bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Play-Based Intervention on Vocabulary Acquisition by Preschoolers at Risk for Reading and Language Delays
Authors: McLeod Ragan H. , Hardy Jessica K. , Kaiser Ann P.
Published: April 2017

Closing the vocabulary gap for young children at risk for reading and language delays due to low socioeconomic status may have far reaching effects, as the relationship between early vocabulary knowledge and later academic achievement has been well-established. Vocabulary instruction for young children at risk for reading and language delays during classroom play is understudied, but appears to be a useful context for such interventions. A multiple probe design across behaviors replicated across participants was conducted to evaluate the effects of Enhanced Milieu Teaching (EMT) techniques embedded in play sessions on target vocabulary word acquisition for preschool participants. Participants acquired target word sets in an average of 14 sessions, which, in addition to a book with target vocabulary, included interventionist’s use of the words in conversation and prompts to use target words in play routines. Implications for vocabulary instruction during play and future research are included.
Could Slow Be Beautiful? Academic Counter-Spacing Within and Beyond “The Slow Swimming Club”
Authors: Jones David R.
Published: April 2017

This article proposes a specific form of academic counter-spacing, based on an autoethnographic account of an initiative called the “Slow Swimming Club.” The justification for this initiative is to contest what is contextualized as the pervasive fast pace of universities, driven by contemporary marketization, new public management, and neoliberalism. The proposed counter-spacing is analyzed here through a conceptual lens, inspired by recent research from the environmental psychology discipline around Attention Restorative Theory (ART), along with its central four principles. By using such a conceptual frame, it allows a way of exploring the impact beyond the personal day-to-day micro-restorative counter-spacing opportunities, such as the Slow Swimming Club (which take place outside the university space), toward counter-spacing back on campus. It thereby endeavors to explore how such counter-spacing not only reflects and disconnects through a restorative coping mechanism, but also collectively resists and challenges the fast agendas on campus.
How Political Signals Affect Public Support for Judicial Nominations
Authors: Sen Maya
Published: April 2017

How do Americans evaluate potential US Supreme Court candidates? Using a novel, two-part conjoint experiment, I show that respondents put high importance on the political leanings of potential Court candidates, a finding in contrast with the scholarly view that the public views the Court as different from other, more political institutions. Indeed, when respondents are given information about a nominee’s partisan leanings, they rely extensively on that information in deciding whether to support the candidate, whether they trust the candidate, and whether they find the candidate qualified. By contrast, when partisan information is withheld, respondents appear to use other kinds of signals, such as race, to fill in the gaps. Those who are most knowledgeable about the Court are most influenced by these partisan signals, providing further support for the importance of political heuristics. The results suggest that the public’s evaluation of judicial nominees is more in line with how it evaluates other political actors. They also suggest that even candidates with excellent qualifications need not garner bipartisan public support.
Identifying Early Markers of “Late Onset” Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity/Impulsivity Symptoms
Authors: Murray Aja Louise , Eisner Manuel , Obsuth Ingrid , Ribeaud Denis
Published: April 2017

Objective: In recent years, there has been an increased focus on “late onset” ADHD, referring to the onset of symptoms beyond childhood, into adolescence and adulthood. We aimed to identify childhood predictors of ADHD symptom increases over development. Method: We used growth mixture modeling to evaluate predictors of a “late onset” symptom trajectories in a longitudinal cohort study of youth measured at eight points from ages 7 to 15. Results: Individuals with high levels of sensation seeking at age 7 were more likely to show a trajectory of ADHD symptoms characterized by increasing levels from age 7 than persistently low symptom levels. Conclusion: The late versus early onset distinction may align with the distinction between deficits in “bottom-up” versus “top-down” processes previously discussed in relation to ADHD. Results also raise the possibility that later onset symptoms could be predicted based on characteristics in childhood.
Do Employee Citizenship Behaviors Lead to Customer Citizenship Behaviors? The Roles of Dual Identification and Service Climate
Authors: Chan Kimmy Wa , Gong Taeshik , Zhang Ruixue , Zhou Mingjian
Published: April 2017

This study pertains to whether and how employees’ organizational citizenship behaviors toward customers (OCB-C) influence customers’ citizenship behaviors (CCB) directed toward the firm, employees, and other customers. Drawing on a social exchange perspective, this study proposes that a dual identification mechanism—spanning customer-employee identification (C-EI) and customer-firm identification (C-FI)—mediates the social exchange relationship between OCB toward customers (OCB-C) and CCB. Service climate as a key contextual factor moderates the mediating mechanisms of identification. With data collected from a field survey and an experiment, the findings confirm that the dual identification mechanism mediates the effect of OCB-C on customers’ reciprocation with CCB. The results also reveal a moderating effect of service climate, such that the positive effect of OCB-C on C-EI and C-FI grows stronger when the service climate is at low and high levels, respectively. In addition, the empirical results demonstrate that the underlying motive attribution explains the moderating effect of service climate. This work paints a more nuanced picture of the missing link in the OCB-C-CCB interface by identifying a mediating mechanism and boundary condition. To promote CCB, managers should leverage their employees’ OCB-C as well as their firms’ service climate.
Anaplasma, Ehrlichia and Rickettsia species infections in cats: European guidelines from the ABCD on prevention and management
Authors: Pennisi Maria Grazia , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Radford Alan D , Tasker Séverine , Belák Sándor , Addie Diane D , Boucraut-Baralon Corine , Egberink Herman , Frymus Tadeusz , Gruffydd-Jones Tim , Hartmann Katrin , Horzinek Marian C , Hosie Margaret J , Lloret Albert , Lutz Hans , Marsilio Fulvio , Thiry Etienne , Truyen Uwe , Möstl Karin
Published: April 2017

