bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Hyperacute Stage Blood Pressure Variability and Outcome in Patients With Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Chung Pil-Wook , Kim Joon-Tae , Sanossian Nerses , Starkmann Sidney , Hamilton Scott , Gornbein Jeffrey , Conwit Robin , Eckstein Marc , Pratt Frank , Stratton Sam , Liebeskind David S. , Saver Jeffrey L.
Published: January 2018

Background and Purpose—

Increased blood pressure (BP) variability, in addition to high BP, may contribute to adverse outcome in intracerebral hemorrhage. However, degree and association with outcome of BP variability (BPV) in the hyperacute period, 15 minutes to 5 hours after onset, have not been delineated.

Methods—

Among consecutive patients with intracerebral hemorrhage enrolled in the FAST-MAG trial (Field Administration of Stroke Therapy-Magnesium), BPs were recorded by paramedics in the field and during the first 24 hours of hospital course. BP was analyzed in the hyperacute period, from 0 to 4–6 hours, and in the acute period, from 0 to 24–26 hours after onset. BPV was analyzed by SD, coefficient of variation, and successive variation.

Results—

Among 386 patients with intracerebral hemorrhage, first systolic BP at median 23 minutes (interquartile range, 14–38.5) after onset was median 176 mm Hg, second systolic BP on emergency department arrival at 57 minutes (interquartile range, 45–75) after onset was 178 mm Hg, and systolic BP 24 hours after arrival was 138 mm Hg. Unfavorable outcome at 3 months (modified Rankin Scale, 3–6) occurred in 270 (69.9%). Neither mean nor maximum systolic BP was associated with outcome in multivariable analysis. However, all 3 parameters of BPV, in both the hyperacute and the acute stages, were associated with poor outcome. In the hyperacute phase, BPV was associated with poor outcome with adjusted odds ratios of 3.73 for the highest quintile of SD, 4.78 for the highest quintile of coefficient of variation, and 3.39 for the highest quintile of successive variation.

Conclusions—

BPV during the hyperacute first minutes and hours after onset in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage was independently associated with poor functional outcome. Stabilization of BPV during this vulnerable period, in the pre-hospital and early emergency department course, is a potential therapeutic target for future clinical trials.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00059332.
Presence of Anterior Communicating Artery Aneurysm Is Associated With Age, Bifurcation Angle, and Vessel Diameter
Authors: Zhang Xue-Jing , Gao Bu-Lang , Hao Wei-Li , Wu Song-Shi , Zhang Dong-Hai
Published: January 2018

Background and Purpose—

The anterior communicating artery (Acom) aneurysm is the most complex in all cerebral aneurysms, and wider vascular bifurcation angles are considered to be associated with aneurysm formation. The objective of this study was to investigate association of the Acom aneurysm formation with patient age and vascular bifurcation morphology.

Methods—

Three-dimensional angiographic data of 665 patients were used in this study, including 160 patients with Acom aneurysms, 66 with non-Acom aneurysms, and 439 control subjects with no aneurysms. The anterior cerebral artery bifurcation angle (Acom/A2 angle), arterial diameters, and Acom aneurysm geometric characters were examined.

Results—

Women of 50 to 70 years were more vulnerable to Acom aneurysm formation than men. The Acom/A2 bifurcation angle was significantly increased (
P<
0.0001) with increase of patient age. The size of the Acom aneurysm dome and neck was statistically positively correlated with the diameter of the Acom, A1 and A2 segments (
P<
0.0001). The Acom/A2 bifurcation angle was significantly (
P<
0.0001) wider in patients with than without Acom aneurysms, whereas the A1/A2 angle was significantly smaller in patients with than without Acom aneurysms (
P<
0.0001). The Acom aneurysms at the bifurcation apex mostly deviated toward the smaller angle formed between the parent A1 and branches and toward the daughter artery with a smaller diameter. The Acom aneurysms were located mostly on the dominant anterior cerebral artery.

Conclusions—

The presence of Acom aneurysm is significantly associated with patient age, wider angles of the anterior cerebral artery bifurcation, and smaller vascular diameter of the anterior communicating complex.
Arctic Ocean Shipping
Authors: Rothwell Donald R.
Published: January 2018

Arctic Ocean shipping is on the brink of becoming a critical legal, geopolitical and security issue as a result of the impacts of climate change and increased interest in the Arctic Ocean from States that traditionally did not operate within the region. The law of the sea throughunclosprovides the key legal framework for the regulation of Arctic Ocean shipping, supplemented and extended by relatedimoconventions and national laws and regulations. This framework has been relied upon by the two major North American Arctic States – Canada and the United States – to develop the legal regime for the Northwest Passage and the Bering Strait. There have been historic disagreements between Canada and the United States with respect to the Northwest Passage, and while not resolved they have to date been managed through legal and political responses. Other straits may become more strategically significant as a result of climate change, including Nares Strait between Canada and Greenland.eezand high seas Arctic Ocean navigation by foreign flagged vessels also needs to be anticipated. Multiple issues are raised with respect to maritime security and the adequacy of the existing legal regime, including how Canada and the United States will respond to interest being expressed in Arctic shipping by Asian States such as China.
A new Dyckia species (Bromeliaceae, Pitcairnioideae) from Brazilian Central-West region, Pantanal Mato-Grossense
Authors: PEREIRA EDDIE ESTEVES , GOUDA ERIC JOHN
Published: January 2018

