bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urogymnus acanthobothrium sp. nov., a new euryhaline whipray (Myliobatiformes: Dasyatidae) from Australia and Papua New Guinea
Authors: LAST PETER R. , WHITE WILLIAM T. , KYNE PETER M.
Published: August 2016

The Mumburarr Whipray, Urogymnus acanthobothrium sp. nov. is described from a single specimen taken from the Cambridge Gulf, Western Australia, and from images of 10 other specimens from northern Australia and Papua New Guinea (all observed but not collected). It is a very large ray that attains at least 161 cm disc width, making it amongst the largest of the whiprays. The ventral tail below the caudal sting has a low, short-based fold. A ventral tail fold (or a dorsal fold) has not been recorded for any other himanturin stingray in the Indo-West Pacific. Molecular data suggest it is most closely related to a similar but more widely distributed cognate, U. granulatus. Both of these species share a suboval disc shape, similar squamation patterns, and the tail posterior to the sting is entirely white (at least in small individuals). U. acanthobothrium sp. nov. differs from U. granulatus in having a longer and more angular snout, longer tail, more posteriorly inserted caudal sting, lacks white flecks on the dorsal surface, and the ventral disc is uniformly white (rather than white with a broad black margin). It co-occurs with two other morphologically distinct Urogymnus in the region (U. asperrimus and U. dalyensis). Like U. dalyensis it occurs in both brackish and marine waters. A key is proved to the members of the genus Urogymnus.
Carcinoplax fasciata, a new species of deep-water goneplacid crab from southwestern India (Crustacea: Decapoda: Brachyura: Goneplacoidea)
Authors: NG PETER K.L. , KUMAR APPUKUTTANNAIR BIJU
Published: August 2016

A new species of Carcinoplax H. Milne Edwards, 1852 (family Goneplacidae) is described from southern India. Carcinoplax fasciata n. sp. is closest to C. specularis Rathbun, 1914, but can be distinguished by its different coloration in life as well as structures of the carapace surface, anterolateral armature, supraorbital margin, chela and male first gonopod.
Evolution of the United States Marijuana Market in the Decade of Liberalization Before Full Legalization
Authors: Davenport Steven S. , Caulkins Jonathan P.
Published: August 2016

The past decade has seen a remarkable liberalization of marijuana policies in many parts of the United States. We analyze data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) for coinciding changes in the marijuana market from 2002 to 2013, including market size, number and demographics of customers, and varying means of acquiring the drug. Results suggests that (a) the national market has grown, especially in terms of the number of daily users; (b) marijuana users remained economically “downscale” over this period, and in many ways resemble cigarette users; (c) distribution networks appear to be professionalizing in a sense, as fewer users obtain marijuana socially; (d) the typical purchase has gotten smaller by weight but not price paid, suggestive of a trend toward higher potencies; (e) marijuana expenditures vary by user group; and (f) respondents with medical marijuana recommendations differ from other users in systematic ways.
From Homelessness to Employment: Perceptions of OEF and OIF Veterans With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Hayes Paul J. , Degeneffe Charles Edmund , Olney Marjorie F. , Tucker Mark S.
Published: August 2016

The purpose of this study was to document the first-person perspectives of 10 Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) regarding their efforts to move from homelessness to employment. A qualitative, phenomenological study design was employed through the use of in-depth interviews. Five themes emerged, labeled as (a) fallout from PTSD, (b) motivation to change, (c) family support, (d) rehabilitation counseling, and (e) developing a new work identity. Findings suggest that veterans of this era with PTSD express the values and attitudes needed for work adjustment and successful reintegration into the workforce. It is anticipated that the results of this study will stimulate the rehabilitation counseling profession to continue advancements in training, research, and service provision to better meet the vocational rehabilitation needs of veterans with PTSD.
Applying statistical debugging for enhanced trace validation of agent-based models
Authors: Gore Ross J , Lynch Christopher J , Kavak Hamdi
Published: August 2016

The verification and validation (V&V) of agent-based models (ABMs) is challenging. The underlying structure of the model and the agents can change over time. Furthermore, the theoretical context of the model is often very different from established models of the same phenomenon. In an effort to overcome these issues, trace validation is becoming a common V&V mechanism within the agent-based modeling community. In trace validation, characteristics of agents and the model are tracked over time and then analyzed by subject matter experts (SMEs) to gain insight into unexpected and potentially invalid output. Here, we present our tool, the V&V Calculator, which applies predicates employed in the field of software engineering. The result is a structured trace validation approach with quantifiable measures that facilitates SME exploration and insight into the causes of unexpected output within ABMs.
A case of endocarditis mimicking Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever
Authors: Tanyel Esra , Sunbul Mustafa , Fletcher Tom , Leblebicioglu Hakan
Published: August 2016

