bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Kidney Disease Measures With Ischemic Versus Hemorrhagic Strokes
Authors: Mahmoodi Bakhtawar K. , Yatsuya Hiroshi , Matsushita Kunihiro , Sang Yinying , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Astor Brad C. , Woodward Mark , Longstreth W.T. , Psaty Bruce M. , Shlipak Michael G. , Folsom Aaron R. , Gansevoort Ron T. , Coresh Josef
Published: May 2014

Background and purpose—

Although low glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and albuminuria are associated with increased risk of stroke, few studies compared their contribution to risk of ischemic versus hemorrhagic stroke separately. We contrasted the association of these kidney measures with ischemic versus hemorrhagic stroke.

Methods—

We pooled individual participant data from 4 community-based cohorts: 3 from the United States and 1 from The Netherlands. GFR was estimated using both creatinine and cystatin C, and albuminuria was quantified by urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR). Associations of estimated GFR and ACR were compared for each stroke type (ischemic versus intraparenchymal hemorrhagic) using study-stratified Cox regression.

Results—

Among 29 595 participants (mean age, 61 [SD 12.5] years; 46% men; 17% black), 1261 developed stroke (12% hemorrhagic) during 280 549 person-years. Low estimated GFR was significantly associated with increased risk of ischemic stroke, but not hemorrhagic stroke, whereas high ACR was associated with both stroke types. Adjusted hazard ratios for ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke at estimated GFR of 45 (versus 95) mL/min per 1.73 m
2
were 1.30 (95% confidence interval, 1.01–1.68) and 0.92 (0.47–1.81), respectively. In contrast, the corresponding hazard ratios for ACR of 300 (versus 5) mg/g were 1.62 (1.27–2.07) for ischemic and 2.57 (1.37–4.83) for hemorrhagic stroke, with significantly stronger association with hemorrhagic stroke (
P
=0.04). For hemorrhagic stroke, the association of elevated ACR was of similar magnitude as that of elevated systolic blood pressure.

Conclusions—

Whereas albuminuria showed significant association with both stroke types, the association of decreased estimated GFR was only significant for ischemic stroke. The strong association of albuminuria with both stroke types warrants clinical attention and further investigations.
Inhibition of Serotonin Reuptake by Antidepressants and Cerebral Microbleeds in the General Population
Authors: Aarts Nikkie , Akoudad Saloua , Noordam Raymond , Hofman Albert , Ikram M. Arfan , Stricker Bruno H. , Visser Loes E. , Vernooij Meike W.
Published: May 2014

Background and Purpose—

Serotonin reuptake inhibiting antidepressants decrease platelet aggregation. This may cause an increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage. However, the risk of subclinical microbleeds, which are highly prevalent in middle-aged and elderly people, is unknown. We studied whether serotonin reuptake inhibiting antidepressants increase the frequency of cerebral microbleeds and secondarily whether they lower the presence of ischemic vascular damage.

Methods—

Within the population-based Rotterdam Study, information on antidepressant use was obtained from continuously monitored pharmacy records. Brain MRI was available in 4945 participants (55% women, mean age 64 years) between 2005 and 2011. We categorized antidepressants based on affinity for the serotonin transporter: high, intermediate, or low. Microbleeds (presence and location) and ischemic lesions (lacunes, white matter lesions) were rated on MRI. Logistic and linear regression, adjusted for age, sex, depressive symptoms, and cardiovascular risk were used to study the association of antidepressants with microbleeds and ischemic vascular lesions.

Results—

Antidepressant use with strong serotonin reuptake inhibition was not associated with microbleed presence (odds ratio compared with nonuse, 1.03; confidence interval, 0.75–1.39) irrespective of microbleed location in the brain. Exclusion of antithrombotic users or persons with cortical infarcts did not change our results. Furthermore, serotonin reuptake inhibition was not related to ischemic vascular brain damage.

Conclusions—

In the general population, use of serotonin reuptake inhibiting antidepressants is not related to presence of cerebral microbleeds. This strengthens the idea that the platelet inhibitor effects of antidepressant drugs with affinity for serotonin are minimal and further supports the safety of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for nongastrointestinal bleedings.
Hospital-Directed Feedback to Emergency Medical Services Improves Prehospital Performance
Authors: Choi Bryan , Tsai Devin , McGillivray Celia Gomes , Amedee Caryn , Sarafin Jo-Ann , Silver Brian
Published: May 2014

Background and Purpose—

A potential way to improve prehospital stroke care and patient handoff is hospital-directed feedback for emergency medical service (EMS) providers. We evaluated whether a hospital-directed EMS stroke follow-up tool improved documentation of adherence to the Rhode Island state prehospital stroke protocol for EMS providers.

Methods—

A standardized, 10-item feedback tool was developed in 2012 and sent to EMS directors for every transported patient with a discharge diagnosis of ischemic stroke. We reviewed patient charts meeting these criteria between January 2008 and December 2013. Performance on the tool was compared between the preintervention (January 2008 through January 2012) and postintervention (February 2012 through December 2013) periods.

