bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rivaroxaban in antiphospholipid syndrome (RAPS) protocol: a prospective, randomized controlled phase II/III clinical trial of rivaroxaban versus warfarin in patients with thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome, with or without SLE
Authors: Cohen H , Doré C J , Clawson S , Hunt B J , Isenberg D , Khamashta M , Muirhead N
Published: May 2015

Introduction

The current mainstay of the treatment of thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is long-term anticoagulation with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) such as warfarin. Non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs), which include rivaroxaban, have been shown to be effective and safe compared with warfarin for the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in major phase III prospective, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), but the results may not be directly generalizable to patients with APS.

Aims

The primary aim is to demonstrate, in patients with APS and previous VTE, with or without systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), that the intensity of anticoagulation achieved with rivaroxaban is not inferior to that of warfarin. Secondary aims are to compare rates of recurrent thrombosis, bleeding and the quality of life in patients on rivaroxaban with those on warfarin.

Methods

Rivaroxaban in antiphospholipid syndrome (RAPS) is a phase II/III prospective non-inferiority RCT in which eligible patients with APS, with or without SLE, who are on warfarin, target international normalized ratio (INR) 2.5 for previous VTE, will be randomized either to continue warfarin (standard of care) or to switch to rivaroxaban. Intensity of anticoagulation will be assessed using thrombin generation (TG) testing, with the primary outcome the percentage change in endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) from randomization to day 42. Other TG parameters, markers of in vivo coagulation activation, prothrombin fragment 1.2, thrombin antithrombin complex and D-dimer, will also be assessed.

Discussion

If RAPS demonstrates i) that the anticoagulant effect of rivaroxaban is not inferior to that of warfarin and ii) the absence of any adverse effects that cause concern with regard to the use of rivaroxaban, this would provide sufficient supporting evidence to make rivaroxaban a standard of care for the treatment of APS patients with previous VTE, requiring a target INR of 2.5.
Expectations about re-entering the weekly cycle following disruption by familial death or holiday
Authors: Ruscher Janet B
Published: May 2015

In industrialized nations, patterns of behavior such as attending work or school are strongly predicted by the seven-day weekly calendar. The weekly cycle can be disrupted by unexpected events (e.g. familial death) or planned days off (e.g. vacation). Because the weekly cycle typically begins on Monday, people should expect others who experience disruption to re-enter the weekly cycle on Mondays in order to synchronize with the conventional weekly pattern. Study 1 examined expectations for returning to work after the death of a spouse, Study 2 examined expectations for returning to university classes after the death of a parent, and Study 3 examined preferences for Monday versus Friday holidays from work and from classes. All three studies showed an overwhelming expectation for returning to work or class on Mondays, and people explained this expectation by referencing time (e.g. it's time to get back to routine). Expectations of return times other than Monday were explained by referencing emotion (e.g. she's upset and can't think straight). Conceivably, expectations to synchronize behavior to the beginning phases of a cycle hold across daily, weekly, and annual cycles.
Evaluation of Absorbable and Nonabsorbable Sutures for Repair of Achilles Tendon Rupture With a Suture-Guiding Device
Authors: Kocaoglu Baris , Ulku Tekin Kerem , Gereli Arel , Karahan Mustafa , Turkmen Metin
Published: May 2015

Background:

The purpose of this study was to compare the functional and clinical results of Achilles tendon repairs with an Achilles tendon suture-guiding device using nonabsorbable versus absorbable sutures. We hypothesized that the absorbable suture would have clinical results comparable to those of the nonabsorbable suture for Achilles tendon repair with an Achilles tendon suture-guiding system.

Methods:

From January 2010 to September 2013, 48 consecutive patients who had sustained a spontaneous rupture of the Achilles tendon underwent operative repair with an Achilles tendon suture-guiding device using 2 different suture types. All ruptures were acute. The patients were divided equally into 2 groups according to suture type. In the nonabsorbable suture group, No. 2 braided nonabsorbable polyethylene terephthalate sutures were used, and in the absorbable suture group, braided absorbable polyglactin sutures were used. The average age of the patients was 38 years (range, 28-50 years). Functional outcome scores and complications were evaluated.

Results:

All patients had an intact Achilles repair after surgery. The American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot clinical outcome scores were 98 (range, 90-100) in the nonabsorbable suture group and 96.8 (range, 87-100) in the absorbable suture group. All patients returned to their previous work. The absorbable suture group had fewer postoperative complications (0%) than the nonabsorbable suture group (12.5%) ( P < .05).