Infective endocarditis (IE) is life-threatening condition with a highly variable clinical presentation. We report a case of acute IE with delayed diagnosis which resulted due to an initial misdiagnosis of Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) in an endemic area. A case was due to Staphylococcus aureus and requiring valve replacement. They serve to emphasize the importance of careful history taking, physical examination and a broad range of different diagnostic techniques in the context of suspected viral hemorrhagic fever.
Municipal Human Resource Management
Authors: Jacobson Willow S. , Sowa Jessica E.
Published: August 2016

Municipal governments experienced many challenges brought on by the great recession of the late 2000s. Drawing on data from human resource directors in Colorado and North Carolina municipalities, this article examines the real-world implications of the economic recession on human resource management (HRM) practices, including the workforce-related challenges municipal governments face in a difficult economic climate and what HRM innovations were developed to respond. For challenges, funding was consistently the top response as well as recruiting and maintaining a motivated workforce. The bulk of the innovations were internally focused and reactionary in terms of responding to an immediate or current condition. Implications for practice are provided.
Perceptual Assessment of Velopharyngeal Dysfunction by Otolaryngology Residents
Authors: Butts Sydney C. , Truong Alan , Forde Christina , Stefanov Dimitre G. , Marrinan Eileen
Published: August 2016

Objective

To assess the ability of otolaryngology residents to rate the hypernasal resonance of patients with velopharyngeal dysfunction. We hypothesize that experience (postgraduate year [PGY] level) and training will result in improved ratings of speech samples.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Otolaryngology training programs at 2 academic medical centers.

Subjects and Methods

Thirty otolaryngology residents (PGY 1‐5) were enrolled in the study. All residents rated 30 speech samples at 2 separate times. Half the residents completed a training module between the rating exercises, with the other half serving as a control group. Percentage agreement with the expert rating of each speech sample and intrarater reliability were calculated for each resident. Analysis of covariance was used to model accuracy at session 2.

Results

The median percentage agreement at session 1 was 53.3% for all residents. At the second session, the median scores were 53.3% for the control group and 60% for the training group, but this difference was not statistically significant. Intrarater reliability was moderate for both groups. Residents were more accurate in their ratings of normal and severely hypernasal speech. There was no correlation between rating accuracy and PGY level. Score at session 1 positively correlated with score at session 2.

Conclusion

Perceptual training of otolaryngology residents has the potential to improve their ratings of hypernasal speech. Length of time in residency may not be best predictor of perceptual skill. Training modalities incorporating practice with hypernasal speech samples could improve rater skills and should be studied more extensively.
Look Who's Talking! Impact of Communication Relationship Satisfaction on Justice Perceptions
Authors: Aggarwal-Gupta Meenakshi , Kumar Rajiv
Published: August 2016

Communication in an organization forms an important part of most organizational processes. Effective communication leads to not only successful implementation of other processes such as change and divestitures, but also to positive organizational perceptions among employees. It encourages the perceptions of distributive and procedural justice leading to greater job satisfaction and performance among employees.

This study looked at communication relationship satisfaction (CRS) and its impact on perceptions of distributive, procedural, and interactional justice. Communication relationship satisfaction (CRS) is an umbrella concept to convey the extent to which available information meets the task-related and general information needs of employees. Employees assess their satisfaction with communications inside organizations on four different facets: (a) with supervisors (b) with peers (c) with top management and (d) with the organization as such (Putti, Aryee and Phua, 1990).

Perceived justice is a multi-dimensional construct encompassing three dimensions, namely distributive, procedural, and interactional justice. Distributive justice refers to the perceived fairness of the tangible outcomes of a dispute, negotiation, or decision involving two or more parties. Procedural justice refers to the perceived fairness of the policies, procedures, and criteria used by decision makers in arriving at the outcome of a dispute or negotiation. Interactional justice refers to the manner in which people are treated during the conflict resolution process

Building upon previous research, we predicted that CRS across all facets will be positively related to all forms of organizational justice. We also predicted that CRS with top management will be the strongest predictor of distributive and procedural justice and CRS with supervisor will be the strongest predictor of interactional justice

292 executives belonging to different organizations were surveyed and the results supported the hypotheses: CRS was found to be strongly related to all the three components of organizational justice. Employees appeared to give far more importance to communication from the top management and their immediate supervisors than to the general communication from the organization as an entity.

The results of this study become important in light of the recent layoffs and changes that are occurring in the corporate world. Clearly, any communication likely to impact perceptions of justice should be routed through the more appropriate channels.
Parenting while living with advanced cancer: A qualitative study
Authors: Park Eliza M , Check Devon K , Song Mi-Kyung , Reeder-Hayes Katherine E , Hanson Laura C , Yopp Justin M , Rosenstein Donald L , Mayer Deborah K
Published: August 2016

Background:

Patients with advanced cancer who have dependent children are an important population with a life-limiting illness and high levels of psychological distress. Few studies have addressed the experience of being a parent with advanced cancer and their potential palliative needs.

