bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal Plasma Cell-Free Fetal and Maternal DNA at 11-13 Weeks' Gestation: Relation to Fetal and Maternal Characteristics and Pregnancy Outcomes
Authors: Poon L.C.Y. , Musci T. , Song K. , Syngelaki A. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: March 2013

Objective: To examine the possible relationship between maternal and fetal characteristics and pregnancy outcomes on fetal and maternal cell-free (cf) DNA in maternal plasma at 11-13 weeks' gestation. Methods: cfDNA was extracted from maternal plasma of 1,949 singleton pregnancies and chromosome-selective sequencing was used to determine the proportion of cfDNA and total cfDNA counts which was of fetal and maternal origin. Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine whether specific maternal and fetal characteristics and pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia (PE), early spontaneous preterm birth (SPB) and delivery of small for gestational age (SGA) neonates, were significant predictors of fetal and maternal cfDNA in maternal plasma. Results: The fetal and maternal cfDNA plasma concentration increased with serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A and free β-human chorionic gonadotropin level, was higher in women of Afro-Caribbean and East-Asian racial origin than in Caucasians, and lower in smokers, but it was not significantly altered in pregnancies complicated by PE, SPB or SGA. The fetal cfDNA level was inversely related to maternal weight and uterine artery pulsatility index, and maternal cfDNA increased with maternal weight. Conclusions: The fetal and maternal cfDNA level in maternal plasma is affected by maternal and fetal characteristics, but it is not altered in pregnancy complications.
Mild Renal Dysfunction and Metabolites Tied to Low HDL Cholesterol Are Associated With Monocytosis and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Ganda Anjali , Magnusson Martin , Yvan-Charvet Laurent , Hedblad Bo , Engström Gunnar , Ai Ding , Wang Thomas J. , Gerszten Robert E. , Melander Olle , Tall Alan R.
Published: March 2013

Background—

The number of circulating blood monocytes impacts atherosclerotic lesion size, and in mouse models, elevated levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol suppress blood monocyte counts and atherosclerosis. We hypothesized that individuals with mild renal dysfunction at increased cardiovascular risk would have reduced high-density lipoprotein levels, high blood monocyte counts, and accelerated atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

To test whether mild renal dysfunction is associated with an increase in a leukocyte subpopulation rich in monocytes that has a known association with future coronary events, we divided individuals from the Malmö Diet and Cancer study (MDC) into baseline cystatin C quintiles (n=4757). Lower levels of renal function were accompanied by higher monocyte counts, and monocytes were independently associated with carotid bulb intima-media thickness cross-sectionally (
P
=0.02). Cystatin C levels were positively and plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels negatively associated with monocyte counts at baseline, after adjustment for traditional risk factors. Several amino acid metabolites tied to low levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and insulin resistance measured in a subset of individuals (n=752) by use of liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry were independently associated with a 22% to 34% increased risk of being in the top quartile of monocytes (
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

A low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin resistance phenotype occurs in subjects with mild renal dysfunction and is associated with elevated monocytes and atherosclerosis. High blood monocyte counts may represent a previously unrecognized mechanism underlying the strong relationship between cystatin C and cardiovascular risk.
Late Outcomes of Mitral Valve Repair for Mitral Regurgitation Due to Degenerative Disease
Authors: David Tirone E. , Armstrong Susan , McCrindle Brian W. , Manlhiot Cedric
Published: March 2013

Background—

The pathological spectrum of degenerative diseases of the mitral valve (MV) that causes mitral regurgitation (MR) is broad, and there is limited information on late outcomes of MV repair in various subgroups of patients and pathologies. This study examines this issue.

Methods and Results—

All 840 patients who had MV repair for MR due to degenerative diseases from 1985 to 2004 were prospectively followed with clinical and echocardiographic evaluations at biennial intervals up to 26 years, median of 10.4 years. Clinical, hemodynamic, and pathological variables were evaluated for their association with outcomes. Age, left ventricular ejection fraction, and functional class were predictors of late cardiac- and valve-related deaths by multivariable analysis. MV repair failed to restore life span to normal in patients with functional class IV. Thirty-eight patients had repeat MV surgery, and the probability of reoperation at 20 years was 5.9%. During the follow-up, recurrent severe MR developed in 37 patients, and moderate MR developed in 61. Age, isolated prolapse of the anterior leaflet, the degree of myxomatous changes in the MV, lack of mitral annuloplasty, and duration of cardiopulmonary bypass were associated with increased risk of recurrent MR. At 20 years, the freedom from recurrent severe MR was 90.7%, and the freedom from moderate or severe MR was 69.2%.

