bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Analysis of Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein and MAGE-A3-Specific Cytotoxic T Lymphocytes in Peripheral Blood for Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cui Zhuqingqing , Yu Xin , Guo Limin , Wei Yuhua , Zheng Shengmin , Li Wenxia , Chen Pengcheng , Zhu Jiye , Peng Jirun
Published: December 2013

We investigated the feasibility of the combined detection of HLA-A2/MAGE-A3 epitope-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) and serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) for specific diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We detected the frequency of MAGE-A3 epitopes (p112–120, KVAELVHFL) in spontaneous CTLs in the peripheral blood of HCC patients, liver cirrhosis patients, and healthy subjects with HLA-A2/polypeptide complex (pentamer) detection technology. Eighty-five HCC cases, 38 liver cirrhosis cases, and 50 healthy cases who were HLA-A2-positive were selected from 175 HCC patients, 80 patients with liver cirrhosis, and 105 healthy volunteers, respectively. The frequency of HLA-A2-specific MAGE-A3+CTLs in the HCC group was significantly higher than that in the other groups. Combined detection of MAGE-A3+CTL frequency and serum AFP value had a higher specificity than either of the two indicators alone. The pentamer technique is helpful in distinguishing benign lesions and malignant lesions in the liver. Combined with serum AFP, it can improve the diagnosis performance for HCC, especially for AFP-negative cancer.
Numerical Study of Surface Roughness and Magnetic Field between Rough and Porous Rectangular Plates
Authors: Kudenatti Ramesh B. , Patil Shalini M. , Dinesh P. A. , Vinay C. V.
Published: December 2013

This paper theoretically examines the combined effects of surface roughness and magnetic field between two rectangular parallel plates of which the upper plate has roughness structure and the lower plate has porous material in the presence of transverse magnetic field. The lubricating fluid in the film region is assumed to be Newtonian fluid (linearly viscous and incompressible fluid). This model consists of mathematical formulation of the problem with appropriate boundary conditions and solution numerically by finite difference based multigrid method. The generalized average modified Reynolds equation is derived for longitudinal roughness using Christensen’s stochastic theory which assumes that the height of the roughness asperity is of the same order as the mean separation between the plates. We obtain the bearing characteristics such as pressure distribution and load carrying capacity for various values of roughness, Hartmann number, and permeability parameters. It is observed that the pressure distribution and load carrying capacity were found to be more pronounced for increasing values of roughness parameter and Hartmann number; whereas these are found to be decreasing for increasing permeability compared to their corresponding classical cases. The physical reasons for these characters are discussed in detail.
The Existence of Positive Nonconstant Steady States in a Reaction: Diffusion Epidemic Model
Authors: Yuan Yuan , Wang Hailing , Wang Weiming
Published: December 2013

We investigate the disease’s dynamics of a reaction-diffusion epidemic model. We first give a priori estimates of upper and lower bounds for positive solutions to model and then give the conditions of the existence and nonexistence of the positive nonconstant steady states, which guarantees the existence of the stationary patterns.
Effect of Workplace Noise on Hearing Ability in Tile and Ceramic Industry Workers in Iran: A 2‐Year Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Mostaghaci Mehrdad , Mirmohammadi Seyyed Jalil , Mehrparvar Amir Houshang , Bahaloo Maryam , Mollasadeghi Abolfazl , Davari Mohammad Hossein
Published: December 2013

Introduction. Noise as a common physical hazard may lead to noise‐induced hearing loss, an irreversible but preventable disorder. Annual audiometric evaluations help detect changes in hearing status before clinically significant hearing loss develops. This study was designed to track hearing threshold changes during 2‐year follow‐up among tile and ceramic workers. Methods. This follow‐up study was conducted on 555 workers (totally 1110 ears). Subjects were divided into four groups according to the level of noise exposure. Hearing threshold in conventional audiometric frequencies was measured and standard threshold shift was calculated for each ear. Results. Hearing threshold was increased during 2 years of follow‐up. Increased hearing threshold was most frequently observed at 4000, 6000, and 3000 Hz. Standard threshold shift was observed in 13 (2.34%), 49 (8.83%), 22 (3.96%), and 63 (11.35%) subjects in the first and second years of follow‐up in the right and left ears, respectively. Conclusions. This study has documented a high incidence of noise‐induced hearing loss in tile and ceramic workers that would put stress on the importance of using hearing protection devices.
Phytoagents for Cancer Management: Regulation of Nucleic Acid Oxidation, ROS, and Related Mechanisms
Authors: Lee Wai-Leng , Huang Jing-Ying , Shyur Lie-Fen
Published: December 2013

