bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Phospholipid Transfer Protein on Nascent High-Density Lipoprotein Formation and Remodeling
Authors: Ji Ailing , Wroblewski Joanne M. , Webb Nancy R. , van der Westhuyzen Deneys R.
Published: July 2014

Objective—

Phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP), which binds phospholipids and facilitates their transfer between lipoproteins in plasma, plays a key role in lipoprotein remodeling, but its influence on nascent high-density lipoprotein (HDL) formation is not known. The effect of PLTP overexpression on apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) lipidation by primary mouse hepatocytes was investigated.

Approach and Results—

Overexpression of PLTP through an adenoviral vector markedly affected the amount and size of lipidated apoA-I species that were produced in hepatocytes in a dose-dependent manner, ultimately generating particles that were <7.1 nm but larger than lipid-free apoA-I. These <7.1-nm small particles generated in the presence of overexpressed PLTP were incorporated into mature HDL particles more rapidly than apoA-I both in vivo and in vitro and were less rapidly cleared from mouse plasma than lipid-free apoA-I. The <7.1-nm particles promoted both cellular cholesterol and phospholipid efflux in an ATP-binding cassette transporter A1–dependent manner, similar to apoA-I in the presence of PLTP. Lipid-free apoA-I had a greater efflux capacity in the presence of PLTP than in the absence of PLTP, suggesting that PLTP may promote ATP-binding cassette transporter A1–mediated cholesterol and phospholipid efflux. These results indicate that PLTP alters nascent HDL formation by modulating the lipidated species and by promoting the initial process of apoA-I lipidation.

Conclusions—

Our findings suggest that PLTP exerts significant effects on apoA-I lipidation and nascent HDL biogenesis in hepatocytes by promoting ATP-binding cassette transporter A1–mediated lipid efflux and the remodeling of nascent HDL particles.
Reciprocal Effects of Systemic Inflammation and Brain Natriuretic Peptide on Adiponectin Biosynthesis in Adipose Tissue of Patients With Ischemic Heart Disease
Authors: Antonopoulos Alexios S. , Margaritis Marios , Coutinho Patricia , Digby Janet , Patel Rikhil , Psarros Constantinos , Ntusi Ntobeko , Karamitsos Theodoros D. , Lee Regent , De Silva Ravi , Petrou Mario , Sayeed Rana , Demosthenous Michael , Bakogiannis Constantinos , Wordsworth Paul B. , Tousoulis Dimitris , Neubauer Stefan , Channon Keith M. , Antoniades Charalambos
Published: July 2014

Objective—

To explore the role of systemic inflammation in the regulation of adiponectin levels in patients with ischemic heart disease.

Approach and Results—

In a cross-sectional study of 575 subjects, serum adiponectin was compared between healthy subjects, patients with coronary artery disease with no/mild/severe heart failure (HF), and patients with nonischemic HF. Adiponectin expression and release from femoral, subcutaneous and thoracic adipose tissue was determined in 258 additional patients with coronary artery bypass grafting. Responsiveness of the various human adipose tissue depots to interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) was examined by using ex vivo models of human fat. The effects of inducible low-grade inflammation were tested by using the model of
Salmonella typhi
vaccine-induced inflammation in healthy individuals. In the cross-sectional study, HF strikingly increased adiponectin levels. Plasma BNP was the strongest predictor of circulating adiponectin and its release from all adipose tissue depots in patients with coronary artery bypass grafting, even in the absence of HF. Femoral AT was the depot with the least macrophages infiltration and the largest adipocyte cell size and the only responsive to systemic and ex vivo proinflammatory stimulation (effect reversible by BNP). Low-grade inflammation reduced circulating adiponectin levels, while circulating BNP remained unchanged.

Conclusions—

This study demonstrates the regional variability in the responsiveness of human adipose tissue to systemic inflammation and suggests that BNP (not systemic inflammation) is the main driver of circulating adiponectin in patients with advanced atherosclerosis even in the absence of HF. Any interpretation of circulating adiponectin as a biomarker should take into account the underlying disease state, background inflammation, and BNP levels.
Thyroid Hormones and Coronary Artery Calcification in Euthyroid Men and Women
Authors: Zhang Yiyi , Kim Bo-Kyoung , Chang Yoosoo , Ryu Seungho , Cho Juhee , Lee Won-Young , Rhee Eun-Jung , Kwon Min-Jung , Rampal Sanjay , Zhao Di , Pastor-Barriuso Roberto , Lima Joao A. , Shin Hocheol , Guallar Eliseo
Published: July 2014

Objective—

Overt and subclinical hypothyroidism are risk factors for atherosclerosis. It is unclear whether thyroid hormone levels within the normal range are also associated with atherosclerosis measured by coronary artery calcium (CAC).

