bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraocular Ossification in the GSP/pe Chicken With Imperfect Albinism
Authors: Shibuya K. , Kinoshita K. , Mizutani M. , Oshima A. , Yamashita R. , Matsuda Y.
Published: November 2014

The eyes of 2 male and 2 female GSP/pe chickens, the imperfect albino strain, were investigated at 52 weeks of age. Aged chickens of the GSP/pe colony became blind with bilateral ocular enlargement and opaque lenses. Affected eyes (bilateral in 2 males and unilateral in 2 females) were hard and difficult to section; histologic specimens were processed after decalcification. A large portion of the posterior chamber was occupied by cancellous bone containing fibrous and cartilaginous foci. Osseous tissues developed adjacent to the choroid, and no retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) was detected between osseous tissues and the choroid. Small segments of degenerate neuronal retina were scattered in the osseous tissue. The irises and ciliary bodies were deformed by osseous tissue, and the lenses had severe cataracts. These observations suggest that the intraocular osseous tissue may be derived from RPE in the hereditary incomplete-albino strain of chickens.
Evidence-Based Social Skills Interventions for Students at Risk for EBD
Authors: Gresham Frank
Published: November 2014

Children and youth with or at risk for emotional and behavioral disorders (EBDs) present substantial challenges for schools, teachers, parents, and peers. Social skills interventions have been shown to be effective for this population. Meta-analytic reviews of this literature show that about 65% of students with EBD will improve when given social skills interventions. Social skills function as academic enablers and contribute to higher academic achievement. Problem behaviors function as academic disablers and are associated with lowered academic achievement. Next steps in this literature are to establish an evidence-based approach to classifying acquisition and performance deficits and to develop Tier 3 social skills intervention strategies.
A Preliminary Study of the Literacy Experiences of Adolescents With Severe Disabilities
Authors: Ruppar Andrea L.
Published: November 2014

Seventy-five literacy activities of eight middle and high school students with severe disabilities were analyzed in terms of the literacy content, materials used, student engagement, and contexts, including location and instructional arrangement. Coded observations, review of teaching materials, and follow-up teacher interviews and questionnaires revealed that students spent a disproportionate amount of time passively engaged in reading activities (i.e., listening without the opportunity to respond) in one-to-one instructional arrangements located in self-contained classes. Active engagement in written and spoken expressive communication was underemphasized. Worksheets and picture symbols were the most often-used materials. Activities rarely occurred in the natural setting for use of the literacy skill, or with the materials that would be used under natural circumstances. Findings are discussed in relationship to research-based practices.
Female fan experiences and interpretations of the 1958 Munich air disaster, the 1966 World Cup finals and the rise of footballers as sexualised national celebrities
Authors: Pope Stacey
Published: November 2014

The experiences of female sports fans have largely been neglected in academic research to date with socio-historical accounts focusing almost exclusively on male fans. Through an excavation of the sporting histories of female football fans this article aims to make one contribution towards changing this. Drawing on Glaser and Strauss’s ‘grounded theory’ approach, 21 semi-structured interviews were conducted with female football fans in England, aged between 50 and 80 years old. My findings begin by examining female fans’ memories of the 1958 Munich air disaster. I move on to examine female experiences and interpretations of the 1966 World Cup finals, before finally discussing the rise of football players in England as sexualised national celebrities. To conclude, I call for further socio-historical research to explore female experiences of football in earlier decades.
Dual, Yet Dueling Illnesses
Authors: Markle Gail L. , Attell Brandon K. , Treiber Linda A.
Published: November 2014

The prevalence of multiple chronic illnesses is increasing dramatically, especially among those in middle adulthood, yet much prior research has focused on the experience of multiple morbidity among older adults. We examined the online illness narratives (blogs) of 10 men and women aged 36 to 59 to better understand the experience of living with multiple chronic illnesses at midlife. Multiple morbidity presents distinct challenges to those at midlife: (a) diagnosis and management of multiple illnesses, (b) need for information, (c) identity dilemmas and threats to self-image, and (d) stigma and social rejection. Relinquishing the work identity was especially difficult for participants because it threatened to foreshorten middle adulthood and push them prematurely into late adulthood. Participants used their blogs to revise their identities, alleviate isolation, and inform and guide others.
Family Members’ Experience With Hospice in Nursing Homes
Authors: Gage L. Ashley , Washington Karla , Oliver Debra Parker , Kruse Robin , Lewis Alexandra , Demiris George
Published: November 2014

Research has documented numerous benefits and challenges associated with receipt of hospice care in nursing homes; however, study of this partnership from the perspective of residents’ family members has been limited. The purpose of this qualitative investigation was to explore family members’ experience with hospice services received in the nursing home setting. Researchers conducted a secondary data analysis of 175 family member interviews using a thematic analytic approach. Findings highlighted the critical role of communication in supporting residents and their family members. Care coordination, support and oversight, and role confusion also impacted family members’ experience of hospice care in the nursing home. Efforts directed at enhancing communication and more clearly articulating the roles of members of the health care team are indicated.
Secondary Psychometric Examination of the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale
Authors: Thibodeau Michel A. , Leonard Rachel C. , Abramowitz Jonathan S. , Riemann Bradley C.
Published: November 2014

The Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (DOCS) is a promising measure of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms but has received minimal psychometric attention. We evaluated the utility and reliability of DOCS scores. The study included 832 students and 300 patients with OCD. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the originally proposed four-factor structure. DOCS total and subscale scores exhibited good to excellent internal consistency in both samples (α = .82 to α = .96). Patient DOCS total scores reduced substantially during treatment ( t = 16.01, d = 1.02). DOCS total scores discriminated between students and patients (sensitivity = 0.76, 1 − specificity = 0.23). The measure did not exhibit gender-based differential item functioning as tested by Mantel–Haenszel chi-square tests. Expected response options for each item were plotted as a function of item response theory and demonstrated that DOCS scores incrementally discriminate OCD symptoms ranging from low to extremely high severity. Incremental differences in DOCS scores appear to represent unbiased and reliable differences in true OCD symptom severity.
Improved energy harvesting from vibration by introducing cavity in a cantilever beam
Authors: Rami Reddy Annapureddy , Umapathy Mangalanathan , Ezhilarasi Deenadayalan , Gandhi Uma
Published: November 2014

This paper presents modeling and experimental evaluation of a cantilever-based piezoelectric energy harvester with cavity. The introduction of cavity in the beam shifts the neutral axis of the beam away from the surface of the piezoelectric element which in turn increases the strain and generated voltage. The generated voltage from the cantilever beam with cavity is higher when compared to the beam without cavity and is found to vary with its position and thickness. The analytical and experimental results are in close agreement. The cantilever beam with cavity generates 75% higher voltage than the voltage generated from the beam without cavity.
Nonlinear feedback control of container crane mounted on elastic foundation with the flexibility of suspended cable
Authors: Tuan Le Anh , Cuong Hoang Manh , Lee Soon-Geul , Nho Luong Cong , Moon Kee
Published: November 2014

This study constructs an original mathematical model of a shipboard container crane and proposes a nonlinear controller for the complicated operation duties in which the viscoelasticity of seawater and the flexibility of handling cable are taken into account. By using two inputs, namely, the pulling force of the trolley and the torque of the hoist, the controller simultaneously drives six outputs, including trolley motion, cable length, container swing, axial container oscillation, ship roll, and ship heave. The effects of elasticity factors and wave excitations on system performance are also investigated. The simulation and experiment results reveal that the controlled system responses remain stable and consistent despite disturbances.
Jordanian Nurses’ Barriers to Screening for Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Al-Natour Ahlam , Gillespie Gordon L. , Felblinger Dianne , Wang Leigh L.
Published: November 2014

Screening rates for intimate partner violence (IPV) among nurses are still very low. The study purpose is to evaluate IPV screening and barriers by Jordanian nurses. A cross-sectional design was used with a stratified random sample ( N = 125) of Jordanian nurses. Findings included a significantly lower IPV screening rate among Jordanian nurses compared with those in the United States, no difference in screening between IPV victims compared with non-victimized nurses, and that the IPV screening barriers related to a lack of system support were the most clinically important barriers. Nurses can work in partnership with health care providers and managers to increase screening and overcome barriers.
Homicide Injury Quantification
Authors: Tamsen Fredrik , Logan Fia Klötz , Thiblin Ingemar
Published: November 2014

No generally accepted method exists for quantifying the degree of injury in homicide victims. This study explores six different injury severity scores with the goal to recommend a valid method that is reliable and easy to use. To investigate this issue, 103 homicides are examined regarding the correlations between these scores. This study concludes that the Homicide Injury Scale is valid, easy to use, and has a satisfactory inter-rater reliability.
Practitioners as Theorists
Authors: Islam Gazi
Published: November 2014

Para-ethnography involves collaboration with organization members who are themselves producers of cultural analysis rather than sources of raw data. It begins from the premise that contemporary workplaces involve internal theorizing that, although distinct from academic theorizing, can inform and ground organizational theory. Modern organizations, as highly professionalized, and based on conceptual design and legitimation, are a natural match for para-ethnographic methods, which have nevertheless been absent from organizational scholarship. As part of a general revisionist program in ethnographic theory, para-ethnography offers a way of reconceptualizing the role of the researcher, the nature of cultural knowledge, and the spatial boundaries of culture. After describing the similarities and differences between revisionist ethnographic approaches, I outline how para-ethnography differs from other forms of ethnography in practice. Finally, I discuss the challenges and opportunities of para-ethnography, suggesting that this methodological development may form part of a larger reconceptualization of the relation between theory and practice, and offering practical mechanics to ground such a reconceptualization.
Trends and educational differences in non-communicable disease risk factors in Pitkäranta, Russia, from 1992 to 2007
Authors: Vlasoff Tiina , Laatikainen Tiina , Korpelainen Vesa , Uhanov Mihail , Pokusajeva Svetlana , Tossavainen Kerttu , Vartiainen Erkki , Puska Pekka
Published: November 2014