Conclusion:

Use of an absorbable suture in the treatment of Achilles tendon repair by an Achilles tendon suture-guiding system was associated with a lower incidence of suture reaction; however, functionally the results were not notably different from those using a traditional nonabsorbable suture. We conclude that repair with absorbable sutures is appropriate for Achilles tendon ruptures.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, prospective comparative study.
Groundwater Pesticide Levels and the Association With Parkinson Disease
Authors: James Katherine A. , Hall Deborah A.
Published: May 2015

It is unclear whether exposure to environmentally relevant levels of pesticides in groundwater is associated with an increased risk of Parkinson disease (PD). The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between PD and pesticide levels in groundwater. This cross-sectional study included 332 971 Medicare beneficiaries, including 4207 prevalent cases of PD from the 2007 Colorado Medicare Beneficiary Database. Residential pesticide levels were estimated from a spatial model based on 286 well water samples with atrazine, simazine, alachlor, and metolachlor measurements. A logistic regression model with known PD risk factors was used to assess the association between residential groundwater pesticide levels and prevalent PD. We found that for every 1.0 µg/L of pesticide in groundwater, the risk of PD increases by 3% (odds ratio = 1.03; 95% confidence interval: 1.02-1.04) while adjusting for age, race/ethnicity, and gender suggesting that higher age-standardized PD prevalence ratios are associated with increasing levels of pesticides in groundwater.
A 4-Week Toxicity Study of Methionine in Male Rats
Authors: Chin Keigi , Toue Sakino , Kawamata Yasuko , Watanabe Akiko , Miwa Tadashi , Smriga Miro , Sakai Ryosei
Published: May 2015

To examine 4-week toxicity of l-methionine (methionine), 5-week-old Fisher strain male rats were fed on diets containing 0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.9, 2.7 (w/w) of added methionine. Although no deaths were recorded, the highest dose of methionine (2.7% [w/w] of diet) reduced food intake and significantly suppressed growth rate. Growth suppression was characterized by an increase in hemolysis, splenic, and hepatic accumulation of hemosiderin, hemolytic anemia, and promotion of hematopoiesis. Other changes observed in the highest methionine intake group were a decrease in white blood cell count, thymus atrophy, and histological abnormalities in the adrenal gland and testis. Small, but significant, growth suppression, accompanied by some minor changes in plasma biochemical parameters, was also seen in rats fed on a test diet containing 0.9% (w/w) of additional methionine. Thus, no-observed-adverse-effect-level (NOAEL) and lowest-observed-adverse-effect level (LOAEL) of diet-added methionine were determined at 0.3% and 0.9% (w/w), corresponding to 236 and 705 mg/kg/d body weight, respectively. Since the basal diet contained protein-bound methionine at 0.5% (w/w), NOAEL and LOAEL of total dietary methionine were estimated at 0.8% and 1.4% (w/w) of diet.
First-year doctors’ attitudes and beliefs relating to quality improvement and patient safety
Authors: Dahill Mark , Bethune Rob , Carson-Stevens Andrew , Soo Eleanor , Finucane Katherine , Watson Joanne , Woodhead Tricia , VanHamel Clare
Published: May 2015

In the current environment of culture change and financial pressure on the National Health Service, quality improvement initiatives are heralded as new vehicles for workplace evolution. Foundation Year One doctors encounter many of the problems impinging on quality, and their enthusiasm and number make them an indispensable resource and critical mass for improvement.

In response to the increasing importance of quality improvement training, and as part of an ongoing project to embed quality improvement education in the Severn Deanery region, this paper describes the evolution of a questionnaire tool to assess the attitudes and beliefs of a cohort of new Foundation Year One doctors.

An electronic survey was developed and validated to address each aim of quality care. The survey was sent by email to every Foundation Year One doctor in the Severn Deanery.

New Foundation Year One doctors’ attitudes are overwhelmingly positive towards quality improvement and patient safety; however, universally, they do not feel valued and listened to. In addition, they do not feel that their previous medical education has fully equipped them to improve the quality and safety of the care they deliver to their patients. Foundation Year One doctors represent a large, intelligent and enthusiastic workforce and in an environment where quality is now accepted as paramount, harnessing their potential through better quality improvement training could prove advantageous to all National Health Service stakeholders.
Effect of aspirin on acute changes in peripheral arterial stiffness and endothelial function following exertional heat stress in firefighters: The factorial group results of the Enhanced Firefighter Rehab Trial
Authors: Olafiranye Oladipupo , Hostler David , Winger Daniel G , Wang Li , Reis Steven E
Published: May 2015

Peripheral arterial stiffness and endothelial function, which are independent predictors of cardiac events, are abnormal in firefighters. We examined the effects of aspirin on peripheral arterial stiffness and endothelial function in firefighters. Fifty-two firefighters were randomized to receive daily 81 mg aspirin or placebo for 14 days before treadmill exercise in thermal protection clothing, and a single dose of 325 mg aspirin or placebo immediately following exertion. Peripheral arterial augmentation index adjusted for a heart rate of 75 (AI75) and reactive hyperemia index (RHI) were determined immediately before, and 30, 60, and 90 minutes after exertion. Low-dose aspirin was associated with lower AI75 (–15.25±9.25 vs −8.08±10.70, p=0.014) but not RHI. On repeated measures analysis, treatment with low-dose aspirin before, but not single-dose aspirin after exertion, was associated with lower AI75 following exertional heat stress ( p=0.018). Low-dose aspirin improved peripheral arterial stiffness and wave reflection but not endothelial function in firefighters.
The donor figuration: A progenitor, father or friend? How young people in planned lesbian families negotiate with their donor
Authors: Hanssen Jorid Krane
Published: May 2015

