bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion to Purkinje-Related Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia After Ablation of Ventricular Fibrillation in Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Masuda Keita , Nogami Akihiko , Kuroki Kenji , Igarashi Miyako , Sekiguchi Yukio , Komatsu Yuki , Kowase Shinya , Kurosaki Kenji , Nishihara Shuzo , Niwa Koichiro , Tsuchiya Taketsugu , Igawa Masayuki , Aonuma Kazutaka
Published: September 2016

Background—

Catheter ablation is an effective therapy for ventricular fibrillation (VF) arising from the Purkinje system in ischemic heart disease. However, some patients experience newly emergent monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (VT) after the ablation of VF. We evaluated the prevalence and mechanism of monomorphic VT after VF ablation.

Methods and Results—

Twenty-one consecutive patients with primary VF because of ischemic heart disease who underwent catheter ablation were retrospectively analyzed. Twenty of 21 patients were in electrical storm. Ventricular premature contractions triggering VF arose from the left Purkinje system and were targeted for ablation. Before the ablation, 14 of 21 patients had only VF, and the other 7 had VF and concomitant monomorphic VT. Four of the 14 patients with only VF (29%) exhibited newly emergent monomorphic VT after VF ablation. Three of these patients had Purkinje-related VTs, which were successfully eliminated by the ablation of a Purkinje network located in the same low-voltage area as the site of prior successful VF ablation. During a median follow-up of 28 months (interquartile range, 16–68 months), VF recurred in 6 of 21 patients (29%); however, there were neither electrical storms nor monomorphic VT, and all recurring arrhythmias were controlled by medical therapy alone.

Conclusions—

Over one fifth of patients with primary ischemic VF experienced newly emergent Purkinje-related monomorphic VT after VF ablation. The circuit of the monomorphic VT associated with the Purkinje network was located in the same low-voltage area as the Purkinje tissue that triggered VF and could be suppressed by additional ablation.
Clinical Experience With the Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter–Defibrillator in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Moore Jeremy P. , Mondésert Blandine , Lloyd Michael S. , Cook Stephen C. , Zaidi Ali N. , Pass Robert H. , John Anitha S. , Fish Frank A. , Shannon Kevin M. , Aboulhosn Jamil A. , Khairy Paul
Published: September 2016

Background—

Sudden cardiac death is a major contributor to mortality for adults with congenital heart disease. The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD) has emerged as a novel tool for prevention of sudden cardiac death, but clinical performance data for adults with congenital heart disease are limited.

Methods and Results—

A retrospective study involving 7 centers over a 5-year period beginning in 2011 was performed. Twenty-one patients (median 33.9 years) were identified. The most common diagnosis was single ventricle physiology (52%), 9 palliated by Fontan operation and 2 by aortopulmonary shunts:
d
-transposition of the great arteries after Mustard/Senning (n=2), tetralogy of Fallot (n=2), aortic valve disease (n=2), and other biventricular surgery (n=4). A prior cardiac device had been implanted in 7 (33%). The ICD indication was primary prevention in 67% and secondary in 33% patients. The most common reason for subcutaneous ICD placement was limited transvenous access for ventricular lead placement (n=10) followed by intracardiac right-to-left shunt (n=5). Ventricular arrhythmia was induced in 17 (81%) and was converted with ≤80 Joules in all. There was one implant complication related to infection, not requiring device removal. Over a median follow-up of 14 months, 4 patients (21%) received inappropriate and 1 (5%) patient received appropriate shocks. There was one arrhythmic death related to asystole in a single ventricle patient.

Conclusions—

Subcutaneous ICD implantation is feasible for adults with congenital heart disease patients. Most candidates have single ventricle heart disease and limited transvenous options for ICD placement. Despite variable anatomy, this study demonstrates successful conversion of induced ventricular arrhythmia and reasonable rhythm discrimination during follow-up.
Experimentally Increasing the Compliance of Titin Through RNA Binding Motif-20 (RBM20) Inhibition Improves Diastolic Function In a Mouse Model of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: Methawasin Mei , Strom Joshua G. , Slater Rebecca E. , Fernandez Vanessa , Saripalli Chandra , Granzier Henk
Published: September 2016

Background:

Left ventricular (LV) stiffening contributes to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a syndrome with no effective treatment options. Increasing the compliance of titin in the heart has become possible recently through inhibition of the splicing factor RNA binding motif-20. Here, we investigated the effects of increasing the compliance of titin in mice with diastolic dysfunction.

Methods:

Mice in which the RNA recognition motif (RRM) of one of the RNA binding motif-20 alleles was floxed and that expressed the MerCreMer transgene under control of the αMHC promoter (referred to as
cRbm20

ΔRRM

mice) were used. Mice underwent transverse aortic constriction (TAC) surgery and deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA) pellet implantation. RRM deletion in adult mice was triggered by injecting raloxifene (
cRbm20

ΔRRM

-raloxifene), with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)–injected mice (
cRbm20

ΔRRM

-DMSO) as the control. Diastolic function was investigated with echocardiography and pressure-volume analysis; passive stiffness was studied in LV muscle strips and isolated cardiac myocytes before and after elimination of titin-based stiffness. Treadmill exercise performance was also studied. Titin isoform expression was evaluated with agarose gels.

