bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Does Age Matter? Association Between Usual Source of Care and Hypertension Control in the US Population: Data From NHANES 2007–2012
Authors: Dinkler John M. , Sugar Catherine A. , Escarce José J. , Ong Michael K. , Mangione Carol M. 
Published: February 2016

Abstract

BACKGROUND
The positive role of having a usual source of care (USOC) on the receipt of preventative services is known. However, associations between USOC and hypertension control and the differential association across age groups is unknown in the US population.

METHODS
We used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2012. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the association between having a USOC and hypertension control. The differential effect of USOC on hypertension control by age was assessed using predicted marginal effects across age groups in the multivariable logistic model.

RESULTS
In adjusted analyses, those with a USOC had higher odds of hypertension control (odds ratio = 3.89, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.15–6.98). The marginal effect of having a USOC is associated with a 30 percentage point higher probability of controlled blood pressure compared to those without a USOC (marginal probability = 0.30, 95% CI: 0.19–0.41). The marginal effect of USOC on hypertension control varied by age groups, with a statistically significantly lower marginal effect of USOC on hypertension seen among those older than 74 years of age (marginal probability = 0.27, 95% CI: 0.18–0.36) and younger than 35 years of age (marginal probability = 0.23, 95% CI: 0.14–0.33).

CONCLUSION
Having a USOC is significantly associated with improved hypertension control in the US population. The variation in the association across age groups has important implications in targeting age-specific antihypertensive strategies to reduce the burden of hypertension in the US population.
Prognostic Value of C-Reactive Protein in Resistant
Hypertension
Authors: Cortez Arthur Fernandes , Muxfeldt Elizabeth Silaid , Cardoso Claudia Regina Lopes , Salles Gil Fernando 
Published: February 2016

Abstract

BACKGROUND
C-reactive protein (CRP) is a biomarker of systemic low-grade inflammation and a cardiovascular risk predictor in several clinical conditions. However, its prognostic value has never been examined in patients with resistant hypertension.

METHODS
In a prospective study, 476 patients with resistant hypertension had CRP levels measured at baseline, together with other clinical laboratory variables, including ambulatory blood pressures (BPs). Primary end points were a composite of major fatal or nonfatal cardiovascular events, all-cause mortality, and cardiovascular mortality. Multiple Cox regression assessed the associations between CRP levels and end points.

RESULTS
Median CRP was 3.8mg/l (interquartile range: 2.0–7.2mg/l). After a median follow-up of 9 years, 103 major cardiovascular events occurred, and 120 patients died, 62 from cardiovascular causes. Patients with CRP levels above the median value had a doubled excess risk of major cardiovascular events (95% confidence interval: 1.29–3.06; P = 0.002) and an 86% higher risk of cardiovascular death (95% confidence interval: 1.07–3.25; P = 0.029), after adjustments for potential confounders including traditional cardiovascular risk factors and ambulatory BP and dipping pattern. A high CRP equally predicted coronary (hazard ratio: 2.04; 95% confidence interval: 1.10–3.76; P = 0.023) and cerebrovascular events (hazard ratio: 2.72; 95% confidence interval: 1.30–5.67; P = 0.007). In interaction and sensitivity analyses, CRP levels were stronger predictors of worse cardiovascular outcomes in younger and obese patients, and in those with uncontrolled ambulatory BPs and with the nondipping pattern.

