bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A semi-analytical model for diffuse reflectance in marine and inland waters
Authors: Pravin J. D. , Shanmugam P. , Ahn Y.-H.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. A semi-analytical model for predicting diffuse reflectance of coastal and oceanic waters is developed based on the water-column optical properties and illumination conditions. Diffuse reflectance (R) is an apparent optical property that is related to the Gordon's parameter (bb/(a+bb)) through a proportionality factor "f". The conventional assumption of "f" as a constant (0.33) yields large errors in case of turbid and productive coastal waters and a predictive model based on this assumption is generally restricted to open-ocean waters (low chlorophyll case). In this paper, we have sorted the dependent factors that influence "f" values in the water column. Here, the parameter "f" is modeled as a function of wavelength, depth, inherent optical properties (IOPs) and illumination conditions. This work eliminates the spectral constants (KChl and KSS) associated with our previous model and constrains the present model to be solely dependent on the IOPs and illumination conditions. Data used for parameterization and validation are obtained from in situ measurements in different waters within coastal environments. Validation shows good agreement between the model R and in situ R values with the overall mean relative error of less than a few percent. The model is valid for a wide range waters within coastal and open-ocean environments.
The application of terrestrial laser scanner and SfM photogrammetry in measuring erosion and deposition processes in two opposite slopes in a humid badlands area (central Spanish Pyrenees)
Authors: Nadal-Romero E. , Revuelto J. , Errea P. , López-Moreno J. I.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Erosion and deposition processes in badland areas are usually estimated using traditional observations of topographic changes, measured by erosion pins or profile metres (invasive techniques). In recent times, remote-sensing techniques (non-invasive) have been routinely applied in geomorphology studies, especially in erosion studies. These techniques provide the opportunity to build high-resolution topographic models at centimetre accuracy. By comparing different 3-D point clouds of the same area, obtained at different time intervals, the variations in the terrain and temporal dynamics can be analysed. The aim of this study is to assess and compare the functioning of terrestrial laser scanner (TLS, RIEGL LPM-321) and structure-from-motion photogrammetry (SfM) techniques (Camera FUJIFILM, Finepix x100 and software PhotoScan by AgiSoft) to evaluate erosion and deposition processes in two opposite slopes in a humid badlands area in the central Spanish Pyrenees. Results showed that TLS data sets and SfM photogrammetry techniques provide new opportunities in geomorphological erosion studies. The data we recorded over 1 year demonstrated that north-facing slopes experienced more intense and faster changing geomorphological dynamics than south-facing slopes as well as the highest erosion rates. Different seasonal processes were observed, with the highest topographic differences observed during winter periods and the high-intensity rainfalls in summer. While TLS provided the highest accuracy models, SfM photogrammetry was still a faster methodology in the field and precise at short distances. Both techniques present advantages and disadvantages, and do not require direct contact with the soil and thus prevent the usual surface disturbance of traditional and invasive methods.
STRESO IR KITŲ PSICHOSOCIALINIŲ VEIKSNIŲ LIETUVOS MAŽOSE STATYBOS IR NEKILNOJAMOJO TURTO ĮMONĖSE TYRIMAS
Authors: Bastakytė Dovilė , Kaminskas Kazys Algirdas
Published: August 2015

Where examined psychosocial risk factors in Lithuanian small construction and real estate companies. For evaluation of these factors were used the four questionnaires. In this paper studies presented by the using the “burnout”, Copenhagen (COPSOQ II, 2007) and work motivation questionnaires. Investigations were carried out in 11 small construction companies and in five real estate agencies of the total of 199 respondents. The biggest problem for construction companies is that most employees can not influence their allocated workload and going through that does not have time to do important tasks in high quality. Has been observed that women are more affected by stress than men, and employees who are 45 years old or more, have a greater risk of experiencing the "burnout" syndrome. In real estate agencies, using the Copenhagen questionnaire, where found that the main psychosocial risk factors is high-paced, emotional and stress conditions. It was found that women are more sensitive to psychosocial risk factors than men. Persons occupying leading positions, feel a greater commitment to their workplace, although their work has a greater negative impact on their personal lives than other employees. The study, using a questionnaire motivation at work, so established motivating factors of real estate agencies rating: job content, financial motives and achievements. At least are motivated the relationship with manager.
Links Between Psycho-Emotional Well-Being and Aggressive Behavior of Adolescents and Their Physical Activity
Authors: Dumčienė Audronė , Vaicekauskas Andrius
Published: August 2015

Research aim was to establish the peculiarities of psycho-emotional well-being and aggression for physically active adolescents. The study deals with psycho-emotional well-being as a complex value consisting of four main components: level of mental health, feeling of coherence, self-control and level of stress. Adolescents were studied in two age groups: 12.81±0.38 years and 16±0.49 years, 90 subjects in each group. The survey was conducted using the following instruments: for adolescents’ mental health, feeling of internal coherence, selfcontrol and stress level as well as aggression. χ2 and t-test were applied to verify hypotheses of Mathematical Statistics. The research findings revealed that adolescents engaged in sports for more years statistically significantly (p<0.05) differed from their counterparts in all investigated parameters. All indices of psycho-emotional well-being for adolescents engaged in sports for more years were better compared to those of beginner athletes, besides, their aggression decreased.
Well-Being, Activity, Mood and Optimistic Way of Thinking of Adolescent Athletes
Authors: Malinauskas Romualdas , Vaicekauskas Andrius
Published: August 2015

