australian commelinid monocot family Centrolepidaceae displays remarkably high structural diversity that has been hitherto relatively poorly explored. Data on Centrolepidaceae are important for comparison with other Poales, including grasses and sedges.

• Methods: We examined vegetative and reproductive morphology in a global survey of Centrolepidaceae based on light and scanning electron microscopy of 18 species, representing all three genera. We used these data to perform a cladistic analysis to assess character evolution.

• Key results: Each of the three genera is monophyletic; Centrolepis is sister to Aphelia. Some Centrolepidaceae show a change from spiral to distichous phyllotaxy on inflorescence transition. In Aphelia and most species of Centrolepis, several morphologically distinct leaf types develop along the primary shoot axis and flowers are confined to dorsiventral lateral spikelets. Centrolepis racemosa displays secondary unification of programs of leaf development, absence of the leaf hyperphyll and loss of shoot dimorphism. Presence or absence of a leaf ligule and features of inflorescence and flower morphology are useful as phylogenetic characters in Centrolepidaceae.

• Conclusions: Ontogenetic changes in phyllotaxy differ fundamentally between some Centrolepidaceae and many grasses. Inferred evolutionary transformations of phyllotaxy in Centrolepidaceae inflorescences also differ from those in grasses. In contrast with grasses, some Centrolepidaceae possess ligulate leaves where the ligule represents the boundary between the bifacial hypophyll and unifacial hyperphyll. All the highly unusual features of the morphological‐misfit species Centrolepis racemosa could result from the same saltational event. Centrolepidaceae offer good perspectives for studies of evolutionary developmental biology.
Design and synthesis of polycyclic sulfones via Diels–Alder reaction and ring-rearrangement metathesis as key steps
Authors: Kotha Sambasivarao , Gunta Rama
Published: August 2015

Here, we describe a new and simple synthetic strategy to various polycyclic sulfones via Diels–Alder reaction and ring-rearrangement metathesis (RRM) as the key steps. This approach delivers tri- and tetracyclic sulfones with six (n = 1), seven (n = 2) or eight-membered (n = 3) fused-ring systems containing trans-ring junctions unlike the conventional all cis-ring junctions generally obtained during the RRM sequence. Interestingly the starting materials used are simple and commercially available.
Use of Workshops to Develop Nurses’ and Nursing Students’ Writing Skills
Authors: Derouin Anne L. , Hueckel Rémi M. , Turner Kathleen M. , Hawks Sharon J. , Leonardelli Adrianne K. , Oermann Marilyn H.
Published: August 2015

Workshops have been described in the literature as a strategy for preparing nurses to publish their work and develop their writing skills. Articles about the use of workshops for these purposes have not been integrated systematically. Seventeen articles were included in the current review. The workshop method has been found to be effective for preparing nurses to write for publication and for improving nurses’ and nursing students’ writing skills. However, workshops must be combined with one-to-one mentoring and feedback on writing to be successful.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(8):364–369.
Use of Technology to Promote Effective Medication Adherence
Authors: Billingsley Luanne , Carruth Ann
Published: August 2015

Ineffective medication adherence among older adults can lead to the exacerbation of chronic health conditions, hospital admissions, and other avoidable health care costs. As hospitals increasingly focus on population health, the use of technology in patient homes is one approach to increase overall adherence with medications. The successful use of technology can reduce the number of medication errors, including missed doses, taking extra doses, and taking the wrong drug.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(8):340–342.
Engaging Chinese American Adults in Advance Care Planning: A Community-Based, Culturally Sensitive Seminar
Authors: Lee Mei Ching , Hinderer Katherine A. , Friedmann Erika
Published: August 2015

Ethnic minority groups are less engaged than Caucasian American adults in advance care planning (ACP). Knowledge deficits, language, and culture are barriers to ACP. Limited research exists on ACP and advance directives in the Chinese American adult population. Using a pre–posttest, repeated measures design, the current study explored the effectiveness of a nurseled, culturally sensitive ACP seminar for Chinese American adults on (a) knowledge, completion, and discussion of advance directives; and (b) the relationship between demographic variables, advance directive completion, and ACP discussions. A convenience sample of 72 urban, community-dwelling Chinese American adults (mean age = 61 years) was included. Knowledge, advance directive completion, and ACP discussions increased significantly after attending the nurse-led seminar (
p
< 0.01). Increased age correlated with advance directive completion and ACP discussions; female gender correlated with ACP discussions. Nursing education in a community setting increased advance directive knowledge and ACP engagement in Chinese American adults. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 41
(8), 17–21.]
“I Want a New Drug”: Exercise as a Pharmacological Therapy
Authors: Howland Robert H.
Published: August 2015