Aim:

To describe the experience of living with advanced cancer as a parent, including illness experience, parental concerns, and treatment decision making and to explore whether these experiences differ by their functional status.

Design:

We conducted a cross-sectional, qualitative study using in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic content analysis.

Setting and participants:

A total of 42 participants with metastatic cancer and with at least one child under the age of 18 years were recruited from a comprehensive cancer center. 25 participants were rated as having high functional status (the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Performance Status Scale = 0–1) and 17 with low functional status (ECOG=2–4).

Results:

We identified four themes regarding the experience of being a parent with advanced cancer: (1) parental concerns about the impact of their illness and death on their children, (2) “missing out” and losses of parental role and responsibilities, (3) maintaining parental responsibilities despite life-limiting illness, and (4) parental identity influencing decision making about treatment. Parental functional status influenced not only physical responsibilities but also intensified parenting psychological concerns.

Conclusion:

Parents with metastatic cancer may have unique palliative care needs as they experience parenting concerns while managing the psychological and physical demands of advanced cancer.
De la centralisation autoritaire à la naissance du « pouvoir local » : transition politique et recompositions institutionnelles en Tunisie (2011–2014)
Authors: Belhadj Souhaïl
Published: August 2016

The weakening of local power structures in Tunisia, whether linked to the authoritarian centralization of the country or to the erosion of the mechanisms for coopting local elites, strongly contributed to upset the political equilibrium of fallen President Ben Ali’s regime. The weakened position created conditions favorable to an ongoing negotiation over power-sharing among social groups and their access to resources. The adoption of a new Constitution in 2014 attests to this redefinition of power relations between local elites and the central State inasmuch as it established, for the first time in modern Tunisian history, the principle of an elected, decentralized ‘local power’ with financial and administrative autonomy. The aim of this article is to answer the question of whether the adoption of a new Constitution, brought in on the basis of a historical compromise between the representatives of the country’s different political tendencies, would enable an orderly changeover from authoritarian government to long-term power-sharing arrangements.
Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) 2016 Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Adults with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Lam Raymond W. , McIntosh Diane , Wang JianLi , Enns Murray W. , Kolivakis Theo , Michalak Erin E. , Sareen Jitender , Song Wei-Yi , Kennedy Sidney H. , MacQueen Glenda M. , Milev Roumen V. , Parikh Sagar V. , Ravindran Arun V. ,   the CANMAT Depression Work Group
Published: August 2016

Background:

The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) conducted a revision of the 2009 guidelines by updating the evidence and recommendations. The scope of the 2016 guidelines remains the management of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults, with a target audience of psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.

Methods:

Using the question-answer format, we conducted a systematic literature search focusing on systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Evidence was graded using CANMAT-defined criteria for level of evidence. Recommendations for lines of treatment were based on the quality of evidence and clinical expert consensus. This section is the first of six guidelines articles.

Results:

In Canada, the annual and lifetime prevalence of MDD was 4.7% and 11.3%, respectively. MDD represents the second leading cause of global disability, with high occupational and economic impact mainly attributable to indirect costs. DSM-5 criteria for depressive disorders remain relatively unchanged, but other clinical dimensions (sleep, cognition, physical symptoms) may have implications for depression management. e-Mental health is increasingly used to support clinical and self-management of MDD. In the 2-phase (acute and maintenance) treatment model, specific goals address symptom remission, functional recovery, improved quality of life, and prevention of recurrence.

Conclusions:

The burden attributed to MDD remains high, whether from individual distress, functional and relationship impairment, reduced quality of life, or societal economic cost. Applying core principles of care, including comprehensive assessment, therapeutic alliance, support of self-management, evidence-informed treatment, and measurement-based care, will optimize clinical, quality of life, and functional outcomes in MDD.
Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) 2016 Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Adults with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Kennedy Sidney H. , Lam Raymond W. , McIntyre Roger S. , Tourjman S. Valérie , Bhat Venkat , Blier Pierre , Hasnain Mehrul , Jollant Fabrice , Levitt Anthony J. , MacQueen Glenda M. , McInerney Shane J. , McIntosh Diane , Milev Roumen V. , Müller Daniel J. , Parikh Sagar V. , Pearson Norma L. , Ravindran Arun V. , Uher Rudolf ,   the CANMAT Depression Work Group
Published: August 2016

Background:

The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) conducted a revision of the 2009 guidelines by updating the evidence and recommendations. The scope of the 2016 guidelines remains the management of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults, with a target audience of psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.

