bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loss of BRCA1 in the Cells of Origin of Ovarian Cancer Induces Glycolysis: A Window of Opportunity for Ovarian Cancer Chemoprevention
Authors: Chiyoda Tatsuyuki , Hart Peter C. , Eckert Mark A. , McGregor Stephanie M. , Lastra Ricardo R. , Hamamoto Ryuji , Nakamura Yusuke , Yamada S. Diane , Olopade Olufunmilayo I. , Lengyel Ernst , Romero Iris L.
Published: March 2017

Mutations in the breast cancer susceptibility gene 1 (BRCA1) are associated with an increased risk of developing epithelial ovarian cancer. However, beyond the role of BRCA1 in DNA repair, little is known about other mechanisms by which BRCA1 impairment promotes carcinogenesis. Given that altered metabolism is now recognized as important in the initiation and progression of cancer, we asked whether the loss of BRCA1 changes metabolism in the cells of origin of ovarian cancer. The findings show that silencing BRCA1 in ovarian surface epithelial and fallopian tube cells increased glycolysis. Furthermore, when these cells were transfected with plasmids carrying deleterious BRCA1 mutations (5382insC or the P1749R), there was an increase in hexokinase-2 (HK2), a key glycolytic enzyme. This effect was mediated by MYC and the STAT3. To target the metabolic phenotype induced by loss of BRCA1, a drug-repurposing approach was used and aspirin was identified as an agent that counteracted the increase in HK2 and the increase in glycolysis induced by BRCA1 impairment. Evidence from this study indicates that the tumor suppressor functions of BRCA1 extend beyond DNA repair to include metabolic endpoints and identifies aspirin as an ovarian cancer chemopreventive agent capable of reversing the metabolic derangements caused by loss of BRCA1. Cancer Prev Res; 10(4); 255–66. ©2017 AACR.
EAWE: Examination of Anomalous World Experience
Authors: Sass Louis , Pienkos Elizabeth , Skodlar Borut , Stanghellini Giovanni , Fuchs Thomas , Parnas Josef , Jones Nev
Published: March 2017

The “EAWE: Examination of Anomalous World Experience” is a detailed semi-structured interview format whose aim is to elicit description and discussion of a person's experience of various aspects of their lived world. The instrument is grounded in the tradition of phenomenological psychopathology and aims to explore, in a qualitatively rich manner, six key dimensions of subjectivity - namely, a person's experience of: (1) Space and objects, (2) Time and events, (3) Other persons, (4) Language (whether spoken or written), (5) Atmosphere (overall sense of reality, familiarity, vitality, meaning, or relevance), and (6) Existential orientation (values, attitudes, and worldviews). The EAWE is based on and primarily directed toward experiences thought to be common in, and sometimes distinctive of, schizophrenia spectrum conditions. It can, however, also be used to investigate anomalies of world experience in other populations. After a theoretical and methodological introduction, the EAWE lists 75 specific items, often with subtypes, in its six domains, together with illustrative quotations from patients. The EAWE appears in a special issue of Psychopathology that also contains an orienting preface (where the difficulty as well as necessity of studying subjective life is acknowledged) and a brief reliability report. Also included are six ancillary or background articles, which survey phenomenologically oriented theory, research, and clinical lore relevant to the six experiential domains.
Protecting Effects of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Agonist on Chemotherapy-Induced Ovarian Damage in Premenopausal Breast Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bai Fang , Lu Yunshu , Wu Kejin , Chen Qing , Ding Longlong , Ge Meixin , Weng Ziyi
Published: March 2017

Objective: There is no universal consensus on whether gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist could protect chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage in premenopausal breast cancer patients. This meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the protective effects of GnRH agonist on premenopausal breast cancer patients in details. Methods: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI and the Chinese Wangfang Database, conference proceedings and clinical trials were searched to find studies reported since 2000. Heterogeneity for the eligible data was assessed and a pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated. Results: Resumption of menses rate was improved in the GnRH agonist and chemotherapy-combination groups versus chemotherapy-alone groups (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.19-1.56). Furthermore, the results indicated that spontaneous pregnancy rate was improved in the experimental groups versus the controls (OR = 1.90, 95% CI: 1.06-3.41). In addition, no publication bias was found using a Begg's funnel plot. Conclusion: The results of the current meta-analysis indicate that a GnRH agonist could improve resumption of menses rate and pregnancy rate for premenopausal breast cancer patients. However, more evaluation may be considered to prove this theory.
E-Zigaretten: Ein vielschichtiges moralisches Dilemma
Authors: Vardavas Constantine I. , Agaku Israel T.
Published: March 2017

