bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived Racial Discrimination in Health Care, Completion of Standard Diabetes Services, and Diabetes Control Among a Sample of American Indian Women
Authors: Gonzales Kelly L. , Lambert William E. , Fu Rongwei , Jacob Michelle , Harding Anna K.
Published: September 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine perceived experiences of racial discrimination (perceived discrimination) in health care and its associations with completing standards of care for diabetes management and diabetes control.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 200 adult American Indian (AI) women with type 2 diabetes from 4 health care facilities located on tribal reservations in the Pacific Northwest. Participants completed a survey, and medical records were abstracted. Logistic regression was completed to assess associations.

Results

Sixty-seven percent of AI women reported discrimination during their lifetime of health care. After adjusting for patient characteristics, perceived discrimination was significantly associated with lower rates of dental exam; checks for blood pressure, creatinine, and total cholesterol; and pneumococcal vaccination. The association between perceived discrimination and total number of diabetes services completed was not statistically significant. Perceived discrimination was associated with having A1C values above target levels for diabetes control in unadjusted and adjusted models, but no association was observed for blood pressure or total cholesterol.

Conclusions

In our sample of AI women with diabetes, two-thirds reported experiencing racial discrimination in their health care experience. Those reporting perceived discrimination completed fewer diabetes services and therefore may be at increased risk for comorbidities of diabetes. This finding supports the continued need for culturally responsive health care and programs of diabetes education to recognize perceived discrimination and its potential to impact success in self-management and services utilization.
Scientific, Economic, Regulatory, and Ethical Challenges of Bringing Science‐Based Pediatric Nutrition Products to the U.S. Market and Ensuring Their Availability for Patients
Authors: Merritt Russell J. , Goldsmith Arthur H.
Published: September 2014

Many nutrition products and related drugs are unavailable or not consistently available to clinicians despite a body of clinical data and experience supporting their use. Many of these can be related to drug shortages that have increased since 2009. In addition, there are potentially useful products that are not approved for a specific use or are no longer being manufactured. This review broadly examines the product availability gap from the perspectives of a clinician/former nutrition industry medical director and an economist. The process of pediatric nutrition product and related drug innovation, as well as its drivers and the steps involved in bringing a product to market, is first described. This is followed by an assessment of factors influencing product availability beyond the innovation process, including regulatory issues, manufacturing compliance, purchasing practices, and other factors related to drug and nutrition product pricing and reimbursement. Three pediatric case examples are reviewed and placed in the context of the prior review. Last, recent and future possible steps toward closing the product availability gap are discussed.
Economic Burden of Community‐Based Disease‐Associated Malnutrition in the United States
Authors: Snider Julia Thornton , Linthicum Mark T. , Wu Yanyu , LaVallee Chris , Lakdawalla Darius N. , Hegazi Refaat , Matarese Laura
Published: September 2014

Background: The burden imposed by disease‐associated malnutrition (DAM) on patients and the healthcare system in food‐abundant industrialized countries is often underappreciated. This study measured the economic burden of community‐based DAM in the United States. Methods: The burden of DAM was quantified in terms of direct medical costs, quality‐adjusted life years lost, and mortality across 8 diseases (breast cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], colorectal cancer [CRC], coronary heart disease [CHD], dementia, depression, musculoskeletal disorders, and stroke). To estimate the total economic burden, the morbidity and mortality burden was monetized using a standard value of a life year and combined with direct medical costs of treating DAM. Disease‐specific prevalence and malnutrition estimates were taken from the National Health Interview Survey and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Deaths by disease were taken from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Estimates of costs and morbidity were taken from the literature. Results: The annual burden of DAM across the 8 diseases was $156.7 billion, or $508 per U.S. resident. Nearly 80% of this burden was derived from morbidity associated with DAM; around 16% derived from mortality and the remainder from direct medical costs of treating DAM. The total burden was highest in COPD and depression, while the burden per malnourished individual was highest in CRC and CHD. Conclusion: DAM exacts a large burden on American society. Therefore, improved diagnosis and management of community‐based DAM to alleviate this burden are needed.
State Government Revenue Recovery from the Great Recession
Authors: Alm James , Sjoquist David L.
Published: September 2014

The “Great Recession” wreaked havoc on the revenues of state governments. In this article, we use various indicators to measure how the revenues of different state governments have—or have not—recovered in the aftermath of the Great Recession. Importantly, we also attempt to explain why these different patterns of revenue recovery have emerged. Overall, we find that some, but far from all, state governments have recovered the revenue they lost during the Great Recession. We also find that there is no single causal explanation for recovery that applies to all state governments.
Effects of Progressive Muscle Relaxation Intervention in Extremity Fracture Surgery Patients
Authors: Xie Li-Qin , Deng Yun-Long , Zhang Jing-Ping , Richmond Christopher J. , Tang Ying , Zhou Jun
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of progressive muscle relaxation on state anxiety and self-efficacy in hospitalized patients admitted for an extremity fracture receiving elective surgery. Eighty four patients met the inclusion criteria and all were randomly assigned to either the progressive muscle relaxation group or the control group. The control group received standard orthopedic nursing care, and the experimental group received standard care along with daily progressive muscle relaxation throughout their hospitalization. The State Anxiety Inventory and Self-Efficacy Scales were administered before and after the intervention. Both paired-sample t tests and independent t tests showed that progressive muscle relaxation is effective in reducing state anxiety and enhancing the self-efficacy of patients with extremity fracture undergoing an elective surgery.
Increased Intracranial Pressure in Spontaneous CSF Leak Patients Is Not Associated with Papilledema
Authors: Aaron Geoffrey , Doyle Jennifer , Vaphiades Michael S. , Riley Kristen O. , Woodworth Bradford A.
Published: September 2014

