bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arctic Humidity Inversions: Climatology and Processes
Authors: Naakka Tuomas , Nygård Tiina , Vihma Timo
Published: March 2018

The occurrence and characteristics of Arctic specific humidity inversions (SHIs) were examined on the basis of two reanalyses (ERA-Interim and JRA-55) and radiosonde sounding data from 2003 to 2014. Based on physical properties, the SHIs were divided into two main categories: SHIs below and above the 800-hPa level. Above the 800-hPa level, SHIs occurred simultaneously with relative humidity inversions and without the presence of a temperature inversion; these SHIs were probably formed when a moist air mass was advected over a dry air mass. SHIs below the 800-hPa level occurred simultaneously with temperature inversions in conditions of high relative humidity, which suggests that condensation had an important role in SHI formation. Below the 800-hPa level, SHI occurrence had a large seasonal and spatial variation, which depended on the surface heat budget. In winter, most SHIs were formed because of surface radiative cooling, and the occurrence of SHIs was high (even exceeding 90% of the time) on continents and over the ice-covered Arctic Ocean. In summer, the occurrence of SHIs was highest (70%–90%) over the coastal Arctic Ocean, where SHIs were generated by warm and moist air advection over a cold sea surface. In the reanalyses, the strongest SHIs occurred in summer over the Arctic Ocean. The comparisons between radiosonde soundings and the reanalyses showed that the main features of the seasonal and spatial variation of SHI occurrence and SHI strength were well represented in the reanalyses, but SHI strength was underestimated.
Bias Correction of Historical and Future Simulations of Precipitation and Temperature for China from CMIP5 Models
Authors: Yang X. , Wood E. F. , Sheffield J. , Ren L. , Zhang M. , Wang Y.
Published: March 2018

In this study, the equidistant cumulative distribution function (EDCDF) quantile-based mapping method was used to develop bias-corrected and downscaled monthly precipitation and temperature for China at 0.5° × 0.5° spatial resolution for the period 1961–2099 for eight CMIP5 GCM simulations. The downscaled dataset was constructed by combining observations from 756 meteorological stations across China with the monthly GCM outputs for the historical (1961–2005) and future (2006–99) periods for the lower (RCP2.6), medium (RCP4.5), and high (RCP8.5) representative concentration pathway emission scenarios. The jackknife method was used to cross validate the performance of the EDCDF method and was compared with the traditional quantile-based matching method (CDF method). This indicated that the performance of the two methods was generally comparable over the historic period, but the EDCDF was more efficient at reducing biases than the CDF method across China. The two methods had similar mean absolute error (MAE) for temperature in January and July. The EDCDF method had a slight advantage over the CDF method for precipitation, reducing the MAE by about 0.83% and 1.2% at a significance level of 95% in January and July, respectively. For future projections, both methods exhibited similar spatial patterns for longer periods (2061–90) under the RCP8.5 scenario. However, the EDCDF was more sensitive to a reduction in variability.
Comparison of HbA1c and glycated albumin as a control marker for newborn complications in diabetic women in a multicentre study in Japan (Japan glycated albumin study group: study 2)
Authors: Shimizu Ikki , Hiramatsu Yuji , Omori Yasue , Nakabayashi Masao ,   the JGA (Japan Glycated Albumin) Study Group
Published: March 2018

Background

To clarify the relationship between glycated haemoglobin and glycated albumin concentrations during pregnancy with neonatal outcomes, a multicentre study was conducted by the Japanese Society of Diabetes and Pregnancy.

Methods

A total of 136 patients (type 1: n = 47, type 2: n = 89) who enrolled in the study were diagnosed based on the Japanese Diabetes Society diagnostic criteria for diabetes mellitus. Thresholds for glycated haemoglobin and glycated albumin were set at 5.8% and 15.8%, respectively, as the upper limits of the reference interval in pregnant women.

Result

Random plasma glucose decreased linearly, and reached the reference interval at 40 weeks. Glycated albumin concentrations also decreased in the same manner. But glycated haemoglobin concentrations were out of the reference interval during the study. The frequency of the neonatal complications did not show significant differences between the glycated haemoglobin ⩾5.8% group and the glycated haemoglobin <5.8% group. On the other hand, the frequency of neonatal complications showed higher tendency of neonatal complications in the incidence of polycythaemia ( P = 0.094) and heavy-for-date ( P = 0.071) in the glycated albumin ⩾15.8% group compared with the glycated albumin <15.8 group. The respiratory disorder in type 1 diabetes was significantly higher than type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions

For the treatment of pregnant women with diabetes, glycated albumin would be a better marker than glycated haemoglobin. However, glycated albumin is also affected by obesity and albumin, and it is desirable to make a comprehensive judgment with glycated haemoglobin, random plasma glucose and other glycaemic index.
From Balancing Missions to Mission Drift: The Role of the Institutional Context, Spaces, and Compartmentalization in the Scaling of Social Enterprises
Authors: Ometto M. Paola , Gegenhuber Thomas , Winter Johanna , Greenwood Royston
Published: March 2018

