bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Long-Term Influence of Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 in Patients with Mild to Moderate Coronary Artery Lesions in a Chinese Population: A 7-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Wang Wei , Song Xiantao , Chen Yundai , Yuan Fei , Xu Feng , Zhang Min , Tan Kai , Yang Xingsheng , Yu Xianpeng , Lv Shuzheng
Published: July 2015

Objectives: Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) and their ratio (MMP-9/TIMP-1) are involved in multiple processes that are associated with coronary heart disease and are especially associated with cardiovascular events. However, few long-term population-based clinical studies have evaluated the role of these factors in cardiovascular events in a Chinese population. Methods: A prospective study was performed on 560 patients with mild to moderate coronary artery lesions. MMP-9, TIMP-1 and their ratio were determined. Results: A total of 522 of patients completed the follow-up. The median follow-up time was 64 months. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated a clear increase of the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) during the follow-up period in subjects with above-median levels of TIMP-1 (p = 0.033), whereas there was no association with either MMP-9 (p = 0.199) or MMP-9/TIMP-1 (p = 0.631). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis showed the same results after further adjustment for covariates. Patients with above-median levels of TIMP-1 were more likely to suffer from adverse outcomes than patients with below-median levels of TIMP-1. However, the lack of relationship of MACEs with MMP-9 and MMP-9/TIMP-1 remained. Conclusions: Higher circulating TIMP-1 concentrations were associated with cardiovascular events during long-term follow-up of Chinese patients with mild to moderate coronary artery lesions.
A Long-Term Study to Evaluate Acidic Skin Care Treatment in Nursing Home Residents: Impact on Epidermal Barrier Function and Microflora in Aged Skin
Authors: Blaak Jürgen , Kaup Olaf , Hoppe Willi , Baron-Ruppert Gabriele , Langheim Heiko , Staib Peter , Wohlfart Rainer , Lüttje Dieter , Schürer Nanna
Published: July 2015

Background: The pH of the stratum corneum (SC) in the elderly is elevated and linked to impaired SC function. Therefore, this paper addresses the question of whether acidic skin care generates positive clinical, biophysical, and microbiological effects in aged skin. Methods: This study was performed to assess skin care effects in nursing home residents (aged 80-97 years). Visual, biophysical, and microbiological methods were used. Subjects were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups and treated over 7 weeks with skin care products adjusted to a pH of 4.0 (group A) or a pH of 6.0 (group B). Results: Compared to baseline, SC integrity improved significantly in group A (p = 0.007), whereas there was no change in group B (p = 0.672). SC recovery 24 h after perturbation increased significantly in group A (p = 0.004) compared to baseline. The SC recovery in group B was not significant compared to baseline (p = 0.327). Conclusion: Long-term treatment with pH 4.0 skin care results in a significant improvement in epidermal barrier function compared to identical products with a pH of 6.0. In addition, effects on skin dryness and resident flora were demonstrated, but without significant differences, between the 2 groups. Based on these results, we recommend adjustment of skin care products for the elderly to a pH of 4.0 to maintain the health of aged skin.
Microbleed Status and 3-Month Outcome After Intravenous Thrombolysis in 717 Patients With Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Turc Guillaume , Sallem Asmaa , Moulin Solène , Tisserand Marie , Machet Alexandre , Edjlali Myriam , Baron Jean-Claude , Leclerc Xavier , Leys Didier , Mas Jean-Louis , Cordonnier Charlotte , Oppenheim Catherine
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose—

Whether cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) detected on pretreatment magnetic resonance imaging increase the risks of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH) and, most importantly, poor outcome in patients treated by intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke is still debated. We assessed the effect of CMB presence and burden on 3-month modified Rankin Scale and sICH in a multicentric cohort.

Methods—

We analyzed prospectively collected data of consecutive patients solely treated by intravenous thrombolysis for acute ischemic stroke, in 2 centers where magnetic resonance imaging is the first-line pretreatment imaging. Neuroradiologists blinded to clinical data rated CMBs on T2* sequence using a validated scale. Logistic regressions were used to assess relationships between CMBs and 3-month modified Rankin Scale or sICH.

Results—

Among 717 patients, 150 (20.9%) had ≥1 CMBs. CMB burden was associated with worse modified Rankin Scale in univariable shift analysis (odds ratio, 1.07; 95% confidence interval, 1.00–1.15 per 1-CMB increase;
P
=0.049), but significance was lost after adjustment for age, hypertension, and atrial fibrillation (odds ratio, 1.03; 95% confidence interval, 0.96–1.11 per 1-CMB increase;
P
=0.37). Results remained nonsignificant when taking into account CMB location or presumed underlying vasculopathy. The incidence of sICH ranged from 3.8% to 9.1%, depending on the definition. Neither CMB presence, burden, location, nor presumed underlying vasculopathy was independently associated with sICH.