This article discusses how seven young people born to lesbian mothers and conceived using donor insemination negotiate positions with their donor figuration. ‘Negotiation’ here refers to processes in which the donor figure, his offspring or both are in motion, and in which the motion physically and relationally positions them in relation to each other. The article illuminates the differences in negotiations between the donor being an anonymous figuration and a ‘negotiated absence’ ( Donovan, 2000 ), or a known and physical present figure. However, the analyses show that the positions between the donor figure and his offspring are constantly in motion, irrespective of the donors’ anonymity or not. This indicates that the anonymous/known dichotomy is not entirely useful in explaining the different ways in which donors are configured in planned lesbian families.
Experimental testing of concrete beams with different levels of prestressing
Authors: Radnić Jure , Markić Radoslav , Glibić Mladen , Ćubela Dragan , Grgić Nikola
Published: May 2015

The behaviour of actual prestressed concrete beams under static load up to failure has been experimentally investigated. The experimental testing includes five types of precast concrete beams with different ratios of prestressed and classical reinforcements (only prestressed reinforcement, dominant prestressed reinforcement and classical reinforcement, equal prestressed and classical reinforcements, dominant classical reinforcement and prestressed reinforcement, and only classical reinforcement) i.e. with different levels of prestressing force. Twenty-three beams were tested. The total amount of reinforcement in each beam was selected to provide approximately equal ultimate bending bearing capacity. The deflections, concrete stresses, stresses in classical and prestressed reinforcements and concrete cracks were monitored until the beams collapsed. It was concluded that by increasing the level of prestressing, the serviceability limit state of the beams was improved. The optimal level of prestressing should be selected based on the relevant criteria for each individual structure.
The positivist dispute in German sociology: A scientific or a political controversy?
Authors: Keuth Herbert
Published: May 2015

In 1914 the dispute about scientific value judgments in economics reached its climax. In the 1960s it was followed by the positivist dispute in German sociology. In both controversies one party pretended to provide ethical knowledge and questioned the distinction between what is and what should be. In 1961, at a conference of the German Sociological Association, Karl Popper and Theodor W. Adorno gave lectures on “the Logic of the Social Sciences”. While Popper tried to contribute to methodology, Adorno pleaded for a dialectical philosophy of society. In 1963 Jürgen Habermas criticized Popper’s contribution and Hans Albert made a counterplea. At this time Habermas assumed that critical theory, i.e. neomarxist dialectical theory of society, provided ethical knowledge. Instead of seriously defending this assumption he attacked the self-understanding of the empirical social sciences, in particular the idea of the value freedom of research. Albert showed that Habermas’ criticism of the methodology of Popper’s critical rationalism was completely untenable. So the positivist dispute was not a scientific dispute. Nevertheless Habermas’ version of a critical theory of society was politically immensely influential. It provided the illusion that leftist political programs could be known to be ethically right. In 1981 Habermas admitted that his critical theory was due to ‘confusions in fundamental concepts’. Meanwhile he had proposed a consensus theory of the rightness of norms and his ethics of discourse. Both proved to be untenable as well. Finally Habermas turned to religion and advocated the political influence of religious organizations.
Metabolic abnormalities of the heart in type II diabetes
Authors: Amaral Nelson , Okonko Darlington O
Published: May 2015

Type 2 diabetes mellitus escalates the risk of heart failure partly via its ability to induce a cardiomyopathic state that is independent of coronary artery disease and hypertension. Although the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy has yet to be fully elucidated, aberrations in cardiac substrate metabolism and energetics are thought to be key drivers. These aberrations include excessive fatty acid utilisation and storage, suppressed glucose oxidation and impaired mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. An appreciation of how these abnormalities arise and synergise to promote adverse cardiac remodelling is critical to their effective amelioration. This review focuses on disturbances in myocardial fuel (fatty acids and glucose) flux and energetics in type 2 diabetes, how these disturbances relate to the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy and the potential therapeutic agents that could be used to correct them.
Graphics Processing Unit-Based Bioheat Simulation to Facilitate Rapid Decision Making Associated with Cryosurgery Training
Authors: Keelan Robert , Zhang Hong , Shimada Kenji , Rabin Yoed
Published: May 2015

