bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cryptic diversity in the Azorean beetle genus Tarphius Erichson, 1845 (Coleoptera: Zopheridae): An integrative taxonomic approach with description of four new species
Authors: BORGES PAULO A. V. , AMORIM ISABEL R. , TERZOPOULOU SOFIA , RIGAL FRANÇOIS , EMERSON BRENT C. , SERRANO ARTUR R.M.
Published: February 2017

Recent findings based on molecular data support the occurrence in the Azores of several independently evolving lineages of the beetle genus Tarphius Erichson, 1845 (Coleoptera: Zopheridae Solier, 1834) and higher species richness masked by cryptic diversity, needing formal taxonomic description. All Tarphius from the Azores are revised using an integrative taxonomic approach, using evidence from morphology, morphometrics and molecular data to delimit species. Our results reveal that Azorean Tarphius comprise at least five phyletic lineages, two of which share a similar morphology, despite being divergent at the molecular level. A total of four new species are described grouped into two complexes: i) two new species in the “complex tornvalli” with the new taxa Tarphius relictus sp. nov. (Terceira) and Tarphius furtadoi sp. nov. (São Jorge, Faial and Pico) and; ii) two new species in the “complex azoricus-wollastoni-depressus” with the new taxa Tarphius gabrielae sp. nov. (Pico) and Tarphius floresensis sp. nov. (Flores). Descriptions, photographs of holotypes and morphological details, and remarks on diagnostic features comparing similar species are presented. Additional information on the distribution and conservation status of the 12 described species in the archipelago is also provided.
Analysis of Precipitation Projections over the Climate Gradient of the Arkansas Red River Basin
Authors: Qiao Lei , Zou Chris B. , Gaitán Carlos F. , Hong Yang , McPherson Renee A.
Published: February 2017

Increases in the frequency and intensity of extreme precipitation are projected for most U.S. regions under climate change. There is a high degree of uncertainty, however, in precipitation regime changes across the large precipitation gradient of the Arkansas Red River basin (ARRB). The authors analyzed future precipitation regimes using two statistical downscaling datasets based on the scenarios from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5). Seasonal precipitation in low-to-high quantiles was calculated and compared for the southern ARRB where the downscaled data were available. The results showed a generally comparable shift in precipitation patterns and amounts between the two datasets. However, some spatial variation of precipitation amount change exists, and the direction of change could be opposite for the summer. Both datasets showed that the top 10% of monthly precipitation amounts could increase for the southern ARRB, mostly ranging from 5–10 mm month−1 for the early part of the century (2010–39) to 15–30 mm month−1 for the midcentury (2040–69) as compared with the historical period (1968–97). The maximum monthly precipitation could increase by up to 150 mm in both datasets by the midcentury. Precipitation was projected to increase regardless of quantile during both winter and spring but tended to decrease during summer and autumn. More-frequent and higher-intensity rainfall events were expected for the eastern part of the basin, and longer and drier dry periods were expected for the western basin. Conservation strategies and sustainable water management should consider the regional differences in the projected changes in precipitation regimes for the basin under climate change.
Spectrally Dependent CLARREO Infrared Spectrometer Calibration Requirement for Climate Change Detection
Authors: Liu Xu , Wu Wan , Wielicki Bruce A. , Yang Qiguang , Kizer Susan H. , Huang Xianglei , Chen Xiuhong , Kato Seiji , Shea Yolanda L. , Mlynczak Martin G.
Published: February 2017

Detecting climate trends of atmospheric temperature, moisture, cloud, and surface temperature requires accurately calibrated satellite instruments such as the Climate Absolute Radiance and Refractivity Observatory (CLARREO). Previous studies have evaluated the CLARREO measurement requirements for achieving climate change accuracy goals in orbit. The present study further quantifies the spectrally dependent IR instrument calibration requirement for detecting trends of atmospheric temperature and moisture profiles. The temperature, water vapor, and surface skin temperature variability and the associated correlation time are derived using the Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA) and European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) reanalysis data. The results are further validated using climate model simulation results. With the derived natural variability as the reference, the calibration requirement is established by carrying out a simulation study for CLARREO observations of various atmospheric states under all-sky conditions. A 0.04-K (k = 2; 95% confidence) radiometric calibration requirement baseline is derived using a spectral fingerprinting method. It is also demonstrated that the requirement is spectrally dependent and that some spectral regions can be relaxed as a result of the hyperspectral nature of the CLARREO instrument. Relaxing the requirement to 0.06 K (k = 2) is discussed further based on the uncertainties associated with the temperature and water vapor natural variability and relatively small delay in the time to detect for trends relative to the baseline case. The methodology used in this study can be extended to other parameters (such as clouds and CO2) and other instrument configurations.
Culture Remains Elusive
Authors: Chou Winston
Published: February 2017

I evaluate a method recently proposed in the American Sociological Review for identifying the causal effects of cultural values on individual behavior. I derive the assumptions of the method and explain why they are unlikely to hold, even when ideal data are available. When ideal data are unavailable, I show that the proposed alternative is not only unnecessary, but diminishes the transparency and validity of empirical research. I conclude with some suggestions regarding the conceptualization and measurement of cultural effects in future research.
Early active rehabilitation after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a prospective randomized pilot study
Authors: Raschhofer Rudolf , Poulios Nikos , Schimetta Wolfgang , Kisling Rüdiger , Mittermaier Christian
Published: February 2017

Objective:

To compare two different rehabilitation strategies, primary passive motion versus early isometric loading of the rotator cuff.

