bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CUDA acceleration for Xen virtual machines in infiniband clusters with rCUDA
Authors: Prades Javier , Reaño Carlos , Silla Federico
Published: November 2016

Many data centers currently use virtual machines (VMs) to achieve a more efficient usage of hardware resources. However, current virtualization solutions, such as Xen, do not easily provide graphics processing unit (GPU) accelerators to applications running in the virtualized domain with the flexibility usually required in data centers (i.e., managing virtual GPU instances and concurrently sharing them among several VMs). Remote GPU virtualization frameworks such as the rCUDA solution may address this problem.

In this work we analyze the use of the rCUDA framework to accelerate scientific applications running inside Xen VMs. Results show that the use of the rCUDA framework is a feasible approach, featuring a very low overhead if an InfiniBand fabric is already present in the cluster.
Active vs. sedentary lifestyle from weaning to adulthood and susceptibility to ozone in rats
Authors: Gordon C. J. , Phillips P. M. , Ledbetter A. , Snow S. J. , Schladweiler M. C. , Johnstone A. F. M. , Kodavanti U. P.
Published: November 2016

The prevalence of a sedentary (SED) life style combined with calorically rich diets has spurred the rise in childhood obesity, which, in turn, translates to adverse health effects in adulthood. Obesity and lack of active (ACT) lifestyle may increase susceptibility to air pollutants. We housed 22-day-old female Long-Evans rats in a cage without (SED) or with a running wheel (ACT). After 10 wk the rats ran 310 ± 16.3 km. Responses of SED and ACT rats to whole-body O3 (0, 0.25, 0.5, or 1.0 ppm; 5 h/day for 2 days) was assessed. Glucose tolerance testing (GTT) was performed following the first day of O3. ACT rats had less body fat and an improved glucose GTT. Ventilatory function (plethysmography) of SED and ACT groups was similarly impaired by O3. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected after the second O3 exposure. SED and ACT rats were hyperglycemic following 1.0 ppm O3. GTT was impaired by O3 in both groups; however, ACT rats exhibited improved recovery to 0.25 and 1.0 ppm O3. BALF cell neutrophils and total cells were similarly increased in ACT and SED groups exposed to 1.0 ppm O3. O3-induced increase in eosinophils was exacerbated in SED rats. Chronic exercise from postweaning to adulthood improved some of the metabolic and pulmonary responses to O3 (GTT and eosinophils) but several other parameters were unaffected. The reduction in O3-induced rise in BALF eosinophils in ACT rats suggests a possible link between a SED lifestyle and incidence of asthma-related symptoms from O3.
Molecular Pathways: Understanding and Targeting Mutant Spliceosomal Proteins
Authors: Yoshimi Akihide , Abdel-Wahab Omar
Published: November 2016

Splicing of precursor messenger RNA is a critical step in regulating gene expression, and major advances are being made in understanding the composition and structure of the enzymatic complex that performs splicing, which is termed the “spliceosome.” In parallel, there has been increased appreciation for diverse mechanisms by which alterations in splicing contribute to cancer pathogenesis. Key among these include change-of-function mutations in genes encoding spliceosomal proteins. Such mutations are among the most common genetic alterations in myeloid and lymphoid leukemias, making efforts to therapeutically target cells bearing these mutations critical. To this end, recent studies have clarified that pharmacologic modulation of splicing may be preferentially lethal for cells bearing spliceosomal mutations and may also have a role in the therapy of MYC-driven cancers. This has culminated in the initiation of a clinical trial of a novel oral spliceosome modulatory compound targeting the SF3B complex, and several novel alternative approaches to target splicing are in development as reviewed here. There is now, therefore, a great need to understand the mechanistic basis of altered spliceosomal function in cancers and to study the effects of spliceosomal modulatory compounds in preclinical settings and in well-designed clinical trials. Clin Cancer Res; 23(2); 336–41. ©2016 AACR.
Hearing Restoration for Adults with Vestibular Schwannoma in the Only Hearing Ear: Ipsilateral or Contralateral Cochlear Implantation?
Authors: Huo Zirong , Zhang Zhihua , Huang Qi , Yang Jun , Wang Zhaoyan , Li Yun , Huang Meiping , Wu Hao
Published: November 2016

Objective: To explore auditory outcomes following cochlear implantation (CI) in patients with vestibular schwannoma (VS) in the only hearing ear. Methods: Three patients, all with a long history of hearing loss on one side and with newly diagnosed VS on the other side, underwent ipsilateral or contralateral CI. Their clinical data were collected retrospectively. Postoperative hearing outcomes were measured during follow-up and compared with the preoperative test results. A thorough search of the English-language literature was performed. Results: Patients 1 and 2 underwent CI in the ipsilateral and contralateral ear, respectively, without tumor removal; patient 3 underwent CI after tumor resection. At the last follow-up, the result of pure-tone audiometry was 25, 45, and 25 dB, respectively. An open-set speech discrimination score was achieved in all 3 patients, with monosyllabic word recognition of 60, 30, and 75%, respectively. Besides the patients included in our study, 28 CI cases with VS in the only hearing ear have been reported up to now. Conclusions: In patients with VS in the only hearing ear, significant hearing deterioration with no obvious tumor growth is a good indication for ipsilateral CI. Long-term deafness in the tumor-free ear is not an absolute contraindication for CI.
Glutamine Prevents Late-Phase Anaphylaxis via MAPK Phosphatase 1-Dependent Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 Deactivation
Authors: Kim Hae-Kyoung , Song Chang-Ho , Bae Yun-Soo , Im Suhn-Young , Lee Hern-Ku
Published: November 2016