Methods:

Using the question-answer format, we conducted a systematic literature search focusing on systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Evidence was graded using CANMAT-defined criteria for level of evidence. Recommendations for lines of treatment were based on the quality of evidence and clinical expert consensus. “Pharmacological Treatments” is the third of six sections of the 2016 guidelines. With little new information on older medications, treatment recommendations focus on second-generation antidepressants.

Results:

Evidence-informed responses are given for 21 questions under 4 broad categories: 1) principles of pharmacological management, including individualized assessment of patient and medication factors for antidepressant selection, regular and frequent monitoring, and assessing clinical and functional outcomes with measurement-based care; 2) comparative aspects of antidepressant medications based on efficacy, tolerability, and safety, including summaries of newly approved drugs since 2009; 3) practical approaches to pharmacological management, including drug-drug interactions and maintenance recommendations; and 4) managing inadequate response and treatment resistance, with a focus on switching antidepressants, applying adjunctive treatments, and new and emerging agents.

Conclusions:

Evidence-based pharmacological treatments are available for first-line treatment of MDD and for management of inadequate response. However, given the limitations of the evidence base, pharmacological management of MDD still depends on tailoring treatments to the patient.
Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) 2016 Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Adults with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Parikh Sagar V. , Quilty Lena C. , Ravitz Paula , Rosenbluth Michael , Pavlova Barbara , Grigoriadis Sophie , Velyvis Vytas , Kennedy Sidney H. , Lam Raymond W. , MacQueen Glenda M. , Milev Roumen V. , Ravindran Arun V. , Uher Rudolf ,   the CANMAT Depression Work Group
Published: August 2016

Background:

The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) has revised its 2009 guidelines for the management of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults by updating the evidence and recommendations. The target audiences for these 2016 guidelines are psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.

Methods:

Using the question-answer format, we conducted a systematic literature search focusing on systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Evidence was graded using CANMAT-defined criteria for level of evidence. Recommendations for lines of treatment were based on the quality of evidence and clinical expert consensus. “Psychological Treatments” is the second of six sections of the 2016 guidelines.

Results:

Evidence-informed responses were developed for 25 questions under 5 broad categories: 1) patient characteristics relevant to using psychological interventions; 2) therapist and health system characteristics associated with optimizing outcomes; 3) descriptions of major psychotherapies and their efficacy; 4) additional psychological interventions, such as peer interventions and computer- and technology-delivered interventions; and 5) combining and/or sequencing psychological and pharmacological interventions.

Conclusions:

First-line psychological treatment recommendations for acute MDD include cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and behavioural activation (BA). Second-line recommendations include computer-based and telephone-delivered psychotherapy. Where feasible, combining psychological treatment (CBT or IPT) with antidepressant treatment is recommended because combined treatment is superior to either treatment alone. First-line psychological treatments for maintenance include CBT and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT). Patient preference, in combination with evidence-based treatments and clinician/system capacity, will yield the optimal treatment strategies for improving individual outcomes in MDD.
Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) 2016 Clinical Guidelines for the Management of Adults with Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Ravindran Arun V. , Balneaves Lynda G. , Faulkner Guy , Ortiz Abigail , McIntosh Diane , Morehouse Rachel L. , Ravindran Lakshmi , Yatham Lakshmi N. , Kennedy Sidney H. , Lam Raymond W. , MacQueen Glenda M. , Milev Roumen V. , Parikh Sagar V. ,   the CANMAT Depression Work Group
Published: August 2016

Background:

The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) conducted a revision of the 2009 guidelines by updating the evidence and recommendations. The scope of the 2016 guidelines remains the management of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults, with a target audience of psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.

Methods:

Using the question-answer format, we conducted a systematic literature search focusing on systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Evidence was graded using CANMAT-defined criteria for level of evidence. Recommendations for lines of treatment were based on the quality of evidence and clinical expert consensus. “Complementary and Alternative Medicine Treatments” is the fifth of six sections of the 2016 guidelines.

Results:

Evidence-informed responses were developed for 12 questions for 2 broad categories of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) interventions: 1) physical and meditative treatments (light therapy, sleep deprivation, exercise, yoga, and acupuncture) and 2) natural health products (St. John’s wort, omega-3 fatty acids; S-adenosyl-L-methionine [SAM-e], dehydroepiandrosterone, folate, Crocus sativus, and others). Recommendations were based on available data on efficacy, tolerability, and safety.