Approach and Results—

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 41 403 apparently healthy young and middle-aged men and women with normal thyroid hormone levels. Free thyroxin, free triiodothyronine, and thyroid-stimulating hormone levels were measured by electrochemiluminescent immunoassay. CAC score was measured by multidetector computed tomography. The multivariable adjusted CAC ratios comparing the highest versus the lowest quartile of thyroid hormones were 0.74 (95% confidence interval, 0.60–0.91;
P
for trend <0.001) for free thyroxin, 0.81 (0.66–1.00;
P
for trend=0.05) for free triiodothyronine, and 0.78 (0.64–0.95;
P
for trend=0.01) for thyroid-stimulating hormone. Similarly, the odds ratios for detectable CAC (CAC >0) comparing the highest versus the lowest quartiles of thyroid hormones were 0.87 (0.79–0.96;
P
for linear trend <0.001) for free thyroxin, 0.90 (0.82–0.99;
P
for linear trend=0.02) for free triiodothyronine, and 0.91 (0.83–1.00;
P
for linear trend=0.03) for thyroid-stimulating hormone.

Conclusions—

In a large cohort of apparently healthy young and middle-aged euthyroid men and women, low-normal free thyroxin and thyroid-stimulating hormone were associated with a higher prevalence of subclinical coronary artery disease and with a greater degree of coronary calcification.
Intraventricular Thrombolysis in Intracerebral Hemorrhage Requiring Ventriculostomy
Authors: Moradiya Yogesh , Murthy Santosh B. , Newman-Toker David E. , Hanley Daniel F. , Ziai Wendy C.
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose—

Intraventricular thrombolysis (IVT) is a promising treatment in facilitating intraventricular clot resolution after intraventricular hemorrhage. We examined in-hospital outcomes and resource utilization after thrombolysis in patients with intraventricular hemorrhage requiring ventriculostomy in a real-world setting.

Methods—

We identified adult patients with primary diagnosis of nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage requiring ventriculostomy from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 2002 to 2011. We compared demographic and hospital characteristics, comorbidities, inpatient outcomes, and resource utilization measures between patients treated with IVT and those managed with ventriculostomy, but without IVT. Population estimates were extrapolated using standard Nationwide Inpatient Sample weighting algorithms.

Results—

We included 34 044 patients in the analysis, of whom 1133 (3.3%) received IVT. The thrombolysis group had significantly lower inpatient mortality (32.4% versus 41.6%;
P
=0.001) and it remained lower after controlling for baseline demographics, hospital characteristics, comorbidity, case severity, and withdrawal of care status (adjusted odds ratio, 0.670; 95% confidence interval, 0.520–0.865;
P
=0.002). There was a trend toward favorable discharge (home or rehabilitation) among the thrombolysis cohort (adjusted odds ratio, 1.335; 95% confidence interval, 0.983–1.812;
P
=0.064). The adjusted rates of bacterial meningitis and ventricular shunt placement were similar between groups. The thrombolysis group had longer length of stay and higher inflation-adjusted cost of care, but cost of care per day length of stay was similar to the non-IVT group.

Conclusions—

IVT for intracerebral hemorrhage requiring ventriculostomy resulted in lower inpatient mortality and a trend toward favorable discharge outcome with similar rates of inpatient complications compared with the non-IVT group.
Rehearsing Biological Motion in Working Memory: An EEG Study
Authors: Gao Zaifeng , Bentin Shlomo , Shen Mowei
Published: July 2014

Holding biological motion (BM), the movements of animate entities, in working memory (WM) is important to our daily social life. However, how BM is maintained in WM remains unknown. The current study investigated this issue and hypothesized that, analogous to BM perception, the human mirror neuron system (MNS) is involved in rehearsing BM in WM. To examine the MNS hypothesis of BM rehearsal, we used an EEG index of mu suppression (8–12 Hz), which has been linked to the MNS. Using a change detection task, we manipulated the BM memory load in three experiments. We predicted that mu suppression in the maintenance phase of WM would be modulated by the BM memory load; moreover, a negative correlation between the number of BM stimuli in WM and the degree of mu suppression may emerge. The results of Experiment 1 were in line with our predictions and revealed that mu suppression increased as the memory load increased from two to four BM stimuli; however, mu suppression then plateaued, as WM could only hold, at most, four BM stimuli. Moreover, the predicted negative correlation was observed. Corroborating the findings of Experiment 1, Experiment 2 further demonstrated that once participants used verbal codes to process the motion information, the mu suppression or modulation by memory load vanished. Finally, Experiment 3 demonstrated that the findings in Experiment 1 were not limited to one specific type of stimuli. Together, these results provide evidence that the MNS underlies the process of rehearsing BM in WM.
Autobiographically Significant Concepts: More Episodic than Semantic in Nature? An Electrophysiological Investigation of Overlapping Types of Memory
Authors: Renoult Louis , Davidson Patrick S. R. , Schmitz Erika , Park Lillian , Campbell Kenneth , Moscovitch Morris , Levine Brian
Published: July 2014

