bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Share the Crowdsensing Data with Local Crowd by V2V Communications
Authors: Song Chao , Liu Ming , Dai Xili
Published: April 2016

With an increase in the number of mobile applications, the development of mobile crowdsensing systems has recently attracted significant attention from both academic researchers and industries. In mobile crowdsensing system, the remote cloud (or back-end server) harvests all the crowdsensing data from the mobile devices, and the crowdsensing data can be uploaded immediately via 3G/4G. To reduce the cost and energy consumption, many academic researchers and industries investigate the way of mobile data offloading. Due to the sparse distribution of the WiFi APs, offloading the crowdsensing data is often delayed. In this paper, compared with offloading data via WiFi APs, we investigate the communication and sharing of crowdsensing data by vehicles near the event (such as a pothole on the road), termed as a local crowd. In such crowd, a vehicle can transmit the data to each other by vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication. The crowd-based approach has a lower delay than the offloading-based approach, by considering the quality of truth discovery. We define a utility function related to the crowdsensing data shared by the local crowd in order to quantify the trade-off between the quality of the truth discovery and the user satisfaction. Our extensional simulations verify the effectiveness of our proposed schemes.
Snapshot on a Pilot Metagenomic Study for the Appraisal of Gut Microbial Diversity in Mice, Cat, and Man
Authors: Plé Coline , Vandenborght Louise-Eva , Adele-Dit-Renseville Nathalie , Breton Jérôme , Daniel Catherine , Ferreira Stéphanie , Benoît Foligné
Published: April 2016

Gut microbiota plays a key role in the maintenance of homeostasis and host physiology, comprising development, metabolism, and immunity. Profiling the composition and the gastrointestinal microbiome with a reliable methodology is of substantial interest to yield new insights into the pathogenesis of many diseases as well as defining new prophylactic and therapeutic interventions. Here, we briefly present our methodology applied to fecal samples from mice and then further extended to the samples from a cat and a single human subject at 4 different time points as examples to illustrate the methodological strengths. Both interindividual and time-related variations are demonstrated and discussed.
Server Resource Dimensioning and Routing of Service Function Chain in NFV Network Architectures
Authors: Eramo V. , Tosti A. , Miucci E.
Published: April 2016

The Network Function Virtualization (NFV) technology aims at virtualizing the network service with the execution of the single service components in Virtual Machines activated on Commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) servers. Any service is represented by the Service Function Chain (SFC) that is a set of VNFs to be executed according to a given order. The running of VNFs needs the instantiation of VNF instances (VNFI) that in general are software components executed on Virtual Machines. In this paper we cope with the routing and resource dimensioning problem in NFV architectures. We formulate the optimization problem and due to its NP-hard complexity, heuristics are proposed for both cases of offline and online traffic demand. We show how the heuristics works correctly by guaranteeing a uniform occupancy of the server processing capacity and the network link bandwidth. A consolidation algorithm for the power consumption minimization is also proposed. The application of the consolidation algorithm allows for a high power consumption saving that however is to be paid with an increase in SFC blocking probability.
Design and Application of Offset-Free Model Predictive Control Disturbance Observation Method
Authors: Wang Xue , Ding Baocang , Yang Xin , Ye Zhaohong
Published: April 2016

Model predictive control (MPC) with its lower request to the mathematical model, excellent control performance, and convenience online calculation has developed into a very important subdiscipline with rich theory foundation and practical application. However, unmeasurable disturbance is widespread in industrial processes, which is difficult to deal with directly at present. In most of the implemented MPC strategies, the method of incorporating a constant output disturbance into the process model is introduced to solve this problem, but it fails to achieve offset-free control once the unmeasured disturbances access the process. Based on the Kalman filter theory, the problem is solved by using a more general disturbance model which is superior to the constant output disturbance model. This paper presents the necessary conditions for offset-free model predictive control based on the model. By applying disturbance model, the unmeasurable disturbance vectors are augmented as the states of control system, and the Kalman filer is used to estimate unmeasurable disturbance and its effect on the output. Then, the dynamic matrix control (DMC) algorithm is improved by utilizing the feed-forward compensation control strategy with the disturbance estimated.
Successful Endovascular Repair of an Iatrogenic Perforation of the Superficial Femoral Artery Using Self-Expanding Nitinol Supera Stents in a Patient with Acute Thromboembolic Limb Ischemia
Authors: Eisele Tom , Muenz Benedikt M. , Korosoglou Grigorios
Published: April 2016

The treatment of acute thromboembolic limb ischemia includes well-established surgical thrombectomy procedures and, in recent times, also percutaneous rotational thrombectomy using Straub Rotarex® system. This modality not only enables efficient treatment of such thrombotic occlusion but also in rare cases may imply the risk of perforation of the occluded artery. Herein, we report the case of a perforation of the superficial femoral artery (SFA) in an elderly female patient with thromboembolic limb ischemia. The perforation was successfully treated by implantation of self-expanding nitinol Supera stents and without the need for implantation of a stent graft.
Curcumin Mediated Attenuation of Carbofuran Induced Oxidative Stress in Rat Brain
Authors: Jaiswal Sunil Kumar , Sharma Ashish , Gupta Vivek Kumar , Singh Rakesh Kumar , Sharma Bechan
Published: April 2016

