bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Symbolic Value and Limitations of Racial Concordance in Minority Research Engagement
Authors: Fryer Craig S. , Passmore Susan R. , Maietta Raymond C. , Petruzzelli Jeff , Casper Erica , Brown Natasha A. , Butler James , Garza Mary A. , Thomas Stephen B. , Quinn Sandra C.
Published: March 2015

The well-documented underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minorities in research demands action. The field of health disparities research, however, lacks scientific consensus about how best to respectfully recruit underrepresented minority populations in research. We explore the investigators’ perspective regarding how their own racial and ethnic background influenced their ability to recruit minorities, including (a) the influence of racial concordance (“race-matching”) in research recruitment, (b) attributes and shared values important in the development of trust with minority communities, and (c) the role self-reflection plays in the development of meaningful research relationships. In 2010, we conducted in-depth, semi-structured, telephone interviews with investigators ( N = 31) experienced with minority populations. Through the analysis of this coherent narrative, we uncovered both the symbolic and surface-level assumptions regarding minority recruitment to expose a deep structural understanding of race, ethnicity, and social context that is critical for bridging the true social difference between researchers and participants.
Assessing Candidate Quality
Authors: Pratt Michael G.
Published: March 2015

This essay examines how we as academics assess the quality of our colleagues through the lens of how we hire them. I begin by reviewing some critiques that have arisen regarding the use of largely quantitative critieria for assessment, and suggest that we might learn something about assessing quality by viewing it as a cultural issue. Building on insights from ethnograpy, I then offer some suggestions for how to build upon, and hopefully improve, our current practices.
Drug Interactions With Direct-Acting Antivirals for Hepatitis C
Authors: Burgess Sarah , Partovi Nilufar , Yoshida Eric M. , Erb Siegfried R. , Azalgara Vladimir Marquez , Hussaini Trana
Published: March 2015

Objective: Review pharmacokinetics of new direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) for hepatitis C (HCV) infection and interactions with concomitant immunosuppressant and antiretroviral therapies (ART). Data Sources: MEDLINE (1948-January 2015), EMBASE (1964-January 2015), International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-January 2015), Google, and Google Scholar were searched combining the terms simeprevir, sofosbuvir, ledipasvir, daclatasvir, paritaprevir, ABT-450, ombitasvir, dasabuvir, pharmacokinetics, drug interaction, drug metabolism, HIV, antiretroviral, immunosuppressant, transplant. Articles, conference proceedings, abstracts, and product monographs were reviewed. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Literature on pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interactions with DAAs and immunosuppressants or ART was considered for inclusion. Pertinent information was extracted and summarized in the review. In the absence of data, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles were used to predict the likelihood of interactions. Data Synthesis: DAA pharmacokinetics are reviewed and drug interaction data are presented with provision of management strategies. Fixed-dose combination paritaprevir/ritonavir/ombitasvir plus dasabuvir is most susceptible to drug interactions with immunosuppressants and ART mainly due to the influence of ritonavir on multiple enzymes. Simeprevir is also prone to drug interactions because of cytochrome P450(CYP) 3A4, CYP1A2, P-glycoprotein, and OATP1 involvement and is not recommended for use in combination with several HIV antiretrovirals (ARVs). Close therapeutic drug monitoring of calcineurin inhibitors is required with concomitant simeprevir. Few clinically significant interactions are expected with sofosbuvir or ledipasvir. Limited data suggest that daclatasvir may be coadministered with immunosuppressants but requires dose adjustments with certain ARVs. Conclusions: None of the DAAs are completely free of drug interactions. Awareness and management of drug interactions is critical to optimize outcomes and minimize adverse effects in these patient populations.
The Nation and the Domestic
Authors: Palma Karla
Published: March 2015

In 2011, I wrote a performance called “The Nation and the Domestic,” which is the result of my reflections after my fieldwork in the Valle Alto in the Choapa Valley in Chile. In this territory, there is a conflict between a mega mining project and the local communities. First, I wrote the performance for myself, but then I decided to share this performance with the community, which has helped me to open a space of conversation that makes visible the issue of gender relations and how this affects women’s knowledge. In this essay, through the narration of my previous experience, performance, and reaction analysis, I address the academic community through a reflection about methodological practices and the recognition of the “I” as part of knowledge creation.
Caring Masculinities
Authors: Elliott Karla
Published: March 2015

A space has emerged for theorizing “caring masculinities,” as the concept has increasingly become a focus of European critical studies on men and masculinities (CSMM). In this article, I present a practice-based framework of the concept. I propose that caring masculinities are masculine identities that reject domination and its associated traits and embrace values of care such as positive emotion, interdependence, and relationality. I suggest that these caring masculinities constitute a critical form of men’s engagement and involvement in gender equality and offer the potential of sustained social change for men and gender relations. I draw on CSMM and feminist care theory to construct the framework proposed here. In doing so, I offer a feminist exploration of how masculinities might be reworked into identities of care rather than domination.
Effect of thyroid volume on radioiodine therapy outcome in hyperthyroid cats
Authors: Volckaert Veerle , Vandermeulen Eva , Dobbeleir André , Duchateau Luc , Saunders Jimmy H , Peremans Kathelijne
Published: March 2015