A common assertion is that semantic memory emerges from episodic memory, shedding the distinctive contexts associated with episodes over time and/or repeated instances. Some semantic concepts, however, may retain their episodic origins or acquire episodic information during life experiences. The current study examined this hypothesis by investigating the ERP correlates of autobiographically significant (AS) concepts, that is, semantic concepts that are associated with vivid episodic memories. We inferred the contribution of semantic and episodic memory to AS concepts using the amplitudes of the N400 and late positive component, respectively. We compared famous names that easily brought to mind episodic memories (high AS names) against equally famous names that did not bring such recollections to mind (low AS names) on a semantic task (fame judgment) and an episodic task (recognition memory). Compared with low AS names, high AS names were associated with increased amplitude of the late positive component in both tasks. Moreover, in the recognition task, this effect of AS was highly correlated with recognition confidence. In contrast, the N400 component did not differentiate the high versus low AS names but, instead, was related to the amount of general knowledge participants had regarding each name. These results suggest that semantic concepts high in AS, such as famous names, have an episodic component and are associated with similar brain processes to those that are engaged by episodic memory. Studying AS concepts may provide unique insights into how episodic and semantic memory interact.
An integrative approach to the taxonomy of the crown-of-thorns starfish species group (Asteroidea: Acanthaster): A review of names and comparison to recent molecular data
Authors: HASZPRUNAR GERHARD , SPIES MARTIN
Published: July 2014

The scientific names published for species and subspecies in the genus Acanthaster Gervais (Asteroidea: Valvatida: Acanthasteridae) are reviewed, with particular attention to the A. planci species group (crown-of-thorn starfish, COTS). Several problems with earlier nomenclatural and bibliographic data are resolved. The available name for the type species of Acanthaster in the original combination is Asterias echinites Ellis & Solander in Watt, 1786; the often-cited "Asterias echinus" and "Acanthaster echinus" are incorrect subsequent spellings, therefore unavailable. The scientific names and taxonomic concepts for species and subspecies in Acanthaster are compared to recently published, robust COI-barcoding clades. Two of four clades in the A. planci group can be named unequivocally, a third requires a neotype designation to decide which of two available names will be valid, and the fourth clade necessitates a new species description and name. The References section includes annotations explaining bibliographical data important to the nomenclatural evaluations. Many hyperlinks interspersed with the paper's texts offer quick access to digital versions of the respective references.
Description of a new species of Neoparaphytoseius Chant and McMurtry (Acari: Mesostigmata: Phytoseiidae) from Peru, with a redefinition of the genus
Authors: JIMÉNEZ SOFÍA , McMURTRY JAMES A. , DE MORAES GILBERTO J.
Published: July 2014

Neoparaphytoseius charapa n. sp. is described, based on the morphology of adult females and males collected on Inga edulis (Mart.) (Fabaceae) in northeastern Peru. Neoparaphytoseius Chant & McMurtry is redefined on the basis of the new species and re-examination of its type species N. sooretamus Chant & McMurtry.
A Time Travel Dialogue
Authors: Carroll John W.
Published: July 2014

Is time travel just a confusing plot device deployed by science fiction authors and Hollywood filmmakers to amaze and amuse? Or might empirical data prompt a scientific hypothesis of time travel? Structured on a fascinating dialogue involving a distinguished physicist, Dr. Rufus, a physics graduate student and a computer scientist this book probes an experimentally supported hypothesis of backwards time travel – and in so doing addresses key metaphysical issues, such as causation, identity over time and free will. The setting is the Jefferson National Laboratory during a period of five days in 2010. Dr. Rufus’s experimental search for the psi-lepton and the resulting intractable data spurs the discussion on time travel. She and her two colleagues are pushed by their observations to address the grandfather paradox and other puzzles about backwards causation, with attention also given to causal loops, multi-dimensional time, and the prospect that only the present exists. Sensible solutions to the main puzzles emerge, ultimately advancing the case for time travel really being possible.

'A Time Travel Dialogue' addresses the possibility of time travel, approaching familiar paradoxes in a rigorous, engaging, and fun manner. It follows in the long philosophical tradition of using dialogue to present philosophical ideas and arguments, but is ground breaking in its use of the dialogue format to introduce readers to the metaphysics of time travel, and is also distinctive in its use of lab results to drive philosophical analysis. The discussion of data that might decide whether time is one-dimensional (one timeline) or multi-dimensional (branching time) is especially novel.
A Method for Wind Speed Forecasting in Airports Based on Nonparametric Regression
Authors: Rozas-Larraondo Pablo , Inza Iñaki , Lozano Jose A.
Published: July 2014

Wind is one of the parameters best predicted by numerical weather models, as it can be directly calculated from the physical equations of pressure that govern its movement. However, local winds are considerably affected by topography, which global numerical weather models, due to their limited resolution, are not able to reproduce. To improve the skill of numerical weather models, statistical and data analysis methods can be used. Machine learning techniques can be applied to train a model with data coming from both the model and observations in the area of interest. In this paper, a new method based on nonparametric multivariate locally weighted regression is studied for improving the forecasted wind speed of a numerical weather model. Wind direction data are used to build different regression models, as a way of accounting for the effect of surrounding topography. The use of this technique offers similar levels of accuracy for wind speed forecasts compared with other machine learning algorithms with the advantage of being more intuitive and easy to interpret.
The “Megapozitiv” Role of Enterprise Social Media in Enabling Cross-Boundary Communication in a Distributed Russian Organization
Authors: Gibbs Jennifer L. , Eisenberg Julia , Rozaidi Nik Ahmad , Gryaznova Anna
Published: July 2014

