bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of health risk and effective dose based on measured radon levels in Korean homes and a qualitative assessment for residents’ radon awareness
Authors: Lee Geon-Woo , Yang Ji-Yeon , Kim Hyo-Jung , Kwon Myung-Hee , Lee Woo-Suk , Kim Gi-Hae , Shin Dong-Chun , Lim Young-Wook
Published: September 2016

More than 50% of the worldwide effective radiation dose from natural sources is known to be due to 222Rn. Indoor radon levels were measured in homes with long-term exposure and in relation to time spent for residents. Measurements were conducted after categorizing homes by type, and the results (mean ± S.D) showed that detached houses, apartments and multifamily houses had radon concentrations of 97 ± 110, 51 ± 24 and 59 ± 34 Bq/m3, respectively. Surveys were conducted with 620 people to analyse resident awareness of radon levels and time that residents spend in homes. Using these results, the annual effective dose and risk level were computed. The survey showed that residents of Korean homes had little awareness regarding the source of radon, exposure routes and contamination levels. The excess risk of lung cancer after exposure for 70 years was determined to be 0.55/100 people, which jumped to 2.7/100 people for residents in detached houses in highly exposed areas. Compared to the effects of radon exposure in workplaces and schools, the health risks from radon in Korean homes are especially high. Therefore, the management policies for susceptible groups are important.
Squeezing out economic news for business news? Changes in economic journalism over the past 20 years in South Korea
Authors: Lee Na Yeon , Baek Kanghui
Published: September 2016

The purpose of this study is to examine how economic journalism – news about economic issues – has changed over the past 20 years under pressure of the financial crisis experienced by newspaper companies in South Korea. A content analysis of 2442 articles published in South Korea’s three daily newspapers with the greatest circulation showed that between 1994 and 2014 the news topics and sources of economic issues changed significantly. Findings revealed that articles addressing broad issues about the economy-in-general (economic news) that are likely to be of public concern, such as unemployment and government policies, dropped from 53 to 32 percent, while news about individual businesses, which are current or potential purchasers of newspaper advertising, rose from 17 to 30 percent. Likewise, there was significant increase in the use of corporate spokespeople used as news sources, while government and independent spokespeople decreased. An additional source analysis demonstrated that articles about individual businesses highlighted the interests of individual corporations: only 10 percent of news articles about corporations challenged the perspectives of corporations. Findings suggest an imbalance of news coverage about economic issues that may limit the information that the public needs in order to make informed decisions about a wide range of economic issues.
How much does ownership matter? Deliberative discourse in local media coverage of the Terri Schiavo case
Authors: Rohlinger Deana , Proffitt Jennifer M
Published: September 2016

This article contributes to a more systematic understanding of the role of newspaper ownership in deliberative processes by analyzing how inclusive local newspapers are of diverse perspectives on the Terri Schiavo case. Drawing on a content analysis of 1182 stories, we use multinomial logistic regression to analyze how ownership affects what ideas are included in the discussion as well as the tone with which they are discussed. We find that ownership indeed matters. Independently owned newspapers cover controversial ideas more often – even on the opinion pages. We also find that geography matters. Newspapers closest to the event epicenter include more stories and a broader range of perspectives regarding the Schiavo case. We discuss the implications of this research for understanding the role of economics in deliberative processes.
Walking the complexities between two worlds: A personal story of epistemological tensions in knowledge production
Authors: Karki Karun Kishor
Published: September 2016

In this article, I tell the autoethnographic stories of epistemological tensions emerging from my entanglement with Indigenous and Western ways of knowing in my journey towards my doctoral research in social work. I link these tensions to broader socio-political and historical tensions that tie together the West and the Global South. I highlight the sharp contrasts and contradictions as well as the nuanced contestations in the production of knowledge. I follow a chronological order to organize my narratives into four parts. In the first part, I describe my experiences of walking in two worlds. In the second part, I explore how I knew what I knew, depicting my indigenous ways of knowing. In the third part, I examine Western ways of knowing, depicting the subjugation of my indigenous ways of knowing. In the final part, I address the hybrid ways of knowing that I embody by walking in many worlds.
The Interviewer in the Respondent’s Shoes: What Can We Learn from the Way Interviewers Answer Survey Questions?
Authors: Wuyts Celine , Loosveldt Geert
Published: September 2016

Previous research shows that interviewers to some extent fail to expend the effort that is needed to collect high-quality survey data. We extend the idea of interviewer satisficing to a related task, in which the interviewers themselves answer survey questions. We hypothesize that interviewers who self-administer the questionnaire in a careless manner will also not apply themselves fully to the task of administering survey interviews. Based on interviewer and respondent data from the sixth round of the European Social Survey in Belgium, we find support for some of the hypothesized associations between (suboptimal) response characteristics of interviewers in the “task as respondent” and the same (suboptimal) response characteristics recorded for their respondents, specifically with regard to interview speed, multiple response, and item nonresponse to the household income question.
Functional polyester fabric/polypyrrole polymer composites for electromagnetic shielding: Optimization of process parameters
Authors: Tunáková Veronika , Grégr Jan , Tunák Maroš , Dohnal Gejza
Published: September 2016

