bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Luxury Values in Shopping Tourism Using a Fuzzy-Set Approach
Authors: Correia Antonia , Kozak Metin , Kim Seongseop (Sam)
Published: December 2017

This exploratory study, based on 316 questionnaires completed by mainland Chinese tourists in Hong Kong, investigates whether certain conditions are sufficient to motivate tourists’ decisions to buy luxury products. The results of fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis reveal that a combination of four conditions (emotional attachment, fashion leadership, prestige sensitivity, and social value) is sufficient to influence tourists to shop for luxury brands. It must be pointed out, however, that the four conditions are unnecessary in some social and shopping contexts, and thus the findings do not reject the possibility that alternative conditions may also influence luxury shopping decisions. This study using fuzzy-set theory demonstrates that tourists who score highly in all four conditions constitute an almost perfect subcategory of luxury shoppers. Therefore, it is recommended that other scholars examine the conditions that are sufficient to influence tourists rather than concentrating on other factors.
“A Little Is Better Than Zero” or “Pay Enough or Don’t Pay at All”? Evidence on the Size of Pay-for-Performance Across the Sectors
Authors: Chen Chung-An
Published: December 2017

Regarding the effect of pay-for-performance (PFP), standard economic reasoning suggests that “a little is better than zero,” meaning that even small performance payments can improve employees’ work morale. An alternative view, “pay enough or don’t pay at all,” suggests that paying too little may instead erode employees’ work morale. Using the U.S. General Social Survey (GSS) data, the present study finds evidence that the two views actually complement each other: Small payments can improve employees’ work effort (e.g., working hours), but can also potentially compromise their work attitudes (e.g., job satisfaction). In addition, employees in different working sectors may have different understanding of what “small size” really means. Findings are followed by theoretical and practical implications.
Illuminating the Gender Divide in Public Sector Innovation: Evidence From the Australian Public Service
Authors: van Acker Wouter , Wynen Jan , Op de Beeck Sophie
Published: December 2017

Like many other aspects of the work environment, “innovation” is a gendered term that creates a barrier to women taking part in innovation processes and, in particular, in male-dominated and “masculine” industries. This article looks into the role of gender, as well as other potential determinants, in explaining differences in the perceived innovation climate for public sector employees. This innovation climate depicts the opportunities and support employees receive with creating, promoting, and implementing innovative ideas in the workplace. Even though the public sector is often regarded as a more “feminine” work environment, our results show that women feel less encouraged in the innovation process when compared with men. Moreover, length of service and red tape appear to have a detrimental effect on individuals’ experiences of the innovation climate.
Prior disclosure and emotional expression: Interactive effects on post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms
Authors: Chen Yung Y , Kao Min C
Published: December 2017

Background

Previous research has revealed mixed findings with regard to the effects of disclosure on trauma recovery. More recently, studies on psychological trauma have found associations among religion, meaning, and health. This study investigated prior disclosure as a moderator for the association between religious emotional expression and adaptive trauma processing, as measured by post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms.

Methods

Using Pennebaker’s written emotional expression paradigm, 105 participants were assigned to either a conventional trauma-writing condition or religious trauma-writing condition. PTSD symptoms were assessed at baseline and again at one-month post writing.

Results

A two-way interaction was found between prior disclosure and writing condition on PTSD symptoms at follow-up. For the religious trauma-writing condition only, there was a significant difference between low versus high disclosure participants in PTSD symptoms at follow-up, such that low prior disclosure participants registered fewer PTSD symptoms than high prior disclosure participants, while prior disclosure did not have such effect in the conventional trauma-writing condition. Limitations: This two-way interaction may be further qualified by other important psychosocial variables, such as differences in personality, coping style, social support, or use of prayer as a form of disclosure, which were not assessed in this study.

Conclusion

Religious emotional expression may encourage adaptive trauma processing, especially for individuals with low prior disclosure. These findings encourage further investigation of the conditions under which disclosure and religion may be a beneficial factor in trauma adaptation and treatment.
Clinical and care intensity differences among patients suffering from somatic diseases electively referred to a consultation and liaison service
Authors: Valdes-Stauber Juan , Bachthaler Susanne
Published: December 2017

Background

This investigation mainly explores possible care differences among patients hospitalized because of medical conditions being electively referred to a psychiatric-psychosomatic consultation and liaison service.

Methods

A four-year survey ( N = 2518 individuals) based on clinical and care variables selected from the basic documentation. Statistics: Chi-square tests, analysis of variance, logistic and multivariate regression analyses, considering statistical modeling assumptions.