Research aim was to establish peculiarities of wellbeing, activity, mood and optimism of adolescents engaged in sport. Research hypothesis was that sports activities would be beneficial to adolescents’ well-being and optimistic way of thinking. We investigated adolescent athletes of two age groups: 12.81±0.38 and 16±0.49 years of age, 90 athletes in each group. The survey included two measures: one for well being, activity and mood, the other – for the establishment of the optimistic way of thinking. Student’s t test was used to verify the hypotheses of mathematical statistics. The data in the research article show statistically significant differences (p<0.05) between adolescents engaged in sport and not engaged in sport in all investigated parameters. It was established that indices of well-being, activity, mood and optimistic way of thinking for athlete adolescents were higher compared to those of adolescents who had just started regular training sessions.
LIETUVOS KIRPĖJŲ DERMATOLOGINĖS PROBLEMOS
Authors: Naruševičiūtė-Skripkienė Edita , Ramelytė Eglė , Niedvaraitė Monika , Kiliūtė Kristina , Bylaitė Matilda
Published: August 2015

Objective. We present the results from the study about dermatological problems of Lithuanian hairdressers. Material and methods. A survey with anonymous questionnaire was performed in 145 hairdressing salons from different Lithuanian cities in 2011. Results. The majority of all the 150 respondents were women (93%). Dermatological knowledge were acquired by 94,7% of the hairdressers. Dermatological complaints were expressed by 66,7% of the specialists and 8,7% had signs of eczema. Only 1 from 3 specialists is seeking for a help of dermatovenereologist in case they have skin problems. A mean of the wet work is 2,7± 1,94 hours per day, but almost half of the respondents (50,6%) don‘t have the necessary knowledge how negatively wet works acts on their skin. The most frequent allergens in haircare products are p-phenilendiamine, ammonium persulfate and glyceryl monothiogllycolate. A negative effect of the haircare products were noted by 32% of the hairdressers. Disposable gloves were used by 92,7% of the specialists, but 10,8% of them used them repeatedly. Protective gloves together with moisturizing creams were used by 77,3% respondents. About half of the hairdressers (48%) do consult and treat their clients with dermatological problems on their own. Clients were asked about their previous allergies by 79,3% specialists. Information on product safety is mostly relied on sources from supplierers, leastwise from medical sources. Conclusion. The knowledge of occupational risk factors for their skin and other possible negative effects for client skin are inadequate. Hairdressers lack knowledge of occupational risk factors for their own skin as well as other possible negative effects for clients‘ skin. Skin protection measures are also insufficient or they are not used properly. Hairdressers rarely seek for help on their own or send their clients for doctors in case dermatological problems occur. This might cause inadequate diagnostics of occupational skin diseases in hairdressers and be the reason why clients are unable to get necessary treatment on time. Preventive measures should therefore be introduced and have their efectiveness monitored.http://dx.doi.org/10.5200/sm-hs.2013.040Article in Lithuanian
LIETUVOS MOKSLEIVIŲ PSICHOTROPINIŲ MEDŽIAGŲ (NARKOTIKŲ) VARTOJIMO, PASEKMIŲ IR PRIEŽASTINIŲ RYŠIŲ TYRIMAS
Authors: Čaplinskas Saulius
Published: August 2015

Objective. To assess prevalence and social dimensions (family, school and peers) of substance use among Lithuanian adolescents and to provide effective recommendations of substance use prevention. Methods. A survey using a standard questionnaire was administered in three biggest cities of Lithuania (Vilnius, Klaipeda and Kaunas) twice: in 2006 and 2008. The target population was students of the age group 15-16 years old. Totally 14,155 students were enrolled. Results. 46 percent of respondents had no experience of any substance use. The most consumed drug was cannabis (hashish and marihuana) – 24 percent, followed by sleeping pills - 20 percent. Age of the substance use debut was directly related to further substance, especially cannabis (hashish or marihuana), use (r=0.891, p<0.001). Substance use had especially negative impact on the learning progress and perspectives of further studies and was related to the attitudes towards learning/school: the less interest in studies, the more extensive substance use (r=-0.151, p≤0.001). Parceived parental support and free time spent with parents were significantly related to the children attitudes towards substance use. Children without parental attachment were more prone to substance use and more submissive to the peer pressure. Cigarette smoking, alcohol and drug use were concurrent: students, who smoked cigarettes more often (r=0.425, p<0.001), consumed beer (r=0.323, p<0.001) more often, consumed low percentage drinks (r=0.255, p<0.001) and strong alcohol more often (r=0.313, p<0.001), were also more intensely immersed drug users. Conclusions. Adolescents engaged in the free-time activities with their parents were less prone to smoke cigarettes or marihuana and consume alcohol. Having friends who use drugs was one of the great potential risk factors for personal drug use. Strengthening of relationships among parents, school, community and adolescents is an important measure in helping adolescents to abstain from substance use.
PODIPLOMINIŲ STUDIJŲ POREIKIO ĮVERTINIMAS VISUOMENĖS SVEIKATOS SPECIALISTŲ POŽIŪRIU
Authors: Vaičiūnas Tomas , Blaževičienė Aurelija , Šveikauskas Vaclovas
Published: August 2015