Intrinsically conducting polymer polypyrrole/polyester textile composites were prepared by in situ chemical oxidative polymerization of polypyrrole on a polyester fabric. As an oxidizing agent ferric chloride was used, p-toluenesulfonic acid was used as a dopant. Polymerization conditions (concentration of monomer, polymerization time and temperature) were investigated and optimized by the help of Design of experiment methodology to obtain fabric with electromagnetic shielding efficiency at least 12 dB for frequency 1.5 GHz. Moreover, weight increase, macroscopic color shade of images and scanning electron microscopy images of samples were evaluated. It was found that all selected factors and their interactions have statistically significant effect on resulting electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, whereas monomer concentration has the highest positive influence. Experimental data were used to derive an empirical model linking the output and inputs. Optimized parameters (polymerization temperature 6.7℃, polymerization time 10 h and monomer concentration 5.8 g/l) for creating polypyrrole/polyester textile composite with electromagnetic shielding ability higher than 12 dB were successfully verified.
A Systematic Analysis of Errors in Target Localization and Treatment Delivery for Stereotactic Radiosurgery Using 2D/3D Image Registration
Authors: Xu Hao , Brown Stephen , Chetty Indrin J. , Wen Ning
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To determine the localization uncertainties associated with 2-dimensional/3-dimensional image registration in comparison to 3-dimensional/3-dimensional image registration in 6 dimensions on a Varian Edge Linac under various imaging conditions.

Methods:

The systematic errors in 6 dimensions were assessed by comparing automatic 2-dimensional/3-dimensional (kV/MV vs computed tomography) with 3-dimensional/3-dimensional (cone beam computed tomography vs computed tomography) image registrations under various conditions encountered in clinical applications. The 2-dimensional/3-dimensional image registration uncertainties for 88 patients with different treatment sites including intracranial and extracranial were evaluated by statistically analyzing 2-dimensional/3-dimensional pretreatment verification shifts of 192 fractions in stereotactic radiosurgery and stereotactic body radiotherapy.

Results:

The systematic errors of 2-dimensional/3-dimensional image registration using kV–kV, MV–kV, and MV–MV image pairs were within 0.3 mm and 0.3° for the translational and rotational directions within a 95% confidence interval. No significant difference ( P > .05) in target localization was observed with various computed tomography slice thicknesses (0.8, 1, 2, and 3 mm). Two-dimensional/3-dimensional registration had the best accuracy when pattern intensity and content filter were used. For intracranial sites, means ± standard deviations of translational errors were −0.20 ± 0.70 mm, 0.04 ± 0.50 mm, and 0.10 ± 0.40 mm for the longitudinal, lateral, and vertical directions, respectively. For extracranial sites, means ± standard deviations of translational errors were −0.04 ± 1.00 mm, 0.2 ± 1.0 mm, and 0.1 ± 1.0 mm for the longitudinal, lateral, and vertical directions, respectively. Two-dimensional/3-dimensional image registration for intracranial and extracranial sites had comparable systematic errors that were approximately 0.2 mm in the translational direction and 0.08° in the rotational direction.

Conclusion:

The standard 2-dimensional/3-dimensional image registration tool available on the Varian Edge radiosurgery device, a state-of-the-art system, is helpful for robust and accurate target positioning for image-guided stereotactic radiosurgery.
Treatment Failure and Leg Amputation Among Patients With Foot Osteomyelitis
Authors: Barshes Neal R. , Mindru Cezarina , Ashong Chester , Rodriguez-Barradas Maria , Trautner Barbara W.
Published: September 2016

We sought to identify factors associated with treatment failure and leg amputations among those patients who presented with foot osteomyelitis. Characteristics, treatments, and outcomes for all patients treated for probable or definite foot osteomyelitis (per consensus definition) between January 2011 and March 2015 were reviewed. Multivariate Cox regression models were used to identify risk factors for treatment failure (unanticipated resection of additional bone or leg amputation) and of leg amputation alone. A total of 184 episodes of foot osteomyelitis met inclusion criteria. Treatment failure occurred in 53 (28.8%) and leg amputation in 21 (11.4%). Risk factors for treatment failure included severe/unaddressed peripheral artery disease, homelessness, Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Escherichia coli bone isolates, serum albumin <2.8 mg/dL, hallux involvement, insulin therapy, 60 or more pack-years smoking, and <7 days of directed antibiotic therapy for a positive bone margin. Delayed primary wound closure (ie, staged operations) had significantly lower treatment failure risk. Unanticipated resection of bone was not associated with leg amputation. Foot osteomyelitis treatment failure is common. Various factors can help identify those at risk for treatment failure and/or leg amputation, and further studies should focused whether initial management or follow-up should change when these factors are present.
von Willebrand Factor and Prekallikrein in Plasma Are Associated With Thrombus Volume in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Ghulam Qasam M. , Bredahl Kim K. , Gram Jørgen B. , Lönn Lars , Goetze Jens P. , Sillesen Henrik H. , Eiberg Jonas P.
Published: September 2016

Objectives:

Disruption of the endothelial lining may be one of the events linking intraluminal thrombus and abdominal aortic aneurysm growth. In the present study, we examined whether von Willebrand factor activity in plasma, contact proteins of blood coagulation, and inflammatory biomarkers may be associated with intraluminal thrombus volume in search of a biochemical marker of endothelial damage and thrombus size.

