bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal Circulating Concentrations of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha, Leptin, and Adiponectin in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Xu Jie , Zhao Yan Hong , Chen Yun Ping , Yuan Xiao Lei , Wang Jiao , Zhu Hui , Lu Chun Mei
Published: August 2014

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common pregnancy complications. Inflammation may play a role in the pathogenesis of GDM. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to determine whether maternal serum concentration of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), leptin, and adiponectin were associated with GDM. A systematic search of PubMed and Medline was undertaken. In total, 27 trials were evaluated by meta-analyses using the software Review Manager 5.0. The results showed that maternal TNF-α(P=0.0003) and leptin (P<0.00001) concentrations were significantly higher in GDM patients versus controls. However, maternal adiponectin (P<0.00001) concentration was significantly lower in GDM patients compared with controls. Subgroup analysis taking in consideration the effect of obesity on maternal adipokine levels showed that circulating levels of TNF-αand leptin remained elevated in GDM patients compared to their body mass index (BMI) matched controls, and adiponectin level remained depressed in GDM individuals. Our findings strengthen the clinical evidence that GDM is accompanied by exaggerated inflammatory responses.
Effect of the Diesel, Inhibitor, and CO2Additions on the Corrosion Performance of 1018 Carbon Steel in 3% NaCl Solution
Authors: Porcayo-Calderon J. , Casales-Diaz M. , Rivera-Grau L. M. , Ortega-Toledo D. M. , Ascencio-Gutierrez J. A. , Martinez-Gomez L.
Published: August 2014

In order to determine the diesel contribution in the coadsorption process of the oil-soluble inhibitors, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy measurements have been carried out to study the performance of oil-soluble inhibitors in both presence and absence of diesel and CO2. The results showed that the presence of the oil phase provides some protection to the steel because the water-soluble fractions are capable of being adsorbed on the steel surface thereby reducing the corrosion rate. The oily phase does not contribute to the adsorption process of the inhibitor because the inhibitor is absorbed into the water-soluble fractions. The oil-soluble inhibitors are effective only when the solution is saturated with CO2. CO2saturation causes a decrease in the pH of the solution causing both an increase of the inhibitor solubility and a better dispersion of the inhibitor into the electrolyte.
Feature Selection and Classifier Parameters Estimation for EEG Signals Peak Detection Using Particle Swarm Optimization
Authors: Adam Asrul , Shapiai Mohd Ibrahim , Mohd Tumari Mohd Zaidi , Mohamad Mohd Saberi , Mubin Marizan
Published: August 2014

Electroencephalogram (EEG) signal peak detection is widely used in clinical applications. The peak point can be detected using several approaches, including time, frequency, time-frequency, and nonlinear domains depending on various peak features from several models. However, there is no study that provides the importance of every peak feature in contributing to a good and generalized model. In this study, feature selection and classifier parameters estimation based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) are proposed as a framework for peak detection on EEG signals in time domain analysis. Two versions of PSO are used in the study: (1) standard PSO and (2) random asynchronous particle swarm optimization (RA-PSO). The proposed framework tries to find the best combination of all the available features that offers good peak detection and a high classification rate from the results in the conducted experiments. The evaluation results indicate that the accuracy of the peak detection can be improved up to 99.90% and 98.59% for training and testing, respectively, as compared to the framework without feature selection adaptation. Additionally, the proposed framework based on RA-PSO offers a better and reliable classification rate as compared to standard PSO as it produces low variance model.
Can Attention Deficits Predict a Genotype? Isolate Attention Difficulties in a Boy with Klinefelter Syndrome Effectively Treated with Methylphenidate
Authors: Gagliano Antonella , Germanò Eva , Benedetto Loredana , Masi Gabriele
Published: August 2014

This paper describes a 17-year-old boy who was diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome (KS) (XXY) at the age of 16 years. Although cognitive level was absolutely normal, he showed attentional difficulties that negatively affected school adjustment. He was successfully treated with methylphenidate. A significant improvement was observed in the ADHD Rating Scale IV and in the inattention subscale score of the Conners Scales. The CGI-S score improved from 3 to 1, and the CGI-I score at the end point was 1 (very much improved). Also attention measures, particularly forward and backward digit span, improved with MPH treatment. Given the widely variable and often aspecific features, KS may run undiagnosed in a large majority of affected patients. A close attention to the cognitive phenotype may favour a correct diagnosis, and a timely treatment.
ACVR1 Mutations in DIPG: Lessons Learned from FOP
Authors: Taylor Kathryn R. , Vinci Maria , Bullock Alex N. , Jones Chris
Published: August 2014

Whole-genome sequencing studies have recently identified a quarter of cases of the rare childhood brainstem tumor diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma to harbor somatic mutations in ACVR1. This gene encodes the type I bone morphogenic protein receptor ALK2, with the residues affected identical to those that, when mutated in the germline, give rise to the congenital malformation syndrome fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), resulting in the transformation of soft tissue into bone. This unexpected link points toward the importance of developmental biology processes in tumorigenesis and provides an extensive experience in mechanistic understanding and drug development hard-won by FOP researchers to pediatric neurooncology. Here, we review the literature in both fields and identify potential areas for collaboration and rapid advancement for patients of both diseases. Cancer Res; 74(17); 4565–70. ©2014 AACR.
Mouse Models of Human Cancer
Authors: Böck Barbara C. , Stein Ulrike , Schmitt Clemens A. , Augustin Hellmut G.
Published: August 2014