Design:

Prospective randomized controlled observer-blinded pilot study.

Setting:

Institute of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation.

Subjects:

Thirty patients after rotator cuff surgery.

Intervention:

All participants were randomly assigned to one of the two outpatient treatment groups: primary passive motion versus early isometric loading of the rotator cuff. Both groups were treated for 12 weeks and performed additionally a home exercise program.

Main measures:

The primary outcome measure for functional assessment was the Constant Murley score. The secondary outcome measures were the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score (DASH), active range of motion, pain level and strength. Patients were assessed before, 6, 12 and 24 weeks after surgery.

Results:

Repeatedly measured metric variables were compared by the Quade rank analysis of covariance and revealed substantially better Constant Murley scores in the early activated group at all 3 assessments (6 weeks: 41 [31;45] versus 30 [23;37]; 12 weeks: 68 [56;77] versus 59 [53;62]; 24 weeks: 79 [76;81] versus 66 [62;74]; data as median [25%;75%]). Postoperative changes of Constant score were in favour of the active group with the biggest difference at week 12 (28 [38;12] versus 9 [27;-4]). Maximal pain levels showed clear more reduction 6 and 24 weeks after surgery in the early activated group.

Conclusions:

This pilot study with early isometric loading of the rotator cuff shows better function and less maximal pain. Further research is warranted to confirm our results.
The Effect of Graft Pretensioning on Bone Tunnel Diameter and Bone Formation After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in a Rat Model: Evaluation With Micro–Computed Tomography
Authors: Zong Jian-Chun , Ma Richard , Wang Hongsheng , Cong Guang-Ting , Lebaschi Amir , Deng Xiang-Hua , Rodeo Scott A.
Published: February 2017

Background:

Moderate graft pretensioning in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is paramount to restore knee stability and normalize knee kinematics. However, little is known about the effect of graft pretensioning on graft-to-bone healing after ACL reconstruction.

Hypothesis:

Moderate graft pretensioning will improve bone formation within the bone tunnel after ACL reconstruction, resulting in superior load to failure.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

67 male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent unilateral ACL reconstruction with a flexor digitorum longus tendon autograft. The graft was subjected to pretensioning forces of 0 N, 5 N, or 10 N. Custom-made external fixators were used for knee immobilization postoperatively. Rats were euthanized for biomechanical load-to-failure testing (n = 45) and micro–computed tomography (μCT) examination (n = 22) at 3 and 6 weeks after surgery. Three regions of each femoral and tibial bone tunnel (aperture, middle, and tunnel exit) were chosen for measurement of tunnel diameter and new bone formation.

Results:

Biomechanical tests revealed significantly higher load-to-failure in the 5-N graft pretensioned group compared with the 0- and 10-N groups at 3 weeks (8.58 ± 2.67 N vs 3.96 ± 1.83 N and 4.46 ± 2.62 N, respectively) and 6 weeks (16.56 ± 3.50 N vs 10.82 ± 1.97 N and 7.35 ± 2.85 N, respectively) after surgery ( P < .05). The mean bone tunnel diameters at each of the 3 regions were significantly smaller in the 5-N group, at both the femoral and tibial tunnel sites, than in the 0- and 10-N groups ( P < .05). At 3 and 6 weeks postoperatively, the bone mineral density, bone volume fraction, and connectivity density around the aperture and middle regions of the tibial bone tunnels were all significantly higher in the 5-N group compared with the 0- and 10-N groups ( P < .05). In the aperture and middle regions of the femoral bone tunnels, pretensioning at either 5 or 10 N resulted in increased bone formation compared with the nonpretensioned group at 3 weeks postoperatively. No differences were found in bone formation between any of the 3 femoral tunnel regions at 6 weeks.

Conclusion:

Graft pretensioning can stimulate new bone formation and improve tendon-to-bone tunnel healing after ACL reconstruction.

Clinical Relevance:

Optimal graft pretensioning force in ACL reconstruction can improve bone tunnel healing. Further study is necessary to understand the mechanisms underlying the effect of graft pretensioning on healing at the bone-tunnel interface.
Tacit knowing in motion: Learning process in Korean traditional performing arts – new socio-technological contexts
Authors: Takeda Yoko
Published: February 2017

