bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal Surgery for Myelomeningocele: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Outcomes in Fetoscopic versus Open Repair
Authors: Kabagambe Sandra K. , Jensen Guy W. , Chen Yue Julia , Vanover Melissa A. , Farmer Diana L.
Published: September 2017

Background/Objectives: The Management of Myelomeningocele (MMC) Study (MOMS) showed that prenatal repair of MMC resulted in improved neurological outcomes but was associated with high rates of obstetrical complications. This study compares outcomes of open and fetoscopic MMC repair. Data Sources: PubMed and Embase studies reporting outcomes of fetal MMC repair published since the completion of the MOMS. Results: We analyzed 11 studies and found no difference in mortality or the rate of shunt placement for hydrocephalus. Percutaneous fetoscopic repair was associated with higher rates of premature rupture of membranes (91 vs. 36%, p < 0.01) and preterm birth (96 vs. 81%, p = 0.04) compared to open repair, whereas fetoscopic repair via maternal laparotomy reduced preterm birth. The rate of dehiscence and leakage from the MMC repair site was higher after both types of fetoscopic surgery (30 vs. 7%, p < 0.01), while the rate of uterine dehiscence was higher after open repair (11 vs. 0%, p < 0.01). Discussion: Fetoscopic repair is a promising alternative to open fetal MMC repair with a lower risk of uterine dehiscence; however, fetoscopic techniques should be optimized to overcome the high rate of dehiscence and leakage at the MMC repair site. A fetoscopic approach via maternal laparotomy reduces the risk of preterm birth.
Precise Evaluation of Striatal Oxidative Stress Corrected for Severity of Dopaminergic Neuronal Degeneration in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: A Study with 62Cu-ATSM PET and 123I-FP-CIT SPECT
Authors: Neishi Hiroyuki , Ikawa Masamichi , Okazawa Hidehiko , Tsujikawa Tetsuya , Arishima Hidetaka , Kikuta Ken-ichiro , Yoneda Makoto
Published: September 2017

Background: This study sought to precisely evaluate striatal oxidative stress and its relationship with the disease severity in Parkinson’s disease (PD) using double brain imaging, 62Cu-diacetyl-bis (N4-methylthiosemicarbazone) (62Cu-ATSM) PET and 123I-FP-CIT SPECT. Methods: Nine PD patients were studied with brain 62Cu-ATSM PET for oxidative stress and 123I-FP-CIT SPECT for the density of striatal dopamine transporter. Standardized uptake values (SUVs) were obtained from the delayed phase of dynamic 62Cu-ATSM PET, and striatum-to-cerebellum SUV ratio (SUVR) was calculated. To correct the effect of neuronal loss in the striatum, 62Cu-ATSM SUVR was corrected for striatal specific binding ratio (SBR) values of 123I-FP-CIT (SUVR/SBR). Results: 62Cu-ATSM SUVR without correction was not significantly correlated with disease severity estimated by the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores or 123I-FP-CIT SBR. In contrast, the SUVR/SBR showed significant correlations with the UPDRS total and motor scores, and 123I-FP-CIT SBR. Conclusion: Oxidative stress in the remaining striatal dopaminergic neurons estimated by SUVR/SBR was increased with disease severity in PD patients, suggesting that oxidative stress based on mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to promoting dopaminergic neuronal degeneration in PD. 62Cu-ATSM PET with 123I-FP-CIT SPECT correction would be a promising tool to evaluate dopaminergic neuronal oxidative stress in PD.
What Can Be Expected from Prostate Cancer Biomarkers A Clinical Perspective
Authors: Zapała Piotr , Dybowski Bartosz , Poletajew Sławomir , Radziszewski Piotr
Published: September 2017

Along with significant advances in prostate cancer biology research, we also observe the rapid development of modern diagnostic tests. New biomarkers are derived to detect disease while it is organ-confined to stratify the risk and to aid clinical decision-making. Majority of these tools have already been validated clinically, but only a few have received premarket clearance and administration approval. Superiority of novel tests is visible not only in improved detection accuracy but predominantly in the assessment of tumour aggressiveness and selection of patients eligible for conservative management. Two factors limiting the clinical implementation of validated biomarker candidates are costs and local availability. For these reasons, currently, their true clinical role starts after routine screening with prostate-specific antigen test. With this review of prostate cancer biomarkers, we attempted to draw general conclusions on clinical perspectives of these novel tools.
Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Muchtar Eli , Blauwet Lori A. , Gertz Morie A.
Published: September 2017

Restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) is characterized by nondilated left or right ventricle with diastolic dysfunction. The restrictive cardiomyopathies are a heterogenous group of myocardial diseases that vary according to pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation and criteria, treatment, and prognosis. In this review, an overview of RCMs will be presented followed by a detailed discussion on 3 major causes of RCM, for which tailored interventions are available: cardiac amyloidosis, cardiac sarcoidosis, and cardiac hemochromatosis. Each of these 3 RCMs is challenging to diagnose, and recognition of each disease entity is frequently delayed. Clinical clues to promote recognition of cardiac amyloidosis, cardiac sarcoidosis, and cardiac hemochromatosis and imaging techniques used to facilitate diagnosis are discussed. Disease-specific therapies are reviewed. Early recognition remains a key barrier to improving survival in all RCMs.
Cardiomyopathies Due to Left Ventricular Noncompaction, Mitochondrial and Storage Diseases, and Inborn Errors of Metabolism
Authors: Towbin Jeffrey A. , Jefferies John Lynn
Published: September 2017