Radioiodine therapy is commonly used in hyperthyroid cats and has a high success rate, ranging from 85–95%. As in humans, thyroid volume has been reported to influence radioiodine therapy outcome in hyperthyroid cats. The purpose of this study was to relate total thyroid volume, calculated by a newly constructed formula for feline patients (0.438 × length × width²), to the outcome of radioiodine therapy. To search for a correlation between total thyroid volume and therapy outcome, 167 hyperthyroid cats were included. Patients were categorised according to the administered radioiodine dose and therapy outcome. Our analysis did not show a significant relationship between an increasing total thyroid volume and the odds for a final low total thyroxine concentration (TT4; P = 0.3930) or a final hyperthyroid outcome ( P = 0.0901). A significant relationship was found for an increase in the odds for a final low TT4 outcome with an increase in the number of foci detected on the pertechnetate thyroid scan ( P = 0.0238). This was not true for a final hyperthyroid outcome ( P = 0.7435). The number of detected foci was also significantly associated with the total thyroid volume ( P = 0.0006). Findings indicated that the presence of multiple affected foci influences therapy outcome towards a low TT4 outcome. Bilateral hyperthyroidism and its potential effect on a final low TT4 outcome should therefore be addressed when informing owners of the possible outcomes of radioiodine therapy for their cat.
Gastric perforation following endoscopic removal of a Bravo pH capsule in a cat
Authors: Tolbert M Katherine , Odunayo Adesola , Craig Linden E
Published: March 2015

A 7-year-old domestic shorthair cat was evaluated for hyporexia and weight loss following endoscopic placement of an intragastric pH monitoring device. Physical examination of the cat was unremarkable, and its blood work was notable for a mild hypoalbuminemia. The cat’s acute hyporexia and weight loss was attributed to discomfort associated with the intragastric pH monitoring device, as has been reported in humans. Endoscopic removal of the intragastric pH monitoring device resulted in gastric perforation. The cat underwent exploratory laparotomy for surgical resection and repair of the perforated area. To our knowledge, this is the first report of gastric perforation secondary to removal of a Bravo pH capsule. Caution may be advised when considering intragastric pH capsule removal in cats.
Pedicle ties provide a rapid and safe method for feline ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Miller Kirk P , Rekers Wendy , Ellis Kristi , Ellingsen Kris , Milovancev Milan
Published: March 2015

Objectives

The specific objectives of the present study were to evaluate the rate of hemorrhage-related complications across a large number of feline pedicle tie (PT) procedures, and evaluate for a difference in surgical time between traditional pedicle double ligation (PDL) and PT procedures.

Methods

In the initial phase of the study, 2136 intact female cats underwent an ovariohysterectomy using the PT technique. Hemorrhagic complications not detected intraoperatively were to be confirmed via exploratory surgery or necropsy. The second phase of the study recorded the duration of surgery for four groups: kittens undergoing PTs (n = 50), kittens undergoing PDL (n = 49), adult cats undergoing PTs (n = 50) and adult cats undergoing PDL (n = 54). Kittens were defined as a cat 4 months old or younger. Statistical comparisons of age, body weight and surgical times between the PT and PDL groups were performed within, but not between, kitten and adult cat categories.

Results

Six of 2136 (0.281%) cats experienced a hemorrhage-related complication associated with the ovarian pedicle. Five of the six ovarian pedicle hemorrhage-related complications were recognized and corrected intraoperatively, with the remaining hemorrhagic event being detected postoperatively. Surgical times were significantly shorter in PT kittens compared with PDL kittens (4.7 ± 0.1 mins vs 6.7 ± 0.1 mins) and PT adult cats compared with PDL adult cats (5.0 ± 0.2 mins vs 7.0 ± 0.2 mins).

Conclusions and relevance

This study demonstrates that the PT technique is associated with a very low risk of hemorrhage-related complications and is significantly faster than double ligating the ovarian pedicle in kittens and adult cats. Use of the PT technique has the potential to be of significant economic benefit in institutions performing large numbers of feline ovariohysterectomies.
Model creation of strain rate–dependent energy absorption for paper honeycomb sandwich structure
Authors: Bai Ziyou , Wang Dongmei , Xu Zhuofei
Published: March 2015

