bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio, an Indicator of Inflammation and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Ozer Kutan , Horsanali Mustafa Ozan , Gorgel Sacit Nuri , Horsanali Burcu Ozalp , Ozbek Emin
Published: July 2016

Aim: There is a large body of evidence of clinical studies regarding the relation between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)-related lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men. A possible link between inflammation and these 2 clinical entities has also been proposed. Here, we aimed at evaluating the role of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), an indicator of inflammation and MetS, in the pathogenesis of LUTS and other BPH-related parameters. Method: We evaluated 244 patients with benign prostate hyperplasia admitted to our outpatient clinic between January 2014 and June 2015. NLR was calculated from the peripheral blood sample for all patients. Patients' anthropometric characteristics, serum lipid levels, waist circumferences, total prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and testosterone values, prostate volumes, max values and International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) were recorded. All statistical analyses were conducted by SPSS version 17.0 package program, and p value <0.05 was chosen as the criterion for statistical significance. Results: There was statistical significance between NLR and patients with severe IPSS score (>20) and over age 60 years (p = 0.02). Patients younger than 60 years had statistical significance between NLR and PSA <2.5 ng/dl (p = 0.004). When body mass index was selected, there was statistical significance between prostate volume <35 ml (p = 0.009) and age >60 years (p = 0.028). If 60 years of age was selected as cut-off value, there is statistical significance between age and severe IPSS, and in terms of mild erectile dysfunction, PSA >2.5 ng/dl, and prostate volume >35 ml. Conclusion: We found positive correlation between NLR and severe symptoms and progression of BPH. In this manner, anti-inflammatory therapy could contribute to the medical treatment of BPH. Higher NLR may be a candidate marker for severity of symptoms in BPH patients.
Oncological Outcomes of Patients with Concomitant Bladder and Urethral Carcinoma
Authors: Gakis Georgios , Efstathiou Jason A. , Daneshmand Siamak , Keegan Kirk A. , Clayman Rebecca H. , Hrbacek Jan , Ali-El-Dein Bedeir , Zaid Harras B. , Schubert Tina , Mischinger Johannes , Todenhöfer Tilman , Galland Sigolene , Olugbade Jr. Kola , Rink Michael , Fritsche Hans-Martin , Burger Maximilian , Chang Sam S. , Babjuk Marko , Thalmann George N. , Stenzl Arnulf , Morgan Todd M.
Published: July 2016

Introduction: The study aimed to investigate oncological outcomes of patients with concomitant bladder cancer (BC) and urethral carcinoma. Methods: This is a multicenter series of 110 patients (74 men, 36 women) diagnosed with urethral carcinoma at 10 referral centers between 1993 and 2012. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to investigate the impact of BC on survival, and Cox regression multivariable analysis was performed to identify predictors of recurrence. Results: Synchronous BC was diagnosed in 13 (12%) patients, and the median follow-up was 21 months (interquartile range 4-48). Urethral cancers were of higher grade in patients with synchronous BC compared to patients with non-synchronous BC (p = 0.020). Patients with synchronous BC exhibited significantly inferior 3-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) compared to patients with non-synchronous BC (63.2 vs. 34.4%; p = 0.026). In multivariable analysis, inferior RFS was associated with clinically advanced nodal stage (p < 0.001), proximal tumor location (p < 0.001) and synchronous BC (p = 0.020). Conclusion: The synchronous presence of BC in patients diagnosed with urethral carcinoma has a significant adverse impact on RFS and should be an impetus for a multimodal approach.
Acute Catecholamine Exposure Causes Reversible Myocyte Injury Without Cardiac Regeneration
Authors: Wallner Markus , Duran Jason M. , Mohsin Sadia , Troupes Constantine D. , Vanhoutte Davy , Borghetti Giulia , Vagnozzi Ronald J. , Gross Polina , Yu Daohai , Trappanese Danielle M. , Kubo Hajime , Toib Amir , Sharp Thomas E. , Harper Shavonn C. , Volkert Michael A. , Starosta Timothy , Feldsott Eric A. , Berretta Remus M. , Wang Tao , Barbe Mary F. , Molkentin Jeffrey D. , Houser Steven R.
Published: July 2016

Rationale:

Catecholamines increase cardiac contractility, but exposure to high concentrations or prolonged exposures can cause cardiac injury. A recent study demonstrated that a single subcutaneous injection of isoproterenol (ISO; 200 mg/kg) in mice causes acute myocyte death (8%–10%) with complete cardiac repair within a month. Cardiac regeneration was via endogenous cKit
+
cardiac stem cell–mediated new myocyte formation.

Objective:

Our goal was to validate this simple injury/regeneration system and use it to study the biology of newly forming adult cardiac myocytes.

Methods and Results:

C57BL/6 mice (n=173) were treated with single injections of vehicle, 200 or 300 mg/kg ISO, or 2 daily doses of 200 mg/kg ISO for 6 days. Echocardiography revealed transiently increased systolic function and unaltered diastolic function 1 day after single ISO injection. Single ISO injections also caused membrane injury in ≈10% of myocytes, but few of these myocytes appeared to be necrotic. Circulating troponin I levels after ISO were elevated, further documenting myocyte damage. However, myocyte apoptosis was not increased after ISO injury. Heart weight to body weight ratio and fibrosis were also not altered 28 days after ISO injection. Single- or multiple-dose ISO injury was not associated with an increase in the percentage of 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine–labeled myocytes. Furthermore, ISO injections did not increase new myocytes in cKit
+/Cre
×R-GFP transgenic mice.

