bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Negotiating Norms
Authors: Spišák Sanna
Published: November 2016

Drawing on 91 pornography-related submissions sent by young Finns to a moderated question and answer forum on sexual health, this article explores the personal narratives of adolescents on pornography use. Special attention is given to the submissions by girls to explore the widely circulated narratives on the sexualization of adolescence more precisely. In focusing on these accounts of sexual exploration, learning and the pursuit of pleasure, the article examines how girls’ interests in sexually explicit media can be reflexively understood in the context of everyday sexual practices that are already socially constructed and negotiated. The material reveals that Finnish girls depict themselves as invested with substantial agency, competence and volition despite the occasional gender-specific anxieties that their encounters with pornography have created.
Historical building acoustical retrofit: An experimental examination of traditional wooden floors
Authors: Queirós Dóris , Calejo Rodrigues Rui , Pereira Nelson
Published: November 2016

Historic buildings that regularly characterize the centre of our cities present us the challenge of being updated without losing their uniqueness. Acousticians frequently find themselves at the centre of this challenge, facing traditional solutions that must fulfil contemporary acoustical requirements. In order to apply technical improvements to enhance the performance of traditional solutions, the first step is to understand how these solutions work and perform in real-life conditions. Traditional solutions were conveniently tested by site measurements for validation. Airborne sound insulation (DnT,w) and impact sound insulation ([Formula: see text]) tests were performed on 13 similar wooden floors. The same wooden floor was constructed at the Faculty of Engineering in University of Porto’s acoustic chamber in order to study its acoustical behaviour without the influence of flanking transmissions. Wooden floor improvement solutions were tested through the addition of airborne and impact sound insulation favouring materials. Airborne sound insulation (Rw) and impact sound insulation (Lnw) tests were performed on six solutions for the improvement of the traditional wooden floors. Traditionally, in Portuguese historical buildings, the lack of knowledge of the traditional solutions’ technical characteristics is sometimes the reason for demolishing these solutions. Adapting traditional solutions to current standards of comfort can become arduous since the information on the performance of these solutions is unknown. The potential demonstrated by these enhanced traditional solutions predicted a shift in current paradigms and will allow acousticians to support the challenge of historic building retrofit.
Systemic inflammatory markers and sources of social support among older adults in the Memory Research Unit cohort
Authors: McHugh Power Joanna , Carney Sile , Hannigan Caoimhe , Brennan Sabina , Wolfe Hannah , Lynch Marina , Kee Frank , Lawlor Brian
Published: November 2016

Potential associations between systemic inflammation and social support received by a sample of 120 older adults were examined here. Inflammatory markers, cognitive function, social support and psychosocial wellbeing were evaluated. A structural equation modelling approach was used to analyse the data. The model was a good fit [Formula: see text], p < 0.001; comparative fit index = 0.973; Tucker–Lewis Index = 0.962; root mean square error of approximation = 0.021; standardised root mean-square residual = 0.074). Chemokine levels were associated with increased age ( β = 0.276), receipt of less social support from friends ( β = −0.256) and body mass index ( β = −0.256). Results are discussed in relation to social signal transduction theory.
Gratitude mediates the effect of emotional intelligence on subjective well-being: A structural equation modeling analysis
Authors: Geng Yuan
Published: November 2016

This study investigated the relationship among emotional intelligence, gratitude, and subjective well-being in a sample of university students. A total of 365 undergraduates completed the emotional intelligence scale, the gratitude questionnaire, and the subjective well-being measures. The results of the structural equation model showed that emotional intelligence is positively associated with gratitude and subjective well-being, that gratitude is positively associated with subjective well-being, and that gratitude partially mediates the positive relationship between emotional intelligence and subjective well-being. Bootstrap test results also revealed that emotional intelligence has a significant indirect effect on subjective well-being through gratitude.
Numerical assessment of the effect of cigarette smoking on indoor PM2.5 distribution and study of ventilation strategies
Authors: Ma Zheshu , Sun Shaozhe
Published: November 2016

Elevated concentration of indoor particulate matter (PM) has been linked to adverse effects on human health. To explore how particles from cigarette smoke affect the indoor PM2.5 concentration and whether such circumstance is harmful to people, distribution characteristics of indoor particulate matter in a typical residence with a smoker were numerically studied under different ventilation strategies. The indoor PM2.5 concentration without forced ventilation was shown to far exceed the air quality standard of 75 µg/m3 as recommended by the World Health Organization. In this study, we numerically investigated the performances of the mixing and displacement ventilation strategies in reducing indoor particle levels. Different airflow patterns could significantly influence the movement and deposition of particles in ventilated rooms, even with the same air change rate and particle characteristics. When comparing with the mixing ventilation strategy, the displacement ventilation strategy was shown to have a lower deposition mass and a larger portion of particles leaving the room. Thus, the average indoor PM2.5 concentration in the displacement ventilation strategy was shown to be higher than the mixing ventilation strategy. In spite of this, low particle concentration in the personnel’s breathing zone was shown by our measurement. Displacement ventilation strategy could provide a cleaner ambient air than the mixing one.
Display and control in online social spaces: Towards a typology of users
Authors: Fortier Alexandre , Burkell Jacquelyn
Published: November 2016

