bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Root and Eruption Defects in c-Fos Mice Are Driven by Loss of Osteoclasts
Authors: Alfaqeeh S. , Oralova V. , Foxworthy M. , Matalova E. , Grigoriadis A.E. , Tucker A.S.
Published: October 2015

c-Fos homozygous mice lack osteoclasts with a failure of the teeth to erupt and with an arrest of root development. Here, we characterize the defects associated with the failure in root development and the loss of the tooth-bone interface, and we investigate the underlying causes. We show that, while homozygous c-Fos mice have no multinucleated osteoclasts, heterozygous mice have a reduction in the number of osteoclasts with a reduction in the tooth-bone interface during development and subtle skeletal defects postnatally. In the homozygous mutants bone is found to penetrate the tooth, particularly at the apical end, physically disrupting the root forming HERS (Hertwig’s epithelial root sheath) cells. The cells of the HERS continue to proliferate but cannot extend downward due to the presence of bone, leading to a loss of root formation. Tooth germ culture showed that the developing tooth invaded the static bone in mutant tissue, rather than the bone encroaching on the tooth. Although c-Fos has been shown to be expressed in developing teeth, the defect in maintenance of the tooth-bone interface appears to be driven solely by the lack of osteoclasts, as this defect can be rescued in the presence of donor osteoclasts. The rescue suggests that signals from the tooth recruit osteoclasts to clear the bone from around the tooth, allowing the tooth to grow, form roots, and later erupt.
Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Periodontitis
Authors: White P.C. , Chicca I.J. , Cooper P.R. , Milward M.R. , Chapple I.L.C.
Published: October 2015

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) represent a novel paradigm in neutrophil-mediated immunity. NETs are believed to constitute a highly conserved antimicrobial strategy comprising decondensed nuclear DNA and associated histones that are extruded into the extracellular space. Associated with the web-like strands of DNA is an array of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which facilitate the extracellular destruction of microorganisms that become entrapped within the NETs. NETs can be released by cells that remain viable or following a unique form of programmed cell death known as NETosis, which is dependent on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the decondensing of the nuclear DNA catalyzed by peptidyl arginine deiminase-4. NETs are produced in response to a range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, as well as host-derived mediators. NET release is, however, not without cost, as the concomitant release of cytotoxic molecules can also cause host tissue damage. This is evidenced by a number of immune-mediated diseases, in which excess or dysfunctional NET production, bacterial NET evasion, and decreased NET removal are associated with disease pathogenesis. Periodontitis is the most prevalent infectious-inflammatory disease of humans, characterized by a dysregulated neutrophilic response to specific bacterial species within the subgingival plaque biofilm. Neutrophils are the predominant inflammatory cell involved in periodontitis and have previously been found to exhibit hyperactivity and hyperreactivity in terms of ROS production in chronic periodontitis patients. However, the contribution of ROS-dependent NET formation to periodontal health or disease remains unclear. In this focused review, we discuss the mechanisms, stimuli, and requirements for NET production; the ability of NET-DNA and NET-associated AMPs to entrap and kill pathogens; and the potential immunogenicity of NETs in disease. We also speculate on the potential role of NETs in the pathogenesis of periodontitis.
Effect of Industry Sponsorship on Dental Restorative Trials
Authors: Schwendicke F. , Tu Y.-K. , Blunck U. , Paris S. , Göstemeyer G.
Published: October 2015

Industry sponsorship was found to potentially introduce bias into clinical trials. We assessed the effects of industry sponsorship on the design, comparator choice, and findings of randomized controlled trials on dental restorative materials. A systematic review was performed via MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and EMBASE. Randomized trials on dental restorative and adhesive materials published 2005 to 2015 were included. The design of sponsored and nonsponsored trials was compared statistically (risk of bias, treatment indication, setting, transferability, sample size). Comparator choice and network geometry of sponsored and nonsponsored trials were assessed via network analysis. Material performance rankings in different trial types were estimated via Bayesian network meta-analysis. Overall, 114 studies were included (15,321 restorations in 5,232 patients). We found 21 and 41 (18% and 36%) trials being clearly or possibly industry sponsored, respectively. Trial design of sponsored and nonsponsored trials did not significantly differ for most assessed items. Sponsored trials evaluated restorations of load-bearing cavities significantly more often than nonsponsored trials, had longer follow-up periods, and showed significantly increased risk of detection bias. Regardless of sponsorship status, comparisons were mainly performed within material classes. The proportion of trials comparing against gold standard restorative or adhesive materials did not differ between trial types. If ranked for performance according to the need to re-treat (best: least re-treatments), most material combinations were ranked similarly in sponsored and nonsponsored trials. The effect of industry sponsorship on dental restorative trials seems limited.
The Microbiome in Populations with a Low and High Prevalence of Caries
Authors: Johansson I. , Witkowska E. , Kaveh B. , Lif Holgerson P. , Tanner A.C.R.
Published: October 2015

