bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathological and Biochemical Studies of Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IIIB (Sanfilippo Syndrome Type B) in Juvenile Emus (Dromaius novaehollandiae)
Authors: Palmieri C. , Giger U. , Wang P. , Pizarro M. , Shivaprasad H. L.
Published: April 2014

Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) type IIIB was diagnosed in 14 juvenile emus ( Dromaius novaehollandiae), ages 3 weeks to 6 months, based on pathological and biochemical analyses. The animals had a history of neurological signs or sudden death; one of the birds with neurological signs and 3 others experienced acute hemoabdomen. Histopathologically, neuronal swelling and vacuolation in the cerebrum, cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord (80%–92%); retina (100%); autonomic ganglia of the intestine (71%); gizzard (50%); adrenal gland (27%); and ear (50%) were noted in affected but not healthy emus. Cytoplasmic vacuoles were also observed in the pancreas, liver, intestine, adrenal glands, and kidneys. The intracytoplasmic inclusions were periodic acid–Schiff and Luxol Fast Blue positive, consistent with a storage disease. Foamy macrophages infiltrated the liver, intestine, tunica media of the aorta, and spleen. By transmission electron microscopy, typical lamellated cytoplasmic bodies were detected in neurons of the brain and retina, while electron-dense bodies consistent with glycosaminoglycan inclusions were observed in hepatocytes and/or hepatic macrophages. The livers of the 2 affected emus studied contained large amounts of heparan sulfate, which is suggestive of MPS type III. Compared with normal controls, hepatic and serum α-N-acetylglucosaminidase activity was very low (<8% of control), while other enzyme activities were normal to increased in the 2 affected emus studied. Moreover, affected emus were homozygous for a 2-bp deletion in the NAGLU gene. This study characterizes the pathology of MPS type IIIB in emus, which is one of the rare inborn errors in birds, showing the homology of this condition to Sanfilippo syndrome in humans.
Oxygen treatment of cluster headache: A review
Authors: Petersen Anja S , Barloese Mads CJ , Jensen Rigmor H
Published: April 2014

Purpose

Our aim was to review the existing literature to document oxygen’s therapeutic effect on cluster headache.

Method

A PubMed search resulted in 28 hits, and from these and their references we found in total 11 relevant studies. We included six studies that investigated the efficacy of oxygen treatment. One study is observational and the remaining five are RCTs. Another five studies were on hyperbaric oxygen treatment hereof two case studies.

Conclusion

Oxygen therapy can be administered at different flow rates. Three studies investigate the effect of low-flow oxygen, 6–7 l/min, and found a positive response in 56%, 75% and 82%, respectively, of the patients. One study investigates high-flow oxygen, 12 l/min, and found efficacy in 78% of attacks. The effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been investigated in a few small studies and there is evidence only for an acute, but not a prophylactic effect. Despite the fact that only a few high-quality RCT studies are available, oxygen treatment is close to an ideal treatment because it is effective and safe. However, sufferers of cluster headache do not always have access to oxygen because of logistic and financial concerns.
Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome following indomethacin
Authors: Calic Zeljka , Choong Ho , Schlaphoff Glen , Cappelen-Smith Cecilia
Published: April 2014

Background

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is characterized by severe thunderclap headaches and transient segmental cerebral arterial vasoconstriction. Precipitating factors, including the postpartum state and exposure to vasoactive substances are identified in approximately 50% of cases. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have rarely been associated with RCVS.

Case description

We report a case of a 51-year-old female with RCVS after administration of indomethacin given to relieve pain caused by renal colic. Cerebral imaging showed non-aneurysmal cortical subarachnoid hemorrhage, and formal angiography demonstrated widespread multifocal segmental narrowing of medium-sized cerebral arteries. These changes resolved on repeat angiography at 3 weeks.

Discussion

Indomethacin is a commonly used drug for treatment of certain primary headache disorders. To date, its mechanism of action remains unclear. A well described side effect of indomethacin is headache, which may be secondary to its vasoconstrictive effects. In our case, we postulate indomethacin, either alone or in combination with emotional stress from pain, triggered or exacerbated an underlying predisposition to RCVS.
Accelerated Versus Traditional Rehabilitation After Anterior Talofibular Ligament Reconstruction for Chronic Lateral Instability of the Ankle in Athletes
Authors: Miyamoto Wataru , Takao Masato , Yamada Kazuaki , Matsushita Takashi
Published: April 2014

Background:

Although several reconstruction procedures for chronic lateral ankle instability using autografts have been reported, all have recommended postoperative immobilization and a nonweightbearing period.