CONCLUSIONS
In patients with resistant hypertension, elevated serum CRP levels is predictive of worse cardiovascular prognosis above and beyond other cardiovascular risk factors, including ambulatory BP levels and dipping patterns.
Spin properties of supermassive black holes with powerful outflows
Authors: Daly Ruth. A. 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
Relationships between beam power and accretion disc luminosity are studied for a sample of 55 high excitation radio galaxies (HERG), 13 low excitation radio galaxies (LERG), and 29 radio loud quasars (RLQ) with powerful outflows. The ratio of beam power to disc luminosity tends to be high for LERG, low for RLQ, and spans the full range of values for HERG. Writing general expressions for the disc luminosity and beam power and applying the empirically determined relationships allows a function that parametrizes the spins of the holes to be estimated. Interestingly, one of the solutions that is consistent with the data has a functional form that is remarkably similar to that expected in the generalized Blandford–Znajek model with a magnetic field that is similar in form to that expected in magnetically arrested disk (MAD) and advection-dominated accretion flow (ADAF) models. Values of the spin function, obtained independent of specific outflow models, suggest that spin and active galactic nucleus type are not related for these types of sources. The spin function can be used to solve for black hole spin in the context of particular outflow models, and one example is provided.
Geosmithia morbida Found on Weevil Species Stenomimus pallidus in Indiana
Authors: Juzwik Jennifer , Banik Mark T. , Reed Sharon E. , English James T. , Ginzel Matthew D. 
Published: February 2016

The canker pathogen Geosmithia morbida is known to be transmitted to Juglans species by the bark beetle Pityophthorus juglandis, and to lead to development of thousand cankers disease. In an Indiana-wide trap-tree survey of ambrosia and bark beetles and weevils colonizing stressed Juglans nigra, G. morbida was detected on three Stenomimus pallidus weevils emerged from two trees on one site. This is the first report of the pathogen in Indiana and the first report of the fungus from an insect species other than P. juglandis. Accepted for publication 22 October 2014. Published 12 January 2015.
Silent Bias: Challenges, Obstacles, and Strategies for Leadership Development in Academic Medicine—Lessons From Oral Histories of Women Professors at the University of Kansas
Authors: Pingleton Susan K. , Jones Emily V.M. , Rosolowski Tacey A. , Zimmerman Mary K. 
Published: February 2016

Purpose
Despite dramatic increases in female learners and junior faculty, a significant gap remains in female leadership in academic medicine. To assess challenges and obstacles encountered, strategies for academic success, and lessons learned for leadership development, the authors conducted an in-depth study of women full professors.

Method
The authors used a qualitative oral history approach, interviewing 87% of the cohort of female full professors at one Midwestern medical school in 2013 using a pretested, open-ended, semistructured interview guide. Interviews were videotaped and the audio recordings transcribed. Content was sorted into categories and key themes identified within each category.

Results
Participants described significant challenges: being treated with “silent bias,” “being ignored,” and being seen as an “other.” Coping strategies included downplaying, keeping a distance, employing humor, and using symbols (e.g., white coat) to carefully present themselves. Explanations for success included intelligence, meritocracy, being even-tempered, and carefully constructing femininity. The participants recommended individual skills and actions to prepare for leadership development. Virtually all women could describe an individual mentor (sponsor), usually male, who provided essential assistance for their career success. At the same time, they stressed the importance of institutional support for diversity, especially with child care.

Conclusions
Attaining “full professor” status is the pinnacle of academic success. Women who successfully navigated this academic ladder describe significant external and internal challenges that require multiple strategies to overcome. Leadership development entails a combination of individual support through mentors and sponsors, self-education and reflection, and organizational structural support to promote diversity.
Tumor Growth Kinetics Before and After First-line Chemotherapy in Metastatic Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Colloca Giuseppe , Venturino Antonella , Guarneri Domenico 
Published: February 2016

Objectives:
The role of the tumor growth fraction has been investigated poorly in metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). The aim of this study was to assess whether some prostate-specific antigen (PSA)-related variables of tumor cell kinetics predict the overall survival in early and late mCRPC, and to explore changes in the tumor growth fraction after chemotherapy.

Methods:
A retrospective analysis of 3 tumor cell kinetic variables in patients with mCRPC receiving first-line chemotherapy has been performed. The PSA-related tumor growth rate, the log ratio, and the tumor response have been measured at 3 different times. A further analysis has been performed after stratification by the Gleason score and chemotherapy. Finally, tumor growth after progression to chemotherapy has been explored.