The oral microbiota was compared between Romanian adolescents with a high prevalence of caries and no dental care and Swedish caries-active and caries-free adolescents in caries prevention programs and with a low prevalence of caries. Biofilm samples were analyzed by FLX+ pyrosequencing of the V1 to V4 hypervariable regions of the 16S rRNA gene and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/quantitative PCR (qPCR) for Streptococcus mutans and Streptococcus sobrinus. Sequences obtained blasted to 9 phyla, 66 genera, and 401 human oral taxa (HOT) in the 16S rRNA Human Oral Microbiome Database, of which 295 were represented by ≥20 sequences. The Romanian adolescents had more sequences in Firmicutes and fewer in Actinobacteria phyla and more sequences in the genera Bacteroidetes [G-3], Porphyromonas, Abiotrophia, Filifactor, Peptostreptococcaceae [11][G-4], Pseudoramibacter, Streptococcus, and Neisseria and fewer in Actinomyces, Selenomonas, Veillonella, Campylobacter, and TM7 [G-1] than the Swedish groups. Multivariate modeling employing HOT, S. sobrinus and S. mutans (PCR/qPCR), and sugar snacks separated Romanian from Swedish adolescents. The Romanian adolescents’ microbiota was characterized by a panel of streptococci, including S. mutans, S. sobrinus, and Streptococcus australis, and Alloprevotella, Leptotrichia, Neisseria, Porphyromonas, and Prevotella. The Swedish adolescents were characterized by sweet snacks, and those with caries activity were also characterized by Prevotella, Actinomyces, and Capnocytophaga species and those free of caries by Actinomyces, Prevotella, Selenomonas, Streptococcus, and Mycoplasma. Eight species including Streptococcus mitis and Streptococcus species HOT070 were prevalent in Romanian and Swedish caries-active subjects but not caries-free subjects. In conclusion, S. mutans and S. sobrinus correlated with Romanian adolescents with caries and with limited access to dental care, whereas S. mutans and S. sobrinus were detected infrequently in Swedish adolescents in dental care programs. Swedish caries-active adolescents were typically colonized by Actinomyces, Selenomonas, Prevotella, and Capnocytophaga. Hence, the role of mutans streptococci as a primary caries pathogen appears less pronounced in populations with prevention programs compared to populations lacking caries treatment and prevention strategies.
Transcranial direct current stimulation in the male mouse to promote recovery after stroke
Authors: Pikhovych Anton , Walter Helene L , Mahabir Esther , Fink Gereon Rudolf , Graf Rudolf , Schroeter Michael , Rueger Maria Adele
Published: October 2015

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) constitutes a promising approach for promoting recovery of function after stroke, although the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are unclear. To conduct translational research in animal models, stimulation parameters should not lead to neuronal lesions. Liebetanz et al. recommend charge densities for cathodal stimulation in rats, but parameters for mice are not established. We established tDCS in the wild-type mouse, enabling studies with genetically-engineered mice (GEM). tDCS equipment was adapted to fit the mouse skull. Using different polarities and charge densities, tDCS was safe to apply in the mouse where the charge density was below 198 kC/m2 for single or repeated stimulations. These findings are crucial for future investigations of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying tDCS using GEM.
Untying Conceptual Knots: The Analytical Limits of the Concepts of De-Standardisation and Reflexivity
Authors: Nico Magda , Caetano Ana
Published: October 2015

In some of the sociological production of recent decades, the popularity of individualisation theories has resulted in conceptually undifferentiated notions in the analysis of social change. De-standardisation, de-institutionalisation and pluralisation, on the one hand, and reflexivity, agency and action, on the other, are concepts that are frequently used interchangeably, self-evidently and without differentiation. In the social science literature, they often assume the almost incontestable status of a premise, instead of that of an object or empirical hypothesis. Rebutting this approach, in this article, the hypothesis that the process of de-standardising the life course as a growing mass phenomenon has little empirical evidence to support it, is postulated and confirmed. The exercise of reflexivity as an exclusively contemporary practice, mobilised homogeneously by all social groups is also questioned. On the basis of European and Portuguese samples, both statistical and content analyses of biographical sequences and narratives are employed.
The spatial dimension of US house prices
Authors: Pijnenburg Katharina
Published: October 2015

Spatial heterogeneity and spatial dependence are two well established aspects of house price developments. However, the analysis of differences in spatial dependence across time and space has not gained much attention yet. This paper jointly analyses these three aspects of spatial data. A panel smooth transition regression model is applied that allows for heterogeneity across time and space in spatial house price spillovers and for heterogeneity in the effect of the fundamentals on house price dynamics. Evidence is found for heterogeneity in spatial spillovers of house prices across space and time: house prices in neighbouring regions spill over more in times of increasing neighbouring house prices then when neighbouring house prices are declining. This is interpreted as evidence for the disposition effect. Moreover, heterogeneity in the effect of the fundamentals on house price dynamics could not be detected for all variables; real per capita disposable income and the unemployment rate have a homogeneous effect across time and space.
The Background of ἐκκλησία Revisited
Authors: Beale G.K.
Published: October 2015

