bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge production on educational leadership and management in Arab societies: A systematic review of research
Authors: Hallinger Philip , Hammad Waheed
Published: December 2017

The study that we report in this paper was undertaken within the context of recent efforts to diversify the global knowledge base in educational leadership and management (EDLM). This systematic review of research synthesized trends in EDLM research from Arab societies published between 2000 and 2016. In contrast with Oplatka and Arar's (2017) recent review of theories and findings within the Arab EDLM literature, this review focused on synthesizing trends in knowledge production. The review employed systematic methods to identify 62 articles published in nine core international EDLM journals. Information was extracted from the articles and analyzed using quantitative methods. Trends identified in the review were benchmarked against findings reported in recent reviews EDLM research from other developing societies in Asia and Africa. The review found that the Arab EDLM literature is relatively small, largely of recent vintage, and geographically dispersed. No ‘centers of research excellence’ were identified either in terms of societies or universities within the Arab world. The Arab EDLM literature is composed primarily of empirical studies with few conceptual or review papers. The authors conclude that this is an ‘emerging literature’ which bears similarities to literatures from other developing societies in Asia and Africa. Recommendations for strengthening future EDLM research from this region center on developing research capacity through international networking among Arab scholars and encouraging scholars to conceptualize distinctive features of leading and managing in Arab societies.
The ‘one who knocks’ and the ‘one who waits’: Gendered violence in Breaking Bad
Authors: Wakeman Stephen
Published: December 2017

This article provides a cultural criminological analysis of the acclaimed US television series, Breaking Bad. It is argued here that – as a cultural text – Breaking Bad is emblematic of an agenda for change surrounding criminological theories of peoples’ propensity to do harm to one another. To exemplify this, the show’s central (male) protagonist is revealed to undergo a complete biosocial transformation into a violent offender and, as such, to demonstrate the need for criminological theory to recognise and further reflect upon this process. However, at the same time, the (re)presented inability of the show’s female characters to do the same is indicative of a number of gender-related questions that progressive criminological theories of violence need to answer. In considering these two fields in tandem, the show’s criminological significance is established; it is symbolic of the need for criminology to afford greater recognition to the nuanced intersections of both biological and sociological factors in the genesis and evolution of violent human subjectivities.
Real men set norms? Anti-trafficking campaigns and the limits of celebrity norm entrepreneurship
Authors: Majic Samantha A
Published: December 2017

This article analyzes celebrities’ norm entrepreneurship through a specific instance of its enactment: Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore’s media campaign against human trafficking (the K&M Campaign). Drawing from literatures about celebrities and politics and norm entrepreneurship, and using qualitative-interpretive methods of data collection and analysis, I show how the K&M Campaign provides an early, high-profile example of this norm entrepreneurship that demonstrates why and how celebrities communicate norms to the broader public. To illustrate, I show how changing political-economic conditions have facilitated celebrities’ ascendance in the polity, and I argue that Kutcher and Moore have emerged under these conditions to actively oppose human trafficking. Using their considerable resources, they have promoted an “individual responsibility” norm that instructs the public to avoid coercive sexual and labor activities and trafficking situations. I then argue further that the K&M Campaign provides broader lessons about norms’ fluidity: even when they are seemingly incontrovertible and their entrepreneurial proponents (celebrities) have extensive resources, norms may be contradicted and contentious nonetheless. In this case, by promoting an individual responsibility norm, Kutcher and Moore inadvertently conveyed retrograde gender norms and minimized the importance of broader structural solutions to human trafficking.
Re-conceptualizing Labor Law in an Era of Migration and Precarity
Authors: Tataryn Anastasia
Published: December 2017

The terms “economic” and “irregular” migrant support a particular construction of the subject of labor law, whereby the exclusion of some from a formal employment relationship renders them necessary precarious laborers. The experience of precarious work is not an experience limited to migrant workers. However, the relationship between labor regulation and the most precarious of workers is one that has been gaining critical attention. Building on existing studies of migration, precarity and labor, I question the boundaries and frame of labor law with regard to precarious workers through Jean-Luc Nancy’s confronted community. Re-thinking the legal citizen-subject of labor law is necessary before remedies to address the exploitation of workers in precarious situations can be successful.
Numerical and experimental identification of simplified building walls using the reflective Newton method
Authors: Limam K , Bouache T , Ginestet S , Olea Popescu L
Published: December 2017

This article aims to present the coupling of a direct thermal calculation with an optimization algorithm to identify the thermal characteristics of a simplified building wall. The resolution of the direct thermal calculation is first based on an electric network representation that is numerically solved with a finite difference method. The optimization model minimizes a criterion, such as least squares, between the expected temperatures inside the building and the model response using a reflective Newton inverse iterative algorithm. The proposed optimization method is validated using an experimental study of a cubic wooden structure under controlled ambient conditions and a uniform heat source.
Promoting physical activity in people with intellectual and multiple disabilities through a basic technology-aided program
Authors: Lancioni Giulio E , Singh Nirbhay N , O’Reilly Mark F , Sigafoos Jeff , Alberti Gloria , Perilli Viviana , Zimbaro Carmen , Boccasini Adele , Mazzola Carlo , Russo Roberto
Published: December 2017