Conclusions—

Poor outcome or sICH was not associated with CMB presence or burden on pre–intravenous thrombolysis magnetic resonance imaging after adjustment for confounding factors. An individual patient data meta-analysis is needed to determine whether a subgroup of patients with CMBs carries an independent risk of poor outcome that might outweigh the expected benefit of intravenous thrombolysis.
Deferoxamine, Cerebrovascular Hemodynamics, and Vascular Aging
Authors: Sorond Farzaneh A. , Tan Can Ozan , LaRose Sarah , Monk Andrew D. , Fichorova Raina , Ryan Stanthia , Lipsitz Lewis A.
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose—

Iron chelation therapy is emerging as a novel neuroprotective strategy. The mechanisms of neuroprotection are diverse and include both neuronal and vascular pathways. We sought to examine the effect of iron chelation on cerebrovascular function in healthy aging and to explore whether hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1 activation may be temporally correlated with vascular changes.

Methods—

We assessed cerebrovascular function (autoregulation, vasoreactivity, and neurovascular coupling) and serum concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor and erythropoietin, as representative measures of hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1 activation, during 6 hours of deferoxamine infusion in 24 young and 24 older healthy volunteers in a randomized, blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over study design. Cerebrovascular function was assessed using the transcranial Doppler ultrasound. Vascular endothelial growth factor and erythropoietin serum protein assays were conducted using the Meso Scale Discovery platform.

Results—

Deferoxamine elicited a strong age- and time-dependent increase in the plasma concentrations of erythropoietin and vascular endothelial growth factor, which persisted ≤3 hours post infusion (age effect
P
=0.04; treatment×time
P
<0.01). Deferoxamine infusion also resulted in a significant time- and age-dependent improvement in cerebral vasoreactivity (treatment×time
P
<0.01; age
P
<0.01) and cerebral autoregulation (gain: age×time×treatment
P
=0.04).

Conclusions—

Deferoxamine infusion improved cerebrovascular function, particularly in older individuals. The temporal association between improved cerebrovascular function and increased serum vascular endothelial growth factor and erythropoietin concentrations is supportive of shared hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1–regulated pathways. Therefore, pharmacological activation of hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1 to enhance cerebrovascular function may be a promising neuroprotective strategy in acute and chronic ischemic syndromes, especially in elderly patients.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT013655104.
A new species of the genus Hahnia (Araneae: Hahniidae) from South China
Authors: LIU NA , HUANG GUI-QIANG , ZHANG ZHI-SHENG
Published: July 2015

The spider genus Hahnia C.L. Koch 1841, which includes 94 species in the world (World Spider Catalog 2015), is the largest group of the comb-tailed spider family, Hahniidae Bertkau 1878. However, this genus appears to be polyphyletic. For example, H. xinjiangensis Wang & Liang 1989 (Wang & Liang 1989: 52, figs 1–6) and H. talei (Gertsch 1934) (Gertsch 1934: 13, figs 5–8, 27–28) exhibit patterns of their copulatory organs that differ from those of the type species H. pusilla C.L. Koch 1841 and other allied species, H. helveola Simon 1875 and H. ononidum Simon 1875 etc. (Almquist 2005: figs 258a–e, 261a–e, 262a–f). Hahnia s. str. has an equidistant tracheal spiracle between the epigastric furrow and the base of spinnerets, a hook-like patellar apophysis, a long and curved tibial apophysis, a threadlike embolus, a membranous median apophysis and a retrolateral cymbial furrow and tube-like and curved copulatory ducts and two epigynal bursae (spermathecae and subspermathecae, see Zhang et al. 2011).
A new skink (Scincidae: Liburnascincus) from rocky habitat on Cape York, northeast Australia
Authors: HOSKIN CONRAD J. , COUPER PATRICK J.
Published: July 2015

The genus Liburnascincus is composed of saxicoline skinks restricted to northeast Australia. This small radiation consists of one widespread species, L. mundivensis, found in a variety of rocky habitats in eastern Queensland, and two localized species, L. coensis and L. scirtetis, restricted to granite boulder habitats on Cape York Peninsula, in north Queensland. Here we describe a fourth species, L. artemis sp. nov., from the Bamboo Range, a low rocky range on Cape York. As for other Liburnascincus, the new species is a saxicoline skink that is active on boulder surfaces primarily early and late in the day. Liburnascincus artemis sp. nov. is most similar to L. mundivensis but can be diagnosed based on longer limbs, higher toe and finger lamellae counts, lower midbody scale count, and other aspects of morphology, scalation and colour pattern. Liburnascincus artemis sp. nov. is currently known from a very small area but further surveys will likely extend the range. It is geographically separated from L. mundivensis to the south by unsuitable habitat in the Laura region, but it may abut the range of L. coensis to the north. Despite a small distribution, L. artemis sp. nov. occurs at high density at the known sites and appears to be currently secure. In this paper we also discuss the distributions and biogeography of Liburnascincus more broadly.
Two new species of Palapedia Ng, 1993 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura,
Xanthidae) from the Persian Gulf
Authors: NADERLOO REZA
Published: July 2015