Results—

We identified 1176 patients with ischemic stroke who arrived by EMS in the study period: 668 in the preintervention period and 508 in the postintervention period. The overall score for the preintervention group was 5.31 and for the postintervention group 6.42 (
P
<0.001). Each of the 10 items, except checking blood glucose, showed statistically significant improvement in the postintervention period compared with the preintervention period.

Conclusions—

Hospital-directed feedback to EMS was associated with improved overall compliance with state protocols and documentation of 9 out of 10 individual items. Future confirmatory studies in different locales and studies on the impact of this intervention on actual tissue-type plasminogen activator administration rates and EMS personnel knowledge and behavior are needed.
Information-Theoretic Semi-Supervised Metric Learning via Entropy Regularization
Authors: Niu Gang , Dai Bo , Yamada Makoto , Sugiyama Masashi
Published: May 2014

We propose a general information-theoretic approach to semi-supervised metric learning called SERAPH (SEmi-supervised metRic leArning Paradigm with Hypersparsity) that does not rely on the manifold assumption. Given the probability parameterized by a Mahalanobis distance, we maximize its entropy on labeled data and minimize its entropy on unlabeled data following entropy regularization. For metric learning, entropy regularization improves manifold regularization by considering the dissimilarity information of unlabeled data in the unsupervised part, and hence it allows the supervised and unsupervised parts to be integrated in a natural and meaningful way. Moreover, we regularize SERAPH by trace-norm regularization to encourage low-dimensional projections associated with the distance metric. The nonconvex optimization problem of SERAPH could be solved efficiently and stably by either a gradient projection algorithm or an EM-like iterative algorithm whose M-step is convex. Experiments demonstrate that SERAPH compares favorably with many well-known metric learning methods, and the learned Mahalanobis distance possesses high discriminability even under noisy environments.
ROC-Based Estimates of Neural-Behavioral Covariations Using Matched Filters
Authors: Farah Kamal , Smith Jackson E. T. , Cook Erik P.
Published: May 2014

Correlations between responses in visual cortex and perceptual performance help draw a functional link between neural activity and visually guided behavior. These correlations are commonly derived with ROC-based neural-behavioral covariances (referred to as choice or detect probability) using boxcar analysis windows. Although boxcar windows capture the covariation between neural activity and behavior during steady-state stimulus presentations, they are not optimized to capture these correlations during short time-varying visual inputs. In this study, we implemented a matched-filter technique, combined with cross-validation, to improve the estimation of ROC-based neural-behavioral covariance under short and dynamic stimulus conditions. We show that this approach maximizes the area under the ROC curve and converges to the true neural-behavioral covariance using a Poisson spiking model. We also demonstrate that the matched filter, combined with cross-validation, reveals the dynamics of the neural-behavioral covariations of individual MT neurons during the detection of a brief motion stimulus.
Incremental Learning by Message Passing in Hierarchical Temporal Memory
Authors: Rehn Erik M. , Maltoni Davide
Published: May 2014

Hierarchical temporal memory (HTM) is a biologically inspired framework that can be used to learn invariant representations of patterns in a wide range of applications. Classical HTM learning is mainly unsupervised, and once training is completed, the network structure is frozen, thus making further training (i.e., incremental learning) quite critical. In this letter, we develop a novel technique for HTM (incremental) supervised learning based on gradient descent error minimization. We prove that error backpropagation can be naturally and elegantly implemented through native HTM message passing based on belief propagation. Our experimental results demonstrate that a two-stage training approach composed of unsupervised pretraining and supervised refinement is very effective (both accurate and efficient). This is in line with recent findings on other deep architectures.
A Bayesian Model of Polychronicity
Authors: Guise Mira , Knott Alistair , Benuskova Lubica
Published: May 2014

A significant feature of spiking neural networks with varying connection delays, such as those in the brain, is the existence of strongly connected groups of neurons known as polychronous neural groups (PNGs). Polychronous groups are found in large numbers in these networks and are proposed by Izhikevich ( 2006a ) to provide a neural basis for representation and memory. When exposed to a familiar stimulus, spiking neural networks produce consistencies in the spiking output data that are the hallmarks of PNG activation. Previous methods for studying the PNG activation response to stimuli have been limited by the template-based methods used to identify PNG activation. In this letter, we outline a new method that overcomes these difficulties by establishing for the first time a probabilistic interpretation of PNG activation. We then demonstrate the use of this method by investigating the claim that PNGs might provide the foundation of a representational system.
Under Pressure: Avatar Appearance and Cognitive Load Effects on Attitudes, Trustworthiness, Bidding, and Interpersonal Distance in a Virtual Store
Authors: Peña Jorge , Yoo Seung-Chul
Published: May 2014

This study investigated how avatar appearance and cognitive load affect virtual interactions. Avatar salespeople dressed in black were perceived as unpersuasive and untrustworthy, and were offered less money compared to avatars in white clothes. Moreover, participants stood closer to avatars in white clothes compared to avatars dressed in black. Contrary to the traditional prediction (i.e., cognitively busy participants would trust avatars in white clothes the most but avatars in dark clothes the least), cognitively nonbusy participants expressed less trust towards avatar salespeople dressed in black instead of white clothes, while cognitively busy participants trusted both characters equally. The findings expanded current research on virtual social influence by considering the effects of the clothing color of virtual characters, along with how cognitive load and avatar appearance can modify perceived avatar trustworthiness when combined.
The Potential of Subliminal Information Displays to Change Driver Behavior
Authors: Riener Andreas , Chalfoun Pierre , Frasson Claude
Published: May 2014