The indiscriminate use of carbofuran to improve crop productivity causes adverse effects in nontargets including mammalian systems. The objective of this study was to evaluate carbofuran induced oxidative stress in rat brain stem and its attenuation by curcumin, a herbal product. Out of 6 groups of rats, 2 groups received two different doses of carbofuran, that is, 15 and 30% of LD50, respectively, for 30 days. Out of these, 2 groups receiving same doses of carbofuran were pretreated with curcumin (100 mg/kg body weight). The levels of antioxidants, TBARS, GSH, SOD, catalase, and GST were determined in rat brain stem. The 2 remaining groups served as placebo and curcumin treated, respectively. The data suggested that carbofuran at different doses caused significant alterations in the levels of TBARS and GSH in dose dependent manner. The TBARS and GSH contents were elevated. The activities of SOD, catalase, and GST were significantly inhibited at both doses of carbofuran. The ratio of P/A was also found to be sharply increased. The pretreatment of curcumin exhibited significant protection from carbofuran induced toxicity. The results suggested that carbofuran at sublethal doses was able to induce oxidative stress in rat brain which could be attenuated by curcumin.
Does Nursery-Based Intensified Anticipatory Guidance Reduce Emergency Department Use for Nonurgent Conditions in the First Month of Life? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kamimura-Nishimura Kelly , Chaudhary Vikram , Olaosebikan Folake , Azizi Maryam , Galiveeti Sneha , Adeniyi Ayoade , Neugebauer Richard , Hagmann Stefan H. F.
Published: April 2016

Objective.We aimed to evaluate the impact of an intensified anticipatory guidance program in the nursery on Emergency Department (ED) use for nonurgent conditions (NUCs) in the neonatal period.Methods. Parturient mothers of healthy newborns were randomized to an intervention group or control group. Baseline and 1-month follow-up knowledge surveys regarding newborn care were conducted. The primary outcome was the proportion of neonates who used the ED for a NUC. Secondary outcome was change in caregivers’ knowledge on NUC.Results. Of a total of 594 mothers, 323 (54%) agreed to participate and were randomized to intervention (n=170) or control (n=153) group. Most were Hispanic (68%), single (61%), primiparous (39%), and without high school diploma (44%). 35 (21%) neonates in the intervention group and 41 (27%) in the control group were brought at least once for a NUC to the ED (p=0.12). There was no statistically significant difference in within subject change on knowledge scores between the two study arms.Conclusions. Neonatal ED visits for NUCs occur frequently. This nursery-based intensified anticipatory guidance program had no statistically significant impact on neonatal ED use for NUC, nor on neonatal care-relevant knowledge among parturient mothers. Alternative modalities and timing of parental educational intervention may need to be considered. This trial is registered with Clinical Trials NumberNCT01859065(Clinicaltrials.gov).
Association between Tumor Size and Bilateral Involvement in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Erkilic Suna , Celenk Fatih , Bozdag Zehra
Published: April 2016

Background. Tumor multifocality and bilaterality of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) are important factors when selecting the most appropriate surgical procedure. The aim of this study was to assess the bilaterality rate in PTC and the relationship between the tumor size and bilaterality.Materials and Methods. Thyroidectomy specimens with a diagnosis of PTC were retrospectively reviewed in the Pathology Department of a tertiary care medical center. Specimens were divided into three groups according to the size of the primary and contralateral tumor foci. Tumors less than or equal to 1 cm in each lobe were included in group 1. Group 2 consisted of tumors greater than 1 cm in one lobe and less than 1 cm in the other lobe. Tumors greater than 1 cm in each lobe were included in group 3.Results. We identified 868 total thyroidectomy specimens with a diagnosis of PTC between 2001 and 2011. Of these cases, both thyroid lobes were involved in 262 cases (32%). There were 109 (42%), 121 (46%), and 32 cases (12%) in group 1, group 2, and group 3, respectively.Conclusion. Bilaterality is frequent in PTC and is not related to tumor size. Accordingly, the high frequency of bilateral disease in PTC should be kept in mind when determining the extent of the surgical procedure.
An Integrated Multiechelon Logistics Model with Uncertain Delivery Lead Time and Quality Unreliability
Authors: Yang Ming-Feng , Lin Yi , Ho Li Hsing , Kao Wei Feng
Published: April 2016

Nowadays, in order to achieve advantages in supply chain management, how to keep inventory in adequate level and how to enhance customer service level are two critical practices for decision makers. Generally, uncertain lead time and defective products have much to do with inventory and service level. Therefore, this study mainly aims at developing a multiechelon integrated just-in-time inventory model with uncertain lead time and imperfect quality to enhance the benefits of the logistics model. In addition, the Ant Colony Algorithm (ACA) is established to determine the optimal solutions. Moreover, based on our proposed model and analysis, the ACA is more efficient than Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Lingo in SMEIJI model. An example is provided in this study to illustrate how production run and defective rate have an effect on system costs. Finally, the results of our research could provide some managerial insights which support decision makers in real-world operations.
Pancreatic Enzyme Supplements Are Not Effective for Relieving Abdominal Pain in Patients with Chronic Pancreatitis: Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Yaghoobi Mohammad , McNabb-Baltar Julia , Bijarchi Raheleh , Cotton Peter B.
Published: April 2016