The mechanical properties of paper honeycomb will be different from static situation with the changing of strain rate, which has an influence on the application of paper honeycomb. In this paper, the dynamic mechanical properties of paper honeycomb were discussed and the corresponding mathematic model was built in order to present the stress in different deformation stages and depict the energy absorption properties of honeycomb structure. The strain-rate effect was expressed by Comper-Symonds model. According to the mechanical model, the energy absorption diagram under different strain rates was also built from selecting materials of cushion packaging and optimum design of the packaging. Finally, serious experiments were taken and the result showed a good agreement with theoretical models. The proposed model can be used for practical application of the optimum design and material selection of honeycomb sandwich structure.
An experimental and modeling assessment of the HCFC-R123 refrigerant capabilities for lubricating rolling EHD circular contacts
Authors: Vergne Philippe , Fillot N , Bouscharain N , Devaux N , Morales-Espejel GE
Published: March 2015

This work aims at investigating the capabilities of the hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC)-R123 refrigerant for lubricating rolling elastohydrodynamic circular contacts. The viscosity pressure and temperature dependence of this fluid, used in oil-free compressors, are first studied in its liquid phase. Complementary data like density variations are taken from the thermo-physics literature. Besides, film thickness measurements using a ball-on-disk tribometer equipped with an interferometry facility have been performed under pure rolling conditions. For the same operating conditions, film thickness is then predicted from a numerical elastohydrodynamic model in which the viscosity and density dependencies with pressure and temperature are described using physics-based relationships, allowing a quantitative approach.

The results obtained from the full numerical model, from the analytical elastohydrodynamic film-thickness expressions, and from the experiments show an acceptable agreement. They clearly reveal that indeed refrigerants can build up a reasonable film thickness for lubricating elastohydrodynamic rolling point contacts.
Effects of frictional material properties on thermoelastic instability deformation modes
Authors: Zhao Jiaxin , Yi Yun-Bo , Li Heyan
Published: March 2015

This paper deals with the effects of friction material properties on thermoelastic instability (TEI) and the associated dominant deformation mode. Both analytical and finite element models are constructed for determining the variation of the critical speed and the dominant TEI mode. Some important factors, e.g. the nonconductive friction material as well as the symmetric and anti-symmetric TEI deformation modes, are investigated. It has been found that the dominant TEI deformation mode is strongly dependent on the properties of frictional material. The results show that the symmetric mode can be dominant in the condition when the friction material has either a sufficiently large elastic modulus or a sufficiently small thermal conductivity. These research findings are useful for vehicle clutch and brake designs.
Demand-side strategies to deal with moral hazard in public insurance for long-term care
Authors: Bakx Pieter , Chernichovsky Dov , Paolucci Francesco , Schokkaert Erik , Trottmann Maria , Wasem Juergen , Schut Frederik
Published: March 2015

Moral hazard in public insurance for long-term care may be counteracted by strategies influencing supply or demand. Demand-side strategies may target the patient or the insurer. Various demand-side strategies and how they are implemented in four European countries (Germany, Belgium, Switzerland and the Netherlands) are described, highlighting the pros and cons of each strategy. Patient-oriented strategies to counteract moral hazard are used in all four countries but their impact on efficiency is unclear and crucially depends on their design. Strategies targeted at insurers are much less popular: Belgium and Switzerland have introduced elements of managed competition for some types of long-term care, as has the Netherlands in 2015. As only some elements of managed competition have been introduced, it is unclear whether it improves efficiency. Its effect will depend on the feasibility of setting appropriate financial incentives for insurers using risk equalization and the willingness of governments to provide insurers with instruments to manage long-term care.
The Politics of Immunity
Authors: Jamieson Michelle
Published: March 2015

The issue of what is proper to nature, or life itself, is central to critical accounts of biomedicine and its complex interrelations with social, political and economic forces. These engagements, namely biopolitical accounts of medical practices and ethical-political critiques of biomedical discourse, grapple with the indistinction between the political and biological that biomedicine enacts. Making a significant contribution to both literatures, Ed Cohen’s A Body Worth Defending argues that the emergence of the concept of biological immunity signals the entry of politics into life itself and, as such, constitutes a concrete example of biopolitics. This article examines Cohen’s account of how the political becomes biological, and the view of life it assumes. Seeking to open up the question of biology, it draws on the work of Georges Canguilhem, and New Materialist accounts of matter–meaning entanglement, to offer a reading of knowledge and life, or politics and biology, as ontologically entangled.
The MRSA Epidemic and/as Fluid Biopolitics
Authors: Newman Joshua I , Shields Rachel , McLeod Christopher M
Published: March 2015

This article offers a series of critical theorizations on the biopolitical dimensions of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), with specific attention to what has recently been referred to in the United States as the ‘MRSA Epidemic’. In particular, we reflect on the proliferation of biomedical discourses around the ‘spread’, and the pathogenic potentialities, of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA). We turn to the work of Roberto Esposito and Jean-Luc Nancy to better make sense of how, during this immunological crisis, the individualized fleshy and fluid body is articulated to dimensions of community and corporeal proximity; the body is thus conceived in popular biopolitical framings as a site of transmission, inoculation, and isolation – as a living ecological and pathological vessel. We give emphasis to the spatial relations of flesh, namely in how biomedical ‘experts’ have sought to (bio-)technologize spaces of heightened communal bodily contact (such as playgrounds or gymnasia).
Immunity, Biopolitics and Pandemics
Authors: Davis Mark , Flowers Paul , Lohm Davina , Waller Emily , Stephenson Niamh
Published: March 2015