There has been recent debate about the background and origins for Paul’s use of the word ἐκκλησία: is it to be understood primarily against an LXX or Greco-Roman background? This article is an attempt to present further evidence that there is, indeed, a clear Septuagint background for Paul’s use, especially his multiple uses of ‘church [assembly] of God’ (ἐκκλησία τοῦ θεοῦ). Signiﬁcant parallels occur in Philo’s writings, which provide a precedent for Paul’s use. This does not mean that there is no Greco-Roman inﬂuence on Paul’s use of the phrase, although the limits of the study allow only a relatively brief exploration of this possible background.
Gender, Rhetoric and Recognition: Characterizing Jesus and (Re)defining Masculinity in the Gospel of John
Authors: Myers Alicia D.
Published: October 2015

Scholars studying the characters of John’s gospel often note the flat or static quality of Jesus’ character. Recently, Colleen M. Conway has investigated Jesus’ static characterization in light of Greco-Roman norms of masculinity, arguing that John’s gospel presents an especially masculine Christology. This article nuances Conway’s reading by digging more deeply into Jesus’ characterization by means of common-places (τόποι) used to formulate gender in classical rhetorical performances and in ancient literary genres similar to the Gospel of John. Making use of the instability inherent to gender, the Gospel of John incorporates a number of feminine elements in its characterization of Jesus alongside the masculine elements, thus de-stabilizing the masculine narratives of its ancient Mediterranean context. Having absolutized Jesus’ identity in its prologue as eternal and entirely consistent with God’s will, the gospel redeﬁnes masculinity in a way that casts ‘feminine’ penetrability as a permanent and crucial indicator of God’s identity.
Delay and Death-Thought Accessibility
Authors: Steinman Christopher T. , Updegraff John A.
Published: October 2015

The dual-process component of Terror Management Theory (TMT) proposes that different types of threats lead to increases in death-thought accessibility (DTA) after different delay intervals. Experimental studies of terror management threats’ effect on DTA were collected and coded for their use of explicitly death-related (vs. not explicitly death-related) threats, and for their use of delay and task-switching during the delay. Results reveal that studies using death-related threats achieved larger DTA effect-sizes when they included more task-switching or a longer delay between the threat and the DTA measurement. In contrast, studies using threats that were not explicitly death-related achieved smaller DTA effect-sizes when they included more task-switching between the threat and the DTA measurement. These findings provide partial support for the dual-process component’s predictions regarding delay and DTA. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Creative Workforce and Economic Development in Precrisis Europe
Authors: Crociata Alessandro , Agovino Massimiliano , Russo Antonio , Quaglieri Domínguez Alan
Published: October 2015

Building on work funded by the European Spatial Planning Observatory Network 2013 Program, the article analyzes the regional development of the “creative workforce” among its active population against regional economic growth measured by changes in per capita gross domestic product over the period 2001 to 2008. The analysis establishes regional typologies in this relationship according to the “sense” and evolution of this association, allowing a critical evaluation of processes and policies that may explain the large degree of spatial variation encountered, and addresses the issue of causal relationships between these two dimensions, suggesting the need to rethink development policies based on “creative capital.”
Bullying, empathic concern, and internalization of rules among preschool children
Authors: Camodeca Marina , Coppola Gabrielle
Published: October 2015

The present study examined whether bullying, defending, and outsider behaviors in preschool children were associated with two conscience aspects (empathic concern and internalization of rules) and with emotion understanding. We also investigated whether emotion understanding moderated the relationship between these dimensions and bullying roles. Participants were 105 children (51 males), aged 36 to 76 months. Bullying roles were assessed through peer nominations. Internalization of rules and empathic concern were observed in classroom and their scores derived from selected Q-Sort items. Emotion understanding was evaluated with the Puppet Interview administered to children. Results showed that empathic concern and internalization of rules were negatively associated with bullying and outsider behaviors, whereas emotion understanding correlated with defending behavior. The interaction between emotion understanding and internalization of rules was also significant: Low scores on rule-compatible conduct were associated with bullying or outsider behavior, in particular for those children with poor emotion understanding.
Audiometric Outcomes in Pediatric Temporal Bone Trauma
Authors: Schell Amy , Kitsko Dennis
Published: October 2015

Objective

To characterize pediatric temporal bone trauma, focusing on audiometric outcomes.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care children’s hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Cases were reviewed of children (<18 years) presenting over a 3‐year period with computed tomography–proven temporal bone fracture and audiology examination. All scans were read by a neuroradiologist and reviewed by a pediatric otolaryngologist. Demographics, fracture pattern, and audiometric data were recorded.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients (60 fractures) met inclusion criteria. The majority (93%) were otic capsule–sparing fractures. The types and severity of hearing loss were significantly different between the 2 fracture patterns. Based on pure‐tone average, all otic capsule–violating fractures had abnormal initial audiograms; 75% of these losses were severe. Approximately half (54%) of otic capsule–sparing fractures had abnormal initial audiograms; a majority were mild losses (85%). All classifiable losses in otic capsule–violating cases were of mixed type, whereas the majority (75%) of losses in otic capsule–sparing cases were conductive. Regardless of classification, 72% of patients with otic capsule–sparing fractures and initially abnormal audiograms improved to normal levels at a mean of 48 days posttrauma; this increased to 83% when only conductive losses were considered.