This study focuses on the implementation of an efficient numerical technique for cryosurgery simulations on a graphics processing unit as an alternative means to accelerate runtime. This study is part of an ongoing effort to develop computerized training tools for cryosurgery, with prostate cryosurgery as a developmental model. The ability to perform rapid simulations of various test cases is critical to facilitate sound decision making associated with medical training. Consistent with clinical practice, the training tool aims at correlating the frozen region contour and the corresponding temperature field with the target region shape. The current study focuses on the feasibility of graphics processing unit-based computation using C++ accelerated massive parallelism, as one possible implementation. Benchmark results on a variety of computation platforms display between 3-fold acceleration (laptop) and 13-fold acceleration (gaming computer) of cryosurgery simulation, in comparison with the more common implementation on a multicore central processing unit. While the general concept of graphics processing unit-based simulations is not new, its application to phase-change problems, combined with the unique requirements for cryosurgery optimization, represents the core contribution of the current study.
Exploring cultural differences within a pattern of teaching ‘musics’: An international comparative study of two music lessons on video
Authors: Stich Simon
Published: May 2015

This paper outlines a praxiological perspective on classroom practice with the subject matter music, in order to understand two music lessons that were recorded on video, one in Sweden and one in Germany. It introduces a procedure and its methodological implications, in order to reconstruct and compare the characteristics of and the cultural differences between the lessons. The focus of this research was on the teaching structures used along with non-verbal and verbal teacher and pupil actions and interactions. As a first step, the cases were reconstructed by combining thick description, the documentary method and videography analysis. After identifying both cases as a certain type of a music educational practice (making music in the classroom), the teaching structures were compared as a second step. The process was guided by contrasting different practices and forms of interaction, and examining certain aims and functions of the lessons. Both these interests served as a basis for a comparative discussion. The results of the study (1) are derived from the compressed teaching structures in both the cases based on the thick descriptions, and through the comparison (2) of a hypothesis relating to a pattern of teaching ‘musics’, which involves (3) a hypothesis of the aim and function of these lessons. The study concludes with considerations relating to the re-interpretation of the results in the context of specific pedagogical cultural traditions.
New method for multi-state system reliability analysis based on linear algebraic representation
Authors: Liu Chenxi , Chen Nan , Yang Jianing
Published: May 2015

Multi-state system is a certain complex system with failure criteria that are not limited to “normal or failure.” During the life cycle, both the system and each component inside have different states at any time point. State transition of the whole system depends on the structure function while that of any component has a certain mechanism. To directly express state transition processes of the whole system and all components, we develop a linear algebraic representation method. Based on this method, dynamic transition can be expressed by mathematic equations, in which information of both system structure function and components transition mechanism is embedded. Furthermore, the extended multi-state dynamic fault tree is introduced to multi-state system modeling. By means of the proposed linear algebraic representation, standard operating rules for both static and dynamic gates are generated by introducing two variables that are used to determine whether the transition occurs and which state the output would convert into, respectively. Then, a Monte Carlo simulation coupled with the multi-state dynamic fault tree method is proposed to calculate the reliability indices of a multi-state system. The proposed method is then validated with a dynamic fault tree problem from a literature. Finally, the servo turret system is taken as an example for the application of the proposed method.
Developing a tactical metric to estimate the defensive area of soccer teams: The defensive play area
Authors: Clemente Filipe M , Martins Fernando ML , Couceiro Micael S , Mendes Rui S , Figueiredo António J
Published: May 2015

This study proposes a computational method to inspect the tactical position of players during the match and a new metric to analyse the defensive pressure made by a soccer team. These metrics only require Cartesian information about the players’ positions on the field. As a case study, three matches played by the same professional soccer team were considered, including variables computed for the half of the match (first half vs second half) and the final score of the game for an analysis of variance of tactical performance, trying to identify the influence of such variables on the collective organisation. The data were collected at 1 Hz and from this process, 9218 instances of useful time were collected. The results revealed that the different kinds of final scores had significant effects on the tactical performance. The comparison between two halves of the match revealed significant differences with a small effect size on tactical performance. In summary, this study showed that these new tactical metrics can be a computational option to increase a coaches’ knowledge about the defensive organisation of soccer teams, giving them the possibility to augment their own perception with metrics that can provide specific information.
Forefoot Deformity in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Dave Malhar H. , Mason Lyndon W. , Hariharan Kartik
Published: May 2015

All reported rheumatoid arthritis (RA) forefoot deformities in the literature thus far have arisen from shoe wearing populations. Our aim in this study was to compare hallucal deformities seen in a shod population with an unshod population. A population comparison was undertaken in 2 specialized foot and ankle units, one in India and one in the United Kingdom. In the shod population, there was 1 hallux varus deformity, 10 without hallucal deformity, and 90 hallux valgus deformities. In contrast, in the unshod population, there were 19 hallux varus deformities and 6 hallux valgus deformities. There was great variability in the lesser toe deformity seen. In the shod population, it was most common to see dorsal subluxation or dislocation, with the fifth toe in a varus position. In the unshod population, the most common lesser toe deformity seen was varus deviation or dislocation. Instability of the metatarsophalangeal joint in the rheumatoid foot predisposes it to significant deformity. In the non–shoe wearing population, intrinsic muscle forces and weight bearing forces are the most likely determinants of the deformity, with hallux varus being a more common presenting problem. In the shod population, the external forces of shoe wear dictate the direction of deformity.