In the long history of subliminal messages and perception, many contradictory results have been presented. One group of researchers suggests that subliminal interaction techniques improve human–computer interaction by reducing sensory workload, whereas others have found that subliminal perception does not work. In this paper, we want to challenge this prejudice by first defining a terminology and introducing a theoretical taxonomy of mental processing states, then reviewing and discussing the potential of subliminal approaches for different sensory channels, and finally recapitulating the findings from our studies on subliminally triggered behavior change. Our objective is to mitigate driving problems caused by excessive information. Therefore, this work focuses on subliminal techniques applied to driver–vehicle interaction to induce a nonconscious change in driver behavior. Based on a survey of related work which identified the potential of subliminal cues in driving, we conducted two user studies assessing their applicability in real-world situations. The first study evaluated whether subtle (subliminal) vibrations could promote economical driving, and the second exposed drivers to very briefly flashed visual stimuli to assess their potential to improve steering behavior. Our results suggest that subliminal approaches are indeed feasible to provide drivers with added driving support without dissipating attention resources. Despite the lack of general evidence for uniform effectiveness of such interfaces in all driving circumstances, we firmly believe that such interfaces are valuable since they may eventually prevent accidents, save lives, and even reduce fuel costs and CO2 emissions for some drivers. For all these reasons, we are confident that subliminally driven interfaces will find their way into cars of the (near) future.
On the colour types in Lycodes nakamurae (Tanaka, 1914) and species composition of the subgenus Furcimanus (Perciformes: Zoarcidae: Lycodes) in the Sea of Japan
Authors: SAVELIEV PAVEL A. , BALANOV ANDREY A. , KUKHLEVSKII ANDREY D.
Published: May 2014

Two colour types were revealed in a zoarcid fish of the subgenus Furcimanus, genus Lycodes, in the Sea of Japan. A comparison of morphometric, meristic and genetic characters in dark coloured and light coloured individuals suggests that the two colour morphs represent a single species, determined to be Lycodes nakamurae (Tanaka, 1914). Variability in colouration within L. nakamurae and a lack of morphological or molecular characters distinguishing L. nakamurae from L. nishimurai Shinohara & Shirai, 2005 suggest that the latter should be considered a synonym of L. nakamurae (Tanaka, 1914). A record of L. pectoralis in the waters of the Republic of Korea is regarded as a misidentification. Thus, we conclude that only one species of the Lycodes subgenus Furcimanus, L. nakamurae, with dark and light colour morphs as well as specimens of intermediate colouration, inhabits the Sea of Japan.
Eruption Stage of Permanent Molars and Occlusal Caries Activity/Arrest
Authors: Alves L.S. , Zenkner J.E.A. , Wagner M.B. , Damé-Teixeira N. , Susin C. , Maltz M.
Published: May 2014

This study assessed the association between the eruption stage of permanent second molars and occlusal caries activity among 12-year-old schoolchildren from South Brazil. A cross-sectional study was performed in Porto Alegre using a multistage probability sampling strategy to select a representative sample. Clinical examination was conducted to assess the eruption stage of permanent molars, Gingival Bleeding Index, and, after tooth cleaning and drying, caries experience (noncavitated and cavitated lesions, including caries activity assessment). Data were collected on sex, socioeconomic status, mother’s education, brushing frequency, and consumption of soft drinks. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Overall, 983 schoolchildren with 3,071 second molars were available for analysis. Whereas active caries was observed in 6.6% of fully erupted permanent second molars, caries affected 26.2%, 29.6%, and 18.2% of erupting molars classified as stages 1, 2, and 3, respectively: stage 1, partially erupted occlusal surface; stage 2, fully erupted occlusal surface, <1/2 crown exposed; and stage 3, fully erupted occlusal surface, >1/2 crown exposed. After adjusting for socioeconomic and behavioral variables, partially erupted molars were significantly more likely to present active caries lesions than molars in full occlusion: stage 1, OR = 4.99 (95% CI = 3.38, 7.38); stage 2, OR = 5.18 (95% CI = 3.14, 8.53); stage 3, OR = 3.20 (95% CI = 2.21, 4.64). Similar results were found when clinical variables were included in the adjusted model. In conclusion, most occlusal caries lesions tend to arrest/revert when teeth reach the occlusal plan; however, an important proportion of these lesions remains active and in need of proper management. Children at risk should be targeted with preventive and minimally invasive strategies.
Porphyromonas gingivalis–mediated Epithelial Cell Entry of HIV-1
Authors: Mantri C.K. , Chen C. , Dong X. , Goodwin J.S. , Xie H.
Published: May 2014