In this article, we explain the mechanisms that allow social enterprises to balance their missions, and the risk of mission drift as organizations grow. We empirically explore Incubator-BUS (I-BUS), a student organization within a private Brazilian university, which sought to incubate cooperatives for vulnerable groups. Although initially successful in balancing its missions, I-BUS then failed. We show how scaling-up can complicate the balancing of different missions within the same organization. We propose that, to balance their missions, social enterprises—especially recently formed and democratically managed enterprises—need not only “spaces of negotiation,” as suggested in the literature, but also “herding spaces” that connect an organization to its institutional context. We indicate why herding spaces are critical, but then show how scaling-up can result in organizational “compartmentalization” that undermines them.
Young People’s Coping Strategies Concerning Climate Change: Relations to Perceived Communication With Parents and Friends and Proenvironmental Behavior
Authors: Ojala Maria , Bengtsson Hans
Published: March 2018

Taking its departure in the transactional theory of coping and socialization theories, this questionnaire study investigates how coping with climate change among late adolescents ( N = 705) relates to proenvironmental behavior and communication with significant others about societal problems. Deemphasizing the problem was negatively associated with proenvironmental behavior, whereas problem-focused and meaning-focused coping were positively associated with proenvironmental behavior. Two communication patterns with fathers, mothers, and friends were identified: one solution oriented and supportive, and one dismissive and doom-and-gloom oriented. The positive patterns correlated positively with problem-focused and meaning-focused coping, whereas the negative patterns correlated positively with deemphasizing. Communication with fathers was particularly important in explaining deemphasizing and problem-focused coping. A structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis showed that coping mediates the effects of communication patterns on behavior, whereas problem-focused coping mediates the influence of other coping strategies on behavior. The study demonstrates the importance of considering coping as a factor in the socialization of proenvironmental behavior.
Mindset Misconception? Comparing Mindsets, Perfectionism, and Attitudes of Achievement in Gifted, Advanced, and Typical Students
Authors: Mofield Emily L. , Parker Peters Megan
Published: March 2018

The study compared mindset beliefs, perfectionism, and achievement attitudes among gifted, advanced, and typical students in Grades 6 to 8 ( N = 416) and explored the relationship between these variables. Welch’s F tests revealed no statistically significant difference in growth or fixed mindset beliefs about intelligence among groups. Gifted and advanced students scored higher on Personal Standards (gifted, d = 0.68; advanced, d = 0.62) and Academic Self-Perception (gifted, d = 0.72; advanced, d = 0.58) compared with typical students. In hierarchical regression models, giftedness was a statistically significant predictor for Concern over Mistakes (β = 0.20) and Personal Standards (β = 0.27); both gifted (β = 0.31) and advanced (β = 0.17) status were statistically significant predictors for Academic Self-Perception. Various models showed a positive association between growth mindset and Positive Strivings Perfectionism and achievement attitudes and a positive association between fixed mindset and Evaluative Concerns Perfectionism. Findings suggest that gifted students are not more vulnerable to develop fixed mindsets.
Social Factors Can Outweigh Biological Ones in Determining Night Shift Safety
Authors: Monk Timothy H. , Wagner Jon A.
Published: March 2018

Ten years of mining accidents were surveyed in order to determine the pattern of changes over a seven-night span of duty. Sunday nights always occurred as the fourth night shift. Contrary to the gradually decreasing pattern predicted by biological clock adjustment, Sunday nights were by far the worst for accidents, suggesting that the social disruptions of the night worker on weekends may be far more potent than the biological ones.
Theoretical Locations of Mugabeism, Land “Terrorism,” and Third Chimurenga Neo-Coloniality Discourse in Zimbabwe: A Rejoinder of a Revolutionary
Authors: Mararike Munoda
Published: March 2018

The subject of coloniality is a phenomenon of consciousness. It explores belief systems, culture, and ethics using conviction and rhetorical force. Mugabe is good at captivating rhetoric. His sophisticated philosophical conundrum derives from modernity, emancipation as it looks at land as a political and economic structure of decolonization. Thus, in him, the belief of self-consciousness and conviction leads to positive confrontation and violence. Peace is universally known to be a product of protracted violence. Zimbabwe went through a war of colonial genocide and mass massacres in the Second Chimurenga. Mugabe’s decolonial agenda is an epistemological extension of coloniality and neo-colonial struggles originated and revisited by Amilcar Cabral, Frantz Fanon, Walter Rodney, Che Guevara, Fidel Castro, and Samora Machel. Mugabeism thrives on instilling fear into the perpetrators of violence and imperialism by using rhetoric. The doctrine—therefore—reaffirms emancipation and empowerment through postcolonial agrarian revolution rather than “land grabs.” Its magnetic effect is like opposite poles of a magnet—revolutionary versus dictatorship—sharply in contra-distinction with repression, barbarism, and cannibalism. Mugabeism means working toward a common vision of human life for Africans, it means emancipation and freedom. It is a life which is not dependent on an imposed superstructure of oppression of Blacks by Caucasians.
Black–White and Male–Female Differences in Criminal Thinking: Examining Instrumental and Expressive Motives for Crime in Federal Supervisees
Authors: Walters Glenn D.
Published: March 2018