Design:

Prospective study, correlating potential endothelial biomarkers and intraluminal thrombus volume acquired by computed tomography angiography.

Materials and Methods:

Plasma was consecutively obtained from 38 patients with asymptomatic infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm. von Willebrand factor activity, thrombin generation time, factor XII, and prekallikrein concentration were measured in plasma on automated and in-house platforms. In total, 8 patients were excluded due to ongoing anticoagulant therapy, renal impairment, or nonappearance, thus leaving 30 patients for further analysis. All patients had computed tomography angiography, and intraluminal volume was quantified off-line by OsiriX 6.5.

Results:

Median intraluminal thrombus volume was 42.7 mL. Spearman correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between thrombus volume, von Willebrand factor activity (ρ = 0.56, P = .0013), and prekallikrein concentration in plasma (ρ = 0.54, P = .002).

Conclusion:

von Willebrand factor activity and concentration of prekallikrein may both be of importance regarding the evolution of thrombus in abdominal aortic aneurysm and possible biomarkers for aneurysm growth.
Prognostic Utility of Clinical Epilepsy Severity Score Versus Pretreatment Hypsarrhythmia Scoring in Children With West Syndrome
Authors: Sehgal Rachna , Gulati Sheffali , Sapra Savita , Tripathi Manjari , Pandey Ravinder Mohan , Kabra Madhulika
Published: September 2016

This cross-sectional study assessed the impact of clinical epilepsy severity and pretreatment hypsarrhythmia severity on epilepsy and cognitive outcomes in treated children with West syndrome. Thirty-three children, aged 1 to 5 years, with infantile spasms were enrolled if pretreatment EEG records were available, after completion of ≥1 year of onset of spasms. Neurodevelopment was assessed by Development Profile 3 and Gross Motor Function Classification System. Epilepsy severity in the past 1 year was determined by the Early Childhood Epilepsy Severity Score (E-Chess). Kramer Global Score of hypsarrhythmia severity was computed. Kramer Global Score (≤8) and E-Chess (≤9) in the past 1 year were associated with favorable epilepsy outcome but not neurodevelopmental or motor outcome.
Decrease of Delta Oscillatory Responses in Cognitively Normal Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Emek-Savaş Derya Durusu , Özmüş Gülin , Güntekin Bahar , Dönmez Çolakoğlu Berril , Çakmur Raif , Başar Erol , Yener Görsev G.
Published: September 2016

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common progressive neurodegenerative disorder. This study aims to compare sensory-evoked oscillations (SEOs) and event-related oscillations (EROs) of visual modality in cognitively normal PD patients and healthy controls. Sixteen PD and 16 age-, gender-, and education-matched healthy controls participated in the study. A simple flashlight was used for SEO and a classical visual oddball paradigm was used for target ERO. Oscillatory responses in the delta frequency range (0.5-3.5 Hz) were examined. Significantly lower delta ERO and SEO responses were found in PD patients than healthy controls. Delta ERO responses were decreased at all frontal, central and parietal locations, whereas delta SEO responses were decreased over mid and right central locations in PD. According to the notion that SEO reflects the activity of sensory networks and ERO reflects cognitive networks, these findings indicate that PD patients have impairments in both cognitive and sensory networks of visual modality. Decreased delta ERO responses indicate that the subliminal cognitive changes in PD can be detected by electrophysiological methods. These results demonstrate that brain oscillatory responses have the potential to be studied as a biomarker for visual cognitive and sensory networks in PD.
Malignant Glomus Tumors of the Hand
Authors: Woodward Joseph F. , Jones Neil F.
Published: September 2016

Background: Glomus tumors are uncommon vascular tumors of the hand. Malignant glomus tumors, known as glomangiosarcomas, are very rare and offer management challenges. Methods: A review of the diagnosis and treatment of malignant glomus tumors is presented in along with a report of the largest malignant glomus tumor of the hand to date. Results: The review illustrates the management of glomangiosarcomas. Only 6 previous such cases have been reported. Conclusion: The rare nature of malignant glomus tumors mandates case presentation and longitudinal analysis to help guide surgical management an optimize outcomes.
The Prosecutor’s Important Announcements; the Communication of Moral Authority at the International Criminal Court
Authors: Dobson Jillian , Stolk Sofia
Published: September 2016

This article explores the specific identity that the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) at the International Criminal Court constructs and communicates to the outside world through its press releases. The mapping of the OTP’s essential claims about allegiances, the judicial mandate, and victims, highlights how the OTP imagines and manages its self-asserted moral authority. An in-depth case study of its framing of the turbulent developments in the cases against Kenyan officials shows how the OTP’s discourse is marked by a continuous repetition of goals and values while it simultaneously strategically shifts allegiances and externalizes failure in times of criticism.
Pedagogy and quality in Indian slum school settings: A Bernsteinian analysis of visual representations in the Integrated Child Development Service
Authors: Chawla-Duggan Rita
Published: September 2016