This article aims to explore the present state of tacit knowing of expertized motion that has been passed along from generation to generation in the learning process of Korean traditional performing arts. The current status of, and changes in, the learning process were observed in a questionnaire survey, and the effects of the use of motion-capture technology were examined in an experimental class. In the learning process of Korean traditional performing arts, active feedback loops exist and have been strengthened in which the learners monitor external information and reflect it with language, sensory images and somatic feelings through instructed and imitative learning. Although the traditional apprenticeship style of situated learning has tended to diminish, the learners are expanding their social networks beyond the boundaries of discipline and specialty. In the trial applying motion-capture technology, when imitative learning was partially substituted by instructive learning with visual expression and language, the students became sensitive to differences between the ideal motion and their actual performance. Motion-capture technology also provides new means of imitative learning with computer models. Emerging technologies will provide new opportunities to support tacit knowing in motion.
Experimental and Outcome‐Based Approaches to Protein Requirements in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Weijs Peter J. M. , Dickerson Roland N. , Heyland Daren K. , Moore Frederick A. , Rugeles Saúl J. , McClave Stephen A.
Published: February 2017

Insight into protein requirements of intensive care unit (ICU) patients is urgently needed, but at present, it is unrealistic to define protein requirements for different diagnostic groups of critical illness or at different stages of illness. No large randomized controlled trials have randomized protein delivery, adequately addressed energy intake, and evaluated relevant clinical outcomes. As a pragmatic approach, experimental studies have focused on protein requirements of heterogeneous ICU patients. Data are scarce and the absolute value of protein requirements therefore is an approximation. Experimental studies indicate a protein requirement of >1.2 g/kg protein, which is supported by several outcome‐based observational studies. Protein intake levels of up to 2.0–2.5 g/kg appear to be safe. A higher level of personalized treatment, within 1.2 and 2.5 g/kg, must involve identification of patients with low muscle protein mass that might benefit most from adequate protein nutrition in the ICU.
Plate fixation of periprosthetic femur fractures: What happens to the cement mantle?
Authors: Konstantinidis Lukas , Schmidt Benjamin , Bernstein Anke , Hirschmüller Anja , Schröter Steffen , Südkamp Norbert Paul , Helwig Peter
Published: February 2017

Osteosynthesis of periprosthetic femur fractures by screw fixation around the implanted prosthetic stem is currently regarded as the biomechanically superior option compared with cerclage. The aim of this biomechanical study was damage analysis of the cement mantle after revision screw insertion.

A prosthetic stem (Bicontact) was implanted in 20 cadaveric femora in cemented technique. A locking compression plate (Synthes) was then applied to the lateral femur at the level of the prosthetic stem. The method of plate fixation to the femur was assigned randomly to three groups: bicortical non-locking screws, monocortical locking screws, and bicortical locking screws. This was followed by applying a fluctuating axial load (2100 N, 0.5 Hz) for 20,000 cycles. After testing, macroscopic and microscopic evaluations of the cement mantle were conducted.

Cracks formed in the cement mantle in 14% of the 80 screw holes. The type of screw (bicortical or monocortical; locking or non-locking) had no significant effect on the number of cracks (p = 0.52). The relationship between manifestation of crack damage and cement mantle thickness was not significant (p = 0.36), whereas the relationship between crack formation and screw position was significant (p = 0.019). Those screws whose circumference was only partially within the cement mantle yielded a significantly lower number of cracks compared with screws positioned completely within the cement mantle or even touching the prosthetic stem.

In order to reduce the incidence of crack formation in the cement mantle during plate osteosynthesis of periprosthetic femur fractures, the screws should not be either placed within the cement mantle or make direct contact with the stem.
Inferring Perspective Versus Getting Perspective: Underestimating the Value of Being in Another Person’s Shoes
Authors: Zhou Haotian , Majka Elizabeth A. , Epley Nicholas
Published: February 2017

People use at least two strategies to solve the challenge of understanding another person’s mind: inferring that person’s perspective by reading his or her behavior (theorization) and getting that person’s perspective by experiencing his or her situation (simulation). The five experiments reported here demonstrate a strong tendency for people to underestimate the value of simulation. Predictors estimated a stranger’s emotional reactions toward 50 pictures. They could either infer the stranger’s perspective by reading his or her facial expressions or simulate the stranger’s perspective by watching the pictures he or she viewed. Predictors were substantially more accurate when they got perspective through simulation, but overestimated the accuracy they had achieved by inferring perspective. Predictors’ miscalibrated confidence stemmed from overestimating the information revealed through facial expressions and underestimating the similarity in people’s reactions to a given situation. People seem to underappreciate a useful strategy for understanding the minds of others, even after they gain firsthand experience with both strategies.
An ad hoc method for dual adjusting for measurement errors and nonresponse bias for estimating prevalence in survey data: Application to Iranian mental health survey on any illicit drug use
Authors: Khalagi Kazem , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Motevalian Seyed-Abbas , Nourijelyani Keramat , Rahimi-Movaghar Afarin , Bakhtiyari Mahmood
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The prevalence estimates of binary variables in sample surveys are often subject to two systematic errors: measurement error and nonresponse bias. A multiple-bias analysis is essential to adjust for both biases.

Methods

In this paper, we linked the latent class log-linear and proxy pattern-mixture models to adjust jointly for measurement errors and nonresponse bias with missing not at random mechanism. These methods were employed to estimate the prevalence of any illicit drug use based on Iranian Mental Health Survey data.

