bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reference intervals for plasma-free amino acid in a Japanese population
Authors: Yamamoto Hiroyuki , Kondo Kazuhiro , Tanaka Takayuki , Muramatsu Takahiko , Yoshida Hiroo , Imaizumi Akira , Nagao Kenji , Noguchi Yasushi , Miyano Hiroshi
Published: April 2015

Background

Plasma amino acid concentrations vary with various diseases. Although reference intervals are useful in daily clinical practice, no reference intervals have been reported for plasma amino acids in a large Japanese population.

Methods

Reference individuals were selected from 7685 subjects examined with the Japanese Ningen Dock in 2008. A total of 1890 individuals were selected based on exclusion criteria, and the reference samples were selected after the outlier samples for each amino acid concentration were excluded. The lower limit of the reference intervals for the plasma amino acid concentrations was set at the 2.5th percentile and the upper limit at the 97.5th percentile.

Results

By use of the nested analysis of variance, we analysed a large dataset of plasma samples and the effects of background factors (sex, age and body mass index [BMI]) on the plasma amino acid concentrations. Most amino acid concentrations were related to sex, especially those of branched-chained amino acid. The citrulline, glutamine, ornithine and lysine concentrations were related to age. The glutamate concentration was related to body mass index.

Conclusions

The concentrations of most amino acids are more strongly related to sex than to age or body mass index. Our results indicate that the reference intervals for plasma amino acid concentrations should be stratified by sex when the background factors of age and body mass index are considered.
Beyond the legal barriers: Institutional gatekeeping and real jury research
Authors: Horan Jacqueline , Israel Mark
Published: April 2015

Social science research must displace myth, anecdote, and judicial hearsay in directing reform of the jury system. Drawing on the experiences of researchers from commonwealth countries, we explore why it has been so hard to undertake research on real juries. We also identify how the legal and institutional “barriers” might be lifted to facilitate an evidence-based approach to jury reform.
Gender differences in depressive symptom profiles and patterns of psychotropic drug usage in Asian patients with depression: Findings from the Research on Asian Psychotropic Prescription Patterns for Antidepressants study
Authors: Park Seon-Cheol , Lee Min-Soo , Shinfuku Naotaka , Sartorius Norman , Park Yong Chon
Published: April 2015

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether there were gender-specific depressive symptom profiles or gender-specific patterns of psychotropic agent usage in Asian patients with depression.

Method:

Clinical data from the Research on Asian Psychotropic Prescription Patterns for Antidepressant study (1171 depressed patients) were used to determine gender differences by analysis of covariates for continuous variables and by logistic regression analysis for discrete variables. In addition, a binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify independent clinical correlates of the gender-specific pattern on psychotropic drug usage.

Results:

Men were more likely than women to have loss of interest (adjusted odds ratio = 1.379, p = 0.009), fatigue (adjusted odds ratio = 1.298, p = 0.033) and concurrent substance abuse (adjusted odds ratio = 3.793, p = 0.008), but gender differences in other symptom profiles and clinical features were not significant. Men were also more likely than women to be prescribed adjunctive therapy with a second-generation antipsychotic (adjusted odds ratio = 1.320, p = 0.044). However, men were less likely than women to have suicidal thoughts/acts (adjusted odds ratio = 0.724, p = 0.028). Binary logistic regression models revealed that lower age (odds ratio = 0.986, p = 0.027) and current hospitalization (odds ratio = 3.348, p < 0.0001) were independent clinical correlates of use of second-generation antipsychotics as adjunctive therapy for treating depressed Asian men.

Conclusion:

Unique gender-specific symptom profiles and gender-specific patterns of psychotropic drug usage can be identified in Asian patients with depression. Hence, ethnic and cultural influences on the gender preponderance of depression should be considered in the clinical psychiatry of Asian patients.
Elena Ferrante: Il ciclo dell’Amica geniale tra autobiografia, storia e metaletteratura
Authors: Falotico Caterina
Published: April 2015

Il saggio analizza l’intero ciclo dell’ Amica geniale, percorrendo una dopo l’altra le tappe della tetralogia che si configura come unico libro. Emerge una visione plurima che in primo luogo trasferisce il lettore nell’immaginario della Ferrante attraverso lo scandaglio di temi quali l’origine, il riscatto, Napoli e il rione, la femminilità cruda e scontornata. C’è un affresco storico dal forte sapore d’epoca che riguarda il mondo contemporaneo nell’arco di tempo dal secondo dopoguerra a oggi e la poetica, raccontata come un romanzo, offre le tracce per una visibile autobiografia. Su tutto domina un’indimenticabile commedia umana nutrita da accese passioni e da personaggi forti e memorabili in cui è facile immedesimarsi.
The humanistic and economic burden of providing care for a patient with schizophrenia
Authors: Csoboth Csilla , Witt Edward A , Villa Kathleen F , O’Gorman Cedric
Published: April 2015

Background:

Schizophrenia is a debilitating disorder that often requires the affected individual to receive part- or full-time care from a caregiver.