A new species of Dyckia from  the municipality of Porto Murtinho, in the state Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil is described and illustrated here and compared with two of the closest related species known. Its conservation status is discussed.
A new species of Pertusaria (Pertusariaceae, Ascomycota) from Qinghai-Tibet Plateau of China
Authors: SUN ZHONG-SHUAI , ZHAO ZUN-TIAN
Published: January 2018

Two species of Pertusariaceae are here described as new to science, based on material collected from Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, western China. Pertusaria tibetensis Z.S. Sun has broad lecanorate verrucae, pinkish pruinose discs, 1-spored asci and the presence of norstictic acid. Pertusaria beishanensis Z.S. Sun has broad lecanorate verrucae, black pruinose discs, 2-spored asci and the presence of planaic acid.
Type designation of the Linnaean name Theligonum cynocrambe (Rubiaceae, Theligoneae)
Authors: FERRER-GALLEGO PEDRO PABLO
Published: January 2018

The lectotype of the name Theligonum cynocrambe Linnaeus (1753: 993) is designated. Previously, a type was selected by Ali in 1977 from a specimen kept at LINN. However, this typification is rejected since there are original elements that may contribute to a correct lectotypification of the name. Therefore this choice is ineffective and should be rejected. An illustration from Bauhin (1620) is designated as the lectotype in this work. On the other hand, in order to avoid any ambiguity in the interpretation of the lectotype, an epitype is also selected.
Taxonomic revision of the Limonium latebracteatum group (Plumbaginaceae), with the description of a new species
Authors: MORENO JOAQUÍN , TERRONES ALEJANDRO , ALONSO MARÍA ÁNGELES , JUAN ANA , CRESPO MANUEL B.
Published: January 2018

Limonium latebracteatum is a plant species from the central and northeastern Iberian Peninsula, characterised by an inner bract wider than long, glaucous leaves, and wide petioles, which belongs to the Limonium delicatulum group. The L. delicatulum group is a complex group formed by around fifteen Iberian and Balearic species, including endemisms with narrow distributions, which is highly diversified in the Mediterranean territories of the Iberian Peninsula. The species in that group are similar each other and occasionally they are not well-delimited morphologically. In this framework, a taxonomic revision of L. latebracteatum and close species in the Iberian Peninsula has been carried out to clarify the taxonomy of L. latebracteatum and L. carpetanicum. This revision has been based on morphological features and supported by ordination analyses such as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). In addition, a classification tree was performed to support these analyses. As a result of this study, L. latebracteatum has been separated in two differentspecies: L. latebracteatum and L. admirabile, a new species endemic to Albacete province which is described here. Finally, a diagnostic key is provided for the L. delicatulum group to allow identification of the species in this group.
European pondweed in East Siberia: evidence of Potamogeton rutilus (Potamogetonaceae) in Yakutia (Asian Russia) with evaluation of current distribution and conservation status
Authors: BOBROV ALEXANDER A. , CHEMERIS ELENA V. , FILIPPOVA VIKTORIYA A. , MALTSEVA SVETLANA YU.
Published: January 2018

We have found a taxonomically unclear linear-leaved Potamogeton (section Graminifolii, Potamogetonaceae) in Central Yakutia (Asian Russia). This form resembles P. friesii and P. pusillus, two common species in the republic, and the mainly European species P. rutilus and North American P. strictifolius. These species, except P. strictifolius, did not differ by variation of the nuclear ITS region. The chloroplast markers petL-psbE and rpl32-trnL clearly separated the unclear Yakutian plants from P. friesii and P. pusillus, and the latter marker revealed similarity between the European P. rutilus and the Yakutian samples. The latter fit well within the morphological circumscription of P. rutilus. We confirmed the presence of P. rutilus in five localities in Central Yakutia and 13 more in other regions of North Asia. These records greatly extends to the east the distribution range of this species known before mainly west of the Middle Volga. Potamogeton rutilus prefers clean, mainly mesotrophic lakes with alkaline waters, and occurs in coastal areas or in limestone and sandstone catchments. The species usually grow in deep waters on silt-sandy bottom, in species-rich communities. It is sensitive to pollution and competition with more robust aquatic plants. Due to local distribution and specific habitat requerments P. rutilus can be regarded as threatened species and deserve the category Vulnerable in regional and global Red Lists.
A review of Tersilochinae (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) of Finland. Part 1: taxonomy
Authors: KHALAIM ANDREY I. , VÁRKONYI GERGELY
Published: January 2018