Background: Cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) plays a key role in the development of late-phase anaphylaxis. L-Glutamine (Gln), a nonessential amino acid, has anti-inflammatory activity via inhibiting cPLA2. Methods: We used a penicillin-induced murine model of anaphylaxis, and late-phase anaphylaxis was quantified by measuring the increase in the hematocrit (Ht) value. Various inhibitors, small interfering RNA, and knockout mice were used in inhibition experiments. Phosphorylation and protein expression of cPLA2, ERK, and MAPK phosphatase 1 (MKP-1) were detected by Western blotting. Results: Leukotriene (LT) B4 was found to be another potent inducer of late-phase anaphylaxis besides the known mediator platelet-activating-factor (PAF). Gln efficiently prevented late-phase anaphylaxis when it was administered up to 3 h after challenge injection via inhibiting cPLA2. Inhibition studies indicated that p38 MAPK was the major upstream regulator of cPLA2. Gln dephosphorylated p38 and cPLA2 via up-regulating the negative regulator of p38 MAPK, i.e., MKP-1 protein. MKP-1 blockade abrogated all the effects of Gln. Conclusion: Of the cPLA2 metabolites, PAF and LTB4 play a key role in the development of late-phase anaphylaxis, and Gln prevents the reaction via MKP-1-dependent deactivation of cPLA2.
Targeted Therapies Provide Treatment Options for Poorly Differentiated Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Carcinomas
Authors: Gilabert Marine , Rho Young Soo , Kavan Petr
Published: November 2016

Poorly differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma (PD pNECs) is a rare disease that has a poor prognosis and is treated with systemic chemotherapy as the standard of care. We present 6 cases of chemo-naïve patients diagnosed with PD pNECs who refused systemic chemotherapy and received targeted therapies with sunitinib (37.5 mg/day, 5 patients) or the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus (10 mg/day, 1 patient) as the first-line treatment. We evaluated the drugs' toxicities and survival. The median age of the patients was 55 years (4 males, 2 females, functioning tumor in 1 of 6 patients). The median of the Ki67 index was 45% (range 20-80). Targeted therapies were combined with somatostatin analogues in 4 of 6 patients (30 mg Sandostatine LAR monthly). Toxicities (acute and late) were manageable and no toxicities necessitated cessation of treatment. All patients had progression-free survival during the 15-month treatment and an overall survival of more than 2 years after diagnosis. Even though this is a small cohort of selected patients, we conclude that sunitinib or everolimus are both feasible and safe and have encouraging results of efficacy as first-line therapies for PD pNEC.
ATXN7 Gene Variants and Expression Predict Post-Operative Clinical Outcomes in Hepatitis B Virus-Related Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Han Chuangye , Yu Long , Liu Xiaoguang , Yu Tingdong , Qin Wei , Liao Xiwen , Liu Zhengtao , Lu Sicong , Chen Zhiwei , Su Hao , Zhu Guangzhi , Qin Xue , Gui Ying , Li Jiaquan , Xiao Kaiyin , Chen Xigang , Ye Xinping , Peng Minhao , Dong Jiahong , Peng Tao
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a lethal disease with nearly equal morbidity and mortality. Thus, the discovery and application of more useful predictive biomarkers for improving therapeutic effects and prediction of clinical outcomes is of crucial significance. Methods: A total of 475 HBV-related HCC patients were enrolled. Ataxin 7 (ATXN7) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were genotyped by Sanger DNA sequencing after PCR amplification. The associations between ATXN7 SNPs and mRNA expression with the prognosis of HBV-related HCC were analyzed. Results: In all, rs3774729 was significantly associated with overall survival (OS) of HBV-related HCC (P = 0.013, HR = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.48-0.94). And patients with the AA genotype and a high level of serum alpha fetoprotein (AFP) had significantly worse OS when compared to patients with AG/GG genotypes and a low level of AFP (adjusted P = 0.007, adjusted HR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.18-2.82). Furthermore, low expression of ATXN7 was significantly associated with poor recurrence-free survival (RFS) and OS (P = 0.007, HR = 2.38, 95% CI = 1.27-4.45 and P = 0.025, HR = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.18-2.62). Conclusion: ATXN7 may be a potential predictor of post-operative prognosis of HBV-related HCC.
Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction with Endobronchial Valves in Low-FEV1 Patients
Authors: Darwiche Kaid , Karpf-Wissel Rüdiger , Eisenmann Stephan , Aigner Clemens , Welter Stefan , Zarogoulidis Paul , Hohenforst-Schmidt Wolfgang , Freitag Lutz , Oezkan Filiz
Published: November 2016