Objective

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks typically present in patients with undiagnosed idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) secondary to pressure erosion of the skull base. Despite elevated intracranial pressure (ICP) on lumbar puncture or ventriculostomy, patients with spontaneous CSF leaks rarely complain of visual disturbances. The objective of this study is to correlate the presence of preoperative papilledema with opening ICP in patients undergoing endoscopic repair of spontaneous CSF leaks.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Setting

Tertiary hospital.

Methods

Prospective evaluation of patients with spontaneous CSF leaks was performed over a 1‐year period (December 2012 to December 2013). Fundoscopic examination for papilledema was completed preoperatively and CSF pressure measured by lumbar puncture or ventriculostomy intraoperatively. Data regarding demographics, nature of presentation, and body mass index (BMI) were also recorded and compared to a control cohort of IIH patients with papilledema.

Results

Sixteen patients (average age 52) were evaluated. Obesity was present in 94% of individuals (average BMI = 43, range, 27‐65). Papilledema was absent preoperatively in all subjects. Opening pressures via lumbar puncture/ventriculostomy were 27.4 ± 7.7 cmH20. Following 6 hours of clamping, measurements significantly increased to 36 ± 9.6 cmH20 (P <. 001). IIH controls (average age 33, average BMI = 36, range, 21‐52) exhibited average ICP (36.2 ± 11.7) identical to postclamp measurements in the spontaneous CSF leak cohort.

Conclusions

Subjects with spontaneous CSF leaks had postclamping average ICP identical to controls with IIH and papilledema. Such evidence suggests that a CSF leak in this patient population provides sufficient pressure diversion to avoid the development of papilledema.
Huge aneurysm and coronary-cameral fistula from right coronary branch: First case
Authors: Ahmad Tanveer , Pasarad Ashwini Kumar , Kishore Kolkebaile Sadanand , Maheshwarappa Nandakumar Neralakere
Published: September 2014

Coronary-cameral fistulas are rare cardiovascular anomalies. A giant coronary artery aneurysm associated with a coronary-cameral fistula is a very rare condition, with an estimated prevalence of 0.02%. We report the case of middle-aged woman who presented with a huge extracardiac aneurysmal mass and a coronary-cameral fistula from a right coronary artery branch. It was successfully repaired by ligation and excision plus marsupialization of the aneurysm. We believe this is the first such a case reported in literature.
The British Origins of the French Jacobins: Radical Sociability and the Development of Political Club Networks, 1787–1793
Authors: Alpaugh Micah
Published: September 2014

Approaching the Revolutionary era from a transnational perspective, this article explores the rich exchanges and collaborations between radical British and French popular societies. Both early French political and antislavery societies adapted their associational strategies from Anglo-American examples – indeed, borrowing the word ‘club’ itself to describe such organizations. Most significantly, in November 1789, correspondence from the London Revolution Society directly inspired the founding of the Paris Jacobin Club, and the integrated national network the Jacobins formed consciously built from British designs. By 1792, active experimentation proliferated in both nations as the Jacobins radicalized, and their example boomeranged to motivate the creation of a more integrated radical political network in Britain, the London Corresponding Society. Utilizing club correspondence, radical newspapers and pamphlets, and personal communications between key members, this article seeks to demonstrate the applied power of Revolutionary cosmopolitanism and transnational epistolary connections. Whereas prior scholarship of these connections has been largely limited to the French Revolution’s influence on Britain, the extent of the British influence on the early Jacobins has been virtually ignored. This account attempts to highlight the rich mutual exchanges that inspired the most radical and influential movements of the Revolutionary age.
Knowledge retention strategies in public sector organizations
Authors: Dewah Peterson , Mutula Stephen M
Published: September 2014