The Tersilochinae fauna of Finland is critically revised (except subgenera Tersilochus Holmgren and Euporizon Horstmann). Tersilochinae in two principal Finnish ichneumonid collections, the Finnish Natural History Museum LUOMUS (University of Helsinki) and the private collection of R. Jussila (Turku), have been examined. Thirteen genera and 61 species are found to occur in Finland, including one new species, Barycnemis finnora Khalaim, sp. nov. The Nearctic genus Ctenophion Horstmann is recorded from Finland, as well as from the Palaearctic region, for the first time. Nineteen species are newly recorded from Finland and four species are excluded from the Finnish fauna. Barycnemis agilis (Holmgren) is transferred to the genus Spinolochus Horstmann (comb. nov.). Tersilochus sulcatus Hellén, 1958, a junior homonym of T. sulcatus Smith van Burgst, 1913, is synonymised with Phradis brevicornis Horstmann (syn. nov.). New data on distribution of 25 species in northwestern parts of Russia are also provided.
Ptilophora variabilis Hartig, 1968, bona species, and description of Ptilophora nebrodensis sp. n. from Sicily (Lepidoptera, Notodontidae)
Authors: INFUSINO MARCO , HAUSMANN AXEL , SCALERCIO STEFANO
Published: January 2018

In this paper, we redescribe Ptilophora plumigera variabilis Hartig, 1968 and raise it to species rank. Furthermore we describe Ptilophora nebrodensis sp. n. from Sicily, as the third European species belonging to the genus Ptilophora Stephens, 1828. These two species are allopatric vicariants of Ptilophora plumigera (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) respectively in Apennine Italy and Sicily. We present the differential features mainly concerning the morphology of genitalia and molecular data. Ptilophora variabilis shows a scattered distribution, generally very localized, whereas P. nebrodensis sp. n. is restricted to a few localities in the mountainous areas of North Sicily, being very rare. Both species predominantly inhabit forests in mountain areas, with occurrence of broadleaved trees, especially Acer spp. (Fam. Aceraceae).
Morphological evidence uncovers a new species of Goniurosaurus (Squamata: Eublepharidae) from the Hainan Island, China
Authors: ZHOU RUN-BANG , WANG NING , CHEN BEI , LIANG BIN
Published: January 2018

A new species of the genus Goniurosaurus, G. zhoui sp. nov., is described based on specimens collected from karst areas in Hainan Island, China. Quantitative comparison of morphological traits and egg size with two known endemic species in Hainan Island and other known congeners confirmed the distinctiveness of G. zhoui sp. nov., which has a moderate size with a snout-vent length of 93.4–97.4 mm; light purple-brown dorsal ground color in adults; a posteriorly protracted nuchal loop on nape; four faint, purple-gray body bands bearing dark purple spots between and on them; eight nasal scales surrounding nares; single internasal; 49–62 eyelid fringe scales; 130–140 scales around midbody; 11 granular scales surrounding the dorsal tubercles; 36–38 precloacal pores in males (absent in females); claws sheathed by four scales, two lateral scales long and curved. We provide the first data on the natural history of the new species and an expanded key to Goniurosaurus species on Hainan Island and the adjacent mainland. The discovery of the new species facilitates our understanding of the speciation process on continental islands.
Smartphone Pressure Collection and Bias Correction Using Machine Learning
Authors: McNicholas Callie , Mass Clifford F.
Published: January 2018

Over half a billion smartphones worldwide are now capable of measuring atmospheric pressure, providing a pressure network of unprecedented density and coverage. This paper describes novel approaches for the collection, quality control, and bias correction of such smartphone pressures. An Android app was developed and distributed to several thousand users, serving as a test bed for onboard pressure collection and quality-control strategies. New methods of pressure collection were evaluated, with a focus on reducing and quantifying sources of observation error and uncertainty. Using a machine learning approach, complex relationships between pressure bias and ancillary sensor data were used to predict and correct future pressure biases over a 4-week period from 10 November to 5 December 2016. This approach, in combination with simple quality-control checks, produced an 82% reduction in the average smartphone pressure bias, substantially improving the quality of smartphone pressures and facilitating their use in numerical weather prediction.
Social work in Africa: Decolonizing methodologies and approaches
Authors: Ibrahima Aissetu Barry , Mattaini Mark A
Published: January 2018

Decolonizing social work requires becoming genuine, returning to one’s cultural roots for direction. Decolonization entails resistance to social work’s ‘West to the Rest’ movement, which seeks to ‘internationalize’ and ‘standardize’ the profession. For social work to be useful in Africa, reorientation of its methods toward facilitating holistic and indigenous intervention is mandatory. This conceptual article analyzes literature on decolonization, indigenous methodology, and social work in Africa, stressing that decolonization of social work requires challenging dominant models of practice and research, while integrating traditional values and practices that have withstood centuries of oppression into culturally consonant forms of service and inquiry.
Conserved Citrullinating Exoenzymes in Porphyromonas Species
Authors: Gabarrini G. , Chlebowicz M.A. , Vega Quiroz M.E. , Veloo A.C.M. , Rossen J.W.A. , Harmsen H.J.M. , Laine M.L. , van Dijl J.M. , van Winkelhoff A.J.
Published: January 2018

