bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empathy and helping: effects of racial group membership and cognitive load
Authors: Meiring Landi , Subramoney Sivenesi , Thomas Kevin GF , Decety Jean , Fourie Melike M
Published: April 2014

Previous research suggests that (a) racial group membership attenuates empathy, and subsequent prosocial helping behaviour, towards out-group members, and (b) helping behaviour is modified by the potential helper’s pool of cognitive resources. It remains unclear, however, how cognitive load influences empathy and helping towards racial in- versus out-group members. We investigated this question using a sample of 30 White females. After completing either a high or a low cognitive-load task, participants viewed video clips depicting distressed White or Black females. We examined cardiovascular responses, self-reported empathic responses, and helping behaviour in response to the clips. We found no effect of racial group membership on empathic responding or on helping behaviour across cognitive-load conditions. However, results suggested that high cognitive load attenuates empathic responding, leading to decreased helping behaviour towards both racial in- and out-group members. Interestingly, a high internal motivation to respond without prejudice was associated with increased helping towards out-group members, but only under conditions of low cognitive load.
Facilitating the evaluation of complexity in the public sector: learning from the NHS in Scotland
Authors: Connolly John , Reid Garth , Mooney Allan
Published: April 2014

It is necessary for public managers to be able to evaluate programmes in the context of complexity. This article offers key learning and reflections based on the experience of facilitating the evaluation of complexity with a range of public sector partners in Scotland. There have been several articles that consider evaluating complexity and theory-based approaches to evaluation; however, the literature is scarce when it comes to actually facilitating such approaches within the public sector. The article discusses the main steps used when facilitating outcomes planning with stakeholders and identifies some key challenges and learning in relation to undertaking this work. The article will be of interest to those that want to know more about the core components of outcomes-based evaluation and, moreover, to those that will undertake this type of facilitation within the public sector as part of organisational development and professional development.
Intensive Nutrition in Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Braunschweig Carol A. , Sheean Patricia M. , Peterson Sarah J. , Gomez Perez Sandra , Freels Sally , Lateef Omar , Gurka David , Fantuzzi Giamila
Published: April 2014

Background: Despite extensive use of enteral (EN) and parenteral nutrition (PN) in intensive care unit (ICU) populations for 4 decades, evidence to support their efficacy is extremely limited. Methods: A prospective randomized trial was conducted evaluate the impact on outcomes of intensive medical nutrition therapy (IMNT; provision of >75% of estimated energy and protein needs per day via EN and adequate oral diet) from diagnosis of acute lung injury (ALI) to hospital discharge compared with standard nutrition support care (SNSC; standard EN and ad lib feeding). The primary outcome was infections; secondary outcomes included number of days on mechanical ventilation, in the ICU, and in the hospital and mortality. Results: Overall, 78 patients (40 IMNT and 38 SNSC) were recruited. No significant differences between groups for age, body mass index, disease severity, white blood cell count, glucose, C‐reactive protein, energy or protein needs occurred. The IMNT group received significantly higher percentage of estimated energy (84.7% vs 55.4%, P < .0001) and protein needs (76.1 vs 54.4%, P < .0001) per day compared with SNSC. No differences occurred in length of mechanical ventilation, hospital or ICU stay, or infections. The trial was stopped early because of significantly greater hospital mortality in IMNT vs SNSC (40% vs 16%, P = .02). Cox proportional hazards models indicated the hazard of death in the IMNT group was 5.67 times higher (P = .001) than in the SNSC group. Conclusions: Provision of IMNT from ALI diagnosis to hospital discharge increases mortality.
A user approach to dialogic theory in a Facebook campaign on love and marriage
Authors: Lee Seow Ting
Published: April 2014

Private matters of the heart are the focus of “Beautifully Imperfect,” a Singapore government-led public communication campaign on love and marriage, part of larger pro-family efforts to reverse low marriage and birth rates. Through a case study based on focus groups, content analysis and interview methods, this study takes a user approach to dialogic theory by evaluating user reactions to and user interaction on Facebook and the manifestation of dialogic strategies and outcomes for relationship cultivation and persuasion. The findings suggest that while the campaign on Facebook meets some technical and design criteria for dialogic relationship-building on the web, Facebook is used merely as a one-way communication channel devoid of dialogue to relay messages from the state to its publics.
Text analytics – techniques, language and opportunity
Authors: Kent Evelyn L
Published: April 2014

This article takes a look at the many ways organizations are benefiting from text analytics and tries to clarify the language surrounding the process of turning text into data. Real life examples gathered from interviews and desk research illustrate how important text has become to understanding what is happening inside organizations. Increasingly, text and data are being used together to identify and solve business problems. This article provides an overview of the technologies behind analyzing text, practical applications of the field, and a guide to language used to describe the processes to conduct and use text analytics.
A three-tier ICT access model for intention to participate online
Authors: Chang Younghoon , Wong Siew Fan , Park Myeong-Cheol
Published: April 2014