Conclusions—

MV repair for degenerative MR restored life span to normal except in patients with symptoms at rest and impaired left ventricular function. Advanced age and complex mitral valve pathologies increased the risk of late recurrent MR.
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-A and Aldosterone
Authors: Gennari-Moser Carine , Khankin Eliyahu V. , Escher Geneviève , Burkhard Fiona , Frey Brigitte M. , Karumanchi S. Ananth , Frey Felix J. , Mohaupt Markus G.
Published: March 2013

Aldosterone levels are markedly elevated during normal pregnancy but fall even though volume contracts when preeclampsia occurs. The level of aldosterone in either condition cannot be explained solely by the activity of the renin–angiotensin II system. In normal gestation, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is thought to maintain vascular health, but its role in adrenal hormone production is unknown. We hypothesized that the role of VEGF in the adrenal gland is to maintain vascular health and regulate aldosterone production. Here, we demonstrate that supernatant of endothelial cells grown in the presence of VEGF enhanced aldosterone synthase activity in human adrenocortical cells. VEGF either alone or combined with angiotensin II increased aldosterone production in adrenal cells. These data suggest that endothelial cell–dependent and independent activation of aldosterone is regulated by VEGF. In contrast to angiotensin II, VEGF did not upregulate the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein. Consistent with this observation, angiotensin II stimulated both aldosterone and cortisol synthesis from progesterone, whereas VEGF stimulated selectively aldosterone production. In rats, overexpression of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1, an endogenous VEGF inhibitor, led to adrenocortical capillary rarefaction and fall in aldosterone concentrations that correlated inversely with soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 levels. These findings may explain why aldosterone increases so markedly during normal gestation and why preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1, is associated with inappropriately low aldosterone levels in spite of relatively lower plasma volumes.
New Renin Inhibitor VTP-27999 Alters Renin Immunoreactivity and Does Not Unfold Prorenin
Authors: Krop Manne , Lu Xifeng , Verdonk Koen , Schalekamp Maarten A.D.H. , van Gool Jeanette M.G. , McKeever Brian M. , Gregg Richard , Danser A.H. Jan
Published: March 2013

Renin inhibitors like aliskiren not only block renin but also bind prorenin, thereby inducing a conformational change (like the change induced by acid) allowing its recognition in a renin-specific assay. Consequently, aliskiren can be used to measure prorenin. VTP-27999 is a new renin inhibitor with an aliskiren-like IC
50
and t
1/2
, and a much higher bioavailability. This study addressed (pro)renin changes during treatment of volunteers with VTP-27999 or aliskiren. Both drugs increased renin immunoreactivity. Treatment of plasma samples from aliskiren-treated subjects with excess aliskiren yielded higher renin immunoreactivity levels, confirming the presence of prorenin. Unexpectedly, this approach did not work in VTP-27999–treated subjects, although an assay detecting the prosegment revealed that their blood still contained prorenin. Subsequent in vitro analysis showed that VTP-27999 increased renin immunoreactivity for a given amount of renin by ≥30% but did not unfold prorenin. Yet, it did bind to acid-activated, intact prorenin and then again increased immunoreactivity in a renin assay. However, no such increase in immunoreactivity was seen when measuring acid-activated prorenin bound to VTP-27999 with a prosegment-directed assay. The VTP-27999–induced rises in renin immunoreactivity could be competitively prevented by aliskiren, and antibody displacement studies revealed a higher affinity of the active site-directed antibodies in the presence of VTP-27999. In conclusion, VTP-27999 increases renin immunoreactivity in renin immunoassays because it affects the affinity of the active site-directed antibody. Combined with its lack of effect on prorenin, these data show that VTP-27999 differs from aliskiren. The clinical relevance of these results needs to be established.
Notes on the Paleophilotes (Inderskia) panope (Eversmann, 1851) (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae), a rare and little known lycaenid taxon for Europe
Authors: MORGUN DMITRY V.
Published: March 2013

Paleophilotes panope (Eversmann, 1851) is a poorly known species of Lycaenidae that was found in 1848 by A.M. Butlerov in the Inder Lake vicinities (West Kazakhstan). For one and a half centuries, until the beginning of 2000s this taxon had been known only by the two samples of the type series preserved in the Zoological Institute of Saint Petersburg (Russia) and thought to be extinct. The second mention on the species was in the second volume of “Butterflies of Russia and adjacent territories” (Tuzov et al. 2000), where photos of three new specimens were published. This material was collected by A.V. Dantchenko (Moscow, Russia) and his colleagues in the chalky Aktolagai plateau in the Western Kazakhstan, not far from the type locality. Unfortunately, these researchers did not provide any material to museums and therefore this taxon remained unknown for most specialists. In other publications only some pictures of this species were provided (Lukhtanov, Lukhtanov 1994; Tshikolovets 2003).
Revision of species of the genus Tephritis Latreille 1804 (Diptera: Tephritidae) with entire apical spot
Authors: KORNEYEV SEVERYN V.
Published: March 2013

Eleven species of the genus Tephritis with an uncommon banded wing pattern and/or solid apical crossband/spot instead of apical fork, mainly from the Palaearctic Middle East, are described and keyed, including Tephritis afrostriata new species, T. cameo new species, T. gladius new species, T. ochroptera new species, and T. robusta new species. The following synonymy is established: Tephritis admissa Hering 1961 = T. conflata Dirlbek & Dirlbek 1995 new synonym. Lectotypes for T. angulatofasciata Portschinsky 1892 and T. tatarica Portschinsky 1892 are designated. New distribution records are reported. Tephritis tatarica is recorded to be reared Alfredia nivea Kar. et Kir.; T. admissa, T. cameo, T. gladius, and T. ochroptera were swept from Cousinia spp., which very probably are their host plants.
Biology and systematics of gall-inducing triozids (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) associated with Psidium spp. (Myrtaceae)
Authors: CARNEIRO RENÊ G.S. , BURCKHARDT DANIEL , ISAIAS ROSY M.S.
Published: March 2013