This article is an overview of a conducted survey among Public health professionals in 2010. The aim of the study is to examine how Public health professionals assess their knowledge in various areas of public health workforce and what new Public health-related professional competencies they wish to improve most. The object of research – Public health professionals of Kaunas, Siauliai and Marijampole Public health centers and their branches, as well as office workers of Kaunas, Siauliai and Marijampole Public health bureaus. There were 190 questionnaires delivered, 148 questionnaires were filled in and returned by respondents (response rate: 77%). Results. It was estimated that almost half (47.6%) of public health professionals have an opportunity to improve their professional skills. Public health experts indicated the greatest lack of knowledge at the following fields: the analysis and explanation (interpretation) of basic health indicators; public health epidemiological data evaluation; a research data analysis and health economic data assessment. As the most common method to improve the professional competence, 69.2% respondents chose a few trusty tools - various workshops or studied independently (internet, textbooks or other literature).
PAAUGLIŲ MOKYKLINIO NERIMO YPATUMAI PRIKLAUSOMAI NUO LYTIES
Authors: Klizas Šarūnas , Klizienė Irina , Talačka Darius
Published: August 2015

The aim of this study were preculiarities of teenagers school anxiety addicted to their gender. There took part in study 100 pupils of age 15 – 16 years old: 45 girls and 55 boys. Evaluation of pupils school anxiety was executed according methodology of C. R. Reynolds and B. O. Richmond, and using questionaire „Evaluation of teenager anxiety“, approved by A. Petrulytė. Investigation of researched addicted to gender showed, that factor of somatic anxiety is in higher level in boys group (p<0,004). There were detected, that 70,3% girls and 54,2% boys have somatic anxiety of average level (χ2 = 23,31; p<0,001). We indentified during school anxiety evaluation analysis, that the most important factors to anxiety afflict are: when parients returns back home from the class meetings (p<0,05) and during examinations, that is specific to girls (p<0,042). Otherwise, by indication when there are problems to complete the home tasks, anxiety is more specific to teenagers boys (p%lt;0,035). There were detected, that teenagers boys have somatic problems more often than girls of the same age. Personality anxiety and social anxiety are slightly different between genders (p>0,05). Basically, for pupils of 15 – 16 years old most important factors to anxiety afflict are: parients returns back home from the class meetings and during examinations - that is specific to girls. Otherwise, by indication, when there are problems to complete the home tasks, anxiety is more specific to teenagers boys.
LIETUVIŠKOSIOS PSICHOLOGINĖS GEROVĖS SKALĖS STRUKTŪRA: SUAUGUSIŲJŲ IMTIES ANALIZĖ
Authors: Bagdonas Albinas , Liniauskaitė Audronė , Kairys Antanas , Pakalniškienė Vilmantė
Published: August 2015

Aim – to analyse the structure of the Lithuanian Psychological Well-Being Scale (LPGS) in adults’ sample. Material and methods. 528 subjects from 18 till 67 (M=29,5; SD=11,1) years old participated in the study. 224 of them (42,4%) were males, 303 (57,%) – females. One participant (0,2%) did not indicated his / her gender. The Lithuanian Psychological Well-Being Scale (LPGS) was used. In the preliminary stage of the study scale consisted of 132 items from wich 117 of them were aimed to assess the psychological well-being. In the later stages of analysis part of the items were removed. In the final stage of analysis 61 item was used. Methods of statistical analysis: factor analysis, Cronbach's alpha, correlational analysis, descriptive statistics. Results. The structure of seven factors was obtained during the analysis. Factors: Optimism / control; Satisfaction with living standard; Negative emotionality; Satisfaction with family and relatives; Satisfaction with interpersonal relationships; Satisfaction with physical health; and Satisfaction with job. Two items, related to subscale Satisfaction with living in Lithuania, were not included into factor analysis. They can be analysed separately. The subscales had satisfactory level of Cronbach's alpha (0,792 – 0,892). All subscales had positive inter-correlations. The direction and strength of the correlations confirmed the validity of the LPGS. The obtained factor structure was similar to the one obtained in the student’s sample.
DEMOGRAFINIŲ VEIKSNIŲ SĄSAJOS SU KLINIKINE GREIVSO LIGOS IŠRAIŠKA IR BAIGTIMI
Authors: Daukšienė Dalia , Mickuvienė Narseta
Published: August 2015