This study assessed a technology-aided program (monitoring responding, and ensuring preferred stimulation and encouragements) for promoting physical activity with 11 participants with severe/profound intellectual and multiple disabilities. Each participant was provided with an exercise device (e.g. a static bicycle and a stepper) and exposed to the program according to an ABAB design, in which A and B represented baseline and intervention phases, respectively. Data recording concerned (a) the participants’ responses with the exercise device (e.g. pedaling) during baseline and intervention phases and (b) their heart rates during the last intervention phase. The results showed that all participants had significant increases in responding with the exercise devices during the intervention phases. Heart-rate values during the intervention sessions indicated that the participants’ responding during those sessions mostly amounted to moderate-intensity physical activity, with potential benefits for their overall physical condition. Implications of the findings and questions for future research in the area were discussed.
A comparison of the college experience for students with and without disabilities
Authors: Plotner Anthony J , May Cynthia
Published: December 2017

Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have joined the ranks of college students in pursuit of personal independence, community integration, and employment. To achieve these aims, there is a need for a strong understanding of the college experience for students with IDD, including identification of the academic, social, and personal challenges they face as well as the supports that are available to address those challenges. This research provides preliminary insights into the college experience for students with IDD by comparing the perceptions, attitudes, and activities of students with IDD to those of students without disabilities and students with mild learning disabilities (MLD). Our data suggest a number of similarities in the college experience for students with and without disabilities such as similar influences from family and teachers with respect to attending college. In addition, some surprising advantages expressed by students with IDD were found, such as reporting greater ease in developing close friendships than students with MLD. Considerations and discussion on the ways in which students with IDD benefit from the additional supports and services provided to them are also discussed.
Freedom as non-domination in behavioral and biomedical research
Authors: Kestigian Aidan
Published: December 2017

In the biomedical and behavioral sciences, it is widely recognized that researchers conducting studies involving human participants must respect the autonomy of research subjects. There is significant debate in the clinical research ethics and bioethics literatures about what it means for an individual to be autonomous. According to proponents of the Liberal Conception of Autonomy (LCA), an autonomous person is an agent who has interests and opinions and the capacity to deliberate about them. In contrast, proponents of the Relational Conception of Autonomy (RCA) argue that because humans are social creatures, autonomy is a relational concept and ought to be recognized as such by medical professionals. In this article, I argue that the LCA/RCA debate is flawed, and that the notion of freedom as non-domination, rather than autonomy, ought to be adopted for biomedical research ethics policies regarding informed consent and research agenda-setting. I then argue that this view of freedom should also be adopted for research ethics policies for the behavioral social sciences.
Youth, trauma and memorialisation: The selfie as witnessing
Authors: Douglas Kate
Published: December 2017

There have recently been a series of high-profile media controversies around inappropriate selfies taken by young self-portraitists at trauma memorial sites. Popular media critiques propose that the selfie is a self-centred and disrespectful response to traumatic histories. In this article, I consider such selfies in light of cultural shifts in second-person witnessing. I propose that these selfies prompt a rethink for theorists of witnessing. What can we learn from these selfies regarding the ways that young people, mobile technologies and social media are impacting the way people may respond to communal traumas?
Effect of pebble size and bed dimension on the distribution of voidages in pebble bed reactor
Authors: Xiong Yin , Liang Ge , Nan Gui , Xingtuan Yang , Jiyuan Tu , Shengyao Jiang
Published: December 2017

The HTR-10 built at Tsinghua University is an advanced pebble bed reactor because of its inherent safety and economic efficiency. It is fundamental to explore the voidage of the pebble bed. The existing experimental bed is limited in depth and contains mono-size pebbles. The effects of pebble size and bed dimension of voidage distribution are still not well known. In this work, the discrete element method is used to simulate the static packing of pebbles of three sizes in 2D and 3D pebble beds under the same load. The effects of bed dimension and pebble size on voidage distribution are analyzed. The results are useful for better understanding of the voidage distribution of pebble bed reactor and the effects of bed dimension and particle size as well as the wall effects.
Sociodemographic correlates of physical activity and screen time among adolescents in Canada and Guatemala: Results from the COMPASS system
Authors: Lee Eun-Young , Hunter Stephen , Leatherdale Scott T. , Carson Valerie
Published: December 2017