Conclusions:

For MDD of mild to moderate severity, exercise, light therapy, St. John’s wort, omega-3 fatty acids, SAM-e, and yoga are recommended as first- or second-line treatments. Adjunctive exercise and adjunctive St. John’s wort are second-line recommendations for moderate to severe MDD. Other physical treatments and natural health products have less evidence but may be considered as third-line treatments. CAM treatments are generally well tolerated. Caveats include methodological limitations of studies and paucity of data on long-term outcomes and drug interactions.
Assessment of different pre-treatment methods for the removal of limonene in citrus waste and their effect on methane potential and methane production rate
Authors: Ruiz Begoña , de Benito Amparo , Rivera José Daniel , Flotats Xavier
Published: August 2016

The objective of this study was to assess the limonene removal efficiency of three pre-treatment methods when applied to citrus waste and to evaluate their effects on the biochemical methane potential and the methane production rate using batch anaerobic tests. The methods tested were based on removal (biological pretreatment by fungi) or recovery (steam distillation and ethanol extraction) of limonene. All the treatments decreased the concentration of limonene in orange peel, with average efficiencies of 22%, 44% and 100% for the biological treatment, steam distillation and ethanol extraction, respectively. By-products from limonene biodegradation by fungi exhibited an inhibitory effect also, not making interesting the biological pretreatment. The methane potential and production rate of the treated orange peel increased significantly after applying the recovery strategies, which separated and recovered simultaneously other inhibitory components of the citrus essential oil. Apart from the high recovery efficiency of the ethanol extraction process, it presented a favourable energy balance.
Weight-Related Goal Setting in a Telephone-Based Preventive Health-Coaching Program: Demonstration of Effectiveness
Authors: O’Hara Blythe J. , Gale Joanne , McGill Bronwyn , Bauman Adrian , Hebden Lana , Allman-Farinelli Margaret , Maxwell Michelle , Phongsavan Philayrath
Published: August 2016

Purpose:

This study investigated whether participants in a 6-month telephone-based coaching program, who set physical activity, nutrition, and weight loss goals had better outcomes in these domains.

Design:

Quasi-experimental design.

Setting:

The Australian Get Healthy Information and Coaching Service (GHS), a free population-wide telephone health-coaching service that includes goal setting as a key component of its coaching program.

Participants:

Consenting GHS coaching participants who had completed coaching between February 2009 and December 2012 (n = 4108).

Measures:

At baseline, participants select a goal for the coaching program, and sociodemographic variables are collected. Self-reported weight, height, waist circumference, physical activity, and nutrition-related behaviors are assessed at baseline and 6 months.

Analysis:

Descriptive analysis was performed on key sociodemographic variables, and the relationship between goal type and change in health outcomes was assessed using a series of linear mixed models that modeled change from baseline to 6 months.

Results:

Participants who set goals in relation to weight management and physical activity achieved better results in these areas than those who set alternate goals, losing more than those who set alternate goals (1.5 kg and 0.9 cm in waist circumference) and increasing walking per week (40 minutes), respectively. There was no difference in food-related outcomes for those that set nutrition-related goals.

Conclusion:

Goal setting for weight management and increasing physical activity in the overweight and obese population, undertaken in a telephone-based coaching program, can be effective.
Maxillary Canine Tooth Extraction for Class 2 Malocclusion in a Dog
Authors: Angel Molly
Published: August 2016

Malocclusion in dogs is commonly diagnosed in puppies when the primary dentition is present. Interceptive orthodontic treatment may be elected to temporarily resolve painful contact points with the primary dentition. However, the adult dentition must be monitored closely and treated to achieve a lifelong, pain-free occlusion. This case report illustrates interceptive orthodontic treatment of deciduous and permanent dentition to treat a class 2 malocclusion in a dog. Extraction of the permanent maxillary canine tooth was elected to resolve abnormal contact from the mandibular canine in a single anesthetic episode. This treatment option allowed the patient to salvage the structure and function of the mandibular canine, avoid complications associated with mandibular canine extraction, and negate the need for lifelong follow-up of endodontic therapy.
Effects of Buprenorphine Added to Bupivacaine Infraorbital Nerve Blocks on Isoflurane Minimum Alveolar Concentration Using a Model for Acute Dental/Oral Surgical Pain in Dogs
Authors: Snyder Lindsey B. C. , Snyder Christopher J. , Hetzel Scott
Published: August 2016

Bupivacaine appears to have a duration of action longer than previously reported. Results of this study demonstrate that the addition of buprenorphrine may enhance the analgesic duration of effect for bupivacaine regional nerve blocks. In addition, the use of bupivacaine alone may have analgesia that exceeds 24 hours in many cases. Although not statistically significant based on sample size, 50% of dogs receiving the bupivacaine/buprenorphine regional anesthetic block demonstrated a decreased anesthetic requirement 48 hours postadministration when compared to 25% of dogs receiving the bupivacaine anesthetic. No adverse cardiorespiratory effects were noted secondary to either local anesthetic treatment. Use of bupivacaine may have analgesic effects extending greater than 24 hours (24-72) when used in regional anesthetic blocks in veterinary dental patients with acute dental pain. The addition of buprenorphine to bupivacaine may extend the duration of analgesia (48-96 h). The limited sample size, in addition to patient variability in response to medications, may account for the fact that no differences were detected between the treatments administered.
Gene Sequence Analyses of the Healthy Oral Microbiome in Humans and Companion Animals
Authors: Davis Eric M.
Published: August 2016