The Helmholtz Alliance Preclinical Comprehensive Cancer Center (PCCC; www.helmholtz-pccc.de) hosted the “1st International Kloster Seeon Meeting on Mouse Models of Human Cancer” in the Seeon monastery (Germany) from March 8 to 11, 2014. The meeting focused on the development and application of novel mouse models in tumor research and high-throughput technologies to overcome one of the most critical bottlenecks in translational bench-to-bedside tumor biology research. Moreover, the participants discussed basic molecular mechanisms underlying tumor initiation, progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance, which are the prerequisite for the development of novel treatment strategies and clinical applications in cancer therapy. Cancer Res; 74(17); 4671–5. ©2014 AACR.
Alternative Treatment of Stereotactic Cyst Aspiration and Radiosurgery for Cystic Brain Metastases
Authors: Jung Tae-Young , Kim In-Young , Jung Shin , Jang Woo-Youl , Moon Kyung-Sub , Park Seung-Jin , Lim Sa-Hoe
Published: August 2014

Background: Surgical removal is the first choice of treatment for large cystic brain metastases. However, some patients cannot undergo surgical resection due to their general condition and/or the tumor location. Aims: In this study, we investigated the feasibility and safety of stereotactic cyst aspiration and gamma knife radiosurgery (GKR) as an alternative treatment for these lesions and followed the volumetric changes in cystic and solid portions. Methods: Between February 2005 and March 2012, a total of 24 patients underwent GKR after cyst aspiration for 29 cystic metastatic brain tumors. The median age was 60 years (range, 18-81). The number of male patients was 18 and that of female patients 6. Most of the patients were in class II (87.5%) based on the data of the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group using recursive partitioning analysis. We analyzed the changes in tumor volume, the local control rate, intracranial progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Results: Before aspiration, the mean total tumor volume was 32.7 cm3 (range, 12.1-103.3) and cystic volume was 18.6 cm3 (range, 8-72.3). The mean duration of cyst drainage was 1 day (range, 1-2). The mean amount of aspiration was 16.8 cm3 (range, 6-67.4). After aspiration, the total mean volume was 12.4 cm3 (range, 3.7-38.1) and cystic volume was 2.0 cm3 (range, 0.1-9.5). The nature of the cyst was serous in 18, serous and hemorrhagic in 3, and serous and necrotic in 8. The median prescription dose was 16 Gy (range, 14-20). There was no treatment-related complication. The local control rate was 58.6% (17/29). The median survival to local recurrence was 6.0 (±1.42) months. During the follow-up period, an Ommaya reservoir was placed in 3 patients. Insertion of an Ommaya reservoir and whole-brain radiotherapy (WBRT) or GKR were done in 2 patients, WBRT in 2, GKR in 1 and operation in 1. The median intracranial PFS and OS after intracranial metastasis was 5.2 (±0.42) and 6.8 (±0.38) months. Conclusions: Cyst aspiration and GKR were feasible and safe but not very efficient, which could be an alternative option for large cystic metastases in patients who could not expect longer survival time.
Prospective Long-Term Assessment of Sedation-Related Adverse Events and Patient Satisfaction for Upper Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
Authors: Kilgert Beate , Rybizki Lydia , Grottke Michael , Neurath Markus F. , Neumann Helmut
Published: August 2014

Background: Fear of pain and sedation-related adverse events are impediments for patients to attend endoscopic screening or surveillance programs. Objective: To investigate the long-term effect of different sedation protocols in patients undergoing screening or surveillance endoscopy. Moreover, motivation of patients to decline endoscopic procedures was evaluated by focusing on the patient's satisfaction, fear and pain in relation to type of sedation used. Methods: Design: A prospective, double-blind controlled trial data collection was performed by using a standardized clinical questionnaire followed by a telephone interview 3-4 weeks after the initial endoscopic procedure. Setting: The study was conducted at the Department of Medicine I at the University Hospital of Erlangen-Nuremberg. Data collection was performed during June 2012 till April 2013. Patients: Overall, 307 patients were prospectively evaluated (44.3% female, mean age 51 ± 17.4 years; mean BMI 25.5 ± 5.7). 247 patients (80.5%) were outpatients, 60 inpatients (19.5%). Interventions: Endoscopic procedures were divided into five groups: (i) procedures in the upper gastrointestinal tract, (ii) complete colonoscopies, (iii) ileocolonoscopies, (iv) incomplete colonoscopies, and (v) other procedures. Main outcome measurements: Patient satisfaction, fear and pain were measured in a structured and standardized clinical interview using a 6-point numerical rating scale, where 1 was ‘very satisfied/no pain' and 6 was ‘very unsatisfied/unsupportable pain'. Results: Different types of sedation were assessed: propofol in monosedation (6.5%), combination of propofol + meperidine (41.0%), combination of midazolam + meperidine (48.5%) and other combinations (3.9%). Patient satisfaction was significantly reduced regarding fear and pain during the endoscopic procedure (p = 0.001 and p = 0.0001, respectively). All patients receiving propofol monosedation indicated significantly less pain in comparison to other sedation groups (p < 0.0001). Moreover, sedation with midazolam + meperidine increased the fear during the procedure significantly in comparison to monosedation with propofol (p = 0.082). Propofol/meperidine in combination and midazolam/meperidine increased the probability for cardiovascular events in comparison to monosedation with propofol (p = 0.005; p = 0.039). Finally, we observed significantly lower doses of propofol when used in monosedation than propofol in combination with meperidine (p = 0.066). Limitation: Single-center study at a tertiary referral center. Conclusions: Propofol in monosedation should preferably be used for patient sedation in screening and surveillance endoscopies. Whether this approach could also improve participation rates in screening and surveillance endoscopies requires further investigations.
G-Protein-Coupled Receptor Cell Signaling Pathways Mediating Embryonic Chick Retinal Growth Cone Collapse Induced by Lysophosphatidic Acid and Sphingosine-1-Phosphate
Authors: Fincher Jarod , Whiteneck Canaan , Birgbauer Eric
Published: August 2014

