bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SKAP2 Promotes Podosome Formation to Facilitate Tumor-Associated Macrophage Infiltration and Metastatic Progression
Authors: Tanaka Masamitsu , Shimamura Shintaro , Kuriyama Sei , Maeda Daichi , Goto Akiteru , Aiba Namiko
Published: November 2015

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) play complex and pivotal roles during cancer progression. A subset of metastasis-associated macrophages accumulates within metastatic sites to promote the invasion and growth of tumor cells. Src kinase–associated phosphoprotein 2 (SKAP2), a substrate of Src family kinases, is highly expressed in macrophages from various tumors, but its contribution to the tumor-promoting behavior of TAMs is unknown. Here, we report that SKAP2 regulates podosome formation in macrophages to promote tumor invasion and metastasis. SKAP2 physically interacted with Wiskott–Aldrich syndrome protein (WASP) and localized to podosomes, which were rarely observed in SKAP2-null macrophages. The invasion of peritoneal macrophages derived from SKAP2-null mice was significantly reduced compared with wild-type macrophages, but could be rescued by the restoration of functional SKAP2 containing an intact tyrosine phosphorylation site and the ability to interact with WASP. Furthermore, SKAP2-null mice inoculated with lung cancer cells exhibited markedly decreased lung metastases characterized by reduced macrophage infiltration compared with wild-type mice. Moreover, intravenously injected SKAP2-null macrophages failed to efficiently infiltrate established tumors and promote their growth. Taken together, these findings reveal a novel mechanism by which macrophages assemble the appropriate motile machinery to infiltrate tumors and promote disease progression, and implicate SKAP2 as an attractive candidate for therapeutically targeting TAMs. Cancer Res; 76(2); 358–69. ©2015 AACR.
Herpes Zoster and Risk of Cancer in the Elderly U.S. Population
Authors: Mahale Parag , Yanik Elizabeth L. , Engels Eric A.
Published: November 2015

Background: Herpes zoster (HZ) arises in older people due to age-related decline in immunity. We assessed whether HZ, as a marker of immune suppression, is associated with increased cancer risk.

Methods: We conducted a case–control study in U.S. adults with ages ≥ 65 years using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER)–Medicare linked database. Cases (n = 1,108,986) were people with first cancers identified in cancer registries (1992–2005). Controls (n = 100,000) were cancer-free individuals frequency matched to cases on age, sex, and year of selection. We identified HZ diagnosis using Medicare claims. Logistic regression models were constructed to determine adjusted associations between cancer and HZ.

Results: HZ prevalence was modestly higher in cases than controls (1.4% vs. 1.2%). We identified significant associations between HZ and oral cavity/pharyngeal [adjusted OR (aOR) = 1.21], colon (aOR = 1.10), lung (aOR = 1.11), and non-melanoma skin (aOR = 1.46) cancers; myeloma (aOR = 1.38); diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (aOR = 1.30); lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (aOR = 1.99); and chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (aOR = 1.55). Among solid cancers, HZ was mostly associated with regional and/or distant stage tumors. Associations were strongest when HZ was diagnosed 13 to 35 months before cancer diagnosis/selection; they were significant for some cancers in the 36 to 59 months period, and 60+ months for lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma (OR = 1.99).

Conclusion: HZ is associated with modestly increased risk of a few cancers, particularly hematologic malignancies. Associations were strongest at short latency intervals for many cancers, and for regional/distant stages among solid cancers, perhaps reflecting reverse causality.

Impact: Age-related immune decline does not play a major role in cancer development in older people, but it may be important for some lymphomas. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(1); 28–35. ©2015 AACR.
Depression, Antidepressant Use, and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Risk
Authors: Brown Susan B. , Hankinson Susan E. , Arcaro Kathleen F. , Qian Jing , Reeves Katherine W.
Published: November 2015

Background: Whether depression and antidepressant (AD) use might influence breast cancer risk is unclear, and these exposures have not been evaluated together in a single, prospective cohort study of breast cancer risk.

Methods: Among 71,439 postmenopausal women in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study (WHI-OS), we estimated multivariable-adjusted HRs for the independent and joint effects of depressive symptoms and AD use on breast cancer risk using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results: When analyzed separately, neither depressive symptoms nor AD use at baseline were associated with a significantly increased risk of total breast cancer (HR = 0.96, 95% CI, 0.85–1.08; HR = 1.04, 95% CI, 0.92–1.20, respectively) or invasive breast cancer (HR = 0.98, 95% CI, 0.86–1.12; HR = 1.00, 95% CI, 0.86–1.16, respectively). Current AD use was associated with a borderline-significant increase of in situ breast cancer (HR = 1.30, 95% CI, 0.99–1.75) after adjustment for depressive symptoms; however, this relationship was attenuated after adjustment for mammographic screening (HR = 1.08, 95% CI, 0.76–1.51). No significant variation in total breast cancer risk was observed when the separate and joint effects of depressive symptoms and AD use were explored (P for interaction = 0.14).

Conclusion: We found no evidence that either depression or AD use influences breast cancer risk. An elevated risk of in situ disease among AD users could not be ruled out, though is likely due to increased screening in this subgroup.