Background: Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) with valves has been shown to improve lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life in patients with emphysema, but only few patients with forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) ≤20% predicted have been included in former studies. Although the procedure can be performed safely, pneumothorax is a frequent complication, which can be critical for these very severely diseased patients. Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the safety of BLVR in patients with a very advanced stage of emphysema, as indicated by FEV1 ≤20% predicted. Patients and Methods: Patients in whom BLVR was performed between January 2013 and August 2015 were included in this analysis if their baseline predicted FEV1 was ≤20%. BLVR, performed only if collateral ventilation was absent, achieved complete occlusion of the target lobe. All patients were closely monitored and were not discharged before the fourth day after BLVR. Results: Twenty patients with FEV1 ≤20% predicted were included in the analysis. Lung volume reduction was achieved in 65% of the cases. Pneumothorax occurred in 4 cases (20%). No patient died. Lung function and exercise tolerance improved after 1 and 3 months, respectively. Conclusions: BLVR with valves can be safely performed in patients with FEV1 ≤20% predicted when close postprocedural monitoring is provided. Improvement in lung function and exercise capacity can be achieved.
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia Coexisting with Lupus Erythematosus: Poor Response to Hydroxychloroquine
Authors: Contin Letícia Arsie , Martins da Costa Marques Elisa Raquel , Noriega Leandro
Published: November 2016

Lupus erythematosus, especially the discoid form, and lichen planopilaris may be associated and can occur in different topographies (coexistence) or in the same lesion (lupus eythematosus/lichen planus overlap syndrome). Frontal fibrosing alopecia is considered a variant form of lichen planopilaris and is characterized by frontotemporal hairline and eyebrow involvement. Of the association with lupus erythematosus we have only a few descriptions. Hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine diphosphate are antimalarial drugs described as viable treatment options for both diseases, due to an antilymphocytic effect. The association between frontal fibrosing alopecia and lupus erythematosus (discoid or systemic) is reported in this article, showing a progressive alopecia in the frontotemporal hairline despite treatment with hydroxychloroquine.
Characterization of resistance profile of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from patients with tuberculosis in Beira, Sofala - Mozambique
Authors: Namburete Evangelina Inácio , Lisboa Miguelhete , Tivane Inês , Harrison Lee , Bollela Valdes Roberto
Published: November 2016

Objective: To analyze the resistance profile of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from patients with tuberculosis in Beira, Sofala, Mozambique. Method: Descriptive cross-sectional study that analyzed secondary data from patients who had positive culture for M. tuberculosis on MGIT960-BACTECTM. For each patient, demographic data, information of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) serology, rapid molecular test - GeneXpertα-Cepheid result and first line drug susceptibility test (DST) were reviewed . All tests were performed in the Referral Laboratory of Tuberculosis in Beira, from January 2014 to March 2015. Findings: Totally of 87 isolates from Sofala province, Mozambique were analyzed. Of these, 33/87 (37.9%) isolates had any anti-TB drug resistance detected while in 54/87 (62.1%) the drug resistance was not detected. Among the 33 isolates with drug resistance: 18/33 (54,7%) were multidrug-resistant (MDR), 11/33 (33,3%) were Isoniazid (INH) mono-resistant, 2/33 (6%) Rifampicin (RIF) mono-resistant and 2/33 (6%) were Etambutol mono-resistant. Of the total isolates with resistance to INH, 5/11 (42%) were additionally resistance to streptomycin (Sm). Of the 49 patients with HIV serology known, 30 (61,2%) were confirmed HIV positive. The HIV infection was two times more frequent among patients with drug resistant compared to those without drug resistance. All isolates resistant to INH and RIF (MDR) had previous history of tuberculosis treatment. Conclusion: There is high proportion of co-infection TB/HIV among patients with any drug resistant TB MDR or monoresistance . We also observed high frequency of monoresistance to isoniazid and association of drug resistance between isoniazid and streptomycin
Disseminated sarcoidosis: pulmonary, endobronchial and gastric
Authors: Monção Carolline S. A. , Ribeiro Jeniffer A. , Souza Filipe A. , Mendes André J. , Maia José G. S.
Published: November 2016

Sarcoidosis is a chronic granulomatous idiopathic systemic disease. Although the pulmonary involvement is the most common form of the disease, sarcoidosis can affect the airways, determining mucosal nodularity and even bronchostenosis. Gastrointestinal involvement is very rare and it is primarily manifested as gastric sarcoidosis. The diagnosis is based on symptoms, radiological findings and histopathological examination of tissue biopsies. In this work, we describe a case of pulmonary, endobronchial and gastric sarcoidosis in the same patient and discuss the approach to this rare presentation of the disease
Work-based and tutorial education programs: distinct approaches of the ‘PET’ groups in Brazil
Authors: Leite Pedro Henrique Nunes , Aniceto Vinícius , Santana Alessa de Andrade , Vieira Bárbara Regina , Lima Adriane Souza , Visconde Luís Felipe Silva , Paula Jayter Silva de
Published: November 2016

Design: Experience report. Relevance: This article aims to report how different educational programs under the acronym PET are organized in Brazil, highlighting differences and similarities. Additionally, program’s ideology and its organizational details are also described. Comments: Several groups linked to three distinct PET programs exist in the Brazilian univerties (Tutorial Education Program, Healthaimed Work-base Education Program, and Health Surveillance Work-based Education Program) with different focuses and work projects. All of them are based on the teaching-research-extension goals, with the objective of developing erudit and profissional citizens, which will be actives in the academic and social spheres
The Use of the Dead Sea Scrolls for Interpreting Jesus’s Action in the Temple
Authors: Wassen Cecilia
Published: November 2016