Overview:

Anaplasma species, Ehrlichia species and Rickettsia species are vector-borne pathogens infecting a wide variety of mammals, but causing disease in very few of them.

Infection in cats:

Anaplasma phagocytophilum is the most important feline pathogen among these rickettsial organisms, and coinfections are possible. Little information is available on the pathogenesis of these agents in cats. Clinical signs are usually reported soon after tick infestation. They are mostly non-specific, consisting of fever, anorexia and lethargy. Joint pain may occur.

Infection in humans:

Some rickettsial species ( A phagocytophilum, Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Ehrlichia ewingii, Rickettsia conorii, Rickettsia rickettsii, Rickettsia felis, Rickettsia typhi and Candidatus Neoehrlichia mikurensis) are of zoonotic concern. Direct contact with cat saliva should be avoided because of potential contamination by R felis. Infected cats are ‘sentinels’ of the presence of rickettsial pathogens in ticks and fleas in a given geographical area, and they signal a risk for people exposed to vectors.
Feline biliary tree and gallbladder disease: Aetiology, diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Otte Corma MA , Penning Louis C , Rothuizen Jan
Published: April 2017

Practical relevance

Diseases of the biliary tree and gallbladder are more common in cats than diseases of the liver parenchyma. The parenchyma is usually affected secondarily to systemic illnesses, while the biliary system is the prime target for infectious agents (eg, bacteria and flukes) and non-infectious conditions (eg, neoplasia and cysts).

Clinical approaches

Cats with biliary disease are evaluated because of common feline clinical signs such as anorexia, nausea, vomiting and lethargy. Icterus may or may not be obvious. Biopsies for histological evaluation, and bile aspirates for culture and cytological evaluation are helpful diagnostically. Antibiotics and immunosuppressive drugs have been used successfully. Hepatosupportive drugs may help in liquefying thick bile and protecting hepatic tissue from damage. Ultrasound is a noninvasive diagnostic tool that may help in identifying dilated bile ducts, liver cysts and choleliths. It is also used to guide percutaneous bile aspiration.

Audience

This review, written for all veterinarians who treat cats, describes the various conditions that can affect the feline biliary tree and gallbladder. Treatment options are discussed, and brief summaries provided of surgical techniques and diagnostic approaches.

Evidence base

The veterinary literature pertaining to feline biliary disease is comprehensively reviewed. When appropriate, data on dogs and humans has been included to provide background information. Based on the available literature, more research into feline biliary diseases is needed.
Feline leprosy due to Candidatus ‘Mycobacterium tarwinense’: Further clinical and molecular characterisation of 15 previously reported cases and an additional 27 cases
Authors: O’Brien Carolyn R , Malik Richard , Globan Maria , Reppas George , McCowan Christina , Fyfe Janet A
Published: April 2017

Objectives:

This paper, the first in a series of three on ‘feline leprosy’, provides a detailed description of disease referable to Candidatus ‘Mycobacterium tarwinense’, the most common cause of feline leprosy in Victoria, Australia.

Methods:

Cases were sourced retrospectively and prospectively for this observational study, describing clinical, geographical and molecular microbiological data for cats definitively diagnosed with Candidatus ‘M tarwinense’ infection.

Results:

A total of 145 cases of feline leprosy were scrutinised; 114 ‘new’ cases were sourced from the Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory records, veterinary pathology laboratories or veterinarians, and 31 cases were derived from six published studies. Forty-two cats were definitively diagnosed with Candidatus ‘M tarwinense’ infection. Typically, cats were between 3 and 11 years of age, with no gender predilection, and were generally systemically well. All had outdoor access. Most cats underwent surgical resection of lesions with adjunctive medical therapy, often utilising a combination of oral clarithromycin and rifampicin for at least 3 months. Prognosis for recovery was generally good. Resolution of lesions was not observed in the absence of treatment, but a number of untreated cats continued to enjoy an acceptable quality of life despite persistence of the disease, which extended locally but did not appear to disseminate to internal organs. Preliminary results of draft genome sequencing confirmed that the species is a member of the Mycobacterium simiae complex.