The digital divide between countries is a critical phenomenon separating the countries that ‘have’ (mostly developed countries) from the countries that ‘have not’ (mostly developing countries). It places developing countries in a disadvantaged position economically, politically, and socially that in turns affects the life and social well-being of the citizens. Current understanding of the digital divide is limited by usage of secondary data, which prompts scholars to call for more theoretically-based empirical research. Since the key to reducing the digital divide is to increase people’s access to ICT, this study developed and empirically tested a 3-tier ICT access model to determine the effect on ICT development of intention to participate in online activities among citizens in developed and developing countries. The model was founded on three existing research frameworks. In addition, this study theoretically clarified the relationship between four types of ICT access and how they contribute to intention to participate online. Survey data of university students from Korea and Cambodia was collected. The results confirm the effect of ICT development on citizens’ intention and isolate key factors that impact the two countries differently. Technological access was found to impact extrinsic motivational access and skills access. Social access influenced extrinsic and intrinsic motivational access and skills access. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Management and outcomes of coronary artery perforations during percutaneous treatment of acute coronary syndromes
Authors: Aykan AÇ , Güler A , Gül I , Karabay CY , Alizade E , Gökdeniz T , Kalaycıoğlu E , Çetin M , Yıldız M
Published: April 2014

Background:

Coronary artery perforation (CAP) is an infrequent and life-threatening complication of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), requiring prompt intervention. There is insufficient data about the prognosis and management of CAP in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The aim of this study was to investigate the management of CAP in patients with ACS.

Methods:

The results of 25 patients with CAP were retrospectively analyzed.

Results:

Of the 25 patients, 14 patients (56%) had ACS. According to the Ellis classification, the grade of perforation was type-I in 8 (32%) patients, type-II in 6 (24%) patients and type-III in 11 (44%) patients. Prolonged balloon inflation was performed to 20 (80%) cases of CAP. It successfully sealed the perforation in three cases of type-I, five cases of type-II CAP and in seven cases of type-III CAP. Seven patients underwent covered stent implantation. Emergent CABG was required in two patients with type-III CAP. In-hospital mortality was not observed in the patients.

Conclusion:

The outcomes of CAP in patients with ACS were similar to patients with stable coronary disease. The continuation of anti-platelet agents after the successful management of CAP may be encouraged in these patients.
Lower limb ischaemia and reperfusion injury in healthy volunteers measured by oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers
Authors: Halladin NL , Ekeløf S , Alamili M , Bendtzen K , Lykkesfeldt J , Rosenberg J , Gögenur I
Published: April 2014

Objective:

Ischaemia-reperfusion (IR) injury is partly caused by the release of reactive oxygen species and cytokines and may result in remote organ injury. Surgical patients are exposed to surgical stress and anaesthesia, both of which can influence the IR response. An IR model without these interfering factors of surgery is, therefore, useful to test the potential of antioxidant and cytokine-modulatory treatments. The aim of this study was to characterize a human ischaemia-reperfusion model with respect to oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers.

Materials and methods:

Ten male volunteers were exposed to 20 minutes of lower limb ischaemia. Muscle biopsies and blood samples were taken at baseline and 5, 15, 30, 60 and 90 minutes after tourniquet release and analysed for malondialdehyde (MDA), ascorbic acid, dehydroascorbic acid, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), IL-6, IL-10, TNF-receptor (TNF-R)I, TNF-RII and YKL-40.

Results:

We found no significant increase in MDA in the muscle biopsies after reperfusion. Plasma levels of oxidative and pro- and anti-inflammatory parameters showed no significant differences between baseline and after reperfusion at any sampling time.

Conclusion:

Twenty minutes of lower limb ischaemia does not result in an ischaemia-reperfusion injury in healthy volunteers, measurable by oxidative and pro- and anti-inflammatory biomarkers in muscle biopsies and in the systemic circulation.
Why and How Italy Invented an Enemy Aliens Problem in the First World War
Authors: Caglioti Daniela L.
Published: April 2014

The article addresses the question of why, during the First World War, the Italian government and nationalist public opinion conformed to other European countries’ campaigns against enemy aliens in spite of the problem’s very minor dimension. After analysing the shift from Germanophilia to Germanophobia, it explores the policies targeting civilians of enemy nationality (mainly Austro-Hungarians and Germans), and assesses their implementation. By using statistical data on the presence of aliens in Italy, official documents, and the nationalist press, it shows that Italy waged a twofold campaign against an often imaginary enemy. The first was conducted mainly by nationalists and resulted in press campaigns, rumours, and brief eruptions of violence against alien targets. The second was conducted through decrees, administrative provisions, police activity, and military orders intended to affect personal freedom and property rights. The article inserts the Italian case into a broader European comparative framework.
Absolute Numbers: The Schlieffen Plan as a Critique of German Strategy in 1914
Authors: Holmes Terence M.
Published: April 2014