Using 2,000 federal supervisees comprised of 500 White males, 500 Black males, 500 White females, and 500 Black females, this study evaluated whether race and sex are differentially associated with proactive and reactive criminal thinking. It was predicted that proactive criminal thinking would be higher in Black than White supervisees and that reactive criminal thinking should be higher in female than male supervisees. Results revealed that instrumental motives for crime, as represented by proactive criminal thinking, were more prevalent in Black male offenders, and expressive motives for crime, as represented by reactive criminal thinking, were more prevalent in White female offenders.
Becoming ethically responsive in initial teacher education
Authors: Jope Gilmour
Published: March 2018

Upon beginning their school-based teaching practica, teacher candidates enter a realm of practice that is at once uncertain, vulnerable, and particular, and where good educational practice centers on teacher's ability to see and to judge and to act ethically with others in concrete situations and ways. An important question for teacher education is: how do teacher candidates begin to acquire this capacity? This article draws on Martha Nussbaum's Aristotelian-inspired concept of “discernment” to explore how people begin to grasp phronesis or practical wisdom in teaching by becoming more responsive to the ethical character of classroom particulars while on practicum in ITE. The discussion is grounded in a teacher candidate's comments while on practicum at a Canadian elementary school to illustrate how becoming an ethical teacher is bound up in becoming perceptive, in opening oneself to the value and special wonder of the particular, in feeling the appropriate emotions about what one chooses, and by engaging in a play of thought about classroom particulars and educational universals.
Urban Development and Urbanisation in the Two Frontier Regions of India
Authors: Sandhu Ranvinder S.
Published: March 2018

Manoj Kumar Teotia, Urban Development in North-Western India: Emerging Trends, Concerns and Stratgies. Chandigarh: Centre for Research in Rural and Industrial Development, 2016, xxii + 372 pp., ₹700 (hardback). ISBN 978-81-85835-80-2.

Pranjal Sarma (Ed.), Urbanization and Industrial Development. Guwahati: EBH Publishers (India), 2016, xx + 238 pp., ₹925 (hardback). ISBN 978-93-83252-88-6.
Book Review: Krupa Shandilya, Intimate Relations: Social Reform and the Late Nineteenth-century South Asian Novel
Authors: Roy Ahonaa
Published: March 2018

Krupa Shandilya, Intimate Relations: Social Reform and the Late Nineteenth-century South Asian Novel. Hyderabad: Orient Balckswan Private Limited, 2017, 157 pp., ₹525. ISBN: 9789386392534
Women and Struggle for Equality
Authors: Ahlawat Neerja
Published: March 2018

Sudha Sharma. The Status of Women in Medieval India. New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2016, xi+269 pp., ₹750 (hardback). ISBN 978-93-515-0566-2.

Alice W. Clark. Valued Daughters: First Generation Career Women. New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2016, xii+199 pp., ₹595 (hardback). ISBN 978-93-515-0888-5.

Zarina Bhatty. Purdah to Piccadily: A Muslim Woman’s Struggle for Identity. New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2016, xiv+196 pp., ₹595 (hardback). ISBN 978-93-515-0824-3.
Book Review: Debarati Halder and K. Jaishankar, Cyber Crimes against Women in India
Authors: Sen Sudarshana
Published: March 2018

Debarati Halder and K. Jaishankar, Cyber Crimes against Women in India. New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2017, xviii + 252 pp., ₹795 (hardback). ISBN 978-93-859-8577-5.
Book Review: Rahul Ramagundam. Including the Socially Excluded: India’s Experience with Caste, Gender and Poverty
Authors: Arya Vinod
Published: March 2018

Rahul Ramagundam. Including the Socially Excluded: India’s Experience with Caste, Gender and Poverty. Hyderabad: Orient BlackSwan, 2017, xiii + 302 pp., ₹850 (hardback). ISBN 978-93-86392-44-2.
Book Review: Steve Derne, Sociology of Well Being: Lessons from India
Authors: Sagarika Sipra
Published: March 2018

Steve Derne, Sociology of Well Being: Lessons from India. Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2017, xv + 327 pp., ₹895 (hardback). ISBN 978-93-859-8572-0.
“Clean, safe and orderly”: Migrants, race and city image in global Guangzhou
Authors: Wilczak Jessica
Published: March 2018

This paper examines an urban renewal project in Xiaobei, a neighborhood that has become a gathering place for African traders in the Chinese city of Guangzhou. Drawing on documentary analysis, interviews and site visits, the paper argues that, while there is a racial element to the project, we should be careful about ascribing it solely to anti-black racism. The project is as much characterized by pejorative discourses about internal migrants as it is about Africans. Moreover, the project is not unique to Xiaobei, and should also be understood in the context of Guangzhou’s efforts to become a competitive “global” city.
Enhancing global and intercultural competencies in Master of Public Administration classes
Authors: Capobianco Stephen , Chen Ximeng , Líppez-De Castro Sebastián , Rubaii Nadia
Published: March 2018