Aims:

The purpose of this study was to examine the humanistic and economic burden of caring for an individual with Schizophrenia with regard to the measures of quality of life (QoL), work productivity, healthcare resource use and estimated economic costs.

Methods:

Data for this study came from the 2012 US National Health and Wellness Survey (NHWS; n = 71,149). Specifically, this analysis focused on those individuals in the survey who indicated that they were currently the primary caregiver for an individual with Schizophrenia (C-SCZ; n = 174). These individuals were matched via two separate 1:2 propensity score matches with both caregivers of other disorders (C-Other; n = 294) and non-caregivers (Non-C; n = 294) on significant covariates. Individuals were then compared across the outcomes of QoL, work productivity, healthcare resource use and estimated economic costs.

Results:

C-SCZ respondents had worse outcomes on all outcomes measured than C-Other respondents and Non-C respondents even when controlling for significant differences between the groups on sociodemographic characteristics. However, due to the small sample sizes, these comparisons were only significant in most cases for the C-SCZ to Non-C comparisons.

Conclusion:

Results indicate that caregivers of those with Schizophrenia experience a heightened humanistic and economic burden, especially relative to the burden experienced by non-caregivers. The fact that Schizophrenia not only affects the individual but also those who care for that individual is underscored by these results.
Steps Towards Decolonial Higher Education in Southern Africa? Epistemic Disobedience in the Humanities
Authors: Morreira Shannon
Published: April 2015

In South African universities, a particular epistemic hierarchy exists within which African knowledge and resources are under-valued. This paper examines humanities courses that include content that deliberately aims to interrupt the existing knowledge hierarchies, through a qualitative analysis of spaces where African knowledge is granted importance. The paper provides a snapshot of the potentials for change in South African higher education today, and of the ways in which theories of Africa, for Africa, and about Africa, are being generated and taught.
Hitler’s Africa in the East: Italian Colonialism as a Model for German Planning in Eastern Europe
Authors: Bernhard Patrick
Published: April 2015

Since Hannah Arendt’s essay on the ‘Origins of Totalitarianism’ in 1951, there has been a vivid scholarly debate about a nexus between Imperial Germany’s colonial endeavours in Africa and the Nazi occupation of Eastern Europe. Some historians have gone so far as to draw a direct line from the colonial massacres of Windhoek to those committed at Auschwitz. Yet my article suggests a different answer to the question of historical continuities: in its plans for Poland and the Soviet Union, the Third Reich did not draw upon its own colonial past but looked to the undertakings of Fascist Italy in Africa for inspiration. Italy’s huge settlement project, with which it sought to produce the racially superior Fascist New Man, served as a model for Nazi Germany particularly in one crucial regard: in the organization and regulation of a new Volksgemeinschaft at the edge of the empire. These findings are of far-reaching significance for our understanding of both Italian Fascism and National Socialism. The still dominant image of Mussolini’s regime as an insignificant appendage to the superior Nazi state is inaccurate. Rather, modern social engineering of Italian Fascism acted as an ‘inspirational’ force on Nazi Germany, catalysing the evolution of Hitler’s dictatorship.
Sex, Love and Security: Accounts of Distance and Commitment in Living Apart Together Relationships
Authors: Carter Julia , Duncan Simon , Stoilova Mariya , Phillips Miranda
Published: April 2015

Drawing on a 2011 national survey and 50 semi-structured interviews, we explore the differing ways in which those in living apart together (LAT) relationships discuss and experience notions of commitment. We found that sexual exclusivity in LAT relationships is expected by the large majority, regardless of their reasons for living apart. The majority of the interviewees also expressed a high degree of commitment to their partner in terms of love, care and intimacy, alongside an appreciation of the increased freedom and autonomy that living apart has to offer. Respondents were divided into four groups according to their perceived commitment: 1. Autonomous commitment, 2. Contingent commitment, 3. Ambivalent commitment, and 4. Limited commitment. Despite differing degrees of commitment, however, the overall finding was that the importance of relating and making relational decisions was central, even in the lives of those living in such unconventional relationship styles.
Immediate Effects of Project EX in Spain
Authors: Espada José P. , Gonzálvez María T. , Guillén-Riquelme Alejandro , Sun Ping , Sussman Steve
Published: April 2015

Tobacco use is of high prevalence among Spanish adolescents. Programming to counteract tobacco use has been needed. There is a lack of knowledge on the efficacy of teen tobacco use cessation programming. The current study provides an immediate outcome evaluation of the Project EX tobacco use prevention and cessation program among Spanish adolescents. An eight-session, classroom-based curriculum was translated from English to Spanish and adapted to the Spanish culture. Next, it was tested using a randomized controlled trial with 1,546 Spanish students, involving three program and three control high schools. Participants at the program group provided moderately favorable process ratings of the program. Compared to the standard care control condition, the program condition revealed a greater reduction in smoking intentions and CO ppm levels.
Should English healthcare providers be penalised for failing to collect patient-reported outcome measures? A retrospective analysis
Authors: Gutacker Nils , Street Andrew , Gomes Manuel , Bojke Chris
Published: April 2015

Summary

Objective

The best practice tariff for hip and knee replacement in the English National Health Service (NHS) rewards providers based on improvements in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) collected before and after surgery. Providers only receive a bonus if at least 50% of their patients complete the preoperative questionnaire. We determined how many providers failed to meet this threshold prior to the policy introduction and assessed longitudinal stability of participation rates.