Results

A current psychiatric comorbidity has been found in 75% (less in cancer patients), mainly adjustment and anxiety (45%), mood (22%), and organic mental disorders (12%). The functioning score (Global Assessment of Functioning) was 59.4 and was especially low in patients suffering from unclear medical conditions. The performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group) amounted to 1.63 and was especially high in patients suffering from orthopedic conditions, infections, and cancer. Each patient received on average of 2.26 (SD = 2.81) contacts and 111 minutes (SD = 160) of total treatment time. In multivariate models, care differences among medical conditions are reduced. Men and older people have received less than the average amount of treatment, but psychiatrically comorbid patients and those with lower functionality and performance status have received more intensive psychological support.

Conclusions

As a quality feature of consultation and liaison service, patients suffering from psychiatric comorbidity, lower functionality, and lower performance status receive more intensive care and more post-discharge recommendations. Cancer patients and patients with pain as a leading diagnosis as well as strained mothers of hospitalized children have received more intensive treatment by consultation and liaison service despite lower psychiatric comorbidity levels. More attention has to be paid to men and older people independently of their physical condition.
Temperature adjustments for design data for urban air conditioning design
Authors: Levermore Geoffrey , Vandaele Stefan , Parkinson John
Published: December 2017

The urban heat island, where the urban area air temperature is higher than the nearby rural or semi-rural air temperature reference site, is now hopefully well known. The urban heat island intensity is the actual urban air temperature minus the rural air temperature. However, the “air conditioned urban heat island intensity” is measured by the air temperature sensor in an air conditioning condenser unit minus the rural air temperature. This is often different to the standard urban heat island intensity. Designers need to appreciate this difference, as it determines how the air conditioning system performs. It is most likely affected by the radiant temperature. This can also vary significantly from the rural, semi-rural radiant temperature due to the variation in solar absorptance of the urban buildings and the shading effects. Measurements have shown significant variations in the infrared temperatures over the urban areas. Calculations of the radiant absorption and long wave radiation loss also show significant differences to the rural counterparts in frequency and magnitude. This “surface urban heat island” is important for air conditioning plant situated often in areas exposed to solar irradiation. The exhaust air from the air conditioning units itself is also briefly considered. This paper examines these effects and proposes how the engineer can include for them in design.

Practical application:The results of this paper will be useful for designers of buildings with air conditioning and air conditioning plant itself to assess the effect of the micro urban heat island. This micro urban heat island surrounds the air conditioning plant. The example is for London.
Dynamic modeling, adaptive control and energy performance simulation of a hybrid hydronic space heating system
Authors: Ma Yiteng , Zaheeruddin M
Published: December 2017

A dynamic model of a hybrid hydronic heating system has been developed. The overall model consists of a boiler, a heat exchanger, a ground loop heat pump, a ground loop heat exchanger, baseboard heaters (convector–radiators), and radiant floor hydraulic piping system. Two control strategies for improving the overall system performance were explored: (1) a conventional proportional-integral (PI) control and (2) an adaptive gain control. The simulation results showed that the performance of the adaptive controller is better than the fixed gain PI controller in disturbance rejection and stability. Energy simulations under three different operating strategies were conducted: (1) a fixed set-point PI control, (2) an outdoor air temperature reset control, and (3) an optimal set-point adaptive PI control. It was shown that the outdoor temperature reset strategy can save 4.5 and 19.9% energy under cold day and mild day conditions compared to the fixed set-point PI control strategy. The optimal adaptive PI control strategy resulted in higher energy savings of 6.6 and 22% as compared to the PI control under cold and mild day conditions, respectively.

Practical application: Energy efficiency and sustainability are a major issue of importance in the design and operation of space heating systems. The proposed hybrid system combines a ground-source heat pump and a hot water boiler for space heating of both residential and commercial building applications. The heating system consists of radiant floor piping for the residential zones and hot water baseboard heaters (convector–radiators) for the commercial zones. An energy optimal adaptive control strategy is designed to improve energy efficiency and temperature control performance of the hybrid system. The control strategy is simple and can be implemented on the existing building control systems.
Skills to Enhance Positivity in Suicidal Adolescents: Results From an Open Development Trial
Authors: Yen Shirley , Ranney Megan L. , Tezanos Katherine M. , Chuong Adam , Kahler Christopher W. , Solomon Joel B. , Spirito Anthony
Published: December 2017