Results

After jointly adjusting for measurement errors and nonresponse bias in this data, the prevalence (95% confidence interval) estimate of any illicit drug use changed from 3.41 (3.00, 3.81)% to 27.03 (9.02, 38.76)%, 27.42 (9.04, 38.91)%, and 27.18 (9.03, 38.82)% under “missing at random,” “missing not at random,” and an intermediate mode, respectively.

Conclusions

Under certain assumptions, a combination of the latent class log-linear and binary-outcome proxy pattern-mixture models can be used to jointly adjust for both measurement errors and nonresponse bias in the prevalence estimation of binary variables in surveys.
Long non-coding RNA XIST promotes cell growth by regulating miR-139-5p/PDK1/AKT axis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Mo Yichao , Lu Yaoyong , Wang Peng , Huang Simin , He Longguang , Li Dasheng , Li Fuliang , Huang Junwei , Lin Xiaoxia , Li Xueru , Che Siyao , Chen Qinshou
Published: February 2017

Abnormal expression of long non-coding RNA often contributes to unrestricted growth of cancer cells. Long non-coding RNA XIST expression is upregulated in several cancers; however, its modulatory mechanisms have not been reported in hepatocellular carcinoma. In this study, we found that XIST expression was significantly increased in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues and cell lines. XIST promoted cell cycle progression from the G1 phase to the S phase and protected cells from apoptosis, which contributed to hepatocellular carcinoma cell growth. In addition, we revealed that there was reciprocal repression between XIST and miR-139-5p. PDK1 was identified as a direct target of miR-139-5p. We proposed that XIST was responsible for hepatocellular carcinoma cell proliferation, and XIST exerted its function through the miR-139-5p/PDK1 axis.
Cancer chemoprevention by an adenosine derivative in a model of cirrhosis-hepatocellular carcinoma induced by diethylnitrosamine in rats
Authors: Velasco-Loyden Gabriela , Pérez-Martínez Lidia , Vidrio-Gómez Susana , Pérez-Carreón Julio Isael , Chagoya de Sánchez Victoria
Published: February 2017

Hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most common cancers, and approximately 80% develop from cirrhotic livers. We have previously shown that the aspartate salt of adenosine prevents and reverses carbon tetrachloride–induced liver fibrosis in rats. Considering the hepatoprotective role of this adenosine derivative in fibrogenesis, we were interested in evaluating its effect in a hepatocarcinogenesis model induced by diethylnitrosamine in rats, where multinodular cancer is preceded by cirrhosis. Rats were injected with diethylnitrosamine for 12 weeks to induce cirrhosis and for 16 weeks to induce hepatocarcinogenesis. Groups of rats were treated with aspartate salt of adenosine from the beginning of carcinogen administration for 12 or 18 weeks total, and another group received the compound from weeks 12 to 18. Fibrogenesis was estimated and the proportion of preneoplastic nodules and tumors was measured. The apoptotic and proliferation rates in liver tissues were evaluated, as well as the expression of cell signaling and cell cycle proteins participating in hepatocarcinogenesis. The adenosine derivative treatment reduced diethylnitrosamine-induced collagen expression and decreased the proportion of nodules positive for the tumor marker γ-glutamyl transferase. This compound down-regulated the expression of thymidylate synthase and hepatocyte growth factor, and augmented the protein level of the cell cycle inhibitor p27; these effects could be part of its chemopreventive mechanism. These findings suggest a hepatoprotective role of aspartate salt of adenosine that could be used as a therapeutic compound in the prevention of liver tumorigenesis as described earlier for hepatic fibrosis.
Beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase II predicts poor prognosis of patients with non-metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Haijian , Liu Yidong , Xie Huyang , Fu Qiang , Liu Zheng , Zhu Yu , Xu Le , Zhang Weijuan , Yang Yuanfeng , Xu Jiejie
Published: February 2017

Beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase II is found to be associated with the alterations of tumor-related glycosylation. However, the clinical significance of beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase II in non-metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma has not been reported up to now. Herein, our researches suggested that the expression level of beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase II was first found to be positively associated with tumor size, Fuhrman grade, lymphovascular invasion, rhabdoid differentiation, tumor necrosis and poor overall survival and recurrence-free survival of patients with non-metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma, both in training set and validation set. Moreover, beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase II expression was identified as an independent adverse prognosticator for overall survival and recurrence-free survival of patients with non-metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. Ultimately, prognostic accuracy of the nomogram integrating beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase II with other independent prognostic parameters was dramatically improved for overall survival and recurrence-free survival of patients with non-metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma. Taken together, beta-1,4-galactosyltransferase II is a potential independent adverse prognostic factor for postoperative recurrence and survival, which could be developed as a useful biomarker for non-metastatic clear-cell renal cell carcinoma by a series of further independent and retrospective studies, so as to help the postsurgical management of clear-cell renal cell carcinoma patients.
Pedigree and BRCA gene analysis in breast cancer patients to identify hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome to prevent morbidity and mortality of disease in Indian population
Authors: Darooei Mina , Poornima Subhadra , Salma Bibi Umae , Iyer Gayatri R , Pujar Akhilesh N , Annapurna Srirambhatla , Shah Ashwin , Maddali Srinivas , Hasan Qurratulain
Published: February 2017

