bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global regularity for the 2D Oldroyd‐B model in the corotational case
Authors: Ye Zhuan , Xu Xiaojing
Published: January 2016

This paper is dedicated to the Oldroyd‐B model with fractional dissipation (−Δ)ατ for any α > 0. We establish the global smooth solutions to the Oldroyd‐B model in the corotational case with arbitrarily small fractional powers of the Laplacian in two spatial dimensions. Moreover, in the Appendix, we provide some a priori estimates to the Oldroyd‐B model in the critical case, which may be useful and of interest for future improvement. Therefore, our result is closer to the resolution of the well‐known global regularity issue on the critical 2D Oldroyd‐B model. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Shifted power method for computing tensor H‐eigenpairs
Authors: Lu Yinbing , Pan Jianyu
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we propose a shifted symmetric higher‐order power method for computing the H‐eigenpairs of a real symmetric even‐order tensor. The local convergence of the method is proved. In addition, by utilizing the fixed‐point analysis, we can characterize exactly which H‐eigenpairs can be found and which cannot be found by the method. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the performance of the method. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flavonoids from the flowers of Impatiens glandulifera Royle isolated by high performance countercurrent chromatography
Authors: Vieira Mariana N. , Winterhalter Peter , Jerz Gerold
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Impatiens glandulifera Royle (Balsaminaceae) is an annual herb from the Himalaya region, currently widespread along European river systems and one of the most important neophyte invading plants in Germany. Exploring the effects of allelopathic plant chemicals is important for the understanding of its ecological impacts in the process of suppression of indigenous plant species.

Objective

To investigate the chemical composition of Impatiens glandulifera flowers (IGFs) using high performance countercurrent chromatography (HPCCC).

Methods

The flowers of Impatiens glandulifera were manually separated and extracted with ethanol. LC‐ESI‐MS/MS was used to characterise the crude extract of IGF. The various flavonoids detected were isolated by HPCCC using of methyl tert‐butyl ether–acetonitrile–water (2:2:3, v/v/v). The combination of the data provided by preparative ESI‐MS/MS metabolite profiling, LC‐ESI‐MS/MS, UV‐vis and 1D/2D‐NMR spectroscopic analysis was used to elucidate the structures of the isolated compounds.

Results

HPCCC runs led to the direct isolation of pure dihydromyricetin (ampelopsin), eriodictyol‐7‐O‐glucoside, kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucoside (astragalin) and kaempferol‐3‐O‐6ʺ‐malonyl‐glucoside, as well as the pre‐purification of kaempferol‐3‐O‐rhamno‐rhamnosyldiglucoside, quercetin‐3‐O‐galactoside (hyperoside), quercetin and kaempferol in a single step.

Conclusion

This is the first report on the flavonoid composition of the species Impatiens glandulifera. The developed protocol was successfully used to isolate the main flavonoids from the crude extract of IGFs. This combined HPCCC and HPLC procedure could be applied to the fast fractionation and recovery of flavonoid derivatives of other plant extracts. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Precursor and Deposition Conditions on Prevention of Bacterial Biofilm Growth on Chlorinated Plasma Polymers
Authors: Michl Thomas D. , Coad Bryan R. , Hüsler Amanda , Valentin Jules D. P. , Vasilev Krasimir , Griesser Hans J.
Published: January 2016

In this work, we aimed to understand the key properties that confer antibacterial activity to chlorinated plasma polymers, by investigating plasma polymers deposited from a series of chlorinated precursor molecules and also investigating the effect of plasma conditions. Results revealed that only precursors with a Cl/C ratio ≥1.5 generate effective antibacterial coatings, whereas the coating thickness is irrelevant. Furthermore there is a “sweet spot” in process conditions to generate coatings with optimal antimicrobial activity. Lastly, we investigated the release of chlorinated fragments and attenuation of the surface‐active antibacterial properties of the chlorinated plasma polymers by overcoating them with a perfluorinated plasma polymer.
TRIZ: Engineering Methodologies to Improve the Process Reliability
Authors: Arcidiacono G. , Bucciarelli L.
Published: January 2016

Research of solutions to problem in existing processes often deals with the tendency to follow mental schemes because of the psychological inertia. This study illustrates a knowledge‐based systematic methodology of inventive problem solving for the effective development of new systems and solutions, a theory that consists of theoretical foundation, analytical and knowledge‐based tools, applicable in conjunction with other creativity and engineering methodologies. The TRIZ (Theory of Inventive Problem Solution) applicability in process reliability can develop new and effective solutions thanks to the examination of contradiction, different prospective, and points of view. The systematic innovation process provides a platform to integrate heterogeneous resources and tools opening the problem‐solving methodology to new and different interdisciplinary approaches. The deconstruction and identification of issues to analyze the problems in their context and in relation to other factors are adopted in many areas of industrial production as well as in the more general problem‐solving matters. In particular, this study will show how TRIZ can be used in process optimization rather than research and development where this methodology is commonly adopted. This case represents a practical application of the TRIZ to increase quality and reliability in regard to a manufacturing process of an industry that designs and builds molds and equipment for the production of aluminum food containers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tackling disadvantage: what works in narrowing the achievement gap in schools
Authors: Demie Feyisa , Mclean Christabel
Published: January 2016