This article examines discourse on immunity in general public engagements with pandemic influenza in light of critical theory on immuno-politics and bodily integrity. Interview and focus group discussions on influenza with members of the general public reveal that, despite endorsement of government advice on how to avoid infection, influenza is seen as, ultimately, unavoidable. In place of prevention, members of the general public speak of immunity as the means of coping with influenza infection. Such talk on corporeal life under microbial threat is informed by self/not-self, network and ‘choice’ immunity, and therefore makes considerable allowance for cosmopolitan traffic with others, microbes, ‘dirt’ and immune-boosting consumer products. The immuno-political orientation of members of the general public, therefore, appears to trend towards a productive cosmopolitanism that contrasts with more orthodox bioscientific and governmental approaches to pandemic influenza. We reflect on the implications of the immuno-cosmopolitanism of everyday life for the advent of global public health emergency and for biopolitical rule in general.
Mirror me: Imitative responses in adults with autism
Authors: Schunke Odette , Schöttle Daniel , Vettorazzi Eik , Brandt Valerie , Kahl Ursula , Bäumer Tobias , Ganos Christos , David Nicole , Peiker Ina , Engel Andreas K , Brass Marcel , Münchau Alexander
Published: March 2015

Dysfunctions of the human mirror neuron system have been postulated to underlie some deficits in autism spectrum disorders including poor imitative performance and impaired social skills. Using three reaction time experiments addressing mirror neuron system functions under simple and complex conditions, we examined 20 adult autism spectrum disorder participants and 20 healthy controls matched for age, gender and education. Participants performed simple finger-lifting movements in response to (1) biological finger and non-biological dot movement stimuli, (2) acoustic stimuli and (3) combined visual-acoustic stimuli with different contextual (compatible/incompatible) and temporal (simultaneous/asynchronous) relation. Mixed model analyses revealed slower reaction times in autism spectrum disorder. Both groups responded faster to biological compared to non-biological stimuli (Experiment 1) implying intact processing advantage for biological stimuli in autism spectrum disorder. In Experiment 3, both groups had similar ‘interference effects’ when stimuli were presented simultaneously. However, autism spectrum disorder participants had abnormally slow responses particularly when incompatible stimuli were presented consecutively. Our results suggest imitative control deficits rather than global imitative system impairments.
Proud2Bme: Exploratory research on care and control in young women’s online eating disorder narratives
Authors: Hipple Walters Bethany , Adams Samantha , Broer Tineke , Bal Roland
Published: March 2015

Illness narratives have been studied to understand the patient’s point of view. These narratives are becoming more prolific, accessible, and specialized, thanks to the improved Internet access and the growth of health-specific online communities. This article analyses illness narratives posted on a Dutch eating disorder website hosted by a treatment centre. Specifically, we look at ‘care of the self’ and ‘control’. The young women wrote about controlling situations with disordered eating as a self-care tool, about being controlled by the disorder and about regaining control over the disorder. The website, with the opportunity for constant, unseen supervision, coercion through comments, and steering through edits and comments, revealed various modalities of control. While issues of control and eating disorders have been explored by others, little work has been done on how the control experienced by the young women (coercion on the individual, the body as the object of control, and the modality of pressure and supervision) interact, how control is presented in stories for a recovery-focused, monitored website, and how the website directs the content. As recovery-focused, therapist-led website is likely to continue growing, understanding how and why young women talk about care and control in the context of such websites is an important topic.
Preparation of the trauma response in a UK emergency department
Authors: Horne S , Smith JE
Published: March 2015

An immediate, effective team response is needed in order to properly cater to the needs of trauma patients. This paper aims to review some of the strategies that can be implemented in Emergency Departments to reduce errors and improve decision-making in major trauma. It focuses on the phase prior to the patient’s arrival, and in the first few minutes afterwards – as there is evidence that an organised response at this point creates the ideal conditions for all subsequent activity, such as transfer of the patient for further imaging and the requirement for emergency surgery.
Use of human growth hormone in a cachectic post-traumatic crush injury patient
Authors: Samai Kathryn , Oswanski Michael
Published: March 2015

Somatropin, recombinant human growth hormone, is used for the treatment of growth hormone deficiencies and conditions with associated weight loss. A 42-year-old male was admitted to the trauma service after suffering a traumatic crush injury. Approximately five months later, the patient was readmitted due to cachexia and intractable vomiting. Somatropin (0.1 mg/kg) injection therapy was initiated. This was a novel therapeutic approach to a patient that was otherwise declining. Despite complications with nutrition, somatropin appeared to augment weight gain.
Managing information well: Toward an ontology-driven informatics platform for data sharing and secondary use in epilepsy self-management research centers
Authors: Sahoo Satya S , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Bamps Yvan , Fraser Robert , Stoll Shelley , Lhatoo Samden D , Tatsuoka Curtis , Sams Johnny , Welter Elisabeth , Sajatovic Martha
Published: March 2015