Accumulation of oxidized nucleic acids causes genomic instability leading to senescence, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis. Phytoagents are known to reduce the risk of cancer development; whether such effects are through regulating the extent of nucleic acid oxidation remains unclear. Here, we outlined the role of reactive oxygen species in nucleic acid oxidation as a driving force in cancer progression. The consequential relationship between genome instability and cancer progression highlights the importance of modulation of cellular redox level in cancer management. Current epidemiological and experimental evidence demonstrate the effects and modes of action of phytoagents in nucleic acid oxidation and provide rationales for the use of phytoagents as chemopreventive or therapeutic agents. Vitamins and various phytoagents antagonize carcinogen-triggered oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals and/or activating endogenous defence systems such as Nrf2-regulated antioxidant genes or pathways. Moreover, metal ion chelation by phytoagents helps to attenuate oxidative DNA damage caused by transition metal ions. Besides, the prooxidant effects of some phytoagents pose selective cytotoxicity on cancer cells and shed light on a new strategy of cancer therapy. The “double-edged sword” role of phytoagents as redox regulators in nucleic acid oxidation and their possible roles in cancer prevention or therapy are discussed in this review.
Insulinoma Presenting with Long-Standing Depression, Primary Hypogonadism, and Sertoli Cell Only Syndrome
Authors: Malabu Usman H. , Gowda Durgesh , Tan Yong Mong
Published: December 2013

The aim was to report an unusual case of insulinoma presenting with long-standing depression and primary testicular failure. We describe a 34-year-old male with clinical, laboratory, and radiologic data consistent with islet cell tumor and seminiferous tubule failure primary hypogonadism. The literature is reviewed relative to the component of this syndrome, and a possible association is discussed. The subject was investigated for a long-standing history of depression requiring medical attention because of mental confusion and slurred speech and was found to have an insulinoma. He was diagnosed with primary gonadal failure and physical examination showed no evidence of dysmorphic features. Chromosomal analysis revealed normal 46 XY and testicular biopsy showed Sertoli cell only syndrome (SCOS). Biochemistry revealed endogenous hyperinsulinism and histology confirmed an islet cell tumor. He remained euglycemic postoperatively and on followup. From this report, we emphasize drawing clinicians' attention to the possibility of an association between insulinoma and primary testicular failure and suggest consideration of this diagnosis in patients with hypergonadotropic hypogonadism who may present with infertility.
Gender and Spondyloarthropathy-Associated Uveitis
Authors: Smith Wendy M.
Published: December 2013

Spondyloarthropathies encompass a group of inflammatory diseases with arthritis and other features such as enthesitis and dermatologic and gastrointestinal involvement. Up to 37% of spondyloarthropathy patients may develop uveitis which is typically bilateral asynchronous acute anterior uveitis. Spondyloarthropathies with and without uveitis are more prevalent among males; the reasons for gender imbalance are unclear. This review will focus on gender differences in the prevalence, incidence, clinical manifestations, and prognosis of uveitis associated with spondyloarthropathies.
A Kantorovich-Stancu Type Generalization of Szasz Operators including Brenke Type Polynomials
Authors: Aktaş Rabia , Çekim Bayram , Taşdelen Fatma
Published: December 2013

We introduce a Kantorovich-Stancu type modification of a generalization of Szasz operators defined by means of the Brenke type polynomials and obtain approximation properties of these operators. Also, we give a Voronovskaya type theorem for Kantorovich-Stancu type operators including Gould-Hopper polynomials.
A GIS-Enabled Approach for Assessing Damage Potential of Levee Systems Based on Underlying Geology and River Morphology
Authors: Saadi Mustafa , Athanasopoulos-Zekkos Adda
Published: December 2013

Flood protection levee systems are complex, interconnected systems, where failure at one location means failure of the entire system. Levees are formed through various geologic processes and human activities over time and information regarding soil properties is collected only at limited point locations and varies significantly both laterally and with depth. Prediction of levee performance in locations where no soil data is available becomes a limitation for system risk assessment studies. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are particularly suitable for the complex and efficient management of spatial information, georeferencing capabilities, and geostatistical analysis. A GIS enabled approach for assessing damage potential of levees systems is presented. Spatial variability of soil properties is correlated with regional variables such as distance from nearest river segment, river meandering sinuosity index, and surface geology. A geostatistical ordinary kriging approach is used for developing these correlations. Soil strength parameters of identified levee stratigraphy layers were statistically analyzed using a geostatistical ordinary kriging approach and correlated with preselected regional variables. A levee system in Northern California is used as a pilot study for the proposed approach. Excessive underseepage and loss of freeboard due to soil liquefaction are evaluated as the two damage indices for earthen levees.
Assistive/Socially Assistive Robotic Platform for Therapy and Recovery: Patient Perspectives
Authors: White Matthew , Vining Radomski Mary , Finkelstein Marsha , Nilsson Daniel Allan Samuel , Eugen Oddsson Lars Ingimar
Published: December 2013