This article discusses knowledge retention strategies in public sector organizations in sub-Saharan Africa. Based on a survey of empirical and theoretical literature the article addresses the following research questions: What organizational learning activities take place in public sector organizations? What strategies are public sector organizations using to capture and retain knowledge? What ICT infrastructure is available in public sector organizations for knowledge capturing and sharing? What challenges face public sector organizations in sub-Saharan Africa in capturing and retaining knowledge? What is the current status of knowledge retention in the public sector in sub-Saharan Africa? The results reveal that public sector organizations are using various strategies such as codification, personalization, training, education, workshops, seminars, storytelling, mentoring and apprenticeship to capture and retain knowledge. The ICT infrastructure available for capturing and retaining knowledge in the public sector includes institutional repositories, emails, global networks databases, portals, accounting and financial systems, human resource systems, knowledge route-maps knowledge networks and discussions forums. The challenges for managing knowledge assets in public sector organizations include limited understanding of KM benefits; shortage of skill; lack of incentives or rewards to share knowledge; lack of appropriate technology; limited commitment from senior management, lack of appropriate models to learn from and brain drain. The implementation of e-government initiatives across the continent was starting to institutionalize and promote knowledge management strategies in public sector organizations. The results from this article provide a foundation for knowledge management policy formulation to enhance efficiency and service delivery in public agencies.
Red cell distribution width, gamma glutamyl transpeptidase and anticoagulant use affect mortality in acute arterial mesenteric ischemia
Authors: Dinc T , Yildiz BD , Kayilioglu I , Sozen I , Cete M , Coskun F
Published: September 2014

Background:

Despite advances in surgery and intensive care, mortality in acute mesenteric ischemia remains between 50% and 90%. In this study, we evaluated factors affecting mortality in acute arterial mesenteric ischemia.

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort study involving 73 patients with an initial diagnosis of arterial acute mesenteric ischemia admitted to Ankara Numune Teaching Hospital between January 2008 and December 2013. We retrospectively collected data about demographic variables, co-morbidities, medications, extent of surgical resection, laboratory values, pathology results and outcome.

Results:

The mean age of the patients was 69.3±12.6. Thirty one patients were female (42.46%) and 42 (57.53%) were male. We divided the patients into two groups: Group 1 (n=40); those who died and Group 2 (n=33); those who were discharged. In multivariate analysis of high gamma glutamyl transpeptidase and red cell distribution width levels, the presence of anticoagulant use was statistically significant (p<0.05) in favor of Group 1.

Conclusion:

High red cell distribution width and gamma glutamyl transpeptidase levels and anti-coagulant use are factors affecting mortality in arterial acute mesenteric ischemia. The assessment of these variables could help predict the extent of arterial acute mesenteric ischemia and the mortality associated with it.
Tissue perfusion in neonates undergoing open-heart surgery using autologous umbilical cord blood or donor blood components
Authors: Chasovskyi K , Fedevych O , McMullan DM , Mykychak Y , Vorobiova G , Zhovnir V , Yemets I
Published: September 2014

Background:

This study evaluates the hemoglobin-oxygen relationship and tissue perfusion during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) in neonates undergoing open-heart surgery using autologous umbilical cord blood or donor blood components.

Methods:

We compared perioperative hematocrit (Hct), fetal hemoglobin (HbF), p50O2, pH, pCO2, serum lactate, duration of mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay in neonates undergoing open-heart surgery using autologous umbilical cord blood (Group I, N=45) or donor blood components (Group II, N=65). The groups were similar with respect to diagnosis, weight, type of procedure, duration of CPB and duration of myocardial ischemia.

Results:

Mean p50O2 was significantly lower in Group I during CPB (19.7 vs. 22.3 mmHg, p=0.004) and at the end of CPB (20.1 vs. 22.8 mmHg, p=0.003). Median peak lactate during CPB was higher in Group I (4.8 vs. 2.2 mmol/l, p<0.001). Carbon dioxide tension was identified as an independent predictor of higher p50O2 during CPB in Group I (β=0.88, p=0.002), but not Group II. Bodyweight, Hct, duration of CPB, pre-CPB lactate level and pCO2 affected peak lactate level during CPB. Although mean duration of ventilation was longer in Group II (mean 51 vs. 43, p=0.004), the groups experienced similar duration of ICU stay (5.8 vs. 5.9 days, p=0.280).

Conclusions:

Despite the fact that the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve is shifted leftward in patients who receive autologous umbilical cord blood, tissue oxygen delivery appears to be preserved in neonates who undergo open-heart surgery using autologous umbilical cord blood.
From nations of immigrants to states of transience: Temporary migration in Canada and Australia
Authors: Walsh James
Published: September 2014

This article analyzes temporary migration schemes in Canada and Australia. Unlike the bulk of affluent states, both countries eschewed guestworker programs for most of the twentieth century, embracing migrants as permanent settlers and future citizens. Acting within neoliberal templates of government, political officials have recently promoted temporary migration as a mechanism of labor market regulation. While valorized workers are extended opportunities to transition to permanent status, for less-skilled workers state-imposed legal categories and regulations are being employed to attenuate attachment to the receiving society and heighten their flexibility and tractability. This research argues such trends embody and extend transformations concerning the restructuring and globalization of labor markets, the regulatory profile of states, and nature and significance of citizenship.
How hospice staff members prepare family caregivers for the patient’s final days of life: An exploratory study
Authors: Kehl Karen A
Published: September 2014

Background:

There is widespread agreement that the families of hospice patients need to be prepared for the final days of life, yet current practices preparing families are not well described. Examining the gap between family needs and current practice will inform the development of effective preparatory interventions.

