bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the physical health of long-term psychiatric inpatients
Authors: Hjorth Peter , Davidsen Annette S , Kilian Reinhold , Pilgaard Eriksen Susan , Jensen Signe OW , Sørensen Helle Ø , Munk-Jørgensen Povl
Published: May 2014

Background:

Patients with psychiatric illness have increased somatic morbidity and increased mortality. Knowledge of how to integrate the prevention and care of somatic illness into the treatment of psychiatric patients is required. The aims of this study were to investigate whether an intervention programme to improve physical health is effective.

Methods:

An extension of the European Network for Promoting the Health of Residents in Psychiatric and Social Care Institutions (HELPS) project further developed as a 12-month controlled cluster-randomized intervention study in the Danish centre. Waist circumference was a proxy of unhealthy body fat in view of the increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes.

Results:

Waist circumference was 108 cm for men and 108 cm for women. Controlled for cluster randomization, sex, age, and body fat, the intervention group showed a small, but not significant, reduction in waist circumference, while participants in the control group showed a significant increase in waist circumference.

Conclusions:

The intervention had a positive effect on the physical health of the patients measured by a reduction in the increase of waist circumference.
Community- and School-Sponsored Program Participation and Academic Achievement in a Full-Service Community School
Authors: Houser John H. W.
Published: May 2014

Community schools represent a school reform approach that purports to address the multifaceted and intertwined challenges faced by poor urban communities and schools. The community school approach includes partnering with community organizations, making the school a community hub where services are provided during and outside of the school day, and targeting broad student, family, and community outcomes. This study examines one of the primary components of community schools, school- and community-sponsored extracurricular programming, and its relationship to academic achievement. The study was performed at an urban community school serving Grades 7 through 12. Descriptive analyses indicated high levels of participation and variation in participation, and academic achievement by demographic group. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that both school- and community-sponsored program participation were significant predictors of academic achievement. Implications of the results and future directions for research are discussed.
Négocier les différences religieuses dans les organisations laïques : l’exemple des chapelles d’hôpitaux
Authors: Cadge Wendy
Published: May 2014

Research about religion and community is more likely to look at religious communities than at the presence and significance of religion in secular settings. The author considers religion in such settings by asking how religion and spirituality are present in one set of large academic hospitals in the United States. She focuses on the physical spaces – typically called chapels or meditation rooms – these hospitals demarcate for religious or spiritual purposes. She finds hospitals increasingly removing religious symbols and objects from these spaces in an effort to make them more versatile and accessible to a range of people. Rather than multi-faith spaces shared by people from a range of religious backgrounds, hospitals are creating seemingly neutral spaces focused on art or nature that sometimes nevertheless continue to reflect underlying Christian assumptions. A clearer picture of how religion is present in secular organizations is essential to a complete understanding of how it operates in a range of institutions, sectors and national contexts.
Religious collectivities in the era of individualization
Authors: Meintel Deirdre
Published: May 2014

Research in Quebec by a team that I direct indicates that religious collectivities still have very important roles to play despite the individualization of religion and the changing relations between individuals and religious institutions. The analysis focuses on the smaller, more marginal spiritualities that attract native-born Québécois, who often maintain some ties with the Catholic Church. Here we find abundant evidence of individualized, hybrid spiritualities but we also see that religious sociality remains essential for maximizing the effectiveness of religious (spiritual) practice, providing a framework for religious apprenticeship, supporting those in ritually produced altered states of consciousness, and validating religious authenticity of the practices and beliefs of participants. While collectivities remain important in more mainstream religious congregations (Catholics and Pentecostals, for example), the specifically religious elements of communality in these groups are sometimes obscured. By examining more marginal currents, we try to show the enduring power of religious sociality.
Christendom, the ummah and community in the age of televangelism
Authors: Howell Julia Day
Published: May 2014

The author extends the comparative analysis of religion in late modernity beyond its place of origin in North Atlantic Christian-heritage countries to the Muslim world, asking whether processes of industrial and post-industrial change that have intensified religious individualization and the erosion of the parish-based religious community in the early-developer countries have stimulated similar transformations in the social forms of religious life in the later-developing Muslim-heritage countries as well. Analysis of a newly salient type of religious mobilization in Muslim Indonesia – mass audience religious revival ( dakwah) ministries promoted through televangelism and mass prayer rallies – shows that key features of late-modern North Atlantic religiosity, including seeker spirituality, fluidity of participation, the importance of religious experience, the prominence of lay leaders and preference for an immanent, loving God, are also evident in these new Asian Islamic mobilizations.
Intimate circles and mass meetings. The social forms of event-structured religion in the era of globalized markets and hyper-mediatization
Authors: Gauthier François
Published: May 2014