Levels of Evidence: Prognostic, Level III: Case control study
Allograft Reconstruction of the Lisfranc Ligament
Authors: Weglein Daniel G. , Andersen Clark R. , Morris Randal P. , Buford William L. , Panchbhavi Vinod K.
Published: May 2015

For Lisfranc injuries, screw fixation of the medial and middle columns is currently the standard of treatment. The purpose of this study was to biomechanically evaluate the use of allograft for a severed Lisfranc ligament compared to standard screw fixation and the intact condition. Six pairs of fresh-frozen cadaveric lower extremities were prepared with reflective marker arrays and cyclically loaded to simulate partial weight bearing under 4 sequential testing conditions: (1) intact ligament, (2) disrupted ligament, (3) tendon allograft reconstructed ligament, and (4) rigid screw fixation. The relative displacement between the medial cuneiform and the second metatarsal was assessed via motion analysis. A mixed model analysis of variance was used to determine the significance (α = .05) of displacement differences. Mean displacements and 95% confidence intervals for each condition were as follows: (1) intact 9.1 (7.1-11.2) mm, (2) cut ligament 9.4 (7.4-11.5) mm, (3) allograft fixation 8.8 (6.8-10.9) mm, and (4) screw fixation 8.2 (6.2-10.3) mm. There were no significant differences among the specimens according to condition. Allograft fixation provided adequate strength and stability and did not differ significantly compared to intact or screw fixation.

Levels of Evidence: Level V: Bench testing
Leading Technology-Rich School Districts
Authors: McLeod Scott , Richardson Jayson W. , Sauers Nicholas J.
Published: May 2015

Superintendents’ instructional leadership is critical to the academic success of school systems. In addition to traditional work complexities, today’s superintendents must navigate rapid and significant technological transformations. In this study, an exploratory sample of “technology-savvy” superintendents was interviewed to ascertain advice about how to navigate the complexities that surround successful district-level technology leadership strategies and mind-sets. Participants highlighted issues such as budgets, professional development, and instructional leadership, and affirmed the value of personally modeling technology use. They also emphasized both personal and organizational risk-taking and shared how communities of practice can help alleviate skill and knowledge gaps.
Social Media, Privacy, and Self-Disclosure: The Turbulence Caused by Social Media’s Affordances
Authors: Trepte Sabine
Published: May 2015

The struggle we currently perceive in terms of social media privacy may be the result of the incompatible natures of “warm” and “cold” affordances. Whereas social media’s warm affordances reflect long-standing privacy routines and expectations, cold affordances seem to challenge and sometimes violate them. Sharing under the realm of warm affordances means sharing according to the routines and habits we know. Sharing under the realm of cold affordances means understanding social media’s terms and conditions and how they reflect on our relationships and experiences - similar to assimilating to a new culture that seems opaque and constantly in flux.
Relationships Between Family and Community Factors on Delinquency and Violence among African American Adolescents
Authors: Fix Rebecca L. , Burkhart Barry R.
Published: May 2015

Among the most powerful antecedents to delinquency and violence are the family of origin and the community context in which the adolescent lives. Additionally, it is recognized that family and community factors may mutually and interactively influence delinquency. Fourteen studies were reviewed to examine the relationship between family and community factors on delinquency or violence among male African American adolescents. Nine studies examined delinquency, three studies examined violence, and two studies had both delinquency and violence as outcome variables. Findings affirmed the importance of concurrently examining community and family factors when investigating delinquency or violence. Two overarching patterns between family and community factors on delinquency and violence were observed across studies. Protective family factors appeared to buffer against the negative impact of influential community factors, while protective community factors appeared to reduce delinquency or violence on the family level. Additionally, the presence of detrimental factors at both family and community levels exacerbated delinquency or violence. Race/ethnicity moderated observed family–community relationships in several studies, but insufficient evidence of race/ethnicity as a moderator was indicated overall. Finally, future research is warranted examining models of delinquency and violence that includes multiple contexts with race/ethnicity as a moderator.
Cross-Cultural Leadership
Authors: Snaebjornsson Inga Minelgaite , Edvardsson Ingi Runar , Zydziunaite Vilma , Vaiman Vlad
Published: May 2015