In order to understand Jesus’s violent outburst in the temple, scholars frequently turn to Jewish texts from the late Second Temple Period, including the Dead Sea Scrolls. The same texts are used to support contrasting explanations of the event. This paper evaluates these interpretations and offers an analysis of the key texts on the Jerusalem temple in the Scrolls. It concludes that the negative attitudes towards the temple that are reflected in Jesus’s action and some of the sectarian writings from Qumran share an expectation that the temple would become defiled in the end time. From such an apocalyptic perspective, it did not matter how the temple priests actually ran their business, since they were bound to be criticized by those Jews, such as Jesus and the Qumran sectarians, for whom the final age had arrived.
Effects of different host species on the life history of Bracon hebetor
Authors: Khalil Muhammad S. , Raza Abu Bakar M. , Afzal Muhammad , Aqueel Muhammad A. , Khalil Huma , Hance Thierry
Published: November 2016

Bracon hebetor(Hymenoptera: Braconidae) is a generalist idiobiont ecto-parasitoid that parasitizes a wide range of Lepidoptera and even some phylogenically distant weevil species (Coleoptera; Curculionidae). In the present context, our aim is to find the most suitable host for efficient laboratory rearing ofB. hebetor. We compared fitness traits of this parasitoid wasp on five host species, four species belonging to the Lepidoptera, viz.Galleria mellonella(Pyralidae),Helicoverpa armigeraandSpodoptera litura(Noctuidae),Sitotroga cerealella(Gelechiidae), and one to the Coleoptera, the alfalfa weevilHypera postica(Curculionidae). We determined the parasitic potential, paralysis, daily oviposition rate, development time, total adult progeny, sex ratio and survival. Fecundity was followed during five consecutive days and oviposition period was determined, all under laboratory conditions. The best results were obtained on the wax moth larvae (G. mellonella) for whichB. hebetorproved the highest biological activity in term of paralysis, parasitism and oviposition as compared to other tested host species. InGalleria mellonella, total eggs laid per female per five days and egg-adult survivorship were higher and sex ratio was highly biased toward females, as compared toHypera postica. Intermediate biological activities were found onHelicoverpa armigera,Spodoptera lituraandSitotroga cerealella. These contrasting results show that the plasticity of this species could also represent an important fitness cost difference in performance, which is discussed in terms of phylogenetic distance of the host species (particularly Pyralidae). In conclusion, the possible application of these results can be used in the economically important field of biological control and improve storage of products affected by insect pests.
A description of two new species of the genus Erenna (Siphonophora: Physonectae: Erennidae), with notes on recently collected specimens of other Erenna species
Authors: PUGH P.R. , HADDOCK S.H.D.
Published: November 2016

Two new Erenna species, E. insidiator sp. nov. and E. sirena sp. nov., are described from specimens collected in the vicinity of Monterey Bay, California, and also, for E. sirena at the southern end of the Gulf of California, Mexico. Further information on the three extant Erenna species is given, based on specimens collected in the same areas. These have enabled, for instance, the identification of three types of tentilla on the tentacles of E. cornuta Pugh, 2001, rather than the two noted on the single previously known specimen. The genus is remarkable for the presence of bioluminescent lures on the tentilla of all five species. In E. sirena sp. nov. the tentilla are also covered by a red-fluorescent layer, which was briefly described by Haddock et al. (2005), and further details are given herein. Another extraordinary feature of the colonies E. sirena sp. nov. is that the main part of the tentacle, with its tentilla, can be extended away from the siphosomal stem on a long peduncle. This phenomenon also appears to occur in E. laciniata Pugh, 2001, and has not been observed before for other physonect species.
A replacement name for Flavala Behounek, Han & Kononenko, 2012 (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae: Pantheinae)
Authors: BEHOUNEK G. , HAN H.L. , KONONENKO V.S.
Published: November 2016

The genus name Flavala Behounek, Han & Kononenko, 2012 (homonym nov.) must be replaced by Mooreia nomen nov. because Flavala is preoccupied by Flavala Berio, 1966, the junior synonym of Thioptera Franclemont, 1950, the Nearctic Eustrotiinae genus (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae, Eustrortiinae). The name Mooreia is dedicated to Frederic Moore, the famous British lepidopterologist of the nineteenth century, the explorer of the Oriental fauna, described many Lepidoptera taxa including Acronycta flavala Moore, 1867.
Revision of the Australian species of Figulus MacLeay, 1819 (Coleoptera: Lucanidae)
Authors: MONTE CINZIA , ZILIOLI MICHELE , BARTOLOZZI LUCA
Published: November 2016