Results:

cRbm20

ΔRRM

-raloxifene mice expressed large titins in the hearts, called supercompliant titin (N2BAsc), which, within 3 weeks after raloxifene injection, made up ≈45% of total titin. TAC/DOCA
cRbm20

ΔRRM

-DMSO mice developed LV hypertrophy and a marked increase in LV chamber stiffness as shown by both pressure-volume analysis and echocardiography. LV chamber stiffness was normalized in TAC/DOCA
cRbm20
ΔRRM
-raloxifene mice that expressed N2BAsc. Passive stiffness measurements on muscle strips isolated from the LV free wall revealed that extracellular matrix stiffness was equally increased in both groups of TAC/DOCA mice (
cRbm20

ΔRRM

-DMSO and
cRbm20

ΔRRM

-raloxifene). However, titin-based muscle stiffness was reduced in the mice that expressed N2BAsc (TAC/DOCA
cRbm20

ΔRRM

-raloxifene). Exercise testing demonstrated significant improvement in exercise tolerance in TAC/DOCA mice that expressed N2BAsc.

Conclusions:

Inhibition of the RNA binding motif-20–based titin splicing system upregulates compliant titins, which improves diastolic function and exercise tolerance in the TAC/DOCA model. Titin holds promise as a therapeutic target for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.
On the vesica of Eucosmini and Grapholitini (Insecta: Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)
Authors: ZLATKOV BOYAN
Published: September 2016

Eucosmini and Grapholitini are highly specialised and closely related tribes of the subfamily Olethreutinae of the family Tortricidae. Previous studies have shown that there is considerable similarity in the general shape of the everted vesica and structure of cornuti in these two tribes. In this study the possible function of the vesica during copulation is discussed based on everted vesicae of intact specimens treated with dichlorvos, a compound that causes eversion of the vesica and formation of the spermatophore. A comparison between chemically and mechanically everted vesicae showed that the vesica consists of two functionally different parts: an eversible and a non-eversible. Clear distinction in the position and function of deciduous and non-deciduous cornuti was observed; non-deciduous cornuti are attached to the eversible part of the vesical and the deciduous cornuti to the non-eversible part. The mechanism of detachment of deciduous cornuti was revealed. Some peculiarities of the possible interaction between male and female genitalia are discussed.
Impacts of a Groundwater Scheme on Hydroclimatological Conditions over Southern South America
Authors: Martinez J. Alejandro , Dominguez Francina , Miguez-Macho Gonzalo
Published: September 2016

A sensitivity study of the impact of a groundwater scheme on hydrometeorological variables in coupled land–atmosphere simulations over southern South America is presented. It is found that shallow water tables in the groundwater scheme lead to reduced drainage and even upward capillary fluxes over parts of the central and southern La Plata basin. This leads to an increase in the simulated moisture in the root zone, which in turn produces an increase in evapotranspiration (ET) over the southern part of the domain, where ET is water limited. There is also a decrease in the near-surface temperature, in the range 0.5°–1.0°C. During the dry season, the increases in ET and relative humidity over the central La Plata coincide with an increase in precipitation downstream. Including groundwater leads to an increase in precipitation over parts of the central and southern La Plata basin during the early rainy season (October–December). The overall increase in ET and precipitation over the southern La Plata basin during the early rainy season is 13% and 10%, respectively. The additional precipitation comes from both an increase in the availability of atmospheric moisture when the groundwater scheme is used and its effect on the atmospheric instability. In the La Plata basin, including a representation of groundwater increases simulated precipitation and partially alleviates a warm and dry bias present in simulations without realistic subsurface hydrology.
Making Aircraft Vortices Visible to Radar by Spraying Water into the Wake
Authors: Shariff Karim
Published: September 2016

Aircraft trailing vortices pose a danger to following aircraft during takeoff and landing. This necessitates spacing rules, based on aircraft type, to be enforced during approach in instrument flight regulation (IFR) conditions; this can limit airport capacity. To help choose aircraft spacing based on the actual location and strength of the wake, it is proposed that wake vortices can be detected using conventional ground-based precipitation and cloud radars. This is enabled by spraying a small quantity of water into the wake from near the wing. The vortex strength is revealed by the Doppler velocity of the droplets. In the present work, droplet size distributions produced by nozzles used for aerial spraying are considered. Droplet trajectory and evaporation in the flow field is numerically calculated for a heavy aircraft, followed by an evaluation of radar reflectivity at 6 nautical miles (n mi) behind the aircraft. Small droplets evaporate, while larger droplets fall out of the wake. In the humid conditions that typically prevail during IFR, a sufficient number of droplets remain in the wake and give good signal-to-noise ratios (SNR). For conditions of average humidity, higher-frequency radars combined with spectral processing give good SNR.
Stabilization of circulating thyroglobulin mRNA transcripts in patients treated for differentiated thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Feddersen Søren , Bastholt Lars , Pedersen Susanne M
Published: September 2016

Background

The clinical utility of serum thyroglobulin in the follow-up of patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma may be compromised by the presence of endogenous antithyroglobulin antibodies. To prevent interference by antithyroglobulin antibodies several groups have developed real-time PCR-based assays for quantification of blood thyroglobulin mRNA levels. For accurate quantification of thyroglobulin mRNA in blood preanalytical factors must be recognized and controlled. In this study, we evaluate the effect of different blood RNA stabilizing systems – the Tempus Blood RNA system and the PAXgene Blood RNA system – and storage time on RNA yield and quality, and thyroglobulin mRNA stability.

