bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Do Parental Acceptance–Rejection, Power, and Prestige Affect Psychological Adjustment? A Quantitative Study With a Sample of Portuguese College Students
Authors: Machado Márcia , Machado Francisco , Neves Sofia , Fávero Marisalva
Published: March 2014

This article discusses the relationship between perceived paternal and maternal acceptance, parental power and prestige, and psychological adjustment, having in mind national and international gender equality indicators. The sample consisted of 785 Portuguese college students, 44% of whom were men. The participants ranged in age from 18 through 62 years ( M = 22.38). Measures used were Portuguese translations of the adult versions of the Parental Acceptance–Rejection Questionnaire for mothers and fathers, and the Personality Assessment Questionnaire, as well as the Parental Power–Prestige Questionnaire. Gender differences were found only in perceived parental power, with men perceiving fathers as being more powerful than did women. The study concluded that parental power (especially paternal power) moderated the relation between perceived paternal acceptance and women’s psychological adjustment. However, parental prestige (especially paternal prestige) moderated the relation between perceived paternal acceptance and men’s psychological adjustment.
Exploratory Structural Equation Modeling of Personality Data
Authors: Booth Tom , Hughes David J.
Published: March 2014

The current article compares the use of exploratory structural equation modeling (ESEM) as an alternative to confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) models in personality research. We compare model fit, factor distinctiveness, and criterion associations of factors derived from ESEM and CFA models. In Sample 1 ( n = 336) participants completed the NEO-FFI, the Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire–Short Form, and the Creative Domains Questionnaire. In Sample 2 ( n = 425) participants completed the Big Five Inventory and the depression and anxiety scales of the General Health Questionnaire. ESEM models provided better fit than CFA models, but ESEM solutions did not uniformly meet cutoff criteria for model fit. Factor scores derived from ESEM and CFA models correlated highly (.91 to .99), suggesting the additional factor loadings within the ESEM model add little in defining latent factor content. Lastly, criterion associations of each personality factor in CFA and ESEM models were near identical in both inventories. We provide an example of how ESEM and CFA might be used together in improving personality assessment.
Benchmarking ACEJMC Competencies
Authors: Henderson Jennifer J. , Christ William G.
Published: March 2014

The Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) has developed twelve professional values and competencies that all students in accredited programs must demonstrate before graduation. This study asked Association of Schools of Journalism and Mass Communication (ASJMC) program administrators which competencies were most emphasized in their current programs and which were most important for students graduating in 2020. Findings revealed that the core competencies of “writing,” “thinking,” and “technology” were seen as being most emphasized currently and most important in the future. The authors use these findings to suggest that a tiered assessment system might be more appropriate to accommodate differences in program emphasis.
Ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1): a novel antibody-drug conjugate for the treatment of HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Baron Jessica M , Boster Bonnie L , Barnett Chad M
Published: March 2014

Human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer is an aggressive form of breast cancer associated with poorer prognosis and shortened survival. Primary and acquired resistance to existing HER2-targeted therapies presents a challenge for the management of patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. Ado-trastuzumab emtansine, a drug-antibody conjugate, has shown promising results for patients failing prior treatment with trastuzumab. Ado-trastuzumab emtansine consists of the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab linked to a potent microtubule inhibitor (emtansine), allowing a targeted delivery of chemotherapy to cells that overexpress HER2. Ado-trastuzumab emtansine has been approved for use in patients with metastatic breast cancer who have failed prior therapy with trastuzumab and a taxane. Although well-tolerated in clinical trials, thrombocytopenia has been reported and platelet values should be monitored closely. Increased liver enzymes and bilirubin, as well as cardiotoxicity, have also been documented, and recommendations for dose reduction or discontinuation due to these toxicities are available. Clinical trials are currently ongoing to further define the role of ado-trastuzumab emtansine in both the metastatic and early breast cancer settings.
Overcoming Challenges in the Management of Critical Events During Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Mukherji Jayanta , Hood Ryan R. , Edelstein Steven B.
Published: March 2014

Critical events during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) can challenge the most experienced perfusionists, anesthesiologists, and surgeons and can potentially lead to devastating outcomes. Much of the challenge of troubleshooting these events requires a key understanding of these situations and a well-defined strategy for early recognition and treatment. Adverse situations may be anticipated prior to going on CPB. Atherosclerosis is pervasive, and a high plaque burden may have implications in surgical technique modification and planning of CPB. Hematologic abnormalities such as cold agglutinins, antithrombin III deficiency, and hemoglobin S have been discussed with emphasis on managing complications arising from their altered pathophysiology. Jehovah’s witness patients require appropriate techniques for cell salvage to minimize blood loss. During initiation of CPB, devastating situations leading to acute hypoperfusion and multiorgan failure may be encountered in patients undergoing surgery for aortic dissection. Massive air emboli during CPB, though rare, necessitate an urgent diagnosis to detect the source and prompt management to contain catastrophic outcomes. Gaseous microemboli remain ubiquitous and continue to be a major concern for neurocognitive impairment despite our best efforts to improve techniques and refine the CPB circuit. During maintenance of CPB, adverse events reflect inability to provide optimal perfusion and can be ascribed to CPB machine malfunction or physiological aberrations. We also discuss critical events that can occur during perfusion and the need to monitor for organ perfusion in altered physiologic states emanating from hemodilution, hypothermia, and acid–base alterations.
Which American way? System justification and ideological polarization concerning the “Ground Zero Mosque”
Authors: Nam H. Hannah , Jost John T.
Published: March 2014