Conclusions

Hearing loss type and severity differ in otic capsule–sparing and otic capsule–violating temporal bone fractures. A majority of children with otic capsule–sparing fractures and associated hearing loss improve to normal levels in about 6 weeks, especially if the original loss is classified as solely conductive. Children who do not improve within this time frame may warrant early investigation into surgically correctable causes.
Inequalities creating economic barriers to owning mobile phones in India
Authors: Potnis Devendra
Published: October 2015

In India, men own around 70% of mobile phones, creating a gender digital divide for the most widely owned information and communication technology (ICT) in the world. This study investigates the factors responsible for the inability of 245 female slum-dwellers in India earning less than $2 a day to own a mobile phone. Open, axial and selective coding of survey responses shows that socio-cultural, economic, demographic, psychological, communication-related, and health related inequalities in the lives of the respondents create eight economic barriers precluding respondents from owning some of the least expensive mobile phones worth $15 or so on installments of $1 a month.
Validation of the revised Mystical Experience Questionnaire in experimental sessions with psilocybin
Authors: Barrett Frederick S , Johnson Matthew W , Griffiths Roland R
Published: October 2015

The 30-item revised Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ30) was previously developed within an online survey of mystical-type experiences occasioned by psilocybin-containing mushrooms. The rated experiences occurred on average eight years before completion of the questionnaire. The current paper validates the MEQ30 using data from experimental studies with controlled doses of psilocybin. Data were pooled and analyzed from five laboratory experiments in which participants ( n=184) received a moderate to high oral dose of psilocybin (at least 20 mg/70 kg). Results of confirmatory factor analysis demonstrate the reliability and internal validity of the MEQ30. Structural equation models demonstrate the external and convergent validity of the MEQ30 by showing that latent variable scores on the MEQ30 positively predict persisting change in attitudes, behavior, and well-being attributed to experiences with psilocybin while controlling for the contribution of the participant-rated intensity of drug effects. These findings support the use of the MEQ30 as an efficient measure of individual mystical experiences. A method to score a “complete mystical experience” that was used in previous versions of the mystical experience questionnaire is validated in the MEQ30, and a stand-alone version of the MEQ30 is provided for use in future research.
Shared Medical Decision Making in Lung Cancer Screening
Authors: Fraenkel Liana , Peters Ellen , Tyra Shea , Oelberg David
Published: October 2015

Background. Annual lung cancer screening using low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scans is associated with a survival benefit, but it is also associated with potential harm. Unlike descriptive probability formats, experienced tasks have been shown to decrease perceptions of rare events. The objective of this study was to compare descriptive versus experienced probability formats on patients’ knowledge, beliefs, endorsement of screening for heavy smokers, and preference (choice predisposition) to undergo screening. Methods. A total of 276 patients attending an outpatient pulmonary practice were randomized to learn about screening using 1 of 3 formats: numbers only, numbers + icon arrays, numbers + a set of slides illustrating LDCT scans of 250 people in random order that displayed the number of normal scans, false-positive lung nodules, cancers found leading to a life saved, and cancers found leading to death despite treatment. Results. Knowledge differed between the 3 formats ( P = 0.001), with participants randomized to the numbers + icon array format having the highest knowledge score. Beliefs were more favorable among participants randomized to the numbers + experienced format compared with the numbers + icon array format (difference between means [95% confidence interval]= 1.6 [0.4–2.8]). Differences in participants’ endorsement of screening ( P = 0.4) and choice predisposition ( P = 0.6) across probability format mirrored those of beliefs but were not statistically significant. Discussion. Contrary to what we expected, the experienced format increased propensity toward screening compared with the numbers + icon array format, as indicated by more favorable beliefs and nonsignificant trends toward stronger choice predisposition and endorsement. Experienced risk formats may not be a practical approach to improve risk communication for patients deciding whether or not to undergo annual lung cancer screening.
Lateral inhibition in the somatosensory cortex during and between migraine without aura attacks: Correlations with thalamocortical activity and clinical features
Authors: Coppola Gianluca , Bracaglia Martina , Di Lenola Davide , Iacovelli Elisa , Di Lorenzo Cherubino , Serrao Mariano , Evangelista Maurizio , Parisi Vincenzo , Schoenen Jean , Pierelli Francesco
Published: October 2015

Background

We studied lateral inhibition in the somatosensory cortex of migraineurs during and between attacks, and searched for correlations with thalamocortical activity and clinical features.