HIV-1 relies on the host’s cell machinery to establish a successful infection. Surface receptors, such as CD4, CCR5, and CXCR4 of T cells and macrophages, are essential for membrane fusion of HIV-1, an initiate step in viral entry. However, it is not well defined how HIV-1 infects CD4-negative mucosal epithelial cells. Here we show that there is a specific interaction between HIV-1 and an invasive oral bacterium, Porphyromonas gingivalis. We found that HIV-1 was trapped on the bacterial surface, which led to internalization of HIV-1 virions as the bacteria invaded CD4-negative epithelial cells. Both bacterial and viral DNA was detected in HeLa and TERT-2 cells exposed to the HIV-1– P. gingivalis complexes 2 hr after the initial infection but not in cells exposed to HIV-1 alone. Moreover, epithelial cell entry of HIV-1 was positively correlated with invasive activity of the P. gingivalis strains tested, even when the binding affinities of HIV-1 to these strains were similar. Finally, it was demonstrated that the viral DNA was integrated into the genome of the host epithelial cells. These results reveal a receptor-independent HIV-1 entry into epithelial cells, which may be relevant in HIV transmission in other mucosal epithelia where complex microbial communities can be found.
Australian industrial relations in 2013
Authors: Todd Patricia
Published: May 2014

The focus of public discussion about Australian industrial relations has continued to centre around regulation and the freedom and constraints on parties’ ability to act. Although legislation shapes industrial relations outcomes, it is evident that real change in industrial relations emanates from the workplace, and to encourage more positive developments there needs to be a reframing of public discussions. The articles in this review edition reflect on developments during the past calendar year, and their analysis provides an opportunity for discussion to expand beyond its current narrow base. This introductory article provides brief summaries of Australian industrial relations presently and in the foreseeable future as well as the individual review articles included in this edition.
16S ribosomal DNA sequence-based identification of bacteria in laboratory rodents: a practical approach in laboratory animal bacteriology diagnostics
Authors: Benga Laurentiu , Benten W Peter M , Engelhardt Eva , Köhrer Karl , Gougoula Christina , Sager Martin
Published: May 2014

Correct identification of bacteria is crucial for the management of rodent colonies. Some bacteria are difficult to identify phenotypically outside reference laboratories. In this study, we evaluated the utility of 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequencing as a means of identifying a collection of 30 isolates of rodent origin which are conventionally difficult to identify. Sequence analysis of the first approximate 720 to 880 bp of the 5′- end of 16S rDNA identified 25 isolates (83.33%) with ≥99% similarity to a sequence of a type strain, whereas three isolates (10%) displayed a sequence similarity ≥97% but <99% to the type strain sequences. These similarity scores were used to define identification to species and genus levels, respectively. Two of the 30 isolates (6.67%) displayed a sequence similarity of ≥95 but <97% to the reference strains and were thus allocated to a family. This technique allowed us to document the association of mice with bacteria relevant for the colonies management such as Pasteurellaceae, Bordetella hinzii or Streptococcus danieliae. In addition, human potential pathogens such as Acinetobacter spp., Ochrobactrum anthropi and Paracoccus yeei or others not yet reported in mouse bacterial species such as Leucobacter chironomi, Neisseria perflava and Pantoea dispersa were observed. In conclusion, the sequence analysis of 16S rDNA proved to be a useful diagnostic tool, with higher performance characteristics than the classical phenotypic methods, for identification of laboratory animal bacteria. For the first time this method allowed us to document the association of certain bacterial species with the laboratory mouse.
“Good” and “Bad” Kids? A Race and Gender Analysis of Effective Behavioral Support in an Elementary School
Authors: Silva Janelle M. , Langhout Regina Day , Kohfeldt Danielle , Gurrola Edith
Published: May 2014

Using 8,265 positive behavior cards and 544 conduct reports for 244 students, regressions of how race and gender influence the allocation of punishments or rewards for students at a New England elementary school with an Effective Behavioral Support (EBS) program were examined. Girls were most likely to receive a positive behavior card for respectful actions and white students were most likely to receive a positive card for safe behavior. Boys and Black students were more likely to receive a conduct report for “bad” behavior than girls and white students. Implications regarding race and gender bias in behavior-based programs are discussed.
Informality on the urban periphery: Housing conditions and self-help strategies in Texas informal subdivisions
Authors: Sullivan Esther , Olmedo Carlos
Published: May 2014

Most scholarship on informal housing focuses on developing countries and little research investigates how low-income populations in the US participate in homeownership through self-built and self-provided housing. Meanwhile, informally developed areas are increasingly being uncovered in the US, especially in the urban periphery of growing metropolitan regions. This paper documents and analyses largely unknown housing conditions and needs for the growing number of people that live in such communities. Data for this paper were collected through a survey of 133 households in two unincorporated low-income, self-help settlements in Central Texas. In this survey we address (1) household composition, (2) specific housing conditions, and (3) reported structural and infrastructural problems. Through regression analyses we identify factors that mitigate or aggravate the severity of overall housing problems and identify the most significant concerns for residents. Our results offer future lines of action regarding property titles, financing and dwelling upgrading.
Community College Student Mental Health
Authors: Katz Daniel Seth , Davison Karen
Published: May 2014

