bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of fabrics with dynamic moisture transfer properties on skin temperature in females during exercise and recovery
Authors: Lin Xiaofen , Li Yi , Zhou Jinyun , Cao Xuyong , Hu Junyan , Guo Yueping , Sun Shu , Lv Ru , Lin Yinglei , Ye Qing , Leung Hangmei
Published: April 2015

Based on the physiological nature of breast movement in exercising females, a sports bra made of fabric with dynamic moisture transfer properties was developed to improve female thermal comfort. This study aimed to investigate the effects of fabrics with dynamic moisture transfer properties on breast skin temperature, and the thermal physiological and psychological response of women while wearing the sports bra during exercise and recovery. Ten healthy women exercised in random order with two types of sports bra with or without the dynamic moisture transfer properties and then performed a 20-minute short-duration high-intensity exercise and rest to recover under thermoneutral conditions. Heart rate, body core temperature, skin temperature, body mass and thermal psychological subjective sensations were investigated during exercise and recovery. The results indicated that in the running state, the local breast skin temperatures of sports bra made of fabrics with dynamic moisture transfer properties (33.427 ± 0.087℃) are significantly lower than bras without these dynamic moisture transfer properties (33.964 ± 0.055℃) ( P < 0.01). During the exercise and recovery, the thermal psychological subjective sensation for the two types of fabrics were very similar, whereas the body mean skin temperature was revealed to undergo greater decreasing effects in sports bras made of fabrics with dynamic moisture transfer properties than those without the dynamic moisture transfer properties ( P < 0.05). These results provide novel information that usage of fabrics with dynamic moisture properties in sports bras could improve thermoregulation to benefit exercising women’s thermal comfort in terms of decreasing local breast skin temperature.
Residential segregation and employment outcomes of rural migrant workers in China
Authors: Zhu Pengyu
Published: April 2015

In China, many rural migrant workers live in urbanising villages that are usually located in peripheral areas of major cities. Different from the spatial mismatch literature in which locations of minorities in the US are constrained by racial discrimination in the housing market, the residential segregation of rural migrant workers in China is largely due to China’s unique institutional context (e.g. land tenure system, hukou system) and the exclusionary housing regulations. Those living in these urbanising villages could incur both negative spatial mismatch effects and positive spillover effects. Through a survey across four mega-regions in China that are currently experiencing the most rapid urbanisation, we collect unique information on rural migrant workers’ attitudes towards living in urbanising villages, and therefore are able to address the self-selection bias that has broadly existed in many previous studies on residential segregation and spatial mismatch. The models show that the net effect of residential segregation in urbanising villages on migrant workers’ employment outcomes (both employment propensity and wage) appears to be positive, suggesting the spillover effects override the spatial mismatch effects. Current policy proposals by government officials to demolish urbanising villages should be accompanied by alternative policies to assist with housing migrant workers in appropriate locations that not only reduce spatial mismatch effects but also maintain positive spillover effects.
Comparative effectiveness of ultrasonophoresis and iontophoresis in impingement syndrome: a double-blind, randomized, placebo controlled trial
Authors: García Isabel , Lobo Cristina , López Esther , Serván Jose Luis , Tenías Jose María
Published: April 2015

Objective:

To estimate the effectiveness of ultrasonophoresis and iontophoresis with sodium diclofenac used in addition to an exercise program for patients with impingement syndrome.

Design:

Multicentre, double-blind, placebo randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

“Mancha Centro” Outpatient primary care clinic (Spain).

Participants:

A total of 175 patients were considered, of whom 88 met criteria and agreed.

Intervention:

The patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups: a) standard treatment (supervised exercises and cryotherapy) along with placebo iontophoresis and placebo ultrasonophoresis; b) standard treatment, iontophoresis, and placebo ultrasonophoresis; and c) standard treatment, ultrasonophoresis, and placebo iontophoresis. All patients received 15 treatment sessions.

Outcome measures:

Baseline, 6-, and 12-week evaluations were carried out. Functionality, pain, range of motion, strength and quality of life were assessed with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand Questionnaire (DASH), Constant-Murley score, and SF-36 scale.

Results:

Ultrasonophoresis group experienced significant decreases in pain compared to the standard treatment group (12.7 and 13.5 points in “bodily pain” dimension of SF-36; and 1,5 and 2,2 points in “pain” dimension of Constant Murley after 6 and 12 weeks of therapy, respectively). They also reported improved range of motion compared to the exercises group (2,1 points in Constant-Murley after 6 weeks and 12 weeks), better vitality and overall health (SF-36 dimensions). Iontophoresis, however, led to no significant improvements when added to the standard treatment.