Earlier research using qualitative techniques suggests that the default conception of online social networks is as public spaces with little or no expectation of control over content or distribution of profile information. Some research, however, suggests that users within these spaces have different perspectives on information control and distribution. This study uses Q methodology to investigate subjective perspectives with respect to privacy of, and control over, Facebook profiles. The results suggests three different types of social media users: those who view profiles as spaces for controlled social display, exerting control over content or audience; those who treat their profiles as spaces for open social display, exercising little control over either content or audience; and those who view profiles as places to post personal information to a controlled audience. We argue that these different perspectives lead to different privacy needs and expectations.
The process of creating an ethnodrama highlighting late life potential through nursing student and older adult collaboration
Authors: Eaton Jacqueline
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this article is to describe the process of creating an ethnodrama focusing on possible selves. Twelve older adult residents of an assisted living facility were paired with 12 nursing students to conduct semistructured interviews on the topic of possible selves. Interviews were analyzed in an iterative process involving in vivo and pattern coding. Themes relating to late life potential were identified, including hopes, fears, barriers, and aids to possibility. The ethnodrama was outlined from these themes and composite characters were created to represent findings. Ten final interviews were recorded with student adult dyads reading the script and providing feedback as member checks. The final draft was work shopped with a theatre company. Ethnodrama has the potential of increasing innovation in research but methodology must be clarified to improve consistency and rigor leading to greater acceptance in the research community.
What Do Colorado Adults Know About Legal Use of Recreational Marijuana After a Media Campaign?
Authors: Brooks-Russell Ashley , Levinson Arnold , Li Yaqiang , Roppolo Rebecca Hebner , Bull Sheana
Published: November 2016

Background. Colorado is among the first states to legalize the recreational sale of marijuana and therefore among the first to develop regulations outlining the purchase, possession, consumption, and enforcement, and penalties. Colorado legislators set aside funds for a statewide informational media campaign to educate Colorado residents on legal use of marijuana. Method. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the mass media campaign to increase awareness of the law through a prospective cohort surveyed before and 6 months after the launch of the campaign ( n = 798). Results. A total of 28.0% reported recall of the Good to Know campaign. There was a significant positive change in accurate knowledge of marijuana laws from baseline to follow-up for each of the four primary indicators of knowledge of the marijuana laws. Among those who had inaccurate knowledge of the laws at baseline, those who reported seeing the campaign at least once or more were 2.53 (95% confidence interval = 1.29-4.95) times as likely to report accurate knowledge of the laws at follow-up compared with those who did not recall seeing the campaign, particularly among marijuana users. Conclusions. Those individuals who reported recall of the campaign were more likely to increase their accurate knowledge of marijuana laws.
Magnetic Probe–Guided Excision of Nonpalpable Neck Lesions
Authors: Aksakal Nihat , Ozturk Alper , Tutal Firat , Dogan Selim , Agcaoglu Orhan , Bulakci Mesut , Barbaros Umut , Erbil Yesim
Published: November 2016

Background: Reoperative neck surgery is technically more demanding because of the presence of scar tissue and distorted anatomy. We aimed to investigate the magnetic probe–guided excision of nonpalpable neck lesions in patients with previously operated neck compartments. Methods: This study included 9 patients with recurrent/persistent thyroid carcinoma, recurrent/persistent hyperparathyroidism with previously operated neck compartments. The pathologic lesions were localized by ultrasonography, and magnetic tracer (0.2 mL, iron oxide) was injected directly into the pathologic lesions. Careful dissection was carried out following the area of maximum magnetic activity until the nonpalpable lesions were identified and excised. Result: All neck lesions were removed in 9 patients. The median count from lesion was significantly higher than values from lesion bed (background activity; (9900/5 seconds vs 250/5 seconds, P < .001). During follow-up, all patients had negative ultrasonography. Conclusion: Magnetic probe–guided technique could provide access to nonpalpable lesion localization in centers without readily available access to nuclear medicine facilities.
Between a rock and a hard place: Consequences of media clientelism for journalist–politician power relationships in the Western Balkans
Authors: Camaj Lindita
Published: November 2016

