bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic Profiling of Two Histologically Distinct Rare Urothelial Cancers in a Clinical Setting to Identify Potential Therapeutic Options for Treatment and Management of Disease
Authors: Hesse Andrew N. , Fabricius William , Thomas Christian A. , Gaindh Ramesh , Christman Robert , Selvam Pavalan , Prego Matthew , Lewis Gregory , Uvalic Jasmina , Bergeron Daniel , Burns Shelbi , Sisson Bridgette , Kelly Kevin , Rueter Jens , Reddi Honey V.
Published: March 2018

Molecular profiling of urothelial cancers for therapeutic and prognostic potential has been very limited due to the absence of cancer-specific targeted therapies. We describe here 2 clinical cases with a histological diagnosis of an invasive sarcomatoid and a poorly differentiated carcinoma favoring urothelial with some neuroendocrine differentiation, two of the rarer types of urothelial cancers, which were evaluated for mutations in 212 genes for single-nucleotide variants and copy-number variants and 53 genes for fusions associated with solid tumors. In both cases, we identified variants in 2 genes, ARID1A and CDKN2A, indicative of the role of dysregulation of chromatin remodeling and cell cycle control as being common features of bladder cancer, consistent with the proposed model of tumorigenesis in these rare, highly aggressive pathological subtypes. The presence of a KRAS mutation in the poorly differentiated cancer and a TP53 mutation in the sarcomatoid tumor is indicative of a distinctive profile and adds a potential layer of molecular stratification to these rarer histological subtypes. We present a comparative analysis of the histological, clinical, and molecular profile of both cases and discuss the potential to delineate these tumors at the molecular level keeping in mind the possible therapeutic implications.
Inhibition of Cgkii Suppresses Seizure Activity and Hippocampal Excitation by Regulating the Postsynaptic Delivery of Glua1
Authors: Gu Juan , Tian Xin , Wang Wei , Yang Qin , Lin Peijia , Ma Yuanlin , Xiong Yan , Xu Demei , Zhang Yanke , Yang Yong , Lu Shanshan , Lin Zijun , Luo Jing , Xiao Fei , Wang Xuefeng
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: The imbalance between excitation and inhibition is a defining feature of epilepsy. GluA1 is an AMPA receptor subunit that can strengthen excitatory synaptic transmission when upregulated in the postsynaptic membrane, which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of epilepsy. cGKII, a cGMP-dependent protein kinase, regulates the GluA1 levels at the plasma membrane. Methods: To explore the role of cGKII in epilepsy, we investigated the expression of cGKII in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and in a pilocarpine-induced rat model and then performed behavioral, histological, and electrophysiological analyses by applying either a cGKII agonist or inhibitor in the hippocampus of the animal model. Results: cGKII expression was upregulated in the epileptogenic brain tissues of both humans and rats. Pharmacological activation or inhibition of cGKII induced changes in epileptic behaviors in vivo and epileptic discharges in vitro. Further studies indicated that cGKII activation disrupted the balance of excitation and inhibition due to strengthened AMPAR-mediated excitatory synaptic transmission. Moreover, cGKII regulated epileptic seizures by phosphorylating GluA1 at Ser845 to modulate the expression and function of GluA1 in the postsynaptic membrane. Conclusion: These results suggest that cGKII plays a key role in seizure activity and could be a potential therapeutic target for epilepsy.
Retinoic Acid Increases Fatty Acid Oxidation and Irisin Expression in Skeletal Muscle Cells and Impacts Irisin In Vivo
Authors: Amengual Jaume , García-Carrizo Francisco J. , Arreguín Andrea , Mušinović Hana , Granados Nuria , Palou Andreu , Bonet M. Luisa , Ribot Joan
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) has protective effects against obesity and metabolic syndrome. We here aimed to gain further insight into the interaction of ATRA with skeletal muscle metabolism and secretory activity as important players in metabolic health. Methods: Cultured murine C2C12 myocytes were used to study direct effects of ATRA on cellular fatty acid oxidation (FAO) rate (using radioactively-labelled palmitate), glucose uptake (using radioactively-labelled 2-deoxy-D-glucose), triacylglycerol levels (by an enzymatic method), and the expression of genes related to FAO and glucose utilization (by RT-real time PCR). We also studied selected myokine production (using ELISA and immunohistochemistry) in ATRA-treated myocytes and intact mice. Results: Exposure of C2C12 myocytes to ATRA led to increased fatty acid consumption and decreased cellular triacylglycerol levels without affecting glucose uptake, and induced the expression of the myokine irisin at the mRNA and secreted protein level in a dose-response manner. ATRA stimulatory effects on FAO-related genes and the Fndc5 gene (encoding irisin) were reproduced by agonists of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor β/δ and retinoid X receptors, but not of retinoic acid receptors, and were partially blocked by an AMP-dependent protein kinase inhibitor. Circulating irisin levels were increased by 5-fold in ATRA-treated mice, linked to increased Fndc5 transcription in liver and adipose tissues, rather than skeletal muscle. Immunohistochemistry analysis of FNDC5 suggested that ATRA treatment enhances the release of FNDC5/irisin from skeletal muscle and the liver and its accumulation in interscapular brown and inguinal white adipose depots. Conclusion: These results provide new mechanistic insights on how ATRA globally stimulates FAO and enhances irisin secretion, thereby contributing to leaning effects and improved metabolic status.
Different Adaptive Responses to Hypoxia in Normal and Multiple Myeloma Endothelial Cells
Authors: Filippi Irene , Saltarella Ilaria , Aldinucci Carlo , Carraro Fabio , Ria Roberto , Vacca Angelo , Naldini Antonella
Published: March 2018

