bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolated Fallopian Tube Torsion in Adolescents
Authors: Rajaram S. , Bhaskaran S. , Mehta S.
Published: October 2013

Background. Fallopian tube torsion is a rare cause of acute abdomen, occurring commonly in females of reproductive age. It lacks pathognomonic symptoms, signs, or imaging features, thus causing delay in surgical intervention.Case. We report two cases of isolated fallopian tube torsion in adolescent girls. In the first case a 19-year-old patient presented with acute pain in the left iliac region associated with episodes of vomiting for one day and mild tenderness on examination. Laparoscopy revealed left sided twisted fallopian tube associated with hemorrhagic cyst of ovary. The tube was untwisted and salvaged. In another case an 18-year-old virgin girl presented with similar complaints since one week, associated with mild tenderness in the lower abdomen and tender cystic mass on per rectal examination. On laparoscopy right twisted fallopian tube associated with a paratubal cyst was found. Salpingectomy was done as the tube was gangrenous.Conclusion. Fallopian tube torsion, though rare, should be considered in women of reproductive age with unilateral pelvic pain. Early diagnostic laparoscopy is important for an accurate diagnosis and could salvage the tube.
R-Process Nucleosynthesis in MHD Jet Explosions of Core-Collapse Supernovae
Authors: Saruwatari Motoaki , Hashimoto Masa-aki , Fukuda Ryohei , Fujimoto Shin-ichiro
Published: October 2013

We investigate the r-process nucleosynthesis during the magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) explosion of a supernova in a helium star of 3.3 M⊙, where effects of neutrinos are taken into account using the leakage scheme in the two-dimensional (2D) hydrodynamic code. Jet-like explosion due to the combined effects of differential rotation and magnetic field is able to erode the lower electron fraction matter from the inner layers. We find that the ejected material of low electron fraction responsible for the r-process comes out from just outside the neutrino sphere deep inside the Fe-core. It is found that heavy element nucleosynthesis depends on the initial conditions of rotational and magnetic fields. In particular, the third peak of the distribution is significantly overproduced relative to the solar system abundances, which would indicate a possible r-process site owing to MHD jets in supernovae.
24-Hour ICH Score Is a Better Predictor of Outcome than Admission ICH Score
Authors: Aysenne Aimee M. , Albright Karen C. , Mathias Tiffany , Chang Tiffany R. , Boehme Amelia K. , Beasley T. Mark , Martin-Schild Sheryl
Published: October 2013

Background. The ICH score is a validated tool for predicting 30-day morbidity and mortality in patients with intracerebral hemorrhage. Aims and/or Hypothesis. The aim of this study is to determine if the ICH score calculated 24 hours after admission is a better predictor of mortality than the ICH score calculated on admission. Methods. Patients presenting to our center with ICH from 7/08–12/10 were retrospectively identified from our prospective stroke registry. ICH scores were calculated based on initial Glasgow coma scale (GCS) and emergent head computed tomography (CT) on initial presentation and were recalculated after 24 hours. Results. A total of 91 patients out of 121 had complete data for admission and 24-hour ICH score. The ICH score changed in 38% from baseline to 24 hours. After adjusting for age, NIHSS on admission, and glucose, ICH score at 24 hours was a significant, independent predictor of mortality (OR = 2.71, 95% CI 1–19–6.20, and ), but ICH score on admission was not (OR = 2.14, 95% CI 0.88–5.24, and ). Conclusion. Early determination of the ICH score may incorrectly estimate the severity and expected outcome after ICH. Calculations of the ICH score 24 hours after admission will better predict early outcomes.
Ouabain-Induced Apoptosis in Cochlear Hair Cells and Spiral Ganglion NeuronsIn Vitro
Authors: Fu Yong , Ding Dalian , Wei Lei , Jiang Haiyan , Salvi Richard
Published: October 2013

Ouabain is a common tool to explore the pathophysiological changes in adult mammalian cochleain vivo. In prior studies, locally administering ouabain via round window membrane demonstrated that the ototoxic effects of ouabainin vivovaried among mammalian species. Little is known about the ototoxic effectsin vitro. Thus, we prepared cochlear organotypic cultures from postnatal day-3 rats and treated these cultures with ouabain at 50, 500, and 1000 μM for different time to elucidate the ototoxic effects of ouabainin vitroand to provide insights that could explain the comparative ototoxic effects of ouabainin vivo. Degeneration of cochlear hair cells and spiral ganglion neurons was evaluated by hair-cell staining and neurofilament labeling, respectively. Annexin V staining was used to detect apoptotic cells. A quantitative RT-PCR apoptosis-focused gene array determined changes in apoptosis-related genes. The results showed that ouabain-induced damagein vitrowas dose and time dependent. 500 μM ouabain and 1000 μM ouabain were destructively traumatic to both spiral ganglion neurons and cochlear hair cells in an apoptotic signal-dependent pathway. The major apoptotic pathways in ouabain-induced spiral ganglion neuron apoptosis culminated in the stimulation of the p53 pathway and triggering of apoptosis by a network of proapoptotic signaling pathways.
Malignant Catatonia Mimicking Pheochromocytoma
Authors: Wong Sophia , Hughes Barbara , Pudek Morris , Li Dailin
Published: October 2013

