bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Epstein-Barr Virus Lytic and Latent RNA Transcripts in Post-transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder
Authors: Montone Kathleen T. , Hodinka Richard L. , Tomaszewski John E.
Published: July 2017

Thirty-three specimens from 25 transplant recipients with Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoproliferative disease were studied by in situ hybridization for 2 lytic and 4 latent Epstein-Barr virus transcripts. All specimens were found to contain at least 1 latent transcript while 28 were positive for at least 1 lytic transcript. The amount of Epstein-Barr virus infection and lytic activity varied with histopathology and number of involved sites. Patients with localized polymorphous disease contained the lowest number of infected cells with an almost equal lytic:latent ratio. Disseminated polymorphous and single and multisite monomorphous specimens showed a large latent cell population. Minimal lytic activity was seen in single site monomorphous specimens, but disseminated monomorphous specimens showed the highest levels of lytic transcripts. Most post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder specimens demonstrate lytic Epstein-Barr virus transcripts, although the majority of cells contain latent Epstein-Barr virus. Lytic activity is highest in patients with disseminated disease. Lytic Epstein-Barr virus infection may aid in the development and maintenance of lymphoproliferative disorders in transplant recipients.
Primary Choriocarcinoma of the Rectum in a Man Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Rodilla Irene G. , Val-Bernal J. Fernando , Cabrera Ernesto , Fernández Fidel
Published: July 2017

A case of pure extragonadal choriocarcinoma in the rectum of an 84-year-old man is described. The patient complained of rectal bleeding and lower abdominal pain. The trophoblastic origin of the tumor was documented by immunoperoxidase staining for human chorionic gonadotropin. The DNA histogram showed a diploid pattern. The patient died 106 days after diagnosis. Only eight cases of choriocarcinoma of the large intestine have been reported, three of which were located in the rectum. The age of patients affected range widely, from 28 to 84 years with a mean of 54 years: 79 for males and 46 for females. Women are affected three times as often as men. The pathologic study showed adenocarcinoma with germ cell elements in seven cases: six choriocarcinoma and one mixed (choriocarcinoma and endodermal sinus tumor). Germ cell differentiation may be difficult to identify in small biopsy samples, which may not be representative of the tumor as a whole. The prognosis of patients with choriocarcinoma of the large bowel is very poor; survival is less than 5 months. Although choriocarcinoma in the rectum is very rare, it should be included in the differential diagnosis of rectal neoplasms.
Duodenal Epithelial Neoplasms Complicating von Recklinghausen's Disease: An Immunohistochemical Analysis in Two Patients
Authors: Nagai Eishi , Matsunaga Hiroaki , Chijiiwa Kazuo , Yamaguchi Koji , Tanaka Masao , Tsuneyoshi Masazumi
Published: July 2017

The authors report two patients with von Recklinghausen's disease and carcinoid tumors of the duodenum; one patient, in addition, also showed complications of an adenocarcinoma of the ampulla of Vater and multiple schwannomas, while the other patient was associated with an leiomyoblastoma of the duodenum. Histologically, both carcinoid tumors demonstrated glandular structures and psammoma bodies. Immunohistochemically, both carcinoid tumors stained diffusely positive against somatostatin. Duodenal carcinoid tumors associated with von Recklinghausen disease are characterized by originating in an ampullary lesion, by the presence of glandular structures, psammoma bodies, or both, and by being rich in somatostatin. A high prevalence of duodenal carcinoids has previously been recognized in patients with von Recklinghausen's disease, however, the association of adenocarcinoma of the small intestine and von Recklinghausen's disease is extremely rare.
Intrahepatic Iron Variation May Greatly Affect the Hepatic Iron Index
Authors: Argani Pedram , Furth Emma E.
Published: July 2017

The quantitative hepatic iron index is considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of primary hemochromatosis. While intrahepatic variability in the amount of stainable iron in histologic sections of liver is well known, the quantitative variability has not been addressed. Eight native livers removed at transplantation for cirrhosis associated with hepatitis C were studied. Iron-stained sections from multiple different areas of each liver were examined, and small areas were graded for iron content on a scale of 0 to 4. The fragments of liver corresponding to these were then cut out of the corresponding section of the paraffin block and sent for iron quantitation. We found that marked quantitative heterogeneity in iron content (>260%) can exist in a given liver, leading, in two cases, to false positive results for the diagnosis of hemochromatosis. In addition, it was found that quantitative iron content did indeed linearly correlate with histologic grading. Thus, intrahepatic variation in iron content in a given liver is yet another reason to interpret the hepatic iron index with caution.
Profiles of Advertising Students: Are “Creatives” Different From the Rest?
Authors: Fullerton Jami A. , Kendrick Alice
Published: July 2017