This comparative study examines the power relationship between journalists and political elites in South-Eastern Europe, emphasizing the clientelistic ties under which these interactions take place. It is based on 60 in-depth interviews with journalists from Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro. The results suggest that the journalist–politician relationship in these countries has gradually evolved into two-way communication marked by cooperation and conflict. On one hand, the clientelist ties at the inter-organizational level have subordinated journalists to the political elites in power who negotiate the news agenda with media owners. On the other hand, journalists often serve as tools to combat political and economic enemies, leading to the exposure of corruption and scandals. However, this is done selectively, based on the media owner’s agenda. Overall, the study implies the lack of a uniform relationship between journalists and political elites, challenging previous assumptions that media clientelism in Eastern Europe is a stable system that exerts predictable relationships.
A case study of researchers’ knowledge and opinions about the ethical review process for research in Botswana
Authors: Ralefala Dimpho , Ali Joseph , Kass Nancy , Hyder Adnan
Published: November 2016

Most countries, including Botswana, have established Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) to provide oversight of research involving human beings. Although much has been published on the structure and function of IRBs around the world, there is less literature that empirically describes the perspectives of stakeholders in low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings regarding IRB processes. In this study, we employed primarily quantitative methods to examine the perceptions of researchers at the University of Botswana (UB) about the review of research protocols by local IRBs. Data were collected using a web-based survey (SurveyMonkey1). This was a preliminary effort to document some of the emerging experiences of researchers with ethics review in a context where both research and research oversight are relatively new. Findings from 85 researchers indicate that researchers recognized the need for an IRB to review all human research protocols, expressed the need for research ethics training, experienced high rates of approval at government ministries and UB, and generally believed that ethics review processes can help researchers themselves better understand and appreciate research ethics in general. Though only about one-quarter of respondents reported a more positive view of research ethics after interacting with the UB IRB, 56.5 percent reported no change. In contexts where IRBs have recently been established, it can be particularly important to document the perspectives of researchers in order to align expectations with capabilities, and identify areas where IRBs can improve operations. Future efforts to advance research ethics and ethical review in Botswana should include establishing research ethics training requirements and courses for researchers, increasing investment in IRBs and their training, further developing institutional and national research ethics policies, and formalizing agreements between IRBs and others involved in research oversight in the country to support coordinated review.
Safety of endovascular treatment in acute stroke patients taking oral anticoagulants
Authors: Uphaus Timo , Singer Oliver C , Berkefeld Joachim , Nolte Christian H , Bohner Georg , Niederkorn Kurt , Deutschmann Hannes , Haring Hans-Peter , Trenkler Johannes , Neumann-Haefelin Tobias , Hofmann Erich , Stoll Anett , Bormann Albrecht , Bussmeyer Matthias , Mpotsaris Aanastasios , Reich Arno , Wiesmann Martin , Petzold Gabor C , Urbach Horst , Jander Sebastian , Turowski Bernd , Weimar Christian , Schlamann Marc , Liebeskind David S , Gröschel Sonja , Boor Stephan , Gröschel Klaus
Published: November 2016

Background

The endovascular treatment of acute cerebral ischemia has been proven beneficial without major safety concerns. To date, the role of endovascular treatment in patients treated with oral anticoagulants, which may be associated with periprocedural intracranial bleeding, remains uncertain.

Aims

The objective of the current analysis is to evaluate the safety of endovascular treatment in patients treated with oral anticoagulants.

Methods

The ENDOSTROKE-Registry is a commercially independent, prospective observational study in 12 stroke centers in Germany and Austria collecting pre-specified variables about endovascular stroke therapy.

Results

Data from 815 patients (median age 70 (interquartile range (IQR) 20), 57% male) undergoing endovascular treatment with known anticoagulation status were analyzed. A total of 85 (median age 76 (IQR 8), 52% male) patients (10.4%) took vitamin-K-antagonists prior to endovascular treatment. Anticoagulation status as measured with international normalized ratio was above 2.0 in 31 patients. Intracranial hemorrhage occurred in 11.8% of patients taking vitamin-K-antagonists compared to no-vitamin-K-antagonists (12.2%, p = 0.909). After adjustment for confounding factors which were unbalanced at univariate level such as NIHSS and age, anticoagulation status was not found to significantly influence clinical outcome (modified Rankin Scale 3–6) and occurrence of intracranial hemorrhage in a multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Conclusion

Prior use of vitamin-K-antagonists was not associated with a higher rate of periprocedural intracranial hemorrhage after endovascular treatment or worse outcome. Endovascular treatment should be considered as an important treatment option in patients taking vitamin-K-antagonists.
The link between vascular dysfunction, bladder ischemia, and aging bladder dysfunction
Authors: Andersson Karl-Erik , Boedtkjer Donna B. , Forman Axel
Published: November 2016