Malignant catatonia is an unusual and highly fatal neuropsychiatric condition which can present with clinical and biochemical manifestations similar to those of pheochromocytoma. Differentiating between the two diseases is essential as management options greatly diverge. We describe a case of malignant catatonia in a 20-year-old male who presented with concurrent psychotic symptoms and autonomic instability, with markedly increased 24-hour urinary levels of norepinephrine at 1752 nmol/day (normal, 89–470 nmol/day), epinephrine at 1045 nmol/day (normal, <160 nmol/day), and dopamine at 7.9 μmol/day (normal, 0.4–3.3 μmol/day). The patient was treated with multiple sessions of electroconvulsive therapy, which led to complete clinical resolution. Repeat urine collections within weeks of this presenting event revealed normalization or near normalization of his catecholamine and metanephrine levels. Malignant catatonia should be considered in the differential diagnosis of the hypercatecholamine state, particularly in a patient who also exhibits concurrent catatonic features.
Prenatal Diagnosis and Fetomaternal Outcomes of Two Cases with Placental Chorioangioma
Authors: Artunc Ulkumen Burcu , Pala Halil Gursoy , Nese Nalan , Baytur Yesim
Published: October 2013

Placental chorioangiomas greater than 4 cm in diameter are rare placental tumors. They have adverse fetomaternal outcomes. We present our experience with two cases having a giant angioma and review the relevant literature.
Rhabdomyolysis-Induced Acute Kidney Injury Under Hypoxia and Deprivation of Food and Water
Authors: Wang Jingwen , Wang Dewen , Li Yang , Zuo Hongyan , Wang Shaoxia , Xu Xinping , Guo Xiaoming , Gao Yabing , Wang Shuiming , Peng Ruiyun
Published: October 2013

Background: To investigate the renal pathophysiologyin rhabdomyolysis-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) in rats under hypoxia and deprivation of food and water (HDFW), thus broadening the knowledge about rhabdomyolysis-induced AKI in massive earthquake. Methods: Male Wistar rats weighing 200-230g were randomized into control, rhabdomyolysis (R), HDFW and rhabdomyolysis in combination with HDFW (R/HDFW) group. Experimental rhabdomyolysis rat model was established through clamping hind limb muscles, HDFW model rats were kept in 10% hypoxic chamber unavailable to food and water. At 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11d after treatment, serum creatinine (Scr) level, renal index, renal structural changes and cell apoptosis were analyzed. Results: After R, HDFW, R/HDFW treatment, the animals showed significantly higher Scr levels than the control group. Renal index in R and R/HDFW groups elevated remarkably compared with that in control and HDFW group. The results of histopathology, ultra-structure and apoptosis assay suggested that rhabdomyolysis caused renal tubular injury, HDFW treatment resulted in renal vascular dilation, tissue congestion and tubular cell damage. In addition, more severe renal lesion appeared in R/HDFW. Conclusions: We conclude that the association of experimental rhabdomyolysis with HDFW results in a different functional and histological pattern. The rhabdomyolysis-HDFW combination causes more severe renal injury.
Correlation between ABCD, ABCD2 Scores and Craniocervical Artery Stenosis in Patients with Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Sun Wen , Dai Jiafei , Xiong Yunyun , Huang Zhixin , Li Yongkun , Liu Wenhua , Zhu Wusheng , Xu Gelin , Liu Xinfeng
Published: October 2013

Background and Purpose: Craniocervical artery stenosis is an important etiology for transient ischemic attack (TIA). We hypothesized ABCD and ABCD2 scores can predict craniocervical artery stenosis in patients with TIA. Methods: ABCD and ABCD2 scores were calculated in a total of 479 consecutive first-ever TIA patients in Nanjing Stroke Registry Program and compared with angiographic imaging derived from MRI or invasive catheter-based angiography. Results: Overall craniocervical artery (O-CA) stenosis was found in 197 (41.1%) patients. Extracranial craniocervical artery (E-CA) and intracranial craniocervical artery (I-CA) stenosis was found in 101 (21.1%) and 110 (23%) cases, respectively. ABCD and ABCD2 scores with similar accuracy for O-CA (AUCABCD 0.71, AUCABCD2 0.70), E-CA (AUCABCD 0.72, AUCABCD2 0.72) and I-CA stenosis (AUCABCD 0.62, AUCABCD2 0.62) were both independent predictors for various categories of artery stenosis after being adjusted for non-ABCD2 parameters. The cut-off points were equally 4 in both predicting rules. For ABCD, sensitivity was 57.4, 65.3 and 52.7% and specificity 77.0, 70.4 and 67.5% for O-CA/E-CA/I-CA, respectively. For ABCD2, sensitivity was 61.9, 69.3 and 58.2% and specificity 72.3, 65.6 and 63.1%. Conclusions: In patients with TIA, despite an association between ABCD and ABCD2 scores and underlying craniocervical artery stenosis, the clinical utility was limited by unsatisfactory sensitivity and specificity.
Angioimmunoblastic T Cell Lymphoma: An Unusual Presentation of Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder in a Pediatric Patient
Authors: Kraus Teresa S. , Twist Clare J. , Tan Brent T.
Published: October 2013