Background/Aims: Hypoxia is a powerful stimulator of angiogenesis under physiological as well as pathological conditions. Normal endothelial cells (EC), such as human umbilical vein EC (HUVEC), are relatively affected by hypoxic insult in terms of cell survival. In contrast, EC from tumors are particularly resistant to hypoxia-induced cell death. Previous reports have shown that EC in bone marrow from multiple myeloma (MM) patients had a hypoxic phenotype, even under normoxic conditions. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether HUVEC and MMEC adapt differently to hypoxia. Methods: Cell proliferation was assessed by the CyQUANT assay. Cdc25A, p21, Bax, Bcl-xl, BNIP3, glucose transporter (GLUT)-1, monocarboxylate transporter (MCT)-4 and carbonic anhydrase (CA)IX mRNA expression was determined by qRT-PCR. HIF-1α, BNIP3, Beclin-1, LC3B, livin, Bax, Bcl-xl, p21, p62 and β-actin protein expression was analyzed by western blot. Apoptosis was determined by TUNEL assay. Silencing of BNIP3 was achieved by stealth RNA system technology. Results: While HUVEC survival was reduced after prolonged hypoxic exposure, MMEC were completely unaffected. This difference was also significant in terms of livin, cdc25A and p21 expression. Hypoxia induced apoptosis and inhibited autophagy in HUVEC, but not in MMEC, where hypoxic treatment resulted in a more sustained adaptive response. In fact, MMEC showed a more significant increase in the expression of genes regulated transcriptionally by hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α. Interestingly, they showed higher expression of BNIP3 than did HUVEC, indicating a more pronounced autophagic (and pro-survival) phenotype. The potential role of BNIP3 in EC survival was confirmed by BNIP3 siRNA experiments in HUVEC, where BNIP3 inhibition resulted in reduced cell survival and increased apoptosis. Conclusion: These findings provide further information on how hypoxia may affect EC survival and could be important for a better understanding of EC physiology under normal and pathological conditions, such as in multiple myeloma.
Produção escrita para (da) academia em contexto universitário pós-Bolonha: uma reflexão crítica
Authors: Pinto Rosalice Botelho , Marques Gorete , Dinis Marisa Catarina da Conceição
Published: March 2018

Este artigo visa descrever a agentividade dos principais protagonistas (discentes e docentes) nas propostas apresentadas pela Declaração de Bolonha, em seu Decreto-Lei 74/2006, de 24 de março, e pelos programas implementados nas Faculdades de Direito das universidades públicas portuguesas. Seguindo pressupostos teóricos do Interacionismo Sociodiscursivo (BRONCKART et al, 2004), de uma Retórica da Ação como apontam Miller (1984) e Bazerman (2006) e contributos descritivos desenvolvidos por Fillmore (1975, 1977), poder-se-á observar que, nos documentos, os agentes principais são representados por papéis sintático-semânticos que não seriam expectáveis nestes textos. Tal constatação pode vir a atestar a existência de uma semiotização diferenciada entre a linguagem sobre o trabalho e a linguagem como trabalho, conceitos desenvolvidos por Nouroudine (2002). Procura-se mostrar, assim, através de determinado viéz descritivo, que o ‘pretenso’ objetivo da própria Declaração de Bolonha, o de estimular uma maior participação do aluno no processo de aprendizagem, de forma a torná-lo mais autónomo e mais facilmente empregável no contexto europeu, pode vir a ser seriamente comprometido.
Elasmopus sivaprakasami sp. nov., a new species of amphipod (Senticaudata, Maeridae) from Gujarat State, India
Authors: MYERS ALAN A. , TRIVEDI JIGNESHKUMAR N. , GOSAVI SWAPNIL , VACHHRAJANI KAURESH D.
Published: March 2018

A new species of amphipod, Elasmopus sivaprakasami sp. nov., is described from India. It is found to be conspecific with material described from southern India nearly fifty years previously, but attributed at that time to a species described from Japan.
A new species of the Australian genus Clinopsocus New from coastal California (Psocodea: ‘Psocoptera’: Elipsocidae)
Authors: MOCKFORD EDWARD L.
Published: March 2018

Clinopsocus nigrescens n. sp. is described from a series of adult females taken on boards stored in a garage in San Leandro, Alameda County, California. Clinopsocus is known from two other species, both Australian. The new species is highly neotenic and probably parthenogenetic.
A comparative description of the larvae of Psychomyia pusilla (Fabricius 1781), Metalype fragilis (Pictet 1834), and Paduniella vandeli Décamps 1965 (Trichoptera: Psychomyiidae) and comments on the larvae of other species belonging to these three genera
Authors: TACHET HENRI , COPPA GENNARO , FORCELLINI MAXENCE
Published: March 2018