Background. Pancreatic enzyme supplementation is widely used to treat pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis, despite little evidence for efficacy. We performed a systematic review of the literature and a meta-analysis to investigate its effectiveness.Methods. All randomized controlled parallel or crossover trials in patients with chronic pancreatitis comparing pancreatic enzyme supplementation to placebo were included. The main outcome was improvement in pain score or reduced analgesic consumption. Two independent reviewers extracted data. Mantel-Haenszel random effect model meta-analysis was used whenever methodologically appropriate.Results. Five out of 434 retrieved studies were included in the systematic review. All studies used relatively similar methodology. Four studies using enteric-coated pancreatic enzyme supplementation failed to show any improvement in pain as compared to placebo. The only study using non-enteric-coated enzymes did show reduction in the pain score. There was significant heterogeneity among studies in both analyses. Random model meta-analysis of three studies showed no significant difference in the mean of daily pain score (mean difference: 0.09 (1.57–1.39),p=0.91) or average weekly analgesic consumption (mean difference: −0.30 (−2.37–1.77),p=0.77) between the periods of administering pancreatic enzyme supplementation versus placebo.Conclusion. Pancreatic enzyme supplements do not seem to relieve abdominal pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis and should not be prescribed solely for this purpose, given their significant cost and potential side effects.
The Coffee Protective Effect on Catalase System in the Preneoplastic Induced Rat Liver
Authors: Magalhães Cristiana Schmidt de , Takarada Jéssica Emi , Carvalho Nathália Costa , Carvalho Dayene do C. , de Andrade Felipe Lopes , Ferreira Eric Batista , Luccas Pedro Orival , Azevedo Luciana
Published: April 2016

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of organic/conventional coffee in liver tissues in the cancer process, taking into account the level and activities of catalase. The experiments were carried out with 8 groups of rats during 12 weeks. They received two injections of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solution 1.5% (v/v) prepared in 0.9% NaCl or 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH) subcutaneous dose of 40 mg·kg−1·bw−1for 2 weeks. The organic/conventional coffee infusions were at 5, 10, and 20% and were incorporated to feed (100 mL of infusion·kg−1of diet). The catalase activity showed a decrease for livers which received DMH and DMH plus organic coffee at 5% and 10%. However, an increase was observed for those receiving organic 20% and conventional 10% coffee, slowing down and favoring the reversibility of the carcinogenic process. By SDS-PAGE, we observed an intensity decrease of 59 kDa bands, as the percentage of coffee was increased. The iron concentration (by ET-AAS) confirmed the electrophoretic results, suggesting that the DMH influenced the catalase expression conditions, reducing the activity by the loss of iron ions. Thus, the coffee may restore the catalase system in the liver, exerting its chemopreventive effects.
Biochemical and Molecular Analysis ofStaphylococcus aureusClinical Isolates from Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Karmakar Amit , Dua Parimal , Ghosh Chandradipa
Published: April 2016

Staphylococcus aureusis opportunistic human as well as animal pathogen that causes a variety of diseases. A total of 100Staphylococcus aureusisolates were obtained from clinical samples derived from hospitalized patients. The presumptiveStaphylococcus aureusclinical isolates were identified phenotypically by different biochemical tests. Molecular identification was done by PCR using species specific 16S rRNA primer pairs and finally 100 isolates were found to be positive asStaphylococcus aureus. Screened isolates were further analyzed by several microbiological diagnostics tests including gelatin hydrolysis, protease, and lipase tests. It was found that 78%, 81%, and 51% isolates were positive for gelatin hydrolysis, protease, and lipase activities, respectively. Antibiogram analysis of isolatedStaphylococcus aureusstrains with respect to different antimicrobial agents revealed resistance pattern ranging from 57 to 96%. Our study also shows 70% strains to be MRSA, 54.3% as VRSA, and 54.3% as both MRSA and VRSA. All the identified isolates were subjected to detection ofmecA,nuc, andhlbgenes and 70%, 84%, and 40% were found to harbourmecA,nuc, andhlbgenes, respectively. The current investigation is highly important and informative for the high level multidrug resistantStaphylococcus aureusinfections inclusive also of methicillin and vancomycin.
Panhypopituitarism due to Absence of the Pituitary Stalk: A Rare Aetiology of Liver Cirrhosis
Authors: Gonzalez Rozas Marta , Hernanz Roman Lidia , Gonzalez Diego Gonzalez , Pérez-Castrillón José Luis
Published: April 2016

Studies have established a relationship between hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction and the onset of liver damage, which may occasionally progress to cirrhosis. Patients with hypopituitarism can develop a metabolic syndrome-like phenotype. Insulin resistance is the main pathophysiological axis of metabolic syndrome and is the causal factor in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We present the case of a young patient with liver cirrhosis of unknown aetiology that was finally attributed to panhypopituitarism.
Effect of TiO2Photoanode Porosity on Dye Diffusion Kinetics and Performance of Standard Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Charbonneau Cecile , Tanner Theo , Davies Matthew L. , Watson Trystan M. , Worsley David A.
Published: April 2016