Improving adherence to therapy is a critical component of advancing outcomes and reducing the cost of rehabilitation. A robotic platform was previously developed to explore how robotics could be applied to the social dimension of rehabilitation to improve adherence. This paper aims to report on feedback given by end users of the robotic platform as well as the practical applications that socially assistive robotics could have in the daily life activities of a patient. A group of 10 former and current patients interacted with the developed robotic platform during a simulated exercise session before taking an experience-based survey. A portion of these participants later provided verbal feedback as part of a focus group on the potential utility of such a platform. Identified applications included assistance with reaching exercise goals, managing to-do lists, and supporting participation in social and recreational activities. The study participants expressed that the personality characteristics of the robotic system should be adapted to individual preferences and that the assistance provided over time should align with the progress of their recovery. The results from this study are encouraging and will be useful for further development of socially assistive robotics.
A New Approach to Separate Haemodynamic Signals for Brain-Computer Interface Using Independent Component Analysis and Least Squares
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Xin , Yang Chunling , Wang Kuanquan , Sun Jinwei , Rolfe Peter
Published: December 2013

Brain-computer interface (BCI) is one technology that allows a user to communicate with external devices through detecting brain activity. As a promising noninvasive technique, functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) has recently earned increasing attention in BCI studies. However, in practice fNIRS measurements can suffer from significant physiological interference, for example, arising from cardiac contraction, breathing, and blood pressure fluctuations, thereby severely limiting the utility of the method. Here, we apply the multidistance fNIRS method, with short-distance and long-distance optode pairs, and we propose the combination of independent component analysis (ICA) and least squares (LS) with the fNIRS recordings to reduce the interference. The short-distance fNIRS measurement is treated as the virtual channel and the long-distance fNIRS measurement is treated as the measurement channel. Least squares is used to optimize the reconstruction value for brain activity signal. Monte Carlo simulations of photon propagation through a five-layered slab model of a human adult head were implemented to evaluate our methodology. The results demonstrate that the ICA method can separate the brain signal and interference; the further application of least squares can significantly recover haemodynamic signals contaminated by physiological interference from the fNIRS-evoked brain activity data.
Superior Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis after Laparoscopic Exploration for Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Katagiri Hideki , Kunizaki Shozo , Shimaguchi Mayu , Yoshinaga Yasuo , Kanda Yukihiro , Lefor Alan T. , Mizokami Ken
Published: December 2013

Mesenteric venous thrombosis is a rare cause of intestinal ischemia which is potentially life-threatening because it can lead to intestinal infarction. Mesenteric venous thrombosis rarely develops after abdominal surgery and is usually associated with coagulation disorders. Associated symptoms are generally subtle or nonspecific, often resulting in delayed diagnosis. A 68-year-old woman underwent laparoscopic exploration for small bowel obstruction, secondary to adhesions. During the procedure, an intestinal perforation was identified and repaired. Postoperatively, the abdominal pain persisted and repeat exploration was undertaken. At repeat exploration, a perforation was identified in the small bowel with a surrounding abscess. After the second operation, the abdominal pain improved but anorexia persisted. Contrast enhanced abdominal computed tomography was performed which revealed superior mesenteric venous thrombosis. Anticoagulation therapy with heparin was started immediately and the thrombus resolved over the next 6 days. Although rare, this complication must be considered in patients after abdominal surgery with unexplained abdominal symptoms.
Magnetic Nanoparticles: A Subject for Both Fundamental Research and Applications
Authors: Bedanta S. , Barman A. , Kleemann W. , Petracic O. , Seki T.
Published: December 2013

Single domain magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have been a vivid subject of intense research for the last fifty years. Preparation of magnetic nanoparticles and nanostructures has been achieved by both bottom‐up and top‐down approaches. Single domain MNPs show Néel‐Brown‐like relaxation. The Stoner‐Wohlfarth model describes the angular dependence of the switching of the magnetization of a single domain particle in applied magnetic fields. By varying the spacing between the particles, the inter‐particle interactions can be tuned. This leads to various supermagnetic states such as superparamagnetism, superspin glass, and superferromagnetism. Recently, the study of the magnetization dynamics of such single domain MNPs has attracted particular attention, and observations of various collective spin wave modes in patterned nanomagnet arrays have opened new avenues for on‐chip microwave communications. MNPs have the potential for various other applications such as future recording media and in medicine. We will discuss the various aspects involved in the research on MNPs.
Modified Biogeography-Based Optimization with Local Search Mechanism
Authors: Feng Quanxi , Liu Sanyang , Wu Qunying , Tang GuoQiang , Zhang Haomin , Chen Huazhou
Published: December 2013

Biogeography-based optimization (BBO) is a new effective population optimization algorithm based on the biogeography theory with inherently insufficient exploration capability. To address this limitation, we proposed a modified BBO with local search mechanism (denoted as MLBBO). In MLBBO, a modified migration operator is integrated into BBO, which can adopt more information from other habitats, to enhance the exploration ability. Then, a local search mechanism is used in BBO to supplement with modified migration operator. Extensive experimental tests are conducted on 27 benchmark functions to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm. The simulation results have been compared with original BBO, DE, improved BBO algorithms, and other evolutionary algorithms. Finally, the performance of the modified migration operator and local search mechanism are also discussed.
The Role of Sialic Acid-Binding Receptors (Siglecs) in the Immunomodulatory Effects ofTrypanosoma cruziSialoglycoproteins on the Protective Immunity of the Host
Authors: Morrot Alexandre
Published: December 2013