The proposal to build an Islamic mosque and community center near the site of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 on the World Trade Center produced widespread opposition. Although resistance among U.S. citizens was common, there was an ideological divergence, with liberals generally supporting the mosque and conservatives generally opposing it. We tested a theoretical model in which system justification mediated the effect of political ideology on level of support for the development of the “Ground Zero Mosque.” Specifically, we conducted a survey of Americans near the site of the proposed mosque, and observed that, as hypothesized, greater conservatism was associated with stronger system justification, which was in turn associated with a lack of behavioral support for the mosque. These findings suggest that ideological differences in opposition to the “Ground Zero Mosque” are linked to system-justifying tendencies to preserve the American “way of life.”
Going to extremes: Social identity and communication processes associated with gang membership
Authors: Goldman Liran , Giles Howard , Hogg Michael A.
Published: March 2014

Gang violence, endemic to many communities in the United States and around the world is a very significant social problem. Given that the messages conveyed by, and the rivalries associated with, gang identities readily invoke constructs and processes familiar to the social psychological study of social identity, intergroup relations, and communication (Lauger, 2012), it is surprising that social psychologists have not advanced such an analysis of gangs. In attempt to fill this void and set a research agenda, this theoretical article examines the role social identity and identity-related communication play in promoting affiliation with gangs, particularly among youth who confront uncertainties and strive for family-like protection. The article discusses messaging communicated by gang members and reasons why youth adopt antisocial (e.g., violent) rather than prosocial behaviors. It also explores ways to diminish the allure of gang membership and raises questions for future research.
Shared national identification in Northern Ireland: An application of psychological models of group inclusion post conflict
Authors: Lowe Robert D. , Muldoon Orla T.
Published: March 2014

The common ingroup identity model (CIIM) holds that viewing former outgroup members as part of a larger shared ingroup can allow social categorisation to be harnessed for social cohesion. The ingroup projection model (IPM) suggests that even where shared identification occurs, social divisions can be transposed into superordinate groups. Here we explore the potentially inclusive national identity in a region (Northern Ireland) which has historically seen a high polarisation of identities. Using three data sets ( N = 2000; N = 359; N = 1179), we examine the extent to which a superordinate inclusive national identity, Northern Irish, is related to conciliatory attitudes. We find a common ingroup identity is linked to more positive social attitudes but not to more positive political attitudes. We conclude by considering the complexities of applying psychological models in the real world where structural and historical social divisions and vexing oppositional political questions can be transposed into new social and political orders.
Managing diversity: How leaders’ multiculturalism and colorblindness affect work group functioning
Authors: Meeussen Loes , Otten Sabine , Phalet Karen
Published: March 2014

Workforces are becoming increasingly diverse and leaders face the challenge of managing their groups to minimize costs and maximize benefits of diversity. This paper investigates how leaders’ multiculturalism and colorblindness affect cultural minority and majority members’ experiences of connectedness (feeling accepted or distancing from group) and relationship conflict in their group. We collected data from 29 culturally diverse student work groups and their leaders. We used repeated measures (baseline and follow-up) of group functioning and independent measures of members’ and leaders’ diversity perspectives. Multilevel analyses revealed that leaders’ diversity perspectives affect work group functioning, controlled for members’ own perspectives: Leaders’ multiculturalism predicted feeling accepted in the group for minority members. In contrast, leaders’ colorblindness predicted distancing from the group and relationship conflict for minority members. There were no significant effects of leaders’ diversity perspective on majority members and no reverse effects of prior group functioning on leaders’ diversity perspectives.
Catalogue communities: Work and consumption in the UK catalogue industry
Authors: Casey Emma
Published: March 2014