Conclusions:

A single dose of ISO causes injury in ≈10% of the cardiomyocytes. However, most of these myocytes seem to recover and do not elicit cKit
+
cardiac stem cell–derived myocyte regeneration.
Prognosis of Patients With Familial Hypercholesterolemia After Acute Coronary Syndromes
Authors: Nanchen David , Gencer Baris , Muller Olivier , Auer Reto , Aghlmandi Soheila , Heg Dik , Klingenberg Roland , Räber Lorenz , Carballo David , Carballo Sebastian , Matter Christian M. , Lüscher Thomas F. , Windecker Stephan , Mach François , Rodondi Nicolas
Published: July 2016

BACKGROUND:

Patients with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) and coronary heart disease have high mortality rates. However, in an era of high-dose statin prescription after acute coronary syndrome (ACS), the risk of recurrent coronary and cardiovascular events associated with FH might be mitigated. We compared coronary event rates between patients with and without FH after ACS.

METHODS:

We studied 4534 patients with ACS enrolled in a multicenter, prospective cohort study in Switzerland between 2009 and 2013 who were individually screened for FH on the basis of clinical criteria according to 3 definitions: the American Heart Association definition, the Simon Broome definition, and the Dutch Lipid Clinic definition. We used Cox proportional models to assess the 1-year risk of first recurrent coronary events defined as coronary death or myocardial infarction and adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, existing cardiovascular disease, high-dose statin at discharge, attendance at cardiac rehabilitation, and the GRACE (Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events) risk score for severity of ACS.

RESULTS:

At the 1-year follow-up, 153 patients (3.4%) had died, including 104 (2.3%) of fatal myocardial infarction. A further 113 patients (2.5%) experienced nonfatal myocardial infarction. The prevalence of FH was 2.5% with the American Heart Association definition, 5.5% with the Simon Broome definition, and 1.6% with the Dutch Lipid Clinic definition. Compared with patients without FH, the risk of coronary event recurrence after ACS was similar in patients with FH in unadjusted analyses, although patients with FH were >10 years younger. However, after multivariable adjustment including age, the risk was greater in patients with FH than without, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 2.46 (95% confidence interval, 1.07–5.65;
P
=0.034) for the American Heart Association definition, 2.73 (95% confidence interval, 1.46–5.11;
P
=0.002) for the Simon Broome definition, and 3.53 (95% confidence interval, 1.26–9.94;
P
=0.017) for the Dutch Lipid Clinic definition. Depending on which clinical definition of FH was used, between 94.5% and 99.1% of patients with FH were discharged on statins and between 74.0% and 82.3% on high-dose statins.

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with FH and ACS have a >2-fold adjusted risk of coronary event recurrence within the first year after discharge than patients without FH despite the widespread use of high-intensity statins.
Identification of Reversible Disruption of the Human Blood–Brain Barrier Following Acute Ischemia
Authors: Simpkins Alexis N. , Dias Christian , Leigh Richard , Benson Richard T. , Hsia Amie W. , Latour Lawrence L. , Luby Marie , Lynch John K. , Merino Jose G. , Nadareishvili Zurab , Warach Steven J.
Published: July 2016

Background and Purpose—

Animal models of acute cerebral ischemia have demonstrated that diffuse blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption can be reversible after early reperfusion. However, irreversible, focal BBB disruption in humans is associated with hemorrhagic transformation in patients receiving intravenous thrombolytic therapy. The goal of this study was to use a magnetic resonance imaging biomarker of BBB permeability to differentiate these 2 forms of BBB disruption.

Methods—

Acute stroke patients imaged with magnetic resonance imaging before, 2 hours after, and 24 hours after treatment with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator were included. The average BBB permeability of the acute ischemic region before and 2 hours after treatment was calculated using a T2* perfusion-weighted source images. Change in average permeability was compared with percent reperfusion using linear regression. Focal regions of maximal BBB permeability from the pretreatment magnetic resonance imaging were compared with the occurrence of parenchymal hematoma (PH) formation on the 24-hour magnetic resonance imaging scan using logistic regression.

Results—

Signals indicating reversible BBB permeability were detected in 18/36 patients. Change in average BBB permeability correlated inversely with percent reperfusion (
P
=0.006), indicating that early reperfusion is associated with decreased BBB permeability, whereas sustained ischemia is associated with increased BBB disruption. Focal regions of maximal BBB permeability were significantly associated with subsequent formation of PH (
P
=0.013).

Conclusions—

This study demonstrates that diffuse, mild BBB disruption in the acutely ischemic human brain is reversible with reperfusion. This study also confirms prior findings that focal severe BBB disruption confers an increased risk of hemorrhagic transformation in patients treated with intravenous tissue-type plasminogen activator.
Incidence and Predictors of Early Recanalization After Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Seners Pierre , Turc Guillaume , Maïer Benjamin , Mas Jean-Louis , Oppenheim Catherine , Baron Jean-Claude
Published: July 2016

Background and Purpose—

After the demonstration of efficacy of bridging therapy, reliably predicting early recanalization (ER; ≤3 hours after start of intravenous thrombolysis) would be essential to limit futile, resource-consuming, interhospital transfers. We present the first systematic review on the incidence and predictors of ER after intravenous thrombolysis alone.