This article draws on the contributions of Monika Salzbrunn and Julia Day Howell in this issue, which it proposes to recast and synthesize. The article argues that: (1) religious phenomena across the globe are increasingly structured by the vectors of consumerism, market ideologies and hyper-mediatization; (2) religious phenomena are not as amorphous, fragmented and diffused as they seem, but rather obey certain characteristics typical of this new regulation, notwithstanding of course variegated local realities tied to specific histories, contexts and cultures; (3) religious individualization is not narcissistic but intrinsically tied to corresponding social forms, i.e. social interactions and communities; (4) these social forms are increasingly event-based experiences of community; (5) event-based, non-institutional and extraordinary forms of religiosity occurring in the blurred boundaries of social spheres are highly important loci that social sciences should consider in order to better understand religion today; (6) the social forms of religion today are ideal-typically intimate circles and mass gatherings, both being complementary to each other and (7) cast against a global backdrop.
Putting God in Place! Religious continuities and mutations in classic and diasporic communities
Authors: Adogame Afe
Published: May 2014

Sociologists of religion have often focused on spiritual experiences within religious or quasi-religious organizations, which obscures possible traces of individual, collective religious and/or spiritual experiences, expressions and encounters in secular terrains and other perceptibly non-religious settings. Also less probed is whether, how and to what extent individuals consider such experiences and expressions to have an impact on their overall religious/spiritual perspectives and life encounters, or in fact what functions they perform. The author provides some critical reflections on Wendy Cadge’s and Deirdre Meintel’s articles in the present issue, interrogating how and to what extent they chart new empirical pathways and direct interest towards the sociology of religion and spirituality in workplaces in an era of increasing individualization in Euro-American societies and in non-Western contexts.
Probability Theories and Organization Science
Authors: Galavotti Maria Carla
Published: May 2014

Given the prevalence of statistical techniques that use probability to quantify uncertainty, the aim of this article is to highlight the theoretical aspects and implications of the major current probability interpretations that justify the development and use of such techniques. After briefly sketching the origins and development of the notion of probability, its theoretical interpretations will be outlined. Two main trends will be distinguished: one epistemic and one empirical, corresponding to the twofold meaning characterizing probability. The epistemic type embodies the so-called classical theory put forward by Laplace as well as the logical and subjective approaches. By contrast, the frequency and propensity theories are, in theory, empirical in character. This way of understanding probability contrasts with both the tenet that there is a “Bayesian interpretation” of probability and the tendency to conflate Bayesian probability with the subjective interpretation, both of which are misleading for reasons that emerge from the following discussion. The final section of the paper addresses the question of which type of probability is best suited for the organization sciences and suggests the subjective interpretation as the best option by virtue of its pluralism and awareness of context.
Perplexing Lesions of the Sinonasal Cavity and Skull Base: IgG4‐related and Similar Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Cain Rachel B. , Colby Thomas V. , Balan Vijayan , Patel Naresh P. , Lal Devyani
Published: May 2014

Objective

IgG4‐related disease (IgG4RD) causing sinonasal and skull base pathology is uncommonly described. We present a series of suspected IgG4RD patients, with a pertinent review of the literature to highlight diagnostic challenges.

Study Design

Case series.

Setting

Academic tertiary care center.

Subjects and Methods

Case series of patients with IgG4RD or suspected IgG4RD involving the sinonasal cavity and skull base.

Results

We present 4 patients with atypical sinonasal and/or skull base disease who were noted to have IgG4‐positive plasma cell infiltration on immunohistochemistry of biopsy specimens. IgG4RD, a recently described entity affecting multiple organs, is characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration and often elevated serum IgG4. IgG4RD can masquerade as malignancy or infection but responds to glucocorticosteroid and immunosuppressant therapy. IgG4RD has been infrequently reported presenting as sinonasal or skull base lesions, and definitive diagnostic criteria for these regions are not established. In our series, IgG4RD was suspected in all 4 patients, but only 1 met all current criteria for definitive diagnosis. All 4 patients, however, responded to corticosteroid therapy, and 1 was placed on long‐term azathioprine.

Conclusion

IgG4RD is rarely described in the sinonasal cavity and skull base, and specific diagnostic criteria for such disease have not been defined. We present a series of patients with IgG4‐positive plasma cell inflammatory pathology who were suspected to have IgG4RD. Our series highlights diagnostic challenges associated with these patients. Tumefactive and destructive sinonasal‐skull base lesions with a plasma cell‐rich infiltrate should incite suspicion of IgG4RD, and immunohistochemistry for IgG4‐positive plasma cells should be performed.
Vascular Anomalies in Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery Resident Education
Authors: Cheng Jeffrey , Virbalas Jordan
Published: May 2014