Conclusion:

In patients with impingement syndrome, a combination of ultrasonophoresis and an exercise program are better than a combination of iontophoresis and the same exercise program or the exercise program alone.
Social Cognitive Theory Predictors of Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Intentions of College Men at a Southeastern University
Authors: Priest Hannah M. , Knowlden Adam P. , Sharma Manoj
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this study was to use social cognitive theory to predict human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination intentions of college men attending a large, southeastern university. Data collection comprised two phases. Phase I established face and content validity of the instrument by a panel of six experts. Phase II assessed internal consistency reliability using Cronbach’s alpha and predicted behavioral intentions applying multiple linear regression. HPV knowledge, expectations, self-efficacy to get HPV vaccine, situational perception, self-efficacy in overcoming barriers to get HPV vaccine, and self-control to get HPV vaccine were regressed on behavioral intentions. Situational perception and self-control to get HPV vaccine were significant predictors, accounting for 22% of variance in behavioral intentions to get vaccinated within the next 6 months. Overall, college men reported low behavioral intentions to getting vaccinated. Future interventions should target situational perception and self-control to increase HPV vaccination intentions.
Diagnoses in Pediatric Patients With Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Lesions Suspicious for Demyelination
Authors: Sweeney Michael L. , Kukreja Marcia , Horn Paul S. , Standridge Shannon M.
Published: April 2015

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the brain in pediatric patients frequently show abnormal white matter lesions, which may be concerning for demyelinating disease. This study aimed to determine the proportion of pediatric patients who have MRI lesions concerning for demyelinating disease at presentation and ultimately are diagnosed with a primary central nervous system demyelinating disease. A retrospective chart review was performed on MRI reports of patients who underwent imaging evaluation at a single tertiary pediatric hospital. Of 299 patients identified, 192 presented with acute neurologic complaints. In this group, ≥5 discrete lesions, African American race, and having brain stem, thalamic, cerebellar, or optic nerve lesions was associated with the patient being diagnosed with a disease that required further treatment. The other 107 patients underwent MRI for other indications. Among these subjects, having lesions within the corpus callosum or cerebellum was associated with being diagnosed with a disease requiring further treatment.
Parental Stress in Families of Children With Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Valicenti-McDermott Maria , Lawson Katharine , Hottinger Kathryn , Seijo Rosa , Schechtman Merryl , Shulman Lisa , Shinnar Shlomo
Published: April 2015

The level of parental stress in families of children with autism and other developmental disabilities and its association with child comorbid symptoms was studied in an ethnically diverse population, in a cross-sectional study with structured interview. The sample included 50 families of children with autism and 50 families of children with other developmental disabilities, matched by age/gender. Interview included Parenting Stress Index–Short Form, Gastrointestinal Questionnaire, Child Sleep Habits Questionnaire, and Aberrant Behavior Checklist. In this ethnically diverse sample, parental stress was significantly higher for the autism group and for non-Hispanic and US-born mothers. In both study groups, parental stress was related to child irritability. Parental stress was also related to gastrointestinal problems in the autism group and to sleep difficulties in the developmental disabilities group. Targeting child irritability may be particularly important in reducing parental stress for families of children with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Modified inverse-polynomial shaping approach with thrust and radius constraints
Authors: Wang Dongzhe , Zhang Gang , Cao Xibin
Published: April 2015

The shape-based low-thrust trajectory approximation with modified inverse polynomials is studied by considering thrust and radius constraints, which require that the thrust-acceleration magnitude be less than a maximum allowed value and the trajectory radius be between a lower bound and an upper bound. Compared with the original inverse-polynomial method, the polynomial orders in the modified one are optimized. For the time-free transfer between circular orbits, it is proved that the radius monotonously changes, and the maximum thrust acceleration is obtained by solving a cubic polynomial which is the first-order expansion at half of the transfer angle. For a given maximum thrust acceleration, the minimum revolution number is analytically estimated. For the time-fixed rendezvous between circular orbits, the seventh parameter is solved by the secant method in its feasible range considering the radius constraints. The maximum tangent-thrust-acceleration magnitude is estimated by solving real roots of a polynomial, and then the feasible solutions for a given maximum acceleration are determined. Numerical examples show that the maximum thrust acceleration by the proposed modified inverse-polynomial method is less than that by the original inverse-polynomial method for both the orbit transfer and rendezvous problems.
Europeans’ work and life – out of balance? An empirical test of assumptions from the “acceleration debate”
Authors: Schöneck Nadine M
Published: April 2015