Methods—

We systematically searched for studies including patients solely treated by intravenous thrombolysis that reported incidence of ER and its association with baseline variables. Using meta-analyses, we estimated pooled incidence of ER, including according to occlusion site, and summarized the available evidence regarding predictors of no-ER.

Results—

We identified 26 studies that together included 2063 patients. The overall incidence of partial or complete ER was 33% (95% confidence interval, 27–40). It varied according to occlusion site: 52% (39–64) for distal middle cerebral artery, 35% (28–42) for proximal middle cerebral artery, 13% (6–22) for intracranial carotid artery, and 13% (0–35) for basilar occlusion. Corresponding rates for complete ER were 38% (22–54), 21% (15–29), 4% (1–8), and 4% (0–22), respectively. Proximal occlusion and higher National Institute of Health Stroke Scale were the most consistent no-ER predictors. Other factors, such as long or totally occlusive thrombus and poor collateral circulation, emerged as potential predictors but will need confirmation.

Conclusion—

The overall incidence of ER after intravenous thrombolysis is substantial, highlighting the importance of reliably predicting ER to limit futile, interhospital transfers. Incidence of no-ER is particularly high for proximal occlusion and severe strokes. Given the scarcity of published data, further studies are needed to improve no-ER prediction accuracy.
A new species of Merremia (Convolvulaceae) from São Paulo State, Brazil
Authors: PETRONGARI FERNANDA SATORI , SIMÃO-BIANCHINI ROSÂNGELA
Published: July 2016

Taxonomic studies of the genus Merremia from São Paulo State have resulted in the recognition of a new species endemic of “campo cerrado”: Merremia hoehnei, a prostrate subshrub which is distinguished by the presence of simple and 2–3-rayed stellate trichomes. This new species is described, illustrated and its similarities with related species (Merremia digitata, M. hassleriana, and M. hirsuta) are discussed.
Onosma ghahremanii sp. nov. (Boraginaceae), a new species from Alborz Mts., Iran
Authors: NAQINEZHAD ALIREZA , ATTAR FARIDEH
Published: July 2016

Onosma ghahremanii (Boraginaceae) is described and illustrated as a new endemic species from the Alborz Mts., N Iran. The new species is related to O. gaubae, O. borragoidinum and O. microcarpum, but differs from them in indumentum type, corolla color and stamen characteristics. Some notes are also presented on the ecology, distribution, and conservation status of the new species and a distribution map is provided.
The first data on species diversity of leeches (Hirudinea) in the Irtysh River Basin, East Kazakhstan
Authors: KAYGORODOVA IRINA A. , FEDOROVA LYUDMILA I.
Published: July 2016

The Irtysh River is one of the major waterways of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The river originates in the territory of Mongolia and China, flows through the East Kazakhstan and falls into the Ob River in the Western Siberia of Russia. The Kazakhstan section of the river, with length of 1698 km and water resources about 43.8 km3 (Dyusebaeva 2012), is situated on the border of the West Siberian Plain, the Altai Mountains and the Kazakh Uplands. As the river crosses various natural zones, characteristics of its hydrological regime is very diverse. In the south, in the area of Ust-Kamenogorsk, the valley of the Irtysh extends. In the upper reaches up to the city of Semey (formerly Semipalatinsk), the river is surrounded by plain and mountain landscapes. Downstream from Semey, the Irtysh enters the West Siberian Plain and flows to north-west through dry steppes. The riverbed is unstable: sometimes it is very tortuous, sometimes it is broken into branches, and, there are a lot of sand spits. The hydrological level of the Kazakhstan part of the Irtysh River is regulated with the cascade of storage reservoirs near the towns Bukhtarma, Ust-Kamenogorsk and Shulbinsk.
Revision of southern African species of the anglerfish genus Chaunax
(Lophiiformes: Chaunacidae), with descriptions of three new species
Authors: HO HSUAN-CHING , MA WEN-CHUN
Published: July 2016

Species of the anglerfish genus Chaunax occurring off southern Africa are reviewed and nine species are recognized: C. africanus, C. apus, C. flammeus, C. penicillatus, C. russatus, C. suttkusi, and three newly described species. Chaunax atimovatae sp. nov. is distinguished by having numerous tiny melanophores on the skin and a mixture of bifurcate and simple spinules on its dorsal surface, scattered rounded green spots circled by yellow on its dorsal surface, 9 or 10 rakers on the second gill arch, and 2 neuromasts in the upper preopercular, 11–14 in the pectoral, 31–37 in the lateral-line proper. Chaunax heemstraorum sp. nov. is distinguished by a combination of all dermal spinules simple, large green spots on the dorsal surface, 10–12 rakers on the second gill arch; and 3 neuromasts in the upper preopercular, 13–18 in the pectoral, 37–42 in the lateral-line proper, and usually 5 on the caudal-fin base. Chaunax hollemani sp. nov. is distinguished by cirri on top of the head, head width 16.0–18.5% SL, pre-preopercle length 26.8–28.5% SL, 9 rakers on the second gill arch, and 2 neuromasts in the upper preopercular, 11–14 in the pectoral, and 33–38 in the lateral-line proper. A key to species found in the study region is provided.
Paracercion ambiguum sp. nov. from Lang Son, Vietnam (Zygoptera: Coenagrionidae)
Authors: NING XIN , KOMPIER TOM , YU XIN , BU WENJUN
Published: July 2016