In the 21st century Master of Public Administration (MPA) programs need to meet the challenge of preparing public affairs professionals for an increasingly global and interdependent world in which complex social problems often span national boundaries and cultural differences. In that context, various internationalization strategies can be helpful in developing the necessary global, international, and intercultural (GII) competencies that public affairs professionals need. In this paper, we evaluate a model known as Cultures and Languages Across the Curriculum (CLAC) as an internationalization at home tool which may have potential in public affairs programs. We describe the philosophical and pedagogical approach of CLAC, and compare our experiences with three levels of CLAC integration within graduate-level public affairs classes. Based on feedback from students and observations from faculty we are able to offer preliminary assessments on the effectiveness of the CLAC approach in MPA education, and advice for MPA programs and instructors who may be interested in using CLAC to develop GII competencies among their students.
Identities in Organization Studies
Authors: Brown Andrew D.
Published: March 2018

Identities scholarship, in particular that focused on self-identities, has burgeoned in recent years. With dozens of papers on identities in organizations published in this journal by a substantial community, doubtless with more to come, now is an appropriate juncture to reflect on extant scholarship and its future prospects. I highlight three key strands of self-identities research in Organization Studies with particular reference to six articles collected in the associated Perspectives issue of this journal. In reviewing the contribution that work published in Organization Studies has made to debates on the nature of identities, how identities are implicated in organizational processes and outcomes, and the micro-politics of identities formation, I seek also to contribute to ongoing deliberations and to raise issues and questions for further research. I conclude with a call for increased efforts to integrate self-identities issues into the research agendas of sub-fields within organization theory.
Agricultural Commodity Trading: Is it Destabilizing Spot Markets?
Authors: Gupta C. P. , Sehgal Sanjay , Wadhwa Sahaj
Published: March 2018

Executive Summary

The future trading has been held responsible by certain political and interest groups of enhancing speculative trading activities and causing volatility in the spot market, thereby further spiralling up inflation. This study examines the effect of future of trading activity on spot market volatility. The study first determined the Granger causal relationship between unexpected future trading volume and spot market volatility. It then examined the Granger causal relationship between unexpected open interest and spot market volatility. The spot volatility and liquidity was modelled using EGARCH and unexpected trading volume. The expected trading volume and open interest was calculated by using the 21-day moving average, and the difference between actual and expected component was treated as the unexpected trading volume and unexpected open interest. Empirical results confirm that for chickpeas ( channa), cluster bean ( guar seed), pepper, refined soy oil, and wheat, the future (unexpected) liquidity leads spot market volatility. The causal relationship implies that trading volume, which is a proxy for speculators and day traders, is dominant in the future market and leads volatility in the spot market. The results are in conformity with earlier empirical findings — Yang, Balyeat and Leathan (2005) and Nath and Lingareddy (2008) —that future trading destabilizes the spot market for agricultural commodities.

Results show that there is no causal relationship between future open interest and spot volatility for all commodities except refined soy oil and wheat. The findings imply that open interest, which is a proxy of hedging activity, is leading to volatility in spot market for refined soy oil and wheat. The results are in conformity to earlier empirical studies that there is a weak causal feedback between future unexpected open interest and volatility in spot market ( Yang et al., 2005 ). For chickpeas (channa), the increase in volatility in the spot market increases trading activity in the future market. The findings are contrary to earlier empirical evidence ( Chatrath, Ramchander, & Song, 1996 ; Yang et al., 2005 ) that increase in spot volatility reduces future trading activity. However, they are in conformity to Chen, Cuny and Haugen (1995) that increase in spot volatility increases future open interest. The results reveal that the future market has been unable to engage sufficient hedging activity. Thereby, a causal relationship exists only for future trading volume and spot volatility, and not for future open interest and spot volatility.

The results have major implications for policymakers, investment managers, and for researchers as well. The study contributes to literature on price discovery, spillovers, and price destabilization for Indian commodity markets.
Local and global contexts, individual experiences in labour: Poor Roma at home and abroad. A case from Transylvania, Romania
Authors: Szabó Árpád Töhötöm
Published: March 2018

This paper analyses Roma migration at both the macro- and meso-levels, taking into consideration global contexts, ‘push’ and ‘pull’ factors, and structural conditions in both host and the home countries as well as in individuals’ communities. The first part of the paper analyses the push factors behind emigration, drawing mainly on quantitative findings from research conducted in a rural community in Transylvania, Romania. The second part of the article, however, goes beyond the statistical data and presents the impact of these push factors on individual lives by using the data collected through ethnographic methods and life histories recorded with local Roma people who take part in labour force migration – mostly circular migration – to western countries. The details provided within such life histories can offer a deeper understanding of the processes which the specific Roma community (and especially poorer community members) experienced both during socialism and after 1990; and in so do, shed new light on how the migration cycle is integrated into local social and economic practices.
The Effects of Coaching With Video and Email Feedback on Preservice Teachers’ Use of Recommended Practices
Authors: McLeod Ragan H. , Kim Sunyoung , Resua Kimberly A.
Published: March 2018