Graves‘ disease is an autoimmune thyroid disorder characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against thyrotropin receptor. Antithyroid drugs are effective in controlling hyperthyroidism, but only one-third of patients achieve long-term remission after antithyroid drug treatment withdrawal. Influence of demographic factors (such as age and gender) on clinical features and outcome of Graves’ disease remains unclear despite decades of scientific research. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of age and gender on clinical features and outcome of Graves’ disease. Matherial and methods. We performed a retrospective study of 194 adult patients with newly diagnosed Graves’ disease. Outcome after antithyroid drugs was defined as remission or failed. Results. The mean age of males was greater than females (p=0,022). Males and females had the same outcome after medical therapy. The presence of large goiter was associated with lower mean age at diagnosis in both females and males. Patients less than 40 yr. of age were more likely to have large goiter (grade III) than smaller goiter (grade I/II) compared with older patients (OR 2.81, 95% CI 1.35 –5.84). Age at disease onset had no significant relationship with the medical treatment failure. Conclusions. Age less than 40 yr. is a significant predictor for the presence of large goiter at diagnosis. Age and gender did not predict the outcome of Graves’ disease.
LAZERINĖS DOPLEROGRAFIJOS VERTĖ NUDEGIMŲ DIAGNOSTIKOJE IR GYDYME
Authors: Venclauskienė Algirda , Basevičius Algidas , Zacharevskij Ernestas , Vaičekauskas Vytautas , Lukoševičius Saulius , Rimdeika Rytis
Published: August 2015

The main treatment of deep burns is early excision of injuried tissues which reduce inpatient stay and decrease the cost of treatment. The clinical burn depth examination is still widely used in clinical practice which isn‘t accuracy and belongs of physician experience. The laser doppler imaging is mostly use method of burn depth examination. The aim of study – to estimate the accuracy of different methods of 2A and 2B degree of burn depth examination and to assess the importance of these methods of burn wound spontaneous epithelization. Methods. Prospective clinical study of 44 burned patients. The burned patients were examined 72 hours, 7 and 14 days after injury. The clinical burn depth examination, laser doppler imaging and tissue biopsy were made for all burned patients. The accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of different methods were analyzed. The burned tissue perfusion velocity and spontaneous burn wound epithelization were analyzed using laser doppler imaging examination. Results. The flame was the main reason of burn. Most of burn patients were male. The perfusion velocity was higher of conservatively treated patients compared with surgery patients. The critical perfusion velocity was since 55 to 149 PU. The perfusion velocity higher than 149 PU concluded higher rate of spontaneous burn wound epithelization. Conclusions. The laser doppler imaging enables to prognosticate spontaneous epithelization of burn wound and welltime select for surgical treatment of burned injuries.http://dx.doi.org/10.5200/sm-hs.2013.053 Article in Lithuanian
ASMENŲ, SERGANČIŲ GUILLAIN-BARRE SINDROMU, REABILITACIJOS EFEKTYVUMAS BEI JĮ ĮTAKOJANTYS VEIKSNIAI
Authors: Varžaitytė Lina , Kriščiūnas Aleksandras , Tamulionienė Edita
Published: August 2015

The aim - to assess individuals with Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS), the effectiveness of rehabilitation and the factors influencing it at an early period of the disease. Retrospectively medical record analysis was performed on persons sick with GBS and rehabilitated at LSMUL KK Neurorehabilitation subdivision 1999-2012 m. The study involved 31 persons. Rehabilitation effectiveness was assessed by Barthel index change during rehabilitation. The factors that may influence the effectiveness of rehabilitation (age, comorbidity, complications, functional status at the beginning of rehabilitation, acute respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation, rehabilitation time) were analyzed. Persons’ with GBS, functional status during rehabilitation significantly improved (p = 0.001). Age, functional status at the beginning of rehabilitation, comorbidity, duration of rehabilitation, acute respiratory failure did not have a statistically significant impact on rehabilitation performance for patients with GBS, but the younger people’s functional status at the beginning and end of the rehabilitation was better as compared to older individuals. Complications had a statistically significant negative impact on rehabilitation efficiency (p = 0.036) for individuals with GBS.
I thought Frailty's Name was Carl”:
Authors: Mills Dan
Published: August 2015

William Shakespeare's Hamlet has become one of the most cited, appropriated, and referenced texts in the Western canon. This article examines an overlooked appropriation, the cult classic TV show Mystery Science Theater 3000's episode entitled “Hamlet.” Popularly known as MST3K, the show engaged in a very postmodern, metadiscourse by depicting characters watching bad movies and making sarcastic comments about them for the viewer at home. But in taking on this gloomy, black-and-white German-language production of Hamlet, this MST3K episode poses important questions about what constitutes a canonical work and how exactly a work becomes part of a literary canon. Through an analysis of this episode of MST3K through the perspectives of aesthetic and postmodern theory, this article suggests that this appropriation of Hamlet ushers in a new type of canon initiation, and, in the case of MST3K's take on the play, presents what I would like to call a “postmodern canon.”
The Antioch Within:
Authors: Plough Edward
Published: August 2015

