bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TRAIL signaling is proinflammatory and proviral in a murine model of rhinovirus 1B infection
Authors: Girkin Jason L. , Hatchwell Luke M. , Collison Adam M. , Starkey Malcolm R. , Hansbro Philip M. , Yagita Hideo , Foster Paul S. , Mattes Joerg
Published: November 2016

the aim of this study is to elucidate the role of TRAIL during rhinovirus (RV) infection in vivo. Naïve wild-type and tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL)-deficient ( Tnfsf10 −/−) BALB/c mice were infected intranasally with RV1B. In separate experiments, Tnfsf10 −/− mice were sensitized and challenged via the airway route with house dust mite (HDM) to induce allergic airways disease and then challenged with RVIB or UV-RVIB. Airway hyperreactivity (AHR) was invasively assessed as total airways resistance in response to increasing methacholine challenge and inflammation was assessed in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid at multiple time points postinfection. Chemokines were quantified by ELISA of whole lung lysates and viral load was determined by quantitative RT-PCR and tissue culture infective dose (TCID50). Human airway epithelial cells (BEAS2B) were infected with RV1B and stimulated with recombinant TRAIL or neutralizing anti-TRAIL antibodies and viral titer assessed by TCID50. HDM-challenged Tnfsf10 −/− mice were protected against RV-induced AHR and had suppressed cellular infiltration in the airways upon RV infection. Chemokine C-X-C-motif ligand 2 (CXCL2) production was suppressed in naïve Tnfsf10 −/− mice infected with RV1B, with less RV1B detected 24 h postinfection. This was associated with reduced apoptotic cell death and a reduction of interferon (IFN)-λ2/3 but not IFN-α or IFN-β. TRAIL stimulation increased, whereas anti-TRAIL antibodies reduced viral replication in RV1B-infected BEAS2B cells in vitro. In conclusion, TRAIL promotes RV-induced AHR, inflammation and RV1B replication, implicating this molecule and its downstream signaling pathways as a possible target for the amelioration of RV1B-induced allergic and nonallergic lung inflammation and AHR.
Phase I Study of Epigenetic Priming with Azacitidine Prior to Standard Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Patients with Resectable Gastric and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma: Evidence of Tumor Hypomethylation as an Indicator of Major Histopathologic Response
Authors: Schneider Bryan J. , Shah Manish A. , Klute Kelsey , Ocean Allyson , Popa Elizabeta , Altorki Nasser , Lieberman Michael , Schreiner Andrew , Yantiss Rhonda , Christos Paul J. , Palmer Romae , You Daoqi , Viale Agnes , Kermani Pouneh , Scandura Joseph M.
Published: November 2016

Purpose: Epigenetic silencing of tumor suppressor genes (TSG) is an acquired abnormality observed in cancer and is prototypically linked to DNA methylation. We postulated that pretreatment (priming) with 5-azacitidine would increase the efficacy of chemotherapy by reactivating TSGs. This study was conducted to identify a tolerable dose of 5-azacitidine prior to EOX (epirubicin, oxaliplatin, capecitabine) neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced esophageal/gastric adenocarcinoma (EGC).

Experimental Design: Eligible patients had untreated, locally advanced, resectable EGC, ECOG 0–2, and adequate organ function. 5-Azacitidine (V, 75 mg/m2) was given subcutaneously for 3 (dose level, DL 1) or 5 (DL 2) days prior to each 21-day cycle of EOX (E, 50 mg/m2; O, 130 mg/m2; X, 625 mg/m2 twice daily for 21 days). Standard 3+3 methodology guided V dose escalation. DNA methylation at control and biomarker regions was measured by digital droplet, bisulfite qPCR in tumor samples collected at baseline and at resection.

Results: All subjects underwent complete resection of residual tumor (R0). Three of the 12 patients (25%) achieved a surgical complete response and 5 had partial responses. The overall response rate was 67%. The most common toxicities were gastrointestinal and hematologic. Hypomethylation of biomarker genes was observed at all dose levels and trended with therapeutic response.

Conclusions: Neoadjuvant VEOX was well-tolerated with significant clinical and epigenetic responses, with preliminary evidence that priming with V prior to chemotherapy may augment chemotherapy efficacy. The recommended phase II trial schedule is 5-azacitidine 75 mg/m2 for 5 days followed by EOX chemotherapy every 21 days. Clin Cancer Res; 23(11); 2673–80. ©2016 AACR.
Delivery of Soluble Heme Oxygenase 1 Cell-Penetrating Peptide into Liver Cells in in vitro and ex vivo Models of Cold Ischemia
Authors: Venkatachalam Ananda Baskaran , Livingstone Scott Michael , Hu Qianni , Ray Ayush , Wood Caroline , Cimen Sanem , Alwayn Ian Patrick Joseph
Published: November 2016