Design

Retrospective observational study using data from Hospital Episode Statistics and the national PROM programme from April 2009 to March 2012. We calculated participation rates based on either (a) all PROM records or (b) only those that could be linked to inpatient records; constructed confidence intervals around rates to account for sampling variation; applied precision weighting to allow for volume; and applied risk adjustment.

Setting

NHS hospitals and private providers in England.

Participants

NHS patients undergoing elective unilateral hip and knee replacement surgery.

Main outcome measures

Number of providers with participation rates statistically significantly below 50%.

Results

Crude rates identified many providers that failed to achieve the 50% threshold but there were substantially fewer after adjusting for uncertainty and precision. While important, risk adjustment required restricting the analysis to linked data. Year-on-year correlation between provider participation rates was moderate.

Conclusions

Participation rates have improved over time and only a small number of providers now fall below the threshold, but administering preoperative questionnaires remains problematic in some providers. We recommend that participation rates are based on linked data and take into account sampling variation.
Comparison of measures of morphosyntactic complexity in French-speaking school-aged children
Authors: Mimeau Catherine , Plourde Vickie , Ouellet Andrée-Anne , Dionne Ginette
Published: April 2015

This study examined the validity and reliability of different measures of morphosyntactic complexity, including the Morphosyntactic Complexity Scale (MSCS), a novel adaptation of the Developmental Sentence Scoring, in French-speaking school-aged children. Seventy-three Quebec children from kindergarten to Grade 3 completed a definition task and a narration task. Mean length of utterance (MLU), clause density and MSCS global score, average frequency scores and average complexity scores were calculated from the transcripts of the two contexts. MLU, clause density and MSCS global score were correlated with vocabulary knowledge and narrative skills, and they increased as a function of school level, suggesting that they are valid measures of morphosyntactic complexity. Moreover, the three scores were correlated across contexts, suggesting that they are also reliable measures. However, no MSCS average frequency or average complexity score was found to be both valid and reliable. These findings will guide researchers and practitioners who desire to assess the language skills of French-speaking school-aged children.
The interplay of referential function and character primacy on referring expressions in children’s narratives
Authors: Colozzo Paola , Whitely Cristy
Published: April 2015

This study considered the linguistic forms used by 63 English-speaking Canadian children from kindergarten to second grade (ages 5;6–8;8) to introduce, maintain reference to, and reintroduce primary and secondary characters throughout their narratives The expected referring forms were used more frequently for the best-matching referential function: indefinites for introduction, pronouns and null forms for maintenance, and identifiables (i.e., definite and possessive NPs, and proper names) for reintroduction. Developmental changes in form–function mappings were present for both introduction and reintroduction. Many children were also influenced by the relative prominence of story characters in their use of pronominals. Nonetheless, function constraints exerted a much stronger influence on referential choice than did character primacy in all grades. By systematically exploring the interplay of referential function and character primacy on referring expressions, this study adds to existing findings on many levels. It also invites future research that manipulates various features of both primary and secondary characters.
Normalizing
Authors: Babler Elizabeth , Strickland C. June
Published: April 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this research study was to gain a greater understanding of adolescents’ experiences living with diabetes and build a theoretical paradigm to inform interventional design.

Methods

Classical grounded theory was utilized; 15 in-depth interviews of 11 subjects were conducted with Caucasian adolescents’ ages 11 to 15 with type 1 diabetes. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analyzed using constant comparative analysis. Codes were linked to create the paradigm.

Results

A theoretical model was developed about the concept of “normalizing.” Normalizing is defined as the ability of the adolescents to integrate diabetes into the background of their daily life by creating routines to make diabetes “part of me.” Codes identified in normalizing included: (1) recognizing life is changing, (2) taking action to prevent a crisis, (3) disclosing to engage support, (4) taking on the burden of care, (5) accepting the “new normal,” and (6) hoping for a normal future.

