bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-Mail Is an Effective Tool for Rapid Feedback in Acute Stroke
Authors: Rostanski Sara K. , Stillman Joshua I. , Schaff Lauren R. , Perdomo Crismely A. , Liberman Ava L. , Miller Eliza C. , Marshall Randolph S. , Willey Joshua Z. , Williams Olajide
Published: January 2017

Objective:

To determine whether e-mail is a useful mechanism to provide prompt, case-specific data feedback and improve door-to-needle (DTN) time for acute ischemic stroke treated with intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV-tPA) in the emergency department (ED) at a high-volume academic stroke center.

Methods:

We instituted a quality improvement project at Columbia University Medical Center where clinical details are shared via e-mail with the entire treatment team after every case of IV-tPA administration in the ED. Door-to-needle and component times were compared between the prefeedback (January 2013 to March 2015) and postfeedback intervention (April 2015 to June 2016) periods.

Results:

A total of 273 cases were included in this analysis, 102 (37%) in the postintervention period. Median door-to-stroke code activation (2 vs 0 minutes, P < .01), door-to-CT Scan (21 vs 18 minutes, P < .01), and DTN (54 vs 49 minutes, P = .17) times were shorter in the postintervention period, although the latter did not reach statistical significance. The proportion of cases with the fastest DTN (≤45 minutes) was higher in the postintervention period (29.2% vs 42.2%, P = .03).

Conclusion:

E-mail is a simple and effective tool to provide rapid feedback and promote interdisciplinary communication to improve acute stroke care in the ED.
Killing two birds with one stone: successful opioid monotherapy in intractable migraine-triggered epilepsy, a case series
Authors: Derakhshan Iraj
Published: January 2017

The novel concept explored in this case series is the primacy of headaches in generating seizures in those patients who suffer from migraine-triggered epilepsy. In this series, once the migraine headaches were fully suppressed, via daily scheduled opioid therapy, the seizures also stopped. Seizures returned, however, after the patients stopped the opiate regimen for any reason. The above pharmacological scenario is reminiscent of a similar but naturalistic course of events reported on the salutary effects of ketogenic diet, or changes in life style, in similar cases of migraine-triggered epilepsy. The primacy of migraine in treating what has been named ‘seizure headaches’ is seen in two other scenarios (i.e. the salutary effect of ketogenic diet and lifestyle changes resulting in restoration of one’s sleeping pattern) thus stopping the migraine as well as the seizures associated with the same. This case series recounts the same phenomenon via utilizing around-the-clock maintenance opioid therapy.
Separate and Simultaneous Adjustment of Light Qualities in a Real Scene
Authors: Xia Ling , Pont Sylvia C. , Heynderick Ingrid
Published: January 2017

Humans are able to estimate light field properties in a scene in that they have expectations of the objects’ appearance inside it. Previously, we probed such expectations in a real scene by asking whether a “probe object” fitted a real scene with regard to its lighting. But how well are observers able to interactively adjust the light properties on a “probe object” to its surrounding real scene? Image ambiguities can result in perceptual interactions between light properties. Such interactions formed a major problem for the “readability” of the illumination direction and diffuseness on a matte smooth spherical probe. We found that light direction and diffuseness judgments using a rough sphere as probe were slightly more accurate than when using a smooth sphere, due to the three-dimensional (3D) texture. We here extended the previous work by testing independent and simultaneous (i.e., the light field properties separated one by one or blended together) adjustments of light intensity, direction, and diffuseness using a rough probe. Independently inferred light intensities were close to the veridical values, and the simultaneously inferred light intensity interacted somewhat with the light direction and diffuseness. The independently inferred light directions showed no statistical difference with the simultaneously inferred directions. The light diffuseness inferences correlated with but contracted around medium veridical values. In summary, observers were able to adjust the basic light properties through both independent and simultaneous adjustments. The light intensity, direction, and diffuseness are well “readable” from our rough probe. Our method allows “tuning the light” (adjustment of its spatial distribution) in interfaces for lighting design or perception research.
Outcomes of coronary artery bypass grafting versus percutaneous coronary intervention with second-generation drug-eluting stents for patients with multivessel and unprotected left main coronary artery disease
Authors: Papadopoulos Kyriacos , Lekakis Ioannis , Nicolaides Evagoras
Published: January 2017

Objectives:

To compare the efficacy and safety of percutaneous coronary intervention using second-generation drug-eluting stents with those of coronary artery bypass grafting among patients with multivessel disease and/or unprotected left main coronary artery disease in terms of mortality, myocardial infarction, repeat revascularization, and angina.