Aim: Mortality and morbidity from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is a major public health problem in Russia. The aim of the study was to examine trends and educational differences from 1992 to 2007 in NCD risk factors in Pitkäranta in the Republic of Karelia, Russia. Methods: Four cross-sectional population health surveys were carried out in the Pitkäranta region, Republic of Karelia, Russia, in 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2007. An independent random sample of 1000 persons from the general population aged 25-64 years was studied in each survey round. The total number of respondents in the four surveys was 2672. The surveys included a questionnaire, physical measurements, and blood sampling, and they were carried out following standard protocols. Results: The NCD risk factor trends generally increased in Pitkäranta during the study period with the exception of systolic blood pressure and smoking among men. Especially significant increases were observed in alcohol consumption among both sexes and in smoking among women. Educational differences and differences in trends were relatively small with the exception of a significant increase in smoking in the lowest female educational category. Conclusions: Trends showing an increase in some major NCD risk factors and signs of emerging socio-economic differences call for stronger attention to effective health promotion and preventive policies in Russia.
Decreased suicide rate after induced abortion, after the Current Care Guidelines in Finland 1987 – 2012
Authors: Gissler Mika , Karalis Elina , Ulander Veli-Matti
Published: November 2014

Aim: Women with a recent induced abortion have a 3-fold risk for suicide, compared to non-pregnant women. The increased risk was recognised in unofficial guidelines (1996) and Current Care Guidelines (2001) on abortion treatment, highlighting the importance of a check-up 2 – 3 weeks after the termination, to monitor for mental health disorders. We studied the suicide trends after induced abortion in 1987 – 2012 in Finland. Methods: We linked the Register on Induced Abortions ( N = 284,751) and Cause-of-Death Register ( N = 3798 suicides) to identify women who had committed suicide within 1 year after an induced abortion ( N = 79). The abortion rates per 100,000 person-years were calculated for 1987 – 1996 (period with no guidelines), 1997 – 2001 (with unofficial guidelines) and 2002 – 2012 (with Current Care Guidelines). Results: The suicide rate after induced abortion declined by 24%, from 32.4/100,000 in 1987 – 1996 to 24.3/100,000 in 1997 – 2001 and then 24.8/100,000 in 2002 – 2012. The age-adjusted suicide rate among women aged 15 – 49 decreased by 13%; from 11.4/100,000 to 10.4/100,000 and 9.9/100,000, respectively. After induced abortions, the suicide rate increased by 30% among teenagers (to 25/100,000), stagnated for women aged 20 – 24 (at 32/100,000), but decreased by 43% (to 21/100,000) for women aged 25 – 49. Conclusions: The excess risk for suicide after induced abortion decreased, but the change was not statistically significant. Women with a recent induced abortion still have a 2-fold suicide risk. A mandatory check-up may decrease this risk. The causes for the increased suicide risk, including mental health prior to pregnancy and the social circumstances, should be investigated further.
Crowdfunding: A Spimatic application of digital fandom
Authors: Booth Paul
Published: November 2014

The digital environment has opened up new spaces for fans to engage with the production process of their favoured texts. However, fan studies have largely neglected the larger temporal structures undergirding this engagement. In this article, I augment studies of digital fandom by utilizing Bruce Sterling’s technosocial concept of the Spime as a means of investigating the relationship forged between the technology of crowdfunding and the affect of particular audiences. The successful Kickstarter campaigns for Rob Thomas and Kristen Bell’s Veronica Mars film and Zach Braff’s film Wish I Was Here, and the failed Kickstarter campaign for Melissa Joan Hart’s film Darci’ s Walk of Shame, each illustrate how the entertainers drew (or did not draw) on specific support from the lineage of his or her own fan communities to generate funds and word-of-mouth publicity. These campaigns ultimately illustrate the consequential powers of the fan at multiple nodes within the production process.
The backer–developer connection: Exploring crowdfunding’s influence on video game production
Authors: Smith Anthony N
Published: November 2014

As video game development studios increasingly turn to digital crowdfunding platforms such as Kickstarter for financing, this article explores the ways in which these processes shape production. It examines in particular the interactions that typically occur between studios and players as part of crowdfunded development, analysing the ways in which these activities inform aspects of video game design. By charting the implications of this burgeoning economic model, the article contributes to scholarship concerning video game production and intervenes within more specific discussions concerning the role of the player within development. The article’s case study, which draws from evidence of production concerning multiple Kickstarter projects, is organised into two sections. The first ascertains the degrees to which Kickstarter users can influence the details of a proposed project during a crowdfunding campaign; the second looks at how developers involve crowdfunding communities within production once funding is secured.
Social business in online financing: Crowdfunding narratives of independent documentary producers in Turkey
Authors: Koçer Suncem
Published: November 2014