Data from a national survey of U.S. advertising students compared those who planned to seek creative jobs in advertising with those who desired management positions and “Generalists,” who chose both. Male and female students were equally likely to aspire to be Creatives, despite current U.S. agency estimates that men outnumber women by more than 2 to 1. Creatives self-reported higher grade-point averages (GPAs) than other students but were less likely to have held an internship or to have had a job offer senior year. Viewed within the theory of situated learning, the lack of a creative internship and mentoring may pose a disadvantage as creative students attempt to assimilate into the advertising community of practice after graduation. Implications for advertising educators who teach and counsel students about the advertising job market are discussed.
Drug–drug interaction related to the use of pipamperon and ondansetron in a child treated for leukemia
Authors: Bauters Tiene , Buts Sarah , Bordon Victoria , Laureys Geneviève
Published: July 2017

Pipamperon is a potent neuroleptic drug with many side effects, including prolongation of the QT interval. We report a case of a child treated for leukemia in which prolongation of the QT interval was observed. Physicians and pharmacists should be cautious for drug–drug interactions when pipamperon is prescribed, especially in combination with other QT-prolongating agents. Alternative strategies should be used whenever possible.
Identification of very small open reading frames in the genomes of Holmes Jungle virus, Ord River virus, and Wongabel virus of the genus Hapavirus, family Rhabdoviridae
Authors: Gubala Aneta , Walsh Susan , McAllister Jane , Weir Richard , Davis Steven , Melville Lorna , Mitchell Ian , Bulach Dieter , Gauci Penny , Skvortsov Alex , Boyle David
Published: July 2017

Viruses of the family Rhabdoviridae infect a broad range of hosts from a variety of ecological and geographical niches, including vertebrates, arthropods, and plants. The arthropod-transmitted members of this family display considerable genetic diversity and remarkable genomic flexibility that enable coding for various accessory proteins in different locations of the genome. Here, we describe the genome of Holmes Jungle virus, isolated from Culex annulirostris mosquitoes collected in northern Australia, and make detailed comparisons with the closely related Ord River and Wongabel viruses, with a focus on identifying very small open reading frames (smORFs) in their genomes. This is the first systematic prediction of smORFs in rhabdoviruses, emphasising the intricacy of the rhabdovirus genome and the knowledge gaps. We speculate that these smORFs may be of importance to the life cycle of the virus in the arthropod vector.
Oral Care and Prevention of Pneumonia in Hospitalized Patients With Psychiatric Disorders in Japan
Authors: Hamuro Atsushi , Kawaguchi Hideki , Yamazoe Kazuaki , Honda Minoru , Tanaka Ryuichi
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

Oral care in hospitalized patients with psychiatric disorders is important. However, some patients with psychiatric disorders cannot undergo oral care because of psychiatric symptoms and cognitive decline. The effect of a standardized oral hygiene intervention on the prevention of pneumonia in hospitalized patients with psychiatric disorders was investigated.

Method:

Patients were divided into 2 groups: control group (N = 259), patients without standardized intervention who were enrolled on April 2014 as the time point of baseline, and intervention group (N = 263), patients with standardized intervention who were enrolled on April 2015 as the time point of baseline. Two end points were evaluated: (1) pneumonia onset within 1 year after the enrollment and (2) no pneumonia for 1 year after the enrollment. The following parameters were compared between the groups: sex, age, psychiatric disorders, past history of diseases of the respiratory system, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, heart impairment, and pneumonia.

Results:

No statistically significant differences were found between the 2 groups in the distributions of characteristics except pneumonia by univariate analysis. The presence of pneumonia was significantly associated with age and the absence of the standardized oral hygiene intervention by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Conclusions:

The standardized oral hygiene intervention appears to be effective for preventing pneumonia in patients with psychiatric disorders.
‘Brandspeak’: Metaphors and the rhetorical construction of internal branding
Authors: Müller Monika
Published: July 2017

Metaphorical phrases appear frequently in practitioner and academic texts on internal branding and depict employees as ‘brand ambassadors’ who ‘embody the brand’ and ultimately turn into ‘living brands’. In this article, I examine how these metaphorical phrases rhetorically construct the concept of internal branding and thereby also impact our thoughts on organizations, employees and their relationships to one another. The findings show that complex metaphorical phrases provide linguistic framing for internal branding and simultaneously convey conflicting messages to different stakeholder groups. These metaphors describe internal branding as empowering employees to be autonomous and encouraging them to take control over the brand, whereas connotations paint a picture of employees being controlled by the brand. This article contributes to studies on internal branding, branding more generally, and on language in critical management studies by highlighting that internal branding metaphors point to a hidden value system that values brands higher than employees. This value system reflects tensions around the increasing financial value of brands and increasingly precarious working conditions.
Finite element analysis of elastohydrodynamic lubrication in an artificial hip joint under squeeze film motion using fluid–structure interaction method
Authors: Noori-Dokht Hessam , Niroomand-Oscuii Hanieh , Jalali-Vahid Davood , Jin Zhongmin
Published: July 2017