Background:

Although coronary artery disease is a leading cause of death in the Western world and in many developing countries, its optimal treatment is still a matter of controversy. Several studies have examined the clinical safety and efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention using first-generation drug-eluting stents over coronary artery bypass grafting in patients with multivessel disease and/or unprotected left main coronary artery disease. However, this study compared the efficacy of percutaneous coronary intervention using second-generation drug-eluting stents to that of coronary artery bypass grafting for multivessel disease and/or unprotected left main coronary artery disease.

Methods:

This was a prospective single-center cohort study conducted from September 2012 to November 2014 at the Nicosia General Hospital. In total, 140 patients (94% men and 6% women) with chronic coronary artery disease undergoing revascularization with either percutaneous coronary intervention using second-generation drug-eluting stents or coronary artery bypass grafting were evaluated. We examined the differences in clinical outcomes between coronary artery bypass grafting and percutaneous coronary intervention at 1-year follow-up.

Results:

Percutaneous coronary intervention with second-generation drug-eluting stents as opposed to coronary artery bypass grafting resulted in similar rates of mortality (5.7% vs 11.4%, respectively; p = 0.135), myocardial infarction (0% vs 4.3%, respectively), repeat revascularization (4.3% vs 8.6%, respectively; p = 0.115) and angina (10% vs 18.6%, respectively; p = 0.153).

Conclusion:

In this patient population, percutaneous coronary intervention with second-generation drug-eluting stents was not inferior to coronary artery bypass grafting in terms of mortality, myocardial infarction, repeat revascularization, or angina.
A rare cause of tonsil mass in a child: Lymphoid polyp
Authors: Ji Hongzhao , Ulualp Seckin O , Sengupta Anita
Published: January 2017

Objective:

Solitary mass lesions of the palatine tonsils are rare in children. While a tonsillar mass can be concerning for a neoplasm, benign conditions may present with a mass arising from the surface of the palatine tonsils in children. We describe clinical and histopathological characteristics of a lymphoid polyp in a child with unilateral tonsillar mass.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review.

Results:

A 6-year-old girl presented for evaluation of recurrent acute tonsillitis and a mass on the left palatine tonsil. A pedunculated mass with the base attached to the left palatine tonsil was observed. The mass was completely removed by tonsillectomy. The final diagnosis was lymphoid polyp.

Conclusion:

Pediatricians, otolaryngologists, and pathologists should be aware of the occurrence of tonsillar lymphoid polyp in the pediatric age group.
In vitro fertilization–induced hypertriglyceridemia with secondary acute pancreatitis and diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Issa Claire Michael , Abu Khuzam Rani Hazar
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

In vitro fertilization is becoming more and more popular lately, as such light is to be shed on any possible related complication. One of these complications is the possible hormonal effect on the lipid profile of the patients.

Case presentation:

We present a case of a 39-year-old woman with no prior or family history of dyslipidemia, who presented with post in vitro fertilization severe hypertriglyceridemia and secondary acute pancreatitis and diabetic ketoacidosis. Discussion of the case is followed by a brief review of the literature related to in vitro fertilization–induced hypertriglyceridemia.

Conclusion:

This is, up to our knowledge, the sixth reported case of in vitro fertilization–induced hypertriglyceridemia with secondary acute pancreatitis. This is a serious and life-threatening complication. As such, it might be wise at least in high-risk patients (such as patients with diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovaries syndrome, obesity, and family and personal history of dyslipidemia) to screen for lipid abnormalities before initiating in vitro fertilization and monitor these levels afterward.
Subtypes of chronic gastritis in patients with celiac disease before and after gluten‐free diet
Authors: Gabrieli Dolores , Ciccone Fabiana , Capannolo Annalisa , Viscido Angelo , Valerii Giorgio , Serva Donatella , Necozione Stefano , Coletti Gino , Calvisi Giuseppe , Melideo Dina , Frieri Giuseppe , Latella Giovanni
Published: January 2017

Background

Celiac disease (CD) often manifests with dyspeptic symptoms and chronic gastritis is a common finding.

Aim

To evaluate the frequency of lymphocytic gastritis (LG), chronic active gastritis (CAG), and chronic inactive gastritis (CIG) in patients with CD, before and after gluten‐free diet (GFD).

Methods

A five‐year prospective study including all consecutive patients with a new diagnosis of CD was conducted. Gastric and duodenal biopsy specimens taken both at the time of the CD diagnosis and at the first endoscopic control after 18–24 months on GFD were evaluated.

Results

213 patients with CD were enrolled. At the time of the diagnosis, 42 patients (19.7%) showed normal gastric mucosa, 34 (15.9%) LG, 67 (31.5%) CAG, and 70 (32.9%) CIG. Out of the 34 patients with LG, all were Helicobacter pylori negative and the majority of them showed an improvement both of gastritis (94.1%) and duodenal lesions (82.3%) after GFD. GFD did not show significant effects on CAG and CIG.