Results:
G at castration resistance is significantly associated with survival after chemotherapy among patients with a low Gleason score (r=−0.650, P-value=0.022). At the time of first-line chemotherapy, both G and PSA response rates report a significant relationship with survival. At the time of postchemotherapy progression, only the G after 12 weeks of chemotherapy maintains a relationship with survival in patients with a low Gleason score (r=−0.483, P-value=0.023); in particular, a tumor growth rate <−0.5%/day appears to be associated with a poor postprogression survival. Despite the lack of correlation between postprogression G and postprogression survival, the response to chemotherapy defines 2 groups with different growth characteristics.

Conclusions:
Among patients with mCRPC, tumor cell kinetics appears to be able to predict the outcome, especially in tumors with a low Gleason score.
Phase I Trial of Dose-escalated Whole Liver Irradiation With Hepatic Arterial Fluorodeoxyuridine/Leucovorin and Streptozotocin Followed by Fluorodeoxyuridine/Leucovorin and Chemoembolization for Patients With Neuroendocrine Hepatic Metastases
Authors: Shilkrut Mark , Sapir Eli , Hanasoge Sheela , Schipper Matthew J. , Normolle Daniel P. , Ben-Josef Edgar , Ensminger William , Lawrence Theodore S. , Feng Mary 
Published: February 2016

Objectives:
We have previously shown that refractory neuroendocrine tumors can respond to moderate doses of chemoradiotherapy. We completed a dose-escalation phase I/II trial combining hepatic arterial (HA) chemotherapy, chemoembolization, and dose-escalated whole liver radiotherapy to determine the maximum safe dose of radiation that could be delivered and to make a preliminary assessment of response.

Materials and Methods:
From 2002 to 2009, 19 patients with symptomatic neuroendocrine liver metastases who failed somatostatin analog therapy were enrolled. HA fluorodeoxyuridine, leucovorin, and streptozotocin were delivered, as concurrent whole liver radiotherapy was dose escalated from 24 to 32 Gy in 2 Gy fractions, with a target rate of dose-limiting grade ≥3 radiation-induced liver disease of 10%. Eight weeks later, for patients without grade ≥3 liver or grade ≥4 any toxicity, a 72-hour infusion of HA fluorodeoxyuridine and leucovorin was given, followed by transarterial chemoembolization.

Results:
Eleven patients completed the entire protocol and received 24 to 32 Gy. No patients developed radiation-induced liver disease; 7 had grade 3 to 4 transiently increased liver function tests, and 4 had other grade 4 toxicities. Three patients (14%) had partial response, 16 (84%) stable disease. Median freedom from local progression and overall survival were 35.3 and 54.6 months, respectively.

Conclusions:
Thirty-two in 2 Gy daily fractions can be delivered safely when combined with HA chemotherapy and subsequent transarterial chemoembolization. However, although objective responses were observed, this combination was not significantly better than our prior approaches. Further treatment intensification strategies, including individualized dose escalation for radiation-tolerant livers, and improved radiosensitization should be investigated, along with improved systemic therapy.
Use of Risk Stratification Tools to Enhance Antimicrobial Stewardship Practices
Authors: Martin Kelly E. , Roshdy Danya , Kasbekar Rupal , Pasquale Timothy R. 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
Antimicrobial stewardship is an important strategic initiative to ensure patient safety and antimicrobial efficacy. National guidelines advocate the utilization of guidelines and clinical pathways as effective stewardship strategies to enhance the appropriate selection of antimicrobial treatment regimens. This article reviews 3 algorithms using risk stratification techniques implemented within our organization: treatment of acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections, febrile neutropenia, and Clostridium difficile infection. The relevant literature surrounding the utilization of risk stratification tools and applications to other disease states will also be reviewed. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the impact of risk stratification tools on patient outcomes.
Mycobacterium abscessus
Authors: Husson Jennifer , Saleeb Paul , Amoroso Anthony 
Published: February 2016