Advanced modernity is regarded as an era of time obsession and people in modernized societies seem to live harried lives. Leading time sociologists like Hartmut Rosa adopt a modernization–critical stance and ascribe an accelerated pace of life and frequent time scarcity to socioeconomic and technological advancement. According to these protagonists of the “acceleration debate,” time becomes increasingly precious due to severely changed conditions of work and private life. Against this background it can be assumed that many people may suffer from an unsatisfactory work–life balance. This study uses individual-level data from the fifth round of the European Social Survey (fielded in 2010/11) as well as suitable country-level data capturing key features of advanced modernity to empirically test assumptions arising from the “acceleration debate.” Results from multilevel analyses of 23 European countries provide some confirmation of these assumptions. While most macro indicators for 2010 reflecting a certain stage of development are uninfluential, a country's degree of globalization matters, and moreover growth rates of crucial macro indicators signaling paces of development exert an impact on people's work–life balance in the assumed direction: In countries with accelerations in terms of economic development, coverage of households with internet access and numbers of new cars working people show a significantly greater inclination toward an unsatisfactory work–life balance. Aside from results at the country-level individual-level determinants and group-specific differences of work–life balance under different conditions of advanced modernity are presented. This study's two main findings—(1) paces of development matter more than stages of development and (2) assumptions arising from the “acceleration debate” receive some empirical support—are thoroughly reflected on and discussed.
Microlichus americanus acariasis in saffron finches (Sicalis flaveola) with dermatitis and feather loss
Authors: Rettenmund Christy L. , Ossiboff Robert J. , McAloose Denise , Knee Wayne , Wade Susan E. , Paré Jean A.
Published: April 2015

Over a 5-year period, 13 saffron finches ( Sicalis flaveola) housed in mixed aviaries at the Bronx Zoo (Bronx, New York) were examined with feather loss and dermatitis, primarily affecting the nape, neck, and dorsum. Feather loss, hyperkeratosis, epidermal hyperplasia, and mixed granulocytic and mononuclear inflammation were identified in biopsies from live birds and tissue sections from postmortem specimens. In 10 of 13 cases, sections of arthropod parasites were seen histologically within feather follicles and along the surface of affected skin. Based on morphological characteristics, mites recovered from samples of formalin-fixed skin in 4 birds were identified as Microlichus americanus, an epidermoptid mite infrequently reported from wild birds and hippoboscid flies. Gross and histological lesions strongly implicate M. americanus as the cause of dermatitis affecting practically all saffron finches in the collection.
Trends of Empirical Research in South Korean Mental Health Social Work
Authors: Song In Han , Lee Eun Jung
Published: April 2015

Since the introduction of evidence-based practice in South Korea, it has gained significant attention for its potential to promote the efficacy of social work services and to integrate knowledge and practice in mental health social work. In order to see how empirical research in South Korean mental health social work has changed, we examined publication trends found with the journal Mental Health and Social Work, analyzing a total of 402 articles published from 1994 to 2013. A content analysis was performed with a focus on research methods and results, and the types of research questions and the designs reported. We found that (1) the number of empirical research articles increased over the past 20 years, (2) research on factors affecting clients’ lives or service outcomes was found to be dominant, and (3) correlational studies were most prevalent. We conclude that while a quantitative basis for mental health social work has increased, the rigor of the research needs to be further developed. Several suggestions are included at the end of this article with an aim to help promote more balanced evidence research and utilization of evidence in the field of mental health social work in South Korea.
Increased Incidence and Severity of Postoperative Radiographic Hallux Valgus Interphalangeus With Surgical Correction of Hallux Valgus
Authors: Dixon Alexis E. , Lee Lydia C. , Charlton Timothy P. , Thordarson David B.
Published: April 2015

Background:

A previous study has shown an increased radiographic prevalence and severity of hallux valgus interphalangeus (HVIP) after surgical correction of hallux valgus (HV) due to correction of pronation deformity. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the change in pre- and postoperative HVIP deformity with correction of HV with multiple radiographic parameters.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review identified all bunion surgeries performed at a single center from July 1, 2009, to September 30, 2012. Exclusion criteria included prior bony surgery to the first ray, inadequate films, nonadult bunion, Akin osteotomy, or surgical treatment other than bunion correction. Pre- and postoperative films were reviewed for 2 HV angular measurements and 5 HVIP measurements, which were compared. The angles measured were hallux valgus angle (HVA), first intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux interphalangeus angle (HIA), distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA), proximal phalangeal articular angle (PPAA), proximal to distal phalangeal articular angle (PDPAA), and total distal deformity (TDD). Prevalence of HVIP was analyzed in pre- and postoperative radiographs. A 1-sided Student t test was used to compare continuous data, and a chi-square test was used to compare categorical data. Ninety-two feet in 82 patients were eligible.

Results:

The average preoperative HV improved with surgery. Preoperative HVA improved from 27 to 11 degrees ( P < .001). Preoperative IMA improved from 13.6 to 6.1 degrees ( P < .001). HVIP worsened after surgery. Preoperative HIA increased from 7.2 to 13.2 degrees ( P < .001). DMAA worsened from 7.3 to 9.2 degrees ( P = .001). PPAA worsened from 3.2 to 6.2 degrees. PDPAA worsened from 6.7 to 8.2 degrees ( P < .001). The TDD increased from 14.6 to 17.9 degrees ( P < .001). The prevalence of HVIP pre- and postoperatively as defined by HIA increased from 26% to 79% ( P < .001) and by PPAA from 12% to 46% ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Initial assessment of preoperative radiographs underestimated HVIP. Postoperative correction of the deformity revealed HVIP that was not obvious preoperatively.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.
Enforcing Enrollment in Health Insurance Exchanges
Authors: van Ginneken Ewout , Rice Thomas
Published: April 2015