Conclusions

LG is present in 16% of CD patients, it is not associated with H. pylori infection, and it improves after GFD. Both CAG and CIG are also frequently associated with CD, but fail to respond to a GFD.
How negative partisanship affects voting behavior in Europe: Evidence from an analysis of 17 European multi-party systems with proportional voting
Authors: Mayer Sabrina Jasmin
Published: January 2017

While positive party identification is one of the most used concepts in election studies, negative partisanship (NPID) is rarely analyzed. Evidence from two-party systems or settings with majority voting shows that hostility towards one of the other parties has its own unique impact on voting behavior. However, this effect has not been analyzed in the context of European multi-party systems with proportional voting. In this paper, I utilize data from the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems, Module 3, which demonstrates that negative partisanship has its own positive effect on turnout (about nine percentage points). In addition, negative partisanship affects vote choice by 2–6 percentage points. However, contrary to previous findings, NPID does not always affect voting for one of the other parties; no significant relationship was found between NPID and vote choice for Conservative/Christian Democratic and Liberal parties. The results of this study add to the growing literature on negative partisanship and demonstrate its importance in the analysis of voting behavior in multi-party systems.
A new way to proxy levels of infrastructure development
Authors: Pickering Steve
Published: January 2017

Researchers in many fields have needed to develop a measure of infrastructure, and many proxies have been used toward this end, such as night light data and the Digital Chart of the World. Yet there are issues in using these methods. This paper presents a new way of proxying infrastructure: analysing the file sizes of map images on the Bing, Google, OpenStreetMap and Sina websites. The paper also demonstrates four ways in which this can be achieved. This approach is by no means perfect and does not solve all of the difficulties presented by other methods. Nevertheless, it does provide a simple and functional alternative proxy for level of infrastructure development.
‘A good method of quitting smoking’ or ‘just an alternative to smoking’? Comparative evaluations of e-cigarette and traditional cigarette usage by dual users
Authors: Vandrevala Tushna , Coyle Adrian , Walker Victoria , Cabrera Torres Joshelyn , Ordoña Izobel , Rahman Panna
Published: January 2017

The development of e-cigarettes was initially hailed as a resource in facilitating a reduction in or cessation of cigarette smoking. Many users of e-cigarettes are ‘dual users’, smoking traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes. The present qualitative study examines the factors that a group of 20 dual users considered to have been influential in their decisions to use e-cigarettes and their comparative evaluations of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes. Health concerns were not found to be sole motivators. Participants pointed to financial and contextual considerations, particularly peer influence on uptake and continued usage of e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes were evaluated as comparable to cigarettes in some ways but not in other important respects such as sensation and satisfaction. Different social evaluations of cigarette and e-cigarette usage were discerned which influenced how participants identified as smokers, ‘vapers’ or neither. Findings are discussed in relation to social representations, identity and implications for continued e-cigarette usage among dual users.
Can economic profit influence public opinion? Observing generational change on cross-strait relations in Taiwan
Authors: Weng Lu Chung Dennis
Published: January 2017

In the new millennium, the growing economic interdependency across the Taiwan Strait has stretched politico-economic “ambiguity” to the limit. To many observers, the recent bilateral trade pact, the “Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement”, was thought to be the preliminary stage for further political integration. If the integration assumptions were correct, closer economic and social relations would have led to closer political integration between Taiwan and Mainland China (Kahler and Kastner, 2006; Kastner 2006a, 2006b). However, this evidently has not happened. This article examines the questions provoked by cross-strait interactions by analyzing the relationship between perceived economic cooperation and political attitudes. Using national security survey data, the article contends that, due to generational difference and lack of spillover effects, economic integration does not lead to a positive attitude toward political integration, but that period and cohort effects may gradually drive change in the future.
Dissenting public or engaged citizens? Predictors of general and contentious online political expression in China
Authors: Hyun Ki Deuk
Published: January 2017

Online political engagement in China has been explained as both conventional and contentious forms of political participation. Depending on the explanations, potentially contradicting factors are assumed to promote online political engagement. To resolve this contradiction, this research distinguished general and contentious online political expression. The analyses of two datasets showed that general online political expression positively related to variables associated with conventional participation, such as personal resources, political interest, efficacy, and satisfaction with personal and China’s general economic situations. On the other hand, expression regarding contentious food safety issues was mainly explained by factors related to contentious participation such as support for alternative political ideas (i.e. freedom of expression and giving more voice to citizens) and the perception of injustice. In both datasets, political expression was positively associated with social media use for news. The results from the two studies suggest that different factors may be at work in explaining general and contentious political expression. The potential of the two different types of political expression for political change in China is discussed.
The Protective Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Zingiber officinale Roscoe (Ginger) on Ethanol-Induced Reproductive Toxicity in Male Rats
Authors: Akbari Abolfazl , Nasiri Khadijeh , Heydari Mojtaba , Mosavat Seyed Hamdollah , Iraji Aida
Published: January 2017