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) are a potentially life-threatening complication of immunosuppression in transplant recipients. The majority of cases are Epstein-Barr virus-associated lesions of B cell origin. T cell PTLD is rare, particularly in pediatric patients. We present an unusual case of monomorphic T cell PTLD with features of angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma in an 8-year-old heart transplant patient, presenting with cranial nerve palsy.
VEGF Gene Polymorphism and Response to Intravitreal Ranibizumab in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: dos Reis Veloso Carlos Eduardo , Frota de Almeida Luciana Negrão , Recchia Franco Maria , Pelayes David , Nehemy Márcio Bittar
Published: October 2013

Background/Aims: To investigate the association between VEGF gene polymorphism and response to ranibizumab in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: A total of 92 patients were genotyped for the VEGF rs1413711 single nucleotide polymorphism. Patients with neovascular AMD initially received 3 monthly ranibizumab intravitreal injections and were retreated as needed. Visual acuity (VA) and central retinal thickness (CRT) were measured before and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment. Results: For patients with TT and CT genotypes, paired comparisons of mean VA showed improvement when the data obtained at all visits were compared with baseline values, in contrast to patients with the CC genotype. CRT statistically improved at all visits for all genotypes. Conclusion: Patients with the CC genotype showed poorer long-term functional and anatomical response to anti-VEGF therapy.
Impact of Flow Cytometry in Thyroid Cytopathology
Authors: Boonyaarunnate Thiraphon , Olson Matthew T. , Ali Syed Z.
Published: October 2013

Background: Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) is a useful diagnostic tool for preoperative evaluation of thyroid nodules. However, cytomorphology alone has poor accuracy for the diagnosis of lymphoproliferative disorders involving the thyroid. This study reviews our experience with flow cytometry on thyroid FNA and correlation with surgical follow-up at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Methods: The 11,118 thyroid FNAs performed over a 20-year period were reviewed for clinical flow cytometry data (n = 62) or a subsequent diagnosis of lymphoma in the thyroid without flow cytometry data (n = 2). Result: Sixty-four cases (0.6%) were included out of 11,118 thyroid FNAs collected over a 20-year period. Lymphoma was diagnosed 13 times. In 8 cases, both cytomorphology and flow cytometry arrived at the correct diagnosis. Cytomorphology alone made the correct diagnosis twice in the absence of flow cytometric results; flow cytometry made the diagnosis once in the absence of suspicious morphology. Neither flow cytometry nor cytomorphology made the correct diagnosis in 2 sparsely cellular cases. Conclusion: The combination of cytomorphology and flow cytometry is a useful diagnostic modality for the work-up of lymphocyte-rich thyroid nodules that show atypical lymphocyte populations.
Perioperative Thromboprophylaxis
Authors: Langer Florian
Published: October 2013

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE), a composite of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is a preventable cause of morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. Method: National and international treatment guidelines and major clinical trials on mechanical or pharmacological VTE prophylaxis in surgical patients were reviewed. Results: The risk of perioperative VTE is dependent on patient- and surgery-related risk factors. Based on a thorough and individualized risk assessment, each surgical patient should be assigned a low, intermediate, or high risk of VTE. Whereas basic (e.g. early mobilization and avoidance of dehydration) and mechanical (i.e. graduated compression stockings) measures are appropriate for most low-risk patients, visceral surgical patients at intermediate or high risk of VTE should receive pharmacological thromboprophylaxis for at least 7-10 days. The risk of VTE should be balanced against the risk of bleeding. Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) offers several advantages over low-dose unfractionated heparin and should be administered for prolonged periods in patients undergoing particularly high-risk (i.e. cancer) surgery. Conclusion: Perioperative VTE prophylaxis should be carried out in an individualized and risk-adapted manner. In visceral surgical patients with a moderate-to-high risk of VTE and a low risk of bleeding, pharmacological thromboprophylaxis with LMWH is a standard of care.
Intraoperatives Gerinnungsmanagement
Authors: Johanning Kai
Published: October 2013

Hintergrund: Intraoperative Gerinnungsstörungen kommen bei großen Operationen häufig vor und können verschiedene, oft parallel auftretende Ursachen haben. Die Blutungsdynamik unter laufender Operation erfordert eine gute interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit sowie ein effektives Team- und Kontextmanagement. Geeignete diagnostische Methoden sind für ein rasches und zielgerichtetes Gerinnungsmanagement notwendig. Methode: Die Literatur bis April 2013 wurde selektiv, inklusive der neuen europäischen und deutschen anästhesiologischen Handlungsempfehlungen zum perioperativen Blutungsmanagement, berücksichtigt. Ergebnisse: Dilutionskoagulopathien zählen zu den häufigsten intraoperativen Gerinnungsstörungen, da bei Blutverlust zur Aufrechterhaltung der Makrozirkulation kolloidale oder kristalloide Lösungen infundiert bzw. Erythrozytenkonzentrate zur Oxygenierung transfundiert werden. Hypothermien, Azidosen, Hypocalciämien, Anämien, Hyperfibrinolysen, Medikamenteneinnahmen und Vorerkrankungen können die Koagulopathien verstärken. Fibrinogen ist der erste Faktor, der bei massiven Blutungen kritisch abfällt und substituiert werden muss. Schlussfolgerungen: Patientennahe diagnostische Verfahren eignen sich besonders zur Differenzierung von intraoperativen Gerinnungsstörungen und einer zielgerichteten Therapie. Faktorenkonzentrate stehen schneller als Gefrierplasmen (fresh frozen plasma, FFP) zur Verfügung und bilden häufig die Basis einer zielgerichteten Therapie. FFP enthalten alle Faktoren in einem physiologischen Verhältnis, allerdings unkonzentriert. Zu den Limitationen zählen neben geringerer Wirksamkeit die zeitaufwendige Vorbereitung und die nicht unerheblichen unerwünschten Wirkungen. Die Evidenzlage ist noch nicht ausreichend für eindeutige Empfehlungen.
Pre-Operative Peritumoral Edema and Survival Rate in Glioblastoma Multiforme
Authors: Liu Shui-Yuan , Mei Wen-Zhong , Lin Zhi-Xiong
Published: October 2013