Hypothesis:

Reconstructive surgery with a gracilis autograft using an interference fit anchoring system for chronic lateral ankle instability enables early accelerated rehabilitation and recovery with a return to activity without requiring immobilization.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 33 patients (33 feet) who underwent reconstruction of the anterior talofibular ligament with a gracilis autograft using interference screws were included; 15 were followed for 4 weeks with postoperative cast immobilization (group I), while 18 were followed with accelerated rehabilitation without immobilization (group A). Clinical and radiological results were evaluated based on the Karlsson and Peterson score, talar tilt angle, anterior displacement of the talus on stress radiography, and time between surgery and return to full athletic activity.

Results:

The mean Karlsson and Peterson scores before and 2 years after surgery were the following: for group I: 62.3 ± 4.7 (range, 54-72) and 94.4 ± 7.1 (range, 76-100), respectively ( P < .001), and for group A: 64.1 ± 4.8 (range, 57-70) and 91.7 ± 7.7 (range, 74-100), respectively ( P < .001). The mean difference in the talar tilt angle compared with the contralateral side and mean displacement of the talus on stress radiography before and 2 years after surgery were the following: for group I: 8.7° ± 2.6° and 7.7 ± 1.8 mm and 3.8° ± 1.5° and 4.0 ± 1.6 mm, respectively, and for group A: 10.5° ± 3.4° and 8.7 ± 2.1 mm and 4.3° ± 1.8° and 4.3 ± 1.2 mm, respectively. Radiography revealed significantly improved postoperative outcomes in both groups ( P < .0001). No significant differences in the score and any parameters on stress radiography were evident at 2 years after surgery between the groups. The mean time between surgery and return to full athletic activity was significantly higher in group I (18.5 ± 3.5 weeks) than in group A (13.4 ± 2.2 weeks) ( P < .0001). No cases of reinjury were reported, and no differences in athletic performance ability were observed between the groups.

Conclusion:

Patients in group A returned to full athletic activity 5 weeks earlier than those in group I, demonstrating the advantage of accelerated rehabilitation after surgery.
Publication and Level of Evidence Trends in The American Journal of Sports Medicine From 1996 to 2011
Authors: Cvetanovich Gregory L. , Fillingham Yale A. , Harris Joshua D. , Erickson Brandon J. , Verma Nikhil N. , Bach Bernard R.
Published: April 2014

Background:

There has been recent increased emphasis on the publication quality and levels of evidence in orthopaedic sports medicine clinical research. The American Journal of Sports Medicine ( AJSM) began publishing levels of evidence in the abstracts of clinical articles in 2005.

Purpose:

To analyze trends in the characteristics and levels of evidence of articles published in AJSM.

Study Design:

Meta-analysis.

Methods:

All articles in AJSM from 1996, 2001, 2006, and 2011 were analyzed. Articles were analyzed for type: clinical original research, basic science, current concepts review, and case report. Clinical articles were assigned a level of evidence from 1 to 4 and categorized as therapeutic, prognostic, diagnostic, or economic. Descriptive information was collected regarding funding, authorship, and study characteristics. Statistics were calculated using χ2 tests.

Results:

A total of 795 articles were analyzed. From 1996 to 2011, there has been a significant increase in the percentage of level 1 and 2 articles (9.4% to 23.0%; P = .007) and a significant decrease in the percentage of level 3, 4, and 5 articles (55.1% to 45.1%; P = .037). There was a significant increase in the percentage of therapeutic studies (46.8% to 68.6%; P = .004) and a decrease in prognostic studies (36.7% to 22.2%; P = .03). Publishing authors were from 31 countries, notable for a significant increase in the percentage of studies published by authors from outside the United States from 1996 to 2011 (20.3% to 53.0%; P < .001). The percentage of articles reporting a financial conflict of interest significantly increased during this time (26.1% to 42.2%; P = .006).

Conclusion:

From 1996 to 2011, the proportion of level 1 and 2 evidence studies published in AJSM has increased significantly. There has been an increase in therapeutic studies and a decrease in prognostic studies. There has been an increase in the number of international studies published.
Why Intensive Interventions Matter
Authors: Solis Michael , Miciak Jeremy , Vaughn Sharon , Fletcher Jack M.
Published: April 2014

We describe findings from a series of longitudinal studies utilizing a response to intervention framework implemented over 3 years with students in Grades 6 through 8 with reading disabilities and poor reading comprehension. Students were identified based on reading comprehension scores in Grade 5 ( n = 1,083) and then randomized to treatment or comparison conditions. Beginning in sixth grade, students assigned to intervention were provided treatment for 1, 2, or 3 years based on their response to instruction in each preceding year. Screening procedures, progress monitoring tools, tiers of instruction, and findings from each year of the study are reported. Additional studies investigating reading and behavioral outcomes through multi-level, growth modeling, and studies of the cognitive and neural correlates of inadequate response are also reported.
Violent Stories
Authors: Lauger Timothy R.
Published: April 2014