Conclusions and relevance:

Candidatus ‘M tarwinense’, a fastidious member of the M simiae complex, is capable of causing feline leprosy with a tendency to produce lesions on the head, particularly involving the eyes and periocular skin. The disease has an indolent clinical course and generally responds favourably to therapy despite lesions often containing large numbers of organisms. Detailed genomic analysis may yield clues as to the environmental niche and culture requirement of this elusive organism. Prospective treatment trials and/or drug susceptibility testing in specialised systems would further inform treatment recommendations.
‘BabySounds’: Promoting bonding and attachment, pre- and post-natally, with vulnerable first-time parents
Authors: Lander Jojo
Published: April 2017

This article presents the ‘BabySounds’ music therapy programme, designed in collaboration with North and South Lanarkshire Councils, Integrating Children’s Services, the Early Years Collaborative and National Health Service Lanarkshire Midwifery Services. A case vignette titled ‘Cello Belly’ will describe how the cello served as a bridge to communication, learning and confidence. BabySounds was presented at the British Association of Music Therapy conference in Glasgow in April 2016, demonstrating research outcomes and the provision of sustainable resources for health practitioners in the 21st century.
Decoupling of consecutive gasoline controlled auto-ignition combustion cycles by field programmable gate array based real-time cylinder pressure analysis
Authors: Wick Maximilian , Lehrheuer Bastian , Albin Thivaharan , Andert Jakob , Pischinger Stefan
Published: April 2017

Gasoline controlled auto-ignition combustion offers high potential for CO2 emission reduction, but faces challenges regarding combustion stability and high sensitivity to changing boundary conditions. Combustion chamber recirculation allows a wide operation range, but results in a strong coupling of consecutive cycles due to residuals that are transferred to the subsequent combustion cycle. The cycle coupling leads to phases of unstable operation with reduced efficiency and increased emission levels. State-of-the-art control algorithms use data-driven models of gasoline controlled auto-ignition combustion to achieve cycle-to-cycle control of the process or use offline calibration and optimization. A closed-loop control is proposed and implemented on a rapid control prototyping engine control unit. The control algorithm continuously calculates the current residual fuel in the combustion chamber. The heat release is observed and compared with the theoretical heat release of the injected fuel mass. The rate of unburned fuel mass transferred to the subsequent cycle is calculated offline by a detailed gas exchange model. Based on this information, the control algorithm adapts the injected fuel quantity for each cycle individually using an inverse injector model. In this article, a concept for decoupling consecutive cycles is presented to reduce the deviations of the indicated mean effective pressure and thus the heat release. Unstable sequences are analyzed in the time domain, and unburned residuals are identified as a strong correlating factor for consecutive cycles. Using real-time cylinder pressure analysis based on a field programmable gate array enables the online calculation of unburned residual fuel. Based on this calculation, the injection of each cycle can be adapted individually to decouple consecutive cycles and avoid unstable operation. The results of the control algorithm and the stabilization of the gasoline controlled auto-ignition combustion are validated using a single-cylinder research engine and compared to steady-state operation.
Explanation, Prediction, Causation – An Unholy Trinity? Appreciative Comments on The Philosophy and Methods of Political Science
Authors: Hay Colin
Published: April 2017

In this short but critical appreciation of Keith Dowding’s seminal Philosophy and Methods in Political Science I reflect on the distinctive treatment of both realism and explanation in contemporary political science that its author offers, expressing rather more sympathy for the former than the latter. I welcome his critique of the use and misuse of ‘isms’ in much of the existing literature, while pointing to some potential inconsistencies; I accept his broad and inclusive understanding of philosophic realism; and I praise Dowding for putting the question of explanation – and its adequacy – at the heart of the philosophy of political science (where I think it belongs). Yet I reject the idea that prediction is, or indeed, should be central to all social scientific explanation. Similarly, I take issue with the contention that we are typically distracted by questions of causation, suggesting that the presentation of a ‘credibly causal’ narrative is the crux of adjudicating good from bad explanation. I explore the implications of such a position and conclude with comments on Dowding’s call for the reproducibility and transparency of data.
Reduction of Surprise: Some Thoughts on Dowding’s Conception of Explanation
Authors: Spiekermann Kai
Published: April 2017

Keith Dowding’s book is a tour de force through some important debates in the philosophy of the social sciences. In this short comment I focus on the role of explanation and how (if at all) causation is or should be related to explanation in political science. By appealing to the difference between predictive and explanatory power, I critically engage with Dowding’s proposal that explanation is the reduction of surprise. This leads me to a brief detour to the philosophy of models before I return to the issue of causation, especially the difference between causation as dependence and causation as production and how this distinction can inform methodological debates in political science.
Introduction to the Symposium
Authors: John Peter
Published: April 2017

This Introduction sets out the basic content and structure of Keith Dowding’s The Philosophy and Methods of Political Science. It introduces the rationale for the symposium and explains the wide range of responses that were sought. The articles that follow are briefly introduced along with the elements of Dowding’s response.
Exploring Proxy Measures of Mutuality for Strategic Partnership Development: A Case Study
Authors: Mayo-Gamble Tilicia L. , Barnes Priscilla A. , Sherwood-Laughlin Catherine M. , Reece Michael , DeWeese Sandy , Kennedy Carol Weiss , Valenta Mary Ann
Published: April 2017