Psidium myrtoides (Myrtaceae) shelters the gall inducer Nothotrioza myrtoidis gen. et sp. n. (Hemiptera: Psylloidea) which is described and illustrated here. Nothotrioza belongs to the family Triozidae and is probably most closely related to Neolithus, a monotypic Neotropical genus associated with Sapium (Euphorbiaceae). Three species are recognized with-in Nothotrioza: the type species N. myrtoidis sp. n. associated with Psidium myrtoides, N. cattleiani sp. n. (misidentified by Butignol & Pedrosa-Macedo as Neotrioza tavaresi) with Psidium cattleianum, and N. tavaresi (Crawford) comb. n. (from Neotrioza) with an unidentified species of Malpighiaceae, respectively. A lectotype is designated here for Neotrioza tavaresi. Also, the diversity of insect galls associated with P. myrtoides and the biology of N. myrtoidis were examined. N. myrtoidis presents five instars and an annual life cycle synchronised with the phenology of P. myrtoides. Gall size was proportional to the insect developmental stages, and rates of parasitism and mortality were 15.7 % and 29.8 %, respective-ly. The red colour is an important macroscopic diagnostic feature of the gall that could be associated with parasite-free condition of the galling insect. The biological features presented by the system Psidium myrtoides – Nothotrioza myrtoidis are in accordance with other systems involving sucking galling insects, however, it is exceptional by its univoltine life cycle associated with a perennial plant in the Neotropics. The galls induced by the three known Nothotrioza spp. are mor-phologically similar, i.e. closed, globoid and unilocular, as well as the opening mechanism for releasing the adults.
Morphometric and bioacoustic data on three species of Pseudopaludicola Miranda-Ribeiro, 1926 (Anura: Leptodactylidae: Leiuperinae) described from Chapada dos Guimarães, Mato Grosso, Brazil, with the revalidation of Pseudopaludicola ameghini (Cope, 1887)
Authors: PANSONATO ANDRÉ , STRÜSSMANN CHRISTINE , MUDREK JESSICA RHAIZA , MARTINS ITAMAR ALVES
Published: March 2013

Due to minute size, overall morphological similarities, scarcity of diagnostic characters after preservation, and usual sympatric or even syntopic occurrence of two or more species of Pseudopaludicola, the taxonomy of the genus is not yet a matter of consensus. Three species in the genus Pseudopaludicola Miranda-Ribeiro, 1926 were described by Cope in 1887, based on material obtained at Chapada dos Guimarães, mid-western state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. One of these species, Pseudopaludicola ameghini, was subsequently synonymized to P. mystacalis. In this paper we present morphological and bioacoustic evidences supporting a full specific status for the three sympatric species of Pseudopaludicola described from Chapada dos Guimarães, including Pseudopaludicola ameghini Cope, 1887.
A new species of salamander (Caudata: Plethodontidae, Bolitoglossa) from Sierra Nevada de Mérida, Venezuela
Authors: GARCÍA-GUTIÉRREZ JAVIER , ESCALONA MOISÉS , MORA ANDRÉS , DE PASCUAL AMELIA DÍAZ , FERMIN GUSTAVO
Published: March 2013

In this article, a new species of salamander of the genus Bolitoglossa (Eladinea) from the cloud forest near La Mucuy in Sierra Nevada de Mérida, Venezuelan Andes, is described. Bolitoglossa mucuyensis sp. nov. differs from all Venezuelan salamanders, except B. orestes, by a larger SVL/TL ratio, and from La Culata salamander B. orestes by a reduced webbing extension of the front and hind limbs. Additionally, B. mucuyensis sp. nov. and B. orestes diverge 3.12% in terms of the nucleotide sequence of the 16S rRNA gene, as previously reported, and in 8.1% for the cytb gene as shown in this study.
The complete mitochondrial genome of a tessaratomid bug, Eusthenes cupreus (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomomorpha: Tessaratomidae)
Authors: SONG WEN , LI HU , SONG FAN , LIU LI , WANG PEI , XUN HUAIZHU , DAI XUN , CHANG JIAN , CAI WANZHI
Published: March 2013

The 16, 299 bp long mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of a tessaratomid bug, Eusthenes cupreus (Westwood), is reported and analyzed. The mitogenome represents the first sequenced complete mitogenome of the heteropteran family Tessaratomidae. The mitogenome of E. cuopreus is a typical circular DNA molecule with a total AT content of 74.1%, and contains 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and a control region. The gene arrangement is identical with the most common type in insects. Most PCGs start with the typical ATN codon, except that the initiation codon for COI is TTG. All tRNAs possess the typical clover-leaf structure, except tRNASer (AGN), in which the dihydrouridine (DHU) arm forms a simple loop. Six domains with 45 helices and three domains with 27 helices are predicted in the secondary structures of rrnL and rrnS, respectively. The control region is located between rrnS and tRNAIle, including some short microsatellite repeat sequences. In addition, three different repetitive sequences are found in the control region and the tRNAIle-tRNAGln-tRNAMet-ND2 gene cluster. One of the unusual features of this mitogenome is the presence of one tRNAGln-like sequence in the control region. This extra tRNAGln-like sequence is 73 bp long, and the anticodon arm is identical to that of the regular tRNAGln.
A new fossil caridean shrimp (Crustacea: Decapoda) from the Cretaceous (Albian) of the Romualdo Formation, Araripe Basin, northeastern Brazil
Authors: SANTANA WILLIAM , PINHEIRO ALLYSSON P. , DA SILVA CAROLINE M. R. , SARAIVA ANTÔNIO ÁLAMO
Published: March 2013