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the relationship between pre-operative peritumoral edema and survival in patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). We searched for studies involving patients with GBM who underwent pre-operative imaging (magnetic resonance imaging and/or computed tomography) in which the peritumoral edema was assessed as a prognostic factor for survival. 7 retrospective studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the study. 2 studies found that pre-operative peritumoral edema was an independent prognostic factor for decreased survival. 1 study found that survival was dependent on the severity of the peritumoral edema (minimal and severe: increased survival; moderate: decreased survival). 2 studies found that pre-operative peritumoral edema was a predictor of decreased survival based on univariate but not multivariate analysis. 1 study found that there was no relationship between pre-operative peritumoral edema and survival, while the remaining study found that patients with peritumoral edema had decreased survival compared with patients without peritumoral edema. There was considerable heterogeneity between the studies regarding the patient characteristics. The results of our systematic review are inconclusive; the available evidence does not definitely support or rule out an association between pre-operative peritumoral edema and survival. Hence, further, well-designed, prospective studies are clearly needed.
Commonly Used Methods of Complementary Medicine in the Treatment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Hübner Jutta , Hanf Volker
Published: October 2013

Many patients with cancer look for information on complementary or alternative medicine (CAM) and use various CAM methods. Women with breast cancer are amongst the most avid users. Patients in Europe prefer drug-bound CAM methods, which are prone to side effects and drug interactions. In order to reduce these risks, communication between the patient and the physician on CAM is indispensible. Yet, most patients do not discuss CAM in general and complementary drug therapy in particular with their oncologists and most oncologists themselves are not overly familiar with the topic. This article gives an overview on the most often used CAM methods with regard to breast cancer. The current state of the scientific evidence, the benefits and risks are summarized.
Homeopathy: Meta-Analyses of Pooled Clinical Data
Authors: Hahn Robert G.
Published: October 2013

In the first decade of the evidence-based era, which began in the mid-1990s, meta-analyses were used to scrutinize homeopathy for evidence of beneficial effects in medical conditions. In this review, meta-analyses including pooled data from placebo-controlled clinical trials of homeopathy and the aftermath in the form of debate articles were analyzed. In 1997 Klaus Linde and co-workers identified 89 clinical trials that showed an overall odds ratio of 2.45 in favor of homeopathy over placebo. There was a trend toward smaller benefit from studies of the highest quality, but the 10 trials with the highest Jadad score still showed homeopathy had a statistically significant effect. These results challenged academics to perform alternative analyses that, to demonstrate the lack of effect, relied on extensive exclusion of studies, often to the degree that conclusions were based on only 5-10% of the material, or on virtual data. The ultimate argument against homeopathy is the ‘funnel plot' published by Aijing Shang's research group in 2005. However, the funnel plot is flawed when applied to a mixture of diseases, because studies with expected strong treatments effects are, for ethical reasons, powered lower than studies with expected weak or unclear treatment effects. To conclude that homeopathy lacks clinical effect, more than 90% of the available clinical trials had to be disregarded. Alternatively, flawed statistical methods had to be applied. Future meta-analyses should focus on the use of homeopathy in specific diseases or groups of diseases instead of pooling data from all clinical trials.
Clinical Outcomes of Surgical Pulmonary Valve Replacement After Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot and Potential Prognostic Value of Preoperative Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
Authors: Babu-Narayan Sonya V. , Diller Gerhard-Paul , Gheta Radu R. , Bastin Anthony J. , Karonis Theodoros , Li Wei , Pennell Dudley J. , Uemura Hideki , Sethia Babulal , Gatzoulis Michael A. , Shore Darryl F.
Published: October 2013

Background—

Indications for surgical pulmonary valve replacement (PVR) after repair of tetralogy of Fallot have recently been broadened to include asymptomatic patients.

Methods and Results—

The outcomes of PVR in adults after repair of tetralogy of Fallot at a single tertiary center were retrospectively studied. Preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing was included. Mortality was the primary outcome measure. In total, 221 PVRs were performed in 220 patients (130 male patients; median age, 32 years; range, 16–64 years). Homografts were used in 117 patients, xenografts in 103 patients, and a mechanical valve in 1 patient. Early (30-day) mortality was 2%. Overall survival was 97% at 1 year, 96% at 3 years, and 92% at 10 years. Survival after PVR in the later era (2005–2010; n=156) was significantly better compared with survival in the earlier era (1993–2004; n=65; 99% versus 94% at 1 year and 98% versus 92% at 3 years, respectively;
P
=0.019). Earlier era patients were more symptomatic preoperatively (
P
=0.036) with a lower preoperative peak oxygen consumption (peak

o
2
;
P
<0.001). Freedom from redo surgical or transcatheter PVR was 98% at 5 years and 96% at 10 years for the whole cohort. Peak

o
2
, E/CO2 slope (ratio of minute ventilation to carbon dioxide production), and heart rate reserve during cardiopulmonary exercise testing predicted risk of early mortality when analyzed with logistic regression analysis; peak

o
2
emerged as the strongest predictor on multivariable analysis (odds ratio, 0.65 per 1 mL·kg
−1
·min
−1
;
P
=0.041).