Chagas disease is caused by the protozoan parasiteTrypanosoma cruziand is an important endemic infection in Latin America. Lately, it has also become a health concern in the United States and Europe. Most of the immunomodulatory mechanisms associated with this parasitic infection have been attributed to mucin-like molecules on theT. cruzisurface. Mucins are high molecular weight glycoproteins that are involved in regulating diverse cellular activities in both normal and pathological conditions. InTrypanosoma cruziinfection, the parasite-derived mucins are the main acceptors of sialic acid and it has been suggested that they play a role in various host-parasite interactions during the course of Chagas disease. Recently, we have presented evidence that sialylation of the mucins is required for the inhibitory effects on CD4+T cells. In what follows we propose that signaling via sialic acid-binding Ig-like lectin receptors for these highly sialylated structures on host cells contributes to the arrest of cell cycle progression in the G1 phase and may allow the parasite to modulate the immune system of the host.
What Does It Cost to Prevent On-Duty Firefighter Cardiac Events? A Content Valid Method for Calculating Costs
Authors: Patterson P. Daniel , Suyama Joe , Reis Steven E. , Weaver Matthew D. , Hostler David
Published: December 2013

Cardiac arrest is a leading cause of mortality among firefighters. We sought to develop a valid method for determining the costs of a workplace prevention program for firefighters. In 2012, we developed a draft framework using human resource accounting and in-depth interviews with experts in the firefighting and insurance industries. The interviews produced a draft cost model with 6 components and 26 subcomponents. In 2013, we randomly sampled 100 fire chiefs out of >7,400 affiliated with the International Association of Fire Chiefs. We used the Content Validity Index (CVI) to identify the content valid components of the draft cost model. This was accomplished by having fire chiefs rate the relevancy of cost components using a 4-point Likert scale (highly relevant to not relevant). We received complete survey data from 65 fire chiefs (65% response rate). We retained 5 components and 21 subcomponents based on CVI scores ≥0.70. The five main components include, (1) investment costs, (2) orientation and training costs, (3) medical and pharmaceutical costs, (4) education and continuing education costs, and (5) maintenance costs. Data from a diverse sample of fire chiefs has produced a content valid method for calculating the cost of a prevention program among firefighters.
An Optimization of Composition Ratio among Triple‐Filled Atoms in In0.3-x-yBaxCeyCo4Sb12 System
Authors: Kim So-Young , Choi Soon-Mok , Seo Won-Seon , Lim Young Soo , Lee Soonil , Kim Il-Ho , Cho Hyung Koun
Published: December 2013

Bulk nanostructured materials are important as energy materials. Among thermoelectric materials, the skutterudite system of CoSb3 is a representative material of bulk nanostructured materials. Filling a skutterudite structure with atoms that have different localized frequencies (also known as triple filling) was reported to be effective for lowering thermal conductivity. Among studies representing superior power factors, In‐filled skutterudite systems showed higher Seebeck coefficients. This study sought to optimize the composition ratio among the triple‐filled atoms in an In0.3-x-yBaxCeyCo4Sb12 system. The composition dependence of the thermoelectric properties was investigated for specimens with different ratios among the three kinds of filler atoms in the In0.3-x-yBaxCeyCo4Sb12 system. In addition, the process variables were carefully optimized for filled skutterudite systems to obtain a maximum ZT value.
Design Considerations of Self-Adaptive Wireless M2M Network Communication Architecture
Authors: Chen Xiao-jun , Ke Jia , Zhan Yong-zhao , Wang Man-rong , Deng Ge
Published: December 2013

For the existing heterogeneous wireless M2M network architectures, different data link layers lack a common structure. In this paper, the concept of attribute assembly layer has been proposed, and an adaptive architecture for wireless M2M network has been built, based on the hierarchical heterogeneous modeling of Ptolemy II. Finally, saturated and unsaturated conditions network experiments have been designed in the part of system test. Experimental results show that this architecture has a low memory occupation and less time cost. It unifies the data link layers for heterogeneous networks and is compatible well with the existing platforms, communication protocols, and network mechanisms. The self-adaptive network has more connected sets. The proposed architecture has good adaptive capacity and it can apply to potential communication protocols.
Pseudorenal Failure Secondary to Reversed Intraperitoneal Autodialysis
Authors: Martens Pieter
Published: December 2013

A 16-year-old boy was admitted for anuria, ascites, and abdominal pain. The patient had undergone a laparoscopic appendectomy two days prior to admission. Initial laboratory analysis revealed a plasma creatinine level of 5,07 mg/dL and blood urea nitrogen level of 75 mg/dL. Computed tomography imaging revealed diffuse abdominal ascites with normal kidneys without signs of hydronephrosis. Laprascopic revision found a 3 mm bladder tear and yielded an aspirate of 1,8 litre abdominal fluid. The abdominal fluid exhibited a fluid : serum creatinine ratio exceeding 1, indicating uroperitoneum. This case underscores the importance of bladder ruptures causing uroperitoneum presenting with azotemia.
Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Study of Silver Nanoparticles Prepared by Using MC as a Template
Authors: Lu Yudong , Feng Shanyuan , Liu Xueyun , Chen Lihui
Published: December 2013