Low-cost water-based P25-TiO2pastes were formulated and used to produce porous TiO2films in application to the fabrication of dye-sensitized solar cells. The structural properties of the films were characterized using a variety of techniques such as stylus profilometry, FEG-SEM imaging, BET surface area, and BJH pore size analyses. These were compared to films produced from a commercial paste, DSL 18 NR-AO (Dyesol). The major difference was in the fraction of macroporosity: 23% of the total pore volume for films produced with the commercial material and 67–73% for the P25-TiO2films owing to the vast difference in dispersion and size distribution of the particles in the two types of pastes. The macroporosity was found to have a dramatic effect on the dye diffusion kinetics measured usingin situUV-Vis reflectance spectroscopy. The sensitization of P25-based films was much faster for heavily macroporous P25-TiO2films (>90% saturation at 15–35 mins) than for their commercial analogue (>90% saturation at 110 mins). DSC devices built with optimized P25-TiO2photoanodes showed better performance at short dye immersion time (30 mins and 1 hr) due to faster percolation of the dye molecules through the film.
Protective Effect of an Antibody against Specific Extracellular Domain of TLR2 on Agonists-Driven Inflammatory and Allergic Response
Authors: Guo Tianwu , Cai Jun , Peng Yanxia , Zhang Lifang , Lan Qiaofen , Chen Yanwen , Liao Huanjin , Xie Tong , Wu Ping , Pan Qingjun
Published: April 2016

Specific blocking strategies of TLR2-mediated inflammatory signaling and hypersensitivity reactions may offer novel therapeutic strategies to prevent a variety of diseases. In this study, we investigated the blocking effects of a new anti-TLR2 antibody anti-T20 against a 20 mer peptide T20 located in the extracellular specific domain of mouse TLR2. In addition, the effects of the anti-T20in vitro, measuring the inhibition of the IL-6 and TNF-αproduction in response to PGN, LTA, and Pam3CSK4-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, were determined.In vivo, the effects of anti-T20 on a lethal anaphylaxis model using PGN-challenged OVA allergic mice, including the rectal temperature and mortality, and serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and LTC4 were assayed. The results showed that anti-T20 specifically bound to TLR2 and significantly inhibited PGN, LTA, and Pam3CSK4-driven TNF-αand IL-6 production by RAW264.7 cells. Also, anti-T20 protected OVA allergic mice from PGN-induced lethal anaphylaxis, and the serum levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and LTC4 of anti-T20 treated PGN-challenged OVA allergic mice were decreased as compared to isotype control of anti-T20 treated mice. In summary, this study produced a new antibody against the specific extracellular domain of TLR2 which has protective effect on TLR2 agonists-driven inflammatory and allergic response.
Preparation, Characterization, and Insecticidal Activity of Avermectin-Grafted-Carboxymethyl Chitosan
Authors: Li Yan , Qin Yukun , Liu Song , Xing Ronge , Yu Huahua , Li Kecheng , Li Pengcheng
Published: April 2016

Avermectin-grafted-N,O-carboxymethyl chitosan (NOCC) derivative was obtained by esterification reaction using dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) as dehydrating agent and 4-methylaminopyridine as catalyst. The structures of the conjugate were confirmed by FT-IR,1H NMR, and XRD. Insecticidal activities against armyworms, carmine spider mites, black bean aphids, and brown plant hoppers were investigated at concentrations ranging from 0.16 to 1000 mg/L. At the concentration of 1000 mg/L and 500 mg/L, the lethal rate was 100%. Good insecticidal activity at 4 mg/L was still shown, especially against the black bean aphids and brown plant hoppers. Moreover, the photostability of the conjugate was evaluated and showed an apparent improvement. At 300 mins, the residual rate of the conjugate was 11.22%, much higher than 0.2% of the avermectin technical material. The conjugate we developed showed potential for further study and application in crop protection.
Coronary Artery Disease Is a Predictor of Progression to Dialysis in Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, and Anemia: An Analysis of the Trial to Reduce Cardiovascular Events With Aranesp Therapy (TREAT)
Authors: Sabe Marwa A. , Claggett Brian , Burdmann Emmanuel A. , Desai Akshay S. , Ivanovich Peter , Kewalramani Reshma , Lewis Eldrin F. , McMurray John J. V. , Olson Kurt A. , Parfrey Patrick , Solomon Scott D. , Pfeffer Marc A.
Published: April 2016

Background

Although clear evidence shows that chronic kidney disease is a predictor of cardiovascular events, death, and accelerated coronary artery disease (
CAD
) progression, it remains unknown whether
CAD
is a predictor of progression of chronic kidney disease to end‐stage renal disease. We sought to assess whether
CAD
adds prognostic information to established predictors of progression to dialysis in patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and anemia.

Methods and Results

Using the previously described Trial to Reduce Cardiovascular Events With Aranesp Therapy (
TREAT
) population, we compared baseline characteristics of patients with and without
CAD
. Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the association between
CAD
and the outcomes of end‐stage renal disease and the composite of death or end‐stage renal disease. Of the 4038 patients, 1791 had a history of known
CAD
. These patients were older (mean age 70 versus 65 years,
P
<0.001) and more likely to have other cardiovascular disease.
CAD
patients were less likely to have marked proteinuria (29% versus 39%,
P
<0.001), but there was no significant difference in estimated glomerular filtration rate between the 2 groups. After adjusting for age, sex, race, estimated glomerular filtration rate, proteinuria, treatment group, and 14 other renal risk factors, patients with
CAD
were significantly more likely to progress to end‐stage renal disease (adjusted hazard ratio 1.20 [95%
CI
1.01–1.42],
P
=0.04) and to have the composite of death or end‐stage renal disease (adjusted hazard ratio 1.15 [95%
CI
1.01–1.30],
P
=0.03).