Classical approach for elastohydrodynamic lubrication problems contains solution of Reynolds and elasticity equations simultaneously, where elasticity equation was derived based on semi-infinite solid assumption. Fluid–structure interaction method which uses finite element formulation is another alternative approach for elastohydrodynamic lubrication problems. Present study contains two sections: first finite element method was used to evaluate accuracy of semi-infinite assumption for deformation in an artificial joint cup for a verity of material and geometrical properties. Then fluid–structure interaction method was used to simulate an artificial hip joint lubrication under squeeze film motion and efficiency and accuracy of this method was speculated by comparing the results to a previously done work. In the first section, deformation of a cup under Hertzian contact was calculated by finite element software ADINA. Various combinations of cup thickness, material properties, and dimensions of contact ellipse were modeled and results compared to the answer of semi-infinite assumption and column method for the same problem. Then a ball-in socket configuration for an artificial hip joint was modeled by an ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene cup and a Stainless Steel ball in the same software. Fluid film pressure and thickness were extracted from the results and compared to a previous study. Results for deformation of cup show that semi-infinite assumption and column method do not lead to acceptable accuracy for geometrical conditions of artificial hip joint. For fluid–structure interaction analysis of squeeze film motion, at first time steps, pressure distribution shows differences with the previous work, but at last time steps, fluid film pressure matches the previous study. For all time steps, film thickness of fluid–structure interaction method is higher than what was reported by previous work. The main reason is that no mesh independency check was performed for previous work, while for this study mesh independency of answers was analyzed by creating two other models.
A direct numerical approach to compute the nonlinear rotordynamic coefficient of the noncircular gas journal bearing
Authors: Yadav Saurabh Kumar , Rajput Arvind Kumar , Ram Nathi , Sharma Satish C
Published: July 2017

Gas bearings are extensively used in several industrial applications to support the rotating load at high speed due to its favorable characteristics. The numerical computation of the gas film damping and stiffness coefficients is a difficult task due to nonlinearity in the Reynolds equation for compressible lubricant. In the present work, a numerical method based on the finite element method is developed for the direct computation of gas film damping and stiffness coefficients. In this method, a double partial differential equation approach has been used to compute the dynamic characteristics. Further, the numerical results presented shows that the bearing ellipticity ratio significantly affects the nonlinear trajectory of the journal.
Evaluation of environmental friendly Ag-PTFE composite coating for use in threaded compression fittings
Authors: Sieh Raymond , Le Huirong
Published: July 2017

Threaded tubular fittings are used in a wide variety of industries for critical applications involving fluid transfer in a pressurised or vacuum system. These fittings are made of corrosion resistant metals such as stainless steel which are desirable in corrosive operating conditions; however, stainless steel is prone to galling which can cause threads to seize, resulting in loss of productivity. To prevent this, threads are electroplated using silver (Ag) coatings which prevent galling and serve as a solid lubricant during the connection make-up process. The Ag cyanide electroplating process currently used in industry is both hazardous to human health and its wastes are detrimental to the environment. The objective of this work is to evaluate environmental friendly self-lubricating Ag and Ag-polytetrafluoroethylene composite coatings using a non-cyanide electroplating process against the commercially available cyanide Ag coating through the analysis of torque-angle signatures and the torque-angle slope which characterises the make-up process. Results from the experiments suggest that the non-cyanide Ag-polytetrafluoroethylene coating is a potentially viable replacement option. Investigation and analysis of the coating performance have also highlighted potential risks of failure through poor lubrication during the make-up process and suggestions for improving the make-up process.
From needs analysis to task design: Insights from an English for specific purposes context
Authors: Malicka Aleksandra , Gilabert Guerrero Roger , Norris John M.
Published: July 2017

Needs analysis (NA) has long been argued to be the prerequisite for the design of language curricula or syllabi and the selection of tasks. According to Long (2005), a one-size-fits-all approach should be substituted by a careful examination of learners’ needs in a particular domain or learner community. Despite the increasing practice of carrying out a NA as a first step in curriculum design, it is still unclear how exactly the insights obtained from NA can be used in meaningful ways to take informed decisions about task and syllabus design. This study attempts to fill this gap by applying the findings obtained in a NA in the domain of a hotel receptionist’s job to the design of pedagogic tasks. The goals of this study were to obtain insights into what tasks are done in this domain (task selection), what kind of language use is associated with these tasks (task discourse analysis), how the information about perceived difficulty of tasks can be translated into instructionally manipulable variables (task difficulty), and in what order the resulting tasks should be presented to learners (task sequencing). The study design employed in-depth qualitative data collection, including 10 semi-structured interviews and three observations, and the sources were domain experts and domain novices. By linking the information obtained in the NA with a theoretical task complexity model, the study provides a detailed account of how real-life tasks can be translated into an articulated set of genuine and instructionally relevant pedagogic tasks.
Local Buckling of the Steel Skin in Lightweight Composites Induced by Creep and Shrinkage
Authors: Bradford M.A. , Wright H.D. , Uy B.
Published: July 2017