A new fossil caridean shrimp, Kellnerius jamacaruensis n. gen. n. sp., of the early Cretaceous (Albian) from the Romualdo Formation, Araripe Basin, northeastern Brazil is described and illustrated. The new species is compared to known fossil palaemonids found in Brazil. Kellnerius jamacaruensis n. gen. n. sp. is easily differentiated from the other palaemonids by a rostrum with 5 spines, an enlarged scaphocerite that is longer than the rostrum, and a third somite with a distinct groove in the tergite that does not extend to the pleurite.
Observations of Near-Inertial Internal Gravity Waves Radiating from a Frontal Jet
Authors: Alford Matthew H. , Shcherbina Andrey Y. , Gregg Michael C.
Published: March 2013

Shipboard ADCP and towed CTD measurements are presented of a near-inertial internal gravity wave radiating away from a zonal jet associated with the Subtropical Front in the North Pacific. Three-dimensional spatial surveys indicate persistent alternating shear layers sloping downward and equatorward from the front. As a result, depth-integrated ageostrophic shear increases sharply equatorward of the front. The layers have a vertical wavelength of about 250 m and a slope consistent with a wave of frequency 1.01f. They extend at least 100 km south of the front. Time series confirm that the shear is associated with a downward-propagating near-inertial wave with frequency within 20% of f. A slab mixed layer model forced with shipboard and NCEP reanalysis winds suggests that wind forcing was too weak to generate the wave. Likewise, trapping of the near-inertial motions at the low-vorticity edge of the front can be ruled out because of the extension of the features well south of it. Instead, the authors suggest that the wave arises from an adjustment process of the frontal flow, which has a Rossby number about 0.2–0.3.
Effect of Atorvastatin on Hematologic Parameters in Patients With Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Akın Fatih , Ayça Burak , Köse Nuri , Şahin Irfan , Akin Melike Nur , Canbek Tuğba Dübektaş , Güngör Ömer
Published: March 2013

Hematologic parameters such as mean platelet volume (MPV), red cell distribution width (RDW), and neutrophil to lymphocyte (N/L) ratio are associated with increased cardiovascular risk. We investigated the effect of atorvastatin on hematologic parameters in patients with hypercholesterolemia. A total of 79 patients with hypercholesterolemia and 47 normocholesterolemic healthy participants were included. Patients with hypercholesterolemia received 10 to 80 mg/d atorvastatin during a 24-week period. Hematologic parameters were measured at baseline and after 6 months. Atorvastatin treatment produced a significant decrease in MPV levels (9.3 ± 1.3 vs 9.1 ± 1.2 fL, P = .008) and platelet count (259 ± 61 vs 248 ± 51 109/L, P = .005). The N/L ratio decreased significantly after atorvastatin treatment from 2.9 ± 1.2 to 2.6 ± 1.1, ( P = .014). The RDW and platelet distribution width levels were not different among the study groups, before and after treatment. Atorvastatin may beneficially reduce MPV levels and N/L ratio. This antiplatelet and anti-inflammatory effect of atorvastatin treatment could play a role in reducing cardiovascular risk.
Religious Diversity in Prisons
Authors: Beckford James A.
Published: March 2013

Prisons are sites of contention for many reasons, but the provision of religious and spiritual care to prisoners has long been regarded as a way of mitigating some of the most contentious aspects of prison regimes. Nevertheless, the growth of religious diversity among prisoners in recent decades has given rise to some new bones of contention which are closely related to questions of equality, justice and human rights. The aim of this article is to examine the relationships between religious diversity and contentious issues in prisons by drawing on interviews conducted with Hindu, Muslim and Sikh chaplains in the prisons of England and Wales in 2010 and 2011. The analysis shows that the growth of religious diversity in prisons is associated with problems concerning the official recognition of religions, the facilities and resources made available for religious purposes, the limitations placed on religious practices, and the status of chaplains. Some of these issues have a gendered dimension and are refracted differently by assimilationist and multicultural policies.
Office-Related Antibiotic Prescribing for Medicaid-Enrolled Children
Authors: Nett Randall J. , Campana David , Custis Cody L. , Helgerson Steven D.
Published: March 2013

Background. Prudent antibiotic prescribing practices are essential to limiting antibiotic resistance. Objective. To assess the trend in percentage of office visits for acute respiratory infections (ARIs) linked with an antibiotic prescription. Methods. Retrospective analysis of Montana Medicaid billing claims data for each year, 1999 to 2010, was done. Participants included continuously enrolled children aged ≤14 years. Primary outcomes were ARI-related office visits and filled antibiotic prescriptions within 10 days of the office visit. Results. Of the 873 244 office visits identified, 116 962 (13%) had an ARI as the primary diagnosis. Among ARI-related office visits, 64 250 (55%) were linked with an antibiotic prescription. From 1999 to 2010, the odds of ARI-related visits being linked with an antibiotic prescription did not change (odds ratio = 1.00; 95% confidence interval = 0.995-1.002). Conclusions. The percentage of ARI-related visits linked with an antibiotic prescription did not decrease from 1999 to 2010. Further efforts are needed to reduce antibiotic treatment for ARIs.
Evaluation of Oral Medication Delivery Devices Provided by Community Pharmacies
Authors: Honey Brooke L. , Condren Michelle , Phillips Christina , Votruba Allyson
Published: March 2013

