bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rare Renal Diseases Can Be Used as Tools to Investigate Common Kidney Disorders
Authors: Simeoni Mariadelina , Damiano Sara , Capolongo Giovanna , Trepiccione Francesco , Zacchia Miriam , Fuiano Giorgio , Capasso Giovambattista
Published: May 2017

Background: The prevention and slowing of chronic kidney disease still represent major challenges in nephrology. To this end, a major contribution may come from the extensive knowledge on the molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of rare kidney diseases, since it is now possible to shed light on several aspects of these pathologies thanks to the introduction of new technologies, including next-generation sequencing. Summary: In steroid-resistant nephrotic patients, a genetic background has been demonstrated in both children and adults; individualized mutations have been correlated with glomerular filtration barrier alterations. In addition, studies on genetic tubulopathies expressing hypertensive phenotypes can provide useful information for a correct diagnostic and therapeutic approach in patients with essential hypertension and a poor responsiveness to therapy. Key Message: This review deals with the pathogenesis of rare glomerular diseases and tubulopathies associated with hypertension, highlighting the importance of the study of rare diseases to better understand the molecular basis of more common and complex disorders leading to end-stage renal disease.
Molecular Alterations in Patients with Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma Presenting with Malignant Pleural Effusion at the First Diagnosis
Authors: Rodriguez Erika F. , Shabihkhani Maryam , Carter Jamal , Maleki Zahra
Published: May 2017

Objectives: The aim of this study was to report cytologic and molecular features of pulmonary adenocarcinoma patients presenting with a malignant pleural effusion at the first diagnosis. Study Design: Patients who had a cytopathologic diagnosis conclusive for lung adenocarcinoma for the first time on their pleural fluid specimen, and molecular testing done, were studied. The control group consisted of patients with a malignant pleural effusion that developed during disease progression. Results: We identified 18 patients (9 males and 9 females). Micropapillary and/or solid adenocarcinoma type features predominated among cytologic specimens (n = 15), while acinar patterns predominated in controls. Survival was not significantly different from that of the control group (mean 13.8 vs. 13.9 months, respectively; p = 0.61). Ten (55%) cases had mutations in EGFR (n = 6; 60%), KRAS (n = 3; 30%), or ALK translocation (n = 1; 10%). No mutations were identified in BRAF, AKT, ERBB2, NRAS, or PIK3CA (tested in 7 patients). Patients positive for the tested mutations had a better overall survival than patients negative for the mutations (mean survival 16.2 vs. 6.05 months, respectively; p = 0.006, log-rank test). Ten (84%) control patients were positive for mutations in EGFR (n = 5; 42%), KRAS (n = 4; 34%), or ALK translocation (n = 1; 8.4%). Conclusion: In our series, a micropapillary-like and solid-like morphology, common in cytologic specimens, and alterations in EGFR were the most frequent identifiable molecular changes.
Transcortical Sensory Aphasia after Left Frontal Lobe Infarction: Loss of Functional Connectivity
Authors: Kwon Miseon , Shim Woo Hyun , Kim Sang-Joon , Kim Jong S.
Published: May 2017

Background: The underlying mechanism of transcortical sensory aphasia (TSA) caused by lesions occurring in the left frontal lobe remains unclear. We attempted to investigate the mechanism with the use of functional MRI (fMRI). Methods: We studied 2 patients with TSA after a left frontal infarction identified by diffusion-weighted MRI. As control subjects, a patient with transcortical motor aphasia and a healthy normal adult were chosen. The Korean version of Western Aphasia Battery was performed initially and at 3 months post stroke. We performed fMRI using verb generation and sentence completion tasks. Resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) was also obtained for network-level analysis initially and at 3 months post stroke. Results: The results of diffusion- and perfusion-weighted MRI revealed no diffusion-perfusion mismatch. Initial fMRI in patients with TSA showed no reversed inter-/intrahemispheric activation patterns. rs-fMRI showed significantly decreased resting-state functional connectivity in the language network in patients with TSA compared with the control subjects. Follow-up rs-fMRI studies showed improvement in functional connectivity along with the recovery of patients' language function. Conclusion: Our data showed that the auditory comprehension deficits in patients with frontal lobe infarcts is attributed to difficulty accessing the posterior language area due to functional disconnection between language centers in the acute stage of stroke.
The Use of Polyvinyl Alcohol Sponge and Cyanoacrylate Glue in the Treatment of Large and Chronic Bronchopleural Fistulae following Lung Cancer Resection
Authors: Battistoni Paolo , Caterino Umberto , Batzella Sandro , Dello Iacono Raffaele , Lucantoni Gabriele , Galluccio Giovanni
Published: May 2017