Impact: Given the high prevalence of these exposures, these results may provide reassurance to the millions of women who are depressed and/or use ADs each year. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 25(1); 158–64. ©2015 AACR.
Active FOXO1 Is a Key Determinant of Isoform-Specific Progesterone Receptor Transactivation and Senescence Programming
Authors: Diep Caroline H. , Knutson Todd P. , Lange Carol A.
Published: November 2015

Progesterone promotes differentiation coupled to proliferation and prosurvival in the breast, but inhibits estrogen-driven growth in the reproductive tract and ovaries. Herein, it is demonstrated, using progesterone receptor (PR) isoform-specific ovarian cancer model systems, that PR-A and PR-B promote distinct gene expression profiles that differ from PR-driven genes in breast cancer cells. In ovarian cancer models, PR-A primarily regulates genes independently of progestin, while PR-B is the dominant ligand-dependent isoform. Notably, FOXO1 and the PR/FOXO1 target gene p21 (CDKN1A) are repressed by PR-A, but induced by PR-B. In the presence of progestin, PR-B, but not PR-A, robustly induced cellular senescence via FOXO1-dependent induction of p21 and p15 (CDKN2B). Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays performed on PR isoform–specific cells demonstrated that while each isoform is recruited to the same PRE-containing region of the p21 promoter in response to progestin, only PR-B elicits active chromatin marks. Overexpression of constitutively active FOXO1 in PR-A–expressing cells conferred robust ligand-dependent upregulation of the PR-B target genes GZMA, IGFBP1, and p21, and induced cellular senescence. In the presence of endogenous active FOXO1, PR-A was phosphorylated on Ser294 and transactivated PR-B at PR-B target genes; these events were blocked by the FOXO1 inhibitor (AS1842856). PR isoform–specific regulation of the FOXO1/p21 axis recapitulated in human primary ovarian tumor explants treated with progestin; loss of progestin sensitivity correlated with high AKT activity.

Implications: This study indicates FOXO1 as a critical component for progesterone signaling to promote cellular senescence and reveals a novel mechanism for transcription factor control of hormone sensitivity. Mol Cancer Res; 14(2); 141–62. ©2015 AACR.
Initial Experience Performing Percutaneous Ultrasound Examination with Real-Time Virtual Sonography with Color Display
Authors: Ogawa Chikara , Minami Yasunori , Noda Turuyo , Arasawa Soichi , Izuta Masako , Kubo Atsushi , Matsunaka Toshihiro , Tamaki Hiroyuki , Shibatoge Mitsunari , Kudo Masatoshi
Published: November 2015

Purpose: We report the efficacy of percutaneous ultrasound (US) examination using a novel real-time virtual sonography (RVS) method that collates multiple Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) data sources and displays reference images in color. Materials and Methods: A total of 7 patients with 9 hepatocellular carcinomas were evaluated. Using the SYNAPSE VINCENT volume analyzer, DICOM data of the portal vein, hepatic vein, tumor, and hepatic segment were isolated from contrast-enhanced computed tomography DICOM data. Each portion of DICOM data was uploaded into an US scanner (HI VISION Ascendus, Hitachi Aloka Medical Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) and unified on a US platform to create a single reference image. Each uploaded portion of DICOM data was assigned a different color. Further, conventional RVS was performed using this information. Results: The maximal tumoral diameter ranged from 6.4 to 15 mm (mean ± SD, 11.0 ± 2.8). DICOM data could be isolated, enabling the display of color RVS in all patients. Color RVS facilitated superior visibility compared with conventional grayscale RVS and facilitated the comprehension of spatial positioning. Conclusion: RVS with color display demonstrates utility in increasing operator comprehension of spatial and positional relationships during percutaneous US examination.
Quality of Life during the First Two Years Post Stroke: The Restore4Stroke Cohort Study
Authors: van Mierlo Maria L. , van Heugten Caroline M. , Post Marcel W.M. , Hajós Tibor R.S. , Kappelle L. Jaap , Visser-Meily Johanna M.A.
Published: November 2015