Methods

Blood samples from 11 patients previously treated for differentiated thyroid carcinoma were collected in K2-EDTA, Tempus and PAXgene tubes and maintained at room temperature. RNA was isolated following storage for 0 and 72 h, and RNA yield, integrity and purity was determined. Thyroglobulin, GAPDH and ACTB mRNA levels were quantified by semi-quantitative real-time PCR.

Results

The RNA yield was significantly higher for blood collected in Tempus tubes compared with PAXgene tubes following storage for 72 h at room temperature ( P = 0.0011). High-quality RNA could be extracted from blood collected in PAXgene and Tempus tubes. Blood collected in K2-EDTA tubes, but not in PAXgene and Tempus tubes, showed significant changes in thyroglobulin mRNA levels following storage for 72 h at room temperature ( P = 0.0263).

Conclusions

Stabilization of blood in PAXgene and Tempus tubes enables storage at room temperature for up to 72 h, without compromising thyroglobulin mRNA levels.
Identification of haemoglobin New York by haemoglobin A1c measurement using the Sebia Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing system
Authors: Chao Yan , Wan Zemin , Wu Xiaobin , Qiu Feng , Wu Xinzhong , Wang Yunxiu , Ke Peifeng , Xu Jianhua , Zhuang Junhua , Huang Xianzhang
Published: September 2016

Haemoglobinopathies may interfere with the haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) measurement, leading to incorrect diagnosis and inappropriate treatment. It is essential that HbA1c assays are capable of identifying haemoglobinopathies. We report two cases of haemoglobin New York (HbNY) discovered through HbA1c analysis using capillary electrophoresis (Capillarys 2 Flex Piercing [C2FP], Sebia). We used these samples to evaluate the ability of three other HbA1c assays to identify this variant: ion-exchange high-performance liquid chromatography (Variant II Turbo [VII-T], Bio-Rad); boronate affinity high-performance liquid chromatography (Ultra2, Trinity Biotech) and immunoassay (Cobas c501 Tina-quant Generation 3, Roche Diagnostics). Each method was used for HbA1c assay of in samples from two cases of heterozygous haemoglobinopathy: β0-thalassemia/HbNY (Case 1) and HbA/NY (Case 2). Only the C2FP system detected HbNY (an additional peak appeared between HbA1c and HbA0). Clinical laboratories should be aware of the limitations of their HbA1c assay methods especially in geographic areas, where haemoglobinopathy prevalence is high.
Deeply Embedded Core Normative Values and Legitimacy of Law Enforcement Authorities
Authors: Mehozay Yoav , Factor Roni
Published: September 2016

Objectives:

The current research proposes that beliefs about the legitimacy of law enforcement authorities also derive from core normative values (i.e., notions of the good and virtuous life) that stem from deeply embedded cultural orientations through which individuals operate in and interpret the world.

Methods:

We developed a typology of four sets of core normative value systems using multiple correspondence analysis. Data are from the European Social Survey, including 52,253 respondents from 27 countries.

Results:

Three of the four sets of core normative values show an association with levels of legitimacy.

Conclusions:

The findings provide preliminary support for our model and indicate that legitimacy perceptions are associated with core normative values, which may extend beyond individuals’ perceptions of enforcement institutions. This means that even optimal procedural conduct or efficiency may not affect the attitudes of some populations, particularly in diverse, multicultural societies. Taking into consideration, the effects of internalized core values can help inform community interventions by the police and other institutions.
A case for raising standards
Authors: Corney Paul
Published: September 2016

This article seeks to raise awareness of the moves by the International Standards Organisation to establish a set of knowledge management (KM) standards. In it the author Paul J Corney will suggest that the adoption of such standards has the potential to become a game changer for KM professionals providing one clear rationale for future KM Programs.
The mid-career information professional
Authors: Webb Jela
Published: September 2016

This article examines the career options available to mid-career information professionals. The article initially sets out the current context for employment, careers and career planning before moving on to comment upon the various options available to the mid-career information professional.
Nucleoside diphosphate kinase B regulates angiogenic responses in the endothelium via caveolae formation and c-Src-mediated caveolin-1 phosphorylation
Authors: Gross Shalini , Devraj Kavi , Feng Yuxi , Macas Jadranka , Liebner Stefan , Wieland Thomas
Published: September 2016

