bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intracranial Stenosis: Impact of Randomized Trials on Treatment Preferences of US Neurologists and Neurointerventionists
Authors: Turan Tanya N. , Cotsonis George , Lynn Michael J. , Wooley Rahim H. , Swanson Seegar , Williams Janice E. , Stern Barney J. , Derdeyn Colin P. , Fiorella David , Chimowitz Marc I.
Published: February 2014

Background and Purpose: Medical and endovascular treatment options for stroke prevention in patients with symptomatic intracranial stenosis have evolved over the past several decades, but the impact of 2 major multicenter randomized stroke prevention trials on physician practices has not been studied. We sought to determine changes in US physician treatment choices for patients with intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS) following 2 NIH-funded clinical trials that studied medical therapies (antithrombotic agents and risk factor control) and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting (PTAS). Methods: Anonymous surveys on treatment practices in patients with ICAS were sent to physicians at 3 time points: before publication of the NIH-funded Warfarin-Aspirin Symptomatic Intracranial Disease (WASID) trial (pre-WASID survey, 2004), 1 year after WASID publication (post-WASID survey, 2006) and 1 year after the publication of the NIH-funded Stenting and Aggressive Medical Management for Preventing Recurrent Stroke in Intracranial Stenosis (SAMMPRIS) trial (post-SAMMPRIS survey, 2012). Neurologists were invited to participate in the pre-WASID survey (n = 525). Neurologists and neurointerventionists were invited to participate in the post-WASID (n = 598) and post-SAMMPRIS (n = 2,080) surveys. The 3 surveys were conducted using web-based survey tools delivered by E-mail, and a fax-based response form delivered by E-mail and conventional mail. Data were analyzed using the χ2 test. Results: Before WASID, there was equipoise between warfarin and aspirin for stroke prevention in patients with ICAS. The number of respondents who recommended antiplatelet treatment for ICAS increased across all 3 surveys for both anterior circulation (pre-WASID = 44%, post-WASID = 85%, post-SAMMPRIS = 94%) and posterior circulation (pre-WASID = 36%, post-WASID = 74%, post-SAMMPRIS = 83%). The antiplatelet agent most commonly recommended after WASID was aspirin, but after SAMMPRIS it was the combination of aspirin and clopidogrel. The percentage of neurologists who recommended PTAS in >25% of ICAS patients increased slightly from pre-WASID (8%) to post-WASID surveys (12%), but then decreased again after SAMMPRIS (6%). The percentage of neurointerventionists who recommended PTAS in >25% of ICAS patients decreased from post-WASID (49%) to post-SAMMPRIS surveys (17%). Conclusions: The surveyed US physicians' recommended treatments for ICAS differed over the 3 survey periods, reflecting the results of the 2 NIH-funded clinical trials of ICAS and suggesting that these clinical trials changed practice in the USA.
Implementation of Telephone-Based Secondary Preventive Intervention after Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack - Participation Rate, Reasons for Nonparticipation and One-Year Mortality
Authors: Irewall Anna-Lotta , Bergström Lisa , Ögren Joachim , Laurell Katarina , Söderström Lars , Mooe Thomas
Published: February 2014

Background and Purpose: Patients who experience a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) are known to be at high risk of subsequent vascular events, underscoring the need for secondary preventive intervention. However, previous studies have indicated insufficiency in the implementation of secondary prevention, emphasizing the need to develop effective methods of follow-up. In the present study, we examined the potential of implementing a telephone-based, nurse-led, secondary preventive follow-up in stroke and TIA patients on a population level by analyzing the participation rate, reasons for nonparticipation, and one-year mortality. Methods: Between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2011, all patients admitted to Östersund hospital, Sweden, and diagnosed with either stroke or TIA were considered for inclusion into the secondary preventive follow-up. Baseline data were collected at the hospital, and reasons for nonparticipation were documented. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of the patient decision not to participate and to explore independent associations between baseline characteristics and exclusion. A one-year follow-up of mortality was also performed; the survival functions of the three groups (included, excluded, declining participation) was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier estimator. Results: From a total of 810 identified patients, 430 (53.1%) were included in the secondary preventive follow-up, 289 (35.7%) were excluded mainly due to physical or cognitive disability, and 91 (11.2%) declined participation. Age ≥85 years, ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke, modified Rankin scale score >3, body mass index ≥25, congestive heart failure, and lower education level were independently associated with exclusion, whereas lower education level was the only factor independently associated with the patient decision not to participate. Exclusion was associated with a more than 12 times higher risk of mortality within the first year after discharge. Conclusion: Population-based implementation of secondary prevention in stroke and TIA patients is limited by the high prevalence of comorbidity and a considerable degree of disability. In our study, a large proportion of patients were unable to participate even in this simple form of secondary preventive follow-up. Exclusion was associated with substantially higher one-year mortality, and education level was independently associated with physical ability as well as the motivation to participate in the secondary preventive follow-up program.
How Reproducible Are 2-Dimensional Ultrasonographic Follicular Diameter Measurements from Stored 3-Dimensional Files of Ovarian Scanning
Authors: Servaes Katja , Van Schoubroeck Dominique , Welkenhuysen Myriam , D'Hooghe Thomas , De Neubourg Diane
Published: February 2014