This study was to compare the levels of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) between Canadian and Guatemalan adolescents, and to examine associations of sociodemographic variables with PA and screen time among adolescents in Canada and Guatemala. Self-reported, cross-sectional data from students in grades 9–12 who participated in the 2015 COMPASS study (Canada; n = 39,817; mean age = 15.6 years) and COMPASS-Guatemala ( n = 1,221; mean age = 15.1 years) were used. Sociodemographic variables included age, gender, ethnicity (exclusively among Canadians), and weekly money allowance. Outcome variables included meeting the PA guidelines (⩾60 minutes/day) and the screen time recommendations within the SB guidelines (<2 hours/day), and participation in organized sports in and out of school. Chi-squared tests and linear and logistic regressions were used to test the study objectives. The proportions of participants meeting the PA guidelines were 48.7% and 41.3% for Canadians and Guatemalans, respectively. More Guatemalan adolescents than Canadians met the screen time recommendations (24.9% vs. 16.5%). Older age, being male, being non-White, and $0–$5/unknown of allowance were associated with meeting the PA guidelines among Canadians. Gender (being male) was the only variable associated with meeting the PA guidelines among Guatemalan adolescents. Older age, being male, being non-White, and $0–$5/unknown of allowance were associated with organized sport participation among Canadians. Among Guatemalans, being aged 15–16 years and having 0–35 quetzals/unknown of allowance were associated with participating in competitive school sports. Being male was associated with participating in recreational school sports or league/team sports outside of school. Older age, being female, being non-White, and ⩾$6 of allowance were associated with meeting the screen time recommendations among Canadians. Older age and having ⩾150 quetzals of allowance were associated with meeting the screen time recommendations among Guatemalan adolescents. These findings can inform researchers and policy makers when developing country-specific targeted interventions and programs that promote physically active lifestyles.
Effects of Structured Versus Unstructured Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose on Glucose Control in Patients With Non-insulin-treated Type 2 Diabetes: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Mannucci Edoardo , Antenore Alessandro , Giorgino Francesco , Scavini Marina
Published: December 2017

Background:

The use of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in patients with non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes is debated. Meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) suggest a small reduction of HbA1c in patients using SMBG, without considering potential confounders, such as SMBG regimen and use of SMBG data to adjust diabetes medications.

Methods:

A meta-analysis was performed including RCTs in patients with non-insulin-treated type 2 diabetes, with an intervention of ≥24 weeks and HbA1c as the primary endpoint, to verify the effect of SMBG (vs no monitoring), structured SMBG (vs unstructured), and of SMBG-driven therapy adjustments.

Results:

In RCTs (n = 8) comparing SMBG with no SMBG (1277 and 1072 patients, respectively), SMBG reduced HbA1c by −0.17% (95% CI −0.25 to −0.09%, P < .003). The reduction in HbA1c was greater in RCTs (n = 3) in which SMBG data were used to adjust diabetes medications (HbA1c decrease: −0.3% [95% CI −0.49 to −0.1%]) than in RCTs (n = 6) where SMBG data were not used for this purpose (HbA1c decrease: −0.1% [95% CI −0.2 to 0.0%]) ( P < .005). In the RCTs comparing structured and unstructured SMBG (757 and 750 patients, respectively), in which structured SMBG data were also used to adjust diabetes medications, the HbA1c difference between groups at study end was −0.27% (95% CI −0.49 to −0.04%, P < .018).

Conclusions:

In RCTs performed in non-insulin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes, SMBG is associated with a significant, although small, reduction in HbA1c. HbA1c reduction was greater with structured SMBG and when structured SMBG data were used to adjust diabetes therapy.
Comparative Effectiveness of Structural versus Regulatory Protein Gene Transfer on Articular Chondrocyte Matrix Gene Expression
Authors: Shi Shuiliang , Wang Congrong , Chan Albert , Kirmani Kashif , Eckert George J. , Trippel Stephen B.
Published: December 2017

Objective

The production of extracellular matrix is a necessary component of articular cartilage repair. Gene transfer is a promising method to improve matrix biosynthesis by articular chondrocytes. Gene transfer may employ transgenes encoding regulatory factors that stimulate the production of matrix proteins, or may employ transgenes that encode the proteins themselves. The objective of this study was to determine which of these 2 approaches would be the better choice for further development. We compared these 2 approaches using the transgenes encoding the structural matrix proteins, aggrecan or type II collagen, and the transgene encoding the anabolic factor, insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I).

Methods

We transfected adult bovine articular chondrocytes with constructs encoding type II collagen, aggrecan, or IGF-I, and measured the expression of type II collagen ( COL2A1) and aggrecan ( ACAN) from their native genes and from their transgenes.