Participants and methods

Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) were obtained by electrical stimulation of the right median (M) or ulnar (U) nerves at the wrist or by simultaneous stimulation of both nerves (MU) in 41 migraine without aura patients, 24 between (MO), 17 during attacks, and in 17 healthy volunteers (HVs). We determined the percentage of lateral inhibition of the N20–P25 component by using the formula [(100)–MU/(M + U)*100]. We also studied high-frequency oscillations (HFOs) reflecting thalamocortical activation.

Results

In migraine, both lateral inhibition (MO 27.9% vs HVs 40.2%; p = 0.009) and thalamocortical activity (MO 0.5 vs HVs 0.7; p = 0.02) were reduced between attacks, but not during. In MO patients, the percentage of lateral inhibition negatively correlated with days elapsed since the last migraine attack ( r = −0.510, p = 0.01), monthly attack duration ( r = −0.469, p = 0.02) and severity ( r = −0.443, p = 0.03), but positively with thalamocortical activity ( r = −0.463, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

We hypothesize that abnormal migraine cycle-dependent dynamics of connectivity between subcortical and cortical excitation/inhibition networks may contribute to clinical features of MO and recurrence of attacks.
Posterior Humeral Avulsion of the Glenohumeral Ligament and Associated Injuries
Authors: Rebolledo Brian J. , Nwachukwu Benedict U. , Konin Gabrielle P. , Coleman Struan H. , Potter Hollis G. , Warren Russell F.
Published: October 2015

Background:

Lesions associated with posterior humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament (HAGL) can lead to persistent symptoms related to posterior shoulder instability and can be commonly missed or delayed in diagnosis.

Purpose:

To identify and characterize the MRI findings in patients with a posterior HAGL lesion.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This retrospective case series included 27 patients (28 shoulders) identified by search through the senior authors’ databases, with cross-reference to their institutional radiologic communication system for MRI review. Baseline patient demographic data were collected, including age and sex. All posterior HAGL lesions were identified on MRI and characterized as partial, complete, or floating lesions. All acute glenohumeral pathologic changes concurrent with the posterior HAGL were documented. Chondrolabral retroversion of the injured shoulder was measured on axial MRI.

Results:

The average age of the identified cohort was 33.6 years (range, 15-81 years), and 23 patients were male (86%). Posterior HAGL injuries were found to be complete tears (71%), partial tears (25%), and floating lesions (4%); concomitant bony HAGL avulsion was found in 7% of injuries. Additional traumatic glenohumeral disorders occurred in 93% of cases. The most common concurrent injuries were reverse Hill-Sachs lesions (36%), anterior Bankart lesions (29%), and posterosuperior rotator cuff tears (25%). Notably, concomitant anterior labral or capsular injury was found in 50% of patients, signifying bidirectional disruption of the capsule. In addition, increased chondrolabral version was found in this cohort (10.2° ± 3.7° retroversion).

Conclusion:

This study depicts the high association of combined injury with posterior HAGL lesions and increased chondrolabral retroversion. Findings on MRI related to a posterior HAGL injury could potentially be masked by additional injury and may occur with mechanisms that also lead to anterior glenohumeral disorders.
Intelligence Score Profiles of Female Juvenile Offenders
Authors: Werner Shelby Spare , Hart Kathleen J. , Ficke Susan L.
Published: October 2015

Previous studies have found that male juvenile offenders typically obtain low scores on measures of intelligence, often with a pattern of higher scores on measures of nonverbal relative to verbal tasks. The research on the intelligence performance of female juvenile offenders is limited. This study explored the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children–Fourth Edition (WISC-IV) scores of 430 female juvenile offenders. Their mean IQ scores were significantly lower than the standardization sample means. Cluster analysis, which allows for identification of subgroups based on IQ score patterns, revealed five distinct subgroups of girls within the sample based on their WISC-IV Index scores. Although there was a cluster that was similar to the Verbal IQ (VIQ) < Performance IQ (PIQ) pattern described in previous studies, the other clusters serve as a reminder of the diversity of cognitive functioning among juvenile offenders.
Personalized Integrated Educational System
Authors: Reigeluth Charles M. , Aslan Sinem , Chen Zengguan , Dutta Pratima , Huh Yeol , Lee Dabae , Lin Chun-Yi , Lu Ya-Huei , Min Mina , Tan Verily , Watson Sunnie Lee , Watson William R.
Published: October 2015

The learner-centered paradigm of instruction differs in such fundamental ways from the teacher-centered paradigm that it requires technology to serve very different functions. In 2006, a research team at Indiana University began to work on identifying those functions and published their results in 2008. Subsequently, the team elaborated and refined those functional specifications, which are described herein as the Personalized Integrated Educational System (PIES), a technology system that has not yet been developed to support learner-centered education. The four major functions are recordkeeping for student learning, planning for student learning, instruction for student learning, and assessment for and of student learning. Secondary functions include communication and collaboration, PIES administration, and improvement of PIES. Each of these functions is described in detail, followed by specifications for the system architecture, including interoperability, modularity, and customizability.
Does Marriage Matter? Marital Status, Family Processes, and Psychological Distress Among Latino Men and Women
Authors: Darghouth Sarah , Brody Leslie , Alegría Margarita
Published: October 2015

