bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do breast cancer risk factors differ among those who do and do not undertake mammography screening?
Authors: Beckmann Kerri R , Roder David M , Hiller Janet E , Farshid Gelareh , Lynch John W
Published: October 2013

Objectives

There is considerable interest in whether mammography screening leads to over-diagnosis of breast cancer. However self-selection into screening programmes may lead to risk differences that affect estimates of over-diagnosis. This study compares the breast cancer risk profiles of participants and non-participants of population-based mammography screening. Risk profiles are also compared between those who have and have not used private screening services.

Setting

This study involved 1162 women aged 40–84 who participated in the 2012 Health Omnibus, an annual face-to-face interview-based survey of a representative sample of the population in the state of South Australia.

Methods

Data were collected on participation in mammography screening, demographic characteristics and breast cancer risk factors (including reproductive, familial and lifestyle factors). Missing data were multiply imputed. Factors independently associated with ever having been screened were identified using multivariable logistic regression, for population-based and ad hoc, private mammography screening separately.

Results

Compared with non-participants, participants of population-based screening were more likely to have used hormone replacement therapy (odds ratio [OR] = 3.72), experienced breast biopsy or surgery (OR = 2.22), and be overweight or obese (OR = 1.57). They were less likely to be sufficiently active (OR = 0.57) or be born in a non-English speaking country (OR = 0.50) or aged under 50 (OR = 0.09). Women who were screened privately were more likely to have a family history of breast cancer (OR = 1.66) and have experienced breast biopsy or surgery (OR = 3.17) than those who had not.

Conclusions

South Australian women who participated in the population-based mammography screening have a slightly higher prevalence of breast cancer risk factors. This also applies to those who undertook private screening.
In Search of Luxurious Slippers: The Attempted Launches of Edmini in the UAE (B)
Authors: Alshaali Abdulnasser , Spraggon Martin
Published: October 2013

This case study describes the continuous efforts deployed by two Emirati citizens to turn their entrepreneurial venture, Edmini, into a reality. By establishing the Edmini brand in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Abdulnasser and Rashid were seeking to offer local male customers convenient means for purchasing customized fashionable slippers via an online store. Having completed the initial steps related to market analysis, product conceptualization and brand development and promotion, the partners are now focused on initiating the process of slipper manufacturing. The case provides insightful information for illustrating the challenges surrounding the attempted launches of Edmini in 2010 and 2011. Although the company is still not fully operational, the entrepreneurs are positive about the future potential for success and are moving steadily towards executing their plans to establish their startup in the local market. (Case A ‘In Search of Luxurious Slippers: The Birth of Edmini, an Entrepreneurial Venture in the UAE’ was printed in AJMC 10:1.)
Theological reflection: Moving from the implicit to the explicit
Authors: Ault Nancy
Published: October 2013

During the late 20th and early 21st centuries, religion and theology have become increasingly separated from spirituality and affective experience in westernised societies. In addition to this rift, the body is frequently seen as marginal to spiritual life. The implications of these divisions for students engaging in theological reflection can be observed in reflections that are overly intellectualized or conversely overly emotional and lacking theological depth. In this article, it is suggested that through a balanced attending to bodily awareness, the recognizing and naming of emotions and the exploring of theological questions, theological reflection can offer a supporting framework in which theology and spirituality can be held together in partnership rather than as separate enterprises. If there is a playful and creative openness to reflection as an integrative praxis at risk of encountering the unexpected then the process of theological reflection can provide an opportunity for transformative learning.
Benedict XVI’s hermeneutics of reform and its implication for the renewal of the church
Authors: Mushi Edward
Published: October 2013

This article discusses Pope Benedict’s interpretation of the Second Vatican Council as exemplified in the idea of renewal in the continuity. In my argument, I seek to inquire how and to what extent this approach articulates the Second Vatican Council as an ecclesial reality, a living tradition and a place of theological conversation. All things considered, I argue that the authentic interpretation of the idea of ecclesial renewal and reform – in the context of the Council – requires not only a profound commitment to Christian truth, but also implies a critical investigation and willingness to take up a more balanced theological position. Contrary to a one-sided emphasis on either continuity or discontinuity, church renewal admits of a certain amenability to both approaches.
Pannenberg and Lonergan in dialogue on the theology of the history of revelation
Authors: Orji Cyril
Published: October 2013

This article shows how both a comparison of methods and dialogue between Pannenberg and Lonergan on grace and revelation can contribute to attempts to understand the reality of God mediated by creation and the nature of human knowing – a dialogue that can contribute to a renewed look at how Christian theology can engage other religions in dialogue.
Molecular detection of Salmonella species in bovine fecal samples
Authors: Bordonaro Rebecca , McDonough Patrick L. , Chang Yung-fu , Mohammed Hussni O.
Published: October 2013