The morphology of the larvae of three French species of Psychomyiinae: Psychomyia pusilla, Metalype fragilis and Paduniella vandeli are described. A set of characters on the head, the prothorax, and the anal prolegs makes it possible to identify the larvae of the fourth and fifth instars. A brief study of the world distribution of the genera Psychomyia, Metalype, and Paduniella is presented. An examination of the larvae of these three genera from literature data and personal observations offered us the possibility to test the validity of the set of characters obtained for the three French species. A key (with comments) of the three genera is provided.
Convective Organization in Evolving Large-Scale Forcing Represented by a Highly Truncated Numerical Archetype
Authors: Yano Jun-Ichi , Moncrieff Mitchell W.
Published: March 2018

Considered as a prognostic generalization of mass-flux-based convection parameterization, the highly truncated nonhydrostatic anelastic model with segmentally constant approximation (NAM–SCA) is tested with time-evolving large-scale forcing. The 20-day GATE Phase III period is taken as a major data source. The main advantage of the NAM–SCA parameterization is consistency with subgrid-scale dynamics as represented by the nonhydrostatic anelastic formulation. The approach explicitly generates important dynamical structures of convection (e.g., mesoscale circulations, cold pools) spontaneously without further tuning or treatment as additional subcomponents. As with other convection parameterizations, the numerical simulation of the precipitation rate, the apparent heat source, and the apparent moisture sink is straightforward and reasonably insensitive to the numerical procedures. However, convective momentum transport by organized convection turns out to be difficult even with NAM–SCA, especially for the inherently three-dimensional shear-parallel systems. Modifications of NAM–SCA regarding the large-scale forcing formulation improves the mesoscale momentum transport. Simulation of the full 120-day TOGA COARE period demonstrates the performance of NAM–SCA in different meteorological conditions and its capacity to operate over a longer time period.
Towards ICT-enabled Land Administration System in India: A Case Study of Haryana
Authors: Navreet  , Kaur Ravneet , Bhatia Anshul
Published: March 2018

Agriculture constitutes as the largest livelihood provider in India. Land governance is thus very important. Strategically, interventions by the state through policies and programmes at all levels of government are required for improved land governance.

In order to address the complexity of land-related problems, government has introduced e-governance practices in land administration. Government of India has introduced National Land Records Modernisation Programme in order to computerise land records and registration. The State Government in Haryana has implemented the Haryana Land Registration Information System. It is complete integrated workflow automation system of land record. The services to citizens are provided through public services delivery centres ‘e-Disha’. An attempt has been made in this article to assess the implementation of governance reforms through information and communications technology in land sector in the state of Haryana.
India’s IMF Programmes—1966 and 1981: An Analytical Review
Authors: Srinivas V.
Published: March 2018

India was one of the most closed economies in the world during the period of 1947–1991. India’s fiscal deficits were high, and foreign exchange reserves were precipitously low and the exports were non-competitive. On three occasions, India had to avail external assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to overcome the balance of payments (BOP) crisis. India negotiated IMF programmes in 1966, 1981 and 1991. This article examines the events of 1966 and 1981. While India sought significant IMF assistance, gradualism reigned in the reforms programme. This article appraises the macro-economic conditions of 1966 and 1981 programmes, the choices that governments of the day faced and the reasons for the decisions taken.
Book review: Omesh Saigal, I@S: Tale Told by an IASs
Authors: Alok V.N.
Published: March 2018

Omesh Saigal, I@S: Tale Told by an IASs. New Delhi: Har-Anand Publications Pvt. Ltd, 2017, 230 pp., ₹695.
Coping, resilience and posttraumatic growth among Eritrean female refugees living in Norwegian asylum reception centres: A qualitative study
Authors: Abraham Ruth , Lien Lars , Hanssen Ingrid
Published: March 2018

Background:

The links between migration and health are well documented. Being a refugee exacerbates migrants’ vulnerability through trauma and loss. The aim of this study is to identify sources of resilience, coping and posttraumatic growth in female Eritrean refugees living in Norwegian asylum reception centres.

Method:

The study had a qualitative, descriptive and explorative design with two focus group interviews and 10 individual in-depth interviews. Participants included 18 female Eritrean refugees aged 18–60, who had obtained refugee status and were still living in an asylum reception centre. A content-focused hermeneutic analytic approach was used.

Results:

Interviewees described the challenges of pre-flight and flight trauma, conditions at the refugee centre, communication difficulties and the ‘endless’ waiting for transfer to a municipality. To cope, they found it helpful to focus on the future and to think positively. Fellowship with and support from fellow Eritrean refugees were essential as they became a proxy family and provided a strong ethnic identity. Their religious belief also helped them cope and gave them hope for the future.

Discussion:

The interviewees in this study perceived their psychological problems as a normal reaction to what they had been through. Religious belief was an important resilience factor, as was social support, especially from peers.