Experience from the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Germany suggests that there may be a looming problem concerning uninsured individuals and defaulters that could derail coverage projection numbers in the United States under the Affordable Care Act. In those countries, the young, people with migrant backgrounds, and those with lower incomes—precisely the groups the Affordable Care Act is seeking to cover—are overrepresented in the numbers of the uninsured and defaulters, frequently because of difficulty in paying for their premiums. In these three countries, penalties or suspension of coverage alone has not led everyone to purchase coverage or prevented some from defaulting. Help in addressing the vulnerable position of the uninsured may be needed. Examples include using a multifaceted approach in which public authorities help with debt restructuring, freeing some funds in the exchanges to help vulnerable groups, and compensating insurers for their outstanding payments if they follow an agreed protocol instead of canceling coverage.
Physical and thermo-mechanical characterizations of resin-based dental composite reinforced with silane-modified nanoalumina filler particle
Authors: Kumar Shiv Ranjan , Patnaik Amar , Bhat IK
Published: April 2015

The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of adding different weight percentages of nanoalumina particles on mechanical properties of resin-based dental composite materials. The composite specimens were prepared by dispersion of different percentage weight fractions (0 wt%, 1 wt%, 2 wt% and 3 wt%) of silane-modified nanoalumina filler in a monomer system containing 50% bisphenol-A glycidyl methacrylate, 49% tri-ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, 0.2% Camphorquinone and 0.8% Ethyl 4-dimethylaminobenzoate. The filler particle before and after silane treatment was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The presence of C = O bond and Si–O–Si linkage between the monomer and filler was clearly indicated. Mechanical behavior of the light-cured samples was evaluated using compressive strength test, three-point flexural strength test, Vicker Micro hardness tests, dynamic mechanical analysis and simultaneous thermal analysis. The results indicated a more than 16% increase in the compressive strength in the samples containing nanoalumina filler particles. Vickers hardness of composite was increased by approximately 28% with respect to unfilled composite. The flexural modulus of composite mixed with alumina nanoparticles was increased from 1.7 to 5.1 GPa, while the values of composite were slightly decreased from 84.5 to 59.5 MPa. The dynamic mechanical analysis result revealed that the glass transition temperature was found to be increased by 30 ℃ compared to unfilled composite. It was also found that the 1 wt% nanoalumina content recorded the highest value of storage modulus. The weight loss profile and thermal stability from thermogravimetric analysis results revealed that the composite filled with 2 wt% nanoalumina content exhibited maximum thermal stability.
The Influence of Stress, Gender, and Culture on Type 2 Diabetes Prevention and Management Among Black Men
Authors: Seawell Asani H. , Hurt Tera R. , Shirley Margaret C.
Published: April 2015

This study used focus-group methodology to seek understanding about the unique influence of stress, gender, and culture on type 2 diabetes mellitus (t2dm) prevention and management among Black men. Twenty men from Iowa were recruited from a larger longitudinal study on Black families; each of these men participated in one of three focus groups. Ninety-five percent of the men in the sample were Black and all were either diagnosed with t2dm ( n = 10), were prediabetic ( n = 1), or had experience with t2dm through family and friends ( n = 9). Our results revealed the existence of significant stress and some pessimism with respect to perceived ability to prevent and manage t2dm. The participants made it clear that, while their families are primary sources of support for managing stress, including t2dm, they can also be a source of stress, particularly with respect to parenting. Black men had mixed opinions on their relationships with respect to their health care providers; some had positive, long-standing relationships while others reported little or no relationship with their providers. In response to life stress, Black men reported experiencing inadequate and disrupted sleep as well as consuming too much alcohol at times. Some of the participants reported engaging in physical activity to manage their stress. The study concluded that, as researchers develop t2dm prevention and management programs, they should continue to consider the unique role that stress in its various forms, plays in the lives of Black men.
School leadership challenges along Kenya’s Borabu-Sotik border
Authors: Abaya Joel
Published: April 2015

This article is based on a qualitative multi case study carried out in southwestern Kenya along the border areas of Nyanza and Rift Valley province. The purpose of the research was to examine the challenges public secondary school principals faced in their leadership roles and suggest efforts they might adopt to minimize the effects of these challenges. Data was drawn from interviews with six secondary school principals, document analysis as well as participant observation. Findings indicated that principals of public secondary school are faced with challenges associated with overdependence, uncertainty and vulnerability.
Children talking television: The salience and functions of media content in child peer interactions
Authors: Kampf Zohar , Hamo Michal
Published: April 2015