This study explores community college student mental health by comparing the responses of California community college and traditional university students on the American College Health Association–National College Health Assessment II (ACHA-NCHA II). Using MANOVA, we compared community college and traditional university students, examining overall group differences on four multicomponent questions; pairwise comparisons also were used to examine individual survey items. This study found significant differences in reported mental health issues and needs between the students. More specifically, a pattern of difference in psychological concerns, available resources, and resource utilization emerged, with community college students having more severe psychological concerns and less institutional mental health resources than traditional university students. Findings suggest that both community colleges and traditional universities would benefit from increased mental health resources, though community colleges are particularly in need.
Wage moderation in the public sector: The experiences of 11 EMU countries in the recent economic crisis, 2008–2010
Authors: Park Sung Ho , Young Kevin L
Published: May 2014

The factors that influence wage moderation policies across European countries have been a focus of industrial relations literature for some time. Given the lack of direct market discipline on public sector wages, most existing accounts suggest that the determinants of public sector wages are due to institutional characteristics of the national wage-setting system in question. In this article the authors suggest an alternative ‘functionalist’ explanation of public sector wage determination, with an emphasis on the role of public fiscal constraints and macroeconomic stress. Drawing on new data from 11 EMU countries during the recent economic crisis of 2008–2010 and engaging in a cross-national analysis using Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), the authors demonstrate that the functionalist explanation performs better than the institutionalist one in a crisis period.
Does Local Autonomy Enhance Representation? The Influence of Home Rule on County Expenditures
Authors: Bunch Jaclyn
Published: May 2014

This article examines the interactive role between institution type and ideology at the local governmental level, demonstrating that additional degrees of autonomy allow for meaningful policy decisions locally. With increased discretion over policy expenditures, autonomy enhances the opportunity for ideological representation of constituents. The article explores the role of autonomy in county governments in Florida over a thirty-year period, questioning whether ideological dispositions of constituents are reflected in redistributive expenditures. Findings support the claim that local governments, with an augmented degree of autonomy provided via charter governance, may exhibit more flexibility in policy priorities than counties without more autonomous institutions.
Pathophysiology of hypnic headache
Authors: Holle Dagny , Naegel Steffen , Obermann Mark
Published: May 2014

Background

Hypnic headache (HH) is a rare primary headache disorder that is characterized by strictly sleep related headache attacks.

Purpose

The underlying pathophysiology of HH is mainly enigmatic but some clinical characteristics such as circadian rhythmicity and caffeine responsiveness may point toward possible underlying mechanisms.

Method

Current studies that deal with the pathophysiology of HH are summarized. Data on cerebral imaging, sleep, electrophysiology studies, effectiveness of drugs, and symptomatic headache types are discussed to illuminate underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms.

Conclusion

HH can be clearly differentiated by its clinical presentation as well as imaging and electrophysiological study results from other primary headaches such as migraine or cluster headache. The underlying pathophysiology is still enigmatic but a hypothalamic involvement seems to be likely.
Arthroscopic Hip Revision Surgery for Residual Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)
Authors: Larson Christopher M. , Giveans M. Russell , Samuelson Kathryn M. , Stone Rebecca M. , Bedi Asheesh
Published: May 2014

Background:

There are limited data reporting outcomes after revision arthroscopic surgery for residual femoroacetabular impingement (FAI).

Hypothesis:

(1) Revision arthroscopic FAI correction results in improved outcomes, but they are inferior to those of primary arthroscopic FAI correction. (2) Improved postrevision radiographic parameters are predictive of better outcomes.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients who underwent arthroscopic hip revision for residual FAI were reviewed. Pathomorphological findings, intraoperative findings, and preoperative and postoperative modified Harris Hip Score (MHHS), Short Form–12 (SF-12), and pain on a visual analog scale (VAS) values were evaluated. Outcomes after revision arthroscopic FAI correction were compared with outcomes of a matched cohort who underwent primary arthroscopic FAI correction.

Results:

A total of 79 patients (85 hips) with a mean age of 29.5 years underwent arthroscopic revision FAI correction (mean follow-up, 26 months). The labrum was debrided (27 hips), repaired (49 hips), or reconstructed (7 hips). Two labrums were stable and required no treatment. The results of revision arthroscopic FAI correction were compared with those of 220 age- and sex-matched patients (237 hips) who underwent primary arthroscopic FAI correction (mean follow-up, 23 months). The mean improvement in outcome scores after revision FAI correction was 17.8 (MHHS), 12.5 (SF-12), and 1.4 (VAS) points compared with 23.4 (MHHS), 19.7 (SF-12), and 4.6 (VAS) points after primary arthroscopic FAI correction. The mean improvement was significantly better in the primary cohort compared with the revision cohort ( P < .01 for MHHS, SF-12, and VAS values). Good/excellent results were achieved in 81.7% of the primary cohort and 62.7% of the revision cohort ( P < .01). Greater postoperative head-neck offset ( P = .024), subspine/anterior inferior iliac spine (AIIS) decompression ( P = .014), labral repair/reconstruction ( P = .009), and capsular plication ( P = .032) were significant predictors for better outcomes after revision surgery.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic hip revision surgery for residual FAI yielded significantly improved outcome measures, but these were inferior to those after primary arthroscopic FAI corrective surgery. Improved femoral head-neck offset after cam decompression, identification and treatment of subspine/AIIS impingement, labral preservation/reconstruction, and capsular preservation/plication may be paramount to achieve satisfactory outcomes.
A molecular zipping/unzipping nano-vehicles sensitive to tumor extracellular pH
Authors: Lee Jung Ok , Lee Min Ji , Kim Dongin , Lee Eun Seong
Published: May 2014