Background/Purpose: Liver transplantation is the treatment of choice in patients with end-stage liver disease. During liver transplantation, ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) occurs, which is an inevitable consequence of the transplantation process. To reduce the extent of cellular injury, one of the proteins that have been extensively investigated is heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1), which plays an important role in protecting the organs against IRI. The aim of this study was to introduce an active and functional HO-1 protein conjugated to a cell-penetrating peptide (CPP) in vitro and ex vivo into liver cells in hypothermic and anoxic conditions and to assert its cytoprotective effects. Methods: We generated an enzymatically active soluble (s)HO-1-CPP recombinant protein. The ability of the sHO-1-CPP protein to penetrate McA-RH7777, Clone 9, and Hep G2 cells, primary hepatocytes, and Kupffer and human umbilical vein endothelial cells in vitro, as well as its ability to penetrate a whole liver ex vivo under hypothermic and anoxic conditions, was assessed. An in vitro hypoxia-reoxygenation (HR) model was used to determine the cytoprotective effect of the sHO-1-CPP protein. Results: We showed that our recombinant protein sHO-1-CPP can cross cell membranes into rodent and human liver cells in vitro, and the results were further validated ex vivo, where rodent livers were perfused with an organ preservation solution supplemented with sHO-1-CPP under anoxic and hypothermic conditions. Immunohistochemistry revealed an intracellular localization of sHO-1-CPP in zones 1-3 of the perfused livers. The CPP did not exert any significant toxicity on the cells. Treating cells with sHO-1-CPP showed significant cytoprotection in the in vitro HR model. Conclusions: Our findings show that the recombinant protein sHO-1-CPP can be successfully delivered to cells of a whole organ in an ex vivo hypothermic and anoxic perfusion model and that it provides cytoprotection to hepatocytes in an in vitro HR model. These results hold great potential for future repair and protection of donor organs. Future experiments are planned to confirm these data in in vivo models of IRI.
Applying the Paris System for Reporting Urine Cytology Increases the Rate of Atypical Urothelial Cells in Benign Cases: A Need for Patient Management Recommendations
Authors: Granados Rosario , Duarte Joanny A. , Corrales Teresa , Camarmo Encarnación , Bajo Paloma
Published: November 2016

The Paris System (TPS) for reporting urinary cytology attempts to unify the terminology in this field. Objectives: To analyze the impact of adopting TPS by measuring nomenclature agreement and cytohistological correlation. Materials and Methods: Voided urine liquid-based cytology samples corresponding to 149 biopsy-proven cases (76 high-grade carcinomas, 40 low-grade carcinomas, and 33 benign lesions), were reclassified by the same pathologist using TPS. Diagnostic agreement and sensitivity for both nomenclature systems was measured. Results: When using TPS, the rate of atypical samples increased 8 times (from 3 to 24.2%) in benign cases, 10 times (from 2.5 to 25%) in low-grade carcinomas, and 2.4 times (from 6.6 to 15.8%) in high-grade carcinomas. The false-positive rate (abnormal cytology in negative or low-grade carcinoma cases) increased from 11 to 34.2%. Sensitivity was higher (63 vs. 49%) with TPS at the expense of a lower specificity (73 vs. 91%). The agreement between both nomenclatures was moderate for negative and high-grade carcinoma cases (k = 0.42 and 0.56, respectively) and weak for low-grade tumors (k = 0.35). Conclusions: Adopting TPS for reporting urine cytology results in a considerable increase in atypical diagnoses, improving sensitivity but lowering specificity. Appropriate management recommendations for patients with an atypical cytological diagnosis are required.
Systematic Review and Net-Work Meta-Analysis of Upper Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage Interventions
Authors: Jiang Mengyuan , Chen Pan , Gao Qiang
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage (UGH) is a serious medical condition which affects a large number of individuals. Endoscopic therapy accompanied by medication is a standard approach that is used to improve the prognosis of UGH patients and a few medications have been developed including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), histamine H2 receptor antagonist (H2RA), somatostatin analogues and tranexamic acid. This study is set to compare the efficacy and safety of various medical interventions that are used to manage upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase for relevant articles. Eligible studies were determined by using both the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Both traditional pair-wise meta-analysis and net-work analysis were carried out to evaluate the corresponding interventions. Results and Conclusion: PPI is an effective medication for UGH patients and intravenous PPI exhibits equivalent effectiveness and safety in comparison to oral PPI. H2RA is not recommended for UGH patients as patients treated with H2RA are associated with an increased risk of adverse events including rebleeding, need for surgery and all-cause mortality. Moreover, patients treated with H2RA exhibit an increased length of average hospital stay and blood transfusion amount compared to those treated with PPI. Tranexamic acid is also considered as another promising medication for UGH.
Lifestyle of college students: follow-up study during the first two years of the undergraduate
Authors: Brito Bruno J. Q. , Gordia Alex P. , Quadros Teresa M. B.
Published: November 2016