“Skills to Enhance Positivity” (STEP) is a two-part positive affect program designed to decrease recurrent suicidal behavior in adolescents hospitalized due to suicide risk. Here, we describe the initial pilot phase in which the intervention was developed and modified based on a sample of 20 adolescent participants, aged 12 to 18 years old ( Mage = 15.9, SD = 1.5). STEP consisted of an in-person phase (four sessions) and a remote delivery phase (text messaging and phone calls). The inpatient sessions focused on psychoeducation of positive affect, mindfulness meditation, gratitude, and savoring. The remote delivery phase comprised of weekly phone calls and daily text messages to enhance mood monitoring and skills practice reminders. Average session attendance was 81%, and mean daily response rate to text messages was 73.6%, demonstrating high engagement. STEP was described as good or excellent by over 90% of parents and 100% of adolescents. Only one participant had a suicide attempt, and five were readmitted for suicidality in the following 6 months, fewer than comparable naturalistic studies. Although preliminary results are promising, larger randomized trials are needed to determine the efficacy of STEP in reducing suicidal behaviors.
Using Mobile Technology to Reduce Engagement in Stereotypy: A Validation of Decision-Making Algorithms
Authors: Préfontaine Isabelle , Lanovaz Marc J. , McDuff Emeline , McHugh Catherine , Cook Jennifer L.
Published: December 2017

We developed an iOS app, the iSTIM, designed to support parents of children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in reducing common repetitive vocal and motor behavior (i.e., stereotypy). The purpose of our study was to preliminarily test the decision-making algorithms of the iSTIM using trained university students to implement the assessments and interventions. Specifically, we examined the effects of the iSTIM on stereotypy and functional engagement in 11 children with ASD within alternating treatment designs. Using the iSTIM reduced engagement in stereotypy for eight participants and increased functional engagement for four of those participants. Our results indicate that the iSTIM may decrease engagement in stereotypy but that some of the decision-making algorithms may benefit from modifications prior to testing with parents.
Influences on Care for Others: Attachment Security, Personal Suffering, and Similarity Between Helper and Care Recipient
Authors: Cassidy Jude , Stern Jessica A. , Mikulincer Mario , Martin David R. , Shaver Philip R.
Published: December 2017

Research indicates that dispositional attachment security fosters empathy, and that short-term increases in security (“security priming”) increase empathy and willingness to help others. In two experiments, we examined effects of recalling one’s own vulnerability ( feeling hurt by a relationship partner) and security priming on empathy for a recipient in need. In Study 1, the recipient was a middle-aged homeless woman (low similarity to participants); in Study 2, the recipient was a college-aged woman whose boyfriend had been unfaithful (high similarity to participants). In both studies, hurt feelings influenced participants’ empathy, but the nature of the influence varied as a function of target–participant similarity. In Study 1, hurt feelings decreased empathy and increased caregiving avoidance. In Study 2, hurt feelings not only increased empathy but also aroused caregiving anxiety. Furthermore, security priming weakened defensive barriers against helping: In Study 1, it reduced caregiving avoidance, and in Study 2, it reduced caregiving anxiety.
A Continent in Crisis: European Labor and the Fate of Social Democracy
Authors: Schulze-Cleven Tobias
Published: December 2017

Over the past decade, Europe has stumbled from crisis to crisis, shaking the confidence of observers in the continent’s capacity to maintain the egalitarian societies and socially embedded markets that have long informed arguments for social democratic reforms in the United States. As tensions in democratic capitalism have intensified, many aspects of Europe’s established political economic order have come under pressure. This review essay explores key causal processes behind the continent’s predicament. It does so to illustrate challenges and opportunities for organized labor in Europe, and to call on social scientists to reengage with the class politics of capitalism.
Closing for the Benefit of Openness? The case of Wikimedia’s open strategy process
Authors: Dobusch Laura , Dobusch Leonhard , Müller-Seitz Gordon
Published: December 2017

A growing number of organizations subscribe to ideals of openness in areas such as innovation or strategy-making, supported by digital technologies and fuelled by promises of better outcomes and increased legitimacy. However, by applying a relational lens of inclusion and exclusion, we argue that, paradoxically, certain forms of closure may be necessary to achieve desired open qualities in strategy-making. Analysing the case of Wikimedia, which called for participation in a globally open strategy-making process, we show that openness regarding participation in crafting strategy content depends on certain forms of closure regarding procedures of the strategy-making process. Against this background, we propose a two-dimensional framework of openness, in which content-related and procedural openness are characterized by a combination of open and closed elements.
What Brandom won’t make explicit
Authors: Michalska Anna
Published: December 2017

In this contribution, I refer to a discussion between Jürgen Habermas and Robert Brandom on the latter’s normative pragmatics as advanced in Making it Explicit. Parting with Habermas, I intend to show that though both normative pragmatics and formal pragmatics postulate similar discursive ideals, the former, as compared with the latter, is not a particularly well-calibrated critical tool. I argue that whereas Brandom focuses on making conceptual norms explicit, and takes mutual recognition among participants to a linguistic practice for granted, Habermas proposes a universal frame of reference (to oneself, each other, and the world), which delineates what should be taken as a paradigm case of perception and (inter-)action, and thus a normative standard according to which all kinds of human endeavors can be judged. Thus construed, the formal frame of reference points to possible perceptual distortions along any of the three dimensions: the subjective, social, and objective worlds.
Memories of exclusion
Authors: Gaffney Jennifer
Published: December 2017