The normal function of the human myocardium requires the proper generation and utilization of energy and relies on a series of complex metabolic processes to achieve this normal function. When metabolic processes fail to work properly or effectively, heart muscle dysfunction can occur with or without accompanying functional abnormalities of other organ systems, particularly skeletal muscle. These metabolic derangements can result in structural, functional, and infiltrative deficiencies of the heart muscle. Mitochondrial and enzyme defects predominate as disease-related etiologies. In this review, left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy, which is often caused by mutations in sarcomere and cytoskeletal proteins and is also associated with metabolic abnormalities, is discussed. In addition, cardiomyopathies resulting from mitochondrial dysfunction, metabolic abnormalities, storage diseases, and inborn errors of metabolism are described.
Relationship of Sleep Duration With All‐Cause Mortality and Cardiovascular Events: A Systematic Review and Dose‐Response Meta‐Analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies
Authors: Yin Jiawei , Jin Xiaoling , Shan Zhilei , Li Shuzhen , Huang Hao , Li Peiyun , Peng Xiaobo , Peng Zhao , Yu Kaifeng , Bao Wei , Yang Wei , Chen Xiaoyi , Liu Liegang
Published: September 2017

Background

Effects of extreme sleep duration on risk of mortality and cardiovascular outcomes remain controversial. We aimed to quantify the dose‐response relationships of sleep duration with risk of all‐cause mortality, total cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke.

Methods and Results

PubMed and Embase were systematically searched for prospective cohort studies published before December 1, 2016, that examined the associations between sleep duration and at least 1 of the 4 outcomes in generally healthy populations. U‐shaped associations were indicated between sleep duration and risk of all outcomes, with the lowest risk observed for ≈7‐hour sleep duration per day, which was varied little by sex. For all‐cause mortality, when sleep duration was <7 hours per day, the pooled relative risk (RR) was 1.06 (95%
CI
, 1.04–1.07) per 1‐hour reduction; when sleep duration was >7 hours per day, the pooled
RR
was 1.13 (95%
CI
, 1.11–1.15) per 1‐hour increment. For total cardiovascular disease, the pooled
RR
was 1.06 (95%
CI
, 1.03–1.08) per 1‐hour reduction and 1.12 (95%
CI
, 1.08–1.16) per 1‐hour increment of sleep duration. For coronary heart disease, the pooled
RR
was 1.07 (95%
CI
, 1.03–1.12) per 1‐hour reduction and 1.05 (95%
CI
, 1.00–1.10) per 1‐hour increment of sleep duration. For stroke, the pooled
RR
was 1.05 (95%
CI
, 1.01–1.09) per 1‐hour reduction and 1.18 (95%
CI
, 1.14–1.21) per 1‐hour increment of sleep duration.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that both short and long sleep duration is associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular events.
The Impact of Heterozygous
KCNK3
Mutations Associated With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension on Channel Function and Pharmacological Recovery
Authors: Bohnen Michael S. , Roman‐Campos Danilo , Terrenoire Cecile , Jnani Jack , Sampson Kevin J. , Chung Wendy K. , Kass Robert S.
Published: September 2017

Background

Heterozygous loss of function mutations in the

KCNK
3

gene cause hereditary pulmonary arterial hypertension (
PAH
).

KCNK
3

encodes an acid‐sensitive potassium channel, which contributes to the resting potential of human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells.
KCNK
3 is widely expressed in the body, and dimerizes with other
KCNK
3 subunits, or the closely related, acid‐sensitive
KCNK
9 channel.

Methods and Results

We engineered homomeric and heterodimeric mutant and nonmutant
KCNK
3 channels associated with
PAH
. Using whole‐cell patch‐clamp electrophysiology in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle and
COS
7 cell lines, we determined that homomeric and heterodimeric mutant channels in heterozygous
KCNK
3 conditions lead to mutation‐specific severity of channel dysfunction. Both wildtype and mutant
KCNK
3 channels were activated by
ONO
‐
RS
‐082 (10 μmol/L), causing cell hyperpolarization. We observed robust gene expression of

KCNK
3

in healthy and familial
PAH
patient lungs, but no quantifiable expression of

KCNK
9

, and demonstrated in functional studies that
KCNK
9 minimizes the impact of select
KCNK
3 mutations when the 2 channel subunits co‐assemble.

Conclusions

Heterozygous

KCNK
3

mutations in
PAH
lead to variable loss of channel function via distinct mechanisms. Homomeric and heterodimeric mutant
KCNK
3 channels represent novel therapeutic substrates in
PAH
. Pharmacological and
pH
‐dependent activation of wildtype and mutant
KCNK
3 channels in pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells leads to membrane hyperpolarization. Co‐assembly of
KCNK
3 with
KCNK
9 subunits may provide protection against
KCNK
3 loss of function in tissues where both

KCNK
9

and

KCNK
3

are expressed, contributing to the lung‐specific phenotype observed clinically in patients with
PAH
because of

KCNK
3

mutations.
γ-Glutamyl Transferase as a Risk Factor for All-Cause or Cardiovascular Disease Mortality Among 5912 Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Tu Wen-Jun , Liu Qiang , Cao Jian-Lei , Zhao Sheng-Jie , Zeng Xian-Wei , Deng Ai-Jun
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose—

The aim of the study was to evaluate the association of the measurement of serum γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) concentrations at admission with 1-year all-cause or cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

Methods—

This prospective, multicenter cohort study was conducted in 4 stroke centers in China. Baseline GGT measurements were tested. The relationship of GGT to the risk of death from all-cause or CVD was examined among 1-year follow-up patients.