This study was conducted to evaluate the prophylactic effect of ginger extract on ethanol-induced reproductive toxicity in male rats. Twenty-eight adult male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into 4 groups and treated daily for 28 days as follows: control, control-ginger (1 g/kg of body weight [BW]/day by gavage), ethanol group (ethanol 4 g/kg of BW/day by gavage), and ginger-ethanol group. At the end of the experiment, all the rats were sacrificed and their testes were removed and used for measurement of the total homocysteine (tHcy), trace elements, antioxidant enzymes activity, and malondialdehyde (MDA). The results in the ethanol group indicate that ethanol decreased antioxidant enzymes activity and increased MDA and tHcy compared with the control groups ( P < .05). In ginger-ethanol group, ginger improved antioxidant enzymes activity and reduced tHcy and MDA compared to ethanol group ( P < .05). It can be concluded that ginger protects the ethanol-induced testicular damage and improves the hormonal levels, trace elements, antioxidant enzymes activity, and decreases tHcy and MDA.
Revisiting Qualitative Data Reuse
Authors: Bishop Libby , Kuula-Luumi Arja
Published: January 2017

Secondary analysis of qualitative data entails reusing data created from previous research projects for new purposes. Reuse provides an opportunity to study the raw materials of past research projects to gain methodological and substantive insights. In the past decade, use of the approach has grown rapidly in the United Kingdom to become sufficiently accepted that it must now be regarded as mainstream. Several factors explain this growth: the open data movement, research funders’ and publishers’ policies supporting data sharing, and researchers seeing benefits from sharing resources, including data. Another factor enabling qualitative data reuse has been improved services and infrastructure that facilitate access to thousands of data collections. The UK Data Service is an example of a well-established facility; more recent has been the proliferation of repositories being established within universities. This article will provide evidence of the growth of data reuse in the United Kingdom and in Finland by presenting both data and case studies of reuse that illustrate the breadth and diversity of this maturing research method. We use two distinct data sources that quantify the scale, types, and trends of reuse of qualitative data: (a) downloads of archived data collections held at data repositories and (b) publication citations. Although the focus of this article is on the United Kingdom, some discussion of the international environment is provided, together with data and examples of reuse at the Finnish Social Science Data Archive. The conclusion summarizes the major findings, including some conjectures regarding what makes qualitative data attractive for reuse and sharing.
One for All and All for One
Authors: Kaplan Carolyn Shemwell , Brownstein Erica M. , Graham-Day Kristall J.
Published: January 2017

The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) Standards requires educator preparation programs (EPPs) to ensure instruments used to assess their candidates are both valid and reliable. Due to size and limited financial resources, this task may be challenging for some EPPs. In an effort to address CAEP’s expectations, 26 EPPs in one state formed a collaboration to develop and implement an instrument for use during student teaching, and then conducted analyses of its data to determine the validity and reliability. This article uses a case study methodology to investigate the EPPs’ motivations for participating in the collaboration, and the benefits, challenges, and learning that resulted from participation. The findings, principally related to aspects of individual program improvement, have implications not only for EPPs pursuing CAEP accreditation but also for any higher education institutions interested in collaborative assessment development.
Transition to Adulthood of Former Foster Youth
Authors: Pryce Julia , Napolitano Laura , Samuels Gina M.
Published: January 2017

This study examines the experiences of 28 emerging adults (mean age = 22; 16 female, 12 male) who have aged out of the child welfare system in the United States. Findings derived from in-depth interviews focus on the multilevel challenges these young people encounter in the help-seeking process upon aging out of care. Patterns highlight intrapersonal, interpersonal, and systemic barriers to help seeking that limit success of these young people during this developmental transition. These patterns include a sense of help seeking as both essential and inappropriate to development during this period. Patterns also highlight the myriad barriers faced by these young adults as they struggle to connect with critically needed resources during this stage. Implications inform work in child welfare, both with those receiving and providing care, during childhood and throughout the aging out process.
Social Media Use and Substance Use During Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Ohannessian Christine McCauley , Vannucci Anna , Flannery Kaitlin M. , Khan Sarosh
Published: January 2017

This study examined the relationship between daily time spent using social media and substance use in a national sample of 563 emerging adults from the United States (18- to 22-year-olds, 50% female, 63% non-Hispanic White). Results revealed that males reported more social media use and more substance use in comparison to females. In addition, greater daily social media use was related to more alcohol consumption, more problematic alcohol use, and more frequent drug use. A significant gender × social media use interaction was also observed for drug use, revealing that greater daily social media use was significantly related to more frequent drug use for females but not for males. Results from this study emphasize the importance of considering different types of social media in relation to substance use and abuse during emerging adulthood and the need to examine these relations by gender.
Suppression of Competing Memories in Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
Authors: Stramaccia Davide Francesco , Penolazzi Barbara , Monego Anna Laura , Manzan Amalia , Castelli Luigi , Galfano Giovanni
Published: January 2017