In this study, we examined the effects of training and coaching via video and email feedback on preservice teachers’ use of recommended practices. Two preservice teachers in an early childhood special education program developed action plans for implementing recommended practices and videotaped their interactions with children in a blended preschool program. Coaches reviewed videos and provided email feedback with video examples of participants’ use of the practices. The training and coaching with email and video feedback was effective in increasing participants’ use of recommended practices. The results of this study strengthen the evidence base for distance coaching as a viable support for preservice teachers.
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor secreted by the cerebral endothelium: A new actor of brain function?
Authors: Marie Christine , Pedard Martin , Quirié Aurore , Tessier Anne , Garnier Philippe , Totoson Perle , Demougeot Céline
Published: March 2018

Low cerebral levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a critical role in many brain functions, have been implicated in neurodegenerative, neurological and psychiatric diseases. Thus, increasing BDNF levels in the brain is considered an attractive possibility for the prevention/treatment of various brain diseases. To date, BDNF-based therapies have largely focused on neurons. However, given the cross-talk between endothelial cells and neurons and recent evidence that BDNF expressed by the cerebral endothelium largely accounts for BDNF levels present in the brain, it is likely that BDNF-based therapies would be most effective if they also targeted the cerebral endothelium. In this review, we summarize the available knowledge about the biology and actions of BDNF derived from endothelial cells of the cerebral microvasculature and we emphasize the remaining gaps and shortcomings.
Acute diffuse alveolar haemorrhage accompanied by gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient with serious systemic lupus erythematosus: A case report
Authors: Du Jing , Wang Ying , Li Yan-chun , Wang Tong-Tong , Zhou Yong-lie , Ying Zhen-hua
Published: March 2018

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that affects many organs, but multisystem dysfunction is rare. Here, we report a case of a 29-year-old woman who was initially diagnosed with SLE complications including lupus nephritis, lupus encephalopathy, renal hypertension, thrombocytopenia, anaemia and hyperkalaemia. She recovered following treatment with high dose methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). However, a few days after hospital discharge, she developed gastrointestinal bleeding. Although intensive treatment was administered, the patient deteriorated rapidly and had a progressive decline in oxygen saturation followed by diffuse alveolar haemorrhage and acute left heart failure. Inotropic therapy, mechanical ventilation, blood transfusion, CRRT, antibiotics, intravenous glucocorticoids and other support therapies were initiated and gradually the patient’s vital signs stabilized and haemoptysis subsided. This case report emphasises that complications of SLE can occur at any stage of the disease, especially in patients with active SLE. Therefore, it is important for clinicians to be aware of the rare presentations of SLE and its complex management. For multisystem dysfunction, early intensive treatment with high dose corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide is advocated.
Demand for online platforms for medical word-of-mouth
Authors: Lin Shih Han , Lin Tom M.Y.
Published: March 2018

The choice of medical services affects an individual’s treatment and health. However, few studies have focused on medical electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM), which has the greatest impact on such choices. This study was performed to explore the need for and general public’s attitude toward medical eWOM and provide a reference for government, media, and medical practitioners.

In this study, 84% of the respondents had experience using online evaluation platforms to search for eWOM, and those who were satisfied with the online evaluation platforms substantially outnumbered those who were dissatisfied. The respondents generally believed that there is a need for physician evaluation platforms, although a difference remained between respondents who needed the online evaluation platforms (72.0%) and were willing to reference them (72.0%) and those who trusted them (46.5%) and were willing to provide their opinions (55.0%). These results could signify that despite the public’s need, the public remains doubtful of the information provided by these online evaluation platforms.
Radiolucent lines are decreased at 3 years following total knee arthroplasty using trabecular metal tibial components
Authors: Mutsuzaki Hirotaka , Watanabe Arata , Kinugasa Tomonori , Ikeda Kotaro
Published: March 2018

Objective

To analyse location and frequency, and change over time, of radiolucent lines (RLLs) around trabecular metal tibial components in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

Osteoarthritic knees in patients who had undergone TKA were retrospectively evaluated via analysis of RLLs on anteroposterior and lateral X-rays obtained at 2 and 6 months, and 1, 2 and 3 years following TKA.

Results

In 125 osteoarthritic knees from 90 patients (mean age, 75.0 ± 6.2; 21 male/69 female), frequency of RLLs around trabecular metal tibial components was generally highest at 2 and 6 months, and 1 year following TKA, then gradually decreased over the 3-year follow-up. Frequency of RLLs around trabecular metal tibial components was greater at the tip of the two pegs, particularly the medial peg, and around the pegs, versus other zones. No postoperative revisions were performed for loosening.