Collaborating across boundaries is important for organizational innovation, but it poses a key challenge for large, distributed organizations. New technologies such as enterprise social media (ESM) are often heralded for their open infrastructure, democratic nature, and ability to break down traditional hierarchies and barriers to communication; thus, such tools may be expected to play a role in facilitating cross-boundary interaction. Usage patterns are likely to be shaped by existing cultural factors within the organizational and national contexts, however. Drawing on a case study of a large Russian telecommunications company, we empirically assess the introduction of an ESM application and the degree to which it promotes cross-boundary communication (across geographical and hierarchical lines), through analysis of server log data and in-depth interviews. Our findings demonstrate that ESM promotes cross-boundary communication, although there are distinct patterns for hierarchical and regional boundaries. Implications for ESM implementation and distributed collaboration are discussed.
A review of program evaluations in an Australian independent school: Participants’ perspectives
Authors: Allen Jeanne Maree , Rimes Julie
Published: July 2014

This article reports on ways in which one Australian independent school seeks to develop and sustain best practice and academic integrity in its programs through a system of ongoing program evaluation, involving a systematic, cyclical appraisal of the school’s suite of six faculties. A number of different evaluation methods have been and continue to be used, each developed to best suit the particular program under evaluation. In order to gain an understanding of the effectiveness of this process, we conducted a study into participants’ perceptions of the strengths and weaknesses of the four program evaluations undertaken between 2009 and 2011. Drawing on documentary analysis of the evaluation reports and analysis of questionnaire data from the study participants, a number of findings were generated. These findings are provided and discussed, together with suggestions about ways in which the conceptualisation and conduct of school program evaluations might be enhanced.
Examining children’s health equity under the Chinese basic medical insurance system: A comparison between the United States and Mainland China
Authors: Ren Yi , Pritzker Suzanne , Leung Patrick
Published: July 2014

Public health insurance for China’s children is analyzed using an equity analysis framework and compared to US public health insurance for low-income children. Four dimensions of comparisons are addressed: fairness of financial support, equal treatment for equal need, equality of access to services, and equality of health outcomes. Secondary data from China and US government statistics were used for the comparisons. Recommendations to strengthen China’s health insurance for children include lower out-of-pocket expenses, standardized data collection and management, qualified nurse practitioners providing rural health care, and explicit coverage requirements.
Reciprocity as an Individual Difference
Authors: Ackermann Kurt A. , Fleiß Jürgen , Murphy Ryan O.
Published: July 2014

There is accumulating evidence that decision makers (DMs) are sensitive to the distribution of resources among themselves and others, beyond what is expected from the predictions of narrow self-interest. These social preferences are typically conceptualized as being static and existing independently of information about the other people influenced by a DM’s allocation choices. In this article, we consider the reactivity of a DM’s social preferences in response to information about the intentions or past behavior of the person to be affected by the DM’s allocation choices (i.e., how do social preferences change in relation to the other’s type). This article offers a conceptual framework for characterizing the link between distributive preferences and reciprocity, and reports on experiments in which these two constructs are disentangled and the relation between the two is characterized.
Family-Related Antecedents of Early Adolescent Immigrants’ Psychological and Sociocultural School Adjustment in Germany
Authors: Schachner Maja K. , Van de Vijver Fons J. R. , Noack Peter
Published: July 2014

Immigrant students in many European countries have lower educational attainments than their mainstream classmates. The present study investigated family-related conditions for early adolescents’ acculturation orientations and psychological and sociocultural school adjustment in Germany. Analyses were based on data from 695 mostly second- and third-generation secondary school students from more than 50 countries. Parental acculturation expectations and cultural practices in the family (e.g., religion and language use) as well as their level of school involvement were the best predictors of pupils’ psychological and sociocultural outcomes. The importance of religion in the family differed most across immigrant groups and was strongly linked to adolescents’ ethnic orientation. Implications for research, educators, and policy makers are discussed.
Incentives and opportunities
Authors: Bara Corinne
Published: July 2014

Existing research on the causes of violent ethnic conflict is characterized by an enduring debate on whether these conflicts are the result of deeply felt grievances or the product of an opportunity structure in which rebellion is an attractive and/or viable option. This article argues that the question of whether incentive- or opportunity-based explanations of conflict have more explanatory power is fundamentally misguided, as conflict is more likely the result of a complex interaction of both. The fact is, however, that there is little generalized knowledge about these interactions. This study aims to fill this gap and applies crisp-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) in order to identify constellations of risk factors that are conducive to ethnic conflict. The results demonstrate the explanatory leverage gained by taking causal complexity in the form of risk patterns into account. It takes no more than four different configurations of a total of eight conditions to reliably explain almost two-thirds of all ethnic conflict onsets between 1990 and 2009. Moreover, these four configurations are quasi-sufficient for onset, leading to conflict in 88% of all cases covered. The QCA model generated in this article also fares well in predicting conflicts in-sample and out-of-sample, with the in-sample predictions being more precise than those generated by a simple binary logistic regression.
Analysis of the Reported Ethical Complaints and Violations to the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification, 2006–2013
Authors: Hartley Michael T. , Cartwright Brenda Y.
Published: July 2014