Background: Little information is available about the course of quality of life (QoL) post stroke and how dependency on activities of daily living (ADL) influences this course. The aim of this study was therefore to describe the course of QoL from 2 months up to 2 years post stroke and to study the influence of ADL dependency in the first week post stroke. Methods: This is a multicenter prospective longitudinal cohort study in which 368 stroke patients were included and data were collected at 1 week, 2 months, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months post stroke. QoL assessment included measures of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) (short stroke-specific Quality of Life Scale), emotional functioning (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), participation (Utrecht Scale for Evaluation of Rehabilitation-Participation), and life satisfaction (2LS). Dependency on ADL was defined as having a Barthel Index score ≤17 four days post stroke. Generalized Estimating Equations analyses were performed to examine the course of the 4 domains of QoL. Furthermore, the possible confounding effect of age, gender, marital status, level of education and discharge destination was examined. Results: Results showed that HRQoL, participation and life satisfaction improved during the first year post stroke, with most changes occurring in the first 6 months. Furthermore, patients dependent in ADL scored consistently lower on all 4 QoL domains and test occasions compared to ADL-independent patients. In both patient groups separately, no changes over time were found in emotional functioning. ADL-independent patients improved in HRQoL (p = 0.002), participation (p < 0.001) and life satisfaction (p = 0.020) between 2 and 6 months and in life satisfaction (p = 0.003) between 6 and 12 months also. ADL-dependent patients improved in HRQoL (p = 0.009) between 2 and 6 months and in participation between 2 and 6 months (p = 0.001) and between 6 and 12 months (p = 0.031). Furthermore, they experienced no changes in life satisfaction. No confounding effect was found after adding age, gender, marital status, level of education and discharge destination. Conclusions: Most improvement in QoL occurred up to 6 months post stroke and showed different patterns for specific domains of QoL and for patients with and without dependency in ADL in the first week post stroke. It is therefore important to differentiate between these different domains of QoL when the long-term perspective is considered. Furthermore, patients dependent in ADL consistently scored lower on all QoL domains and did not reach the level of QoL of patients independent of QoL.
High Innate Immune Specificity through Diversified C-Type Lectin-Like Domain Proteins in Invertebrates
Authors: Pees Barbara , Yang Wentao , Zárate-Potes Alejandra , Schulenburg Hinrich , Dierking Katja
Published: November 2015

A key question in current immunity research is how the innate immune system can generate high levels of specificity. Evidence is accumulating that invertebrates, which exclusively rely on innate defense mechanisms, can differentiate between pathogens on the species and even strain level. In this review, we identify and discuss the particular potential of C-type lectin-like domain (CTLD) proteins to generate high immune specificity. Whilst several CTLD proteins are known to act as pattern recognition receptors in the vertebrate innate immune system, the exact role of CTLD proteins in invertebrate immunity is much less understood. We show that CTLD genes are highly abundant in most metazoan genomes and summarize the current state of knowledge on CTLD protein function in insect, crustacean and nematode immune systems. We then demonstrate extreme CTLD gene diversification in the genomes of Caenorhabditis nematodes and provide an update of data from CTLD gene function studies in C. elegans, which indicate that the diversity of CTLD genes could contribute to immune specificity. In spite of recent achievements, the exact functions of the diversified invertebrate CTLD genes are still largely unknown. Our review therefore specifically discusses promising research approaches to rectify this knowledge gap.
Reproductive Outcome of Infertile Patients with Fibroids Based on the Patient and Fibroid Characteristics; Optimal and Personalized Management
Authors: Tsuji Isao , Fujinami Nahoko , Kotani Yasushi , Tobiume Takako , Aoki Masato , Murakami Kosuke , Kanto Akiko , Takaya Hisamitsu , Ukita Masayo , Shimaoka Masao , Nakai Hidekatsu , Suzuki Ayako , Mandai Masaki
Published: November 2015

Aims: To analyze the detailed clinical course of infertile patients with uterine fibroids and to identify optimal and personalized treatment based on the patient or fibroid characteristics. Methods: Retrospective analysis of a case series was performed on 176 infertile patients with fibroids. The patients were classified into different groups according to different treatments (conservative infertility treatment, myomectomy and non-myomectomy surgery). Patient or fibroid characteristics for different groups were analyzed for a possible correlation with the reproductive outcome. Results: The cumulative pregnancy rates by conservative treatment plateaued in 1 year. Myomectomy improved the reproductive outcome in patients who did not conceive with conservative infertility treatments. The most important determinant of the reproductive outcome in patients by conservative treatment prior to surgery was a past patient history of pregnancy. The most important determinant of the reproductive outcome after myomectomy was patient age. Conclusion: Myomectomy should be considered when infertile patients with fibroids do not conceive within 1 year of conservative infertility treatments. The most important determinant of reproductive outcome after myomectomy is patient age. Therefore, for patients younger than 40, the treatment schedule should be carefully considered so that the patients can sufficiently benefit from myomectomy and assisted reproductive technology.
A checklist of the vertebrates of Kerala State, India
Authors: Nameer P. O. , J Praveen , Bijukumar A. , Palot Muhamed Jafer , Das Sandeep , Raghavan Rajeev
Published: November 2015

Following the first publication on vertebrates of India (Blanford 1888–1890), a huge wealth of information has been compiled on the vertebrate fauna of various biogeographic zones of the country, especially the Western Ghats.  The state of Kerala comprising of a land area of 38,863km2, 590km coastline, an intricate system of backwaters along the coast, tropical moist forests of the Western Ghats, the highly undulating terrain, and the tropical monsoon is a unique geographical and environmental entity rich in biodiversity.  A region-specific checklist that summarises and documents the current status of vertebrate diversity provides benchmark data for documentation and appreciation of biodiversity at regional level.  Further, with the current rate of global biodiversity loss and concordant conservation efforts, the taxonomic community has a greater responsibility to make scientific information available to scientists, policy makers, politicians, research students and all relevant stakeholders, an attempt that has been made in the present paper.  The State of Kerala has 1847 species of vertebrates in 330 families and 81 orders, of which 386 are endemic to the Western Ghats region (of the Western Ghats - Sri Lanka Hotspot), and 205 species as threatened. Six hundred and eighty species of vertebrates of Kerala have been listed in the various schedules of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, while 148 are listed in the different appendices of CITES. 