In the development of the nervous system, one of the critical aspects is the proper navigation of axons to their targets, i.e. the problem of axonal guidance. We used the chick visual system as a model to investigate the role of the lysophospholipids lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) as potential axon guidance cues. We showed that both LPA and S1P cause a specific, dose-dependent growth cone collapse of retinal neurons in vitro in the chick model system, with slight differences compared to the mouse but very similar to observations in Xenopus. Because LPA and S1P receptors are G-protein-coupled receptors, we analyzed the intracellular signaling pathways using pharmacological inhibitors in chick retinal neurons. Blocking rho kinase (ROCK) prevented growth cone collapse by LPA and S1P, while blocking PLC or chelating calcium had no effect on growth cone collapse. Inhibition of Gi/o with pertussis toxin resulted in a partial reduction of growth cone collapse, both with LPA and with S1P. Inhibition of p38 blocked growth cone collapse mediated by LPA but not S1P. Thus, in addition to the involvement of the G12/13-ROCK pathway, LPA- and S1P-induced collapse of chick retinal growth cones has a partial requirement for Gi/o.
Metabolic Syndrome in IgA Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Kaartinen Kati , Syrjänen Jaana , Pörsti Ilkka , Harmoinen Aimo , Huhtala Heini , Mustonen Jukka
Published: August 2014

Background/Aims: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) may have an independent impact on the development of chronic kidney disease. This study examines the prevalence of MetS in subjects with IgA glomerulonephritis (IgAGN) and its impact on disease progression in a retrospective fashion. Patients and Methods: Altogether, 174 subjects (104 males) were examined 11 years (first visit) after IgAGN diagnosis and again after 16 years (second visit; 144 subjects responded). Different glomerular filtration markers were utilized. The MetS criteria by Alberti et al. [Circulation 2009;120:1640-1645] were applied, in which the presence of any three of five risk factors (elevated waist circumference, triglycerides, glucose, existence of hypertension, or reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol) constitutes the diagnosis. Results: The prevalence of MetS at the first visit was 39%, corresponding to that of the general Finnish population. In univariate analyses, MetS was significantly associated with the progression of IgAGN at the second visit. However, in multivariate analyses, the existence of MetS was not a significant prognostic determinant. Conclusion: The number of subjects with MetS among IgAGN patients and the general population is equal in Finland. MetS does not seem to be an independent prognostic variable.
Atrial Electromechanical Delay Is Impaired in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Calapkorur Bekir , Kelesoglu Saban , Sarli Bahadir , Turasan Abdullah , Arinc Huseyin , Kaya Mehmet Gungor
Published: August 2014

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate atrial electromechanical delay (EMD) in patients with psoriasis. Subjects and Methods: A total of 43 patients with psoriasis (26 mild-moderate, 17 severe) and 17 healthy control subjects were enrolled. Patients with psoriasis were divided into two groups: the mild-moderate group and the severe group according to their psoriasis area severity index (PASI) scores. Atrial EMD was measured from the lateral mitral annulus and called ‘PA lateral', from the septal mitral annulus, called ‘PA septal', and from the right ventricle tricuspid annulus, called ‘PA tricuspid'. Atrial EMD was defined as the time interval from the onset of atrial electrical activity (P wave on surface ECG) to the beginning of mechanical atrial contraction (late diastolic A wave). All three groups were compared with each other, and correlation analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between the PASI score and interatrial EMD. Results: PA lateral was significantly higher in both the mild-moderate psoriasis group and the severe psoriasis group compared to controls (69 ± 12 and 78 ± 13 vs. 60 ± 6 ms; p = 0.001). Also, PA septal (63 ± 11 vs. 53 ± 6 ms; p = 0.005, post hoc analysis) and PA tricuspid (49 ± 7 vs. 41 ± 5 ms; p = 0.009, post hoc analysis) were significantly higher in the severe psoriasis group than in the control group. Correlation analysis revealed that the PASI score was well correlated with PA lateral (r = 0.520, p < 0.001), PA septum (r = 0.460, p = 0.002), interatrial EMD (r = 0.371, p = 0.014) and intra-atrial EMD (r = 0.393, p = 0.009). Conclusion: Atrial EMD was prolonged in patients with psoriasis. The measurement of atrial EMD might be used to determine the risk of development of AF in patients with psoriasis.
Setting Thresholds to Varying Blood Pressure Monitoring Intervals Differentially Affects Risk Estimates Associated With White-Coat and Masked Hypertension in the Population
Authors: Asayama Kei , Thijs Lutgarde , Li Yan , Gu Yu-Mei , Hara Azusa , Liu Yan-Ping , Zhang Zhenyu , Wei Fang-Fei , Lujambio Inés , Mena Luis J. , Boggia José , Hansen Tine W. , Björklund-Bodegård Kristina , Nomura Kyoko , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Jeppesen Jørgen , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Dolan Eamon , Stolarz-Skrzypek Katarzyna , Malyutina Sofia , Casiglia Edoardo , Nikitin Yuri , Lind Lars , Luzardo Leonella , Kawecka-Jaszcz Kalina , Sandoya Edgardo , Filipovský Jan , Maestre Gladys E. , Wang Jiguang , Imai Yutaka , Franklin Stanley S. , O’Brien Eoin , Staessen Jan A.
Published: August 2014