The evaluation and treatment of vascular anomalies is rapidly evolving. In recent years, improved imaging, medical therapies, interventional radiology procedures, and technical advances have led to improved functional and aesthetic outcomes with reduced morbidity. With management of vascular anomalies becoming increasingly complex, we wanted to assess the opinions of otolaryngology–head and neck surgery resident trainees regarding education in this evolving subspecialty. The results of our survey show that a significant majority of trainees feel that vascular anomalies are best managed by a multidisciplinary team, consistent with practice in large vascular anomalies centers. While training in this area does not seem to be deficient, it may be helpful to identify those otolaryngology residents who are interested in gaining exposure to patients with vascular anomalies, so that they may seek additional subspecialty experiences to complement their otolaryngology training.
Examining the Historical Roots of Social Marketing Through the Lights in Darkest England Campaign
Authors: Krisjanous Jayne
Published: May 2014

This article discusses the “Lights in Darkest England” (LIDE) match campaign, rolled out by General William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army in London’s East End 1891-1901. The purpose is to draw comparison between this campaign and the definition and principles of social marketing as they are understood today. A case study approach is used. First the Victorian match industry is described and then the Lights in Darkest England campaign is compared with the elements considered integral to an effective social marketing approach. The Lights in Darkest England match brand was not successful as a commercial enterprise based on sales of matches from the dedicated match factory. However, profit from match sales was not the main intent of this commercial endeavour. Rather, improvement in the harsh working conditions of Victorian match industry workers and the alleviation of phossy jaw were the key objectives. In this regard, the campaign was influential in the interplay between the marketing systems and society of the day. By examining the historical roots of contemporary social marketing a valuable contribution is made to the future development and sustainability of social marketing into the future.
Pathologic and Cardiovascular Characterization of Pheochromocytoma-Associated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs
Authors: Edmondson E. F. , Bright J. M. , Halsey C. H. , Ehrhart E. J.
Published: May 2014

Pheochromocytoma-associated catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy is a well-known entity in man, nonhuman primates, and mice but has not been described in dogs. In this retrospective study, 9 dogs were identified with pheochromocytomas and concurrent cardiovascular pathology observed histologically ( n = 6), echocardiographically ( n = 4), and/or electrocardiographically ( n = 5). Cardiac lesions included multifocal cardiomyocyte necrosis with contraction bands, cardiomyocyte degeneration, myocardial hemorrhage, lymphohistiocytic myocarditis, and interstitial fibrosis. Clinical procedures, including electrocardiographic and echocardiographic examinations, Doppler blood pressure measurement, and auscultation, were available for 5 dogs and consistently revealed concentric or mixed (eccentric and concentric) ventricular hypertrophy. Additional changes observed included arrhythmias, systemic hypertension, and heart murmurs. The myocardial lesions observed in this series of dogs are similar to those observed in humans with pheochromocytoma-associated catecholamine-induced cardiomyopathy. Since the clinical manifestations of catecholamine-induced cardiac disease are amenable to medical treatment, recognition of this cardiomyopathy has the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality in dogs with pheochromocytoma.
Occipital nerve stimulation for chronic migraine: A randomized trial on subthreshold stimulation
Authors: Slotty PJ , Bara G , Kowatz L , Gendolla A , Wille C , Schu S , Vesper J
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Occipital nerve stimulation (ONS) may provide pain relief in migraine patients. In this double-blinded trial we investigated the significance of paresthesia and possible placebo effects.

Methods

Patients already treated with ONS reporting stable treatment effect were included. “Effective stimulation,” “subthreshold stimulation” and “no stimulation” were compared. Patients cycled through all three treatment groups. Outcome was measured using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, McGill Pain Questionnaire and SF-36.

Results

Eight patients were included, mean preoperative VAS was 8.20 ± 1.22. A significant improvement in pain was observed in favor of suprathreshold stimulation compared to subthreshold stimulation (1.98 ± 1.56 vs 5.65 ± 2.11). Pain also significantly improved under subthreshold stimulation compared to no stimulation (5.65 ± 2.11 vs 8.45 ± 0.99). No changes in SF-36 were observed.

Conclusions

Paresthesia is not required to achieve pain reduction but suprathreshold stimulation yields better results, underlining the significance of stimulation parameter customization.
Fear of pain in pediatric headache
Authors: Simons Laura E , Pielech Melissa , Cappucci Stefanie , Lebel Alyssa
Published: May 2014

Objective

The current study provides the first measure of pain-related fear for pediatric headache patients.

Methods

From a large pediatric headache clinic, a cross-sectional cohort of 206 children and adolescents completed measures of pain-related fear, anxiety sensitivity, catastrophizing, pain acceptance, functional disability, and school functioning.