Conclusions

Normal developmental tasks of adolescence were closely related and contribute to understanding why adolescents struggle with diabetes. These research findings place a different and positive perspective on diabetes management; the focus shifts to supporting wellness and maintaining a normal life rather than on illness. Findings are expected to be of value to health providers working with adolescents with type 1 diabetes, parents, nursing researchers, and adolescents facing the challenge of diabetes management.
Standardized Outcome and Reporting Measures in Pediatric Head and Neck Lymphatic Malformations
Authors: Balakrishnan Karthik , Bauman Nancy , Chun Robert H. , Darrow David H. , Grimmer J. Fredrik , Perkins Jonathan A. , Richter Gresham T. , Shin Jennifer J. , Shivaram Giridhar M. , Sidell Douglas R. , Elluru Ravindhra G.
Published: April 2015

Objective

To develop general and site‐specific treatment effect and outcome measures to standardize the reporting of head and neck lymphatic malformation (HNLM) treatments.

Study Design

Consensus statement/expert opinion.

Setting

Multiple tertiary academic institutions.

Subjects and Methods

The modified Delphi method is an iterative process of collecting expert opinions, refining opinions through discussion and feedback, statistically aggregating opinions, and using these aggregates to generate consensus opinion in the absence of other data. The modified Delphi method was used by a multi‐institutional group of otolaryngology and interventional radiology experts in the field of vascular anomalies to formulate a list of recommended reporting outcomes for the study and treatment of head and neck lymphatic malformations.

Results

Through 3 rounds of iteration, 10 expert panelists refined 98 proposed outcome measures and 9 outcome categories to a final consensus set of 50 recommended outcome measures in 3 global categories (general, demographics, and treatment complications) and 5 site‐specific categories (orbit, oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and neck).

Conclusions

We propose the first consensus set of standardized reporting measures for clinical and treatment outcomes in studies of HNLMs. Consistent outcome measures across future studies will facilitate comparison of treatment options and allow systematic review. We hope that these guidelines facilitate the design and reporting of subsequent HNLM studies.
The Top Executive on Undercover Boss
Authors: St. John Burton
Published: April 2015

Reality television has customarily been studied as an arena where individuals perform who they are within episodic and often highly dramatic contexts. This work, however, finds that the program Undercover Boss offers a different approach: The corporate persona, embodied through the “undercover” top executive, interacts with front-line workers and, in the process, (1) elicits from employees their own self-governing observations, (2) focuses on employees who appear to be significant role models (for good or ill), and (3) provides rewards to employees who exhibited positive self-governing or role modeling. With this approach, Undercover Boss offers up the image of a beneficent corporate persona whose vision is consonant with American values and norms. The presence of the corporate persona needs careful consideration, as it can serve to elide systemic dysfunctions that privilege corporations. A critical perspective on self-governing calls for acknowledging such imbalances as a first step toward encouraging individuals and corporations to negotiate a more equitable existence.
Severe antiphospholipid syndrome and cardiac surgery: Perioperative management
Authors: Mishra Pankaj Kumar , Khazi Fayaz Mohammed , Yiu Patrick , Billing John Stephen
Published: April 2015

Antiphospholipid syndrome is an antiphospholipid antibody-mediated prothrombotic state leading to arterial and venous thrombosis. This condition alters routine in-vitro coagulation tests, making results unreliable. Antiphospholipid syndrome patients requiring cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass present a unique challenge in perioperative anticoagulation management. We describe 3 patients with antiphospholipid syndrome who had successful heart valve surgery at our institution. We have devised an institutional protocol for antiphospholipid syndrome patients, and all 3 patients were managed according to this protocol. An algorithm-based approach is recommended because it improves team work, optimizes treatment, and improves patient outcome.
From the language of learning to the language of educational responsibility
Authors: Mounter Joy
Published: April 2015

How do I recognise the move from the language of learning to the language of educational responsibility? ….each practitioner researcher clarifies, in the course of their emergence, in the practice of educational enquiry, the embodied ontological values to which they hold themselves accountable in their professional practice. (Whitehead J (2005) Living inclusional values in educational standards of practice and judgement. Keynote for the Act, Reflect, Revise III Conference, Brantford Ontario, 11 November 2005. Available at: http://www.jackwhitehead.com/monday/arrkey05dr1.htm (accessed 29 August 2014).) I have spent the last two years exploring my values and beliefs in the classroom and working with the children in my class to develop our skills and reflections as learners. As educational researchers we need to go beyond the language of learning into a language of educational responsibility; a responsibility to ourselves and the children, to generate educational explanations and evaluations of our practice as we try to live our values in our class. This paper shows how I move from the language of learning to a language of education in clarifying the meaning of the educational responsibility I feel towards the children in my care.
Can micro-enterprises leverage on the adoption of corporate websites to bolster their brand visibility? Examining salient adoption issues in Nigeria
Authors: Osakwe Christian Nedu , Chovancová Miloslava , Agu Monica
Published: April 2015