It has long been accepted that certain oral bacterial species are responsible for the development of periodontal disease. However, the focus of microbial and immunological research is shifting from studying the organisms associated with disease to examining the indigenous microbial inhabitants that are present in health. Microbiome refers to the aggregate genetic material of all microorganisms living in, or on, a defined habitat. Recent developments in gene sequence analysis have enabled detection and identification of bacteria from polymicrobial samples, including subgingival plaque. Diversity surveys utilizing this technology have demonstrated that bacterial culture techniques have vastly underestimated the richness and diversity of microorganisms in vivo, since only certain bacteria grow in vitro. Surveys using gene sequence analysis have demonstrated that the healthy oral microbiome is composed of an unexpectedly high number of diverse species, including putative pathogens. These findings support the view that coevolution microorganisms and macroscopic hosts has occurred in which certain microorganisms have adapted to survive in the oral cavity and host immune tolerance has allowed the establishment of a symbiotic relationship in which both parties receive benefits (mutualism). This review describes gene sequence analysis as an increasingly common, culture-independent tool for detecting bacteria in vivo and describes the results of recent oral microbiome diversity surveys of clinically healthy humans, dogs, and cats. Six bacterial phyla consistently dominated the healthy oral microbiome of all 3 host species. Previous hypotheses on etiology of periodontitis are reviewed in light of new scientific findings. Finally, the consideration that clinically relevant periodontal disease occurs when immune tolerance of the symbiotic oral microbiome is altered to a proinflammatory response will be discussed.
Performance of Indian Service Industries Due to IT Adoption
Authors: Behera Ajay Kumar , Nayak Narayan C. , Das Harish C.
Published: August 2016

This research develops principles for an evaluation criterion of the performance of a service firm. The aim of this article is to provide an analysis on the relationship between information technology (IT) adoption and its usage and firm performance (banking and software firm) in India. Firm performance was measured with the help of three important variables: efficiency, effectiveness and profitability. Each one of the above has been described with a set of pretested questionnaires. Banks in India in particular are geared for comprehensive banking solutions with extensive branch networks. The result from statistical analysis was validated with that achieved from artificial neural network (ANN) modelling.
Hyperplastic stomatitis and esophagitis in a tortoise (Testudo graeca) associated with an adenovirus infection
Authors: Garcia-Morante Beatriz , Pénzes Judit J. , Costa Taiana , Martorell Jaime , Martínez Jorge
Published: August 2016

A 2-year-old female, spur-thighed tortoise ( Testudo graeca) was presented with poor body condition (1/5) and weakness. Fecal analysis revealed large numbers of oxyurid-like eggs, and radiographs were compatible with gastrointestinal obstruction. Despite supportive medical treatment, the animal died. At gross examination, an intestinal obstruction was confirmed. Histopathology revealed severe hyperplastic esophagitis and stomatitis with marked epithelial cytomegaly and enormous basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies. Electron microscopy examination revealed a large number of 60–80 nm, nonenveloped, icosahedral virions arranged in crystalline arrays within nuclear inclusions of esophageal epithelial cells, morphologically compatible with adenovirus-like particles. PCR for virus identification was performed with DNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. A nested, consensus pan-adenovirus PCR and sequencing analysis showed a novel adenovirus. According to phylogenetic calculations, it clustered to genus Atadenovirus in contrast with all other chelonian adenoviruses described to date. The present report details the pathologic findings associated with an adenovirus infection restricted to the upper digestive tract.
Scalable critical-path analysis and optimization guidance for hybrid MPI-CUDA applications
Authors: Schmitt Felix , Dietrich Robert , Juckeland Guido
Published: August 2016

The use of accelerators in heterogeneous systems is an established approach in designing petascale applications. Today, Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) offers a rich programming interface for GPU accelerators but requires developers to incorporate several layers of parallelism on both the CPU and the GPU. From this increasing program complexity emerges the need for sophisticated performance tools. This work contributes by analyzing hybrid MPI-CUDA programs for properties based on wait states, such as the critical path, a metric proven to identify application bottlenecks effectively. We developed a tool to construct a dependency graph based on an execution trace and the inherent dependencies of the programming models CUDA and Message Passing Interface (MPI). Thereafter, it detects wait states and attributes blame to responsible activities. Together with the property of being on the critical path, we can identify activities that are most viable for optimization. To evaluate the global impact of optimizations to critical activities, we predict the program execution using a graph-based performance projection. The developed approach has been demonstrated with suitable examples to be both scalable and correct. Furthermore, we establish a new categorization of CUDA inefficiency patterns ensuing from the dependencies between CUDA activities.
Consumer Neoteny
Authors: Alemany Oliver Mathieu
Published: August 2016