Introduction: The lifestyle (LS) have been constituted as a going concern factor in today’s society, since low levels of health and well -being may lead to adverse consequences , especially in vulnerable groups such as college students, whose behavior acquired at this stage can be extended to other stages of life. Model of the study: Cohort study. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the lifestyle of college students during the first two years of the undergraduate program. Methods: The study enrolled, students who enrolled in undergraduate programs of Teacher Education Center of the Federal University of Bahia Reconcavo in the first half of the school year 2010. The lifestyle was determined by using the selfadministered questionnaire “Style life Fantastic”. We used the Chi-square test, McNemar test and relative risk (RR), considering p<0.05. The sample that participated in the entire follow-up period was composed of 92 students (64.1% female). Results: There was an increasing trend in the prevalence of students who had unhealthy global LS (16.3% vs. 21.7%). Students who have already entered with LS unhealthy for the domains “Family and Friends” (RR=2.17; 95%CI: 1.25-3.76) and “introspection” (RR=1.69; 95%CI: 1.02-2.81) were at higher risk to remain with this behavior at the end of the second year of the degree course. Conclusions: Analyzing these results, together with the other findings of this study, it is concluded that the time spent in graduate influenced the LS students studied. Thus, it is suggested that public policies for health promotion are developed within the university campuses in order to contribute to the adoption of healthier behaviors among their students
Notes on the nomenclature of Sicista Griffith, 1827 (Rodentia: Sminthidae)
Authors: RUSIN MIKHAIL , GHAZALI MARIA , SEMENIKHINA MARIA
Published: November 2016

The nomenclature of the genus Sicista Griffith, 1827 was believed to be reviewed and finally established by Holden & Musser (2005) in the third edition of the Mammal Species of the World. After examining a number of ancient texts we came to several conclusions that should affect the scientific names of several taxa, particularly their synonymy, authorship and dates of publishing. We propose the following names as valid: Sminthidae Brandt, 1855; Sicista Griffith, 1827; Sicista lorigera (Nordmann, 1839); Sicista betulina (Pallas, 1779); and Sicista subtilis vaga (Pallas, 1779). Sicista trizona transylvanica is nomenclaturally available from the publication of the final version of a paper by Cserkész et al. (2016), but not from the early view of that paper which appeared in 2015.
Darevskia and Iberolacerta (Reptilia, Lacertidae): Arribas, 1997 or 1999? The correct dating of two nomenclatural acts affecting Palearctic lizards, and validation of the name Caucasilacerta Harris, Arnold & Thomas, 1998

Authors: BUSACK STEPHEN D. , SALVADOR ALFREDO , BAUER AARON M. , KAISER HINRICH
Published: November 2016

A doctoral thesis presented in the late 1990s by óscar J. Arribas has been frequently cited as the authority for the nomenclatural status of two generic names in the lizard family Lacertidae, Darevskia and Iberolacerta. These names were again introduced, along with the addition of the subgeneric name Pyrenesaura, in 1999 via publication in an international, peer-reviewed journal. We discuss nomenclatural aspects of how these taxon names were presented, detail inconsistencies in the use of publication dates associated with these names, and resolve nomenclatural problems by demonstrating that the date of their first publication, in compliance with the International Code of Zoological Nomenclature, was 1999. This renders the name Darevskia Arribas, 1999 a junior invalid synonym of Caucasilacerta Harris, Arnold & Thomas, 1998, which, contrary to previous assessment, is not a nomen nudum, and must replace Darevskia as the valid name for this genus.
A High-Resolution Aerial Survey and Radar Analysis of Quasi-Linear Convective System Surface Vortex Damage Paths from 31 August 2014
Authors: Skow Kevin D. , Cogil Craig
Published: November 2016

On the evening of 31 August 2014, a powerful quasi-linear convective system (QLCS) impacted much of Iowa. In the weeks following the event, the entire path of the QLCS was imaged at ~1-m resolution using aerial photography through the National Agriculture Imagery Program. The predominantly flat, mature agricultural land cover of central Iowa provided an excellent medium on which to document wind phenomena of varying scales. The high-resolution aerial data, in combination with recent spatial, temporal, and polarimetric upgrades to the Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) network, offer an extraordinary glimpse into the quantity, evolution, and scale of surface vortices generated throughout the entire lifespan of this QLCS. One hundred eleven damage tracks associated with these vortices were cataloged along the storm’s 350-km path, ranging in length from 130 m to nearly 18 km. This study classified 35 of these circulations as tornadoes using a series of tests that weighed track characteristics and radar data. Unusual features, such as a likely tornado merger and multiple instances of tornadoes occluding behind the leading edge of the QLCS surface cold pool, are examined. Possible genesis mechanisms and National Weather Service operational implications are also discussed. A new, behavioral-based approach for identifying a tornadic debris signature (TDS) is presented that may be better suited for QLCS tornadoes. Twelve TDSs were cataloged on 31 August 2014 using this methodology at ranges up to 90 km from the Des Moines, Iowa, WSR-88D.
Antiplatelet Therapy for Non–ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Complex “Real” Clinical Scenarios: A Consensus Document of the “Campania NSTEMI Study Group”
Authors: Scherillo Marino , Cirillo Plinio , Formigli Dario , Bonzani Giulio , Calabrò Paolo , Capogrosso Paolo , Farina Rosario , Lanzillo Tonino , Mascia Franco , Mauro Ciro , Tuccillo Bernardino , Bellis Alessandro , Bianchi Renato , Cimmino Giovanni , Piro Orlando , Ravera Amelia , Scotto di Uccio Fortunato , Tammaro Paolo , Vetrano Alfredo , Trimarco Bruno
Published: November 2016