One new species of Paracercion Weekers and Dumont, 2004 (Paracercion ambiguum Kompier & Yu, 2016, holotype male, Vietnam, Lang Son province, Huu Lien Nature Reserve, 1-XII-2013, deposited in Institute of Entomology, College of Life Sciences of Nankai University, Tianjin, China) is proposed on the basis of molecular and morphological evidence. A COI gene tree is presented for Paracercion species and several morphologically related genera. The species is described and illustrated for both sexes. Diagnostic figures of the genital ligula and caudal appendages are provided.
Pathways and Water Mass Properties of the Thermocline and Intermediate Waters in the Solomon Sea
Authors: Germineaud Cyril , Ganachaud Alexandre , Sprintall Janet , Cravatte Sophie , Eldin Gérard , Alberty Marion S. , Privat Emilien
Published: July 2016

The semienclosed Solomon Sea is the final passage in the equatorward transit of the South Pacific western boundary currents (WBCs) that play a key role in heat and mass budgets of the equatorial Pacific. The Solomon WBCs and their associated water properties are examined using data from two oceanographic cruises undertaken during the contrasting trade wind seasons: July 2012 and March 2014. The mean circulation and associated transports with uncertainties is determined from the cruise data using a unique configuration of an inverse box model formulated based on measured shipboard acoustic Doppler current profiler velocities. An intense inflow of 36 Sv is found entering the Solomon Sea in July–August 2012 that falls by 70% to 11 Sv in March 2014. Large differences are also found in the total transport partitioning through each of the major exit passages during each season. Different water masses are found in the WBC stream northeast of the Solomon Islands that are likely related to a northern stream of the South Equatorial Current. Within the Solomon Sea, isopycnal salinity gradients are gradually stronger than within the subtropical Pacific, likely induced by stronger diapycnal mixing processes. WBC pathways exhibit distinct water mass signatures in salinity, oxygen, and nutrients that can be traced across the Solomon Sea, associated with significant water mass modifications at the northern exit straits and south of the Woodlark Island.
Lively Social Space, Well-Being Activity, and Urban Design: Findings From a Low-Cost Community-Led Public Space Intervention
Authors: Anderson Jamie , Ruggeri Kai , Steemers Koen , Huppert Felicia
Published: July 2016

Empirical urban design research emphasizes the support in vitality of public space use. We examine the extent to which a public space intervention promoted liveliness and three key behaviors that enhance well-being (“connect,” “be active,” and “take notice”). The exploratory study combined directly observed behaviors with self-reported, before and after community-led physical improvements to a public space in central Manchester (the United Kingdom). Observation data ( n = 22,956) and surveys (subsample = 212) were collected over two 3-week periods. The intervention brought significant and substantial increases in liveliness of the space and well-being activities. None of these activities showed increases in a control space during the same periods. The findings demonstrate the feasibility of the research methods, and the impact of improved quality of outdoor neighborhood space on liveliness and well-being activities. The local community also played a key role in conceiving of and delivering an effective and affordable intervention. The findings have implications for researchers, policy makers, and communities alike.
Tumor Debulking in the Management of Laryngeal Cancer Airway Obstruction
Authors: Du Eugenie , Smith Richard V. , Ow Thomas J. , Tassler Andrew B. , Schiff Bradley A.
Published: July 2016

Patients presenting with advanced aerodigestive malignancy and respiratory compromise often undergo tracheotomy as initial airway management. Tumor debulking is a potential alternative. We present a case series with chart review to communicate our institutional experience with this technique. T3/4 glottic and supraglottic cancers treated between 2004 and 2014 underwent review, and 14 patients were identified for this study. Of these, 5 (35.7%) required subsequent tracheotomy, and 9 (64.3%) did not. Patients requiring subsequent tracheotomy had a delay in initiating definitive treatment when compared with those who did not (83.3 vs 31.3 days, P =. 0025). No patient required a tracheotomy after initiation of definitive treatment. Our experience suggests that tumor debulking may be a viable option in select patients but that a delay in initiating treatment is associated with patients requiring tracheotomy subsequent to debulking. Further research is needed to better delineate patient scenarios in which tumor debulking alone is sufficient.
Acoustic correction of monumental churches with ceramic material: The case of the Cathedral of Benevento (Italy)
Authors: Iannace Gino
Published: July 2016