Results—

We recorded results from 5912 patients with stroke. In those patients, 51.0% were men, and the median age was 61 years. In both men and women, high GGT was significantly associated with total mortality from all-cause or CVD (
P
<0.001). The elevated GGT revealed adjusted hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of 3.03 (1.99–4.54) and 3.24 (2.14–4.92) for mortality from all-cause and CVD, respectively. With an area under the curve of 0.69 (95% confidence interval, 0.66–0.73), GGT showed a significantly greater discriminatory ability to predict all-cause mortality as compared with others factors. GGT improved the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score (area under the curve of the combined model, 0.75 [95% confidence interval, 0.73–0.78];
P
<0.01).

Conclusions—

This study demonstrates that GGT is independently associated with all-cause and CVD mortality in patients with ischemic stroke.
Anesthesia-Related Outcomes for Endovascular Stroke Revascularization
Authors: Brinjikji Waleed , Pasternak Jeffrey , Murad Mohammad H. , Cloft Harry J. , Welch Tasha L. , Kallmes David F. , Rabinstein Alejandro A.
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose—

There is currently controversy on the ideal anesthesia strategy during mechanical thrombectomy for acute ischemic stroke. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies comparing clinical and angiographic outcomes of patients undergoing general anesthesia (GA group) and those receiving either local anesthesia or conscious sedation (non-GA group).

Methods—

A literature search on anesthesia and endovascular treatment of acute ischemic stroke was performed. Using random-effects meta-analysis, we evaluated the following outcomes: recanalization rate, good functional outcome at 90 days (modified Rankin Score≤2), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, death, vascular complications, respiratory complications, procedure time, and time to groin puncture.

Results—

Twenty-two studies (3 randomized controlled trials and 19 observational studies), including 4716 patients (1819 GA and 2897 non-GA) were included. In the nonadjusted analysis, patients in the GA group had higher odds of death (odds ratio [OR], 2.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.66–2.45) and respiratory complications (OR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.22–2.37) and lower odds of good functional outcome (OR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.48–0.64) compared with the non-GA group. There was no difference in procedure time between the 2 primary comparison groups. When adjusting for baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, GA was still associated with lower odds of good functional outcome (OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.29–0.94). When considering studies performed in the stent-retriever/aspiration era, there was no significant difference in good neurological outcome rates (OR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.67–1.06).

Conclusions—

Acute ischemic stroke patients undergoing intra-arterial therapy may have worse outcomes when treated with GA as compared with conscious sedation/local anesthesia. However, major limitations of current evidence (ie, retrospective studies and selection bias) indicate a need for adequately powered, multicenter randomized controlled trials to answer this question.
Fibrin Clot Permeability as a Predictor of Stroke and Bleeding in Anticoagulated Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Drabik Leszek , Wołkow Paweł , Undas Anetta
Published: September 2017

Background and Purpose—

Formation of denser fiber networks has been reported in atrial fibrillation and ischemic stroke. In this longitudinal cohort study, we evaluated whether fibrin clot density may predict thromboembolic and bleeding risk in patients with atrial fibrillation on vitamin K antagonists.

Methods—

In 236 patients with atrial fibrillation receiving vitamin K antagonists treatment, we measured ex vivo plasma clot permeability (K
s
), a measure of the pore size in fibrin networks.

Results—

During a median follow-up of 4.3 (interquartile range, 3.7–4.8) years, annual rates of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack and major bleeds were 2.96% and 3.45%, respectively. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, patients with lower K
s
(<6.8 cm
2
×10
−9
, median) had increased risk of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (hazard ratio [HR], 6.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.17–19.82) and major bleeds (HR, 10.65; 95% CI, 3.52–32.22). Patients with elevated K
s
(≥6.8 cm
2
×10
−9
) had an increased rate of minor bleeding compared with the remainder (11.63% per year versus 3.55% per year;
P
<0.0001). The independent predictors of stroke or transient ischemic attack were low K
s
(<6.8 cm
2
×10
−
9
; HR, 7.24; 95% CI, 2.53–20.76), age (HR, 1.05; 95% CI, 1.01–1.10), and treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (HR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.08–4.77). Major bleeds were predicted by low K
s
(<6.8 cm
2
×10
−9
; HR, 8.48; 95% CI, 2.99–24.1) and HAS-BLED score ≥3 (HR, 2.22; 95% CI, 1.12–4.38).