Although numerous studies have relied on the notion of street culture to explain why offenders commit an array of street crimes, researchers have generally overlooked the social processes that transmit street culture within and across populations. This article examines how personal stories about violent events shape and transmit street culture among active gang members and street-oriented youth. It conceptualizes street culture as a complex system of perceptual schemas that influences how individuals understand or perceive social events. The transmission of culture entails a collective struggle to make sense of social and personal experiences through the utilization and manipulation of cultural ideas. Drawing from ethnographic recordings of conversations between active gang members on the streets of Indianapolis, this study contends that personal narratives about violent events apply and help clarify the meaning of cultural ideas. They also follow a predictable violence script that establishes expectations for when to engage in violence, the intensity of violence to be used during conflicts, and the consequences for inaction.
American Public Opinion About Prisons
Authors: Wozniak Kevin H.
Published: April 2014

Politicians in the United States frequently cite public anger when they attack “country-club” conditions in prisons. Despite the ubiquity of this rhetoric, it is backed by limited empirical support. Few studies measure American citizens’ attitudes toward prison conditions, and even fewer studies do so with data from random samples of the population. To address this limitation in our knowledge, I measure public perceptions of life in prison and opinions about the appropriate severity of punishment in prison with data from an original public opinion survey administered to a national sample of the U.S. population. I find that a plurality of respondents both perceive life in prison to be unpleasant and voice the opinion that life in prison should be harsher still. I contextualize these findings within the broader study of public opinion about punishment.
Machining behaviour of three high-performance engineering plastics
Authors: Campos Rubio Juan C , Panzera Tulio H , Scarpa Fabrizio
Published: April 2014

Polymeric materials have been widely used to replace traditional metallic materials due to their high specific elastic properties. Even though polymeric materials can be produced as near net shapes, machining is still required to make the assembling of the final products. The selection of tool and cutting conditions is very important to machine plastics because of the high ductility and low melting point of the materials. In this study, the machining behaviour of high-performance engineering polymers, such as ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene, polyoxymethylene and polytetrafluoroethylene, has been investigated using a full-factorial design (design of experiment). The effect of the factors such as feed speed, spindle speed and drill point angle was identified for each of the response variables (circularity error, surface roughness (Ra) and thrust force (Ff)). The drilling mechanism was substantially affected by the physical and mechanical properties of the polymers. Different cutting set-up conditions were able to optimize the responses. The polytetrafluoroethylene exhibited better results, achieving lower circularity error, surface roughness and thrust force. In the opposite manner, the ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene exhibited a rough topography at low feed rate and spindle speed levels.
Secondary flow vortex structures and forced convection heat transfer in fluid flow through curved elliptical ducts
Authors: Chandratilleke Tilak T , Nadim Nima
Published: April 2014

Fluid flow through curved ducts is essentially characterised by the secondary flow effects due to duct curvature and cross-sectional flow geometry. Such flows produce vortex structures making the fluid behaviour vastly different than those in straight ducts while intrinsically promoting forced convection through fluid mixing. Examining the unique features of secondary flow and wall heat transfer, this paper presents a numerical simulation on the fluid flow through curved elliptical ducts, including circular geometry. The study develops and validates a novel numerical model based on three-dimensional vortex structures (helicity) and a curvilinear mesh system to overcome previous modelling limitations. Considering several duct aspect ratios, flow rates and wall heat fluxes, computations are performed to obtain the flow patterns and thermal characteristics. Parametric influences on flow features and forced convection are described through physical interpretation. The onset of vortices due to secondary flow instability is carefully examined in relation to the duct aspect ratio and flow rate. Appraising their merits, two techniques are developed for accurate detection of secondary flow instability and integrated into the computational process, which was not previously feasible. An approach based on the Second Law irreversibility is evaluated for thermal optimisation of fluid flow through curved elliptical ducts.
Pictures of the Sino-Japanese War of 1894–1895
Authors: Fröhlich Judith
Published: April 2014

Pictures of the Sino-Japanese War of 1894–5 have come down to us from China and Japan. This article shows that war pictures in both countries relied on a Western-inspired iconography. Moreover, it argues that Japan triumphed not only on the battlefield but also in the ‘picture war’, adopting more of the discourses which were important in the West at the end of the nineteenth century.
Evolution or Revolution on the Battlefield? The Army of the Sambre and Meuse in 1794
Authors: Hayworth Jordan R.
Published: April 2014

This article assesses the transformation of warfare during the French Revolution as it relates to the battlefield. It uses as a case study the Army of the Sambre and Meuse during the 1794 conquest of Belgium. In particular, it explores the army’s performance in four battles fought during the year: First Fleurus, Second Fleurus, the Ourthe, and the Roer. Of the four, only Second Fleurus has received detailed scholarly examination to date. To sustain the revolutionary view of military change, the evidence must demonstrate the dominance of French innovations at the tactical and operational levels. In contrast, this article reveals the primacy of evolutionary changes on the battlefield. Overall, French military practices did not radically depart from Old Regime developments, nor did they clearly signal the unmitigated rise of French combat effectiveness.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy
Authors: Notgrass Clayton G. , Pettinelli J. Douglas
Published: April 2014