Partnerships between academic and clinical-based health organizations are becoming increasingly important in improving health outcomes. Mutuality is recognized as a vital component of these partnerships. If partnerships are to achieve mutuality, there is a need to define what it means to partnering organizations. Few studies have described the elements contributing to mutuality, particularly in new relationships between academic and clinical partners. This study seeks to identify how mutuality is expressed and to explore potential proxy measures of mutuality for an alliance consisting of a hospital system and a School of Public Health. Key informant interviews were conducted with faculty and hospital representatives serving on the partnership steering committee. Key informants were asked about perceived events that led to the development of the Alliance; perceived goals, expectations, and outcomes; and current/future roles with the Alliance. Four proxy measures of mutuality for an academic–clinical partnership were identified: policy directives, community beneficence, procurement of human capital, and partnership longevity. Findings can inform the development of tools for assisting in strengthening relationships and ensuring stakeholders’ interests align with the mission and goal of the partnership by operationalizing elements necessary to evaluate the progress of the partnership.
Evaluation of Tobacco Control Policies in San Francisco Homeless Housing Programs
Authors: Sung Hyojin , Apollonio Dorie E.
Published: April 2017

Background. The 2014 Surgeon General’s Report noted that high smoking rates in vulnerable populations such as the homeless have been a persistent public health problem; smoking prevalence among individuals experiencing homelessness exceeds 70%. Historically, service providers for the homeless have not enacted comprehensive tobacco control policies. Method. We conducted a qualitative study of homeless housing programs in San Francisco. Administrators representing 9 of the city’s 11 homeless service agencies were interviewed to assess institutional smoking-related policies and cessation programs and perceived barriers and receptivity to instituting tobacco control interventions. Results. Respondents indicated that although most programs had adopted smoke-free grounds and some had eliminated evidence of staff smoking, the smoking status of clients was assessed only when required by funders. None of the programs offered smoking cessation interventions. Most administrators were receptive to adopting policies that would promote a tobacco-free culture; however, they noted that their clients had unique challenges that made traditional smoking cessation programs unfeasible. Conclusions. Homeless housing programs in San Francisco have not yet adopted a tobacco-free culture. Existing policies were created in response to external mandates, and smoking cessation programs may need to be modified in order to effectively reach clients.
Evaluation of Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) in Combination With Anticancer Hormones in Orthotopic Breast Cancer Models
Authors: Mathew Lata , Gaikwad Anjali , Gonzalez Anneliese , Nugent Elizabeth K. , Smith Judith A.
Published: April 2017

Objective. To determine the impact on antitumor activity when active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) in combination with anticancer hormonal agents in orthotopic mouse models of human estrogen receptor positive breast cancer and evaluate impact of AHCC on aromatase activity. Methods. The study consisted of 7 treatment arms (n=10) conducted in 2 breast cancer mouse models: MCF-7 and ZR-75. Treatment groups included untreated, vehicle, AHCC 50 mg/kg, AHCC 50 mg/kg + tamoxifen 10 mg/kg, tamoxifen 10 mg/kg, AHCC 50 mg/kg + letrozole 10 µg/mouse, or letrozole 10 µg/mouse. All treatments were administered daily by oral gavage for 12 weeks. Tumors were measured 3 times a week. In vitro estrone and 17β-estradiol enzyme immunoassay was used to evaluate aromatase activity. Results. There was no difference in the activity with the combination of AHCC + tamoxifen compared with tamoxifen ( P = 0.29). In the ZR-75 model (catechol- O-methyltransferase [COMT] wild-type), there was no difference in activity with the letrozole + AHCC compared with letrozole. However, in the MCF-7 model (COMT variant), AHCC + letrozole resulted in a decrease in activity compared with letrozole ( P < 0.01). Immunoassay data suggested that AHCC is a potential inducer of aromatase activity. In both tumor models, there was cytotoxicity observed with AHCC compared with untreated ( P < 0.02). Conclusion. AHCC did not change the activity of tamoxifen. AHCC may have some interaction with letrozole in patients with COMT variant genotype. AHCC had cytotoxicity that warrents additional studies to evaluate its potential role for consolidation/prevention of breast cancer.
Scorpion Venom Causes Upregulation of p53 and Downregulation of Bcl-xL and BID Protein Expression by Modulating Signaling Proteins Erk1/2 and STAT3, and DNA Damage in Breast and Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Al-Asmari Abdulrahman Khazim , Riyasdeen Anvarbatcha , Islam Mozaffarul
Published: April 2017