Global burden of breast cancer is expected to increase to >2 million new cases every year by 2030 and 10% of these are likely to have hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. Identifying these individuals by pedigree and BRCA1/2 mutation analyses will enable us to offer targeted mutation testing and appropriate counseling. This study from a tertiary care hospital showed that of the 127 breast cancer patients on treatment during 2014–2015, 24 of them fulfilled the criteria of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome after detailed verbal autopsy and pedigree analysis, and BRCA1 and 2 next-generation sequencing done after pre-test counseling revealed mutations in 13 cases (54%), these included 9 BRCA1 mutations (69%) and 4 BRCA2 mutation (31%). Subsequent post-test counseling recommended targeted mutation analysis for 64 high-risk members in these 13 families with pathogenic mutations, which will help in surveillance for early detection, appropriate management, and prevention of the disease by decreasing the burden to both family and nation. Results from this preliminary study highlight the importance of genetic counseling, pedigree analysis, and genetic testing. It can be recommended that all oncology units should have a genetic counseling service for providing appropriate support to oncologists, patients, and families to prevent unnecessary testing; however, breast cancer screening program is incomplete without evaluating for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome.
Soluble fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase 1 as a Link Between Angiogenesis and Endothelial Dysfunction in Pediatric Patients With β-Thalassemia Intermedia
Authors: Tantawy Azza Abdel Gawad , Adly Amira Abdel Moneam , Ismail Eman Abdel Rahman , Youssef Omneya Ibrahim , Ali Mohamed ElSayed
Published: February 2017

Endothelial damage has been implicated in the pathogenesis of vascular complications in β-thalassemia intermedia (β-TI). Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFLT-1) is a member of the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) family. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 is an antiangiogenic protein that induces endothelial dysfunction by adhering to and inhibiting VEGF and placenta growth factor. The aim of this study was to assess the level of sFLT-1 in 35 children and adolescents with β-TI, correlating it with markers of hemolysis and iron overload as well as cardiopulmonary complications. Patients were studied focusing on the history of cardiac disease, splenectomy, transfusion, chelation/hydroxyurea therapy, serum ferritin, and sFLT-1 levels. Echocardiography and measurement of carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) were done for all participants. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 was significantly higher in TI patients compared to the control group (median [interquartile range], 110 [80-155] pg/mL versus 70 [60-90] pg/mL; P < .001). Splenectomized patients and those who had pulmonary hypertension risk or heart disease had higher sFLT-1 levels than those without ( P < .001). The sFLT-1 cutoff value that differentiates patients with and without pulmonary hypertension risk or heart disease was determined. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 was lower among patients who received chelation therapy and/or hydroxyurea. Significant positive relations were observed between sFLT-1 and lactate dehydrogenase, serum ferritin, liver iron concentration, tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity, and CIMT. We suggest that sFLT-1 represents a link between angiogenesis, endothelial dysfunction, and subclinical atherosclerosis. Measurement of sFLT-1 as a marker of vascular dysfunction in β-TI may provide utility for early identification of patients at increased risk of cardiopulmonary complications.
A performative framework for the study of intellectuals
Authors: Baert Patrick , Morgan Marcus
Published: February 2017

This article introduces a new, performative framework for analysing intellectuals and intellectual interventions. It elaborates on the strengths of this theoretical perspective vis-à-vis rival approaches and develops this frame of reference by exploring key constituent concepts, including positioning, script and staging. The article then exemplifies the framework and demonstrates its applicability by exploring a public intellectual performance by Jean-Paul Sartre. To conclude, the article reflects on recent shifts in public intellectual performances, especially changes that are relatively durable and connected to the rise of new media.
Performative structures, American exceptionalism, and the legitimation of free trade
Authors: Coskuner-Balli Gokcen , Tumbat Gülnur
Published: February 2017

In this article, we explore how free trade is performed and maintained as a dominant market institution. Drawing from the notion of performativity in sociology of economics and rhetorical analysis in institutional research, we explore the maintenance of free trade as a state-mediated legitimation process. Our analysis of the US presidents’ speeches over the last 30 years reveal that American presidents recurrently adopted three broad rhetorical strategies to enable free trade. Through ontological strategies, they emphasized how the properties of free trade should be; through cosmological strategies, they conveyed the inevitability of globalization and integration with the global markets, and finally through value-based strategies, they linked free trade to the cultural template of American exceptionalism. Our findings extend the previous marketing literature on market creation by illustrating the rhetorical strategies to perform markets and the role of a powerful political actor in enabling and maintaining a market institution.
Emotions targeting moral exemplarity: Making sense of the logical geography of admiration, emulation and elevation
Authors: Kristjánsson Kristján
Published: February 2017