The Australian species of the genus Figulus MacLeay, 1819 (Coleoptera: Lucanidae: Lucaninae: Figulini) are reviewed. Four new synonymies are established: F. howei De Lisle, 1967 and F. tambourinensis Mjöberg, 1916 are junior synonyms of F. nitens Waterhouse, 1874 (new synonymy); F. laevithorax Bomans is a junior synonym of F. regularis Westwood, 1834 (new synonymy); F. mento Albers, 1883 and F. mento foveatus Kriesche, 1922 are junior synonyms of F. sulcicollis Hope in Westwood, 1845 (new synonymy). The number of Figulus species known from Australia thus decreases to seven, four of which are endemic to Australia and one to Christmas Island. Lectotypes are designated for F. australicus Thomson, 1862, F. clivinoides Thomson, 1862, F. nitens Waterhouse, 1874, F. rossi Gahan, 1900, and F. tambourinensis Mjöberg, 1916. All the seven valid species are redescribed and a key is given for their identification. Photographs of the habitus, the mentum and illustrations of the aedeagus for all the taxa are also included. New unpublished data on the host plants and habitats for some of the Australian species are included.
Statistical Downscaling of Gridded Wind Speed Data Using Local Topography
Authors: Winstral Adam , Jonas Tobias , Helbig Nora
Published: November 2016

Winds, particularly high winds, strongly affect snowmelt and snow redistribution. High winds during rain-on-snow events can lead to catastrophic flooding while strong redistribution events in mountain environments can generate dangerous avalanche conditions. To provide adequate warnings, accurate wind data are required. Yet, mountain wind fields exhibit a high degree of heterogeneity at small spatial lengths that are not resolved by currently available gridded forecast data. Wind data from over 200 stations across Switzerland were used to evaluate two forecast surface wind products (~2- and 7-km horizontal resolution) and develop a statistical downscaling technique to capture these finer-scaled heterogeneities. Wind exposure metrics derived from a 25-m horizontal resolution digital elevation model effectively segregated high, moderate, and low wind speed sites. Forecast performance was markedly compromised and biased low at the exposed sites and biased high at the sheltered, valley sites. It was also found that the variability of predicted wind speeds at these sites did not accurately represent the observed variability. A novel optimization scheme that accounted for local terrain structure while also nudging the forecasted distributions to better match the observed distributions and variability was developed. The resultant statistical downscaling technique notably decreased biases across a range of elevations and exposures and provided a better match to observed wind speed distributions.
Moving toward Subkilometer Modeling Grid Spacings: Impacts on Atmospheric and Hydrological Simulations of Extreme Flash Flood–Inducing Storms
Authors: Bartsotas Nikolaos S. , Nikolopoulos Efthymios I. , Anagnostou Emmanouil N. , Solomos Stavros , Kallos George
Published: November 2016

Flash floods develop over small spatiotemporal scales, an attribute that makes their predictability a particularly challenging task. The serious threat they pose for human lives, along with damage estimates that can exceed one billion U.S. dollars in some cases, urge toward more accurate forecasting. Recent advances in computational science combined with state-of-the-art atmospheric models allow atmospheric simulations at very fine (i.e., subkilometer) grid scales, an element that is deemed important for capturing the initiation and evolution of flash flood–triggering storms. This work provides some evidence on the relative gain that can be expected from the adoption of such subkilometer model grids. A necessary insight into the complex processes of these severe incidents is provided through the simulation of three flood-inducing heavy precipitation events in the Alps for a range of model grid scales (0.25, 1, and 4 km) with the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System–Integrated Community Limited Area Modeling System (RAMS–ICLAMS) atmospheric model. A distributed hydrologic model [Kinematic Local Excess Model (KLEM)] is forced with the various atmospheric simulation outputs to further evaluate the relative impact of atmospheric model resolution on the hydrologic prediction. The use of a finer grid is beneficial in most cases, yet there are events where the improvement is marginal. This underlines why the use of finer scales is a step in the right direction but not a solitary component of a successful flash flood–forecasting recipe.
Contrast-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Is Associated With Long-Term Adverse Events in Patients With Acute Coronary syndrome
Authors: Uzunhasan Isil , Yildiz Ahmet , Arslan Sukru , Abaci Okay , Kocas Cuneyt , Kocas Betul Balaban , Cetinkal Gokhan , Dalgic Yalcin , Karaca Osman Sukru , Dogan Sait Mesut
Published: November 2016

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is associated with increased mortality, morbidity, and prolonged hospitalization. Patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) have a 3-fold higher risk of developing CI-AKI. The aim of our study was to evaluate the predictors of CI-AKI and long-term prognosis in patients with ACS who developed CI-AKI (1083 patients were enrolled). Contrast-induced acute kidney injury was defined as an increase of ≥0.5 mg/dL and/or an increase of ≥25% of pre-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to post-PCI serum creatinine levels within 48 to 72 hours after the procedure. Primary end point was defined as all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, and cerebrovascular event at long-term follow-up (36 ± 12 months). Contrast-induced acute kidney injury occurred in 178 (16.4%) of the 1083 patients. The primary end points were significantly high in patients with ACS who developed CI-AKI ( P < .001). The occurrence of CI-AKI was identified as an independent predictor of primary end point. Risk of CI-AKI development was more frequently seen in patients with ACS. Also, patients who developed CI-AKI have worse prognosis at long-term follow-up. Additional preventive treatment strategies need to be developed in this group of patients.
Swallowing Quality of Life After Zona Incerta Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Sundstedt Stina , Nordh Erik , Linder Jan , Hedström Johanna , Finizia Caterina , Olofsson Katarina
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

The management of Parkinson’s disease (PD) has been improved, but management of signs like swallowing problems is still challenging. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) alleviates the cardinal motor symptoms and improves quality of life, but its effect on swallowing is not fully explored. The purpose of this study was to examine self-reported swallowing-specific quality of life before and after caudal zona incerta DBS (cZI DBS) in comparison with a control group.