The study aims at exploring the salience and functions of media and television contents in children’s lives (aged 4–7 years) by focusing on their uses as a discursive resource in naturally occurring peer talk. We observed and recorded Israeli children talk in everyday, natural settings in two separate studies, in 1999–2002 and in 2012–2013. Detailed discourse analysis of television-based interactions from an ethnographic, child-centered perspective reveals the enduring centrality of television as an enjoyable, available, and shared cultural resource with valuable social, cognitive, and discursive affordances: it is frequently mentioned during everyday adult-free interactions; utilized as the basis for drawing and negotiating boundaries and hierarchies within the peer community; and facilitates experiencing a variety of discursive literacy skills, ranging between practicing adherence to original texts and creativity and distancing from them. These findings provide further evidence for the mediatization of everyday life, and may have educational implications, which are discussed.
Comparative study of functional and aesthetically outcomes of reverse digital artery and reverse dorsal homodigital island flaps for fingertip repair
Authors: Chen Q. Z. , Sun Y. C. , Chen J. , Kong J. , Gong Y. P. , Mao T.
Published: April 2015

This retrospective study was designed to compare functional and cosmetic outcomes of the reverse digital artery island flap and reverse dorsal homodigital island flap in fingertip repair. A total of 23 patients were followed for 24 to 30 months. The reverse digital artery island flap was used in 12 patients, and reverse dorsal homodigital island flap in another 11 patients. Flap sensibility was assessed using the Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test and static 2-point discrimination test. Patient satisfaction, active motion of the finger joints, complications and cold intolerance were evaluated. The static 2-point discrimination and Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire (appearance) of the fingers treated with a reverse digital artery flap were significantly better than those with a reverse dorsal homodigital flap. The static 2-point discrimination of the skin-grafted donor sides after dorsal homodigital flap were poorer than that in the contralateral finger. No significant differences were found between the two flaps for pressure or touch sensibility, active ranges of digital motion, complications and cold intolerance.

Level of evidence: III.
Emotion and the Joint Structure of Personality and Psychopathology
Authors: Vachon David D. , Krueger Robert F.
Published: April 2015

There are numerous well-documented problems with the DSM’s polythetic-categorical approach to the delineation of mental disorders. However, the DSM-5 introduces an empirically based dimensional model of personality traits. These traits form a hierarchical structure that represents the organization of dispositions to common mental disorders. We connect emotions to this joint hierarchical structure using a modified set point model, which accommodates major theories linking personality and psychopathology—continuum, risk, scar, and pathoplasty—as well as more dynamic multivariate models. We argue that these traits represent typical causal pathways that can be extracted from a complex web of equifinality and multifinality. Ultimately, research on mood disorders provides a stronger account of their underling traits than the variably endorsed symptoms of their polythetic criteria.
Care Quality Commission
Authors: Blake Alastair , Sparrow Nigel , Field Steve
Published: April 2015

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. It has a statutory duty to monitor and inspect providers of health services including General Practices. Since 1 October 2014, the CQC has rolled out its new approach to inspecting GP services. The aim of this article is to outline the CQC’s role in regulation and the rationale for and mechanism by which it carries out its regulatory activities.
Youths’ and Adults’ Stories Related to the Background for ADHD Assessment
Authors: Hannås Bjørg Mari
Published: April 2015

In connection with a study relating to the diagnosing of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), youths and adults represent a particularly interesting group, partly because they have lived a relatively long time with the condition but without the diagnosis. In this article, I am focusing particularly on the life stories of youths and adults before they were referred for an ADHD assessment. A narrative analysis of a body of empirical data material shows that the subjects’ stories about the background for their referral are dominated by three themes: substantial health-related disorders and problems, diffuse sensations that “something” was wrong, and experiences relating to their identification with the diagnosis. The study shows that most of the respondents had been in contact with their regular general practitioner (GP)—and in many cases had tried out various diagnoses and treatments—long before the question of ADHD was raised.
Crime-Reporting Practices Among Market Women in Oyo, Nigeria
Authors: Ayodele Johnson Oluwole
Published: April 2015

Crime surveys of businesses have revealed that while crimes in which men were victims tend to be reported, those in which women were victims are likely to go unreported to the police. Understanding the reasons behind male reporting and female non-reporting is useful not only for collection of crime statistics but also for improving crime control competences of law enforcement agencies. This article examines the impact of crime involving market women on their crime-reporting practices in Oyo town, Oyo State, Nigeria. The study adopted quantitative and qualitative approaches. Copies of a questionnaire were administered to collect quantitative data from randomly selected 210 market women at Akesan, Sabo, and Mosadoba markets in Oyo town. Five focus group discussions, in-depth and key informant interviews were conducted to complement quantitative data. Both data were analyzed. The study found that cultural considerations stand between crime events that hurt the economic interests of women and their readiness to report to the police. Due to the very low confidence that market women have in the ability and willingness of the police to apprehend criminals, they prefer to internalize their losses, take their cases to traditional rulers who use “oro cult” to protect them against criminals, or approach available faith-based options such as churches and mosques. The article concludes that women have economy-enriching roles to play in the context of sustainable security. It therefore suggests that the government should address public safety to enable market women make their modest contribution to Nigeria’s economic development.
Mixed Methods for Study of Gender Issues in Access, Application, and Attitudes Toward ICT in Higher Education Institutions in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Kolodziejczyk Iwona
Published: April 2015