Conclusion:

The interviewees’ coping was based on the realization of their psychological reactions being normal while doing their utmost to focus on their aims and hopes for the future.
Narratives of Contemporary Africa on China Global Television Network’s Documentary Series Faces of Africa
Authors: Madrid-Morales Dani , Gorfinkel Lauren
Published: March 2018

This paper examines the documentary series Faces of Africa, broadcast on CGTN Africa, the African branch of China Global Television Network (CGTN, formerly known as CCTV International) since 2012. Using in-depth interviews and content analysis, we canvas the layers of supervision, censorship, agency and cross-cultural collaboration that lead to a creative dialogue between filmmakers and Chinese commissioning producers. We argue that, compared to news programs on both CGTN and other global networks, the documentary series allows a more positive and humane portrayal of African people. However, given that CGTN often engages non-Chinese filmmakers and seeks to emulate global production values to attract non-Chinese viewers, the extent to which CGTN’s documentaries on Africa contrast to those of other global networks remains a question for further debate.
Do They Feel the Same Way? Health-Related Quality of Life and Satisfaction With Life in Jewish Immigrants From the Former Soviet Union in Germany and Israel
Authors: Nesterko Yuriy , Ulitsa Natalie , Friedrich Michael , Glaesmer Heide
Published: March 2018

There is consensus that experiences gained during immigration have an impact on health status. However, studies comparing health-related outcomes in homogeneous groups of immigrants living in different host countries are rare. In a sample of Jewish immigrants from the Former Soviet Union (FSU) in two different host countries, Germany and Israel, possible predictors of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and satisfaction with life (SWL) were examined. In total, 359 Jewish immigrants from the FSU living in Germany ( n = 180) and Israel ( n = 179) completed the questionnaire measuring immigration-related and sociodemographic characteristics. HRQoL was assessed via Short Form Health Survey Version 2 (SF-12v2), and SWL via Satisfaction With Life Scale (SWLS). Hierarchical linear regression models were applied for analyzing immigration-related and sociodemographic predictors of HRQoL and SWL. Participants living in Israel scored higher on HRQoL, and no differences were found concerning SWL ratings. However, no direct influences of the host country were detected by predicting HRQoL and SWL scores. In both subgroups, immigration-related factors such as perceived discrimination or level of integration were found as significant predictors. In the face of different immigration waves in the host countries, Germany and Israel, the results display similarities rather than differences between the groups concerning the sociodemographic and immigration-related predictors on HRQoL and SWL. The findings using cross-cultural analysis level underscore the need of much more detailed future research on this issue.
UN targeted sanctions datasets (1991–2013)
Authors: Biersteker Thomas J , Eckert Sue E , Tourinho Marcos , Hudáková Zuzana
Published: March 2018

Targeted sanctions are increasingly used by the United Nations (UN) Security Council to address major challenges to international peace and security. Unlike other sanctions, those imposed by the UN are universally binding and relied upon as a basis for legitimating both unilateral and regional sanctions measures. Encompassing a wide range of individual, diplomatic, financial, and sectoral measures, targeted sanctions allow senders to target a specific individual, corporate entity, region, or sector, helping to minimize the negative effects of sanctions on wider populations. This article introduces the Targeted Sanctions Consortium (TSC) quantitative and qualitative datasets, which encompass all UN targeted sanctions imposed between 1991 and 2013, or 23 different country regimes broken into 63 case episodes for comparative analysis. Adding to existing datasets on sanctions (HSE, TIES), these new, closely interrelated datasets enable scholars using both quantitative and qualitative methods to: (1) differentiate among different purposes, types of sanctions, and target populations, (2) assess the scope of different combinations of targeted measures, (3) access extensive details about UN sanctions applied since the end of the Cold War, and (4) analyze changing dynamics within sanctions regimes over time in ways other datasets do not. The two TSC datasets assess UN targeted sanctions as effective 22% of the time and describe major aspects of UN targeted sanctions regimes, including the types of sanctions, their purposes and targets, impacts, relationships with other institutions, sanctions regimes, and policy instruments, mechanisms of coping and evasion, and unintended consequences.
The Value of Dialogue Groups for Teaching Race and Ethnicity
Authors: Weinzimmer Julianne , Bergdahl Jacqueline
Published: March 2018

Teaching sociological perspectives on race and ethnicity is challenging due to the predominance of color-blind ideology in our supposed postracial society. Students enter the classroom hesitant to discuss race or acknowledge ongoing racism. To better educate students and bridge the racial distance between them, we developed small-group, team-facilitated dialogues as a core course component. We explore results of pre- and postsurveys from students in two sections of Sociology of Race and Ethnicity taught by the first author, which featured dialogues, and one similarly structured offering from a different instructor without dialogues. In comparison to the class offering without dialogues, students who completed the dialogues showed greater mastery of core sociological concepts related to race and an increased commitment to supporting and promoting racial and ethnic equality.
Mechanical, thermal, and viscoelastic investigations on expanded perlite–filled high-density polyethylene composite
Authors: Atagür Metehan , Sarikanat Mehmet , Uysalman Tuğçe , Polat Ozan , Elbeyli İffet Yakar , Seki Yoldaş , Sever Kutlay
Published: March 2018