Scorpion venoms efficiently block the normal neurotransmitter signaling pathway by prejudicing the ion channel operating mechanism in the body system. Besides its negative effect, venoms also possess some beneficial qualities for humans. They have also been shown to exhibit anticancer properties in various cancer types. This unique property of the venom as an anticancer agent is mainly a result of its role in initiating apoptosis and inhibiting several signaling cascade mechanisms that promote cancer cell proliferation and growth. In this study, we examine the effect of venom on phenotypic changes as well as changes at the molecular levels in colorectal and breast cancer cell lines. A dramatic decrease in cell invasion was observed in both cancer cell lines on venom treatment. Additionally, there was decrease in IL-6, RhoC, Erk1/2, and STAT3 in venom-treated cell lines, providing strong evidence of its anticancer properties. Furthermore, decrease in the expression of antiapoptotic proteins and also upregulation of proapoptotic ones by these lines were observed on venom treatment. Moreover, a vivid picture of DNA damage was also detected on venom treatment. In conclusion, scorpion venom possesses significant potential as an anticancer agent against colorectal and breast cancer cell lines.
High-Definition Video System for Peripheral Neurorrhaphy in Rats
Authors: Monteiro de Barros Rui Sergio , Brito Marcus Vinicius Henriques , Teixeira Renan Kleber Costa , Yamaki Vitor Nagai , Costa Felipe Lobato da Silva , Sabbá Marcelo Ferreia , Lemos Marcos Vinicius Vieira , Parente Igor Costa , Feijó Daniel Haber
Published: April 2017

Background: Although all microsurgeries are based on the use of surgical microscopes, several alternative magnification systems have shown promising results. Improvements in image quality facilitated the use of video systems in microsurgeries with safety and accuracy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a low-cost, video-assisted magnification system in peripheral neurorrhaphy in rats. Methods: Twenty Wistar rats were randomly divided into 2 matched groups according to the magnification system used: the microscope group, with neurorrhaphy performed under a microscope with an image magnification of 40×; and the video system group, with the procedures performed under a video system composed of a high-definition Sony camcorder DCR-SR42 set to 52× magnification, macro lenses, 42-inch television, and a digital HDMI cable. We analyzed weight, nerve caliber, total surgery time, neurorrhaphy time, number of stitches, and number of axons in both ends (proximal and distal). Results: There were no significant differences between groups in weight, nerve caliber, or number of stitches. Neurorrhaphy under the video system took longer (video: 5.60 minutes; microscope: 3.20 minutes; P < .05). Number of axons was similar between groups, both in proximal and distal stumps. Conclusion: It is possible to perform a peripheral neurorrhaphy in rats through video system magnification, but with a longer surgical time.
The Art of Electrosurgery: Trainees and Experts
Authors: Meeuwsen Frédérique C. , Guédon Annetje C. P. , Arkenbout Ewout A. , van der Elst Maarten , Dankelman Jenny , van den Dobbelsteen John J.
Published: April 2017

The benefits of electrosurgery have been acknowledged since the early 1920s, and nowadays more than 80% of surgical procedures involve devices that apply energy to tissues. Despite its widespread use, it is currently unknown how the operator’s choices with regard to instrument selection and application technique are related to complications. As such, the manner in which electrosurgery is applied can have a serious influence on the outcome of the procedure and the well-being of patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the variety of differences in usage of electrosurgical devices. Our approach is to measure these parameters to provide insight into application techniques. A sensor was developed that records the magnitude of electric current delivered to an electrosurgical device at a frequency of 10 Hz. The sensor is able to detect device activation times and a reliable estimate of the power-level settings. Data were recorded for 91 laparoscopic cholecystectomies performed by different surgeons and residents. Results of the current measurement data show differences in the way electrosurgery is applied by surgeons and residents during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Variations are seen in the number of activations, the activation time, and the approach for removal of the gallbladder. Analysis showed that experienced surgeons have a longer activation time than residents (3.01 vs 1.41 seconds, P < .001) and a lower number of activations (102 vs 123). This method offers the opportunity to relate application techniques to clinical outcome and to provide input for the development of a best practice model.
Telemedical strategies for the improvement of secondary prevention in patients with cerebrovascular events—A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kraft Peter , Hillmann Steffi , Rücker Viktoria , Heuschmann Peter U
Published: April 2017

Background

Data from European countries consistently show that guideline-conform secondary prevention after stroke/transient ischemic attack is being realized in only 50–80% of patients. Use of telemedicine to support long-term secondary prevention has been effective in other cardiovascular diseases.

Aims

We reviewed current evidence for telemedical-supported strategies for the improvement of secondary prevention after stroke/transient ischemic attack. A systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA statement searching MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and reference lists of articles published until 18 May 2016. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies were included if they analyzed the effect of a telemedical strategy for supporting secondary prevention after stroke/transient ischemic attack compared to usual care and reported primary (behavior according to guidelines, e.g., medication adherence) or surrogate outcomes (consequences of primary outcome, e.g., blood pressure).