“Lightweight composites” are a form of steel-concrete composite construction in which a skin of thin steel sheeting is juxtaposed with a concrete core. Examples include composite profiled slabs, beams and walls. Bond between the concrete and steel is achieved by transverse shearing stresses that are induced by mechanical shear connection through embossments in the sheeting ribs. Because the sheeting is thin, it has a propensity to buckle locally between the ribs, and this mode of buckling represents a contact problem as the buckling mode must be unilateral. Under a sustained load, the concrete creeps and shrinks, and sheds compressive stresses into the steel sheeting. In the time domain, these stresses may be large enough to precipitate local buckling of the steel. This paper considers an analytical model in which a concrete core is reinforced by a permanent and integral skin of thin-walled steel shuttering that acts compositely with the concrete, and is subjected to constant sustained stress which would be typical of a composite profiled wall. It is shown theoretically that, in the time domain, the stresses induced in the sheeting by creep and shrinkage may indeed precipitate elastic local buckling of the steel.
Full Scale Measurements of Damping in a 78-storey Tall Building
Authors: Fang J. Q. , Li Q. S. , Jeary A. P. , Wong C. K.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the results obtained from the field measurements of wind effects on a 78-storey high-rise building. Di Wang Tower. The field data, which include wind speeds, wind directions and acceleration responses, presented in this paper were measured atop this building during the passage of Typhoon Sally in 1996. The damping in this tall building is evaluated by Random Decrement Technique (RDT) based on the full scale measurements of wind-induced responses. The amplitude dependent characteristics and randomness of damping are presented and discussed. The time series method is employed to model the random component of damping, and a stochastic form of Jeary's damping model is established.
Limit State Design of Masonry Bearing Walls with Reference to British and European Codes of Practice
Authors: Hendry A.W.
Published: July 2017

This paper outlines the common basis of the British and European codes of practice for structural masonry, BS 5628 and Eurocode 6, respectively, and discusses the several factors which determine the design strength of walls subjected to compressive loading in each code. The treatment of these factors is in many respects significantly different, making comparisons between the codes difficult other than by comparing the results of design calculations. Such comparisons do not appear to show any marked advance in the later code in design terms although it is more sophisticated and its drafters had available the results of more extensive research work. However, the Eurocode is at present at a “prestandard” stage and it is possible that refinements may be introduced.
Parametric Study on the Structural Behaviour of Steel Plates in Concrete-Filled Fabricated Thin-Walled Box Columns
Authors: Liang Q.Q. , Uy B.
Published: July 2017

A theoretical investigation of the post-local buckling behaviour and ultimate strength of steel plates in concrete-filled fabricated box columns is presented. The finite element method is used to predict the post-local buckling response of plates restrained by concrete. Geometric imperfections and residual stresses are considered in the analysis. The model developed is initially compared with a classical solution for clamped plates with initial imperfections. An extensive parametric study is then carried out to investigate the minimum local buckling coefficient and the effects of geometric imperfections and residual stresses on the post-local buckling strength of clamped steel plates. An effective width model is proposed for the design of clamped steel plates, and this can be used in the determination of the ultimate strength of short concrete-filled box columns. Independent test results of concrete-filled steel box columns are compared with the theoretical predictions by using the proposed design model. It is confirmed that the proposed design model predicts the behaviour of real concrete-filled steel box columns extremely well.
Oversampling as a methodological strategy for the study of self-reported health among lesbian, gay and bisexual populations
Authors: Anderssen Norman , Malterud Kirsti
Published: July 2017

Aims: Epidemiological research on lesbian, gay and bisexual populations raises concerns regarding self-selection and group sizes. The aim of this research was to present strategies used to overcome these challenges in a national population-based web survey of self-reported sexual orientation and living conditions—exemplified with a case of daily tobacco smoking. Methods: The sample was extracted from pre-established national web panels. Utilizing an oversampling strategy, we established a sample including 315 gay men, 217 bisexual men, 789 heterosexual men, 197 lesbian women, 405 bisexual women and 979 heterosexual women. We compared daily smoking, representing three levels of differentiation of sexual orientation for each gender. Results: The aggregation of all non-heterosexuals into one group yielded a higher odds ratio (OR) for non-heterosexuals being a daily smoker. The aggregation of lesbian and bisexual women indicated higher OR between this group and heterosexual women. The full differentiation yielded no differences between groups except for bisexual compared with heterosexual women. Conclusions: The analyses demonstrated the advantage of differentiation of sexual orientation and gender, in this case bisexual women were the main source of group differences. We recommend an oversampling procedure, making it possible to avoid self-recruitment and to increase the transferability of findings.
An orthoplastic approach to bone infection after trauma
Authors: Khan Umraz
Published: July 2017