A study was performed to assess the validity of the BAX automated polymerase chain reaction system (DuPont Nutrition & Health, Wilmington, Delaware) to detect the shedding of Salmonella species in bovine fecal samples. A total of 133 bovine fecal samples that were submitted to the Cornell University Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory for Salmonella culture were also tested in the BAX system with a modified version of the manufacturer’s enrichment protocol. Using culture as the gold standard test, the BAX system was found to have a sensitivity of 85.7% and a specificity of 90.5%. There was excellent agreement (κ = 0.71, standard error = 0.072) and no significant differences between the 2 methods (McNemar χ2 = 0.180).
An outbreak of caprine meningoencephalitis due to Escherichia coli O157:H7
Authors: Filioussis George , Petridou Evanthia , Karavanis Emmanouel , Giadinis Nektarios D. , Xexaki Anna , Govaris Alexandros , Kritas Spyridon K.
Published: October 2013

Five 1-month-old kid goats from a local herd in Kozani (northwest Greece) developed neurological disorders characterized by decreased appetite, ataxia, and head pressing. The animals received a 3-day course of treatment with intramuscular administration of enrofloxacin and ketoprofen. However, no significant clinical improvement was achieved, and 2 kids died. The remaining 3 animals were euthanized, and a necropsy was performed within 1 hr. Macroscopic lesions were confined to the central nervous system, with congestion and petechiae in the meninges. Microscopic lesions in all 3 animals revealed multifocal acute meningoencephalitis characterized by infiltrations composed of mononuclear inflammatory cells, lesser numbers of lymphocytes, and occasionally neutrophils and eosinophils. Additionally, in the kidney, there was multifocal expansion of the glomerular tufts by eosinophilic amorphous material, multifocal interstitial hemorrhages, and multifocal glomerular hypercellularity. The above noted lesions are consisted with an acute ongoing nephropathy indicative of a septicemic–toxemic procedure at its primary stages. Small, gray bacterial colonies, 3–4 mm in diameter, were obtained in pure culture from the brain of all 3 necropsied animals and were confirmed as Escherichia coli O157:H7 by use of phenotypic and genotypic methods. The isolates were sensitive to cefuroxime, ceftazidime, and gentamicin. In contrast, resistance to enrofloxacin, trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole, and tetracycline was displayed. Additionally the bacterial isolates were found to carry a plasmid that harbored qnrS, sulII, and tetB genes that contribute to high-level resistance to fluoroquinolones, co-trimoxazole, and tetracycline, respectively.
Geotrichum candidum as a possible cause of bovine abortion
Authors: Antoniassi Nadia A. B. , Juffo Gregory D. , Santos Adriana S. , Pescador Caroline A. , Ferreiro Laerte , Driemeier David
Published: October 2013

Geotrichum spp. are ubiquitous, saprotrophic fungi found in soil, organic matter, and silage, as a contaminant in food products and in the digestive tracts of mammals. The current study reports a case of Geotrichum candidum infection with dermatitis in an aborted bovine fetus with skin and lung lesions. A 6-month-old aborted male Holstein Friesian fetus displayed unusual lesions on the skin of the abdomen, thorax, and head, which was excessively thickened and wrinkled. These changes corresponded to orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis, neutrophil accumulation in the stratum corneum, a pyogranulomatous inflammatory infiltrate, and superficial dermal necrosis. Moderate suppurative multifocal pneumonia was observed. Large numbers of mononuclear cells and occasional fibrin thrombi within blood vessels were found in the lungs, brain, and cerebellum. Gridley staining revealed fungal structures within the skin lesions. The mycological exam demonstrated the growth of G. candidum, and phase contrast microscopy conducted on the abomasal fluid revealed hyphae compatible with this agent. The skin lesions observed, in association with the fungus isolated, indicated that the abortion was due to G. candidum infection of the bovine fetus.
Availability of a fetal goat tongue cell line ZZ-R 127 for isolation of Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) from clinical samples collected from animals experimentally infected with FMDV
Authors: Fukai Katsuhiko , Onozato Hiroyuki , Kitano Rie , Yamazoe Reiko , Morioka Kazuki , Yamada Manabu , Ohashi Seiichi , Yoshida Kazuo , Kanno Toru
Published: October 2013

The availability of the fetal goat tongue cell line ZZ-R 127 for the isolation of Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) has not been evaluated using clinical samples other than epithelial suspensions. Therefore, in the current study, the availability of ZZ-R 127 cells for the isolation of FMDV was evaluated using clinical samples (e.g., sera, nasal swabs, saliva, feces, and oropharyngeal fluids) collected from animals experimentally infected with an FMDV isolate. Virus isolation rates for the ZZ-R 127 cells were statistically higher than those for the porcine kidney cell line (IB-RS-2) in experimental infections using cattle, goats, and pigs ( P < 0.01). Virus titers in the ZZ-R 127 cells were also statistically higher than those in the IB-RS-2 cells. The availability of ZZ-R 127 cells for the isolation of FMDV not only from epithelial suspensions but also from other clinical samples was confirmed in the current study.
A generic homogenization model for magnetoelectric multiferroics
Authors: Jayachandran Kuzhichalil P , Guedes Jose M , Rodrigues Helder C
Published: October 2013