Aim: To investigate intra- and inter-observer variability in 2-dimensional (2D) follicular measurements among midwives sub-specialized in medically assisted reproduction (MAR), using a new 3D tool imitating real-life ovarian scanning. Methods: Six 3D ultrasound volumes from stimulated ovaries were recorded and stored on the ultrasound device (Voluson i, GE Healthcare). Two junior midwives (with 6-36 months' ultrasound scanning experience) and 5 seniors (>36 months' experience) assessed the number of follicles per ovary and the average size of each follicle ≥10 mm off-line. There were 2 time points of measurement by each midwife with a mean interval of 12.7 weeks (±10.7). Intra- and inter-observer variability in the number of follicles, the mean follicle size and the diameter of the largest follicle were investigated using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: There was no significant intra- or inter-observer variability among midwives in the evaluation of the number of follicles, their diameter or the diameter of the largest follicle, even when juniors and seniors were compared. Conclusions: These data support the view that well-trained midwives can perform 2D follicle measurements to monitor MAR treatment in a reproducible way, and that prerecorded 3D volumes can also be used for quality control purposes.
Micropapillary Carcinoma of the Urinary Tract: A Cytologic Study of Urine and Fine-Needle Aspirate Samples
Authors: González-Peramato Pilar , Jiménez-Heffernan José A. , Vicandi Blanca , López-Ferrer Pilar , Bárcena Carmen , Álvarez-Rodríguez Federico , Picazo María L. , Viguer José M.
Published: February 2014

Objective: Micropapillary carcinoma (MPC) is an aggressive variant of urothelial carcinoma that needs early and specific recognition. In order to determine whether this tumor variant can be recognized with cytology, we evaluated a large cytohistological series. Study Design: It was a retrospective cytohistological correlation study including 20 patients with MPC. Only those cases in which the tumor exhibited >50% of micropapillary growth were selected. Twenty exfoliative urine specimens and four needle aspirates from lymph node metastases were reviewed. Results: On histology, 14 cases were infiltrative, while 6 were exclusively superficial. Cytology was characterized by numerous small, cohesive groups and single neoplastic cells. Pseudopapillae were present in 17 cases and in 9 they were a relevant finding. Morules were present in 15 cases. Isolated microacini were seen in 14 cases. Infiltrative tumors showed more neoplastic groups. Cellular atypia was prominent in 17 cases. In 15 cases, a cytologic diagnosis of urothelial carcinoma was made. One case was diagnosed as adenocarcinoma. The remaining 4 cases were considered suspicious of malignancy. Conclusions: The peculiar morphology of MPC of the urinary tract is partially reflected on cytology, allowing in some cases a specific recognition. This is important since the aggressive behavior of this neoplasm needs rapid management and treatment.
Smoking and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Messner Barbara , Bernhard David
Published: February 2014

Smoking represents one of the most important preventable risk factors for the development of atherosclerosis. The present review aims at providing a comprehensive summary of published data from clinical and animal studies, as well as results of basic research on the proatherogenic effect of smoking. Extensive search and review of literature revealed a vast amount of data on the influence of cigarette smoke and its constituents on early atherogenesis, particularly on endothelial cells. Vascular dysfunction induced by smoking is initiated by reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and further by the increased expression of adhesion molecules and subsequent endothelial dysfunction. Smoking-induced increased adherence of platelets and macrophages provokes the development of a procoagulant and inflammatory environment. After transendothelial migration and activation, macrophages take up oxidized lipoproteins arising from oxidative modifications and transdifferentiate into foam cells. In addition to direct physical damage to endothelial cells, smoking induces tissue remodeling, and prothrombotic processes together with activation of systemic inflammatory signals, all of which contribute to atherogenic vessel wall changes. There are still great gaps in our knowledge about the effects of smoking on cardiovascular disease. However, we know that smoking cessation is the most effective measure for reversing damage that has already occurred and preventing fatal cardiovascular outcomes.
Introduction to a Dandy, Part I
Authors: Morse Benjamin
Published: February 2014

The first half of this introduction to Qoheleth reads the book as a record of ideas mulled over by a dandy at a series of salons. While scholars have attempted to impose order on the book’s structure and classify it according to genres, I formulate an understanding of the speaker’s lively wisdom from the extraneous voices of John Galsworthy, Beau Brummell and Oscar Wilde. Thomas Carlyle’s Sartor Resartus (The Tailor Retailored) serves as a model of fictional philosophy that allows us to appreciate Qoheleth’s existential concerns as both ironic and serious. I keep references to biblical commentaries at bay and create a typology within which the biblical sage comes to life as a social creature of comfort. Part II will draw a specific parallel between the book’s first chapter and a collage by the conceptual dandy Marcel Duchamp. For the moment Qoheleth’s charms are given a fresh face via creative interdisciplinary comparison.
“Israel” and “Jew” as Markers of Jewish Identity in Antiquity: The Problems of Insider/Outsider Classification
Authors: Thiel Nathan
Published: February 2014