Conclusions—

This study is the first to show that unfavorable fibrin properties reflected by formation of denser fibrin networks determine, in part, the efficacy and safety of anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists in patients with atrial fibrillation.
Description of a new distinctive species of Parabetaeus Coutière, 1897 (Decapoda: Caridea: Alpheidae) from the Indo-West Pacific
Authors: ANKER ARTHUR
Published: September 2017

Parabetaeus acanthus sp. nov. is described based on two specimens from Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, and Madang, Papua New Guinea. The new species is unique within the genus in possessing an anteriorly directed, spine-like tooth on the mid-dorsal line of the carapace, posterior to base of the eyes, and in the stylocerite not reaching the mid-length of the first article of the antennular peduncle. The chelipeds of P. acanthus sp. nov. are variable in size and proportions, as well as in the armature on the finger cutting edges. This cheliped polymorphism appears to be typical to all species of the genus.
The genus Sinodiaptera Dellacasa (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Aphodiinae) in Taiwan
Authors: LI CHUN-LIN , YANG PING-SHIH , WANG CHUAN-CHAN
Published: September 2017

The two Sinodiapterna Dellacasa, 1986 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Aphodiinae: Aphodiini) species from Taiwan, including Sinodiapterna yushana Li & Wang, new species (玉山長盾蜉金龜), are reviewed with descriptions, illustrations, distributional data, and remarks. Both species represent two species groups, namely the S. troitzkyi group and the S. gorodinskiyi group, respectively, within the genus. A key for the identification of adults of Taiwan is provided. An annotated checklist of the genus is provided with the information for each species including literature review, synonymy, distribution, and type locality.
Response of Tropical Cyclone Activity and Structure to Global Warming in a High-Resolution Global Nonhydrostatic Model
Authors: Yamada Yohei , Satoh Masaki , Sugi Masato , Kodama Chihiro , Noda Akira T. , Nakano Masuo , Nasuno Tomoe
Published: September 2017

Future changes in tropical cyclone (TC) activity and structure are investigated using the outputs of a 14-km mesh climate simulation. A set of 30-yr simulations was performed under present-day and warmer climate conditions using a nonhydrostatic icosahedral atmospheric model with explicitly calculated convection. The model projected that the global frequency of TCs is reduced by 22.7%, the ratio of intense TCs is increased by 6.6%, and the precipitation rate within 100 km of the TC center increased by 11.8% under warmer climate conditions. These tendencies are consistent with previous studies using a hydrostatic global model with cumulus parameterization.

The responses of vertical and horizontal structures to global warming are investigated for TCs with the same intensity categories. For TCs whose minimum sea level pressure (SLP) reaches less than 980 hPa, the model predicted that tangential wind increases in the outside region of the eyewall. Increases in the tangential wind are related to the elevation of the tropopause caused by global warming. The tropopause rise induces an upward extension of the eyewall, resulting in an increase in latent heating in the upper layers of the inclined eyewall. Thus, SLP is reduced underneath the warmed eyewall regions through hydrostatic adjustment. The altered distribution of SLP enhances tangential winds in the outward region of the eyewall cloud. Hence, this study shows that the horizontal scale of TCs defined by a radius of 12 m s−1 surface wind is projected to increase compared with the same intensity categories for SLP less than 980 hPa.
Creativity Through the Eyes of Professional Artists in Cuba, Germany, and Russia
Authors: Güss C. Dominik , Tuason Ma. Teresa , Göltenboth Noemi , Mironova Anastasia
Published: September 2017

Creativity plays an important role in the advancement of all societies around the world, yet the role of cultural influences on creativity is still unclear. Following systems theory, activity theory, and ecocultural theory, semistructured interviews with 30 renowned artists (writers, composers, and visual artists) from Cuba, Germany, and Russia were conducted to explore the complexity of the creative process and potential cultural differences. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using consensual qualitative research methodology. The following eight main domains resulted from the interviews: How I became an artist, What being an artist means to me, Creating as a cognitive process, Creating as an emotional process, Creating as a motivational process, Fostering factors of creativity, Hindering factors, and The role of culture in creating. Artists in the three countries similarly talked about creativity being a fluid process where ideas change, and elaborated on the role of intuition and the unconscious when creating art. Meaningful cross-cultural differences were seen among the artists of three cultural backgrounds in terms of attitudes about financial instability, in how they perceive themselves, in their art’s societal function, in the cognitive and in the emotional process of creating, and in terms of social connectedness. Results highlight (a) the complexity of the creative process going beyond cognitive factors and including motivational, emotional, and sociocultural factors, and (b) the cultural differences in the creative process. Results are beneficial for further developing a comprehensive theory of the creative process taking cultural differences into consideration.
Nine Novel PAX9 Mutations and a Distinct Tooth Agenesis Genotype-Phenotype
Authors: Wong S.-W. , Han D. , Zhang H. , Liu Y. , Zhang X. , Miao M.Z. , Wang Y. , Zhao N. , Zeng L. , Bai B. , Wang Y.-X. , Liu H. , Frazier-Bowers S.A. , Feng H.
Published: September 2017