Results

IGF-I gene ( IGF1) transfer increased the expression of the native chondrocyte COL2A1 and ACAN genes 2.4 and 2.9 times control, respectively. COL2A1 gene transfer did not significantly increase COL2A1 transcripts, even when the transgene included the genomic COL2A1 regulatory sequences stimulated by chondrogenic growth factors. In contrast, ACAN gene transfer increased ACAN transcripts up to 3.4 times control levels. IGF1, but not ACAN, gene transfer increased aggrecan protein production.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results suggest that the type II collagen and aggrecan production required for articular cartilage repair will be more effectively achieved by genes that encode anabolic regulatory factors than by genes that encode the matrix molecules themselves.
Social Distance Increases Perceived Physical Distance
Authors: Won Andrea Stevenson , Shriram Ketaki , Tamir Diana I.
Published: December 2017

Proximity, or spatial closeness, can generate social closeness—the closer people are together, the more they interact, affiliate, and befriend one another. Mediated communication allows people to bridge spatial distance and can increase social closeness between conversational partners, even when they are separated by distance. However, mediated communication may not always make people feel closer together. Here, we test a hypothesis derived from construal theory, about one way in which mediated communication might increase spatial distance, by imposing social distance between two texting partners. In three studies, the social distance generated by a text conversation correlated with estimates of spatial distance. Conversations designed to generate social distance increased estimates of spatial distance. We discuss this relationship in light of the rise in computer-mediated communication.
Misdiagnosis: CNS Erdheim–Chester disease mimicking CLIPPERS
Authors: Berkman Jillian , Ford Caleb , Johnson Emily , Malow Beth A , Aulino Joseph M
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) is an inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) disorder with particular involvement of the pons. Diagnostic criteria include a range of clinical symptoms related to the underlying brainstem pathology, visible with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI findings include the appearance of punctuate and curvilinear gadolinium enhancement ‘peppering’ the pons. We discuss a patient presenting with clinical and radiographic characteristics of CLIPPERS who was diagnosed with Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD).

Case report

A 52-year-old male presented with 2 years of progressive spasticity, dysarthria, and gait instability. Initially, he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at an outside hospital, based on tremor, rigidity, and gait instability; however, he failed to improve with a trial of levodopa. Brain MRI showed small enhancing parenchymal nodules coalescing in the central pons, but also affecting the cerebellum and cerebellar peduncles, with more punctate enhancing lesions in the cerebral lobar subcortical white matter. When the patient’s response to steroids was inadequate, further imaging was done, revealing perinephric processes. Subsequent biopsy revealed ECD.

Conclusions

A review of the literature for cases of CLIPPERS demonstrated a subset of patients later found to have various malignancies involving the CNS. This case report uses the patient’s unique radiographic and clinical presentation to demonstrate the importance of the exclusion criteria within the CLIPPERS diagnostic requirements and stresses red flags suggestive of alternative diagnoses. This distinction is of high importance when differentiating a relatively benign process such as CLIPPERS from more malignant diseases.
Bilateral lateral ventricular subependymoma with extensive multiplicity presenting with hemorrhage
Authors: Moinuddin FM , Ikbar Khairunnisa Novita , Hirano Hirofumi , Hanada Tomoko , Hiraki Tsubasa , Kirishima Mari , Kamimura Kiyohisa , Arita Kazunori
Published: December 2017

This 48-year-old-man who had undergone right thyroid lobectomy for undifferentiated thyroid carcinoma nine years earlier developed generalized seizures. His cerebrospinal fluid was xanthochromic with elevation of total protein. Computed tomography (CT) showed mixed-density bilateral ventricular masses. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed multiple nodules in both lateral ventricles; they were heterogeneously enhanced by gadolinium. Diffuse hyperintensity in the right medial temporal lobe and bilateral subependymal area was noted on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images. Susceptibility-weighted imaging showed low intensity in the masses and cerebellar sulci suggesting hemorrhage and hemosiderin deposition. The preoperative diagnosis was disseminated malignant tumor with recurring hemorrhage. Histological examination of biopsy specimens showed clusters of cells with small uniform nuclei embedded in a dense fibrillary matrix of glial cells and microcystic degeneration. Pseudo-rosettes indicating ependymoma were absent. Microhemorrhages and hemosiderin deposits were noted. Immunohistochemically, the background fibrillary matrix and neoplastic cells were positive for glial fibrillary acidic protein. Mutated isocitrate dehydrogenase-1 was negative. The MIB-1 index was 1.5%. The tumor was pathologically diagnosed as subependymoma containing microhemorrhages and hemosiderin deposits. The extensive multiplicity and hemorrhage encountered in this case have rarely been reported in patients with subependymoma.
A single institution’s experience with using dabigatran, rivaroxaban and warfarin for prevention of thromboembolism in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Chan Li Xin , Wong Yee May , Chia Pow-Li , Kek Zhen Liang
Published: December 2017

Background:

Although non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) are approved for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, their use in the local clinical setting has not been well studied. This study aims to evaluate the clinical outcomes of dabigatran, rivaroxaban and warfarin in a tertiary hospital in Singapore.

Methods:

This is a retrospective cohort study with one-year follow-up. A total of 383 patients recruited between June 2011 and December 2014 were studied. Incidents of stroke, systemic embolism and clinically relevant bleeding events were compared between dabigatran, rivaroxaban and warfarin.