Methods:

Nine PD patients (2 women and 7 men) completed the self-report Swallowing Quality of Life questionnaire (SWAL-QOL) before and 12 months after cZI DBS surgery. The postoperative data were compared to 9 controls. Median ages were 53 years (range, 40-70 years) for patients and 54 years (range, 42-72 years) for controls.

Results:

No significant differences were found between the pre- or postoperative scores. The SWAL-QOL total scores did not differ significantly between PD patients and controls. The PD patients reported significantly lower scores in the burden subscale and the symptom scale.

Conclusions:

Patients with PD selected for cZI DBS showed good self-reported swallowing-specific quality of life, in many aspects equal to controls. The cZI DBS did not negatively affect swallowing-specific quality of life in this study.
Categorizing Cruise Lines by Passenger Perceived Experience
Authors: Li Yiwei , Kwortnik Robert
Published: November 2016

In the travel and hospitality industries, categorization of products, brands, and experiences permits efficient comparison and evaluation that aids decision making—from consumer choice to organizational strategy. However, categories often involve self-categorization (e.g., marketer defined) that may not reflect the reality of dynamic markets and industries. In this study of the cruise industry, we derive a new categorization approach using consumer perceptions of their cruise experiences to challenge a long-standing industry typology. Results using a variety of statistical tests of J.D. Power data from more than 3,000 cruisers yield a new and more informative category structure and assignment of cruise lines to it. Analyses reveal differences between the new cruise categories in terms of determinants that influence customer choice. Discussion highlights benefits to travel practitioners of using dynamic and customer-based categories, as well as to researchers of applying advanced statistical techniques to expose unexpected and insightful patterns in secondary data.
Changes in factors influencing doctors’ career choices between one and five years after graduation: questionnaire surveys of UK doctors
Authors: Lambert Trevor W , Smith Fay , Goldacre Michael J
Published: November 2016

Objectives

To study changes in factors influencing doctors’ career specialty choices between one and five years after graduation.

Design

Questionnaire survey.

Setting

UK.

Participants

A total of 10,473 doctors who replied to our surveys both one and five years after graduating from all UK medical schools between 1993 and 2008.

Main outcome measures

The importance of each of 12 specified factors in influencing the doctors’ choice of future specialty ‘a great deal’.

Method

Questionnaires by post and email.

Results

Enthusiasm for and commitment to the specialty was the greatest influence on career choice at year 1 (66%) and year 5 (74%). Domestic circumstances increased in importance more than any other factor (from 22.5% to 41.3%); 26% of doctors rated this as important in year 5 but not in year 1. Other factors which increased in importance from year 1 to year 5 included hours/working conditions, experience of the job so far and self-appraisal of own skills. There was an increase in the importance of promotion/career prospects, self-appraisal of own skills, student experience of subject and enthusiasm/commitment for more recent cohorts compared with older cohorts. Between years 1 and 5, there was a greater increase in the importance of domestic circumstances, hours/working conditions and eventual financial prospects for intending General Practitioners than for other doctors.

Conclusions

Doctors remain committed to their specialty between years 1 and 5, but the influence of domestic circumstances and hours and working conditions grew stronger.
The Curvilinear Relationship Between Attitude Certainty and Attitudinal Advocacy
Authors: Cheatham Lauren B. , Tormala Zakary L.
Published: November 2016

Do people advocate more on behalf of their own attitudes and opinions when they feel certain or uncertain? Although considerable past research suggests that people are more likely to advocate when they feel highly certain, there also is evidence for the opposite effect—that people sometimes advocate more when they experience a loss of certainty. The current research seeks to merge these insights. Specifically, we explore the possibility that the relationship between attitude certainty and attitudinal advocacy is curvilinear. Consistent with this hypothesis, we find evidence for a J-shaped curve: Advocacy intentions (and behavior) peak under high certainty, bottom out under moderate certainty, and show an uptick under low (relative to moderate) certainty. We document this relationship and investigate its potential mechanisms in three studies by examining advocacy intentions and the actual advocacy messages participants write when they feel high, moderate, or low certainty.
Evidence of Non-Corresponsive Causal Relationships Between Personality Traits and Social Power Over Time
Authors: Wood Dustin , Harms P. D.
Published: November 2016

Although the effects of personality traits on social environments are regularly thought to mirror the effects of social environments on personality traits, the causal dynamics existing between personality traits and social power may represent an important exception. Using a sample of 181 fraternity and sorority members surveyed over a year, we show that agentic traits are more likely to show cross-sectional associations with social power, and may increase from the experience of social power. However, increases in social power over a year are predicted better by communal characteristics. The findings are consistent with the understanding that social power acts as a disinhibitor allowing people to enact their desires with less risk and greater efficacy, but is differentially afforded to individuals perceived as likely to promote the goals of others. We discuss the conditions that may need to exist for personality traits and environments to show corresponsive relationships more generally.
A cross-cultural analysis of the relations of physical and relational aggression with peer victimization
Authors: Bass Ellyn Charlotte , Saldarriaga Lina , Cunha Josafa , Chen Bin-Bin , Santo Jonathan Bruce , Bukowski William M.
Published: November 2016