The vascular supply to the human bladder is derived mainly from the superior and inferior vesical arteries, the latter being directly connected to the internal iliac artery. Aging is associated with an impairment of blood vessel function and changes may occur in the vasculature at the molecular, cellular and functional level. Pelvic arterial insufficiency may play an important role in the development of bladder dysfunctions such as detrusor overactivity (DO) and the overactive bladder syndrome. Chronic ischemia-related bladder dysfunction may progress to bladder underactivity and it would be desirable to treat not only lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) induced by chronic ischemia, but also the progression of the morphological bladder changes. Studies in experimental models in rabbits and rats have shown that pelvic arterial insufficiency may result in significant bladder ischemia with reduced bladder wall oxygen tension. In turn, this will lead to oxidative stress associated with upregulation of oxidative stress-sensitive genes, increased muscarinic receptor activity, ultrastructural damage, and neurodegeneration. The phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitor tadalafil, the α1-adrenoceptor (AR) blocker silodosin, the β3-AR agonist mirabegron, and the free radical scavenger melatonin, exerted a protecting effect on urodynamic parameters, and on functional and morphological changes of the bladder demonstrable in vitro. Since the agents tested are used clinically for relieving LUTS, the results from the animal models seem to have translational value, and may be of relevance for designing clinical studies to demonstrate if the drugs may prevent progression of ischemia-related functional and morphological bladder changes.
Development and Application of a Clinical Microsystem Simulation Methodology for Human Factors-Based Research of Alarm Fatigue
Authors: Kobayashi Leo , Gosbee John W. , Merck Derek L.
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

(1) To develop a clinical microsystem simulation methodology for alarm fatigue research with a human factors engineering (HFE) assessment framework and (2) to explore its application to the comparative examination of different approaches to patient monitoring and provider notification.

Background:

Problems with the design, implementation, and real-world use of patient monitoring systems result in alarm fatigue. A multidisciplinary team is developing an open-source tool kit to promote bedside informatics research and mitigate alarm fatigue.

Method:

Simulation, HFE, and computer science experts created a novel simulation methodology to study alarm fatigue. Featuring multiple interconnected simulated patient scenarios with scripted timeline, “distractor” patient care tasks, and triggered true and false alarms, the methodology incorporated objective metrics to assess provider and system performance. Developed materials were implemented during institutional review board–approved study sessions that assessed and compared an experimental multiparametric alerting system with a standard monitor telemetry system for subject response, use characteristics, and end-user feedback.

Results:

A four-patient simulation setup featuring objective metrics for participant task-related performance and response to alarms was developed along with accompanying structured HFE assessment (questionnaire and interview) for monitor systems use testing. Two pilot and four study sessions with individual nurse subjects elicited true alarm and false alarm responses (including diversion from assigned tasks) as well as nonresponses to true alarms. In-simulation observation and subject questionnaires were used to test the experimental system’s approach to suppressing false alarms and alerting providers.

Conclusions:

A novel investigative methodology applied simulation and HFE techniques to replicate and study alarm fatigue in controlled settings for systems assessment and experimental research purposes.
Effects of Unit Design on Acute Care Nurses’ Walking Distances, Energy Expenditure, and Job Satisfaction: A Pre–Post Relocation Study
Authors: Copeland Darcy , Chambers Misty
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to determine what differences occurred in steps taken and energy expenditure among acute care nurses when their work environment moved from a hospital with centralized nurses’ stations to a hospital with decentralized nurses’ stations. Additional goals were to determine design features nurses perceived as contributing to or deterring from their work activities and what changes occurred in reported job satisfaction. Since design features can also affect patient outcomes, patient falls were monitored.

Background:

The construction of a replacement facility for a 224-bed Level 1 trauma center provided the opportunity to compare the effects of centralized versus decentralized nurses’ stations on nurses’ experiences of their work environments.

Method:

A pre–post quasi-experimental design was used. RN participants completed an open-ended questionnaire and recorded pedometer data at the end of each shift, working for 3-month pre-relocation and for 3-month post-relocation. Nine months passed between the move and post-relocation data collection.

Results:

There were significant reductions in nurses’ energy expenditure ( p < .001) and steps taken ( p = .041) post-relocation. Overall, nurses’ job satisfaction was high and improved post-relocation, and patient falls decreased by 55%.

Conclusions:

Post-relocation, a number of the dissatisfiers associated with the physical environment were eliminated, and nurses identified more satisfiers (in general and related to the physical environment). Patients are safer post-relocation as indicated by a decrease in falls. This decrease is even more noteworthy when considering that the numbers of patient beds on each unit is higher post-relocation.
Early discharge planning in preterm low birth weight babies: A quality improvement project
Authors: Anand Amudha Jayanthi , Chua Mei Chien , Khoo Siok Hong , Yuen Poh Leng , Fong Mary Choi Wan , Goh Annie , Agarwal Pratibha
Published: November 2016

Introduction:

Extended hospitalization of low birth weight infants increases risk of medical and psychosocial complications. Our aim was to reduce the length of hospitalization and assess safety and cost savings of discharging infants at a weight of 1900 g instead of 2000 g, as has been the practice.

Methods:

This is a single-centre, nurse led quality improvement project done at a tertiary neonatal unit in Singapore with primary outcome of reducing average length of stay in selected low birth weight infants. In phase 1, infants with birth weight between 1000 and 1700 g were discharged at 1900 g, provided they met the discharge criteria. Interventions were introduced in phase 2 after interim analysis for the two most common causes for delayed discharge: poor bottling skills and waiting time for scheduled herniotomy.