Avoiding the development of deep bone infection following open long bone fractures remains the aim when managing such injuries. Standards of care have been developed in the UK, and adopted by others, that are effective at avoiding bone infection in these cases. However, despite these strict standards, cases of infection do develop and these must be dealt with aggressively and decisively.
Acute management of early post-traumatic epilepsy in patients with mild to moderate traumatic brain injury
Authors: Arai Takao , Ohta Shoichi , Tsurukiri Junya , Oomura Taishi , Tanaka Yousuke , Sunaga Shigeki , Jimbo Hiroyuki , Ikeda Yukio , Yukioka Tetsuo
Published: July 2017

Background

Continuous electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring for up to 24 h has been suggested to detect non-convulsive epileptic seizures during the acute phase of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, simpler management systems are needed for patients with mild to moderate TBI.

Methods

This retrospective single-institution study examined 105 patients admitted for treatment of mild to moderate TBI between 1 June 2012 and 31 March 2016. The study period was 14 consecutive days immediately after TBI. During the acute phase, patients received antiepileptic drug therapy based on physical examination and EEG findings and were subsequently monitored for recurrent or new-onset seizures.

Results

In all 105 patients, prophylactic administration of an antiepileptic drug was instituted on hospital admission. Based on physical examination and EEG data obtained during the first 72 h after admission, the patients were divided into three groups: those with (1) epileptiform spikes/waves ( n = 23), (2) no epileptiform spikes/waves ( n = 18), and (3) no EEG measurement ( n = 64). Prophylactic administration of the antiepileptic drug was (1) combined with an adjuvant antiepileptic drug, (2) continued, or (3) discontinued. None of the patients had recurrent or new-onset post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE) or EEG findings indicative of PTE after the combined pharmaceutical intervention during the study period.

Conclusion

Our acute management system involving repeated short-duration EEG monitoring allowed for favorable treatment outcomes as no patients developed recurrent or new-onset PTE. This is theoretical grounds for a prospective study of this method to establish a more comprehensive management system with reduced physical and economic burdens on patients.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s International Early Learning Study: What happened next
Authors: Moss Peter , Urban Mathias
Published: July 2017

In this article, the authors provide an update on what has happened over recent months with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s proposal for an International Early Learning Study, and review responses to the proposed International Early Learning Study, including the concerns that have been raised about this new venture in international testing. The authors call on the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development and its member-state governments to enter into open discussion with the wider early childhood community about the future direction of comparative work on early childhood education and care.
Some thoughts on the influence of attitude on health and ageing
Authors: Walker A.R.P.
Published: July 2017

Morbidity and longevity among the middle-aged and elderly are affected by a variety of factors including genetics, social class, diet, smoking practice, alcohol consumption, and physical activity. Additionally, in some individuals and communities, the factors of attitude, regularity of life and religiosity appear important. In this contribution, some behavioural and metabolic ramifications of adverse attitude are discussed, and some examples are given of benefits conferred in populations, past and present, marked by regularity of life and religiosity. Comments are made on the possibility of persons making changes in the traits described.
Participatory action research with ex-prisoners: Using Photovoice and one woman’s story told through poetry
Authors: Jarldorn Michele , ‘Deer’
Published: July 2017

This paper provides an unexpected and extraordinary example of research data from a Photovoice project conducted with ex-prisoners in South Australia. It focusses on the contribution made by one of the participants who chose the pseudonym ‘Deer’. Deer joins me as a co-author, her voice shines in this paper, albeit through a pseudonym she chose for the project. Photovoice, a qualitative research method, uses a feminist framework and typically produces rich thick accounts of lives and experiences that cannot be adequately captured by quantitative research. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of research data collection each have merits, but qualitative approaches tend to engage the researcher, participant and later the reader on a more personal level. Moreover, unexpected findings are more likely to arise when researchers ask participants to express what they believe is important to their experience. This paper provides such an example, where the unexpected gift of poetry adds a deeper dimension to research findings.
Cyber-Victimization of People With Chronic Conditions and Disabilities: A Systematic Review of Scope and Impact
Authors: Alhaboby Zhraa A. , Barnes James , Evans Hala , Short Emma
Published: July 2017