This study reviewed ethical complaints and violations received from Fiscal Year 2006–2013 by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification. There were 71 complaints, of which 37 cases (52.1%) progressed to full adjudication. Of the cases involving a violation, more than half (56.4%) involved ethical misconduct pertaining to role and relationship boundaries, client rights and welfare, and honest and responsible conduct. Strategies to ameliorate common violations as well as define and promote the ethical behavior of all Certified Rehabilitation Counselors are provided.
Adaptive behavior of structural systems in unpredictable changing environments by using self-learning algorithms: A case study
Authors: Sher Elite , Chronis Angelos , Glynn Ruairi
Published: July 2014

Adaptive architecture is expected to improve the performance of buildings and create more efficient building systems. One of the major research areas under this scope is the adaptive behavior of structural elements affected by load distribution. In order to achieve this, current studies develop structures that adapt by either following a database of pre-calculated equilibrium solutions or using self-learning algorithms to acquire active control systems to structures. This paper examined a case study element, which demonstrates an adaptive behavior in real time, based on self-learning abilities. The focus of this experiment was to gain control over a structural system as a whole (not only on a singular component) according to both objective and subjective parameters, that is, both load distribution parameters and spatial parameters, which are design related. The examined structural element was a canopy, situated in a dynamic environment that brought a change in the element’s load distribution. The learning ability was given by applying a supervised learning algorithm—Artificial Neural Network (ANN)—on a physical prototype. The ANN was trained by an optimized database of finite solutions, which was created by a Genetic Algorithm. Through this method, complex calculations are conducted “offline”, and the component operates in a “decision-making” mode in real time, adapting to a versatile environment while using minimal computational resources. Results show that the case study successfully exhibited self-learning and acquired the ability to adapt to unpredictable changing forces while keeping certain design requirements. This method can be applied over different structural elements (façade elements, canopies, structural components, etc.) to achieve adaptation to various parameters with an unpredictable pattern, such as human behavior or weather conditions.
The Audacity to Teach
Authors: Easley Jacob
Published: July 2014

The state of educational effectiveness and student success are of paramount concern in the United States. Concerted efforts have been made to close the achievement gap among White and Black groups. These efforts have occurred both nationally and locally as exemplified by attention to school turnaround and teacher quality. Reform, particularly for urban schools, seems to be the order of the day. Yet, the efficacy of reform is directly measured by change within the core technology of education—teaching and learning. This study reveals that district policy and school leadership are two variables that inform capacity for teaching and learning innovations.
High-Poverty Urban High School Students’ Plans for Higher Education
Authors: Cilesiz Sebnem , Drotos Stephanie M.
Published: July 2014

This qualitative study investigates high-poverty urban high school students’ views of and plans regarding higher education, using Bourdieu’s theory of reproduction in education as theoretical framework. Interview data from 76 students from six high-poverty urban schools in a metropolitan area in the Midwestern United States were analyzed using grounded theory. Findings suggest that students (a) viewed higher education as rewarding in many ways, (b) perceived attending college to involve multiple risks, and (c) devised risk-minimizing strategies to facilitate their intended pursuit of higher education.
Rotor current control for a doubly-fed induction generator using a novel nonlinear robust control approach based on extended state observer–backstepping
Authors: Cai Guowei , Liu Cheng , Yang Deyou
Published: July 2014

The doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) has been widely applied in wind power generation systems. However, the applications of DFIG are limited by the failure of power system and inefficient fault ride-through (FRT) strategy, which lead to overcurrent in rotor windings. The overcurrent that results from continuous operation of DFIG may cause a serious tripping accident in wind turbine generators. The occurrence of overcurrent at the rotor side of DFIG must be prevented to ensure safe operation of the rotor-side converter. Preventing overcurrent can enhance the control ability of rotor current and the FRT capacity of DFIG. A novel rotor current controller for DFIG is designed to overcome its strong nonlinearity. The controller combines extended state observer (ESO) with backstepping theory. ESO is used to dynamically estimate and eliminate the model error and the uncertain external disturbance of the rotor current of DFIG. The controller is designed on the backstepping method, and then the feedback of ESO is used to eliminate the nonlinear factor. As a result, computation complexity is reduced. The controller has both superior static, dynamic performance, and strong robustness. The effectiveness of the proposed control approach is verified.
Post-Traumatic Stress Symptoms in Post-ICU Family Members
Authors: Petrinec Amy B. , Daly Barbara J.
Published: July 2014