Background: Bronchopleural fistulae represent a relatively rare complication of pulmonary resection. For inoperable patients, several endoscopic procedures have been described. In the presence of large and chronic bronchopleural fistulae, persistent air leaks require a surgical therapy, while endoscopic airway stent represents a useful palliative treatment. Objective: We describe the successful closure of large and chronic bronchopleural fistulae using an expandable polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) sponge and cyanoacrylate glue. Methods: In all patients, a rigid bronchoscope was used to insert a small cylinder of PVA sponge within the fistula. After releasing the patch, cyanoacrylate glue was applied directly on the PVA sponge using a channel catheter. This methodology induces an expansion of the clot and the closure of the air leak. The long-term outcome of treatment was checked by flexible bronchoscopy once every month for 3 months and every 6 months until 5 years. Results: We performed endoscopic treatment in 7 consecutive patients with bronchopleural fistula ranging from 4 to 8 mm. In 6 of 7 patients, the bronchial stump was the site of the fistula. In 1 patient, the fistula was visualized on the right wall of the distal trachea. A temporary complete occlusion of the fistula was achieved in 7 of 7 patients and a definitive result in 5 of 7 patients. Conclusions: The use of an expandable PVA sponge and cyanoacrylate glue is an available strategy for endobronchial closure of bronchopleural fistulae.
Recursive Subspace Identification Algorithm using the Propagator Based Method
Authors: Wani Jamaludin Irma Wani Jamaludin , Abdul Wahab Norhaliza
Published: May 2017

Subspace model identification (SMI) method is the effective method in identifying dynamic state space linear multivariable systems and it can be obtained directly from the input and output data. Basically, subspace identifications are based on algorithms from numerical algebras which are the QR decomposition and Singular Value Decomposition (SVD). In industrial applications, it is essential to have online recursive subspace algorithms for model identification where the parameters can vary in time. However, because of the SVD computational complexity that involved in the algorithm, the classical SMI algorithms are not suitable for online application. Hence, it is essential to discover the alternative algorithms in order to apply the concept of subspace identification recursively. In this paper, the recursive subspace identification algorithm based on the propagator method which avoids the SVD computation is proposed. The output from Numerical Subspace State Space System Identification (N4SID) and Multivariable Output Error State Space (MOESP) methods are also included in this paper.
Differential integrin activity mediated by platelet collagen receptor engagement under flow conditions
Authors: Pugh Nicholas , Maddox Ben , Bihan Dominique , Taylor Kirk , Mahaut-Smith Martyn , Farndale Richard
Published: May 2017

The platelet receptors glycoprotein (Gp)VI, integrin α2β1 and GpIb/V/IX mediate platelet adhesion and activation during thrombogenesis. Increases of intracellular Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) are key signals during platelet activation; however, their relative importance in coupling different collagen receptors to functional responses under shear conditions remains unclear. To study shear-dependent, receptor-specific platelet responses, we used collagen or combinations of receptor-specific collagen-mimetic peptides as substrates for platelet adhesion and activation in whole human blood under arterial flow conditions and compared real-time and endpoint parameters of thrombus formation alongside [Ca2+]i measurements using confocal imaging. All three collagen receptors coupled to [Ca2+]i signals, but these varied in amplitude and temporal pattern alongside variable integrin activation. GpVI engagement produced large, sustained [Ca2+]i signals leading to realtime increases in integrins α2β1− and αIIbβ3-mediated platelet adhesion. αIIbβ3-dependent platelet aggregation was dependent on P2Y12 signalling. Co-engagement of α2β1 and GpIb/V/IX generated transient [Ca2+]i spikes and low amplitude [Ca2+]i responses that potentiated GpVI-dependent [Ca2+]i signalling. Therefore α2β1 GpIb/V/IX and GpVI synergise to generate [Ca2+]i signals that regulate platelet behaviour and thrombus formation. Antagonism of secondary signalling pathways reveals distinct, separate roles for αIIbβ3 in stable platelet adhesion and aggregation.

Supplementary Material to this article is available online at www.thrombosis-online.com.
Increased risks of venous thromboembolism in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Chung Wei-Sheng , Lin Cheng-Li
Published: May 2017

Systemic inflammation and hypercoagulability in psoriasis are related to cardiovascular morbidity. The aim of the study was to investigate the incidence and risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with psoriasis in Taiwan. We identified inpatients aged ≥ 18 years with a diagnosis of psoriasis and controls at a 1: 1 ratio of frequency matched by sex, age, frequency of medical visits, length of stay, and comorbidities between 2000 and 2010 in the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. Each patient was traced to the date of VTE occurrence, loss to follow-up, death, or the December 31, 2011, whichever occurred first. We analysed 8945 patients with psoriasis and 8945 controls. The patients with psoriasis exhibited a greater incidence rate of VTE (19.2 vs 9.88 per 10 000 person-years) than did the controls. After adjustment for covariates, the patients with psoriasis presented a 2.02-fold risk of VTE (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 2.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.42–2.88) compared with that in the control cohort. The aHR of VTE was significantly higher in the first year of follow-up (aHR = 3.30, 95% CI = 1.45–7.55) than after one year (aHR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.13–2.49).
Gastric Bypass Surgery Produces a Durable Reduction in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors and Reduces the Long‐Term Risks of Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Benotti Peter N. , Wood G. Craig , Carey David J. , Mehra Vishal C. , Mirshahi Tooraj , Lent Michelle R. , Petrick Anthony T. , Still Christopher , Gerhard Glenn S. , Hirsch Annemarie G.
Published: May 2017

Background

Obesity and its association with reduced life expectancy are well established, with cardiovascular disease as one of the major causes of fatality. Metabolic surgery is a powerful intervention for severe obesity, resulting in improvement in comorbid diseases and in cardiovascular risk factors. This study investigates the relationship between metabolic surgery and long‐term cardiovascular events.