Despite renewed interest in moral role-modelling and its emotional underpinnings, further conceptual work is needed on the logical geography of the emotions purportedly driving it, in particular, admiration, emulation and elevation. In this article, I explore admiration (as understood by Linda Zagzebski), emulation (as understood by Aristotle) and elevation (as recently characterised by Jonathan Haidt). Although learning from moral exemplarity can, to a large extent, be accounted for on the motivational grounds of admiration and emulation, I argue that we need a concept of elevation (as a kind of moral awe) to account for attraction to transpersonal moral ideals. I explain Aristotle’s inability to make sense of people’s emotional attachment to moral exemplarity, as distinct from the attachment to moral exemplars. I bring to bear insights from another ancient emotion theorist, Mengzi (Mencius), in order to get Aristotle back on track and offer a brief educational discussion.
Physical activity patterns and clusters in 1001 patients with COPD
Authors: Mesquita Rafael , Spina Gabriele , Pitta Fabio , Donaire-Gonzalez David , Deering Brenda M , Patel Mehul S , Mitchell Katy E , Alison Jennifer , van Gestel Arnoldus JR , Zogg Stefanie , Gagnon Philippe , Abascal-Bolado Beatriz , Vagaggini Barbara , Garcia-Aymerich Judith , Jenkins Sue C , Romme Elisabeth APM , Kon Samantha SC , Albert Paul S , Waschki Benjamin , Shrikrishna Dinesh , Singh Sally J , Hopkinson Nicholas S , Miedinger David , Benzo Roberto P , Maltais François , Paggiaro Pierluigi , McKeough Zoe J , Polkey Michael I , Hill Kylie , Man William D-C , Clarenbach Christian F , Hernandes Nidia A , Savi Daniela , Wootton Sally , Furlanetto Karina C , Cindy Ng Li W , Vaes Anouk W , Jenkins Christine , Eastwood Peter R , Jarreta Diana , Kirsten Anne , Brooks Dina , Hillman David R , Sant’Anna Thaís , Meijer Kenneth , Dürr Selina , Rutten Erica PA , Kohler Malcolm , Probst Vanessa S , Tal-Singer Ruth , Gil Esther Garcia , den Brinker Albertus C , Leuppi Jörg D , Calverley Peter MA , Smeenk Frank WJM , Costello Richard W , Gramm Marco , Goldstein Roger , Groenen Miriam TJ , Magnussen Helgo , Wouters Emiel FM , ZuWallack Richard L , Amft Oliver , Watz Henrik , Spruit Martijn A
Published: February 2017

We described physical activity measures and hourly patterns in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) after stratification for generic and COPD-specific characteristics and, based on multiple physical activity measures, we identified clusters of patients. In total, 1001 patients with COPD (65% men; age, 67 years; forced expiratory volume in the first second [FEV1], 49% predicted) were studied cross-sectionally. Demographics, anthropometrics, lung function and clinical data were assessed. Daily physical activity measures and hourly patterns were analysed based on data from a multisensor armband. Principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis were applied to physical activity measures to identify clusters. Age, body mass index (BMI), dyspnoea grade and ADO index (including age, dyspnoea and airflow obstruction) were associated with physical activity measures and hourly patterns. Five clusters were identified based on three PCA components, which accounted for 60% of variance of the data. Importantly, couch potatoes (i.e. the most inactive cluster) were characterised by higher BMI, lower FEV1, worse dyspnoea and higher ADO index compared to other clusters ( p < 0.05 for all). Daily physical activity measures and hourly patterns are heterogeneous in COPD. Clusters of patients were identified solely based on physical activity data. These findings may be useful to develop interventions aiming to promote physical activity in COPD.
Clinical-effectiveness of self-management interventions in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: An overview of reviews
Authors: Murphy Linda A , Harrington Patricia , Taylor Stephanie JC , Teljeur Conor , Smith Susan M , Pinnock Hilary , Ryan Máirín
Published: February 2017

Self-management (SM) is defined as the provision of interventions to increase patients’ skills and confidence, empowering the individual to take an active part in their disease management. There is uncertainty regarding the optimal format and the short- and long-term benefits of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) SM interventions in adults. Therefore, a high-quality overview of reviews was updated to examine their clinical effectiveness. Sixteen reviews were identified, interventions were broadly classified as education or action plans, complex interventions with an SM focus, pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), telehealth and outreach nursing. Systematic review and meta-analysis quality and the risk of bias of underlying primary studies were assessed. Strong evidence was found that PR is associated with significant improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQoL). Limited to moderate evidence for complex interventions (SM focus) with limited evidence for education, action plans, telehealth interventions and outreach nursing for HRQoL was found. There was strong evidence that education is associated with a significant reduction in COPD-related hospital admissions, moderate to strong evidence that telehealth interventions and moderate evidence that complex interventions (SM focus) are associated with reduced health care utilization. These findings from a large body of evidence suggesting that SM, through education or as a component of PR, confers significant health gains in people with COPD in terms of HRQoL. SM supported by telehealth confers significant reductions in healthcare utilization, including hospitalization and emergency department visits.
Creativity as a Driver for Transformative Learning
Authors: Troop Meagan
Published: February 2017