For more than a century, there has been an ongoing paradigm debate between qualitative and quantitative methodological communities that has led to a growing interest in the mixed methods approach. This article seeks to contribute to this ongoing discussion by presenting results of a mixed methods study employed to explore gender issues in the access, application, and attitudes toward information communication technology (ICT) in higher education institutions in Papua New Guinea (PNG). The data presented here involved more than 900 students and faculty members. In each of the studied aspects of staffs’ and students’ interactions with ICT, mixed methods methodology provided a platform for deeper exploration of gender issues that otherwise would not have been discovered. Although quantitative data showed little statistically significant differences in the access to and application of ICT, qualitative data revealed deep inequalities rooted in a PNG male-dominated culture. In terms of participants’ attitudes toward ICT, qualitative analyses not only reaffirmed the statistical results but also enriched understanding of demonstrated attitudes by providing a platform for an in-depth discussion about the positive, negative, and ambivalent perceptions and beliefs held by the staff and students in tertiary institutions.
The Role of Serotonin in Orbitofrontal Function and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Maia Tiago V. , Cano-Colino Maria
Published: April 2015

Serotonin is crucial for orbitofrontal cortex function and for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Using a neurocomputational model of the role of serotonin in orbitofrontal function, we show that (a) low serotonin leads to perseverative neuronal activity, with the network getting “stuck” in specific states; (b) low serotonin leads to an increased tendency both to develop obsessions—strong attractors to which the network activity tends and which are difficult to escape—and to fall into existing obsessions; (c) excessive glutamatergic activity, which may occur in obsessive-compulsive disorder, also leads to an increased tendency to develop obsessions and fall into existing obsessions; (d) increasing serotonin decreases these pathological tendencies, even if they are caused by excessive glutamatergic activity; and (e) the different effects of 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A serotonin receptors on neuronal activity explain the differential effects of drugs that target these receptors.
Myeloma cell–derived Runx2 promotes myeloma progression in bone
Authors: Trotter Timothy N. , Li Mei , Pan Qianying , Peker Deniz , Rowan Patrick D. , Li Juan , Zhan Fenghuang , Suva Larry J. , Javed Amjad , Yang Yang
Published: April 2015

Key Points

Myeloma cell–derived Runx2 promotes myeloma progression. High levels of Runx2 expression are associated with a high-risk myeloma population.
Expansion of a novel endogenous retrovirus throughout the pericentromeres of modern humans
Authors: Zahn Joseph , Kaplan Mark H , Fischer Sabrina , Dai Manhong , Meng Fan , Saha Anjan Kumar , Cervantes Patrick , Chan Susana M , Dube Derek , Omenn Gilbert S , Markovitz David M , Contreras-Galindo Rafael
Published: April 2015

Background

Approximately 8% of the human genome consists of sequences of retroviral origin, a result of ancestral infections of the germ line over millions of years of evolution. The most recent of these infections is attributed to members of the human endogenous retrovirus type-K (HERV-K) (HML-2) family. We recently reported that a previously undetected, large group of HERV-K (HML-2) proviruses, which are descendants of the ancestral K111 infection, are spread throughout human centromeres.

Results

Studying the genomes of certain cell lines and the DNA of healthy individuals that seemingly lack K111, we discover new HERV-K (HML-2) members hidden in pericentromeres of several human chromosomes. All are related through a common ancestor, termed K222, which is a virus that infected the germ line approximately 25 million years ago. K222 exists as a single copy in the genomes of baboons and high order primates, but not New World monkeys, suggesting that progenitor K222 infected the primate germ line after the split between New and Old World monkeys. K222 exists in modern humans at multiple loci spread across the pericentromeres of nine chromosomes, indicating it was amplified during the evolution of modern humans.

Conclusions

Copying of K222 may have occurred through recombination of the pericentromeres of different chromosomes during human evolution. Evidence of recombination between K111 and K222 suggests that these retroviral sequences have been templates for frequent cross-over events during the process of centromere recombination in humans.
Chronic Toxicity and Carcinogenicity Studies of the Long-Acting GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Dulaglutide in Rodents
Authors: Byrd Richard A. , Sorden Steven D. , Ryan Thomas , Pienkowski Thomas , LaRock Richard , Quander Ricardo , Wijsman John A. , Smith Holly W. , Blackbourne Jamie L. , Rosol Thomas J. , Long Gerald G. , Martin Jennifer A. , Vahle John L.
Published: April 2015