Perlite is a glassy amorphous volcanic rock and generally used in construction industries. Possible uses of perlite powder in polymeric composites allow producing value-added products. In this study, expanded Turkish perlite (TP) powder was characterized by particle size distribution and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis. TP-filled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites were manufactured via thermokinetic mixer by adding various weight fractions of TP powder (5, 10, 20, and 30 wt%) into HDPE matrix. Produced composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanic analysis, X-ray diffraction, and mechanical and thermal conductivity tests. From mechanical tests, it was observed that HDPE + 5% TP exhibited the greatest tensile strength. Flexural strength of the TP-filled HDPE composite was increased with the increasing TP content. Morphological properties of TP-filled HFPE composites were examined by scanning electron microscopy. As the weight fraction of TP was increased, storage modulus and loss modulus of the composites were increased. Moreover, the relaxation peak of HDPE was increased by the incorporation of TP into HDPE.
Stable cutting zone prediction in computer numerical control turning based on empirical mode decomposition and artificial neural network approach
Authors: Shrivastava Yogesh , Singh Bhagat
Published: March 2018

Stable cutting zone prediction is the key requirement for retaining high-productivity with enhanced surface quality of work-piece. Tool chatter is one of the factors responsible for abrupt change in surface quality and productivity. In this research work, an optimum safe cutting zone has been predicted by analyzing the tool chatter so that higher productivity can be achieved. Initially, chatter signals have been recorded by performing experiments at different combinations of cutting parameters on computer numerical control trainer lathe. Further, these recorded signals have been preprocessed by empirical mode decomposition technique, followed by the selection of dominating intrinsic mode functions using Fourier transform. The preprocessed signals have been used to evaluate a new output parameter, that is, chatter index (CI). Artificial neural network (ANN) based on the feedforward backpropagation network has been proposed for predicting tool chatter in turning process. The input machining parameters considered are depth of cut, feed rate and cutting speed. It has also been deduced that from available different transfer functions, the Hyperbolic Tangent transfer function in ANN is best suitable to predict tool chatter severity in turning operation. Moreover, the safe cutting zone has been assessed by evaluating the dependency of CI on cutting parameters. Finally, more experiments have been conducted to validate the obtained cutting zone.
A highly accurate and fast power quality disturbances classification based on dictionary learning sparse decomposition
Authors: Cai Delong , Li Kaicheng , He Shunfan , Li Yuanzheng , Luo Yi
Published: March 2018

This paper proposes a highly accurate and fast power quality disturbances (PQDs) classification using dictionary learning sparse decomposition (DLSD). Firstly, an over-complete dictionary is constructed by combining an identity matrix with a learning dictionary trained by K-SVD algorithm. Secondly, the features and the fuzzy primary classifications of PQDs are obtained by calculating the sparse decomposition coefficients based on the learning dictionary. For being adaptive to sparsity and reducing computational complexity, a fast adaptive matching pursuit (FAMP) using sparsity adaptive algorithm and regularized atom selection is proposed. Then, a decision tree is adopted to accomplish accurate classification by using the estimated features and the pre-classification results. Finally, the proposed approach is tested by PQDs from simulations, IEEE PES database and actual measurements. Moreover, several testing signals, which contain strong noise and frequency deviation, are introduced to further validate DLSD. The results demonstrate that DLSD has a good improvement on computational complexity and classification accuracy when dealing with PQDs classification.
Chronic Discrimination and Sleep Problems in Late Life: Religious Involvement as Buffer
Authors: Bierman Alex , Lee Yeonjung , Schieman Scott
Published: March 2018

The association between chronic discrimination and sleep problems is important to examine in older adults because sleep is highly reactive to stress and impaired sleep has diverse adverse health effects. The association between chronic discrimination and sleep problems may, however, be confounded by a number of time-stable influences, and this association may also vary by religious involvement. In three waves (2006, 2010, and 2014) of the Health and Retirement Study ( N = 7,130), the overall association between chronic discrimination and sleep problems is negated in econometric models that control for all time-stable sources of confounding. Religious involvement does not modify this association for men, but a significant association is found among women who do not attend religious services. These analyses suggest that the association between chronic discrimination and sleep quality in late life is substantially inflated due to unobserved time-stable confounders, although women who do not attend religious services may be at risk.
Reducing Surgical Revisions in Intracranial Complications of Pediatric Acute Sinusitis
Authors: Gitomer Sarah A. , Zhang Wei , Marquez Lucila , Chandy Binoy M.
Published: March 2018

Objective

(1) To describe the demographics and clinical course of children with intracranial complications of sinusitis. (2) To elucidate factors that predict revision surgery in this population, such as type of initial surgery.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care academic children's hospital.

Subjects and Methods

A 15‐year retrospective review identified 71 patients with intracranial complications of acute sinusitis. Primary outcome was need for revision surgery. Secondary outcomes were readmission, length of hospitalization, and long‐term complications.