 
A checklist of reptiles of Kerala, India
Authors: Palot Muhamed Jafer
Published: November 2015

A checklist of reptiles of Kerala State is presented, along with their Scientific, English and Malayalam names, endemic status, conservation status in the latest IUCN Red List category, different Schedules of Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act and the Appendices of CITES.  A total of 173 species under 24 families belonging to three orders are recorded from Kerala.  Of these, 87 species are endemic to the Western Ghats, which include the 10 Kerala endemics.  Of the 173 species, 23 are listed in the various threatened categories of IUCN.

 
Entrepreneurial Impulse, Investment Behavior, and Economic Fluctuations—A VAR Analysis with Indian Data
Authors: Das Panchanan
Published: November 2015

This study analyzes the observed behavior of growth cycles and the dynamics of economic fluctuations in terms of entrepreneurial impulse with Indian macroeconomic time series data for more than 60 years. The fluctuations of investment are explained in terms of persistence, volatility, and comovements of the cyclical components. The study observes that the growth cycles of private investment were much more volatile than the growth cycles of public investment and gross domestic product. Investments in India were procyclical, but their growth cycles became acyclical. This study observes that the fluctuations of growth cycle frequencies of private investment appeared even when there were no shocks to gross domestic product. Such investment behavior may be because of the self-fulfilling beliefs of investors. Private investment in India has not been badly affected by the severe balance of payments crises. Rather, a cyclical downturn was seen as an opportunity to invest by the large business houses.
Codas of Creation
Authors: Corrigan John Michael
Published: November 2015

This article gives a mystical interpretation of Terrence Malick’s award-winning film, The Tree of Life (2011), arguing that Malick carefully develops two esoteric patterns to structure his visual language: first, a triadic symbolism of divine emanation and return, and second, a complementary alchemical pattern of ascent and descent portraying the process of regeneration. Far from being a doctrinal presentation of Christianity, as some critics suppose, The Tree of Life engages little known but highly influential bodies of esoteric knowledge to offer a visually complex and symmetrical representation of genesis and alchemical transmutation. With the tree of life presented as an initiatory symbol of the axis mundi, Malick’s film portrays creation as a chiastic process, one point of view staging a triadic structure of emanation mysticism and the other offering a magical variation of this pattern in the human struggle for renewal in time.
Stepping off the pasture: evidence of widespread alternative male mating tactics in the yellow dung fly
Authors: Gress Brian E. , Starmer William T. , Virgen Maria A. , Agu Abuchi , Attila Kossi A. , Bazluke Elizabeth E. , Chubb Lindsey A. , Durantini Alexandra G. , Goldsmith Jake , Hui Benjamin M. , Karimova Malika , Macey Erika S. , Macri Michael R. , Mongeon Emily N. , Monka Neal J. , Pence Jennifer M. , Perdomo Sebastian T. , Pratt Julia M. , Ruda Danielle E. , Szkodzinski Joanna B. , Williamson Nicole A. , Pitnick Scott
Published: November 2015

Geoff Parker’s investigations of the yellow dung fly mating system revitalized interest in sexual selection theory, sparked development of sperm competition and sexual conflict theories, and stimulated use of this species as an important model system. Numerous studies across widespread populations have demonstrated large-male advantages in competition contests occurring on dung in cow pastures; however, recent work suggests that smaller males adopt an alternative mating tactic by avoiding dung and instead copulating with females at foraging sites. Though this finding has the potential to expand our understanding of sexual selection in yellow dung flies, such behavior has to date been documented at only one field site, raising the possibility that this phenomenon is highly localized. Here, we report the expression of size-dependent alternative mating tactics across three discrete populations. These findings provide a cautionary tale for researchers limiting their attention to aggregation sites where study organisms are most conveniently encountered.
Searching and Seizing Evidence at Lawyers’ and Doctors’ Premises: Belgium, France and The Netherlands Put to the European Court of Human Rights Test
Authors: Opgenhaffen Tim , Put Johan
Published: November 2015

Search and seizure procedures at lawyers’ and doctors’ premises put pressure on professional secrecy. In order to protect secrecy Belgium, France and The Netherlands introduced procedural guarantees based on the interplay of the examining magistrate, the representative of the professional association and the lawyer or doctor. Although the actors are similar, the level of protection differs. Under the terms of the European Convention on Human Rights a minimal level of protection is nevertheless vital. This contribution compares the interplay between the actors in Belgium, France and The Netherlands and evaluates whether all three countries meet the minimal level of protection required by the European Court of Human Rights. It subsequently concludes that an evaluation based on human rights is blind at one eye: although the rights protected by professional secrecy are decently preserved, professional secrecy itself is not.
Death and Veneration: Treatment of a Martyr Death by Severus, Patriarch of Antioch (512–518)
Authors: Allen Pauline
Published: November 2015