Skeletal muscle can be considered a secretory organ that produces myokines and other humoral factors having autocrine-, paracrine-, and endocrine-like signaling effects throughout the body. Exercise has such profound pharmacological and physiological effects that it should be considered a drug therapy. Exercise has documented benefits for preventing or treating many physical and mental disorders or their sequelae, and it has a potential role in managing adverse effects associated with drug therapies. If exercise were a drug evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, it might be approved for a large number of therapeutic indications. Exercise can be appropriately prescribed for virtually anyone for primary, secondary, or tertiary prevention of many mental and physical disorders. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 53
(8), 13–16.]
Postoperative IOL Axial Movements and Refractive Changes After Femtosecond Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery Versus Conventional Phacoemulsification
Authors: Toto Lisa , Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Mattei Peter A. , Agnifili Luca , Mastropasqua Alessandra , Falconio Gennaro , Di Nicola Marta , Mastropasqua Leonardo
Published: August 2015

PURPOSE:

To evaluate intraocular lens (IOL) axial movements and refractive changes during a 6-month follow-up period after femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and conventional cataract surgery, investigate the influence of capsulorhexis features on postoperative IOL axial changes, and assess the prediction error for both techniques.

METHODS:

Eighty eyes of 80 candidates for cataract extraction were randomized into two groups: femtosecond laser (40 eyes) and manual (40 eyes).

RESULTS:

The overall anterior chamber depth variation was significantly lower in the femtosecond laser group compared to the manual group during follow-up (
P
< .001). At 30 and 180 days postoperatively, the mean spherical equivalent showed a hyperopic shift (0.09 ± 0.28 diopters [D]) in the femtosecond laser group and a myopic shift in the manual group (−0.25 ± 0.18 D). Median absolute error was not significantly different between the two groups with standard formulas ranging between 0.29 and 0.64 (Hoffer Q) in the femtosecond laser group and between 0.24 (SRK-T) and 0.55 D (Hoffer Q) in the manual group. There was a significant lower deviation from intended versus achieved capsulotomy/capsulorhexis area in the femtosecond laser group (
P
< .001) compared to the manual group. The femtosecond laser group showed better IOL centration compared to the manual group at all time periods (
P
< .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery was related to a lower overall variability of anterior chamber depth compared to conventional cataract surgery with more stable postoperative refraction. The two techniques did not show significant differences of prediction error.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(8):524–530.]
Corneal Power Distribution and Functional Optical Zone Following Small Incision Lenticule Extraction for Myopia
Authors: Qian Yishan , Huang Jia , Zhou Xingtao , Hanna Rewais Benjamin
Published: August 2015

PURPOSE:

To evaluate corneal power distribution using the ray tracing method (corneal power) in eyes undergoing small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) surgery and compare the functional optical zone with two lenticular sizes.

METHODS:

This retrospective study evaluated 128 patients who underwent SMILE for the correction of myopia and astigmatism with a lenticular diameter of 6.5 mm (the 6.5-mm group) and 6.2 mm (the 6.2-mm group). The data include refraction, correction, and corneal power obtained via a Scheimpflug camera from the pupil center to 8 mm. The surgically induced changes in corneal power (Δcorneal power) were compared to correction and Δrefraction. The functional optical zone was defined as the largest ring diameter when the difference between the ring power and the pupil center power was 1.50 diopters or less. The functional optical zone was compared between two lenticular diameter groups.

RESULTS:

Corneal power distribution was measured by the ray tracing method. In the 6.5-mm group (n = 100), Δcorneal power at 5 mm showed the smallest difference from Δrefraction and Δcorneal power at 0 mm exhibited the smallest difference from correction. In the 6.2-mm group (n = 28), Δcorneal power at 2 mm displayed the lowest dissimilarity from Δrefraction and Δcorneal power at 4 mm demonstrated the lowest dissimilarity from correction. There was no significant difference between the mean postoperative functional optical zones in either group when their spherical equivalents were matched.