A new class of pH- responsive multivalent host–guest interactions to manipulate polypeptide-based nano-vehicles was developed. Poly(l-lysine) (poly(Lys)) grafted with β-cyclodextrin and 2,3-dimethylmaleic acid was coupled with oleic acid. This new polymer was utilized to fabricate pH-responsive nano-vehicles for antitumor drug doxorubicin delivery. The host–guest (zipping) interaction between β-cyclodextrin and 2,3-dimethylmaleic acid moieties and the hydrophobic interaction between the oleic acid molecules contributed to form self-assembled nano-vehicles. 2,3-Dimethylmaleic acid moieties were highly degradable at a slightly acidic pH (~pH 6.8). These nano-vehicles increased the release of the encapsulated doxorubicin content (by the unzipping interaction between β-cyclodextrin and degraded 2,3-dimethylmaleic acid moieties) when the pH of the solution decreased to 6.8. This event caused a significant increase in the efficiency of cellular doxorubicin uptake and in vitro tumor inhibition.
In vitro and in vivo biocompatibility of multi-walled carbon nanotube/biodegradable polymer nanocomposite for bone defects repair
Authors: Li Jin-Le , Yang Zheng , Loo Wings TY , Xiao Xun , Zhang Dongjao , Cheung Mary NB , Tsang William WN , Ng Elizabeth LY , Wang Min
Published: May 2014

Biomaterials are extensively used in bone defect recovery caused by bone diseases. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes have been reported to reinforce synthetic polymeric materials. The aim of the study is to test poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co-3-hydroxyvalerate) loaded with different amounts of multi-walled carbon nanotubes to fabricate nanocomposites. Mechanical, mineralization, and degradation properties were studied in vitro. The proliferation and differentiation of rat bone marrow stem cells were studied to determine biocompatibility in vivo. The incorporation of multi-walled carbon nanotubes greatly increased the mechanical properties of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co-3-hydroxyvalerate) and the strongest composite obtained was at 2% multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The 2% nanocomposite also had higher rat bone marrow stem cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation characteristics compared to the pure poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co-3-hydroxyvalerate). The apoptosis in the later stage of rat bone marrow stem cells decreased in the 2% nanocomposites group at different time points. Based on histology and micro-computed tomography tests 6 weeks after in vivo implantation, the 2% multi-walled carbon nanotubes/poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co-3-hydroxyvalerate) treated animals had a higher volume of bone formation compared to the pure poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co-3-hydroxyvalerate) group. Thus, the presence of multi-walled carbon nanotubes has an apparent positive effect on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate- co-3-hydroxyvalerate) in assisting osteogenesis.
Nonisothermal and isothermal oxidative degradation behavior of thermotropic liquid crystal polyesters containing kinked bisphenol AF and bisphenol A units
Authors: Wei Peng , Wang Li , Wang Xinhang , Chen Yuwei , Wang Yanping , Wang Yimin
Published: May 2014

The polyester P–bisphenol AF 2.5 (BPAF 2.5) and P-bisphenol A 2.5 (BPA 2.5) with low melting temperature and high glass transition temperature can be obtained by introducing 2.5 mol% BPAF/BPA and terephthalic acid (TA) units respectively into the molecular chain of poly(oxybenzoate- co-oxynaphthoate) (P-HBA70). In this study, the nonisothermal and isothermal oxidative degradation behavior of polyester P-BPA2.5 and P-BPAF2.5 were investigated comparatively with parent polyester P-HBA70 by thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy measurements. The introduction of BPAF/BPA units into the molecular chain of P-HBA70 strongly influenced the degradation behavior of polyesters. Four multiple heating rate methods including Kissinger, Kim–Park, Flynn–Wall–Ozawa, and Friedman methods were applied to evaluate the dynamic thermal stability successfully. The following order of the activation energy values: P-BPAF2.5 > P-HBA70 > P-BPA2.5 can be found for the three samples. However, from the results obtained by the standard isoconversional method, the P-BPA2.5 showed a better thermal stability as compared to P-BPAF2.5 under isothermal atmosphere.
Elastoplastic analysis of a thin-walled tube under cyclic bending and constant internal pressure: A simplified model
Authors: Yazdani Hosein , Nayebi Ali
Published: May 2014