Tooth agenesis is one of the most common developmental anomalies affecting function and esthetics. The paired-domain transcription factor, Pax9, is critical for patterning and morphogenesis of tooth and taste buds. Mutations of PAX9 have been identified in patients with tooth agenesis. Despite significant progress in the genetics of tooth agenesis, many gaps in knowledge exist in refining the genotype-phenotype correlation between PAX9 and tooth agenesis. In the present study, we complete genetic and phenotypic characterization of multiplex Chinese families with nonsyndromic (NS) tooth agenesis. Direct sequencing of polymerase chain reaction products revealed 9 novel (c.140G>C, c.167T>A, c.332G>C, c.194C>A, c.271A>T, c.146delC, c.185_189dup, c.256_262dup, and c.592delG) and 2 known heterozygous mutations in the PAX9 gene among 120 probands. Subsequently, pedigrees were extended, and we confirmed that the mutations co-segregated with the tooth agenesis phenotype (with exception of families in which DNA analysis was not available). In 1 family ( n = 6), 2 individuals harbored both the PAX9 c.592delG mutation and a heterozygous missense mutation (c.739C>T) in the MSX1 gene. Clinical characterization of families segregating a PAX9 mutation reveal that all affected individuals were missing the mandibular second molar and their maxillary central incisors are most susceptible to microdontia. A significant reduction of bitter taste perception was documented in individuals harboring PAX9 mutations ( n = 3). Functional studies revealed that PAX9 haploinsufficiency or a loss of function of the PAX9 protein underlies tooth agenesis.
Personal and Professional Attitudes and Behavioral Patterns Concerning Cannabis Use of Teachers and Youth Workers in Israel
Authors: Himi Hana , Bonny-Noach Hagit
Published: September 2017

Professionals working with adolescents may have significant influence on the pro– or anti–cannabis use norms of those adolescents. This study is the first to explore the personal and professional attitudes and behavioral patterns of teachers and youth workers (TYW) regarding the use of cannabis. Self-report anonymous questionnaires were distributed to 135 teachers and 77 youth workers; average age was 38.2 ( SD = 9.8). Significant differences were found between the personal and professional attitudes of TYW concerning cannabis use. No significant difference was found between teachers and youth workers in patterns of use of cannabis or in their professional attitudes. A difference was found between the personal attitudes of teachers and those of youth workers whereby youth workers held more permissive personal attitudes than teachers. A preventive educational program should be constructed to focus on modification of personal and professional attitudes of TYW regarding the subject of cannabis use.
The Role of Leisure Activities in the Relationship Between Marital Transition in Later Midlife and Psychological Well-Being Trajectories
Authors: Hu Yi-Han , Chiu Ching-Ju , Wong Jen D. , Lin Dai-Chan , Wray Linda A.
Published: September 2017

This study examined the levels and rates of changes in psychological well-being for middle-aged adults of different statuses or marital transitions. The moderating effects of different leisure activities were also tested. Longitudinal data on 1,270 persons aged 50 to 65 years at baseline from the Taiwan longitudinal study on aging were analyzed. Adults who were stably unmarried or unpartnered reported worse mental health at baseline, but their psychological well-being improved over time. The trajectory of depressive symptoms fluctuated markedly in adults who became widowed during our observation period. Engagement in physical, cognitive, or social activities was significantly associated with participants’ psychological well-being. Participation in religious activities was significantly associated with life satisfaction and decreased depressive symptoms for those undergoing bereavement. Findings from this study suggest that social and physical activities, among the four selected leisure activities, have the greatest association between decreasing depressive symptoms and increasing life satisfaction, respectively. Religious activities, in particular, may improve psychological well-being in bereaved middle-aged and older adults.
Remittances and labor supply of the left-behind youth: Evidence from Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Dávalos Jorge , Karymshakov Kamalbek , Sulaimanova Burulcha , Abdieva Raziiakhan
Published: September 2017

This paper examines whether remittances from international migration impact on the occupational choice of left-behind youth in Kyrgyzstan. Labor supply is analyzed both at the extensive and intensive margins using cross-sectional data for 2011. To overcome endogeneity concerns, an instrumental variable approach was implemented. Findings demonstrate that migration, rather than remittances, pushes the left-behind youth to become unpaid family workers. This is explained by the substitution effect as the youth left behind are called upon to replace the migrant labor. Moreover, this effect is heterogeneous – female youth are more inclined to becoming unpaid family workers both at the extensive and intensive margins.
Effect of Increased Body Mass Index on Complication Rates during Laryngotracheal Surgery Utilizing Jet Ventilation
Authors: Barry Rachel A. , Fink Daniel S. , Pourciau Dusty Cole , Hayley Kasey , Lanius Rachael , Hayley Schuylor , Sims Eddy , McWhorter Andrew J.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Jet ventilation has been used for >30 years as an anesthetic modality for laryngotracheal surgery. Concerns exist over increased risk with elevated body mass index (BMI). We reviewed our experience using jet ventilation for laryngotracheal stenosis to assess for complication rates with substratification by BMI.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 126 procedures with jet ventilation were identified from October 2006 to December 2014. Complications were recorded, including intubation, unplanned admission, readmission, dysphonia, oral trauma, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and tracheostomy. Lowest intraoperative oxygen saturation and maximum end‐tidal CO2 (ETCO2) levels were recorded.

Results

Among 126 patients, 43, 77, and 6 had BMIs of <25, 25‐35, and 36‐45, respectively. In the BMI <25 group, there was 1 unplanned intubation. Mean maximum ETCO2 was 36.51 with no hypoxemia observed. In the BMI 25‐35 group, 2 patients required intubation, and 1 sustained minor oral trauma. The mean maximum ETCO2 was 38.85, with 4 patients having oxygen saturation <90%. In the BMI 36‐45 group, 2 patients required intubation. The mean maximum ETCO2 was 41 with no hypoxemia observed. BMI and length of stenosis were statistically significant variables associated with incidence of intraoperative intubation.