It is generally believed that the younger Moltke altered the Schlieffen plan in 1914 by reducing the relative strength of the German right wing, but that is a myth: in proportion to the rest of his forces Moltke’s right wing was just as strong as Schlieffen’s. The real difference lay in the absolute number of troops involved in their respective plans. From his assessment of French defensive capability Schlieffen concluded that the German army would need at least 48.5 corps to succeed with an attack on France by way of Belgium, but Moltke planned to attack through Belgium with just 34 corps at his disposal in the west. The Schlieffen plan amounts to a critique of German strategy in 1914 since it clearly predicted the failure of Moltke’s underpowered invasion of France.
Postsecondary Transition and the Courts
Authors: Prince Angela M. T. , Plotner Anthony J. , Yell Mitchell L.
Published: April 2014

Postsecondary transition programming for students with disabilities has been a priority for state departments of education, local school districts, and individual education program planning teams since a transition requirement was added to the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1990. Whereas the legal requirements of transition programming are clear, it is instructive to see how courts have interpreted this mandate. In this article, we review six district-level court cases from 2012 to 2013 that involved postsecondary transition planning and services provided under IDEA 2004. Of these six cases, three were decided in favor of the school district, and three were decided in favor of the student and their families. We discuss recommendations to ensure that school districts provide legally appropriate transition planning and programming for eligible students with disabilities.
Positive Exercise Experience Facilitates Behavior Change via Self-Efficacy
Authors: Parschau Linda , Fleig Lena , Warner Lisa Marie , Pomp Sarah , Barz Milena , Knoll Nina , Schwarzer Ralf , Lippke Sonia
Published: April 2014

Purpose. Motivational processes can be set in motion when positive consequences of physical exercise are experienced. However, relationships between positive exercise experience and determinants of the motivational and the volitional phases of exercise change have attracted only sparse attention in research. Method. This research examines direct and indirect associations between positive experience and motivational as well as volitional self-efficacy, intention, action planning, and exercise in two distinct longitudinal samples. The first one originates from an online observational study in the general population with three measurement points in time ( N = 350) and the second one from a clinical intervention study in a rehabilitation context with four measurement points ( N = 275). Results. Structural equation modeling revealed the following: Positive experience is directly related with motivational self-efficacy as well as intentions in both samples. In the online sample only, positive experience is associated with volitional self-efficacy. In each sample, experience is indirectly associated with action planning via motivational self-efficacy and intentions. Moreover, action planning, in turn, predicts changes in physical exercise levels. Conclusions. Findings suggest a more prominent role of positive experience in the motivational than in the volitional phase of physical exercise change. Thus, this research contributes to the understanding of how positive experience is involved in the behavior change process.
The Effects of Chance Correlations on Partial Least Squares Path Modeling
Authors: Rönkkö Mikko
Published: April 2014

Partial least squares path modeling (PLS) has been increasing in popularity as a form of or an alternative to structural equation modeling (SEM) and has currently considerable momentum in some management disciplines. Despite recent criticism toward the method, most existing studies analyzing the performance of PLS have reached positive conclusions. This article shows that most of the evidence for the usefulness of the method has been a misinterpretation. The analysis presented shows that PLS amplifies the effects of chance correlations in a unique way and this effect explains prior simulations results better than the previous interpretations. It is unlikely that a researcher would willingly amplify error, and therefore the results show that the usefulness of the PLS method is a fallacy. There are much better ways to compensate for the attenuation effect caused by using latent variable scores to estimate SEM models than creating a bias into the opposite direction.
The effect of three-dimensional deformations of a cylinder liner on the tribological performance of a piston ring–cylinder liner system
Authors: Söderfjäll Markus , Isaksson Patrik , Spencer Andrew , Almqvist Andreas , Larsson Roland
Published: April 2014

This paper describes a numerical simulation model for prediction of the tribological effects of an oil control ring running against an out-of-round cylinder liner in a heavy duty diesel engine. The model considers the full three-dimensional geometry of the oil control ring and includes the effect of both surface roughness and global deformation. Results that test the model’s ability to do this under stationary conditions are presented. Furthermore, stationary results for prediction of the friction reduction possible by reduced ring tension in combination with reduced out-of-roundness are given. The model predicts the friction for the oil control ring at mid-stroke to be 78% larger in an out-of-round cylinder liner compared to a perfectly cylindrical one.
Developmental evaluation: Lessons for evaluative practice from the SEARCH Program
Authors: Dickson Rumona , Saunders Murray
Published: April 2014

This article presents the results of a retrospective case study that critically examined the use of evaluation within a continuing professional development programme for healthcare professionals (SEARCH). The study explored the extent to which a developmental evaluation approach was taken within SEARCH. The results demonstrate that SEARCH was a complex, innovative and evolving programme functioning in a complex and changing healthcare system. Evaluation processes used within SEARCH were developmental in nature and informed substantive programme changes. The extent of the changes went beyond what would be expected following standard formative or summative evaluation and fit with the concepts and use of developmental evaluation as articulated by Patton. This study demonstrates that even though staff and faculty did not call their assessments developmental evaluation, this is in fact what they were doing and the results informed future SEARCH development and evaluation.
Modernize the public sector through innovation? A challenge for the role of applied social science and evaluation
Authors: Hansson Finn , Norn Maria Theresa , Vad Torben Bundgaard
Published: April 2014