Methods and Results

A cohort of Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery (
RYGB
) patients was tightly matched by age, body mass index, sex, Framingham Risk Score, smoking history, use of antihypertension medication, diabetes mellitus status, and calendar year with a concurrent cohort of nonoperated control patients. The primary study end points of major cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, stroke, and congestive heart failure) were evaluated using Cox regression. Secondary end points of longitudinal cardiovascular risk factors were evaluated using repeated‐measures regression. The
RYGB
and matched controls (N=1724 in each cohort) were followed for up to 12 years after surgery (overall median of 6.3 years). Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a statistically significant reduction in incident major composite cardiovascular events (
P
=0.017) and congestive heart failure (0.0077) for the
RYGB
cohort. Adjusted Cox regression models confirmed the reductions in severe composite cardiovascular events in the
RYGB
cohort (hazard ratio=0.58, 95%
CI
=0.42–0.82). Improvements of cardiovascular risk factors (eg, 10‐year cardiovascular risk score, total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein, systolic blood pressure, and diabetes mellitus) were observed within the
RYGB
cohort after surgery.

Conclusions

Gastric bypass is associated with a reduced risk of major cardiovascular events and the development of congestive heart failure.
Cost of Alteplase Has More Than Doubled Over the Past Decade
Authors: Kleindorfer Dawn , Broderick Joseph , Demaerschalk Bart , Saver Jeffrey
Published: May 2017

Background and Purpose—

Intravenous alteplase (tissue-type plasminogen activator) has been shown to be cost-effective because of savings in long-term disability. In October of 2005, an increased DRG payment to hospitals for alteplase-treated stroke patients was introduced. We sought to describe the trends in the cost of alteplase over time, in comparison to trends in hospital reimbursement in the United States.

Methods—

Using publicly available information on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website (
www.cms.gov
), we obtained CMS quarterly payment amounts between January 1, 2005, and October 1, 2014, for alteplase, listed as alteplase recombinant, per mg. CMS payment amounts are the manufacturer’s average sales price+6% until April 2014, when it was lowered to +4.3%. Estimates for DRG base payments were calculated within the Medicare Provider and Analysis Review (MEDPAR) for fiscal years 2006 (DRG 559) and 2013 (MS DRGs 61, 62, and 63) as (DRG relative weights)×(standardized operating and capital amount). The consumer price index was also queried for all prescription drugs, urban areas, during the same study period as reference.

Results—

The CMS payment amount for alteplase per milligram was $30.50 in January 2005 and $64.30 in October 2014. Trends in the CMS payment amounts for alteplase increased by 111% between 2005 and 2014. The consumer price index for all prescription drugs increased by 30.2% in the same time frame. The base payment for alteplase-treated stroke admissions was $11 173 in 2006 and $12 064 in 2013, an 8% increase.

Conclusions—

We found a striking increase in the cost of alteplase over the last decade, with a 100 mg vial now with a CMS payment of ≈$6400, a >100% increase over 10 years. During the same time frame, the DRG base payment to hospitals increased by only 8%, and alteplase cost increased from 27% of the payment in 2006 to 53% in 2013. Researchers and stroke physicians should be aware of these changes in drug costs and their impact on cost-effectiveness analyses.
Psychiatric Hospitalization Increases Short-Term Risk of Stroke
Authors: Zuflacht Jonah P. , Shao Yuefan , Kronish Ian M. , Edmondson Donald , Elkind Mitchell S.V. , Kamel Hooman , Boehme Amelia K. , Willey Joshua Z.
Published: May 2017

Background and Purpose—

Recent evidence suggests that psychological distress, including the symptoms of psychiatric illness, may acutely increase the risk of stroke. However, existing studies are limited by small sample sizes, inherent recall bias, and poorly defined criteria for what constitutes psychological distress.

Methods—

We analyzed administrative data from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project for the state of California from 2007 to 2009 using a case-crossover design. Conditional logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for combined hemorrhagic and ischemic stroke risk occurring within 15, 30, 90, 180, and 365 days of a hospitalization for a psychiatric diagnosis (as defined by
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision
, code) among adults.

Results—

Psychiatric hospitalizations within 1 year before stroke were found in 2585 (5.3%) of 48 558 stroke patients. Hospitalization for a psychiatric condition was associated with increased risk of stroke within all 5 time periods, with the highest odds of stroke occurring within 15 days (0–15 days: OR, 3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.6–4.8; 0–30 days: OR, 3.0; 95% CI, 2.4–3.8; 0–90 days: OR, 2.3; 95% CI, 2.0–2.7; 0–180 days: OR, 2.2; 95% CI, 2.0–2.5; and 0–365 days: OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 2.4–2.8).