Abstract

Building on K. G. Kuhn’s TWNT entry on the names “Israel” and “Jew” in post-Hebrew Bible Jewish literature, many scholars have claimed that the two ethnonyms can be classified as insider and outsider designations respectively. This essay nuances that categorization. While Kuhn and subsequent scholars have rightly noted the uneven distribution of the names, the exceptions to an insider/outsider model are too numerous to maintain it without modification. Both “Israel” and “Jew” were insider names whose usage in Jewish literature was influenced by the speech situation of the author as well as by consciousness of the biblical narrative.
Revision of Hygrochilus (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Aeridinae) and a molecular phylogenetic analysis
Authors: LI MING-HE , ZHANG GUO-QIANG , LIU ZHONG-JIAN , LAN SI-REN
Published: February 2014

Hygrochilus and Sedirea are genera of orchids with only three species endemic to Asia. An analysis of ITS and five plastid regions using parsimony, maximum likelihood, and Bayesian methods obtain clear evidence that Sedirea is nested within and should be considered synonymous with Hygrochilus. We adopt a broadly defined Hygrochilus characterized by possession of four pollinia. A new combination, namely, Hygrochilus japonica, and a new species, namely, Hygrochilus tsii (Orchidaceae: Epidedroideae: Aeridinae), are proposed.
Adipokines, Vascular Wall, and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Maresca Fabio , Palma Vito Di , Bevilacqua Michele , Uccello Giuseppe , Taglialatela Vittorio , Giaquinto Alessandro , Esposito Giovanni , Trimarco Bruno , Cirillo Plinio
Published: February 2014

Epidemiological evidence has shown that abdominal obesity is closely associated with the development of cardiovascular (CV) disease, suggesting that it might be considered as an independent CV risk factor. However, the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for the association between these 2 clinical entities remain largely unknown. Adipocytes are considered able to produce and secrete chemical mediators known as “adipokines” that may exert several biological actions, including those on heart and vessels. Of interest, a different adipokine profile can be observed in the plasma of patients with obesity or metabolic syndrome compared with healthy controls. We consider the main adipokines, focusing on their effects on the vascular wall and analyzing their role in CV pathophysiology.
Critical Thinking Skills Among Elementary School Students
Authors: Kettler Todd
Published: February 2014

Education reform efforts, including the current adoption of Common Core State Standards, have increased attention to teaching critical thinking skills to all students. This study investigated the critical thinking skills of fourth-grade students from a school district in Texas, including 45 identified gifted students and 163 general education students. Identified gifted students outperformed general education students on both the Cornell Critical Thinking Test and the Test of Critical Thinking ( d = 1.52 and d = 1.36, respectively). There was no evidence of main effects or interaction effects for gender in measures of critical thinking within these samples. Critical thinking scores of students in the three schools did not differ significantly, nor were differences in scores associated with length of exposure to the gifted education program. The association of higher ability with advanced critical thinking skills, but at the same time, the lack of evidence of an effect of the gifted education programs (which did not focus specifically on critical thinking skills) suggests that differentiation of curriculum and instruction for gifted or advanced learners might fruitfully include deliberate differentiation of instruction in this area.
Understanding the positive and negative effects of emotional expressions in organizations: EASI does it
Authors: van Kleef Gerben A
Published: February 2014

Emotions have a pervasive impact on organizational behavior. They do not just influence people’s own actions; when expressed, emotions may also exert influence on other organization members who perceive the expressions. Sometimes emotional expressions have ‘symmetrical’ effects, in that positive expressions yield advantageous outcomes for the expresser, while negative expressions produce disadvantageous outcomes. In other cases effects are ‘asymmetrical’, such that negative emotional expressions generate beneficial outcomes for the expresser, while positive expressions produce detrimental outcomes. Drawing on Emotions as Social Information (EASI) theory, I develop a theoretical analysis of when and how expressions of anger and happiness generate symmetrical versus asymmetrical effects. I support my analysis with a review of empirical research on the interpersonal effects of anger and happiness in negotiations and leadership. This review permits two general conclusions: (1) symmetrical effects of anger and happiness are mediated by affective reactions of perceivers, whereas asymmetrical effects are mediated by inferential processes in perceivers; (2) the relative strength of affective reactions versus inferential processes (and thereby the likelihood of symmetrical versus asymmetrical effects) depends on the perceiver’s information processing motivation and ability and on the perceived appropriateness of the emotional display. I discuss theoretical implications and future directions.
Categorization and identification: The identity work of ‘business sellers’ on eBay
Authors: Curchod Corentin , Patriotta Gerardo , Neysen Nicolas
Published: February 2014