Crowdfunding is a relatively novel concept in Turkish public discourse. Yet, activist media producers in Turkey actively use online opportunities to solicit production, post-production and distribution financing. This article explores crowdfunding as a signifier that draws public attention to media texts for which online funding drives are performed. As crowdfunding campaigns circulate through social media, they forge publics around the related films, videos, stories and, more significantly, the social causes around which these media revolve. Based on long-term ethnographic research with independent media producers in Turkey, the article scrutinizes the crowdfunding adventures behind three documentaries, My Child, Ecumenopolis and I Flew You Stayed, as narrated by their producers. Using the analysis of the campaigns for these documentary films as cases, I argue that in addition to being a means to raising funds, crowdfunding is a tool to accomplish social and political ends ranging from creating communities of support and attracting media attention to building a reputation of independence.
Negotiating political news: The two phases of off-the-record interaction
Authors: Dindler Camilla
Published: November 2014

This article analyses the interference of political print journalists with the political process through off-the-record interaction with political sources and provides an explanation as to why ambiguity of meaning characterises this off-the-record interaction. The central claim is that the ideal – or ‘myth’ – of mutual distinction between journalism and politics in some situations constrains interactions between journalists and political actors, and in others is overruled by the same actors now attending more to their own organisational interests. The article thus demonstrates a loose coupling between back region behaviour and front region adherence to institutional myths. The empirical data comprise observation studies of journalist and political source interaction and qualitative interviews with political journalists, political press advisors and elected politicians. The article distinguishes between two different phases of news production in off-the-record interaction. In the explorative phase, journalists indirectly influence politics via the exchange of political intelligence with political actors. In the realisation phase, the journalist may orchestrate politics by inviting the political actor to political action on the record.
Steel bar corrosion monitoring with long-period fiber grating sensors coated with nano iron/silica particles and polyurethane
Authors: Huang Ying , Tang Fujian , Liang Xiao , Chen Genda , Xiao Hai , Azarmi Fardad
Published: November 2014

In this article, a recently proposed long-period fiber grating sensor coated with a thin layer of polyurethane and nano iron/silica particles is further developed and applied to monitor the corrosion process of deformed steel bars. Once calibrated, one coated long-period fiber grating sensor and one uncoated long-period fiber grating sensor for environmental compensation were attached to each of three steel bar samples that were tested in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution for 512 h. The resonant wavelength in long-period fiber grating spectra increased exponentially with immersion time due to corrosion of iron particles and thus reduction in coating thickness. The mass loss rate of steel bar #1 at the completion of corrosion tests (512 h of corrosion time) was correlated with that of sparse iron particles on long-period fiber grating sensor #1 after 130.5 h of immersion. The corrosion rates of long-period fiber grating sensors #2 and #3 were evaluated at 130.5 h and then used as a prediction of the corrosion rates of steel bars #2 and #3. The predicted corrosion rates by the long-period fiber grating sensors #2 and #3 were finally compared with those by potentiodynamic tests. The maximum mass loss prediction error by the long-period fiber grating sensors #2 and #3 is 26%. The coefficients of variation of three corrosion rate measurements are 0.049 by the long-period fiber grating sensors and 0.115 by the potentiodynamic tests, indicating more consistent and reliable measurements with the proposed technology.
The Process of Engaging Members From Two Underserved Populations in the Development of Interventions to Promote the Uptake of the HPV Vaccine
Authors: Katz Mira L. , Paskett Electra D.
Published: November 2014

We describe a community-engaged research process used to develop multilevel interventions (caregivers, providers, system) to improve the uptake of human papillomavirus vaccine among adolescents by partnering with members from two underserved populations in Ohio. We began by conducting focus groups to better understand the knowledge and attitudes of caregivers and providers about the human papillomavirus vaccine and to develop teams of community members to assist with development of the interventions. The process continued with conducting writing sessions to determine the content and format of the interventions, and initial feedback was obtained during review sessions to refine the interventions prior to implementation. Using this approach, we were able to consider contextual factors that made the interventions more acceptable and relevant to members of the priority populations. Challenges included development and maintenance of a team of community members to participate in the entire intervention development process, rejection of ideas presented by academic researchers, the need to balance community members’ suggestions with what was known from evidence-based research, and the time, cost, and effort associated with partnering with community members. The benefits, however, outweigh the challenges associated with using a community-engaged research process to develop interventions aimed at reducing cancer disparities among underserved populations.
Effectiveness of Rufinamide in the Treatment of Idiopathic Generalized Epilepsy With Atypical Evolution
Authors: Albini Mariarita , Morano Alessandra , Fanella Martina , Lapenta Leonardo , Casciato Sara , Fattouch Jinane , Manfredi Mario , Giallonardo Anna Teresa , Di Bonaventura Carlo
Published: November 2014