This article examines Hannah Arendt’s concern for remembrance in political life in light of contemporary discourses regarding the memory of slavery and colonization in the African diaspora. Arendt’s blindness to questions of exclusion within this context has given way to a set of critical debates in Arendt studies concerning the viability of her political project. In this paper, I give further contour to these debates by considering Arendt’s discourse on revolution in light of an analysis of the Haitian Revolution (1791–1804). In so doing, my aim is to deepen and challenge Arendt’s understanding of the revolutionary tradition that she believes we are responsible for remembering and appropriating anew in political life today.
Assessment of similarity and self-other agreement in dyadic relationships
Authors: Rogers Katherine H. , Wood Dustin , Furr R. Michael
Published: December 2017

Many questions within the relationship literature are concerned with the similarity between individuals or the agreement of perceptions. There are a number of different methods used to assess these questions (e.g., correlation, profile correlation, and squared difference scores), and there are special considerations that need to be included when analyzing data of this sort (e.g., correction for mean levels). We provide an overview of when these different methods are most appropriate and recommendations for applying the different statistical techniques. We also include an example data set to demonstrate how these analyses should be performed and how results may differ based on the techniques used.
The practicalities of establishing a porcine isolated heart model
Authors: Pavey Warren , Raisis Anthea , Dunne Ben , Van Laeken Els , Jenkinson Charles , Vincent Viji , Baird Peter , Prince Stuart , Ho Kwok M. , Merry Christopher , Gilfillan Ian
Published: December 2017

Background:

The isolated heart apparatus is over 100 years old, but remains a useful research tool today. While designs of many large animal systems have been described in the literature, trouble-shooting and refining such a model to yield a stable, workable system has not been previously described. This paper outlines the issues, in tabular form, that our group encountered in developing our own porcine isolated heart rig with the aim of assisting other workers in the field planning similar work. The paper also highlights some of the modern applications of the isolated heart apparatus.

Methods

Landrace pigs (50-80 kg) were used in a pilot project to develop the model. The model was then used in a study examining the effects of various cardioplegic solutions on function after reanimation of porcine hearts. During the two projects, non-protocol issues were documented as well as their solutions. These were aggregated in this paper.

Results:

Issues faced by the group without explicit literature solutions included pig size selection, animal acclimatisation, porcine transoesophageal echocardiography, cannulation and phlebotomy for cross-clamping, cardioplegia delivery, heart suspension and rig tuning.

Conclusion:

Prior recognition of issues and possible solutions faced by workers establishing a porcine isolated heart system will speed progress towards a useable system for research. The isolated heart apparatus remains applicable in transplant, ischaemia reperfusion, heart failure and organ preservation research.
A novel augmented venous-drainage model of cardiopulmonary bypass for deep hypothermic circulatory arrest without blood priming
Authors: Jiang Xuan , Gu Tianxiang , Liu Yu , Wang Chun , Shi Enyi , Zhang Guangwei
Published: December 2017

Objective:

Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) are commonly used in cardiac surgery. However, the mortality and morbidity are still high in practice. Developing novel protective stategies and elucidating the underlying mechanisms for the pathophysiological consequences of DHCA have been hampered because of the absence of a satisfactory recovery animal model. The aim of this study was to establish a novel and safe DHCA model without blood priming in rats to study the pathophysiology of potential complications.

Methods:

Ten adult male Sprague-Dawley rats (age, 14-16 weeks; weight, 200-300g) were used. The entire CPB circuit consisted of a modified reservoir, a custom-designed small-volume membrane oxygenator, a roller pump and a home-made heat exchanger, all of which were connected via silicon tubing. The volume of the priming solution was less than 10 ml. The right jugular vein, right carotid artery and left femoral artery were cannulated. The blood was drained from the right atrium through the right jugular vein and fed back to the rat via the left femoral artery. CPB was commenced at a full flow rate. The animals were cooled to a pericranial temperature of 18°C and then subjected to 45 minutes of DHCA with global ischemia. Circulatory arrest was followed by rewarming and over 60 minutes of reperfusion. CPB was terminated carefully. Blood in the circuit was centrifuged and slowly transfused to achieve optimal hematocrit. Blood gas and hemodynamic parameters were recorded at each time point before CPB, during CPB and after CPB.

Results:

All CPB and DHCA processes were achieved successfully. No rat died in our research. Blood gas analyses at different times were normal. Cardiac function and blood pressure were stable after the operation. The vital signs of all the rats were stable.