Results

The two-factor solution of the Fear of Pain Questionnaire (FOPQ) was confirmed from the originally derived structure with pediatric headache patients. Simultaneously regressing FOPQ subscales fear of pain and activity avoidance on theorized construct validity measures demonstrated that fear of pain was more closely linked with anxiety sensitivity and pain catastrophizing while activity avoidance had a strong negative association with pain acceptance (activity engagement and pain willingness). Pain-related fear was not significantly associated with pain level. After controlling for demographic factors and pain, fear of pain and activity avoidance accounted for an additional 26% of the variance in functional disability and school functioning outcomes, with activity avoidance accounting for much of this relationship.

Conclusions

Although typically considered an influential construct among musculoskeletal patients, pain-related fear is also an important factor influencing functioning among pediatric headache patients, with the dimension of activity avoidance particularly salient.
Health Impact Assessments and Healthy Schools
Authors: Rao Arthi , Ross Catherine L.
Published: May 2014

Defining healthy schools remains largely discipline specific. Design disciplines ground discussions in a “green building” framework. Public health approaches healthy schools through programmatic interventions for physical activity and nutrition. This article presents a more systemic approach to healthy schools via health impact assessment (HIA). It reviews literature on health determinants in school environments, focusing on physical design. Existing school HIAs are reviewed with other decision support tools that provide guidance on the operation and design of healthy schools. The paper examines current use of HIAs in schools and develops a screening matrix for using HIA in creating healthy schools.
Green Health
Authors: Botchwey Nisha D. , Trowbridge Matthew , Fisher Tom
Published: May 2014

A growing body of evidence demonstrates that alterations in individual behaviors alone are not sufficient to change the course of the enduring public health epidemics such as childhood obesity. Instead, environmental factors that influence what, when, where, and how much people eat and drink and how physically active they are must be addressed at a population scale to promote healthy behaviors. Urban planners have a direct role to play in this work. This focus issue centers on a vision for the role urban planning can play to advance green health by paying careful attention to schools as a critical community resource, meeting place, and organizational feature.
Family-Centered Care for Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: King Gillian , Chiarello Lisa
Published: May 2014

This article focuses on conceptual and practical considerations in family-centered care for children with cerebral palsy and their families. In the last 5 years, there have been important advances in our understanding of the components of family-centered care, and initial attempts to understand the client change processes at play. Recent research elaborates on family-centered care by delving into aspects of family-provider partnership, and applying family-centered principles to organizational service delivery to bring about organizational cultures of family-centered care. Recent research has also begun to consider mediators of client change, and new practice models have been proposed that embrace family-centered principles and illustrate the “art” of practice. Future research directions are discussed, including explorations of causal relationships between family-centered care principles, elements of caregiving practice, client change processes, and child and family outcomes. The meaning of the recent literature for pediatric neurology practice is considered.
Emerging Therapy Approaches
Authors: Law Mary , Darrah Johanna
Published: May 2014

Children and youth with cerebral palsy receive ongoing physical and occupational therapy services to improve their functional performance and participation in activities at home, school, and in the community. Over the past 2 decades, rehabilitation interventions have become more functional and goal oriented. In this article, we discuss factors that have influenced emerging intervention approaches. These factors include greater involvement of families in decision making, changing conceptual frameworks and theories underlying skill development and improved outcome measures. New research findings indicate that rehabilitation interventions embracing family-centered services and focusing on functional improvement can be more effective in promoting participation. This knowledge can serve as the platform for further examination of the most effective rehabilitation interventions for children and youth with cerebral palsy.
Synthesis of highly elastic biocompatible polyurethanes based on bio-based isosorbide and poly(tetramethylene glycol) and their properties
Authors: Kim Hyo-Jin , Kang Min-Sil , Knowles Jonathan C , Gong Myoung-Seon
Published: May 2014

Bio-based high elastic polyurethanes were prepared from hexamethylene diisocyanate and various ratios of isosorbide to poly(tetramethylene glycol) as a diol by a simple one-shot bulk polymerization without a catalyst. Successful synthesis of the polyurethanes was confirmed by Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance. Thermal properties were determined by differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The glass transition temperature was −47.8℃. The test results showed that the poly(tetramethylene glycol)/isosorbide-based elastomer exhibited not only excellent stress–strain properties but also superior resilience to the existing polyether-based polyurethane elastomers. The static and dynamic properties of the polyether/isosorbide-based thermoplastic elastomer were more suitable for dynamic applications. Moreover, such rigid diols impart biocompatible and bioactive properties to thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers. Degradation tests performed at 37℃ in phosphate buffer solution showed a mass loss of 4–9% after 8 weeks, except for the polyurethane with the lowest isosorbide content, which showed an initial rapid weight loss. These polyurethanes offer significant promise due to soft, flexible and biocompatible properties for soft tissue augmentation and regeneration.
Culture-Sensitive Question Order Effects of Self-Rated Health Between Older Hispanic and Non-Hispanic Adults in the United States
Authors: Lee Sunghee , Schwarz Norbert , Goldstein Leanne Streja
Published: May 2014