Porphyromonas gingivalis is one of the major oral pathogens implicated in the widespread inflammatory disorder periodontitis. Moreover, in recent years, P. gingivalis has been associated with the autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis. The peptidylarginine deiminase enzyme of P. gingivalis (PPAD) is a major virulence factor that catalyzes the citrullination of both bacterial and host proteins, potentially contributing to production of anticitrullinated protein antibodies. Considering that these antibodies are very specific for rheumatoid arthritis, PPAD appears to be a link between P. gingivalis, periodontitis, and the autoimmune disorder rheumatoid arthritis. PPAD was thus far considered unique among prokaryotes, with P. gingivalis being the only bacterium known to produce and secrete it. To challenge this hypothesis, we investigated the possible secretion of PPAD by 11 previously collected Porphyromonas isolates from a dog, 2 sheep, 3 cats, 4 monkeys, and a jaguar with periodontitis. Our analyses uncovered the presence of secreted PPAD homologues in 8 isolates that were identified as Porphyromonas gulae (from a dog, monkeys, and cats) and Porphyromonas loveana (from sheep). In all 3 PPAD-producing Porphyromonas species, the dominant form of the secreted PPAD was associated with outer membrane vesicles, while a minor fraction was soluble. Our results prove for the first time that the citrullinating PPAD exoenzyme is not unique to only 1 prokaryotic species. Instead, we show that PPAD is produced by at least 2 other oral pathogens.
Hazardous Alcohol Drinking and Cross-National Homicide Rates: The Role of Demographic, Political, and Cultural Context
Authors: Weiss Douglas B. , Testa Alexander , Rennó Santos Mateus
Published: January 2018

Cross-national research on the relationship between alcohol consumption and homicide focuses on (a) the amount of alcohol consumed rather than the manner of consumption and (b) the direct relationship between alcohol consumption and homicide rates. The current study addresses these limitations by considering consumption patterns rather than consumption levels and exploring whether the alcohol–homicide relationship is moderated by features of the social structure including youth population size, quality of governance, and the prevalence of drinking. Using a broad sample of 85 countries, we find no relationship between consumption levels and homicide rates. In contrast, hazardous consumption patterns were positively associated with homicide rates. Study results also suggest that the prevalence of drinking and the quality of governance moderate this relationship.
Family, Peer, and School Influences on Children’s Developing Health Lifestyles
Authors: Mollborn Stefanie , Lawrence Elizabeth
Published: January 2018

Health lifestyles are important for health and social identity, yet little is known about their development in early life. We use data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study–Kindergarten Cohort of 1998–99 (ECLS-K; N = 8,786) to track children’s health lifestyles and assess a theoretical model of health lifestyle development. Latent class analyses identify health lifestyles at four time points from first to eighth grade, and multivariate models investigate their interrelationships and social contextual influences. Health lifestyles are multidimensional and dynamic, and children demonstrate distinct combinations of risks and protections. Family factors, such as resources and parenting, shape earlier health lifestyles, which influence later lifestyles. Results show that development and contexts drive changes in health lifestyles, as family factors decrease in influence with age while some school and peer influences appear to emerge. Policy makers and researchers interested in shaping health behaviors should consider the multidimensional and dynamic nature of health lifestyles.
That Door You Just Kicked in Was Locked for Your Protection, Not Mine
Authors: Schreck Christopher J. , Berg Mark T. , Fisher Bonnie S. , Wilcox Pamela
Published: January 2018

Objectives:

This research investigates tendencies for individuals to preference adopting weaponry to protect their home over unarmed defensive measures such as installing a lock or alarm. We extend the subculture of violence perspective to account for specific choices and test this approach against hypotheses related to situational reactions to threat.

Methods:

To explore differential preferences in crime prevention choices for protecting the home, we use data from 1,961 Seattle adults, collected during 2002 to 2003. We employ Osgood and Schreck’s multilevel item response theory–based method as our statistical approach.

Results:

The results indicate that those who endorse the values of the subculture of violence are more likely to have defensive weaponry among their countermeasures against crime, although the results also show that those who believe the police act justly are more likely to procure weapons. Situational reactions to threat also influenced choices, though not always in the predicted direction.

Conclusions:

Beliefs may be an important determinant for how people protect themselves against crime. Further, criminological theory can successfully explain crime prevention choices in the general population, indicating considerable untapped future directions for research.
A Needs Driven Model of Workplace Social Effectiveness in Adults With Disabilities
Authors: Phillips Brian N. , Reyes Antonio , Kriofske Mainella Alexandra M. , Kesselmayer Rachel F. , Jacobson Joseph D.
Published: January 2018