Since 1908, there have been at least ninety musical theater adaptations of Shakespeare's plays. The relative dearth of studies dedicated to Shakespearean musical theater adaptations is surprising. Perhaps because musical theater itself has had trouble being serious, critics have had trouble taking it seriously. In response to this problem, Kalena Dickerson Chevalier, Stephen Clark, and I have researched, conceived of, composed, and produced a full-length modern-day vernacular musical adaptation of Shakespeare's most “preposterous contemporary Jacobean” play, Pericles, Prince of Tyre. The project was based on the hypothesis that an immersive approach would yield original, first-hand data that could be useful for both theater artists and literary scholars. This article responds to the problem of the critical community's routine underestimation, misapprehension, and neglect of Shakespearean musical adaptations. In an effort to show theory in action, the present study explains how our choices in adapting Pericles' setting, characters, and plot were based on contemporary adaptation theory, Pericles scholarship, and our own creative goals. This study yields sharper understanding of Pericles as well as the process of adapting Shakespeare to the musical theater genre.
Sour Fruits on the Trail: Renewing Phenomenological Practice
Authors: De Monticelli Roberta , Simionescu-Panait Andrei
Published: August 2015

This summer, Europe’s Journal of Psychology hosts a fruitful discussion about phenomenology, its method, the possibilities of application in today's context and its current troubled waters stemming from recent historical-ideological debates. Prof. Roberta De Monticelli offers lush and informative answers to provocative issues like overdriving the epoché, Heidegger's dark undertones, the relation between pedagogy and authorship in phenomenology and the idea of filtering politics through Husserlian phenomenology.
How Positivity Links With Job Satisfaction: Preliminary Findings on the Mediating Role of Work-Life Balance
Authors: Orkibi Hod , Brandt Yaron Ilan
Published: August 2015

The positive characteristics that can help people juggle their work and personal roles and experience greater job satisfaction are attracting increased research attention. This study presents a conceptual model to account for the association between employees’ positive orientation (i.e., the tendency to evaluate self, life, and the future in a positive way) and their job satisfaction (N = 108). As theorized, the results indicate that employees’ ability to manage their work-life balance fully mediates the relation between their positive orientation and job satisfaction. This suggests that a positive orientation serves as an adaptive personal resource that can facilitate employees’ ability to balance work and non-work demands and hence can foster job satisfaction. The practical implications for positive psychological interventions in organizational settings are discussed.
Educating to Tolerance: Effects of Communicating Social Psychology Research Findings
Authors: La Barbera Francesco
Published: August 2015

The effect of communicating social psychology research findings on ingroup bias in a classroom setting has been investigated. Two hundred and twenty one high school students either read or did not read a brief report about three classical social psychological studies, then completed evaluation scales for the ingroup and the outgroup. Participants’ motivation was manipulated, and the messages were different as regards the congruency between the content and participants’ actual intergroup experience. Results showed that communication exerted a significant effect in reducing ingroup bias for participants in the high motivation/high congruency condition, that is, the communication effect was moderated by the individual’s level of motivation and the content of the arguments proposed in the report. Practical implications of results for education work and stereotype change, limitations of the study, as well as possible directions for future research are discussed.
Historical Techniques of Lie Detection
Authors: Vicianova Martina
Published: August 2015

Since time immemorial, lying has been a part of everyday life. For this reason, it has become a subject of interest in several disciplines, including psychology. The purpose of this article is to provide a general overview of the literature and thinking to date about the evolution of lie detection techniques. The first part explores ancient methods recorded circa 1000 B.C. (e.g., God’s judgment in Europe). The second part describes technical methods based on sciences such as phrenology, polygraph and graphology. This is followed by an outline of more modern-day approaches such as FACS (Facial Action Coding System), functional MRI, and Brain Fingerprinting. Finally, after the familiarization with the historical development of techniques for lie detection, we discuss the scope for new initiatives not only in the area of designing new methods, but also for the research into lie detection itself, such as its motives and regulatory issues related to deception.
Improving Patient Outcomes: Effectively Training Healthcare Staff in Psychological Practice Skills: A Mixed Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Garzonis Katherine , Mann Eryn , Wyrzykowska Aleksandra , Kanellakis Pavlo
Published: August 2015

Training is an important part of modern European healthcare services and is often cited as a way to improve care quality. To date, various training methods have been used to impart skills relevant to psychological practice in a variety of mental health professionals. However, patient outcomes are rarely used in evaluating the effectiveness of the different training methods used, making it difficult to assess true utility. In the present review, we consider methods of training that can effectively impact trainee and patient outcomes. To do so, PubMed, PsycNET, Scopus, CENTRAL and ERIC were searched for studies on training of healthcare staff in psychological practice approaches. In total, 24 studies were identified (16 quantitative and 8 qualitative). For the most part, group, individual, and web-based training was used. A variety of health professionals were trained in skills including ‘communication’, ‘diagnosis’, and ‘referral’ to name but a few. In the majority of studies staff skill level improved. These findings hold implications for the design, implementation, and evaluation of training for mental healthcare staff.
Training at the Gym, Training for Life: Creating Better Versions of the Self Through Exercise
Authors: Doğan Ceren
Published: August 2015