Elektrische Zigaretten (E-Zigaretten) sind neben anderen nikotinhaltigen Produkten, die weitgehend seit den späten 2000er Jahren im Handel sind, die neueste Stufe in der Entwicklung der Tabakkonsumgewohnheiten und werden in der internationalen Fachwelt des Gesundheitswesens vielfach kontrovers diskutiert. Dieser Beitrag ist der Versuch einer ganzheitlichen Betrachtung verschiedener von Wissenschaft und Politik aufgeworfener Fragen zur Gestaltung, Herstellung, Vermarktung und Nutzung von E-Zigaretten und den daraus folgenden Auswirkungen auf tabakbezogene Outcomes für den Einzelnen und die Gesellschaft, einschließlich der potenziellen Gesundheitsgefährdung. Ein alternatives neues Modell der Tabakepidemie mit drei Stadien wird vorgeschlagen, deren charakteristische Merkmale die Art der vorwiegend verwendeten Tabakprodukte und der Stand in Bezug zur globalen Tabakepidemie sind. Stadium 1 - vorwiegender Konsum konventioneller Tabakwaren in Ländern in der frühen Phase des Tabakkonsums (verschiedene Länder in Südostasien, China, Länder des Nahen Ostens sowie die afrikanische Region); Stadium 2 - Nebeneinander von konventionellen Tabakerzeugnissen und solchen mit modifiziertem Risiko in Ländern, in denen zunehmend Initiativen zur Tabakkontrolle ergriffen werden, die epidemiebedingte Mortalität bei Männern und Frauen jedoch noch an ihrem Höhepunkt ist (Länder in Süd- und Osteuropa, teilweise Asien und Südamerika); und Stadium 3 - rasch zunehmende Verbreitung von Tabakerzeugnissen mit modifiziertem Risiko in Ländern, die bei der Tabakkontrolle schon relativ weit sind, in denen Absatz und Konsum von Zigaretten stetig sinken und in denen Strategien zur Schadensminderung auf hohe Akzeptanz und rasch zunehmende Verbreitung stoßen. In Stadium-3-Ländern wirft die plötzlich aufkommende E-Zigarettenexposition der Bevölkerung aus Sicht des Gesundheitswesens ein moralisches Dilemma auf. Auf der einen Seite könnte die E-Zigarette eine Zeitenwende in der Raucherentwöhnung bzw. als Teil einer Schadensminderungsstrategie einläuten. Auf der anderen Seite ist sie ein unzureichend geprüftes Produkt, das die Nikotinsucht verstärken oder wieder normalisieren könnte und potenziell die Wirksamkeit der evidenzbasierten Maßnahmen zur Tabakbekämpfung untergräbt, mit deren Hilfe in den letzten Jahrzehnten ein Rückgang der Raucherquoten erreicht wurde. Eine der Hauptfragen aus Sicht des Gesundheitswesens lautet daher, ob E-Zigaretten einen potenziellen Einstieg in die Nikotinsucht und den nachfolgenden Tabakkonsum darstellen. Abschließend gibt das Kapitel einen Überblick über die Regulierungsmaßnahmen für E-Zigaretten, die im Rahmen einer umfassenden Strategie zur Tabakkontrolle erforderlich sind. Übersetzung aus Prog Respir Res. Basel, Karger, 2015, vol 42, pp 258-267 (DOI: 10.1159/000369506)
Eine präoperative Lungenfunktionsprüfung ist unverzichtbar für die Risikoeinschätzung thoraxchirurgischer Patienten
Authors: Hekmat Khosro
Published: March 2017

Hintergrund: Eine eingeschränkte Lungenfunktion (LF) ist ein bekannter Risikofaktor für perioperative Komplikationen bei Patienten, bei denen eine operative Lungenresektion angezeigt ist. Die aktuellen europäischen Leitlinien empfehlen, 80% des Sollwerts als Grenzwert für eine anomale LF heranzuziehen, nicht die Untergrenze des Normbereichs (UN). Ziele: Ziel war es zu beurteilen, wie sich die Wahl des Grenzwerts (80% des Sollwerts vs. UN bei -1,645 SA) auf die Inzidenz von Funktionsstörungen und postoperativen Komplikationen bei Patienten mit Lungenkarzinom auswirkt, die zur Lungenresektion überwiesen wurden. Methoden: Retrospektive Analyse der perioperativen Spirometrie und des Kohlenmonoxid-Transferfaktors (TL,CO) bei 851 konsekutiven Lungenkarzinompatienten nach operativer Resektion. Ergebnisse: Bei 369 Patienten (43,4%) wurde eine Atemwegsobstruktion diagnostiziert, bei 41 Patienten (4,8%) ein restriktives Muster. Bei 503 Patienten (59,1%) lag die exspiratorische Einsekundenkapazität (FEV1) oder der TL,CO-Wert unter der UN, bei 620 Patienten (72,9%) hingegen betrug einer der beiden Werte <80% des Sollwerts (χ2-Test: p < 0,0001). Somit hatten 117 von 851 Patienten LF-Werte <80% des Sollwerts, aber nicht unter der UN. Die Odds Ratios (OR) für perioperative Komplikationen waren bei den Patienten mit eingeschränkter LF, gemessen an der UN, erhöht (1,59; p = 0,0005), ausgenommen Patienten mit besonders umfassender Resektion (>5 Segmente). Bei Patienten mit Testergebnissen oberhalb der UN, aber <80% des Sollwerts, unterschieden sich die OR für perioperative Komplikationen nicht von denen von Patienten mit normaler LF (1,14; p = 0,5). Schlussfolgerungen: Bei Kandidaten für eine Lungenresektion liegt häufig eine Einschränkung der LF vor. Die UN statt 80% des Sollwerts als Grenzwert zu verwenden, verringert die Prävalenz respiratorischer Beeinträchtigung um 14% und ermöglicht eine sichere operative Resektion ohne zusätzliche Lungenfunktionstests.
Does Computed Tomography Still Have Limitations to Distinguish Benign from Malignant Renal Tumors for Radiologists?
Authors: Shin Toshitaka , Duddalwar Vinay A. , Ukimura Osamu , Matsugasumi Toru , Chen Frank , Ahmadi Nariman , de Castro Abreu Andre Luis , Mimata Hiromitsu , Gill Inderbir S.
Published: March 2017