Two new species of Palapedia Ng, 1993, are described based on material collected from Abu-Musa Island, Persian Gulf during the present study, from Bahrain by the 1937/38 Danish Expedition, and from the Saudi Arabian coast of the Persian Gulf by Michael Apel in 1992–1995. Palapedia persica n. sp. is distinguishable from its congeners by having distinctly large denticles on the upper margin of the palm and fingers of the chelae and anterior margin of the ambulatory dactyli, and by the markedly sickle-shaped dactylus of the ambulatory legs. Palapedia apeli n. sp. is similar to P. valentini Ng, 1993, and P. nitida (Stimpson, 1858), by having relatively smooth appendages.
A new cheilostome bryozoan genus, Abditoporella (Hippoporidridae), from the eastern Pacific
Authors: SOSA-YAÑEZ ARMANDO , VIEIRA LEANDRO M. , SOLÍS-MARÍN FRANCISCO A.
Published: July 2015

Abditoporella dimorpha n. gen. et n. sp. is described from the Pacific coast of Mexico. It was previously misidentified as Odontoporella adpressa (Busk). Abditoporella seems to be morphologically related to Hagiosynodos Bishop & Hayward, 1989 in having a similar orifice and pseudoporous frontal shield, but is distinguished by having dimorphic zooids. A second species, Hippopodinella turrita Osburn, is reassigned to the new genus as Abditoporella turrita n. comb. Abditoporella is included in the Hippoporidridae.
Description of Ascidia paulayi sp. nov. (Phlebobranchia: Ascidiidae) from French Polynesia, with a discussion about the Ascidia sydneiensis Stimpson, 1855 group
Authors: BONNET NADIA YK , LOTUFO TITO MC
Published: July 2015

In the last decade, new surveys were made in French Polynesia as part of the Moorea Biocode project to improve the knowledge about the regional fauna. Here we describe Ascidia paulayi sp. nov., a new species of Ascidiidae. Due its similarity with A. sydneiensis, a discussion about the species of this group complements the study.
Objective Diagnostics and the Madden–Julian Oscillation. Part II: Application to Moist Static Energy and Moisture Budgets
Authors: Wolding Brandon O. , Maloney Eric D.
Published: July 2015

Processes controlling moisture variations associated with the MJO are investigated using budgets of moist static energy (MSE) and moisture. To first order, precipitation anomalies are maintained by anomalous large-scale vertical moisture advection, which can be understood through application of a weak temperature gradient balance framework to the MSE budget. Intraseasonal variations in longwave radiative cooling play a crucial role in destabilizing the MJO by enhancing intraseasonal variations in large-scale vertical moisture advection. This enhancement allows the effect of intraseasonal variations in large-scale vertical moisture advection to meet or exceed the effect of intraseasonal variations in net condensation, resulting in a positive feedback between the net effect of these processes and moisture anomalies. Intraseasonal variations in surface latent heat flux (SLHF) enhance this positive feedback, but appear to be insufficient to destabilize the MJO in the absence of radiative feedbacks.

The effect an ensemble cloud population has on large-scale moisture is investigated using fields where only high-frequency variability has been removed. During the enhanced phase, approximately 85% of the moisture removed by net condensation is resupplied by the large-scale vertical moisture advection associated with apparent heating by microphysical processes and subgrid-scale vertical fluxes of dry static energy. This suggests that a relatively large increase in net condensation could be supported by a relatively small anomalous moisture source, even in the absence of radiative feedbacks. These results highlight the importance of process-oriented assessment of MJO-like variability within models, and suggest that a weak temperature gradient (WTG) balance framework may be used to identify destabilization mechanisms, thereby distinguishing between MJO-like variability of fundamentally different character.
Do the Police Believe That Legitimacy Promotes Cooperation From the Public?
Authors: Nix Justin
Published: July 2015

Tyler’s process-based model of regulation suggests that when citizens perceive the police as a legitimate authority, they are more likely to cooperate in the form of reporting crimes and providing information to the police. Yet most studies have considered citizens’ perceptions of police legitimacy—few studies have asked the police what they feel makes them legitimate in the eyes of the public. Likewise, no studies have considered whether the police believe legitimacy is associated with cooperation from the public. The present study addresses this gap using data from a stratified sample of U.S. police executives. Findings suggest police believe performance, rather than procedural justice, is the key to generating cooperation from the public.
Factors affecting stigma toward suicide and depression: A Korean nationwide study
Authors: Park Soowon , Kim Min-Ji , Cho Maeng Je , Lee Jun-Young
Published: July 2015

Background:

Suicide attempts and depression are considerably misunderstood by Korean society. Studies regarding factors should provide basic information concerning the factors that should be considered when examining stigmatization.

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate sociodemographic factors related to the social stigma toward people with a history of suicide attempts or depression in a Korean nationwide community sample.

Method:

Face-to-face interviews were conducted with participants selected via a multi-stage cluster sampling method; 779 respondents completed Link’s Perceived Devaluation and Discrimination (PDD) scale to assess the social stigma they attached to suicide attempts, and another 743 completed PDD scale to assess the social stigma they attached to depression. Multiple regression analysis, including socioeconomic and psychiatric variables, was performed to identify the factors predictive of social stigma.