The present study draws on Scott’s (2011) notion of the Re-Inventive Institution and explores how gym members make sense and give meaning to their exercise regime. Overall, it is argued that for many participants gym exercise is more than physical training; it is also training for life. Based on a thematic analysis of 32 semi-structured interviews it is argued that gym workout is a means to create better versions of the self on mainly three levels. First, gym participants perceive themselves to be efficient and productive in general. Second, gym training is believed to increase the control they have over their lives. Third, gym members associate their gym workout with amplified emotional resilience, believing that fitness workout makes them not only fitter in a physical sense but also fitter and better equipped in a psychological sense. Surprisingly, a small group of regular gym users displayed more critical sentiments and distanced themselves from the images and values the gym stands for. The results of this study can be linked to broader political discourses on health and fitness that make use of corporate managerial vocabularies and are based on ideals of rationalization and efficiency.
Targeted Disruption of the β2-Microglobulin Gene Minimizes the Immunogenicity of Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Wang Dachun , Quan Yuan , Yan Qing , Morales John E. , Wetsel Rick A.
Published: August 2015

Human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) are a promising source of cells for tissue regeneration, yet histoincompatibility remains a major challenge to their clinical application. Because the human leukocyte antigen class I (HLA-I) molecules are the primary mediators of immune rejection, we hypothesized that cells derived from a hESC line lacking HLA-I expression could be transplanted without evoking a robust immune response from allogeneic recipients. In the present study, we used the replacement targeting strategy to delete exons 2 and 3 of β2-microglobulin on both gene alleles in hESCs. Because β2-microglobulin serves as the HLA-I light chain, disruption of the β2-microglobulin gene led to complete HLA-I deficiency on the cell surface of hESCs and their derivatives. Therefore, these cells were resistant to CD8+ T-cell-mediated destruction. Although interferon-γ (IFN-γ) treatment significantly induced β2-microglobulin expression, promoting CD8+ T cell-mediated killing of control hESCs and their derivatives, CD8+ T-cell-mediated cytotoxicity was barely observed with β2-microglobulin-null hESCs and their derivatives treated with IFN-γ. This genetic manipulation to disrupt HLA-I expression did not affect the self-renewal capacity, genomic stability, or pluripotency of hESCs. Despite being relatively sensitive to natural killer (NK) cell-mediated killing due to the lack of HLA-I expression, when transplanted into NK cell-depleted immunocompetent mice, β2-microglobulin-null hESCs developed into tumors resembling those derived from control hESCs in severe combined immunodeficiency mice. These results demonstrate that β2-microglobulin-null hESCs significantly reduce immunogenicity to CD8+ T cells and might provide a renewable source of cells for tissue regeneration without the need for HLA matching in the future.

Significance

This study reports the generation of a novel β2-microglobulin (B2M)−/− human embryonic stem cell (hESC) line. Differentiated mature cells from this line do not express cell surface human leukocyte antigen molecules even after interferon-γ stimulation and are resistant to alloreactive CD8+ T cells. Moreover, this B2M−/− hESC line contains no off-target integration or cleavage events, is devoid of stable B2M mRNA, exhibits a normal karyotype, and retains its self-renewal capacity, genomic stability, and pluripotency. Although B2M−/− hESC-derived cells are more susceptible to natural killer (NK) cells, murine transplantation studies have indicated that they are, overall, much less immunogenic than normal hESCs. Thus, these data show for the first time that, in vivo, the advantages provided by B2M−/− hESC-derived cells in avoiding CD8+ T-cell killing appear significantly greater than any disadvantage caused by increased susceptibility to NK cells.
Assessment of the Performance of Imputation Techniques in Observational Studies with Two Measurements
Authors: Aguirre Urko , Arostegui Inmaculada , Esteban Cristóbal , Quintana Jose María
Published: August 2015

In observational studies with two measurements when the measured outcome pertains to a health related quality of life (HRQoL) variable, one motivation of the research may be to determine the potential predictors of the mean change of the outcome of interest. It is very common in such studies for data to be missing, which can bias the results. Different imputation techniques have been proposed to cope with missing data in outcome variables. We compared five analysis approaches (Complete Case, Available Case, K- Nearest Neighbour, Propensity Score, and a Markov Chain Monte Carlo algorithm) to assess their performance when handling missing data at different missingness rates and mechanisms (MCAR, MAR and MNAR). These strategies were applied to a pre-post study of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. We analyzed the relationship of the changes in subjects HRQoL over one year with clinical and socio-demographic characteristics. A simulation study was also performed to illustrate the performance of the imputation methods. Relative and standardized bias was assessed on each scenario. For all missingness mechanisms, not imputing and using MCMC method, both combined with mixed-model analysis, showed lowest standardized bias. Conversely, Propensity Score showed worst bias values. When missingness pattern is MCAR or MAR and rate small, we recommend using mixed models. Nevertheless, when missingness percentage is high, in order to gain sample size and statistical power, MCMC is preferred, although there are no bias differences compared with the mixed models without imputation. For a MNAR scenario, a further sensitivity analysis should be made.
Supplementing Missing Self-Reported Race Data with a Probability Distribution in Logistic Regression Models
Authors: Xu Stanley , Narwaney Komal , Newcomer Sophia , Glanz Jason
Published: August 2015