This study examines the success factors behind narrowing the achievement gap of disadvantaged pupils who are entitled to free school meals. A complementary methodological approach including a case study and focus group were used to explore performance and the views of teachers, parents and pupils. The key criteria for the selection of schools were those with a very high proportion of pupils eligible for free school meals and good Key Stage 2 (KS2) and General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) results and positive Ofsted inspection reports. The findings of the research show that the case study schools' data shows that from their generally low starting points, pupils reach exceptionally high standards at KS2 and GCSE, narrowing the gap. The research identifies a number of factors that are proving successful in closing the gap. These include strong leadership, high quality teaching and learning, an inclusive curriculum, the effective use of data, one‐to‐one support and the deployment of the best teachers to teach intervention groups, or re‐deploying support teachers who have a good track record in raising achievement. It is further argued in the final section that these findings have limitations and must be taken as tentative suggestions rather than firm conclusions. The recommendation from the study is that there is a need to replicate and expand this research with a larger sample and longitudinal study, in order to explore in detail what works in narrowing the achievement gaps between disadvantaged pupils and their peers in schools.
Context and Implications Document for: Tackling disadvantage: what works in narrowing the achievement gap in schools
Authors: Demie Feyisa , Mclean Christabel
Published: January 2016

This guide accompanies the following article: Feyisa Demie and Christabel Mclean, Tackling disadvantage: what works in narrowing the achievement gap in schools, Review of Education, DOI:10.1002/rev3.3052
Comparison of curved root canals preparation using reciprocating, continuous and an association of motions
Authors: Hoppe Carolina Bender , Böttcher Daiana Elisabeth , Justo Aline Martins , Só Marcus Vinícius Reis , Grecca Fabiana Soares
Published: January 2016

The aim of this study was to compare the rotary ProTaper Universal system, the single‐file reciprocating WaveOne system and an association of motions assessing shaping ability, cleanliness, preparation time and instrument failures after preparation of curved root canals. Sixty root canals of extracted human molar teeth, with curvatures ranging between 20° and 40°, were divided into three groups, according with preparation system. Canals were prepared until apical size 25 using the ProTaper Universal system (G1), WaveOne (G2), or a hybrid technique (G3) associating reciprocating preparation with rotary glide path and cervical pre‐enlargement. Teeth were scanned pre and post‐operatively using computed tomography. Direction of transportation and centering ability of canals were measured using a computer image analysis program, and the results were analyzed statistically using one‐way ANOVA. Preparation time was analyzed by one‐way ANOVA and the Tukey post hoc test. Instrument failures were recorded. The amounts of debris and smear layer were quantified based on a numerical evaluation scale by scanning electron microscopy and were analyzed statistically using the Kruskal–Wallis test. No difference in transportation and centering ratio was found between the systems. Instrumentation with WaveOne was significantly faster than with other instruments (p < 0.05). During preparation, no instruments fractured and three suffered deformations. For debris removal and remaining smear layer, the results for the three groups were similar. The single‐file reciprocating instrument was capable of providing faster root canal preparation with similar transporting, centralization and cleaning ability when compared with continuous and an association of motions in curved canals. SCANNING 38:462–468, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative analysis of the cell‐surface roughness and viscoelasticity for breast cancer cells discrimination using atomic force microscopy
Authors: Wang Yuhua , Xu Chaoxian , Jiang Ningcheng , Zheng Liqin , Zeng Jinshu , Qiu Caimin , Yang Hongqin , Xie Shusen
Published: January 2016

Breast cancer has been one of the most common malignant tumors threatening female health with high incidence. Cell mechanics is becoming an important issue and could serves as a potential indicator for early cancer diagnosis. In this study, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was applied to characterize and compare the surface nanostructure and viscoelasticity of different breast cell lines. Our results show that breast cancerous cells MCF‐7 exhibit more disorganized filamentous cytoskeleton structure with increased membrane roughness compared to benign breast cells MCF‐10A (P < 0.05). The viscoelastic properties, including elasticity and viscosity, are significantly different between the two cell lines. MCF‐7 displays reduced elasticity and viscosity, indicating that breast cancer cells are softer and more fluid than benign counterpart. Our findings provide new insights into the biophysical changes of cells during tumor transformation and suggest it could be used for early cancer detection at single cell level. SCANNING 38:558–563, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cryptanalysis and improvement of a chaotic maps‐based anonymous authenticated key agreement protocol for multiserver architecture
Authors: Lu Yanrong , Li Lixiang , Peng Haipeng , Yang Yixian
Published: January 2016