Results:

Results of multiple regressions revealed that age ( β = .12, p = .018), sex ( β = .08, p = .038), years of education ( β = −.31, p = .006) and history of suicide attempts ( β = −.11, p = .009) significantly predicted the degree of stigma toward people who had made suicide attempts, whereas age ( β = .15, p = .003) and education ( β = −.40, p = .001) also predicted the social stigma toward people with depression, sex and history of a depressive episode did not.

Conclusion:

Older men with less education and no experience with suicide perceived suicide attempts more negatively. Similarly, older people with less education placed a greater stigma on people suffering from depression. These results suggest that greater access to higher education may reduce stigma toward people with mental illness.
Audit of preoperative localisation of tumor with tattoo for patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Saleh A , Ihedioha U , Babu B , Evans J , Kang P
Published: July 2015

Background

Preoperative localisation of tumour is an essential requirement in laparoscopic colorectal surgery. Since the introduction of laparoscopic colorectal resections in NGH in February 2010, the difficulties of tumour localisation at the time of surgery without tattoo have been highlighted. Furthermore, endoscopic documentation of site of tattoo with respect to the tumour can be inconsistent and at times misleading or difficult to interpret. Tattooing guidelines should be simple to follow and consistent for all lesions irrespective of the location of the tumour. The recommendations were to place at least three spots of tattoo one mucosal fold distal to the lesion and clearly document site of tattoo with respect to tumour in the endoscopy report.

Method

We identified 100 patients undergoing elective laparoscopic colorectal cancer resections over a two-year period. Data were collected regarding presence of tattoo preoperatively as documented in the colonoscopy report and subsequently the visibility of the tattoo at time of laparoscopy and its accuracy in relation to the tumour. Abdominoperineal resections and emergency colorectal operations were excluded.

Results

Only 59% of the patients had a visible and accurate tattoo. In 17% of the patients, the tattoo was not visible at all, although it was documented in the endoscopy report that it had been administered. In 4% of patients, it was visible but inaccurately placed. In 20% of the patients, there were no tattoos at all, necessitating on table endoscopy and intraoperative specimen analysis to confirm that the tumour/lesion was within the resection specimen.

Discussion

Preoperative tumour localisation is extremely important to correctly identify the site of tumour or lesion at laparoscopy. A standardised departmental protocol should be implemented by all endoscopists to place three spots of tattoo one mucosal fold distal to any significant lesions found. Failure to tattoo lesions/cancers preoperatively can lead to intraoperative delays and potential harm to patients from on-table endoscopy.
Compression of the right iliac vein in asymptomatic subjects and patients with iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Chen Feng , Deng Jun , Hu Xiao M , Zhou Wei M
Published: July 2015

Objective

To evaluate right iliac vein and left iliac vein compression in asymptomatic subjects, right-sided and left-sided iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis patients.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of records and computed tomography images was conducted in 200 asymptomatic subjects (male:female, 100:100). A prospective analysis was conducted in 79 consecutive deep vein thrombosis patients (left:right deep vein thrombosis, 47:32) who had undergone contrast-enhanced computed tomography examination. The minor diameter and percentage compression of the iliac vein were evaluated.

Results

In asymptomatic subjects, 13.5% had right iliac vein compression >50%, 2.0% had right iliac vein compression >70%, mean compression was 23.48%; 45.0% had left iliac vein compression >50% and 17.0% had left iliac vein compression >70%, mean compression was 47.58%. Right iliac vein sandwiched between the right external iliac artery and the right internal iliac artery was the most common compression pattern (59.26%). Males had higher right iliac vein compression than the females (male:female, 26.29%:20.68%, P < 0.001). Mean percentage compression of the right iliac vein was higher in right deep vein thrombosis patients than in left deep vein thrombosis patients (right:left deep vein thrombosis, 48.54%:22.29%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Similar to left iliac vein compression, right iliac vein compression was a frequent imaging finding in CT and represented a normal anatomic pattern. Right deep vein thrombosis patients had more serious right iliac vein compression than left deep vein thrombosis patients, and further research is required on the association of right iliac vein compression with right iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis.
Descriptions of memory rehabilitation group interventions for neurological conditions: a systematic review
Authors: Martin Kristy-Jane , Sinclair Emma J , dasNair Roshan
Published: July 2015

Objective:

To establish what aspects of group-based cognitive rehabilitation for memory problems are reported, and to develop a checklist for authors, which may to improve reporting of these interventions in future studies.

Data sources:

A systematic search was conducted on Web of Knowledge, CINAHL, MEDLINE, AMED, EMBASE and PsycINFO electronic databases (last search: 01/05/2015).

Review methods:

Articles were included if the sample were adults with a neurological disorder, the intervention was group-based cognitive rehabilitation for memory problems, and if the study was a randomised controlled trial. Articles were independently screened for inclusion and data extracted by two researchers, with the third researcher arbitrating any disputes.

Results:

Fourteen studies were included in this review. The reporting of certain aspects of an intervention was found to be poor, particularly in relation to: duration of the programme (6 of 14 studies did not report), the development of the intervention (7 of 14 studies did not discuss), and the content and structure of intervention (7 of the 14 studies did not provide details).