The incidence of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) has significantly decreased. Conversely, the rate of non-STEMI (NSTEMI) has increased. Patients with NSTEMI have lower short-term mortality compared to patients with STEMI, whereas at long-term follow-up, the mortality becomes comparable. This might be due to the differences in baseline characteristics, including older age and a greater prevalence of comorbidities in the NSTEMI population. Although antithrombotic strategies used in patients with NSTEMI have been well studied in clinical trials and updated guidelines are available, patterns of use and outcomes in clinical practice are less well described. Thus, a panel of Italian cardiology experts assembled under the auspices of the “Campania NSTEMI Study Group” for comprehensive discussion and consensus development to provide practical recommendations, for both clinical and interventional cardiologists, regarding optimal management of antithrombotic therapy in patients with NSTEMI. This position article presents and discusses various clinical scenarios in patients with NSTEMI or unstable angina, including special subsets (eg, patients aged ≥85 years, patients with chronic renal disease or previous cerebrovascular events, and patients requiring triple therapy or long-term antithrombotic therapy), with the panel recommendations being provided for each scenario.
Multivariate Analysis of Risk Factors in the Development of a Lower-Pitched Voice After Thyroidectomy
Authors: Park Jun-Ook , Bae Ja-Sung , Lee So-Hee , Shim Mi-Ran , Hwang Yeon-Shin , Joo Young-Hoon , Park Young Hak , Sun Dong-Il
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

Thyroid surgeons frequently encounter outpatients with mobile vocal cords complaining of lower-pitched voices following thyroidectomy. This study investigated the clinical and pathological parameters affecting voice pitch following thyroid surgery.

Methods:

We analyzed the data of 393 patients with mobile vocal cords and who also underwent thyroid surgery. Speaking fundamental frequency (SFF) and fundamental frequency (F0) were compared before and after surgery.

Results:

Approximately 26.7% of patients had significantly lowered SFFs (ΔSFF ≥ 12 Hz), and 30.2% exhibited significantly lower sustained vowel F0s (ΔF0 ≥ 12 Hz) following thyroid surgery. On multivariate analysis, only gender: female remained a significant predictor of a clinically significant change in SFF following thyroid surgery ( P < .001). Gender: female and extent of surgery: total remained significant predictors of a clinically significant change in F0 after surgery ( P = .006 and P = .007, respectively).

Conclusions:

Appreciable proportions of patients experience lower-pitched voice and related vocal symptoms early after thyroid surgery. Such problems develop more frequently in females who underwent total thyroidectomy.
Nasal and Tracheal Cytological Changes After Total Laryngectomy in Long-Term Survivors
Authors: Riva Giuseppe , Boita Monica , Corvino Andrea , Sensini Matteo , Peruzzetto Daniela , Chiusa Luigi , Pecorari Giancarlo , Garzaro Massimiliano
Published: November 2016

Objective:

Complete separation of upper and lower respiratory tract after total laryngectomy results in permanent effects on nasal cavities and tracheo-bronchial airways. Aim of this study is evaluating nasal and tracheal cytological alterations of mucosa in laryngectomy long-term survivors, analyzing the feasibility of scraping for cytological examination of tracheal mucosa.

Methods:

Twenty-five laryngectomy patients underwent symptoms’ evaluation, endoscopic fiber optic examination, prick tests, and nasal and tracheal scraping for cytological exam. Twenty-five healthy subjects underwent the same assessment, except for tracheal scraping. Eleven laryngectomy patients accepted inferior turbinate biopsy for histological examination.

Results:

Nasal cytological analysis demonstrated mucous cell metaplasia in 20% of laryngectomized patients, but it was absent in all healthy subjects; no squamous cell metaplasia was found in both groups. In 15 patients (60%), bacteria were present, without inflammatory infiltrate. Tracheal cytological analysis demonstrated a quite high rate of squamous cell metaplasia (24%), neutrophilic infiltrate (32%), and presence of bacteria (40%). Histological examination of inferior turbinate showed submucosal stromal fibrosis in all patients and submucosal inflammatory infiltrate in 1 case (9%).

Conclusion:

Nasal cavities and trachea of laryngectomy patients undergo long-term cytological and histological changes of mucosa and submucosa, probably due to airflow modifications.
Soft Palate Injuries During Orotracheal Intubation With the Videolaryngoscope
Authors: Pham Quang , Lentner Mark , Hu Amanda
Published: November 2016

Objective:

The videolaryngoscope has gained popularity for providing superior visualization in intubations. A rare complication of this technology is soft palate injury. Through a literature review and case series, we highlight the risks associated with the Glidescope and McGrath videolaryngoscopes and the management of soft palate injuries.

Method:

A case series of multi-institutional review of medical records was performed to identify patients with soft palate injuries from the videolaryngoscope. A literature review was also performed to analyze risk factors, mechanism of injury, complications, and management of palate injuries.

Results:

Of 9 cases, 3 resulted in soft palate perforations, which required primary closure. The remaining 6 patients sustained a soft palate laceration, which was treated conservatively. This injury commonly occurs when the intubator is focused on the video monitor and blindly inserts the Glidescope into the oropharynx. The rigid stylet used with the Glidescope increases the propensity for oropharyngeal injuries during blind insertions.