Aim:

The purpose of the study was to describe how hospice clinicians prepare family for the final days of life, including (1) the content of the preparatory information, (2) strategies and timing of preparation, and whether the preparation is tailored, and (3) who prepares families.

Design:

Conventional content analysis guided this study. Individual interviews using semi-structured questions were conducted.

Setting/participants:

In all, 19 hospice clinicians who provided care in the home setting from two hospice agencies in the United States participated.

Results:

Preparatory messages included information on signs of impending death, symptoms, implications of the symptoms, what to expect next, and instructions on what to do. Commonly used strategies included listening, engendering trust, repetition, collaboration with other disciplines, and demonstrations. Staff tailored content and delivery of messages on patient, family, and hospice factors. Preparation usually occurred over time. All hospice staff provided preparatory information, but there are some differences by discipline.

Conclusions:

Most content previous identified as necessary for preparedness is part of the current preparation. The knowledge of the current practice in preparing families can be used to develop systematic means of assessing the factors related to timing and tailoring, which may assist in developing preparatory messages that are effective and timely.
Impact of a clinical pathway on end-of-life care following stroke: A mixed methods study
Authors: Cowey Eileen , Smith Lorraine N , Stott David J , McAlpine Christine H , Mead Gillian E , Barber Mark , Walters Matthew
Published: September 2014

Background:

Death after stroke is common, but little is known about end-of-life care processes in acute stroke units.

Aim:

(1) To identify family and health-care worker perceptions of an end-of-life care pathway for patients who die after acute stroke. (2) To determine whether patients with fatal stroke judged to require an end-of-life care pathway differ from patients with fatal stroke who die without introduction of such a pathway.

Design:

Mixed methods study integrating qualitative semistructured interviews with quantitative casenote review.

Setting/participants:

In four Scottish acute stroke units, 17 relatives of deceased stroke patients and 23 health-care professionals were interviewed. Thematic analysis used a modified grounded theory approach. Multivariate analysis was performed on casenote data, identified prospectively from 100 consecutive stroke deaths.

Results:

Deciding pathway use was a consultative process, occurring within normal working hours. Families were commonly involved and could veto or trigger aspects of end-of-life care. Families sometimes felt responsible for decisions such as pathway use, resuscitation or hydration. Families were often led to expect their relative’s death early in the post-stroke period. Prolonged dying processes, particularly where patients had severe dysphagia, added to distress for families. Preferences for place of care were discussed infrequently. No link was found between demographic or clinical characteristics and care pathway use.

Conclusion:

Distressing stroke-related clinical problems dominated relatives’ concerns rather than use of the end-of-life care pathway. At times, relatives felt primarily responsible for key aspects of decision-making. Relatives often felt unprepared for a prolonged dying process after stroke, particularly where patients had persistent major swallowing difficulties.
p63 and E-cadherin Expression in Canine Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Mestrinho L. A. , Pissarra H. , Faísca P. B. , Bragança M. , Peleteiro M. C. , Niza M. M. R. E.
Published: September 2014

The expression of p63 and E-cadherin was studied in 22 oral squamous cell carcinomas in the dog according to immunohistochemical techniques. The association between these markers and clinicopathologic parameters was assessed. All tumor cells studied showed enhanced p63 expression. Regarding E-cadherin expression, 17 of 22 cases (77.3%) showed decreased immunoreactivity, and in 13 of 22 cases (59.1%), its expression was cytoplasmic. Neither p63 nor E-cadherin expression patterns were associated with tumor size, bone invasion, or lymph node metastasis. p63 score was related to proliferating cell nuclear antigen proliferative index ( P = .020). A statistically significant correlation between the expression patterns of these 2 markers was noted ( P = .026). Furthermore, they were related with tumor grade. An atypical p63 labeling and a cytoplasmic E-cadherin staining were statistically related with a higher tumor grade ( P = .022 and P = .017, respectively). These findings suggest that changes in p63 and E-cadherin expression are frequent events in oral squamous cell carcinoma in dogs.
Risk Factors for Anterior Glenohumeral Instability
Authors: Owens Brett D. , Campbell Scot E. , Cameron Kenneth L.
Published: September 2014

Background:

While anterior glenohumeral instability has been shown to be common in young athletes, the risk factors for injury are poorly understood.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To determine the modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors for anterior shoulder instability in a high-risk cohort. The hypothesis was that specific baseline factors would be associated with the subsequent risk of injury.

Study Design:

Cohort study (prognosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

We conducted a prospective cohort study in which 714 young athletes were followed from June 2006 through May 2010. Baseline assessments included a subjective history of instability, physical examination by a sports medicine fellowship–trained orthopaedic surgeon, range of motion, strength with a handheld dynamometer, and bilateral noncontrast shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A musculoskeletal radiologist measured glenoid version, glenoid height, glenoid width, glenoid index (height-to-width ratio), glenoid depth, rotator interval (RI) height, RI width, RI area, RI index, and the coracohumeral interval. Subjects were followed to document all acute anterior shoulder instability events during the 4-year follow-up period. The time to anterior shoulder instability event during the follow-up period was the primary outcome of interest. Univariate and multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to analyze the data.