In this work, soundproof systems for the acoustic correction of large spaces, such as monumental churches, are studied. The Cathedral of Benevento is considered as a case study. Dated back to the seventh century, the church was destroyed during the Second World War and rebuilt in the mid-twentieth century, using marble for the floor and smooth plaster for the side walls. In the current state, the cathedral exhibits an excessive reverberation time (about 10 s) that causes poor understanding of speech and not good listening to musical performances. It is difficult to perform any form of acoustic correction inside the cathedral, since the walls and the ceiling cannot be covered with traditional sound-absorbing material due to architectural and aesthetic reasons. Therefore, the possibility of using ceramic material applied to the side walls for the acoustic correction of low-frequency components and transparent micro-perforated sheets placed under the ceiling for the acoustic correction of medium- and high-frequency components are considered. The work is divided into three phases: in the first phase, measurement of the current acoustic characteristics of the cathedral is performed. In the second phase, sound absorption material is investigated and in the third phase, the effects of insertion of soundproof systems on the acoustic characteristics of the cathedral are theoretically evaluated by means of a room acoustic software.
Sex and the (Anthropocene) City
Authors: Colebrook Claire Mary
Published: July 2016

In this essay I explore three concepts: sex, the city, and the Anthropocene. I argue that the condition for the possibility of the city is the assemblage of sexual drives for the sake of relative stability, but that those same drives also exceed the city's self-preservative function. Further, I argue that the very conditions that further the city and that enable philosophical and scientific concepts to be formed (and that allow for the Anthropocene to be discerned as an epoch) rely upon a geological politics that enables new ways of thinking about what counts as the political as such.
Psychiatric comorbidity associated with synthetic cannabinoid use compared to cannabis
Authors: Bassir Nia Anahita , Medrano Benjamin , Perkel Charles , Galynker Igor , Hurd Yasmin L
Published: July 2016

Background:

Synthetic cannabinoids (SC) use has had a dramatic increase in recent years, but data regarding their adverse effects on mental health is limited. In this study, we compared clinical presentations of SC users with cannabis users in a psychiatric inpatient setting.

Methods:

Digital charts of all patients who were admitted to a dual diagnosis psychiatric unit in one year were reviewed. Patients who had any current substance use disorder were categorized in four groups: (1) SC use and cannabis use (SC+MJ+), (2) SC use without cannabis use (SC+MJ-), (3) cannabis use without SC use (SC-MJ+), and (4) No SC or cannabis use (SC-MJ-).

Results:

A total of 594 charts were included. SC+MJ- patients had significantly more psychotic symptoms (OR: 4.44, 95% CI: 1.98–9.94), followed by SC+MJ+ (OR: 3.61, 95% CI: 1.87–6.97) and SC-MJ+ (OR: 1.87, 95%CI: 1.33–2.64) patients. The SC+MJ- group also had more agitation and aggression was most prominent in SC+MJ+ subjects. Multivariate analyses showed that the psychiatric associations of SC and cannabis use remained significant even after controlling for potential confounds such as other substance use.

Conclusions:

The prominent psychiatric features of SC users as compared to cannabis users in an inpatient setting are psychotic presentations and agitation, which have important treatment implications.
A harmonic one-dimensional element for non-linear thermo-mechanical analysis of axisymmetric structures under asymmetric loads: The case of hot strip rolling
Authors: Benasciutti Denis , De Bona Francesco , Munteanu Mircea Gh
Published: July 2016

This work presents a one-dimensional harmonic finite element for the transient elasto-plastic analysis of axisymmetric structures loaded by non-axisymmetric thermal and mechanical loads. The one-dimensional element exploits a semi-analytical approach, based on Fourier series decomposition of the applied loads. The initial stress method is used for the non-linear solution of elasto-plastic analysis. As a case study, the proposed one-dimensional harmonic element is applied for modelling a two-dimensional circle under thermal and mechanical loadings rotating over its surface, which is used as an approximation of a work roll in hot strip rolling. With the one-dimensional harmonic element, the cyclic thermo-mechanical behaviour of the work roll can be simulated by considering localized plasticity caused by thermo-mechanical loads representative of strip and back-up roll. Compared to two-dimensional models already used in the literature, the one-dimensional element allows a significant reduction in the computational time to be achieved; it follows that the whole transient thermo-mechanical response can be simulated, thus permitting a more complete evaluation of the stress–strain response that is necessary for fatigue life assessment.
Seafaring life, shipboard routine and Temperance propaganda in mid-nineteenth century American whaling communities as depicted in Francis Allyn Olmsted’s Incidents of a Whaling Voyage (1841)
Authors: de Oliveira Torres Rodrigo
Published: July 2016

This research note is designed to shed light on seafaring life during the first half of the nineteenth century by examining a contemporary work, Incidents of a whaling voyage by F. A. Olmsted (1841). Olmsted recorded the shipboard routine of both an American whaler and a merchantman over the course of a sixteen-month voyage, resulting in a rich description of the ships and their crews. His personal conviction regarding abstinence from alcohol also provides insights into the Temperance movement in this period. The result is a unique source for the study of seafaring life and material culture in mid-nineteenth century American seafaring communities as seen through the lens of a young educated physician from Connecticut.
Psychopathy Traits and Violent Assault Among Men With and Without History of Arrest
Authors: Reidy Dennis E. , Lilienfeld Scott O. , Berke Danielle S. , Gentile Brittany , Zeichner Amos
Published: July 2016