With the purpose of ensuring secure communication through wireless environments, authenticated key agreement protocols with user anonymity are widely investigated. Inspired by the semi‐group property of Chebyshev maps and multiple servers in the network environment, Tsai et al. proposed a novel chaotic maps‐based anonymous authenticated key agreement protocol based on multiserver architecture. Unfortunately, we observe that the Tsai et al. protocol falls to key‐compromise impersonation attack, which opens the door for an attacker to launch an offline password‐guessing attack. Moreover, the Tsai et al. protocol also unfortunately violates the session key security. Elaborating on the security of chaotic maps‐based authenticated key agreement, we present an enhanced protocol employing biometrics that attempts to repair the security pitfalls found in Tsai et al. Security analysis shows that the enhanced protocol satisfies more security attributes while retaining the merits of the original protocol. We also present a formal proof of the enhanced protocol with the Burrows–Abadi–Needham logic. The performance of our protocol is evaluated with its predecessor protocols, and the comparative results show that it outperforms the predecessor protocols in terms of better trade‐off between desirable security attributes and computational overhead. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of recurrent events with an associated informative dropout time: Application of the joint frailty model
Authors: Rogers Jennifer K. , Yaroshinsky Alex , Pocock Stuart J. , Stokar David , Pogoda Janice
Published: January 2016

This paper considers the analysis of a repeat event outcome in clinical trials of chronic diseases in the context of dependent censoring (e.g. mortality). It has particular application in the context of recurrent heart failure hospitalisations in trials of heart failure. Semi‐parametric joint frailty models (JFMs) simultaneously analyse recurrent heart failure hospitalisations and time to cardiovascular death, estimating distinct hazard ratios whilst individual‐specific latent variables induce associations between the two processes. A simulation study was carried out to assess the suitability of the JFM versus marginal analyses of recurrent events and cardiovascular death using standard methods. Hazard ratios were consistently overestimated when marginal models were used, whilst the JFM produced good, well‐estimated results. An application to the Candesartan in Heart failure: Assessment of Reduction in Mortality and morbidity programme was considered. The JFM gave unbiased estimates of treatment effects in the presence of dependent censoring. We advocate the use of the JFM for future trials that consider recurrent events as the primary outcome. © 2016 The Authors. Statistics in Medicine Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Quantifying risk over the life course – latency, age‐related susceptibility, and other time‐varying exposure metrics
Authors: Wang Molin , Liao Xiaomei , Laden Francine , Spiegelman Donna
Published: January 2016

Identification of the latency period and age‐related susceptibility, if any, is an important aspect of assessing risks of environmental, nutritional, and occupational exposures. We consider estimation and inference for latency and age‐related susceptibility in relative risk and excess risk models. We focus on likelihood‐based methods for point and interval estimation of the latency period and age‐related windows of susceptibility coupled with several commonly considered exposure metrics. The method is illustrated in a study of the timing of the effects of constituents of air pollution on mortality in the Nurses' Health Study. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surgical and Survival Outcome Following Truly Palliative Gastrectomy in Patients with Incurable Gastric Cancer
Authors: Tokunaga Masanori , Makuuchi Rie , Miki Yuichiro , Tanizawa Yutaka , Bando Etsuro , Kawamura Taiichi , Terashima Masanori
Published: January 2016

Background and objectives

Gastrectomy is sometimes performed even in patients with incurable factors, particularly when they have urgent symptoms. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinicopathological characteristics of patients undergoing palliative gastrectomy and to identify prognostic factors.

Methods

This study included consecutive 137 gastric cancer patients with urgent symptoms who underwent gastrectomy with macroscopic residual tumor at Shizuoka Cancer Center. Clinicopathological characteristics and surgical outcomes were investigated. In addition, we used the Cox proportional hazards model to identify independent prognostic factors.

Results

Of 137 patients, urgent symptoms were bleeding in 58 patients and stenosis in 112 patients. Postoperative complications were observed in 58 patients (42 %). Chemotherapy was given after surgery in 94 patients (70 %). Median survival time for all patients was 9.9 months, and was longer in patients receiving chemotherapy (11.1 months) than in those not receiving chemotherapy (6.8 months; p = 0.002). Multivariate analysis identified macroscopic type (hazard ratio, 0.471; 95 % confidence interval, 0.364–0.927) as an independent prognostic factor.

Conclusions

The postoperative complication rate was high and survival outcome was poor in patients undergoing palliative gastrectomy. Postoperative chemotherapy may carry a better survival outcome, so we should try to give chemotherapy after palliative gastrectomy.
Les fistules péniennes urétrocutanées postcirconcision: à propos de 85 cas
Authors: Sow Y. , Diao B. , Tfeil Y. O. , Fall P. A. , Fall B. , Kabore A. F. , Ndoye A. K. H. , Diagne B. A.
Published: January 2016

Buts

Analyser les aspects cliniques et thérapeutiques des cas de fistules péniennes liés à une circoncision et pris en charge dans notre pratique quotidienne urologique.

Patients et méthodes

Étude rétrospective des dossiers des patients admis pour fistule pénienne postcirconcision de la période allant de 1990 à 2007.

Résultats

Quatre-vingt-cinq cas ont été notés avec une moyenne d’âge de 10,7 ans (15 mois et 38 ans). La circoncision était réalisée par un personnel paramédical dans la majorité des cas. Le délai de consultation était en moyenne de 4,1 ± 5,3 ans (1 semaine-28 ans). La fistule était associée à une amputation partielle du gland dans un cas et une sténose du méat urétral dans trois cas. Le traitement chirurgical a consisté surtout à un dédoublement urétrocutané. Avec un recul moyen de 3,35 ans (2 mois-8 ans), nous avions noté 81,2 % de bons résultats.