Outcome-driven recommendations about time intervals during which ambulatory blood pressure should be measured to diagnose white-coat or masked hypertension are lacking. We cross-classified 8237 untreated participants (mean age, 50.7 years; 48.4% women) enrolled in 12 population studies, using ≥140/≥90, ≥130/≥80, ≥135/≥85, and ≥120/≥70 mm Hg as hypertension thresholds for conventional, 24-hour, daytime, and nighttime blood pressure. White-coat hypertension was hypertension on conventional measurement with ambulatory normotension, the opposite condition being masked hypertension. Intervals used for classification of participants were daytime, nighttime, and 24 hours, first considered separately, and next combined as 24 hours plus daytime or plus nighttime, or plus both. Depending on time intervals chosen, white-coat and masked hypertension frequencies ranged from 6.3% to 12.5% and from 9.7% to 19.6%, respectively. During 91 046 person-years, 729 participants experienced a cardiovascular event. In multivariable analyses with normotension during all intervals of the day as reference, hazard ratios associated with white-coat hypertension progressively weakened considering daytime only (1.38;
P
=0.033), nighttime only (1.43;
P
=0.0074), 24 hours only (1.21;
P
=0.20), 24 hours plus daytime (1.24;
P
=0.18), 24 hours plus nighttime (1.15;
P
=0.39), and 24 hours plus daytime and nighttime (1.16;
P
=0.41). The hazard ratios comparing masked hypertension with normotension were all significant (
P
<0.0001), ranging from 1.76 to 2.03. In conclusion, identification of truly low-risk white-coat hypertension requires setting thresholds simultaneously to 24 hours, daytime, and nighttime blood pressure. Although any time interval suffices to diagnose masked hypertension, as proposed in current guidelines, full 24-hour recordings remain standard in clinical practice.
Red Cell Distribution Width Is Associated With Incident Myocardial Infarction in a General Population: The Tromsø Study
Authors: Skjelbakken Tove , Lappegård Jostein , Ellingsen Trygve S. , Barrett‐Connor Elizabeth , Brox Jan , Løchen Maja‐Lisa , Njølstad Inger , Wilsgaard Tom , Mathiesen Ellisiv B. , Brækkan Sigrid K. , Hansen John‐Bjarne
Published: August 2014

Background

Red cell distribution width (RDW), a measure of the variability in size of circulating erythrocytes, is associated with mortality and adverse outcome in selected populations with cardiovascular disease. It is scarcely known whether RDW is associated with incident myocardial infarction (MI). We aimed to investigate whether RDW was associated with risk of first‐ever MI in a large cohort study with participants recruited from a general population.

Methods and Results

Baseline characteristics, including RDW, were collected for 25 612 participants in the Tromsø Study in 1994–1995. Incident MI during follow‐up was registered from inclusion through December 31, 2010. Cox regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals for MI, adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, smoking, hemoglobin, white blood cells, platelets, and other traditional cardiovascular risk factors. A total of 1779 participants experienced a first‐ever MI during a median follow‐up time of 15.8 years. There was a linear association between RDW and risk of MI, for which a 1% increment in RDW was associated with a 13% increased risk (hazard ratio 1.13; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.19). Participants with RDW above the 95th percentile had 71% higher risk of MI compared with those with RDW in the lowest quintile (hazard ratio 1.71; 95% CI, 1.34 to 2.20). All effect estimates were essentially similar after exclusion of participants with anemia (n=1297) from the analyses.