Although research suggests that the antisocial behavior (ASB) facet of psychopathy generally carries the greatest predictive power for future violence, these findings are drawn primarily from forensic samples and may reflect criterion contamination between historical violence and future violence perpetration. Likewise, these findings do not negate the association of other psychopathy facets to violence or their role in the development of violence, nor do they offer practical utility in the primary prevention of violence. There are a number of empirical and theoretical reasons to suspect that the callous affect (CA) facet of psychopathy may demonstrate stronger statistical association to violence in nonforensic populations. We tested the association of CA to severe acts of violence (e.g., assault with intent to harm, injure, rape, or kill) among men with and without history of arrest ( N = 600) using both the three- and four-facet models of psychopathy. CA was robustly associated with violence outcomes across the two groups in the three-facet model. When testing the four-facet model, CA was strongly associated with violence outcomes among men with no history of arrest, but only moderately associated with assaults causing injury among men with history of arrest. These results are consistent with data from youth populations that implicate early emotional deficits in later aggressive behavior and suggest CA may help to identify individuals at risk for violence before they become violent. Implications for the public health system and the primary prevention of violence are discussed.
A review of statistical updating methods for clinical prediction models
Authors: Su Ting-Li , Jaki Thomas , Hickey Graeme L , Buchan Iain , Sperrin Matthew
Published: July 2016

A clinical prediction model is a tool for predicting healthcare outcomes, usually within a specific population and context. A common approach is to develop a new clinical prediction model for each population and context; however, this wastes potentially useful historical information. A better approach is to update or incorporate the existing clinical prediction models already developed for use in similar contexts or populations. In addition, clinical prediction models commonly become miscalibrated over time, and need replacing or updating. In this article, we review a range of approaches for re-using and updating clinical prediction models; these fall in into three main categories: simple coefficient updating, combining multiple previous clinical prediction models in a meta-model and dynamic updating of models. We evaluated the performance (discrimination and calibration) of the different strategies using data on mortality following cardiac surgery in the United Kingdom: We found that no single strategy performed sufficiently well to be used to the exclusion of the others. In conclusion, useful tools exist for updating existing clinical prediction models to a new population or context, and these should be implemented rather than developing a new clinical prediction model from scratch, using a breadth of complementary statistical methods.
Principal component of explained variance: An efficient and optimal data dimension reduction framework for association studies
Authors: Turgeon Maxime , Oualkacha Karim , Ciampi Antonio , Miftah Hanane , Dehghan Golsa , Zanke Brent W , Benedet Andréa L , Rosa-Neto Pedro , Greenwood Celia MT , Labbe Aurélie ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2016

The genomics era has led to an increase in the dimensionality of data collected in the investigation of biological questions. In this context, dimension-reduction techniques can be used to summarise high-dimensional signals into low-dimensional ones, to further test for association with one or more covariates of interest. This paper revisits one such approach, previously known as principal component of heritability and renamed here as principal component of explained variance (PCEV). As its name suggests, the PCEV seeks a linear combination of outcomes in an optimal manner, by maximising the proportion of variance explained by one or several covariates of interest. By construction, this method optimises power; however, due to its computational complexity, it has unfortunately received little attention in the past. Here, we propose a general analytical PCEV framework that builds on the assets of the original method, i.e. conceptually simple and free of tuning parameters. Moreover, our framework extends the range of applications of the original procedure by providing a computationally simple strategy for high-dimensional outcomes, along with exact and asymptotic testing procedures that drastically reduce its computational cost. We investigate the merits of the PCEV using an extensive set of simulations. Furthermore, the use of the PCEV approach is illustrated using three examples taken from the fields of epigenetics and brain imaging.
Integrating an Immigration Law Simulation Into EAP Courses
Authors: Codita Ana M.
Published: July 2016

Background. Previous research has highlighted the pedagogical effectiveness of a simulation-based approach to EAP (English for Academic Purposes) instruction.

Aim. The purpose of the article is describe the use of the ARIZONA IMMIGRATION LAW simulation in some EAP courses and examine its benefits and drawbacks.

Method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with the instructors and written questionnaires with the students.

Results. The findings suggested that although the simulation raised some challenges in terms of design and accessibility of the topic, it brought three benefits to the EAP courses: developing students’ academic language skills, conducting research as a pathway for knowledge construction, and strengthening students’ abilities as critical thinkers.

Conclusions. These findings underscore the usefulness of a simulation-based EAP pedagogy to promote students’ use of the language skills to identify the main points of an argument, research and evaluate sources, defend well-organized arguments, and co-construct knowledge of a timely issue.

Recommendations. The author concludes with some implications for simulation design and adaption.
Females With ADHD Report More Severe Symptoms Than Males on the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale
Authors: Vildalen Victoria U. , Brevik Erlend J. , Haavik Jan , Lundervold Astri J.
Published: July 2016

Objective: To investigate gender differences in self-reported ADHD symptoms in a group of adults with ADHD and a control group. Methods: A total of 682 adults with ADHD (49.9% females) and 882 controls (59.2% females) completed the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), listing the 18 symptoms included in the diagnostic criteria of ADHD. Results: Within the ADHD group, females reported more severe symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity than males. This higher symptom report of females was not found in the control group, where the number of severe inattention symptoms rather was higher in males. Conclusion: The results suggest that childhood symptoms of ADHD may have gone unnoticed in girls, emphasizing the need for longitudinal studies of ADHD symptoms across the life span.
Introduction: Do we need multi-stakeholder colloquia in MS?
Authors: Vermersch Patrick , Smets Louis , Gold Ralf
Published: July 2016

Background:

In the increasingly complex environment of MS there is a need for better cross-talk and communication between the different stakeholders who each address MS according to their own perspective.