Results:

In phase 1, the mean hospitalization stay was reduced by 5.5 days, with 21% of the babies discharged at 1900 g. The safety of the intervention was assessed by rehospitalization rates, and found to be negligible. Interventions introduced in phase 2 to address the two major causes of delayed discharge did not improve the outcome. The estimated cost savings for each subsidized patient after implementation of the interventions was S$340–1100 over the two phases.

Conclusion:

Though only 21% of eligible infants could be discharged early, the study helped us identify key areas of intervention to facilitate early discharge of preterm infants. These included improving babies’ sucking skills, planning for early surgery, and providing adequate parental training. Safety and cost savings appear to be promising as well.
Perspectives of Singaporean patients and caregivers towards quality of life or quantity of life with disease-modifying treatment in the end-of-life setting
Authors: Sng David , Lee Liang Qi , Tay Keson , Lee Rachel Jiayu , Puvanendran Rukshini , Radha Krishna Lalit Kumar
Published: November 2016

Background:

Healthcare providers often struggle to balance the sometimes competing considerations of maximizing quality of life (QoL) and quantity of life with disease-modifying treatment (DMT). These decisions require in-depth dialog between all parties in order to understand the concerns and perspectives of the patient and caregiver in this period.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to explore Singaporean patients’ and caregivers’ attitudes towards QoL and DMT, and to examine the reasons behind their beliefs.

Methods:

Participants were given a video vignette of a family discussing how best to care for their mother who is recently diagnosed with cancer and were interviewed regarding their thoughts on QoL and DMT for a 70-year-old patient with stage IV metastatic cancer.

Subjects/Setting:

A total of 21 patients and caregivers were recruited from a tertiary oncology centre.

Results:

Both patients and caregivers show little support for pursuing QoL, despite the likely compromise to the patients’ QoL. These participants believed that not pursuing DMT was tantamount to giving up and accepting death. Whilst patients did accept that in some circumstances a QoL approach would be acceptable, caregivers remained adamant upon a DMT approach. The perspectives of caregivers reflected the influence of the Confucian-inspired practice of filial piety.

Conclusion:

Local sociocultural beliefs and values continue to play a significant consideration in end-of-life decision-making. However, compliance with these beliefs have evolved, with greater consideration given to clinical and QoL factors.
Anti-enteroviral triple combination of viral replication inhibitors: activity against coxsackievirus B1 neuroinfection in mice
Authors: Stoyanova Adelina , Nikolova Ivanka , Pürstinger Gerhard , Dobrikov Georgi , Dimitrov Vladimir , Philipov Stefan , Galabov Angel S
Published: November 2016

Background

Chemotherapy is an important tool for controlling enterovirus infections, but clinically effective anti-enterovirus drugs do not currently exist, mainly due to the development of drug resistance. We investigated the combination effects of enterovirus replication inhibitors in order to limit this process. In previous studies, we showed the efficacy of consecutive alternating administration of the triple combinations disoxaril/guanidine/oxoglaucine and pleconaril/guanidine/oxoglaucine against coxsackievirus B1 infection in newborn mice. Drug sensitivity tests of the viral brain isolates showed that these drug combinations prevented the development of drug resistance.

Methods

In the current study, we replaced guanidine-HCl with enteroviral RNA synthesis inhibitor MDL-860 to test the effect of a new triple combination—pleconaril/MDL-860/oxoglaucine—applied via consecutive alternating administration in newborn mice infected subcutaneously with 20 MLD50 of coxsackievirus B1.

Results

The pleconaril/MDL-860/oxoglaucine combination via consecutive alternating administration showed high activity at the 75 mg/kg MDL-860 dose: a protective effect of 50% and a pronounced suppression of brain virus titers. Moreover, along with prevention of drug resistance, a phenomenon of increased drug sensitivity was established. MDL-860 sensitivity in pleconaril/MDL-860/oxoglaucine increased 8.2 times vs. placebo (29 times vs. monotherapy) on day 7 and oxoglaucine sensitivity—4.9 times vs. placebo (by 6.8 times vs. monotherapy) on day 13. As concerns pleconaril, a demonstrable prevention of drug resistance was registered without increase of drug sensitivity. Daily, simultaneous administration of pleconaril/MDL-860/oxoglaucine showed no protective effects and led to a rapid development of drug resistance.

Conclusions

These results add new support for using consecutive alternating administration treatment courses to achieve clinically effective chemotherapy of enterovirus infections.
Novel symmetrical phenylenediamines as potential anti-hepatitis C virus agents
Authors: Bassetto Marcella , Ferla Salvatore , Leyssen Pieter , Neyts Johan , Yerukhimovich Mark M , Frick David N , O’Donnell Rachel , Brancale Andrea
Published: November 2016

Background

Despite the great progress made in the last 10 years, alternative strategies might help improving definitive treatment options against hepatitis C virus infection.