Conclusions—

PVR after repair of tetralogy of Fallot has a low and improving mortality, with a low need for reintervention. Preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing predicts surgical outcome and should therefore be included in the routine assessment of these patients.
Interferon Regulatory Factor 9 Protects Against Cardiac Hypertrophy by Targeting Myocardin
Authors: Jiang Ding-Sheng , Luo Yu-Xuan , Zhang Ran , Zhang Xiao-Dong , Chen Hou-Zao , Zhang Yan , Chen Ke , Zhang Shu-Min , Fan Guo-Chang , Liu Peter P. , Liu De-Pei , Li Hongliang
Published: October 2013

Pathological cardiac hypertrophy is a major risk factor for heart failure. In this study, we identified interferon regulatory factor 9 (IRF9), a member of the IRF family, as a previously unidentified negative regulator of cardiac hypertrophy. The level of IRF9 expression was remarkably elevated in the hearts from animals with aortic banding–induced cardiac hypertrophy. IRF9-deficient mice exhibited pronounced cardiac hypertrophy after pressure overload, as demonstrated by increased cardiomyocyte size, extensive fibrosis, reduced cardiac function, and enhanced expression of hypertrophy markers, whereas transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of murine IRF9 exhibited a significant reduction in the hypertrophic response. Mechanistically, IRF9 competes with p300 for binding to the transcription activation domain of myocardin, a coactivator of serum response factor (SRF). This interaction markedly suppresses the transcriptional activity of myocardin because IRF9 overexpression strongly inhibits the ability of myocardin to activate CArG box–dependent reporters. These results provide compelling evidence that IRF9 inhibits the development of cardiac hypertrophy by suppressing the transcriptional activity of myocardin in the heart.
Impaired Encoding
Authors: Admon-Rick Gaby
Published: October 2013

Work injury compensation and pensions are often determined according to medical disability rating scales attributing a percentage to each impaired body part or function. Incorporated into central medical–administrative networks of committees and examinations, these produce disability as a calculable space. This article examines the specific case of the Israeli National Insurance regulations regarding work injuries of 1956 and analyzes the shifted order they set. Looking at this system in the specific historical context of transition from the British Mandate workmen’s compensation system to the “disability percentages” system, provides insight into the process of structuring and stabilizing durable numerical forms and the production of centralized government. Drawing on conceptualizations regarding the sociotechnical role of classification systems, I contend that through encoding and calculating classifications of disability, heterogeneity is eliminated and an ordering based on physiology is “black boxed,” illustrating the importance of technoscientific formations in structuring the “medical model of disability.”
An investigation of children’s peer trust across culture: Is the composition of peer trust universal?
Authors: Betts Lucy R. , Rotenberg Ken J. , Petrocchi Serena , Lecciso Flavia , Sakai Atsushi , Maeshiro Kazumi , Judson Helen
Published: October 2013

The components of children’s trust in same-gender peers (trust beliefs, ascribed trustworthiness, and dyadic reciprocal trust) were examined in samples of 8–11-year-olds from the UK, Italy, and Japan. Trust was assessed by children’s ratings of the extent to which same-gender classmates kept promises and kept secrets. Social relations analyses confirmed that children from each country showed significant: (a) actor variance demonstrating reliable individual differences in trust beliefs, (b) partner variance demonstrating reliable individual differences in ascribed trustworthiness, and (c) relationship variance demonstrating unique relationships between interaction partners. Cultural differences in trust beliefs and ascribed trustworthiness also emerged and these differences were attributed to the tendency for children from cultures that value societal goals to share personal information with the peer group.
Axelos, Castoriadis, Papaioannou and Marx
Authors: Memos Christos
Published: October 2013

The intellectual ferment that emerged in postwar France was marked by the renaissance of Hegel’s thought and the focus on Marx's early writings. In a parallel way, the death of Stalin, the uprising of 1953 in East Germany and the revolts in Hungary and Poland in 1956 provoked a thorough critique against the theory and practice of orthodox Marxism. The relationship between Marx and Marxism or the issue about the philosophical foundations of Marx’s thinking became the subject of long-standing controversy and gave rise to several interpretations of Marx’s work. These debates were decisively fostered by the foreign intellectuals and refugees who arrived in France after the end of the Second World War; inter alia, a generation of young Greek intellectuals that included the prominent figures of Kostas Axelos, Cornelius Castoriadis and Kostas Papaioannou. This article focuses on Axelos’, Castoriadis’ and Papaioannou’s critique of Marx and provides an anti-critique of their intellectual endeavour. It outlines the common basis of their critical confrontation with the Marxian theorizing and argues that they interpreted Marx’s thought in a manner similar to orthodox Marxism. Despite the undoubted merits of their critique, they did not take it to all its theoretical and political conclusions. As a result, the horizons they opened lack radicalism and their dialogue with Marx was left open to being misunderstood.
Work Engagement in India
Authors: Alok Kumar
Published: October 2013