Ongoing low participation of women in global leadership calls for more research in this field. In this article, we set out to include gendered expectations toward leader behavior as part of cross-cultural leadership theory. Building on an existing body of research, we focus on propositions about the effects of gendered expectations on the leader, from the followers’ standpoint. The consideration of gendered effects from the follower standpoint is an under-researched area in leadership literature, and it is even more rarely to be found in empirical data. In every culture, there are certain expectations toward leaders of the two genders that influence their behavior. In this article, we will attempt to answer the following question: How does perceived leader behavior and gendered behavior relate to national culture and actual leader behavior? We present a conceptual model that seeks to incorporate gendered expectations into cross-cultural leadership as an answer. Moreover, we provide a conceptual guideline toward operationalization of the model. The model includes the potential of dissonance between male expectations as a dominating leadership role and female leadership. This might serve as an explanation as to why in some cases women are not seen as successful as men when they adopt a masculine leadership style. The article seeks to advance cross-cultural leadership theory by focusing on expected gendered leadership behavior. Our ideas and model could eventually contribute to the advancement of leadership theory, as well as contributing to gender studies, cross-cultural leadership, and business communication.
Incidence and Severity of Foot and Ankle Injuries in Men’s Collegiate American Football
Authors: Lievers W. Brent , Adamic Peter F.
Published: May 2015

Background:

American football is an extremely physical game with a much higher risk of injury than other sports. While many studies have reported the rate of injury for particular body regions or for individual injuries, very little information exists that compares the incidence or severity of particular injuries within a body region. Such information is critical for prioritizing preventative interventions.

Purpose:

To retrospectively analyze epidemiological data to identify the most common and most severe foot and ankle injuries in collegiate men’s football.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

Injury data were obtained from the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Injury Surveillance System (ISS) for all foot and ankle injuries during the 2004-2005 to 2008-2009 seasons. Injuries were analyzed in terms of incidence and using multiple measures of severity (time loss, surgeries, medical disqualifications). This frequency and severity information is summarized in tabular form as well as in a 4 × 4 quantitative injury risk assessment matrix (QIRAM).

Results:

The rate of foot and ankle injuries was 15 per 10,000 athletic exposures (AEs). Five injuries were found to be responsible for more than 80% of all foot and ankle injuries: lateral ankle ligament sprains, syndesmotic (high ankle) sprains, medial ankle ligament sprains, midfoot injuries, and first metatarsophalangeal joint injuries. Ankle dislocations were found to be the most severe in terms of median time loss (100 days), percentage of surgeries (83%), and percentage of medical disqualifications (94%), followed by metatarsal fractures (38 days, 36%, and 49%, respectively) and malleolus fractures (33 days, 41%, and 59%, respectively). Statistical analysis suggests that the 3 measures of severity are highly correlated ( r > 0.94), thereby justifying the use of time loss as a suitable proxy for injury severity in the construction of the QIRAM.

Conclusion:

Based on the QIRAM analysis, the 5 highest risk injuries were identified based on both incidence and severity (ankle dislocations, syndesmotic sprains, lateral ankle ligament sprains, metatarsal fractures, and malleolus fractures). A better understanding of the relative incidence and severity of these injuries will allow coaches, trainers, and researchers to more effectively focus their preventative interventions.
How the Legacy of Slavery and Racial Composition Shape Public School Enrollment in the American South
Authors: Reece Robert L. , O’Connell Heather A.
Published: May 2015

History is centrally involved in place development. Given the historical importance of antebellum slavery, it is little surprise that it profoundly shaped the social and economic future of the United States. What is perhaps more surprising is the link to local, county-level development as it relates to contemporary systems of black disadvantage. Through our focus on one aspect of school segregation in the American South, namely racial disparities in public school enrollment, we contribute to the literature on the legacy of slavery by examining how this local link persists. We use spatial data analysis techniques to assess the relationship between county historical slave concentration and the black-white ratio of public school attendance. Our data originally come from the 1860 Census, 2006–2010 American Community Survey, and National Center for Education Statistics Private School Universe Survey, 2007–2008. Notably, our historical slave concentration estimates incorporate spatially informed refinements to better represent contemporary counties than previously available data. Drawing from our regression analysis, we argue that slavery history shaped the local social structure in a way that facilitates contemporary white disinvestment from public school systems. We examine two potential explanations for this legacy of slavery—the number of private schools and racial threat—particularly their manifestation within the Deep South. Despite evidence of subregional differences rooted in history, neither pathway explains the initial slavery association. We argue that processes tied to the legacy of slavery are a foundational component of black disadvantage and that further examination of this foundation is necessary to stem the tide of recent resegregation.
Memorializing Lynch Victims
Authors: Bailey Amy Kate , Leiker Jason , Gutierrez Andrew , Larson Eric C. , Mitchell Serena
Published: May 2015