Results:

Stroke rates were 5.47% per year with warfarin, 7.27% per year with dabigatran (HR=1.32; 95% CI 0.48−3.64; p=0.591) and 2.76% per year with rivaroxaban (HR=0.49; 95% CI 0.14−1.69; p=0.261). The warfarin group had significantly higher incidence of minor bleeding (62.4% vs 3.64% for dabigatran vs 13.79% for rivaroxaban; p<0.001), major bleeding (3.91% for warfarin, 0.91% for dabigatran, 0% for rivaroxaban; p=0.028) and other adverse events (51.18% for warfarin, 3.64% for dabigatran, 8.28% for rivaroxaban; p<0.001). Incidence of dyspepsia was higher in both NOAC groups compared to warfarin (0% for warfarin, 7.27% for dabigatran, 5.52% for rivaroxaban; p=0.003).

Conclusion:

Stroke and venous thromboembolism rates after one year were comparable among dabigatran, rivaroxaban and warfarin. Warfarin was associated with more bleeding and adverse events while both NOACs were associated with higher rates of dyspepsia. Further study is needed to assess the clinical benefit of NOACs in the Singaporean population.
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in treatment-resistant psychotic depression
Authors: Smart Chris , McAllister-Williams Hamish , Cousins David Andrew
Published: December 2017

Dopamine receptor antagonists can be effective in psychotic depression but response is not assured. Visual hallucinations may arise from a dysregulation of brain cholinergic systems and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (AChEIs) can treat such hallucinations in dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). AChEIs have been used in schizophrenia with some success but their efficacy and tolerability in psychotic depression is unclear. This striking case illustrates AChEIs specifically targeting multimodal hallucinations in treatment-resistant depression. To our knowledge it is the first case report to do so. It highlights the value of delineating psychopathology when considering novel interventions. This case also shows the idiosyncratic nature of side effects and the importance of pursuing different drugs within class.
Improved risk stratification of patients with acute coronary syndromes using a combination of hsTnT, NT-proBNP and hsCRP with the GRACE score
Authors: Klingenberg Roland , Aghlmandi Soheila , Räber Lorenz , Gencer Baris , Nanchen David , Heg Dik , Carballo Sebastian , Rodondi Nicolas , Mach François , Windecker Stephan , Jüni Peter , von Eckardstein Arnold , Matter Christian M , Lüscher Thomas F
Published: December 2017

Background:

Clinical scores and biomarkers improve risk stratification of patients with acute coronary syndromes. However, little is known about their value in patients referred for coronary angiography.

Methods:

Consecutive patients admitted at four Swiss university hospitals with a diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome were enrolled into the SPUM-ACS Biomarker Cohort between 2009 and 2012. Patients were followed at 30 days and 1 year with assessment of adjudicated events including all-cause mortality and the composite of all-cause mortality or non-fatal recurrent myocardial infarction.

Results:

Events and biomarkers were analysed in 1892 patients (52.4% with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction, 43.3% with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction and 4.3% with unstable angina). Death at 30 days occurred in 35 patients (1.9%) and at 1 year in 80 patients (4.3%). The choice of troponin assay (conventional versus high sensitivity) to calculate the Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) score did not affect risk prediction. The prognostic accuracy of the GRACE score was improved when combined with three individual biomarkers including high sensitivity troponin T (hsTnT), N-terminal-pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) to yield a 9% increment (C-statistic 0.73–>0.82) for the discrimination of short-term risk for all-cause mortality. In contrast, the novel biomarkers placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and the ratio sFlt-1/PlGF did not improve risk stratification.

Conclusions:

In patients with acute coronary syndrome referred for coronary angiography, combinations of biomarkers including hsTnT, NT-proBNP and hsCRP with the GRACE score enhanced risk discrimination.

Clinical Trials Registration:

NCT01000701
Increased mortality risk in diabetic patients discharged from hospital with insulin therapy after an acute myocardial infarction: Data from the FAST-MI 2005 registry
Authors: Bataille Vincent , Ferrières Jean , Danchin Nicolas , Puymirat Etienne , Zeller Marianne , Simon Tabassome , Carrié Didier
Published: December 2017

Background:

Merits of insulin use for diabetes treatment in patients with advanced atherosclerosis are debated. This observational study conducted in diabetic patients after an acute myocardial infarction aimed to assess whether insulin prescription at discharge (IPD) was related to all-cause mortality during follow-up.

Methods:

Subjects were diabetic patients admitted in intensive- or coronary-care units for acute myocardial infarction (consecutively recruited in 223 centres in France) and discharged alive from the hospital, with or without an IPD. Vital status after five years was obtained and the relationship between insulin prescription at discharge and survival was studied.