This article aims at gaining a better understanding of how, in a market environment, categorized actors construct their identity in relation to the category to which they are assigned. Drawing on extensive fieldwork conducted at eBay, we consider how the newly categorized ‘business sellers’ connected eBay’s framing of the category (categorical framing) to their subjective interpretations of it (categorical self). We find that business sellers perceived varying levels of discrepancy between categorical framing and categorical self, which led them to engage in processes of identification, identity work and disidentification. Based on our findings, we present a framework relating the level of perceived discrepancies to distinctive paths of identification and we draw implications for understanding the interaction of categorization and identification. The framework highlights how feelings of self-enhancement, injustice and alienation intervene in orienting individuals’ paths of identification.
Adolescents’ Perspectives of Youth Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Prevention
Authors: Berger Emily , Hasking Penelope , Martin Graham
Published: February 2014

Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) is of increasing concern, yet many adolescents who self-injure are reluctant to seek professional help. Instead, they turn to friends for support, although it is unclear what these friends can offer. This study aimed to identify adolescents’ views of how peers and online friends can help young people who self-injure, and examine differences according to age, gender, and exposure to NSSI. Students ( n = 2,637; aged 12-18 years) from 41 schools completed questions asking them to describe what peers and online friends could do to help young people who self-injure. Thematic analysis identified seven strategies, including communication about NSSI with peers and online friends, referral to adults and health professionals, greater public awareness of NSSI, and reduced peer stigma and bullying. Endorsement of themes varied by age, gender, and experience with NSSI. Findings have implications for school prevention of NSSI.
Measuring Tourists’ Emotional Experiences
Authors: Hosany Sameer , Prayag Girish , Deesilatham Siripan , Cauševic Senija , Odeh Khaled
Published: February 2014

This study is an extension of Hosany and Gilbert’s original research on the development of a scale measuring the diversity and intensity of tourists’ emotional experiences toward destinations: the Destination Emotion Scale (DES). The DES consists of 15 items, representing three emotional dimensions: joy, love, and positive surprise. Although the DES displays solid psychometric properties, additional evidence is required of the scale’s validity. Using data collected from international tourists visiting two distinct destinations, Petra (Jordan) and Thailand, this study further examines the scale’s construct validity. Adopting state-of-the-art procedures guiding scale validation, results confirm the unidimensionality, reliability, convergent, discriminant, and nomological validity of the DES. In particular, discriminant validity tests show that emotions and place attachment are related but distinct constructs. The DES provides a useful tool for marketers and researchers to measure tourists’ emotional responses toward destinations.
Premonitory signs and symptoms of envenoming by common krait (Bungarus caeruleus)
Authors: Bawaskar HS , Bawaskar PH , Bawaskar Parag H
Published: February 2014

Between January 2005 and August 2011 141 victims of krait bite poisoning were admitted to the general hospital at Mahad. Clinical signs and symptoms preceding the development of neuroparalysis were analyzed. Fifty-six percent of patients were male. A total of 140 victims reported between midnight and 05:00. Patients awoke in the night due to abdominal colic (85%) and chest pain (72%). Patients gave a history of vomiting (42%), sweating (17%) and excessive salivation (35%). On arrival at hospital, 78% cases had dysphasia with pooling of saliva, 89% had heaviness in both eyelids and ptosis; 12.5% of patients died on the way to hospital while 13.47% died during treatment. In total, 74.46% recovered, and of these 48% needed artificial ventilation. The sudden onset of abdominal colic and vomiting in a person sleeping on the floor without a mosquito net led to neuroparalysis due to krait bite poisoning.
Ophthalmic presentation of relapsed HTLV1- associated adult T-cell leukaemia lymphoma (ATLL) in a Trinidadian man
Authors: Charles Kenneth S , Leelah Niall , Murray Desiree C
Published: February 2014

The ophthalmic presentation of relapse in a patient with human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV1) associated adult T-cell lymphoma leukaemia is described. Epidemiology, clinical features and therapeutic options are briefly reviewed. Antenatal screening and inclusion of HTLV1 in the differential diagnosis of inflammatory and neuromuscular eye conditions should be considered in endemic regions.
A tabloid mind? Professional values and organizational pressures as explanations of tabloid journalism
Authors: Skovsgaard Morten
Published: February 2014