Nucleoside diphosphate kinase B (NDPK-B) is an enzyme required for nucleoside triphosphate homeostasis, which has been shown to interact with caveolin-1 (Cav-1). In endothelial cells (ECs), NDPK-B contributes to the regulation of angiogenesis and adherens junction (AJ) integrity. We therefore investigated whether an interaction of NDPK-B with Cav-1 in ECs is required for this regulation and the involvement of VEGF signaling herein. We report that simultaneous depletion of NDPK-B/Cav-1 in HUVECs synergistically impaired sprouting angiogenesis. NDPK-B depletion alone impaired caveolae formation, VEGF-induced phosphorylation of c-Src/Cav-1 but not of ERK1/2/AKT/eNOS. In vivo, Cav-1−/− mice showed impaired retinal vascularization at postnatal-day five, whereas NDPK-B−/− mice did not. Primary mouse brain ECs (MBMECs) from NDPK-B−/− mice showed no change in caveolae content and transendothelial-electrical resistance upon VEGF stimulation. Interestingly, NDPK-B−/− MBMECs displayed an accumulation of intracellular vesicles and increased Cav-1 levels. Dextran tracer analysis showed increased vascular permeability in the brain of NDPK-B−/− mice compared to wild type. In conclusion, our data indicate that NDPK-B is required for the correct localization of Cav-1 at the plasma membrane and the formation of caveolae. The genetic ablation of NDPK-B could partially be compensated by an increased Cav-1 content, which restored caveolae formation and some endothelial functions.
Identification of Mucosa-Invading and Intravascular Bacteria in Feline Small Intestinal Lymphoma
Authors: Hoehne S. N. , McDonough S. P. , Rishniw M. , Simpson K. W.
Published: September 2016

Persistent bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal mucosa are causally linked to gastric carcinoma and mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma in people and laboratory animals. We examined the relationship of mucosa-associated bacteria to alimentary lymphoma in cats. Intestinal biopsies from 50 cats with alimentary lymphoma (small cell, n = 33; large cell, n = 17) and 38 controls without lymphoma (normal to minimal change on histopathology, n = 18; lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis, n = 20) were evaluated. The number and spatial distribution of bacteria (ie, in luminal cellular debris, villus-associated mucus, adherent to epithelium, mucosal invasion, intravascular, or serosal) were determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization with the eubacterial probe EUB-338. Mucosa-invasive bacteria were more frequently observed in cats with large cell lymphoma (82%, P ≤ .001) than in cats with small cell lymphoma (18%), normal to minimal change on histopathology, and lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis (3%). Intravascular bacteria were observed solely in large cell lymphoma (29%), and serosal colonization was more common in cats with large cell lymphoma (57%) than with small cell lymphoma (11%, P ≤ .01), normal to minimal change (8%, P ≤ .01), and lymphocytic-plasmacytic enteritis (6%, P ≤ .001). The high frequency of invasive bacteria within blood vessels and serosa of cats with large cell lymphoma may account for the sepsis-related complications associated with large cell lymphoma and inform clinical management. Further studies are required to determine the role of intramucosal bacteria in the etiopathogenesis of feline alimentary lymphoma.
Effect of Mandatory Unit and Individual Physical Training on Fitness in Military Men and Women
Authors: Anderson Morgan K. , Grier Tyson , Canham-Chervak Michelle , Bushman Timothy T. , Nindl Bradley C. , Jones Bruce H.
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to look at the effect of additional individual physical training (PT) in addition to mandatory unit PT as well as other risk factors on physical fitness.

Design:

A cross-sectional design.

Setting:

This study was conducted on a US military installation.

Participants:

Participants were 6290 male and 558 female active duty US Army soldiers in 3 light infantry brigades.

Measures:

Participants completed self-administered questionnaires asking about individual characteristics, PT, and physical fitness. Cut points were established for soldiers scoring within the top 33% for each of the 3 Army Physical Fitness Test events (2-mile run, sit-ups, and push-ups) and top 50% in each of the tests combined for overall performance.

Analysis:

Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals from multivariate analyses were calculated.

Results:

Variables impacting physical fitness performance of men and women included increased body mass index, leading unit PT sessions, and individual distance running mileage. Other variables impacting physical performance for men included increased age, smoking, and individual resistance training.

Conclusion:

Soldiers performing additional individual PT demonstrated a positive influence on fitness compared to unit PT participation alone. Increased age and being overweight/obese negatively influenced physical fitness. To enhance fitness performance through unit PT, running by ability groups and resistance training should be encouraged by leadership.
Modeling and position control of a therapeutic exoskeleton targeting upper extremity rehabilitation
Authors: Wu Qingcong , Wang Xingsong , Du Fengpo , Xi Ruru
Published: September 2016