This research explores childlike consumer behavior from an evolutionary perspective. More specifically, it uses the concept of neoteny to show that the retention of ancestors’ juvenile characteristics is related to specific behaviors. The results of factor analyses conducted on a UK sample ( n = 499) and a French sample ( n = 292) 7 years later indicate four dimensions of childlike consumer behavior, namely, stimulus seeking, reality conflict, escapism, and control of aggression.
Modification of cerebral vascular anatomy induced by Leo stent placement depending on the site of stenting: A series of 102 cases
Authors: Chau Y , Mondot L , Sachet M , Gaudart J , Fontaine D , Lonjon M , Sédat J
Published: August 2016

Background and purpose

Recent studies demonstrated the capacity of stents to modify cerebral vascular anatomy. This study evaluates arterial anatomy deformation after Leo stent placement according to the stenting site and the impact on the immediate postoperative and six-month degree of aneurysmal occlusion.

Materials and methods

A total of 102 stents were placed against the neck of aneurysms situated in the anterior cerebral circulation. Aneurysms were classified into two groups: The first was called the distal group ( n = 62) and comprised aneurysms situated in the middle cerebral and anterior communicating arteries and the second was called the proximal group ( n = 40) and comprised aneurysms in other sites. The stented arterial segment was classified as deformed or non-deformed by blinded review and superimposition of anonymised films before and after stenting. The degree of occlusion was determined immediately postoperatively and at six months.

Results

Significantly, anatomical deformity was observed in the distal group compared to the proximal group (85% vs 28%). No significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of postoperative degree of occlusion. At six months, a significant difference was observed between the two groups: three recurrences in the distal group vs 10 recurrences in the proximal group. Two (3%) recurrences were observed in the deformed group vs 11 (31%) recurrences in the non-deformed group.

Conclusions

Arterial deformity induced by stenting is even more marked for distal aneurysms. The recurrence rate is smaller when the stent placement results in an arterial anatomical change. The percentage of recurrence is lower when anatomy was amended by stent implantation.
Cost-effective air flow rate estimations using blowerdoor and wind speed measurements to assess building envelope thermal performances
Authors: Thébault Simon , Millet Jean-Robert
Published: August 2016

Thermal performance discrepancies between theory and practice in buildings is a well known issue. Reducing this gap is crucial for enhancing energy efficient building construction and renovation. To measure the actual transmission heat loss coefficient of a building from in situ testing, an evaluation of time-varying infiltration losses needs to be quantified to improve the result’s precision, especially for short dynamic methods. This study first presents a theoretical analysis to explain why this evaluation is necessary and how to perform it using different technical approaches (simplified aeraulic models and tracer gas). An experimental comparison of four of these solutions on a small shed reveals that blowerdoor and wind speed measurements can be sufficient to evaluate infiltration losses with acceptable accuracy. Results of the identified transmission losses coefficient [Formula: see text] using the In Situ Assessment of Building EnvoLope pErformances (ISABELE) method shows how much the bias is reduced by including permeability specifications and local wind speed measurements. ISABELE is a measurement method of the overall transmission heat loss coefficient of a building.
Cardiac Emergency Response Planning for Schools
Authors: Rose Kathleen , Martin Goble Monica , Berger Stuart , Courson Ron , Fosse Gwen , Gillary Randall , Halowich Joe , Indik Julia H. , Konig Madeleine , Lopez-Anderson Martha , Murphy M. Kathleen , Newman Mary M. , Ranous Jeff , Sasson Comilla , Taras Howard , Thompson Allison
Published: August 2016

A sudden cardiac arrest in school or at a school event is potentially devastating to families and communities. An appropriate response to such an event—as promoted by developing, implementing, and practicing a cardiac emergency response plan (CERP)—can increase survival rates. Understanding that a trained lay-responder team within the school can make a difference in the crucial minutes between the time when the victim collapses and when emergency medical services arrive empowers school staff and can save lives. In 2015, the American Heart Association convened a group of stakeholders to develop tools to assist schools in developing CERPs. This article reviews the critical components of a CERP and a CERP team, the factors that should be taken into account when implementing the CERP, and recommendations for policy makers to support CERPs in schools.
‘Shine like a jewel’: Kantian ethics, probation duty and criminal justice
Authors: Whitehead Philip
Published: August 2016