This paper focuses upon the micro level of the pre-school classroom, taking the example of the Indian Integrated Child Development Service (ICDS), and the discourse of ‘child-centred’ pedagogy that is often associated with quality pre-schooling. Through an analysis of visual data, semi-structured and film elicitation interviews drawn from a pilot study of six ICDS settings (anganwadis) within two Mumbai slums, Bernstein’s ideas about social relations of pedagogy are used to explore modalities of pedagogic practice. The paper argues that the forms of pedagogy that were observed are not yet reconciled with current notions of quality pedagogy that underpin the pre-school education component of the ICDS, but that there is scope for a weakened framing that may allow for a more contextualised version of child-centred pedagogic discourse.
Fertility preservation in males with cancer: 16-year monocentric experience of sperm banking and post-thaw reproductive outcomes
Authors: Depalo Raffaella , Falagario Doriana , Masciandaro Paola , Nardelli Claudia , Vacca Margherita Patrizia , Capuano Pasquale , Specchia Giorgina , Battaglia Michele
Published: September 2016

Background:

Anticancer treatments can impair male fertility. Cryopreservation of semen is an efficient procedure for fertility preservation. The aim of this study was to evaluate pre-freeze semen parameters among the various types of cancer, post-thaw sperm viability and reproductive outcome of samples used for assisted reproductive treatment (ART).

Methods:

This study included 721 men with cancer that had their semen cryopreserved in our bank in 1999–2015. Semen analysis and cryopreservation were performed before the start of antineoplastic treatment, according to the World Health Organization recommendations, European Commission and Italian law.

Results:

Among the 721 patient, 196 had seminoma of the testis, 173 Hodgkin’s lymphoma, 108 mixed testicular tumors, 89 germ cell tumors, 67 other tumors, 46 hematological tumors, and 42 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The mean age of patients was significantly lower in Hodgkin’s lymphoma compared to other tumors. Statistically significant lower volume, sperm count and number of straws stored were observed respectively in Hodgkin’s lymphoma, mixed testicular tumor and hematological tumors. Nineteen patients used their frozen semen for 20 ART cycles. After thawing a significant reduction of motility and vitality was recorded. A lower fertilization rate was observed in patients affected by testicular tumor and lymphoma (35.42% and 50%) compared with other cancers (71.43%). No significant differences were observed in terms of cleavage and implantation rates. A total of five pregnancies and seven healthy newborns were achieved.

Conclusions:

Fertility preservation before gonadotoxic therapy is of great importance to patients with cancer and must be indicate before the start of treatment.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome
Authors: Algahtani Hussein , Algahtani Abdulhadi , Aldarmahi Ahmad , Hmoud Mohammed , Marzuk Yousef , Shirah Bader
Published: September 2016

Objectives:

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinicoradiological syndrome characterized by headache, altered mental status, seizures, or loss of vision. In this study, we report the largest series of PRES coming from Saudi Arabia and explore the etiology, clinical presentation, and outcome. We also report new imaging findings associated with this condition.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective study of all cases of PRES admitted to King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between the years 2005 and 2015. A neurologist reviewed all charts and analyzed the clinical presentations, etiological factors, and outcomes, and a neuroradiologist reviewed the imaging studies. Only patients with clinical and imaging features consistent with PRES were included in the study.

Results:

We collected 31 patients who had clinical and radiological features consistent with PRES. Females were more affected than males (18 females and 13 males), and patients’ age ranged from 6 to 95 years, with a mean of 38.3 years. Patients were treated by removing the precipitating causes and treating the underlying conditions. Resolution of neurologic signs occurred within 2 to 3 weeks in all patients.

Conclusion:

In our opinion, PRES itself is usually a benign condition with complete recovery if the condition is recognized early and managed appropriately. Although clinical signs are nonspecific, the constellation of symptoms including headache, visual problems, seizures, and altered level of consciousness should suggest the possibility of PRES, especially in high-risk group. Abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging are often characteristic and may be the first clue to the diagnosis.
Scaffolding Learning for Practitioner-Scholars: The Philosophy and Design of a Qualitative Research Methods Course
Authors: Slayton Julie , Samkian Artineh
Published: September 2016

We present our approach to a qualitative research methods course to prepare practitioner-scholars for their dissertation and independent research. We explain how an instructor’s guide provides consistency and rigor, and in-class activities to scaffold learning, and helps faculty connect the content to students’ out-of-school lives. We explain how reflection is used to develop students’ reflective practice and enable us to improve the course in both the short and long term. We argue the necessity of having tools that ensure our teaching philosophy translates into a consistent curriculum and instructional approach, maximizing the chances that faculty facilitate our students’ development into practitioner-scholars.
Quality of Life for Historic Cavopulmonary Shunt Survivors
Authors: Steele Margaret M. , Zahr Riad Abou , Kirshbom Paul M. , Kopf Gary S. , Karimi Mohsen
Published: September 2016

Background:

Beginning with Dr William Glenn in 1958, 90 patients with congenital heart lesions underwent cavopulmonary (Glenn) shunts over a 30-year period. In 2015, the follow-up data on this original cohort were reported. The study focuses on the current quality of life of this cohort.