The applications of robotics and automation technology to the therapies of neuromuscular and orthopedic impairments have received increasing attention due to their promising prospects. In this paper, we present an actuated upper extremity exoskeleton aimed to facilitate the rehabilitation training of the disable patients. A modified sliding mode control strategy incorporating a proportional-integral-derivative sliding surface and a fuzzy hitting control law is developed to ensure robust and optimal position control performance. Dynamic modeling of the exoskeleton as well as the human arm is presented and then applied to the development of the fuzzy sliding mode control algorithm. A theoretical proof of the stability and convergence of the closed-loop system is presented using the Lyapunov theorem. Three typical real-time position control experiments are conducted with the aim of evaluating the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme. The performances of the fuzzy sliding mode control algorithm are compared to those of conventional proportional-integral-derivative controller and conventional sliding mode control algorithm. The experimental results indicate that the position control with fuzzy sliding mode control algorithm has a bandwidth about 4 Hz during operation. Furthermore, this control approach can guarantee the best control performances in term of tracking accuracy, response speed, and robustness against external disturbances.
Methodological Challenges in Developing a Youth Questionnaire, Life & Health Young People, for Comparative Studies in Thailand and Sweden: About Bridging the Language Gap Between Two Non-English-Speaking Countries
Authors: Thitasan Anchalee , Velandia Marianne , Howharn Chularat , Brunnberg Elinor
Published: September 2016

Purpose: To develop a Thai questionnaire ชีวิตและสุขภาพของวัยรุ่นในประเทศไทย (TYQ) to explore girls’ and boys’ living conditions, lifestyles, and self-reported health with special focus on sexuality, based on a Swedish questionnaire, Liv & Hälsa ung (SYQ). Challenges in developing a youth questionnaire for comparative studies are described. Design: A multistep translation, sociocultural adaptation procedure, and a mixed-method validation test were performed using English as a common language within the research group. Three versions of SYQ were used as a pool of questions to develop the questionnaire. Findings: From a field test, unclear questions were identified and minor adjustments made. Life & Health Young People in a Thai version was successfully developed. The English version was used to bridge the language gap. Conclusion: This unique multistep methodology, including mixed-method validation procedure, can be used by researchers in countries where English is not the main language.
Place-Based Picture Books as an Adult Learning Tool: Supporting Agricultural Learning in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Simoncini Kym , Pamphilon Barbara , Mikhailovich Katja
Published: September 2016

This article describes the rationale, development, and outcomes of two place-based, dual-language picture books with agricultural messages for women farmers and their families in Papua New Guinea. The purpose of the books was to disseminate better agricultural and livelihood practices to women farmers with low literacy. The books were designed and illustrated in collaboration with women farmers from two provinces. Evaluation data were collected through focus groups with local peer educators (village community educators [VCEs]). The VCEs reported changes in family practices related to marketing, budgeting, and saving that reflected messages in the books. The books helped the VCEs who had received livelihood and agricultural training to recall and implement the training in addition to sharing their knowledge. Farmers with low literacy were able to access the messages through the illustrations. Such place-based picture books are a powerful medium for low literacy women farmers and their families to learn about and reinforce positive livelihood and agricultural practices.
Four-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate for Coagulopathy Reversal in Patients With Liver Disease
Authors: Huang Wan-Ting , Cang William C. , Derry Katrina L. , Lane James R. , von Drygalski Annette
Published: September 2016

A 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC, Kcentra®) was recently approved in the United States for the reversal of vitamin K antagonist-associated major bleeding, but it is often used to reverse coagulopathy in patients with liver disease (LD). This single-center, retrospective study analyzed the efficacy and safety of 4F-PCC administered in patients with and without LD. Prothrombin time/International Normalized Ratio (PT/INR) reversal with 4F-PCC was attempted in 85 patients; LD was documented in 31 patients. Coagulopathy reversal and hemostasis with 4F-PCC were inferior in patients with LD compared to patients without LD. Coagulopathy reversal, defined as INR = 1.5 after 4F-PCC administration, was achieved in 6 (19.4%) LD patients, compared to 44 (81.5%) non-LD patients ( p < 0.01). Hemostasis was achieved in 6 LD patients (19.4%) compared to 23 non-LD patients (42.6%) ( p = 0.03). Thromboembolic events occurred in 1 LD patient (3.2%) and 8 non-LD patients (14.8%) ( p = 0.15). Mortality was 51.6% in LD patients and 18.5% in non-LD patients ( p < 0.01). These observations suggest that the efficacy of 4F-PCC is suboptimal to correct coagulopathy and hemostasis in patients with LD, who have high rates of in-hospital mortality due to sequelae of LD. The incidence of thromboembolic events appeared comparable, suggesting that 4F-PCC does not cause undue thromboembolism in LD patients. In conclusion, 4F-PCC appears to be safe in LD patients when administered judiciously; however, further studies are necessary to optimize its use and elucidate its hemostatic potential in this patient population.
Association Between Teacher-Reported Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder and Child Functioning in Children With ADHD
Authors: Clayton Deborah , Green Jessica Leigh , Rinehart Nicole , Sciberras Emma
Published: September 2016