Tabloidization of news and its potential threat to democracy is a recurring issue in debates among scholars and journalists. Most research focuses on measuring either content or the effects of tabloid-style content and often leaves the antecedents of the content as a ‘black box’. This study compares tabloid journalists to other journalists based on a survey of Danish journalists ( N = 1550). It shows that tabloid journalists in many regards hold professional values that differ from the values of other journalists and that they experience different pressures from the organization in which they work. In their journalistic style tabloid journalists emphasize personalization and sensationalist news values more and relevance news values less than other journalists. Finally, tabloid-style journalism is to some extent driven by profit orientation in journalists as well as in their organizations. However, the study also shows that journalists’ adherence to the role as public mobilizer is positively related to personalization, which implies that tabloidization might carry benefits and not only threats to democracy.
Lifting the Veil
Authors: Bimper Albert Y.
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of post-racial narratives and colorblind racism in a case of Black intercollegiate student athlete experiences. This case study engaged a critical race theory (CRT) perspective and colorblind ideologies to advance an understanding of participant experiences and extend the CRT literature. Findings indicate that participants recognize racial beliefs and racial inequities abound and that colorblind racism has indirectly affected their experiences and perceptions. The findings are illuminated using the four colorblind racism frames: abstract liberalism, naturalization, cultural racism, and minimization of racism. Implications for enhancing student athlete programming, preparing others to work with student athlete populations, and continuing CRT sport scholarship are further discussed.
The Relationship Between Media Multitasking and Executive Function in Early Adolescents
Authors: Baumgartner Susanne E. , Weeda Wouter D. , van der Heijden Lisa L. , Huizinga Mariëtte
Published: February 2014

The increasing prevalence of media multitasking among adolescents is concerning because it may be negatively related to goal-directed behavior. This study investigated the relationship between media multitasking and executive function in 523 early adolescents (aged 11-15; 48% girls). The three central components of executive functions (i.e., working memory, shifting, and inhibition) were measured using self-reports and standardized performance-based tasks (Digit Span, Eriksen Flankers task, Dots–Triangles task). Findings show that adolescents who media multitask more frequently reported having more problems in the three domains of executive function in their everyday lives. Media multitasking was not related to the performance on the Digit Span and Dots–Triangles task. Adolescents who media multitasked more frequently tended to be better in ignoring irrelevant distractions in the Eriksen Flankers task. Overall, results suggest that media multitasking is negatively related to executive function in everyday life.
Virtual species distribution models
Authors: Miller Jennifer A.
Published: February 2014

Species distribution models (SDMs) have become a dominant paradigm for quantifying species-environment relationships, and both the models and their outcomes have seen widespread use in conservation studies, particularly in the context of climate change research. With the growing interest in SDMs, extensive comparative studies have been undertaken. However, few generalizations and recommendations have resulted from these empirical studies, largely due to the confounding effects of differences in and interactions among the statistical methods, species traits, data characteristics, and accuracy metrics considered. This progress report addresses ‘virtual species distribution models’: the use of spatially explicit simulated data to represent a ‘true’ species distribution in order to evaluate aspects of model conceptualization and implementation. Simulating a ‘true’ species distribution, or a virtual species distribution, and systematically testing how these aspects affect SDMs, can provide an important baseline and generate new insights into how these issues affect model outcomes.
Professor Donald Johnson’s list of Landmark Papers (1878–1998) in geomorphology and soil geomorphology – an appreciation
Authors: Schaetzl Randall J.
Published: February 2014

This paper provides the complete list of papers that were read and discussed in graduate seminars run in 1998 and 2001 by Professor Donald Johnson of the University of Illinois. A literature sleuth, Professor Johnson’s courses provide insight into what he thought were the major papers and books that helped guide and advance the fields of soil geomorphology in particular, and geomorphology in general. To his list I have taken the liberty of adding some papers that he either missed or was too modest to include, i.e. some of his own! Delving into the deep literature is hard work. I hope that this paper shows the appreciation that I have for the effort that Professor Johnson put into this task, over many years. In this era of rapid knowledge and literature expansion, it is also my hope that this list helps budding (and seasoned) geomorphologists to delve into the classic literature.
Syphilis masquerading as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Hartley AJ , Rajakariar R , Sheaff M , Buckland M , Goh B , O’Connell R
Published: February 2014

A patient referred to the genitourinary clinic for positive syphilis serology was found to have symptoms and signs of nephrotic syndrome. A renal biopsy showed focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Doxycycline 200 mg twice daily for 28 days coincided with considerable decrease in proteinuria and rise in serum albumin, suggesting a causal relationship.
Chancroid – desperate patient makes own diagnosis
Authors: Barnes P , Chauhan M
Published: February 2014

We report a case of chancroid in a white heterosexual man in the United Kingdom. This patient was seen by four separate health services over a period of five weeks with excruciatingly painful penile ulcers. Despite several negative herpes simplex virus polymerase chain reaction tests and a self-diagnosis of chancroid, he was repeatedly offered multiple courses of aciclovir. This case highlights the need for awareness of alternative diagnoses in persistent cases of genital ulcer disease.
Falling through the cracks? Missed opportunities for earlier HIV diagnosis in a New York City Hospital
Authors: Nakao Jolene H , Wiener Dan E , Newman David H , Sharp Victoria L , Egan Daniel J
Published: February 2014