Conclusions

In patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and anemia, a history of
CAD
is an independent predictor of progression to dialysis. In patients with diabetic nephropathy, a history of
CAD
contributes important prognostic information to traditional risk factors for worsening renal disease.
Lipoprotein(a) Interactions With Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Other Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Premature Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)
Authors: Afshar Mehdi , Pilote Louise , Dufresne Line , Engert James C. , Thanassoulis George
Published: April 2016

Background

Current recommendations for lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) focus on the control of other risk factors, including lowering low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (
LDL
‐C), with little evidence to support this approach. Identifying interactions between Lp(a) and other risk factors could identify individuals at increased risk for Lp(a)‐mediated disease.

Methods and Results

We used a case‐only study design and included 939 participants (median age=49 years, interquartile range 46–53, women=33.1%) from the
GENdE
r and Sex determInantS of cardiovascular disease: from bench to beyond‐Premature Acute Coronary Syndrome (
GENESIS
‐
PRAXY
) study, a multicenter prospective cohort study of premature acute coronary syndrome. There was a higher prevalence of elevated Lp(a) levels (>50 mg/dL; 80th percentile) in
PRAXY
participants as compared to the general population (31% versus 20%;
P
<0.001). Lp(a) was strongly associated with
LDL
‐C (adjusted β 0.17;
P
<0.001). Individuals with high Lp(a) were more likely to have
LDL
‐C >2.5 mmol/L, indicating a synergistic interaction (adjusted odds ratio 1.51; 95%
CI
1.08–2.09;
P
=0.015). The interaction with high Lp(a) was stronger at increasing
LDL
‐C levels (
LDL
‐C >3.5, adjusted odds ratio 1.87;
LDL
‐C >4.5, adjusted odds ratio 2.72). In a polytomous logistic model comparing mutually exclusive
LDL
‐C categories, the interaction with high Lp(a) became attenuated at
LDL
‐C ≤3.5 mmol/L (odds ratio 1.16; 95%
CI
0.80–1.68,
P
=0.447). Other risk factors were not associated with high Lp(a).

Conclusions

In young acute coronary syndrome patients, high Lp(a) is more prevalent than in the general population and is strongly associated with high
LDL
‐C, suggesting that Lp(a) confers greater risk for acute coronary syndrome when
LDL
‐C is elevated. Individuals with high Lp(a) and
LDL
‐C >3.5 mmol/L may warrant aggressive
LDL
‐C lowering.
Association of Thoracic Aorta Calcium Score With Exercise Blood Pressure Response and Clinical Outcomes in Elderly Individuals: Differential Impact of Aorta Calcification Compared With Coronary Artery Calcification
Authors: Cho In‐Jeong , Chang Hyuk‐Jae , Cho Iksung , Heo Ran , Lee Sang‐Eun , Shim Chi Young , Hong Geu‐Ru , Chung Namsik
Published: April 2016

Background

The structure of the aorta is considered to influence exercise systolic blood pressure (
SBP
) response, which, in turn, might impact upon adverse outcomes. The current study sought to investigate the relationship of aortic calcification and exercise
SBP
with adverse outcomes among elderly individuals.

Methods and Results

We retrospectively reviewed 702 elderly individuals (>65 years of age) without obstructive coronary artery disease (
CAD
; luminal stenosis <50%) who underwent coronary computed tomography (
CT
) and exercise treadmill testing. Δ
SBP
stage2
and Δ
SBP
peak
were defined as the difference in systolic blood pressure (
SBP
) between rest and stage 2 or peak exercise, respectively. Thoracic aortic calcium score (
TACS
) and coronary artery calcium score (
CACS
) were measured using
CT
scanning procedures. The primary endpoints were defined as all‐cause death, admission for heart failure, obstructive
CAD
requiring coronary intervention, and stroke. In multivariable models, Δ
SBP
stage2
and Δ
SBP
peak
were positively related with
log
(
TACS
+1), even after adjusting for various clinical variables, baseline
SBP
, and
CACS
(
P
<0.001). During a median follow‐up period of 65 months, there were 59 events (8.4%). In a multivariate Cox regression model, independent predictors for all events were age (hazard ratio [
HR
], 1.12; 95%
CI
, 1.05–1.19;
P
<0.001), dyslipidemia (
HR
, 1.96; 95%
CI
, 1.14–3.37;
P
=0.015), and the 4th quartile of
TACS
(
HR
, 1.24; 95%
CI
, 1.03–1.49;
P
=0.024). Among individual events, the 4th quartile of
TACS
was the only independent predictor for stroke (
HR
, 2.15; 95%
CI
, 1.09–5.13;
P
=0.044), whereas
CACS
≥400 mm
3
was an independent predictor for obstructive
CAD
requiring intervention (
HR
, 7.04; 95%
CI
, 1.58–31.36;
P
=0.010).