Work engagement is generally accepted to have three factors: vigour, dedication and absorption. I studied whether this three-factor model is valid for India. 182 Indian working professionals completed the 9-item Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-9). Confirmatory factor analysis showed that the three factor model may not be appropriate for India. Instead, it may be more appropriate to consider work engagement as a single-factor construct for India. Further analyses showed that the single-factor model is invariant across gender, organizational tenure and dyadic duration, but varies across age groups. It may indicate the need to consider culture as a boundary condition for work engagement.
Cooperative multi-robot estimation and control for radio source localization
Authors: Charrow Benjamin , Michael Nathan , Kumar Vijay
Published: October 2013

We develop algorithms for estimation and control that allow a team of robots equipped with range sensors to localize an unknown target in a known but complex environment. We present an experimental model for radio-based time-of-flight range sensors. Adopting a Bayesian approach for estimation, we then develop a control law which maximizes the mutual information between the robot’s measurements and their current belief of the target position. We describe experimental results for a robot team localizing a stationary target in several representative indoor environments in which the unknown target is reliably localized with an error well below the typical error for individual measurements.
A direct method for trajectory optimization of rigid bodies through contact
Authors: Posa Michael , Cantu Cecilia , Tedrake Russ
Published: October 2013

Direct methods for trajectory optimization are widely used for planning locally optimal trajectories of robotic systems. Many critical tasks, such as locomotion and manipulation, often involve impacting the ground or objects in the environment. Most state-of-the-art techniques treat the discontinuous dynamics that result from impacts as discrete modes and restrict the search for a complete path to a specified sequence through these modes. Here we present a novel method for trajectory planning of rigid-body systems that contact their environment through inelastic impacts and Coulomb friction. This method eliminates the requirement for a priori mode ordering. Motivated by the formulation of multi-contact dynamics as a Linear Complementarity Problem for forward simulation, the proposed algorithm poses the optimization problem as a Mathematical Program with Complementarity Constraints. We leverage Sequential Quadratic Programming to naturally resolve contact constraint forces while simultaneously optimizing a trajectory that satisfies the complementarity constraints. The method scales well to high-dimensional systems with large numbers of possible modes. We demonstrate the approach on four increasingly complex systems: rotating a pinned object with a finger, simple grasping and manipulation, planar walking with the Spring Flamingo robot, and high-speed bipedal running on the FastRunner platform.
Operative Management of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Insufficiency in Adolescent Athletes
Authors: Jones Kristofer J. , Dines Joshua S. , Rebolledo Brian J. , Weeks Kenneth D. , Williams Riley J. , Dines David M. , Altchek David W.
Published: October 2013

Background:

The incidence of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries of the elbow has increased in adolescents over the past decade because of widespread participation in athletics and heightened awareness among physicians.

Hypothesis:

Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction using the docking technique would result in a successful return to athletic activity in this age group.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Study participants were 55 skeletally mature adolescent athletes (mean age, 17.6 years; range, 15-18 years) who underwent UCL reconstruction between 2008 and 2010. While the majority of patients were baseball players (n = 47), there were 3 gymnasts and 5 javelin throwers included in the study. Each patient underwent UCL reconstruction utilizing the docking technique after an adequate trial of nonoperative management (mean, 5.8 months). At the latest follow-up, patients were evaluated to determine their ability to return to athletic activity. Clinical outcomes were classified using the Conway scale, the Andrews-Timmerman score, and the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (KJOC) score.

Results:

At a minimum 2-year follow-up, 87% (48/55) of patients had excellent results using the Conway scale. Overall, there were only 2 poor results (3.6%) that were observed in patients with concomitant osteochondritis dissecans lesions of the capitellum. There were 4 postoperative complications in 4 patients (2 gymnasts and 2 javelin throwers) who developed ulnar neuritis after UCL reconstruction. The mean Andrews-Timmerman score was 83.6 ± 7.2 (range, 30-100), and the mean KJOC score was 88.0 ± 6.0 (range, 40-100).

Conclusion:

The docking technique results in favorable clinical outcomes in adolescent athletes with UCL insufficiency at a minimum of 2 years postoperatively. Patients with concomitant intra-articular lesions should be cautioned preoperatively that they might experience inferior clinical outcomes. Postoperatively, adolescent gymnasts and javelin throwers may be at an increased risk for transient paresthesia of the ulnar nerve caused by increased stress on the medial elbow.
How Bad Could It Be? Alcohol Dampens Stress Responses to Threat of Uncertain Intensity
Authors: Bradford Daniel E. , Shapiro Benjamin L. , Curtin John J.
Published: October 2013

Stress response dampening is an important motive for alcohol use. However, stress reduction via alcohol (alcohol SRD) is observed inconsistently in the laboratory, and this has raised questions about the precise mechanisms and boundary conditions for these effects. Emerging evidence indicates that alcohol SRD may be observed selectively during uncertain but not certain threats. In a final sample of 89 participants, we measured stress response via potentiation of defensive startle reflex in response to threat of shock in blocks with certain (low and high) and uncertain shock intensity. Our alcohol-administration procedure produced blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) across a broad range (0.00%–0.12%) across participants. Increasing BACs were associated with linearly decreasing startle potentiation and self-reported anxiety. This SRD effect was greater during uncertain than certain threat. More broadly, these results suggest that distinct mechanisms are involved in response to threats of uncertain intensity and threats of certain intensity.
Opening up terrorism talk: The sequential and categorical production of discursive power within the call openings of a talk radio broadcast
Authors: Kilby Laura , Horowitz Ava D
Published: October 2013