The victimization of individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities is prevalent with severe impact at psychological and physiological levels. With the increasing use of technology these experiences were further reshaped. This systematic review aimed at scoping the experiences of cyber-victimization of people living with chronic conditions or disabilities and examine the documented impact on them. Following a four-stage search strategy in several databases including MEDLINE, Embase, PsychINFO, CINAHL, Cochrane and snowballing of references, a total of 2,922 studies were scanned and 10 studies were eventually included. Quality assessment was done in two phases using tools specific to observational studies and cyber-victimization research. A narrative synthesis of reported results covered a total of 3,070 people. Sample size ranged between 42 and 823 participants, and the age range was 6-71 years with a majority of White ethnic backgrounds. Most studies (n=9) were cross sectional. The prevalence range of cyber-victimization was 2%-41.7% based on variable definitions, duration and methods. Targeted conditions included physical impairments, intellectual disabilities and specific chronic diseases. The most common documented impact was psychological/psychiatric, mainly depression followed by anxiety and distress. Somatic health complaints and self-harm were also reported. We concluded that people with chronic conditions and disabilities were consistently at higher risk of victimization with devastating health complications. Research gaps were identified such as the need to address more conditions and acknowledge differences between heterogeneous health conditions. Other recommendations include allowing flexibility and accountability to patients/victims in research design, education on victimization and health consequences, and improving primary care.
Endovascular Treatment of Dialysis Access–Induced Hand Ischemia Using a Flared Stent-Graft
Authors: Png Chien Yi M. , Beckerman William E. , Faries Peter L. , Finlay David J.
Published: July 2017

Purpose: To report an investigation of a purely endovascular procedure to address access-induced hand ischemia in dialysis patients. Case Report: Two dialysis patients presented with stage III steal syndrome consisting of severe pain and numbness in their fingers. Preoperative fistulograms distal to the anastomosis showed alternating antegrade and retrograde flow. Under ultrasound guidance, the fistula was accessed and a 4-F micropuncture sheath placed. An angled guidewire was then advanced proximally into the brachial artery. A 6-F short sheath with marker was placed followed by a 4-F straight guide catheter inserted into the proximal brachial artery. A 9-F Flair endovascular stent-graft was advanced over a 0.035-inch stiff angled Glidewire into the fistula just distal to the arterial anastomosis and deployed. Postoperatively, pain and numbness resolved in both patients immediately. Postoperative fistulograms documented antegrade flow. Access flow velocity readings decreased significantly and pulse oximetry readings increased significantly in both patients, who were followed for >6 months with no reported complications. Conclusion: These 2 cases suggest that this endovascular approach to access-induced hand ischemia may be a viable alternative to open/hybrid surgery.
Does Having a Relative in Dialysis Therapy Affect Attitudes Toward Kidney Donating?
Authors: Topbaş Eylem , Taştan Çağla
Published: July 2017

Context:

The majority of kidney transplants in Turkey are performed from live donors and from those among first-degree relatives.

Objective:

To compare the view points and the attitudes of individuals who have relatives undergoing dialysis toward kidney donation treatment with those who do not.

Design:

The study was designed as a descriptive study, which used simple random sampling.

Setting:

The sample consisted of 204 individuals, divided into 2 groups: those whose relatives underwent dialysis treatment (group A, n = 106) and those whose relatives did not (group B, n = 98).

Results:

The means of the total points obtained in “Kidney Donation Attitude Inventory” (KDAI) by individuals in group A were statistically significantly higher than those obtained by individuals in group B ( P = .001). Although there was a statistically significant difference in the educational status, status of willing to donate their kidneys and being a relative of an individual awaiting a kidney transplant, and the mean total points obtained from the KDAI between the groups ( P < .05), no statistically significant difference was determined between the means of the obtained total points and the gender and the duration of dialysis treatment ( P > .05).

Conclusion:

The attitudes of the relatives of individuals undergoing dialysis treatment toward kidney donation were determined to be more positive.
Survey of Living Organ Donors’ Experience and Directions for Process Improvement
Authors: Li Timmy , Dokus M. Katherine , Kelly Kristin N. , Ugoeke Nene , Rogers James R. , Asham George , Sharma Venkatesh Abhishek , Cirillo Dominic J. , Robinson Mary K. , Venniro Erika K. , Taylor Jeremy G. , Orloff Mark S. , McIntosh Scott , Kashyap Randeep
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

Understanding living organ donors’ experience with donation and challenges faced during the process is necessary to guide the development of effective strategies to maximize donor benefit and increase the number of living donors.

Methods:

An anonymous self-administered survey, specifically designed for this population based on key informant interviews, was mailed to 426 individuals who donated a kidney or liver at our institution. Quantitative and qualitative methods including open and axial coding were used to analyze donor responses.

Findings:

Of the 141 survey respondents, 94% would encourage others to become donors; however, nearly half (44%) thought the donation process could be improved and offered numerous suggestions. Five major themes arose: (1) desire for greater convenience in testing and scheduling; (2) involvement of previous donors throughout the process; (3) education and promotion of donation through social media; (4) unanticipated difficulties, specifically pain; and (5) financial concerns.