This article describes a class project designed to develop students’ abilities to use their sociological imagination to better understand the structural sources of racial inequality. The event consisted of a memorial reading of the names of more than 4,000 documented lynch victims in the United States. Authors conducted a pretest and posttest on racial attitudes in large Introduction to Sociology courses. Posttest responses evidenced less support for “colorblind” ideologies and greater support for structural sources of inequality.
Clear Aligners Generations and Orthodontic Tooth Movement
Authors: Hennessy Joe , Al-Awadhi Ebrahim A.
Published: May 2015

Clear aligner technology has evolved over the last 15 years, with these appliances continually being modified to increase the range of tooth movements that they can achieve. However, there is very little clinical research available to show how these appliances achieve their results. This article describes the different generations of clear aligners that are available and highlights their use. However, until more clinical research becomes available, aligners cannot be routinely prescribed as an effective alternative to fixed labial appliances.
Localisation of deformation in cold gas dynamic spraying
Authors: Bielousova O. , Kocimski J. , Maev R. Gr. , Smurov I. , Scharff W. , Leshchynsky V.
Published: May 2015

One of the main specific features of the cold spray process is localisation during particle impact deformation. The resultant adiabatic shear instability is the phenomenon that is known to play a major role in the particle/substrate and particle/particle bonding and coating structure formation during the cold spray process. In this article, the cold spray process is numerically simulated as an impact between a single spherical particle with the substrate, and comparison with experimental results for Armco iron and stainless steel particles is made. To describe a deformation behavior of the two materials at high strain rates, the Johnson–Cook model has been chosen. The results indicate that the model accurately captures the grain distortion in the impact zone for both materials. This approach provides valuable information on the characterisation of the strain localisation at the particle/substrate interface.
Suppression of SOX7 by DNA methylation and its tumor suppressor function in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Man Cheuk Him , Fung Tsz Kan , Wan Haixia , Cher Chae Yin , Fan August , Ng Nelson , Ho Christa , Wan Thomas S. K. , Tanaka Toshiyuki , So Chi Wai Eric , Kwong Yok Lam , Leung Anskar Y. H.
Published: May 2015

Key Points

SOX7 expression is silenced in common myeloid malignancies. SOX7 interacts directly with β-catenin and regulates the Wnt pathway in acute myeloid leukemia.
Tumor indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) inhibits CD19-CAR T cells and is downregulated by lymphodepleting drugs
Authors: Ninomiya Soranobu , Narala Neeharika , Huye Leslie , Yagyu Shigeki , Savoldo Barbara , Dotti Gianpietro , Heslop Helen E. , Brenner Malcolm K. , Rooney Cliona M. , Ramos Carlos A.
Published: May 2015

Key Points

Tumor IDO inhibits CD19-CART activity, likely via induction of the kynurenine pathway, whose metabolites directly inhibit T cells. Fludarabine and cyclophosphamide, frequently used before CART administration, downregulate IDO expression in lymphoma cells.
Supercapacitor electrode with a homogeneously Co3O4-coated multiwalled carbon nanotube for a high capacitance
Authors: Tao Li , Shengjun Li , Bowen Zhang , Bei Wang , Dayong Nie , Zeng Chen , Ying Yan , Ning Wan , Weifeng Zhang
Published: May 2015

Cobalt oxide (Co3O4) was homogeneously coated on multiwalled carbon nanotube through a simple chemical deposition method and employed in supercapacitor electrodes. SEM image indicated the uniform distribution of Co3O4 nanoparticles on the surface of the multiwalled carbon nanotube. A maximum specific capacitance of 273 Fg−1 was obtained at the charge–discharge current density of 0.5 Ag−1. After 500 cycles of continuous charge–discharge process, about 88% of the initial capacity could be retained.
Diagnostic value of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, cystatin C, and soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 in critically ill patients with sepsis-associated acute kidney injury
Authors: Dai Xingui , Zeng Zhenhua , Fu Chunlai , Zhang Sheng’an , Cai Yeping , Chen Zhongqing
Published: May 2015

Introduction

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), cystatin C (Cys-C), and soluble triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (sTREM-1) are novel diagnostic biomarkers of acute kidney injury (AKI). We aimed to determine the diagnostic properties of these biomarkers for detecting AKI in critically ill patients with sepsis.

Methods

We divided 112 patients with sepsis into non-AKI sepsis (n = 57) and AKI sepsis (n = 55) groups. Plasma and urine specimens were collected on admission and every 24 hours until 72 hours and tested for NGAL, Cys-C, and TREM-1 concentrations. Their levels were compared on admission, at diagnosis, and 24 hours before diagnosis.

Results

Both plasma and urine NGAL, Cys-C, and sTREM-1 were significantly associated with AKI development in patients with sepsis, even after adjustment for confounders by using generalized estimating equations. Compared with the non-AKI sepsis group, the sepsis AKI group exhibited markedly higher levels of these biomarkers at diagnosis and 24 hours before AKI diagnosis (P <0.01). The diagnostic and predictive values of plasma and urine NGAL were good, and those of plasma and urine Cys-C and sTREM-1 were fair.