Race is often included as an independent variable in health services research, especially in recent studies of racial and ethnic disparities in health care. Although self-reported information on race exists in large electronic health records (EHR) data, these data are sometimes missing. Recently Bayesian Improved Surname Geocoding method (BISG) is used to estimate the probability distribution of race categories for those with missing information on race. The BISG estimated probability distribution has been used in reporting health care measures but not in statistical modellings with dichotomous events as outcomes. We propose two approaches to accommodate available distribution probability of an independent categorical variable (e.g., race) in logistic regression models: 1) a direct substitution approach and 2) a partial information maximum likelihood estimator (PIMLE). In examining the association between race and up-to-date immunization status of children by three years old from an integrated health care organization, 11.3% of 14,903 children have missing self-reported race information but have BISG estimated probability distribution for the six race/ethnicity categories. We employed the direct substitution approach and PIMLE approach to analyze the under vaccination data. Both approaches included all observations and thus yielded smaller standard errors of estimated coefficients compared to the complete data analyses. Our simulation study showed that the direct substitution approach and PIMLE yielded nearly unbiased coefficient estimates and preserved efficiency when the missing rate of the independent categorical variable was up to 30%.
Comparative Analysis of the Effects of Three Antithrombotic Regimens on Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Atrial Fibrillation and Recent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention with Stent. A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: De Vecchis Renato , Baldi Cesare , Piemonte Francesco
Published: August 2015

Introduction: Chronic atrial fibrillation (AF), coexisting with a history of recent coronary angioplasty with stent (PCI-S) represents an encoded indication for oral anticoagulation with warfarin (OAC) plus dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT).
Methods: Using a retrospective cohort study we determined the respective impacts on cardio- vascular outcomes of three different pharmacologic regimens, i.e., triple therapy (TT) with warfarin + clopidogrel and aspirin, dual therapy (DT) with warfarin +clopidogrel or aspirin, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) with clopidogrel + aspirin. Outcomes of interest were all-cause mortality, ischemic cardiac events, ischemic cerebral events, bleeding events. The inclusion criterion was the coexistence of an indication for OAC (e.g., chronic AF) with an indication for dual antiplatelet therapy due to recent PCI-S.
Results: Among the 98 patients enrolled, 48 (49%), 31 (31.6%), and 19(19.4%) patients were prescribed TT, DT, and DAPT, respectively. Throughout a mean follow-up of 378± 15.7days, there were no significant differences between the three regimens for all abovementioned outcomes. In particular, the total frequency of major bleeding was similar in the three groups: 5 cases (10.4%) in TT, one case (3.22%) in DT and no case in DAPT groups (p [chi-square test] = 0.1987).
Conclusions: TT, DT and DAPT displayed similar efficacy and safety. Although the superiority of OAC vs. DAPT for stroke prevention in AF patients has been demonstrated by previous randomized trials, a smaller frequency of high thromboembolic risks' features in DAPT group of the present study may have prevented the observation of a higher incidence of ischemic stroke in this group.
Comparative Study of Human and Automated Screening for Antinuclear Antibodies by Immunofluorescence on HEp-2 Cells
Authors: Gorgi Yousr , Dhaouadi Tarak , Sfar Imen , Haouami Youssra , Abdallah Taieb Ben , Raso Giuseppe , Cascio Donato , Cipolla Marco , Taormina Vincenzo , Fauci Alessandro , Brusca Ignazio , Friscia Giuseppe , Elgaaïed Amel Benammar , Triki Raja Marrakchi , Gati Asma , Ahmed Melika Ben , Louzir Hechmi
Published: August 2015

Background: Several automated systems had been developed in order to reduce inter-observer variability in indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) interpretation. We aimed to evaluate the performance of a processing system in antinuclear antibodies (ANA) screening on HEp-2 cells.
Patients and Methods: This study included 64 ANA-positive sera and 107 ANA-negative sera that underwent IIF on two commercial kits of HEp-2 cells (BioSystems® and Euroimmun®). IIF results were compared with a novel automated interpretation system, the “CyclopusCADImmuno®” (CAD).
Results: All ANA-positive sera images were recognized as positive by CAD (sensitivity = 100%), while 17 (15.9%) of the ANA-negative sera images were interpreted as positive (specificity = 84.1%), κ=0.799 (SD=0.045). Comparison of IIF pattern determination between human and CAD system revealed on HEp-2 (BioSystems®), a complete concordance in 6 (9.37%) sera, a partial concordance (sharing of at least 1 pattern) in 42 (65.6%) cases and in 16 (25%) sera the pattern interpretation was discordant. Similarly, on HEp-2 (Euroimmun®) the concordance in pattern interpretation was total in 5 (7.8%) sera, partial in 39 (60.9%) and absent in 20 (31.25%). For both tested HEp-2 cells kits agreement was enhanced for the most common patterns, homogenous, fine speckled and coarse speckled. While there was an issue in identification of nucleolar, dots and nuclear membranous patterns by CAD.
Conclusion: Assessment of ANA by IIF on HEp-2 cells using the automated interpretation system, the “CyclopusCADImmuno®” is a reliable method for positive/negative differentiation. Continuous integration of IIF images would improve the pattern identification by the CAD.
A Contribution to the Genetic Epidemiology of Structured Populations
Authors: Stark Alan E.
Published: August 2015