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological condition that requires active self-management to reduce personal and population burden. The Managing Epilepsy Well Network, funded by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, conducts research on epilepsy self-management. There is an urgent need to develop an integrated informatics platform to maximize the secondary use of existing Managing Epilepsy Well Network data. We have implemented multiple steps to develop an informatics platform, including: (a) a survey of existing outcome data, (b) identification of common data elements, and (c) an integrated database using an epilepsy domain ontology to reconcile data heterogeneity. The informatics platform enables assessment of epilepsy self-management samples by site and in aggregate to support data interpretations for clinical care and ongoing epilepsy self-management research. The Managing Epilepsy Well informatics platform is expected to help advance epilepsy self-management, improve health outcomes, and has potential application in other thematic research networks.
Hard chromium coating effects on tribological performances for nonlubricated and lubricated spindle of cotton picker
Authors: Meng Fanming , Chen Naiwei , Chen Zhiwei
Published: March 2015

A spindle is the core component of a cotton picker, whose performance affects the efficiency of picking cotton directly. To enhance the spindle’s strength and wear resistance, it is desired to add a coating on the spindle surface. In the present study, the tribological mechanism of hard chromium coating used for the spindle made of 20CrMnTi is investigated under the dry sliding and oil lubrication conditions. Experimental results show that conclusions about the tribological mechanism of the hard chromium coating under a dry sliding condition are not completely suitable for the lubricated spindle.
The Mickey Mouse kachina and other “Double Objects”: Hybridity in the material culture of colonial encounters
Authors: Liebmann Matthew
Published: March 2015

Hybridity is a term used by anthropologists to characterize the amalgamation of influences from two (or more) different cultural groups. Hybridity has captivated archaeology in recent years, especially archaeologists investigating colonialism in Native American contexts. At the same time, a growing chorus of critics has begun to question anthropology’s devotion to hybridity and hybrid objects. These critics take issue with the term’s alleged Eurocentrism, implications of cultural purity, and evolutionary etymology. In this article, I address these critiques and advocate a more circumscribed use of hybridity in archaeology. I caution against the abandonment of the term entirely, because the archaeological identification of hybridity provides insights into both present-day (etic) and past (emic) perspectives on cultural amalgamation. Hybridity reveals the biases of contemporary researchers regarding the societies we study, as well as highlighting the ways in which power structures centered and marginalized colonial subjects in the past. To illustrate these points, I draw on case studies involving the Hopi Mickey Mouse kachina, eighteenth- and nineteenth-century Indigenous-colonial whips from the American Plains and southeast Australia, and seventeenth-century Pueblo ceramics from the American Southwest.
A high-frequency half-bridge driving circuit topology for HID lamps
Authors: Pan Y , Lin J , Su S , Shih T-M
Published: March 2015

A half-bridge circuit topology for driving high-intensity discharge lamps at high frequencies is proposed. The high-frequency square wave is modulated synchronously by low-frequency, sawtooth signals. Under such circumstances, the phenomenon of acoustic resonance can be successfully prevented because standing waves within the wall of the lamp are eliminated. This has been experimentally verified. Results obtained will offer useful information for designing high-efficiency high-intensity discharge lamps.
Women's empowerment and education: Panchayats and women's Self-help Groups in India
Authors: Ghosh Ratna , Chakravarti Paromita , Mansi Kumari
Published: March 2015

While women have made many advances, their inferior status to men continues to be a global phenomenon. At a time of unprecedented economic growth, India is experiencing a dramatic intensification of violence against women and the majority of girls are still not getting equal educational opportunity. In one of the most important steps for the empowerment of women, the Indian government gave constitutional status to village-level councils or Panchayati Raj institutions and reserved 33% of the seats in Panchayats for women. In addition, women were organized into Self-help Groups to mark the beginning of a major process of empowering women, although not much attention was paid to women's formal education. Our aim was to explore the impact of these measures on women's empowerment in the states of West Bengal and Mizoram.

In general, we found that affirmative action does ensure that larger numbers of women enter politics but it does not ensure that the women participate in politics and function as elected representatives, because of lack of education. Empowerment needs to be seen as a holistic outcome of processes of critical education that enables women to lead autonomous lives and the freedom to act. Both affirmative action and education are necessary to empower women who have suffered discrimination and lack of power always.
Research collaboration for Young Scholars of Indian Education: Case Study of a Global Conclave
Authors: Mukherjee Mousumi
Published: March 2015