Conclusion

RDW is associated with incident MI in a general population independent of anemia and cardiovascular risk factors.
ALEXANDER FEIJOO M. & LILIANA V. CELIS (2012) Earthworms (Oligochaeta: Glossoscolecidae) of the Amazon region of Colombia. Zootaxa, 3201: 27–44.
Authors: FEIJOO ALEXANDER M. , CELIS LILIANA V.
Published: August 2014

Publication date in the footer of page 27 should read as 21 Feb. 2012. In the header of page 27, year 2011 should be2012.
New province record of Rhinagrion for Thailand and description of the larva of R. mima (Odonata: Zygoptera: Philosinidae)
Authors: NOVELO-GUTIÉRREZ RODOLFO , SITES ROBERT W. , VITHEEPRADIT AKEKAWAT
Published: August 2014

The Oriental damselfly genus Rhinagrion includes 10 known species, but the larva of only R. philippinum has been described in any detail, while the larva of R. viridatum has been well-illustrated and features summarized. The larvae of the other eight species were unknown. Here, the larva of Rhinagrion mima is described and illustrated by supposition, based upon an F0 larva collected in Phetchabun Province in Thailand. It is compared with the larvae of R. philippinum and R. viridatum. This represents the first record of the genus for Phetchabun Province.
A 1/4°-Spatial-Resolution Daily Sea Surface Temperature Climatology Based on a Blended Satellite and in situ Analysis
Authors: Banzon Viva F. , Reynolds Richard W. , Stokes Diane , Xue Yan
Published: August 2014

A new sea surface temperature (SST) climatological mean was constructed using the first 30 years (1982–2011) of the NOAA daily optimum interpolation (OI) SST. The daily analysis blends in situ and satellite data on a ¼° (~25 km) spatial grid. Use of an analysis allows computation of a climatological value for all ocean grid points, even those without observations. Comparisons were made with a monthly, 1°-spatial-resolution climatology produced by the National Centers for Environmental Prediction, computed primarily from the NOAA weekly OISST. Both climatologies were found to provide a good representation of major oceanic features and the annual temperature cycle. However, the daily climatology showed tighter gradients along western boundary currents and better resolution along coastlines. The two climatologies differed by over 0.6°C in high-SST-gradient regions because of resolution differences. The two climatologies also differed at very high latitudes, where the sea ice processing differed between the OISST products. In persistently cloudy areas, the new climatology was generally cooler by approximately 0.4°C, probably reflecting differences between the input satellite SSTs to the two analyses. Since the new climatology represents mean conditions at scales that match the daily analysis, it would be more appropriate for computing the corresponding daily anomalies.
The Changing Character and Survival Strategies of the Chinese Community in India
Authors: Pan Mei-Lin
Published: August 2014

The Chinese community has been settled in India for more than two centuries. Its relationship to the host society and to the authorities, first British and then Indian, has gone through different stages with different forms. It is important to examine the lives, traditions and attitudes of the Chinese community to understand its development and its changing character. This study argues that it is misleading to present this community as one that has always been marginalised and discriminated against in India. It examines the applicability of concepts such as ‘sojourning’, ‘corridors’ and ‘middleman minority’ to the community and its different sub-groups, both in British India and in post-independence India.
Soft Balancing Strategy in the Middle East
Authors: Chaziza Mordechai
Published: August 2014

Since the event popularly termed the ‘Arab spring’ and the changing balance of power in the Middle East, where China has economic interests, there has been a conspicuous balancing behaviour against the United States, the sole superpower. This article discusses whether the Chinese and Russian vetoes on Syria can be interpreted as a potential threat to counterbalance American moves in world politics, particularly in the Middle East. After abstaining on the no-fly zone over Libya, China vetoed thrice on the Syrian crisis. Beijing used its position to frame the agenda of the Security Council and to indirectly challenge US objectives in the region. China’s diplomatic cooperation and coordination with Russia displays their mutual determination to check the US’ moves in United Nations Security Council (UNSC) debates on the Syrian crisis. Yet, China is still very cautious about confronting the US directly or antagonising it, realising that it is still much weaker than Washington, and would gain nothing from such actions. Therefore, the Chinese strategy is to not engage in hard balancing behaviour, but in soft balancing which allows for the creation of strategic relationships through which hard balancing can occur in the future.
Measuring Individual Differences in Driver Inattention
Authors: Ledesma Rubén Daniel , Montes Silvana Andrea , Poó Fernando Martín , López-Ramón María Fernanda
Published: August 2014

Objective:

The aim of this research was (a) to study driver inattention as a trait-like variable and (b) to provide new evidence of validity for the Attention-Related Driving Errors Scale (ARDES).

Background:

Driving inattention is approached from an individual differences perspective. We are interested in how drivers vary in their propensity to experience failures of attention and in the methods to measure these differences.

Method:

In a first sample ( n = 301), we tested, via confirmatory factor analysis, a new theoretical model for the ARDES. In a second sample ( n = 201), we evaluated the relationship between inattention and internal and external sources of distraction and social desirability bias in ARDES responses. A subsample ( n = 65) was reevaluated to study temporal stability of the ARDES scores.

Results:

Errors measured by the ARDES can be classified according to the driving task level at which they occur (navigation, maneuvering, or control). Differences in ARDES scores based on collision history were observed. ARDES was related to internal sources of distraction and was independent of the level of exposure to distracting activities. Test-retest showed a high degree of stability in ARDES scores. Low correlations were found with a social desirability measure.

Conclusion:

ARDES appears to measure a personal trait that remains relatively stable over time and is relatively independent of distracting activities. New evidence of validity emerged for this self-report.