A good Ag‐based SERS substrate has been prepared by one‐pot reaction using methyl cellulose as a template. Effects of methyl cellulose concentration, silver ammonia chloride solution concentration, reaction duration, and reducing agent on silver nanoparticles were discussed in this paper. The performance of the obtained Ag nanoparticles was characterized by UV‐visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy. Results show that the reducing agent plays a crucial role in the performance of silver nanoparticles. Optimum preparation conditions of synthesis of SERS substrates were as follows: 10 mM silver ammonia chloride and 0.2% MC at 75°C, reducing in 0.2% reducing agent at 120 min. TEM studies reveal that particles are mostly spherical and rod in shape with an average size of 80 nm. Silver nanoparticles prepared with MC as a template have been shown to provide strong SERS enhancement signals of R6G, which can be used as a good Ag‐based SERS substrate in the analytical environment for routine measurements.
Head-to-Head Comparison of a Drug-Free Early Programmed Dismantling Polylactic Acid Bioresorbable Scaffold and a Metallic Stent in the Porcine Coronary Artery
Authors: Durand Eric , Sharkawi Tahmer , Leclerc Guy , Raveleau Marine , van der Leest Machiel , Vert Michel , Lafont Antoine
Published: December 2013

Background—

We aimed to evaluate a new drug-free fully bioresorbable lactic acid–based scaffold designed to allow early dismantling synchronized with artery wall healing in comparison with a bare metal stent (BMS).

Methods and Results—

Twenty-three BMS (3.0×12 mm) and 36 lactic acid–based bioresorbable scaffolds (BRS, 3.0×11 mm) were implanted in porcine coronary arteries. QCA and optical coherence tomographic analyses were performed immediately after implantation and repeated after 1, 3, and 6 months. Microcomputed tomography was used to detect scaffold dismantling. Polymer degradation was evaluated throughout the study. The primary end-point was late lumen loss, and the secondary end-points were scaffold/stent diameter and acute recoil. Acute recoil was low and comparable between the BRS and the BMS groups (4.6±6.7 versus 4.6±5.1%;
P
=0.98). BRS outer diameter increased significantly from 1 to 6 months indicating late positive scaffold remodeling (
P
<0.0001), whereas BMS diameter remained constant (
P
=0.159). Late lumen loss decreased significantly from 1 to 6 months in the BRS group (
P
=0.003) without significant difference between BRS and BMS groups at 6 months (
P
=0.68). Microcomputed tomography identified BRS dismantling starting at 3 months, and weight-average molar masses of scaffold parts were 20% and 14% of their initial values at 3 and 6 months.

Conclusions—

BRS and BMS have similar 6-month outcomes in porcine coronary arteries. Interestingly, BRS dismantling was detected from 3 months and resulted in late lumen enlargement by increased scaffold diameter at 6 months.
Antiplatelet Treatment for Prevention of Cerebrovascular Events in Patients With Vascular Diseases
Authors: Gouya Ghazaleh , Arrich Jasmin , Wolzt Michael , Huber Kurt , Verheugt Freek W.A. , Gurbel Paul A. , Pirker-Kees Agnes , Siller-Matula Jolanta M.
Published: December 2013

Background and Purpose—

The efficacy and safety of different antiplatelet regimes for prevention of stroke in patients at high risk were investigated in a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods—

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, and Web of Science. Twenty-two studies comprising 173 371 patients were included.

Results—

In the overall population, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with aspirin and clopidogrel in comparison to aspirin monotherapy reduced the relative risk of total stroke by 20% (risk ratio [RR], 0.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.73–0.88;
P
<0.0001; I
2
=28%) and of ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack by 23% (RR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.69–0.85;
P
<0.0001; I
2
=18%) without increasing the risk of intracranial hemorrhage. In the secondary prevention cohort, DAPT with aspirin and clopidogrel also reduced the relative risk of total stroke by 24% as compared with aspirin alone (RR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.68–0.86;
P
<0.0001; I
2
=0%). DAPT with prasugrel or ticagrelor and aspirin versus DAPT with clopidogrel and aspirin was not associated with a risk reduction of stroke.

Conclusions—

DAPT with clopidogrel and aspirin compared with aspirin effectively reduces the risk of total and ischemic stroke in the overall cohort consisting of patients with cardiovascular disease without increase in intracranial hemorrhage, as well as decreases the risk of a recurrent total stroke in patients with a previous stroke/transient ischemic attack. Our meta-analysis suggests that DAPT including low-dose aspirin (75–100 mg) and clopidogrel (75 mg) should be further investigated as a strategy to reduce recurrent strokes.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero
. Unique identifier: CRD42011001596.
The Effect of Exogenous Creatine Phosphate on Myocardial Injury After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Ke-Wu Deng , Xu-Bo Shi , Ying-Xin Zhao , Shi-Wei Yang , Yu-Jie Zhou , Dong-Mei Shi , Yu-Yang Liu , De-An Jia , Zhe Fang , Zhi-Ming Zhou , Hai-Long Ge , Zhen-Xian Yan , Chang-Sheng Ma
Published: December 2013

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of exogenous creatine phosphate (CP) on myocardial injury after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Method:

Four hundred patients were divided to receive conventional therapy (control group) or 3-day intravenous infusion of CP after PCI (CP group). Levels of creatine kinase MB (CK-MB) and troponin I (TnI) were measured before and on postprocedural day 3.