Conclusion:

This review found that the overall reporting of memory rehabilitation content and format is poor. Refinement and adaption of pre-existing checklists to capture aspects of cognitive rehabilitation programmes may help authors when reporting complex interventions. A draft checklist is provided that could be refined and validated in further research.
Exploring the proper relation between physical and human geography
Authors: Lave Rebecca
Published: July 2015

Whether (and how) physical and human geography should be integrated is a longstanding debate in our field. I return here to two entries in this debate from the early years of Progress in Physical Geography. While John Thornes’ 1981 progress report on atmospheric science reads like an early call for critical physical geography, the focus of this special issue, Ron Johnston’s 1983 article emphatically asserts that no such synthesis is intellectually or practically necessary. I argue, however, that Johnston’s article, perhaps inadvertently, lays the groundwork for integrated research.
Early Functional Treatment Versus Cast Immobilization in Tension After Achilles Rupture Repair
Authors: Lantto Iikka , Heikkinen Juuso , Flinkkila Tapio , Ohtonen Pasi , Kangas Jarmo , Siira Pertti , Leppilahti Juhana
Published: July 2015

Background:

There are no long-term prospective controlled trials comparing postoperative regimens after Achilles tendon rupture repair.

Purpose:

To compare ≥10-year outcomes of 2 postoperative regimens after Achilles tendon rupture repair: early weightbearing with early mobilization versus early weightbearing with early immobilization in tension.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A total of 50 patients with acute Achilles tendon ruptures were randomized postoperatively to receive either early movement of the ankle between neutral and plantar flexion in a brace for 6 weeks (group 1) or Achilles tendon immobilization in tension using a below-knee cast with the ankle in a neutral position for 6 weeks (group 2). Patients were assessed at 3, 6, and 14 months and 11 years postoperatively.

Results:

There were 37 patients (74%) evaluated at a mean (±SD) of 11.0 ± 0.9 years. The mean Leppilahti score was 92.9 ± 5.6 in group 1 and 93.6 ± 7.2 in group 2 ( P = .68). The mean isokinetic plantar flexion peak torque deficits or average work deficits in plantar flexion showed no differences between the groups with any angular velocity. Isokinetic strength changed minimally between 1 and 11 years compared with the unaffected ankle, but a mean deficit of 5% in peak torque and mean deficit of 8% in average work were still present after 11 years. On the contrary, isometric plantar flexion strength recovered significantly, with only a 2.4% difference at 11-year follow-up.

Conclusion:

After the 11-year follow-up, early mobilization and immobilization in tension after Achilles rupture repair resulted in similar clinical outcomes and isokinetic strengths. Regardless of patient satisfaction with the operative treatment, calf muscle strength did not recover normally even at 11-year follow-up.
The Pressure-Status Nexus and Blurred Work–Family Boundaries
Authors: Schieman Scott , Glavin Paul
Published: July 2015

Job pressure is associated with increased role-blurring activities. Does higher status attenuate or exacerbate that association? Using data from a national sample of workers, the authors' study discovers that higher status functions as a moderator in what they call the pressure-status nexus. Job pressure is associated more strongly with role blurring among the well educated, professionals, managers, and high earners. Also, job pressure is associated most strongly with role blurring among higher status men. The authors' articulation of the pressure-status nexus extends the stress of higher status perspective, demonstrating that higher statuses compound the ways that job pressure is linked with activities that blur the work–family boundary.
The Timing and Aesthetics of Public Engagement
Authors: Christiansen Lars D.
Published: July 2015

Through an analysis of a street transformation initiative in Saint Paul, Minnesota, this article argues that public engagement can be effective when it occurs early in a planning process and takes into account the aesthetics—atmosphere, embodiment, formality, and emotions—of events. Residents can catalyze engagement prior to municipal involvement, thereby creating a temporal opening that presents opportunities for creative visioning and deliberation. The limits of the approach emerge when city public engagement processes commence and aesthetics become more formal. Especially challenging is a shift in affective performance and maintaining the inclusion of representative publics.
Representative Bridging
Authors: Baggetta Matthew
Published: July 2015

Do urban voluntary associations foster bridging social ties? Recent research on diverse urban areas suggests that local voluntary associations may be forming ties between different social groups. Research on associations, however, suggests that the memberships of such organizations are typically demographically homogeneous. Using demographic and geo-spatial data on 1,032 members of 25 independent community choirs in Boston, this article demonstrates that, in line with associational research, urban associations offer relatively few opportunities for direct demographic bridging due to internal racial homogeneity. There is substantial variation, however, in the characteristics of neighborhoods where members live. This variation opens opportunities for members to act as representatives of diverse neighborhoods creating representative bridging ties between groups. While likely producing less dramatic changes in attitudes than direct bridging ties, representative bridging opportunities are far more common, and, therefore, may serve as a first step toward greater tolerance and trust in diverse metropolitan settings.
Does Motivation Matter for Employer Choices? A Discrete-Choice Analysis of Medical Students’ Decisions Among Public, Nonprofit, and For-Profit Hospitals
Authors: Winter Vera , Thaler Julia
Published: July 2015