Results:

Complete data were available for 714 subjects. During the 4-year surveillance period, there were 39 anterior instability events documented at a mean of 285 days. While we controlled for covariates, significant risk factors of physical examination were as follows: apprehension sign (hazard ratio [HR], 2.96; 95% CI, 1.48-5.90; P = .002) and relocation sign (HR, 4.83; 95% CI, 1.75-13.33; P = .002). Baseline range of motion and strength measures were not associated with subsequent injury. Significant anatomic risk factors on MRI measurement were glenoid index (HR, 8.12; 95% CI, 1.07-61.72; P = .043) and the coracohumeral interval (HR, 1.20; 95% CI, 1.08-1.34; P = .001).

Conclusion:

This prospective cohort study revealed significant risk factors for shoulder instability in this high-risk population. Physical examination findings of apprehension and relocation were significant while controlling for history of injury. The anatomic variables of significance were not surprising—tall and thin glenoids were at higher risk compared with short and wide glenoids, and the risk of instability increased by 20% for every 1-mm increase in coracohumeral distance.
Enteral Nutrition Protocols for Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Ventura Andréa Maria Cordeiro , Waitzberg Dan L.
Published: September 2014

Objective: Nutrition therapy protocols seek to correlate current scientific knowledge with clinical practice by converting evidence‐based efficacy data into clinical effectiveness. Implementing nutrition therapy protocols should be justified by their impact on clinical outcomes. Thus, our objective was to analyze studies that verified the effect of implementing protocols for enteral nutrition (EN) in critically ill patients who are mechanically ventilated. We investigated initiation of nutrition therapy, time until nutrition requirements are met, optimization of protein and energy intake, duration of mechanical ventilation, length of hospital and intensive care unit stay, mortality, and adherence to protocols. Methods: We reviewed studies of human adults published over a 14‐year period in English, Portuguese, French, or Spanish and available in MEDLINE, LILACS, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases. Reference lists of the most relevant articles were also searched. The Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms searched were (enteral nutrition) subheading (therapy) AND (critical care) OR (critical illness) OR (intensive care). Terms were searched for in both the title and abstract. Results: Nineteen studies were included. Nutrition therapy was optimized after the implementation of nutrition protocols in all studies. However, the impact on clinical outcomes was modest. Conclusions: Our analysis of previously published studies indicates that implementing a nutrition therapy protocol can lead to optimization of various aspects of nutrition practice. Further studies that take into consideration local facilitating (as well as hindering) factors may reveal the impact of strategic EN protocols on clinical outcomes.
Using glucosamine to improve the properties of photocrosslinked gelatin scaffolds
Authors: Suo Hairui , Xu Kedi , Zheng Xiaoxiang
Published: September 2014

The use of hydrogel-based cell transport scaffolds holds great promise in regenerative medicine, such as treating osteoarthritis. Gelatin and glucosamine are the ideal materials to be used in the hydrogel scaffolds for cartilage regeneration for they could act as compositions of cartilage. To overcome the weak strength of traditional gelatin hydrogels and down-regulate cell toxicity of glucosamine, gelatin and glucosamine molecules were grafted with acrylate groups and covalently crosslinked under photo-radiation to form hydrogels. Hydrogels with tuning physiochemical properties were produced according to different proportions of methacrylate gelatin (GelMA) and N-acryloyl glucosamine (AGA). The process of photocrosslinking was elaborated, and the hypothesis of increasing AGA concentration leading to higher strength of hydrogels was corroborated by testing rheological property and scanning micro-morphological features. A serial of properties, including smaller swelling ratio, lower gelatin dissolution and slower degradation of GelMA/AGA hydrogels with higher AGA concentration further proved our hypothesis. Moreover, AGA molecules showed less cytotoxicity than unmodified glucosamine molecules and the incorporation of AGA molecules in GelMA/AGA hydrogels upregulated cell adhesion and spreading on the hydrogel surface. All of these results indicated that addition of AGA molecules could significantly alter the physiochemical properties of GelMA/AGA hydrogels, which may have broad application prospects in the future.
Rude Boy Subculture, Critical Pedagogy, and the Collaborative Construction of an Analytic and Evocative Autoethnography
Authors: Williams J. Patrick , Jauhari bin Zaini Muhammad Kamal
Published: September 2014

This article theorizes and performs an analytic and evocative autoethnography about participation in the Rude Boy subculture in Singapore in the 2000s. Relying on critical pedagogy and a performative conception of subcultural theory, we analyze the second author’s past self as a Rude Boy through a collaborative narrative that emerged out of a university course–based research project on youth subcultures. Our narrative, which includes the reproduction of field notes, reflective journals, interviews, and dialogue between the authors, is intended to simultaneously question the assumed dichotomy between analytic and evocative autoethnographic forms and to highlight the potential for a critical pedagogy that brings teachers and students together to create new understandings of the self. The article also highlights the personal and pedagogical outcomes of dealing academically with a subcultural past and extends a dialogic approach to studying subcultural participation and experience.
Disclosure amongst adult HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Omunakwe Hannah E , Okoye Helen , Efobi Chilota , Onodingene Maryanne , Chinenye Sunny , Nwauche Chijioke A
Published: September 2014