This article describes the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association’s (EAGALA) experiential model called Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP). EAGALA’s model is based on the Association for Experiential Education’s (AEE) tenets and is focused on the learner’s experience with horses. Drawing on the historical use of equines in the healing arts, we argue that EAP is distinct from other modalities that incorporate horses because it does not promote horseback riding or horsemanship skills. We outline the EAP model, drawing connections to the AEE’s principles of practice. Current research does not consistently include a common language when describing the program being investigated (sometimes not even referring to EAP or EAGALA). Therefore, this outline is needed to distinguish EAP from other models. Recommendations for future areas of inquiry include determining the degree to which EAP is effective and considering the specific variables central to its efficacy—including the characteristics of horses.
Semitendinosus Tendon Autograft for Reconstruction of Large Defects in Chronic Achilles Tendon Ruptures
Authors: Dumbre Patil Sampat Shivajirao , Dumbre Patil Vaishali Sampat , Basa Vikas Rajeshwarrao , Dombale Ajay Birappa
Published: April 2014

Background:

Chronic Achilles tendon ruptures are associated with considerable functional morbidity. When treated operatively, debridement of degenerated tendon ends may create large defects. Various procedures to reconstruct large defects have been described. We present a simple technique in which an autologous semitendinosus tendon graft is used to reconstruct defects larger than 5 cm in chronic Achilles tendon ruptures. The purpose of this study was to describe our operative technique and its functional outcome.

Methods:

Achilles ruptures of more than 6 weeks duration were considered for the study. We treated 35 patients (20 males, 15 females) with symptomatic chronic Achilles tendon ruptures. The mean age was 47.4 years (range, 30 to 59). The smallest defect that we had reconstructed was 5 cm, and the largest was 9 cm in length. The average follow-up duration was 30.7 months (range, 20 to 42). Postoperatively, the strength of gastrocsoleus was measured by manual muscle testing (MMT) in non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing positions.

Results:

All operated patients showed satisfactory functional outcome, good soft tissue healing, and no reruptures. The preoperative weight-bearing MMT of 2/5 improved to 4/5 or 5/5 postoperatively. In all patients, postoperative non-weight-bearing MMT was 5/5. All patients returned to their prerupture daily activity.

Conclusion:

We present a technique that is simple, with low morbidity. We believe it is a valuable option especially when allografts are not available. It is inexpensive as suture anchors or tenodesis screws are not used. This can be a useful option if other tendons (flexor hallucis longus, peroneus brevis, etc) are not available for transfer.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, retrospective case series.
Microglial Dynamics and Role in the Healthy and Diseased Brain
Authors: Gomez-Nicola Diego , Perry V. Hugh
Published: April 2014

The study of the dynamics and functions of microglia in the healthy and diseased brain is a matter of intense scientific activity. The application of new techniques and new experimental approaches has allowed the identification of novel microglial functions and the redefinition of classic ones. In this review, we propose the study of microglial functions, rather than their molecular profiles, to better understand and define the roles of these cells in the brain. We review current knowledge on the role of surveillant microglia, proliferating microglia, pruning/neuromodulatory microglia, phagocytic microglia, and inflammatory microglia and the molecular profiles that are associated with these functions. In the remodeling scenario of microglial biology, the analysis of microglial functional states will inform about the roles in health and disease and will guide us to a more precise understanding of the multifaceted roles of this never-resting cells.
Multiple Modes of Communication between Neurons and Oligodendrocyte Precursor Cells
Authors: Maldonado Paloma P. , Angulo María Cecilia
Published: April 2014

The surprising discovery of bona fide synapses between neurons and oligodendrocytes precursor cells (OPCs) 15 years ago placed these progenitors as real partners of neurons in the CNS. The role of these synapses has not been established yet, but a main hypothesis is that neuron–OPC synaptic activity is a signaling pathway controlling OPC proliferation/differentiation, influencing the myelination process. However, new evidences describing non-synaptic mechanisms of communication between neurons and OPCs have revealed that neuron–OPC interactions are more complex than expected. The activation of extrasynaptic receptors by ambient neurotransmitter or local spillover and the ability of OPCs to sense neuronal activity through a potassium channel suggest that distinct modes of communication mediate different functions of OPCs in the CNS. This review discusses different mechanisms used by OPCs to interact with neurons and their potential roles during postnatal development and in brain disorders.
Ideological Victimization
Authors: Parkin William S. , Freilich Joshua D. , Chermak Steven M.
Published: April 2014