Results:

Overall, 1221 diabetic patients were discharged alive and 38% had an IPD. Factors independently related to IPD were female gender, hospitalization in a public hospital, duration of diabetes, HbA1c level, smoking, peripheral artery disease, history of coronary heart disease and Killip class. After adjustment, IPD was independently related to all-cause mortality after five years of follow-up (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.72 (1.42–2.09), p<0.001). This increased mortality in subjects with IPD was also observed in propensity matched analyses, when subjects actually treated or actually not treated with insulin at discharge were compared in two groups matched on their computed probability of having had insulin prescribed.

Conclusions:

Insulin was preferably prescribed in seriously affected patients, regarding diabetes and cardiovascular risk. However, insulin prescription at discharge was associated with increased all-cause mortality after extensive adjustments for confounders. These results suggest possible intrinsic harmful effects of insulin in high-risk diabetic patients after myocardial infarction.
Multivessel versus culprit lesion only percutaneous coronary intervention in cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: de Waha Suzanne , Jobs Alexander , Eitel Ingo , Pöss Janine , Stiermaier Thomas , Meyer-Saraei Roza , Fuernau Georg , Zeymer Uwe , Desch Steffen , Thiele Holger
Published: December 2017

Background:

Early revascularisation of the culprit lesion is the therapeutic cornerstone in cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction. The optimal management of additional non-culprit lesions is unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to summarise current evidence on the comparison of immediate multivessel percutaneous coronary intervention (MV-PCI) or culprit lesion only PCI with possible staged revascularisation (C-PCI) in patients with cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction.

Methods:

Medical literature databases were screened to identify analyses comparing MV-PCI with C-PCI in patients with cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction and multivessel coronary artery disease. In absence of randomised trials, 10 cohort studies were included in the current meta-analysis. The primary outcome of short-term mortality was assessed at hospital discharge or 30 days after hospital admission. Secondary outcomes were long-term mortality as well as myocardial re-infarction, stroke, acute renal failure, and bleeding at short-term follow-up.

Results:

Of 6051 patients, 1194 (19.7%) received MV-PCI and 4857 (80.3%) C-PCI. Short-term mortality was 37.5% in patients undergoing MV-PCI compared with 28.8% in C-PCI patients (risk ratio 1.26, 95% confidence interval 1.12–1.41, p=0.001). Long-term mortality ( p=0.77), myocardial re-infarction ( p=0.77), stroke ( p=0.12), acute renal failure ( p=0.17) and bleeding ( p=0.53) did not differ significantly between the two revascularisation groups.

Conclusions:

Results of this first meta-analysis on the interventional management of patients with cardiogenic shock complicating acute myocardial infarction and multivessel coronary artery disease do not support MV-PCI over C-PCI. However, possible treatment selection bias in the individual studies must be taken into account.
A Comparison of UK versus European guidelines in neuro-urology
Authors: Ecclestone Hazel , Hamid Rizwan
Published: December 2017

Two primary guidelines, written by the European Association of Urology (EAU) and National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE), have been designed to aid British urologists with managing neuro-urological patients. The EAU guidelines are updated annually, and cover incontinence, sexual function and infertility in the adult neuropathic population. The NICE guidelines, applicable to England, are periodically updated, with the last update being in 2012. The NICE guideline covers adults and children with neurological incontinence. There are fundamental differences in the recommendations of the panels. EAU advocate upfront urodynamics and ultrasound assessment in all patients and treatment recommendations are based on urodynamic findings rather than patient symptoms on which the NICE guidelines are based. The patient group covered comprises a heterogeneous population, including patients at high risk of renal deterioration without urological intervention. Due to this, both guidelines recommend initial risk stratification to determine assessment and follow-up regimens. The reason for variation may be due to the NICE guidelines having an added dimension, in that they ensure all interventions are cost effective for a publicly funded national health service. Both guideline panels acknowledge the paucity of scientific research in the field of neuro-urology and consequently both guidelines are based upon expert opinion and limited retrospective evidence. There is an urgent need to undertake prospective research in this field. A first step can be an establishment of prospective registries among various neuro-urological units.
Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm in a Patient With Mosaic Trisomy 13: Case Report and Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Ghawi Hani , Engelhardt Kevin , Dixon Keith , Thankaval Poonum , Ramaciotti Claudio , Lemler Matthew S. , Guleserian Kristine J.
Published: December 2017

This report describes a unique case involving an obese 16-year-old boy with a mosaic form of trisomy 13 and no previous cardiac history who presented with a new murmur, hypertension, pleural effusions, and congestive heart failure in the context of sore throat and fever. Evaluation revealed a diagnosis of ruptured noncoronary sinus of Valsalva (SOV) aneurysm. The diagnosis and surgical management of a ruptured noncoronary SOV aneurysm in a pediatric patient are briefly outlined. An SOV aneurysm is an anatomic dilation of one of the sinuses of the aortic root. Aneurysmal dilation occurs more commonly in the right aortic sinus (70%-80%), compared to the noncoronary sinus (23%-25%), and more rarely the left coronary sinus (5%). Rupture of these aneurysms has been reported to be both spontaneous and secondary to physical exertion, hypertension, or trauma. Signs of rupture include a continuous murmur, patients may present with chest pain or with symptoms of acute congestive heart failure. Diagnosis, in this case, was made by transthoracic echocardiography with careful interpretation of color Doppler images.
Isolated Congenital Right Atrial Aneurysm: Monitoring Parameters for Asymptomatic Patients
Authors: Desai Pooja , Guerra Vitor C. , Lilje Christian
Published: December 2017