A generic homogenization modeling framework which incorporates crystallographic domain features is introduced and computationally implemented for magnetoelectric multiferroics of all symmetries. The homogenization, mathematically applicable to heterogeneous media with contrasts in physical properties, replaces the heterogeneity of the multiferroics by an equivalent effective medium with uniform physical characteristics. A statistically representative unit-cell is proposed to encompass all forms of multiferroics and their composites in bulk. The variational formulation of the coupled magneto-electromechanical problem reveals the nature of interaction between mechanical, electrical, and magnetic fields of a multiferroic at a microscopic scale with high resolution. Furthermore, the mathematical homogenization theory of the multiferroic is implemented in finite element method by solving the coupled equilibrium electrical, magnetic, and mechanical fields. A “multiferroic finite element” is conceived for this purpose. The model is applied to a two-phase multiferroic magnetoelectric composite to demonstrate its validity by characterizing the equivalent physical properties.
Development of wireless laser blade deflection monitoring system for mobile wind turbine management host
Authors: Giri Paritosh , Lee Jung-Ryul
Published: October 2013

This study proposes a wireless laser displacement sensor system for in situ deflection monitoring of wind turbine blades. This system consists of a tower-installed laser displacement sensor system composed of a laser displacement sensor head, controller, Zigbee transmitter, and analog-to-digital converter module, combined with a mobile host that includes a Zigbee receiver and a laptop. In contrast to the approach of blade sensor installation, the laser displacement sensor system is installed in the tower to enable noncontact blade displacement monitoring. The concepts of direct noncontact remote sensing and actuation from the tower and remote power delivery from the tower to blade-installed sensors and actuators will enable various approaches for wind turbine structural health monitoring. The proposed system can easily identify problems related to deflection. The size of wind blades increases with energy demands. Due to the large size of wind turbines, current wind turbines are installed very high above ground level. It is impractical to monitor the results from laser displacement sensor through wired connection in these cases. Hence, wired connections of laser displacement sensors to base monitoring stations must be replaced with a wireless solution. This wireless solution is achieved using Zigbee technology. The output from the laser displacement sensor is fed to a microcontroller, which acts as an analog-to-digital converter. The output from the microcontroller is connected to the Zigbee transceiver module, which transmits the data, and at the other end, the Zigbee reads the data and displays it on a PC, from which users can monitor the condition of the wind blades.
Preparing Students for the 21st Century Through the Study of World Music
Authors: Beegle Amy Christine
Published: October 2013

This column provides examples of activities that general music teachers might use to weave global awareness into web-based lessons to promote the development of information literacy, media literacy, and communication literacy through the study of world music.
Using Care Ethics to Enhance Qualitative Research on Rural Aging and Care
Authors: Herron Rachel V. , Skinner Mark W.
Published: October 2013

Qualitative research offers important insights into the subjectivity, complexity, and relationality of care. In this article, we examine the particular processes and relationships involved in doing qualitative research about care with older people in rural places. We draw on our experience completing two related qualitative studies of rural care in Canada to extend discussions about responsible research practice in relation to participant recruitment, interviews, and focus groups. By applying Hankivsky’s principles of care ethics in our reflection on research practices, we make explicit the role of emotions in connecting with research participants, collecting and participating in narrative-based research, and negotiating identity. We conclude with a discussion of the distinct ways in which applying care ethics throughout the research process can augment reflexive practice and enhance the integrity and theoretical contributions of qualitative health research while developing more inclusive understandings of vulnerability in older rural populations.
Authorising bortezomib treatment prior to reviewing haematology results: a step toward home administration
Authors: Waight Clinton C , Cain Rebecca
Published: October 2013

Bortezomib treatment requires four visits to a chemotherapy unit in each 21-day cycle. Analysis of the Day 1 full blood count could allow clinicians to predict the risk of Grade 4 thrombocytopenia, thus negating the need to review the full blood count prior to each dose. The freedom to administer bortezomib without reviewing full blood count results on each treatment day could minimise appointment times and be a step toward home administration. A prospective study of treatment authorisation following a full toxicity assessment and full blood count results from the previous treatment day was undertaken. The full blood count results from 27 patients, receiving 381 doses revealed 12 treatment episodes where bortezomib was administered in the presence of Grade 4 thrombocytopenia. One instance of bleeding and two episodes of neutropenic sepsis were detected during toxicity assessments and treatment was not administered. Only one instance of Grade 4 thrombocytopenia was reported on any other treatment day when the Day 1 platelet count was greater than 75 × 109 units/l. From this data, Day 1 full blood count parameters were derived, which minimise the risk of Grade 4 haematological toxicity on subsequent treatment days, allowing clinicians to identify suitable patients for administration of bortezomib prior to reviewing full blood count results. When platelet counts on Day 1 are greater than 75 × 109 units/l and neutrophil counts are greater than 1.0 × 109 units/l, the administration of bortezomib can be authorised without the need for review of the full blood count on subsequent days of that cycle.
Topology and mental distress: Self-care in the life spaces of home
Authors: Tucker Ian , Smith Lesley-Ann
Published: October 2013