Objectives: To evaluate the current accuracy of CT for diagnosing benign renal tumors. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 905 patients who underwent preoperative CT followed by surgical resection. The final pathology was benign in 156 patients (17%). After exclusions, 140 patients with 163 benign tumors were included and 3 sets of the CT interpretations by radiologists with varying levels of experience were analyzed. Results: The histological breakdown was as follows: oncocytomas (54.6%), angiomyolipomas (AMLs; 30.7%), renal cysts (8.0%), other miscellaneous benign tumors (6.7%). The sensitivities of diagnosing oncocytomas were 3.4, 9.0, and 13.5% in primary radiological reports, second blinded reviews, and third non-blinded reviews, respectively (p = 0.055). The sensitivities of diagnosing AMLs were 46.0, 58.0, and 62.0% in the 3-sets of CT interpretations, respectively (p = 0.246). As for renal cysts, the sensitivities were 69.2, 92.3, and 100% in the 3-sets of CT interpretations, respectively (p = 0.051). In primary reports, the positive predictive values were 95.8% in lipid poor (lp)-AMLs, 60.0% in oncocytomas, 69.2% in renal cysts, respectively (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Current conventional CT imaging still has limitations in differentiating oncocytomas and lp-AMLs from renal cell carcinomas, even when images were re-examined by experienced radiologists.
A Case of Diabetic Macular Edema with Prominent Chorioretinal Folds
Authors: Sato Takaki , Kohmoto Ryohsuke , Fukumoto Masanori , Morishita Seita , Kimura Daisaku , Tajiri Kensuke , Kobayashi Takatoshi , Kida Teruyo , Kojima Shota , Ikeda Tsunehiko
Published: March 2017

Purpose: To report a case of diabetic macular edema with prominent chorioretinal folds. Case Report: This study involved a 55-year-old male with untreated bilateral diabetic retinopathy who had undergone cataract surgery at another clinic. Following that surgery, diabetic macular edema rapidly exacerbated, accentuating marked cystoid macular edema and radial chorioretinal folds in the macula. Investigation of his medical history revealed that in addition to diabetes, he had uncontrolled hypertension and severe diabetic nephropathy. Vitreous surgery was performed on both eyes due to a resistance to a subtenon injection of triamcinolone acetonide or intravitreal injection of an antivascular endothelial growth factor agent. After surgery, the macular edema and chorioretinal folds showed a tendency towards improvement. Thereafter, kidney transplant surgery was performed for renal failure, and a mild tendency of chorioretinal folds was observed. Conclusion: In the case presented in this study, we observed remarkable cystoid macular edema in the fovea centralis and theorize that distortion with the surrounding tissue might have occurred, thus leading to the formation of chorioretinal folds around the macula.
MiR-1-3p Suppresses the Proliferation, Invasion and Migration of Bladder Cancer Cells by Up-Regulating SFRP1 Expression
Authors: Shang Anquan , Yang Man , Shen Fujun , Wang Jun , Wei Jun , Wang Weiwei , Lu Wenying , Wang Chunbin , Wang Chunlei
Published: March 2017

Background: Bladder cancer is of compelling morbidity and mortality due to its high recurrence rate. Little development has been made in the last decades in the therapy methods. Thus, the mechanism of its growth and invasiveness involving novel molecular targets are needed. Objective: Our research objective is to confirm the hypothesis that miR-1-3p suppresses the proliferation, invasion and migration of bladder cancer cells. Methods: The expression levels of miR-1-3p and SFRP1 were evaluated using RT-qPCR in bladder cancer tissues and cells as well as in normal tissues and cells. J82 cell lines were selected as experiment subjects due to their low expression levels of miR-1-3p. Plasmids carrying miR-1-3p mimics, miR-1-3p inhibitors and SFRP1 were transfected into the J82 cell lines. Subsequently, the protein expression of SFRP1 was detected using Western Blot analysis, and cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion and migration ability was measured using MTT, the flow cytometry, the Transwell test and wound healing assays, respectively Results: Bladder cancer tissues and cells exhibited significant decrease in the expression of miR-1-3p and SFRP1 compared to normal tissues and cells, and human bladder cancer cell line J82 exhibited the most significant decrease in these expressions (P < 0.05). MiR-1-3p up-regulates SFRP1 expression in bladder cancer cells, and the over-expression of miR-1-3p can suppress the proliferation, invasion and migration ability of bladder cancer cells. This mechanism is similar to the effect of SFRP1 over-expression on bladder cancer cells. Conclusion: MiR-1-3p suppresses the proliferation, invasion and migration of bladder cancer cells by up-regulating SFRP1 expression.
Interleukin-2 and Interleukin-8 Gene Polymorphisms and Acquired Aplastic Anemia Risk in a Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Xuejie , Lin Shengyun , Yang Yan , Rong Liucheng , He Guangsheng , He Hailong , Xue Yao , Fang Yongjun , Wang Yaping
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Cytokines IL-2 and IL-8 both participate in immune regulation. However, the relationship between polymorphisms in these two cytokines and the risk of acquired aplastic anemia (acquired AA) has not been explored. Methods: We selected five SNPs including rs11575812, rs2069772 and rs2069762 of IL-2, rs2227306 and rs2227543 of IL-8. SNaPshot genotyping was used to test the genotypes of IL-2 and IL-8 polymorphisms in a population of 101 acquired AA patients and 165 healthy controls. Results: The rs2069762 G allele appeared to be a protective mutation, but no significant differences were found in other four SNPs. We also found that rs2069762 had an impact on the transcriptional regulation. Conclusions: It could be assumed that the rs2069762 polymorphism might reduce the risk of acquired aplastic anemia, while the remaining four SNPs might not contribute to susceptibility to acquired AA in a Chinese population.
Blood Pressure in Healthy Humans Is Regulated by Neuronal NO Synthase
Authors: Shabeeh Husain , Khan Sitara , Jiang Benyu , Brett Sally , Melikian Narbeh , Casadei Barbara , Chowienczyk Philip J. , Shah Ajay M.
Published: March 2017