Among the homiletic corpora of late antiquity the 125 surviving homilies of Severus, patriarch of Antioch (512–518), provide us with a rich lode of works on martyrs. This is not surprising, given that Antioch was second only to Rome in the number of martyrs and saints it venerated. Previously I have examined Severus’ treatment of the deaths of two local martyrs, Barlaam/Barlaha and Romanus (in Martyrdom and Persecution in Late Antique Christianity. Festschrift Boudewijn Dehandschutter, ed. J. Leemans, Leuven – Paris – Walpole, MA, 2010, pp. 1–14) and of four martyrs foreign to Antioch, Drosis/Drosina, Julian, Dometius, and Leontius ( Journal of the Australian Early Medieval Association, 5 [2009], pp. 9–20), an examination that proved the quality of the sources which the patriarch used in his preaching. In this paper I intend to carry the discussion further by concentrating on Severus’ treatment of the death of St Babylas in one homily and two hymns, particularly in relation to the treatment accorded to the martyr in John Chrysostom, in order to situate Severus’ homily in the martyrial homiletic tradition and to trace the history of the veneration of this saint in the city of Antioch.
Theosis as the Unity of Life and Death
Authors: Casey Damien
Published: November 2015

This paper explores the unity of life and death through the theology of theosis. Drawing on the theologies of Irenaeus and Gregory of Nyssa this paper argues that the doctrine of theosis offers us a holistic theology that is relevant for how we live our lives, restoring a “catholicity” to Latin theology by grounding it within the mystery of the incarnation as a whole. It explores Irenaeus’ understanding of the historical development of humanity as part of the necessary process of growth and maturation in our progress towards God. Gregory of Nyssa then takes Irenaeus’ understanding of theosis further by arguing for a continuity between this life and the next through his endless ‘stretching out’ – epektasis – of a limited being to participation in the infinity of the divine, thereby establishing the unity of ontology and morality.
Images of this Present Life in the Rhetoric of John Chrysostom
Authors: Laird Raymond
Published: November 2015

In determining the attitude of John Chrysostom to life in this present age, examination is made of the various images that this great rhetorician of the Church used in his homilies and writings. It could be said that the power of his oratory reaches its apex in the images frequently employed throughout the corpus of his extant works. This is no less the case in his references to our earthly lives. Inevitably linked with his pastoral concerns about human passions that endanger spiritual growth, the canvas for the main part is filled with images of disdain for and warning of worldly values, and of encouragement to focus on the heavenly riches.
The Prohibition of Suicide for Affirmation of Human Beings by Augustine
Authors: Sato Makiko
Published: November 2015

In this paper I examine Augustine’s argument about suicide. As is generally known, Augustine argues that suicide is a sin even if it is for saving our honour. This prohibition of suicide is opposite to traditional Roman thought. There was a tradition of people who did not hesitate to die for their faith which was not only in pagan tradition, but also in the Christian church. Through what kind of process of thinking did Augustine adopt the opinion which prohibited suicide? I suggest that Augustine’s opinion is not obeying the sixth commandment blindly. It is based on his understanding about human will that he gained through early considerations. I will conclude that Augustine’s prohibition of ­suicide is not necessarily as rigorous as generally supposed. It rather proposes the affirmation of human beings.
The Unknown Version of “Patria Constantinoupoleos”
Authors: Ivanov Sergey A. , Zharkaya Varvara
Published: November 2015

The article deals with “The Story About Foundations, Buildings and Pillars or Columns of Constantinople” which is contained in the Kutlumus Greek manuscript N 220 (Athos 3293), f. 165r–188v. By and large, it coincides with the chapters II.28 through III.8 of the “Patria Constantinoupoleos,” as edited by Th. Preger. Yet, it rephrases and, in many places, augments this edition considerably.
The Resurrected Body, Will It Be of Flesh or Spiritual?
Authors: Kakavelaki Antonia S.
Published: November 2015

The resurrection of the dead according to Origen and Philoponus is spiritual and not of the flesh. Their opinion, contrary to the official Christian view, was influenced by the neo-Platonic doctrine of “the subtle body of the soul” and based upon Aristotelian logic. Origen’s argumentation was formed as a personal interpretation of the passage of the Apostle Paul (1 Cor. 15:39–47) where Paul mentions that the risen body will be spiritual. Philoponus argumentation, on the other hand, was mostly based upon the Aristotelian logic and he thus directed his polemic against the irrationality of the arguments of Cyril of Alexandria and of Gregory of Nyssa.
Tursiocola denysii sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta) from the neck skin of Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)
Authors: Frankovich Thomas Anthony , Sullivan Michael J. , Stacy Nicole Indra
Published: November 2015

Tursiocola denysii sp. nov. is described from the dorsal neck skin of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), bringing the total number of known species in the genus Tursiocola to eight. A gradient of striae density on the valve face, the low length:width ratio of the valves, radiate striae at mid-valve, and a second partial row of pores on the valvocopulae are characteristics that expand the range of morphological diversity within the genus. The different morphology of the pars interior and the pars exterior of the valvocopula is described for the first time in the genus. T. denysii accounted for up to ca. 40% of all diatom valves on the skin of loggerhead turtles. This is the first report of a new epizoic diatom species from the skin of loggerhead sea turtles.
Understanding the Intermodel Spread in Global-Mean Hydrological Sensitivity*
Authors: Fläschner Dagmar , Mauritsen Thorsten , Stevens Bjorn
Published: November 2015