This article develops a topological approach derived from Kurt Lewin to analyse the psychological life space/s produced in a mental health service user’s home. Drawing on arguments that space plays an important part in the organisation and management of mental distress, photographs of a service user’s home are analysed as topological spaces. The article argues that topological theory can contribute to community health psychology through framing psychological distress as spatially distributed, meaning individual bodies, environments and action are conceptualised as equally contributing to the organisation and management of health-related experience and activity.
The cigarette box as an advertising vehicle in the United Kingdom: A case for plain packaging
Authors: Dewe Michaela , Ogden Jane , Coyle Adrian
Published: October 2013

This research aimed to study tobacco advertising between 1950–2003 and to evaluate the role of the cigarette box in advertising. Tobacco company advertisements ( n = 204) were coded for content and meanings used to promote their product. There was a significant shift from cigarettes being displayed to the cigarette box only. Changes in advertising and the meanings evoked were unrelated to changes in smoking behaviour. It is argued that the cigarette box has absorbed the meanings associated with smoking and has become an effective vehicle for advertising. It is also argued that this can only be minimised with plain packaging.
The experience of hepatitis C treatment for people with a history of mental health problems: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Ware K , Davies J , Rowse G , Whittaker S
Published: October 2013

This qualitative study explores the experience of hepatitis C virus treatment for people with pre-existing mental health problems within a large city hospital. Four men and four women with pre-existing mental health problems who had received hepatitis C virus treatment took part in semi-structured interviews which were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. A central theme of ‘Self, stigma and change’ was identified which interlinked with three other main themes of ‘Coping and responding to treatment’, ‘Connectedness to others’ and ‘The impact of information’. These themes and their sub-themes are discussed in relation to existing literature and clinical practice guidelines.
The death of civilizations
Authors: Henningsen Manfred
Published: October 2013

This article questions the popular assumption that the concept of civilization that entered public discourse in a grand way with Samuel P. Huntington’s sensational article on a ‘clash of civilizations’ refers to any meaningful historical formations that can be identified across time and space in plural manifestations, apparently withstanding collapse, disintegration and a final withering away. Contrasting Huntington’s rather stable universe with A. J. Toynbee’s and Eric Voegelin’s radically different perspectives on an open-ended dynamics of civilizational processes makes it possible to recognize that the sequence of institutional cycles and the succession of universes of symbolic meaning that accompany them may be limited. Civilizations are not natural phenomena but human constructs and have therefore limited timelines. Toynbee and Voegelin were facing an end of the history of traditional civilizations and all their pseudo-morphed variations. They envisioned something new would emerge out of the wasteland of meaning without clearly knowing what it would be. The political economy of globalization has certainly accelerated the terminal conditions of traditional civilizations that Toynbee and Voegelin had anticipated long before this modern endgame began. The signs of decay and death are overwhelming while the quests for a new universe of meaning are still in their infancy.
Comparison of mood and task performance in naturally-lit and artificially-lit environments
Authors: Gou Zhonghua , Lau Stephen Siu-Yu , Qian Feng
Published: October 2013

The article presents the results of a laboratory study conducted at Shanghai Tongji University. The study compares participants’ mood and task performance between naturally-lit and artificially-lit environments, with a view to identify negative impacts, such as lighting variation and temperature asymmetry caused by dynamic natural light. It was observed that the mood change in the naturally-lit environment was more significant, especially the decrease of positive mood, than in the artificially-lit environment. For the subjects in the naturally-lit environment, performance scores decreased with increase in the light intensity and temperature asymmetry. Based on the study results, suitable daylighting design was recommended for classrooms or offices.
On-site measurements of ventilation performance and indoor air quality in naturally ventilated high-rise residential buildings in Hong Kong
Authors: Ai Z. T. , Mak C. M. , Cui D. J.
Published: October 2013