HIV transmission is still a public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa; disclosure is an effective tool for its prevention, contact tracing and treatment. We aimed to evaluate the disclosure behaviours of adult HIV-positive patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, and identify major challenges to disclosure in a bid to develop ways to improve this practice in the environment. Patients receiving ART in this centre were interviewed using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. A total of 250 clients were interviewed over three months. A majority of the patients were tested on account of ill health 143 (57.2%). They commenced ART within 8 ± 15.4 SD months of presentation. The mean period before disclosure was 4.75 ± 12.8 SD months of diagnosis. Thirty-six (14.4%) of the respondents had not disclosed their HIV status; the major barrier to disclosure was stigmatisation in 19 (36%).
Adaptive robust control of a high-response dual proportional solenoid valve with flow force compensation
Authors: Xiong Yi , Wei Jianhua , Feng Ruilin
Published: September 2014

This article focuses on the high-performance control of a high-response proportional solenoid valve which has two proportional solenoids. The valve is named high-response dual proportional solenoid valve (HDPSV). The HDPSV can achieve faster response than other high-response proportional solenoid valves with one proportional solenoid and has the potential of gaining stronger disturbance rejection due to the differential effect of two proportional solenoids. However, the expense for these advantages is that more complexity and more difficulties are involved in controlling the valve. In this article, the nonlinear dynamic model of the HDPSV is constructed first. The current–force gain of the proportional solenoid is modeled by a modified tanh() function to capture its nonlinear characteristics. An incremental differential allocation strategy is raised to coordinate the action of the two proportional solenoids driving the HDPSV. The model of flow force is built with parametric uncertainty and reconstructed to address its non-differentiability. To deal with the parametric uncertainties and uncertain nonlinearities appearing in the dynamic model of the HDPSV discontinuous projection-based adaptive robust control, which combines systematically backstepping adaptive control with deterministic robust control, is extended to synthesize HDPSV controller. Simulations and experiments are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the controller. Both the simulation and experimental results show that with the proposed adaptive robust controller, the flow forces are well compensated, while the HDPSV achieves disturbance rejection, high precision, fast transient response and broad bandwidth.
Cardiopulmonary correlates of cognition in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Kozora E , Zell J , Swigris J , Strand M , Duggan E C , Burleson A , Make B
Published: September 2014

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the relationship between cognitive dysfunction and lung function, exercise endurance, and self-reported activity levels in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Background

Cognitive dysfunction is present in 20%–60% of SLE patients. No studies to date have investigated the inter-relationships between cardiopulmonary factors and cognition in this population.

Methods

Thirty-seven SLE patients without overt neuropsychiatric histories and 16 healthy controls completed neuropsychological testing, measures of lung function, exercise capacity (distance walked during a timed walk test,1 maximal oxygen uptake2), and exercise questionnaires.

Results

Thirty-two percent of SLE patients demonstrated cognitive impairment. Cognitive impairment was correlated with Six-Minute Walk Distance (6MWD) ( r = 0.37, p = 0.02) and certain measures of lung function. Also, in SLE patients, self-reported physical activity was correlated with 6MWD ( p = 0.012), but none of the more complex measures of physical activity (VO2max).

Conclusions

Patients with mild SLE disease activity have cognitive dysfunction associated with certain objective markers of exercise capacity and activity levels. The lack of associations between self-report activity and VO2max suggests the possibility that multiple factors mediate the relationships between perceived and actual physical ability. Additional studies are needed to better understand the relationship between cognition and physical activity in patients with SLE.
Peer contagion, lenient legal-ethical position, and music piracy intentions in emerging adults: Mindfulness as a protective factor
Authors: Miranda Dave , Kim Jaehoon
Published: September 2014

Music piracy is a prevalent, costly, and illegal global phenomenon. The objective of this study was to test whether different facets of mindfulness (attention, present focus, awareness, and acceptance) moderated a mediation process in which digital piracy in friends promotes a lenient legal-ethical position that fosters music piracy intentions in emerging adults. We controlled for personality traits (Big Five), emotion regulation (reappraisal and suppression), time spent listening to music, various Internet-related behaviors (non-academic Internet use, downloading, social networking, smartphone use), and sociodemographics (gender, age, and level of education). Participants were 156 emerging adults (aged between 18 and 25 years) who studied at a Canadian university. Moderated mediation analyses (bootstrapping 50,000 random resamples) suggested that social influence from digital piracy in friends might be a risk factor that has: (i) a direct effect on music piracy intentions; (ii) an indirect effect on music piracy intentions via lenient legal-ethical position; and (iii) an effect on lenient legal-ethical position that can be buffered by attention, a facet of mindfulness that thereby acts as a protective factor. This study draws novel directions for research on the prevention of music piracy, notably the possibility that mindfulness is a protective factor against peer contagion of digital piracy in emerging adulthood.
Sedimentation stability and rheological properties of ionic liquid–based bidisperse magnetorheological fluids
Authors: Jönkkäri Ilari , Isakov Matti , Syrjälä Seppo
Published: September 2014