Discussion:

Donor feedback has been translated into performance improvements at our hospital, many of which are applicable to other institutions. Population-specific survey development helps to identify vital patient concerns and provides valuable feedback to enhance the delivery of care.
Do Sports Crowd Out Books? The Impact of Intercollegiate Athletic Participation on Grades
Authors: Insler Michael A. , Karam Jimmy
Published: July 2017

We investigate the influence of intercollegiate athletic participation on grades using data from the U.S. Naval Academy. Athletic participation is an endogenous decision with respect to educational outcomes. To identify a causal effect, we develop an instrument via the Academy’s random assignment of students into peer groups. Instrumental variable (IVs) estimates suggest that sports participation modestly reduces recruited athletes’ grades. This finding has implications beyond college, as we also show that grades—not athletic participation—are most strongly associated with postcollegiate outcomes such as military tenure and promotion rates.
A new methodology to calculate the equivalent stiffness matrix of the suspension structure with flexible linkages
Authors: Yao Guo-feng , Hou Jianhong , Zhao Pinbin
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this work is to present a methodology for calculating the equivalent stiffness matrix of the wheel center of the vehicle suspension. For a suspension, the stiffness matrix of the wheel center, which is effected by the bushings and flexible linkages, control the suspension’s elasto-kinematic ( e–k) specification. The equivalent stiffness matrix of the wheel center is formulated by using the stiffness of the bushings and linkages. And the models of series and parallel springs are used to calculate this equivalent stiffness matrix based on the number of the bushings and linkages. An example is presented to illustrate how to use the proposed methodology to derive the equivalent stiffness matrix of a suspension system with three bushings and flexible linkages. The results show that the equivalent stiffness of the wheel center will decrease if the linkage stiffness is considered. This methodology can be used in all kinds of suspension structure. It can also be used to optimize and design the suspension system.
Detection of kidnapped robot problem in Monte Carlo localization based on the natural displacement of the robot
Authors: Bukhori Iksan , Ismail Zool Hilmi
Published: July 2017

This article proposes a new method to detect the kidnapped robot problem event in Monte Carlo localization. The method is designed in such a manner that it can provide accurate detection across all time instances, whether the robot can still recognize part of the environment or is totally lost after kidnapping. The proposed method uses the sensor reading of the robot to determine if robot’s displacement at particular time instance is considered a natural displacement or not. A series of simulations are designed to measure the accuracy of detection and how it compares to other methods. The simulations show that the proposed method outperforms the methods of detection based on the weight of particles.
Beyond Risk and Protective Factors: An Adaptation-Based Approach to Resilience
Authors: Ellis Bruce J. , Bianchi JeanMarie , Griskevicius Vladas , Frankenhuis Willem E.
Published: July 2017

How does repeated or chronic childhood adversity shape social and cognitive abilities? According to the prevailing deficit model, children from high-stress backgrounds are at risk for impairments in learning and behavior, and the intervention goal is to prevent, reduce, or repair the damage. Missing from this deficit approach is an attempt to leverage the unique strengths and abilities that develop in response to high-stress environments. Evolutionary-developmental models emphasize the coherent, functional changes that occur in response to stress over the life course. Research in birds, rodents, and humans suggests that developmental exposures to stress can improve forms of attention, perception, learning, memory, and problem solving that are ecologically relevant in harsh-unpredictable environments (as per the specialization hypothesis). Many of these skills and abilities, moreover, are primarily manifest in currently stressful contexts where they would provide the greatest fitness-relevant advantages (as per the sensitization hypothesis). This perspective supports an alternative adaptation-based approach to resilience that converges on a central question: “What are the attention, learning, memory, problem-solving, and decision-making strategies that are enhanced through exposures to childhood adversity?” At an applied level, this approach focuses on how we can work with, rather than against, these strengths to promote success in education, employment, and civic life.
Prognostic and predictive biomarkers in prostate cancer: latest evidence and clinical implications
Authors: Terada Naoki , Akamatsu Shusuke , Kobayashi Takashi , Inoue Takahiro , Ogawa Osamu , Antonarakis Emmanuel S
Published: July 2017

Advances in our understanding of the mechanisms driving castration-resistant prostate cancer have promoted the development of several new drugs including androgen receptor-directed therapy and chemotherapy. Concomitant docetaxel treatment at the beginning of hormonal therapy for metastatic prostate cancer has resulted in longer overall survival than with hormonal therapy alone. Elucidating an appropriate treatment sequence using these therapies is important for maximizing clinical benefit in castration-sensitive and castration-resistant prostate cancer patients. The development of advanced high-throughput ‘omics’ technology has enabled the use of novel markers to guide prognosis and treatment of this disease. In this review, we outline the genomic landscape of prostate cancer and the molecular mechanisms of castration-resistant progression, and how these affect the development of new drugs, and their clinical implications for selecting treatment sequence. We also discuss many of the potential tissue-based or liquid biomarkers that may soon enter clinical use, with the hope that several of these prognostic or predictive markers will guide precision medicine for prostate cancer patients in the near future.
A rare case of a medullary, multifocal lesion in the distal radius
Authors: Aktas Birol , Ozturan Burak , Kilic Bulent , Demiroglu Murat , Ozkan Korhan
Published: July 2017