To better address the many consequences of peer victimization, research must identify not only aspects of individuals that put them at risk for victimization, such as aggression, but also aspects of the context that influence the extent of that risk. To this end, this study examined the contextual influences of gender, same-sex peer group norms of physical and relational aggression, and nationality on the associations of physical and relational aggression with peer victimization in early adolescents from Canada, China, Brazil, and Colombia ( N = 865; Mage = 11.01, SD = 1.24; 55% boys). Structural equation modeling was used to test for measurement invariance of the latent constructs. Multilevel modeling revealed that both forms of aggression were positive predictors of peer victimization, but physical aggression was a stronger predictor for girls than boys. Cross-national differences emerged in levels of peer victimization, such that levels were highest in Brazil and lowest in Colombia. Cross-national differences were also evidenced in the relationship between relational aggression and victimization: the relationship was positive in China, Brazil, and Canada (listed in descending order of magnitude), but negative in Colombia. Above and beyond the cross-national differences, physical aggression was a stronger predictor of victimization in peer groups low in physical aggression, and relational aggression was a stronger predictor in peer groups low in relational aggression. Ultimately, this research is intended to contribute to a better theoretical understanding of risk factors for peer victimization and the development of more effective and culturally-appropriate prevention and intervention efforts.
Justice, Epistemic Violence in South Asian Studies and the Nebulous Entity of Caste in Our Age of Chaos
Authors: Menski Werner
Published: November 2016

This editorial article covers much more than Dalits and untouchability, because ‘caste’ itself is about life, similar to the inevitably related human constructs of ‘law’, ‘religion’, ‘society’, ‘culture’ and also ‘race’ and ‘gender’. This article and the contributions in this Special Issue will not resolve the ongoing turbulences over caste, but may be useful tools to identify avenues for more constructive debates, rather than acrimonious exchanges. The key argument of the present article is that while difference is part of the human experience everywhere, ‘caste’, however disagreeable, remains an ancient culture-specific component of the intensely plural current identity of South Asia and South Asians, wherever they may be in the world today. It seems impossible to deny, ban or abolish this entity, which continues to serve as an identity marker, often in efforts to resist ongoing discriminations. Academic debates thus need to develop more constructive and sophisticated methods in various current attempts to acknowledge the multivocal stances on ‘caste’ and to negotiate better justice rather than falling into traps of all kinds of phobias, old and new. Approaches which simply deny that caste still exists, posit that it can just be abolished or claim that it cannot ever be adequately debated are unhelpful and just increase the heat in existing chaotic and largely self-righteous discourses. The article suggests that ancient Indians seem to have known much more about diversity management than we care to admit, while messiness and chaos remain prominent all around us today. This is not idolising a glorious past, but critiquing the present chaos while searching for justice-conscious remedies in diversity management.
Parents and partners
Authors: Kaufman-Parks Angela M. , DeMaris Alfred , Giordano Peggy C. , Manning Wendy D. , Longmore Monica A.
Published: November 2016

Prior work examining intimate partner violence (IPV) among young adults often has emphasized familial characteristics, such as parent–child physical aggression (PCPA), and romantic relationship dynamics, such as jealousy and controlling behaviors, but has not considered these two domains simultaneously. Likewise, research examining how these two domains affect IPV perpetration over time for young adults is still limited. Using five waves of data from the Toledo Adolescent Relationships Study ( N = 950), the present study examined the influence of parent–child relationship factors and romantic relationship dynamics in both their main and interactive effects on IPV perpetration spanning adolescence through young adulthood. Results from random-effects analyses indicated that both familial and romantic relationship dynamics should be taken into account when predicting IPV perpetration. Importantly, these two domains interacted to produce cumulatively different risk for engaging in violence against a romantic partner. Individuals were more likely to perpetrate IPV when their romantic relationship was characterized by verbal aggression if they reported PCPA experiences.
Pushing the limits of the family on Turkish television: Lost City, an alternative voice?
Authors: Emre Cetin Kumru Berfin
Published: November 2016

This article discusses the shift in the representation of the family through a case study of Lost City (2012–2013). The programme challenges the dominant representations of the family on Turkish television that are mostly framed by a particular neighbourhood culture and are characterized by organic solidarity. As outsiders in Turkish society, a prostitute, a Kurdish family and a Black illegal immigrant challenge the unity of the Toptas family that has moved to Istanbul from the Black Sea region of Turkey and who are trying hard to survive against poverty and the ‘cosmopolitan culture’ of the city. The series problematizes the borders of the family as different members of the Toptas family develop new relationships extending the family to include the outsiders of Turkish society. Drawing on Turkish family dramas such as Super Dad (1993–1997), Father’s Home (1997–2002), The Falling Leaves (2005–2010) and Lost City, this article examines the discursive shift in the representation of the family on Turkish television.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of pneumonia associated with thin liquid vs. thickened liquid intake in patients who aspirate
Authors: Kaneoka Asako , Pisegna Jessica M , Saito Hiroki , Lo Melody , Felling Katey , Haga Nobuhiko , LaValley Michael P , Langmore Susan E
Published: November 2016

Objective:

To investigate whether drinking thin liquids with safety strategies increases the risk for pneumonia as compared with thickened liquids in patients who have demonstrated aspiration of thin liquids.