This paper assesses intermodel spread in the slope of global-mean precipitation change ΔP with respect to surface temperature change. The ambiguous estimates in the literature for this slope are reconciled by analyzing four experiments from phase 5 of CMIP (CMIP5) and considering different definitions of the slope. The smallest intermodel spread (a factor of 1.5 between the highest and lowest estimate) is found when using a definition that disentangles temperature-independent precipitation changes (the adjustments) from the slope of the temperature-dependent precipitation response; here this slope is referred to as the hydrological sensitivity parameter η. The estimates herein show that η is more robust than stated in most previous work. The authors demonstrate that adjustments and η estimated from a steplike quadrupling CO2 experiment serve well to predict ΔP in a transient CO2 experiment. The magnitude of η is smaller in the coupled ocean–atmosphere quadrupling CO2 experiment than in the noncoupled atmosphere-only experiment. The offset in magnitude due to coupling suggests that intermodel spread may undersample uncertainty.

Also assessed are the relative contribution of η, the surface warming, and the adjustment on the spread in ΔP on different time scales. Intermodel variation of both η and the adjustment govern the spread in ΔP in the years immediately after the abrupt forcing change. In equilibrium, the uncertainty in ΔP is dominated by uncertainty in the equilibrium surface temperature response. A kernel analysis reveals that intermodel spread in η is dominated by intermodel spread in tropical lower tropospheric temperature and humidity changes and cloud changes.
Analysis of Cumulus Cloud Updrafts as Observed with 1-Min Resolution Super Rapid Scan GOES Imagery
Authors: Mecikalski John R. , Jewett Christopher P. , Apke Jason M. , Carey Larry D.
Published: November 2015

A study was undertaken to examine growing cumulus clouds using 1-min time resolution Super Rapid Scan Operations for Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite-R (GOES-R) (SRSOR) imagery to diagnose in-cloud processes from cloud-top information. SRSOR data were collected using GOES-14 for events in 2012–14. Use of 1-min resolution SRSOR observations of rapidly changing scenes provides far more insights into cloud processes as compared to when present-day 5–15-min time resolution GOES data are used. For midday times on five days, cloud-top temperatures were cataloged for 71 cumulus clouds as they grew to possess anvils and often overshooting cloud tops, which occurred over 33–152-min time periods. Characteristics of the SRSOR-observed updrafts were examined individually, on a per day basis, and collectively, to reveal unique aspects of updraft behavior, strength, and acceleration as related to the ambient stability profile and cloud-top glaciation. A conclusion is that the 1-min observations capture two specific cumulus cloud growth periods, less rapid cloud growth between the level of free convection and the 0°C isotherm level, followed by more rapid growth shortly after the time of cloud-top glaciation. High correlation is found between estimated vertical motion (w) and the amount of convective available potential energy (CAPE) realized to the cloud-top level as clouds grew, which suggests that updrafts were responding to the local buoyancy quite strongly. Influences of the environmental buoyancy profile shape and evidence of entrainment on cloud growth are also found through these SRSOR data analyses.
Disability retirement and public sector reorganization
Authors: Ingelsrud Mari Holm
Published: November 2015

This paper analyses the effect of hospital mergers on the probability of employee disability retirement, focussing on whether the effect on disability retirement differs with employee educational attainment. It uses register data for all employees of Norwegian public hospitals from 2000 to 2006. The analyses employ a difference-in-differences approach using hospital fixed effects. The results show that the probability of entering disability retirement only increases in the second year after the merger compared with non-merger years, indicating that the effect is short-term. Predicted probabilities indicate that the effect is only significant for employees with lower education. Possible explanations are that increased strain in association with the merger leads to disability among employees or that managers use disability retirement as a way of achieving staff reductions without formally laying off staff.
In the Horns of the Dilemma: Socioemotional Wealth, Financial Wealth, and Acquisitions in Family Firms
Authors: Gomez-Mejia Luis R. , Patel Pankaj C. , Zellweger Thomas M.
Published: November 2015

We posit that family firms often face a dilemma in their strategic decision making: whether to maintain current socioemotional wealth or pursue prospective financial wealth. Applying such a mixed gamble perspective to acquisitions, family owners assess potential acquisitions with regard to their impact on both wealth dimensions. In line with this reasoning, our results show that family control implies a general reluctance to acquire and, when an acquisition happens, a preference for related targets. Because financial and socioemotional viewpoints lead to largely incompatible predictions about the occurrence and relatedness of acquisitions, family firm owners use their firm’s vulnerability as a signal. Increased vulnerability leads to a heightened propensity to prioritize financial over socioemotional wealth problem framing, which is reflected in the acquisition of unrelated targets. Empirical results are supportive of these predictions.
Segmental Analysis of Cardiac Short-Axis Views Using Lagrangian Radial and Circumferential Strain
Authors: Ma Chi , Wang Xiao , Varghese Tomy
Published: November 2015