The aim of the first “Global Conclave of Young Scholars of Indian Education” held in New Delhi in 2011 was to help build bridges for research collaboration primarily for young scholars of Indian education to collaborate with their partners across borders. This paper draws on an “intrinsic case study” of this “global conclave”. Historically, established scholars from the global North or Western countries have initiated partnerships for research collaboration with individual scholars in the global South or Eastern countries, often for data mining or to test out theories. Within this context of unequal power relations in research collaborations, the concept note of the “global conclave” was a bold attempt by the organizers to create a forum for young scholars of Indian Education to collaborate for research across borders. However, based on the case study, this paper identifies several issues with regards to specific social, academic and institutional culture within India which might actually cause barriers to building bridges for research collaboration, both at the individual level and institutional level. The success of research collaborations can be discussed in terms of solidarity, emotional energy, trust, agency, power, and ethical praxis. Each of these aspects of successful collaboration could be adversely affected because of the differences in social, academic and institutional cultural practices among scholars within India compared with their counterparts abroad. Therefore, this paper suggests further critical inquiry into each of the issues identified as potential barriers for successful research collaboration in order to improve the quality of research collaborations in the future.
Optimization of polyester–elastane-braided ligaments performances
Authors: Turki Samar , Marzougui Saber , Ben Abdessalem Saber
Published: March 2015

A successful prosthesis has to emulate physiological and biomechanical performances of the native ligament. Today, there is no ideal artificial ligament that simulates the performances of the human anterior cruciate ligament. This work aims to study the impact of the braiding parameters on ligaments mechanical performances. The braiding parameters include yarn count, braid architecture, and machine settings (take-up speed). Two braided architectures were designed: a biaxial quadruple braid and a triaxial quadruple one incorporating elastane. Mechanical properties of these structures were measured and compared to those of the natural ligaments. Elastic recovery under traumatic force was studied in order to compare the elasticity of the manufactured samples. The obtained results showed that the elastic recovery was improved with the incorporation of elastane filaments and prostheses mechanical properties match closely those of the native anterior cruciate ligament. Finally, a response surface methodology was used to predict and optimize the prostheses mechanical properties.
The 1,2,3-triazole derivative KP-A021 suppresses osteoclast differentiation and function by inhibiting RANKL-mediated MEK-ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Ihn Hye Jung , Lee Doohyun , Lee Taeho , Shin Hong-In , Bae Yong Chul , Kim Sang-Hyun , Park Eui Kyun
Published: March 2015

The triazole family of compounds has been implicated in modulating various biological processes such as inflammation, tumorigenesis, and infection. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the effects of 1,2,3-triazole substituted biarylacrylonitrile compounds, including KP-A021, on the differentiation and function of osteoclasts. KP-A021 and its triazole derivatives, at a concentration that does not cause a cytotoxic response in bone marrow macrophages (BMMs), significantly inhibited osteoclast differentiation induced by receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) as assessed by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining. KP-A021 also dramatically inhibited the expression of marker genes associated with osteoclast differentiation, such as TRAP, cathepsin K ( Cat K), dendritic cell-specific transmembrane protein ( DC-STAMP), and nuclear factor of activated T-cells, cytoplasmic 1 ( NFATc1). Furthermore, KP-A021 inhibited actin ring formation in osteoclasts as well as resorption pit formation induced by osteoclasts. Analysis of the signaling pathway for KP-A021 indicated that this triazole compound inhibited the RANKL-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and its upstream signaling molecule, mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase1/2 (MEK1/2). Taken together, these results demonstrate that KP-A021 has an inhibitory effect on the differentiation and function of osteoclasts via modulation of the RANKL-induced activation of the MEK-ERK pathway.
Parkinson’s disease and enhanced inflammatory response
Authors: Stojkovska Iva , Wagner Brandon M , Morrison Brad E
Published: March 2015

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the first and second most prevalent motor and neurodegenerative disease, respectively. The clinical symptoms of PD result from a loss of midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neurons. However, the molecular cause of DA neuron loss remains elusive. Mounting evidence implicates enhanced inflammatory response in the development and progression of PD pathology. This review examines current research connecting PD and inflammatory response.
“You Can’t be Cold and Scientific”
Authors: McDonald Katherine E. , Schwartz Nicole M. , Gibbons Colleen M. , Olick Robert S.
Published: March 2015

Perceptions, attitudes, and ethical concerns related to conducting research with adults with intellectual disability hinder scientific innovation to promote health. Yet we lack an understanding of community views on effective research policy and practice. To address this knowledge void, we qualitatively studied the views of adults with intellectual disability and those who provide them support regarding research participation of adults with intellectual disability. We found substantial support for their inclusion, particularly given the possibility of benefits to adults with intellectual disability, researchers, and society. We also found concerns for potential harm and differing ideas on how to promote safety. Our findings emphasize the importance of their inclusion in research, and the need for policies and practices that promote respect and safety.
The effect of body position on developing ultrasound criteria for the assessment of the internal jugular vein
Authors: Clements E , Bonfield M , Sassano A
Published: March 2015