The current research undertakes a combined conversation analysis (CA)/membership categorisation analysis (MCA) approach to analyse the unfolding moral business of ‘talk radio’ discourse, and situates this analysis within a critical discourse studies framework. In a case study analysis of a talk radio broadcast on the topic of terrorism, the sequencing and membership categorisation work that is accomplished during the call openings of its contributors is examined. Local manifestations of discursive power allied to the ‘host’ role are identified, along with the data-driven distinction of ‘lay’ and ‘elite’ callers. The empowering versus disempowering consequences of sequential turn allocation and identity categorisation are explored, leading to some reflections on security versus human rights advocacy within terrorism talk. The contribution of this research to two research enterprises is then outlined. First, we highlight the benefit that a combined CA/MCA approach, which foregrounds powerplay, offers to analysis of talk-in-interaction. Following this, we underline how placing such a micro-level spotlight on the seemingly mundane details of talk in context can offer valuable insights for critical terrorism studies.
The first five years of a preventive programme for haemoglobinopathies in Northeastern Iraq
Authors: Al-Allawi Nasir AS , Jalal Sana D , Ahmed Najmaddin H , Faraj Azad H , Shalli Awaz , Hamamy Hanan
Published: October 2013

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a preventive programme for haemoglobinopathies in a single centre in Northeastern Iraq.

Methods

Premarital screening, genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis (PND) were implemented over a 5 year period.

Results

Among a total of 108,264 screened individuals (54,132 couples), β-thalassaemia trait, δβ-thalassaemia trait, and sickle cell trait were diagnosed in 3.98%, 0.11% and 0.07%, respectively. Of 130 at risk couples (2.4/1000), 107 (82%) were available for follow up, with 105 couples (98.1%) proceeding with their marriage after counselling. In the 125 registered pregnancies in the latter couples, PND was performed in 85 (in 80 couples, uptake 76%). Selective termination was chosen in 10 of the 11 pregnancies with an affected fetus. Six affected babies were born among couples who declined PND. At the same time 30 already married couples with at least one thalassaemic child underwent PND, revealing three affected fetuses; all three pregnancies were terminated.

Conclusion

The programme revealed that most at risk couples diagnosed by premarital screening chose to proceed with their marriage, with 76% seeking PND followed by selective termination of an affected fetus. A 65% reduction in number of affected births was reported over the 5 year period. This regional programme could serve as a prototype for a national haemoglobinopathy prevention programme.
Uncontrolled confounding in studies of screening effectiveness: an example of colonoscopy
Authors: Eldridge Ronald C , Doubeni Chyke A , Fletcher Robert H , Zauber Ann G , Corley Douglas A , Doria-Rose V Paul , Goodman Michael
Published: October 2013

Objective

To estimate the expected magnitude of error produced by uncontrolled confounding from health behaviours in observational medical record-based studies evaluating effectiveness of screening colonoscopy.

Methods

We used data from the prospective National Institutes of Health American Association of Retired Persons (NIH-AARP) Diet and Health Study to assess the impact of health behaviour related factors (lifestyle, education, and use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAID]) on the association between colonoscopy and colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality. We first examined the difference between adjusted and unadjusted results within the cohort data, and then estimated a broader range of likely confounding errors based on the Breslow-Day approach that uses prevalence of confounders among persons with and without exposure, and the rate ratio reflecting the association between these confounders and the outcome of interest. As dietary factors and habits are often inter-correlated, we combined these variables (physical activity, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, alcohol consumption, and intakes of red meat, processed meat, fibre, milk, and calcium) into a “healthy lifestyle score” (HLS).

Results

The estimated error (a ratio of biased-to-true result) attributable to confounding by HLS was 0.959–0.997, indicating less than 5% departure from the true effect of colonoscopy on CRC mortality. The corresponding errors ranged from 0.970 to 0.996 for NSAID, and from 0.974 to 1.006 for education (all ≤3% difference). The results for other CRC screening tests were similar.

Conclusion

Health behaviour-related confounders, either alone or in combination, seem unlikely to strongly affect the association between colonoscopy and CRC mortality in observational studies of CRC screening.
Non-ideal mechanical system with an oscillator with rational nonlinearity
Authors: Cveticanin Livija , Zukovic Miodrag
Published: October 2013

In this paper the generalized form of a non-ideal system which contains a pure nonlinear oscillator and a non-ideal energy source is studied. In the non-ideal oscillator-motor system there is an interaction between the motions of the oscillator and those of the motor, as the motor has an influence on the oscillator and vice versa. The mathematical model of the system is represented with two coupled nonlinear differential equations. The averaging method for solving these differential equations is based on the application of the Ateb function, which is the exact solution of the pure nonlinear oscillator. Using the obtained approximate solution, the resonant motion of the system is considered. Significant attention is paid to the steady-state motion and to the Sommerfeld effect. The influence of the order of nonlinearity on the dynamics of the nonideal system is evident. In the paper the procedure for determination of the parameters for suppression of the Sommerfeld effect of the non-ideal system is also given.
On caretakers, rebels and enforcers: The gender politics of Euro 2012
Authors: Athanassiou Cerelia , Bury Jonah
Published: October 2013