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine context effects created by the question order for self-rated health (SRH) by race/ethnicity and language. Method: Differences in SRH estimates for non-Hispanic Whites and Hispanics were first examined with multiple observational data that asked SRH in different contexts. To examine context effects by socio-demographics and health-related characteristics, we conducted experiments on SRH question order. Results: While Hispanics reported poorer health than non-Hispanic Whites, this difference, in part, depended on question contexts. With SRH asked after rather than before specific health questions, Hispanics, especially Spanish-speaking Hispanics, reported better health, while non-Hispanic Whites’ reports remained consistent. Among Spanish-speaking Hispanics, the context effect was larger for unmarried and less educated persons and those with comorbidities. Discussion: Question contexts influence SRH reports by Spanish-speaking older adults. Cross-cultural inquiries on the meaning of health and its dynamics with question contexts may explain what SRH measures for increasingly diverse populations.
Open primaries and crossover voting
Authors: Cho Seok-ju , Kang Insun
Published: May 2014

We examine strategic voting in open primary elections by developing a Poisson voting game. In the model, two parties simultaneously hold primary elections, with two candidates competing in each party. Each voter chooses to vote for one of the four candidates without knowing how many other voters participate in each primary. Analyzing the model, we investigate what types of strategic crossover voting occur in equilibrium and under what circumstances they occur. In particular, we focus on two types of crossover voting: hedging (voting for the moderate candidate of the opposite party) and raiding (voting for the extreme candidate of the opposite party). We show that the pattern of strategic voting in equilibrium critically depends on candidate positions and uncertainty about the outcome in the general election.
Theoretical and experimental studies for wind turbine’s shrink disk
Authors: Jianmei Wang , Jianfeng Kang , Liang Tang
Published: May 2014

With the wide application of multi-layer interference fit in many engineering fields, as for key component in the wind turbine generator, wind turbine’s shrink disk uses interference fit to transmit rated torque and axial force. In order to ensure the work reliability of shrink disk during the actual operation, the paper presents a more precise method on the design calculation of contact pressure on the mating surfaces with interference fit. In accordance with the order from the inside to the outside, the contact pressure of spindle-to-sleeve surface can be calculated based on the rated load required to transmit. Combining with Thick-wall Cylinder Theory and Lame Equation, taking into account the impact of fit clearance, the checking method of the bushing was used to calculate the contact pressure on mating surface of bushing-to-inner ring; and the stress analysis of the inner ring was used to calculate the contact pressure on mating surface of inner ring-to-outer ring. At the same time, the effects of frictional coefficient, fit clearance, and other design parameters on theoretical results were also analyzed. The pressure distribution of each mating surface was obtained by Abaqus software simulation, which showed that the results from improved method was closer to simulation results and had higher accuracy than traditional method by comparing the results with three different methods. Finally, the test was designed to verify whether the shrink disk could bear the load or not on the test platform of shrink disk, and the results indicated that it could meet the requirements of given loadcase.
Energy-efficient train control in urban rail transit systems
Authors: Su Shuai , Tang Tao , Chen Lei , Liu Bo
Published: May 2014

With the latest developments in technology, the Automatic Train Operation (ATO) has been widely used in urban rail transit systems over the past decade. The control process used by the ATO system generally consists of two levels. The high-level control calculates the target speed according to the moving authority of the trains and the low-level control implements precise tracking on the target speed by controlling the traction and braking force. Most of the literature has only focused on the high-level control to optimize the train trajectory, but did not practically combine the low-level control of the ATO system. When the optimized trajectory is applied as the target speed, it will cause frequent switches between acceleration and braking for precise tracking and waste a lot of energy. Hence, this previous research may not be applied to practical ATO systems. In this paper, a numerical algorithm is proposed to solve the energy-ecient train control problem with a given trip time by distributing the reverse time to dierent segments. Then a method is presented for optimization of target speeds based on the ATO control principles, which guides the train to output optimized control sequences. The proposed approach is capable of avoiding the unnecessary switching and then eciently reduces the traction energy consumption of the train switches. Furthermore, case studies have been undertaken based on infrastructure data from the Beijing Yizhuang rail transit line, and the simulation results illustrate that the proposed approach results in good performance with regards to energy saving.
Prevalence and predictors of anaemia in patients with HIV infection at the initiation of combined antiretroviral therapy in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Mijiti Peierdun , Yuexin Zhang , Min Liu , Wubuli Maimaitili , Kejun Pan , Upur Halmurat
Published: May 2014