The present study seeks to bring to the fore contextual factors that are influencing the decision-making process of corporate website adoption among micro-enterprises in the context of the developing world. We argue that the adoption of corporate websites by the decision-makers of micro-enterprises could be a strategic lever for micro-enterprises’ brands to gain visibility in the marketplace. We further opine that for micro-enterprises to gain a foothold in doing business in the present information age, it is imperative for such businesses to take advantages of the opportunities inherent on the World Wide Web. Based on our findings, there is evidence to show that aside from the applicability of the technology-organisation-environment (TOE) contexts as significant contributing factors in the adoption of corporate websites by micro enterprises, the decision-makers’ demographics equally play a significant role. The findings of the study may assist policy makers and stakeholders within the Nigerian Internet ecosystem to focus their attention on specific key areas that are aimed at supporting the diffusion and adoption of corporate websites among micro-enterprises.
Identification of acquired coagulation disorders and effects of target-controlled coagulation factor substitution on the incidence and severity of spontaneous intracranial bleeding during veno-venous ECMO therapy
Authors: Kalbhenn J , Wittau N , Schmutz A , Zieger B , Schmidt R
Published: April 2015

Introduction:

Intracranial haemorrhage is a redoubtable complication during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy. The underlying mechanisms of haemorrhagic diathesis are still not completely understood. This study was performed to evaluate a coagulation protocol for the regular analysis of acquired coagulation disorders and the systematic substitution of coagulation factors to reach predefined target values. We hypothesised that using this strategy would lead to the identification of acquired bleeding disorders which cannot be monitored with standard coagulation tests and that substitution of the respective factors in a target-controlled approach could have an impact on the incidence and severity of intracranial haemorrhage.

Methods:

A protocol for the analysis of acquired coagulation disorders and the subsequent administration of associated factor concentrates was introduced. Previously, coagulation management was mainly based on clinical bleeding signs as the trigger for the administration of blood products. In this investigation, nineteen consecutive patients before (control group) and twenty consecutive patients after the implementation of the protocol (intervention group) have been included in the study.

Results:

Eighty-eight percent of the patients developed factor XIII deficiency, 79% acquired von Willebrand syndrome, 40% fibrinogen deficiency and 54% of the patients showed a decline in platelet count >20% within the first 24 hours of ECMO therapy. In 6 out of 19 (31%) patients in the control group and in 2 patients out of 20 (10%) in the intervention group, intracranial haemorrhage was detected. Whilst 5 of 6 patients in the control group died because of fatal bleeding, both of the patients in the intervention group recovered with a favourable neurologic outcome.

Conclusions:

Veno-venous ECMO therapy leads to thrombocytopenia, factor XIII and fibrinogen deficiency as well as acquired von Willebrand syndrome. The implementation of a coagulation protocol including a standardized determination and target-controlled substitution of coagulation factors may have a beneficial impact on the incidence and severity of intracranial haemorrhage.
Patient and carer experiences of clinical uncertainty and deterioration, in the face of limited reversibility: A comparative observational study of the AMBER care bundle
Authors: Bristowe Katherine , Carey Irene , Hopper Adrian , Shouls Susanna , Prentice Wendy , Caulkin Ruth , Higginson Irene J , Koffman Jonathan
Published: April 2015

Background:

Clinical uncertainty is emotionally challenging for patients and carers and creates additional pressures for those clinicians in acute hospitals. The AMBER care bundle was designed to improve care for patients identified as clinically unstable, deteriorating, with limited reversibility and at risk of dying in the next 1–2 months.

Aim:

To examine the experience of care supported by the AMBER care bundle compared to standard care in the context of clinical uncertainty, deterioration and limited reversibility.

Design:

A comparative observational mixed-methods study using semi-structured qualitative interviews and a followback survey.

Setting/participants:

Three large London acute tertiary National Health Service hospitals. Nineteen interviews with 23 patients and carers (10 supported by AMBER care bundle and 9 standard care). Surveys completed by next of kin of 95 deceased patients (59 AMBER care bundle and 36 standard care).

Results:

The AMBER care bundle was associated with increased frequency of discussions about prognosis between clinicians and patients ( χ2 = 4.09, p = 0.04), higher awareness of their prognosis by patients ( χ2 = 4.29, p = 0.04) and lower clarity in the information received about their condition ( χ2 = 6.26, p = 0.04). Although the consistency and quality of communication were not different between the two groups, those supported by the AMBER care bundle described more unresolved concerns about caring for someone at home.

Conclusion:

Awareness of prognosis appears to be higher among patients supported by the AMBER care bundle, but in this small study this was not translated into higher quality communication, and information was judged less easy to understand. Adequately powered comparative evaluation is urgently needed.
Simvastatin as an adjuvant therapy to fluoxetine in patients with moderate to severe major depression: A double-blind placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Gougol Amirhossein , Zareh-Mohammadi Nahid , Raheb Samira , Farokhnia Mehdi , Salimi Samrand , Iranpour Negar , Yekehtaz Habibeh , Akhondzadeh Shahin
Published: April 2015