CONCLUSIONS:

Total corneal refactive power can be used in the evaluation of surgically induced changes following SMILE. A lenticular diameter of 6.2 mm should be recommended for patients with high myopia because there is no functional difference in the optical zone.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(8):532–538.]
Serous Index of Pigment Epithelial Detachments in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration Predicts Response to Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Treatment
Authors: Young Mei , Forooghian Farzin
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To determine whether optical density measurements of pigment epithelial detachments (PEDs) in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can predict the response to treatment with anti-VEGF therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Retrospective review of SD-OCT scans of 21 eyes of 21 patients with neovascular AMD and PED. Response to treatment was determined using SD-OCT volumetric analysis. The authors used optical density measurements of PED lesions on SD-OCT images to calculate the serous index, which is a measure of the serous component of PEDs.

RESULTS:

The serous index was found to correlate with the response to anti-VEGF treatment (r = .69,
P
= .0005), and to be predictive of the response to treatment (
P
= .007).

CONCLUSION:

The serous index of PEDs can help predict the response to anti-VEGF treatment. This measure may be useful in decisions regarding switching anti-VEGF agents in the clinical care of patients with neovascular AMD and PED.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:724–727.]
Macular Cavernous Hemangioma Associated With Peripheral Vascular Anomalies and Nonperfusion
Authors: Rao Prethy , Abbey Ashkan M. , Yonekawa Yoshihiro , Shah Ankoor R. , Capone Antonio , Trese Michael T. , Drenser Kimberly A.
Published: August 2015

Retinal cavernous hemangiomas are benign vascular anomalies that are typically unilateral and located outside of the macula. Fluorescein angiography findings include an early slow-filling, non-leaking lesion with late intermixed lobules of hyperfluorescence and hypofluoresence secondary to plasma and erythrocyte sedimentation. We present a novel case of unilateral macular cavernous hemangioma with bilateral peripheral vascular anomalies and nonperfusion. This may represent a phenotypic variation of hemangiomas that, in conjunction with recent histopathologic and genetic findings, may aid in future therapies for a disease that has been traditionally observed due to slow progression.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:764–767.]
Leukostasis Retinopathy: A New Clinical Manifestation of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia With Severe Hyperleukocytosis
Authors: Awh Caroline C. , Miller John B. , Wu David M. , Eliott Dean
Published: August 2015

The authors report a new clinical manifestation of chronic myeloid leukemia. A 41-year-old man presented with significant visual loss, leading to a diagnosis of chronic myeloid leukemia. His white blood count exceeded that of any previously reported case of the disease with documented retinal findings (562,000/mm
3
), and clinical evaluation revealed the blockage of temporal retinal vessels by white blood cells. Hematologic findings resolved within 1 month of chemotherapy with dasatinib, and further treatment with intravitreal anti-VEGF agents resulted in the complete resolution of fundus findings. The authors propose that leukostasis retinopathy be recognized as a clinical manifestation of this life-threatening disease.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:768–770.]
Polymorphisms in the ANKS1B gene are associated with cancer, obesity and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wang Ke-Sheng , Liu Xuefeng , Owusu Daniel , Pan Yue , Xie Changchun
Published: August 2015

Obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are comorbidities with cancer which may be partially due to shared genetic variants. Genetic variants in the ankyrin repeat and sterile alpha motif domain containing (ANKS1B) gene may play a role in cancer, adiposity, body mass index (BMI), and body weight. However, few studies focused on the associations of ANKS1B with obesity and T2D. We examined genetic associations of 272 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the ANKS1B with the cancer (any diagnosed cancer omitting minor skin cancer), obesity and T2D using the Marshfield sample (716 individuals with cancers, 1442 individuals with obesity, and 878 individuals with T2D). The Health Aging and Body Composition (Health ABC) sample (305 obese and 1336 controls) was used for replication. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed using the PLINK software. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. We identified 25 SNPs within the ANKS1B gene associated with cancer, 34 SNPs associated with obesity, and 12 SNPs associated with T2D (p < 0.05). The most significant SNPs associated with cancer, T2D, and obesity were rs2373013 (p = 2.21 × 10−4), rs10860548 (p = 1.92 × 10−3), and rs7139028 (p = 1.94 × 10−6), respectively. Interestingly, rs3759214 was identified for both cancer and T2D (p = 0.0161 and 0.044, respectively). Furthermore, seven SNPs were associated with both cancer and obesity (top SNP rs2372719 with p = 0.0161 and 0.0206, respectively); six SNPs were associated with both T2D and obesity (top SNP rs7139028 with p = 0.0231 and 1.94 × 10−6, respectively). In the Health ABC sample, 18 SNPs were associated with obesity, 5 of which were associated with cancer in the Marshfield sample. In addition, three SNPs (rs616804, rs7295102, and rs201421) were associated with obesity in meta-analysis using both samples. These findings provide evidence of common genetic variants in the ANKS1B gene influencing the risk of cancer, obesity, and T2D and will serve as a resource for replication in other populations.
Propuesta metodológica para el análisis territorial de las áreas empresariales. Especial referencia al norte de España
Authors: Benito del Pozo Paz , Luna Rabanal César
Published: August 2015