Conclusion

Increased BMI was associated with an increase in highest ETCO2 intraoperatively. However, this was not associated with an increase in major complications. Jet ventilation was performed without significant adverse events in this sample, and it is a viable option if used with an experienced team in the management of laryngotracheal stenosis.
Expression of Oligodendrocyte Marker during Peripheral‐Central Transitional Zone Formation of the Postnatal Mouse Cochlear Nerve
Authors: Bojrab Dennis , Zhang Baofu , Jiang Hui , Zhang Lei , Cohen David S. , Luo Xuemei , Hu Zhengqing
Published: September 2017

Objective

To better understand oligodendrocyte protein expression along the mouse cochlear nerve in postnatal mice.

Study Design

In vivo murine study.

Setting

Research laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

Swiss Webster mice used at multiple postnatal days (0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 8, 10, 14, 30, and 60). There were 5 replicates at each postnatal day. Cryosection was done to produce sections that included the cochlear nucleus, cochlear nerve, and cochlea in a single sample. Differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy and immunofluorescence with antibodies specific to the oligodendrocyte protein Olig2 were used to study the cochlear nerve of Swiss Webster mice at postnatal days.

Results

The myelination of central nervous system projections initiates in close proximity to the peripheral nervous system–central nervous system transitional zone (PCTZ), and oligodendrocytes in neonatal mice are seen with immunohistochemistry peripheral to the DIC‐PCTZ interface.

Conclusions

As the PCTZ migrates from the brain to the cochlea, oligodendrocytes are a part of peripheral extension of central nervous system tissue along the cochlear nerve. Expression of oligodendrocyte marker Oligo2 was observed peripherally to the formation of PCTZ, as determined by DIC microscopy.
Abuse Is Abuse: The Influence of Type of Abuse, Victim Age, and Defendant Age on Juror Decision Making
Authors: Sheahan Chelsea L. , Pica Emily , Pozzulo Joanna D.
Published: September 2017

The purpose of the current study was to examine the role of victim age, defendant age, and type of abuse on mock juror decision making. Mock jurors ( N = 556) read a trial transcript in which a soccer coach was accused of sexual abuse or physical abuse against a player. The victim’s age (child, adolescent, or young adult), the defendant’s age (young, middle age, or older adult), and the type of abuse (sexual or physical) were varied. Mock jurors provided a dichotomous and continuous verdict and rated their perceptions of the victim and the defendant. Although no differences on mock jurors’ dichotomous verdict were found due to victim age, defendant age, or type of abuse, mock jurors provided higher guilt ratings when the abuse was sexual and both the victim and defendant were described as young adults. Similarly, mock jurors rated the victim more positively when the victim was described as a young adult (vs. child) for both sexual and physical abuse cases, and rated the defendant more positively when the victim was described as a child compared with young adult in sexual abuse cases. These findings suggest that mock jurors were largely influenced by victim age, particularly when the victim was described as an adult compared with a child.
Health condition evaluation of carbon fiber–reinforced thermoplastic with a tapping system
Authors: Lyu Xiuqi , Wan Yi , Takahashi Jun , Ohsawa Isamu
Published: September 2017

Carbon fiber–reinforced thermoplastic (CFRTP) composites are gaining popularity in the manufacturing industry of lightweight automobiles. Common composite defects (e.g. voids and delamination) often occur inside CFRTP composites due to their inappropriate manufacturing process and long-term service. In this study, an instrumented tapping system was designed to evaluate the health condition of CFRTP composites by controlling the input force and velocity. The effective mathematical expressions of the contact duration and amplitude of the interactive force were derived to quantify the local stiffness of the tapping area. The amplitude of the interactive force was introduced innovatively as a significant evaluation parameter for a non-closed force–time curve with the time axis due to the influence of constraint condition and coupling effect of the modal shapes excited during tapping. The contact duration of the interactive force over the defective region was longer than that over the sound region. The amplitude of the interactive force applied on the defective area was observed to be lower than that on the sound area. In addition, the applicability and sensitivity of the amplitude of the interactive force was also investigated by changing the dimensions and locations of defects.
Self-Selection or Socialization? The Longitudinal Relation Between Civic Engagement and Political Orientations Among Adolescents
Authors: Dahl Viktor , Abdelzadeh Ali
Published: September 2017

Social capital theory states that civic engagement generates positive outcomes, such as social trust and political interest. Likewise, studies show that those involved in civic engagement generally report higher levels of social trust and political interest. It is still unclear, however, whether these differences are the result of socialization or selection. We used between-effects and fixed-effects regressions to examine the development of political orientations in a three-wave longitudinal sample of 1,050 adolescents. From our results, volunteering seemed to have no socialization effect whatsoever on political interest and potentially a weak enhancing effect on social trust. Associational membership did not predict social trust over time, but it seemed to socialize members into increased political interest over time. The results are discussed in light of the social capital debate about how civic engagemend in associational life and volunteering do – or do not – function as schools of democracy.
Assessment of the neutralizing potency of antisera raised against native and γ-irradiated Naja nigricollis (black-necked spitting cobra) venom in rabbits, concerning its cardiotoxic effect
Authors: Abdou F , Denshary EE , Shaaban E , Mohamed M
Published: September 2017