Data sources:

Seven electronic databases, one clinical register, and three conference archives were searched. No language or publication date restrictions were imposed. Reference lists were scanned and authors and experts in the field were contacted.

Review methods:

A blind review was performed by two reviewers for published or unpublished randomized controlled trials and prospective non-randomized trials comparing the incidence of pneumonia with intake of thin liquids plus safety strategies vs. thickened liquids in adult patients who aspirated on thin liquids. The data were extracted from included studies. Odds ratios (OR) for pneumonia were calculated from the extracted data. Risk of bias was also assessed with the included published trials.

Results:

Seven studies out of 2465 studies including 650 patients met the inclusion criteria. All of the seven studies excluded patients with more than one known risk factor for pneumonia. Six studies compared thin water protocols to thickened liquids for pneumonia prevention. A meta-analysis was done on the six studies, showing no significant difference for pneumonia risk (OR = 0.82; 95% CI = 0.05–13.42; p = 0.89).

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference in the risk of pneumonia in aspirating patients who took thin liquids with safety strategies compared with those who took thickened liquids only. This result, however, is generalizable only for patients with low risk of pneumonia.
Identification of Rate-Limiting Steps in the Provision of Thrombolytics for Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Metts Elise L. , Bailey Abby M. , Weant Kyle A. , Justice Stephanie B.
Published: November 2016

Background:

Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is the only pharmacotherapy shown to improve outcomes in acute ischemic stroke. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a door-to-needle (DTN) time of <60 minutes in at least 50% of patients presenting with acute ischemic stroke.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to analyze the possible barriers that may delay tPA administration within the emergency department (ED) of an academic medical center.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted from February 2011 to October 2013. Patients were included if they were admitted through the ED with a diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke and received tPA.

Results:

Of the 130 patients who met inclusion criteria, 43.1% received tPA in ≤60 minutes. Several factors were identified to be significantly different in those with a DTN time of >60 minutes—time to ED physician consultation, neurologist arrival, blood sample acquisition, and result time ( P < .05 for all comparisons). Correlation analysis demonstrated several independent variables associated with DTN time of ≤60 minutes—time from admission to ED physician consultation, receipt of computed tomography (CT) scan, blood sample acquisition, laboratory results, and neurology service arrival ( P < .05 for all comparisons).

Conclusion:

The findings from this study highlight the importance of prompt physician evaluation, direct transfer to the CT scanner, and a quick turnaround time on laboratory values. The development of protocols to ensure the rapid receipt of tPA therapy should focus on limiting any potential delay these steps may cause.
Race Differences in ADL Disability Decline 1984-2004: Evidence From the National Long-Term Care Survey
Authors: Taylor Miles G. , Lynch Scott M. , Ureña Stephanie
Published: November 2016

Objective: Disability declined in lower levels of impairment during the late 20th century. However, it is unclear whether ADL disability also declined, or whether it did so across race. In this study, we examine cohorts entering later life between 1984 and 1999, by race, to understand changing ADL disability. Method: We used latent class methods to model trajectories of ADL disability and subsequent mortality in the National Long-Term Care Survey among cohorts entering older adulthood (ages 65-69) between 1984 and 1999. We examined patterns by race, focusing on chronic condition profiles. Results: White cohorts experienced consistent declines in ADL disability but Blacks saw little improvement with some evidence for increased disability. Stroke, diabetes, and heart attack were predominant in predicting disability among Blacks. Discussion: Declining disability trends were only observed consistently among Whites, suggesting previous and future disability trends and their underlying causes should be examined by race.
Academic and practitioner antecedents of scholarly outcomes
Authors: Finch David J. , O’Reilly Norm , Deephouse David L. , Foster William M. , Dubak Andrea , Shaw Jenna
Published: November 2016

Scholars, policymakers, accreditation bodies and industry leaders have called for an increased focus on scholarship that is both relevant and actionable for industry. In pursuance of this goal, many institutional solutions have been proposed. These solutions, however, have largely failed because they do not fully consider the individual and his or her background as significant factors in the choices an academic makes. To address the lack of research on individual academics, the authors conducted a two-part study that identified key issues and tested various hypotheses as to why some scholars choose to pursue actionable scholarship. Their findings show that five scholar-level factors (career stage, tenure, professional qualifications, active industry engagement and alumni affiliation) and one institutional-level factor (business school mission) influence whether or not they are likely to pursue research that is both relevant and actionable for industry.
Mind and creativity: Insights from rasa theory with special focus on sahṛdaya (the appreciative critic)
Authors: Sundararajan Louise , Raina Maharaj K.
Published: November 2016

This article introduces a non-Western approach to mind and creativity, an approach inspired by the notion of sahṛdaya (the appreciative critic) found in the Indian tradition of aesthetics known as rasa. The rasa tradition is preoccupied with a virtual reality governed by the principle of non-duality ( advaita), which we illuminate with another virtual reality—as formulated by the mathematical principle of symmetry in quantum mechanics. Far reaching implications of the principle of symmetry/non-duality for psychology in general, and psychology of creativity in particular, are explored.