Conclusion

La fistule pénienne postcirconcision est fréquente dans nos régions. Sa prise en charge est assez codifiée, mais le risque d’échec n’est pas négligeable, d’oú l’intérêt de la prévention.
Profil épidémiologique et clinique de l’infertilité masculine à l’hôpital général de Grand-Yoff, Sénégal: à propos de 492 cas
Authors: Niang L. , Ndoye M. , Labou I. , Jalloh M. , Kane R. , Diaw J. J. , Ndiaye A. , Guèye S. M.
Published: January 2016

Objectif

Décrire le profil général de l’infertilité masculine, au Sénégal, en milieu hospitalier.

Matériels et méthodes

Il s’agit d’une étude rétrospective, descriptive, portant sur 492 dossiers de patients vus en consultation pour infertilité conjugale du couple entre 2000 et 2004. L’ensemble des paramètres étudiés portait sur les éléments cliniques et les explorations paracliniques.

Résultats

L’âge moyen des patients était de 39 ans. La durée d’évolution de l’infertilité était en moyenne de six ans. L’infertilité était de type primaire dans 66,5 % des cas. Sur le plan clinique, la varicocèle était l’anomalie la plus souvent retrouvée, soit dans 64,6 % des cas. Le spermogramme était perturbé dans 84,3 % des cas. Les principales perturbations étaient une oligospermie inférieure à 5 millions de spermatozoïes/ml (35,6 %) et une azoospermie dans 28,6 % des cas.

Conclusion

Le profil général de l’infertilité est polymorphe. L’exploration est limitée par la non-disponibilité de la partenaire et l’absence de coordination entre gynécologues et andrologues. L’amélioration de la prise en charge de l’infertilité doit passer par de nouvelles voies de recherche, notamment génétiques et immunologiques, afin d’identifier les causes habituellement cachées de l’infertilité. Elle doit aussi reposer sur une bonne collaboration entre praticiens de santé de la reproduction et la mise en place d’unités d’assistance médicale à la procréation (AMP).
Practical Computerized Solution for Incision and Grafting in Peyronie's Disease
Authors: Miranda Alexandre F. , Sampaio Francisco J.B.
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Penile curvature correction with plaque incision and graft (PIG) increases the risk of erectile dysfunction (ED) and is associated with mechanical and geometric abnormalities.

Aims

The aim of this study was to create and validate a new PIG technique using minimum graft area to correct simple or complex penile curvature with or without hourglass deformity, while avoiding mechanical and geometric abnormalities.

Methods

Using our cotton fabric model, we created a mathematic solution for PIG with no residual defects. This was applied in nine men who had sufficient penile rigidity while penetrating their respective partners. They underwent fascia lata patch corporoplasty using the new developed technique (iPad [Apple Corp, Palo Alto, CA, USA] app: iGrafter). Subjects answered the 5-item version of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire preoperatively and at the end of follow-up.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures used were patient demographics, erectile function, residual curvature, patient satisfaction, graft area, and complications.

Results

After a mean follow-up of 17.8 months, no significant complication was noted. Complete penile straightening was achieved in all patients. The short side of the penis increased a mean of 3 cm in length, and the mean graft area was 12.4 cm2. At the end of the follow-up, three patients developed recurrent deformity. One patient presented severe fibrosis in the corpora cavernosa and severe ED. There was no significant difference between the mean preoperative and postoperative IIEF-5 scores (20.6 vs 19.4, respectively). At the end of follow-up, all patients were able to have sexual intercourse (two with and seven without pharmacological aid). Eight of the nine patients were satisfied with the surgical result.

Conclusion

Penile curvature surgical correction using the iGrafter seems to be an efficient and safe procedure, which uses minimum graft area and preserves erectile function after penile rectification, without resulting in residual deformities. Further research is needed to confirm the efficacy of this procedure.
Medical Help-Seeking for Sexual Concerns in Prostate Cancer Survivors
Authors: Hyde Melissa K. , Zajdlewicz Leah , Wootten Addie C. , Nelson Christian J. , Lowe Anthony , Dunn Jeff , Chambers Suzanne K.
Published: January 2016

Introduction

Although sexual dysfunction is common after prostate cancer, men's decisions to seek help for sexual concerns are not well understood.

Aim

Describe predictors of actual prior help-seeking and intended future medical help-seeking for sexual dysfunction in prostate cancer survivors.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 510 prostate cancer survivors assessed masculine beliefs, attitudes, support/approval from partner/peer networks (subjective norm), and perceived control as predictors of medical help-seeking for sexual concerns. A theory of planned behavior (TPB) perspective was used to examine actual prior and planned future behavior and contributing factors. Statistical analyses included multiple and logistic regressions.

Main Outcome Measures

Intention to see a doctor for sexual advice or help in the next 6 months was measured using the intention subscale adapted from the Attitudes to Seeking Help after Cancer Scale. Prior help-seeking was measured with a dichotomous yes/no scale created for the study.