Since the 1980s, the criminal justice system in England and Wales has been recalibrated by the ideological and material forces of marketisation and competition. Specifically, the probation duty to advise, assist and befriend has been eroded by the instrumental functions of punishment and prison. These profound transformations have undermined the ethico-cultural foundations of criminal justice, indexed clearly in the privatisation of probation services between 2010 and 2015. The original contribution of this article draws upon Kantian deontological ethics to critique these events and to re-energise the moral coordinates of government policies and organisational practices. It confronts the current orthodoxy with the unconditional moral demand of duty and moral obligation.
Comparing Health-Related News Articles to Original Research Studies: A Lesson for Research Methods
Authors: Basch Corey H. , Ethan Danna , Kecojevic Aleksandar
Published: August 2016

Health education specialists often communicate health information to consumers, making the ability to decipher valid information from that which is unreliable an important skill. To address this issue, public health degree programs can incorporate activities focused on the accuracy of health information into relevant courses and curricula. One way to address this is through a web-based activity described in this article. This learning activity allows students to become familiar with the problem of misinformation in popular press and to practice the skills associated with identifying accurate health-related content on the Internet. The goal of this learning activity is three-fold: students will be able to (a) critically evaluate a news article concerning a health-related topic and, (b) identify reports of research in the popular press that may be misleading and inaccurate, and (c) identify reports of research in the popular press that are not well-written according to journalistic standards (i.e., writers should be objective purveyors of the news and cover all perspectives). Incorporating such learning activities into relevant courses and curricula may help students become familiar with the challenge of misinformation in the popular press. Furthermore, these activities allow them to practice the skills associated with identifying accurate health-related content on the Internet.
Combined Sonography
Authors: Sakai Naomi , Shrestha Deepak , Iyngkaran Thayahlan , Ravichandran Duraisamy
Published: August 2016

We report the results of a joint thyroid clinic with a consultant surgeon and consultant radiologist to offer “triple assessment” for patients on a single visit. All new referrals from September 2011 to December 2013 were reviewed. Among 228 patients referred, 163 patients underwent ultrasonography (US) on the same visit and 66 fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) studies (57 under US guidance) were done. One hundred ninety-eight (87%) patients made a single visit to the clinic for diagnosis. One hundred twenty-five were discharged or referred elsewhere after the visit and 21 underwent surgery; the remaining 52 patients were followed up. There were 7 thyroid cancers and 2 lymphomas diagnosed. We have concluded that the joint ultrasound-surgery clinic provided an effective outpatient thyroid service with fewer hospital visits.
Variable exposure time imaging for obtaining unblurred HDR images
Authors: Uda Saori , Sakaue Fumihiko , Sato Jun
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we propose a new camera and a new imaging technique for obtaining unblurred high-dynamic-range (HDR) images. In this camera, we achieve pixelwise control of exposure parameters by using a liquid crystal on silicon. In particular, we can control not only the amount of exposure but also the exposure time pixel by pixel. We call the imaging as variable exposure time imaging. By using the variable exposure time imaging, we can suppress motion blur of bright regions. In addition, we propose a motion blur recovering method from variable exposure time images for obtaining more distinct images including darker regions. Experimental results show our method can take a clear HDR image even if the target object moves in HDR scene.
Loss ofvhlin the zebrafish pronephros recapitulates early stages of human clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Noonan Haley R. , Metelo Ana M. , Kamei Caramai N. , Peterson Randall T. , Drummond Iain A. , Iliopoulos Othon
Published: August 2016

Patients with von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease harbor a germline mutation in the VHL gene leading to the development of several tumor types including clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). In addition, the VHL gene is inactivated in over 90% of sporadic ccRCC cases. ‘Clear cell’ tumors contain large, proliferating cells with ‘clear cytoplasm’, and a reduced number of cilia. VHL inactivation leads to the stabilization of hypoxia inducible factors 1a and 2a [HIF1a and HIF2a (HIF2a is also known as EPAS1)] with consequent up-regulation of specific target genes involved in cell proliferation, angiogenesis and erythropoiesis. A zebrafish model with a homozygous inactivation in the VHL gene (vhl−/−) recapitulates several aspects of the human disease, including development of highly vascular lesions in the brain and the retina and erythrocytosis. Here, we characterize for the first time the epithelial abnormalities present in the kidney of the vhl−/− zebrafish larvae as a first step in building a model of ccRCC in zebrafish. Our data show that the vhl−/− zebrafish kidney is characterized by an increased tubule diameter, disorganized cilia, the dramatic formation of cytoplasmic lipid vesicles, glycogen accumulation, aberrant cell proliferation and abnormal apoptosis. This phenotype of the vhl−/− pronephros is reminiscent of clear cell histology, indicating that the vhl−/− mutant zebrafish might serve as a model of early stage RCC. Treatment of vhl−/− zebrafish embryos with a small-molecule HIF2a inhibitor rescued the pronephric abnormalities, underscoring the value of the zebrafish model in drug discovery for treatment of VHL disease and ccRCC.