In multifocal findings, the possibility of multifocal osteoid osteomas should be considered and this case helps us to be attentive for the unusual radiographical presentation of osteoid osteoma.
Evaluation of a Hockey Deceased Organ Donation Awareness Campaign: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Naylor Kyla L. , McKenzie Susan , Cherry Cindy , McArthur Eric , Li Alvin H. , McCallum Megan K. , Kim S. Joseph , Prakash Versha , Knoll Gregory A. , Garg Amit X.
Published: July 2017

Background:

The Kidney Foundation of Canada developed a pilot campaign to educate persons attending junior hockey league games in London, Ontario, Canada, on deceased organ donation.

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of a hockey campaign on the number of new organ and tissue donor registrants.

Design:

Population-based retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Residents of London, Ontario.

Patients:

We included 255 476 individuals eligible to register for organ donation with a London, Ontario postal code.

Measurements:

We compared the number of new deceased organ donor registrants in London, Ontario, during the campaign period (March 12 to April 16, 2015) with 3 different time periods (December 30, 2014 to February 3, 2015; February 4 to March 11, 2015; April 17 to May 22, 2015). We also compared registration rates in London with 2 Ontario cities (Kitchener-Waterloo and Hamilton) matching in a 1:1 ratio on age, sex, and income quintile.

Methods:

To compare registrations across time periods, we used binomial regression with an identity link function and generalized estimating equations with an independence correlation structure. We used modified Poisson regression to compare registration rates between cities.

Results:

During the campaign period, there were slightly more registrations (1218 registered of 252 832 unregistered individuals [0.48%]) compared with an earlier time period (risk difference: 0.09%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.05%-0.12%). However, there was no significant difference compared with 2 time periods immediately before and after the campaign. London had slightly more registrations during the campaign period compared with the matched city of Hamilton (1180 registered of 236 582 unregistered individuals [0.50%] vs 490 registered of 236 582 unregistered individuals [0.21%]; risk ratio: 2.41; 95% CI: 2.17-2.68). The registration rate in London did not significantly differ from Kitchener-Waterloo.

Limitations:

Unable to conclude whether the minor increase in deceased organ donor registration was the result of the campaign or other factors (e.g., simultaneous organ registration events, seasonality).

Conclusions:

Overall, a minor increase in deceased organ donor registration was observed during the hockey organ donation awareness campaign; however, the specific impact of the campaign on organ donor registration could not be determined.
Book Review: Ron Friedman, The Best Place to Work: The Art and Science of Creating an Extraordinary Workplace
Authors: Jena Lalatendu Kesari , Patra Banita Kumari
Published: July 2017

Ron Friedman, The Best Place to Work: The Art and Science of Creating an Extraordinary Workplace, 2014, New York, USA: Perigee, Penguin Group, 333 pp. ISBN: 978-0-399-16559-7.
Operative methods for delayed paralysis after osteoporotic vertebral fracture
Authors: Kanchiku Tsukasa , Imajo Yasuaki , Suzuki Hidenori , Yoshida Yuichiro , Nishida Norihiro , Funaba Masahiro , Taguchi Toshihiko
Published: July 2017

Purpose:

How to select operative methods for delayed paralysis after osteoporotic vertebral fracture remains a matter of debate. It is unclear which procedure provides better neurological and functional recovery. This study aimed to compare the various operative methods and investigate postoperative outcomes.

Methods:

The study included 42 delayed paralysis patients (mean age 73.7 years). The operative methods were posterior spinal shortening osteotomy with direct decompression and short or long fusion and posterior laminectomy and short fusion with vertebroplasty. All patients in the vertebroplasty group were fitted with hooks to prevent correction loss. We investigated postoperative complications, surgery time, intraoperative blood loss, and changes in walking ability and local kyphotic angle (LKA). Patients were divided into three groups: shortening with a peripheral fusion range of one intervertebral level (the SS group, n = 18), the same procedure with a peripheral fusion range of ≥2 intervertebral levels (the SL group, n = 12), and posterior laminectomy and short fusion with vertebroplasty (the VP group, n = 12).

Results:

Postoperative complications were observed in five patients, all of whom were in the SS and SL group. There were no significant differences between the SS and SL groups. The VP group experienced significantly shorter mean surgery times, significantly lower mean intraoperative blood loss, and an improvement in paralysis, walking ability, LKA, and correction loss. Overall, the VP group had significantly better outcomes.

Conclusion:

Posterior laminectomy and short fusion with vertebroplasty with the addition of hooks is useful in cases of delayed paralysis in elderly patients.