Family members of intensive care unit (ICU) patients are at risk for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following ICU discharge. The aim of this systematic review is to examine the current literature regarding post-ICU family PTSD symptoms with an emphasis on methodological issues in conducting research on this challenging phenomenon. An extensive review of the literature was performed confining the search to English language studies reporting PTSD symptoms in adult family members of adult ICU patients. Ten studies were identified for review published from 2004 to 2012. Findings demonstrate a significant prevalence of family PTSD symptoms in the months following ICU hospitalization. However, there are several methodological challenges to the interpretation of existing studies and to the conduct of future research including differences in sampling, identification of risk factors and covariates of PTSD, and lack of consensus regarding the most appropriate PTSD symptom measurement tools and timing.
Citizen patronage behavior of government social media services
Authors: Park Min Jae , Choi Hyeri , Rho Jae Jeung
Published: July 2014

From the government’s position in which communication and relationships with its citizens are crucial, as social media grows in popularity, questions regarding how it is being used to communicate with citizens become important. Thus, governments should effectively utilize social media while considering the significant diversity of characteristics and risks that are inherent in social media, alongside reflecting on the potential for practical use as a channel for government service provision and communication. In particular, understanding a citizen’s perceived value of a government service through social media and social media’s media synchronicity under the characteristics of government services could provide significant insights into the government’s social media use. Also, it is meaningful to understand how attractiveness in e-government, which is the primary communication channel for G2C, affects citizen satisfaction of the government service provided with social media. We investigated the role of social media as a communication channel for enhancing citizen patronage behavior in government social media services and the effect of social media on their satisfaction depending on the perceived value using a structural equation. This study emphasizes the importance of appropriate understanding of the media characteristics of social media in order to increase citizen satisfaction with government social media services.
Impact of graduated compression stockings on the prevention of post-thrombotic syndrome - results of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jayaraj Arjun , Meissner Mark
Published: July 2014

Objective

Post-thrombotic syndrome is a chronic complication of acute deep venous thrombosis in the lower extremity. The role of graduated compression stockings in the prevention of post-thrombotic syndrome has been studied with opinion being divided on the beneficial effects. We aim to answer this question with a randomized controlled study that uses multiple scoring instruments to assess post-thrombotic syndrome.

Methods

Sixty-nine consecutive patients with acute deep venous thrombosis diagnosed by duplex ultrasonography were randomized to treatment with graduated compression stockings or no graduated compression stockings. Venous Clinical Severity Score and Villalta-Prandoni Score, commonly used scoring systems, were used to appraise post-thrombotic syndrome at 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months following diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis. In both scoring systems, the individual either had post-thrombotic syndrome or no post-thrombotic syndrome. Cumulative incidence was computed using Kaplan–Meier analysis. Relative risk was assessed for age, obesity, varicose veins, and iliofemoral deep venous thrombosis.

Results

As measured by both Villalta-Prandoni Score and Venous Clinical Severity Score instruments, the graduated compression stockings group had a lower incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome compared to the control group, but only when one month was used as cut off time for the first diagnosis of post-thrombotic syndrome. When 6 or 12 months were used, there was no difference in the incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome between the two groups. The burden of post-thrombotic syndrome was significantly more when the Villalta-Prandoni Score instrument (∼75%) was used as compared to the Venous Clinical Severity Score instrument (∼30%) at 24 months’ follow-up. Obesity was the only statistically significant predictor for the development of post-thrombotic syndrome.

Conclusion

As assessed by both Villalta-Prandoni Score and Venous Clinical Severity Score instruments, use of graduated compression stockings does not reduce the incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome. There is a significant difference in the incidence post-thrombotic syndrome as detected by Villalta-Prandoni Score and Venous Clinical Severity Score instruments with incidence of post-thrombotic syndrome dependent on instrument and cut off time interval used to assess post-thrombotic syndrome. However, larger prospective studies are required to confirm these differences.
Core content for training in venous and lymphatic medicine
Authors: Zimmet Steven E , Min Robert J , Comerota Anthony J , Meissner Mark H , Carman Teresa L , Rathbun Suman W , Jaff Michael R , Wakefield Thomas W , Feied Craig F
Published: July 2014

The major venous societies in the United States share a common mission to improve the standards of medical practitioners, the educational goals for teaching and training programs in venous disease, and the quality of patient care related to the treatment of venous disorders. With these important goals in mind, a task force made up of experts from the specialties of dermatology, interventional radiology, phlebology, vascular medicine, and vascular surgery was formed to develop a consensus document describing the Core Content for venous and lymphatic medicine and to develop a core educational content outline for training. This outline describes the areas of knowledge considered essential for practice in the field, which encompasses the study, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with acute and chronic venous and lymphatic disorders. The American Venous Forum and the American College of Phlebology have endorsed the Core Content.
An Empirical Analysis of State and Local Public Pension Plan Funded Ratio Change, 2001-2009
Authors: Wang Qiushi , Peng Jun
Published: July 2014