Conclusion:

The novel augmented venous-drainage CPB and DHCA model in rats could be established successfully without blood priming.
Induction of the cell survival kinase Sgk1: A possible novel mechanism for α-phenyl-N-tert-butyl nitrone in experimental stroke
Authors: McCaig Catherine , Ataliotis Paris , Shtaya Anan , Omar Ayan S , Green A Richard , Kind Clive N , Pereira Anthony C , Naray-Fejes-Toth Aniko , Fejes-Toth Geza , Yáñez-Muñoz Rafael J , Murray James T , Hainsworth Atticus H
Published: December 2017

Nitrones (e.g. α-phenyl-N-tert-butyl nitrone; PBN) are cerebroprotective in experimental stroke. Free radical trapping is their proposed mechanism. As PBN has low radical trapping potency, we tested Sgk1 induction as another possible mechanism. PBN was injected (100 mg/kg, i.p.) into adult male rats and mice. Sgk1 was quantified in cerebral tissue by microarray, quantitative RT-PCR and western analyses. Sgk1+/+ and Sgk1−/− mice were randomized to receive PBN or saline immediately following transient (60 min) occlusion of the middle cerebral artery. Neurological deficit was measured at 24 h and 48 h and infarct volume at 48 h post-occlusion. Following systemic PBN administration, rapid induction of Sgk1 was detected by microarray (at 4 h) and confirmed by RT-PCR and phosphorylation of the Sgk1-specific substrate NDRG1 (at 6 h). PBN-treated Sgk1+/+ mice had lower neurological deficit ( p < 0.01) and infarct volume ( p < 0.01) than saline-treated Sgk1+/+ mice. PBN-treated Sgk1−/− mice did not differ from saline-treated Sgk1−/− mice. Saline-treated Sgk1−/− and Sgk1+/+ mice did not differ. Brain Sgk3:Sgk1 mRNA ratio was 1.0:10.6 in Sgk1+/+ mice. Sgk3 was not augmented in Sgk1−/− mice. We conclude that acute systemic treatment with PBN induces Sgk1 in brain tissue. Sgk1 may play a part in PBN-dependent actions in acute brain ischemia.
Tonic regulation of middle meningeal artery diameter by ATP-sensitive potassium channels
Authors: Syed Arsalan U , Koide Masayo , Brayden Joseph E , Wellman George C
Published: December 2017

Activation of ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels in arterial smooth muscle (ASM) contributes to vasodilation evoked by a variety of endogenous and exogenous compounds. Although controversial, activation of KATP channels by neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide (PACAP) in the trigeminovascular system, including the middle meningeal artery (MMA), has been linked to migraine headache. The objective of the current study was to determine if ongoing KATP channel activity also influences MMA diameter. In the absence of other exogenous compounds, the KATP channel inhibitors glibenclamide and PNU37883A induced constriction of isolated and pressurized MMAs. In contrast, KATP channel inhibition did not alter cerebral artery diameter. Consistent with tonic KATP activity in MMA, glibenclamide also induced ASM membrane potential depolarization and increased cytosolic Ca2+. Inhibitors of cAMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA) abolished basal KATP activation in MMA and caused a marked decrease in sensitivity to the synthetic KATP channel opener, cromakalim. In vivo MMA constriction in response to gibenclamide was observed using two-photon imaging of arterial diameter. Together these results indicate that PKA-mediated tonic KATP channel activity contributes to the regulation of MMA diameter.
Knowledge and Attitudes of Jordanian University Students Toward Epilepsy: A Cross-Sectional Comparison Study
Authors: Alhalaiqa Fadwa , Al Omari Omar , Batiha Abdul-Monim , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Masa’Deh Rami , Al-Ghabeesh Suhair , Bashayreh Ibraheem
Published: December 2017

People with epilepsy face stigma which arguably causes more suffering than the disease itself. The purpose of this study is to compare the knowledge and attitudes of nursing with nonnursing Jordanian university students toward epilepsy. A cross-sectional comparative, quantitative study was conducted. A newly structured questionnaire was developed to collect related data. The results revealed that there were 145(30.5%) nursing students and 331 (69.5%) nonnursing students with mean age of the participants was 22.9 years ( SD = 4.7) and 60% of them were men. Although the majority of the Jordanian university students were aware of epilepsy, their knowledge varied according to their major subject of study. Nursing students possessed a good knowledge of, and more positive attitudes toward, epilepsy compared with other nonnursing students. Therefore, universities are required to improve the knowledge of their students about epilepsy by integrating education about health and first aid course into their curriculum.
Downsizing of Housing
Authors: Sandberg Maria
Published: December 2017