Single-sided ventilation rate is difficult to accurately predict because it has a complex relationship with many factors, including the direction of the approaching wind and building envelope features. In addition, the incursion of outdoor pollutants into the interior through a ventilation opening has been recognized as a serious threat to indoor air quality (IAQ). This article presents on-site measurements of the ventilation performance and IAQ in four high-rise residential rooms in Hong Kong. Key parameters including the air changes per hour, respirable suspended particulate matters (PM: PM10 and PM2.5), and total volatile organic compounds were continuously recorded over a specified period. A comparison of cases with floor-extended and window-like openings is made. The results indicate that single-sided ventilation performs well regardless of the orientation of the apartment room and the configuration of the opening. Previous empirical models based on single-room buildings are not reliable in determining the ventilation rate of high-rise buildings. The measurements reported here also identify an important route for the incursion of outdoor pollutants, namely the downward re-entry of aerosol particles from an upper unit to a lower unit in the same building. A combination of gravitational and wind effects means this downward transport route significantly increases the PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations in the lower room.
Low-mixing coaxial nozzle for effective personalized ventilation
Authors: Makhoul Alain , Ghali Kamel , Ghaddar Nesreen
Published: October 2013

The aim of this work was to study the performance of a novel coaxial nozzle for personalized ventilation that can be used as an add-on to ceiling diffuser. The coaxial nozzle minimizes air entrainment between the central fresh air stream and the room air. It allows effective delivery of clean air to the breathing zone while the recirculated conditioned air is supplied to the space by the associated ceiling diffuser. Detailed 3-D Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were performed and numerical results on velocity, temperature, and CO2 concentration fields agreed well with experimentally measured values. The effect of the jet flow rate, temperature, and inclination angle on air quality at the breathing zone of the occupant was then investigated. The proposed coaxial personalized ventilation achieved high air quality in the breathing zone demonstrated by a personal exposure effectiveness of 32% at fresh airflow rate of 10 L s−1 per person. It contributed also to the attainment of temperature differences up to 2℃ between the occupant’s microenvironment and the rest of the room air leading to considerable energy savings compared to the mixed convection air conditioning.
Evaluation of indoor air quality in a museum (Bait Al Zubair) and residential homes
Authors: Abdul-Wahab Sabah Ahmed , Salem Nahed , Ali Sappurd
Published: October 2013

This study was conducted with an aim to know the extent to which artefacts displayed in a museum could be affected due to raised levels of indoor air pollutants. The other objective of this work was to identify whether the quality of air in the residential homes is acceptable for the residents or not. In order to fulfil these objectives, the levels of air quality parameters were recorded at various locations of the museum and residential homes. The determined values of these parameters were compared with the permitted values defined in international standards/guidelines. Results showed that the levels of nitrogen dioxide, relative humidity and temperature in the museum were within the allowable limits while that of ozone, sulphur dioxide and total particulate matters were above the thresholds, which could cause damage to the exhibits in the museum. Furthermore, the results obtained from the residential homes indicated that the elevated levels of carbon dioxide, total volatile organic compounds and temperature in the indoor environment of these homes could cause unhealthy effects to the residents.
Refuge fragments, fragmentary refuge
Authors: Besteman Catherine
Published: October 2013

This experimental essay shows the ways that Somali Bantu refugees’ experiences of resettlement, especially their encounters with the bureaucracy of immigration and resettlement, fragment what for the refugees are meaningful wholes (such as families), as well as the sometimes creative, though often frustrated, ways they work to re-create wholeness and meaning in their new context. Revealing cognition and feeling in the moment, these fragments challenge the conception of refuge as relief or resolution, the end of the journey. Instead they expose just how fragmentary refuge is, where the fragments, like the experience of refuge, take the form of a puzzle that shows the precarity and uncertainty of refuge. But the stories told in these fragments also push back at their fragmentation by revealing how refugees puzzle through and attempt to control fragmentation, demonstrating the strength of refugee agency and the beautiful potency of their resistances.
The Impact of Playoffs on Seasonal Uncertainty in the Czech Ice Hockey Extraliga
Authors: Lahvička Jiří
Published: October 2013

In the top Czech ice hockey competition “Extraliga,” 14 geographically close teams compete during a regular season in a pure round-robin tournament. However, the eventual champion is determined in the additional playoff stage and the regular season just decides which teams qualify for the playoffs and how these teams are seeded. This article uses a Monte Carlo simulation to show that although the additional playoff stage heavily favors higher-seeded teams and consists of a lot of games, it lowers the average probability of the strongest team becoming a champion from 48 to 39% and thus increases seasonal uncertainty.
Characteristics and well-being of informal caregivers: Results from a nationally-representative US survey
Authors: Trivedi Ranak , Beaver Kristine , Bouldin Erin D , Eugenio Evercita , Zeliadt Steven B , Nelson Karin , Rosland Ann-Marie , Szarka Jackie G , Piette John D
Published: October 2013

Objectives

Given ongoing concerns about high levels of burden reported among some informal caregivers, the goal of this study was to characterize their sociodemographics, health, and well-being.