Between 2001 and 2009, all public pension plans suffered losses and saw a drop in their funded ratios. However, some plans saw a much smaller decline than others. In this study, we explore why the ratios fared so differently during this tumultuous period for pension plans. By examining the changes in funded ratio for 84 large public pension plans, we find that the differences can be mostly attributed to variations in annualized investment return and changes in investment return assumption, and to a lesser extent, to the required contributions paid by employers, the contribution rates of employees, and cost-of-living adjustment provisions. The results suggest that pension plans seeking to improve their funded ratios may need to revise their investment strategies, pay a higher percentage of their required contribution, require employees to pay more toward their pension benefit, and limit the use of automatic or consumer price index–linked cost-of-living adjustments.
Recent methodological advances in Quaternary palaeoecological proxies
Authors: Meadows Michael E.
Published: July 2014

This progress report reviews and assesses recent developments in the analysis and interpretation of palaeoecological proxies that have led to important advances in our understanding of past Quaternary environments that emerge as crucial elements of more robust and reliable predictions of future climates and their ecological implications. Recently discovered archives, or technological advances associated with the biological proxies they contain, are leading to higher resolution and more detailed reconstructions of environments in a wide range of geographical circumstances. There are also important emerging palaeoecological methodologies that enable scientists to reconstruct past environments in greater detail and to apply chronologies that are more precise and accurate. Given these developments, a variety of applications, some of which are more obviously aimed at resolving practical problems in, for example, conservation science and even archaeology, are explored.
Protective Equipment and Player Characteristics Associated With the Incidence of Sport-Related Concussion in High School Football Players
Authors: McGuine Timothy A. , Hetzel Scott , McCrea Michael , Brooks M. Alison
Published: July 2014

Background:

The incidence of sport-related concussion (SRC) in high school football is well documented. However, limited prospective data are available regarding how player characteristics and protective equipment affect the incidence of SRC.

Purpose:

To determine whether the type of protective equipment (helmet and mouth guard) and player characteristics affect the incidence of SRC in high school football players.

Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Certified athletic trainers (ATs) at each high school recorded the type of helmet worn (brand, model, purchase year, and recondition status) by each player as well as information regarding players’ demographics, type of mouth guard used, and history of SRC. The ATs also recorded the incidence and days lost from participation for each SRC. Incidence of SRC was compared for various helmets, type of mouth guard, history of SRC, and player demographics.

Results:

A total of 2081 players (grades 9-12) enrolled during the 2012 and/or 2013 football seasons (2287 player-seasons) and participated in 134,437 football (practice or competition) exposures. Of these players, 206 (9%) sustained a total of 211 SRCs (1.56/1000 exposures). There was no difference in the incidence of SRC (number of helmets, % SRC [95% CI]) for players wearing Riddell (1171, 9.1% [7.6%-11.0%]), Schutt (680, 8.7% [6.7%-11.1%]), or Xenith (436, 9.2% [6.7%-12.4%]) helmets. Helmet age and recondition status did not affect the incidence of SRC. The rate of SRC (hazard ratio [HR]) was higher in players who wore a custom mouth guard (HR = 1.69 [95% CI, 1.20-2.37], P < .001) than in players who wore a generic mouth guard. The rate of SRC was also higher (HR = 1.96 [95% CI, 1.40-2.73], P < .001) in players who had sustained an SRC within the previous 12 months (15.1% of the 259 players [95% CI, 11.0%-20.1%]) than in players without a previous SRC (8.2% of the 2028 players [95% CI, 7.1%-9.5%]).

Conclusion:

Incidence of SRC was similar regardless of the helmet brand (manufacturer) worn by high school football players. Players who had sustained an SRC within the previous 12 months were more likely to sustain an SRC than were players without a history of SRC. Sports medicine providers who work with high school football players need to realize that factors other than the type of protective equipment worn affect the risk of SRC in high school players.
Influence of montmorillonite on electrical treeing and breakdown characteristics of low-density polyethylene
Authors: Liao Ruijin , Li Xiao , Bai Ge , Yang Lijun , Gu Jia
Published: July 2014

Electrical treeing is an electrical aging phenomenon that severely threatens the operation safety of power equipment, in which polymer is used as primary insulation material. A type of low-density polyethylene-montmorillonite (LDPE/MMT) nanocomposite was prepared using melt method to study the impact of MMT nanoparticles on the growth of the electrical tree and on the breakdown properties of the LDPE material. The distribution characteristic of space charges of the specimens under DC voltage of –50 kV/mm and short-circuit conditions was measured using pulsed electro-acoustic method. The electrical tree aging characteristics of specimens under AC voltage of power frequency were studied using needle-plate electrode structure test platform. The starting voltage of initiation, the triggering rate, and the growth rate of the electrical trees, as well as the breakdown performance of the specimens under AC voltage of power frequency were measured. The inhibitory mechanism of MMT nano-particles on the growth of electrical trees in nano-composites, and the mechanism behind the improvement of the breakdown strength of the LDPE/MMT specimens were illustrated. Experimental results showed that, the addition of MMT can effectively reduce the amount of space charges injected from electrodes and the accumulation amount in the center of samples. Moreover, space charges dissipated more slowly during short-circuit conditions. The speed and the scale of the growth of the electrical tree declined as the initiation conditions of electrical trees growing in LDPE/MMT nanocomposites increased; meanwhile, the breakdown strength increased substantially. Here are the reasons: MMT can reduce the mobility of carriers in LDPE material, thereby contributing to the improvement of the distribution of space charges. In the meanwhile, MMT changed the development path of electrical trees, and extended the discharge distance. Consequently, MMT postponed the occurrence of penetrable breakdown in the LDPE/MMT specimen, and ultimately improved the breakdown strength of the specimen.
Increased Expression of GAP43 in Interneurons in a Rat Model of Experimental Polymicrogyria
Authors: Takano Tomoyuki , Matsui Katsuyuki
Published: July 2014