In this study, the elastoplastic analysis of thin-walled tubes under cyclic bending and internal pressure is presented. A simple method is presented and verified. In order to predict ratcheting or shakedown behavior in the cyclic loading, von-Mises yield criterion as the yield surface and Chaboche’s nonlinear kinematic hardening model are used. The stress–strain variation is obtained with the help of return mapping algorithm. The present solution is in good agreement with experimental results. Shakedown or ratcheting behavior of the tube under various combinations of applied constant internal pressure and cyclic curvature is considered, Bree’s interaction diagram is obtained and the boundary between shakedown and ratcheting zone is determined.
Introducing a novel algorithm for minimum-time low-thrust orbital transfers with free initial condition
Authors: Shafieenejad I , Novinzadeh AB , Molazadeh VR
Published: May 2014

In this work, a new algorithm is presented with regard to the free initial condition for solving optimal control problems. The reason for presentation of such an algorithm is to develop a suitable method that simplifies difficulties of the optimal control problems that researchers face in common methods of optimal control theory. Also, initial condition as true anomaly is considered to be free in this optimal control problem. To do so, issues such as optimal control theory, orthogonal functions in the Hilbert space, and evolutionary optimizations such as genetic algorithm-particle swarm optimization and imperial competition algorithm are utilized. The algorithm was solved for low-thrust orbital transfer problems which included nonlinear dynamic equations. To validate the algorithm, simplified Edelbaum low-thrust equations are compared with the proposed analytical solutions. Next, the algorithm is investigated for the low-thrust orbital transfers with respect to the equinoctial orbital equations of the minimum-time problem. Results are achieved for two evolutionary optimization methods genetic algorithm-particle swarm optimization and imperial competition algorithm and three orthogonal functions such as Fourier, Chebyshev, and Legendre. Two optimization methods and three orthogonal functions are covered and compared precisely. With respect to the results, this algorithm has the capability to overcome difficulties of the optimal control problems and can be considered as a novelty in this field for the free initial condition problems.
Coarse sediments in Northern Apennine peat bogs and lakes: New data for the record of Holocene alluvial phases in peninsular Italy
Authors: Giraudi Carlo
Published: May 2014

This research was conducted in the Northern Apennines, in the upper valleys of the Cedra River and Parma River, occupied by glaciers during the last glacial maximum. The stratigraphy, the dating and the interpretation of the environmental significance of alluvial deposits interbedded between lacustrine sediments are reported. The data provide an overview of the periods of enhanced alluvial activity that occurred after the glacial retreat in the Apennine chain. The alluvial phases and the periods of environmental stability varied in frequency and length during the Holocene. In particular, starting from the beginning of the Apennine Neoglacial (about 4.2 kyr BP), the events became much more frequent but shorter. The elapsed time between alluvial phases (i.e. the length of the phases of stability) was greater during the Early Holocene, probably because of the values of insolation: when the insolation in July was lower, the length of the phases of stability was greater. Despite the uncertainty in the dating of some events, it is likely that many alluvial phases, later than about 8.5 kyr BP, started during ice rafted debris events in the North Atlantic. The overall analysis of the alluvial sedimentation indicates that periods of more frequent floods are associated with times of rapid climate change and not only with cool periods. The current increase in floods, linked to the ongoing climate change, confirms the data obtained from Holocene sediments.
Ecology of Tilia sibirica in a continental hemiboreal forest, southern Siberia: An analogue of a glacial refugium of broad-leaved temperate trees?
Authors: Novák Jan , Trotsiuk Volodymyr , Sýkora Ondřej , Svoboda Miroslav , Chytrý Milan
Published: May 2014

Siberian lime ( Tilia sibirica) is a broad-leaved deciduous tree closely related to European Tilia cordata. It is endemic to a few sites in southern Siberia, located approximately 2000 km east of the limit of the European deciduous forest biome. These isolated sites with locally increased precipitation can be considered as potential analogues of the glacial refugia of temperate trees. To understand the ecology of such refugia, we studied the history and recent dynamics of the forests containing T. sibirica using soil charcoal and tree-ring analyses at the largest locality of this species (Kuzedeevo). These forests are currently dominated by Populus tremula and Betula pendula, with scattered occurrence of Abies sibirica and Tilia, which form small monodominant stands locally. Soil charcoal indicated continuous occurrence of all of these trees more than 1000 years ago, but the dominant species in the past were Abies and Populus. Current patches of Tilia-dominated forests are even-aged, 40–80 years old, with tree-ring patterns indicating their origin in open areas, probably after logging in the 20th century. After disturbance, Abies seedlings tend to be outcompeted by tall herbs, whereas Tilia can form small monodominant stands through vegetative regeneration. However, in the natural undisturbed Abies–Populus forest, Tilia was probably a subordinate species. Analogously to this modern Siberian ecosystem, temperate deciduous trees, especially those with vegetative regeneration, may have survived as rare components of coniferous forests in glacial periods at locally favorable sites such as those with increased orographic precipitation and protection by a thick snow cover.
The correlation between carotid artery atherosclerosis and clinical ischemic heart disease in lupus patients
Authors: Eder L , Gladman DD , Ibañez D , Urowitz MB
Published: May 2014

Aim

The extent of subclinical atherosclerosis can be assessed by ultrasound measurement of carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and total plaque area (TPA). We aimed to investigate the correlation between measures of atherosclerosis as documented on imaging studies of the carotid vasculature and clinical coronary artery disease (CAD) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

The study patients were recruited from the University of Toronto prospective cohort of SLE patients. Patients who had a history of CAD were compared to those without CAD. TPA and cIMT were measured using high-resolution optimized ultrasound systems. Logistic regression models were used to investigate the strength of association between ultrasound measures of atherosclerosis and CAD. The strength of association as expressed by odds ratio (OR) was compared between TPA and cIMT.