Results

This study is the largest to date examining this disease process. Overall, 69 (97%) patients had surgery; 33 (46%) required revision surgery. Half of the patients with frontal sinus opacification underwent frontal sinus surgery at presentation (endoscopic, trephination, or cranialization). There was no difference in revision surgery between patients who had frontal sinus surgery and those who did not. Patients with frontal sinus surgery did not have a higher rate of complications or chronic sinusitis (P >. 05). Subdural abscess was associated with multiple surgical procedures (odds ratio, 20.0; P <. 01). Thirty‐four patients (49%) required neurosurgery. These patients had a longer length of stay (odds ratio, 11.0; P <. 01) and a higher readmission rate (P =. 02). During the mean 92‐month follow‐up, 22 patients (33%) had long‐term complications, and there was 1 death (1.4%).

Conclusion

Almost half of this cohort required multiple surgical procedures. In particular, patients with subdural abscess had significantly higher rates of revision surgery. Type of frontal sinus surgery was not correlated with need for revision surgery and was not associated with an increased rate of complications.
National Trends in Vestibular Schwannoma Surgery: Influence of Patient Characteristics on Outcomes
Authors: Hatch Jonathan L. , Bauschard Michael J. , Nguyen Shaun A. , Lambert Paul R. , Meyer Ted A. , McRackan Theodore R.
Published: March 2018

Objective

To characterize current vestibular schwannoma (VS) surgery outcomes with a nationwide database and identify factors associated with increased complications and prolonged hospital course.

Study Design

Retrospective review utilizing the University HealthSystem Consortium national inpatient database.

Setting

US academic health centers.

Subjects and Methods

Data from patients undergoing VS surgery were analyzed over a 3‐year time span (October 2012 to September 2015). Surgical outcomes, such as length of stay (LOS), complications, and mortality, were analyzed on the basis of race, sex, age, and comorbidities during the 30‐day postoperative period.

Results

A total of 3697 VS surgical cases were identified. The overall mortality rate was 0.38%, and the overall complication rate was 5.3%. Advanced age significantly affected intensive care unit LOS, mortality, and complications (P =. 04). Comorbidities, including hypertension, obesity, and depression, also significantly increased complication rates (P =. 02). Sixty‐eight patients (1.8%) had a history of irradiation, and they had a significantly increased LOS (P =. 03).

Conclusion

Modern VS surgery has a low mortality rate and a relatively low rate of complications. Several factors contribute to high complication rates, including age and comorbidities. These data will help providers in counseling patients on which treatment course might be best suited for them.
Steps to Misdiagnosis: Dissecting an Emergency Visit
Authors: Silva Joana , Gerós Sandra , Condé Artur
Published: March 2018

Despite the common sense that we learn from our mistakes, an error is an unwelcome event when we deal with patients. Diagnostic error is common, costly, and the leading cause of malpractice litigation. Yet, errors occur occasionally in a lifetime of practice, and the consequences of these faults are significant for patients and physicians. If someone would have told me that I would miss a brain tumor in my first years of practice, in a patient presenting to my care with several cranial nerve signs, I would not have believed it. Here is how it happened.
Mean Rank, Equipercentile, and Regression Mapping of World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief (WHOQOL-BREF) to EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L) Utilities
Authors: Wee Hwee Lin , Yeo Khung Keong , Chong Kok Joon , Khoo Eric Yin Hao , Cheung Yin Bun
Published: March 2018

Background. Existing methods to link preference-based and profile-based health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaires have their limitations. Hence, we developed a new mapping method (the mean rank method, MRM) and applied it to map the World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) to the EuroQoL 5 Dimensions 5 Levels (EQ-5D-5L). We then compared the new MRM with current methods; i.e., regression-mapped (OLS method) and equipercentile method (EPM). Methods. Singapore residents, aged ≥21 y, were recruited from the general population and 2 outpatient clinics in acute care hospitals. Performance of the MRM was evaluated using both simulation and split-sample validation ( n = 658 in training and n = 657 in validation samples). Using the training sample, we derived 3 sets of mapped EQ-5D-5L utilities based on MRM, OLS method and EPM. Using simulation and the validation sample, we compared the performance of the mapping methods in terms of distribution parameters, mean utility by strata, association with health covariates, and prediction errors at the individual level, among others. Results. The WHOQOL-BREF Physical Health domain is the only domain significantly associated with EQ-5D-5L utilities. Simulation showed that MRM more accurately reproduced the variance and percentiles of the distribution of the observed utilities than did the OLS method or EPM. OLS method tended to underestimate the mean utility of good health states, overestimate the mean utility of poor health states, and underestimate the association with covariates. An analysis of validation sample gave similar results. Conclusion. In scenarios similar to the mapping of WHOQOL-BREF to the EQ-5D-5L, the MRM outperformed the OLS method and EPM in important—though not all—aspects. The simplicity and reproducibility of the MRM makes it an attractive alternative to current methods.
Anterior versus posterior surgical approach for lumbosacral tuberculosis
Authors: Zheng Bolong , Hao Dingjun , Guo Hua , He Baorong
Published: March 2018

Objective

To compare two different approaches for the treatment of lumbosacral tuberculosis.

Patients and Methods

In total, 115 patients who were surgically treated in our department from July 2010 to July 2014 were included in this retrospective study. They were divided into the anterior and posterior approach groups. Intraoperative hemorrhage; the surgery time; the Cobb angle preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the follow-up visit (2 years postoperatively); visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores before and after surgery; and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores before and after surgery were compared between the two groups.