Objective & Methods:

The first and second Pan-European MS Multi-stakeholder Colloquia were specifically set-up for this.

Results:

In May 2014 and May 2015, the different stakeholders in MS (patients, healthcare professionals, regulators, payers and pharmaceutical industry professionals) met to present and discuss each other’s perspective, formulate 10 integrated Calls to Actions (first Colloquium) and discuss guidance propositions/recommendations developed by working groups for the Calls to Action (second Colloquium).

Conclusion:

The perspectives of the different stakeholders and the 10 integrated Calls to Action are summarised in this supplement.
Pathways to mental healthcare in south-eastern Nigeria
Authors: Ikwuka Ugo , Galbraith Niall , Manktelow Ken , Chen-Wilson Josephine , Oyebode Femi , Muomah Rosemary Chizobam , Igboaka Anulika
Published: July 2016

In sub-Saharan Africa, traditional and faith healers provide competing services alongside biomedical professionals. This may be associated with delays in reaching specialised mental health services, and hence with longer duration of untreated illness. As first line care constitutes a crucial stage in accessing of psychiatric care, investigating pathways to mental healthcare can highlight help-seeking choices. This study explored the pathways to care for mental illness preferred by a non-clinical sample of the population in south-eastern Nigeria. Multistage sampling was used to select participants ( N = 706) who completed questionnaires on help-seeking. Results showed a significant preference for biomedical (90.8%) compared to spiritual (57.8%) and traditional (33.2%) pathways. Higher education predicted preference for the biomedical model, while low education was associated with traditional and spiritual pathways. Protestants preferred the spiritual pathway more than did Catholics. The use of biomedical care is potentially undermined by poor mental health infrastructure, a lack of fit between the culture of biomedical care and the deep-seated cultural/religious worldviews of the people, stigma surrounding mental illness, and the likelihood of a social desirability bias in responses. A complementary model of care is proposed.
The government of migrant mobs
Authors: Tazzioli Martina
Published: July 2016

This article engages with the production and government of migrant multiplicities in border zones of Europe, arguing that the specificity of migrant multiplicities consists in their temporary and divisible character. It is argued that there are three different forms of migrant multiplicities: (1) the multiplicity produced due to migrants’ spatial proximity; (2) the virtual multiplicity generated through data; and (3) the visualized and narrated multiplicity that emerges from media portraits of the ‘spectacle’ of the arrivals of migrants. It is claimed that multiplicities are made to divide and partition the migrants and thus prevent the formation of a collective political subject. In the concluding section, the article deals with the ambivalent character of the term ‘the mob’, addressing the twofold dimension of migrant multiplicities: these are in fact generated by techniques of power, at the same time exceeding them and representing potential emerging political subjects.
Polyvictimization Among Children and Adolescents in Low- and Lower-Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Le Minh T. H. , Holton Sara , Romero Lorena , Fisher Jane
Published: July 2016

Background:

Most of the world’s children and adolescents live in low- and lower-middle-income countries (LALMIC), but there is limited evidence about polyvictimization (experiences of multiple forms of victimization) among them. The aims of this article were to systematically review the evidence from LALMIC about the overall prevalence of polyvictimization and to identify the associations between polyvictimization and health and well-being among children and adolescents.

Method:

A systematic search of the English-language peer-reviewed literature to identify empirical, quantitative studies conducted in LALMIC between 2005 and 2015, assessing at least four forms of victimization among young people aged up to 19 years. Where prevalence of any victimization and of polyvictimization were reported, meta-analyses were performed.

Results:

A total of 30/8,496 articles were included in the review. Evidence was available from 16/84 LALMIC and methodology and quality varied. Pooled prevalence of experiences of any victimization was 76.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) [64.8%, 88.9%]). Prevalence of polyvictimization ranged from 0.3% to 74.7% with an overall estimate of 38.1% (95% CI [18.3%, 57.8%]). None of the studies examined the associations between polyvictimization and physical or reproductive health or quality of life. Polyvictimization was associated with increased likelihood of mental health problems and involvement in health risk behaviors.

Conclusions:

Experiences of polyvictimization among children and adolescents in LALMIC are more prevalent than in high- and upper-middle-income countries and contribute to the burden of poor health among children and adolescents. Most LALMIC lack local data, and research is required to address this knowledge gap.
Association of TLR-4 regulatory variants (rs41426344 and rs7873784) with rheumatoid arthritis in a Chinese population
Authors: Guo Xiang-hua , Shao Li , Li Jian , Mao Yu-jing , Zhang Li-li , Song Qin
Published: July 2016