Recent studies investigating chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency highlighted that intracranial venous return has not yet been routinely investigated by ultrasound in the normal population. This creates an absence of a reference standard and raises concerns that the approach introduces variations into the results. The primary objective of this study was to develop reference standards for the assessment of the internal jugular vein in a normal population. A prospective small-scale study was conducted. Internal jugular veins of 31 normal candidates were examined using B-Mode and PW Doppler. Measurements at proximal and mid-point internal jugular vein were taken in sitting (90°) and supine (0°) positions. Area measurements were taken during passive respiration in cm2. Time average velocity measurements were taken during passive respiration over a 3-second period. Reflux measurements were taken after apnoea and reflux was recorded from any reversed flow. Measurements were taken three times; an average was calculated and statically analysed. Of the 31 participants, one was excluded from the study and 30 were suitable. The Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyse the results; all results (area, time average velocity and reflux) showed that there was a significant difference between the two positions with p < 0.05 (two-tailed). This pilot study does suggest that there is a significant difference in area, time average velocity and reflux measurements of the internal jugular vein when taken in the sitting and supine position, which could affect the outcome of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency. A further large-scale study is required to validate and standardise the assessment of the internal jugular vein.
When the marginalized enter the national spotlight: The framing of Brazilian favelas and favelados
Authors: Rosas-Moreno Tania Cantrell , Straubhaar Joseph D
Published: March 2015

How are marginalized peoples and places framed in their dominant national media? Framing theory applied through a comparative narrative analysis of 313 news articles, 291 photos and 1051 telenovela scenes allowed Brazilian media representations of a marginalized people, favelados, and marginalized, contested spaces, favelas, to be juxtapositioned. ‘Organizing principles’ communicated through media reports and stories of these marginalized groups operated to shape a certain social reality within the nation-state of Brazil. The salient latent frames Abandoned favelas and favelados and Favela life is ideal father-led life percolated from news and novela reports, respectively. That the timing of news reports and photos with telenovela production were concurrent, yet the manifest media framing of these people and places proved so radically different, makes this study interesting. More importantly, while the telenovela initially appeared as the more progressive storyteller, latent framing across media platforms harmonized hegemonically, retrogressing Brazilian storytelling to its paternalistic past.
Engrams and biological regulation: What was “wrong” with organic memory?
Authors: Logan Cheryl A
Published: March 2015

The idea that offspring could inherit attributes or dispositions that their parents had acquired is associated with the thinking of Jean-Baptiste Lamarck. But the early twentieth century saw several attempts to modernize the concept as a form of “organic” memory. I focus on one uncommonly comprehensive attempt, that of the German morphologist Richard Semon. Semon’s case is instructive because, despite an evidence-based approach that drew on cell biology, neurophysiology, and evolution, his idea was strongly resisted. Some critics failed even to address his central claim. I use criticisms of Semon’s attempt to explore some philosophical, social, and scientific barriers that combined to facilitate the decline of modernized notions of organic memory in the first half of the twentieth century, especially as applied to the science of heredity.
Cementless surface replacement hemiarthroplasty for primary glenohumeral osteoarthritis: results of over 5-year follow-up in patients with or without rotator cuff deficiency
Authors: Al-Hadithy Nawfal , Furness Nicholas , Patel Ronak , Jonas Sam , Jobbagy Attila , Lowdon Ian , Woods David
Published: March 2015

Background

Cementless surface replacement hemiarthroplasty (CSRHA) is an established treatment for glenohumeral osteoarthritis; however, studies evaluating its role in arthritis with rotator cuff deficiency are limited. This study reviews the outcomes of CSRHA for glenohumeral osteoarthritis with and without rotator cuff tears.

Methods

41 CSRHA (Mark III Copeland prosthesis) were performed for glenohumeral osteoarthritis with intact rotator cuffs ( n = 21) and cuff-deficient shoulders ( n = 20). Patients were assessed using Oxford and Constant questionnaires, patient satisfaction, range of motion measurements and by radiography.

Results

Mean age and follow-up were 75 years and 5.1 years, respectively. Functional gains were significantly higher in patients with intact rotator cuffs compared to cuff-deficient shoulders, with Oxford Shoulder Score improving from 18 to 37.5 and 15 to 27 and forward flexion improved from 60° to 126° and 44° to 77° in each group, respectively. Two patients with deficient cuffs had deficient subscapularis tendons; one of which was dislocated anteriorly.

Conclusions

CSRHA provides significant improvements in pain and function in patients with glenohumeral osteoarthritis. In patients with deficient cuffs, functional gains are limited, and should be considered in low-demand patients where pain is the primary problem. Caution should be taken in patients with a deficient subscapularis as a result of the risk of dislocation.
Aseptic non‐touch technique and catheter‐related bloodstream infection in children receiving parenteral nutrition at home
Authors: Mutalib Mohamed , Evans Victoria , Hughes Anna , Hill Susan
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Parenteral nutrition (PN) at home is an acceptable form of delivering long‐term PN for children with intestinal failure. Catheter‐related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is one of the serious complications of long‐term PN and can lead to increasing morbidity and mortality. Using aseptic non‐touch technique (ANTT) was proven to decrease the incidence of CRBSI in hospital patients. In this study we aimed to review the incidence of CRBSI in children receiving PN at home in our institution using the ANTT and a simplified training programme for parents and carers.