Statins have been shown to decrease depressive symptoms in certain groups of patients, an effect that is mostly attributed to their anti-inflammatory and neurotransmitter modulatory potentials. We aimed to investigate the antidepressant effects of simvastatin as an adjuvant therapy in patients with moderate to severe depression. In this double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial, 48 patients were randomly allocated to receive simvastatin or placebo as an adjunct to fluoxetine for six weeks. Patients were evaluated with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) at baseline and weeks 2, 4 and 6. Probable clinical and laboratory adverse events were also monitored and compared between the two groups. Simvastatin-treated patients experienced significantly more reductions in HDRS scores compared to the placebo group by the end of the trial ( p=0.02). Early improvement and response rates were significantly greater in the simvastatin group than the placebo group ( p=0.02 and p=0.01, respectively) but remission rate was not significantly different between the two groups ( p=0.36). No serious adverse event was reported during this trial. In conclusion, simvastatin seems to be a safe and effective adjuvant therapy for patients suffering from major depressive disorder. However, more confirmatory studies are warranted.
Positive Youth Development Interventions Impacting the Sexual Health of Young Minority Adolescents: A Systematic Review
Authors: Harris LaNita W. , Cheney Marshall K.
Published: April 2015

A systematic literature review was conducted to assess the utility of Positive Youth Development (PYD) concepts in promoting positive sexual health behaviors in young minority adolescents ( n = 12 studies). Interventions reported significant associations between PYD-focused interventions and ever having sex, sexual partners in the last 30 days, using protection at the last sexual encounter, and decreased pregnancy rates. Outcomes were reviewed by age, gender, PYD constructs, cultural tailoring of interventions, and retention rates. Few interventions focused exclusively on young minority adolescents. PYD can be an effective tool in promoting sexual health in younger minority adolescents, but additional research is needed to determine beneficial strategies for this age group and timing of interventions. Recommendations for future studies include additional guidance on operationalization of PYD concepts, effective cultural tailoring methods, dosage of intervention components, and de-linking minority status from socioeconomic status (SES) and high-risk behaviors.
A Room of Their Own
Authors: Dedeoğlu Ayla Özhan , Güzeler Ayşe Karaçizmeli
Published: April 2015

Studies of Turkish consumption reveal a unique character that rests on local interpretations of modernity and patterns of hybridization between local and global and traditional and modern. This research explores how deep-rooted cultural continuities manifest themselves in collective identity and how men from urban Urfa (a southeastern Turkish city) redefine the boundaries between public and private, and traditional and modern, through ritualistic leisure consumption within the context of the oda (room). The findings of the present socio-historically grounded analysis of urban oda communities and their consumption practices reveal that men from urban Urfa, as modern subjects, appropriated and re-contextualized traditional practices. Ritualistic consumption practices of or in urban odas reveal continuities with traditional ahi-order, selamlik and sira night practices. The findings also show that the oda, as a private and mahrem sphere, functions in accordance with the Habermasian model of the bourgeois public sphere, where politics and society meet.
How reliable is routine lumbar spine MRI for detection of renal cysts? Correlation with abdominal CT
Authors: Cho Hee Woo , Lee Young Han , Chung Soo Yoon , Park Jin-Oh , Suh Jin-Suck
Published: April 2015

Background

Incidental renal cysts are a very common finding in routine lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). However, there is no report of the renal cyst detection rate on routine lumbar spine MRI.

Purpose

To determine the renal cyst detection rate in routine lumbar spine MRI based on findings of abdominal computed tomography (CT), and to investigate if the largest renal cyst seen by abdominal CT could be also detected by routine lumbar spine MRI.

Material and Methods

A retrospective study was conducted of 70 patients who underwent both routine lumbar spine MRI and abdominal CT between December 2011 and January 2014. The detection rate of all renal cysts>5 mm as well as the largest renal cyst seen by abdominal CT were assessed in routine lumbar spine MRI.

Results

On routine lumbar spine MRI, the detection rate of renal cysts was 46.5% (73/157) for>5-mm renal cysts and 68.0% (34/50) for>10-mm renal cysts, correlating with abdominal CT. The detection rate of the largest renal cyst seen by abdominal CT was 60.0% (27/45). Non-detection of the largest renal cyst could be caused by upper positioning ( n = 7), lateral positioning ( n = 6), or relatively small cyst size ( n = 5).

Conclusion

Approximately half of renal cysts>5 mm and two-thirds of renal cysts>10 mm were detected on routine lumbar spine MRI. However, radiologists should be aware that kidney lesions may not be included in the scan coverage of routine lumbar spine MRI.
Associations between ADRB1 and CYP2D6 gene polymorphisms and the response to β-blocker therapy in hypertension
Authors: Wu Dingchang , Li Ganyang , Deng Maoqing , Song Wei , Huang Xiaohua , Guo Xiaoru , Wu Zhengzheng , Wu Shiyang , Xu Jiasen
Published: April 2015

Objective

To investigate the associations between β1-adrenergic receptor ( ADRB1) and cytochrome P450 2D6 ( CYP2D6) gene polymorphisms and β-blocker treatment outcomes in patients with hypertension.