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a key role in both innate and adaptive immunity. The role of TLR-4 in various autoimmune disorders has been well documented. Variations in the TLR-4 gene have been linked with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In the present report, we conducted a hospital-based case-control study to investigate whether common polymorphisms in the TLR-4 gene are associated with susceptibility/resistance to development of RA in a Chinese population. A total of six single nucleotide polymorphisms (Asp299Gly, Thr399Ile, rs10759932, rs41426344, rs11536889, and rs7873784) were genotyped by PCR-RFLP in 250 RA patients and 248 healthy controls. Distribution of genotypes and alleles in RA and controls were compared by Fisher’s exact test. The prevalence of minor allele, heterozygous and homozygous mutants for rs41426344 polymorphism were more frequent in RA patients compared to healthy controls (C: P <0.0001, OR = 5.51 [3.37–8.99]; GC: P <0.0001, OR = 7.38 [4.10–13.29]; CC: P = 0.01, OR = 4.73 [1.28–17.47]). Similarly, the frequencies of CC genotype and C allele of rs7873784 polymorphism were significantly higher in RA than healthy controls ([GC: P = 0.008, OR = 1.77 [1.16–2.70]; C: P = 0.01, OR = 1.61 (1.11–2.34]). However, genotypes and alleles distribution of rs10759932 and rs11536889 were comparable in both clinical categories. Similar to earlier observations, all participants were wild type for TLR-4 codon polymorphisms (Asp299Gly and Thr399Ile). In conclusion, TLR-4 (rs41426344 and rs7873784) variants are associated with susceptibility to development of RA in a Chinese population.
A randomized controlled trial on rehabilitation through caregiver-delivered nurse-organized service programs for disabled stroke patients in rural china (the RECOVER trial): design and rationale
Authors: Yan Lijing L , Chen Shu , Zhou Bo , Zhang Jing , Xie Bin , Luo Rong , Wang Ninghua , Lindley Richard , Zhang Yuhong , Zhao Yi , Li Xian , Liu Xiao , Peoples Nicholas , Bettger Janet Prvu , Anderson Craig , Lamb Sarah E , Wu Yangfeng , Shi Jingpu
Published: July 2016

Rationale

Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability in rural China. For stroke patients residing in resource-limited rural areas, secondary prevention and rehabilitation are largely unavailable, and where present, are far below evidence-based standards.

Aim

This study aims to develop and implement a simplified stroke rehabilitation program that utilizes nurses and family caregivers for service delivery, and evaluate its feasibility and effectiveness in rural China.

Methods and design

This 2-year randomized controlled trial is being conducted in 2–3 county hospitals located in northwest, northeast, and southwest China. Eligible and consenting stroke inpatients (200 in total) have been recruited and randomized into either a control or intervention group. Nurses in the county hospital are trained by rehabilitation specialists and in turn train the family caregivers in the intervention group. They also provide telephone follow-up care three times post discharge. The recruitment, baseline, intervention, follow-up care, and evaluation are guided by the RECOVER mobile phone app specifically designed for this study.

Study outcome

The primary outcome is patients’ Barthel Index (activities of daily living: mobility, self-care, and toileting) at 6 months. Process and economic evaluation will also be conducted.

Discussion

The results of our study will generate initial high-quality evidence to improve stroke care in resource-scarce settings. If proven effective, this innovative care delivery model has the potential to improve the health and function of stroke patients, relieve caregiver burden, guide policy-making, and advance translational research in the field of stroke care.
Blood pressure burden and outcome in warfarin-related intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Schlunk Frieder , Chang Yuchiao , Ayres Alison , Battey Thomas , Vashkevich Anastasia , Raffeld Miriam , Rost Natalia , Viswanathan Anand , Gurol M Edip , Schwab Kristin , Greenberg Steven M , Rosand Jonathan , Goldstein Joshua N
Published: July 2016

Background and purpose

Blood pressure reduction is a promising intervention for acute intracerebral hemorrhage, but clinical trials of this treatment often exclude those with anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage, leaving it unclear whether this population might benefit. We examined whether persistently elevated blood pressure values (blood pressure burden) over the first 24 h are associated with hematoma expansion and mortality in anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage.

Methods

We retrospectively identified consecutive patients with primary anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage (warfarin anticoagulation) who presented within 6 h after symptom onset and a matched set of non-anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage patients. Associations between 24 h blood pressure burden, hematoma expansion, and mortality were evaluated using univariable and multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Sixty-nine anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage and 69 matched non-anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage patients were included. Hematoma expansion occurred in 25 anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage patients (36%) and 15 control patients (22 %; p = 0.091). Twenty-four-hour blood pressure burden was in fact lower in anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage than in non-anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage patients (p = 0.033). No association was found in anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage and non-anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage between BP burden, hematoma expansion, and 30-day mortality.

Conclusion

We found no evidence that higher 24 h blood pressure burden is associated with hematoma expansion or mortality in anticoagulant-associated intracerebral hemorrhage.
Checkpoint inhibitors in lung cancer: latest developments and clinical potential
Authors: Schvartsman Gustavo , Ferrarotto Renata , Massarelli Erminia
Published: July 2016

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The vast majority of patients are diagnosed with metastatic disease with a 5-year survival rate of less than 5%. After first-line chemotherapy or biomarker-matched targeted therapy, only suitable for a small group of patients, further systemic therapy options rendered very limited, if any, benefit until recently. Checkpoint inhibitors have significantly improved outcomes in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and are currently an established second-line therapeutic option. In this manuscript, we review the mechanism of action of checkpoint inhibitors, present the available data with approved and experimental agents, discuss the progress that has already been made in the field, as well as toxicity awareness, and future perspectives.