Summary

Newly diagnosed HIV-positive patients have frequent health care encounters prior to diagnosis representing missed opportunities for diagnosis. This study determines the proportion of patients with new HIV diagnoses with encounters in the 3 years prior to diagnosis. We describe the characteristics of newly diagnosed patients and of “late testers” (CD4 <200 cells/mm3 at the time of diagnosis). We identified all newly diagnosed with HIV in emergency department, inpatient, and outpatient settings between May 1, 2006, and December 31, 2009. Data abstractors searched hospital records to identify all emergency department, inpatient, and outpatient visits for the 3 years prior to diagnosis. In all, 23,271 HIV tests were performed and 253 persons were newly diagnosed (1.1%); 152 new positives (60.1%) made at least one prior visit. Of patients with CD4 counts available, 104/175 (59.4%) had CD4 <200 cells/mm3. Patients with at least one prior visit had a median of three. There was no difference in numbers of visits between late testers and non-late testers, although late testers were more likely to have ED visits. Most newly diagnosed HIV-positive patients had multiple encounters prior to diagnosis. Many of these patients presented with CD4 counts below 200 cells/mm3, indicating true missed opportunities for earlier diagnosis.
Continuous Theta-Burst Stimulation Demonstrates a Causal Role of Premotor Homunculus in Action Understanding
Authors: Michael John , Sandberg Kristian , Skewes Joshua , Wolf Thomas , Blicher Jakob , Overgaard Morten , Frith Chris D.
Published: February 2014

Although it is well established that regions of premotor cortex (PMC) are active during action observation, it remains controversial whether they play a causal role in action understanding. In the experiment reported here, we used off-line continuous theta-burst stimulation (cTBS) to investigate this question. Participants received cTBS over the hand and lip areas of left PMC, in separate sessions, before completing a pantomime-recognition task in which half of the trials contained pantomimed hand actions, and half contained pantomimed mouth actions. The results reveal a double dissociation: Participants were less accurate in recognizing pantomimed hand actions after receiving cTBS over the hand area than over the lip area and less accurate in recognizing pantomimed mouth actions after receiving cTBS over the lip area than over the hand area. This finding constrains theories of action understanding by showing that somatotopically organized regions of PMC contribute causally to action understanding and, thus, that the mechanisms underpinning action understanding and action performance overlap.
Re-examining the Relationship Between Civil Society and the Internet
Authors: Rao Anuradha
Published: February 2014

The increasing frequency and proficiency of Internet use by civil society groups is touted by its proponents as proof of the Internet’s democratic credentials. Studies that highlight the Internet-civil society relationship assume: firstly, that intertwining of online and offline activity furthers democratic goals and secondly, the willingness and ability of civil society actors to effectively utilize the Internet. Such assumptions are critically re-examined in light of fieldwork conducted in Bangalore city, India in 2011–2012. This article examines attitudes towards the Internet among members of Hasiru Usiru, a largely Internet-based network of concerned citizens and groups that works to protect greenery and other urban commons in the city. In-depth interviews with the ‘core group’ of active members revealed intense scepticism towards and refusal to engage deeply with, the Internet for activism. The article focuses on the apparent dichotomy that arises from the propagation of a pessimistic view of the Internet by actors who are regular Internet users, situated in a media rich environment of the ‘IT City’ of India. These findings are relevant in light of the commonly-held belief that new technologies are uncritically and automatically embraced by civil society in its democratic quest.
Dumped through Technology
Authors: Chandola Tripta
Published: February 2014

This article critically examines the position of slum-dwellers as citizens and the entitlements available to them within the transforming urban materiality of Delhi. By undertaking a detailed analysis of the media reportage of the recently released ‘Housing Stock, Amenities & Assets in Slums—Census 2001’, this article argues that there is a systemic and strategic shift in the imagination of ‘marginalized’ groups—here, namely the slum dwellers—as ‘citizens’, which significantly limits their ‘right to the city’. Within this imagination there is a deliberation to consider the ‘marginalized’ groups as proactive ‘consumers’ , such that ‘amnesia of the experience of poverty’, is sustained by situating their position as citizens within the topos of their media consumption practices and trends. This article draws upon decade long ethnographic research in the slums of Govindpuri, which is highlighted as a case study. It attempts to situate the shifting position of the ‘marginalized’ groups as ‘citizens’ determined within the particular and peculiar logic of neo-liberalism in developing countries wherein ‘cleanliness’ not only becomes a state of being but essential to ‘being’ a part of the State. The article particularly emphasizes on the deliberately ‘diminishing’ role the State intends to play in the welfare of the ‘marginalized’.
Book Review: Cyberculture and the Subaltern: Weavings of the Virtual and Real
Authors: Patra Santosh K.
Published: February 2014

Radhika Gajjala(ed), Cyberculture and the Subaltern: Weavings of the Virtual and Real. Plymouth: Lexington Books. 2012
Measuring Personal Chemical Exposures Through Biomonitoring
Authors: Washburn Rachel
Published: February 2014