Methods

Using cross-sectional data from a large nationally representative survey in the United States ( N = 438,712) we identified adults who provided informal care to friends or family members with a health problem, long-term illness, or disability. Descriptive statistics and propensity matching were used to characterize caregivers and compare their health and social support to sociodemographically-similar adults who were not caregivers. Logistic regression models examined associations between caregiving and respondents’ mental health, general health, perceived social support, and sleep problems.

Results

A total of 111,156 (25.3%) participants reported being caregivers, most of whom reported good mental health (90%) good general health (83%), and adequate social support (77%). After adjusting for respondents’ gender, caregivers reported worse mental health than non-caregivers (odds ratio (OR) = 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.31–1.39 for >15 days poor mental health in the past month) but better general health (OR = 0.96, 95%CI = 0.94–0.98 for fair or poor health). Men caregivers reported somewhat worse overall health than non-caregivers (OR = 1.09, 95%CI = 1.05–1.13) whereas women reported better overall health.

Discussion

Although reporting good overall well-being, caregivers remain vulnerable for worse outcomes than non-caregivers. Caregiving is associated with poor mental health, and may have additional impacts on the physical health of caregiving men.
How do people with intellectual disabilities view abuse and abusers?
Authors: Northway Ruth , Melsome Melissa , Flood Samantha , Bennett Davey , Howarth Joyce , Thomas Becki
Published: October 2013

People with intellectual disabilities have a higher risk of being abused than other people, but to date research has not explored their views regarding abuse. This article reports the findings relating to one question within a participatory research study concerning the abuse of people with intellectual disabilities. This question asked what people with intellectual disabilities’ views are concerning abuse. Data were gathered via individual interviews ( n = 14) and focus groups (7 groups involving 47 people in total), which were then analysed via a process of sorting statements into themes followed by group discussion and analysis of these themes. Participants expressed a range of views regarding abuse, some of which revealed strong emotions: a number of participants indicated that abuse could make people feel as though their lives are not worth living. People with intellectual disabilities can discuss their feelings around abuse and recognise the impact this has on their lives. There is, however, a need for improved responses to disclosures of abuse and the provision of ongoing support to address psychological issues.
Raising a child with disability and dealing with life events
Authors: O’Connell Tina , O’Halloran Maeve , Doody Owen
Published: October 2013

Intellectual disability services recognise people with intellectual disability as a family member and aim to provide effective support that facilitates family cohesion. However, the needs of families and individuals within the family should be addressed in a holistic manner to ensure a seamless service. This article outlines a mother’s reflections on her experience of raising a child with autism spectrum disorder and its impact on her life. The article focuses on one mother’s feelings, coping or lack of coping and growth during a time of sadness. This article written by a mother, nurse and academic through their shared interest in supporting families of children with a disability all came together to tell this story. It is hoped that this article will assist professionals understand a mother’s perspective when raising a child with intellectual disability and support professionals to recognise the importance of listening, coordinated support and working in partnership.
The marketization of public discourse: The Chinese universities
Authors: Han Zhengrui
Published: October 2013

Contemporary universities are characteristic of an evident proliferation of corporate discourse. A sole concentration on the production of new knowledge and the education of students does not ensure the prosperity or even survival of universities any longer, and equally important are the admission of elite students, the outcome-based evaluation of academic performance, the establishment of alumni network and also fundraising. This article examines how and to what extent this trend of marketization has invaded the order of discourse of Chinese universities. The research methodology combines the paradigms of critical discourse analysis (CDA) and the tenets of critical genre analysis [Bhatia VK (2007) Towards critical genre analysis. In: Bhatia VK, Flowerdew J and Jones RH (eds) Advances in Discourse Studies. London: Routledge, pp. 166–177], with particular attention paid to the notion of genre, interdiscursivity and conversationalization. The texts examined include ceremonial speeches, regulatory documents, insiders’ accounts and field notes. Analytical results show that the trend of marketization, in spite of a potential threat for academic integrity, does facilitate the institutional restructuring and transformation of universities in the context of Mainland China.
Cerebral palsy
Authors: Neshat Zahra
Published: October 2013

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common cause of physical disability in childhood. It is a non-progressive disorder of postural and motor dysfunction. This complex, lifelong condition impacts on both children and their families. Care of these children is therefore an important part of general practice. Not only must the GP correctly identify CP and coordinate multidisciplinary care, he or she is the key to ensuring a family-centred service is delivered and provide the important continuity in care during transition to adult services. This article aims to provide an overview of the knowledge base needed by the GP when faced with a child with CP and to promote a biopsychosocial approach to service delivery.
Filling the Void
Authors: Arriaga Ximena B. , Kumashiro Madoka , Finkel Eli J. , VanderDrift Laura E. , Luchies Laura B.
Published: October 2013