Social effectiveness is central to workplace success. Yet, surprisingly little is known about the factors that influence effectiveness in managing the social requirements of the workplace. This study provides a preliminary analysis of a model of workplace social effectiveness for adults with disabilities. A total of 330 adults with disabilities participated in an online, cross-sectional research study. Researchers used several measures to assess the extent to which latent variables representing communal and positive approaches to social situations influenced workplace social effectiveness and whether that relationship was mediated by the ability to connect with others. Results from a structural equation model analysis suggest that both a communal and positive social approach predict workplace social effectiveness. The ability to connect with others partially mediated relationships between both communal and positive approaches and workplace social effectiveness. Although the cross-sectional and self-report nature of this study limits the conclusions that can be drawn, the findings lay a groundwork for further model testing and clinical interventions in rehabilitation counseling services. The results offer an alternative socioemotional approach for identifying and intervening on workplace social effectiveness that can be applied to adults with disabilities.
The effect of different water vapor permeable jackets on moisture management, subjective perceptions and physiological parameters during submaximal exercise in a cool environment
Authors: Wenger Sebastian , Csapo Robert , Hasler Michael , Caven Barnaby , Wright Tom , Bechtold Thomas , Nachbauer Werner
Published: January 2018

The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of differences in water vapor permeability (WVP) of outdoor jackets on moisture management, subjective perceptions and physiological parameters under conditions typically encountered in outdoor sports.

Four outdoor jackets differing only in their WVP were compared in a repeated measures study. A total of 19 subjects (nine females) were tested in a climatic chamber at 10℃ and 40% relative humidity. The protocol consisted of 15 min of rest, 50 min of treadmill running at 60% of the individual maximal running velocity, and 15 min of passive recovery.

We found that jackets featuring greater WVP helped to reduce relative humidity underneath the jacket, resulting in less sweat residue in the clothing system and drier skin during exercise and rest. Subjects were also able to perceive the differences in the microclimate and reported feeling more comfortable and drier in the more permeable jackets. However, WVP did not have a significant effect on oxygen consumption, heart rate, tympanic temperature, overall loss of subjects’ body mass or on perceived exertion.

It can be concluded that outdoor jackets with higher WVP benefit moisture management during submaximal exercise in cool temperatures by reducing relative humidity in the clothing system mostly during rest periods. This effect leads to a drier skin which favors perceived comfort and might reduce the after-chill effect. However, WVP of outdoor jackets neither significantly affects physiological responses nor perceived exertion during submaximal exercise in a cool environment.
“Thank You, Black Twitter”: State Violence, Digital Counterpublics, and Pedagogies of Resistance
Authors: Hill Marc Lamont
Published: January 2018

In this article, I examine the role of Black Twitter as a “digital counterpublic” that enables critical pedagogy, political organizing, and both symbolic and material forms of resistance to anti-Black state violence within the United States. Focusing primarily on post-Ferguson events, I spotlight the ways that Black people have used Black Twitter and other digital counterpublics to engage in forms of pedagogy that reorganize relations of surveillance, reject rigid respectability politics, and contest the erasure of marginalized groups within the Black community.
Multimethod assessment of baseline depression and relationship to hepatitis C treatment discontinuation
Authors: Weiss Jeffrey J , Prieto Sarah , Bräu Norbert , Dieterich Douglas T , Marcus Sue M , Stivala Alicia , Gorman Jack M
Published: January 2018

Objective

The primary study objective is to determine which measures of depression are associated with early discontinuation of hepatitis C virus infection treatment and to determine which measure best characterizes the depression that develops during treatment.

Methods

Seventy-eight treatment-naïve subjects who initiated pegylated interferon/ribavirin treatment for hepatitis C virus infection were included. Baseline depression was assessed with the Structured Interview for the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and the Beck Depression Inventory-II. The latter two measures were repeated at treatment weeks 12 and 24.

Results

Depression scores, as measured by the three instruments, lacked adequate consistency. Baseline depression as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II, but not by the other scales, was associated with early treatment discontinuation at weeks 12 and 24. Changes in depression during treatment were restricted to somatic symptoms. Of those who completed treatment, those who were not depressed at baseline tended to demonstrate significant depression increases during treatment.

Conclusion

The Beck Depression Inventory-II is recommended to assess depression prior to hepatitis C virus infection treatment. Somatic symptoms of depression should be monitored during treatment. Baseline depression as measured by the Beck Depression Inventory-II was associated with early treatment discontinuation. The Beck Depression Inventory-II, Structured Interview for DSM-IV, and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale yielded results that were not consistent with each other in this sample. Future research should focus on standardizing depression assessment in medically ill populations to identify measures that predict treatment discontinuation.
Two cases of high serum clozapine concentrations occurring during inflammation in Chinese patients
Authors: Ruan Can-Jun , Zhang Xiao-Ling , Guo Wei , Li Wen-Biao , Zhuang Hong-Yan , Li Ya-Qiong , Wang Chuan-Yue , Tang Yi-Lang , Zhou Fu-Chun , de Leon Jose
Published: January 2018

Objective

Serious infections or inflammations have been associated with serum clozapine concentration increases and sometimes with clozapine toxicity.

Method

These two cases describe Chinese patients (Case 1: a 57-year-old female nonsmoker with severe dermatitis and Case 2: a 47-year-old male nonsmoker with influenza and secondary infection).