Conclusions—

Psychiatric hospitalization increases the short-term risk of stroke, particularly within the 15-day period after hospitalization.
Optimal Timing of Diffusion-Weighted Imaging to Avoid False-Negative Findings in Patients With Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Shono Kenji , Satomi Junichiro , Tada Yoshiteru , Kanematsu Yasuhisa , Yamamoto Nobuaki , Izumi Yuishin , Kaji Ryuji , Harada Masafumi , Nagahiro Shinji
Published: May 2017

Background and Purpose—

We aimed to investigate the optimal timing of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA).

Methods—

Seventy-three consecutive patients with TIA underwent DWI on admission (initial DWI) and at 24 hours after admission (second DWI). Patients were divided into 2 groups based on initial DWI findings in relation to the second examination: false negative (group 1) and other (group 2). The probability of initial false-negative findings was determined for each hour from TIA onset to initial DWI. Multivariate analysis was used to evaluate the independent risk factors associated with false-negative findings on initial DWI.

Results—

Of the 73 patients examined (56 men; mean age, 68 years), 9 (12%) were categorized into group 1. The latency from TIA onset to initial DWI was 1.7±0.6 hours for group 1 (range, 1–2.8 hours) and 3.3±2.6 hours for group 2 (range, 35 minutes to 12 hours). The probability of false-negative findings on initial DWI decreased in a time-dependent manner (25%, 21%, and 7% for 1, 2, and 3 hours, respectively), and no false-negative findings were observed on initial DWI performed at >3 hours from symptom onset. Short latency (≤2 hours) from TIA onset to initial DWI was an independent risk factor related to false-negative findings (odds ratio, 13.11; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–161.38;
P
=0.045).

Conclusions—

If the duration between TIA symptom onset and initial DWI is <2 hours, a repeat examination should be performed to minimize the risk of false-negative findings.
Histological observations by light and scanning electron microscopy of the Japanese pine sawyer, Monochamus alternatus, infected with the entomopathogenic nematode, Steinernema carpocapsae
Authors: Mamiya Yasuharu , Shoji Tugio
Published: May 2017

Light (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to study infection of adults and larvae of the Japanese pine sawyer,Monochamus alternatus, by infective juveniles (IJ) ofSteinernema carpocapsae(Mexican strain). The IJ entered the alimentary canal of both larvae and adults ofM. alternatusviathe anus. Entry through spiracles was not observed. Both larvae and adult died within 48 h after infection. SEM revealed the changes in the distribution and reproduction of the symbiotic bacterium,Xenorhabdus nematophila, in the insect body over time. The observations were consistent with the hypothesis that septicaemia was the main cause of insect death. Bacteria grew vigorously and were distributed widely in the insect body as soon as the IJ invaded the insect. Reproduction of the nematode within the insect followed the reproduction of the bacterium throughout the insect body.
The Religious Radicals of ’68
Authors: Monteiro Marit
Published: May 2017

This article focuses on a largely neglected group in the generation of 1968: the Lorscheid movement. Within the Dominican Order (a prestigious Catholic international male order), the Lorscheid movement developed radical conceptions of Christian tradition. Lorscheid members felt very much part of the spirit of 1968. Whereas the radicalism of 1968 is generally associated with a “Zeitregime der Moderne,” a regime of modernity that required a liberation from the past, the Lorscheid members instead intended to “catch up with history” by reclaiming accounts of the past that the Church had disowned. Young Dutch Dominicans who were active in the Lorscheid movement embraced the legacy of their Order, linking history to the present via commemorative practices, actively selecting and neglecting elements of the Dominican tradition. They also affiliated with others of their own generation outside the Order, adopting discourses critical of Europe and linking their own emancipation with liberation movements in the recently decolonized regions of the world.
A Document Relating to the Cult of Arsinoe and Philotera
Authors: Panov Maxim
Published: May 2017

This brief article deals with a unique seal impression currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (mma 10.130.1563). Dating to the Ptolemaic Period, it belonged to a priest of the cults of Arsinoe and Philotera, but until now has not been analyzed in detail. The hieroglyphic text, transliteration, and translation is presented here along with a discussion of its date.
The Satrap Stela: A Middle Ground Approach
Authors: Gorre Gilles
Published: May 2017

This article explores the relevance of the Middle Ground theory for the study of relationships between the Egyptian priesthood and the Macedonian kings. This concept will then be applied to the interpretation of one document in particular, the Satrap Stela. It suggests that the Middle Ground concept allows the identification of the Persian ruler mentioned in the document as Xerxes, Great King of the Second Persian Wars, and supports an interpretation of the text centered on Ptolemy Satrap rather than Khababash.
Species names based on photographs: debate closed
Authors: ZHANG ZHI-QIANG
Published: May 2017