This study examines homicide victimization during acts of far-right ideologically motivated violence. Focusing on victims of extremist violence in the United States, we compare ideological homicide victims to prior homicide research to determine whether ideological victims are similar to “routine” homicide victims. In addition, ideological victims were broken into four categories to determine whether differences between these victimization groups exist. The results of the study found that ideological victimization is a unique phenomenon, as differences were found between the victims of far-right ideologically motivated homicides and prior homicide victimization research, as well as differences between distinct types of ideological victims.
The Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge (SCSK) Scale
Authors: Day Ashley K. , Wilson Carlene , Roberts Rachel M. , Hutchinson Amanda D.
Published: April 2014

Increasing public knowledge remains one of the key aims of skin cancer awareness campaigns, yet diagnosis rates continue to rise. It is essential we measure skin cancer knowledge adequately so as to determine the nature of its relationship to sun-related behaviors. This study investigated the psychometric properties of a new measure of skin cancer knowledge, the Skin Cancer and Sun Knowledge (SCSK) scale. A total of 514 Western young adults (females n = 320, males n = 194) aged 18 to 26 years completed measures of skin type, skin cancer knowledge, tanning behavior, sun exposure, and sun protection. Two-week test–retest of the SCSK was conducted with 52 participants. Internal reliability of the SCSK scale was acceptable (KR-20 = .69), test–retest reliability was high ( r = .83, n = 52), and acceptable levels of face, content, and incremental validity were demonstrated. Skin cancer knowledge (as measured by SCSK) correlated with sun protection, sun exposure, and tanning behaviors in the female sample, but not in the males. Skin cancer knowledge appears to be more relevant to the behavior of young women than that of young males. We recommend that future research establish the validity of the SCSK across a range of participant groups.
Barriers to Mammography Among Inadequately Screened Women
Authors: Stoll Carolyn R. T. , Roberts Summer , Cheng Meng-Ru , Crayton Eloise V. , Jackson Sherrill , Politi Mary C.
Published: April 2014

Mammography use has increased over the past 20 years, yet more than 30% of women remain inadequately screened. Structural barriers can deter individuals from screening, however, cognitive, emotional, and communication barriers may also prevent mammography use. This study sought to identify the impact of number and type of barriers on mammography screening status, and to examine whether number and type of barriers are different for never-screened and off-schedule women. A total of 182 women aged 40 years or older completed a computer kiosk facilitated survey as part of a larger patient navigator intervention. Logistic regression analysis indicated that breast cancer knowledge predicted whether a woman had ever had a mammogram (odds ratio [ OR] = 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02-1.06, p = .0003), while the number of emotional, structural, and communication barriers predicted whether a woman was on-schedule for mammograms ( OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.65-0.95, p = .0127). The results suggest that to increase the use of mammography at recommended regular intervals, interventions should be tailored toward current screening status.
Reflections on Partial Least Squares Path Modeling
Authors: McIntosh Cameron N. , Edwards Jeffrey R. , Antonakis John
Published: April 2014

The purpose of the present article is to take stock of a recent exchange in Organizational Research Methods between critics and proponents of partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM). The two target articles were centered around six principal issues, namely whether PLS-PM: (a) can be truly characterized as a technique for structural equation modeling (SEM), (b) is able to correct for measurement error, (c) can be used to validate measurement models, (d) accommodates small sample sizes, (e) is able to provide null hypothesis tests for path coefficients, and (f) can be employed in an exploratory, model-building fashion. We summarize and elaborate further on the key arguments underlying the exchange, drawing from the broader methodological and statistical literature to offer additional thoughts concerning the utility of PLS-PM and ways in which the technique might be improved. We conclude with recommendations as to whether and how PLS-PM serves as a viable contender to SEM approaches for estimating and evaluating theoretical models.
A practical example of Contribution Analysis to a public health intervention
Authors: Biggs Janice S. , Farrell Louise , Lawrence Glenda , Johnson Julie K.
Published: April 2014

The theory of Contribution Analysis (CA) as a method of evaluating complex programs has been written about extensively and has evolved considerably since it was first introduced by John Mayne in 1999. We applied Mayne’s six steps to CA and Lemire et al.’s newly proposed framework, the Relevant Explanation Finder (REF), to a state-wide public health intervention delivered in New South Wales, Australia. We argue that CA in conjunction with the REF adds value in improving practitioners’ understanding of the assumptions and underlying mechanisms which influence program delivery and outcomes in real world practice. This participatory process increased practitioners’ ownership and accountability for the program logic and drive for improvement. Although the REF has several methodological benefits we argue that the framework needs to be sufficiently flexible to account for different levels of available evidence and stages of program delivery.
The mis-measurement of extreme global poverty: A case study in the Pacific Islands
Authors: Deeming Christopher , Gubhaju Bina
Published: April 2014