Rufinamide (RFD) is a novel drug that was recently approved as an adjunctive treatment for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Despite its reported effectiveness in generalized seizures (tonic, atonic, or tonic-clonic) in this syndrome, few data on its use in idiopathic generalized epilepsy are available. Indeed, the scientific evidence to date is limited to anecdotal cases or isolated clinical experiences. We report an uncommon, though paradigmatic, case of a woman affected by juvenile absence epilepsy (JAE) who, following a prolonged seizure-freedom period and the consequent withdrawal of valproate, presented a seizure relapse accompanied by a worsening in her electroclinical pattern. In view of this atypical evolution of JAE, characterized by drug-resistant seizures (absence and generalized tonic-clonic) and the progressive increase in electroencephalographic (EEG) abnormalities, several antiepileptic drugs were used, though to no benefit. The use of RFD instead led to a gradual control of the seizures and normalization of the EEG findings. In addition to this clinical experience, we briefly review the literature on the use of RFD in refractory generalized epilepsy.
The Experiences of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Girls in Juvenile Justice Systems
Authors: Holsinger Kristi , Hodge Jessica P.
Published: November 2014

Recent research finds that youth who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) are disproportionately incarcerated in juvenile justice systems. These systems have paid little attention to this subgroup in terms of their unique needs and risk factors. Using a feminist perspective, we analyze in-depth interviews with juvenile justice staff to better understand their perceptions about working with these youth. We examine the challenges for staff, for facilities, and for the girls, as well as consider staff recommendations for changes in policies or programs that are needed to support girls who identify as LGBT.
Validation of the Persian Translation of the Cognitive Test Anxiety Scale
Authors: Baghaei Purya , Cassady Jerrell
Published: November 2014

The 17-item revised version of the Cognitive Test Anxiety Scale (CTAR-17) was translated into Persian to be used for Iranian students. In this study, we used the Rasch rating scale model to examine the psychometric qualities of the translated scale in terms of dimensionality, use of response category, sample appropriateness, and reliability. A total of 297 undergraduate university students were administered the CTAR-17. Results indicated that the scale enjoyed acceptable reliability and the 4-point category scale functioned optimally. Perfect fit to the Rasch rating scale model was achieved once four items were deleted from the scale. Findings suggest that a 13-item brief version of CTAR-17 in Persian is a valid measure of cognitive test anxiety and can be used in treatment programs and future cross-cultural research on test anxiety.
Preventing Restraint and Seclusion
Authors: Carlson Kelly , Hall Joanne M.
Published: November 2014

Evidence does not support the use of restraint and seclusion (RS) to contain patients on psychiatric inpatient units, yet these practices continue to be used and defended. Use of RS often results in serious injuries to patients and psychiatric health care workers. Media exposure and legal challenges have led to negative opinions about RS but not their elimination. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration set a firm goal to permanently eliminate the use of RS, emphasizing that such practices are non-therapeutic. There is agreement that prevention is central to eliminating RS. The aims of this grounded theory study were to understand the contextual processes in preventing RS and the facilitators and barriers to prevention practice. Barriers include lack of resources at the micro-level, mismanaged messages at the institutional level, and, at the policy level, belief that all simply need a “change of heart.” Participants in this study did not think that they had adequate staffing, facilities, or education to prevent RS. Most were unaware of RS prevention policies.
The Female Executive’s Perspective on Career Planning and Advancement in Organizations
Authors: Schulz Dasie J. , Enslin Christine
Published: November 2014

Gender bias continues to play a role in the gender discrepancy at executive levels in organizations across the United States, although women hold 51% of all middle management positions. Female middle managers may be overlooked for advancement to executive positions because of a lack of synergy between individual career planning and organizational development and advancement practices. This may have significant implications for organizations as they struggle to recruit and hire qualified senior leadership to close the widening leadership gap created as baby boomers leave the workforce in record numbers over the next decade. One way to retain talented, knowledgeable, female middle managers is to incorporate career planning and advancement programs, which increase visibility for both the individual and organizational leaders into potential advancement opportunities. This descriptive phenomenological study was designed to investigate and describe the lived experiences of female executives with career planning and advancement in organizations. Data collected from 16 female executives employed in organizations in Nashville, Tennessee, revealed that although individuals must make a commitment to career planning and take responsibility for executing the plan, successful career planning and advancement are dependent on others beyond the individual seeking advancement. The findings of this study are important for women who desire advancement to executive levels and to organizational leaders who want to hire and promote the right person for the job regardless of gender.
Creation of a Professionalism Scale for Hospitality Students
Authors: Kaufman Tammie J. , Ricci Peter
Published: November 2014

The hospitality industry is dependent on a professional staff to exceed guests’ expectations. Existing research has focused primarily on the various attributes necessary for success in the hospitality industry. The primary focus of this research was professionalism and hospitality students’ self-perception of their professional attributes. Data collected from a focus group of hospitality human resource managers were used to develop a professionalism scale. The scale produced five factors that explained 53.6% of the variance in the responses. Students were more likely to agree in their preparedness for the interview process, but less in agreement of their preparedness for workplace issues. This research provides an exploratory study into a student’s perception of his or her own professional abilities and could be used as a placement tool for human resource managers and a benchmark to determine student’s professional aptitude by hospitality management professors.
Implementation of Best Practices Regarding Treatment Fidelity in the Family Colorectal Cancer Awareness and Risk Education Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Simmons Rebecca G. , Walters Scott T. , Pappas Lisa M. , Boucher Kenneth M. , Boonyasiriwat Watcharaporn , Gammon Amanda , Vernon Sally W. , Burt Randall M. , Stroup Antoinette M. , Kinney Anita Y.
Published: November 2014