The tumorigenic potential of dulaglutide was evaluated in rats and transgenic mice. Rats were injected sc twice weekly for 93 weeks with dulaglutide 0, 0.05, 0.5, 1.5, or 5 mg/kg corresponding to 0, 0.5, 7, 20, and 58 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose based on plasma area under the curve. Transgenic mice were dosed sc twice weekly with dulaglutide 0, 0.3, 1, or 3 mg/kg for 26 weeks. Dulaglutide effects were limited to the thyroid C-cells. In rats, diffuse C-cell hyperplasia and adenomas were statistically increased at 0.5 mg/kg or greater (P ≤ .01 at 5 mg/kg), and C-cell carcinomas were numerically increased at 5 mg/kg. Focal C-cell hyperplasia was higher compared with controls in females given 0.5, 1.5, and 5 mg/kg. In transgenic mice, no dulaglutide-related C-cell hyperplasia or neoplasia was observed at any dose; however, minimal cytoplasmic hypertrophy of C cells was observed in all dulaglutide groups. Systemic exposures decreased over time in mice, possibly due to an antidrug antibody response. In a 52-week study designed to quantitate C-cell mass and plasma calcitonin responses, rats received twice-weekly sc injections of dulaglutide 0 or 5 mg/kg. Dulaglutide increased focal C-cell hyperplasia; however, quantitative increases in C-cell mass did not occur. Consistent with the lack of morphometric changes in C-cell mass, dulaglutide did not affect the incidence of diffuse C-cell hyperplasia or basal or calcium-stimulated plasma calcitonin, suggesting that diffuse increases in C-cell mass did not occur during the initial 52 weeks of the rat carcinogenicity study.
The intranet age: Decreasing delays to diagnosis of lymphoma
Authors: Parsons Iain , Pratt Guy , Ahmad Ijaz , Steyn Richard , Hendrickse Charles , Bowley Doug
Published: April 2015

Background:

Lymphoma, the most common haematological malignancy, is a complex, diverse disease and biopsy of lymph nodes remains fundamental for diagnosis. However, delay from referral to tissue biopsy and consequent diagnosis occurs commonly. This study aimed to assess whether delays for significant diagnoses such as lymphoma could be decreased using novel intranet referral pathways as opposed to traditional referral methods.

Methods:

A review of a prospectively maintained adult lymphoma histopathology database was undertaken for a six-year period (2003–2008). Processes of care were examined by assessment of electronic records and case notes. The review was extended to encompass a two-year period (2011–2013) following the construction and implementation of an intranet lymph node biopsy booking service and dedicated surgical booking coordinator.

Results:

The introduction of an intranet referral system and a dedicated surgical booking coordinator resulted in the median time to lymphoma diagnosis falling from 53 days (range 16–300) to 35 days (range 6–68; p = < 0.001) in comparison to referral made by letter. There was a significant (p = 0.003) decrease in delay to lymph node biopsy from 35 days (5–292) to 22 days (1–138) following the implementation of the lymph node booking system. However, delay to inpatient biopsy remained significantly (p = < 0.001) less than outpatient regardless of referral method.

Conclusion:

An intranet booking system and named coordinator significantly decreases time to lymph node biopsy and consequent diagnosis of lymphoma in comparison to letter referral. Intranet pathways should be further used to reduce variability of time to surgical intervention.
The bitter divide over the private sector
Authors: Timmins Nick
Published: April 2015

As the general election approaches, Nick Timmins, senior fellow at the Institute for Government and the King's Fund looks at views of the private sector in health
Take a bird's eye view
Authors: Mynard Steve
Published: April 2015

Teaching map reading and map making in key stage 1 gives children a head start with geography skills, and will set them up for a lifetime of exploration.
Use engineering to design, build, test and prototype
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: April 2015

Practical applications for engineering give pupils the opportunity to problem solve, try out their ideas and approach things from a different angle, says Sal McKeown.
Harness the power of ICT
Authors: Cartwright Eva
Published: April 2015

As someone who works with small groups of children, TAs are in a strong position to support their ICT skills and add another layer of learning to classroom lessons.
Getting on the right track
Authors: Allen Rebecca
Published: April 2015

Is it fair that a child's progress is judged against a simple, linear tracking system? A new report challenges traditional approaches and suggests new ways of working.
Hear, handle and say the word – all in a flash
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: April 2015

Sal McKeown finds out how an app that uses colour coded post-it notes is engaging children in language learning, and adapts to an individual's needs.
Students With Intellectual Disability in Higher Education: Adult Service Provider Perspectives
Authors: Sheppard-Jones Kathleen , Kleinert Harold Lawrence , Druckemiller Wendy , Ray Megan Kovacevich
Published: April 2015

Postsecondary education (PSE) is increasingly becoming an option for students with intellectual disability (ID; Grigal & Hart, 2012). Postsecondary education offers the promise of pursuing a valued social role (that of college student), enhanced social networks, and, most significantly, increased employment options. To date, research and practice in the area of transition to PSE for students with ID has focused primarily upon the sending (public school systems) and receiving (colleges or universities) agencies (Oertle & Bragg, 2014; Thoma et al., 2011). Yet adults with ID often require ongoing supports through state and federally funded developmental disability waivers, and agency providers of waiver services have, for the most part, not been part of this vital conversation. This study represents an exploratory study of directors of developmental disability provider agencies in one midwestern state to assess their knowledge of PSE for individuals with ID. A total of 87 directors responded; quantitative results are presented and, based on these findings, we provide implications for the future.
A different Mexican postcard: Fernando Eimbcke’s Lake Tahoe (2008)
Authors: Newman Kathleen
Published: April 2015