Results

A total of 103 SLE patients were analyzed (27 patients with a history of CAD). Carotid IMT correlated only moderately with TPA ( r = 0.43, p < 0.001). Both measures were significantly associated with the presence of CAD. However, TPA showed a stronger association than cIMT (OR 9.55 vs. 2.02, respectively). TPA was also more strongly associated with dyslipidemia and hypertension compared to cIMT.

Conclusions

In SLE patients, cIMT correlates only moderately with TPA, suggesting that they measure different phenotypes of atherosclerosis. Carotid TPA correlated better than cIMT with cardiovascular risk factors and CAD, suggesting that it may serve as a better tool for the investigation of atherosclerosis in SLE.
An Evolutionary Examination of the Royal Dutch Shell Logo
Authors: Matusitz Jonathan , Cowin Erica
Published: May 2014

This is a semiotic analysis of the Royal Dutch Shell logo (the Pecten—scallop shell). More specifically, we looked at the evolutionary examination of the corporation’s logo from its inception in 1904 until the newest version of the graphic emblem today. This semiotic analysis has two chief purposes. First, the internal meaning of the logo as a sign is analyzed, using Peirce’s three-part model of signification (that is, representamen–object–interpretant) which justifies the relationships existing between the sign and its object. Second, an examination of the relationships between the sign and its external referents is presented. An important conclusion is that, to be effective, the Shell logo has to be recognizable, easy to perceive and understandable. It has also been streamlined over the years to portray the true values of the company. For this reason, corporate identity tends to be evolutionary in nature.
Formulation for beginners
Authors: Selzer Rob , Ellen Steven
Published: May 2014

Objective:

Developing a formulation is an important method of understanding the people we treat. Writing a formulation need not be seen as burdensome or difficult. Our objective is to provide a framework for the formulation process to make it more accessible for beginners.

Conclusion:

We describe a method that beginners can adopt easily and then build upon as their experience and knowledge broadens.
Threats and Violence in the Care Sector
Authors: Wikman Sofia
Published: May 2014

Workplace violence is a complex occupational hazard that health care staffs are facing in today’s work environment. This study examines the safety measures recommended by staff in occupational injury reports filed in the wake of violence- and threat-related injuries. The results suggest that measures relating to psychosocial factors and structural factors such as adequate staffing are much more important than surveillance, staff training, and penal sanctions.
Major Bleeding With Dabigatran and Rivaroxaban in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Fontaine Gabriel V , Mathews Katy D , Woller Scott C , Stevens Scott M , Lloyd James F , Evans R Scott
Published: May 2014

Background:

Although the rate of bleeding among patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) taking novel oral anticoagulants in randomized controlled trials is described, the rate of bleeding with “real-world” use is uncertain.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective electronic medical record interrogation and subsequent chart review among patients within Intermountain Healthcare between October 2010 and November 2012. Patients were included if they had a diagnosis of AF and were receiving either dabigatran or rivaroxaban. Rates of major bleeding were calculated.

Results:

Among 2579 patients, 13 (0.5%) experienced major bleeding (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.23-0.77), 5 (0.19%) experienced intracranial hemorrhage (95% CI 0.02-0.36), and 2 (0.08%) experienced fatal bleeding. Of the 13 patients experiencing a major bleed, 8 (61.5%) would have been excluded from the Randomized Evaluation of Long-Term Anticoagulation Therapy (RE-LY) and Rivaroxaban Once Daily Oral Direct Factor Xa Inhibition Compared with Vitamin K Antagonism for prevention of Stroke and Embolism Trial in Atrial Fibrillation (ROCKET AF) clinical trials.

Conclusion:

We observed a rate of major bleeding similar to that reported in randomized clinical trials among patients with AF prescribed dabigatran or rivaroxaban.
Deliberate Learning in Health Care
Authors: Nembhard Ingrid M. , Cherian Praseetha , Bradley Elizabeth H.
Published: May 2014

This article examines the effect on quality improvement of two common but distinct approaches to organizational learning: importing best practices (an externally oriented approach rooted in learning by imitating others’ best practices) and internal creative problem solving (an internally oriented approach rooted in learning by experimenting with self-generated solutions). We propose that independent and interaction effects of these approaches depend on where organizations are in their improvement journey − initial push or later phase. We examine this contingency in hospitals focused on improving treatment time for patients with heart attacks. Our results show that importing best practices helps hospitals achieve initial phase but not later phase improvement. Once hospitals enter the later phase of their efforts, however, significant improvement requires creative problem solving as well. Together, our results suggest that importing best practices delivers greater short-term improvement, but continued improvement depends on creative problem solving.