Treatment fidelity is associated with improvement in research outcomes and increased confidence in significant findings. However, few studies report on recommended areas of treatment fidelity (i.e., study design, training, treatment delivery, treatment receipt, and treatment enactment), leaving a dearth of information about implementation components that contributed to a study’s success. Without such information, it is difficult for researchers to correctly assess previous findings and for practitioners to correctly implement findings into practice. Thus, it is crucial that studies assess both treatment fidelity and applicability of treatment fidelity findings. We report measures of treatment fidelity in a randomized controlled trial of an intervention promoting colonoscopy in at-risk relatives of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. We describe assessments related to both treatment delivery and treatment receipt. We conducted separate ANCOVAs to model the change in each of the treatment receipt variables, comparing the two intervention arms. Compared with the control group, the intervention group had significantly greater improvements in CRC knowledge ( f = 17.46, p < .0001), perceptions about susceptibility ( f = 15.08, p = .0002), response efficacy ( f = 7.46, p = .0076), self-efficacy ( f = 8.16, p = .0053), and reduced decisional uncertainty ( f = 19.59, p < .0001) from baseline to 1-month follow-up. Overall, our study adhered to most of the best-practice guidelines for behavioral intervention fidelity. This demonstrates that our intervention was delivered as intended and positively affected the cognitive processes that are purported to be predictive of adherent behavioral outcomes.
BRACnet: Journey of Fast Technology
Authors: Ahmed Jashim Uddin , Hossain Saad Md. Maroof , Ferdous Mirza M.
Published: November 2014

This case study deals with the organization, business model, challenges and successes of the largest Internet Service Provider (ISP) in Bangladesh. BRACnet is the largest ISP in the country using WiMAX and fibre optics to utilize its licensed spectrum at 3.5 GHz. Based on WiMAX and fibre optics technology, BRACnet serves a diverse client base, including corporations, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and educational institutions across Bangladesh. To satisfy the connectivity needs of both corporate and individual customers, BRACnet offers a wide variety of service packages to accommodate the needs of its diverse client base. This case study explores the significant corporate and stakeholder aspects of BRACnet and how it is working towards its primary objective that is ‘IT sustainability in Bangladesh’. Finally, the study highlights challenges ahead seeking discussion and solutions.
Design Patent War: Apple versus Samsung
Authors: Saardchom Narumon
Published: November 2014

High-technology companies that have brought innovation to the market also use their innovation to claim their intellectual property rights around the world. In 2011, Apple Inc. started to claim its design patent over Samsung Electronics Company in the Unites States (US) court and the disputes then expanded to more than 50 lawsuits in numerous courts around the world, and became a design patent war. The amount of damages in a US verdict was the largest design patent infringement jury award of all time—US$ 1.05 billion, the amount by which most companies would become bankrupt by a single infringement. A design patent war like Apple versus Samsung lawsuits showed that design patent has seized centre stage of modern battle. In addition, it signified that any company must seriously incorporate design patent issue into its intellectual property portfolio. The dispute also revealed an interesting unclear boundary of design infringement that could impact the level of legal risk for every related industry.
Managing Change in Health Care: A Case of UTHI
Authors: Adeleye Ifedapo , Sule Abayomi , Tobun Shola
Published: November 2014

The 1970s saw the establishment of University Teaching Hospital Ibadan (UTHI) as a hospital of eminence with lofty vision: ‘To be the flagship tertiary health care institution in the West African sub-region: offering world-class training, research and services and the first choice hospital’. It indeed kept its promise to emerge as the main teaching hospital of the country. The 1990s witnessed the decline. The Government of Nigeria appointed Vesta Healthcare Partners to advise on transformation and sustainability. A number of suggestions of far-reaching consequences came up. These involved restructuring and the reporting system; motivational initiatives; offer of opportunities to those who showed performance; recognition to performance; installation of performance measurement metrics; remuneration system; and more. The case study describes at length the challenges before Professor Temi, who has recently joined as the Chief Medical Director of UTHI and who has to handle the implementation of the recommendations. Simultaneously, he has to arrive at decisions in areas of conflicts.
Comparing Sound Localization Deficits in Bilateral Cochlear-Implant Users and Vocoder Simulations With Normal-Hearing Listeners
Authors: Jones Heath , Kan Alan , Litovsky Ruth Y.
Published: November 2014