Conclusion:

Proper training, an awareness of this potential complication, and direct oral cavity visualization are recommended while inserting the videolaryngoscope. Repair is recommended for through-and-through perforations or if a large hanging flap is present. Antibiotics should be considered for lacerations greater than 1 to 2 cm.
Diagnostic Challenges in a Case of IgG4-RD Affecting the Temporal Bone
Authors: Vuncannon Jackson Ross , Panella Nicholas John , Magliocca Kelly R , Mattox Douglas E.
Published: November 2016

Introduction:

Immunoglobulin G4–related disease (IgG4-RD) is a recently described fibroinflammatory condition with a characteristic histology. While IgG4-RD can affect a great variety of anatomical sites, it has been seldom described in the temporal bone.

Methods:

Herein, a case IgG4-RD occurring in the temporal bone of a 35-year-old woman is reported.

Discussion:

This case of IgG4-RD of the temporal bone proved a uniquely challenging diagnosis due to slightly atypical histology falling outside of “highly suggestive” criteria.

Conclusions:

We suggest that IgG4-RD remains a challenging diagnosis to reach despite increased awareness of the condition. We further suggest that clinicopathologic correlation remain the cornerstone of diagnosis as the spectrum of presentations of this newly described disease may be wider than previously anticipated.
Board Socio-Cognitive Decision-Making and Task Performance Under Heightened Expectations of Accountability
Authors: Brown Jill A. , Buchholtz Ann , Butts Marcus M. , Ward Andrew J.
Published: November 2016

This study examines how heightened expectations of board responsibility and accountability affect the socio-cognitive decision-making of boards and their collective task performance. Using data from the directors of 60 boards who served before and after the enactment of Sarbanes–Oxley, this study provides insight into the potential negative impact that this tightened accountability environment can have on a board’s task performance. Examining several socio-cognitive elements of board decision-making, board authority is found to have a positive main effect on board task performance, while relative CEO power and affective conflict have curvilinear relationships with board task performance. Cohesiveness also moderates the relationship between a board’s perceived uncertainty and affective conflict with board task performance. In sum, the model shows how a new era of director accountability can affect the social cognitions of board decision-making that underlie board task performance.
The Death of Imhotep: A Hermeneutical Framework for Understanding the Lack of Black Males in STEM Fields
Authors: Mocombe Paul C.
Published: November 2016

In Afrocentric circles in the United States, ancient Kemetic (Egyptian) scientist Imhotep is considered the Black father of medicine. In this article, I use his name in the title as an allusion to highlight the lack of Black males matriculating in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs or fields in the United States. The work offers a more appropriate structural Marxist hermeneutical framework for contextualizing, conceptualizing, exploring, and evaluating the locus of causality for the Black/White and Black male/female academic achievement gaps in general, and the lack of Black males in STEM programs in the United States of America in particular. The two I argue are interrelated. Positing that in general the origins of the Black/White and Black male/female academic achievement gap is grounded in what Paul C. Mocombe refers to as a “mismatch of linguistic structure and social class function.” Within Mocombe’s structural Marxist theoretical framework, the lack of Black males in STEM programs is a result of the social class functions associated with prisons, the urban street life, and athletics and entertainment industries where the majority of urban Black males are interpellated and achieve their status, social mobility, and economic gain (embourgeoisement) over education and academic professionalization.
Group Lending, Joint Liability, and Social Capital
Authors: Haldar Antara , Stiglitz Joseph E.
Published: November 2016

This article grapples with the causes of India’s microfinance crisis. By contrasting Bangladesh’s highly successful Grameen model with the allegedly “universalizable” version of India’s SKS Microfinance (which precipitated the crisis), trust or social capital is isolated—not just narrowly interpreted within standard economic theory, but more broadly construed—as the essential element accounting for the early success of microfinance. It is argued that the microfinance experience has been widely misinterpreted, in both analytical and policy terms. This article suggests inherent limits in extending the model to for-profit institutions and, in particular, to the pace of scaling up.
Freedom of Thought as a Basic Liberty
Authors: Swaine Lucas
Published: November 2016

Freedom of thought has been lauded in political theory and celebrated in human rights discourse. But what kind of freedom is it? I propose that freedom of thought deserves status as a basic liberty, given the significance of thought to human life, the fundamental importance of freedom of thought in establishing and sustaining crucial rights and freedoms, and the value of being able to develop and experience one’s thoughts without undue influence from others.
Distributed Concept Reviews Improve Exam Performance
Authors: Blasiman Rachael N.
Published: November 2016

Distributed practice is a learning strategy in which studying is distributed, or spaced, across multiple study sessions. Another learning technique, interleaved practice, mixes material from multiple lectures. I designed this study to test the effect of distributed concept reviews of interleaved material on exam scores in an introductory psychology course. Students who received the concept review outperformed students who did not receive the review—a result driven by exam questions related to concepts presented in the review itself. In fact, the number of times a concept was presented in the review was directly related to the likelihood of a correct response on the exam. These results indicate that distributed, interleaved concept reviews are an effective method of improving student learning in broad introductory courses.
An Improved Rank Correlation Effect Size Statistic for Single-Case Designs: Baseline Corrected Tau
Authors: Tarlow Kevin R.
Published: November 2016