Substance-related and addictive disorders have been strongly linked to inhibitory control impairment. However, inhibitory deficits in this class of psychiatric disorders have been tested almost exclusively with measures of inhibition of motor, overt behavior. Here, instead, we investigated inhibitory deficits in these disorders by assessing the integrity of inhibitory control over internal, covert responses. Two groups of patients with alcohol and drug addiction and a control group of healthy individuals were administered a retrieval-practice paradigm assessing inhibition of competing memories. All groups showed comparable beneficial effects of retrieval practice. In contrast, successful suppression of competing memories was achieved by the control group only. This indicates that the deficit in clinical groups can be ascribed to an impairment in inhibitory control over memory retrieval rather than to a general memory impairment. In conclusion, inhibitory deficits in addiction are more widespread than previously shown, as they encompass memory control mechanisms.
Comparison of intraoperative O-arm- and conventional fluoroscopy (C-arm)-assisted insertion of pedicle screws in the treatment of fracture of thoracic vertebrae
Authors: Liu Hao , Wang Yimeng , Pi Bin , Qian Zhonglai , Zhu Xiaoyu , Yang Huilin
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

To introduce the intraoperative O-arm-assisted pedicle screw insertion without any navigation system in the treatment of thoracic vertebrae fracture and compare it to conventional fluoroscopy (C-arm)-assisted pedicle screw insertion technique.

Methods:

About 156 pedicle screws were inserted in 23 patients (C-arm group), and 208 pedicle screws were inserted in 30 patients (O-arm group). The postoperative computed tomography images were analyzed for pedicle violation based on Gertzbein classification. The total surgery time, the average time required for inserting a screw, the mean action times of adjusting guide probe and pedicle screw, and the hospitalization time were compared in both groups, respectively. The American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) was used for evaluating the health outcomes pre- and postoperatively.

Results:

There are the higher accuracy rate of satisfactory pedicle screw placement (grades 0 and 1) and the less incidence of medial perforation in the O-arm group compared to the C-arm group ( p < 0.05). The average time required for inserting a screw, the action times of adjusting the guide probe and pedicle screw, and the hospitalization time in the O-arm group are less than the respective ones in the C-arm group ( p < 0.05). There was no significant difference for the total surgery time between both groups. No further damage of the nerve function postoperatively is found according to the ASIA grade.

Conclusion:

The O-arm-assisted pedicle screw insertion without navigation we described provides higher accuracy of pedicle screw placement and better clinical efficacy compared to conventional fluoroscopy (C-arm) technique.
Treatment of displaced flexion-type pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures in the prone position
Authors: Kao Hsuan-Kai , Lee Wei-Chun , Yang Wen-E , Chang Chia-Hsieh
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

This study is to report a new method to reduce and fix the displaced flexion-type pediatric supracondylar fracture in the prone position.

Methods:

Ten children with displaced flexion-type supracondylar humeral fractures treated between 2007 and 2013 were reviewed. There were three girls and seven boys, with a mean age of 9.5 years. The fracture was reduced by gentle traction of the forearm and gradual extension of the elbow in the prone position. Two or three crossed Kirschner wires (K-wires) were inserted percutaneously to secure the fracture reduction. Radiographic evaluation included the Baumann’s angle and the lateral humerocapitellar angle. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Flynn’s criteria.

Results:

Eight children had closed reduction and percutaneous K-wire fixation. The other two children required open reduction through a posterior triceps splitting approach. The mean Baumann’s angle was 70.2° immediately after K-wires fixation and 69.5° after 3 months later. The mean lateral humerocapitellar angle was 38° immediately after K-wires fixation and 35.5° after 3 months later. The clinical outcome was excellent in nine children and poor in one child by the Flynn’s criteria.

Conclusion:

Reduction of displaced flexion-type pediatric supracondylar humeral fractures by traction and gradual extension in the prone position is an effective and safe method. When reduction is still impossible or nerve incarceration is suspected, open reduction and release of the trapped nerve through a posterior triceps splitting approach are simply accessible.
Surgical dislocation of the hip without trochanteric osteotomy
Authors: Schweitzer Daniel , Klaber Ianiv , Zamora Tomás , Amenábar Pedro Pablo , Botello Eduardo
Published: January 2017

Background:

Surgical dislocation of the hip remains an important alternative in hip preservation surgery, especially when a dynamic access to the hip is needed and arthroscopy is not a suitable option. We describe a novel technique for operative dislocation of the hip without trochanteric osteotomy and the clinical results of our patients.