Physicians are crucial resources for medical service provision, and aggravated physician shortages enhance the need to understand employer preferences and thus perceived employer attractiveness. Our study analyzes how differences in individual motivational factors explain intentional employer choice in the hospital industry. This study focuses on medical students who are faced with their first employer selection. Using a large-scale survey of medical students (n = 563) in Germany, we analyze these choices using multinomial logit models. The analysis shows that heterogeneity exists in students’ preferences for hospital ownership type and an employer’s highlighted benefits. The likelihood of making certain choices is significantly related to both other-related motivational factors, such as altruism and commitment to public interest, and self-oriented motivational factors, such as financial security and work–life balance. The results are discussed, and management implications for nonprofit and other hospitals are derived.
Numerical simulation of a regional train in cross-wind
Authors: Eichinger Sándor , Sima Mikael , Thiele Frank
Published: July 2015

In this work numerical investigations of regional trains were carried out studying the prediction accuracy of the aerodynamic load in cross-wind assessment of rail vehicles. The main focus is on 30° yaw angle. Two domain setups, one representing the wind tunnel setup and another more generic one, were investigated and validated against available measurements comparing load coefficients. Important aspects of a guideline assessing aerodynamic load coefficients with numerical simulation techniques are proposed. Based on practical considerations and on the presented results the use of a generic domain is suggested for virtual certification. Further improvement of the flow field prediction can be achieved using unsteady hybrid numerical techniques, such as detached eddy simulation. Load coefficient results of various unsteady approaches and comparisons of simulated and measured flow fields are shown. Hints about the usage of the employed hybrid method are given, and future investigations are proposed.
Investigations on the coupling flow between full-scale last-stage steam turbine and low-pressure exhaust hood
Authors: Fu Jing-Lun , Liu Jian-Jun
Published: July 2015

In a condensing steam turbine, the last-stage turbine and the condenser are connected by the low-pressure axial–radial exhaust hood. The exhaust hood has a complex geometry to make the flow change direction by 90°, while guiding the flow from the turbine to the condenser. During the operation, strong flow interactions between the turbine and the exhaust hood cause the flow pattern to become extremely complicated. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the coupling flow between the full-scale last-stage turbine and the low-pressure exhaust hood of a 600 MW steam turbine under actual operation conditions. The simulational calculations of the flow through the last stage turbine and the exhaust hood were realized by coupling calculations of turbine stage and exhaust hood in an external iterative manner. Equilibrium wet steam was selected as the flow medium. The coupling flow fields under different operation conditions were simulated and analyzed. It is found that the distributions of the turbine exit flow fields at different circumferential locations vary remarkably. The profiles of swirl angle and total pressure distributions at the turbine outlet change with the decrease of the mass flowrate, which further influence the flow behavior in the hood and lead to the reduction of the performance.
Investigating the maximum resolution of µXRF core scanners: A 1800 year storminess reconstruction from the Outer Hebrides, Scotland, UK
Authors: Orme Lisa C , Reinhardt Liam , Jones Richard T , Charman Dan J , Croudace Ian , Dawson Alastair , Ellis Michael , Barkwith Andrew
Published: July 2015

Micro x-ray fluorescence (µXRF) core scanning is capable of measuring the elemental composition of lake sediment at sub-millimetre resolution, but bioturbation and physical mixing may degrade environmental signals at such fine scales. The aim of this research is to determine the maximum possible resolution at which meaningful environmental signals may be reconstructed from lake sediments using this method. Sediment from a coastal lake in the Outer Hebrides, Scotland, has been analysed using calibrated element measurements to reconstruct storminess since AD 200. We find that a Ca/K ratio in lake-core sediments reflects the presence of fine calcium carbonate shell fragments, a constituent of sand in the catchment that is washed and blown into the lake. Variations in this ratio are significantly correlated with instrumental records of precipitation and low pressures, suggesting it is a proxy for storminess. Furthermore, identification of a c. 60-year cycle supports a climatic influence on Ca/K, as this cycle is frequently identified in reconstructions of the North Atlantic Oscillation and North Atlantic sea-surface temperature. Comparison with weather records at different resolutions and spectral analysis indicate that µXRF data from Loch Hosta can be interpreted at sub-decadal resolutions (equivalent to core depth intervals of 3–5 mm in this location). Therefore, we suggest that sub-centimetre sampling using µXRF core scanning could be beneficial in producing environmental reconstructions in many lake settings where sediments are not varved.
Women’s Malnutrition in India: The Role of Economic and Social Status
Authors: Dahiya Shikha , Viswanathan Brinda
Published: July 2015

This study has used data from the India Human Development Survey (IHDS), 2005–06, to study the factors influencing the body mass index (BMI) of women between 20 and 40 years of age in India. BMI captures both undernutrition and over-nutrition, and a quantile regression model has been used to capture the differential impact of the explanatory variables across the wide range of its values.