Summary

We retrospectively analysed routinely collected baseline data of 2252 patients with HIV infection registered in the National Free Antiretroviral Treatment Program in Xinjiang province, China, from 2006 to 2011 to estimate the prevalence and predictors of anaemia at the initiation of combined antiretroviral therapy. Anaemia was diagnosed using the criteria set forth by the World Health Organisation, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to determine its predictors. The prevalences of mild, moderate, and severe anaemia at the initiation of combined antiretroviral therapy were 19.2%, 17.1%, and 2.6%, respectively. Overall, 38.9% of the patients were anaemic at the initiation of combined antiretroviral therapy. The multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that Uyghur ethnicity, female gender, lower CD4 count, lower body mass index value, self-reported tuberculosis infection, and oral candidiasis were associated with a higher prevalence of anaemia, whereas higher serum alanine aminotransferase level was associated with a lower prevalence of anaemia. The results suggest that the overall prevalence of anaemia at the initiation of combined antiretroviral therapy in patients with HIV infection is high in Xinjiang, China, but severe anaemia is uncommon. Patients in China should be routinely checked for anaemia prior to combined antiretroviral therapy initiation, and healthcare providers should carefully select the appropriate first-line combined antiretroviral therapy regimens for anaemic patients.
Can an asymptomatic screening pathway for men who have sex with men be introduced safely at a level 3 sexual health service in the UK?
Authors: Collister Alex , Bains Manroop , Jackson Rachel , Clarke Emily , Patel Raj
Published: May 2014

Summary

To manage the rising demand on sexual health services in the UK, many clinics have introduced asymptomatic screening pathways for heterosexuals, which omit examination. In men who have sex with men however the screening of extragenital sites poses additional challenges. This study aimed to establish whether omitting examination of asymptomatic men who have sex with men would lead to clinically significant diagnoses being missed. The notes of all men who have sex with men who attended a UK level 3 sexual health clinic between 1 July 2011 and 30 June 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Exclusion criteria included HIV-positive patients attending for HIV-related care, attendances for follow-up consultations not requiring a full sexual health screen, symptomatic patients, contacts of sexually transmitted infections and patients requesting an examination or a repeat prescription of a regularly used medication. In all, 920 consultations occurred during 12 months, of which 893 were reviewed; 476 (53.3%) consultations would have been eligible for screening on an asymptomatic pathway and, of these, 21 (4.4%) had abnormalities found at examination. Findings included genital warts, minor dermatological conditions and three cases of minor asymptomatic urological conditions. There were no clinically significant findings on examination of asymptomatic men who have sex with men requiring treatment, indicating that examination in this cohort may be of little benefit.
Amelioration of streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy by melatonin, quercetin, and resveratrol in rats
Authors: Elbe H , Vardi N , Esrefoglu M , Ates B , Yologlu S , Taskapan C
Published: May 2014

The role of oxygen radicals are known for the pathogenesis of kidney damage. The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidative effects of melatonin, quercetin, and resveratrol on streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic nephropathy in rats. A total of 35 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups as follows: control, diabetes mellitus (DM), DM + melatonin, DM + quercetin, and DM + resveratrol. All the injections started on the same day of single-dose STZ injection and continued for 30 days. At the end of this period, kidneys were removed and processed for routine histological procedures. Biochemical parameters and morphological changes were examined. In DM group, blood glucose levels were significantly increased, whereas body weights were decreased compared with the control group. Significant increases in blood urea nitrogen and tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and decreases in superoxide dismutase and catalase activities were detected in DM group. Administration of melatonin, quercetin, and resveratrol significantly reduced these values. Melatonin was more efficient in reducing MDA levels than other antioxidants ( p < 0.05). STZ-induced histopathological alterations including epithelial desquamation, swelling, intracytoplasmic vacuolization, brush border loss and peritubular infiltration. Additionally, basement membrane thickening and sclerotic changes were observed in glomerulus. Transforming growth factor-β1 positive cells were also increased. Melatonin, quercetin, and resveratrol significantly reduced these histopathological changes. Our results indicate that melatonin, quercetin, and resveratrol might be helpful in reducing diabetes-induced renal damage
A study of the differences between students’ and librarians’ expectation of the Korean library and information science job market
Authors: Noh Younghee , Ahn Inja
Published: May 2014

By studying the expectations of both Library and Information Science (LIS) students and practitioner librarians, this research hopes to discover ways to increase employment rates in the LIS job market and better prepare students for employment. This research was conducted as a survey comparing the views of both students and librarians on desired employment and employment readiness, job market, and employment prospects. First, both students and short-contract, temporarily-employed librarians have a strong desire for permanent employment in libraries. Second, both librarians and students highly desired a mentoring program with practitioner librarians, as well as short-term internships (2–3months, 6–9 credits), LIS fieldwork (3–4 weeks, 2–3 credits), and long-term internships (6 months, 15 credits or less). Third, both temporarily-employed librarians and students spent most of their job preparation effort on acquiring certification in order to eventually obtain their desired employment. Fourth, their desired working locations were mostly within the city of Seoul. Fifth, there were differences in perspectives on the LIS job market and job growth. The librarian samples were generally positive about the job market, but very negative about growth, while the student samples were generally negative about the current market, but very positive about future prospects.
The spatialization of democratic politics: Insights from Indignant Squares
Authors: Kaika Maria , Karaliotas Lazaros
Published: May 2014