This study examined the association between marital status and psychological distress among Latinos in the United States, with attention to the impact of gender and family processes (family support, family cohesion, family cultural conflict, and family burden). Analyses were conducted using the National Latino and Asian American Study (NLAAS). The sample was a national randomized stratified probability sample ( N = 2,554). For the entire sample, being separated, divorced, cohabitating, or single was associated with higher levels of psychological distress compared with being married. For women, being separated or divorced was associated with higher levels of psychological distress compared with being married, but for men, distress was not related to marital status. For both men and women, lower levels of support and higher levels of cultural conflict and burden in the family were related to higher psychological distress. Among divorced women, family variables impacted the relationship between marital status and psychological distress.
Analysis of Altered Micro RNA Expression Profiles in Focal Cortical Dysplasia IIB
Authors: Li Lin , Liu Chang-Qing , Li Tian-Fu , Guan Yu-Guang , Zhou Jian , Qi Xue-Ling , Yang Yu-Tao , Deng Jia-Hui , Xu Zhi-Qing David , Luan Guo-Ming
Published: October 2015

Focal cortical dysplasia type IIB is a commonly encountered subtype of developmental malformation of the cerebral cortex and is often associated with pharmacoresistant epilepsy. In this study, to investigate the molecular etiology of focal cortical dysplasia type IIB, the authors performed micro ribonucleic acid (RNA) microarray on surgical specimens from 5 children (2 female and 3 male, mean age was 73.4 months, range 50-112 months) diagnosed of focal cortical dysplasia type IIB and matched normal tissue adjacent to the lesion. In all, 24 micro RNAs were differentially expressed in focal cortical dysplasia type IIB, and the microarray results were validated using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Then the putative target genes of the differentially expressed micro RNAs were identified by bioinformatics analysis. Moreover, biological significance of the target genes was evaluated by investigating the pathways in which the genes were enriched, and the Hippo signaling pathway was proposed to be highly related with the pathogenesis of focal cortical dysplasia type IIB.
“The Mother State and Her Weaker Children”
Authors: Yingling Marissa E.
Published: October 2015

In the United States, the institutionalization of people labeled feebleminded gained significant momentum during the Progressive Era. In this article, I use a biographical approach to examine social work’s role in the expansion of institutions for this population. I employ feminist standpoint theory to detail how the profession used its dominant standpoint—maternalism—as a political strategy to justify the segregation of people labeled feebleminded. Implications for future scholarship and for social work are presented.
Beliefs of Palestinian Women From Israel About the Responsibility and Punishment of Violent Husbands and About Helping Battered Women
Authors: Haj-Yahia Muhammad M. , Zaatut Amarat
Published: October 2015

This article presents a study that examined beliefs about violent husbands and about helping battered women among Palestinian women living in Israel from the perspective of patriarchal ideology. A convenience sample of 701 married women was obtained, and a self-report questionnaire was administered. The findings reveal that the majority of participants held violent husbands accountable for their behavior; however, the majority of them did not support punishing violent husbands through formal agencies (i.e., the police) or through informal social institutions (i.e., the family). In addition, contrary to expectations, the majority of women perceived wife beating as a social problem rather than as a private one that should be dealt with within the family. Regression and multiple regression analysis revealed that women’s endorsement of patriarchal ideology was found to influence all three above-mentioned beliefs about violent husbands and battered women, over and above the amount of variance in each of these beliefs that could be attributed to the women’s sociodemographic characteristics. The limitations of the study and its implications for future research are discussed.
Punishment and Economic Inequality: Estimating Short-Term and Long-Term Equilibrium Relationships
Authors: Kim Dae-Young
Published: October 2015

During the post–World War II (WWII) period, U.S. prison populations and economic inequality have historically shared a common trend. Both indexes were low and fairly stable until the early 1970s, but afterward, they rose significantly. In the context of the prison boom and high economic inequality, such a meaningful coincidence that both variables follow the same trend calls for the present study examining their historical long-term relationship. With annual national data from 1950-2010, this study uses time-series regression techniques within a co-integration and error-correction framework. Although estimated results are sensitive to the model specification used in parameter estimation, there are in general both short-term and long-term equilibrium relationships between the two variables. Finally, this study concludes with a discussion of implications for policy development and future research.
The Effectiveness of Parole Supervision: Use of Propensity Score Matching to Analyze Reincarceration Rates in Kentucky
Authors: Vito Gennaro Francis , Higgins George E. , Tewksbury Richard
Published: October 2015