Variables such as per capita income, per capita consumption expenditure and wealth are important in explaining variations in BMI, but the impact varies across the quantiles. The impact of per capita consumption expenditure is greater than that of per capita income, indicating the effectiveness with which resources are converted to consumption. Higher levels of wealth status affect BMI more across all the quantiles. Women’s autonomy index shows a positive impact only for higher levels of the index value, but the magnitude is very small, while caste and religion play an important role even after controlling for economic status.

JEL Classification: I12, J10, O18
Evaluation of empiric antibiotic de-escalation in febrile neutropenia
Authors: Kroll Amanda L , Corrigan Patricia A , Patel Shejal , Hawks Kelly G
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Up until 2010, the recommended duration of empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics for febrile neutropenia was until absolute neutrophil count (ANC) recovery. An updated guideline on the use of antimicrobial agents in neutropenic patients with cancer indicates that patients who have completed an appropriate treatment course of broad-spectrum antibiotics, with resolution of signs and symptoms of infection but persistent neutropenia, can be de-escalated to oral fluoroquinolone prophylaxis until ANC recovery.

Methods

The primary objective of this retrospective investigation was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of de-escalating broad-spectrum antibiotics in patients remaining neutropenic after at least 14 days of empiric broadspectrum antibiotics for febrile neutropenia compared to patients continuing broad-spectrum antibiotics until ANC recovery.

Results

There were 16 patients (61.5%) in the comparator group who met the primary endpoint of remaining afebrile and without escalation of antibiotics for at least 72 hours after 14 days of broad-spectrum antibiotics and 21 patients (80.7%) in the de-escalation group who met the primary endpoint of remaining afebrile and without reinitiation of broad-spectrum antibiotics for at least 72 hours after de-escalation to levofloxacin therapy ( p = 0.11). Mean total duration of broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy was 23.5 ± 1.5 days in the comparator group versus 22.2 ± 1.43 days in the de-escalation group ( p = 0.39).

Conclusions

Results of this investigation indicate that broad-spectrum antibiotics can be safely de-escalated to levofloxacin prophylaxis prior to ANC recovery in select patients. This practice may decrease the duration of broad-spectrum antibiotic exposure and associated complications.
Exploring the Negotiation Thesis Application Among Ski Resort Tourists: A Segmentation Approach
Authors: Vassiliadis Chris A. , Bellou Victoria , Priporas Constantinos-Vasilios , Andronikidis Andreas
Published: July 2015

The negotiation thesis offers a framework for understanding the participation decision making of tourists. Unlike previous studies that investigate the causal relationship between constraints and tourists’ revisit intention, this study identified distinct segments of ski tourist based on the relative strength of constraints experienced and then investigated their decision-making process across a sample of 1,348 tourists of ski resorts. Chi-squared automated interaction detection analysis revealed that the decision-making process regarding intention to revisit a ski destination varies between highly versus less constrained ski tourists, indicating different relative strengths of interpersonal, intrapersonal, and structural constraints and different interactions among them when predicting revisit intention. On a practical basis, albeit the vast majority of participants were willing to repeat its visit, we offer customized per segment recommendations on increasing frequency of visitation and spending levels.
The Behavioral and Intermediate Effects of Advertising on Firm Performance: An Empirical Investigation of the Restaurant Industry
Authors: Kim Jewoo , Jun Jinhyun , Tang Liang (Rebecca) , Zheng Tianshu
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study was to identify tangible and intangible gains resulting from advertising in restaurant businesses from both the marketing and finance/accounting perspectives. Specifically, this study examined both behavioral and intermediate effects of advertising on consumer behavior and firm performance. Annual sales, profit, Tobin’s Q, and advertising expenditure of 119 restaurant firms from 1991 to 2012 were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that advertising led to an immediate increase in consumer demand, but failed to improve profit. The effect of advertising on sales and profit through brand equity was found to be insignificant. This study suggests a new angle on the use of advertising and brand strategies in the restaurant industry and discusses potential directions for future research.
An Expanded Servicescape Framework as the Driver of Place Attachment and Word of Mouth
Authors: Line Nathaniel D. , Hanks Lydia , Kim Woo Gon
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study is to identify the effects of other customers on consumption behavior in shared consumption environments. The proposition is put forth that, like other factors that make up the consumption atmosphere, the mere presence of other customers has a significant impact on customers’ attachment to service organizations. Accordingly, this research proposes a framework that specifies the nature of the relationships among customer homogeneity in the social servicescape, company identification, place attachment, and word-of-mouth referral. To test the hypotheses, data were collected from a sample of 1,094 restaurant patrons in the United States. Results of structural equation analyses supported the overall contention that, in addition to the traditionally identified aspects of the servicescape (e.g., facility attractiveness, ambient conditions, seating comfort, and layout), the mere presence of others can affect the extent to which individuals perceive feelings of attachment to the restaurant. This relationship is demonstrated to take place via the mediating effect of company identification.
Oral health knowledge and psychological determinants of oral health behavior of nursing students
Authors: Chan Joanne CY , Chin Luzy SH
Published: July 2015