Discussions of current issues of broad interest in zoological taxonomy are encouraged in Zootaxa (Zhang 2007). One recent topic examines species names based on photographs without preserved specimens. This is not a new topic: as Ceríaco et al. (2016) correctly noted, this topic was previously discussed about a decade ago in Zootaxa (Dubois & Nemésio 2007; Donegan 2008), and was soon followed by a series of opinions and rebuttals when the critically endangered species Galápagos pink land iguana—Conolophus marthae Gentile & Snell, 2009—was named without a preserved holotype (Donegan 2009; Nemésio 2009a,b; Dubois 2009; Gentile & Snell 2009; Minelli 2009).
Description of a new subspecies of Talicada nyseus (Guérin-Méneville, 1843) from Hainan, China (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae), with notes on the genus Talicada Moore, 1881
Authors: LO YIK-FUI PHILIP , LI FEI , DING LIANG
Published: May 2017

An insular population of Talicada nyseus was discovered from Hainan Island, representing a butterfly species unrecorded in China. Materials of this species from Hainan were compared with the races from other regions, revealing that the wing pattern is distinct from that of other subspecies, and is hereinto described as T. nyseus lami ssp. nov.. Information on immature stage and host association of the new subspecies, and notes on the genus is also provided.
Attribution of Forced Decadal Climate Change in Coupled and Uncoupled Ocean–Atmosphere Model Experiments
Authors: Dong Buwen , Sutton Rowan T. , Shaffrey Len , Klingaman Nicholas P.
Published: May 2017

There is still no consensus about the best methodology for attributing observed changes in climate or climate events. One widely used approach relies on experiments in which the time periods of interest are simulated using an atmospheric general circulation model (AGCM) forced by prescribed sea surface temperatures (SSTs), with and without estimated anthropogenic influences. A potential limitation of such experiments is the lack of explicit atmosphere–ocean coupling; therefore a key question is whether the attribution statements derived from such studies are in fact robust. In this research the authors have carried out climate model experiments to test attribution conclusions in a situation where the answer is known—a so-called perfect model approach. The study involves comparing attribution conclusions for decadal changes derived from experiments with a coupled climate model (specifically an AGCM coupled to an ocean mixed-layer model) with conclusions derived from parallel experiments with the same AGCM forced by SSTs derived from the coupled model simulations. Results indicate that attribution conclusions for surface air temperature changes derived from AGCM experiments are generally robust and not sensitive to air–sea coupling. However, changes in seasonal mean and extreme precipitations, and circulation in some regions, show large sensitivity to air–sea coupling, notably in the summer monsoons over East Asia and Australia. Comparison with observed changes indicates that the coupled simulations generally agree better with observations. These results demonstrate that the AGCM-based attribution method has limitations and may lead to erroneous attribution conclusions in some regions for local circulation and mean and extreme precipitation. The coupled mixed-layer model used in this study offers an alternative and, in some respects, superior tool for attribution studies.
Assessment of Radio Occultation Observations from the COSMIC-2 Mission with a Simplified Observing System Simulation Experiment Configuration
Authors: Cucurull L. , Li R. , Peevey T. R.
Published: May 2017

The mainstay of the global radio occultation (RO) system, the COSMIC constellation of six satellites launched in April 2006, is already past the end of its nominal lifetime and the number of soundings is rapidly declining because the constellation is degrading. For about the last decade, COSMIC profiles have been collected and their retrievals assimilated in numerical weather prediction systems to improve operational weather forecasts. The success of RO in increasing forecast skill and COSMIC’s aging constellation have motivated planning for the COSMIC-2 mission, a 12-satellite constellation to be deployed in two launches. The first six satellites (COSMIC-2A) are expected to be deployed in December 2017 in a low-inclination orbit for dense equatorial coverage, while the second six (COSMIC-2B) are expected to be launched later in a high-inclination orbit for global coverage. To evaluate the potential benefits from COSMIC-2, an earlier version of the NCEP’s operational forecast model and data assimilation system is used to conduct a series of observing system simulation experiments with simulated soundings from the COSMIC-2 mission. In agreement with earlier studies using real RO observations, the benefits from assimilating COSMIC-2 observations are found to be most significant in the Southern Hemisphere. No or very little gain in forecast skill is found by adding COSMIC-2A to COSMIC-2B, making the launch of COSMIC-2B more important for terrestrial global weather forecasting than that of COSMIC-2A. Furthermore, results suggest that further improvement in forecast skill might better be obtained with the addition of more RO observations with global coverage and other types of observations.
The Acquisitive Nature of Extraverted CEOs
Authors: Malhotra Shavin , Reus Taco H. , Zhu PengCheng , Roelofsen Erik M.
Published: May 2017

This study examines how extraversion, a personality trait that signifies more or less positive affect, assertive behavior, decisive thinking, and desires for social engagement, influences chief executive officers’ (CEOs’) decisions and the ensuing strategic behavior of firms. Using a novel linguistic technique to assess personality from unscripted text spoken by 2,381 CEOs of S&P 1500 firms over ten years, we show that CEOs’ extraversion influences the merger and acquisition (M&A) behavior of firms above and beyond other well-established personality traits. We find that extraverted CEOs are more likely to engage in acquisitions, and to conduct larger ones, than other CEOs and that these effects are partially explained by their higher representation on boards of other firms. Moreover, we find that the acquisitive nature of extraverted CEOs reveals itself particularly in so-called “weaker” situations, in which CEOs enjoy considerable discretion to behave in ways akin to their personality traits. Subsequent analyses show that extraverted CEOs are also more likely than other CEOs to succeed in M&As, as reflected by stronger abnormal returns following acquisition announcements.
Fiber-Content Measurement of Wool–Cashmere Blends Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Zhou Jinfeng , Wang Rongwu , Wu Xiongying , Xu Bugao
Published: May 2017