Results:

Postprocedural CK-MB and TnI in the CP group were significantly increased compared to the control group. In the CP group, 8.0% and 5.0% of patients had an increase in CK-MB 1 to 3 times and >3 times, respectively, which were significantly lower than that of the control group (19.0% and 9.0%, respectively); 12.0% and 10.0% of patients had an increase in TnI 1 to 3 times and >3 times, respectively, which were significantly lower than that of the control group (21.0% and 18.0%, respectively).

Conclusion:

Exogenous CP was helpful to reduce myocardial injury after PCI.
Civil War Spain Versus Swedish Harmony
Authors: Lapuente Victor , Rothstein Bo
Published: December 2013

In 1936, while Sweden gave birth to one of the most peaceful solutions to class conflict (i.e., the neo-corporatist welfare state), Spain gave birth to one of the most violent outcomes of class conflict: the Spanish Civil War. Why did the political and socio-economic elites choose collaboration in Sweden and violent confrontation in Spain? This article underlines an overlooked intervening factor: the organization of the bureaucracy. In the late 19th century, semi-authoritarian Sweden created a meritocratic autonomous bureaucracy. In contrast, Spain—where executive and administrative positions were frequently accountable to parliamentary dynamics—built a patronage-based administration. The result was that the ruling Swedish Left could not offer public offices to core supporters and had to restrict its policies to satisfy the (more collaborationist) demands of its “policy-seekers,” while the ruling Spanish Left, thanks to the ample margin of maneuver it enjoyed to appoint and promote state officials, could satisfy the (more confrontational) demands of its “office-seekers.”
Veto Players and the Value of Political Control
Authors: Szakonyi David , Urpelainen Johannes
Published: December 2013

We examine how veto players and the government’s valuation of political control of economic activity affect the likelihood of privatization. When the government ascribes a high value to political control, veto players impede privatization because they would have to be compensated for their losses. When the value of political control is low, the government prefers to privatize enterprises that become difficult to control with multiple veto players. We test the theory against data on energy privatizations in developing countries, 1988-2008. Oil prices offer a quantitative measure of the government’s valuation of controlling the energy sector. When oil prices are high, the government has a keen interest in controlling the energy sector. Accordingly, additional veto players reduce (increase) the likelihood of privatization in times of high (low) oil prices. Beyond illuminating the politics of privatization, the results inform debates on the role of veto players in government policy.
Influences on teachers’ use of participatory learning strategies in health education classes
Authors: Cahill Helen , Coffey Julia , Lester Leanne , Midford Richard , Ramsden Robyn , Venning Lynne
Published: December 2013

Objective:

Participatory learning strategies are integral to the effectiveness of school-based health education programmes; however, use of such methods is not the norm in teaching. The omission of participatory learning strategies is a common form of programme breakdown leading to erosion of positive learning and behavioural outcomes. Based on a survey of 75 Australian high school health education teachers, the study’s objective is to examine teachers’ perspectives on the factors that influence their use of participatory learning strategies.

Results:

Whilst it is often presumed that training is the most significant factor, this study found that teachers identify understanding the educational rationale for the approach, student engagement, confidence in class control, and having positive relationships with the students, along with practicalities such as having time to adequately prepare a class, as the most significant influences on their pedagogical choices.

Conclusion:

The study concludes that a better understanding of the reasons why teachers make particular choices in their delivery of programmes gives valuable insight into what teachers need in order to support uptake or maintenance of such approaches. This understanding may in turn contribute to health education programmes being delivered with a higher fidelity and better outcomes for students.
Between Colorblind and Colorconscious
Authors: Smith Jason
Published: December 2013

Hollywood films reflect the racial order in which they are made. The sociological significance of understanding racial representations within films is highlighted in this study as it recognizes that films offer a useful site for contentious views of the racial order—colorblind and colorconscious—to be played out. Focusing on films with an African American actor and/or actress, this study will highlight how actors and actresses in these films demonstrate the pervasiveness of racial inequality, as well as how the films still maintain a colorblind framework. Although the colorblind framework persists, acknowledging the presence of colorconscious themes is a new perspective that can help challenge the colorblind framework.
Engaging, transcending and subverting dichotomies: Discursive dynamics of Maputo’s urban space
Authors: Bertelsen Bjørn Enge , Tvedten Inge , Roque Sandra
Published: December 2013