Results

In both cases, the Drug Interaction Probability Scale established the presence of a probable drug–drug interaction. In both cases, the clozapine and the total clozapine concentration-to-dose ratios followed a temporal pattern (normal–high–normal), consistent with an inhibition of clozapine metabolism during peak inflammation. In the first case, the total clozapine concentration-to-dose ratio (8 with no/low inflammation: median of 3.10 and 2 at peak inflammation: median of 3.90) provided a significant difference (P = 0.044). In the second patient, because of the smaller sample size and reduced statistical power (4 with no infection: a median of 1.59 and 2 at peak infection: 3.46), the increase did not reach significance (P = 0.13). In the first case, the median baseline clozapine concentration-to-dose ratio increased by a factor of 1.45 from 2.00 to a peak of 2.89. To compensate for the inhibition of clozapine metabolism, the dose correction factor was 0.69 (1/1.45) or a decrease in dose of approximately one-third. In the second case, the median baseline clozapine concentration-to-dose ratio increased by a factor of 2.56 from 1.15 to a peak of 2.94.

Conclusion

This provided a dose correction factor of 0.40 (1/2.56) or approximately half the dose, similar to published cases in Caucasians with serious respiratory infections.
Intervention Fidelity and Facilitator Training
Authors: Rew Lynn , Banner Matthew , Johnson Karen , Slesnick Natasha
Published: January 2018

Intervention fidelity is an ongoing concern for rigorous research, from the initial stages of planning and study design to the maintenance of internal validity. An added concern is the balance between fidelity and design accommodation to better suit varied populations and individuals. In this article, we describe our process for monitoring intervention fidelity during an individualized, yet standardized, strengths-based intervention with homeless youths, in which we include periodic training of our professional intervention facilitators. In our ongoing study, which is based on a Solomon four-group design with repeated measures, monitoring and training are essential to ensure intervention fidelity. Despite a rich literature about intervention fidelity, little guidance is available to help researchers and practitioners implement fidelity strategies in the real world with vulnerable populations. This article addresses this gap.
Economic Impact of Frozen Section for Thyroid Nodules with “Suspicious for Malignancy” Cytology
Authors: Bollig Craig A. , Gilley David , Lesko David , Jorgensen Jeffrey B. , Galloway Tabitha L. , Zitsch Robert P. , Dooley Laura M.
Published: January 2018

Objective

To perform a cost analysis of the routine use of intraoperative frozen section (iFS) among patients undergoing a thyroid lobectomy with “suspicious for malignancy” (SUSP) cytology in the context of the 2015 American Thyroid Association guidelines.

Study Design

Case series with chart review; cost minimization analysis.

Setting

Academic.

Subjects and Methods

Records were reviewed for patients with SUSP cytology who underwent thyroid surgery between 2010 and 2015 in which iFS was utilized. The diagnostic test performance of iFS and the frequency of indicated completion/total thyroidectomies based on the 2015 guidelines were calculated. A cost minimization analysis was performed comparing lobectomy, with and without iFS, and the need for completion thyroidectomy according to costs estimated from 2014 data from Medicare, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Nationwide Inpatient Sample.

Results

Sixty‐five patients met inclusion criteria. The malignancy rate was 61.5%, 45% of which was identified intraoperatively. The specificity and positive predictive value were 100%. The negative predictive value and sensitivity were 83% and 95%, respectively. Completion/total thyroidectomy was indicated for 9% of patients; 83% of these individuals had findings on iFS that would have changed management intraoperatively. Application of the new guidelines would have resulted in a significant reduction in the frequency of conversion to a total thyroidectomy when compared with the actual management (26.1% vs 7.7%, P =. 005). Performing routine iFS was the less costly scenario, resulting in a savings of $474 per case.

Conclusion

For patients with SUSP cytology undergoing lobectomy, routine use of iFS would result in decreased health care utilization.
Quality Indicators: Measurement and Predictors in Head and Neck Cancer Free Flap Patients
Authors: Eskander Antoine , Kang Stephen Y. , Tweel Benjamin , Sitapara Jigar , Old Matthew , Ozer Enver , Agrawal Amit , Carrau Ricardo , Rocco James , Teknos Theodoros N.
Published: January 2018

Objective

To determine the predictors of length of stay (LOS), readmission within 30 days, and unplanned return to the operating room (OR) within 30 days in head and neck free flap patients.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary academic cancer hospital.

Subjects and Methods

All head and neck free flap patients at The Ohio State University (OSU, 2006‐2012) were assessed. Multivariable logistic regression to assess the impact of patient factors, flap and wound factors, and intraoperative factors on the aforementioned quality metric outcomes.

Results

In total, 515 patients were identified, of whom 66% had oral cavity cancers, 33% had recurrent tumors, and 28% underwent primary radiotherapy. Of the patients, 31.5% had a LOS greater than 9 days, predicted by longer operative time, oral cavity and pharyngeal tumor sites, blood transfusion, diabetes mellitus, and any complication. A total of 12.6% of patients were readmitted within 30 days predicted by absent OSU preoperative assessment clinic attendance and any complication, and 14.8% of patients had an unplanned OR return predicted by advanced age.