This exploratory study identifies aspects of pedagogical design and teaching practice that enabled creative capacities through the lens of the researcher’s lived experience. A guiding research question in this investigation follows: (a) What is the nature of the relationship between creative activity and transformative learning and (b) In what ways are they connected through the lived experience? To conduct this exploratory study, I adopted a dual role as researcher and student in the context of a PhD-level education course at a university in Ontario, Canada. A methodological approach that drew on elements of narrative, self-study, and autoethnography was applied. Data sources include (a) field notes, (b) teaching and learning materials, (c) an individual interview with the instructor, and (d) a focus group with the other four female students in the course. Participants of the study reported that their traditional perspectives of academia were shaped and changed in the context of the creative activities and interactions. Findings reveal how creative acts served as a catalyst for transforming the ways in which the instructor and the students in the course experienced knowledge making.
Forward kinematics analysis for a class of asymmetrical parallel manipulators
Authors: Xu Qimin , Yang Yongsheng , Jing Zhongliang , Hu Shiqiang
Published: February 2017

This article focuses on the forward kinematic analysis of a class of asymmetrical parallel manipulators by the proposed elimination approach. To solve the key forward kinematic constraint equations with transcendental parameters of the manipulator, an improved elimination algorithm is presented. First, by analyzing the geometry structure of the manipulator, we find the inherent triangular-topology relations of the manipulator. Further, by utilizing the parameter transformation of angular, the key transcendental equations of forward kinematic analysis are formulated into compact polynomial ones. In this context, comparing with the screw approach by Gallardo-Alvarado suggested that the computation efficiency of our proposed approach is superior. Finally, an example of the asymmetrical variable geometry truss manipulator illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
A simulation study of outcome adaptive randomization in multi-arm clinical trials
Authors: Wathen J Kyle , Thall Peter F
Published: February 2017

Randomizing patients among treatments with equal probabilities in clinical trials is the established method to obtain unbiased comparisons. In recent years, motivated by ethical considerations, many authors have proposed outcome adaptive randomization, wherein the randomization probabilities are unbalanced, based on interim data, to favor treatment arms having more favorable outcomes. While there has been substantial controversy regarding the merits and flaws of adaptive versus equal randomization, there has not yet been a systematic simulation study in the multi-arm setting. A simulation study was conducted to evaluate four different Bayesian adaptive randomization methods and compare them to equal randomization in five-arm clinical trials. All adaptive randomization methods included an initial burn-in with equal randomization and some combination of other modifications to avoid extreme randomization probabilities. Trials either with or without a control arm were evaluated, using designs that may terminate arms early for futility and select one or more experimental treatments at the end. The designs were evaluated under a range of scenarios and sample sizes. For trials with a control arm and maximum same size 250 or 500, several commonly used adaptive randomization methods have very low probabilities of correctly selecting a truly superior treatment. Of those studied, the only adaptive randomization method with desirable properties has a burn-in with equal randomization and thereafter randomization probabilities restricted to the interval 0.10–0.90. Compared to equal randomization, this method has a favorable sample size imbalance but lower probability of correctly selecting a superior treatment. In multi-arm trials, compared to equal randomization, several commonly used adaptive randomization methods give much lower probabilities of selecting superior treatments. Aside from randomization method, conducting a multi-arm trial without a control arm may lead to very low probabilities of selecting any superior treatments if differences between the treatment success probabilities are small.
To Give Epinephrine or Not to Give Epinephrine—That Is (No Longer) The Question!
Authors: Russell W. Scott , Schoessler Sally
Published: February 2017

It is vital that school nurses be able to assess students who are at risk for anaphylaxis and that nurses train school staff to identify the symptoms of a life-threatening allergic reaction. When a reaction occurs, school nurses and staff must be prepared to administer epinephrine immediately.
Susceptibility weighted imaging – a problem-solving tool in differentiation of cerebellopontine angle schwannomas and meningiomas
Authors: Mishra Atul , Thomas Bejoy , Kapilamoorthy TR
Published: February 2017

Background and purpose

Vestibular schwannomas and meningiomas of the cerebellopontine angle can be differentiated by the presence of foci of blooming on susceptibility weighted imaging.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective study, magnetic resonance imaging with susceptibility weighted imaging sequence in addition to other routine sequences was done in 73 patients. All the cases were studied for the presence of foci of blooming within the tumor on susceptibility weighted imaging. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis in all cases.

Results

There were 59 patients in the vestibular schwannoma group and 14 in the meningioma group. Susceptibility weighted imaging showed presence of blooming (due to microhemorrhages) in all the cases of cerebellopontine angle schwannomas. In the meningioma group, 13 cases showed no blooming within the lesion; one case showed blooming which was confirmed to be due to calcification on computed tomography study. For the detection of foci of blooming and predicting histopathologic diagnosis of schwannoma pre-operatively, susceptibility weighted imaging showed a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 92%, positive predictive value of 98.3%, and negative predictive value of 100%. The Fisher exact test showed a statistically significant difference in the differentiation of vestibular schwannoma from meningioma on the basis of detection of blooming on susceptibility weighted imaging ( p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Susceptibility weighted imaging is a problem-solving tool in making accurate pre-operative differentiation of vestibular schwannoma from meningioma.
Occupational mercury vapour poisoning with a respiratory failure, pneumomediastinum and severe quadriparesis
Authors: Smiechowicz Jakub , Skoczynska Anna , Nieckula-Szwarc Agata , Kulpa Katarzyna , Kübler Andrzej
Published: February 2017

Objectives:

Despite restrictions, mercury continues to pose a health concern. Mercury has the ability to deposit in most parts of the body and can cause a wide range of unspecific symptoms leading to diagnostic mistakes.