The New Public Management drive to innovate in the public sector has become less influential and new initiatives to drive innovation are now sought. There are well-known challenges when using social science research to inform innovation in the public sector. In order to address these challenges, this article presents the case of an evaluation of the Program on Research for Innovation and Renewal in the Public Sector (abbreviated FIFOS) under the Research Council of Norway. The evaluation described a number of problems in implementing new innovative knowledge, not only because of the organization of projects but also because of the still-common linear thinking in the application of new knowledge, especially in relation to innovation. A discussion and critique is presented and a different approach to the implementation of innovations based on ideas from organizational learning is proposed. Such an alternative strategy for producing and organizing the use of social science research to inform innovation in the public sector demands the rethinking of relevant evaluation models. In order to evaluate such a new approach, the article advocates new formative evaluation strategies, where learning and dialogue are the focus.
Goals of evaluation and types of evidence
Authors: Berriet-Solliec Marielle , Labarthe Pierre , Laurent Catherine
Published: April 2014

All stakeholders are urged to pay more attention to the quality of evidence used and produced during the evaluation process in order to select appropriate evaluation methods. A ‘theory of evidence for evaluation’ is needed to better address this issue. This article discusses the relationships between the three main goals of evaluation (to learn, measure and understand) and the various types of evidence (evidence of presence, of difference-making, of mechanism) which are produced and/or used in the evaluation process. It argues for the need to clearly distinguish between this approach and that of levels of evidence, which is linked to data collection and processing methods (e.g. single case observations, difference methods, randomized controlled trials…). The analysis is illustrated by examples in the field of agro-environmental policymaking and farm advisory services.
The decentring of couple relationships? An examination of young adults living alone
Authors: Hughes Jody
Published: April 2014

There have been numerous suggestions that the growth of living alone represents a challenge to the hegemony of the family and heterosexual couple relationships, yet the evidence is mixed. This article draws on qualitative research with Australians living alone in their twenties and thirties. Their relationship circumstances, hopes and expectations are described in order to question whether they are decentring or deprioritising couple relationships in their lives. I find that most see living alone as a way of building an independent life prior to partnering. While living alone may coincide with a focus on self and life outside couple relationships, it also often coincides with idealised notions of romantic love and the search for a soulmate. Given this, I argue that most young adults living alone are not challenging the hegemony of heterosexual couple relationships, but finding new ways of maintaining the heterosexual couple ideal.
‘I just wanted somewhere safe’: Women who are homeless with their children
Authors: Kirkman Maggie , Keys Deborah , Bodzak Daria , Turner Alina
Published: April 2014

Families are the fastest growing segment of homeless populations in resource-rich countries; most are female-headed. We report on women’s experiences of being homeless with their children in Victoria, Australia, emphasising their mental health. Twelve women (who between them had daily responsibility for 31 children) were interviewed, revealing complex pathways into homelessness; the two main contributors were economic decline and domestic violence, with drug use and poor mental health making lesser contributions. Homelessness appeared to have adverse effects on women’s wellbeing, mental health and ontological security. There was evidence of structural barriers to good mental health being inherent in the system designed to support them, with no provision for prevention or early intervention, and limited capacity for providing residential stability. Women wanted to live somewhere that was stable, secure and safe, for themselves and their children.
Defending probation: Beyond privatisation and security
Authors: Fitzgibbon Wendy , Lea John
Published: April 2014

The current debate about the privatisation of probation in the UK has tended to set up a false dichotomy between state and private that diverts attention from the fact that privatisation as part of a ‘rehabilitation revolution’ intends, in fact, to continue the domination of the risk management approach. What is emerging is a public–private combination of increasingly centralised public sector probation and the private ‘security-industrial complex’ of global security corporations. An important consequence of this process is the annihilation of both residual elements of voluntary sector and community work within probation itself and of the smaller private charities and third sector organisations that have long collaborated with probation in traditional desistance work. This complex dynamic is a reflection of some of the key internal inconsistencies of neoliberalism as a political strategy.
French third sector participation in probation and reentry: Complementary or competitive?
Authors: Herzog-Evans Martine
Published: April 2014

In France, the third sector is virtually in sole charge of pre-sentence reports, prisoners’ resettlement, and prisoners’ families and victims’ support. It is increasingly in charge of supporting offenders’ reentry and rehabilitation in the community, of community work, of France’s equivalent of approved premises or half-way houses, of treatment programmes, and, in certain cases, of supervision itself. Unlike in England and Wales, there has not been a deliberate privatisation agenda in this jurisdiction; the third sector has simply gradually been forced to undertake the social work that state probation services have progressively forsaken. The French third sector today has little in common with its 19th century origins: it has become much more professionalised. However, it has kept its deep-seated community roots intact and is more innovative and flexible than the prison-imbedded state probation services. For these reasons, it is a much appreciated partner for the judiciary and local authorities. However, on a par with state probation, the third sector is yet to undergo an evidence-based practices revolution and policy-makers do not seem to be concerned by the outcome of their actions.
‘The customer is always right’? Consumerism and the probation service
Authors: Crook Rebecca , Wood Dave
Published: April 2014