This article offers a sociological understanding of the role of catalogue shopping in women’s everyday lives. The article draws on qualitative data generated from interviews with women working at the returns department of the Kays catalogue warehouse in Worcester. During the time of writing, Shop Direct, owners of Kays closed down the historic warehouse in Worcester, effectively bringing over 200 years of Worcester’s association with Kays and the catalogue industry to an end, and leading to 500 job losses, including those of the women taking part in the research. Once the largest private employer in Worcester, Kays occupies an important role in local cultural and social identities, and in this article, I will argue that a sociological account of catalogue shopping is apt and timely given such significant social changes, the recent economic downturn and social problems that have long been associated with this form of consumption. In addition, the article will show that to date, much research into catalogue shopping has tended to rest on economic historical accounts of the ‘mail order’ industry. In contrast, this article argues that catalogue shopping occupies not only a significant place in the popular cultural imagination surrounding the shopping habits of the working classes (and especially working-class women) but has also played a crucial role in women’s management of the home, caring for the family and safeguarding an often limited financial budget. The article will consider the important role that catalogues have played in offering credit to working-class women who may have previously struggled to get this. Finally, it adds to recent attempts to put women’s domestic consumption patterns firmly on the academic agenda.
The nature of interactions between Chinese immigrant families and preschool staff: How culture, class, and methodology matter
Authors: Heng Tang T
Published: March 2014

While the parental involvement field has progressed from asking what the impact of parental involvement is to how we can better involve parents, research has lagged in finding out how sociocultural and class differentials between homes and schools affect immigrant families’ interactions with schools. This case study uses ethnographic tools to examine the nature of interactions between 11 Chinese immigrant families and staff at a low-income preschool. Interview, participant observation, and textual data revealed that the nature in which staff interacted with parents was didactic and one-directional and depended upon parents’ economic–cultural–linguistic capital. Sociocultural differences between staff and parents complicated the interaction, and parental resistance was often misinterpreted. These findings are discussed in light of methodological issues in research as well as how to avoid letting stereotypes, and sociocultural and class differences, hamper the establishment of successful partnerships between schools and immigrant families.
Scaffolding, analysis and materials: Contributing factors in an unexpected finding of advanced infant/toddler pretend play?
Authors: Morrissey Anne-Marie
Published: March 2014

As part of a longitudinal study, infant/toddler pretend play development and maternal play modelling were investigated in dyadic context. A total of 21 children were videotaped in monthly play sessions with their mothers, from age 8 to 17 months. Child and mother pretend play frequencies and levels were measured using Brown’s Pretend Play Observation Scale. Child IQ assessments at 5 years (Stanford–Binet IV) indicated average to high ability levels ( M = 122.62). Descriptive analyses showed that children’s levels of pretend development were markedly in advance of age-typical expectations. With a previous analysis showing no specific associations between play levels and IQ, intensive maternal scaffolding, data analysis approaches and use of abstract play materials are proposed as possible contributory factors to the children’s advanced pretend play development.
Mixed Methods in Studies on Women’s Struggle for Land Rights in Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues de Mello Roseli
Published: March 2014

This study focuses on the extent to which mixed methods have been used in studies of rural women’s struggle for land rights in Brazil based on an analysis of a database of theses managed by the Brazilian government. The analysis focused on three aspects of the studies: identification of methodology, representation of the rural women’s voices, and whether the studies highlighted the women’s role as active agents. Mixed methods guided the analysis strategy of the studies themselves. The results indicate that 74% of the studies use qualitative methods, 22% use mixed methods, and only 4% were exclusively quantitative. Consideration of the studies quality reveals that mixed methods potentially provide a better understanding of the complexity in the struggle for land by women.
Stressors in intensive care units in Syria: patients' perceptions
Authors: Hweidi Issa M , Nizamli Frial M
Published: March 2014

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to identify the stressors and the level of stress as perceived by hospitalised Syrian patients of intensive care units (ICUs). A convenience sample of 150 Syrians who were hospitalised in ICUs located in the Syrian capital, Damascus, were chosen as study participants and were interviewed using a structured interview guide of the Intensive Care Units Environmental Stressors Scale (ICUESS). The findings revealed that physical stressors were perceived as the most stressful ones, whereas psychological stressors were the least stressful. These findings are congruent with the majority of similarly available regional and international literature. It was also statistically noticed that participants with a higher level of education and income were more sensitive in perceiving the stressors than those who had a lower level of education and income. The findings suggested that nurses must utilise effective measures in ICUs to relieve patients' pain and provide a humane ICU environment and atmosphere in which rest is enabled. In conclusion, decreasing the stress level has a positive impact on patients' health outcomes, where adequate attention to patients' physical and psychological domains should equally be considered.
Anger and Prosocial Behavior
Authors: van Doorn Janne , Zeelenberg Marcel , Breugelmans Seger M.
Published: March 2014

Anger is often primarily portrayed as a negative emotion that motivates antagonistic, aggressive, punitive, or hostile behavior. We propose that this portrayal is too one-sided. A review of the literature on behavioral consequences of anger reveals evidence for the positive and even prosocial behavioral consequences of this emotion. We outline a more inclusive view of anger and its role in upholding cooperative and moral behavior, and suggest a possible role of equity concerns. We also suggest new predictions and lines of research derived from our perspective.
Energy Efficiency Initiatives at Upscale and Luxury U.S. Lodging Properties
Authors: Baloglu Seyhmus , Jones Thomas
Published: March 2014