Cashmere and wool are two protein fibers with analogous geometrical attributes, but distinct physical properties. Due to its scarcity and unique features, cashmere is a much more expensive fiber than wool. In the textile production, cashmere is often intentionally blended with fine wool in order to reduce the material cost. To identify the fiber contents of a wool–cashmere blend is important to quality control and product classification. The goal of this study is to develop a reliable method for estimating fiber contents in wool–cashmere blends based on near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. In this study, we prepared two sets of cashmere–wool blends by using either whole fibers or fiber snippets in 11 different blend ratios of the two fibers and collected the NIR spectra of all the 22 samples. Of the 11 samples in each set, six were used as a subset for calibration and five as a subset for validation. By referencing the NIR band assignment to chemical bonds in protein, we identified six characteristic wavelength bands where the NIR absorbance powers of the two fibers were significantly different. We then performed the chemometric analysis with two multilinear regression (MLR) equations to predict the cashmere content (CC) in a blended sample. The experiment with these samples demonstrated that the predicted CCs from the MLR models were consistent with the CCs given in the preparations of the two sample sets (whole fiber or snippet), and the errors of the predicted CCs could be limited to 0.5% if the testing was performed over at least 25 locations. The MLR models seem to be reliable and accurate enough for estimating the cashmere content in a wool–cashmere blend and have potential to be used for tackling the cashmere adulteration problem.
Major court and tribunal decisions in Australia in 2016
Authors: Sutherland Carolyn , Riley Joellen
Published: May 2017

This annual survey of the more significant tribunal and court decisions in Australia in 2016 covers recent developments in the relatively new Fair Work jurisdiction to adjudicate complaints of workplace bullying, practices and processes in enterprise bargaining, some observations on the evolution of standards of civil discourse in industrial negotiations, and clarification of when employers will be held responsible for employees who commit crimes at work. It concludes with a brief note on a recent UK development, making Uber responsible for meeting minimum wage and working time regulations in respect of rideshare drivers.
Preparing for Culturally Responsive Schooling: Initial Teacher Educators Into the Fray
Authors: Vass Greg
Published: May 2017

In Australia, schools are experiencing increasing cultural diversity, alongside of nationalizing assessment and curricular and professional standards. It is raising concerns regarding the pace of systemic reform and sector wide professional renewal. Culturally responsive schooling practices may be helpful at this time because it locates the experiences of learners as powerfully influencing engagement and achievement. This article reports on “The culturally responsive schooling project,” a study focused on postgraduate students as they prepared for, undertook, and reflected on practicum experiences. Participants identified three barriers that impacted on their culturally responsive efforts: mentors encouraging limited and limiting curricula, pedagogic and assessment practices; mentors communicating resistance to doing things differently or valuing cultural responsiveness; and a fearful awareness of being evaluated by their mentors. The ambition of this discussion then is to encourage a rethink of the interconnections between teacher education, school leadership, and inservice professional development.
Optimization of a regional distribution center location for parts of end-of-life vehicles
Authors: Sun Y , Wang YT , Chen C , Yu B
Published: May 2017

The high transportation cost of the parts of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) has received a great deal of attention lately, and different approaches for solving the problem have been taken. In this paper, a bi-level programming model is developed to decompose the distribution center location problem for the parts of ELVs in order to obtain a trade-off between the location cost of the distribution center and the transportation cost. The upper level determines the sites of distribution centers and the lower level represents the delivery routes under any location pattern of candidate sites of distribution centers. The proposed model is illustrated by real data and the results demonstrate that it can be an effective method to determinate a distribution center for ELVs.
Time Reference in the Service of Social Action
Authors: Raymond Chase Wesley , White Anne Elizabeth Clark
Published: May 2017

The present study investigates the ways that members of society refer to time. Concrete methods for communicating about points in time and locating events in relation to them make relevant and thereby ground abstract time-reckoning in the lives of interactants. Through a taxonomy of references to time—termed absolute and event-relative, each with subcategories—we describe the intrinsic affordances that different designs provide coparticipants engaging in social interaction. In analyzing talk from both ordinary and institutional contexts, we demonstrate how these affordances can be mobilized in the co-construction and maintenance of intersubjectivity, in managing interpersonal relationships, and in conjunction with a variety of social actions. By describing how sociotemporal ordering is invoked, put into use, and contextually achieved in the immediacy of quotidian conduct, we posit that time-reckoning categories are social not only in their construction but also in their everyday use.
Corporate Governance and Bankruptcy Filing Decisions
Authors: Lajili Kaouthar , Zéghal Daniel
Published: May 2017