Summary of review

The review included 13 of 100 identified studies involving 2672 patients. Telemedical support mainly comprised telephone interventions, predominantly done by nurses. Outcomes were heterogeneous: medication adherence did not differ in one randomized controlled trial (p = 0.089). Mortality was reported in one study and was significantly (p < 0.001) higher in patients non-participating in a web-based intervention. Four studies assessed blood pressure in a comparable way that allowed calculation of a meta-analysis. In that, telemedical intervention had a significant blood-pressure lowering effect compared to the control group (mean difference −6.14 (95% confidence interval −10.41, −1.87), p = 0.005).

Conclusions

Telemedical-supported secondary prevention in cerebrovascular diseases might be effective but larger trials with standardized interventions and outcome measures including clinical endpoints are needed.
When a historical analogy fails: Current political events and collective memory contestation in the news
Authors: Lee Francis LF , Chan Joseph Man , Leung Dennis KK
Published: April 2017

Collective memory studies have emphasized how people can utilize important historical events as analogies to make sense of current happenings. This article argues that the invocation of historical analogies may, under certain circumstances, become an occasion for people to negotiate and contest the significance of the historical events. Focusing on Hong Kong’s Umbrella Movement in 2014, this article analyzes how references to the 1989 Tiananmen Incident emerged in the news as a dominant historical analogy when the movement began, foregrounding the possibility of state violence. But when state violence did not materialize, the authorities, young protesters, and radical activists started to contest the relevance of Tiananmen. The analogy was largely abandoned by the movement’s end. The analysis illustrates the recursive character of the relationship between past and present events: after the past is invoked to aid interpretations of the present, present developments may urge people to reevaluate the past.
Measurement and modeling of the generation and the transport of entropy waves in a model gas turbine combustor
Authors: Wassmer Dominik , Schuermans Bruno , Paschereit Christian Oliver , Moeck Jonas P
Published: April 2017

Indirect combustion noise is caused by entropy spots that are accelerated at the first turbine stage. These so-called entropy waves originate from the equivalence ratio fluctuations in the air–fuel mixture upstream of the flame. As entropy waves propagate convectively through the combustion chamber, they are subject to diffusion and dispersion. Because of the inherent difficulty of accurately measuring the burned gas temperature with sufficient temporal resolution, experimental data of entropy waves are scarce. In this work, the transfer function between equivalence ratio fluctuations and entropy fluctuations is modeled by a linearized reactor model, and the transport of entropy waves is investigated based on a convection-diffusion model. Temperature fluctuations are measured by means of a novel measurement technique at different axial positions downstream of the premixed flame, which is forced by periodic fuel injection. Experiments with various flow velocities and excitation frequencies enable model validation over a wide range of parameters.
Special considerations for vitamin D in the south Asian population in the UK
Authors: Lowe Nicola M. , Bhojani Issak
Published: April 2017

The human requirement for vitamin D is achieved primarily through the synthesis of this prehormone in the skin during exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation, with only a minor contribution from the diet, year round. Achieving optimal vitamin D status is therefore largely dependent upon adequate exposure of the skin to sunlight, however, the length of exposure required varies with latitude and season, and is also dependent upon skin pigmentation, with darker skin requiring greater exposure than fair skin due to the protective effects of melanin against UVB radiation. In northern European latitudes, where UVB radiation between the months of October and March is of insufficient intensity for the synthesis of vitamin D via this route, vitamin D deficiency is a public health concern, particularly for south Asian diaspora and other dark-skinned ethnic minority communities. The consequences of vitamin D deficiency include poor bone health, including rickets and osteomalacia. In addition, there is increasing awareness of an important role for vitamin D in the development and progression of chronic diseases, including type 2 diabetes, which is prevalent in south Asian populations. The aim of this review is to examine some of the most recent reports of vitamin D status in south Asian diaspora communities, and to explore its impact on bone health. In addition, we will examine the putative association between type 2 diabetes and vitamin D deficiency in south Asian populations and the current guidelines for treatment of vitamin D deficiency of south Asians in primary care settings.
Posterior Tibialis Tendon Rupture in a Closed Bimalleolar-Equivalent Ankle Fracture: Case Report
Authors: Wardell Richard M. , Hanselman Andrew E. , Daffner Scott D. , Santrock Robert D.
Published: April 2017

Ankle fractures with an associated posterior tibialis tendon (PTT) rupture are rare injuries and have only been described in a number of case reports. These prior reports include patients that had an open fracture and/or an associated medial malleolar fracture component. In this unique case report, we present a patient that sustained a closed bimalleolar-equivalent ankle fracture/dislocation without medial malleolar involvement which was irreducible due to a PTT rupture and subsequent distal segment interposition in the tibiotalar joint. Identification of acute PTT rupture with associated ankle fracture is important because early repair is associated with significantly better functional outcomes compared with late repair. These injury patterns may easily be missed due to the limitations with physical examination and standard imaging often encountered during initial evaluation of routine ankle fractures. Therefore, physicians should maintain a high level of suspicion in the appropriate clinical setting in order to provide appropriate diagnosis and timely surgical intervention.