Results

The Cobb angle and VAS and ODI scores were significantly improved in both groups after surgery. Significant differences were found in the operation time, intraoperative hemorrhage, Cobb angle correction, and loss of correction at the last follow-up. No significant differences were found in the VAS and ODI scores between the groups.

Conclusions

The posterior approach is superior to the anterior approach with respect to the surgery time, intraoperative hemorrhage, and Cobb angle postoperatively and at the last follow-up. When both approaches can be carried out for a patient with lumbosacral tuberculosis, the posterior approach should be favored over the anterior approach.
Personality and music major
Authors: Lesiuk Teresa
Published: March 2018

Early research investigating the personality of college-aged student and professional musicians examined traits of music performers, composers, and music teachers. Subsequent research studies followed with examinations of personality in university music programs, several of which employed the Myers-Briggs Personality Inventory (MBTI). The prevalence of MBTI types has not been examined amongst the diversity of music programs currently offered in many universities. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of MBTI psychological type of university music students ( N = 217) across six different music majors (i.e., Music Business, Music Composition, Music Education, Music Engineering, Music Performance, and Music Therapy). The MBTI mental function of Intuitive–Feeling was found to be highly over-represented in the total music sample as compared to national norms, while several other personality preferences significantly dominated or were sparse in the music majors. The findings extend the personality and music research literature and have practical implications for music educators, academic counsellors, college-aged music students, and students who are considering music as a study and career.
Changes in the emotional intelligence of occupational therapy students during practice education: A longitudinal study
Authors: Gribble Nigel , Ladyshewsky Richard K , Parsons Richard
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Emotional intelligence competencies assist occupational therapists in responding in a manner that enables them to be effective healthcare practitioners.

Method

This longitudinal study tracked the emotional intelligence of occupational therapy and business students using the Emotional Quotient Inventory 2.0 at three time-points over the final 16 months of their university programme.

Results

Undergraduate occupational therapy students ( n = 139 at time-point 1; n = 52 at time-point 3) completed a mean of 117 days of practice education. Before occupational therapy students commenced placements, emotional intelligence scores were significantly lower than population norms in self-regard, self-expression, assertiveness, independence, problem-solving, stress management, stress tolerance and flexibility. By the end of their programme, students reported significant increases in the emotional intelligence realms of total emotional intelligence score, self-perception, decision-making, self-actualisation, emotional self-awareness, independence and reality testing. However, assertiveness, problem-solving and stress tolerance remained relatively low, and other emotional intelligence domains remained below the population norms. The business students who did zero practice placements showed no increase in any emotional intelligence domains over the same period.

Conclusion

Emotional intelligence skills are malleable and can improve during practice placements. Supervisors and employers should encourage students and new graduates to practice their emotional intelligence skills under supervision and then provide feedback, so they are better prepared for the emotional demands of healthcare workplaces.
‘Real-life’ experience with direct-acting antiviral agents for hepatitis C virus in end-stage renal disease
Authors: García-Agudo Rebeca , Aoufi-Rabih Sami , Salgueira-Lazo Mercedes , González-Corvillo Carmen , Fabrizi Fabrizio
Published: March 2018

Background and Aims:

The advent of direct-acting antiviral agents promises to change the management of hepatitis C in patients with end-stage renal disease, a patient group where the treatment of hepatitis C was historically challenging. We investigated the safety and efficacy of all-oral, interferon-free direct-acting antiviral agents for the treatment of hepatitis C in a ‘real-world’ group of patients with end-stage renal disease.

Methods:

We performed a single-arm, multi-centre study in a cohort (n=30) of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (mostly on dialysis) who underwent antiviral therapy with direct-acting antiviral agents. The primary end-point was sustained virologic response (serum hepatitis C virus RNA < 15 mIU/mL, 12 weeks after treatment ended). We collected data on on-treatment adverse events, serious adverse events and laboratory abnormalities.

Results:

In total, 23 (77%) and 7 (23%) patients underwent regular dialysis and had chronic kidney disease at pre-dialysis stage, respectively. Six regimens were adopted: elbasvir/grazoprevir ( n = 6), ledipasvir/sofosbuvir ± ribavirin ( n = 4), PrOD regimens ± ribavirin ( n = 10), simeprevir + daclatasvir ( n = 3), sofosbuvir + daclatasvir ± ribavirin ( n = 3), sofosbuvir + ribavirin ( n = 4). The SVR12 rate was 90% (95% confidence interval, 74%; 96%). A total of 27 (90%) patients achieved SVR12; there were three virologic failures – two were non-responders and one had a viral breakthrough while on therapy. Adverse events occurred in 53% (16/30) (95% confidence interval, 0.39; 0.73) of patients and were managed clinically without discontinuation of therapy or hospitalization. The most common adverse event was anaemia ( n = 12) that required blood transfusions in seven individuals; deterioration of kidney function occurred in one (14%).