Energy costs in the lodging industry have been a focus for at least forty years, but the development of energy management programs and the employment of energy management systems have been uneven, at best. A 2011 study of ninety-nine managers of upscale and luxury hotels found that the operators were reticent to implement energy management programs that were excessively costly or might impair guest comfort. Thus, in-room sensors were suspect, and a substantial group of respondents were hesitant to install an electrical demand controller (or load shedder) for fear of interfering with guest satisfaction. These hotels also tended to use a short-term analysis that addressed raw cost and payback periods when considering an investment in energy saving equipment. A simple payback period of three years or less was favored over longer payback periods, even when a calculation of overall return on investment would have been favorable over the long term.
Urinary Hypoxanthine as a Measure of Increased ATP Utilization in Late Preterm Infants
Authors: Holden Megan S. , Hopper Andrew , Slater Laurel , Asmerom Yayesh , Esiaba Ijeoma , Boskovic Danilo S. , Angeles Danilyn M.
Published: March 2014

Objective. To examine the effect of neonatal morbidity on ATP breakdown in late preterm infants. Study Design. Urinary hypoxanthine concentration, a marker of ATP breakdown, was measured from 82 late preterm infants on days of life (DOL) 3 to 6 using high-performance liquid chromatography. Infants were grouped according to the following diagnoses: poor nippling alone (n = 8), poor nippling plus hyperbilirubinemia (n = 21), poor nippling plus early respiratory disease (n = 26), and respiratory disease alone (n = 27). Results. Neonates with respiratory disease alone had significantly higher urinary hypoxanthine over DOL 3 to 6 when compared with neonates with poor nippling ( P = .020), poor nippling plus hyperbilirubinemia ( P < .001), and poor nippling plus early respiratory disease ( P = .017). Neonates with poor nippling who received respiratory support for 2 to 3 days had significantly higher hypoxanthine compared with infants who received respiratory support for 1 day ( P = .017) or no days ( P = .007). Conclusions. These findings suggest that respiratory disorders significantly increase ATP degradation in late premature infants.
Freeze-dried allograft-mediated gene or protein delivery of growth and differentiation factor 5 reduces reconstructed murine flexor tendon adhesions
Authors: Hasslund Sys , Dadali Tulin , Ulrich-Vinther Michael , Søballe Kjeld , Schwarz Edward M , Awad Hani A
Published: March 2014

Advances in allograft processing have opened new horizons for clinical adaptation of flexor tendon allografts as delivery scaffolds for antifibrotic therapeutics. Recombinant adeno-associated-virus (rAAV) gene delivery of the growth and differentiation factor 5 (GDF-5) has been previously associated with antifibrotic effects in a mouse model of flexor tendoplasty. In this study, we compared the effects of loading freeze-dried allografts with different doses of GDF-5 protein or rAAV- Gdf5 on flexor tendon healing and adhesions. We first optimized the protein and viral loading parameters using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and in vivo bioluminescent imaging. We then reconstructed flexor digitorum longus (FDL) tendons of the mouse hindlimb with allografts loaded with low and high doses of recombinant GDF-5 protein and rAAV- Gdf5 and evaluated joint flexion and biomechanical properties of the reconstructed tendon. In vitro optimization studies determined that both the loading time and concentration of the growth factor and viral vector had dose-dependent effects on their retention on the freeze-dried allograft. In vivo data suggest that protein and gene delivery of GDF-5 had equivalent effects on improving joint flexion function, in the range of doses used. Within the doses tested, the lower doses of GDF-5 had more potent effects on suppressing adhesions without adversely affecting the strength of the repair. These findings indicate equivalent antifibrotic effects of Gdf5 gene and protein delivery, but suggest that localized delivery of this potent factor should also carefully consider the dosage used to eliminate untoward effects, regardless of the delivery mode.
Uniaxial cyclic strain of human adipose–derived mesenchymal stem cells and C2C12 myoblasts in coculture
Authors: Dugan James M , Cartmell Sarah H , Gough Julie E
Published: March 2014

Tissue engineering skeletal muscle in vitro is of great importance for the production of tissue-like constructs for treating tissue loss due to traumatic injury or surgery. However, it is essential to find new sources of cells for muscle engineering as efficient in vitro expansion and culture of primary myoblasts are problematic. Mesenchymal stem cells may be a promising source of myogenic progenitor cells and may be harvested in large numbers from adipose tissue. As skeletal muscle is a mechanically dynamic tissue, we have investigated the effect of cyclic mechanical strain on the myogenic differentiation of a coculture system of murine C2C12 myoblasts and human adipose–derived mesenchymal stem cells. Fusion of mesenchymal stem cells with nascent myotubes and expression of human sarcomeric proteins was observed, indicating the potential for myogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells. Cyclic mechanical strain did not affect the fusion of mesenchymal stem cells, but maturation of myotubes was perturbed.
From the Odyssey to the Iliad: Stratagems and practical skills in market-oriented ethnography
Authors: Robert-Demontrond Philippe , Joyeau Anne , Beaudouin Vanessa , Bellion Amélie , Sugier Laure
Published: March 2014