The present study was designed to prepare a specific safe antiserum for Naja nigricollis using γ-irradiated (1.5KGy and3KGy) venoms. Rabbits were used for active immunization using irradiated venoms (1.5 and 3 kGy) as a toxoid, mice were used for determination of LD50 post immunization and the rats were used for neutralization of the cardiotoxic effect of venom. Results of the immunodiffusion test indicated that the sera of rabbits raised against non-irradiated, 1.5- and 3-kGy γ-irradiated venom, had the same results of precipitin bands. A significant inhibition of phospholipase A2 activities was obtained when neutralized with native, γ-irradiated (1.5KGy and3KGy) venoms. On the other hand, preincubation of the venom ½ LD50 (0.154 mg/kg i.p.) with each antiserum (non-irradiated or irradiated venom) at 37°C for 1 h in a ratio (1:4) produced a significant reduction in the values of creatine kinase and creatine kinase isoenzyme-MB. However, significant elevation in aspartate aminotransferase level and no change in lactate dehydrogenase level were observed. So the results of this study indicated that the irradiated venom treatment reduces the cardiotoxic effect of venom in immunized immunization animals for preparing vaccines.
Analysis of Barriers to Women Entrepreneurship: The DEMATEL Approach
Authors: Raghuvanshi Juhi , Agrawal Rajat , Ghosh P. K.
Published: September 2017

Barriers to women entrepreneurship are numerous but they are all treated with equal importance in prior research. We believe prioritisation will advance our understanding further. Hence, we start by identifying barriers from earlier studies and explore possible causality among them. A framework based on cause and effect relationship among barriers is proposed. Decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) technique was used to establish this causality. Our analysis identifies five of the 14 barriers as causal. They are as follows: lack of education, experience and training opportunities; spatial mobility and lack of family support; lack of institutional support; lack of entrepreneurial management; and problem in acquiring financial resources. Women entrepreneurs, scholars and policymakers will gain greater understanding through this causal framework of barriers. Knowledge and containment of these barriers will help in fostering a more conducive environment for enabling more women to attempt entrepreneurship.
Roma Never Die Alone
Authors: Garcia-Espinel Tania , Aso Laura , Redondo-Sama Gisela , Flecha Ainhoa
Published: September 2017

A common characteristic of Roma as a cultural group is that they do not allow their elderly to die alone. Nevertheless, rooted in a mainstream cultural perspective of health provision services, public institutions usually do not allow Roma people to be with their loved ones in their last moments. Following the communicative methodology, we conducted a communicative case study on the death of the most relevant female Roma leader in Catalonia. She was accompanied by more than two hundred family members and friends in her room and corridor at an important hospital in Barcelona. We performed our research in the 2 years following her death to obtain the reflections of the Roma members involved. These reflections revealed the egalitarian dialogue forged between these Roma members and the hospital personnel, which enabled the former to embrace their culture and support their loved ones before death. Because this dialogue was possible and fruitful, the acknowledgment of cultural diversity and the improvement of the quality of services offered to Roma might also be possible in other health institutions.
Why Do Management Theories Say What They Do? Toward a Management M-Theory
Authors: Kessler Eric H.
Published: September 2017

There is a large and growing imbalance between the differentiation and integration of the management theory literature. As a result, the scholarly field needs better tools of conceptual integration to make sense of its varied questions, topics, disciplines, and communities. Here, I propose a language and logic for addressing this imbalance by addressing the simple but penetrating research question: Why do management theories say what they do? First, the article explores different facets to the question to reveal several alternative reasons for this differentiation. Second, it utilizes the resultant rationales for better understanding past approaches toward theoretical integration. Specifically, I construct a multidimensional framework that can be used to reconcile these rationales—that is, integrate the integrative frameworks—to propose an answer to the question. Third, it illustrates how this management M-theory (MMT) framework might be used to stitch together the broad spectrum of management theories. Fourth, it considers implications of this mapping for management research, teaching, and practice.
Treatment of Achromobacter Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia in Critically Ill Trauma Patients
Authors: Wood G. Christopher , Jonap Brittany L. , Maish George O. , Magnotti Louis J. , Swanson Joseph M. , Boucher Bradley A. , Croce Martin A. , Fabian Timothy C.
Published: September 2017

Background: Achromobacter sp are nonfermenting Gram-negative bacilli (NFGNB) that rarely cause severe infections, including ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Data on the treatment of Achromobacter pneumonia are very limited, and the organism has been associated with a high mortality rate. Thus, more data are needed on treating this organism. Objective: To evaluate the treatment of Achromobacter VAP in critically ill trauma patients. Methods: This retrospective, observational study evaluated critically ill trauma patients who developed Achromobacter VAP. A previously published pathway for the diagnosis and management of VAP was used according to routine patient care. This included the use of quantitative bronchoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage cultures to definitively diagnose VAP. Results: A total of 37 episodes of Achromobacter VAP occurred in 34 trauma intensive care unit patients over a 15-year period. The most commonly used definitive antibiotics were imipenem/cilastatin, cefepime, or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. The primary outcome of clinical success was achieved in 32 of 37 episodes (87%). This is similar to previous studies of other NFGNB VAP (eg, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter) from the study center. Microbiological success was seen in 21 of 28 episodes (75%), and VAP-related mortality was 9% (3 of 34 patients). Conclusions: Achromobacter is a rare but potentially serious cause of VAP in critically ill patients. In this study, there was an acceptable success rate compared with other causes of NFGNB VAP in this patient population.
Multimodality Management of “Borderline Resectable” Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Ambe Chenwi M. , Nguyen Phuong , Centeno Barbara A. , Choi Junsung , Strosberg Jonathan , Kvols Larry , Hodul Pamela , Hoffe Sarah , Malafa Mokenge P.
Published: September 2017

Background:

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) constitute approximately 3% of pancreatic neoplasms. Like patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), some of these patients present with “borderline resectable disease.” For these patients, an optimal treatment approach is lacking. We report our institution’s experience with borderline resectable PanNETs using multimodality treatment.