Conclusions

Aortic calcification was related to
SBP
response during exercise and was an independent predictor for outcomes, especially stroke, regardless of resting
SBP
or
CACS
.
Smoker's Paradox in Patients With ST‐Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Gupta Tanush , Kolte Dhaval , Khera Sahil , Harikrishnan Prakash , Mujib Marjan , Aronow Wilbert S. , Jain Diwakar , Ahmed Ali , Cooper Howard A. , Frishman William H. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Panza Julio A.
Published: April 2016

Background

Prior studies have found that smokers undergoing thrombolytic therapy for
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction have lower in‐hospital mortality than nonsmokers, a phenomenon called the “smoker's paradox.” Evidence, however, has been conflicting regarding whether this paradoxical association persists in the era of primary percutaneous coronary intervention.

Methods and Results

We used the 2003–2012 National Inpatient Sample databases to identify all patients aged ≥18 years who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention for
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare in‐hospital mortality between smokers (current and former) and nonsmokers. Of the 985 174 patients with
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention, 438 954 (44.6%) were smokers. Smokers were younger, were more often men, and were less likely to have traditional vascular risk factors than nonsmokers. Smokers had lower observed in‐hospital mortality compared with nonsmokers (2.0% versus 5.9%; unadjusted odds ratio 0.32, 95%
CI
0.31–0.33,
P
<0.001). Although the association between smoking and lower in‐hospital mortality was partly attenuated after baseline risk adjustment, a significant residual association remained (adjusted odds ratio 0.60, 95%
CI
0.58–0.62,
P
<0.001). This association largely persisted in age‐stratified analyses. Smoking status was also associated with shorter average length of stay (3.5 versus 4.5 days,
P
<0.001) and lower incidence of postprocedure hemorrhage (4.2% versus 6.1%; adjusted odds ratio 0.81, 95% CI 0.80–0.83,
P
<0.001) and in‐hospital cardiac arrest (1.3% versus 2.1%; adjusted
OR
0.78, 95%
CI
0.76–0.81,
P
<0.001).

Conclusions

In this nationwide cohort of patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention for
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction, we observed significantly lower risk‐adjusted in‐hospital mortality in smokers, suggesting that the smoker's paradox also applies to
ST
‐segment elevation myocardial infarction patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention.
Health Education Specialist Practice Analysis 2015 (HESPA 2015)
Authors: McKenzie James F. , Dennis Dixie , Auld M. Elaine , Lysoby Linda , Doyle Eva , Muenzen Patricia M. , Caro Carla M. , Kusorgbor-Narh Cynthia S.
Published: April 2016

The Health Education Specialist Practice Analysis 2015 (HESPA 2015) was conducted to update and validate the Areas of Responsibilities, Competencies, and Sub-competencies for Entry- and Advanced-Level Health Education Specialists. Two data collection instruments were developed—one was focused on Sub-competencies and the other on knowledge items related to the practice of health education. Instruments were administered to health education specialists ( N = 3,152) using online survey methods. A total of 2,508 survey participants used 4-point ordinal scales to rank Sub-competencies by frequency of use and importance. The other 644 participants used the same 4-point frequency scale to rank related knowledge items. Composite scores for Sub-competencies were calculated and subgroup comparisons were conducted that resulted in the validation of 7 Areas of Responsibilities, 36 Competencies, and 258 Sub-competencies. Of the Sub-competencies, 141 were identified as Entry-level, 76 Advanced 1–level, and 41 Advanced 2–level. In addition, 131 knowledge items were verified. The HESPA 2015 findings are compared with the results of the Health Education Job Analysis 2010 and will be useful to those involved in professional preparation, continuing education, and employment of health education specialists.
Prophylactic efficacy of BeneFIX vs Alprolix in hemophilia B mice
Authors: Cooley Brian , Funkhouser William , Monroe Dougald , Ezzell Ashley , Mann David M. , Lin Feng-Chang , Monahan Paul E. , Stafford Darrel W.
Published: April 2016

Key Points

Because extravascular FIX is physiologically important, FIXs circulating levels do not independently predict hemostatic potential. A saphenous vein hemophilia B mouse model shows that 7 days postinfusion FIX-Fc and FIX provide equal hemostatic protection.
Short Communication: Rhizoctonia-like fungi isolated from roots of Dendrobium lancifolium var. papuanum and Calanthe triplicata in Papua, Indonesia
Authors: AGUSTINI VERENA , SUFAATI SUPENI , SUHARNO SUHARNO , SUWANNASAI NUTTIKA
Published: April 2016

Agustini V, Sufaati S, Suharno, Suwannasai N. 2016. Rhizoctonia-like fungi isolated from roots of Dendrobium lancifoliumÂ var. papuanum and Calanthe triplicata in Papua, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 17: 377-383. The aim of this study was to isolate and identifyRhizoctonia-like fungi associated with the roots of the terrestrial orchids Dendrobium lancifolium A. Rich var. papuanum and CalantheÂ triplicata (Willem) Ames in Papua. The fungi were isolated from the transversal section of the orchid roots. Two isolates have been morphologically identified as genus Rhizoctonia. Further identification was carried out based on the analysis of nucleotide sequences generated from ITS and 28S rDNA. The results revealed that both isolates closed to Ceratobasidium sp. and the phylogenetic analysis confirmed that they were determined as Rhizoctonia-like fungi.
The cultural significance of the Turkish 9 rhythm: Timing, tradition, and identity
Authors: Aydın Emir Cenk
Published: April 2016