Methods and results:

We report the case of severe mercury vapour poisoning after occupational exposure in a chloralkali plant worker that resulted in life-threatening respiratory failure, pneumomediastinum and quadriparesis.

Conclusions:

Prolonged mechanical ventilation and treatment with penicillamine and spironolactone was used with successful outcome.
Alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the mediastinum: A case report
Authors: Kameda Yohei , Nishii Teppei , Tsuboi Masahiro , Arai Hiromasa , Inui Kenji , Kaneko Takeshi , Kimura Noriko , Naruse Mitsuhide , Masuda Munetaka
Published: February 2017

We report a 53-year-old man with metastases of alveolar soft-part sarcoma originated from the mediastinum. He was hospitalized due to lower extremities’ paralysis. Computed tomography scan findings revealed multiple nodules of bilateral lungs, swollen mediastinal lymph nodes, and osteolysis of thoracic vertebrae. We performed spinal decompression and biopsy from vertebra. And, we finally diagnosed this case as metastases of mediastinal alveolar soft-part sarcoma which was removed 10 years ago. Alveolar soft-part sarcoma is rare tumor accounted for 0.5%–1.0% of soft tissue sarcoma that often occurs primarily in the lower extremities and trunk. It is difficult to distinguish between alveolar soft-part sarcoma and paraganglioma, renal cell carcinoma and granular cell tumor morphologically. Periodic acid–Schiff stain and immunohistochemical staining of ASPL-TFE3 are useful in making a definitive diagnosis of alveolar soft-part sarcoma. This case is a rare case of alveolar soft-part sarcoma originated in the mediastinum with local recurrence and distant metastases 10 years after the initial surgery.
Recurrent podocytopathy in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Paramalingam Shereen , Wong Daniel D , Dogra Gursharan K , Nossent Johannes C
Published: February 2017

Podocytopathy in systemic lupus erythematosus is characterised by diffuse foot process effacement without significant peripheral capillary wall immune deposits as seen on electron microscopy. Lupus podocytopathy falls outside the scope of the current International Society of Nephrology and the Renal Pathology Society classification of lupus nephritis. We present a case of relapsing podocytopathy with nephrotic syndrome occurring simultaneously with two extra-renal and serological disease flares, which makes it likely that podocytopathy was related to systemic lupus erythematosus activity. This case adds to the growing body of evidence that lupus podocytopathy must be considered in the differential diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus patients presenting with nephrotic syndrome.
Vaccine against arteriosclerosis: an update
Authors: Chyu Kuang-Yuh , Dimayuga Paul C. , Shah Prediman K.
Published: February 2017

Substantial data from experimental and clinical investigation support the role of immune-mediated mechanisms in atherogenesis, with immune systems responding to many endogenous and exogenous antigens that play either proatherogenic or atheroprotective roles. An active immunization strategy against many of these antigens could potentially alter the natural history of atherosclerosis. This review mainly focuses on the important studies on the search for antigens that have been tested in vaccine formulations to reduce atherosclerosis in preclinical models. It will also address the opportunities and challenges associated with potential clinical application of this novel therapeutic paradigm.
Gingival Fluid Inflammatory Biomarkers and Hypertension in African Americans
Authors: Khocht A. , Rogers T. , Janal M.N. , Brown M.
Published: February 2017

Hypertension and periodontitis are highly prevalent among African Americans. This cross-sectional study investigated the relationships among inflammatory biomarkers in the gingival fluid, periodontitis, and blood pressure in these individuals. Twenty-one subjects who reported a diagnosis of hypertension and a comparison group of 26 nonhypertensive participants were enrolled. All were African Americans, non–cigarette smoking, and free from other systemic illness. Blood pressure and body mass index were assessed. A comprehensive periodontal examination was performed. Gingival fluid was collected from 3 healthy sites and 3 diseased sites when available. Samples were assessed for 8-isoprostane, interleukin 1β, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), C-reactive protein (CRP), and matrix metalloproteinase 8. Regardless of hypertension status, diseased sites were associated with increased levels of these biomarkers. CRP and TNFα levels were also significantly higher in hypertensive than nonhypertensive individuals without diseased sites. After adjusting for demographics and body mass index, periodontal attachment loss was higher among hypertensive than nonhypertensive subjects. TNFα and CRP levels and hypertension were in the same association pathway with attachment loss. Elevated blood pressure may increase the risk of periodontitis through a localized inflammatory mechanism.

Knowledge Transfer Statement: The results of this study can be used by clinicians to better understand the etiology and pathogenesis of periodontitis in hypertensive individuals in general and African Americans in particular. The information could lead to better management of periodontal disease.