NO is physiologically generated by endothelial and neuronal NO synthase (nNOS) isoforms. Although nNOS was first identified in brain, it is expressed in other tissues, including perivascular nerves, cardiac and skeletal muscle. Increasing experimental evidence suggests that nNOS has important effects on cardiovascular function, but its composite effects on systemic hemodynamics in humans are unknown. We undertook the first human study to assess the physiological effects of systemic nNOS inhibition on basal hemodynamics. Seventeen healthy normotensive men aged 24±4 years received acute intravenous infusions of an nNOS-selective inhibitor, S-methyl-

l

-thiocitrulline, and placebo on separate occasions. An initial dose-escalation study showed that S-methyl-

l

-thiocitrulline (0.1–3.0 µmol/kg) induced dose-dependent changes in systemic hemodynamics. The highest dose of S-methyl-

l

-thiocitrulline (3.0 µmol/kg over 10 minutes) significantly increased systemic vascular resistance (+42±6%) and diastolic blood pressure (67±1 to 77±3 mm Hg) when compared with placebo (both
P
<0.01). There were significant decreases in heart rate (60±4 to 51±3 bpm;
P
<0.01) and left ventricular stroke volume (59±6 to 51±6 mL;
P
<0.01) but ejection fraction was unaltered. S-methyl-

l

-thiocitrulline had no effect on radial artery flow-mediated dilatation, an index of endothelial NOS activity. These results suggest that nNOS-derived NO has an important role in the physiological regulation of basal systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure in healthy humans.
Incident Coronary Heart Disease After Preeclampsia: Role of Reduced Fetal Growth, Preterm Delivery, and Parity
Authors: Riise Hilde Kristin Refvik , Sulo Gerhard , Tell Grethe S. , Igland Jannicke , Nygård Ottar , Vollset Stein Emil , Iversen Ann‐Charlotte , Austgulen Rigmor , Daltveit Anne Kjersti
Published: March 2017

Background

Preeclampsia is a severe pregnancy disorder often complicated by reduced fetal growth or preterm delivery and is associated with long‐term maternal morbidity and mortality. We aimed to assess the association between preeclampsia phenotypes and risk of subsequent coronary heart disease and maternal cardiovascular mortality.

Methods and Results

Women aged 16 to 49 years who gave birth during 1980–2002 and registered in the Medical Birth Registry of Norway were followed prospectively (1–29 years) for an incident major coronary event and mortality through linkage with the Cardiovascular Disease in Norway 1994–2009 (
CVDNOR
) project and the Norwegian Cause of Death Registry. Preeclampsia was subdivided based on the presence of a child born small for gestational age or preterm delivery. Among 506 350 women with 1 to 5 singleton births, there were 1275 (0.3%) occurrences of major coronary event, 468 (0.1%) cardiovascular deaths, and 5411 (1.1%) deaths overall. Compared with women without preeclampsia, the hazard ratio (95% CI) for major coronary event was 2.1 (1.73–2.65) after preeclampsia alone, 3.3 (2.37–4.57) after preeclampsia in combination with small for gestational age, and 5.4 (3.74–7.74) after preeclampsia in combination with preterm delivery. Analyses distinguishing women with 1 (n=61 352) or >1 (n=281 069) lifetime pregnancy and analyses with cardiovascular mortality as outcome followed the same pattern.

Conclusions

The occurrence of major coronary events was increased among women with preeclampsia and highest for preeclampsia combined with a child born small for gestational age and/or preterm delivery.
Absent Filling of Ipsilateral Superficial Middle Cerebral Vein Is Associated With Poor Outcome After Reperfusion Therapy
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Lai Yangxiao , Ding Xinfa , Parsons Mark , Zhang John H. , Lou Min
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

Our aim was to study the effect of drainage of cortical veins, including the superficial middle cerebral vein (SMCV), vein of Trolard, and vein of Labbé on neurological outcomes after reperfusion therapy.

Methods—

Consecutive ischemic stroke patients who underwent pretreatment computed tomographic perfusion and 24-hour computed tomographic perfusion or magnetic resonance perfusion after intravenous thrombolysis were included. We defined “absent filling of ipsilateral cortical vein” (eg, SMCV−) as no contrast filling of the vein across the whole venous phase on 4-dimensional computed tomographic angiography in the ischemic hemisphere.

Results—

Of 228 patients, SMCV−, vein of Trolard− and vein of Labbé− were observed in 50 (21.9%), 27 (11.8%), and 32 (14.0%) patients, respectively. Only SMCV− independently predicted poor outcome (3-month modified Rankin Scale score of >2; odds ratio, 2.710;
P
=0.040). No difference was found in reperfusion rate after treatment between patients with and without SMCV− (
P
>0.05). In patients achieving major reperfusion (≥80%), there was no difference in 24-hour infarct volume, or rate of poor outcome between patients with and without SMCV− (
P
>0.05). However, in those without major reperfusion, patients with SMCV− had larger 24-hour infarct volume (
P
=0.011), higher rate of poor outcome (
P
=0.012), and death (
P
=0.032) compared with those with SMCV filling. SMCV− was significantly associated with brain edema at 24 hours (
P
=0.037), which, in turn, was associated with poor 3-month outcome (
P
=0.002).