Recent years have seen increasing concerns about the importance of offender reentry and how to best facilitate ex-offenders remaining crimefree. Common responses have been to enhance punitiveness, and to decrease resources and support services for ex-offenders. Results have been consistently high levels of recidivism, and consequently increasingly punitive responses. The present study examines whether a cohort of offenders released to the community in Kentucky either under parole supervision or at the expiration of their sentences are more likely to be reincarcerated within a 5-year period. The participants of each cohort were constructed into two groups using propensity score matching to control for differences between them.
Party machines and voter-customized rewards strategies
Authors: Zarazaga Rodrigo
Published: October 2015

Previous works on vote-buying have highlighted that an informational advantage allows party machines to efficiently distribute discretionary transfers to voters. However, the microfoundations that allow party machines to electorally exploit their informational advantage have not yet been elucidated. The probabilistic model in this paper provides the microfounded mechanism that explains how party machines translate, with a voter-customized strategy, their informational advantage into more efficient allocation of discretionary transfers and win elections with higher probabilities than their contenders. Furthermore, its probabilistic design allows the model to account for why party machines target their own supporters with discretionary transfers. In-depth interviews with 120 brokers from Argentina motivate the model.
Toward Solving the Problem of Problem Solving
Authors: Roesler Rebecca A.
Published: October 2015

Teaching is replete with problem solving. Problem solving as a skill, however, is seldom addressed directly within music teacher education curricula, and research in music education has not examined problem solving systematically. A framework detailing problem-solving component skills would provide a needed foundation. I observed problem solving that occurred during 49 video-recorded lessons taught by six renowned artist teachers. When a solution to a problem came about as the result of both teacher and student involvement, I identified the problem-solving behaviors that were differentiable as performed by teacher or student. Five components, synonymous with problem-solving behaviors observed in other fields, emerged as identifiable behaviors that contributed to problem solution: establish goals, evaluate, conceive and consider options, apply principles, and decide and act. To confirm this model, I coded every observable behavior within 18 full-length lessons. Almost every on-task behavior was describable in terms of the proposed problem-solving framework.
Operative Treatment of the Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy Through a Transtendinous Approach
Authors: Ettinger Sarah , Razzaq Rameez , Waizy Hazibullah , Claassen Leif , Daniilidis Kiriakos , Stukenborg-Colsman Christina , Plaass Christian
Published: October 2015

Background:

Different operative techniques have been proposed for the treatment of insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT), with often disappointing results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of the transtendinous approach in IAT.

Methods:

Forty patients operated with an IAT between 2010 and 2011 were included in this retrospective study. The mean follow-up was 15.6 (±3.7, 12-27) months. Indication for surgery was IAT with failed conservative therapy. Using a transtendinous approach, the Achilles tendon (AT) was partially detached and all pathologic tissues were debrided. The AT was reinserted using different anchor techniques. Clinical data were recorded using examination and clinical scores (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society [AOFAS], Foot and Ankle Outcome Score [FAOS], Numerical Rating Scale [NRS], and Short Form-36 [SF-36]).

Results:

The mean AOFAS hindfoot score improved from 59.4 preoperatively to 86.5 postoperatively ( P < .05). All FAOS subscales, NRS pain scores, and pain and function subscales of SF-36 improved significantly. The median time of return to work and sports was 14.5 (±17.6; 2-82) and 22.7 (±13.4; 7-58) weeks. Three patients had superficial wound healing difficulties but required no revision. One patient had to be revised due to a hematoma. Patients treated with 2 suture anchors or double-row fixation technique improved significantly ( P < .05) compared to those with single anchor fixation, regarding AOFAS score (79.6 and 90.2) and FAOS subscale scores. Eighty-three percent of the patients showed good to excellent results.

Conclusion:

The transtendinous approach allowed access to all associated pathologies in IAT. It had relatively few complications and lead to good clinical results.

Level of Clinical Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Predictors of Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Among Adolescent and Young Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer
Authors: Kamibeppu Kiyoko , Murayama Shiho , Ozono Shuichi , Sakamoto Naoko , Iwai Tsuyako , Asami Keiko , Maeda Naoko , Inada Hiroko , Kakee Naoko , Okamura Jun , Horibe Keizo , Ishida Yasushi
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) among Japanese long-term childhood cancer survivors (CCSs). Subjects comprised 185 adolescent and young adult (AYA) CCSs who completed anonymous self-report questionnaires. Attending physicians also completed an anonymous disease/treatment data sheet. Mean age of survivors was approximately 8 years at diagnosis and 23 years at participation. Multiple regression analysis showed that family functioning, satisfaction with social support, being female, and interactions between family functioning and gender and age at the time of diagnosis were associated with PTSS among survivors. This study revealed family functioning as the most predictive factor of PTSS among AYA CCSs in Japan. Even when the survivor may have unchangeable risk factors, family functioning can potentially moderate the effects on PTSS. Thus, it is crucial for health professionals to carefully monitor and attend to survivors’ experiences of family functioning to mitigate PTSS.
Individual and Joint Associations of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T Genotype and Plasma Homocysteine With Dyslipidemia in a Chinese Population With Hypertension
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Li Kang , Venners Scott A. , Hsu Yi-Hsiang , Jiang Shanqun , Weinstock Justin , Wang Binyan , Tang Genfu , Xu Xiping
Published: October 2015