Objective: This study examined the association between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) symptom severity and academic outcomes and classroom functioning in a community-based sample of children with and without ADHD. Method: Participants included children with ADHD ( n =179) and a non-ADHD group ( n =212). ASD symptom severity, academic and learning skills, and classroom functioning were assessed via teacher report using the Social Skills Improvement System (SSIS; ASD and Academic Competence subscales) and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ; all subscales). Results: Children with ADHD had higher teacher-reported ASD symptoms than children without ADHD (β= .62, p< .001). Greater teacher-reported ASD symptoms were associated with more behavioral difficulties in the classroom for children with ADHD (β= .50, p< .001). There was little evidence of an association between academic competence and ASD symptom severity in children with ADHD (β= −.11, p = .15). Conclusion: ASD symptoms are associated with elevated classroom behavioral difficulties for children with ADHD.
The Effect of Empowerment and Self-Determination on Health Outcomes
Authors: Garces-Ozanne Arlene , Kalu Edna Ikechi , Audas Richard
Published: September 2016

There remains a persistent gap in health outcomes between wealthy and poor countries. Basic measures such as life expectancy and infant and under-five mortality remain divergent, with preventable deaths being unacceptably high, despite significant efforts to reduce these disparities. We examine the impact of empowerment, measured by Freedom House’s ratings of country’s political rights and civil liberties, while controlling for per capita gross domestic product, secondary school enrollment, and income inequality, on national health outcomes. Using data from 1970 to 2013 across 149 countries, our results suggest, quite strongly, that higher levels of empowerment have a significant positive association with life expectancy, particularly for females, and lower rates of infant and under-five mortality. Our results point to the need for efforts to stimulate economic growth be accompanied with reforms to increase the levels empowerment through increasing political rights and civil liberties.
Investigation of School Professionals’ Self-Efficacy for Working With Students With ASD
Authors: Corona Laura L. , Christodulu Kristin V. , Rinaldi Melissa L.
Published: September 2016

School professionals who work with students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) play a significant role in the academic experiences of these students, but some evidence suggests that teachers of students with ASD experience a high risk of burnout. Research has begun to examine factors that ameliorate or prevent teacher burnout, including teacher training and teacher self-efficacy, or teachers’ beliefs regarding their abilities to bring about positive outcomes for their students. The present study examined variables associated with the self-efficacy of school professionals for working with students with ASD, including knowledge about ASD, prior experience working with students with ASD, and prior training in ASD and evidence-based practices. A second goal of the present study was to investigate the impact of training on ASD and evidence-based practices on school professionals’ knowledge and self-efficacy related to working with students with ASD. In particular, the participants received training on the Prevent–Teach–Reinforce model. Results of the present study suggested the importance of training to school professionals’ self-efficacy, highlighting the need for continued efforts to provide quality training to individuals who work with students with ASD.
Pimp my fluff: A Thousand Plateaus and other theoretical extravaganzas
Authors: Hertz Ellen
Published: September 2016

This article is fueled by irritation with obscurantism in and posturing around ‘theory’ in contemporary anthropology. It examines three examples of contemporary anthropological production that build on what has become a cult reference in this regard, the incomprehensible A Thousand Plateaus by Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari. These examples involve the reconceptualization of crafting (Ingold), of causation (Remme) and of the rhizome (Mueller), each of which mobilizes Deleuze and Guattari’s conceptual lexicon in a specific and distinct way. Nourished by these examples, and despite her initial skepticism, the author concludes that the obscurity of Deleuze and Guattari’s overwrought prose can nonetheless lead to interesting anthropological analyses that engage variously with this work to produce real theoretical and empirical insights. The article concludes, however, that the disciplinary economy of this production values ‘theory’ over and above attempts to describe ‘reality’. Then, building on Boltanski’s distinction between ‘reality’ and ‘the world’, it proposes what the author argues is a more useful mobilization of theory, dedicated to producing more accurate and just descriptions of the world we live in.
The Fall and Television Noir
Authors: Steenberg Lindsay
Published: September 2016

This article analyzes the Belfast-set BBC series The Fall (2013–) as an illustrative example of television noir. It aims to use noir scholarship to investigate The Fall’s complex gender politics and genre position, and, more significantly, to use The Fall to illuminate the complex ways in which noir currently operates across Anglo-American television and culture. The Fall is self-conscious, if not self-reflexive, in its mobilization of noir to aspire to the cinematic. This article argues that the series, and others like it, use noir as a legitimation strategy, often to excuse prurient stories of sexualized violence. The act of labeling something noir, particularly a visual fiction, is a way of insisting on its status as art. I conclude that the system of noir (and its associations with art and authenticity) is unable to contain the excesses of the serial killer mythology and Gothic inflection of its postfeminist investigator.
Cognitive-Behavioral Group Therapy for Latino Youth With Type 1 Diabetes and Depression
Authors: Cumba-Avilés Eduardo
Published: September 2016