Trabajo centrado en aspectos metodológicos ligados al estudio geográfico de las áreas empresariales en España. Se trata de exponer, en primer lugar, el proceso de captación y sistematización de datos, tanto cuantitativos como cualitativos, para el análisis a escala regional y local de las políticas de ordenación y planificación de las áreas empresariales en un ámbito que integra a la mayoría de las Comunidades Autónomas del norte del país y con un enfoque que contempla la diversidad de polígonos y parques empresariales promovidos por diferentes agentes públicos. El segundo objetivo es explicar las técnicas aplicadas para representar la información significativa sobre distribución y localización de las áreas empresariales y obtener una herramienta que permita la comprensión del actual modelo territorial de la industria.

[fr] Travaux ont porté sur des aspects méthodologiques liés à l’étude géographique des quartiers d’affaires en Espagne. Il est, tout d’abord, d’exposer le processus de collecte et systématisation des données, tant quantitatives que qualitatives, pour analyse, aux niveaux régional et local, des politiques de gestion et de planification des quartiers d’affaires dans un domaine qui intègre la plupart des communautés autonomes du Nord du pays et avec une approche qui tienne compte de la diversité des polygones et des parcs d’activités promues par divers responsables gouvernementaux. Le second objectif est d’expliquer les techniques appliquées représentent d’importantes informations sur la distribution et l’emplacement des quartiers d’affaires et d’obtenir un outil qui permet la compréhension et l’explication du modèle territorial actuel de l’industrie.
La ciudad de Valencia como espacio percibido por los estudiantes universitarios. Aportaciones desde el análisis propuesto por la geografía de la percepción
Authors: Morales Yago Francisco José
Published: August 2015

El análisis y utilización del espacio interior de la ciudad está condicionado no sólo por factores económicos y sociales, también por las imágenes o representaciones mentales que las personas se hacen de los lugares en los que viven o conocen a través de las fuentes de información que existen. Las imágenes mentales están determinadas por los caminos que utilizamos para desplazarnos, los lugares que frecuentamos y los sentimientos de identificación o rechazo con el espacio objeto de uso cotidiano. Para alcanzar ese conocimiento percibido se presentarán los resultados de encuestas y elaboración de mapas mentales llevados a cabo entre alumnos universitarios residentes en Valencia. A partir de ellos se avanzará en el conocimiento, realizándose, por parte de los distintos agentes que intervienen en la planificación del espacio, propuestas de mejora que contribuyan al crecimiento armónico y sostenible, corrigiendo deficiencias palpables que puedan alterar la calidad de vida de los ciudadanos.

[fr] L’analyse et l’utilisation de l’espace intérieur de la ville, est conditionnée non seulement par des facteurs économiques et sociaux, aussi par des images ou des représentations mentales que les gens font les endroits où nous vivons ou savent grâce à des sources d’information monde. Les images mentales sont déterminées par les moyens que nous utilisons pour se déplacer, les endroits que nous fréquentons et des sentiments de rejet ou d’identification avec l’objet espace de tous les jours. Pour atteindre cet perçu résultats de l’enquête de connaissances et le développement de cartes mentales menées chez les étudiants vivant à Valence sera présenté. De leur feront progresser le savoir, il effectué par les différents acteurs impliqués dans les propositions d’amélioration de la planification de l’espace qui contribuent à la croissance harmonieuse et durable, les carences de correction palpables qui peuvent affecter la qualité de vie des citoyens.