The probation service of England and Wales has faced ongoing change to its structures and challenge to its theory and value base throughout its history. Recent years have seen an acceleration in the scope of this change with sizable budget cuts alongside the threat of competition and subsequent privitisation of probation services. This article explores whether the more fundamental but subtle challenge to practice may yet come not from explicit governmental policy, but the underlying consumerist social structures at play that operate not only in governance, but also in the mindset of the public, practitioners and probationers alike.
Transforming Rehabilitation: What lessons might be learned from prison privatisation?
Authors: Ludlow Amy
Published: April 2014

Drawing upon empirical data collected during HMP Birmingham’s privatisation in 2011, this article explores the prospects of competition increasing performance in the delivery of ‘probation services’ in England and Wales. The constraints and challenges that stem from the public procurement rules and their manner of implementation are highlighted, alongside the adverse impacts that competition can have upon organisational culture. Together with current evidence about the (mixed) performance of privately managed prisons, the article argues that the Government’s faith in competition as a panacea solution to improve public services is misplaced and that too few lessons are being learned from commissioning mistakes.
Transforming Rehabilitation: Another example of English ‘exceptionalism’ or a blueprint for the rest of Europe?
Authors: Annison Jill , Burke Lol , Senior Paul
Published: April 2014

The Transforming Rehabilitation agenda represents a radical departure in the way that rehabilitative services are delivered in England and Wales. Under the proposed changes, the existing Probation Trusts will be replaced by a significantly smaller National Probation Service dealing with the rump of high-risk public protection cases. The supervision and delivery of services to those offenders assessed as low and medium risk will be contracted to a range of providers on a payment by results basis. In this introduction to the special edition of the European Journal of Probation, the authors trace the policy developments that have extended the scope of the privatisation of state services in England and Wales. They then consider the values underpinning these developments and the potential impact on probation work before finally exploring the ways in which the current debate over the future of the probation service in England and Wales are being constructed and responses to this crisis shaped. This is organised into four interrelated arguments – the evidence response; the implementation response; the media response and the reclaim response.
The Adoption of Non-Heritage Names among Chinese Mainlanders
Authors: Sercombe Peter , Young Tony , Dong Ming , Lin Lin
Published: April 2014

AbstractWhen studying English or through the medium of English, some mainland Chinese students adopt non-heritage names. This phenomenon has arisen as a result of language contact in an increasingly interconnected world. Our paper investigates reasons for the adoption of non-heritage names among Chinese students and the kinds of functions that these names are seen to fulfill. We surveyed 156 English linguistics majors. Our findings indicate that most of those surveyed use non-heritage names. These appear to serve interrelated roles and can also be associated with Chinese nick-naming. In addition, the names in our sample seem to reflect aspects of students’ lives that are relevant in specific contexts, and these contexts both shape and are shaped by participants’ use of given and non-heritage names.
Al2O3 films grown by glow discharge plasma aluminising
Authors: Jamnapara N. I. , Nayak V. , Avtani D. U. , Chauhan N. L. , Panda D. , Gupta S. B. , Kalaria K. , Vaghela N. , Mukherjee S. , Khanna A. S.
Published: April 2014

Aluminising of 9Cr steel substrates followed by heat treatment has been attempted to generate Al2O3 films along with Fe–Al diffusion zone at the coating/substrate interface. Effect of glow discharge plasma processing on the phase and microstructure of resultant alumina films in comparison with thermally processed samples has been reported. The thermal and plasma treated samples were characterised using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and nanoindentation techniques. X-ray diffraction and XPS studies revealed γ-Al2O3 phase in both thermal and plasma processed samples. The XPS data indicated higher binding energies in plasma processed Al2O3 films as compared to thermally processed Al2O3 films. Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed cracks in thermally grown Al2O3 films while the same was not observed in plasma processed films. The EDX analysis revealed Fe(Al) diffusion layer of ∼3 μm in plasma processed films while the same was not observed in thermally treated samples. Nanoindentation tests on plasma grown alumina films indicated 16·96 GPa hardness while hardness for thermally grown alumina films was found to be 9·95 GPa. The role of plasma in generating a crack free alumina film has been discussed.
Deposition of rock salt AlN coatings by magnetron sputtering
Authors: Choudhary R. K. , Mishra P. , Hubli R. C.
Published: April 2014