Conclusions

Over 3 years following TKA, RLLs were most frequently observed up to 1 year, then gradually decreased. RLLs were significantly more frequent in the medial peg zone and zones close to the medial peg than in other zones.
Treatment with triple combination of atorvastatin, perindopril, and amlodipine in patients with stable coronary artery disease: A subgroup analysis from the PAPA-CAD study
Authors: Dézsi Csaba András
Published: March 2018

Background

In patients with stable coronary artery disease, aspirin, a statin, and an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor are recommended as first-line agents for secondary prevention. Subgroup analyses of the previously published Hungarian Perindopril plus Amlodipine in PAtients with Coronary Artery Disease (PAPA-CAD) non-interventional trial demonstrated that the addition of the metabolically beneficial, fixed combination of perindopril + amlodipine to atorvastatin further improves the patient’s lipid profile.

Methods

The PAPA-CAD study, a 6-month open-label, prospective, multicenter, observational/non-interventional survey evaluated data accumulated from patients with hypertensive patients with stable coronary artery disease. The herein-reported subgroup analysis was conducted using the findings from those 1130 patients, who were taking atorvastatin in addition to the fixed combination of perindopril + amlodipine at the time of all four study visits (i.e., at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months later).

Results

In the subgroup of patients taking atorvastatin as an add-on agent, 82.5% reached the target blood pressure of 140/90 mmHg compared with 78.8% of those not taking a statin. The addition of atorvastatin to the fixed combination of perindopril + amlodipine resulted in further significant improvements of key metabolic parameters.

Conclusion

This subgroup analysis confirmed that favorable synergism exists among perindopril, amlodipine, and atorvastatin.
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy in a 14-year-old girl: case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Xinyue , Sun Lichao , Cui Li , Lin Weihong
Published: March 2018

Background

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is the most common cause of death in people with epilepsy. The pathogenesis of SUDEP is still unclear. The majority of SUDEP cases occur in intractable epilepsy, especially in the aftermath of a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. We report an atypical SUDEP case with infrequent seizures in frontal lobe epilepsy.

Case Report

A 14-year-old girl presented with a 13-year history of paroxysmal convulsions. She experienced three episodes within 6–10 months after birth. At 14 years old, she experienced an aggravated seizure, manifesting as unconsciousness, hyperventilation, and urinary incontinence. Electroencephalography showed spike-slow waves and slow waves with mixed asynchronized spike waves originating from the frontal lobe during the sleep stage. Transient outbreaks of spike-slow complex waves (1–2 s) were also noted in all leads. The diagnosis of frontal lobe epilepsy (generalized tonic-clonic seizures secondary to focal impaired awareness seizures and myoclonus) was made. Oral sodium valproate was prescribed. However, she suddenly died on her way to school 2 months later.

Conclusion

The causes of SUDEP are complicated, and frontal lobe epilepsy may be a potential risk factor. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of epileptic seizures, as well as close observation, should be emphasized.
Surgical management of proximal fibular tumors: risk factors for recurrence and complications
Authors: Guo Changzhi , Zhang Xiaoran , Gao Feng , Wang Lingxiang , Sun Tao
Published: March 2018

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify patient- and treatment-specific independent risk factors for the recurrence of proximal fibular tumors and complications of their surgical management.

Methods

Patients who underwent surgical treatment of proximal fibular tumors at our institution from 2004 to 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients had a pathologically confirmed diagnosis and were followed up for at least 12 months for recurrence and complications. All patients were evaluated with respect to seven patient-, disease-, and treatment-specific variables.

Results

In the univariate analysis, peroneal nerve palsy at presentation and malignancy were associated with an increased risk of recurrence, iatrogenic peroneal nerve injury, and wound healing problems. The multivariate analysis showed that peroneal nerve palsy at presentation was an independent risk factor for recurrence and iatrogenic peroneal nerve injury and that malignancy was an independent risk factor for wound healing problems.

Conclusions

Peroneal nerve palsy and malignant potential are independent risk factors for complications of surgical treatment of proximal fibular tumors. The recognition of these factors may contribute to proper management and help to prevent recurrence and postoperative complications.
Integrated approach to pain management for a patient with multiple bone metastases of uterine cervical cancer
Authors: Qin De-An , Song Jie-Fu , Song Li-Ping , Feng Gui-Sheng
Published: March 2018

Background

Pain management for multiple bone metastases is complex and often requires multidisciplinary treatment. We herein describe patient-centered multidisciplinary pain management for metastatic cancer. Case presentation: A 61-year-old woman with multiple bone metastases of uterine cervical cancer developed intractable low back pain. After external beam radiotherapy failed, we performed lumbar spinal intralesional curettage, pedicle screw fixation, and nerve decompression. However, the neuralgia persisted. We then percutaneously injected epirubicin into the intervertebral foramina under computed tomography guidance for L5 dorsal root ganglion destruction. Osteoplasty was performed under C-arm X-ray guidance; however, the sacrum was mistaken for the ilium, and treatment was ineffective. We administered zoledronic acid and strontium-89. The last resort was outpatient implantation of an epidural bupivacaine-morphine infusion system. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used for pain evaluation. Lumbar spinal intralesional curettage and fixation, epirubicin-induced ganglion destruction, and administration of zoledronic acid and strontium-89 decreased her VAS pain score from 7–8 to 3–4. Radiotherapy and nerve decompression and release were ineffective, as was osteoplasty because of the location error. The epidural infusion system decreased the VAS score from 7–8 to 2–3 and was highly efficient.