Folk music throughout Anatolia and Thrace contains significant information about a performers social experience and background.  In Turkey social information is commonly communicated through rhythm. Types of traditional music, particularly types with specific rhythmic structures and patterns, are often indicative of an ethnic or regional Turkish identity, an origin or affiliation. The 9 beat rhythmic structures are very common in the Folk Music of Anatolia. They are seen nearly everywhere in different arrangements and tempo values.In this article I will discuss the 9 beat time signature and specific 9/8 timed music belonging to and performed by groups that are often considered somewhat marginal in the contemporary Turkish Republic.  For example, distinct types of rhythms and music (and corresponding social dances) are performed among defined Turkish identity groups such as Alevi (9/8), Zeybek (9/4 or 9/2), Yörük (9/16), and Rom (9/8).  I will pay special attention to nine rhythms and discuss in more detail how each unique rhythmic pattern communicates a great deal of social and regional knowledge in Turkey.
Transforming distance education curricula through distributive leadership
Authors: Keppell Mike , O’Dwyer Carolyn , Lyon Betsy , Childs Merilyn
Published: April 2016

This paper examines a core leadership strategy for transforming learning and teaching in distance education through flexible and blended learning. It focuses on a project centred on distributive leadership that involves collaboration, shared purpose, responsibility and recognition of leadership irrespective of role orposition within an organisation. Distributive leadership was a core principle in facilitating the transformation of learning and teaching through a Teaching Fellowship Scheme that empowered leaders across a regional distance education university. In parallel, a design-based research project analysed the perceptions of the Teaching Fellows in relation to blended learning, time/space, peer learning, innovation and equity issues in relation to distance education.
Enhancing online distance education in small rural US schools: A hybrid, learner-centred model
Authors: De la Varre Claire , Keane Julie , Irvin Matthew J.
Published: April 2016

Online distance education (ODE) has become pervasive and can potentially transform pedagogical practices across primary, secondary and university-based educational systems. ODE is considered a flexible option for non-traditional students such as adult learners and home-schoolers, and a convenient way to deliver remedial courses. ODE is also a feasible and attractive option for rural schools, which educate 29% of all K–12 students in the United States, and often struggle to provide advanced courses and attract highly qualified teachers. This paper presents qualitative data from both cohorts of a two-year, randomised, controlled research study of online distance learners in US rural high schools. Course providers in K–12 environments often rely on the teacher-facilitator model, which assigns a local staff member in the role of on-site facilitator to operate equipment, distribute instructional materials, and answer questions. In order to address issues of isolation and interaction, and to attend to the local context, our study aimed to develop a learner-centred model of social support at the local, small-school level that emphasises communication and interaction. This expanded role links the local classroom environment more closely with the online environment. The responsibilities for ensuring student success are distributed between online instructor and facilitator: a form of hybrid learning.
The role of information and communication technologies in improving teaching and learning processes in primary and secondary schools
Authors: Sangrà Albert , González-Sanmamed Mercedes
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this study is to analyse what is happening at schools regarding the integration and use of information and communication technologies (ICT) and to examine teachers’ perceptions about what teaching and learning processes can be improved through the use of ICT. A multiple-case-study research methodology was applied. From a previous exploratory research, four different types of schools were determined. Data show there is a widespread view that ICT in teaching favours several teaching and learning processes. In particular, it shows that the contribution of ICT to the improvement of teaching and learning processes is higher in the schools that have integrated ICT as an innovation factor. To attain this highest level implies that a school not only has to modernise the technological tools, but also has to change the teaching models: the teacher’s role, issues regarding classroom organisational, the teaching and learning processes, and the interaction mechanisms.
Beyond the Yellow Brick Road: mobile Web 2.0 informing a new institutional e-learning strategy
Authors: Cochrane Thomas D.
Published: April 2016

Mobile learning (m-learning) has moved beyond the realms of fantasy to become a viable platform for contextual learning that bridges formal and informal learning environments. This paper overviews how mobile Web 2.0 has been instrumental in facilitating pedagogical change and informing an institution’s new e-learning strategy that focuses upon social constructivist pedagogies. The project developedan intentional community of practice model for supporting new technology integration, pedagogical development, and institutional change. Beginning with a small selection of early adopter trials, the results of the research are now informinga wider integration of wireless mobile computing.
Using Voice Boards: pedagogical design, technological implementation, evaluation and reflections
Authors: Yaneske Elisabeth , Oates Briony
Published: April 2016

We present a case study to evaluate the use of a Wimba Voice Board to support asynchronous audio discussion. We discuss the learning strategy and pedagogic rationale when a Voice Board was implemented within an MA module for language learners, enabling students to create learning objects and facilitating peer-to-peer learning. Previously students studying the module had communicated using text-based synchronous and asynchronous discussion only. A commoncriticism of text-based media is the lack of non-verbal communication. Audio communication is a richer medium where use of pitch, tone, emphasis and inflection can increase personalisation and prevent misinterpretation. Feedback from staff and students on the affordances and constraints of voice communication are presented. Evaluations show that while there were several issues with theusability of the Wimba Voice Board, both staff and students felt the use of voice communication in an online environment had many advantages, including increased personalisation, motivation, and the opportunity to practice speaking and listening skills. However, some students were inhibited by feelings of embarrassment. The case study provides an in-depth study of Voice Boards, which makes an important contribution to the learning technology literature.
Web-based lecture technologies and learning and teaching: a study of change in four Australian universities
Authors: Gosper Maree , McNeill Margo , Phillips Rob , Preston Greg , Woo Karen , Green David
Published: April 2016