Cubic aluminium nitride (AlN) coatings were successfully deposited on stainless steel 304L substrates by balanced magnetron sputtering. Grazing incidence X-ray diffraction measurement confirmed the formation of rock salt cubic AlN having a preferred orientation along (111) plane. Scanning electron microscopy revealed nodular microstructure of the coating. Thermal diffusivity of AlN coated sample was found to be significantly higher than that of the uncoated sample. Microscratch adhesion test showed no adhesive failure below 20 N loads.
Morphometric evaluation of subaxial cervical spine using multi-detector computerized tomography (MD-CT) scan: the consideration for cervical pedicle screws fixation
Authors: Chanplakorn Pongsthorn , Kraiwattanapong Chaiwat , Aroonjarattham Kitti , Leelapattana Pittavat , Keorochana Gun , Jaovisidha Suphaneewan , Wajanavisit Wiwat
Published: April 2014

Background

Cervical pedicle screw (CPS) insertion is a technically demanding procedure. The quantitative understanding of cervical pedicle morphology, especially the narrowest part of cervical pedicle or isthmus, would minimize the risk of catastrophic damage to surrounding neurovascular structures and improve surgical outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate morphology and quantify cortical thickness of the cervical isthmus by using Multi-detector Computerized Tomography (MD-CT) scan.

Methods

The cervical CT scans were performed in 74 patients (37 males and 37 females) with 1-mm slice thickness and then retro-reconstructed into sagittal and coronal planes to measure various cervical parameters as follows: outer pedicle width (OPW), inner pedicle width (IPW), outer pedicle height (OPH), inner pedicle height (IPH), pedicle cortical thickness, pedicle sagittal angle (PSA), and pedicle transverse angle (PTA).

Results

Total numbers of 740 pedicles were measured in this present study. The mean OPW and IPW significantly increased from C3 to C7 while the mean OPH and IPH of those showed non-significant difference between any measured levels. The medial-lateral cortical thickness was significantly smaller than the superior-inferior one. PTA in the upper cervical spine was significantly wider than the lower ones. The PSA changed from upward inclination at upper cervical spine to the downward inclination at lower cervical spine.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated that cervical vertebra has relatively small and narrow inner pedicle canal with thick outer pedicle cortex and also shows a variable in pedicle width and inconsistent transverse angle. To enhance the safety of CPS insertion, the entry point and trajectories should be determined individually by using preoperative MD-CT scan and the inner pedicle width should be a key parameter to determine the screw dimensions.
Endoscopic versus microscopic transsphenoidal pituitary adenoma surgery: a meta-analysis
Authors: Gao Yang , Zhong Chunlong , Wang Yu , Xu Siyi , Guo Yang , Dai Chenyang , Zheng Yan , Wang Yong , Luo Qizhong , Jiang Jiyao
Published: April 2014

Background

Endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery has gradually come to be regarded as a preferred option in the treatment of pituitary adenomas because of its advantages of improved visualization and its minimal invasiveness. The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the outcomes and complications of endoscopic and microscopic transsphenoidal surgery in the treatment of pituitary adenomas.

Methods

We performed a systematic literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and the Web of Science between January 1992 and May 2013. Studies with consecutive patients that explicitly and fully compared endoscopic and microscopic approaches in the treatment of pituitary adenomas were included.

Results

A total of 15 studies (n = 1,014 patients) met the inclusion criteria among 487 studies that involved endoscopic surgery and 527 studies that dealt with microscopic surgery. The rate of gross tumor removal was higher in the endoscopic group than in the microscopic group. The post-operative rates of septal perforation were less frequent in patients who underwent endoscopic surgery. There was no significant difference between the two techniques in the incidence rates of meningitis, diabetes insipidus, cerebrospinal fluid leak, epistaxis or hypopituitarism. The post-operative hospital stay was significantly shorter for the endoscopic surgery group compared with the microscopic surgery group (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the length of the operation (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The present study indicates that the endoscopic transsphenoidal approach is safer and more effective than microscopic surgery in the treatment of pituitary adenomas.
A quantitative analysis of gait patterns in vestibular neuritis patients using gyroscope sensor and a continuous walking protocol
Authors: Kim Soo Chan , Kim Joo Yeon , Lee Hwan Nyeong , Lee Hwan Ho , Kwon Jae Hwan , Kim Nam beom , Kim Mi Joo , Hwang Jong Hyun , Han Gyu Cheol
Published: April 2014

Background

Locomotion involves an integration of vision, proprioception, and vestibular information. The parieto-insular vestibular cortex is known to affect the supra-spinal rhythm generators, and the vestibular system regulatesanti-gravity muscle tone of the lower leg in the same side to maintain an upright posture through the extra-pyramidal track. To demonstrate the relationship between locomotion and vestibular function, we evaluated the differences in gait patterns between vestibular neuritis (VN) patients and normal subjects using a gyroscope sensor and long-way walking protocol.

Methods

Gyroscope sensors were attached to both shanks of healthy controls (n=10) and age-matched VN patients (n= 10). We then asked the participants to walk 88.8 m along a corridor. Through the summation of gait cycle data, we measured gait frequency (Hz), normalized angular velocity (NAV) of each axis for legs, maximum and minimum NAV, up-slope and down-slope of NAV in swing phase, stride-swing-stance time (s), and stance to stride ratio (%).