Methods:

Surgical dislocation of the hip without trochanteric osteotomy was done through a modified lateral approach in all of the cases. A review of demographic, clinical, and radiological data was done in all of the patients operated with this technique between 2010 and 2015. Complications, walking aids, weight-bearing status, and modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) were also recorded.

Results:

Six surgical dislocations of the hip were carried out. Indications were tumor resection in five and bulletectomy in one hip. There were two women (four hips) and two men. Mean age was 19 ± 3.8 years. Median follow-up was 2.5 years (range 2–4.5 years). Median mHHS was 92 (90–96). There were no intraoperative nor postoperative complications.

Conclusions:

Surgical dislocation of the hip without trochanteric osteotomy through a modified lateral approach appears to be a safe, simpler, and effective alternative.
Prediction of height increment using preoperative radiological parameters following selective thoracic fusion with alternate-level pedicle screw construct in Lenke 1 and 2 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients
Authors: Keong Kwan Mun , Aziz Izzuddin , Yin Wei Chris Chan
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

This study aims to derive a formula to predict post-operative height increment in Lenke 1 and Lenke 2 adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) patients using preoperative radiological parameters.

Methods:

This study involved 70 consecutive Lenke 1 and 2 AIS patients who underwent scoliosis correction with alternate-level pedicle screw instrumentation. Preoperative parameters that were measured included main thoracic (MT) Cobb angle, proximal thoracic (PT) Cobb angle, lumbar Cobb angle as well as thoracic kyphosis. Side-bending flexibility (SBF) and fulcrum-bending flexibility (FBF) were derived from the measurements. Preoperative height and post-operative height increment was measured by an independent observer using a standardized method.

Results:

MT Cobb angle and FB Cobb angle were significant predictors ( p < 0.001) of height increment from multiple linear regression analysis ( R = 0.784, R2 = 0.615). PT Cobb angle, lumbar, SB Cobb angle, preoperative height and number of fused segment were not significant predictors for the height increment based on the multivariable analysis. Increase in post-operative height could be calculated by the formula: Increase in height (cm) = (0.09 × preoperative MT Cobb angle) – (0.04 x FB Cobb angle) – 0.5.

Conclusion:

The proposed formula of increase in height (cm) = (0.09 × preoperative MT Cobb angle) − (0.04 × FB Cobb angle) – 0.5 could predict post-operative height gain to within 5 mm accuracy in 51% of patients, within 10 mm in 70% and within 15 mm in 86% of patients.
An Unusual Suspect Causing Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure
Authors: Aqeel Masooma , Batdorf Bjorn , Olteanu Horatiu , Patel Jayshil J.
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Antisynthetase syndrome (ASS) is characterized by the presence of anti-Jo-1 antibodies in conjunction with clinical findings of fever, polymyositis-dermatomyositis, and interstitial lung disease (ILD). Inflammatory myopathies carry a high risk of malignancy, but this association is less well outlined in ASS. We present the case of a patient with ASS who developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Case Presentation: A 44-year-old female with ASS presented with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. She was empirically treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics for a health care–associated pneumonia; however, she failed to improve. Chest computed tomography revealed extensive bilateral ground glass opacities as well as extensive mediastinal and axillary lymphadenopathy. Infectious workup was negative. A surgical lung biopsy revealed peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL). The patient was started on chemotherapy with complete resolution of hypoxemic respiratory failure. Conclusions: Malignancy is very rare in the setting of ASS; and our case illustrates the unique presentation of PTCL in ASS. In addition, lung involvement in PTCL is variable (incidence ranging from 8% to 20%); and in this case, bilateral multifocal consolidation was biopsied and proven to be PTCL involving the lungs. This case highlights the rare noninfectious conditions that can present as acute hypoxemic respiratory failure in the setting of ASS.
New Lamps for Old
Authors: Nickerson Catherine , Goby Valerie Priscilla
Published: January 2017

Our study aims to examine ways to counteract the arbitrary mix of organizational communication practices that has evolved in the Gulf Region as a result of the large numbers of different cultures that make up the workforce there. To this end, we attempt to develop a conceptual model of leadership communication, the Gulf Leadership Communication Framework. We see this as a crucial element in organizational communication practices that is of particular relevance for the process of localization in the Gulf Region. In this analysis, we refer to two sets of empirical data on discursive leadership and interpersonal communication that were collected from around 600 Emirati nationals. Our findings show that a leadership model for social contexts like the Gulf Cooperation Council may look very different from the models that obtain elsewhere; this is the case because in the region organizational communication may be most successful when people use strategies that privilege uniformity, rather than selecting strategies that celebrate diversity.
Racial Incidents at the University of Missouri
Authors: Fortunato John A. , Gigliotti Ralph A. , Ruben Brent D.
Published: January 2017