Measuring treatment effects when an individual’s pretreatment performance is improving poses a challenge for single-case experimental designs. It may be difficult to determine whether improvement is due to the treatment or due to the preexisting baseline trend. Tau- U is a popular single-case effect size statistic that purports to control for baseline trend. However, despite its strengths, Tau- U has substantial limitations: Its values are inflated and not bound between −1 and +1, it cannot be visually graphed, and its relatively weak method of trend control leads to unacceptable levels of Type I error wherein ineffective treatments appear effective. An improved effect size statistic based on rank correlation and robust regression, Baseline Corrected Tau, is proposed and field-tested with both published and simulated single-case time series. A web-based calculator for Baseline Corrected Tau is also introduced for use by single-case investigators.
Two‐Year Follow‐up of a Randomized Controlled Nutrition Intervention Trial in Very Low‐Birth‐Weight Infants
Authors: Roelants Jorine A. , Vlaardingerbroek Hester , van den Akker Chris H. P. , de Jonge Rogier C. J. , van Goudoever Johannes B. , Vermeulen Marijn J.
Published: November 2016

Background: Very low‐birth‐weight (VLBW) infants are at risk for neurodevelopment impairment. This study assessed the effect of early aggressive parenteral nutrition (PN) on long‐term outcome in VLBW infants. Materials and Methods: Directly after birth, VLBW infants (birth weight <1500 g, n = 142) were randomized to 5 different PN regimes. Controls (n = 46) received glucose and standard‐dose amino acids (AAs; 2.4 g/[kg·d]) from birth onward and pure soybean oil fat emulsion (SOY) on the second day of life. Two intervention groups received glucose, standard‐dose AAs, and lipids from birth onward: SOY (n = 24) or mixed fat emulsion (MIX, n = 25). The 2 other intervention groups received glucose, high‐dose AAs (3.6 g/[kg·d]), and lipids from birth onward: SOY (n = 24) or MIX (n = 23). The primary outcome of this follow‐up study was the composite outcome of “death or major disability” at 2 years corrected age. Secondary outcomes were death, major disabilities, neurodevelopmental scores, and anthropometry. Results: Follow‐up rate was 92% (n = 134). Thirty‐five (26%) infants had died or had a major disability, with no differences between intervention groups and controls. Increased odds for death were observed in the standard‐dose AA‐MIX group (odds ratio, 5.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–27.0). Neurodevelopmental scores and incidence of major disabilities did not differ between groups. Growth in the high‐dose AA‐MIX group was enhanced compared with growth in controls at 2 years corrected age (+0.51 [0.01–1.02] weight SDS). Conclusion: This randomized controlled hypothesis‐generating study demonstrated no beneficial effect of early high‐dose AA administration and mixed fat emulsions on survival and neurodevelopmental outcome in VLBW infants, although growth was enhanced.
Secrecy, transparency and government whistleblowing
Authors: Harwood William H.
Published: November 2016

In the first part of the 21st century, the complicated relationship between transparency and security reached a boiling point with revelations of extra-judicial CIA activities, near universal NSA monitoring and unprecedented whistleblowing – and prosecution of whistleblowers under the Espionage Act. This article examines the dual necessities of security (specifically, the Intelligence Community) and transparency (specifically, the Fourth Estate or media) for any democracy, and the manner in which whistleblowers radically saddle this Janus-faced relationship. Then I will move to contemporary examples of whistleblowing, showing how and why some prove more damaging or beneficial than others. I will conclude with some suggestions as to practical reforms which might mitigate the seemingly inevitable pendulum-swinging between Snowden-style vigilantism and a panoptic security state.
Effective and selective removal of aromatic amines from water by Cu2+-treated chitosan/alumina nanocomposite
Authors: Zavareh Siamak , Avanes Armen , Beiramyan Parizad
Published: November 2016

The pollution of natural waters with aromatic amines is of serious environmental concern. The aim of this work was to enhance the ability of chitosan for selective and effective removal of aromatic amines from natural waters. The chitosan was modified with the inclusion of nano-Al2O3 and then the impregnation with Cu2+ solution. The study on the chemical structure of the modified adsorbent by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed the formation of a complex between amine groups of the chitosan and Cu(II) on the adsorbent surface. It was found that the modified adsorbent, Cu–chitosan/nano-Al2O3, has more porous surface morphology and so more specific surface area available for adsorption. The adsorption properties of the modified adsorbent toward aniline and dimethyl aniline as typical aromatic amines were investigated using kinetics and isotherm studies at room temperature. The adsorption equilibrium data were fitted well by the Freundlich isotherm model. The kinetic data exhibited a non-linear fit to pseudo-second-order model for both aniline and dimethyl aniline. The adsorption capacity of Cu–chitosan/nano-Al2O3 was much higher than that of neat chitosan and chitosan/nano-Al2O3. The adsorbent had high selectivity for adsorption of aniline and dimethyl aniline in the presence of chloride, nitrate, sulfate, phosphate, and carbonate as natural waters common anions. The modified adsorbent exhibited good regeneration ability. The results showed that the introduced adsorbent can be employed as an effective chitosan-based adsorbent for selective removal of aromatic amines from natural waters.
The roles of academic libraries in propagating open science
Authors: Ogungbeni John I. , Obiamalu Amaka R. , Ssemambo Samuel , Bazibu Charles M.
Published: November 2016