Methods

Chinese patients with essential hypertension were treated with the β-blocker metoprolol and followed up for 12 weeks. xTAG® liquid-chip technology was used for CYP2D6 100 C > T and ADRB1 1165G > C genotyping. Associations between gene polymorphisms and antihypertensive therapy outcomes were assessed by generalized linear model fitting. A decrease of ≥ 10 mmHg in systolic blood pressure indicated an effective treatment outcome.

Results

A total of 93 patients were included in the study. Mutant allele frequencies of 61.29% and 58.60% were obtained for ADRB1 and CYP2D6, respectively. There was no significant interaction between the effects of ADRB1 and CYP2D6 gene polymorphisms on treatment outcome. Patients homozygous for the mutant ADRB1 genotype (CC) had better treatment outcomes than those heterozygous for the mutation (GC). Interestingly, β-blocker treatment duration was an independent factor associated with treatment outcome.

Conclusions

The ADRB1 1165G > C gene polymorphism and β-blocker treatment duration are independent factors associated with β-blocker treatment outcome. These findings suggest that the selection of antihypertensive therapy should take into consideration the patient’s genotype.
Increased physiological responsiveness to preferred music among young adults with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Hillier Ashleigh , Kopec Justin , Poto Nataliya , Tivarus Madalina , Beversdorf David Q.
Published: April 2015

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) experience high levels of anxiety and difficulty with emotion regulation and self-control. Music has been shown to modulate moods and emotions and may be useful in mediating individuals’ physiological state. This study investigated whether listening to preferred self-selected music would have a significant physiological effect with regard to skin conductance responses, and also psychologically as measured by a self-report anxiety tool, among persons with ASD as compared to a matched control group. Results showed that participants with ASD were more responsive physiologically to their preferred music than those in the comparison group. They did not differ from controls in their responses to a piece of music previously demonstrated to induce feelings of relaxation among typical populations. Our findings indicate that persons with ASD are particularly responsive to the influence of music with regard to modulating their physiological state and this could potentially be a useful non-pharmacological tool for self-regulating emotional responses to stressors in their environment.
Colombian forensic genetics as a form of public science: The role of race, nation and common sense in the stabilization of DNA populations
Authors: Schwartz-Marín Ernesto , Wade Peter , Cruz-Santiago Arely , Cárdenas Roosbelinda
Published: April 2015

This article examines the role that vernacular notions of racialized-regional difference play in the constitution and stabilization of DNA populations in Colombian forensic science, in what we frame as a process of public science. In public science, the imaginations of the scientific world and common-sense public knowledge are integral to the production and circulation of science itself. We explore the origins and circulation of a scientific object – ‘La Tabla’, published in Paredes et al. and used in genetic forensic identification procedures – among genetic research institutes, forensic genetics laboratories and courtrooms in Bogotá. We unveil the double life of this central object of forensic genetics. On the one hand, La Tabla enjoys an indisputable public place in the processing of forensic genetic evidence in Colombia (paternity cases, identification of bodies, etc.). On the other hand, the relations it establishes between ‘race’, geography and genetics are questioned among population geneticists in Colombia. Although forensic technicians are aware of the disputes among population geneticists, they use and endorse the relations established between genetics, ‘race’ and geography because these fit with common-sense notions of visible bodily difference and the regionalization of race in the Colombian nation.
When Is It Too Early for Single Sport Specialization?
Authors: Feeley Brian T. , Agel Julie , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: April 2015

Over the past 15 years, there has been an increase in youth sports participation with a concomitant increase in early year-round training in a single sport. Many factors contribute to the desire of parents and coaches to encourage early single sport specialization, including the desire to give the young athlete an edge in competition, pursuit of scholarships, and potential professional status, and the ability to label a young athlete as elite at an early age. Despite these perceived advantages, some data suggest that early sport specialization does not lead to a competitive advantage over athletes who participate in multiple sports. Although the data are limited, there is some evidence that early sport specialization may put the young athlete at risk for overuse injuries. The focus of this review is to highlight the evidence regarding early sport specialization and risk for injury; discuss the risk factors for overuse injury in high-risk sports including ice hockey, swimming, gymnastics, and baseball; and discuss future potential research that would help define the risk of injury for young athletes who participate in early sport specialization.
Tension Band Plating for Chronic Anterior Tibial Stress Fractures in High-Performance Athletes
Authors: Zbeda Robert M. , Sculco Peter K. , Urch Ekaterina Y. , Lazaro Lionel E. , Borens Olivier , Williams Riley J. , Lorich Dean G. , Wellman David S. , Helfet David L.
Published: April 2015

Background:

Anterior tibial stress fractures are associated with high rates of delayed union and nonunion, which can be particularly devastating to a professional athlete who requires rapid return to competition. Current surgical treatment strategies include intramedullary nailing, which has satisfactory rates of fracture union but an associated risk of anterior knee pain. Anterior tension band plating is a biomechanically sound alternative treatment for these fractures.