Abstract

Mycobacterium (M.) abscessus is an increasingly important pathogen in lung transplant recipients. Due to difficulty in accurately identifying M. abscessus from M. fortuitum–chelonae complex, appropriate treatment may be delayed. We present a case of misidentification of M. abscessus in a lung transplant recipient, which contributed to the patient's suboptimal therapy and eventual death. This case highlights the importance of accurate identification for appropriate treatment of M. abscessus in lung transplant recipients.
Use of Intra-Articular Clindamycin in the Treatment of Prosthetic Joint Infections With Bacteroides fragilis in a Patient with Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Antony Suresh Jude 
Published: February 2016

Abstract
Use of intra-articular antibiotics to treat prosthetic joint infections is becoming an increasingly viable option, especially in patients with a history of multidrug-resistant bacteria and multiple comorbidities where the risk of multiple surgeries is high. At this time, there does not exist a standard antibiotic regimen and or dosing to treat various infections. The risk of prolonged intravenous antibiotics and Clostridium difficile remains high in this group of patients, especially when one has to use clindamycin as a drug of choice. We present a 17-year-old African American female with Bacteroides fragilis infection of a total hip arthroplasty, which was treated with intra-articular clindamycin with success.
Visual Dysfunctions at Different Stages after Blast and Non-blast Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Capó-Aponte José E. , Jorgensen-Wagers Kendra L. , Sosa Josue A. , Walsh David V. , Goodrich Gregory L. , Temme Leonard A. , Riggs Daniel W. 
Published: February 2016

ABSTRACT

Purpose
To assess the prevalence of visual dysfunctions and associated symptoms in war fighters at different stages after non–blast- or blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).

Methods
A comprehensive retrospective review of the electronic health records of 500 U.S. military personnel with a diagnosis of deployment-related mTBI who received eye care at the Landstuhl Regional Medical Center. For analysis, the data were grouped by mechanism of injury, and each group was further divided in three subgroups based on the number of days between injury and initial eye examination.

Results
The data showed a high frequency of visual symptoms and visual dysfunctions. However, the prevalence of visual symptoms and visual dysfunctions did not differ significantly between mechanism of injury and postinjury stage, except for eye pain and diplopia. Among visual symptoms, binocular dysfunctions were more common, including higher near vertical phoria, reduced negative fusional vergence break at near, receded near point of convergence, decreased stereoacuity, and reduced positive relative accommodation.

Conclusions
The lack of difference in terms of visual sequelae between subgroups (blast vs. nonblast) suggests that research addressing the assessment and management of mTBI visual sequelae resulting from civilian nonblast events is relevant to military personnel where combat injury results primarily from a blast event.
Brief Report: Macrophage Activation in HIV-Infected Adolescent Males Contributes to Differential Bone Loss by Sex: Adolescent Trials Network Study 021
Authors: Ruan Alexandra , Tobin Nicole H. , Mulligan Kathleen , Rollie Adrienne , Li Fan , Sleasman John , Aldrovandi Grace M. 
Published: February 2016

Abstract:
Accumulating evidence suggests that rates of low bone mass are greater in HIV-infected males than females. Of 11 biomarkers assessed by sex and HIV-status, HIV-infected males had increased levels of soluble CD14 which inversely correlated with bone mineral content and bone mineral density measures, suggesting macrophage activation as a possible mechanism of differential bone loss.
Rates of Cancers and Opportunistic Infections in Patients With Psoriatic Arthritis Compared With Patients Without Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Hagberg Katrina Wilcox , Li Lin , Peng Michael , Paris Maria , Shah Kamal , Jick Susan S. 
Published: February 2016

Objectives
This study aimed to estimate rates of cancer or opportunistic infection in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) compared with patients without PsA.

Methods
Using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink, we conducted a cohort study of patients with a PsA diagnosis and patients without such diagnosis, matched on age, sex, general practice, and calendar time, to assess the incidence of cancers (solid, hematologic, and nonmelanoma skin cancer) and opportunistic infections. We estimated incidence rates (IRs) and IR ratios (IRRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for each outcome and stratified results in the PsA cohort by receipt of systemic PsA drugs.