Conclusions

When assessing quality metrics, adjustment for the complexity involved in managing patients with head and neck cancer with a high comorbidity index, clean contaminated wounds, and a high degree of primary radiotherapy is important. Patients seen in a preoperative assessment clinic had a lower risk of readmission postoperatively, and this should be recommended for all head and neck free flap patients. Quality improvement projects should focus on predictors and prevention of complications as this was the number one predictor of both increased length of stay and readmission.
Is Perineural Invasion of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas Linked to Tobacco Consumption?
Authors: Baumeister Philipp , Welz Christian , Jacobi Christian , Reiter Maximilian
Published: January 2018

Perineural invasion (PNI) is an underrecognized path of cancer spread, and its causes and mechanisms are poorly understood. Recent research indicates a mutual attraction of neuronal and cancer cells, largely dependent on neurotrophic factors and their receptors. Interestingly, the release of neurotrophic factors occurs upon cigarette smoke/nicotine exposure in a dose‐dependent manner, and serum levels correlate with current smoking, number of smoking years, and smoking severity. Among cell types capable of neurotrophic factors secretion are lung and oral fibroblasts. In our study of 178 patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, tumors of current and former smokers showed PNI significantly more often than tumors of never smokers. Moreover, PNI was a marker for aggressive tumor growth. Surprisingly, PNI was more significant for survival than p16 status. Our study warrants further research on PNI in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma with special emphasis on the impact of tobacco consumption to identify suitable candidates for therapeutic interventions.
Adsorption of methanol and water vapor on modified forms of mordenite–clinoptilolite rock
Authors: Kustovska Antonina D
Published: January 2018

The influence of thermal activation, decationation, and dealumination on adsorption properties of rock from Transcarpathian deposit (Lypcha village, Ukraine) containing mordenite and clinoptilolite at the ratio 1:1 was studied in this research. Taking into account the need of preliminary thermal activation of adsorbent, the research of thermal stability of zeolite component of rock was conducted. Parameters of microporous structure of decationated and dealuminated samples were calculated. Obtained results show that decationation of mordenite–clinoptilolite rock leads to insignificant increase and dealumination leads to significant decrease of adsorption capacity for water. Maximal adsorption ability for methanol is about 50% dealumination degree of the sample.
Change in parental and peer relationship quality during emerging adulthood
Authors: Holt Laura J. , Mattanah Jonathan F. , Long Michelle W.
Published: January 2018

We report on two longitudinal studies, where we examined how stability and change in attachment to parents and peers from the first to last year of college were associated with changes in theoretically relevant outcomes. As expected, students with consistently secure parental and peer attachment evidenced the best academic, social, and emotional functioning overall. Participants with “stable secure” parental attachment reported significant increases in their academic and emotional functioning and their social competencies; on the other hand, students with consistently low parental attachment showed a decline in their emotional functioning. Participants with stable secure peer attachment also reported lower overall levels of depression and loneliness, better social competence, and more favorable attitudes about help-seeking. Finally, students who transitioned from lower to higher parental attachment showed significant declines in loneliness; those transitioning from low to high peer attachment evidenced a significant increase in social functioning. We discuss implications for how college-based programming might serve to forestall declines in parental/peer attachment and/or facilitate skill building among students who identify with a more insecure style at college entry.
Constraints and limitations of investigative journalism in Hungary, Italy, Latvia and Romania
Authors: Gerli Matteo , Mazzoni Marco , Mincigrucci Roberto
Published: January 2018

The article provides evidences about mechanisms and practices that undermine the effectiveness of investigative journalism through the analysis of selected case studies of corruptive phenomena in Italy, Hungary, Romania and Latvia. In particular, the article shows that the idea of watchdog journalism does not work actually in the observed countries. Indeed, investigative journalism requires certain socio-economic conditions, such as a low degree of influence of the political and economic spheres and a high level of journalistic professionalism, which are not (always) present in the aforementioned countries. More specifically, the article focuses on three aspects that may distort investigative journalists’ work: a certain proximity (sometimes overlapping) of publishers (often rich oligarchs or prominent businessmen) and politicians, the ‘blackmail’ exercised through advertising investments and the interferences of secret services, which may dissuade newsrooms from performing their role as the watchdog.
The ‘Cancer Home-Life Intervention’: A randomised controlled trial evaluating the efficacy of an occupational therapy–based intervention in people with advanced cancer
Authors: Pilegaard Marc Sampedro , la Cour Karen , Gregersen Oestergaard Lisa , Johnsen Anna Thit , Lindahl-Jacobsen Line , Højris Inger , Brandt Åse
Published: January 2018

Background:

People with advanced cancer face difficulties with their everyday activities at home that may reduce their health-related quality of life. To address these difficulties, we developed the ‘Cancer Home-Life Intervention’.

Aim:

To evaluate the efficacy of the ‘Cancer Home Life-Intervention’ compared with usual care with regard to patients’ performance of, and participation in, everyday activities, and their health-related quality of life.