This article departs from accounts that either deify Indignant Squares as a model for 21st century political praxis or demonize them as apolitical/post-political crowd gatherings. By performing a closer ethnographic reading of the Indignants’ protests at Athens’ Syntagma Square, we depict the Indignant Squares as a consensual and deeply spatialized staging of dissent, which nevertheless harbours in its underbelly internally conflicting and often radically opposing political imaginaries. A closer reading of the organization, practice and discourses that evolved at Syntagma Square unearths the existence of not one, but two distinct Indignant Squares, both at Syntagma, each with its own topography (upper and lower square), and its own discursive and material practices. Although both squares staged dissent, they nevertheless generated different (opposing, even) political imaginaries. The ‘upper square’ often divulged nationalistic or xenophobic discourses; the ‘lower square’ centred around more organized efforts to stage inclusive politics of solidarity. The paper suggests that, rather than focusing on the homogenizing terms Indignants’ movement/ Indignant Squares we should instead be trying to develop a more nuanced theoretical understanding and a more finely grained empirical analysis of the discursive and spatial choreographies of these events. This, we argue, would allow us to go beyond either celebrating them as new political imaginaries, or condemning them as expressions of a post-political era. Talking of ‘Indignant Squares’ in the plural helps one explore in more grounded ways both the limitations and the possibilities that these events offer for opening up (or closing down) democratic politics.
A supported employment linkage intervention for people with schizophrenia who want a chance to work
Authors: Solar Ann
Published: May 2014

Objective:

Investigate feasibility and development of a linkage intervention to the evidence-based Individual Placement and Support (IPS) approach to supported employment (SE) for patients with schizophrenia on a mental health unit who want to work in competitive employment.

Method:

Literature review about the evidence-based IPS approach to SE in schizophrenia and why it might not be implemented in mental health services. Analysis of 10 adult mental health unit multidisciplinary staff interviews for categories in the literature review of IPS implementation barriers and whether these barriers could be overcome.

Results:

There was lack of full staff knowledge of the IPS approach to SE. However, all staff knew respect for patient choice was paramount, community employment programs existed for the disabled, an outreach linkage process to such a program and ongoing support for people with schizophrenia would be required. There was staff ambivalence about SE for patients with schizophrenia.

Conclusion:

Despite staff ambivalence about SE for people with schizophrenia there was still enough staff knowledge and openness to shape an IPS linkage intervention from a staff perspective.
A state-wide quality improvement system utilising nurse-led clinics for clozapine management
Authors: Clark Scott R , Wilton Lisa , Baune Bernhard T , Procter Nicholas , Hustig Harry
Published: May 2014

Objectives:

This paper describes the implementation of a state-wide clozapine management system to improve the quality of care for those with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. This intervention includes standardised forms, computer-based monitoring and alerting and nurse-led clinics for stable consumers.

Methods:

Methods used during system development included medical record and clinical information system audit, consensus review of available evidence and qualitative review of existing forms, systems and stakeholder opinion.

Results:

Nurse-led monitoring safely reduced medical outpatient appointments by 119 per week in metropolitan public clinics. In the 15 months following the implementation of all interventions, mortality associated with physical illness not related to malignancy was reduced from an average of 5 deaths per year to one.

Conclusions:

Differing interpretations of clozapine guidelines have contributed to confusion around monitoring. Standardised documentation has helped to increase understanding and improve protocol adherence. A regular training programme has increased basic knowledge of risks and protocols. Computer-based documentation and alerting systems have improved communication between hospital and community-based teams and prompted early intervention reducing the risk of adverse events. These factors have combined to help improve outcomes in clozapine management. Nurse-led clinics are a safe and efficient alternative for monitoring clozapine treatment.
Cultural Awareness
Authors: Goodman Petra , Edge Bethany , Agazio Janice , Prue-Owens Kathy
Published: May 2014

Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe the cultural factors that have an impact on military nursing care for Iraqi patients. The results were part of a larger study in which the purpose was to understand nurses’ experiences of delivery of care for Iraqi patients. Method: Three focus groups, consisting of military registered nurses and licensed practical nurses, were used to generate rich descriptions of experiences in a military combat support hospital in Iraq. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis methods. Findings: Culturally, the differences between the Iraqi patients and the nurses included variations in communication, diet, and beliefs and values in reference to gender and patient dependency. Conclusion: The findings indicated that the nurses need language skills and cultural customs and beliefs training to provide care to culturally diverse patients. In addition, support services, such as dieticians, need to be involved in the plan of care to address applicable cultural issues. Implications: Implementation of learning to provide nurses language skills and cultural awareness of the diet, customs and beliefs of Iraqi people as well as the economic, political, and social factors that have an impact on their lives will promote quality nursing care and optimal health outcomes.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Tilburg Pregnancy Distress Scale–Turkish Version (TPDS-T)
Authors: Ertuğrul Merve , Okumuş Hülya , Aluş Tokat Merlinda , Bektaş Murat
Published: May 2014