The market-oriented ethnography process constitutes an interesting renewal in the study of consumer behaviour. The methodological and epistemological specificities of this process, part of Consumer Culture Theory (CCT), may compel researchers to adopt certain stratagems and ingenuity in order to access the field, carry out their fieldwork and report their findings. These tactics, which are rarely revealed yet constitute the ‘tricks’ of this method, are outlined in this article in the hope of providing pedagogic insight for marketing researchers interested in this approach, by offering solutions to circumvent certain obstacles.
Stability and Change
Authors: Clark April K. , Clark Michael , Eisenstein Marie A.
Published: March 2014

Ever since Stouffer began to measure political tolerance a half century ago, multiple studies have shown that a number of social, psychological, and political characteristics play a significant role in influencing whether individuals want to extend civil liberties to fringe groups. However, less is known about the stability of tolerance attitudes over an individual’s lifetime. To address this problem, our research draws on a national U.S. multiple-generation, four-wave panel study stretching from 1965 to 1997. The intuitive appeal of the approach used in this study is to advance theoretical accounts for variations in political intolerance irrespective of generational placement, life cycle, and differences in the political context. Specifically, the panel design encourages an effort to examine the relative impact of the social, political, and psychological predictors on intolerance over time and across the same individuals, and to assess the consequences of how changes in these determinants affect some of our most fundamental hypotheses about the origins of these attitudes.
Moving Toward a Humanistic Social Studies and History Curricula
Authors: Berg Christopher , Shaw Melanie
Published: March 2014

Current reflective practices in the social studies are examined in light of how these strategies can add value and meaning to social studies curriculums. Many of these reflective practices were introduced within teacher education programs’ social studies methods courses, to expose pre-service teachers to innovative teaching practices that could be used in the classroom. An ineffective textbook-centered curriculum has dominated education in the United States for over a century. The researchers in this article argue for a new, reflective approach to teaching history and social studies curricula. New pedagogical models are needed to revive an ailing social studies program in the public school system. This article includes a selective examination of some traditional and non-traditional methods for promoting student learning and growth through reflective practices. Those considered in this article include dialogue journals, textbooks, culturally responsive texts (CRT), the Persona Doll Project, mask-making, primary source documents, and co-teaching. Each reflective practice strategy has its merits and could be easily implemented to improve pedagogical practice.
Conducting a Grounded Theory Study in a Language Other Than English
Authors: Nurjannah Intansari , Mills Jane , Park Tanya , Usher Kim
Published: March 2014

Translation can be a problem area for researchers conducting qualitative studies in languages other than English who intend to publish the results in an English-language journal. Analyzing the data is also complex when the research team consists of people from different language backgrounds. Translation must be considered as an issue in its own right to maintain the integrity of the research, especially in a grounded theory study. In this article, we offer guidelines for the process of translation for data analysis in a grounded theory study in which the research was conducted in a language other than English (Indonesian). We make recommendations about procedures to choose when, who, and how to translate data. The translation procedure is divided into four steps which are as follows: translation in the process of coding, translation in the process of team discussion, translation in the process of advanced coding, and ensuring the accuracy of translation.
Pride Versus Humility
Authors: Dirbaba Birhanu Olana
Published: March 2014

This is the first national and multilingual survey of Ethiopian journalists, resulting in, first, a comprehensive demographic profile of Ethiopian journalists; second, the overwhelming evidence of antipathy between government-employed and private-sector journalists that undermines the possibility of a collective identity or cooperative relations among Ethiopian journalists; third, the discovery of an apparent paradox between Ethiopian journalists’ pride in their country’s history as a sovereign nation and their regret at the lack of strong press traditions which is a by-product of this history and, finally, the tension that emerges in the data between Ethiopian journalists’ pride in and embarrassment about their chosen profession.
A Shot in the Arm for Philosophy of Biology
Authors: Bradley Constance
Published: March 2014

This article analyzes infectious diseases (IDs) within a philosophy of biology framework to locate factors that play a role in the development of a successful account of IDs. One way to handle the analysis of kinds in biology is through a traditional essentialist approach whereby biological entities are construed as natural kinds with essences. Approaching IDs in this way is unworkable, however, because it is difficult to find essences that occur in all and only IDs. Rather than engaging IDs from this perspective, my analysis of the nature of IDs more appropriately falls under the rubric of philosophy of biology whereby I treat particular IDs as products of evolution with a unique relationship to the biological hierarchy. This approach is what I refer to as an evolutionary perspective of IDs because it emphasizes that the constituent mechanisms and processes of ID are sensitive to evolutionary pressures. Such an approach is useful because it allows us to sidestep difficulties pervasive traditional kind essentialist accounts of ID. To begin, I analyze two contemporary methods for analyzing kinds in biology—Richard Boyd’s Homeostatic Property Cluster (HPC) kind approach and Paul Griffiths’ treatment of kinds with historical essences. I discuss both approaches and identify the limitations of each that prevent a successful account of IDs. I then analyze how elements of each account can be revised into a successful philosophy of biology approach to IDs. The article is concluded with a brief discussion of the benefit of incorporating an evolutionary perspective into the analysis of IDs and outlines future projects that result from approaching IDs from an evolutionary perspective.
Foster Children’s Sense of Sibling Belonging
Authors: Angel Bjørn Øystein
Published: March 2014