A mating system, previously derived, which is more general than random mating is defined by the gene frequency q and a parameter F which measures divergence from Hardy-Weinberg proportions commonly used in genetic analysis. F can be viewed as the average coefficient of inbreeding in a population, the use emphasized here. Also it can characterize the variation in gene frequency in a stratified population. Taking q as fixed, the distribution of F over values admissible under the general mating system is derived by simulation. The mating system may be seen to be based on indifference as to choice of mates. This is the first object of the paper. The second uses the derived distribution of F to make a Bayesian estimate of F from a single sample of genotypic counts. Such an estimate has a number of uses in genetic analysis.
Assessment of Statistical Approaches to Model Low Count Data: An Empirical Application to Youth Delinquency
Authors: Malik Taimoor , Ali Syed Arif , Rasheed Abdur , Siddiqui Afaq Ahmed
Published: August 2015

Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the risk factors associated with number of crime committed by youth (Youth Delinquency) between ages 10-17, using Ordinary Least Square (OLS), Poisson Regression model (PRM), Negative Binomial Regression model (NBRM)& Zero Inflated Negative Binomial (ZINB) with the aim to choose the most appropriate model for the observed count data.
Methodology: The data in the study was collected from youth whose mothers enrolled in Philadelphia Collaborative Perinatal Project (CPP). School and delinquency record (between ages 10-17) was obtained by the Centre for studies in Criminology and Criminal Law. Literature search suggest that factors associated with child delinquency can be divided into four main factors as Individual, Family, School and Peer. Therefore we included variables in the analysis accordingly.
Result: For OLS scatter plot of residuals versus estimated counts showed definite pattern of heterogeneity (non-constant variance). The likelihood-ratio (LR) test of over dispersion yields the significant p-value, which implied that the outcome variable is overdispersed. The plot of the difference between the actual probabilities and the mean predicted probabilities for each model showed that PRM has poor predictions for low counts (0-2).
Conclusion: NBRM and ZINB both performed well, however fit statistics revealed that NBRM has provided more closed predication as compare ZINB.NB modeling techniques provides much more compelling and accurate results instead of basic PRM or those available through simple linear or log-linear modeling techniques
Multiple Imputation by Fully Conditional Specification for Dealing with Missing Data in a Large Epidemiologic Study
Authors: Liu Yang , De Anindya
Published: August 2015

Missing data commonly occur in large epidemiologic studies. Ignoring incompleteness or handling the data inappropriately may bias study results, reduce power and efficiency, and alter important risk/benefit relationships. Standard ways of dealing with missing values, such as complete case analysis (CCA), are generally inappropriate due to the loss of precision and risk of bias. Multiple imputation by fully conditional specification (FCS MI) is a powerful and statistically valid method for creating imputations in large data sets which include both categorical and continuous variables. It specifies the multivariate imputation model on a variable-by-variable basis and offers a principled yet flexible method of addressing missing data, which is particularly useful for large data sets with complex data structures. However, FCS MI is still rarely used in epidemiology, and few practical resources exist to guide researchers in the implementation of this technique. We demonstrate the application of FCS MI in support of a large epidemiologic study evaluating national blood utilization patterns in a sub-Saharan African country. A number of practical tips and guidelines for implementing FCS MI based on this experience are described.
Le rôle des intervenantes du secteur de la violence faite aux femmes dans le développement des services en français en Ontario : une étude exploratoire
Authors: Cardinal Linda , Garceau Marie-Luce , Sirois Ghislaine , Plante Nathalie
Published: August 2015

L’article porte sur le rôle des intervenantes francophones du secteur de la violence faite aux femmes (VFF) dans le développement de services en français en Ontario. Depuis les années 1990, ce secteur a fait des avancées importantes dans le développement de services en français, et peut désormais venir en aide à de plus en plus de femmes francophones. Or, il existe peu d’études portant sur le rôle des intervenantes dans le développement de ces services en français. Cette première analyse de la situation repose sur les résultats d’entretiens menés auprès de 14 intervenantes francophones du secteur de la VFF. Ces entretiens permettent de commencer à prendre la mesure de leur rôle dans le développement des services en français dans le secteur de la VFF. Les données portent sur les modes d’action des intervenantes ainsi que les savoirs ou apprentissages qu’elles tirent de leurs efforts afin de les transmettre à d’autres et ainsi encourager la réflexion sur les enjeux liés au développement des services en français en Ontario.
Être jeune mère et survivante de violences conjugales en contexte rural et francophone minoritaire : une étude de besoins à Prescott-Russell1
Authors: Clennett-Sirois Laurence
Published: August 2015

Cet article s’appuie sur une étude de besoins réalisée pour Maison Interlude House, dans les comtés unis de Prescott-Russell (Ontario) auprès de six participantes francophones aux prises avec la violence conjugale. Malgré la présence d’organismes dont le mandat est de leur venir en aide, ces jeunes mères monoparentales vivant en milieu semi-rural dans une province à majorité anglophone se trouvent généralement dans une situation de non-choix qui revêt son lot de conséquences. Grâce à leurs récits de vie, aux informations recueillies auprès d’organismes travaillant à l’autonomisation de cette population et à un groupe de discussion visant à identifier des pistes de solutions, nous dressons un portrait des défis rencontrés et des solutions évoquées.