Oral liquids remain common medication dosage forms used for patients who have difficulty swallowing. However, liquids require a delivery device and thus have been linked to medication administration errors. This study identified medication delivery devices available at pharmacies. Delivery devices were obtained from area pharmacies and analyzed for units of measurement, abbreviations, and largest/smallest measurable volume. A total of 58 devices were collected from 22 pharmacies. All devices were marked with mL, and 79% were additionally marked in teaspoons. The 5-mL syringe was the only device dispensed at 14% of locations. Other devices included the dosing spoon, dropper, and cup. The largest measurable volume was 30 mL, whereas the smallest was 0.01 mL, with significant variability among devices. A more consistent approach in prescribing units of measurement is needed. Prescribing in milliliters is an optimal choice because of the accessibility of measuring devices containing this measurement.
Curvilinear Effects of User-Generated Content on Hotels’ Market Share
Authors: Duverger Philippe
Published: March 2013

The present study is designed to expand the current literature in the effects of User-Generated Content (UGC) on firm performance, specifically to delineate the unique effects of the UGC components on market share results using a dynamic generalized method of moments (GMM) model. A longitudinal panel-data sample of 138 hotel reviews and ratings, along with monthly market share and several control variables is used for the empirical modeling. Overall, the analysis reveals that UGC has a positive impact on market share. A curvilinear mechanism explains the relationship between ratings and market share, discouraging lower-tiered firms from seeking a high rating. Moderating factors were also found to diminish the impact of a review length on market share. Theoretical explanations and managerial suggestions are offered in the discussion section.
Quality of Life, Event Impacts, and Mega-Event Support among South African Residents before and after the 2010 FIFA World Cup
Authors: Kaplanidou Kyriaki (Kiki) , Karadakis Kostas , Gibson Heather , Thapa Brijesh , Walker Matthew , Geldenhuys Sue , Coetzee Willie
Published: March 2013

The purpose of the study was to explore the role of mega-event impacts on perceived satisfaction with quality of life and support among South African residents before and after the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Limited research has empirically tested whether quality of life (QOL) is perceived as an exchange benefit that facilitates resident support of mega-events. Intercept data were collected from residents in five host cities three months before (March 2010) and eight months after (March 2011) the event (N = 3,789). Results indicate significant differences in perceived impacts before and after the event. Before the event, the influence of political impacts, psychological impacts, and social benefits on perceived QOL was significant, while QOL mediated the relationships between political, psychological, and social benefit impacts and resident support. After the event, economic impacts emerged as a significant predictor of QOL in contrast to the preevent sample.
The Impact of Brand Experience on Downtown Success
Authors: Beckman Eric , Kumar Archana , Kim Youn-Kyung
Published: March 2013

Many cities have begun to use experiential marketing in order to create cohesive place branding messages that appeal to different potential visitors, both tourists and locals. By identifying the brand experiences that influence place dependence and positive outcomes such as word-of-mouth and revisit intention, the success of a city downtown can be measured. This study surveyed visitors (locals and tourists) in three city downtowns (Asheville, North Carolina, Nashville, Tennessee, and Chattanooga, Tennessee). After testing the structural equation model for each visitor group, potential strategies for improving downtown success are discussed.
Hartal as a complex political performance: General strikes and the organisation of (local) power in Bangladesh
Authors: Suykens Bert , Islam Aynul
Published: March 2013

Hartal, the general strike or total shutdown, is one of the defining features of politics in Bangladesh. While opposition parties proclaim it is one of their only weapons to put pressure on the ruling party, Bangladeshi middle classes and the international (donor) community view hartal as essentially disruptive. Focusing on the local organisation of hartal at the ward level, this article argues that hartal plays a crucial role in the organisation of the local power structure in Bangladesh. By considering hartal as a complex political performance, we are able to show that hartals offer unique opportunities for local party organisers to show, maintain and improve their position in the local power structure. Addressing a multi-levelled audience, it enables them to gain access to beneficial patronage relationships with the party (leadership) at the local, regional and national levels. The willingness to take risk and the ability to recruit hartal participants offers important markers to establish and improve these relationships. As such, efforts to move away from hartal to ‘less disruptive’ forms of protest are misguided.
Reflexivity and education for public managers
Authors: Quinn Bríd
Published: March 2013

The changing nature of the world that public managers inhabit requires strategies for sense-making. This is frequently the reason why managers engage in mid-career education. Disciplinary elements provide knowledge and insights. However, growing significance is being placed on enabling practitioners to reflect on their own practice and assumptions. This article examines how links between learning and reflecting developed and why the fostering of reflexivity has become implanted in practitioner education. It outlines the origins, meanings and validations of reflexivity in mid-career education. By examining and connecting the different interpretations of reflection and reflexivity, the paper provides a conceptual framework to underpin applications of reflexivity in management education.
On the Evolving Nature of Exposure Therapy
Authors: Schare Mitchell L. , Wyatt Kristin P.
Published: March 2013