Application:

ARDES can be used to measure individual differences in driving inattention and to help tailor preventive interventions for inattentive drivers. It can serve as an instrument of driver self-assessment in educational and training contexts.
How Health Conditions Translate into Self-Ratings
Authors: Hardy Melissa A. , Acciai Francesco , Reyes Adriana M.
Published: August 2014

Using data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, we examine how respondents translate morbidity and disability into self-rated health (SRH), how national populations differ in SRH, and how normative and person-specific reporting styles shape SRH. We construct proxy variables that allow us to specify cultural differences in reporting styles and individual differences in relative rating behavior. Using generalized logistic regression, we find that both of these dimensions of subjectivity are related to SRH; however, their inclusion does not significantly alter the connection between SRH and the set of disease and disability indicators. Further, country differences in SRH persist after controlling for all these factors. Our findings suggest that observed country differences in SRH reflect compositional differences, cultural differences in reporting styles, and perceptions of how health restricts typical activities. SRH also seems to capture underlying but unmeasured health differences across populations.
“I Want You to Save My Kid!”
Authors: Gengler Amanda M.
Published: August 2014

Using data drawn from interviews and observations with 18 families whose children were diagnosed with life-threatening, often rare diseases, I examine how families accessed and negotiated medical care at a top 10–ranked university research hospital. Access to highly specialized and technologically advanced care was essential in these critical cases. Combining analysis of these high-stakes cases with recent work highlighting the interactional dynamics of care delivery, I show how families followed different paths to elite care and used different illness management strategies throughout the treatment process depending on their ability to mobilize what Janet Shim terms cultural health capital. These diverging illness management strategies reproduced inequality even at the top of the U.S. healthcare system by allowing some families to secure microadvantages throughout the illness experience. These findings suggest a complex interplay between structures of care delivery and families’ illness management strategies and point to the need for broader conceptualizations of healthcare advantages.
Trait emotional intelligence, forgiveness, and gratitude in Cape Verdean and Portuguese students
Authors: Wilks Daniela C , Neto Felix , Mavroveli Stella
Published: August 2014

Trait emotional intelligence, forgiveness, and gratitude are assumed to be theoretically linked with important implications for psychological and social well-being. This study examined the emotional and behavioural dispositional profile of Cape Verdeans and Portuguese by combining together for the first time trait emotional intelligence, emotional intelligence, forgiveness, and gratitude. The sample comprised 327 participants, of whom 119 were Cape Verdean and 208 were Portuguese. The results showed that trait emotional intelligence, willingness to forgive, and gratitude were higher for Cape Verdean compared to Portuguese participants. Lasting resentment was lower among the Cape Verdeans than among the Portuguese. Overall, data suggested that cultural differences might exist across the three constructs examined
A new reaching law for sliding mode control of continuous time systems with constraints
Authors: Bartoszewicz Andrzej
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we propose a new reaching law for variable structure control of continuous time dynamic systems. The proposed reaching law is a refined version of the classical Gao and Hung’s constant plus a proportional one. Contrary to the original formulation, our reaching law ensures that the sliding variable rate of change is bounded and its upper and lower bounds do not depend on the system initial conditions. This approach ensures that the control signal and all state variables of the system are limited by design parameters which do not depend on the initial state. Therefore, our approach leads to faster error convergence subject to input signal and output signal rate of change constraints. These desirable properties are obtained by replacing the proportional term in Gao and Hung’s reaching law with a more sophisticated nonlinear expression which is limited by a known constant and does not grow when the sliding variable becomes bigger, but still remains significant when this variable decreases.
Institutionalizing Bayesianism Within the Organizational Sciences
Authors: McKee Rob Austin , Miller C. Chet
Published: August 2014

Bayesian estimation and inference remain infrequently used in organizational science research. Despite innumerable warnings regarding the entrenched frequentist paradigm, our field has yet to embrace the Bayesian “revolution” that seems to be sweeping through so many other disciplines. With this context as a backdrop, we address a simple yet difficult question: What is the likelihood that Bayesian methodologies eventually will supplement or even supplant traditional frequentist methodologies in the organizational science community? We draw on institutional theory to address this question, highlighting the cultural-cognitive, normative, and regulative forces that play important roles. As novel contributions to the discussion, we go beyond our own ideas and previously published opinions on the subject to report the opinions of 26 institutional elites (current and former officers of academic associations, editors, and editorial board members). These leading scholars help us shed light not only on the likelihood that Bayesianism will take root in the field but also on practical steps that could be taken to assist in this process. In some ways, we build Bayesian priors about Bayesian analysis, where those priors will be qualified on the basis of future events and outcomes.
Does Leader-Follower Regulatory Fit Matter? The Role of Regulatory Fit in Followers’ Organizational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Shin Yuhyung , Kim Min Soo , Choi Jin Nam , Kim Mihee , Oh Won-Kyung
Published: August 2014

Due to increasing organizational demand and competition, employees’ goal-pursuit regulatory processes become pivotal to their work behavior and outcomes. Drawing on interpersonal regulatory fit theory, we proposed that leader prevention focus would moderate the relation between follower prevention focus and maintenance organizational citizenship behavior (OCB), whereas the relation between follower promotion focus and change OCB would be moderated by leader promotion focus. We tested these fit hypotheses using cross-level polynomial regression analyses conducted on 117 leader and 641 followers in South Korean firms. The results showed that followers’ prevention focus was positively associated with their maintenance OCB. This main effect was more pronounced when the leader’s prevention focus was high than when it was low. While we detected a significant main effect of follower promotion focus on change OCB, no fit effect was found for promotion focus. The implications of these findings as well as directions for future research are addressed.
The Effect of Duty Hour Regulation on Resident Surgical Case Volume in Otolaryngology
Authors: Curtis Stuart H. , Miller Robert H. , Weng Cindy , Gurgel Richard K.
Published: August 2014

Objective

Evaluate the effect of duty hour regulation on graduating otolaryngology resident surgical case volume and analyze trends in surgical case volume for Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) key indicator cases from 1996 to 2011.