Methods:

We identified patients with borderline resectable PanNETs who had received neoadjuvant therapy at our institution between 2000 and 2013. The definition of borderline resectability was based on National Comprehensive Cancer Network criteria for PDAC. Neoadjuvant regimen, radiographic response, pathologic response, surgical margins, nodal retrieval, number of positive nodes, and recurrence were documented. Statistics were descriptive.

Results:

Of 112 patients who underwent surgical resection for PanNETs during the study period, 23 received neoadjuvant therapy, 6 of whom met all inclusion criteria and had borderline resectable disease. These 6 patients received at least 1 cycle of temozolomide and capecitabine, with 3 also receiving radiation. All had radiographic evidence of treatment response. Four (67%) had negative-margin resections. Four patients had histologic evidence of a moderate response. Follow-up (3.0-4.3 years) indicated that all patients were alive, with 5/6 free of disease (1 patient with metastatic disease still on treatment without progression).

Conclusions:

A multimodality treatment strategy (neoadjuvant temozolomide and capecitabine ± radiation) can be successfully applied to patients with PanNETs who meet NCCN borderline resectable criteria for PDAC. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of a multimodality protocol in the treatment of patients with borderline resectable PanNETs.
Using Expert Sources to Correct Health Misinformation in Social Media
Authors: Vraga Emily K. , Bode Leticia
Published: September 2017

This study tests whether the number (1 vs. 2) and the source (another user vs. the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]) of corrective responses affect successful reduction of misperceptions. Using an experimental design, our results suggest that while a single correction from another user did not reduce misperceptions, the CDC on its own could correct misinformation. Corrections were more effective among those higher in initial misperceptions. Notably, organizational credibility was not reduced when correcting misinformation, making this a low-cost behavior for public health organizations. We recommend that expert organizations like the CDC immediately and personally rebut misinformation about health issues on social media.
The Centrality of Reflexivity Through Narrative Beginnings: Towards Living Reconciliation
Authors: Dubnewick Michael , Clandinin D. Jean , Lessard Sean , McHugh Tara-Leigh
Published: September 2017

Autobiographical narrative inquiry is an approach with a specific set of methodological commitments that guide research practice, yet its place and position within the work on reflexive practice are lost or misrepresented. Reflexivity in the form of autobiographical narrative inquiries comes out of the relational ontological commitments of narrative inquiry. By inquiring into Michael’s (the first author) experience as a researcher–practitioner, the purpose of this article is to show how reflexivity, in the form of narrative beginnings, is situated in the ongoing stream of experience. It provides narrative inquirers with avenues to make clear their research justifications/puzzles, become wakeful and open in their inquiries, and support shifts in relational knowing and being. By looking back and noticing the ways stories work on us, rather than us on them, this research explores the reverberations of past experiences and the ripples that carry forward into our future inquiries.
Successful Treatment of Osteosarcoma Arising in Osteogenesis Imperfecta with High-Dose Chemotherapy and Autologous Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation Followed-by Limb Sparing Surgery
Authors: Ataergin Selmin , Arpaci Fikret , Erler Kaan , Demiralp Bahtiyar , Cicek Ilker , Ulutin Cuneyt , Solchaga Luis , Ozcan Ayhan
Published: September 2017

We present a 20-year-old male patient with localized osteosarcoma arising in osteogenesis imperfecta who underwent high-dose chemotherapy together with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation followed-by a successful extremity sparing surgery.
Animal-Type Melanoma: A Rare Type of Malignant Melanoma with an Indolent Clinical Behaviour
Authors: Sabah Muna , Leader Mary , Fahy Mary , Kay Elaine
Published: September 2017

Animal-type melanoma is an exceedingly rare histological variant of melanoma in humans. The name was coined to reflect similar histological features to melanomas in grey horses. We present a case of animal-type melanoma. The neoplastic cells were heavily pigmented with an epithelioid morphology, round nuclei and prominent eosinophilic nucleoli. Only occasional mitotic figures were identified. The tumour cells had diffuse and nodular growth patterns with involvement of the dermis and the subcutaneous tissue. The patient had a “benign cellular blue naevus” excised 9 years earlier from the same site. Review of the previous case revealed heavily pigmented epithelioid cells with similar morphology to the current case. Nuclear pleomorphism was minimal and only a single mitotic figure was present. The lesion extended to the margins of excision. The diagnosis of animal-type melanoma was made on the current case and on the previously misdiagnosed case.

Recurrence of this case nine years following incomplete excision further supports the hypothesis that animal-type melanoma is a distinct histological type of malignant melanoma with an indolent clinical course.