Levels of Evidence: Descriptive, Level V: Single case report
Inspiratory capacity is not altered in operable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Richter Manuel J. , Gall Henning , Wittkämper Gesa , Seeger Werner , Mayer Eckhard , Ghofrani Hossein A. , Guth Stefan , Reichenberger Frank
Published: April 2017

Pathological alterations of inspiratory capacity (IC) have been observed in pulmonary hypertension. However, the clinical significance of IC in operable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) without other pulmonary diseases remains unknown. CTEPH patients scheduled for pulmonary endarterectomy were prospectively screened. Despite being associated with functional capacity, pathological alterations of IC were not observed.
Urinary continence four weeks following Retzius-sparing robotic radical prostatectomy: The UK experience
Authors: Eden Christopher G , Moschonas Dimitrios , Soares Ricardo
Published: April 2017

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to investigate urinary continence four weeks following Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

Patients and methods:

Forty patients with T2–T3 prostate cancer underwent Retzius-sparing-robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and their results were compared with those from the 40 patients having robot-assisted radical prostatectomy done by the same surgeon immediately prior to the adoption of Retzius-sparing-robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

Results:

Patients in the two groups had similar age, body mass index, prostate specific antigen, biopsy Gleason sum, clinical stage, d’Amico risk profile, blood loss, prostate weight and post-operative hospital stay. Median operating time (200 (interquartile range=155–266) vs 223 (interquartile range=100–238) min; p=0.05) and catheterisation (8 (interquartile range=8–8) vs 14 (interquartile range=14–14) days; p<0.0001) were shorter in the Retzius-sparing group, many of whom had suprapubic catheters inserted. The overall complication rate was lower in Retzius-sparing patients (2.5% vs 8.0%; p=0.36). Positive surgical margin rates were similar for Retzius-sparing and non-Retzius-sparing patients and decreased with greater experience with the Retzius-sparing technique: 16.7% vs 7.7% for pT2 ( p=0.65) and 31.8% vs 14.3% for pT3 ( p=0.44). Initial prostate specific antigen was <0.1 ng/ml in 97.5% and 100%, respectively ( p=1.00). At four weeks post-operation 0, 1 and 2 pads/day were needed in the Retzius-sparing group in 90.0%, 7.5% and 2.5% of patients, compared to 37.5% ( p<0.0001), 32.5% ( p=0.01) and 30% ( p=0.002) of men having conventional surgery.

Conclusion:

Retzius-sparing-robot-assisted radical prostatectomy is faster than the anterior approach to the prostate, allows a shorter catheterisation time and produces dramatically better continence results at four weeks with 90% of patients being pad-free and 97.5% of patients needing 0–1 pads/day.
The Religious Facebook Experience: Uses and Gratifications of Faith-Based Content
Authors: Brubaker Pamela Jo , Haigh Michel M.
Published: April 2017

This study explores why Christians ( N = 335) use Facebook for religious purposes and the needs engaging with religious content on Facebook gratifies. Individuals who access faith-based content on Facebook were recruited to participate in an online survey through a series of Facebook advertisements. An exploratory factor analysis revealed four primary motivations for accessing religious Facebook content: ministering, spiritual enlightenment, religious information, and entertainment. Along with identifying the uses and gratifications received from engaging with faith-based Facebook content, this research reveals how the frequency of Facebook use, the intensity of Facebook use for religious purposes, and also religiosity predict motivations for accessing this social networking site for faith-based purposes. The data revealed those who frequently use Facebook for posting, liking, commenting, and sharing faith-based content and who are more religious are more likely to minister to others. Frequent use also predicted seeking religious information. The affiliation with like-minded individuals afforded by this medium provides faith-based users with supportive content and communities that motivate the use of Facebook for obtaining spiritual guidance, for accessing religious resources, and for relaxing and being entertained.
Long-Distance Dating Relationships, Relationship Dissolution, and College Adjustment
Authors: Waterman Emily A. , Wesche Rose , Leavitt Chelom E. , Jones Damon E. , Lefkowitz Eva S.
Published: April 2017

Long-distance dating relationships (LDDRs) and the dissolution of these relationships may have implications for day-to-day affect and behaviors. The current study examined the associations of relationship status, long-distance relationship dissolution, and daily location with daily positive affect, loneliness, university activity engagement, and alcohol use. College students ( n = 718, 51.5% female, 43.9% White/European American, 29.7% Asian/Asian American/Hawaiian/Pacific Islander, 25.5% Hispanic/Latino American, and 21.7% Black/African American; M = 18.4 [0.4] years old) completed up to 14 consecutive daily diary surveys twice during their first year. Students in LDDRs had less positive affect and were lonelier when they were on campus than off campus and tended to engage in university activities on fewer days than other students. Daily affect and behavior did not differ depending on whether students dissolved or maintained their LDDR.
The [Human Resource Management] Revolution Will Not Be Televised: The Rise and Feminization of Human Resource Management and Labor Force Equity
Authors: Scarborough William J.
Published: April 2017