Debate over the measurement of global poverty in low- and middle-income countries continues unabated. There is considerable controversy surrounding the ‘dollar a day’ measure used to monitor progress against the Millennium Development Goals. This article shines fresh light on the debate with new empirical analyses of poverty (including child poverty), inequality and deprivation levels in the Pacific island state of Vanuatu. The study focuses not only on economic and monetary metrics and measures, but also the measures of deprivation derived from sociology in relation to shelter, sanitation, water, information, nutrition, health and education. Until recently, there had been few, if any, attempts to study poverty and deprivation disparities among children in this part of the world. Different measures yield strikingly different estimates of poverty. The article, therefore, attempts to situate the study findings in the broader international context of poverty measurement and discusses their implications for future research and the post-2015 development agenda.
Banal nationalism and queers online: Enforcing and resisting cultural meanings of .tr
Authors: Szulc Lukasz
Published: April 2014

Focusing on daily (re)productions of national identities online, in this article, I investigate a particular country-code Top-Level Domain, .tr for Turkey. I follow Billig’s concept of ‘banal nationalism’ to argue that .tr (re)produces online Turkish national imaginations. Furthermore, I inspect the hegemonic Turkish norms of sexuality to examine what kind of Turkishness .tr (re)produces. The analyses of the policies governing the allocation process of .tr and the email interviews with the authors of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans* websites in Turkey show that .tr works to (re)produce, in a banal way, queer-free notion of Turkishness online. My analysis also demonstrates that some authors of the analysed websites do not dismiss .tr as banal but refuse to use it in resistance against the Turkish national requirements embedded in the domain. More broadly, I argue for the acknowledgement of cultural structures in internet governance studies.
The spatial self: Location-based identity performance on social media
Authors: Schwartz Raz , Halegoua Germaine R
Published: April 2014

As a growing number of social media platforms now include location information from their users, researchers are confronted with new online representations of individuals, social networks, and the places they inhabit. To better understand these representations and their implications, we introduce the concept of the “spatial self”: a theoretical framework encapsulating the process of online self-presentation based on the display of offline physical activities. Building on previous studies in social science, humanities, and computer and information science, we analyze the ways offline experiences are harnessed and performed online. We first provide an encompassing interdisciplinary survey of research that investigates the relationships between location, information technology, and identity performance. Then, we identify and characterize the spatial self as well as examine its occurrences through three case studies of popular social media sites: Instagram, Facebook, and Foursquare. Finally, we offer possible research directions and methodological considerations for the analysis of geocoded social media data.
Cardiac Management of Ventilator-Assisted Individuals with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: O’Brien Lauren , Varadi Robert , Goldstein Roger S , Evans Rachael A
Published: April 2014

As life expectancy of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has increased to the 5th decade, in part due to improved ventilatory support, cardiomyopathy is projected to increase as a cause of death. International guidelines recommend an annual assessment of cardiac function and initiation of appropriate pharmacological treatment. We conducted an audit of the cardiac management in patients with DMD requiring ventilatory support and reported a case series of the collated cardiac investigations. Patients with DMD requiring ventilatory support were included in the study. The date of the last electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiogram (ECHO), cardiology review and pharmacological management were retrieved from the medical records. If an annual cardiac assessment had not been performed this was requested and the latest ECGs and ECHO reports were collated. A total of 30 patients with DMD (29 males, mean (SD) age of 30 (7) years) met the inclusion criteria. Although there was ECG and ECHO documentation in 24 and 21 individuals, respectively, it was only recent in 10 and 6 individuals. In all, 60% of patients had been assessed by a cardiologist, but only 10% within the last year. Over half of the patients failed to attend their new appointments. From the available results, 18 of the 19 patients had an abnormal ECG, 11 of the 16 patients had left ventricular (LV) impairment and 55% of patients had a change in prescription following cardiac investigations. There is a need for a coordinated cardiorespiratory approach towards adult patients with DMD. Over a third of patients had normal LV function suggesting that cardiomyopathy is not inevitable in this group.
Geriatric rehabilitation for patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: van Dam van Isselt Eléonore F , Spruit Monica , Groenewegen-Sipkema Karin H , Chavannes Niels H , Achterberg Wilco P
Published: April 2014

In view of the worldwide aging population, disease-specific geriatric rehabilitation (GR) programs are needed. Therefore, we developed and implemented a postacute GR program for patients with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (the GR-COPD program). The aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility of the GR-COPD program and to present clinical data on patient characteristics and course of functional capacity and health status. This is a naturalistic prospective cohort study of patients with advanced COPD. A total of 61 patients entered the GR-COPD program and were eligible to participate in this study. All patients suffered from advanced COPD, and comorbidities were frequent. On admission, functional capacity and health status were severely limited but showed significant and clinically relevant improvement during the GR-COPD program. Patients with advanced COPD admitted to hospital for an acute exacerbation suffer from severely impaired functional capacity and poor health status. Development and implementation of a postacute GR program for these patients are feasible and likely to offer substantial improvements. Further research is essential and should focus on designing a controlled intervention trial to investigate the efficacy of the program.
The Effect of Star Quality on Attendance Demand
Authors: Jane Wen-Jhan
Published: April 2014