Methods:

Of the original 91 cavopulmonary shunt survivors, 14 (ages: 26-59; average length of postsurgical follow-up: 38.4 years) completed the Rand 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey, volume 2 (SF-36v2) quality-of-life survey at clinical office visits, over the phone or via regular mail. Diagnoses included tricuspid atresia (n = 9), double inlet left ventricle (n = 1), d-transposition of great arteries (n = 1), Ebstein’s anomaly (n = 1), tetralogy of Fallot (n = 1), and pulmonary atresia with hypoplastic right ventricle (n = 1). Norm-based comparison of cavopulmonary shunt survivors to the general population was performed using a one-sample t test.

Results:

The 36-question health survey, SF-36v2, provided physical and mental health summary measures standardized to achieve a mean of 50. The 14 survivors’ physical composite score was 47.18 (standard deviation [SD]: 8.24; P = .22) and mental composite score was 52.71 (SD: 5.64; P = .095).

Conclusion:

The cavopulmonary shunt is now a widely used surgical palliation for single-ventricle patients and can be associated with physical and mental health outcomes similar to the general US population. Cavopulmonary shunt survivors’ SF-36v2 survey results do not demonstrate a statistically significant difference from the general US population in physical or mental health measures. The results of this study contribute to the discussion of quality of life for patients with congenital heart disease by following up with the oldest known survivors.
Banding of Nonrestrictive Large Hypertensive Aortopulmonary Collaterals in Patients With Ventricular Septal Defect and Pulmonary Atresia Presenting in Suboptimal Condition
Authors: Dutta Baruah Sudip , Singh Vishal Kamalaprasad , Marwah Ashutosh , Sharma Rajesh
Published: September 2016

Infants with pulmonary atresia and nonrestrictive ventricular septal defect with large hypertensive aortopulmonary collaterals demand early surgical intervention. This presentation in the extremely low-weight child or in the moribund septic child may preclude single-stage repair even if anatomically suited. We propose that such infants may be temporized by means of banding of individual aortopulmonary collaterals as a means of bridging to a second-stage complete repair. Two such cases are presented.
Late Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction Following the Rastelli Operation
Authors: Cleveland David C. , Kirklin James K. , Pavnica Jozef W. , Tresler Margaret A. , Kukreja Manisha , Dabal Robert J. , Bryant Ayesha S. , Isbell Kayla D. , Romp Robb L.
Published: September 2016

Background:

Consensus is lacking regarding the optimal operation for transposition, ventricular septal defect, and pulmonary stenosis.

Methods:

Between 1968 and 2012, a total of 76 patients underwent the Rastelli procedure, with 52 mid- or long-term survivors. A bracketing analysis was used to estimate the likelihood of late left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO).

Results:

Early mortality decreased over the period of study, with no hospital mortality since 2000. Among one year survivors, 10- and 20-year survival was 90% and 72%, respectively. Freedom from reoperation for LVOTO was 87% at 20 years, with no increase in risk among patients having the procedure before 5 years of age. Available late echocardiographic or catheterization data indicated mild or no LVOTO at a median of 14.3 years in a subset of 38 patients. Estimated freedom from major LVOTO at 20 years is bracketed between the estimate of 87% freedom from reoperation for LVOTO at 20 years and the 78% freedom from reoperation for LVOTO or cardiac death by 20 years.

Conclusion:

The Rastelli operation can be performed in the current era with an early mortality that approaches 0% and with 20-year survival that exceeds 70%. The late risk of important LVOTO appears to range from about 13% to 22% at 20 years, with no increase in risk among patients operated upon before the age of 5 years.
Impact of Clinical Pharmacy on Asthma in Pregnancy in a Maternal-Fetal Care Clinic
Authors: Forinash Alicia B. , Chamness Danielle , Yancey Abigail M. , Koerner Jamie , Mathews Katherine , Miller Collin , Thompson Judy , Myles Thomas
Published: September 2016

Background: Asthma complicates 4% to 8% of pregnancies. The impact of clinical pharmacists providing asthma management and education to obstetric patients is unknown. Objective: Evaluate the impact of and patient satisfaction with clinical pharmacy services on asthma in pregnancy. Methods: This prospective quasi-experimental study enrolled 30 pregnant patients with asthma and assessed perceived asthma understanding, control, and inhaler technique before and after a clinical pharmacist visit and education. The primary outcome was change in pre- and postsurvey scores. Items were rated on a 5-point Likert-type scale; higher scores represented higher perceived knowledge or satisfaction. Secondary outcomes included inhaler technique scores, asthma control, correlating patient-specific factors with the primary outcome, and level of patient satisfaction with clinical pharmacy services. Results: Perceived knowledge of asthma in pregnancy median score (maximum score 50) significantly increased with clinical pharmacy education (37.5 pre vs 49 post, P = .001). Prior to clinical pharmacy services, patients highly rated their perceived knowledge of asthma in pregnancy with median scores on 7 of 10 items between 4 and 5. Despite this, significant changes were observed on 9 items. The proportion of patients with controlled asthma significantly increased after the pharmacist visit (33.3% vs 90%, P < .001). Satisfaction with clinical pharmacy services was overwhelmingly positive with average scores on all items 4.5 to 5. Inhaler technique scores significantly increased from baseline to follow-up (4 vs 7, P = .001). Conclusions: Pharmacists significantly improved patient perceived knowledge about asthma, asthma control, and inhaler technique. Patients were overwhelmingly satisfied with the care provided by the pharmacist.
Student Participation in Professional Organizations
Authors: Michael Kimberly , Keller Shelby , Tran Xuan , Sayles Harlan , Custer Tanya
Published: September 2016