Since the late 1970s, the profession of human resource management has grown in both size and influence. The number of human resource managers in 2010 is almost twice the number that existed in 1980. Furthermore, this profession has become increasingly feminized since the 1970s—today, around 60 percent of human resource managers are women. While previous research has found that women’s presence in certain occupations can improve gender equity, there has yet to be an examination of whether the increased representation of women in human resource management has affected gender equity more broadly. In this article, I analyze data from the U.S. Census from 1980 to 2000 and from the American Community Survey for 2010 to explore whether the rise and feminization of human resources has affected women’s representation in management. The findings reveal that the increased presence of both white and black women in human resources has been accompanied by greater representation of women in management, although the effects are much larger for white women’s presence in human resources.
Perioperative surgical outcome of conventional and robot-assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: van Weelden W. J. , Gordon B. B. M. , Roovers E. A. , Kraayenbrink A. A. , Aalders C. I. M. , Hartog F. , Dijkhuizen F. P. H. L. J.
Published: April 2017

Background

To evaluate surgical outcome in a consecutive series of patients with conventional and robot assisted total laparoscopic hysterectomy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed among patients with benign and malignant indications for a laparoscopic hysterectomy. Main surgical outcomes were operation room time and skin to skin operating time, complications, conversions, rehospitalisation and reoperation, estimated blood loss and length of hospital stay.

Results

A total of 294 patients were evaluated: 123 in the conventional total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) group and 171 in the robot TLH group. After correction for differences in basic demographics with a multivariate linear regression analysis, the skin to skin operating time was a significant 18 minutes shorter in robot assisted TLH compared to conventional TLH (robot assisted TLH 92m, conventional TLH 110m, p0.001). The presence or absence of previous abdominal surgery had a significant influence on the skin to skin operating time as did the body mass index and the weight of the uterus.

Complications were not significantly different. The robot TLH group had significantly less blood loss and lower rehospitalisation and reoperation rates.

Conclusions

This study compares conventional TLH with robot assisted TLH and shows shorter operating times, less blood loss and lower rehospitalisation and reoperation rates in the robot TLH group.
Endometrial cancer in a woman undergoing hysteroscopy for recurrent IVF failure
Authors: Gambadauro Pietro , Gudmundsson Johannes
Published: April 2017

Background

Hysteroscopy, despite being the undisputed gold standard for the examination of the uterine cavity, is controversial as a routine procedure in infertile women. However, benign intrauterine conditions are common in women suffering repeated in vitro fertilization (IVF) failure, and growing evidence suggests a unique diagnostic and therapeutic role for hysteroscopy. Endometrial malignancy, on the contrary, is unreported by large published series of women with repeated IVF failures undergoing hysteroscopy, and its impact on fertility, for obvious reasons, has not been studied.

Results

An unsuspected endometrial cancer was diagnosed in an asymptomatic 38-year-old woman undergoing hysteroscopy because of several repeated failures of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer.

Conclusions

Endometrial cancer can be found at hysteroscopy in young women with repeated IVF failures. The possibility of repeatedly unsuccessful fertility treatments should be taken into account when counseling infertile women about conservative treatment of endometrial cancer.
Automated salt-dome detection using an attribute ranking framework with a dictionary-based classifier
Authors: Amin Asjad , Deriche Mohamed , Shafiq Muhammad Amir , Wang Zhen , AlRegib Ghassan
Published: April 2017

We have developed a dictionary-based classification approach for salt-dome detection within migrated seismic volumes. The proposed workflow uses seismic attributes derived from the gray-level co-occurrence matrix, Gabor filter, and higher order singular-value decomposition to effectively learn and detect the salt bodies. We use an information theoretic framework to rank the seismic attributes as per their salt-dome classification performance. Based on this ranking, we select the top K attributes for dictionary training, testing, and classification. To improve the accuracy of the detected salt bodies and make the proposed workflow robust to different data sets, we introduce a refining step that uses edge strength and energy values to detect the shape of the salt-dome boundary within the classified patches. The optimal set of attributes and the refining step ensure that the proposed workflow yields good results for detecting salt-dome boundaries even in the presence of weak seismic reflections. We use the seismic data from the Netherlands offshore F3 block (North Sea) to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed workflow in detecting salt bodies. Using subjective and objective evaluation metrics, we compare the results of the proposed workflow with existing gradient-, texture-, and patch-based classification methods. The experimental results show that the proposed workflow outperforms existing salt-dome delineation techniques in terms of accuracy and precision.
Tutorial for wave-equation inversion of skeletonized data
Authors: Lu Kai , Li Jing , Guo Bowen , Fu Lei , Schuster Gerard
Published: April 2017

Full-waveform inversion of seismic data is often plagued by cycle-skipping problems such that an iterative optimization method often gets stuck in a local minimum. To avoid this problem, we simplify the objective function so that the iterative solution can quickly converge to a solution in the vicinity of the global minimum. The objective function is simplified by only using parsimonious and important portions of the data, which are defined as skeletonized data. We have developed a mostly nonmathematical tutorial that explains the theory of wave-equation inversion of skeletonized data. We also demonstrate its effectiveness with examples.