Results

Men were Mage 71.69 years (SD = 7.71); 7.54 years (SD = 4.68) post-diagnosis; received treatment(s) (58.1% radical prostatectomy; 47.1% radiation therapy; 29.4% hormonal ablation); 81.4% reported severe ED (IIED 0–6) and 18.6% moderate–mild ED (IIED 7–24). Overall, 30% had sought sexual help in the past 6 months, and 24% intended to seek help in the following 6 months. Prior help-seeking was less frequent among men with severe ED. Sexual help-seeking intentions were associated with lower education, prior sexual help-seeking, sexual importance/ priority, emotional self-reliance, positive attitude, and subjective norm (R2 = 0.56).

Conclusion

The TPB has utility as a theoretical framework to understand prostate cancer survivors' sexual help-seeking decisions and may inform development of more effective interventions. Masculine beliefs were highly salient. Men who were more emotionally self-reliant and attributed greater importance to sex formed stronger help-seeking intentions. Subjective norm contributed most strongly to help-seeking intentions suggesting that health professionals/partners/peers have a key role as support mechanisms and components of psycho-sexual interventions.
Diversity of Gene Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Zhang Fan , Cui Li , Kuo Michael D.
Published: January 2016

Understanding tumor diversity has been a long-lasting and challenging question for researchers in the field of cancer heterogeneity or tumor evolution. Studies have reported that compared to normal cells, there is a higher genetic diversity in tumor cells, while higher genetic diversity is associated with higher progression risks of tumor. We thus hypothesized that tumor diversity also holds true at the gene expression level. To test this hypothesis, we used t-test to compare the means of Simpson’s diversity index for gene expression (SDIG) between tumor and non-tumor samples. We found that the mean SDIG in tumor tissues is significantly higher than that in the non-tumor or normal tissues (P  < 0.05) for most datasets. We also combined microarrays and next-generation sequencing data for validation. This cross-platform and cross-experimental validation greatly increased the reliability of our results.
The arcTOA Technique for Out‐of‐Plane Ultrasound‐Guided Injections
Authors: Rajasekaran Sathish , Finnoff Jonathan T.
Published: January 2016

Out‐of‐plane (OOP) ultrasound‐guided injections are often cited as being more difficult than in‐plane ultrasound‐guided injections, particularly for the novice ultrasonographer. In certain circumstances, the OOP approach is required as a result of the constraints of adjacent anatomic structures. To date, only the “walk‐down” approach has been detailed in the literature as a means of improving accuracy with the OOP approach. However, this approach uses a set needle entry angle (angle of incidence) and distance for the injection. This article uses the trigonometric function, arctan = opposite/adjacent (arcTOA), to allow readers to easily estimate the needle angle of incidence (arcTOA technique), allowing more flexibility when planning and performing OOP injections.
Effectiveness of Community Participation in Earthquake Preparedness: A Community-Based Participatory Intervention Study of Tehran
Authors: Jamshidi Ensiyeh , Majdzadeh Reza , Saberi Namin Maryam , Ardalan Ali , Majdzadeh Behdad , Seydali Elham
Published: January 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a community-based participatory intervention on earthquake preparedness in Tehran.

Methods

This community-engaged research was conducted during 2011 to 2013. An intervention and a control neighborhood were chosen through systematic cluster sampling. In the intervention group 305 households and in the control group 314 households were sampled for pre- and post-assessment surveys. A participatory intervention was designed on the basis of consultation with the community advisory board and was implemented by trained volunteers. Changes in outcome variables in the intervention and control groups were detected in terms of knowledge, attitude, and practice. Pearson chi-square tests and covariance regression were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention.

Results

The results showed that the frequency of earthquake experience in the intervention and control groups was 69.2% and 79.0%, respectively. Moreover, the mean difference scores in knowledge, attitude, and practice in the intervention and control groups before and after the intervention were significant (P<0.001).

Conclusions

A participatory intervention effectively improved disaster preparedness at a community level. To ensure sustainability, the participatory approach should be integrated into public health disaster planning. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2016;10:211–218)
Predictors of Persistent Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae Carriage upon Readmission and Score Development
Authors: Ciobotaro Pnina , Flaks-Manov Natalie , Oved Maly , Schattner Ami , Hoshen Moshe , Ben-Yosef Eli , Balicer Ran D. , Zimhony Oren
Published: January 2016

BACKGROUND

Carriers of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) are often readmitted, exposing patients to CRE cross-transmission.

OBJECTIVE

To identify predictors of persistent CRE carriage upon readmission, directing a risk prediction score.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

University-affiliated general hospital.

PATIENTS

A cohort of 168 CRE carriers with 474 readmissions.

METHODS

The primary and secondary outcomes were CRE carriage status at readmission and length of CRE carriage. Predictors of persistent CRE carriage upon readmission were analyzed using a generalized estimating equations (GEE) multivariable model. Readmissions were randomly divided into derivation and validation sets. A CRE readmission score was derived to predict persistent CRE carriage in 3 risk groups: high, intermediate, and low. The discriminatory ability of the model and the score were expressed as C statistics.