We aimed to examine the cross-sectional associations of plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) concentrations and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase ( MTHFR) C677T genotype with dyslipidemia. A total of 231 patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension were enrolled from the Huoqiu and Yuexi communities in Anhui Province, China. Plasma tHcy levels were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Genotyping was performed by TaqMan allelic discrimination technique. Compared with MTHFR 677 CC + CT genotype carriers, TT genotype carriers had higher odds of hypercholesterolemia (adjusted odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 2.7 [1.4-5.2]; P = .004) and higher odds of abnormal low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.3 [1.1-4.8]; P = .030). The individuals with the TT genotype had higher concentrations of log(tHcy) than those with the 677 CC + CT genotype (adjusted β [standard error]: .2 [0.03]; P < .001). Patients with tHcy ≥ 10 μmol/L had significantly higher odds of hypercholesterolemia (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.4 [1.2-4.7]; P = .010). Furthermore, patients with both the TT genotype and the tHcy ≥ 10 μmol/L had the highest odds of hypercholesterolemia (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 4.1 [1.8-9.4]; P = .001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.4 [1.0-6.0]; P = .064). This study suggests that both tHcy and the MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism may be important determinants of the incidence of dyslipidemia in Chinese patients with essential hypertension. Further studies are needed to confirm the role of tHcy and the MTHFR C677T mutation in the development of dyslipidemia in a larger sample.
Properties of the self-similarly expanding Eshelby inclusions and application to the dynamic “Hill Jump Conditions”
Authors: Markenscoff Xanthippi
Published: October 2015

For a self-similarly subsonically dynamically expanding Eshelby inclusion, we show by an analytic argument (based on the analyticity of the coefficients of the ensuing elliptic system and the Cauchy–Kowalevska theorem) that the particle velocity vanishes in the whole interior domain of the expanding inclusion. Since the acceleration term is thus zero in the interior domain in the Navier equations of elastodynamics, this reduces to an Eshelby problem. The classical Hill jump conditions across the interface of a region with transformation strain are expanded here to dynamics when the interface is moving with inertia satisfying the Hadamard jump conditions. The validity of the Eshelby property and the determination of the constrained strain from the dynamic Eshelby tensor in the interior domain allow one to fully determine from the Hill jump conditions the stress across the moving phase boundary of a self-similarly expanding ellipsoidal Eshelby inhomogeneous inclusion. The driving force can then be obtained. Self-similar motion grasps the early response of the system.
Prevalence and Gender Differences of ODD, Anxiety, and Depression in a Sample of Children With ADHD
Authors: Mitchison Gudlaug Marion , Njardvik Urdur
Published: October 2015

Objective: Studies on comorbidity in children diagnosed with ADHD have relied more on parent/teacher reports instead of self-reported data and have focused on the frequency of comorbid symptoms instead of scores above clinical cutoffs. The purpose of this study was to examine the prevalence of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), anxiety, and depression in children with ADHD, using self-report measures for internalizing symptoms and parent-reported measures for externalizing symptoms for increased accuracy. Gender differences were also assessed. Method: Parents of 197 children diagnosed with ADHD answered the Disruptive Behavior Rating Scale, and 112 of the children filled out the Multidimensional Anxiety Scale for Children and the Children’s Depression Inventory. Results: Results revealed that 19.28% of the children met cut-off criteria for ODD, 41.96% for anxiety, and 21.43% for depression. Conclusion: Our findings indicate a relatively lower prevalence of ODD and a slightly higher prevalence of anxiety symptoms than previously reported. Possible explanations and future directions are discussed.
Evaluating a Police-Led Community Initiative to Reduce Gun Violence in St. Louis
Authors: Koper Christopher S. , Woods Daniel J. , Isom Daniel
Published: October 2015

This study evaluated a police-led community initiative that combined various enforcement and prevention efforts to reduce gun violence and other violence in a selected area of St. Louis, Missouri. A quasi-experimental multiple time-series design was used to compare trends in total violence and gun violence in the program neighborhood with the average of these trends in seven matched comparison neighborhoods. Total violence and gun violence declined in the program area relative to trends in the comparison areas during the 9-month program period, and these reductions seemed to be most strongly associated with the program’s heightened enforcement efforts. However, the results were not sufficient to conclude that the program had statistically significant effects beyond its early weeks when enforcement efforts were most intensive and total violence declined significantly. This study adds to the limited evidence based on comprehensive, criminal justice-led initiatives to prevent violent crime, including gun offenses. We suggest that programs like those in St. Louis might be refined through further emphasis on formalized problem solving, high-risk groups, hot spot locations, community participation, and project maintenance.