This article analyzes children’s experiences and their perceived sense of belonging to brothers and sisters to assess the significance of social and biological ties for developing identity. Specifically, this article aims to highlight the significance of siblings for children moving from homes to foster homes and back to their original homes again. Most children participating in this study emphasized the continuity of biological relations with their siblings as important for their identity and sense of belonging. At the same time, social ties to both siblings and foster siblings had significance for their perception of themselves. A sense of belonging and identity are, thus, shown to develop in relation to both biological siblings and foster siblings.
Neuroborreliosis Mimicking Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis in a Patient With Breast Cancer
Authors: Fischer Stefanie , Weber Johannes , Senn-Schönenberger Isabelle , Cerny Thomas , Hundsberger Thomas
Published: March 2014

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis is a serious complication of advanced cancer. Various clinical manifestations may present, such as headache, nausea, seizures, cranial neuropathies. In this article, we report the case of a 65-year-old woman with metastatic breast cancer who was admitted to hospital suffering from facial palsy, which was suspected to be caused by leptomeningeal tumor infiltration. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of the head and spine showed meningeal enhancement of the facial nerve, conus medullaris, and fibers of the cauda equina, which were radiologically interpreted as leptomeningeal carcinomatosis. Assessment of cerebrospinal fluid found no malignant cells but investigation for infectious diseases established the diagnosis of neuroborreliosis. Antibiotic treatment with doxycycline was performed. After completion of treatment, follow-up MRI scans found complete regression of meningeal enhancement. Several months later, the patient is still in good condition and without neurological symptoms. Hence, initial diagnosis of leptomeningeal carcinomatosis was rejected. This case report should alert oncologists to carefully rule out infectious diseases before leptomeningeal carcinomatosis is diagnosed. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is strongly recommended due to low specificity of MRI images in this regard.
Wave breaking and infinite propagation speed for a modified two-component Camassa-Holm system with "Equation missing"
Authors: Lv Wujun , Alsaedi Ahmed , Hayat Tasawar , Zhou Yong
Published: March 2014

In this paper, we investigate the modified two-component Camassa-Holm equation with

κ
≠
0

on the real line. Firstly, we establish sufficient conditions on the initial data to guarantee that the corresponding solution blows up in finite time for the modified two-component Camassa-Holm (MCH2) system. Then an infinite propagation speed for MCH2 is proved in the following sense: the corresponding solution

u
(
x
,
t
)
+
κ

with compactly supported initial data

(

u
0

(
x
)
+
κ
,

ρ
0

(
x
)
)

does not have compact x-support in its lifespan.

MSC:37L05, 35Q58, 26A12.
Some fixed point results for multi-valued mappings in b-metric spaces
Authors: Kutbi Marwan Amin , Karapınar Erdal , Ahmad Jamshaid , Azam Akbar
Published: March 2014

The aim of this paper is to establish some fixed point theorems for set-valued mappings in the context of b-metric spaces. The proposed theorems expand and generalize several well-known comparable results in the literature. An example is also given to support our main result.

MSC: 46S40, 47H10, 54H25.
Transcriptional profile of Paracoccidioides spp. in response to itraconazole
Authors: da Silva Neto Benedito Rodrigues , Carvalho Patrícia Fernanda Zambuzzi , Bailão Alexandre Melo , Martins Wellington Santos , de Almeida Soares Célia Maria , Pereira Maristela
Published: April 2014

Background

Itraconazole is currently used to treat paracoccidioidomycosis. The mechanism of action of azoles has been elucidated in some fungi, although little is known regarding its mechanism of action in Paracoccidioides spp. The present work focused on identification of regulated transcripts using representational difference analysis of Paracoccidioides spp. yeast cells treated with itraconazole for 1 and 2 h.