Historically, while cities such as Mozambique’s capital Maputo have been analysed as divided into ‘formal ‘and ‘informal’ spaces, contemporary approaches tend to emphasise the heterogeneity and plasticity of African urbanities. Drawing upon original ethnographic material gathered from fieldwork in 2012/2013, we reframe the analysis of such cities through recognition of novel forms of urban imaginaries, emergent narratively, that may take the shape of dichotomies or trichotomies reconfiguring hegemonic notions such as formal–informal, centre–periphery or urban–suburban. In conclusion, it is suggested that this citywide ongoing process highlights the importance of appreciating dynamic discursive engagements with urban space, which not only are at odds with hegemonic definitions of the city but also, crucially, impinge on people’s own urban strategies – in Maputo as well as elsewhere.
Cross-level interaction between individual and neighbourhood socioeconomic status in relation to social trust in a Japanese community
Authors: Murayama Hiroshi , Arami Reiko , Wakui Tomoko , Sugawara Ikuko , Yoshie Satoru
Published: December 2013

This study explores whether cross-level interaction between individual and neighbourhood socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with social trust. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was conducted with 4123 randomly selected people aged 20 years and older from 72 districts in the city of Kashiwa in 2009, and 1720 questionnaires were analysed. People of low SES tended to have higher trust in the national government and lower trust in neighbours as residential district SES increased. By contrast, people of high SES had relatively constant levels of both general and local aspects of social trust, despite local district SES. We found that perceptions of trust among people of low SES are more likely to be influenced by district-level SES than among people of high SES. This highlights the importance of considering the cross-level interaction of individual and neighbourhood SES as this interaction can either raise or lower social trust in communities.
Small-business viability in America’s urban minority communities
Authors: Bates Timothy , Robb Alicia
Published: December 2013

Although minority and immigrant entrepreneurs in the US have chosen to concentrate in low-profit retail and service lines of business clustered geographically in urban minority neighbourhoods, their reasons for doing so are unclear. We investigate their motivations by analysing viability among urban small businesses; specifically, we compare the longevity of firms targeting clients in minority neighbourhoods to those serving clients in nonminority-white residential areas. Our broader concerns are to understand why the entrepreneurial occupational choice has been embraced. A key objective is to identify specific barriers that may retard small-firm creation and development in minority-neighbourhood environs. While some claim this market offers attractive opportunities, others stress that predominance of minority- and immigrant-owned firms in this sector reflects the fact that only the least desirable market niches are accessible to them. We find that serving local clienteles in minority neighbourhoods is strongly related to firm closure and low profitability.
Formative Assessment of Collaborative Teams (FACT)
Authors: Taylor Matthew J. , Hallam Pamela R. , Charlton Cade T. , Wall D. Gary
Published: December 2013

Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) have become increasingly popular in schools. PLCs are groups of teachers, administrators, parents, and students who collaborate to improve their practices and focus on results (DuFour, 2004). Grade-level and department teachers participate in regularly scheduled collaborative team meetings; however, many school leaders lack suitable tools to evaluate fidelity to the PLC model. To address this deficit, we developed a tutorial checklist called the Formative Assessment of Collaborative Teams (FACT) through an action research approach. This article discusses the context of grade-level and department collaborative teams where much of the work of implementing the PLC model takes place. Working alongside practitioners in this context, we developed, implemented, and validated the FACT tool. This article discusses practitioners’ reactions to the tool during these processes, including observations conducted using FACT at several schools. The results of this process suggest that FACT is consistent with the elements of effective PLCs, confirming that it discriminates among collaborative teams within and across schools.
I Support Sustainability But Only When Doing So Reflects Fabulously on Me
Authors: Naderi Iman , Strutton David
Published: December 2013

Sustainability research has coalesced around the notion that many environmental problems can be framed as social dilemmas in which conflicts often arise between consumers’ pursuit of individual, short-term and self-directed goals and their support for collective, long-term and socially-oriented interests. The need to address this challenge is simultaneously becoming more important and challenging for macromarketers and policy makers as the incidence of individualistic consumer traits (e.g., narcissism and self-esteem), already high in general population, continues to grow throughout Western societies. This article examines why and how such individualistic tendencies (here, narcissistic exhibitionism) may impact consumers’ pro-environmental behavior. This research identifies an underlying mechanism (i.e., altruism) for the proposed effect. The potential effects of manageable boundary conditions for this relationship are also proposed and tested across four studies.
An overview of the remote sensing of precipitation with polarimetric radar
Authors: Islam Tanvir , Rico-Ramirez Miguel A.
Published: December 2013

Recent advances in radar remote sensing of precipitation include the development of polarimetric radar, which has the capability of transmitting in both the horizontal ( H) and vertical ( V) polarization states, thus providing additional information on the target precipitation particles. Radar polarimetry has not only been proven to improve data quality and precipitation estimation, but also improves characterization of precipitation particles; thus it has great potential in weather monitoring and forecasting. Realizing the potential of this state-of-the-art technology, meteorological departments across the world are upgrading their radar networks to polarimetric capabilities. Commensurate with this new era in precipitation remote sensing, this article provides an overview of polarimetric radar measurements, emphasizing the intrinsic signatures and their association to precipitation particle shapes, sizes and distributions. The potential research and applications of polarimetric radar signatures in meteorology are discussed. A considerable number of recent peer reviewed journal articles dealing with the topic are included in the bibliography.
Mapping landslide displacements using Structure from Motion (SfM) and image correlation of multi-temporal UAV photography
Authors: Lucieer Arko , Jong Steven M. de , Turner Darren
Published: December 2013