Conclusions—

Lack of SMCV filling contributed to poor outcome after thrombolysis, especially when reperfusion was not achieved. The main deleterious effect of poor venous filling appears related to the development of brain edema.
RECAST (Remote Ischemic Conditioning After Stroke Trial)
Authors: England Timothy J. , Hedstrom Amanda , O’Sullivan Saoirse , Donnelly Richard , Barrett David A. , Sarmad Sarir , Sprigg Nikola , Bath Philip M.
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

Repeated episodes of limb ischemia and reperfusion (remote ischemic conditioning [RIC]) may improve outcome after acute stroke.

Methods—

We performed a pilot blinded placebo-controlled trial in patients with acute ischemic stroke, randomized 1:1 to receive 4 cycles of RIC within 24 hours of ictus. The primary outcome was tolerability and feasibility. Secondary outcomes included safety, clinical efficacy (day 90), putative biomarkers (pre- and post-intervention, day 4), and exploratory hemodynamic measures.

Results—

Twenty-six patients (13 RIC and 13 sham) were recruited 15.8 hours (SD 6.2) post-onset, age 76.2 years (SD 10.5), blood pressure 159/83 mm Hg (SD 25/11), and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score 5 (interquartile range, 3.75–9.25). RIC was well tolerated with 49 out of 52 cycles completed in full. Three patients experienced vascular events in the sham group: 2 ischemic strokes and 2 myocardial infarcts versus none in the RIC group (
P
=0.076, log-rank test). Compared with sham, there was a significant decrease in day 90 NIHSS score in the RIC group, median NIHSS score 1 (interquartile range, 0.5–5) versus 3 (interquartile range, 2–9.5;
P
=0.04); RIC augmented plasma HSP27 (heat shock protein 27;
P
<0.05, repeated 2-way ANOVA) and phosphorylated HSP27 (
P
<0.001) but not plasma S100-β, matrix metalloproteinase-9, endocannabinoids, or arterial compliance.

Conclusions—

RIC after acute stroke is well tolerated and appears safe and feasible. RIC may improve neurological outcome, and protective mechanisms may be mediated through HSP27. A larger trial is warranted.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.isrctn.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN86672015.
Impacts of Boreal Winter Monsoon Cold Surges and the Interaction with MJO on Southeast Asia Rainfall
Authors: Lim See Yee , Marzin Charline , Xavier Prince , Chang Chih-Pei , Timbal Bertrand
Published: March 2017

TRMM rainfall data from 1998–2012 are used to study the impacts and interactions of cold surges (CSs) and the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) on rainfall over Southeast Asia during the boreal winter season from November to February. CSs are identified using a new large-scale index. The frequencies of occurrences of these two large-scale events are comparable (about 20% of the days each), but the spatial pattern of impacts show differences resulting from the interactions of the general flow with the complex orography of the region. The largest impact of CSs occurs in and around the southern South China Sea as a result of increased low-level convergence on the windward side of the terrain and increased shear vorticity off Borneo that enhances the Borneo vortex. The largest impact of the MJO is in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean, sheltered from CSs by Sumatra. In general CSs are significantly more likely to trigger extreme rainfall. When both systems are present, the rainfall pattern is mainly controlled by the CSs. However, the MJO makes the environment more favorable for convection by moistening the atmosphere and facilitating conditional instability, resulting in a significant increased rainfall response compared to CSs alone. In addition to the interactions of the two systems in convection, this study confirms a previously identified mechanism in which the MJO may reduce CS frequency through opposing dynamic structures.
Improvements in Simulating the Relationship between ENSO and East Asian Summer Rainfall in the CMIP5 Models
Authors: Fu Yuanhai , Lu Riyu
Published: March 2017

There is a significant relationship between the preceding winter El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the subsequent East Asian summer rainfall (EASR), and this relationship is helpful for seasonal forecasting in East Asia. This study investigated the relationship between the preceding winter ENSO and EASR in the phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) models and compared the results with those from the CMIP3 models. In general, the CMIP5 models capture the ENSO–EASR relationship more realistically than the CMIP3 models. For instance, approximately two-thirds of the CMIP5 models capture the ENSO–EASR relationship, whereas fewer than one-third of the CMIP3 models capture the relationship. Further investigation suggests that the improvement could be attributed to simulating the physical processes of ENSO’s impact on the EASR more realistically in the CMIP5 models, particularly the effect of ENSO on tropical Indian Ocean SST and the effect of Indian Ocean SST anomalies on the atmospheric convection over the Philippine Sea. However, there is large diversity in the ENSO–EASR relationship in the CMIP5 models, and most of the models underestimate the relationship. This underestimation comes from the underestimation of the physical processes, particularly from the underestimated impact of the atmospheric convection over the Philippine Sea on the EASR. The CMIP5 models that capture the ENSO–EASR relationship well (badly) also show high (low) skill in representing the physical processes.
Madden–Julian Oscillation Pacific Teleconnections: The Impact of the Basic State and MJO Representation in General Circulation Models
Authors: Henderson Stephanie A. , Maloney Eric D. , Son Seok-Woo
Published: March 2017