Design and intervention:

A randomised controlled trial ( ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02356627). The ‘Cancer Home-Life Intervention’ is a brief, tailored, occupational therapy–based and adaptive programme for people with advanced cancer targeting the performance of their prioritised everyday activities.

Setting/participants:

Home-living adults diagnosed with advanced cancer experiencing functional limitations were recruited from two Danish hospitals. They were assessed at baseline, and at 6 and 12 weeks of follow-up. The primary outcome was activities of daily living motor ability. Secondary outcomes were activities of daily living process ability, difficulty performing prioritised everyday activities, participation restrictions and health-related quality of life.

Results:

A total of 242 participants were randomised either to the intervention group ( n = 121) or the control group ( n = 121). No effect was found on the primary outcome (between-group mean change: −0.04 logits (95% confidence interval: −0.23 to 0.15); p = 0.69). Nor was any effect on the secondary outcomes observed.

Conclusion:

In most cases, the ‘Cancer Home-Life Intervention’ was delivered through only one home visit and one follow-up telephone contact, which not was effective in maintaining or improving participants’ everyday activities and health-related quality of life. Future research should pay even more attention to intervention development and feasibility testing.
Increased receptor activity-modifying protein 1 in the nervous system is sufficient to protect against autonomic dysregulation and hypertension
Authors: Sabharwal Rasna , Mason Bianca N , Kuburas Adisa , Abboud Francois M , Russo Andrew F , Chapleau Mark W
Published: January 2018

Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) can cause migraines, yet it is also a potent vasodilator that protects against hypertension. Given the emerging role of CGRP-targeted antibodies for migraine prevention, an important question is whether the protective actions of CGRP are mediated by vascular or neural CGRP receptors. To address this, we have characterized the cardiovascular phenotype of transgenic nestin/hRAMP1 mice that have selective elevation of a CGRP receptor subunit in the nervous system, human receptor activity-modifying protein 1 (hRAMP1). Nestin/hRAMP1 mice had relatively little hRAMP1 RNA in blood vessels and intravenous injection of CGRP caused a similar blood pressure decrease in transgenic and control mice. At baseline, nestin/hRAMP1 mice exhibited similar mean arterial pressure, heart rate, baroreflex sensitivity, and sympathetic vasomotor tone as control mice. We previously reported that expression of hRAMP1 in all tissues favorably improved autonomic regulation and attenuated hypertension induced by angiotensin II (Ang II). Similarly, in nestin/hRAMP1 mice, hypertension caused by Ang II or phenylephrine was greatly attenuated, and associated autonomic dysregulation and increased sympathetic vasomotor tone were diminished or abolished. We conclude that increased expression of neuronal CGRP receptors is sufficient to induce a protective change in cardiovascular autonomic regulation with implications for migraine therapy.
Three Recently Excavated Funerary Stelae from the Eighth Dynasty Tomb of Shemai at Kom El-Momanien, Qift
Authors: Gilbert Gregory P.
Published: January 2018

Recent excavations at the mastaba tomb of the Eighth Dynasty Vizier Shemai uncovered three limestone stelae showing the deceased receiving funerary offerings. These are believed to form part of a series of stelae, each of which represented specific offerings, such as choice meats or libation water, set along the northern exterior wall of the structure.
Question and Answer in Middle Kingdom Dialogues
Authors: Worthington Martin
Published: January 2018

This article discusses several thematically related aspects of narrative strategies in the dialogues of Middle Kingdom literature, focusing on the congruence between questions and their answers. It variously suggests that there is a pattern for how an ideal reply should be styled; that Sinuhe's seemingly incongruous replies to Amunenshi's questions betray a hitherto undetected sub-text to the dialogue; and that an improvement may be in order to current interpretations of the Shipwrecked Sailor. While it is hoped that specific conclusions reached will not be found implausible, the article's cumulative aim is to offer a new arrow for the literary-critical quiver, suggesting that Middle Kingdom texts reward a scrutiny of the congruence between question and answer.
The Three-Dimensional form of the Amarna House
Authors: Spence Kate
Published: January 2018

Although the ground plans of over a thousand houses have been recovered during excavations at the site of el-Amarna, the three-dimensional form of these houses remains a matter of debate. The question of reconstruction is important as discussion of the typicality of Amarna domestic architecture, as well as broader issues of urbanism in the New Kingdom, involve comparisons between Amarna houses and houses at Thebes, known principally from tomb paintings. Here, analysis of ground plans is used to argue that Amarna houses were predominantly two-storey buildings closely related to Theban dwellings, although the latter may have been more closely packed and taller as a result of years of infilling. House P47.24 illustrates the move toward increasing density at el-Amarna.
Nina M. Davies—A Biographical Sketch
Authors: Strudwick Nigel
Published: January 2018

The work of Nina Davies was always closely associated with the Egypt Exploration Society, and most of her articles appeared in the JEA and a number of her books in EES series. This article sketches her life and work, and makes a preliminary attempt at evaluating her place in Egyptology.
Gnomon graffito at Meroe
Authors: Hollenback George M.
Published: January 2018

An alternative interpretation of an instrument depicted in a graffito at Meroe is suggested.