The uptake of web-based lecture technologies for recording and delivering live lectures has increased markedly in recent years. Students have responded positively, and for many their use has transformed learning – freeing them up from rigid timetables by providing choice in lecture attendance and supporting learning by extending the lecture experience and enabling them to revisit key concepts and ideas in their own time. Less transformational has been the impact on teaching. Although changing attendance patterns and disquiet about the quality of learning are of concern to many, lecturers have largely responded by simply modifying lectures. For most, the challenges of catering for the learning needs of a cohort with variable lecture attendance have not been addressed at a whole of the curriculum level. The technologies have been added on, rather than integrated into the curriculum. This paper will review the changes taking place in learning and teaching, explore the reluctance to embrace more wholesale change to the curriculum, and discuss the implications for institutions in the face of ongoing change.
Creating simulations for an "Introduction to Research Methods" course
Authors: Adamson Bob
Published: April 2016

This paper describes the production of a software program for Master of Education students studying the "Introduction to Research Methods" course at a tertiary institution in Hong Kong. The course was originally delivered in a lecture mode, which proved unsatisfactory in providing sufficient learning support for the students. The paper describes how the program was designed for a blended learning environment, drawing on constructivist learning principles and the use of simulations. The software program that emerged was a compromise to resolve a number of tensions, such as the need to present a rationalised, pedagogically-oriented version of a complex and messy reality, and the desire to enhance student autonomy while working within the limitations of technical boundaries. The paper concludes by reflecting on the lessons learnt in the design process.
Students' perception of supplementary, online activities for Japanese language learning: Groupwork, quiz and discussion tools
Authors: Moore Keri , Iida Sumiko
Published: April 2016

This paper discusses the frequency of use and the reasons for non-use of the online component of a course developed in Blackboard 9, one popular learning management system (LMS) in tertiary education. The study particularly focuses on the three tools in the LMS: Groupwork tool, Downloadable quiz and Discussion forum. These tools were used in a Japanese upper beginners-level course in 2009. At the end of the semester, a student survey was conducted. The survey result indicates that although use of the online component of the course and of the individual tools differed, the frequency of the student use of online supplementary course materials and tools has an effect on their positive perception of the educational value, the development of scholarly skills, that this type of teaching strategy makes. The frequency of student use is determined by their attitude towards online learning, their ability to use the different functions, their peer's use of the same tools, and their access to computers.
Implementing an open source learning management system: A critical analysis of change strategies
Authors: Uys Philip M.
Published: April 2016

This paper analyses the change and innovation strategies that Charles Sturt University (CSU) used from 2007 to 2009 during the implementation and mainstreaming of an open source learning management system (LMS), Sakai, named locally as CSU Interact. CSU was in January 2008 the first Australian University to implement an open source learning management system institution wide. The unique characteristics of implementing change and innovation in higher education are discussed as well as CSU's change model, which comprises eight dimensions that can occur in any order and also in parallel, and is based on the work of Kotter, Cohen and Synnot. Two key strategies have emerged to support change, namely the building of learning communities and the sharing of best practice in implementing educational technology. Other findings were that the change was largely driven from the bottom up and with top management support and through the writer's role, from middle management in terms of top down strategies. Technological innovations in the context of an open source learning management system have wider, external implications than the local institution given the free flow of information and intellectual property within the community.
Signs for learning to perform in a digital environment
Authors: Lindberg J. Ola , Olofsson Anders D. , Stödberg Ulf
Published: April 2016

This article is about learning to perform in a digital environment with specific focus on online higher education. In the article, an online higher educational setting is analysed from a hermeneutical approach, using the learning sequence model suggested by Selander (2008) as a theoretical frame. The institutional framing, used as an empirical example, is a Swedish online higher education course. Based on the course presentation in the course study guide, the course curricula, and the course evaluation, the setting for this article is considered as a case (Stake, 1995; Yin, 2003). The analysis of the setting and course design, in terms of objectives and aims, assessment, and social software used in the course, is focused on the signs as design for learning and on the performative aspects of these intentions. In the final section some issues and questions in relation to designing for learning in online higher education are raised.
The development of social presence in online Arabic learning communities
Authors: Hall Andrea , Herrington Jan
Published: April 2016

An effective online learning community requires the development of social presence, as this helps learners to project themselves online and feel a sense of community. A literature review found that cultural preferences are important in developing relationships online, which may explain why some learners in international contexts may not participate in the learning community, with an unsuccessful online experience as a result. The effect of culture in the development of a learning community was investigated using a design-based research approach, in two fully online courses for faculty at a university in the Sultanate of Oman. It was found that the participants, all from an Arabic cultural background, preferred to develop responsible relationships before they went online, and preferred to use tools such as synchronous chat that gave increased immediacy to the learning context.