Methods

With the aim of identifying novel inhibitors of the hepatitis C virus-1b replication targeting the viral NS3 helicase, the structures of previously reported symmetrical inhibitors of this enzyme were rationally modified, and according to docking-based studies, four novel scaffolds were selected for synthesis and evaluation in the hepatitis C virus-1b subgenomic replicon assay.

Results

Among the newly designed compounds, one new structural family was found to inhibit the hepatitis C virus-1b replication in the micromolar range. This scaffold was chosen for further exploration and different novel analogues were synthesised and evaluated.

Conclusions

Different new inhibitors of the hepatitis C virus genotype 1b replication were identified. Some of the new compounds show mild inhibition of the NS3 helicase enzyme.
The case of open leisure activities organized in Swedish local councils: The role of citizenship and entrepreneurship skills development
Authors: Lindström Lisbeth
Published: November 2016

In this article, we contribute to theory by integrating literature on citizenship and entrepreneurship, based on which we develop a framework for how personal development is achieved for young people in the context of open leisure activities. The empirical material in this study consists of survey data collected in Swedish open leisure centers. A questionnaire was distributed to 265 publicly funded leisure centers all over Sweden. The material was analyzed in an exploratory study involving factor analysis using hierarchical regression in four steps. When reviewing the results, it is clear that citizenship and entrepreneurship both contribute to personal development at open leisure centers in Sweden. To conclude, this exploratory study provides evidence that concepts from citizenship and entrepreneurship theory can help in understanding the personal development of young people in publicly run leisure settings.
The majority of hepatitis C patients treated with direct acting antivirals are at risk for relevant drug‐drug interactions
Authors: Smolders Elise J , Berden Floor AC , de Kanter Clara TMM , Kievit Wietske , Drenth Joost PH , Burger David M
Published: November 2016

Background

Direct‐acting antivirals have improved treatment of chronic hepatitis C virus infection significantly. Direct‐acting antivirals inhibit/induce and can also be substrates of drug‐metabolising enzymes and transporters. This increases the risk for drug‐drug interactions.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to predict drug‐drug interactions with co‐medication used by hepatitis C virus‐infected patients.

Methods

We assembled a nationwide cohort of hepatitis C patients and collected cross‐sectional data on co‐medication use. We compiled a list of currently available direct‐acting antiviral regimens and cross‐checked for potential drug‐drug interactions with used co‐medication.

Results

The cohort included 461 patients of which 77% used co‐medication. We identified 260 drugs used as co‐medication. Antidepressants (7.4%), proton pump inhibitors (7.1%) and benzodiazepines (7.1%) were most frequently used. Of the patients, 60% were at risk for a clinically relevant drug‐drug interaction with at least one of the direct‐acting antiviral regimens. Interactions were most common with paritaprevir/ritonavir/ombitasvir/dasabuvir and least interactions were predicted with grazoprevir/elbasvir.

Conclusion

Co‐medication use is rich in frequency and diversity in chronic hepatitis C patients. The majority of patients are at risk for drug‐drug interactions which may affect efficacy or toxicity of direct‐acting antivirals or co‐medication. The most recently introduced direct‐acting antivirals are associated with a lower risk of drug‐drug interactions.
The health locus of control concept: Factorial structure, psychometric properties and form equivalence of the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control scales
Authors: Kassianos Angelos P , Symeou Maria , Ioannou Myria
Published: November 2016

Contradictory evidence exists on the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control scale’s factor structure and the psychometric equivalence between Form A and Form B. University students ( N = 359) completed the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control and General Self-Efficacy scales. The three-factor model had better fit and parsimony in both Forms. ‘Internal’ scale negatively correlated with ‘chance’ but positively with ‘others’. The two external scales positively correlated. The scales’ reliability was satisfactory, but the two Forms were not psychometrically equivalent. Convergent validity was confirmed. The evidence suggests a three-factor structure and psychometric non-equivalence of the two Forms. Researchers should make an informed choice on which Form to use.
Examining the Role of Demographics in Campus Crime Alerts
Authors: Pelfrey William V. , Keener Steven , Perkins Michael
Published: November 2016

Colleges and universities are required by the Clery Act to issue crime alerts to members of the campus community. Issuing agencies have significant discretion in the timing and information included in crime alerts, including the perpetrator descriptors. The inclusion of perpetrator/suspect descriptions in the crime alert is intended to maximize public safety. Race descriptors may have negative consequences through the repetition of minority suspect information. To address the issue of demographic use in crime alerts, a mixed method approach was employed. A summary review of several years of crime alerts issued by a large urban university was conducted to assess the role of demographics. Qualitative data were collected through a series of focus groups and interviews addressing the balance of public safety and potential negative perceptions (perpetuated by crime alerts). Reviewed crime alerts indicate that they are largely posted for violent crimes, particularly robbery, armed robbery, and aggravated assault. Perpetrators are overwhelmingly male and largely Black. It is reasonable to question whether repeated descriptions of crime acts committed by Black males could raise, foster, or enhance negative stereotypes. Recommendations for model crime alerts and campus events are included. Consideration of stereotype impacts may influence crime alerts but circumstances and public risk may supersede these concerns.
The Importance of Evaluation and Monitoring Within the Disproportionate Minority Contact (DMC) Mandate
Authors: Peck Jennifer H.
Published: November 2016