Housing is one of the major sources of the environmental impact of consumption. An aspect of housing that has rarely been considered in previous studies on sustainable housing is the size of the dwelling, even though research has shown the impact of dwelling size on the environmental impact of housing to be significant. This study analyzes socio-cultural meanings about downsizing as well as norms about dwelling size. The study analyzes naturally occurring, cultural texts (media texts and corporate communications about small-sized dwellings). The study offers a view on how the meaning of downsizing is negotiated, the (in)voluntariness of downsizing emerging as the main point to be negotiated. Additionally, the study offers understanding for how norms about dwelling size are negotiated in order to normalize smaller dwellings. In these ways, the study offers researchers insights about how downsizing can be advanced in order to reduce the environmental impact of housing.
Fast loop-closure detection using visual-word-vectors from image sequences
Authors: Bampis Loukas , Amanatiadis Angelos , Gasteratos Antonios
Published: December 2017

In this paper, a novel pipeline for loop-closure detection is proposed. We base our work on a bag of binary feature words and we produce a description vector capable of characterizing a physical scene as a whole. Instead of relying on single camera measurements, the robot’s trajectory is dynamically segmented into image sequences according to its content. The visual word occurrences from each sequence are then combined to create sequence-visual-word-vectors and provide additional information to the matching functionality. In this way, scenes with considerable visual differences are firstly discarded, while the respective image-to-image associations are provided subsequently. With the purpose of further enhancing the system’s performance, a novel temporal consistency filter (trained offline) is also introduced to advance matches that persist over time. Evaluation results prove that the presented method compares favorably with other state-of-the-art techniques, while our algorithm is tested on a tablet device, verifying the computational efficiency of the approach.
Coronary computed tomography in heart transplant patients: detection of significant stenosis and cardiac allograft vasculopathy, image quality, and radiation dose
Authors: Günther Anne , Aaberge Lars , Abildgaard Andreas , Ragnarsson Asgrimur , Edvardsen Thor , Jakobsen Jarl , Andersen Rune
Published: December 2017

Background

Cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV) is an accelerated form of atherosclerosis unique to heart transplant (HTX) patients.

Purpose

To investigate the detection of significant coronary artery stenosis and CAV, determinants of image quality, and the radiation dose in coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) of HTX patients with 64-slice multidetector CT (64-MDCT).

Material and Methods

Fifty-two HTX recipients scheduled for invasive coronary angiography (ICA) were prospectively enrolled and underwent CCTA before ICA with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).

Results

Interpretable CCTA images were acquired in 570 (95%) coronary artery segments ≥2 mm in diameter. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of CCTA for the detection of segments with significant stenosis (lumen reduction ≥50%) on ICA were 100%, 98%, 7.7%, and 100%, respectively. Twelve significant stenoses were located in segments with uninterpretable image quality or vessel diameter <2 mm; only one was eligible for intervention. IVUS detected CAV (maximal intimal thickness ≥0.5 mm) in 33/41 (81%) patients; CCTA and ICA identified CAV (any wall or luminal irregularity) in 18 (44%) and 14 (34%) of these 33 patients, respectively. The mean estimated radiation dose was 19.0 ± 3.4 mSv for CCTA and 5.7 ± 3.3 mSv for ICA ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion

CCTA with interpretable image quality had a high negative predictive value for ruling out significant stenoses suitable for intervention. The modest detection of CAV by CCTA implied a limited value in identifying subtle CAV. The high estimated radiation dose for 64-MDCT is of concern considering the need for repetitive examinations in the HTX population.
Changes in the Household Structure during the Period 1961–2011 in Serbia
Authors: Pavlović Mila , Radivojević Aleksandar , Filipović Ivan , Milovanović Milan
Published: December 2017

Serbia and the entire Southeastern Europe was affected by considerable demographic, political, and socioeconomic changes in the second half of the twentieth century. The changes in the population were shown as an insufficient birthrate as well as an intense emigration. Apart from these, certain drastic changes in the household structure occurred. This article examines the total changes in the household number on the territory of the Republic of Serbia, with the municipality of Sokobanja as a prominent example. Other aims of the research are the analysis of the household composition and economic characteristics of the households.
The Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma on Tendon and Ligament Healing: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis With Bias Assessment
Authors: Chen Xiao , Jones Ian A. , Park Caron , Vangsness C. Thomas
Published: December 2017

Background:

There has been a surge in high-level studies investigating platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for tendon and ligament injuries. A number of meta-analyses have been published, but few studies have focused exclusively on tendon and ligament injuries.

Purpose:

To perform a meta-analysis assessing the ability of PRP to reduce pain in patients with tendon and ligament injuries.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

This study followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A comprehensive search of the literature was carried out in April 2017 using electronic databases PubMed, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Library. Only level 1 studies were included. Platelet and leukocyte count, injection volume, kit used, participant age/sex, comparator, and activating agent used were recorded. The short-term and long-term efficacy of PRP was assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS) to measure pain intensity. Injury subgroups (rotator cuff, tendinopathy, anterior cruciate ligament, and lateral epicondylitis) were evaluated. Funnel plots and the Egger test were used to screen for publication bias, and sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the effect of potential outliers by removing studies one at a time.