Isolated congenital right atrial aneurysm is rare. Indications for surgery in asymptomatic patients with moderate-size right atria remain controversial. Evidence in support of medical management and timing of prophylactic surgery is reviewed. We propose the use of three echocardiographic indices to help identify inappropriate atrial growth and facilitate surgical decision-making.
Are We Really Colour-blind? The Normalisation of Mass Female Incarceration
Authors: Norris Adele N.
Published: December 2017

The sharp rise in female incarceration rates in both the United States and New Zealand has received increased attention. Even more pressing are the racial disparities among imprisoned females. This exploratory case study examines 13 peer-reviewed articles published between 2005 and 2016 to understand the nature of colour-blind ideology in discussions of female imprisonment in New Zealand. Several themes emerged including the homogenisation of female prisoners. Apart from moderately linking vast racial disparities between incarcerated White women and Indigenous women to ill-defined colonial practices, contemporary explanations for the substantial racial disparities receive little attention. This article concludes that the absence of a critical lens toward contemporary forms and experiences of racism undergirding the mass criminalisation of Indigenous people perpetuates a colour blindness that in turn works to normalise mass female incarceration. Even in attempts to be unbiased, the way race/ethnicity, gender, age, and class are discussed in academic research exploring female incarceration seems to reflect the influential nature of controlling images rather than critique them.
Quality Learning Experiences, Self-Determination, and Academic Success
Authors: Solberg V. Scott , Howard Kimberly , Gresham Stephen , Carter Erik
Published: December 2017

Although fostering self-determination has emerged as a central element of recommended and evidence-based transition practices for adolescents with disabilities, few studies have examined the paths through which students develop the skills and dispositions that can enhance their self-determination and successful transitions. The authors used path analyses to examine the ways in which exposure to quality secondary learning environments contributed to the development of self-efficacy, motivation, and academic achievement among 135 high school students receiving special education services. Students with disabilities who reported having greater involvement in learning environments reflecting recommended transition practices (i.e., high-quality learning environments) demonstrated increased career-search self-efficacy. Students with greater career-search self-efficacy were more highly engaged in goal setting, which further predicted their motivation to attend school and academic self-efficacy. Finally, students with higher academic self-efficacy were found to have higher grades. The authors offer recommendations for enhancing the self-determination skills and opportunities of youth with disabilities by strengthening the quality and impact of transition education.
Women Are a Problem
Authors: Lane Julie B.
Published: December 2017

Media coverage of Title IX over the past several decades has both praised the law and the achievements of female athletes who have benefited from it and highlighted claims that men’s college sports have been the unanticipated victims of the effort to increase opportunities for women. This study sought to understand how coverage of the debate in 1974–1975 over the Title IX regulations helped shape discourse about the law with regard to intercollegiate athletics. Through a combination of archival research and qualitative media analysis, I identified arguments made by Title IX critics and advocates and analyzed coverage of the debate in the New York Times and the Washington Post, paying particular attention to the presence or absence of what Dunja Antunovic called conflict and celebratory narratives. I found that conflict narratives that reflected concerns of Title IX critics overwhelmed celebratory narratives as well as anticommercialism narratives that I also detected. I concluded that these newspapers allowed critics, led by the National Collegiate Athletic Association, to shape the discourse about the meaning of Title IX and its consequences, thereby reinforcing male dominance of the American sport culture and missing an opportunity to question the commercialization of intercollegiate athletics.
A Contested Cultural Space
Authors: Davis Catasha R. , Thornton Michael C. , Moxley-Kelly Sean
Published: December 2017

Over the past several years, color-blind rhetoric has permeated public discourse around the subject of race in U.S. society. In this color-blind world, race is either a thing of the past or something we can choose to ignore. One location of such rhetoric is in sports. This mixed-methods study offers a rare examination of color-blind rhetoric among 365 college students at a Division I school that is a part of one of the power conferences. We administered a 20-question multiple-choice and open-ended survey accessing students’ views about race in college football and its athletes. Our open-coded responses were consistent with Bonilla-Silva’s color-blind racism frames. The frames students use are consistent with previous work that suggests that they envision a world in which overt attention to race is secondary to traditional aspects of American life, such as work ethic, meritocracy, individualism, and cultural differences. This color-blind emphasis works to encourage students to take to heart that race does not warrant inclusion in explaining college sports.
A “Crucial Catch”
Authors: Devlin Michael , Sheehan Kim
Published: December 2017