This article examines the gender politics of Euro 2012, an international men’s football tournament that took place in Poland and Ukraine, through two cases of female protest. Informed by Cynthia Enloe’s question ‘Where are the women?’, the case studies focus on Polish football fan and model Natalia Siwiec and Ukrainian women’s organisation FEMEN in order to render visible the heteromasculine nation–sport nexus underpinning Euro 2012. The analysis demonstrates how Siwiec emerges as the ‘caretaker’ of the Polish nation-state during the event by exposing how female bodies can be used to recuperate a polluted and emasculated national image. In contrast, FEMEN’s stunts are highly critical of the heteromasculine nation–sport nexus and reveal their position as ‘rebels’; however, a closer analysis of FEMEN’s actions beyond Euro 2012 shows how they can simultaneously operate as ‘enforcers’ of the nation-state. The role of ‘enforcers’ is especially pertinent in relation to the western nation-state’s contemporary ‘othering’ of Islam in the post-9/11 context. Both case studies demonstrate international politics in the making and call for closer scrutiny of the gender politics constitutive of seemingly apolitical and ‘inclusive’ sporting events.
Breaching or disturbing the peace? Organizational aesthetic encounters for informed and enlivened management learning experiences
Authors: Mack Kathy
Published: October 2013

The recent burgeoning of “organizational aesthetics” scholarship represents unrealized potential for transforming management learning practices. In response to calls for more embodied “holistic” ways of knowing, the present case study is a “wayfinding” journey into organizational aesthetic encounters with undergraduate management students. Initial encounters reveal how narratives of organizational quotidian evoke aesthetic attunement. Closer encounters engage students with their own aesthetic inquiries and artifacts to re-present aesthetic knowledge and sensibilities. As aesthetically attuned and active producers of “organizational aesthetics,” what is sensible and thus knowable in the context of management learning is disturbed—informing and enlivening our learning experiences. From a practical standpoint, these types of aesthetic encounters may breach the “management learning” peace, one disturbance at a time.
Promoting autonomous listening to podcasts: A case study
Authors: Cross Jeremy
Published: October 2013

This article reports on an exploratory case study of a Japanese learner of English as a foreign language (EFL) who was introduced to metatextual skills and activities for metacognitive instruction as a route towards promoting her autonomous use of the BBC’s online ‘From Our Own Correspondent’ podcasts outside of the classroom to enhance her second language listening ability. Journal entries and information from weekly interviews over 9 weeks are used to show how, with regular guidance and feedback, the learner employed aspects of metacognitive instruction and developed the metatextual skills for exploiting the podcasts in an increasingly informed, sophisticated and successful manner to develop her listening ability.
Long-term consequences of open abdomen management
Authors: Frazee Richard C , Abernathy Stephen , Jupiter Daniel , Davis Matthew , Regner Justin , Isbell Travis , Smith Randall
Published: October 2013

Background

There is little data on the long-term results of the open abdomen technique regarding subsequent bowel obstruction, enterocutaneous fistula and ventral hernia rates. This study represents our follow-up of these complications.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients undergoing open abdomen management was performed. Patient demographics and development of subsequent ventral hernia, enteric fistula and/or bowel obstruction were evaluated.

Results

Seventy-three men and 47 women with a mean age of 51 underwent open abdomen management; 85 for inflammatory conditions and 35 for haemorrhagic conditions. Only 27 patients did not achieve definitive fascial closure and were left open for secondary closure or had a biologic mesh bridge; 13 patients had component separation to achieve fascial closure. With a mean follow-up of 21 months, 30 patients (25%) developed a ventral hernia, 13 patients (11%) experienced an enterocutaneous fistula and two patients developed bowel obstruction. Ventral hernias and enterocutaneous fistulae occurred in 78% and 41%, respectively, of patients not definitively closed compared with 10% and 2%, respectively, of patients closed primarily at initial management ( p < 0.05).

Conclusions

There is a high incidence of ventral hernia and enterocutaneous fistula when open abdomen management necessitates leaving the abdomen open or using a biologic mesh bridge. Strategies for primary fascia closure including component separation should be employed.
Dynamics of Psychopathy and Moral Disengagement in the Etiology of Crime
Authors: DeLisi Matt , Peters David J. , Dansby Tamerria , Vaughn Michael G. , Shook Jeffrey J. , Hochstetler Andy
Published: October 2013

Moral engagement produces strong emotions that help individuals refrain from serious criminal behavior, but what if a youth is unable to experience these emotions. Based on a sample of adjudicated delinquents and using a series of structural equation models, we test whether moral disengagement varies by level of psychopathy in relation to criminal onset and assess this stability across gender. Psychopathic personality features, moral disengagement, and family stress intermixed in diverse ways depending on the severity of psychopathic personality and gender. At higher levels of psychopathy, the effect of psychopathy on criminal onset was unmediated. However, moral disengagement was found to have mediating effects on criminal onset at lower levels of psychopathy. Study findings lend support to the hypothesis that due to core emotional deficits, youth high on psychopathy are unaffected by the mechanisms of moral disengagement. Results are discussed in light of theories of morality and psychopathy and the treatment of moral deficits among youthful offenders.