This study investigates the roles of academic libraries in propagating Open Science. The study is a qualitative survey based on literature review. Various definitions of open science from different scholars and schools of thought were examined. Research articles on the effects of open science on research and the place of academic libraries in scientific research were reviewed. Open science enhances collaborations and sharing of resources among researchers. Metadata related activities are more prevalent due to open science. Open science has increased the relevance of science to our environment and world issues like privacy and the rightful author of scientific data are still some of the challenges facing open science. Academic libraries continue to take steps to be involved as key players in the propagation of open science through advocacy, building of institutional data repositories and serving as hubs for scientific collaboration among others. Academic libraries have to do more in the area of advocacy and provision of data repositories.
Improvement in insulin sensitivity following intensive insulin therapy and association of glucagon with long-term diabetes remission
Authors: Zhang Bo , Chen Yan-yan , Yang Zhao-jun , Wang Xin , Li Guang-wei
Published: November 2016

Objective

To investigate the role of the acute glucagon response in the long-term remission of newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus following short-term intensive insulin therapy (IIT).

Methods

Ten patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus received IIT. Intravenous glucose tolerance tests and the clamp technique were performed pre- and post-IIT. Remission was defined as maintenance of target glycaemic control without anti-diabetic agents for 1 year.

Results

The remission rate was 50% (5/10). There were no differences in the acute insulin response or glucose infusion rate between groups. The acute glucagon response (AGR) in the remission group pre-IIT was significantly higher than that in the non-remission group (mean 163.02 pg/mL/min vs. mean 16.29 pg/mL/min). The mean AGR post-IIT was lower in the remission group than that in the non-remission group (0 pg/mL/min vs. 19.91 pg/mL/min). Spearman analysis indicated that the AGR pre-IIT and the change in the AGR were correlated with remission (r = 0.731).

Conclusion

The insulin-mediated glucose disposal rate was significantly improved with the normalization of blood glucose levels following transient IIT. Subjects with a higher AGR pre-IIT and a greater AGR decrease post-IIT displayed a greater likelihood of long-term remission.
Citation context and impact of ‘sleeping beauties’ in paediatric research
Authors: Završnik Jernej , Kokol Peter , del Torso Stefano , Blažun Vošner Helena
Published: November 2016

Objectives

‘Sleeping beauties’, i.e. publications that are not cited for a long while, present interesting findings in science. This study analysed the citation trends of sleeping beauties in paediatric research.

Methods

The study used bibliometric software to analyse the papers citing sleeping beauties in paediatric research, to understand the context in which paediatric sleeping beauties were finally cited and the impact of these sleeping beauties on paediatric research.

Results

Two paediatric sleeping beauties, addressing medical homes and the transition from paediatric to adult health care, respectively, awakened in response to organizational needs. Both presented novel concepts of paediatric service organization that became important because of an increased need for optimization of services.

Conclusion

All sleeping beauties bring new knowledge that becomes important only after several years. Paediatric sleeping beauties exhibited unique characteristics; however, their presence in paediatric research shows that knowledge acquisition in paediatrics resembles that in other disciplines.
Closed-form solutions of hole distortion for use in deep-hole drilling measurements of residual stress in orthotropic plates
Authors: Garza Carlos , Shterenlikht Anton , Pavier Martyn J , Smith David J
Published: November 2016

The measurement of residual stress using the deep-hole drilling method relies on the evaluation of the distortion of a hole in a plate under the action of far-field direct and shear stresses. While closed-form solutions exist for the isotropic materials, in previous work for orthotropic materials, finite element analysis has been used to find the distortion. In this technical note, Lekhnitskii’s analysis is used to find closed-form solutions for the distortion of a circular hole in an orthotropic plate. The results are compared with those of finite element analysis for a range of material properties with excellent agreement.
Outcomes of a Two-Component Intervention on Behavioral Symptoms in Persons With Dementia and Symptom Response in Their Caregivers
Authors: Robinson Karen M. , Crawford Timothy N. , Buckwalter Kathleen C. , Casey David A.
Published: November 2016

Purpose: This study evaluated the longitudinal influence of an individualized evidence-based psychoeducational intervention for caregivers on frequency of behavioral symptoms in persons with dementia (PWD) and caregiver reaction to these symptoms. The intervention included information about the disease process using Progressively Lowered Stress Threshold (PLST) content and a family meeting based on Mittelman’s New York University Intervention. Method: A quasi-experimental study design was implemented. The Revised Memory and Behavior Problems Checklist was administered to N = 127 caregiver/care recipient dyads at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months follow-up. All caregivers were enrolled in the intervention at baseline and followed over 18 months. Linear mixed models were developed to evaluate effects on frequency of behavioral symptoms in PWD and caregiver response. Results: The most frequently occurring behavior was memory problems, although depressive behaviors produced the most negative caregiver responses. Between baseline and 6-month follow-up, there was a significant decrease in frequency of behavioral symptoms. Overall, there was a significant decrease in caregiver’s reaction to behavioral symptoms from baseline to 18-month follow-up.
The Triple Bottom Line and Sustainable Economic Development Theory and Practice
Authors: Hammer Janet , Pivo Gary
Published: November 2016