In 2002, the reauthorization of the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act of 1974 required that states participating in the Formula Grants Program must put forth a good faith effort at addressing juvenile delinquency and the presence of minority youth at all decision-making points of the juvenile justice system without the use of numerical quotas. The last decade has brought about increases in states’ efforts at identifying and assessing the extent of disproportionate minority contact (DMC) across juvenile court contacts. Many states have already implemented or are currently implementing intervention and prevention efforts at reducing DMC. However, the segments of identification, assessment, and intervention are only three of the five phases of the DMC mandate. In light of the progression of the DMC mandate since its original implementation in 1988, the purpose of this essay is to spark discussion on the future of examining DMC in the juvenile justice system through a researcher’s perspective. Various topics that relate to DMC are presented as ideas for readers to consider, as they progress with their research agendas.
Bidirectional Associations Between Sleep and Anxiety Symptoms in Emerging Adults in a Residential College Setting
Authors: Peltz Jack S. , Rogge Ronald D. , Pugach Cameron P. , Strang Kathryn
Published: November 2016

Daily covariation of three sleep indicators (quantity, quality, postsleep restedness), anxiety symptoms, and caffeine and alcohol consumption was observed in 283 emerging adults ( Mage = 19.9). Participants completed web-based sleep diary surveys every morning and evening for 7 consecutive days. Cross-lagged models suggested that sleep quality and restedness (reported each morning) predicted students’ anxiety levels (reported each evening) and that anxiety levels predicted all three sleep indicators. Furthermore, pre-bedtime caffeine consumption predicted worse sleep that night. Controlling for the effects of weekdays versus weekends produced virtually identical effects to the 7-day models, although weekend alcohol consumption emerged as a predictor of postsleep restedness. These data support bidirectionality between sleep and anxiety symptoms in emerging adults attending college/university and highlight potential avenues for intervention.
Nurse Turnover in India: Factors Impacting Nurses’ Decisions to Leave Employment
Authors: Lakshman Sangeetha
Published: November 2016

Nursing turnover remains problematic, yet research with nurses is scarce in India. Turnover intentions were examined in this study to identify the critical reasons of the problem and to provide hospitals with information regarding job satisfaction as it is associated with turnover intention. Interviews were conducted with 144 nurses and top management personnel from eight hospitals in southern India. Using critical incident technique, we compared high attrition hospitals (HAH) with low attrition hospitals (LAH) and identified three key themes that distinguished them: the nature of the organization, the nature of employees and human resources (HR) paradox for turnover intentions. The research results could help identify strategies for hospitals that will minimize the high turnover rates while optimizing the levels of staff retention by providing effective work environment and career advancements.
Relapsed Acinic Cell Carcinoma of the Parotid Gland With Diffuse Distant Metastasis
Authors: Khelfa Yousef , Mansour Munthir , Abdel-Aziz Yousef , Raufi Ali , Denning Krista , Lebowicz Yehuda
Published: November 2016

Acinic cell carcinoma (ACC) is an uncommon salivary gland neoplasm that generally displays an indolent growth pattern. Most cases arise in the major glands, particularly the parotid. However, it can arise from minor salivary glands in the oral cavity and aero-digestive tract. Although ACC is generally a low-grade malignant tumor, poorly differentiated and high-grade transformed variants exhibit a propensity for late recurrence and metastasis. There are no adequate clinical trials that define the optimal approach to patients with metastatic salivary gland tumors due to its rarity. Systemic therapy is reserved for cases where local therapy, such as radiation or metastasectomy, is not appropriate. Nevertheless, there is insufficient data in the literature regarding the chemotherapy of choice for metastatic ACC. In this article, we report a case of metastatic ACC of the right parotid gland that progressed on carboplatin and paclitaxel after partial response followed by doxorubicin and is currently on checkpoint inhibitor treatment.
Understanding Reading and Reading Difficulties Through Naming Speed Tasks
Authors: Al Dahhan Noor Z. , Kirby John R. , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: November 2016