Teleconnection patterns associated with the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) significantly alter extratropical circulations, impacting weather and climate phenomena such as blocking, monsoons, the North Atlantic Oscillation, and the Pacific–North American pattern. However, the MJO has been extremely difficult to simulate in many general circulation models (GCMs), and many GCMs contain large biases in the background flow, presenting challenges to the simulation of MJO teleconnection patterns and associated extratropical impacts. In this study, the database from phase 5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5) is used to assess the impact of model MJO and basic state quality on MJO teleconnection pattern quality, and a simple dry linear baroclinic model is employed to understand the results. Even in GCMs assessed to have good MJOs, large biases in the MJO teleconnection patterns are produced as a result of errors in the zonal extent of the Pacific subtropical jet. The horizontal structure of Indo-Pacific MJO heating in good MJO models is found to have modest impacts on the teleconnection pattern skill, in agreement with previous studies that have demonstrated little sensitivity to the location of tropical heating near the subtropical jet. However, MJO heating east of the date line can alter the teleconnection pathways over North America. Results show that GCMs with poor basic states can have equally low skill in reproducing the MJO teleconnection patterns as GCMs with poor MJO quality, suggesting that both the basic state and the MJO must be well represented in order to reproduce the correct teleconnection patterns.
Raman Microspectroscopic Mapping with Multivariate Curve Resolution–Alternating Least Squares (MCR-ALS) Applied to the High-Pressure Polymorph of Titanium Dioxide, TiO2-II
Authors: Smith Joseph P. , Smith Frank C. , Ottaway Joshua , Krull-Davatzes Alexandra E. , Simonson Bruce M. , Glass Billy P. , Booksh Karl S.
Published: March 2017

The high-pressure, α-PbO2-structured polymorph of titanium dioxide (TiO2-II) was recently identified in micrometer-sized grains recovered from four Neoarchean spherule layers deposited between ∼2.65 and ∼2.54 billion years ago. Several lines of evidence support the interpretation that these layers represent distal impact ejecta layers. The presence of shock-induced TiO2-II provides physical evidence to further support an impact origin for these spherule layers. Detailed characterization of the distribution of TiO2-II in these grains may be useful for correlating the layers, estimating the paleodistances of the layers from their source craters, and providing insight into the formation of the TiO2-II. Here we report the investigation of TiO2-II-bearing grains from these four spherule layers using multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares (MCR-ALS) applied to Raman microspectroscopic mapping. Raman spectra provide evidence of grains consisting primarily of rutile (TiO2) and TiO2-II, as shown by Raman bands at 174 cm–1 (TiO2-II), 426 cm–1 (TiO2-II), 443 cm–1 (rutile), and 610 cm–1 (rutile). Principal component analysis (PCA) yielded a predominantly three-phase system comprised of rutile, TiO2-II, and substrate-adhesive epoxy. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) suggests heterogeneous grains containing polydispersed micrometer- and submicrometer-sized particles. Multivariate curve resolution–alternating least squares applied to the Raman microspectroscopic mapping yielded up to five distinct chemical components: three phases of TiO2 (rutile, TiO2-II, and anatase), quartz (SiO2), and substrate-adhesive epoxy. Spectral profiles and spatially resolved chemical maps of the pure chemical components were generated using MCR-ALS applied to the Raman microspectroscopic maps. The spatial resolution of the Raman microspectroscopic maps was enhanced in comparable, cost-effective analysis times by limiting spectral resolution and optimizing spectral acquisition parameters. Using the resolved spectra of TiO2-II generated from MCR-ALS analysis, a Raman spectrum for pure TiO2-II was estimated to further facilitate its identification.
Thermal conductivity of epoxy composites filled by thermally reduced graphite oxide with different reduction degree
Authors: Sun Yingying , Chen Lin , Lin Jun , Cui Peng , Li Meicheng , Du Xiaoze
Published: March 2017

A series of selectively reduced graphite oxide was prepared by thermal reduction of graphite oxide at different annealing temperatures and used as fillers to enhance thermal conductivity of epoxy composites. The reduction degree of selectively reduced graphite oxide increases with annealing temperature changing from 600℃ to 1000℃. The out-of-plane thermal conductivity ( Κo) of selectively reduced graphite oxide/epoxy composites is remarkably higher than that of graphite oxide/epoxy. For the selectively reduced graphite oxide obtained at 1000℃, Κo reaches 0.674 W/m·K when filler content is 5.4 wt%, which is 450% of pure epoxy. The enhanced Κo can be attributed to the better dispersion of selectively reduced graphite oxide in epoxy and their edges overlap to form effective thermal conductive paths in epoxy matrix. However, the achieved thermal conductivity enhancement is still comparatively lower than that of selectively reduced graphite oxide with higher reduction degree, since the interfacial bonding strength between selectively reduced graphite oxide and epoxy decreases when reduction degree of selectively reduced graphite oxide flakes becomes higher.
Preventing Coups d’état
Authors: De Bruin Erica
Published: March 2017

Although coups remain a pressing concern for rulers across the globe, the mechanisms through which common coup-prevention strategies operate have not been well theorized or rigorously tested. This article analyzes how “counterbalancing” the military with other security forces prevents coups. Using new cross-national time-series data on state security forces along with evidence from sixteen case studies, the article demonstrates that counterbalancing reduces the likelihood that coup attempts will succeed and that it does so primarily by creating incentives for some soldiers to resist the coup, rather than by creating barriers to coordination between forces. However, counterbalancing is not associated with fewer coup attempts. In fact, the creation of a new security force increases the odds of a coup attempt in the following year. These findings highlight potential costs associated with counterbalancing and explain why it is not more widespread.
Opportunities to Learn for Students With Extensive Support Needs: A Context of Research-Supported Practices for All in General Education Classes
Authors: Taub Deborah A. , McCord Jessica A. , Ryndak Diane L.
Published: March 2017