Four articles examining methodological applications of exposure therapy and its limited dissemination were briefly reviewed. Methodological articles included those by Abramowitz et al., Gryczkowski et al., and Weiner and McKay, which addressed couple treatment of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), modification of evidence-based anxiety treatments for children, and novel exposure methods for depersonalization and derealization, respectively. The creative aspects of these innovations are highlighted as well as historical parallels in the empirical literature for both anxiety and other clinical phenomena. Underutilization and limited dissemination concerns are discussed in the context of the fourth article by Hipol and Deacon and as related to the field as a whole. A unique concept, exposaphobia, is hypothesized to explain the lack of clinicians’ utilization of this technique, due to their own anxiety-driven inhibitions in using it. Suggestions for the future of exposure research and dissemination are made.
Castleman Disease in the Pediatric Neck: A Literature Review
Authors: Rabinowitz Mindy R. , Levi Jessica , Conard Katrina , Shah Udayan K.
Published: March 2013

Objective

To investigate the common features of cervical pediatric Castleman disease.

Data Sources

Literature review of pediatric patients with cervical Castleman disease.

Review Methods

Online medical journal databases were searched for patients aged 18 years or younger. Eighteen published studies were found, comprising 29 patients.

Conclusions

An asymptomatic or slowly enlarging neck mass was the most common presentation. No sex differences were noted. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrates a homogeneous, isointense to slightly hyperintense T1‐weighted signal and high signal intensity on T2‐weighted imaging. Lymphoma was the most common differential diagnosis. All patients were treated with complete surgical excision and diagnosed as hyaline‐vascular type on histology, except for 1 patient for whom histologic type was not reported. No reports of multicentric disease, plasma cell, or mixed histology were found. No recurrences were reported.

Implications for Practice

In this article, we provide the largest known literature review of pediatric patients with cervical Castleman disease. Although Castleman disease is rare, it should be considered on the differential for a pediatric neck mass, particularly when presenting with an asymptomatic posterior neck mass and equivocal workup. Fortunately, our study suggests that if diagnosed as Castleman disease, the most likely diagnosis is hyaline‐vascular type, for which the long‐term prognosis is good. Surgical excision is both diagnostic and therapeutic.
Vertical Dome Division: A Quality‐of‐Life Outcome Study
Authors: Lavinsky‐Wolff Michelle , Dolci José Eduardo Lutaif , Camargo Humberto Lopes , Manzini Michelle , Petersen Sara , Romanczuk Sabrina , Pizzoni Rodrigo , Polanczyk Carisi Anne
Published: March 2013

Objective

To assess quality‐of‐life outcomes in patients undergoing nasal tip surgery with the vertical dome division technique using validated instruments (Rhinoplasty Outcome Evaluation [ROE] and Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation [NOSE]).

Study Design

Case series with planned data collection.

Setting

Tertiary university center.

Subject and Methods

Patients undergoing primary cosmetic and functional rhinoseptoplasty using vertical dome division were consecutively evaluated. The ROE, NOSE, and 100‐mm visual analog scale (VAS) were administered pre‐ and postoperatively.

Results

Forty‐four patients were included and completed pre‐ and postoperative questionnaires. Their median age was 28 years, 27 (61%) were female, and the median duration of follow‐up was 5 months (range, 3‐9 months). Median postoperative ROE, NOSE, and VAS scores (79 [66; 87], 20 [15; 23], and 88 [61; 97], respectively) showed significant improvement compared with preoperative scores (29 [16; 41], 75 [60; 95], and 65 [46; 82], respectively; P <. 001). The change in median ROE score was significantly greater in normal‐ and thin‐skinned patients than in thick‐skinned patients (54 vs 33; P =. 033). Median changes in NOSE‐p (−48.5 vs −68.0; P =. 10) and VAS (69.0 vs 48.0; P =.083) scores did not differ between normal‐/thin‐ and thick‐skinned patients.

Conclusion

Vertical dome division is a versatile technique for nasal tip refinement that resulted in significant improvement in quality‐of‐life outcomes related to rhinoplasty and nasal obstruction, as well as satisfaction with nasal appearance in a short‐term follow‐up period. The vertical dome division technique does not seem to be indicated only in patients with thick skin.
The attractive underdog
Authors: Michniewicz Kenneth S. , Vandello Joseph A.
Published: March 2013

While intuition suggests and much research has shown that people are attracted to advantaged individuals, the present study explored the conditions under which people might be attracted to disadvantaged individuals. We hypothesized that perceiving someone as unfairly disadvantaged can motivate attributions of positive personal characteristics and, consequently, judgments of heightened attractiveness. Seventy-eight participants were randomly assigned to read about a job applicant facing a fair or an unfair application process resulting in a competitive advantage or disadvantage. In support of our hypothesis, participants judged unfairly disadvantaged applicants (i.e., underdogs) and fairly advantaged applicants as more physically attractive and suitable as dates compared with fairly disadvantaged and unfairly advantaged applicants. These results highlight the role of situational factors in judgments of one’s attractiveness.
Progress in Language and Literacy Skills Among Children With Disabilities in Inclusive Early Reading First Classrooms
Authors: Green Katherine B. , Terry Nicole Patton , Gallagher Peggy A.
Published: March 2013