Results:

Thirty-seven articles were included in this review, 21 (1031 participants) of which could be included in the quantitative analysis. The majority of studies published investigated rotator cuff injuries (38.1%) or lateral epicondylitis (38.1%). Seventeen studies (844 participants) reported short-term VAS data, and 14 studies (771 participants) reported long-term VAS data. Overall, long-term follow-up results showed significantly less pain in the PRP group compared with the control group (weighted mean difference [WMD], –0.84; 95% CI, –1.23 to –0.44; P < .01). Patients treated with PRP for rotator cuff injuries (WMD, –0.53; 95% CI, –0.98 to –0.09; P = .02) and lateral epicondylitis (WMD, –1.39; 95% CI, –2.49 to –0.29; P = .01) reported significantly less pain in the long term. Substantial heterogeneity was reported at baseline ( I2 = 72.0%; P < .01), short-term follow-up ( I2 = 72.5%; P < .01), long-term follow-up ( I2 = 76.1%; P < .01), and overall ( I2 = 75.8%; P < .01). The funnel plot appeared to be asymmetric, with some missingness at the lower right portion of the plot suggesting possible publication bias.

Conclusion:

This review shows that PRP may reduce pain associated with lateral epicondylitis and rotator cuff injuries.
Qualitative and Quantitative Analyses of the Dynamic and Static Stabilizers of the Medial Elbow: An Anatomic Study
Authors: Frangiamore Salvatore J. , Moatshe Gilbert , Kruckeberg Bradley M. , Civitarese David M. , Muckenhirn Kyle J. , Chahla Jorge , Brady Alex W. , Cinque Mark E. , Oleson Morten Lykke , Provencher Matthew T. , Hackett Thomas R. , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: December 2017

Background:

The anterior bundle of the medial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and the forearm flexors provide primary static and dynamic stability to valgus stress of the elbow in overhead-throwing athletes. Quantitative anatomic relationships between the dynamic and static stabilizers have not been described.

Purpose:

To perform qualitative and quantitative anatomic evaluations of the medial elbow-UCL complex with specific attention to pertinent osseous and soft tissue landmarks.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Ten nonpaired, fresh-frozen human cadaveric elbows (mean age, 54.1 years [range, 42-64 years]; all male) were utilized for this study. Quantitative analysis was performed with a 3-dimensional coordinate measuring device to quantify the location of pertinent bony landmarks and tendon and ligament footprints on the humerus, ulna, and radius.

Results:

The anterior bundle of the UCL attached 8.5 mm (95% CI, 6.9-10.0) distal and 7.8 mm (95% CI, 6.6-9.1) lateral to the medial epicondyle, 1.5 mm (95% CI, 0.5-2.5) distal to the sublime tubercle, and 7.3 mm (95% CI, 6.1-8.5) distal to the joint line on the ulna along the ulnar ridge. The flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) ulnar tendinous insertion was closely related and interposed within the anterior bundle of the UCL, overlapping with 45.6% (95% CI, 38.1-53.6) of the length of the anterior bundle of the UCL. The flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) attached 1.9 mm (95% CI, 0.8-2.9) posterior and 1.3 mm (95% CI, 0.6-3.2) proximal to the sublime tubercle and overlapped with 20.9% (95% CI, 7.2-34.5) of the area of the distal footprint of the anterior bundle of the UCL.

Conclusion:

The anterior bundle of the UCL had consistent attachment points relative to the medial epicondyle and sublime tubercle. The ulnar limb of the FDS and FCU tendons demonstrated consistent insertions onto the ulnar attachment of the anterior bundle of the UCL. These anatomic relationships are important to consider when evaluating distal UCL tears both operatively and nonoperatively. Excessive stripping of the sublime tubercle should be avoided during UCL reconstruction to prevent violation of these tendinous attachments.

Clinical Relevance:

The findings of this study enhance the understanding of valgus restraint in throwing athletes and provide insight into the difference in nonoperative outcomes between proximal and distal tears of the UCL.
First Field Test of an Innovative, Wider Tape to Measure Mid-Upper Arm Circumference in Young Laotian Children
Authors: Hess Sonja Y. , Hinnouho Guy-Marino , Barffour Maxwell A. , Bounheuang Bangone , Arnold Charles D. , Bell David , Marts Tola H. , Kounnavong Sengchanh
Published: December 2017

Background:

Measurements of mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) may result in measurement error due to incorrect placement along the arm or tight pulling of tape. To reduce the risk of these measurement errors, a new wider tape was developed.

Objective:

To compare the measurement agreement and precision and the ease of use of the standard and wide MUAC tapes.

Methods:

Mid-upper arm circumference was measured in 814 children aged 9 to 32 months with both tapes. The midpoint of the upper arm was measured with the standard tape and estimated with the wide tape. Standardization sessions were implemented to assess intra- and interobserver precision.