To investigate seizure susceptibility in polymicrogyria, the seizure threshold and growth-associated protein GAP43 expression were analyzed in a rat experimental model of polymicrogyria induced by intracerebral injection of ibotenate. A total of 72 neonates from 9 pregnant rats were used. Intraperitoneal pentylenetetrazole injection did not induce any seizure activity in the control rats, although it elicited seizures of variable severity in the polymicrogyria rats. Fluoro-Jade B–positive degenerating interneurons were found in the polymicrogyria brains; however, no such neurons were detected in the control brains. In the polymicrogyria rats, the GAP43 expression was significantly and widely distributed in the brain, and the percentage of parvalbumin-positive interneurons in the GAP43-positive cells was significantly higher than that observed in the nonphosphorylated neurofilament-positive pyramidal cells. We conclude that the relatively selective vulnerability of inhibitory interneurons constitutes the basis for the decreased seizure threshold observed in this model of polymicrogyria.
Comparison of Dexmedetomidine Versus Propofol on Hospital Costs and Length of Stay
Authors: Patanwala Asad E. , Erstad Brian L.
Published: July 2014

Objective:

The objective of this evaluation was to compare total hospital costs and length of stay of critically ill patients who received dexmedetomidine versus propofol for sedation in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods:

This was a retrospective quality improvement evaluation at a tertiary care, academic medical center in the United States. Data were retrieved for patients discharged between April 2012 and June 2013. Patients were included if they were admitted to the ICU, were 18 years of age or older, and received dexmedetomidine or propofol for sedation. Multivariate regression models were developed to determine the association between sedative type and hospital costs, ICU length of stay, and hospital length of stay.

Results:

The final cohort included 3294 patients. Of these, 2685 received propofol and 609 received dexmedetomidine. The median hospital cost was US$31 041 (interquartile range [IQR] US$17 963-US$57 826) in the propofol group and US$46 716 (IQR US$31 247 to US$85 490) in the dexmedetomidine group ( P < .001). The median ICU length of stay was 2 days (IQR 1-6 days) and 4 days (IQR 2-9 days) in the propofol and dexmedetomidine groups, respectively ( P < .001). Overall, hospital length of stay was 8 days (IQR 4-15 days) and 9 days (IQR 5-18 days) in the 2 groups, respectively ( P < .001). In the multivariate analyses, dexmedetomidine use was associated with increased costs, ICU length of stay, and hospital length of stay ( P < .001 for each outcome).

Conclusions:

In this academic medical center, dexmedetomidine use was associated with higher costs when compared to propofol for sedation in the ICU. Also, use of dexmedetomidine was associated with increased lengths of ICU and hospital stay. Future prospective trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Optimisation of the elastic track properties of turnout crossings
Authors: Wan Chang , Markine Valeri , Shevtsov Ivan
Published: July 2014

Rail pads and under sleeper pads (USPs) are resilient elements inserted between the rail and the sleeper, and between the sleeper and the ballast, respectively. They improve the elastic properties of the track’s superstructure. In this paper, the approach of estimating the performance of a turnout by using the dynamic forces acting on the crossing as indicators of the extent of crossing nose damage is improved by tuning the stiffness and damping of the rail pads and USPs using a numerical optimisation method. In the optimisation problem, the dynamic forces acting on rails, sleepers and the ballast bed, which should be minimised, are considered in the objective function. Constraints are imposed on the displacements of the structural elements of the turnout crossing. The combined multi-objective optimisation problem is solved using the multipoint approximation method. The results of the optimisation show that application of softer rail pads combined with USPs can significantly reduce the dynamic forces acting on the rails, sleepers and ballast. Moreover, the track elasticity should be varied along the crossing.
Gonorrhoea of the sigmoid neovagina in a male-to-female transgender
Authors: van der Sluis Wouter B , Bouman Mark-Bram , Gijs Luk , van Bodegraven Adriaan A
Published: July 2014

A 33-year-old male-to-female transgender consulted our outpatient clinic with perneovaginal bleeding during and following coitus. Four years before, she underwent a total laparoscopic sigmoid neovaginoplasty. Physical, histological and endoscopic examination revealed neither focus of active bleeding nor signs of active inflammation. A polymerase chain reaction test performed on a neovaginal swab showed gonococcal infection. Treatment consisted of 500 mg intramuscular ceftriaxone. Three weeks later, our patient reported resolution of symptoms, consistent with eradication of the infection demonstrated by a follow-up neovaginal swab polymerase chain reaction. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of gonococcal infection of the sigmoid neovagina.