Hypothesis:

Tension band plating of chronic anterior tibial stress fractures leads to rapid healing and return to physical activity and avoids the anterior knee pain associated with intramedullary nailing.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between 2001 and 2013, there were 13 chronic anterior tibial stress fractures in 12 professional or collegiate athletes who underwent tension band plating after failing nonoperative management. Patient charts were retrospectively reviewed for demographics, injury history, and surgical details. Radiographs were used to assess time to osseous union. Follow-up notes and phone interviews were used to determine follow-up time, return to training time, and whether the patient was able to return to competition.

Results:

Cases included 13 stress fractures in 12 patients (9 females, 3 males). Five patients were track-and-field athletes, 4 patients played basketball, 2 patients played volleyball, and 1 was a ballet dancer. Five patients were Division I collegiate athletes and 7 were professional or Olympic athletes. Average age at time of surgery was 23.6 years (range, 20-32 years). Osseous union occurred on average at 9.6 weeks (range, 5.3-16.9 weeks) after surgery. Patients returned to training on average at 11.1 weeks (range, 5.7-20 weeks). Ninety-two percent (12/13) eventually returned to preinjury competition levels. Thirty-eight percent (5/13) underwent removal of hardware for plate prominence. There was no incidence of infection or nonunion.

Conclusion:

Anterior tension band plating for chronic tibial stress fractures provides a reliable alternative to intramedullary nailing with excellent results. Compression plating avoids the anterior knee pain associated with intramedullary nailing but may result in symptomatic hardware requiring subsequent removal.
Recent developments and perspective of the spent waste printed circuit boards
Authors: Xu Yuquan , Liu Junsheng
Published: April 2015

The amount of spent electronic and electrical solid wastes (i.e. e-wastes) has increased to a new level with the rapid development of electronic and electrical industries. Management of e-wastes challenges the administrators and researchers. As a major component of the e-waste stream, pollution caused by the spent printed circuit boards has captured increasing attention. Various innovative methods have recently been developed to dispose and reuse these municipal spent printed circuit boards. In this mini-review article, the disposal approaches for spent printed circuit boards are highlighted. The present state and future perspective are also discussed. We hope that this mini-review can promote the extensive understanding and effective disposal of the spent printed circuit boards in the field of solid waste treatment and resources.
The existing situation and challenges regarding the use of plastic carrier bags in Europe
Authors: Kasidoni Maria , Moustakas Konstantinos , Malamis Dimitris
Published: April 2015

Since day one, retailers and consumers have favoured plastic carrier bags. However, owing to the numerous environmental disadvantages, lightweight plastic carrier bags have been drawing the attention of the European Union competent authorities. Therefore, many European Union member states have taken action so as to reduce the use of plastic carrier bags. Based on the existing legislation and voluntary initiatives for the reduction of lightweight plastic carrier bags, the challenges and achieved outcomes from the implemented policy options in the various European Union member states are discussed and commented regarding the forthcoming transposition of the ‘Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste to reduce the consumption of lightweight plastic carrier bags’ into the European Union member states’ national law.
A Meta-Analysis of Job Satisfaction Correlates in the Public Administration Literature
Authors: Cantarelli Paola , Belardinelli Paolo , Belle Nicola
Published: April 2015

What can we learn by applying a meta-analysis to the public administration literature on job satisfaction? More generally, how can public management scholars use this method to capitalize on the decades of research on other topics within our field? This study reports the findings of the first quantitative review of the public administration literature on job satisfaction. We retrieved quantitative data from primary studies published in 42 public administration journals since 1969 and performed a meta-analysis of the relationships between job satisfaction and 43 correlates. The findings include meta-analytically derived effect sizes, measures of the heterogeneity in the effect size underlying all primary studies, and several indicators of publication bias. In presenting the results of our meta-analysis, we address the merits and limitations of this methodology and discuss how public administration scholars could take full advantage of this information to advance knowledge in other areas within the field.
Tendances de la recherche en marketing social au niveau de la psychologie du consommateur
Authors: Pechmann Cornelia (Connie)
Published: April 2015

Cet article traite des changements structurels qui ont encouragé la recherche en marketing social, notamment le mouvement Transformative Consumer Research (TCR). Il traite également de questions de fond qui sont étudiées dans le marketing social (la consommation et le bien-être, la lutte contre les menaces pour soi même, l’amélioration de la prise de décisions financières et la réglementation des campagnes publicitaires relatives au tabac et autres produits pour adultes). Les récentes innovations méthodologiques en marketing social sont identifiées, y compris l’utilisation d’études de terrain qui mesurent le comportement réel des consommateurs et qui complètent les études en laboratoire plus contrôlées. Enfin sont incluses des suggestions pour les jeunes chercheurs en marketing social, telles que le ciblage des revues, etc.