Collectively, different sets of research lead to one conclusion—that most students with extensive support needs (ESN) are not being given appropriate, accessible, and meaningful opportunities to learn (OTL); when they are provided such OTL, however, students with ESN are learning. The purpose of this article is to (a) provide a general foundation for what constitutes OTL in general education literature, (b) define OTL in a way that is more complete when considering educational opportunities for students with ESN, (c) provide an overview of the current state of OTL for students with ESN, and (d) discuss additional elements that improve OTL for students with ESN. Given the proposed construct of OTL, we argue that students with ESN are not consistently or regularly provided appropriate and accessible OTL standards-aligned content. This article identifies elements that are necessary for providing consistent and effective OTL for students with ESN, facilitating their progress toward grade-level standards-aligned content, and outlines implications for future research.
“The Journey I Have Been Through”: The Role of Religion and Spirituality in Aging Well Among HIV-Positive Older Adults
Authors: Emlet Charles A. , Harris Lesley , Pierpaoli Christina M. , Furlotte Charles
Published: March 2017

The National Institutes of Health human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Aging Working Group identified spirituality as a research emphasis. This qualitative study examines the importance of religion and spirituality among 30 HIV-positive older adults. Using modified grounded theory, adults 50+ were recruited in Ontario, Canada, through AIDS service organizations, clinics, and community agencies. Descriptions of religion and spirituality encapsulated the idea of a journey, which had two components: the long-term HIV survivor profile combined with the experience of aging itself. A final category of HIV as a spiritual journey was finalized through consensus and included the properties of (1) being rejected by as well as rejection of formalized religion, (2) differentiating spirituality from religion, (3) having a connection, (4) feeling grateful, and (5) mindfulness and learning new skills. Interventions fostering resilience and strengths in HIV-positive older adults using spirituality should be considered, including the promotion of person-centered spirituality and interventions that include mindfulness and skill building.
Building a System to Safeguard Children in Sport
Authors: Rhind Daniel J. A. , Kay Tess , Hills Laura , Owusu-Sekyere Frank
Published: March 2017

In October 2014, the International Safeguards for Children in Sport were launched. These Safeguards were developed, implemented, and evaluated based on a pilot process which took place over the preceding 2 years. Throughout this piloting phase, a range of qualitative techniques were employed to capture the experiences of people within 32 of the organizations that were working toward the International Safeguards. The participant organizations varied based on their geographical focus (e.g., local, national, and international) as well as their mission (e.g., participation, competition, and sport for development). Based on a thematic analysis, eight key pillars were identified on which systems which safeguard children can be built. These are known as the CHILDREN pillars: Cultural sensitivity, Holistic, Incentives, Leadership, Dynamic, Resources, Engagement, and Networks. Illustrative examples are provided and the future directions of this project will be discussed.
Medical Students and Staff Physicians: The Question of Social Media
Authors: Noller Michael , Mai Johnny P. , Zapanta Philip E. , Camacho Macario
Published: March 2017

Social media’s prevalence among the professional world is rapidly increasing. Its use among medical personnel—specifically, medical students, resident physicians, and staff physicians—could compromise personal‐professional boundaries. Could the acceptance or lack of acceptance of a friend request bias the medical student application process? If friend requests are accepted, then medical students, resident physicians, and staff physicians are provided access to very personal aspects of one another’s lives, which may not have been the intent. The question remains whether the separation of one’s personal life from work is necessary. Should medical students restrict social media relationships with residents and staff physicians to professional social media networks? The suitability and opportunities of social media among medical professionals is an ongoing issue for research that needs continued evaluation.
Morbidity and Survival in Elderly Patients Undergoing Free Flap Reconstruction: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mitchell Candace A. , Goldman Richard A. , Curry Joseph M. , Cognetti David M. , Krein Howard , Heffelfinger Ryan , Luginbuhl Adam
Published: March 2017

Objective

To review a single institution’s outcomes of free flap reconstruction of the head and neck in patients aged ≥80 years as compared with those <80 years.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary academic hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Patients aged ≥ 80 years who underwent free flap reconstruction of the head and neck between 2007 and 2013 were identified and matched by type of reconstruction with a cohort of younger patients. Outcome measures included flap success, length of stay, discharge disposition, complications, and 2‐year mortality. Associations between complications and comorbidities were also evaluated.

Results

Sixty‐six patients aged ≥80 years were identified, and a paired sample <80 years old was selected. There were 3 flap failures per group and 1 perioperative mortality in the elderly group. There was no significant difference in length of stay or major complications between groups. Significantly more elderly patients were discharged to a nursing facility. There was no significant difference in mortality rates at 2 years postoperatively. No associations were seen between level of comorbidity and complications among the elderly group.