This paper examines the nature and extent of potential linkages between corporate governance characteristics and bankruptcy filing decisions. To test the paper's research hypotheses and follow prior related literature, a sample of financially distressed firms was formed and matched with a group of financially healthy firms in the US between 2001 and 2003. Results show that in addition to lower business and financial health indicators faced by financially distressed firms compared to their financially healthy counterparts, the former group also faced higher director turnover and shorter outside director tenure. In addition, the results indicate that interactions between two or more corporate governance characteristics could have a significant impact on the bankruptcy filing decision, thus suggesting that a multi-theory foundation for governance research could be warranted in the future. Further research is needed to investigate in more depth how boards and management work together, change, make decisions and manage their reputations and careers, not only in the case of financial distress but also in normal business situations.
The Paradox of Human Resource Analytics: Being Mindful of Employees
Authors: Khan Shaji A. , Tang Jintong
Published: May 2017

Suggested as a strategic necessity, practice of HR analytics along with its potential business benefits for organisations abounds in popular press. However, the issue of how employees perceive the use of predictive analytics pertaining to themselves and the impact such perceptions may have on proximal employee outcomes has received little attention. The current research reports on the results of an exploratory study that attempts to shed light on how employees' attributions of organisations' use of HR analytics relate to their commitment to the organisation. Based on this evidence, the current research provides managerial implications related to potential employee concerns with HR analytics and their ramifications for organisations, and calls for future research to investigate these issues more thoroughly and systematically.
Efficacy, Safety, and Preparation of Standardized Parenteral Nutrition Regimens: Three‐Chamber Bags vs Compounded Monobags—A Prospective, Multicenter, Randomized, Single‐Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Yu Jianchun , Wu Guohao , Tang Yun , Ye Yingjiang , Zhang Zhongtao
Published: May 2017

Background: Parenteral nutrition (PN) covering the need for carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids can either be compounded from single nutrients or purchased as an industrially manufactured ready‐to‐use regimen. This study compares a commercially available 3‐chamber bag (study group) with a conventionally compounded monobag regarding nutrition efficacy, safety, and regimen preparation time. Materials and Methods: This prospective, randomized, single‐blind study was conducted at 5 Chinese hospitals from October 2010–October 2011. Postsurgical patients requiring PN for at least 6 days were randomly assigned to receive the study or control regimen. Plasma concentrations of prealbumin and C‐reactive protein (CRP), regimen preparation time, length of hospital stay (LOS), 30‐day mortality, safety laboratory parameters, and adverse events (AEs) were recorded. Results: In total, 240 patients (121 vs 119 in study and control groups) participated in this study. Changes in prealbumin concentrations during nutrition support (ΔPrealb(StudyGroup) = 2.65 mg/dL, P < .001 vs ΔPrealb(ControlGroup) = 0.27 mg/dL, P = .606) and CRP values were comparable. Regimen preparation time was significantly reduced in the study group by the use of 3‐chamber bags (t(StudyGroup) = 4.90 ± 4.41 minutes vs t(ControlGroup) = 12.13 ± 5.62 minutes, P < .001). No differences were detected for LOS, 30‐day mortality, safety laboratory parameters, and postoperative AEs (37 vs 38 in study and control groups). Conclusion: The PN regimen provided by the 3‐chamber bag was comparable to the compounded regimen and safe in use. Time savings during regimen preparation indicates that use of 3‐chamber bags simplifies the process of regimen preparation.
Nonprobability Sampling and Twitter
Authors: Rafail Patrick
Published: May 2017

Twitter data are widely used in the social sciences. The Twitter Application Programming Interface (API) allows researchers to build large databases of user activity efficiently. Despite the potential of Twitter as a data source, less attention has been paid to issues of sampling, and in particular, the implications of different sampling strategies on overall data quality. This research proposes a set of conceptual distinctions between four types of populations that emerge when analyzing Twitter data and suggests sampling strategies that facilitate more comprehensive data collection from the Twitter API. Using three applications drawn from large databases of Twitter activity, this research also compares the results from the proposed sampling strategies, which provide defensible representations of the population of activity, to those collected with more frequently used hashtag samples. The results suggest that hashtag samples misrepresent important aspects of Twitter activity and may lead researchers to erroneous conclusions.
Indefinite Detention Meets Colonial Dispossession
Authors: Blagg Harry , Tulich Tamara , Bush Zoe
Published: May 2017

Foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a non-diagnostic umbrella term encompassing a spectrum of disorders caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. This article reports on a qualitative research project undertaken in three Indigenous communities in the West Kimberley region of Western Australia, intended to develop diversionary pathways for Indigenous young people with FASD at risk of enmeshment in the justice system. Rates of FASD in some parts of the West Kimberley are comparable to the highest identified internationally. A diagnosis of FASD amplifies the chances of Indigenous youth being caught up in the justice system in Western Australia, including indefinite detention in prison if found unfit to stand trial. A fresh diversionary paradigm is required. Employing a postcolonial perspective, we explore issues surrounding law and justice intervention – and non-intervention – in the lives of Indigenous children and their families. The FASD problem cannot be uncoupled from the history of colonial settlement and the multiple traumas resulting from dispossession, nor can solving the problem be isolated from the broader task of decolonizing relationships between Indigenous people and the settler mainstream. The decolonizing process involves expanding the role of Indigenous owned and place-based processes and services embedded in Indigenous knowledge.
SGLT-2 Inhibitors: Is There a Role in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Management?
Authors: Ahmed-Sarwar Nabila , Nagel Angela K. , Leistman Samantha , Heacock Kevin
Published: May 2017