The triple bottom line refers to economic, environmental, and social value of an investment and is related to the concept of sustainable development. The triple bottom line is increasingly salient to economic development related disciplines, yet the topic has received little attention within the field of economic development. This study offers three substantive responses to that gap. First, triple bottom line economic development is introduced and defined. Second, research regarding whether and how practitioners prioritize and engage in triple bottom line economic development is presented. Third, implications for the field are considered, including the centrality of the concept to economic development and recommendations to advance theory and practice in this regard.
A Dyadic Approach to Infertility Stress, Marital Adjustment, and Depression on Quality of Life in Infertile Couples
Authors: Kim Ju Hee , Shin Hye Sook , Yun Eun Kyoung
Published: November 2016

Purpose: This study was conducted to examine the level of infertility stress, marital adjustment, depression, and quality of life in infertile couples and assess the actor and partner effects in these areas using the actor–partner interdependence model. Design: Cross-sectional study. Method: Participants were 121 infertile couples. After pilot study, data were collected from November 2012 to March 2013 using the following questionnaires: the Fertility Quality of Life, Fertility Problem Inventory, Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale, and Beck Depression Inventory. Findings: There was a gender difference in infertility stress, depression, and quality of life. Infertility stress had actor and partner effects on the quality of life. Marital adjustment had an actor effect on the quality of life for the wives. Depression had actor and partner effects on quality of life for the wives, but only an actor effect for the husbands. Conclusion: This study found that there were actor and partner effects of infertility stress, marital adjustment, and depression on the quality of life in infertile couples. These findings may help nurses be aware of such effects and can be used as a baseline data in the development of nursing interventions for infertile couples.
Mild Visual Impairment and Its Impact on Self-Care Among Older Adults
Authors: O’Conor Rachel , Smith Samuel G. , Curtis Laura M. , Benavente Julia Yoshino , Vicencio Daniel P. , Wolf Michael S.
Published: November 2016

Objective: To determine the prevalence of mild visual impairment (MVI) among urban older adults in primary care settings, and ascertain whether MVI was a risk factor for inadequate performance on self-care health tasks. Method: We used data from a cohort of 900 older adults recruited from primary care clinics. Self-management skills were assessed using the Comprehensive Health Activities Scale, and vision with corrective lenses was assessed with the Snellen. We modeled visual acuity predicting health task performance with linear regression. Results: Normal vision was associated with better overall health task performance ( p = .004). Individuals with normal vision were more likely to recall health information conveyed via multimedia ( p = .02) and during a spoken encounter ( p = .04), and were more accurate in dosing multi-drug regimens ( p = .05). Discussion: MVI may challenge the performance of self-care behaviors. Health care systems and clinicians should consider even subtle detriments in visual acuity when designing health information, materials, and devices.
The BHEF National Higher Education and Workforce Initiative
Authors: Fitzgerald Brian K. , Barkanic Steve , Cárdenas-Navia Isabel , Chen Janet , Elzey Karen , Hughes Debbie , Troyan Danielle
Published: November 2016

BHEF has achieved particular success in operationalizing its National Higher Education and Workforce Initiative (HEWI) through regional initiatives in data science and analytics (DSA). Leveraging its membership of corporate CEOs, university presidents and government agency leaders, BHEF seeded new undergraduate pathways in DSA at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio and Drake University in Iowa. Using BHEF’s Strategic Business Engagement Model with higher education, these regional initiatives, as part of HEWI, successfully operationalize BHEF strategies. This article also describes how BHEF, with the support of its partners, has cultivated a community of practice around undergraduate data science for its members and the nation.
Construction of a bioactive surface with micro/nano-topography on titanium alloy by micro-milling and alkali-hydrothermal treatment
Authors: Wang Teng , Wan Yi , Kou Zhaojun , Cai Yukui , Wang Bing , Liu Zhanqiang
Published: November 2016

The surface topography and wettability are important factors that determine the biocompatibility of biomaterials. In this article, the hierarchical micro/nano-topography of titanium alloy surface was fabricated by micro-milling and alkali-hydrothermal reaction. The surface topography and chemical composition of treated surfaces were characterized using laser scanning microscope and scanning electron microscope. The contact angles of surfaces with different micro/nano-topographies were measured by contact angle tester. MC3T3s morphology and osteocalcin productions were characterized to investigate the influence of surface modification on implants’ biocompatibility. The results show that hydrophilicity of micro-structured surface decreased compared to the untextured surface and contact angle values decreased with the increase in micro-groove spacing in small increments. In addition, the surfaces treated with alkali-hydrothermal reaction displayed strong hydrophilicity and the surface energy increased by 40 nJ/cm2 approximately. In vitro tests indicated that micro/nano-structured surface improved the adhesion, spreading, and differentiation of MC3T3s.