This group case study describes the course of a 14-session Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for Latino adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and depressive symptoms. The intervention, known as CBT-DM, is an adaptation of an efficacious group intervention for adolescent depression. The treatment rationale and cultural adaption model are described, as well as procedures used to achieve sensitivity to the characteristics of the T1DM culture as experienced by Latino youth from Puerto Rico. Session-by-session protocol is reviewed, and treatment gains on the group as a whole and on its individual members are presented, providing quantitative and qualitative data. Treatment feasibility, clients’ acceptance and satisfaction with treatment, and follow-up data up to 6 months post-treatment are also examined, considering cognitive, behavioral, emotional, relational, medical, and functional outcomes. Complicating factors, barriers to care, and treatment implications are discussed in the context of treating clients with comorbid chronic physical illness and emotional problems also embedded in a Latino culture. Translation of evidence-based treatments for depression into primary care settings and adapting protocols to youth populations with other medical illnesses is proposed. Recommendations for clinicians are provided, emphasizing the establishment of collaborative relationships with clients, assessing their stage in the process of accepting their chronic illness, as well as understanding their overall context to avoid unnecessary attributions of pathology to their thoughts, behaviors, and feelings.
Massive Hemorrhage From Multiple Hepatic Artery Aneurysms
Authors: Kahn S. Lowell , McClain Jonathan , Kaufman Jeffrey L.
Published: September 2016

A 66-year-old man, with an abnormal porta hepatis, consistent with tumor or inflammation, developed massive bleeding from one of numerous hepatic artery aneurysms, and coil embolization achieved control of bleeding. He died of subsequent multisystem organ failure, and the most likely diagnosis was either polyarteritis nodosa or segmental arterial mediolysis. Although the dual hepatic blood supply allows a degree of arterial embolization, this case demonstrates the risks associated with large territory hepatic arterial embolization in the presence of hemodynamic instability. We discuss the management issues related to massive hepatic bleeding when no surgical approach is possible.
Malevolent Forces
Authors: Wright John Paul , Morgan Mark Alden , Almeida Pedro R. , Almosaed Nora F. , Moghrabi Sameera S. , Bashatah Fawzia S.
Published: September 2016

The Dark Triad is represented by three interrelated personality characteristics thought to share a “dark core”—that is, to be associated with a range of negative outcomes. We investigate this link alongside another potent predictor of crime, low self-control. Our analyses found the Dark Triad was strongly predictive of delinquency, especially violent delinquency, where it accounted for the effects of self-control. Yet it exerted no significant effect on drug-based delinquency. However, an interaction between the Dark Triad and low self-control remained substantive and predictive across all models, where low self-control amplified the effects of the Dark Triad on delinquency.
Design and performance analysis of wireless body area networks in complex indoor e-Health hospital environments for patient remote monitoring
Authors: Aguirre Erik , Lopez-Iturri Peio , Azpilicueta Leyre , Rivarés Carmen , Astrain José Javier , Villadangos Jesús , Falcone Francisco
Published: September 2016

In this article, the design and performance analysis of wireless body area network–based systems for the transmission of medical information readable in an android-based application deployed within complex indoor e-Health scenarios is presented. The scenario under analysis is an emergency room area, where a patient is being monitored remotely with the aid of wearable wireless sensors placed at different body locations. Due to the advent of Internet of Things, in the near future a cloud of a vast number of wireless devices will be operating at the same time, potentially interfering one another. Ensuring good performance of the deployed wireless networks in this kind of environment is mandatory and obtaining accurate radio propagation estimations by means of a computationally efficient algorithm is a key issue. For that purpose, an in-house three-dimensional ray launching algorithm is employed, which provides radio frequency power distribution values, power delay profiles, and delay spread values for the complete volume of complex indoor scenarios. Using this information together with signal-to-noise estimations and link budget calculations, the most suitable wireless body area network technology for this context is chosen. Additionally, an in-house developed human body model has been developed in order to model the impact of the presence of monitored patients. A campaign of measurements has been carried out in order to validate the obtained simulation results. Both the measurements and simulation results illustrate the strong influence of the presented scenario on the overall performance of the wireless body area networks: losses due to material absorption and the strong influence of multipath components due to the great number of obstacles and the presence of persons make the use of the presented method very useful. Finally, an android-based application for the monitoring of patients is presented and tested within the emergency room scenario, providing a flexible solution to increase interactivity in health service provision.
Beyond Diagonal Sciences: Applying Roger Caillois’s Concepts of Symmetry and Dissymmetry to Journey
Authors: Gandolfi Enrico
Published: September 2016

The article aims to problematize the perspective of Roger Caillois beyond the relative more influential Les Jeux et les Hommes for Game Studies and then put the use of his theories to the test. By harnessing the alternative concepts of “symmetry” and “dissymmetry,” which are at the core of his approach, a textual analysis is applied to the high acclaimed video game Journey. Further suggestions from philosophy (“deconstruction” by Derrida), cultural studies (“the circuit of culture”), and game design support the study. Thus, symmetric and dissymmetric features (e.g., mechanics, aesthetics) are framed enlightening in-game processes further; conversely, the limits of these notions in game analysis are deepened along with some tendencies in misreading Caillois in the field.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Hand
Authors: Westerveld Donevan R. , Hall David J. , Richards Winston T.
Published: September 2016