In this study, we present a flexible, cost-effective, and accurate method to monitor landslides using a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to collect aerial photography. In the first part, we apply a Structure from Motion (SfM) workflow to derive a 3D model of a landslide in southeast Tasmania from multi-view UAV photography. The geometric accuracy of the 3D model and resulting DEMs and orthophoto mosaics was tested with ground control points coordinated with geodetic GPS receivers. A horizontal accuracy of 7 cm and vertical accuracy of 6 cm was achieved. In the second part, two DEMs and orthophoto mosaics acquired on 16 July 2011 and 10 November 2011 were compared to study landslide dynamics. The COSI-Corr image correlation technique was evaluated to quantify and map terrain displacements. The magnitude and direction of the displacement vectors derived from correlating two hillshaded DEM layers corresponded to a visual interpretation of landslide change. Results show that the algorithm can accurately map displacements of the toes, chunks of soil, and vegetation patches on top of the landslide, but is not capable of mapping the retreat of the main scarp. The conclusion is that UAV-based imagery in combination with 3D scene reconstruction and image correlation algorithms provide flexible and effective tools to map and monitor landslide dynamics.
Cultural Factors in the Treatment of Battered Women With Privilege
Authors: Berg Kathryn K.
Published: December 2013

The field of social work pathologizes marginalized cultures by neglecting to explicitly identify cultural factors in the lives of women with systemic privilege due to race, class, and sexual orientation. This article discusses the importance of examining privilege as a strategy for advancing cultural competency in the treatment of battered women. Cultural factors in the lives of White European-American, middle-class, heterosexual women in intimate partnerships with men who share their privileges, referred to as “dominant culture women,” are explored. Additional scholarship which identifies cultural factors placing this population at risk is needed to advance cultural competency in domestic violence interventions.
“Flying” Female Sex Workers Perceptions of HIV Risk and NGOs Sexual Health Outreach Projects
Authors: Sinha Sunny
Published: December 2013

Based on my 7 months of ethnographic research with “flying” or mobile female sex workers (FSWs) in the eastern metropolitan city of Kolkata, India, I argue that the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevention programs have a limited outreach and impact within the community because of the fundamental differences in how the nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) staff and flying FSWs perceive the risk of HIV. This article examines flying FSWs perceptions of HIV risk and the NGOs sexual health outreach services. Further, the implications for HIV prevention programs and social work practice are discussed.
Understanding Child Maltreatment in Hanoi
Authors: Emery Clifton R. , Nguyen Hai Trung , Kim Jaeyop
Published: December 2013

This study aimed to understand the role of low self-control, stress, depression, experience of intimate partner violence (IPV) and child abuse, and social support and child care support in the etiology of child abuse and neglect in Hanoi, Vietnam. The study estimated the prevalence of child maltreatment in a randomly selected, representative cluster sample of 269 Hanoi families. Among these families, 21% reported severe abuse of their children in the past year, 12% reported neglect. Low self-control was found to be strongly associated with child abuse. Life stressors were found to be strongly associated with neglect, but only indirectly with child abuse. Counter-intuitively, a positive interaction between social support and low self-control was found, suggesting that social support of parents low in self-control is associated with more maltreatment. Implications for research, intervention, and criminological theory are discussed.
Developmental Changes in Threat and Self-Blame for Preschoolers Exposed to Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)
Authors: Miller Laura E. , Howell Kathryn H. , Graham-Bermann Sandra A.
Published: December 2013

The presence of threat and self-blame in children exposed to violence in the home has been linked to a number of negative behavioral and emotional consequences across developmental periods. Little research, however, has examined self-reported attributions of threat and self-blame in children under the age of 6. The current study evaluated the developmental trajectories of appraisals of threat and self-blame in preschool-aged children recently exposed to intimate partner violence. It was hypothesized that (a) children’s appraisals of threat and self-blame would naturally decrease over time and (b) there would be a main effect of child sex on appraisals of self-blame but not threat, such that girls would report higher levels of self-blame than boys. Participants included 68 preschool-aged children (ages 4-6) who were interviewed at two time points over the course of 1 year. Multilevel modeling was employed to examine the effects of violence exposure, child age, and child sex over time. Children’s attributions of threat were stable over the course of 1 year, but greater child age was related to lower appraisals of threat. Children’s appraisals of self-blame increased over time, and there was a trend for girls to report more self-blame than did boys. It appears that without intervention, young children may be at risk of developing relatively stable maladaptive cognitive patterns, thereby heightening their risk of subsequent developmental psychopathology. Furthermore, girls may need additional intervention targeted at addressing attributions of self-blame.