A professional society, organization, or association offers members the opportunity to advance their knowledge and skills and to maintain their certification through organizational activities. By definition, professional societies are formed when a group of individuals with shared interests collaborate to achieve professional goals. Cited benefits of membership in a professional society include being a key resource for maintaining professional values and standards; providing opportunities for continuing education, professional development, networking, and collaboration; providing support for challenging issues; and promotion of the profession. A PubMed search found that some health care education programs report the benefits of student membership in their professional societies, although there are little published data on student membership in professional societies for medical imaging programs.
Sonographic Appearance of Chromic 2-0 Catgut Sutures in the Parenchyma of a Renal Allograft
Authors: Araújo Nordeval Cavalcante , Suassuna José Hermógenes Rocco
Published: September 2016

A renal transplant recipient had a urinary fistula repaired and a double-pigtail ureteral stent left and later surgically removed. At this same time, an open biopsy was performed and closed with chromic 2-0 catgut sutures. A sonogram revealed an artifactual image that was interpreted as a fragmented piece of the stent that was left in the patient. An exploratory surgery performed, however, was unremarkable, and the renal incision was again closed with chromic 2-0 catgut sutures. A repeated sonogram demonstrated the previous artifact, which raised the suspicion that this appearance should be attributed to the chromic 2-0 catgut sutures. An experiment using a model of coupling gel and chromic 2-0 catgut sutures demonstrated artifacts that matched those seen during sonography of this particular renal allograft. This sonographic artifactual appearance may be seen in hypostenic patients with a high-frequency transducer centered over chromic 2-0 catgut sutures.
Sonographic Detection of Solid Pseudopapillary Epithelial Neoplasm
Authors: Luckenbill Emily , Fisher Kelsy
Published: September 2016

Solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasms are a rare form of exocrine pancreatic tumors. While most of these neoplasms are benign, small percentages are malignant. Complete resection is associated with long-term survival, even in the presence of metastatic disease. This case study presents a solid pseudopapillary epithelial neoplasm arising from the pancreatic tail. The pancreatic neoplasm was initially detected as an incidental finding sonographically and then further investigated by magnetic resonance imaging. This case highlights the importance of documenting incidental findings during sonography and how the combination of multiple imaging modalities provided an accurate diagnosis that led to proper treatment.
The efficacy of bedside chest ultrasound: from accuracy to outcomes
Authors: Hew Mark , Tay Tunn Ren
Published: September 2016

For many respiratory physicians, point-of-care chest ultrasound is now an integral part of clinical practice. The diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound to detect abnormalities of the pleura, the lung parenchyma and the thoracic musculoskeletal system is well described. However, the efficacy of a test extends beyond just diagnostic accuracy. The true value of a test depends on the degree to which diagnostic accuracy efficacy influences decision-making efficacy, and the subsequent extent to which this impacts health outcome efficacy. We therefore reviewed the demonstrable levels of test efficacy for bedside ultrasound of the pleura, lung parenchyma and thoracic musculoskeletal system.

For bedside ultrasound of the pleura, there is evidence supporting diagnostic accuracy efficacy, decision-making efficacy and health outcome efficacy, predominantly in guiding pleural interventions. For the lung parenchyma, chest ultrasound has an impact on diagnostic accuracy and decision-making for patients presenting with acute respiratory failure or breathlessness, but there are no data as yet on actual health outcomes. For ultrasound of the thoracic musculoskeletal system, there is robust evidence only for diagnostic accuracy efficacy.

We therefore outline avenues to further validate bedside chest ultrasound beyond diagnostic accuracy, with an emphasis on confirming enhanced health outcomes.
Scientist Spotlight Homework Assignments Shift Students’ Stereotypes of Scientists and Enhance Science Identity in a Diverse Introductory Science Class
Authors: Schinske Jeffrey N. , Perkins Heather , Snyder Amanda , Wyer Mary
Published: September 2016