Although reading is an important and generative skill, it remains controversial how reading skills and reading difficulties develop. Currently, the fields of neuroscience, cognition, and education each have complex models to describe reading and elucidate where in the reading process deficits occur. We suggest that integrating the neural, cognitive, and educational accounts of reading offers the promise of transformative change in understanding reading development and reading difficulties. As a starting point for bridging the gaps among these fields, we used naming speed tasks as the basis for this review because they provide a “microcosm” of the processes involved during reading. We use naming speed tasks to investigate how incorporating cognitive psychology with neuroimaging techniques, under the guidance of educational theories, can further the understanding of learning and instruction, and may lead to the identification of the neural signatures of reading difficulties that might be hidden from view earlier in development.
p53 −/− synergizes with enhanced NrasG12D signaling to transform megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitors in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Zhang Jingfang , Kong Guangyao , Rajagopalan Adhithi , Lu Li , Song Jingming , Hussaini Mohamed , Zhang Xinmin , Ranheim Erik A. , Liu Yangang , Wang Jinyong , Gao Xin , Chang Yuan-I , Johnson Kirby D. , Zhou Yun , Yang David , Bhatnagar Bhavana , Lucas David M. , Bresnick Emery H. , Zhong Xuehua , Padron Eric , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2016

Key Points

Concurrent RAS pathway and TP53 mutations predict a dismal outcome in human AML. p53 −/− synergizes with enhanced oncogenic Nras signaling to transform MEPs to AML-initiating cells.
A novel framework for cross-spectral iris matching
Authors: Abdullah Mohammed A. M. , Dlay Satnam S. , Woo Wai L. , Chambers Jonathon A.
Published: November 2016

Previous work on iris recognition focused on either visible light (VL), near-infrared (NIR) imaging, or their fusion. However, limited numbers of works have investigated cross-spectral matching or compared the iris biometric performance under both VL and NIR spectrum using unregistered iris images taken from the same subject. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that proposes a framework for cross-spectral iris matching using unregistered iris images. To this end, three descriptors are proposed namely, Gabor-difference of Gaussian (G-DoG), Gabor-binarized statistical image feature (G-BSIF), and Gabor-multi-scale Weberface (G-MSW) to achieve robust cross-spectral iris matching. In addition, we explore the differences in iris recognition performance across the VL and NIR spectra. The experiments are carried out on the UTIRIS database which contains iris images acquired with both VL and NIR spectra for the same subject. Experimental and comparison results demonstrate that the proposed framework achieves state-of-the-art cross-spectral matching. In addition, the results indicate that the VL and NIR images provide complementary features for the iris pattern and their fusion improves notably the recognition performance.
TheCoprinopsis cinereaTup1 homologue Cag1 is required for gill formation during fruiting body morphogenesis
Authors: Masuda Ryo , Iguchi Naoki , Tukuta Kooki , Nagoshi Takahiro , Kemuriyama Kazuki , Muraguchi Hajime
Published: November 2016

The pileus (cap) of the fruiting body in homobasidiomycete fungi bears the hymenium, a layer of cells that includes the basidia where nuclear fusion, meiosis and sporulation occur. Coprinopsis cinerea is a model system for studying fruiting body development. The hymenium of C. cinerea forms at the surface of the gills in the pileus. In a previous study, we identified a mutation called cap-growthless1-1 (cag1-1) that blocks gill formation, which yields primordia that never mature. In this study, we found that the cag1 gene encodes a homologue of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Tup1. The C. cinerea genome contains another Tup1 homologue gene called Cc.tupA. Reciprocal tagging of Cag1 and Cc.TupA with green and red fluorescent proteins revealed that the relative ratios of the amounts of the two Tup1 paralogues varied among tissues. Compared with Cc.TupA, Cag1 was preferentially expressed in the gill trama tissue cells, suggesting that the function of Cag1 is required for gill trama tissue differentiation and maintenance. Yeast two-hybrid analysis and co-localisation of Cag1 and Cc.TupA suggested that Cag1 interacts with Cc.TupA in the nuclei of certain cells.
EphA2 proteomics in human keratinocytes reveals a novel association with afadin and epidermal tight junctions
Authors: Perez White Bethany E. , Ventrella Rosa , Kaplan Nihal , Cable Calvin J. , Thomas Paul M. , Getsios Spiro
Published: November 2016

EphA2 is a receptor tyrosine kinase that helps maintain epidermal tissue homeostasis. A BioID approach was used to identify proteins in close proximity to EphA2 in primary human keratinocytes and 3-D reconstituted human epidermis cultures to map a putative protein interaction network for this membrane receptor that exhibits a polarized distribution in stratified epithelia. While a subset of known EphA2 interactors were identified in the BioID screen, >97% were uniquely detected in keratinocytes with over 50% of these vicinal proteins only present in 3-D human epidermal culture. Afadin, a cytoskeletal and junction-associated protein, was prominently detected in 2-D and 3-D keratinocyte cultures and validated as a novel EphA2 interacting protein. EphA2 loss disrupted the subcellular distribution of afadin and occludin in differentiated keratinocytes leading to impairment of tight junctions. Collectively, these studies illustrate the utility of the BioID approach for mapping receptor interaction networks in 3-D human epithelial cultures and reveal a positive regulatory role for EphA2 in organization of afadin and epidermal tight junctions.