Attachment security has many salutary effects in adulthood, yet little is known about the specific interpersonal processes that increase attachment security over time. Using data from 134 romantically committed couples in a longitudinal study, we examined trust (whether a partner is perceived as available and dependable) and perceived goal validation (whether a partner is perceived as encouraging one’s personal goal pursuits). In concurrent analyses, trust toward a partner was uniquely associated with lower attachment anxiety, whereas perceiving one’s goal pursuits validated by a partner was uniquely associated with lower attachment avoidance. In longitudinal analyses, however, the inverse occurred: Trust toward a partner uniquely predicting reduced attachment avoidance over time and perceived goal validation uniquely predicting reduced attachment anxiety over time. These findings highlight distinct temporal paths for bolstering the security of attachment anxious versus attachment avoidant individuals.
Biogenesis of the demarcation membrane system (DMS) in megakaryocytes
Authors: Eckly Anita , Heijnen Harry , Pertuy Fabien , Geerts Willie , Proamer Fabienne , Rinckel Jean-Yves , Léon Catherine , Lanza François , Gachet Christian
Published: October 2013

Key Points

Using state-of-the-art three-dimensional electron microscopy approaches, we show that the onset of the DMS formation is at the megakaryocyte plasma membrane. A pre-DMS structure is formed in the perinuclear region, through a PM invagination process that resembles cleavage furrow formation.
Comparison of the performance of carcinogenic HPV typing of the Roche Linear Array and Qiagen LiquiChip® HPV assays
Authors: Halfon Philippe , Sandri Maria Teresa , Raimondo Audrey , Ravet Sophie , Khiri Hacène , Sideri Mario , Penaranda Guillaume , Camus Claire , Mateos Lindemann Maria Luisa
Published: October 2013

Background

Cervical cancer is caused by high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). DNA testing of such high-risk types of HPV could improve cervical screening.The aim of the study was to compare the sensitivities and positive predictive values of two commercially available typing assays (Qiagen LQ and Roche LA) and to comparatively assess the distribution of HPV types with these two assays.

Methods

The study population comprised 311 ASCUS + women with abnormal pap tests who were HCII positive and who were admitted to three European referral gynecology clinics between 2007 and 2010 (Madrid, Marseille and Milan). All patients underwent LQ and LA tests.

Results

The sensitivity of the two assays for HPV typing was 94% for LQ and 99% for LA (compared with HCII). The overall concordance between LQ and LA was 93%. The three prevalent genotypes, HPV16, HPV18, and HPV31, were identified with a high concordance using the two assays: kappa 0.93, 0.83, and 0.91, respectively. Mixed genotypes were more frequently detected by LA than by LQ: 52% vs. 18%, respectively (p < .0001).

Conclusions

These assays have a good clinical sensitivity for detecting HPV types in CIN2+ patients and allow the virus type to be detected in the same experiment. Our study revealed no significant difference between LQ and LA for CIN2+ or CIN3+ diagnosis, indicating similar distributions of HPV types and a mixed genotype detection that is higher for LA than for LQ.
Perceptions and use of the national kidney foundation KDOQI guidelines: a survey of U.S. renal healthcare providers
Authors: Estrella Michelle M , Jaar Bernard G , Cavanaugh Kerri L , Fox Chester H , Perazella Mark A , Soman Sandeep S , Howell Emily , Rocco Michael V , Choi Michael J
Published: October 2013

Background

The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) Kidney Disease Outcomes Quality Initiative (KDOQI) developed guidelines to care for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). While these are disseminated through the NKF’s website and publications, the guidelines’ usage remains suboptimal. The KDOQI Educational Committee was formed to identify barriers to guideline implementation, determine provider and patient educational needs and develop tools to improve care of patients with CKD.

Methods

An online survey was conducted from May to September 2010 to evaluate renal providers’ familiarity, current use of and attitudes toward the guidelines and tools to implement the guidelines.

Results

Most responders reported using the guidelines often and felt that they could be easily implemented into clinical practice; however, approximately one-half identified at least one barrier. Physicians and physician extenders most commonly cited the lack of evidence supporting KDOQI guidelines while allied health professionals most commonly listed patient non-adherence, unrealistic guideline goals and provider time-constraints. Providers thought that the guidelines included too much detail and identified the lack of a quick resource as a barrier to clinical implementation. Most were unaware of the Clinical Action Plans.

Conclusions

Perceived barriers differed between renal clinicians and allied health professionals; educational and implementation tools tailored for different providers are needed.
Dosage strength is associated with medication persistence with Ginkgo biloba drug products: a cohort study of ambulatory drug claims data in Germany
Authors: Czeche Sittah , Schüssel Katrin , Franzmann Alexandra , Burkart Martin , Schulz Martin
Published: October 2013

Background

Ginkgo bilobadrugs (Gb) are reimbursed within the German statutory health insurance (SHI) scheme for treatment of dementia. In 2008, a novel Gb product containing 240 mg Ginkgo extract EGb761®per tablet was introduced aiming to facilitate medication use by incorporating the recommended daily dose in one single tablet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between dosage strength and persistence in a representative population of patients treated with Gb.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study in ambulatory drug claims database within the German SHI system. Persistence was defined as continuous treatment with an allowable gap of 20% between refills. Multivariate regression models were conducted to identify variables associated with persistence.