This study investigated the National Football League’s (NFL) communication efforts of its annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) campaign, “A Crucial Catch,” and the subsequent social media engagement from the public. A content analysis was conducted examining how NFL teams communicate their CSR efforts on Facebook using Charity Support Behaviors (CSB) and framing as our guide and then measuring which of these types of social media posts were most effective for increasing positive social media engagement. The extent that each team’s season record affected CSR messaging was also examined, underscoring the importance of winning and losing and its effect on social media engagement. The results of this study yield a comprehensive analysis of the types and frequency of messages used to communicate CSR activity on Facebook. Results provide best-practice recommendations for sports organizations using social media to communicate activities to external stakeholders (i.e., fans) that will benefit the cause and increase positive social media engagement (e.g., likes, shares, and comments).
Mediatization and Sport
Authors: Skey Michael , Stone Chris , Jenzen Olu , Mangan Anita
Published: December 2017

The concept of mediatization has proved remarkably popular in the past decade, although recent critiques have challenged its media-centrism, ahistoricism, and conceptual clarity. In this article, we draw on the work of those who suggest that mediatization is best deployed as a means of understanding particular social domains and the ways in which institutions and actors orientate their activities towards media. Using association football, or soccer, as our focus we offer a bottom-up perspective using data gathered from research workshops with young people in England. These not only demonstrate the extent to which football is followed through a range of media platforms but also how broader understandings of the game are shaped by these engagements. Moreover, we adapt insights from recent phenomenological approaches to media to focus on the practical, embodied forms of knowledge and habit that shape how football is currently played, followed, and debated.
Influence of Gender on Health-Related Quality of Life and Disability at 1 Year After Surgery for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures
Authors: Maior Tiberiu , Ungureanu Gheorghe , Kakucs Cristian , Berce Cristian , Petrushev Bobe , Florian Ioan-Stefan
Published: December 2017

Study Design:

Case series.

Objective:

Thoracolumbar burst fractures (TLBF) are the most frequent type of spinal fractures. Approximately half of the patients are neurologically intact and their treatment is still debatable. Gender could influence outcome after surgical procedures, but this is still unclear in patients sustaining a spinal fracture. The aim of this study was to investigate how gender influences health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and disability in patients operated on for TLBF.

Methods:

We identified 44 neurologically intact patients from a consecutive series of patients treated surgically for a single-level traumatic burst fracture (AOSpine Subaxial Classification System A3) in the thoracolumbar transition area (Th12-L2). At 1 year after surgery, they were evaluated using the SF-36v2 questionnaire to assess HRQOL and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) questionnaire to evaluate disability.

Results:

Male patients scored higher in each item of the SF-36v2, with significant differences ( P < .05) for Physical Function (PF), Bodily Pain (BP), and Social Function (SF). Male patients also had lower disability scores. Overall ODI score had a strong correlation with Physical Function, Role-Physical, Bodily Pain, Vitality, Mental Health, and overall Physical Component Summary (PCS) of the SF-36 in women, but only with Physical Function, Role-Physical, Role-Emotional, and PCS in men.

Conclusions:

In this study, male patients reported better outcomes at 1 year after surgery for TLBF than women. Disability strongly correlated with the overall HRQOL, physical and mental health in women, but not in men. We found gender-related differences favoring men after surgical interventions for spinal fractures.
Photovoice as a Pedagogical Tool to Increase Research Literacy Among Community Members
Authors: Komaie Goldie , Gilbert Keon L. , Arroyo Cassandra , Goodman Melody S.
Published: December 2017

Photovoice is a community-based participatory research method that engages individuals to use photographs to reflect on the strengths and issues affecting their community as well as advocate for positive change. This article presents using photovoice as a pedagogical tool to introduce qualitative research methods to community members enrolled in the 15-week Community Research Fellows Training Program in Saint Louis, Missouri. Seventy-eight community members across two cohorts completed individual homework assignments examining social capital and health. Completed assignments were categorized into six general themes and participants took part in facilitated small group discussions by theme. Pre- and posttest surveys were completed; statistically significant improvements were seen in participants’ knowledge of qualitative methods. On a scale of 1 to 5, participants rated the qualitative methods session positively with an overall score of 4.48 (Cohort I) and 4.80 (Cohort II). Qualitative data from session evaluations and exit interviews illustrate completing a photovoice project served as a “powerful” and “insightful” experience that enhanced experiential learning and engaged participants in health-related research in their communities. Participants’ positive session evaluations and increased knowledge of qualitative methods suggest that photovoice is an effective pedagogical tool to increase research literacy among community members. Opportunities to broadly train community members, especially those that are not part of a single community-based organization, may help build broader community capacity and as such strengthen community–academic partnerships.