A series of incidents in 2015 escalated racial tensions at the University of Missouri that ultimately contributed to the departure of the university president and chancellor. This case highlights the importance of focusing attention on competent leadership communication, which includes the development and maintenance of strong relationships with key stakeholder groups; the ability to predict, recognize, detect, and address issues that may rise to the level of crisis as defined by stakeholders; and the skill to craft timely, sensitive messages and effectively use interpersonal and mediated channels of message distribution and retrieval, especially social media, so that there is adequate information flow to and from institutional leaders allowing them to learn of, understand, and address stakeholders’ concerns as they emerge.
Relational Communication Messages and Leadership Styles in Supervisor/Employee Relationships
Authors: Mikkelson Alan C. , Sloan David , Hesse Colin
Published: January 2017

The relational communication messages of intimacy and dominance were used to predict a task and relationship leadership style in supervisors. In the study, 307 participants working in various industries completed measures of relational communication and leadership styles about their direct supervisor. As predicted, intimacy messages were positively related to a relationship-oriented leadership style and dominance messages were positively related to a task-oriented leadership style. Intimacy messages were also linked to a task-oriented style and dominance messages were linked to relationship-oriented style. Regression analysis determined that receptivity/trust was the best predictor of a relationship-oriented style and influence was the best predictor of a task-oriented style. Overall, results demonstrate the need for both intimacy and dominance messages across leadership styles.
Racialized Femininity and Masculinity in the Preferences of Online Same-sex Daters
Authors: Rafalow Matthew H. , Feliciano Cynthia , Robnett Belinda
Published: January 2017

This study considers how online dating preferences reflect gendered racial inequality among same-sex daters. Research shows that heterosexuals reproduce gendered racial hierarchies through partner preferences, yet little work examines the preferences of sexual minorities, especially lesbians. Moreover, few studies examine racial heterophily (a preference for racial groups other than one’s own), which may influence interracial pairings. Using data from 4,266 Match.com dating profiles, we find that Asian, Latino, and Black lesbians and gays exhibit higher rates of racial heterophily than do Whites. Lesbians of color are less likely to self-exclude or to prefer Whites, and are more likely to not state a race preference than are minority gays. Self-exclusionary minority daters often discuss ideal masculinities and femininities in their profiles, suggesting that such exclusions are motivated by both racialized and gendered ideals for partners. Drawing on theories of homonormativity, we conclude that gays conform more to racialized, gendered ideals than do lesbians.
Multitasking During Degraded Speech Recognition in School-Age Children
Authors: Grieco-Calub Tina M. , Ward Kristina M. , Brehm Laurel
Published: January 2017

Multitasking requires individuals to allocate their cognitive resources across different tasks. The purpose of the current study was to assess school-age children’s multitasking abilities during degraded speech recognition. Children (8 to 12 years old) completed a dual-task paradigm including a sentence recognition (primary) task containing speech that was either unprocessed or noise-band vocoded with 8, 6, or 4 spectral channels and a visual monitoring (secondary) task. Children’s accuracy and reaction time on the visual monitoring task was quantified during the dual-task paradigm in each condition of the primary task and compared with single-task performance. Children experienced dual-task costs in the 6- and 4-channel conditions of the primary speech recognition task with decreased accuracy on the visual monitoring task relative to baseline performance. In all conditions, children’s dual-task performance on the visual monitoring task was strongly predicted by their single-task (baseline) performance on the task. Results suggest that children’s proficiency with the secondary task contributes to the magnitude of dual-task costs while multitasking during degraded speech recognition.
Understanding Loan Aversion in Education
Authors: Boatman Angela , Evans Brent J. , Soliz Adela
Published: January 2017

Although prior research has suggested that some students may be averse to taking out loans to finance their college education, there is little empirical evidence showing the extent to which loan aversion exists or how it affects different populations of students. This study provides the first large-scale quantitative evidence of levels of loan aversion in the United States. Using survey data collected on more than 6,000 individuals, we examine the frequency of loan aversion in three distinct populations. Depending on the measure, between 20 and 40% of high school seniors exhibit loan aversion with lower rates among community college students and adults not in college. Women are less likely to express loan-averse attitudes than men, and Hispanic respondents are more likely to be loan averse than White respondents.
Longitudinal Effects of Teacher Use of a Computer Data System on Student Achievement
Authors: Wayman Jeffrey C. , Shaw Shana , Cho Vincent
Published: January 2017