Background: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a relatively rare and aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy characterized by high incidence of local recurrence, distant metastases, regional nodal metastases, and high mortality. Clinically, MCC presents as a persistent asymptomatic red/pink shaped nodule, usually smaller than 2 cm with nontender intracutaneous swelling, with rapidly growing localized disease with lymph node metastases preceding distant metastases. Because of its rare nature and the lack of comprehensive understanding of the disease, management of MCC has been controversial. Methods: An 87-year-old retired Caucasian male with a history of tobacco use, chronic sun exposure, and multiple squamous and basal cell carcinomas presented with a 1.8 × 1.3 cm red, nontender nodule on the dorsum of the proximal phalanx of the left long finger first noticed 6 months prior to presentation. Biopsy was consistent with MCC after which he was treated with wide local excision, full-thickness skin grafting, and sentinel lymphadenectomy (1/4 nodes positive) followed by adjuvant radiation therapy. Results: He recovered appropriately and was clinically and radiographically disease free at 2.5-year follow-up. Conclusion: Although it remains rare, MCC has increased in incidence over the last several decades and has a predilection to occur over sun exposed areas. Highly aggressive, it has a high incidence of regional and distant metastasis as well as local recurrence. As a result, it is important that practitioners involved in the care of skin and hand lesions be aware of this condition and the need for a multidisciplinary treatment approach.
Surgical Excision of Mycosis Fungoides Using Thumb-Sparing Reconstruction
Authors: McEvenue Giancarlo , Kim Ashley , Binhammer Paul
Published: September 2016

Background: The differential for soft tissue tumors of the hand and upper limb is broad. Hematologic malignancy remains quite low on the differential for soft tissue tumors involving the hand, and there is little in the literature describing surgical management of such cutaneous manifestations. When the tumor is large or involves the thumb, careful consideration of reconstructive options is required. Methods: We present a rare case of an aggressively enlarging mycosis fungoides, a cutaneous T-cell lymphoma tumor, involving the thumb. This tumor had a history of multiple failed treatment attempts, including radiation and chemotherapy. Results: Our surgical plan was a reverse radial forearm osteocutaneous flap. Conclusion: A reverse radial osteocutaneous forearm flap was successfully used to avoid thumb amputation and preserve thumb function.
Regulation Catches Up to Reality
Authors: Edelman Steven V.
Published: September 2016

The FDA recently conducted an Advisory Panel meeting to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and benefits of granting a nonadjunctive label claim for the DEXCOM G5 Mobile continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system. If approved, this claim will allow users to make day-to-day treatment decisions, including insulin dosing directly from the glucose values and rate of changes arrows generated by the CGM device, without the requirement of a confirmatory measurement with a self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) meter. Sporadic SMBG testing gives limited data, while CGM gives a value every 5 minutes and has alerts, alarms, trending information and allows caregivers to follow the user in real time 24/7. This indication will lead to more wide spread use of CGM and improve overall care with protection of hypoglycemia.
Weapons of the dissatisfied? Perceptions of socioeconomic inequality, redistributive preference, and political protest: Evidence from South Korea
Authors: Jo Jung In
Published: September 2016

This paper explores how perceptions of socioeconomic inequality, attitudes about redistribution, and experiences of social upward mobility shape the level of participation in political protests. The dramatic widening of income inequality in Korean society since the 2007 financial breakdown and the new surge of political protests has continued to attract attention. However, scholars have not clearly examined how Korean views about socioeconomic inequality and redistribution affect political activism in protests. This study reflects on the hypotheses of the grievance theory and the resource theory, and investigates survey data to explore whether dissatisfaction with inequality and attitudes about redistribution have a systematic impact on the level of political activism in protests. Using data from the 2009 South Korea Social Survey Program, this study concludes that dissatisfaction with income disparity, dissatisfaction with educational inequality, and redistributive preferences, have a systematic impact in fostering active political engagement in protests.
Prescription of Pneumocystis Jiroveci Pneumonia Prophylaxis in HIV-Infected Patients
Authors: Lin Xia , Garg Shikha , Mattson Christine L. , Luo Qingwei , Skarbinski Jacek
Published: September 2016

The US treatment guidelines recommend Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PCP) prophylaxis for all HIV-infected persons with a CD4 count <200 cells/mm3 (ie, eligible for PCP prophylaxis). However, some studies suggest PCP prophylaxis may be unnecessary in virally suppressed patients. Using national data of HIV-infected adults receiving medical care in the United States during 2009 to 2012, the authors assessed the weighted percentage of eligible patients who were prescribed PCP prophylaxis and the independent association between PCP prophylaxis prescription and viral suppression. Overall, 81% of eligible patients were prescribed PCP prophylaxis. Virally suppressed eligible patients were less likely to be prescribed PCP prophylaxis (prevalence ratio: 0.84; 95% confidence interval: 0.80-0.89). Although guidelines recommend PCP prophylaxis for all eligible patients, some HIV care providers might not prescribe PCP prophylaxis to virally suppressed patients. Additional data on the risk for PCP among virally suppressed patients are needed to clarify this controversy.