Accurate description of myocardial deformation in the left ventricle is a three-dimensional problem, requiring three normal strain components along its natural axis, that is, longitudinal, radial, and circumferential strains. Although longitudinal strains are best estimated from long-axis views, radial and circumferential strains are best depicted in short-axis views. An algorithm that utilizes a polar grid for short-axis views previously developed in our laboratory for a Lagrangian description of tissue deformation is utilized for radial and circumferential displacement and strain estimation. Deformation of the myocardial wall, utilizing numerical simulations with ANSYS, and a finite-element analysis–based canine heart model were adapted as the input to a frequency-domain ultrasound simulation program to generate radiofrequency echo signals. Clinical in vivo data were also acquired from a healthy volunteer. Local displacements estimated along and perpendicular to the ultrasound beam propagation direction are then transformed into radial and circumferential displacements and strains using the polar grid based on a pre-determined centroid location. Lagrangian strain variations demonstrate good agreement with the ideal strain when compared with Eulerian results. Lagrangian radial and circumferential strain estimation results are also demonstrated for experimental data on a healthy volunteer. Lagrangian radial and circumferential strain tracking provide accurate results with the assistance of the polar grid, as demonstrated using both numerical simulations and in vivo study.
Why do states change positions in the United Nations General Assembly?
Authors: Brazys Samuel , Panke Diana
Published: November 2015

Many international organizations deal with repeated items on their agendas. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) is no exception as many of its resolutions reoccur over time. A novel dataset on UNGA voting on repeated resolutions reveals considerable, but variable, amounts of change on resolutions by states over time. To shed light on underlying causes for voting (in)consistency, this paper draws on IR literature on negotiations and foreign policy changes to develop hypotheses on the role of domestic and international constraints. Our findings suggest that states with limited financial capacity cannot develop their own, principled, voting positions on all norms on the negotiation agenda. Consequently, these states can be more flexible in adjusting their voting position for reoccurring IO norms and are more prone to change their positions over time. Moreover, states with constrained decision-makers change position less frequently due to pluralistic gridlock. Finally, while large and rich states make a small number of purposive vote shifts, poor and aid-recipient states engage in ‘serial shifting’ on the same resolutions, a finding suggestive of vote-buying. The prevalence of position changes suggests that the international norm environment may be more fragile and susceptible to a revisionist agenda than is commonly assumed.
Three‐Year Outcomes of Cranial Nerve Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Woodson B. Tucker , Soose Ryan J. , Gillespie M. Boyd , Strohl Kingman P. , Maurer Joachim T. , de Vries Nico , Steward David L. , Baskin Jonathan Z. , Badr M. Safwan , Lin Ho‐sheng , Padhya Tapan A. , Mickelson Sam , Anderson W. McDowell , Vanderveken Olivier M. , Strollo Patrick J. ,   STAR Trial Investigators
Published: November 2015

Objective

To describe the 36‐month clinical and polysomnography (PSG) outcomes in an obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) cohort treated with hypoglossal cranial nerve upper airway stimulation (UAS).

Study Design

A multicenter prospective cohort study.

Setting

Industry‐supported multicenter academic and clinical setting.

Subjects

Participants (n = 116) at 36 months from a cohort of 126 implanted participants.

Methods

Participants were enrolled in a prospective phase III trial evaluating the efficacy of UAS for moderated to severe OSA. Prospective outcomes included apnea‐hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index, other PSG measures, self‐reported measures of sleepiness, sleep‐related quality of life, and snoring.

Results

Of 126 enrolled participants, 116 (92%) completed 36‐month follow‐up evaluation per protocol; 98 participants additionally agreed to a voluntary 36‐month PSG. Self‐report daily device usage was 81%. In the PSG group, 74% met the a priori definition of success with the primary outcomes of apnea‐hypopnea index, reduced from the median value of 28.2 events per hour at baseline to 8.7 and 6.2 at 12 and 36 months, respectively. Similarly, self‐reported outcomes improved from baseline to 12 months and were maintained at 36 months. Soft or no snoring reported by bed partner increased from 17% at baseline to 80% at 36 months. Serious device‐related adverse events were rare, with 1 elective device explantation from 12 to 36 months.

Conclusion

Long‐term 3‐year improvements in objective respiratory and subjective quality‐of‐life outcome measures are maintained. Adverse events are uncommon. UAS is a successful and appropriate long‐term treatment for individuals with moderate to severe OSA.
Rehabilitation – a new approach. Part two: the underlying theories
Authors: Wade Derick
Published: November 2015

This editorial considers how healthcare systems should approach the problems associated with ongoing, persistent symptoms and limitations on a person’s ability to undertake activities. It starts from the premise, established in the first editorial, that the current reliance on the biomedical model of health and illness is no longer ‘fit for purpose’, and is one major cause of current difficulties within the health service. Among other problems, it may lead to the marginalisation of rehabilitation services, especially when resources are limited. This editorial describes and then highlights the implications of the holistic, biopsychosocial model of illness. It also outlines the rehabilitation process, demonstrating its similarity to the process used by medical services, with the primary difference being the centre of attention: disease for medical service, disability for rehabilitation services. The model of rehabilitation emphasises: the importance of being patient-centred and goal-directed in rehabilitation; the need for liaison by the team and learning by the patient; and that the patient needs to be encouraged and enabled to practice wanted activities.
Student nurses’ experience of and attitudes towards care of the dying: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Grubb Catherine , Arthur Antony
Published: November 2015

Background:

Nurses are the professional group with the greatest contact with those at the end of life and their attitudes towards the care of the dying is important in care delivery.