Results
The rate of hematologic cancer was slightly higher in the PsA cohort compared with the non-PsA cohort (IRR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.10–2.10), whereas the rates of solid cancer and of nonmelanoma skin cancer were similar between the PsA and non-PsA cohorts (IRR, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.90–1.13; and IRR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.82–1.14, respectively). Incidence rates were higher for PsA patients who received prescriptions for PsA drugs compared with those who did not. The IRs for infection were higher in the PsA compared with the non-PsA cohort (IRR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.31–1.47) and were significantly higher in patients who received prescriptions (IRR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.52–1.91).

Conclusions
The rates of solid and nonmelanoma skin cancers were similar in patients with PsA compared with patients without PsA, but the rates of hematologic cancer and opportunistic infections were higher in patients with PsA. In patients with PsA, rates of all outcomes were higher among those who received prescriptions for systemic PsA therapy.
Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System v2014 With Gadoxetate Disodium–Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Choi Sang Hyun , Byun Jae Ho , Kim So Yeon , Lee So Jung , Won Hyung Jin , Shin Yong Moon , Kim Pyo Nyun 
Published: February 2016

Objectives
The aim of this study was to validate the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) v2014 category 4 (LR-4) and 5 (LR-5) criteria on gadoxetate disodium–enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with chronic liver disease.

Materials and Methods
Between January and December 2012, 300 patients with chronic liver disease who had hepatic nodules 3.0 cm or smaller at surveillance ultrasonography and gadoxetate disodium–enhanced MRI were included. LI-RADS category was retrospectively assigned to each nodule on MRI. Final diagnosis was assessed using pathologic diagnosis only (operation or core-needle biopsy) or pathologic and clinical diagnosis (marginal recurrence after treatment or a change in lesion size on follow-up imaging). To validate the LR-4 and LR-5 criteria, the sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), and false referral rate for diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma were examined.

Results
Based on major imaging features only, 137 nodules were initially assigned as LR-3, but 133 (97.1%) were upgraded into LR-4 by the presence of ancillary features. Excluding the remaining 4 LR-3 and 3 LR-M nodules, we analyzed 379 nodules in 294 patients, consisting of 211 LR-4 and 168 LR-5 nodules. Using pathologic diagnosis only, the sensitivity and PPV with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for LR-5 were higher than those for LR-4 (57.3% [50.6–63.7] vs 42.7% [36.3–49.4]; 94.6% [89.0–97.5] vs 82.0% [73.7–88.1]), with a lower false referral rate (5.4% [2.5–11.0] vs 18.0% [11.9–26.3]). Using pathologic and clinical diagnosis, PPV and 95% CI for LR-5 were higher than that for LR-4 (95.2% [90.7–97.7] vs 79.1% [73.1–84.1]), whereas sensitivity and 95% CI for LR-5 was similar to that for LR-4 (48.9% [43.6–54.3] vs 51.1% [45.7–56.4]).

Conclusions
In patients with chronic liver disease, LR-5 criteria on gadoxetate disodium–enhanced MRI had excellent PPV for diagnosing hepatocellular carcinoma, whereas LR-4 criteria showed good PPV, but are only of limited use.
Effectiveness of performance appraisal
Authors: Ikramullah Malik , Van Prooijen Jan-Willem , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid , Ul-Hassan Faqir Sajjad 
Published: February 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework for the effectiveness of performance appraisal (PA) systems by using a competing values approach.

Design/methodology/approach
– The review employs a three-step approach: first, the paper discusses the existing criteria to determine the effectiveness of PA systems, and presents criticisms of these criteria. Second, the paper reviews the literature on the competing values model of organizational effectiveness. Third, the paper integrates the PA system in the competing values model to develop a comprehensive framework for the effectiveness of PA systems.

Findings
– A practical model is developed, taking into account the processes and procedures involved in PA systems.

Originality/value
– The paper is designed to provide a guideline for managers to consider the effectiveness of a PA system. The paper suggests that assessing the effectiveness of a PA system on any single criterion ignores various important aspects of the system. Moreover, the effectiveness of a PA system should be based on the values and preferences of all major stakeholders of the system, i.e., appraisers, appraisees and the organization.