Conclusion

Free flap reconstruction of the head and neck remains a viable option in patients of advanced age. Similar outcomes in terms of flap success, complications, and length of hospitalization can be achieved as compared with younger patients undergoing similar reconstructions. The role of comorbid disease as a predictor of complications remains unclear. There is no significant difference in 2‐year mortality for elderly free flap patients versus younger controls.
Unpacking financial subjectivities: Intimacies, governance and socioeconomic practices in financialisation
Authors: Lai Karen PY
Published: March 2017

Existing studies on financialisation have used Foucauldian governmentality to examine how everyday consumers, shaped by state initiatives and proliferation of financial products, are transforming into self-reliant subjects capable of seeking out financial knowledge and products for future security. By bringing the idea of agencement into critical dialogue with governmentality, this paper incorporates lived and emotive elements of quotidian financial practices with political economic and organisational dimensions of market behaviour to uncover a broad bandwidth of financial subjectivities. The analysis is based on in-depth interviews with investors and participant observation at financial literacy events to explore financial knowledge and practices of everyday investors in Singapore. Findings reveal how intimacies, moralities and technologies are mobilised and entangled such that logics of financial governmentality could operate through multiple registers, harnessed for different means and with varied outcomes.
Coping strategies and adjustment to multiple sclerosis among recently diagnosed patients: the mediating role of sense of coherence
Authors: Calandri Emanuela , Graziano Federica , Borghi Martina , Bonino Silvia
Published: March 2017

Objective:

To examine the relationship between coping strategies (problem solving, emotional release, and avoidance) and adjustment (health-related quality of life, depression, and affective well-being) in a group of recently diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients (up to three years since diagnosis), and to explore the mediating role of sense of coherence between coping strategies and adjustment.

Design:

Cross-sectional.

Setting:

Multiple Sclerosis Clinic Centre.

Subjects:

A total of 102 patients (61.8% women; age (years): M = 35.8, SD = 11.9; 95% with a relapsing–remitting form of multiple sclerosis; Expanded Disability Status Scale score, between 1 and 4).

Interventions:

Not applicable.

Main measures:

Coping with multiple sclerosis (problem solving, emotional release, and avoidance), sense of coherence, health-related quality of life (SF-12), depression (CES-D), and affective well-being (PANAS).

Results:

Problem solving was linked to higher mental health ( β = 0.28) and higher affective well-being ( β = 0.36), emotional release was related to lower depression ( β = −0.22); avoidance was associated to higher mental health ( β = 0.25), higher affective well-being ( β = 0.24), and lower depression ( β = −0.29 ) (all betas were significant at p < 0.05). Sense of coherence mediated the relationship between emotional release and depression (Sobel z-value = −2.00; p < 0.05) and the relationship between avoidance and all the indicators of adjustment (mental health: Sobel z-value = 1.97; depression: Sobel z-value = −2.02; affective well-being: Sobel z-value= 2.05; p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Emotional and avoidant coping strategies seem to be adaptive among recently diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients. A mediating role between coping strategies and adjustment is played by sense of coherence.
Effects of scalp block with bupivacaine versus levobupivacaine on haemodynamic response to head pinning and comparative efficacies in postoperative analgesia: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Can Banu O. , Bilgin Hülya
Published: March 2017

Objective

This study was performed to determine the effects of scalp blocks with bupivacaine versus levobupivacaine on the haemodynamic response during craniotomy and the efficacies and analgesic requirements of these drugs postoperatively.

Methods

This randomized, prospective, placebo-controlled, double-blind study included 90 patients (age, 18–85 years; American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status, I or II). The patients were randomly divided into three groups: those who received 20 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine (Group B, n = 30), 20 mL of 0.5% levobupivacaine (Group L, n = 30), or saline as a placebo (Group C, n = 30). Scalp blocks were performed 5 min before head pinning. The primary outcome was the mean arterial pressure (MAP), and the secondary outcomes were the heart rate (HR), visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, and additional intraoperative and postoperative drug use. Postoperative pain was evaluated using a 10-cm VAS.

Results

During head pinning and incision, the MAP and HR were significantly higher in Group C. The additional drug requirement for intraoperative hypertension and tachycardia was significantly higher in Group C. There were no significant differences in MAP, HR, or VAS scores between Groups B and L.

Conclusion

Both bupivacaine and levobupivacaine can be effectively and safely used for scalp blocks to control haemodynamic responses and postoperative pain.
Barriers to Engagement in a Workplace Weight Management Program: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Clancy Shayna M. , Stroo Marissa , Schoenfisch Ashley , Dabrera Thushani , Østbye Truls
Published: March 2017

Purpose:

To investigate (1) why some participants in a workplace weight management program were more engaged in the program, (2) specific barriers and facilitators for engagement and weight loss, and (3) suggest how workplaces may better engage employees in these programs to improve their effectiveness.

Design:

Qualitative study (8 focus groups).

Setting:

A large academic university and medical system.

Participants:

Twenty-six (5%) of the 550 employees who participated in a weight management program as part of the Steps to Health study.

Measures:

A trained moderator guided the audio-recorded focus groups.

Analysis:

Transcripts were analyzed using the directed content analysis approach.

Results:

Participants faced numerous barriers to engagement in workplace weight management programs, both within and outside the workplace. Participants viewed the coaches positively and reported that the coaches had a strong influence on their engagement in the program. Participants suggested increased frequency and variety of contact by coaches, on-site group exercise classes, and tailored educational materials.

Conclusion:

Workplace weight management programs may be improved by being more flexible around participants’ schedules and changing needs, by increasing access to affordable, convenient exercise facilities, and by implementing institutional changes that encourage healthy eating and physical activity during the workday. Employers should measure program engagement and solicit participant feedback to ensure that the programs are appropriate and delivered in an optimal manner.