Results

The most dominant walking frequency in the VN group was not different compared to normal control. The NAVs ofz-axis (pitch motion) were significantly larger than the others (x-,y-axis) and the values in VN patients tended to decrease in both legs and the difference of NAV between both group was significant in theipsi-lesion side in the VN group only (p=0.03). Additionally, the gait velocity of these individuals was decreased relatively to controls (1.11 ± 0.120 and 0.84 ± 0.061 m/s in control and VN group respectively,p<0.01), which seems to be related to the significantly increased stance and stride time of theipsi-lesion side. Moreover, in the VN group, the maximum NAV of the lesion side was less, and the minimum one was higher than control group. Furthermore, the down-slope and up-slope of NAV decreased on the impaired side.

Conclusion

The walking pattern of VN patients was highly phase-dependent, and NAV of pitch motion was significantly decreased in theipsi-lesion side. The change of gait rhythm, stance and stride time, and maximum/minimum NAV of theipsi-lesion side were characteristics of individuals with VN.
Reduced hatchability of Anopheles gambiae s.s eggs in presence of third instar larvae
Authors: Gotifrid Gilbert M , Urasa Felister M , Katunzi Gerald , Yarro Jacob G , Munga Stephen , Kweka Eliningaya J
Published: April 2014

Background

We investigated the hatchability rates of freshly laid Anopheles gambiae s.s. eggs in presence of third instars larvae. These experiments were conducted using 30 eggs in larval densities of 20, 60 and 100 larvae in microcosms. These experiments were designed to evaluate the eggs hatchability in habitats with late larvae instars of the same species (experimental) or no larvae at all (control). Freshly laid eggs of An.gambiae s.s. were washed in microcosms containing larvae of third instars in different three densities (20, 60 and 100) and likewise in control microcosms (without larvae). Eggs hatchability was monitored twice daily until no more first instar larvae emerged. The numbers of first instars larvae were recorded daily and lost eggs were considered preyed upon by third instars.

Findings

The findings of this study showed that egg hatchability was significantly influenced by larval density.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that presence of larvae in habitats may significantly reduce hatchability of eggs.
Articular cartilage chondrocytes express aromatase and use enzymes involved in estrogen metabolism
Authors: Schicht Martin , Ernst Jana , Nielitz Andrea , Fester Lars , Tsokos Michael , Guddat Saskia S , Bräuer Lars , Bechmann Judith , Delank Karl-Stefan , Wohlrab David , Paulsen Friedrich , Claassen Horst
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Sex hormones, especially estrogens, have been implicated in articular cartilage metabolism and the pathogenesis of postmenopausal osteoarthritis. The conversion by aromatase (CYP19A1) of androstenedione into estrone (E1) and of testosterone into 17β-estradiol (E2) plays a key role in the endogenous synthesis of estrogens in tissue.

Methods

We analyzed the expression of aromatase (CYP19A1) in immortalized C-28/I2 and T/C-28a2 chondrocytes, as well as in cultured primary human articular chondrocytes and human articular cartilage tissue, by means of RT-PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. By means of quantitative RT-PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, we also determined whether the aromatase inhibitor letrozole influences estrogen metabolism of cultured chondrocytes in immortalized C-28/I2 chondrocytes.

Results

Aromatase mRNA was detected in both immortalized chondrocyte cell lines, in cultured primary human chondrocytes, and in human articular cartilage tissue. By means of Western blot analysis, aromatase was detected at the protein level in articular cartilage taken from various patients of both sexes and different ages. Cultured primary human articular chondrocytes, C-28/I2 and T/C-28a2, and human articular cartilage tissue reacted with antibodies for aromatase. Incubation of C-28/I2 chondrocytes with 10−11 M to 10−7 M letrozole as an aromatase inhibitor revealed significantly increased amounts of the mRNAs of the enzyme cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1), which is involved in the catagen estrogen metabolism, and of the estrogen receptors ER-α and ER-β. Concomitantly, synthesis of estrone (E1) was significantly downregulated after incubation with letrozole.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that human articular cartilage expresses aromatase at the mRNA and protein levels. Blocking of estrone synthesis by the aromatase inhibitor letrozole is counteracted by an increase in ER-α and ER-β. In addition, CYP1A1, an enzyme involved in catabolic estrogen metabolism, is upregulated. This suggests that articular chondrocytes use ERs functionally. The role of endogenous synthesized estrogens in articular cartilage health remains to be elucidated.
Insight, duration of untreated psychosis and attachment in first-episode psychosis: prospective study of psychiatric recovery over 12-month follow-up
Authors: Gumley A. I. , Schwannauer M. , Macbeth A. , Fisher R. , Clark S. , Rattrie L. , Fraser G. , McCabe R. , Blair A. , Davidson K. , Birchwood M.
Published: April 2014

Background

Increasing evidence shows attachment security influences symptom expression and adaptation in people diagnosed with schizophrenia and other psychoses.