Quality literacy instruction in preschool can be critical to the future academic success for all children, but may be even more so for children with disabilities. The purpose of this study was to examine progress in emergent literacy skills of young children with disabilities, compared with their typical peers, in an inclusive preschool setting. Participants in this study included 77 prekindergarteners with disabilities and 77 children with no identified disabilities who were matched based on age, teacher, and school. Children were enrolled in inclusive Early Reading First prekindergarten classrooms. Results suggest that although children with disabilities made significant gains mirroring the progress of their typical peers, as a group, they did not catch up to the achievement of their typical peers. Children with disabilities showed the greatest progress in Print Awareness and Recognizing Uppercase Letters. Implications for future instruction and research are outlined.
Reconstruction of a Bony Bankart Lesion
Authors: DeHaan Alexander , Munch Jacqueline , Durkan Michael , Yoo Jung , Crawford Dennis
Published: March 2013

Background:

The inferior coracoid process has traditionally been considered to be the gold standard for glenoid augmentation after anteroinferior bone loss. Other autograft sites, and more recently, osteochondral allograft sites, have been described as potential donor sources.

Purpose:

Potential autograft and osteochondral allograft sites were compared to identify the graft source that would provide the best fit for glenoid augmentation.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Mose circles, a geometric tool found on a standard goniometer, were used to make radius of curvature measurements of 10 anatomic locations in 17 cadaveric specimens. The bony surface of the glenoid, measured from superior to inferior (G-SI) and from anterior to posterior (G-AP), was used as the standard for comparison. Autograft sites were the inferior coracoid, lateral coracoid, and inner table of the iliac crest. Potential osteochondral allograft sites were the radial head, scaphoid fossa of the distal radius (S-DR), lunate fossa of the distal radius (L-DR), medial tibial plateau, and lateral distal tibia. An acceptable match for autograft sites was based on a paired analysis and defined as a radius of curvature within 5 mm of the G-SI or the G-AP of the same cadaveric specimen. Allograft sites were evaluated using an unpaired analysis in which an ideal fit was defined as a radius of curvature of 25 to 30 mm, based on the interquartile range of the G-SI and G-AP.

Results:

The median (interquartile range) radii of curvature for the G-SI and G-AP were 30 mm (range, 25-30 mm) and 25 mm (range, 25-25 mm), respectively. The inferior coracoid was within 5 mm of the G-SI 59% of the time and the G-AP 94% of the time; no measurements from the lateral coracoid or iliac crest were within the range of the glenoid radius of curvature. Analysis of the allograft sites demonstrated an acceptable fit for 94% of the distal tibia, 68% of the medial tibial plateau, 12% of the S-DR, and 0% of the L-DR and the radial head specimens.

Conclusion:

An autograft of the inferior coracoid or an osteochondral allograft of the lateral distal tibia provided the best match to re-establish the native radius of curvature of the glenoid.

Clinical Relevance:

To best re-create the native glenohumeral anatomy, surgeons should consider the use of an autograft of the inferior coracoid or an osteochondral allograft of the lateral distal tibia for the reconstruction of osseous glenoid defects.
How to Improve the Prediction of Quadrupled Semitendinosus and Gracilis Autograft Sizes With Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Ultrasonography
Authors: Erquicia Juan Ignacio , Gelber Pablo Eduardo , Doreste Jose Luis , Pelfort Xavier , Abat Ferran , Monllau Juan Carlos
Published: March 2013

Background:

Hamstring tendon grafts may have an unacceptable size for use in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proposed to predict the diameters of hamstring tendon grafts.

Hypothesis:

Preoperative ultrasonography (US) might reliably anticipate intraoperative 4-strand semitendinosus and gracilis tendon (4ST-GT) graft sizes similarly to MRI. An MRI evaluation of the hamstring tendons with a higher magnification may improve the accuracy of the method.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

A total of 33 patients undergoing ACL reconstruction with a 4ST-GT graft and MRI performed at our institution were included. The cross-sectional area (CSA) of each semitendinosus tendon (ST) and gracilis tendon (GT) was calculated preoperatively with US and with MRI under 2× and 4× magnification. Intraoperative measurement of the final diameter of the 4ST-GT using a closed-hole sizing block with 0.5-mm increments was made. Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated to determine the relationship between the final intraoperative graft diameter of the 4ST-GT and the CSA of the ST and GT measured with US and MRI with 2× and 4× magnification. Simple linear regression was also calculated to attempt to predict the graft diameter based on given measurements.

Results:

There were statistically significant correlations between the measured CSA with US and both MRI magnifications with the 4ST-GT diameter. However, MRI under 4× magnification showed a much higer correlation (0.86) than MRI under 2× magnification (0.54) or US (0.51). Final graft diameters ≥8 mm were observed in 80.8% of patients with a CSA >14 mm2, in 76.9% of patients with a CSA >25 mm2, and in 96.2% of patients with a CSA >17 mm2 measured with US, 2× magnification of MRI, and 4× magnification of MRI, respectively.