RESULTS

CRE carrier status persisted for 1 year in 33% of CRE carriers. Positive CRE status was detected in 202 of 474 readmissions (42.6%). The following 4 variables were associated with persistent CRE carriage at readmission: readmission within 1 month (odds ratio [OR], 6.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.79–17.30), positive CRE status on preceding admission (OR, 5.46; 95% CI, 3.06–9.75), low Norton score (OR, 3.07; 95% CI, 1.26–7.47), and diabetes mellitus (OR, 1.84; 95% CI, 0.98–3.44). The C statistics were 0.791 and 0.789 for the derivation set (n=322) model and score, respectively, and the C statistic was 0.861 for the validation set of the score (n=152). The rates of CRE carriage at readmissions (validation set) for the groups with low, intermediate, and high scores were 8.6%, 38.9%, and 77.6%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

CRE carrier state commonly persists upon readmission, and this risk can be estimated to guide screening policy and infection control measures.

Infect. Control Hosp. Epidemiol. 2016;37(2):188–196
Atypical late-time singular regimes accurately diagnosed in stagnation-point-type solutions of 3D Euler flows
Authors: Mulungye Rachel M. , Lucas Dan , Bustamante Miguel D.
Published: January 2016

We revisit, both numerically and analytically, the finite-time blowup of the infinite-energy solution of 3D Euler equations of stagnation-point type introduced by Gibbon et al. (Physica D, vol. 132, 1999, pp. 497–510). By employing the method of mapping to regular systems, presented by Bustamante (Physica D, vol. 240 (13), 2011, pp. 1092–1099) and extended to the symmetry-plane case by Mulungye et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 771, 2015, pp. 468–502), we establish a curious property of this solution that was not observed in early studies: before but near singularity time, the blowup goes from a fast transient to a slower regime that is well resolved spectrally, even at mid-resolutions of $512^{2}.$ This late-time regime has an atypical spectrum: it is Gaussian rather than exponential in the wavenumbers. The analyticity-strip width decays to zero in a finite time, albeit so slowly that it remains well above the collocation-point scale for all simulation times $t<T^{\ast }-10^{-9000}$, where $T^{\ast }$ is the singularity time. Reaching such a proximity to singularity time is not possible in the original temporal variable, because floating-point double precision (${\approx}10^{-16}$) creates a ‘machine-epsilon’ barrier. Due to this limitation on the original independent variable, the mapped variables now provide an improved assessment of the relevant blowup quantities, crucially with acceptable accuracy at an unprecedented closeness to the singularity time: $T^{\ast }-t\approx 10^{-140}$.
AN ISSUE OF THE FIRST IMPORTANCE: REFLECTIONS ON THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF DIGNITATIS HUMANAE
Authors: Hittinger Russell
Published: January 2016

It is said that John Henry Newman was the “father of the Second Vatican Council” because of his work on doctrinal development and the claims of human conscience. Of the sixteen documents produced by the council, Dignitatis Humanae (“Declaration on Religious Liberty”) was recognized from the outset as a development of doctrine. Importantly, it was the second shortest of all the council's documents. Yet, for the past fifty years there has been lively debate about whether the development is consistent with previous church teachings and whether it is coherent on its own terms. This essay does not attempt to resolve all of the disputed issues regarding either consistency or coherence of the doctrine. Rather, I show, first, how and why Dignitatis Humanae was written in such a manner as to be surprisingly silent about its own place in the history of human rights as well as church teachings about church-state relations. Second, I attempt to interpret the silences in order to better situate ongoing debate about Dignitatis Humanae.
FINDING INVOLUTIONS WITH SMALL SUPPORT
Authors: NIEMEYER ALICE C. , POPIEL TOMASZ
Published: January 2016

We show that the proportion of permutations $g$ in $S_{\!n}$ or $A_{n}$ such that $g$ has even order and $g^{|g|/2}$ is an involution with support of cardinality at most $\lceil n^{{\it\varepsilon}}\rceil$ is at least a constant multiple of ${\it\varepsilon}$. Using this result, we obtain the same conclusion for elements in a classical group of natural dimension $n$ in odd characteristic that have even order and power up to an involution with $(-1)$-eigenspace of dimension at most $\lceil n^{{\it\varepsilon}}\rceil$ for a linear or unitary group, or $2\lceil \lfloor n/2\rfloor ^{{\it\varepsilon}}\rceil$ for a symplectic or orthogonal group.
Simulation-based otolaryngology – head and neck surgery boot camp: ‘how I do it’
Authors: Chin C J , Chin C A , Roth K , Rotenberg B W , Fung K
Published: January 2016

Background:

In otolaryngology, surgical emergencies can occur at any time. An annual surgical training camp (or ‘boot camp’) offers junior residents from across North America the opportunity to learn and practice these skills in a safe environment. The goals of this study were to describe the set-up and execution of a simulation-based otolaryngology boot camp and to determine participants' confidence in performing routine and emergency on-call procedures in stressful situations before and after the boot camp.

Methods:

There were three main components of the boot camp: task trainers, simulations and an interactive panel discussion. Surveys were given to participants before and after the boot camp, and their confidence in performing the different tasks was assessed via multiple t-tests.

Results:

Participants comprised 22 residents from 12 different universities; 10 of these completed both boot camp surveys. Of the nine tasks, the residents reported a significant improvement in confidence levels for six, including surgical airway and orbital haematoma management.