This article investigates the relationship between the star effect and match attendance in the National Basketball Association for the 2010-2011 and 2011-2012 seasons. We include five different definitions of star players, measures of short-run league-level competitive balance, and game uncertainty for two rivals in a Tobit regression model. The evidence shows that the appearance of stars increases home and road game attendance. A positive star externality on game attendance is found.
Judicial Deference and Executive Control Over Administrative Agencies
Authors: Johnson Gbemende
Published: April 2014

Do judges defer to executives with increased institutional control over the executive branch? Administrative agencies play a key role in the policy implementation process. Executives could view aggressive judicial review of executive branch activity as a threat to executive power and negatively respond to perceived judicial intrusions. Governors across the country possess varying amounts of institutional authority over the agencies that comprise their states' executive branches. For example, in many states, executive branch officials are elected by the public or appointed by someone other than the governor. Increased fragmentation increases the difficulty of centralized management and decreases gubernatorial influence over the executive branch. I examine whether state supreme courts defer more to agencies in states where governors have more formal control over the executive branch. I find that state supreme courts are more likely to rule in favor of state administrative agencies in states where the governor has increased appointment power and increased power to review agency rulemaking.
The Girl-Child, the Outlaw, and the Land/Woman
Authors: Jelača Dijana
Published: April 2014

Through three separate-yet-connected instances of spectatorial re-appropriation of the Western cinematic iconicity, I explore how the genre framed an understanding of a war that is not only geographically but also historically and politically far away from the Western’s American home culture. The war in question is one that broke the country of Yugoslavia apart at the end of the 20th century (a century that is, incidentally, also known as the century of cinema). From prominent Yugoslav artists re-writing iconic Western imagery to refuse troubling divisions haunting their home country, to my own personal experiences with surviving the war—fused with my childhood love of the Western film genre—I explore how the Western mythology was re-appropriated to symbolize something entirely different from what it might have meant in its home context. While this re-appropriation might potentially erase or reconfigure some of the Western’s domestic complexities, it creates many new ones, offering an opportunity to explore the question of how trans-cultural “fantasy echoes” offer sites of creative possibility and of insightful re-readings rather than of reductive limitations.
The Consortium for NCD Prevention and Control in Sub-Saharan Africa (CNCD-Africa): from concept to practice
Authors: Amuyunzu-Nyamongo Mary , Owuor Jared O. , Blanchard Claire
Published: April 2014

CNCD-Africa was established in July 2009 in response to and in recognition of the continuously increasing burden of diseases such as injuries, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health in low- and middle-income countries, and specifically in countries of sub-Saharan Africa. CNCD-Africa aims to comprehensively address specific and common objectives while building capacity in the region to prevent and control NCDs. With support from key partners and funders, and a keen interest in opportunities to address NCDs from health promotion and equity perspectives, the Consortium has excelled in four key areas: convening; knowledge generation and sharing; advocacy; and networking. However, the path to successful and sustainable efforts remains laden with challenges and barriers. Retaining interest of network partners through flagship efforts and continued efforts to ascertain support from local and international partners with interest in NCDs across the region remain essential to CNCD-Africa core activities.

A key lesson learnt from the early years of CNCD-Africa is that existing regional platforms can and should be used to showcase what is being done locally, and to share best practices and best-buys. In addition, partnerships and stakeholder involvement have been key for CNCD-Africa and are essential to NCD action. Sustaining such partnerships requires incentives for the various partners to keep actively involved in NCD action. This can be achieved through joint inception, project planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Another ingredient for success seems to be innovative financing for NCD efforts, which is possible through the establishment and sustaining of regional and global partnerships that are robust, locally relevant and respond to country needs.
A comparative study of perceptions on tobacco in vulnerable populations between India and France
Authors: Stoebner-Delbarre Anne , Aghi Mira B.
Published: April 2014