Study Design

Time‐trend analysis of surgical case volume.

Setting

Nationwide sample of otolaryngology residency programs.

Subjects

Operative logs from the American Board of Otolaryngology and ACGME for otolaryngology residents graduating in the years 1996 to 2011.

Methods

Key indicator volumes and grouped domain volumes before and after resident duty hour regulations (2003) were calculated and compared. Independent t test was performed to evaluate overall difference in operative volume. Wilcoxon rank sum test evaluated differences between procedures per time period. Linear regression evaluated trend.

Results

The average total number of key indicator cases per graduating resident was 440.8 in 1996‐2003 compared to 500.4 cases in 2004‐2011, and overall average per number of key indicators was 31.5 and 36.2, respectively (P =. 067). Four key indicator cases showed statistically significant (P <. 05) increases in volume after duty hour implementation. General/pediatrics was the only grouped domain to show a significant increase. In contrast, the rate of change in operative volume decreased post duty hour for only 2 key indicators (P <. 05). The year‐by‐year trend in average operative volume showed significant increases for 5 key indicator cases (P <. 05).

Conclusion

Implementation of the 2003 duty hour regulations has not reduced total volume of key indicator cases for graduating otolaryngology residents. The overall trend in operative volume is increasing for several specific key indicators.
Outcome of coronary artery bypass grafting in a tertiary-care center in Pakistan
Authors: Sheikh Maryam Rahim , Khan Muhammad Shahjahan , Saeed Zeb , Furnaz Shumaila , Sharif Hasanat
Published: August 2014

Background

Coronary artery bypass grafting and percutaneous coronary intervention are revascularization options for significant coronary artery disease. While international data support the use of coronary artery bypass in high-risk groups, regional data on outcomes in these groups are rare. We conducted a retrospective study to determine the outcomes of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass for left main and multivessel disease.

Methods

Two thousand eight hundred and fifty-one patients undergoing coronary artery bypass at the Aga Khan University Hospital from 2006 to 2013 were included; patients undergoing redo surgery were excluded. Demographic data, comorbidities, angiography findings, in-hospital complications, one-month and one-year follow-up were analyzed.

Results

Of the 2851 patients, 568 had left main disease (group 1) and 2283 (group 2) had multivessel disease (≥2 vessels excluding the left main). Group 1 had significantly more chronic lung disease, cardiogenic shock, and congestive heart failure than group 2 ( p < 0.001); 50.6% of patients were diabetic and 71.8% were hypertensive. Mortality was 5.1% and 2.2% during hospital stay, 6.5% and 2.6% at 30 days, and 6.7% and 2.7% at 1 year in groups 1 and 2, respectively.

Conclusion

Our comparable results and international data advocate revision of the current practice of using percutaneous coronary intervention over coronary artery bypass in the developing world. Institutional results are essential to determine the outcome of coronary artery bypass in high-risk populations with a high burden of diabetes and hypertension. We noted increased complications and mortality in patients with left main rather than multivessel disease.
Mission as Ministry of Reconciliation: Hope in a Fragile World
Authors: Jørgensen Knud
Published: August 2014

Based on a process of compiling case studies on reconciliation for a book on Mission as Ministry of Reconciliation, the article shows how brokenness is the main entrance to reconciliation, a brokenness that begins in a God who meets us on the cross ‘in Christ’. Secondly, any model of reconciliation must be embedded within a particular situation. This means, as a third point, that reconciliation is concrete – washing dirty feet, finding my way to the sister I have hurt. Reconciliation is, fourthly, about healing wounds: As the wound of God, Jesus sends us to be wounded healers in a mission from below, among the little ones. The fifth perspective is that here is where the community of faith finds itself, as a reconciling community, quite often as a door opener to reconciliation.
Gramsci in Armenia: State-Church Relations in the Post-Soviet Armenia
Authors: Mkrtchyan Narek
Published: August 2014

The article discusses the processes of representation of Armenian Apostolic Church in various spheres of society. The establishment of mutual relationships with the Apostolic Church became strategically important for the state. The article deals with the processes of the establishment of democratic institutions and influential role of Apostolic Church. From this point of view, the state’s official support to the Armenian Apostolic Church can question the principles of religious freedom. The historical role of the Armenian Apostolic Church in maintenance of Armenian identity enables Armenian Church to legitimize its privileges and dominant position in the society. The official cooperation between the Armenian state and the Apostolic Church are towards the maintenance or establishment of state hegemony in the society. The theory of Italian Marxist Antonio Gramsci will be used to illuminate abovementioned characteristics of church-state relationships in Armenia.
Poetry as Research and as Therapy
Authors: Wakeman Brian E
Published: August 2014