Results

Among 13,810 patients initiating treatment with Gb in 2008, 430 (3.1%) received a dosage strength of 240 mg, 7,070 (51.2%) a dosage strength of 120 mg and 6,310 (45.7%) dosage strengths containing less than 120 mg Gb per tablet. After 6 months, persistence was highest for patients treated with the 240 mg dosage form (22.8% of patients), although persistence was low in general (5.7% and 0% of patients treated with 120 mg and less than 120 mg, respectively). Risk for non-persistence was reduced in patients receiving 240 mg products compared to 120 mg (HR = 0.63; 95%CI 0.57 – 0.70).

Conclusions

Patients initially treated with Gb 240 mg were more persistent compared to those receiving lower dosage strengths. Nevertheless, persistence with Gb therapy is generally low and should be improved in order to better realize therapeutic effects.
Research priorities for child and adolescent physical activity and sedentary behaviours: an international perspective using a twin-panel Delphi procedure
Authors: Gillis Lauren , Tomkinson Grant , Olds Timothy , Moreira Carla , Christie Candice , Nigg Claudio , Cerin Ester , Van Sluijs Esther , Stratton Gareth , Janssen Ian , Dorovolomo Jeremy , Reilly John J , Mota Jorge , Zayed Kashef , Kawalski Kent , Andersen Lars Bo , Carrizosa Manuel , Tremblay Mark , Chia Michael , Hamlin Mike , Thomas Non Eleri , Maddison Ralph , Biddle Stuart , Gorely Trish , Onywera Vincent , Van Mechelen Willem
Published: October 2013

Background

The quantity and quality of studies in child and adolescent physical activity and sedentary behaviour have rapidly increased, but research directions are often pursued in a reactive and uncoordinated manner.

Aim

To arrive at an international consensus on research priorities in the area of child and adolescent physical activity and sedentary behaviour.

Methods

Two independent panels, each consisting of 12 experts, undertook three rounds of a Delphi methodology. The Delphi methodology required experts to anonymously answer questions put forward by the researchers with feedback provided between each round.

Results

The primary outcome of the study was a ranked set of 29 research priorities that aimed to be applicable for the next 10 years. The top three ranked priorities were: developing effective and sustainable interventions to increase children’s physical activity long-term; policy and/or environmental change and their influence on children’s physical activity and sedentary behaviour; and prospective, longitudinal studies of the independent effects of physical activity and sedentary behaviour on health.

Conclusions

These research priorities can help to guide decisions on future research directions.
Proton pump inhibitor chemosensitization in human osteosarcoma: from the bench to the patients’ bed
Authors: Ferrari Stefano , Perut Francesca , Fagioli Franca , Brach Del Prever Adalberto , Meazza Cristina , Parafioriti Antonina , Picci Piero , Gambarotti Marco , Avnet Sofia , Baldini Nicola , Fais Stefano
Published: October 2013

Background

Major goals in translational oncology are to reduce systemic toxicity of current anticancer strategies and improve effectiveness. An extremely efficient cancer cell mechanism to avoid and/or reduce the effects of highly cytotoxic drugs is the establishment of an acidic microenvironment, an hallmark of all malignant tumors. The H + −rich milieu that anticancer drugs meet once they get inside the tumor leads to their protonation and neutralization, therefore hindering their access into tumor cells. We have previously shown that proton pump inhibitors (PPI) may efficiently counterattack this tumor advantage leading to a consistent chemosensitization of tumors. In this study, we investigated the effects of PPI in chemosensitizing osteosarcoma.

Method

MG-63 and Saos-2 cell lines were used as human osteosarcoma models. Cell proliferation after pretreatment with PPI and subsequent treatment with cisplatin was evaluated by using erythrosin B dye vital staining. Tumour growth was evaluated in xenograft treated with cisplatin after PPI pretreatment. Subsequently, a multi-centre historically controlled trial, was performed to evaluate the activity of a pre-treatment administration of PPIs as chemosensitizers during neoadjuvant chemotherapy based on methotrexate, cisplatin, and adriamycin.

Results

Preclinical experiments showed that PPI sensitize both human osteosarcoma cell lines and xenografts to cisplatin. A clinical study subsequently showed that pretreatment with PPI drug esomeprazole leads to an increase in the local effect of chemotherapy, as expressed by percentage of tumor necrosis. This was particularly evident in chondroblastic osteosarcoma, an histological subtype that normally shows a poor histological response. Notably, no significant increase in toxicity was recorded in PPI treated patients.

Conclusion

This study provides the first evidence that PPI may be beneficially added to standard regimens in combination to conventional chemotherapy.