Does data use make a difference in student achievement? Despite the field’s optimism on this matter, relatively few studies have attempted to quantify the effects of data use. These studies have often used the presence of a data use intervention (e.g., a data system or data coaching) as a proxy for use, as opposed to tracking teachers’ direct interactions with data, via data system click logs, for example. Accordingly, the present study sought to address this methodological gap by exploring the 2-year effects of data use through a multilevel cross-classified model of teachers’ system interactions and student achievement. A significant relationship was found between system use and elementary reading, but no significant relationships were found for elementary math, junior high math, or junior high reading. The implications of this study on how to conceptualize and measure use, as well as how to support practitioners, are discussed.
Health Care Utilization Among Elderly Medicare Beneficiaries With Coexisting Dementia and Cancer
Authors: Kedia Satish K. , Chavan Prachi P. , Boop Sarah E. , Yu Xinhua
Published: January 2017

Objective: The goal of this research is to delineate health care utilization among elderly Medicare beneficiaries with coexisting dementia and cancer compared with those with dementia alone, cancer alone, or neither condition. Method: The study cohort included 96,124 elderly patients aged 65 years and older who resided in the Mid-South region of the United States and were enrolled in Medicare during 2009. Multivariate regression analyses were used to examine health care utilizations while adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics. Results: Those with coexisting dementia and cancer diagnoses had higher rates of hospitalizations, hospital readmissions within 30 days, intensive care unit use, and emergency department visits compared with those with dementia only, cancer only, and those with neither condition. Patients with coexisting dementia and cancer also had a higher number of primary care visits and specialist visits. Conclusion: There is a greater need for developing tailored care plans for elderly with these two degenerative health conditions to address their unique health care needs and to reduce financial burden on the patients and the health care system.
“It’s a blessing and a curse”: Perspectives on tablet use in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: King Amie M , Brady Kathryn W , Voreis Grayce
Published: January 2017

Background and aims

This qualitative study was conducted to obtain information regarding education professionals’ (i.e., classroom teachers’ and speech-language pathologists’) perspectives about tablet technology use in classrooms of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (CWASD).

Methods

Seventeen education professionals from a special day school for CWASD participated in one of four focus groups that provided information and insight regarding the context in which tablets are being used, challenges in implementing tablets, and perspectives on how tablets can be used most effectively.

Results

Four interrelated themes emerged from the data including the participants’ perspectives related to: (a) the distinct uses of tablets; (b) challenges and challenging behavior associated with tablet use; (c) causal factors of the challenges; and (d) the value of tablets, and the continued desire and dedication to using the tablets;

Conclusions and implications

The results from this study suggest that education professionals have unique and insightful opinions related to tablets. There appears to be gaps between the current research base on tablet use in CWASD and “real world” practice, suggesting that further research is needed in the implementation of tablets in classrooms of CWASD.
The primary-to-secondary school transition for children on the autism spectrum: A multi-informant mixed-methods study
Authors: Makin Chantelle , Hill Vivian , Pellicano Elizabeth
Published: January 2017

Background and aims

Children diagnosed with an autism spectrum condition are known anecdotally to be especially vulnerable during the transition to secondary school. Yet, very little is known about the child-, school- and system-level factors that can potentially make changing schools particularly difficult for these children. Here, we report on a mixed-method study, which examined the factors that influence a successful school transition for autistic children in one local education authority in England.

Methods

Fifteen children were seen twice in the space of four months – once during the final term of their mainstream primary school and again during the first term of secondary school. Parents and teachers were also interviewed at both time points.

Results

Overall, our participants reported negative experiences of their transition to secondary school – regardless of the type of secondary provision (mainstream or specialist) to which they transferred. None of the child-level factors measured during the pre-transition phase, including verbal ability, autistic symptomatology, sensory responsiveness and anxiety, predicted children’s transition success four months later. Rather, transition success appeared to be predominantly related to several school- and system-level factors, including tensions over school choice, delays in placement decisions, lack of primary preparation and communication between schools. Identity-related issues were also a key concern for many children, which appeared to have a particularly negative influence on adjustment to their new school.

Conclusions

We identified predominantly negative experiences of primary-to-secondary transition for the autistic children sampled here, which appeared to be accounted for largely by school- and system-level factors.

Implications

Applying interventions that are designed to ease the transition to secondary school by modifying the school environment before, during and after transition to improve the fit between the autistic child and their educational environment should go some way in tackling school-related barriers to a successful transition for these children. System-level changes in the way that local authorities manage the transition process may also improve children and families’ experiences.
A case study on the formation of cultural capital
Authors: Liu Chang
Published: January 2017

In the case of China, creativity as a new type of cultural capital was the product of Chinese society’s acceptance of the western influence on the concept of culture. The motivating power of its formation was closely related to the construction of new identities of social groups. The equalization effect and distinction effect of creativity show the groups’ different opinions from internal and external perspectives; the proposition of equality in culture should be understood as a true but local role. In addition, case studies about creativity present another kind of formation of cultural capital contents and another way of accessing cultural capital: all kinds of social forces jointly participate in the construction of cultural capital in the process of interaction, identifying the capital value and occupying the capital through diverse interpretations.