The central questions addressed in this article are: 1) Can writing poetry be both a process, and a product of research? and 2) How can writing poetry be therapeutic to the writer and reader? The author has developed his own theories of poetry as research and poetry as therapy by action research into his writing. He argues that in thinking about the process of writing verse, he has come to see that some poetry is a form of research, and way of knowing. He has observed and recorded ways in which writing has been therapeutic for both the writer and for the reader or listener. The article develops and supports the notion of poetry as research by referring to a growing literature on poetic enquiry. The author then analyses and illustrates how poetry can be therapeutic to the writer and to readers. In a similar way, the article draws on a different literature on poetry as therapy to support his argument.
A systematic review and meta-analysis on the role of varicosity treatment in the context of truncal vein ablation
Authors: Lane TRA , Onida S , Gohel MS , Franklin IJ , Davies AH
Published: August 2014

Background

With the advent of endovenous truncal ablation under local anaesthetic for the treatment of varicose veins, the fate of varicosed tributaries has become controversial, with centres offering different timings of treatment, if offered at all. This study aims to review the literature assessing delayed and simultaneous varicosity treatment during truncal ablation.

Methods

Randomised trials and cohort studies concerning varicosity treatment timing were identified through a systematic literature search. Requirements for further treatment, quality of life and rate of venous thrombotic events were assessed for meta-analysis.

Results

Four studies were identified assessing need for further varicosity procedure, with no significant difference seen between simultaneous or delayed treatment ( p = 0.339). Two studies assessed quality of life, with simultaneous treatment providing significantly improved outcomes at six weeks ( p = 0.029) but not at 12 weeks ( p = 0.283). Studies examining venous thrombotic events showed no difference in venous thromboembolism rate between simultaneous or delayed treatment approaches ( p = 0.078).

Conclusion

The evidence base regarding timing of varicosity treatment is sparse; however, it does show that simultaneous treatment of varicosities leads to early gains in quality of life, with a non-significant trend for fewer further procedures but more venous thrombotic events.
One-year dynamic MRI follow-up after vaginal mesh repair: evaluation of clinical, radiological, and quality-of-life results
Authors: Brocker Kerstin A , Alt Celine D , Rzepka Jakub , Sohn Christof , Hallscheidt Peter
Published: August 2014

Background

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common disorder in elderly women often surgically repaired with alloplastic meshes; yet knowledge of the pelvic floor behavior and multi-compartment defects postoperatively is scarce.

Purpose

To evaluate the 1-year outcome after mesh repair in patients with POP using clinical examination (CE), dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (dMRI), and the prolapse quality-of-life (P-QOL) questionnaire.

Material and Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted of 69 women undergoing pelvic mesh surgery. Clinical examination, dMRI, and the P-QOL questionnaire were applied before and after surgery to evaluate POP. Mean outcome measures were POP outcome as determined on clinical and dMRI examinations and its impact on quality of life. Statistical results were obtained with SPSS version 15.0. ANOVA was used to compare pre-/postsurgical quality of life data.

Results

Sixty-nine women (mean age, 64.75 years; BMI, 26.75 kg/m2; postmenopausal, 89.2%) were recruited and treated with Seratom® or Perigee™ mesh implants. A significant improvement in the position of bladder neck, vaginal vault/uterus, pouch of Douglas, and rectum was found 12 weeks and 1 year after surgery using POP-Q scale and dMRI. Advanced cystoceles and enteroceles seem underestimated by CE using the POP-Q system compared to dMRI results ( P = 0.003 and P < 0.001), vice versa dMRI overestimated POP compared to CE. Sixty-four women completed the P-QOL questionnaire, presenting reduced quality of life before surgery which improves postsurgically. Prolapse impact and physical, social, and role limitations correlated strongest with a low quality of life ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The 1-year follow-up after mesh repair showed statistical and clinical improvement for all tools employed. dMRI seems a reliable tool for simultaneous assessment of defects in all three compartments, but tends to overestimate POP compared to clinical examination.
On the clarity of the musical stave
Authors: Wilkins Arnold Jonathan , Kiff Isabel Emily
Published: August 2014

The staves of 63 scores of popular keyboard music from 50 publishers were measured. The staves had similar height but lines that varied in thickness from 0.1 mm to 0.45 mm. Evidence from visual psychophysics suggests that when the stave has thick lines, perceptual distortions are likely to affect the clarity of the score adversely. Students were asked to sight-read scores comprising random notes (“chromatic”) or random notes in the key of G. The scores had staves with lines that were 0.1 mm or 0.4 mm thick (current typographic practice). Twice as many errors were made when the staves had thick lines, although the scores were then read more slowly. Scores in the key of G were read more accurately than the “chromatic” scores, but those with thick lines were read with as many errors as “chromatic” scores with thin lines. There was a tendency for individuals with susceptibility to pattern glare to read the scores with thick lines relatively slowly. The findings suggest that perceptual distortions can impair sight-reading of music manuscript because of the pattern from the lines of the stave; using thinner lines can increase both sight reading accuracy and speed.