Bilateral cochlear-implant (BiCI) users are less accurate at localizing free-field (FF) sound sources than normal-hearing (NH) listeners. This performance gap is not well understood but is likely due to a combination of compromises in acoustic signal representation by the two independent speech processors and neural degradation of auditory pathways associated with a patient’s hearing loss. To exclusively investigate the effect of CI speech encoding on horizontal-plane sound localization, the present study measured sound localization performance in NH subjects listening to vocoder processed and nonvocoded virtual acoustic space (VAS) stimuli. Various aspects of BiCI stimulation such as independently functioning devices, variable across-ear channel selection, and pulsatile stimulation were simulated using uncorrelated noise (Nu), correlated noise (N0), or Gaussian-enveloped tone (GET) carriers during vocoder processing. Additionally, FF sound localization in BiCI users was measured in the same testing environment for comparison. Distinct response patterns across azimuthal locations were evident for both listener groups and were analyzed using a multilevel regression analysis. Simulated implant speech encoding, regardless of carrier, was detrimental to NH localization and the GET vocoder best simulated BiCI FF performance in NH listeners. Overall, the detrimental effect of vocoder processing on NH performance suggests that sound localization deficits may persist even for BiCI patients who have minimal neural degradation associated with their hearing loss and indicates that CI speech encoding plays a significant role in the sound localization deficits experienced by BiCI users.
Public–Private Partnership and Indian Higher Education
Authors: Shiji O.
Published: November 2014

Today the requirements in higher education are vast and majority of the population in the country cannot afford higher education as their per capita income is very low. Neither the government nor the private sector alone can cater to the requirements of higher education. It is in this context, one should look at the scope, feasibility, inevitability and the usefulness of private investment in higher education. This article analyzes the role and importance of public–private partnerships in Indian higher education system. The author points out some of the arguments for and against public–private partnership in education and some measures that the government can adopt to promote public–private partnership in education. The case of Indian higher education sector is also analyzed in another section. The article concludes that there must be a healthy partnership in the field of education by helping each other and contributing together. This study is descriptive in nature and based fully on secondary data.
On Fibonacci functions with periodicity
Authors: Kim Hee Sik , Neggers Joseph , So Keum Sook
Published: November 2014

In this paper we discuss Fibonacci functions using the (ultimately) periodicity and we also discuss the exponential Fibonacci functions. Especially, given a non-negative real-valued function, we obtain several exponential Fibonacci functions.

MSC:11B39, 39A10.
Haplotype defined by the MLH1-93G/A polymorphism is associated with MLH1 promoter hypermethylation in sporadic colorectal cancers
Authors: Miyakura Yasuyuki , Tahara Makiko , Lefor Alan T , Yasuda Yoshikazu , Sugano Kokichi
Published: November 2014

Background

Methylation of the MLH1 promoter region has been suggested to be a major mechanism of gene inactivation in sporadic microsatellite instability-positive (MSI-H) colorectal cancers (CRCs). Recently, single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the MLH1 promoter region (MLH1-93G/A; rs1800734) has been proposed to be associated with MLH1 promoter methylation, loss of MLH1 protein expression and MSI-H tumors. We examined the association of MLH1-93G/A and six other SNPs surrounding MLH1-93G/A with the methylation status in 210 consecutive sporadic CRCs in Japanese patients.

Methods

Methylation of the MLH1 promoter region was evaluated by Na-bisulfite polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis. The genotype frequencies of SNPs located in the 54-kb region surrounding the MLH1-93G/A SNP were examined by SSCP analysis.

Results

Methylation of the MLH1 promoter region was observed in 28.6% (60/210) of sporadic CRCs. The proportions of MLH1-93G/A genotypes A/A, A/G and G/G were 26% (n = 54), 51% (n = 108) and 23% (n = 48), respectively, and they were significantly associated with the methylation status (p = 0.01). There were no significant associations between genotype frequency of the six other SNPs and methylation status. The A-allele of MLH1-93G/A was more common in cases with methylation than the G-allele (p = 0.0094), especially in females (p = 0.0067). In logistic regression, the A/A genotype of the MLH1-93G/A SNP was shown to be the most significant risk factor for methylation of the MLH1 promoter region (odds ratio 2.82, p = 0.003). Furthermore, a haplotype of the A-allele of rs2276807 located -47 kb upstream from the MLH1-93G/A SNP and the A-allele of MLH1-93G/A SNP was significantly associated with MLH1 promoter methylation.

Conclusions

These results indicate that individuals, and particularly females, carrying the A-allele at the MLH1-93G/A SNP, especially in association with the A-allele of rs2276807, may harbor an increased risk of methylation of the MLH1 promoter region.
Decreased histone deacetylase 4 is associated with human osteoarthritis cartilage degeneration by releasing histone deacetylase 4 inhibition of runt-related transcription factor-2 and increasing osteoarthritis-related genes: a novel mechanism of human osteoarthritis cartilage degeneration
Authors: Cao Kun , Wei Lei , Zhang Zhiqiang , Guo Li , Zhang Congming , Li Yongping , Sun Changqi , Sun Xiaojuan , Wang Shaowei , Li Pengcui , Wei Xiaochun
Published: November 2014

Introduction

To investigate if decreased histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) is associated with human osteoarthritis (OA) cartilage degeneration by releasing HDAC4 inhibition of runt-related transcription factor-2 (Runx2) resulting in increase of OA cartilage degeneration-related genes.