Research into science identity, stereotype threat, and possible selves suggests a lack of diverse representations of scientists could impede traditionally underserved students from persisting and succeeding in science. We evaluated a series of metacognitive homework assignments (“Scientist Spotlights”) that featured counterstereotypical examples of scientists in an introductory biology class at a diverse community college. Scientist Spotlights additionally served as tools for content coverage, as scientists were selected to match topics covered each week. We analyzed beginning- and end-of-course essays completed by students during each of five courses with Scientist Spotlights and two courses with equivalent homework assignments that lacked connections to the stories of diverse scientists. Students completing Scientist Spotlights shifted toward counterstereotypical descriptions of scientists and conveyed an enhanced ability to personally relate to scientists following the intervention. Longitudinal data suggested these shifts were maintained 6 months after the completion of the course. Analyses further uncovered correlations between these shifts, interest in science, and course grades. As Scientist Spotlights require very little class time and complement existing curricula, they represent a promising tool for enhancing science identity, shifting stereotypes, and connecting content to issues of equity and diversity in a broad range of STEM classrooms.
Myeloid-derived suppressor cells are essential for maintaining feto-maternal immunotolerance via STAT3 signaling in mice
Authors: Pan Ting , Liu Yufeng , Zhong Li Mei , Shi Mao Hua , Duan Xiao Bing , Wu Kang , Yang Qiong , Liu Chao , Wei Jian Yang , Ma Xing Ru , Shi Kun , Zhang Hui , Zhou Jie
Published: September 2016

Maternal immune system tolerance to the semiallogeneic fetus is essential for a successful pregnancy; however, the mechanisms underlying this immunotolerance have not been fully elucidated. Here, we demonstrate that myeloid-derived suppressor cells play an important role in maintaining feto-maternal tolerance. A significant expansion of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells was observed in multiple immune organs and decidual tissues from pregnant mice. Pregnancy-derived granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells suppressed T cell responses in a reactive oxygen species-dependent manner and required direct cell–cell contact. Mechanistic studies showed that progesterone facilitated differentiation and activation of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells, mediated through STAT3 signaling. The STAT3 inhibitor JSI-124 and a specific short hairpin RNA completely abrogated the effects of progesterone on granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells. More importantly, granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cell depletion dramatically enhanced the abortion rate in normal pregnant mice, whereas adoptive transfer of granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells clearly reduced the abortion rate in the CBA/J X DBA/2J mouse model of spontaneous abortion. These observations collectively demonstrate that granulocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells play an essential role in the maintenance of fetal immunotolerance in mice. Furthermore, our study supports the notion that in addition to their well-recognized roles under pathologic conditions, myeloid-derived suppressor cells perform important functions under certain physiologic circumstances.
Editorial: Natural killer cells “strike” a new cord
Authors: Waggoner Stephen N , Mavilio Domenico
Published: September 2016

Discussion on new insights into the phenotypic and functional characteristics of cord blood NK cells.
Editorial: A matter of survival: HMGB1 regulates autophagy in tumor MDSC
Authors: Kumai Takumi , Celis Esteban , Rodriguez Paulo C
Published: September 2016

Discussion on the role of HMGB1 as a driver of inflammation in tumors through the induction of MDSC autophagy; a critical process in the modulation of inflammation in tumors.
Deep in the heart of Texas: SEG heads to ‘Big D’ for 2016 Annual Meeting
Authors: Blythe Natalie
Published: September 2016

Thousands of geoscience professionals from more than 70 countries will gather in the heart of Texas for the SEG International Exposition and 86th Annual Meeting. The Annual Meeting, which takes place 16–21 October 2016 at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, provides a unique platform for information exchange, high-level networking, and new business-development opportunities for the geosciences industry.
High-resolution seismic reflection to improve accuracy of hydrogeologic models in Ventura County, California, USA
Authors: Miller Richard , Black William , Miele Martin , Morgan Tony , Ivanov Julian , Peterie Shelby , Wang Yao
Published: September 2016

A high-resolution seismic-reflection investigation mapped reflectors and identified characteristics influencing the hydrogeology underlying a portion of the Oxnard Plain in Ventura County, California. Design and implementation of this study was heavily influenced by high levels of cultural noise from vehicles, power lines, roads, manufacturing facilities, and underground utilities/vaults. An abundance of very high quality reflections within the optimum window on shot gathers allowed accurate velocity analysis and statics corrections, which resulted in consistent and coherent common-midpoint (CMP)-stacked reflections with minimal wavelet degradation. Acquisition and processing flows were tailored to this noisy environment and relatively shallow target interval. Layering within both upper and lower aquifer systems was delineated at a vertical resolution potential of about 2.5 m at 350 m depth. Discontinuities in bedding with significant impact on the groundwater flow, particularly related to saltwater intrusion from agricultural pumping near the coast, were delineated on CMP-stacked sections and correlated to widely separated boring data, thereby providing continuity and realism to hydrologic models.
3D aquifer mapping employing airborne geophysics to meet India's water future
Authors: Chandra Subash , Ahmed Shakeel , Auken Esben , Pedersen Jesper B. , Singh Amarjit , Verma Saurabh K.
Published: September 2016