Aims

To describe the distribution of secure and insecure attachment in a cohort of individuals with first-episode psychosis, and to explore the relationship between attachment security and recovery from positive and negative symptoms in the first 12 months.

Method

The study was a prospective 12-month cohort study. The role of attachment, duration of untreated psychosis (DUP), baseline symptoms and insight in predicting and mediating recovery from symptoms was investigated using multiple regression analysis and path analysis.

Results

Of the 79 participants, 54 completed the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI): 37 (68.5%) were classified as insecure, of which 26 (48.1%) were insecure/dismissing and 11 (20.4%) insecure preoccupied. Both DUP and insight predicted recovery from positive symptoms at 12 months. Attachment security, DUP and insight predicted recovery from negative symptoms at 12 months.

Conclusions

Attachment is an important construct contributing to understanding and development of interventions promoting recovery following first-episode psychosis.
First-contact incidence of psychosis in north-eastern Italy: influence of age, gender, immigration and socioeconomic deprivation
Authors: Lasalvia Antonio , Bonetto Chiara , Tosato Sarah , Zanatta Gioia , Cristofalo Doriana , Salazzari Damiano , Lazzarotto Lorenza , Bertani Mariaelena , Bissoli Sarah , De Santi Katia , Cremonese Carla , De Rossi Moreno , Gardellin Francesco , Ramon Luana , Zucchetto Maria , Amaddeo Francesco , Tansella Michele , Ruggeri Mirella ,   the PICOS-Veneto Group
Published: April 2014

Background

Considerable variations in the incidence of psychosis have been observed across countries, in terms of age, gender, immigration status, urbanicity and socioeconomic deprivation.

Aims

To evaluate the incidence rate of first-episode psychosis in a large area of north-eastern Italy and the distribution of the above-mentioned risk factors in individuals with psychoses.

Method

Epidemiologically based survey. Over a 3-year period individuals with psychosis on first contact with services were identified and diagnosed according to ICD-10 criteria.

Results

In total, 558 individuals with first-episode psychosis were identified during 3 077 555 person-years at risk. The annual incidence rate per 100 000 was 18.1 for all psychoses, 14.3 for non-affective psychoses and 3.8 for affective psychoses. The rate for all psychoses was higher in young people aged 20–29 (incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 4.18, 95% CI 2.77–6.30), immigrants (IRR = 2.26, 95% CI 1.85–2.75) and those living in the most deprived areas (IRR = 2.09, 95% CI 1.54–2.85).

Conclusions

The incidence rate in our study area was lower than that found in other European and North American studies and provides new insights into the factors that may increase and/or decrease risk for developing psychosis.
Differential Regulation Of Steroidogenic Enzyme Genes by TRα Signaling in Testicular Leydig Cells
Authors: Park Eunsook , Kim Yeawon , Lee Hyun Joo , Lee Keesook
Published: April 2014

Thyroid hormone signaling has long been implicated in mammalian testicular function, affecting steroidogenesis in testicular Leydig cells. However, its molecular mechanism is not well understood. Here, we investigated the molecular action of thyroid hormone receptor-α (TRα) on mouse testicular steroidogenesis. TRα/thyroid hormone (T3) signaling differentially affected the expression of steroidogenic enzyme genes, mainly regulating their promoter activity. TRα directly regulated the promoter activity of the cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase/C17–20 lyase gene, elevating its expression in the presence of T3. TRα also indirectly regulated the expression of steroidogenic enzyme genes, such as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, by modulating the transactivation of Nur77 on steroidogenic enzyme gene promoters through protein-protein interaction. TRα enhanced Nur77 transactivation by excluding histone deacetylases from Nur77 in the absence of T3, whereas liganded TRα inhibited Nur77 transactivation, likely due to interfering with the recruitment of coactivator such as the steroid receptor coactivator-1 to Nur77. Together, these findings suggest a role of TRα/T3 in testicular steroidogenesis and may provide molecular mechanisms for the differential regulation of steroidogenic enzyme genes by thyroid hormone.
In Situ Synthesis of Poly(copper phthalocyanine) Nanostructures for Organic Nanodevices
Authors: Wang Fei , Wang Jining , Chen Zhijian , Liu Xiaopeng , Xiao Lixin , Jiang Lijun , Qu Bo , Wang Shumao , Gong Qihuang
Published: April 2014

The challenge for well-organized organic nanostructures is that the materials are usually flexible and amorphous, and the synthesis methods tend to be template method, etc. Here, we will give a much different way to synthesize nanostructured poly(CuPc). Poly(CuPc) was synthesized with special sealed CVD method. By controlling the growth conditions, perpendicular nanowires and evenly distributed nanowebs were prepared. Poly(CuPc) shows strong absorption property in the visible-light region, which will make it potentially useful in OPVs, photocatalytic devices, and other photoelectric devices.