The sedimentation stability and rheological properties of ionic liquid–based magnetorheological fluids comprising a mixture of micron- and nano-sized particles were experimentally studied. Three different fluids with the same total particle concentration of 15 vol% were prepared for testing: one containing only microparticles and two others in which 5 or 10 wt% of the microparticles were replaced by nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were surface stabilized against oxidation. For comparison purposes, silicon oil–based magnetorheological fluids with similar solid fractions were also prepared and tested. The results indicate that, with ionic liquid as a carrier fluid, the addition of nanoparticles at 10 wt% reduces the sedimentation rate almost by an order of magnitude from that without nanoparticles, while the reduction in the dynamic yield stress is only marginal. The ionic liquid–based fluids also had a better dispersion of particles.
A Panel Analysis of Legal Culture, Political Economics, and Punishment Among 15 Western Countries, 1960–2010
Authors: DeMichele Matthew
Published: September 2014

I extend Sutton’s political economy of punishment thesis by including a composite measure of legal and criminal justice practices that are hypothesized to be related to incarceration rates. I test the association between a punishment regime–type variable composed of the nature of prosecutorial discretion, judicial power, and the nature of lay participation with incarceration rates in 15 Western countries between 1960 and 2010. The effects of the punishment regime variable are tested in several time series cross-section models that correct for autocorrelation and heteroscedasticity and include the effects of the leading political–economic correlates of punishment and homicide rates. The results show consistent significant findings for the punishment regime–type variable, union power, and corporatist bargaining, with mixed support for political party power, inflation, and unemployment rates. These findings provide evidence for the existence of multiple cultures of Western punishment. In the end, I suggest that multidisciplinary cross-national partnerships incorporating researchers and governmental entities are needed to develop large comparative criminal justice databases to enhance understanding of comparative crime and justice.
Potentially Inappropriate Prescribing and Vulnerability and Hospitalization in Older Community-Dwelling Patients
Authors: Cahir Caitriona , Moriarty Frank , Teljeur Conor , Fahey Tom , Bennett Kathleen
Published: September 2014

Background: The predictive validity of existing explicit process measures of potentially inappropriate prescribing (PIP) is not established. Objective: To determine the association between PIP, and vulnerability and hospital visits in older community-dwelling patients. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of 931 community-dwelling patients aged ≥70 years in 15 general practices in Ireland in 2010. PIP was defined by the Beers 2012 criteria and the Screening Tool of Older Person’s Potentially Inappropriate Prescriptions (STOPP). Vulnerability was measured by the Vulnerable Elders Survey (score ≥3). The number of hospital visits was measured using patients’ medical records and self-report for the previous 6 months. Multilevel logistic and Poisson regression was used to examine the association between PIP, and vulnerability and hospital visits after adjusting for patient and practice level covariates, socioeconomic status, comorbidity, number of drug classes, social support, and adherence. Results: The prevalence of PIP determined by the Beers 2012 and STOPP criteria was 28% (n = 246) and 42% (n = 377), respectively. Patients with ≥2 PIP indicators were almost twice as likely to be classified as vulnerable (Beers adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.80; 95% CI = 1.08, 3.01; P < 0.05; STOPP adjusted OR = 1.86; 95% CI = 1.13, 3.04; P < 0.05). Patients with ≥2 STOPP indicators had an increased risk in the expected rate of hospital visits (adjusted incidence rate ratio = 1.32; 95% CI = 1.14, 1.54; P < 0.01). The Beers 2012 criteria were not associated with increased hospital visits. Conclusion: STOPP is a more sensitive measure of PIP than the Beers 2012 criteria and of clinical benefit in primary care settings.
Comparison of Cannulated Screws Versus Compression Staples for Subtalar Arthrodesis Fixation
Authors: Herrera-Pérez Mario , Andarcia-Bañuelos Cesar , Barg Alexej , Wiewiorski Martin , Valderrabano Victor , Kapron Ashley L. , De Bergua-Domingo Josep Maria , Pais-Brito Jose Luis
Published: September 2014

Background:

Different fixation techniques have been described in the literature for isolated subtalar arthrodesis (ISA). The purpose of this study was to compare the fusion rate and clinical outcome of ISA using cannulated compression screws or compression staples.

Methods:

Thirty-three patients (33 feet) underwent ISA using screw (17 feet) or staples (16 feet) fixation. Patients were followed for 42.7 ± 16.4 months (range, 24.5-84.3 months). The subtalar fusion was assessed radiographically and clinically. Clinical outcome measures included the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score.