Results

Paracoccidioides Pb01 genes up-regulated by itraconazole included genes involved in cellular transport, metabolism/energy, transcription, cell rescue, defense and virulence. ERG11, ERG6, ERG3, ERG5 and ERG25 were up-regulated at multiple time points. In vivo infection experiments in mice corroborated the in vitro results. Ergosterol levels and distribution were evaluated in Paracoccidioides Pb18 yeast cells, and the results demonstrate that both factors were changed in the fungus treated with itraconazole.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first transcriptional analysis of Paracoccidioides spp. exposed to a triazole drug. Here acetyl seems to be intensively produced from different metabolic pathways to produce ergosterol by the action of ergosterol synthesis related enzymes, which were also affected in other fungi. Among the genes affected, we identified genes in common with other fungi, as well as genes unique to Paracoccidioides Pb01. Those genes could be considered target to new drugs. Voltage-gated Ca2+ alpha subunit (CAV), Tetracycline resistance protein (TETA) and Hemolisyn-iii channel protein (HLYiii) were found only here and a probably involvement with resistence to itraconazole could be investigated in the future. However our findings do not permit inference to current clinical practice.
Overdose rescues by trained and untrained participants and change in opioid use among substance-using participants in overdose education and naloxone distribution programs: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Doe-Simkins Maya , Quinn Emily , Xuan Ziming , Sorensen-Alawad Amy , Hackman Holly , Ozonoff Al , Walley Alexander Y
Published: April 2014

Background

One approach to preventing opioid overdose, a leading cause of premature, preventable mortality, is to provide overdose education and naloxone distribution (OEND). Two outstanding issues for OEND implementation include 1) the dissemination of OEND training from trained to untrained community members; and 2) the concern that OEND provides active substance users with a false sense of security resulting in increased opioid use.

Methods

To compare overdose rescue behaviors between trained and untrained rescuers among people reporting naloxone rescue kit use; and determine whether heroin use changed after OEND, we conducted a retrospective cohort study among substance users in the Massachusetts OEND program from 2006 to 2010. We used chi square and t-test statistics to compare the differences in overdose management characteristics among overdoses managed by trained versus untrained participants. We employed Wilcoxon signed rank test to compare median difference among two repeated measures of substance use among participants with drug use information collected more than once.

Results

Among 4,926 substance-using participants, 295 trained and 78 untrained participants reported one or more rescues, resulting in 599 rescue reports. We found no statistically significant differences in help-seeking (p = 0.41), rescue breathing (p = 0.54), staying with the victim (p = 0.84) or in the success of naloxone administration (p = 0.69) by trained versus untrained rescuers. We identified 325 OEND participants who had drug use information collected more than once. We found no significant overall change in the number of days using heroin in past 30 days (decreased 38%, increased 35%, did not change 27%, p = 0.52).

Conclusion

Among 4926 substance users who participated in OEND, 373(7.6%) reported administering naloxone during an overdose rescue. We found few differences in behavior between trained and untrained overdose rescuers. Prospective studies will be needed to determine the optimal level of training and whether naloxone rescue kits can meet an over-the-counter standard. With no clear evidence of increased heroin use, this concern should not impede expansion of OEND programs or policies that support them.
Consumption of whole grains and legumes modulates the genetic effect of the APOA5 -1131C variant on changes in triglyceride and apolipoprotein A-V concentrations in patients with impaired fasting glucose or newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kang Ryungwoo , Kim Minjoo , Chae Jey Sook , Lee Sang-Hyun , Lee Jong Ho
Published: April 2014

Background

The apolipoprotein A5 gene (APOA5) -1131 T > C polymorphism is associated with mild hypertriglyceridemia in type 2 diabetic subjects, and interacts with dietary fat in the determination of triglyceride concentrations. We examined whether a substitution of whole grains and legumes for refined rice in a high carbohydrate diet (about 65% of energy derived from carbohydrate) may modify the effect of this variant on changes in apolipoprotein A-V (apoA-V) and triglyceride concentrations.

Methods

We genotyped the APOA5 -1131 T > C in individuals with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) or newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, who were randomly assigned to either a group ingesting whole grain and legume meals daily or a control group for 12 weeks.

Results

After dietary intervention, we observed significant interactions between the APOA5 -1131 T > C polymorphism and carbohydrate sources (whole grains and legumes versus refined rice) in the determination of mean percent changes in triglyceride and apoA-V (P interactions <0.001 and =0.038, respectively). In the refined rice group (n = 93), the carriers of the risk C allele (n = 50) showed a greater increase in the mean percent changes of triglyceride and apoA-V than noncarriers after adjusting for HOMA-IR (P = 0.004 and 0.021, respectively). The whole grain and legume group (n = 92), however, showed a decrease in fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, and triglyceride, and an increase in apoA-V, irrespective of genotype.

Conclusions

The data showed that the magnitude of the genetic effect of the APOA5 -1131C variant on triglyceride and apoA-V levels was modulated when substituting consumption of whole grains and legumes for refined rice as a carbohydrate source in IFG or diabetic subjects.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01784952.
Population screening for colorectal cancer by flexible sigmoidoscopy or CT colonography: study protocol for a multicenter randomized trial
Authors: Regge Daniele , Iussich Gabriella , Senore Carlo , Correale Loredana , Hassan Cesare , Bert Alberto , Montemezzi Stefania , Segnan Nereo
Published: March 2014

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most prevalent type of cancer in Europe. A single flexible sigmoidoscopy (FS) screening at around the age of 60 years prevents about one-third of CRC cases. However, FS screens only the distal colon, and thus mortality from proximal CRC is unaffected. Computed tomography colonography (CTC) is a highly accurate examination that allows assessment of the entire colon. However, the benefit of CTC testing as a CRC screening test is uncertain. We designed a randomized trial to compare participation rate, detection rates, and costs between CTC (with computer-aided detection) and FS as primary tests for population-based screening.