Aim:

We investigated the relationship between student nurses’ attitudes towards care of the dying and (1) demographics, (2) course factors and (3) experience of caring for people who are dying.

Design:

A cross-sectional survey using the Frommelt’s Attitude Toward Care of the Dying scale to measure respondents’ attitudes.

Setting/participants:

Nursing students studying at a university in the United Kingdom.

Results:

A total of 567 completed questionnaires were returned, with 91.9% of respondents being classed as having a positive attitude towards care of the dying (Frommelt’s Attitude Toward Care of the Dying score ⩾65). In adjusted analysis, higher (more positive) Frommelt’s Attitude Toward Care of the Dying scores were associated with time on course and experience of caring for the dying. Third-year students had a score of 2.18 points greater than those in their first year (95% confidence interval: 0.36–4.01, p = 0.017). The adjusted differences in scores were 2.22 points greater for those who had prepared a dead body (95% confidence interval: 0.57–3.87, p = 0.008), 2.95 points greater for those who had cared for a dying patient (95% confidence interval: 1.09–4.08, p = 0.002) and 2.03 points greater for those who had cared for a dying relative or friend (95% confidence interval: 0.69–3.37, p = 0.003).

Conclusion:

The length of time in education and practical experience of caring for dying individuals are independently associated with positive attitudes towards care of the dying among student nurses.
Forensic Pathology of Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Finnie J. W.
Published: November 2015

Traumatic brain injury constitutes a significant proportion of cases requiring forensic examination, and it encompasses (1) blunt, nonmissile head injury, especially involving motor vehicle accidents, and (2) penetrating, missile injury produced by a range of high- and lower-velocity projectiles. This review examines the complex pathophysiology and biomechanics of both types of neurotrauma and assesses the macroscopic and histologic features of component lesions, which may be used to determine the cause and manner of death resulting from an intentional assault or accident. Estimation of the survival time postinjury by pathologic examination is also important where malicious head injury is suspected, in an attempt to ascertain a time at which the traumatic event might have been committed, thereby evaluating the authenticity of statements made by the alleged perpetrator.
The Rise and Fall of Universal Salt Iodization in Vietnam
Authors: Codling Karen , Quang Nguyen Vinh , Phong Le , Phuong Do Hong , Quang Nguyen Dinh , Bégin France , Mathisen Roger
Published: November 2015

Background:

In 2005, more than 90% of Vietnamese households were using adequately iodized salt, and urinary iodine concentration among women of reproductive age was in the optimal range. However, household coverage declined thereafter to 45% in 2011, and urinary iodine concentration levels indicated inadequate iodine intake.

Objective:

To review the strengths and weaknesses of the Vietnamese universal salt iodization program from its inception to the current day and to discuss why achievements made by 2005 were not sustained.

Methods:

Qualitative review of program documents and semistructured interviews with national stakeholders.

Results:

National legislation for mandatory salt iodization was revoked in 2005, and the political importance of the program was downgraded with consequential effects on budget, staff, and authority.

Conclusions:

The Vietnamese salt iodization program, as it was initially designed and implemented, was unsustainable, as salt iodization was not practiced as an industry norm but as a government-funded activity. An effective and sustainable salt iodization program needs to be reestablished for the long-term elimination of iodine deficiency, building upon lessons learned from the past and programs in neighboring countries. The new program will need to include mandatory legislation, including salt for food processing; industry responsibility for the cost of fortificant; government commitment for enforcement through routine food control systems and monitoring of iodine status through existing health/nutrition assessments; and intersectoral collaboration and management of the program. Many of the lessons would apply equally to universal salt iodization programs in other countries and indeed to food fortification programs in general.
Anatomy of a journal: A reflection on the evolution of Contemporary Accounting Research, 1984–2010
Authors: Gordon Irene M , Boland Lawrence A
Published: November 2015

Our study outlines the evolution of a highly rated accounting journal, Contemporary Accounting Research ( CAR). We examine two tensions (high quality, global journal versus Canadian authorship and homogeneous versus diverse research) that arose during CAR’s history, using Canadian Academic Accounting Association documents (CAAA) and evidence from the main articles published in CAR’s first 27 volumes. We address three research questions relevant to exploring the identified tensions: Where have CAR’s published authors been concentrated in terms of geographical location? What types of research have been published in CAR over the period? How well has CAR succeeded in meeting its original and later editorial objectives?

With respect to published main articles, our findings indicate that being a high quality, global journal has won over promoting Canadian authors and that articles published in CAR tend to be more homogeneous than might be expected from the original objectives and later editorial statements. Our findings should be relevant to those interested in the history of accounting research and to those trying to publish in CAR.