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the validity and reliability of the Tilburg Pregnancy Distress Scale–Turkish version (TPDS-T). Methods: The sample consisted of 214 healthy pregnant women in maternity clinics in an urban center in western Turkey. The instruments included a demographic questionnaire and TPDS-T. Results: The internal consistency reliability coefficient of the TPDS-T was .70. The correlation coefficients between the lower dimension item scores and lower dimension total scores were .20 to .73. According to the confirmatory factor analysis, the model fit indexes of the scale were determined as root mean square error of approximation = .051, goodness-of-fit index = .91, comparative fit index = .92, and nonnormed fit index = .90. Conclusion: The TPDS-T is a valid and reliable scale that can be used to determine distress of pregnant women in Turkey. Implications for Practice: This scale can be used as a guide by Turkish midwives and obstetric nurses planning pregnancy follow-up care.
Antiretroviral and Medication Errors in Hospitalized HIV-Positive Patients
Authors: Li Emily H. , Foisy Michelle M.
Published: May 2014

Objective: To summarize the literature regarding antiretroviral and other medication errors in hospitalized HIV-positive patients and to discuss potential interventions and solutions that have been studied to minimize drug error. Data Sources: A systematic search of MEDLINE, PubMed, and EMBASE (2000-April 2014) was conducted. Search terms included HIV/AIDS, HAART, hospitalization, patient admission, inpatient, patient transfer, medication error, inappropriate prescribing, drug interaction, drug omission, drug toxicity, and contraindication. Study Selection and Data Extraction: English-language research articles, case reports, conference abstracts, and letters to the editor were reviewed. Data Synthesis: A high overall medication error rate was reported in HIV-positive inpatients. Errors occurred mainly at the time of prescribing on admission but were also detected throughout hospitalization and at discharge. Errors in the antiretroviral regimen, dosing, scheduling, and drug-drug and drug-food interactions were the most common. The most successful interventions involved a clinical pharmacist, who specializes in infectious diseases and/or HIV, completing medication reconciliation on admission, reviewing orders daily, and screening for errors at discharge. Conclusions: Although studies varied greatly in methodology, overall, a large number of medication errors occurred in this patient population. This underscores the important role the pharmacist has in optimizing care to hospitalized HIV-positive patients and provides further insights into the types of medication errors that occur and proposed solutions to reduce these errors. Because medication errors are multifactorial, ongoing initiatives to improve the quality of medication reconciliation processes, educate the health care team on antiretroviral medications, and improve the drug distribution system are required.
Effect of Long-term Topiramate Therapy on Serum Bicarbonate and Potassium Levels in Adult Epileptic Patients
Authors: Jovanović Marija , Sokić Dragoslav , Grabnar Iztok , Prostran Milica , Obrenović Radmila , Vučićević Katarina , Miljković Branislava
Published: May 2014

Background: Topiramate (TPM) is a sulfamate-substituted monosaccharide that is structurally different from other antiepileptic drugs. TPM inhibits carbonic anhydrase activity, which is associated with loss of bicarbonate from the kidney and consequently metabolic acidosis or electrolyte imbalance. Objective: The objectives of the study were to investigate the influence of TPM therapy on bicarbonate and potassium levels in adult epileptic patients. Methods: Data were collected from 59 adult patients on monotherapy or co-therapy of TPM and other antiepileptic drugs. Serum bicarbonate and potassium levels were available from all patients. Steady-state TPM trough concentrations were determined in blood samples by high-performance liquid chromatography. Data analysis was performed by SPSS software (version 17, Chicago, IL). Results: Patients were divided into group A (duration of therapy shorter than or equal to 5 years) and group B (duration of therapy longer than 5 years). Significant difference ( P < 0.05) in serum bicarbonate levels was observed between these 2 groups. Bicarbonate levels were linearly related to the TPM therapy duration. No correlation was found between the TPM dose or patient age and bicarbonate or potassium levels, as well as between therapy duration and potassium level. Linear regression analysis showed no significant association among 54 available TPM trough concentrations and bicarbonate or potassium levels. Conclusions: Results highlight the frequent occurrence of lower bicarbonate level associated with prolonged TPM therapy. Monitoring bicarbonate levels in patients on long-term TPM therapy might be useful.