This article examines the ways in which the screen aesthetics of Fernando Eimbcke’s Lake Tahoe (2008) creates a sympathetic portrait of the contemporary middle class in Mexico. Considering first the deployment in Eimbcke’s work of the same critical closeness and distance underpinning the chronicles of distinguished Mexican writer Carlos Monsiváis, the article then analyses: Eimbcke’s formal style, which foregrounds a combination of static camerawork and narrative ellipsis to produce specific affective relations on-screen and an ironic address to the audience; his chronicle of the Mexican working and middle class in a beach town in the Yucatán; and the implications of the visual humour and nostalgia with which he approaches the protagonist’s process of mourning.
Report on Morelia International Film Festival, 17–26 October 2014
Authors: Smith Paul Julian
Published: April 2015

This article reports on the twelfth edition of the Morelia International Film Festival, which took place from 17 to 26 October 2014. It begins by recounting the debates held at the Encuentro de Realizadores Mexicanos, an industry forum that gave voice to directors, archivists and critics from Mexico and beyond and focused on such questions as the divide between art movies and commercial cinema. The report goes on to analyse the Mexican fiction features shown at the festival, all national premieres. It argues that there were three main themes: LGBT issues, ageing and the reaction against the slow or observational cinema that was previously dominant at this and other festivals.
Mistaken for Dead: The Affordable Care Act and the Continued Resilience of Medicare Advantage
Authors: Kelly Andrew S.
Published: April 2015

In 2009, Medicare Advantage became a prime target in the Obama Administration’s efforts to pay for the Affordable Care Act (ACA). After securing substantial cuts to a program the President described as a failure, the Obama administration was compelled to take unprecedented administrative steps to put billions of dollars back into Medicare Advantage. These developments demonstrate how Medicare Advantage’s support constituency, which has come to include Democrats, Republicans, beneficiaries, and the managed care industry, has maintained more political influence in the aftermath of the ACA than some initially believed. The continued and growing influence of the Medicare Advantage constituency does not, however, mean that Medicare is primed for a more conservative turn toward vouchers or premium support. With the provision of generous benefits and increasing evidence that Medicare Advantage produces higher quality health outcomes than traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage appears to be secure in its current form.
Opting In, Opting Out: The Politics of State Medicaid Expansion
Authors: Rose Shanna
Published: April 2015

As the list of Republican-led states participating in the Medicaid expansion grows, it is becoming increasingly clear that partisanship and ideology alone cannot fully explain states’ choices. This paper examines the political and practical dynamics influencing state Medicaid expansion decisions. Whereas resources and history have served to reinforce the effects of partisanship and ideology, several countervailing forces – including public opinion, interest group pressure, budgetary considerations, and need – are pushing even the reddest states toward expansion. The relative force of these competing pressures within a state can help explain not only whether or not the state expands Medicaid, but also the manner in which it does so, such as through a waiver or executive action. I present five case studies – Nevada, Arizona, Ohio, Arkansas, and Tennessee – to illustrate how these various dynamics are shaping states’ decisions.
An Integrative Review: Instructional Strategies to Improve Nurses’ Retention of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Priorities
Authors: Sullivan Nancy
Published: April 2015

Recognizing and responding to a cardiac arrest in the hospital setting is a high stress, high anxiety event for all healthcare providers. It requires the performance of several basic, but extremely important cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills and response priorities. If not executed correctly and in a timely manner, a bad outcome may result. Poor retention of cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills and priorities is well documented in the literature. An integrative review of the evidence was conducted to answer the question, “Is there a more effective training method to improve nurses’ retention of CPR priorities during an in hospital cardiac arrest as compared to traditional American Heart Association training? “This review evaluated high fidelity and low fidelity simulation training, online or computer-based training and video instruction as potential teaching strategies focusing on CPR priorities. The role of deliberate practice is discussed. The strongest evidence suggests that a teaching plan employing brief, frequent, repetitive or deliberate practice used in collaboration with low fidelity or high fidelity simulation may be a potential strategy to improve nurses’ retention of CPR priorities over time.
Traveling Through Languages: Reports on Language Experiences in Tourists’ Travel Blogs
Authors: Goethals Patrick
Published: April 2015

This paper aims to gain insight into (Spanish) tourists’ multilingual experiences by analyzing spontaneously written online travel diaries. Using the conceptual framework of Rapport Management Theory (RMT;
Weak Kings and Perverted Symbolism. How Shakespeare Treats the Doctrine of the King’s Two Bodies
Authors: Ost François
Published: April 2015

The doctrine of
Disruptions and Negotiations of Identity in Act 1 of Shakespeare’s Othello
Authors: Fiorato Sidia
Published: April 2015

is one of Shakespeare’s most forensic works; in particular, the trial scene of act 1 becomes the