Results:

The average pain score decreased significantly from 6.4 ± 1.1 (range, 5-9) to 0.8 ± 1.3 (range, 0-4) ( P < .001). In the screws group, the average AOFAS hindfoot score increased significantly from 54.6 ± 8.8 (range, 37-67) preoperatively to 86.1 ± 7.1 (range, 71-91) postoperatively ( P < .001). In the staples group, the average AOFAS hindfoot score increased significantly from 53.4 ± 11.1 (range, 33-69) preoperatively to 83.4 ± 6.9 (range, 71-91) postoperatively ( P < .001). The AOFAS hindfoot score was comparable in both groups ( P = .149). Only the AOFAS hindfoot score function subgroup in the screw fixation was significantly higher than in the staples fixation group ( P = .005). There were 4 cases of nonunion at the site of subtalar arthrodesis (2 from screws group, 2 from staples group). The complication rate was comparable in both groups.

Conclusion:

The fusion rate was comparable in both groups, while the postoperative functional outcome was significantly better in the screw fixation group.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative cohort study.
The Effect of Ankle Joint Immobilization on Lower Limb Venous Flow
Authors: Craik Johnathan D. , Clark Amanda , Hendry James , Sott Andrea H. , Hamilton Paul D.
Published: September 2014

Background:

Below-knee cast immobilization is associated with an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis secondary to venous stasis. We investigated the effect of weight-bearing in a below-knee cast or pneumatic walking boot on lower limb venous blood flow.

Methods:

Duplex ultrasonography was used to measure venous blood flow in the popliteal vein of 10 healthy volunteers. Venous blood flow was measured while at rest, ambulating non-weight-bearing, partial weight-bearing, and full weight-bearing. Measurements were performed without ankle joint immobilization, with the ankle immobilized in a neutral cast, and with the ankle immobilized in a pneumatic walking boot in both neutral and equinus.

Results:

There was no significant reduction in venous blood flow measurements between full weight-bearing without ankle joint immobilization and full weight-bearing in a neutral cast or neutral pneumatic walking boot. However, venous blood flow was reduced when partial weight-bearing (50%) and when full weight-bearing in a pneumatic walking boot in equinus.

Conclusion:

These results demonstrate that venous blood flow returned to normal levels when the subjects were permitted to fully bear weight in below-knee casts or walking boots, provided that the ankle joint was not in equinus.

Clinical Relevance:

Weight-bearing status and ankle joint position should be appreciated during decisions for the provision of chemical thromboprophylaxis.
Cryopreserved Human Amniotic Membrane Injection for Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Hanselman Andrew E. , Tidwell John E. , Santrock Robert D.
Published: September 2014

Background:

Treatment options for plantar fasciitis have resulted in varied patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to compare a novel treatment, cryopreserved human amniotic membrane (c-hAM), to a traditional treatment, corticosteroid. Our hypothesis was that c-hAM would be safe and comparable to corticosteroids for plantar fasciitis in regard to patient outcomes.

Methods:

A randomized, controlled, double-blind, single-center pilot study was completed. Patients were randomized into one of 2 treatment groups: c-hAM or corticosteroid. Patients received an injection at their initial baseline visit with an option for a second injection at their first 6-week follow-up. Total follow-up was obtained for 12 weeks after the most recent injection. The primary outcome measurement was the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ). The secondary outcome measurements were the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and verbally reported percentage improvement. Data were analyzed between groups for the 2 different cohorts (1 injection versus 2 injections). Twenty-three patients had complete follow-up. Fourteen were randomized to receive corticosteroid and 9 were randomized to receive c-hAM.

Results:

Three patients in each group received second injections. With the numbers available, the majority of outcome measurements showed no statistical difference between groups. The corticosteroid did, however, have greater FHSQ shoe fit improvement ( P = .0244) at 6 weeks, FHSQ general health improvement ( P = .0132) at 6 weeks, and verbally reported improvement ( P = .041) at 12 weeks in the one-injection cohort. Cryopreserved hAM had greater FHSQ foot pain improvement ( P = .0113) at 18 weeks in the 2-injection cohort.

Conclusion:

Cryopreserved hAM injection may be safe and comparable to corticosteroid injection for treatment of plantar fasciitis. This is a pilot study and requires further investigation.

Level of Evidence:

Level I, prospective randomized trial.
Do mainstream parties adapt to the welfare chauvinism of populist parties?
Authors: Schumacher Gijs , van Kersbergen Kees
Published: September 2014

Populist parties increasingly take a welfare chauvinistic position. They criticize mainstream parties for cutting and slashing welfare at the expense of the ‘native’ population and to the benefit of the ‘undeserving’ immigrant. Given the electoral success of populist parties, we investigate whether and when mainstream parties ignore, attack or accommodate welfare chauvinism. Using key theories of party behaviour, we test whether mainstream parties (1) respond immediately to populist parties, (2) respond with a time lag, or (3) respond only when they lose elections or are in opposition. Our quantitative analyses of party manifestos, speeches and policies of European mainstream and populist parties (1980–2012) show that mainstream parties adapt to populist parties on welfare chauvinism, but which parties adapt and when varies significantly. In our in-depth examinations of the Dutch and Danish cases, we highlight important cross-country and cross-party differences.