This survey examined the oral health knowledge and psychological determinants of oral health behavior of 1019 undergraduate and postgraduate nursing students. Overall, most of the students perceived their oral health to be average, and their flossing and dental visiting frequencies were inadequate. Moreover, the students’ oral health knowledge was suboptimal, regardless of the type of study, and it was not significantly associated with oral health behavior. Binary logistic regression showed that toothbrushing self-efficacy and the type of study were both significantly associated with toothbrushing behavior. Furthermore, flossing self-efficacy and dental visiting self-efficacy were both significantly associated with flossing and dental visiting behaviors, respectively.
Emotional intelligence and glycemic management among type I diabetes patients
Authors: Zysberg Leehu , Bar Yoseph Tal , Goldman Mor
Published: July 2015

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong physical and emotional challenge. The concept of emotional intelligence may offer better understanding of personal resources facilitating management of such challenges. We therefore hypothesized that emotional intelligence will negatively associate with two measures of diabetic management: HA1c and blood sugar levels. A total of 78 young adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus reported their last HA1c test result and their blood sugar level, as well as demographics and took the audio-visual test of emotional intelligence. The results showed a negative association between emotional intelligence and HA1c and marginal results in the same direction with blood sugar levels even when controlling for demographics.
Using liminality to understand mothers’ experiences of long-term breastfeeding: ‘Betwixt and between’, and ‘matter out of place’
Authors: Dowling Sally , Pontin David
Published: July 2015

Breastmilk is widely considered as the optimum nutrition source for babies and an important factor in both improving public health and reducing health inequalities. Current international/national policy supports long-term breastfeeding. UK breastfeeding initiation rates are high but rapidly decline, and the numbers breastfeeding in the second year and beyond are unknown. This study used the concept of liminality to explore the experiences of a group of women breastfeeding long-term in the United Kingdom, building on Mahon-Daly and Andrews. Over 80 breastfeeding women were included within the study, which used micro-ethnographic methods (participant observation in breastfeeding support groups, face-to-face interviews and online asynchronous interviews via email). Findings about women’s experiences are congruent with the existing literature, although it is mostly dated and from outside the United Kingdom. Liminality was found to be useful in providing insight into women’s experiences of long-term breastfeeding in relation to both time and place. Understanding women’s experience of breastfeeding beyond current usual norms can be used to inform work with breastfeeding mothers and to encourage more women to breastfeed for longer.
Impact of the Environment
Authors: Fosnacht Kevin , Nailos Jennifer N.
Published: July 2015

Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) enroll the majority of Latina/o students in higher education; however, it is unclear how HSIs influence Latina/os’ postsecondary experiences. In this study, we examined how the Latina/o student experience differed between students who did and did not attend 4-year HSIs. The results suggest that HSIs generally have positive, but modest, effects on Latina/o’s student engagement and self-perceived gains. The differences were more pronounced for first-year students than seniors.
System availability enhancement using computational intelligence–based decision tree predictive model
Authors: Ahmed Qadeer , Anifowose Fatai A , Khan Faisal
Published: July 2015

System availability is a key performance measure in the process industry. It ensures continuous operation of facilities to meet production targets, personnel safety and environmental sustainability. Process machinery condition assessment, early fault detection and its management are vital elements to ensure overall system availability. These elements can be explored and managed effectively by extracting hidden knowledge from machinery vibration information to improve plant availability and safe operations. This article describes a decision tree–based computational intelligence model using machinery vibration data to detect machinery faults, their severity, and suggests appropriate action to avoid unscheduled failures. Vibration data for this work were collected using a machinery simulator and real-world machine to show the applicability of the proposed model. Later, the data were analyzed to detect faults using decision tree–based model that was developed in MATLAB. Fault detection classification accuracies of 98% during training and 93% during testing showed excellent performance of the proposed model. The model also revealed that the proposed formulation has capability of detecting faults correctly in the range of 98%−99%. The results showed that the proposed decision tree–based model is effective in evaluating the condition of process machinery and predicting unscheduled equipment breakdowns with better accuracy and with reduced human effort.
How the lumbrical muscle contributes to placing the fingertip in space: a three dimensional cadaveric study to assess fingertip trajectory and metacarpophalangeal joint balancing
Authors: Kamata Y. , Nakamura T. , Tada M. , Sueda S. , Pai D. K. , Toyama Y.
Published: July 2015

Three-dimensional fingertip trajectory was examined under different force levels of the lumbrical muscle to clarify the function of the lumbrical muscle in free index finger motion. The metacarpophalangeal joint balancing effect of the lumbrical muscle in the thumb-up position was also examined. The motions of the finger bones were recorded during simulated contraction of flexor digitorum profundus when different forces (0.000–1.960 N) were applied to the lumbrical muscle in cadaveric specimens. The greater the force with which the lumbrical muscle was pulled, the larger the arc formed by the fingertip, and the greater the rebalancing influence on the metacarpophalangeal joint. This result indicates that the lumbrical muscle functions simultaneously to enlarge the fingertip trajectory and to balance the metacarpophalangeal joint against gravity in the axial plane. A 0.980 N force was ideal for maximal finger movement. The lumbrical muscle rebalanced the metacarpophalangeal joint against gravity in the thumb-up position with a force ⩾0.980 N.