Conclusion:

An otolaryngology boot camp gives residents the chance to learn and practice emergency skills before encountering the emergencies in everyday practice. Their confidence in multiple skillsets was significantly improved after the boot camp. Given the shift towards competency-based learning in medical training, this study has implications for all surgical and procedural specialties.
Collection of spawning-condition eels of Ariosoma meeki in the Kuroshio Current in the East China Sea
Authors: Watanabe Shun , Hagihara Seishi , Miller Michael J. , Machida Masamichi , Komatsu Kosei , Nishida Shuhei , Tsukamoto Katsumi
Published: January 2016

When and where marine eels spawn is poorly known even though species such as those of the family Congridae, Muraenidae and Ophichthidae can be caught in continental shelf habitats. The congrid genus Ariosoma includes small continental shelf eel species whose life histories are not yet known. Mature male and female eels of Ariosoma meeki were observed and captured on 17 August 2009 at the surface at night in the western side of the Kuroshio Current in the East China Sea close to new moon, while they were swimming slowly at the surface and exhibiting apparent reproduction-related behaviour. One male and one sex-unidentified eel (seemingly a male based on body shape) were observed to be chasing one larger female with their heads located near her urogenital pore area. The gonads of the female (540 mm) and the male (410 mm) that were caught by a long-handled dip net were in reproductive condition, because some eggs or seminal fluid were released during handling of the two specimens and high gonad-somatic index (GSI) values of 53 in the female and 20 in the male were recorded. This is one of the few cases in which fully ripe reproductive-condition marine eels have been observed or collected and it provides rare information about the spawning location and timing of this eel species.
Dispersion relation of low-frequency electrostatic waves in plasmas with relativistic electrons
Authors: Touil B. , Bendib A. , Bendib-Kalache K. , Deutsch C.
Published: January 2016

The dispersion relation of electrostatic waves with phase velocities smaller than the electron thermal velocity is investigated in relativistic temperature plasmas. The model equations are the electron relativistic collisionless hydrodynamic equations and the ion non-relativistic Vlasov equation, coupled to the Poisson equation. The complex frequency of electrostatic modes are calculated numerically as a function of the relevant parameters kλDe and ZTe/Ti where k is the wavenumber, λDe, the electron Debye length, Te and Ti the electron and ion temperature, and Z, the ion charge number. Useful analytic expressions of the real and imaginary parts of frequency are also proposed. The non-relativistic results established in the literature from the kinetic theory are recovered and the role of the relativistic effects on the dispersion and the damping rate of electrostatic modes is discussed. In particular, it is shown that in highly relativistic regime the electrostatic waves are strongly damped.
‘Wanna race?’: Primary student preference for competitive or non-competitive singing games
Authors: Roberts J. Christopher
Published: January 2016

This study compared primary student preference for competitive and non-competitive singing games. Students in three intact classes of second graders (n = 65) and three classes of fourth graders (n = 67) at one school in the USA served as subjects. After playing a pair of games, one competitive and one non-competitive, over the course of five classes, students anonymously named their preferred game and reported reasons for their preference. Results indicated that the students significantly preferred the competitive game, regardless of grade level or gender. The most common reason students provided for their preference was the higher level of kinaesthetic activity.
How do language-specific characteristics affect the acquisition of different relative clause types? Evidence from Finnish
Authors: KIRJAVAINEN MINNA , KIDD EVAN , LIEVEN ELENA
Published: January 2016

We report three studies (one corpus, two experimental) that investigated the acquisition of relative clauses (RCs) in Finnish-speaking children. Study 1 found that Finnish children's naturalistic exposure to RCs predominantly consists of non-subject relatives (i.e. oblique, object) which typically have inanimate head nouns. Study 2 tested children's comprehension of subject, object, and two types of oblique relatives. No difference was found in the children's performance on different structures, including a lack of previously widely reported asymmetry between subject and object relatives. However, children's comprehension was modulated by animacy of the head referent. Study 3 tested children's production of the same RC structures using sentence repetition. Again we found no subject–object asymmetry. The pattern of results suggested that distributional frequency patterns and the relative complexity of the relativizer contribute to the difficulty associated with particular RC structures.
Indonesia’s Bold Strategy on Bilateral Investment Treaties: Seeking an Equitable Climate for Investment?
Authors: PRICE David
Published: January 2016

This paper examines the recent decision by the Indonesian government to terminate its Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) with the Netherlands when it expires on 30 June 2015. It discusses the likely driving forces behind Indonesia’s decision, and its alternative future strategy. In particular, it focuses upon controversial provisions on investor-state dispute settlement (ISDS) universally included in BITs. While Indonesia’s termination may appear of minor consequence at first glance, it has significant implications in terms of Indonesia’s obligations under international law as well its capacity to exercise its rights as a sovereign state to act domestically in the public interest. The termination of Indonesia’s first investment treaty containing the ISDS mechanism is also highly symbolic because it represents the first step in a reported strategy to review all its sixty-seven BITs. Indonesia thus joins a growing number of countries concerned about perceived excessive corporate rights enshrined in investment agreements as being incompatible with national development objectives.
Does Moral Identity Effectively Predict Moral Behavior?: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hertz Steven G. , Krettenauer Tobias
Published: January 2016