Using a technique called human biomonitoring, scientists can now measure hundreds of environmental chemicals and/or their metabolites in human body fluids and tissues. In this article, I examine the experiences of 28 women who participated in two different types of biomonitoring studies and received personal exposure results. I show that although the women’s experiences of biomonitoring differed and were shaped by the contexts in which biomonitoring occurred, there were also remarkable similarities across contexts. Most notably, through the receipt of personal biomonitoring data, all of the women came to view themselves as partially, if not entirely, responsible for their chemical exposures (past, present, and future). These are novel findings, which suggest that as scientists increasingly measure individuals’ exposures to environmental chemicals found in common consumer products and food, the distinctions between environmental and lifestyle risks are being blurred; that is, environmental risks are increasingly experienced as lifestyle risks.
An intelligent fuzzy logic–based system to support quality function deployment analysis
Authors: Iranmanesh Seyed H , Rastegar Hamid , Mokhtarani Mohammad H
Published: February 2014

Quality function deployment is an efficient and powerful tool in design, development, and planning of products. The main function of quality function deployment is conversion of VOC to technical characteristics or voice of designer. However, it is not always easy to prioritize and assess technical characteristics during the total mass of information from the different customer attitudes. This article provides a methodology for the development of an intelligent quality function deployment based on fuzzy inference system in order to capture information through house of quality. As quality function deployment integrates different components of design and development, intelligent quality function deployment would be the best replacement for human expertise and can support decision-makers in wide range of design and development. This methodology applied on a classic sample for the design of a new undergraduate curriculum in an engineering department of a university as an illustrative example shows capability of this method. This article is composed of the background of quality function deployment, review of related research works, and representation of an intelligent system for analyzing it.
Effects of Social Status and Temperament of Children on the Marital Status of Chinese Post-1980s Group
Authors: Liu Wen , Zou Qinghong , Liu Juan , Tu Xintian
Published: February 2014

The temperament of children and level of social support for couples often significantly impact marital status. This article will attempt to explain these phenomena through the use of questionnaires distributed among families in the Dalian city. This random sampling questionnaire will explore the relationships among post-1980s marriages in the areas of social support and the effects of temperament of children upon the marital relationship. The post-1980s group will be defined, differences between this group and previous generations will be examined, and the societal impact of this group will be explored. The aim of the authors through this study is to improve the marital quality of the post-1980s marital group and provide harmony and stability in the further development of society.
Duopoly Light? Service Agreements and Local TV
Authors: Yanich Danilo
Published: February 2014

The United States is in the middle of a debate about media ownership with clear lines of demarcation. The industry claims that regulation is burdensome, unnecessary, and disruptive of market mechanisms. Media reformers counter that relying only on the market can be detrimental to the public interest. This research revealed that service agreements among stations in the same television market have a profound effect on the content of local TV news as station managers and owners achieve economies of scale in the use of anchors, reporters, scripts, and graphics/video.
Intermedia Attribute Agenda Setting in the New York Times
Authors: Denham Bryan E.
Published: February 2014

In 2012, the New York Times published a series of reports addressing doping and fatal breakdowns in U.S. horse racing. This study examines the extent to which the Times transferred the salience of certain story attributes to news media at the regional and national levels. Reports appearing after the Times began its investigation were more likely to mention (1) an injured or deceased horse, (2) equine drug use, and (3) a trainer suspension or other disciplinary action. The study concludes that, in addition to transferring object salience, the Times also may affect how news organizations characterize issues and events.
Fixed, low-dose rasburicase for the treatment or prevention of hyperuricemia in adult oncology patients
Authors: Herrington Jon D , Dinh Brian C
Published: February 2014

Purpose

Rasburicase is a recombinant urate oxidase enzyme administered to high risk patients or to those with preexisting hyperuricemia from tumor lysis syndrome (TLS). The objective of this retrospective review is to evaluate and characterize the use of fixed, low-dose rasburicase for the treatment of hyperuricemia in adult patients.

Patients/Methods

A retrospective chart review from 1 October 2005 to 31 December 2011 was conducted in adult oncology patients who received fixed, low-dose rasburicase. Patients who met the inclusion criteria were evaluated for the uric acid level change from baseline and the achievement of uric acid level less than 8 mg/dL.

Results

Forty-five patients were included in the analysis in which 26 (58%) patients received 3 mg rasburicase. For the 39 patients with baseline uric acid levels 8 mg/dL or higher, 80% achieved a uric acid level lower than 8 mg/dL with a single rasburicase dose. Six patients (13%) required renal replacement therapy despite rasburicase. The median uric acid level reduction 24 h post rasburicase dose 1.5 mg, 3 mg, 4.5 mg, and 6 mg were 5.5, 5.8, 3.8, and 10.05 mg/dL, respectively. There was no clinical difference between obese and non-obese patients in terms of their median uric acid reduction, 5.5 vs. 7 mg/dL, respectively.