Objective: The purpose of this review is to identify and evaluate disease management of patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) who were treated with a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor as an adjunct to insulin therapy. Data Sources: A PubMed (1969 to March 2017) and Ovid (1946 to March 2017) search was performed for articles published utilizing the following MESH terms: canagliflozin, empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, type 1 diabetes mellitus, insulin dependent diabetes, insulin, sodium-glucose transporter 2. There were no limitations placed on publication type. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All English-language articles were evaluated for association of SGLT-2 inhibitors and type 1 diabetes. Further studies were identified by review of pertinent manuscript bibliographies. Data Synthesis: All 3 SGLT-2 inhibitors, when combined with insulin, resulted in an overall reduction of hemoglobin A1C (up to 0.49%), lower total daily insulin doses, and a reduction in weight (up to 2.7 kg). The combination therapy of insulin and SGLT-2 inhibitors also resulted in a lower incidence of hypoglycemia. Study duration varied from 2 to 18 weeks. Conclusion: A review of the identified literature indicated that there is a potential role for the combination of SGLT-2 inhibitors with insulin in T1DM for improving glycemic control without increasing the risk of hypoglycemia. The short duration and small sample sizes limit the ability to fully evaluate the incidences of diabetic ketoacidosis and urogenital infections. The risks associated with this combination of medications require further evaluation.
Adherence With Bisphosphonates and Long-Term Risk of Hip Fractures: A Nested Case-Control Study Using Real-World Data
Authors: Shalev Varda , Sharman Moser Sarah , Goldshtein Inbal , Yu Jingbo , Weil Clara , Ish-Shalom Sophia , Rouach Vanessa , Chodick Gabriel
Published: May 2017

Background: Hip fracture is a major complication of osteoporosis. Bisphosphonate medication is the mainstay of treatment for osteoporosis. However, concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of bisphosphonates in reducing hip fracture risk after long-term use, particularly among patients with suboptimal adherence. Objective: To examine the association between adherence with bisphosphonate therapy and long-term risk of hip fracture. Methods: Included in the present nested case-control study were osteoporotic women (n = 14 357) who initiated bisphosphonate therapy in 2000-2010 and were retrospectively followed for incident hip fracture through November 2014. Within this cohort, each case of primary hip fractures was individually matched to 3 controls without a primary hip fracture. Proportion of follow-up days covered (PDC) with bisphosphonates was calculated from bisphosphonate purchases. Adherence was categorized into the following groups: purchase of 1 or 2 months’ supply (reference group), at least 3 months’ supply to PDC ≤20%, PDC >20% to ≤80%, PDC >80% to ≤100%. Results: Included in the analysis were 426 case-control groups with a mean age (SD) of 73.7 years (7.9). Compared with the reference group, PDC of 80% to 100% with bisphosphonates was associated with a significant reduction in hip fracture risk for patients with 8 to 15 years of follow-up (OR = 0.39; 95% CI = 0.18-0.87). Among patients with a follow-up of up to 3 years, OR was 0.58 (95% CI = 0.31-1.06). Conclusions: Adherence with bisphosphonates among osteoporotic patients is associated with lower risk of hip fracture, with no indication of diminished effectiveness with long-term use.
Short- and Long-Term Management of an Acute Pustular Psoriasis Flare: A Case Report
Authors: Georgakopoulos Jorge R. , Ighani Arvin , Yeung Jensen
Published: May 2017

Background:

Generalised pustular psoriasis (GPP) and acrodermatitis continua of Hallopeau (ACH) are chronic, relapsing variants of pustular psoriasis proven to be remarkably challenging to treat. Due to their uncommon presentation, there are few described cases in literature and scarce evidence for management. Further information is needed to help dermatologists formulate treatment plans for patients presenting with such diseases.

Case Summary:

We report the case of a 68-year-old man with a 3-year history of psoriasis presenting to our clinic with a severe breakout of GPP and associated ACH. The patient underwent treatment with cyclosporine A (200 mg PO twice daily) for a period of 2 weeks. This provided dramatic improvement in disease symptoms, with clearance of pustules, remarkable reduction of ACH lesions, and absence of pain. The patient was transitioned to infliximab (5 mg/kg intravenous) and apremilast (30 mg PO twice daily), displaying minimal GPP relapse and well-controlled onychodystrophy for several months.

Conclusion:

This case supports the use of cyclosporine as a first-line agent in providing immediate symptomatic relief for pustular psoriasis flares. Transitioning to infliximab and apremilast combination therapy offers a unique treatment regime for long-term GPP and ACH management.