This meta-analysis examined the relationship between moral identity and moral behavior. It was based on 111 studies from a broad range of academic fields including business, developmental psychology and education, marketing, sociology, and sport sciences. Moral identity was found to be significantly associated with moral behavior (random effects model, r = .22, p < .01, 95% CI [.19, .25]). Effect sizes did not differ for behavioral outcomes (prosocial behavior, avoidance of antisocial behavior, ethical behavior). Studies that were entirely based on self-reports yielded larger effect sizes. In contrast, the smallest effect was found for studies that were based on implicit measures or used priming techniques to elicit moral identity. Moreover, a marginally significant effect of culture indicated that studies conducted in collectivistic cultures yielded lower effect sizes than studies from individualistic cultures. Overall, the meta-analysis provides support for the notion that moral identity strengthens individuals’ readiness to engage in prosocial and ethical behavior as well as to abstain from antisocial behavior. However, moral identity fares no better as a predictor of moral action than other psychological constructs.
Exploring Diverse Mental Illness Attributions in a Multinational Sample: A Mixed-Methods Survey of Scholars in International Psychology
Authors: Knettel Brandon A.
Published: January 2016

Attributions, or beliefs about the causes of mental illness, have been associated with thoughts, emotions, and actions related to mental health problems and treatment. Research has shown that people hold a wide variety of beliefs about the causes of mental illness, including components that are social, genetic, spiritual, fatalistic, or simply a result of chance. The current study surveyed 158 English-speaking scholars in psychology from 65 different countries, who reported beliefs they had observed among members of the public related to attributions of mental illness. Following the research design of Landrine and Klonoff (1994) , questionnaires included free-form qualitative questions and a list of quantitative ratings of the importance of various attributions in a specific country. The scholars’ responses supported models developed with more geographically homogeneous samples, with supernatural causes, social stress, and lifestyle among the most common attributions of illness in a variety of nations. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) of the 7 derived factors revealed significant differences in attributions among regions of the world, and particularly with respect to attributions to supernatural causes, social/stress, physical health, and substance use. Although further validation of the model is recommended, an international attribution framework may lead to valuable research examining help seeking for mental health concerns, mental illness stigma, and other variables in diverse geographical and cultural contexts.
A simple and versatile design concept for fluorophore derivatives with intramolecular photostabilization
Authors: van der Velde Jasper H. M. , Oelerich Jens , Huang Jingyi , Smit Jochem H. , Aminian Jazi Atieh , Galiani Silvia , Kolmakov Kirill , Gouridis Giorgos , Eggeling Christian , Herrmann Andreas , Roelfes Gerard , Cordes Thorben
Published: January 2016

Intramolecular photostabilization via triple-state quenching was recently revived as a tool to impart synthetic organic fluorophores with ‘self-healing’ properties. To date, utilization of such fluorophore derivatives is rare due to their elaborate multi-step synthesis. Here we present a general strategy to covalently link a synthetic organic fluorophore simultaneously to a photostabilizer and biomolecular target via unnatural amino acids. The modular approach uses commercially available starting materials and simple chemical transformations. The resulting photostabilizer–dye conjugates are based on rhodamines, carbopyronines and cyanines with excellent photophysical properties, that is, high photostability and minimal signal fluctuations. Their versatile use is demonstrated by single-step labelling of DNA, antibodies and proteins, as well as applications in single-molecule and super-resolution fluorescence microscopy. We are convinced that the presented scaffolding strategy and the improved characteristics of the conjugates in applications will trigger the broader use of intramolecular photostabilization and help to emerge this approach as a new gold standard.
BRAFV600E inhibition stimulates AMP-activated protein kinase-mediated autophagy in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Sueda Toshinori , Sakai Daisuke , Kawamoto Koichi , Konno Masamitsu , Nishida Naohiro , Koseki Jun , Colvin Hugh , Takahashi Hidekazu , Haraguchi Naotsugu , Nishimura Junichi , Hata Taishi , Takemasa Ichiro , Mizushima Tsunekazu , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Satoh Taroh , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki , Ishii Hideshi
Published: January 2016

Although BRAFV600E mutation is associated with adverse clinical outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC), response and resistance mechanisms for therapeutic BRAFV600E inhibitors remains poorly understood. In the present study, we demonstrate that selective BRAFV600E inhibition activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which induces autophagy as a mechanism of therapeutic resistance in human cancers. The present data show AMPK-dependent cytoprotective roles of autophagy under conditions of therapeutic BRAFV600E inhibition and AMPK was negatively correlated with BRAFV600E-dependent activation of MEK-ERK-RSK signaling and positively correlated with unc-51-like kinase 1 (ULK1), a key initiator of autophagy. Furthermore, selective BRAFV600E inhibition and concomitant suppression of autophagy led to the induction of apoptosis. Taken together, present experiments indicate that AMPK plays a role in the survival of BRAFV600E CRC cells by selective inhibition and suggest that the control of autophagy contributes to overcome the chemoresistance of BRAFV600E CRC cells.