Conclusion

Fixed, low dose rasburicase produced a consistent lowering of uric acid levels and may be utilized in the management of hyperuricemia in TLS. Further study is necessary to determine if a larger fixed dose would be required in those patients with a higher baseline uric acid level.
Evaluation of Management Alternatives for Truck Wash Water Generated During Winter Maintenance Activities
Authors: Miller Christopher M. , Schneider William H. , Kennedy Marla J.
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this research was to identify alternative strategies for managing wash water generated during routine washing of salt trucks at Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) maintenance facilities lacking access to sanitary sewer and to assess their costs. Eighteen potential management strategies were identified and evaluated. Six of these strategies were included in a detailed cost analysis, which indicated that site-specific conditions directly affect the cost of alternative management strategies and that tying a facility into the sanitary sewer is not always the most cost-effective strategy. For a county maintenance facility with 12 trucks and 30 winter events, tying into the sanitary sewer was the most cost-effective strategy when the capital cost was less than US$173,640; however, when the capital cost was greater than US$285,333, four of the five alternative strategies identified were more cost-effective than tying into the sanitary sewer.
Snapshots from the margins
Authors: Baban Feyzi , Rygiel Kim
Published: February 2014

Right-wing parties and governments in Europe have recently expressed greater hostility towards cultural pluralism, at times officially denunciating multiculturalism, and calling for the closure of borders and denial of rights to non-European nationals. Within this context, this article argues for rethinking Europe through radically transgressive and transnational understandings of cosmopolitanism as articulated by growing transnational populations within Europe such as immigrants, refugees, and irregular migrants. Transgressive forms of cosmopolitanism disrupt European notions of borders and identities in ways that challenge both liberal multiculturalism and assimilationist positions. This article explores the limits of traditional cosmopolitan thinking while offering a vision of cosmopolitanism based on everyday negotiations with cultural differences, explained using two illustrative examples or snapshots.
Empowering patients through social media: The benefits and challenges
Authors: Househ Mowafa , Borycki Elizabeth , Kushniruk Andre
Published: February 2014

This article explores the range of social media platforms used by patients and examines the benefits and challenges of using these tools from a patient perspective. A literature review was performed to investigate the use of social media technology by patients. The MEDLINE database was searched using the terms “social media” and “patient.” The search was conducted in September 2012 and yielded 765 abstracts. Initially, 63 abstracts were selected. All articles dating from 2004 through 2012 were included. Only 12 articles were found to be relevant for the purposes of the review. The results of this research found that there appears to be an increase in the use of social media by patients across the healthcare spectrum. The research indicates a promising future for the use of social media by patients; however, evidence related to the efficacy and effectiveness of social media is currently limited. Various challenges have also been identified relating to privacy and security concerns, usability, the manipulation of identity, and misinformation. The use of social media technology is an emerging trend for patients who are seeking health information. Conclusions are that such technology holds promise for improving patient engagement and empowerment and community building. Social media has a future in healthcare, especially with regard to patient engagement and empowerment; however, there are several challenges to overcome before the technology can achieve its potential.
Model predictive control of a hybrid autonomous underwater vehicle with experimental verification
Authors: Steenson Leo V , Turnock Stephen R , Phillips Alexander B , Harris Catherine , Furlong Maaten E , Rogers Eric , Wang Liuping , Bodles Kenneth , Evans Derek W
Published: February 2014

In this work, model predictive control is used to provide transit and hover capabilities for an autonomous underwater vehicle where the description of the system dynamics used include terms measured experimentally. The resulting controller manoeuvres the vehicle in the presence of constraints on the actuators and results obtained from the deployment of the vehicle in an inland lake for the study of the zebra mussel, an invasive species, are also given.
Guided wave–based condition assessment of in situ timber utility poles using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Dackermann Ulrike , Skinner Bradley , Li Jianchun
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a machine-learning-based approach for the structural health monitoring (SHM) of in-situ timber utility poles based on guided wave (GW) propagation. The proposed non-destructive testing method combines a new multi-sensor testing system with advanced statistical signal processing techniques and state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms for the condition assessment of timber utility poles. Currently used pole inspection techniques have critical limitations including the inability to assess the underground section. GW methods, on the other hand, are techniques potentially capable of evaluating non-accessible areas and of detecting internal damage. However, due to the lack of solid understanding on the GW propagation in timber poles, most methods fail to fully interpret wave patterns from field measurements. The proposed method utilises an innovative multi-sensor testing system that captures wave signals along a sensor array and it applies machine learning algorithms to evaluate the soundness of a pole. To validate the new method, it was tested on eight in-situ timber poles. After the testing, the poles were dismembered to determine their actual health states. Various state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms with advanced data pre-processing were applied to classify the poles based on the wave measurements. It was found that using a support vector machine classifier, with the GW signals transformed into autoregressive coefficients, achieved a very promising maximum classification accuracy of 95.7±3.1% using 10-fold cross validation on multiple training and testing instances. Using leave-one-out cross validation, a classification accuracy of 93.3±6.0% for bending wave and 85.7±10.8% for longitudinal wave excitation was achieved.