Methods

The mRNA and protein levels of HDAC4, Runx2, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-13, Indian hedgehog (Ihh) and type X collagen were detected by performing real-time PCR (RT-PCR), western blotting and immunohistochemistry on specimens from human OA and normal cartilage. To further explore the mechanism of regulation of Runx2 and OA-related genes by HDAC4, changes in these OA-related genes were further quantified by RT-PCR after overexpression of HDAC4 and knockdown of HDAC4 by siRNA. Runx2 and MMP-13 promoter activities were measured by dual luciferase assays.

Results

The levels of HDAC4 in the cartilage from OA patients and healthy 40- to 60-year-old donors were decreased to 31% and 65% compared with specimens from 20- to 40-year-old healthy donors, respectively (P <0.05). Decreased HDAC4 was associated with increased Runx2 and other OA-related genes in human OA cartilage, specifically: MMP-13, Ihh and type X collagen. Exogenous HDAC4 decreased the mRNA levels of Runx2, MMP1, MMP3, MMP-13, type X collagen, Ihh, ADAMTS-4 and -5, and increased the mRNA of type II collagen. In addition, the data also shows that overexpression of HDAC4 not only decreased the expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, Cox2 and iNos and increased the expression of aggrecan, but also partially blocked the effect of IL-1β on expression of catabolic events in human OA chondrocytes. HDAC4 also inhibited Runx2 promoter activity and MMP13 promotor activity in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, inhibition of HDAC4 by TSA drug had an opposite effect.

Conclusions

Our study is the first to demonstrate that decreased HDAC4 contributes, at least in part, to the pathogenesis of OA cartilage degeneration. Thus, HDAC4 may have chondroprotective properties by inhibiting Runx2 and OA-related genes.
Targeting subchondral bone in osteoporotic osteoarthritis
Authors: Roman-Blas Jorge A , Herrero-Beaumont Gabriel
Published: November 2014

The identification of well-defined phenotypes along the course of the disease may open new avenues for personalized management in osteoarthritis (OA). In vivo research carried out in various animal models as well as epidemiological and clinical data support the existence of a particular phenotype - osteoporotic OA. In fact, subchondral bone has become a potential therapeutic target in OA. Depending on the ratio between formation and resorption, subchondral bone remodeling can culminate in either a sclerotic or an osteoporotic phenotype. Patients with osteoporotic OA may thus achieve clinical and structural benefit from treatment with bone-targeted interventions.
SWOG S0221: A Phase III Trial Comparing Chemotherapy Schedules in High-Risk Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Budd George T. , Barlow William E. , Moore Halle C.F. , Hobday Timothy J. , Stewart James A. , Isaacs Claudine , Salim Muhammad , Cho Jonathan K. , Rinn Kristine J. , Albain Kathy S. , Chew Helen K. , Burton Gary V. , Moore Timothy D. , Srkalovic Gordan , McGregor Bradley A. , Flaherty Lawrence E. , Livingston Robert B. , Lew Danika L. , Gralow Julie R. , Hortobagyi Gabriel N.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

To determine the optimal dose and schedule of anthracycline and taxane administration as adjuvant therapy for early-stage breast cancer.

Patients and Methods

A 2 × 2 factorial design was used to test two hypotheses: (1) that a novel continuous schedule of doxorubicin-cyclophosphamide was superior to six cycles of doxorubicin-cyclophosphamide once every 2 weeks and (2) that paclitaxel once per week was superior to six cycles of paclitaxel once every 2 weeks in patients with node-positive or high-risk node-negative early-stage breast cancer. With 3,250 patients, a disease-free survival (DFS) hazard ratio of 0.82 for each randomization could be detected with 90% power with two-sided α = .05. Overall survival (OS) was a secondary outcome.

Results

Interim analyses crossed the futility boundaries for demonstrating superiority of both once-per-week regimens and once-every-2-weeks regimens. After a median follow-up of 6 years, a significant interaction developed between the two randomization factors (DFS P = .024; OS P = .010) in the 2,716 patients randomly assigned in the original design, which precluded interpretation of the two factors separately. Comparing all four arms showed a significant difference in OS (P = .040) but not in DFS (P = .11), with all treatments given once every 2 weeks associated with the highest OS. This difference in OS seemed confined to patients with hormone receptor–negative/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) –negative tumors (P = .067), with no differences seen with hormone receptor–positive/HER2-negative (P = .90) or HER2-positive tumors (P = .40).

Conclusion

Patients achieved a similar DFS with any of these regimens. Subset analysis suggests the hypothesis that once-every-2-weeks dosing may be best for patients with hormone receptor–negative/HER2-negative tumors.