Conclusions

Multidisciplinary integrated treatment for metastatic cancer can be effective.
Numerical simulations of a large offshore wind turbine exposed to turbulent inflow conditions
Authors: Bangga Galih , Guma Giorgia , Lutz Thorsten , Krämer Ewald
Published: March 2018

This work is intended to investigate the aerodynamic responses of a large generic 10-MW offshore wind turbine under turbulent inflow conditions. The nonlinear lifting line free vortex wake simulations approach is employed for this purpose, computed using the QBlade code. In these studies, the effects of a three-dimensional correction model for the airfoil polars were studied in advance. For this purpose, the blade element momentum computations employing the corrected polars are performed and compared to computational fluid dynamics simulations, and a good agreement is obtained between both employed approaches. Background turbulence is then imposed in the QLLT simulations with the turbulence intensities ranging from low to high turbulence levels (3%–15%). Furthermore, the impact of wind shear from different locations (offshore and onshore) is investigated in this work.
Linear coupled model for floating wind turbine control
Authors: Fontanella Alessandro , Bayati Ilmas , Belloli Marco
Published: March 2018

This work deals with an analytical linear coupled model describing the integrated aero-hydrodynamics of floating offshore wind turbines. Three degrees of freedom (platform surge, platform pitch and rotor azimuth) were considered with the goal of building a reduced-order model suitable for being integrated in control design algorithms as well as to be used for a straightforward evaluation and comprehension of the global system dynamics.
Open Versus Arthroscopic Latarjet Procedure for Anterior Shoulder Instability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Hurley Eoghan T. , Lim Fat Daren , Farrington Shane K. , Mullett Hannan
Published: March 2018

Background:

Anterior shoulder instability with significant glenoid bone loss is a challenging condition. The open Latarjet procedure is the established standard treatment method in this setting, but there is an increasing use of the arthroscopic technique.

Purpose:

To systematically review the current evidence in the literature to ascertain if the open or arthroscopic Latarjet procedure resulted in improved patient outcomes.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

A literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was performed based on the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses) guidelines. Cohort studies comparing the open and arthroscopic Latarjet procedures for anterior shoulder instability were included. Clinical outcomes were compared, with all statistical analysis performed using Review Manager (version 5.3). A P value of <.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Six clinical trials with 896 patients were included. The open and arthroscopic Latarjet procedures resulted in a similar number of total recurrent instability (2.0% vs 2.4%; P = .75), revision procedures (2.4% vs 5.4%; P = .06), and total complications (13.8% vs 11.9%; P = .50), but the open procedure had a lower rate of persistent apprehension (10.2% vs 35.7%; P < .05). In addition, after the learning curve, the operative time was similar between the 2 procedures.

Conclusion:

Both the open and arthroscopic Latarjet procedures result in significant improvements in patient function and outcome scores, with low rates of recurrent instability and similar complication rates. While technically challenging, the arthroscopic procedure has been shown to be a safe and viable alternative. However, there is a significant learning curve associated with the arthroscopic Latarjet procedure. The significant learning curve associated with this procedure suggests the arthroscopic procedure may be advisable to perform only in high-volume centers with experienced arthroscopists.
Completely Integrated Wearable TAH-drive Unit
Authors: Heimes H.P. , Klasen F.
Published: March 2018

A pneumatic, wearable, batter-powered TAH-drive unit is presented. This drive-unit is characterized by a very good overall efficiency, achieved by design optimization on one hand and controlled economized membrane displacement on the other.

The implemented control system facilitates an adoption to circulatory needs. The integrated micro-computer controls the whole pumping cycle and calculates the effective blood-side stroke volume by a beat to beat analysis of drive-side parameters.

It could be demonstrated in animal tests (calves) under varying loads that the available driving power is sufficient to maintain an adequate circulatory supply for calves up to 135 kg.

Further, it could be demonstrated that a sufficient right/left balance was obtained over the whole animal test duration.
Blood Pressure Behaviour in Hemodialysis Patients Treated for 10 Years
Authors: Degli Esposti E. , Boero R. , Chiarini C. , Negroni D. , Quarello F. , Santoro A. , Sturani A. , Zuccalà A. , Piccoli G. , Zucchelli P.
Published: March 2018

A longitudinal analysis of blood pressure was performed in 30 patients on hemodialysis for at least 10 years, in order to clarify the long-term outcome of hypertension in dialysis patients. Before the start of the dialysis treatment 22 (73.3%) patients were hypertensive, while, after 10 years, only 5 (16.6%) were still hypertensive. Body weight tended to decrease progressively thoughout the period of observation. Hypertension disappeared in the younger patients while it remained/appeared in those who were order showing the characteristics of systolic hypertension. Except for hematocrit no significant differences in metabolic findings were found between normotensive and hypertensive patients. ECG abnormalities were found to be more frequent after 10 years of dialysis than before the start of treatment. High blood pressure tends to disappear progressively in hemodialysis patients and to be no longer a problem in long-term survivors.
Treatment of Progressive Systemic Sclerosis with Plasma Exchange. Seven Cases
Authors: Guillevin L. , Leon A. , Levy Y. , Bletry O. , Gayraud M. , Andreu G. , Godeau P.
Published: March 2018