Methods

We retrospectively collected clinical and microbiological data on all children with intestinal failure (IF) who were on treatment with PN at home under our specialist IF rehabilitation service between November 2012 and November 2013.

Results

Thirty‐five children were included, 16 of whom did not have any infection recorded during the study period. The overall CRBSI rate was 1.3 infections per 1000 line‐days, with Staphylococcus being the commonest organism. Twenty‐one children did not require catheter change and the overall catheter changes were 1.8 per 1000 line‐days.

Conclusion

In this article, we report a low incidence of CRBSI in a single institution by using the principle of ANTT for accessing central venous catheters combined with a simplified, nurse‐led, two‐week standardised training programme for parents of children going home on PN.
IBD‐related work disability in the community: Prevalence, severity and predictive factors. A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ramos Alexis , Calvet Xavier , Sicilia Beatriz , Vergara Mercedes , Figuerola Ariadna , Motos Jaume , Sastre Adoración , Villoria Albert , Gomollón Fernando
Published: March 2015

Background and aims

Data on the prevalence of work disability in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are heterogeneous. As most studies have been performed in selected, often severe, IBD patients, the true prevalence of disability in the community remains controversial. The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to evaluate the prevalence and severity of disability and its predictive factors in a community‐based IBD population.

Patients and methods

Patients recorded in the community‐based IBD register at the Hospital Universitario de Burgos were contacted. After informed consent they completed a set of questionnaires including demographic, clinical, disability and quality of life data. The statistical study was performed using SPSS 21.

Results

A total of 293 patients were included – 151 Crohn's disease (CD), 142 ulcerative colitis (UC), 137 female, mean age: 45 ± 11 years, mean time since diagnosis: 10.6 ± 11 years. Twelve patients (4.1%) had a work‐disability pension. In addition, 93 (32%) of all patients had an officially recognized disability degree, which was generally moderate (n  = 73, 25%) or severe (N  = 16, 5%). Age, time since IBD diagnosis, CD, perianal disease, incontinence, active disease, the need for anti‐TNF or psychological treatment, previous surgeries and the number of diagnostic tests and medical visits in the previous year were predictors of disability. Major predictors of qualifying for a disability pension were age, IBD activity, incontinence, need for biological drugs and ostomy.

Conclusion

Mild to moderate work disability is frequent in IBD. However, only a minority of patients develop severe disability qualifying them for a pension.
The safety of same‐day CT colonography following incomplete colonoscopy with polypectomy
Authors: Lara Luis F , Avalos Danny , Huynh Huan , Jimenez-Cantisano Brenda , Padron Mariann , Pimentel Ronnie , Erim Tolga , Schneider Alison , Ukleja Andrew , Parlade Albert , Castro Fernando
Published: March 2015

Background

Concerns about the risk of bowel perforation for same‐day computed tomography colonography (CTC) following an incomplete colonoscopy with polypectomy may lead to unnecessarily postponing the CTC.

Objective

The objective of this article is to describe the complications including colon perforations associated with same‐day CTC in a cohort who had polypectomies but an incomplete colonoscopy.

Design

We conducted a retrospective study.

Setting

Our study took place in a single, tertiary referral center.

Patients

We studied consecutive patients who had CTC the same day as an incomplete colonoscopy with polypectomy.

Interventions

Interventions included optical colonoscopy (OC), endoscopic polypectomies, and same‐day CTC.

Main outcome measurements: Our main outcome measurements included perforation rate with long‐term follow‐up.

Results

A total of 3% of patients undergoing colonoscopy from January 2008 to December 2012 had same‐day CTC following incomplete OC, and 72 polypectomies were performed in 34 (or 17%) of these patients. Incomplete colonoscopies were due to colon tortuosity and looping (25), severe angulations (five), colon mass (two), colon stenosis (one), bradycardia (one). Fifty‐three percent of the OCs were screening for colon neoplasia, 29% diagnostic and 18% were surveillance of colon polyps. Most polyps were ≤ 5 mm, and found in the left colon. There were no reported complications or perforations associated with same‐day CTCs during short‐ and long‐term follow‐up.

Limitations

Limitations of our analysis included retrospective single‐center design, small number of patients for the occurrence, referral to same‐day CTC was not standardized, inability to establish safety of CTC for specific scenarios such as after complex polypectomies, strictures, or advanced IBD.

Conclusions

Radiologists’ apprehension to perform a CTC the same day as an incomplete colonoscopy following polypectomies because of perceived risk of perforation may be unfounded. More data are needed to determine the safety of same‐day CTC in patients with high‐risk findings during colonoscopy such as a stricture, severe IBD, and after complex polypectomies.