With the growing dependence on groundwater, escalating demand, and increasing depletion of aquifers, the Government of India has accorded special emphasis to management of groundwater resources through precise aquifer mapping. We have carried out hydrogeophysical surveys, including airborne electromagnetic (AEM), in six hydrogeologically divergent areas comprising sedimentary basins, basalts, weathered and fractured granite gneisses and schists, desert, and costal alluvium with the objective to establish suitability of AEM for a countrywide aquifer mapping in India. Efficacy of the dual-moment AEM surveys in mapping the shallow and deep aquifers is evaluated in conjunction with geologic, geophysical, and borehole data. It is found that the AEM surveys provide reliable images of the subsurface resistivity distribution defining the 3D geometrical and electrical attributes of aquifers in different areas. The surveys helped identify the suitable zones for managed artificial recharge (MAR), subsurface structures controlling the groundwater conditions, regional continuity of principal aquifers, palaeoriver channels, variations in lithologic character of aquifers, and the quality of water in terms of salinity, etc. In this paper, we present the efficacy of the aquifer-mapping approach illustrated by an example from an alluvium-covered hard-rock terrain (Dausa, Rajasthan), where a weathered-fractured aquifer system with compartmentalization under alluvium cover is mapped. The integrated data set, comprising AEM, aeromagnetic, ground geophysical, and borehole measurements, was utilized to derive lithologic and hydrogeologic maps useful in developing an aquifer-based groundwater-management plan.
The use of color wheels to communicate uncertainty in the interpretation of geophysical data
Authors: Nordin Matias , Smith Ryan , Knight Rosemary
Published: September 2016

In the field of hydrogeophysics, images are often used to communicate information about subsurface properties and processes. Such images are derived from measurements, modeling, or a combination of the two and inherently contain a varying degree of uncertainty. This poses a challenge, since not only should the interpreted results be conveyed in such images, but also the degree of uncertainty in the representation. The question we seek to address is: How do we generate a single image that communicates the uncertainty in the interpretation? In an attempt to answer this question, we focus, as an example, on a hydrostratigraphic model obtained from airborne electromagnetic data calibrated with lithologic data. The uncertainty in this model stems (mainly) from the uncertainty of accurately assigning the electromagnetic data to unique lithologic units. Two representations of the uncertainty, based on color schemes, were tested. The first approach uses an additive color model, the RGB model, and consists of directly mapping the data to the different primary colors. The second approach utilizes basic concepts from color theory, in particular, the use of harmonic color schemes, and is based on a subtractive color model. We find that the uncertainty in describing the lithologic units is difficult to distinguish using the direct RGB mapping, but, by using the harmonic mapping, the uncertainties are recognizable. We conclude that the use of harmonic color schemes is a viable way of communicating uncertainties in the subsurface.
Member Services
Authors: Eber Ashley
Published: September 2016

Our members are the backbone of SEG. From Student members in Nigeria to Emeritus members in Canada, each and every one of you inspires us to continually provide services and products to enhance your career in geosciences and your experience with SEG.
Welcome to ‘Seismic Soundoff’ — In-depth conversations in applied geophysics
Authors: Geary Andrew
Published: September 2016

The inaugural episode of SEG's “Seismic Soundoff” podcast officially launched at seg.org/podcast on 4 August, with a new episode released each week in August.
Anxiety disorders in children and adolescents: aetiology, diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Vallance Aaron K. , Fernandez Victoria
Published: September 2016

The presentation of anxiety disorders in children and adolescents shares similarities and differences with that in adults, and may vary significantly, depending on the age of the individual. Assessment must differentiate anxiety disorders from developmentally appropriate fears as well as medical conditions and drugs that can mimic anxiety states. Aetiology of anxiety disorders in this group encompasses complex genetic and environmental influences. Additional insight into causation is provided by neuroimaging and research into temperament. Recommended interventions include both cognitive-behavioural therapy and pharmacology. Although childhood anxiety disorders generally remit, there remains an increased risk for anxiety and depressive disorders to emerge in adulthood, most likely through heterotypical continuity.
Acute and transient psychoses: clinical and nosological issues
Authors: Castagnini Augusto , Galeazzi Gian Maria
Published: September 2016

This article examines the clinical, epidemiological and nosological aspects of short-lived psychotic disorders as currently classified under ‘acute and transient psychotic disorders' in ICD-10 and ‘brief psychotic disorder’ in DSM-5. After describing earlier diagnostic concepts such as bouffée délirante, cycloid psychosis, reactive psychosis and schizophreniform psychosis, we present an overview of the literature and discuss implications for classification, diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, pointing out differences from longer-lasting psychotic disorders.
Adverse psychiatric effects of non-psychotropic medications
Authors: Gupta Ankit , Chadda Rakesh K.
Published: September 2016

Patients presenting to psychiatrists frequently have comorbid medical conditions for which they are receiving treatment. A range of medications used for treatment of these conditions can have adverse effects resembling psychiatric symptoms. This article presents the results of our review of the literature on psychiatric adverse effects of various non-psychotropic medications, and discusses the mechanisms of such effects, their assessment and management. Among the commonly prescribed drugs found to have psychiatric adverse effects are corticosteroids, anti-Parkinsonian drugs, anti-epileptics, antiretrovirals, antibiotics, anticancer drugs, analgesics, drugs targeting endocrine and cardiovascular disorders, immunosuppressants, skeletal muscle relaxants and bronchodilators. Some adverse effects are predictable and dose dependent, whereas others are rare and idiosyncratic, and psychiatrists need to be aware of them for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Mind the gap
Authors: Craig Tom K. J.
Published: September 2016

Research into the use of digital technology to deliver treatment for psychosis is turning up some fascinating applications, but enthusiasm for these products must be tempered with a realistic appraisal of the steps from initial proof of concept to a marketable device.