Seven patients, 4 women and 3 men afflicted with severe progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) were treated with Plasma Exchange after failure of different other treatment. All patients presented Raynaud phenomenon and arthritis, 6 patients presented extensive skin lesions, 5 of them digestive manifestations, 3 pulmonary fibrosis. In one case PSS was associated with polymyositis, one patient presented bilateral recurrent cornea ulcerations, (Sjögren Syndrom) and one patient numerous skin ulcerations. In 5 patients adjuvant corticosteroid therapy was given during the course of PE.

In 3 patients PE must be stopped after one or two sessions because of insufficient venous access.

Among the 4 other patients 8 to 20 PE were performed: the patient with cornea ulcerations became blind during the treatment, skin ulcerations and severe Raynaud phenomenon did not improved in two other patients. Benefit of PE was noted in only one patient with regressive myositis, and improvement of articular and cutaneous symptoms.

Therefore, PE are not useful in most patients afflicted with PSS, they are difficult to realize in numerous patients and did not improve clinical symptoms in most cases.
TSH Response to TRH in Hemodialysis and CAPD Patients
Authors: Giordano C. , De Santo N.G. , Carella C. , Mioli V. , Bazzato G. , Amato G. , Di Leo V.A. , Tarchini G. , Coli U. , Capodicasa G. , Landini G. , Nuzzi F. , De Simone V. , Esposito A.
Published: March 2018

The thyroid status was studied in 19 uremic patients (11 on HD and 8 on CAPD) and in a group of 17 healthy adult patients. In uremic patients T3 and T4 were significantly reduced (p < 0.001) and rT3 was increased (p < 0.001). The time course TSH response to TRH showed a lower peak response (in 5 patients it did not exceed 5 μU/ml) which on turn was also delayed (the peak was observed at 60 minutes in 63% of them). TSH concentrations in uremics were increased at 0 time (p < 0.02), lower at 20 minutes (p < 0.01) and increased at 120 minutes (p < 0.02). No difference existed between HD and CAPD. The thyroid response to TSH was normal as showed by a normal percent increase over basal values of T3 concentrations at 120 minutes. Uremic patients also showed a peak GH response at 20 minutes which was not observed in controls. The data exclude the existence on a primary form of hypothyroidism and point to the existence of hypothalamic-pituitary abnormalities, which should not be taken as indicative of secondary and/or tertiary hypothyroidism since FT4 values were normal in HD and increased in patients undergoing CAPD (p < 0.05) who on turn showed lower plasma albumin concentrations (p < 0.05).
Controlling Anticoagulation in Extracorporeal Blood Circuits (hemoperfusion)
Authors: Mor L. , Sideman S. , Mihich M. , Tzipiniuk A. , Lupovich S. , Brandes J.M.
Published: March 2018

The study demonstrates that different individuals (monkeys) need different heparin doses so as to avoid either clotting or bleeding when an extracorporeal blood system is involved. The linear correlation between PT and WBPTT values enables to utilize the latter for monitoring the heparin level in the blood. One procedure is based on the application of the Gotch and Keen intravenous heparinization model in its steady state limit by utilizing the pre-treatment evaluation of k/S, the ratio of the elimination rate constant to the individual's sensitivity to heparin. A second procedure involves the direct heparinization of the extracorporeal system. The heparin infusion rate is monitored through the arterial WBPTT values after relating the individual's PT or WBPTT values to the in vitro heparin concentration in the blood.

In vitro and in vivo study of the effect of hemoperfusion through a column containing anion exchange particles on the amount and rate of heparin administration indicates that only the in vivo results are meaningful. The sharp response of WBPTT to relatively small changes of citrate concentration in the blood precludes individual monitoring by WBPTT. Work on the advantage of utilizing heparin together with citrate is required.
The Status of Public Sector Pay Equity for Women of Color in the United States
Authors: Reese Catherine C.
Published: March 2018

Research by Reese and Warner and Llorens, Wenger, and Kellough assesses the relative pay of women in the United States. However, research on the relative pay of women of color remains scant. What kinds of factors predict relative pay for women of color, and are they the same as for White women? The author utilizes ordinary least squares (OLS) regression on an Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) panel data set on public sector employment by state to analyze the pay of Black, Hispanic, Asian, and American Indian women relative to men for 2005-2013. The author reaffirms that whether a woman lives in a state that has implemented a major gender pay equity measure is a significant factor determining her relative pay. Furthermore, the intersectional nature of public sector pay for women of color is numerically verified. Women fare better in states where they are descriptively represented in terms of gender and race/ethnic group.