Conclusion

Plasma and urine NGAL, Cys-C, and sTREM-1 can be used as diagnostic and predictive biomarkers for AKI in critically ill patients with sepsis.
Does the gender composition of forest and fishery management groups affect resource governance and conservation outcomes: a systematic map protocol
Authors: Leisher Craig , Temsah Gheda , Booker Francesca , Day Michael , Agarwal Bina , Matthews Elizabeth , Roe Dilys , Russell Diane , Samberg Leah , Sunderland Terry , Wilkie David
Published: May 2015

Background

In the fields of environmental governance and biodiversity conservation, there is a growing awareness that gender has an influence on resource use and management. Several studies argue that empowering women in resource governance can lead to beneficial outcomes for resource sustainability and biodiversity conservation. Yet how robust is the evidence to support this claim? Here we focus on the forestry and fisheries sectors to answer the primary question: What is the evidence that the gender composition of forest and fishery management groups affects resource governance and conservation outcomes? Our objective is to produce a systematic map of the evidence highlighting, inter alia, the geographic distribution and quality of the evidence, the consistency and robustness of the findings, and where further research is needed.

Methods/design

This protocol provides the details of the methodology. The search terms used to identify relevant articles were developed in an iterative process using the phraseology of the primary question, Boolean operators, and a list of synonyms for each term. The search terms will be used to identify relevant articles in CAB Abstracts, Scopus, AGRIS, AGRICOLA, Google Scholar, and Google. A test library of 12 articles will ensure that the search captures the relevant literature. Searches will be in English but will not be restricted by publication date. The websites of 22 international organisations with a known interest in gender-related issues will be screened for relevant documents. The gender-focussed researchers at large conservation NGOs, the members of the Poverty and Conservation Learning Group, and the members of the Gender and Environment Working Group will be invited to submit relevant documents. The list of references of included articles will be screened to identify other relevant articles in a ‘backwards snowballing’ approach. The inclusion criteria are that an article refers to women or gender, forests or fisheries, a resource management group, a quantitative comparison, and an environmental governance or biodiversity conservation outcome in a non-OECD country. A data extraction template with 27 variables will be used to assess the included articles. The output will be a narrative report with descriptive statistics and an evidence-gap map.
Genetic variants and risk of gastric cancer: a pathway analysis of a genome-wide association study
Authors: Lee Ju-Han , Kim Younghye , Choi Jung-Woo , Kim Young-Sik
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to discover candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for hypothesizing significant biological pathways of gastric cancer (GC). We performed an Identify Candidate Causal SNPs and Pathways (ICSNPathway) analysis using a GC genome-wide association study (GWAS) dataset, including 472,342 SNPs in 2,240 GC cases and 3,302 controls of Asian ethnicity. By integrating linkage disequilibrium analysis, functional SNP annotation, and pathway-based analysis, seven candidate SNPs, four genes and 12 pathways were selected. The ICSNPathway analysis produced 4 hypothetical mechanisms of GC: (1) rs4745 and rs12904 → EFNA1 → ephrin receptor binding; (2) rs1801019 → UMPS → drug and pyrimidine metabolism; (3) rs364897 → GBA → cyanoamino acid metabolism; and (4) rs11187870, rs2274223, and rs3765524 → PLCE1 → lipid biosynthetic process, regulation of cell growth, and cation homeostasis. This pathway analysis using GWAS dataset suggests that the 4 hypothetical biological mechanisms might contribute to GC susceptibility.
Predictors of life satisfaction among Asian American adolescents- analysis of add health data
Authors: Huang Jui-Yen , Wang Kuan-Yuan , Ringel-Kulka Tamar
Published: May 2015

Life satisfaction correlates with adolescent risk taking behavior and their outcomes in adulthood. Despite the fast rise in numbers of Asian adolescents in the U.S., the predictors of their life satisfaction are not well understood. This study examined the relationship between several demographic and contextual factors and global life satisfaction among this population. Data were derived from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health), a nationally representative probability sample of US adolescents. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression was conducted to evaluate hypothesized predictors of global life satisfaction of Asian American adolescents. All analyses were conducted using STATA version 11. After exclusion of cases with missing values, 1021 Asian American adolescents were studied. Self- rated health, self-esteem, perceived neighborhood quality, parental support and peer support were significantly and positively related to better global life satisfaction. However, after controlling for other factors, only self-esteem (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.76; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.86-8.33) and perceived peer support (aOR: 2.76; 95% CI: 1.33-5.76) significantly predicted higher life satisfaction. Peer support and adolescents’ self-concept are strongly correlated with Asian American adolescents’ subjective well-being. To promote the wellness of this population, culturally sensitive strategies in developing peer relationship and healthy self-concept may be effective. More studies are needed for subgroup comparison of various ethnicities among Asian American adolescents.