Methods/Design

An invitation letter to participate in a randomized screening trial comparing CTC versus FS will be mailed to a sample of 20,000 people aged 58 or 60 years, living in the Piedmont region and the Verona district of Italy. Individuals with a history of CRC, adenomas, inflammatory bowel disease, or recent colonoscopy, or with two first-degree relatives with CRC will be excluded from the study by their general practitioners. Individuals responding positively to the invitation letter will be then randomized to the intervention group (CTC) or control group (FS), and scheduled for the screening procedure. The primary outcome parameter of this part of the trial is the difference in advanced neoplasia detection between the two screening tests. Secondary outcomes are cost-effectiveness analysis, referral rates for colonoscopy induced by CTC versus FS, and the expected and perceived burden of the procedures. To compare participation rates for CTC versus FS, 2,000 additional eligible subjects will be randomly assigned to receive an invitation for screening with CTC or FS. In the CTC arm, non-responders will be offered fecal occult blood test (FOBT) as alternative screening test, while in the FS arm, non-responders will receive an invitation letter to undergo screening with either FOBT or CTC. Data on reasons for participation and non-participation will also be collected.

Discussion

This study will provide reliable information concerning benefits and risks of the adoption of CTC as a mass screening intervention in comparison with FS. The trial will also evaluate the role of computer-aided detection in a screening setting.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01739608
Ethical pharmaceutical promotion and communications worldwide: codes and regulations
Authors: Francer Jeffrey , Izquierdo Jose Zamarriego , Music Tamara , Narsai Kirti , Nikidis Chrisoula , Simmonds Heather , Woods Paul
Published: March 2014

The international pharmaceutical industry has made significant efforts towards ensuring compliant and ethical communication and interaction with physicians and patients. This article presents the current status of the worldwide governance of communication practices by pharmaceutical companies, concentrating on prescription-only medicines. It analyzes legislative, regulatory, and code-based compliance control mechanisms and highlights significant developments, including the 2006 and 2012 revisions of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) Code of Practice.

Developments in international controls, largely built upon long-established rules relating to the quality of advertising material, have contributed to clarifying the scope of acceptable company interactions with healthcare professionals. This article aims to provide policy makers, particularly in developing countries, with an overview of the evolution of mechanisms governing the communication practices, such as the distribution of promotional or scientific material and interactions with healthcare stakeholders, relating to prescription-only medicines.
Distinct polymicrobial populations in a chronic foot ulcer with implications for diagnostics and anti-infective therapy
Authors: Imirzalioglu Can , Sethi Shneh , Schneider Christian , Hain Torsten , Chakraborty Trinad , Mayser Peter , Domann Eugen
Published: March 2014

Background

Polymicrobial infections caused by combinations of different bacteria are being detected with an increasing frequency. The evidence of such complex infections is being revealed through the use of novel molecular and culture-independent methods. Considerable progress has been made in the last decade regarding the diagnostic application of such molecular techniques. In particular, 16S rDNA-based sequencing and even metagenomic analyses have been successfully used to study the microbial diversity in ecosystems and human microbiota. Here, we utilized denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC) as a diagnostic tool for identifying different bacterial species in complex clinical samples of a patient with a chronic foot ulcer.

Case presentation

A 45-year-old female suffered from a chronic 5x5cm large plantar ulcer located in the posterior calcaneal area with subcutaneous tissue infection and osteomyelitis. The chronic ulcer developed over a period of 8 years. Culture and DHPLC revealed a distinct and location-dependent polymicrobial infection of the ulcer. The analysis of a superficial biopsy revealed a mixture ofStaphylococcus aureus,Proteus vulgaris, andFusobacterium nucleatum, whereas the tissue-deep biopsy harbored a mixture of four different bacterial species, namelyGemella morbillorum,Porphyromonas asaccharolytica,Bacteroides fragilis, andArcanobacterium haemolyticum.

Conclusions

This clinical case highlights the difficulties in assessing polymicrobial infections where a mixture of fastidious, rapid and slow growing bacteria as well as anaerobes exists as structured communities within the tissue architecture of chronic wound infections. The diagnosis of this multilayered polymicrobial infection led to a microbe-adapted antibiotic therapy, targeting the polymicrobial nature of this infection in addition to a standard local wound treatment. However, a complete wound closure could not be achieved due to the long-lasting extensive destruction of tissue.