Perceptions of tobacco are a relatively unexplored issue in disadvantaged populations in India and France. The objectives of this study included the following: obtain qualitative information on representations of tobacco use and cessation within two vulnerable populations; identify cultural factors that influence tobacco use and cessation; and acquire information for the development of effective tobacco cessation strategies. A total of 21 focus groups were conducted in India and France. All study participants were disadvantaged adults 18 years old or older. Sixty women resided in South Delhi in India and 163 adults with disabilities resided in the south of France. They were all current tobacco users. Data were collected by focus group and analysed with thematic coding. In both samples, the most relevant reasons of tobacco use were daily life circumstances, which were also a major barrier to quitting. None of the participants reported that quitting difficulties could be due to dependence or nicotine addiction. The data also suggested that whilst some participants wanted to stop, they also anticipated quitting would be extremely challenging. In addition, there were a number of cross-cultural differences between Indian and French disadvantaged people: level of information concerning the health risk related to tobacco use and level of demand for support to quit from health professionals were most often cited. Recommendations are made for a specific approach among disadvantaged people. The paper concludes that in order to facilitate cessation, tobacco control interventions need to focus on coping strategies to deal with feelings of distress, withdrawal symptoms, and the circumstances of everyday life experienced by disadvantaged tobacco users.
Case study: The Argentina Road Safety Project: lessons learned for the decade of action for road safety, 2011–2020
Authors: Raffo Veronica , Bliss Tony , Shotten Marc , Sleet David , Blanchard Claire
Published: April 2014

This case study of the Argentina Road Safety Project demonstrates how the application of World Bank road safety project guidelines focused on institution building can accelerate knowledge transfer, scale up investment and improve the focus on results. The case study highlights road safety as a development priority and outlines World Bank initiatives addressing the implementation of the World Report on Road Traffic Injury’s recommendations and the subsequent launch of the Decade of Action for Road Safety, from 2011–2020. The case study emphasizes the vital role played by the lead agency in ensuring sustainable road safety improvements and promoting the shift to a ‘Safe System’ approach, which necessitated the strengthening of all elements of the road safety management system. It summarizes road safety performance and institutional initiatives in Argentina leading up to the preparation and implementation of the project. We describe the project’s development objectives, financing arrangements, specific components and investment staging. Finally, we discuss its innovative features and lessons learned, and present a set of supplementary guidelines, both to assist multilateral development banks and their clients with future road safety initiatives, and to encourage better linkages between the health and transportation sectors supporting them.
Using baseline and formative evaluation data to inform the Uganda Helmet Vaccine Initiative
Authors: Roehler Douglas R. , Naumann Rebecca B. , Mutatina Boniface , Nakitto Mable , Mwanje Barbara , Brondum Lotte , Blanchard Claire , Baldwin Grant T. , Dellinger Ann M.
Published: April 2014

Motorcycles are an important form of transportation in Uganda, and are involved in more road traffic injuries than any other vehicle. The majority of motorcycles in Uganda are used as motorcycle taxis, better known locally as boda bodas. Research shows that a motorcycle helmet is effective at reducing a rider’s risk of death and head injury. As part of the Uganda Helmet Vaccine Initiative (UHVI), researchers collected baseline and formative evaluation data on boda boda operators’ helmet attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors to inform UHVI activities. Researchers collected data on motorcycle helmet-related attitudes and beliefs through focus group discussions and structured roadside interviews, and researchers conducted roadside observations to collect data on helmet-wearing behaviors. Of the 12,189 motorcycle operators and passengers observed during roadside observations, 30.8% of drivers and <1% of passengers were wearing helmets. The most commonly reported helmet-wearing barriers from the focus group discussions and structured roadside interviews were: (1) ‘Helmet is uncomfortable’, (2) ‘Helmet is too hot’, (3) ‘Helmet is too expensive’, and (4) ‘Helmet is of low quality’. Researchers incorporated findings from the formative research into the UHVI campaign to increase motorcycle helmet use. Radio messages addressing helmet comfort and cost were widely aired throughout Kampala, Uganda. In addition, campaign staff held nine boda boda operator workshops, covering approximately 900 operators, in which the facilitator addressed barriers and facilitators to helmet use. Each workshop participant received a high-quality tropical motorcycle helmet. UHVI will continue to use a data-driven approach to future campaign activities.
Modeling Alternative Futures with General Morphological Analysis
Authors: Ritchey Tom
Published: April 2014

General morphological analysis (GMA) is a method for systematically structuring and analyzing the total set of relationships contained in multi-dimensional, non-quantifiable problem complexes. During the past 15 years, GMA has been extended, computerized and applied to long-term strategy management and organizational structuring. It is especially useful for developing scenario models and mapping alternative futures. This article outlines the fundamentals of the morphological approach and describes its use in a number of case studies in scenario development and futures projections done for Swedish government authorities and NGOs.
Six Worlds of Tomorrow
Authors: Clardy Alan
Published: April 2014

Images of the future are presented to popular culture not as academic studies, but as stories in various literary and cinematic forms. Six generic narrative visions of the future are identified: progress and utopia, anti-utopia, dystopia, conflict and revolution, collapse, and apocalypse. These narrative accounts have the power to inspire and excite action through psychological processes described here. Given this potential, it is important to be able to critique the simplistic thinking about the future that such visions represent. One generic criticism reviewed here is historicism; beyond that, each paradigmatic vision is critiqued specifically on its own terms. The potential biasing effects of these paradigms on future studies is considered.