Conclusion:

All-oral, interferon-free therapy with direct-acting antiviral agents for chronic hepatitis C virus in advanced chronic kidney disease was effective and well tolerated in a ‘real-life’ clinical setting. Careful monitoring of haemoglobin and serum creatinine during therapy with direct-acting antiviral agents is suggested. Studies are under way to address whether sustained viral response translates into better survival in this population.
Toward a Cultural-Structural Theory of Suicide: Examining Excessive Regulation and Its Discontents
Authors: Abrutyn Seth , Mueller Anna S.
Published: March 2018

Despite its enduring insights, Durkheim’s theory of suicide fails to account for a significant set of cases because of its overreliance on structural forces to the detriment of other possible factors. In this paper, we develop a new theoretical framework for thinking about the role of culture in vulnerability to suicide. We argue that by focusing on the cultural dynamics of excessive regulation, particularly at the meso level, a more robust sociological model for suicide could be offered that supplements structure-heavy Durkheimian theory. In essence, we argue that the relevance of cultural regulation to suicide rests on the (1) degree to which culture is coherent in sociocultural places, (2) existence of directives related to prescribing or proscribing suicide, (3) degree to which these directives translate into internalized meanings affecting social psychological processes, and (4) degree to which the social space is bounded. We then illustrate how our new theory provides useful insights into three cases of suicide largely neglected within sociology: specifically, suicide clusters in high schools, suicide in the military, and suicides of “despair” among middle-aged white men. We conclude with implications for future sociological research on suicide and suicide prevention.
A crisis by any other name? Examining the effects of journalistic “crisis labeling” on corporate perceptions
Authors: Appelman Alyssa , Asmara Michelle
Published: March 2018

In a between-subjects experiment (N = 88), participants who read about the “FreshVeg, Inc. tomato crisis” were more likely to say they lost confidence in the product than were participants who read about the “tomato crisis.” Interestingly, similar results were not seen regarding confidence in the company or other corporate perceptions. Overall, this study suggests limited effects of journalistic micro-frames during a public relations crisis. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
“Developing That Balance”: Preparing and Supporting Special Education Teachers to Work With Paraprofessionals
Authors: Biggs Elizabeth E. , Gilson Carly B. , Carter Erik W.
Published: March 2018

The prominence of paraprofessionals in the education of students with severe disabilities highlights the importance of ensuring special education teachers provide effective supervision and support. The authors conducted in-depth individual interviews with members of nine educational teams—a total of 22 teachers and paraprofessionals—to identify (a) the competencies they consider important for special education teachers to work effectively with paraprofessionals and (b) their recommendations for equipping teachers to develop these competencies. Participants identified 10 competencies addressing three areas contributing to balanced leadership: knowledge, skills, and dispositions. They also recommended eight avenues for leadership development spanning three broad pathways: university-based preparation, school/district support, and personal development. The authors’ findings suggest the need to embed development of these competencies within existing training and support programs for teachers. The authors offer recommendations for future research and practice targeting teacher development in these areas.
Inclusion of ‘Outsiders’ by Japanese Unions? The Organizing of Non-Regular Workers in Retail
Authors: Keizer Arjan B
Published: March 2018

A strong rise in non-regular employment has posed a major challenge to Japanese trade unions which have long limited membership to regular employees. However, a number of mainstream unions in the retail industry have responded by organizing non-regular workers. The article draws on a series of semi-structured interviews with union representatives to analyse the initiatives by the industrial federation UA Zensen and three affiliated enterprise unions. It addresses the implications for both the workers and the unions concerned. Unions have provided a stronger voice to non-regular workers and negotiated better working conditions. However, it has not brought material equality with regular workers or major changes to Japanese unionism. Instead, the enterprise-based and cooperative nature of unionism has shaped the initiatives and reproduced traditional equilibria and processes between labour and management, thus constraining the ability of unions to develop a strong stance for the emancipation of non-regular workers.
Ligament characterization of atomizing non-Newtonian liquid sheets: Fractal dimension
Authors: Zhao Yue , Yang Lijun , Fu Qingfei
Published: March 2018

As gel propellants are increasingly used in rocket engines, non-Newtonian liquid atomization has emerged as a research subject of great interest. This paper addresses the atomization of flat sheets of aqueous xanthan gum solution, which are formed from two jets ejected from impinging injectors. Based on the experimental photos, it has been found that gel liquid sheets do not break up directly into droplets that can be characterized as spheres with Sauter mean diameter; instead, a mass of ligaments is observed. Therefore, this paper will introduce fractal dimension as a new parameter, related to the quality of atomization under these experimental conditions; and a power-law correlation between fractal dimension and Reynolds number of liquid jets has been achieved.
Damage detection in grouted connections using electromechanical impedance spectroscopy
Authors: Moll Jochen
Published: March 2018

Grouted connections are structural joints formed by a cementitious grout cast between two concentric circular tubes. They are widely used in the offshore construction of oil and gas platforms, and for offshore wind turbines (monopiles and jackets). However, their application in offshore wind turbine installations can be critical due to the high bending moments coming from wind loading. Recently, it was found that grouted connections show limited performance in offshore wind turbine installations leading to settlements between the steel tubes and steel/grout debonding. Hence, structural health monitoring techniques for grouted connections are needed that ensure a safe and reliable operation of offshore wind turbines. This short communication describes the successful application of electromechanical impedance spectroscopy for damage detection in grouted connections.