Conclusion:

Preoperative calculation of the CSA of the hamstring tendons with MRI and US can help to reliably estimate 4ST-GT grafts. In terms of correlation of the CSA with graft diameter, US was comparable to 2× MRI, but 4× MRI showed a much greater accuracy. Threshold values of the CSA of the ST and GT of 25 mm2, 17 mm2, and 14 mm2 with the 2× MRI, 4× MRI, and US methods, respectively, are needed to reliably predict a 4ST-GT graft with a minimum diameter of 8 mm.
Effect of Evidence and Changes in Reimbursement on the Rate of Arthroscopy for Osteoarthritis
Authors: Holmes Robert , Moschetti Wayne , Martin Brook , Tomek Ivan , Finlayson Samuel
Published: March 2013

Background:

The efficacy of arthroscopic debridement or lavage for knee osteoarthritis (OA) was cast into doubt after publication of several randomized controlled trials beginning in 2002.

Purpose:

The authors set out to determine whether evidence of ineffectiveness, along with subsequent changes in reimbursement, were followed by changes in utilization rates of arthroscopy for patients with OA.

Study Design:

Cohort study (prevalence); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The Florida State Ambulatory Surgery Database was used to examine population-based rates of knee arthroscopy from 2000 to 2008 for patients with and without the diagnosis of OA; data were stratified between public and private payers. These trends were compared with patients who underwent arthroscopy for other diagnoses and were also compared with patients whose arthritis was not the primary indication for surgery.

Results:

A 39% decrease in the adjusted population-based rate of knee arthroscopy for OA was observed, from 12.2 per 100,000 adults in 2000 (95% CI, 9.9-14.4) to 7.7 per 100,000 adults in 2008 (95% CI, 6.7-8.6). The overall rate among individuals with a primary diagnosis of OA significantly decreased for both public ( P < .001) and private insurance ( P = .001) and the rate of this decrease was similar between the two insurance types ( P = .610). Although the unadjusted rates for all knee arthroscopy increased over the study period, the rate of increase was slowed in the years following the publication of several randomized controlled trials and subsequent changes in reimbursement. The average effect on arthroscopy rates attributed to these events was a reduction in 12 per 100,000 private arthroscopies (95% CI, –16.3 to 40.6; P = .404) and 35.7 per 100,000 publicly insured arthroscopies (95% CI, 15.0-56.4; P = .001).

Conclusion:

Evidence of the lack of efficacy of arthroscopy for knee OA, along with changes in reimbursement, preceded a significant decline in the population-based rates of this procedure in both publicly and privately insured patients in Florida.
Recent Legal Developments
Authors: Robertson James E.
Published: March 2013

This annual survey examines important prisoners' rights cases decided by the U.S. Courts of Appeals during 2012. These cases addressed constitutional questions concerning sexual misconduct, health care, custodial suicide, protections due informants, involuntary servitude, First Amendment freedoms, and solitary confinement. In addressing these constitutional questions, the U.S. Courts of Appeals created new law and/or applied clearly established law. Because the U.S. Supreme Court will only rarely grant certiorari to appellants, the U.S. Courts of Appeals remain the de facto courts of last resort for all but a few prisoners who challenge the constitutionality of the manner of their confinement.
Energy efficiency monitoring – which sensors are really needed?
Authors: Murer Martin J , Alonso-Herranz Elisa , de Waal Chantal MW , Spliethoff Hartmut , van Berlo Marcel AJ , Gohlke Oliver
Published: March 2013

Plant balancing of waste-to-energy plants is a key issue in determining plant performance and operating efficiency. Traditionally, plant efficiency is determined only during the acceptance test by the means of an ex-post energy balance. For continuous operation, energy efficiency is estimated on a monthly or yearly basis using the waste throughput and average lower heating value. At Afval Energie Bedrijf in Amsterdam efficiency has to be reported on a monthly basis. Measured data from 83 positions is required to obtain the efficiency of the Hoog Rendement Central block with an ex-post energy balance on a continuous basis. This study investigated the importance of the different sensors. Efficiency calculations were performed after discarding the less important measuring positions. The measured data was replaced by the design value in the calculation. The total average margin of error per year for the efficiency value was found to be only 0.1% when the 23 most significant (instead of 83) measuring points were used, whereas individual values may differ by less than 0.5%. Operators of plants with fewer sensors can monitor their efficiency continuously if they know the most important positions.
Profile of medical waste management in two healthcare facilities in Lagos, Nigeria: a case study
Authors: Idowu Ibijoke , Alo Babajide , Atherton William , Al Khaddar Rafid
Published: March 2013

Proper management and safe disposal of medical waste (MW) is vital in the reduction of infection or illness through contact with discarded material and in the prevention of environmental contamination in hospital facilities. The management practices for MW in selected healthcare facilities in Lagos, Nigeria were assessed. The cross-sectional study involved the use of questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focused group discussions and participant observation strategies. It also involved the collection, segregation, identification and weighing of waste types from wards and units in the representative facilities in Lagos, Nigeria, for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the MW streams. The findings indicated that the selected Nigerian healthcare facilities were lacking in the adoption of sound MW management (MWM) practices. The average MW ranged from 0.01 kg/bed/day to 3.98 kg/bed/day. Moreover, about 30% of the domestic waste from the healthcare facilities consisted of MW due to inappropriate co-disposal practices. Multiple linear regression was applied to predict the volume of waste generated giving a correlation coefficient (R2) value of 0.99 confirming a good fit of the data. This study revealed that the current MWM practices and strategies in Lagos are weak, and suggests an urgent need for review to achieve vital reversals in the current trends.