Results:

Mid-upper arm circumference with the wide MUAC tape was significantly larger than the standard tape (mean [standard deviation]: 14.3 [1.0] cm vs 13.9 [1.0] cm; P < .001), resulting in a consistent bias of +0.41 cm. Forty-six (5.7%) children were identified with low MUAC <12.5 cm by standard tape compared with 10 (1.2%) by the wide tape ( P <.001). Because a new tape could be reproduced by correcting for this bias, we corrected measured results by subtracting 0.41 cm and mean MUAC by tape type was no longer significantly different. Intra- and interobserver technical error of measurement suggested a better precision with the wide MUAC tape.

Conclusions:

Despite simplifying the measurement by approximating the midpoint of the upper arm, the wide MUAC tape tended to have better precision than the standard MUAC tape. However, there was a consistent measurement bias of +0.41 cm in mean MUAC. This first field test yielded promising results and led to further product adjustments.
Elevated circulating heat shock protein 70 and its antibody concentrations in chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Kasperska-Zając Alicja , Damasiewicz-Bodzek Aleksandra , Bieniek Katarzyna , Skrzypulec-Frankel Agnieszka , Tyrpien-Golder Krystyna , Grzanka Alicja
Published: December 2017

Heat shock proteins (Hsp) play a complex role in cytoprotection, inflammation, and function of the immune system. They may be involved in pathogenesis of various diseases. Our aim was to determine circulating Hsp70 and anti-Hsp70 antibodies concentrations in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Concentrations of Hsp70 in plasma and anti-Hsp70 antibodies in serum as well as serum C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured in CSU patients and in the controls. Plasma Hsp70 concentrations were significantly higher in CSU (all) and mild CSU patients as compared with the controls. Moderate–severe CSU patients tended to show higher Hsp70 concentration as compared with the controls, but not with mild activity of the disease. There were no significant differences in Hsp70 concentration between moderate–severe and mild CSU patients. Serum anti-Hsp70 antibodies concentrations were significantly higher in CSU (all) and mild CSU in comparison to the controls. Association was observed between anti-Hsp70 antibodies and increased CRP concentration; however, no correlation between anti-Hsp70 and Hsp70 concentrations was seen in the patients. It seems that up-regulation of Hsp70 in CSU may induce marked increase in anti-Hsp70 antibodies production, which are accompanied by parallel changes in CRP concentration. We suggest that Hsp may be released in CSU in response to stressful stimuli, such as inflammation.
Competitive Balance in the NBA Playoffs
Authors: Horowitz Ira
Published: December 2017

The uncertainty-of-outcome hypothesis suggests that, subject to a rooting-interest constraint, fans prefer competitive sporting events with uncertain outcomes. In a logical extension of that preference, professional-sports leagues institute rules, such as reverse-order-of-finish drafts and salary caps, intended to help achieve competitive balance among their franchises. This article analyzes the results of the 34 National Basketball Association (NBA) playoffs held since 1984 to determine whether they reflect the competitive imbalance observed for regular-season play, relying on the entropy concept as a measure of uncertainty/information content to do so. It is shown that unlike regular-season competitive balance, playoff entropy has not systematically changed over time.

JEL Classifications: D47, D84, Z20, Z21
Introduction to Special Series: Parent Voice in Educational Decision Making for Students With Learning Disabilities
Authors: Cavendish Wendy , Connor David J.
Published: December 2017

In this introduction to the special issue, we provide a brief discussion of (a) challenges gleaned from the literature on school–parent collaboration and (b) our rationale for including and highlighting research that centralizes parents and that varies in researcher positionalities and methods. The studies in this special issue illuminate the complexities of parent–school partnerships and provide practical recommendations to facilitate stronger school–family relationships to support students with learning disabilities.
Implementation of a Psychosocial Intervention Program for Working Caregivers
Authors: Jimenez Daniel E. , Schulz Richard , Perdomo Dolores , Lee Chin Chin , Czaja Sara J.
Published: December 2017

The overall aim of this pilot study was to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a multicomponent, psychosocial intervention specifically designed to meet the unique needs of caregivers who are balancing caregiving duties with work responsibilities. Seventy-one family caregivers employed at a private, nonprofit institution in South Florida were randomized to either the Caregiver Workstation condition ( n = 35) or a control condition ( n = 36). Sixty-two caregivers completed the 5-month follow-up. Our results indicate that an intervention tailored to the time demands of a working caregiver is feasible, acceptable to caregivers, and has the potential to have positive long-term effects. Currently, there are limited data available regarding the benefits of employer programs for caregivers or the type of programs caregivers find most useful. This pilot study is the first step in developing a working caregiver intervention program that can be implemented on a broad-scale basis.
The use of expanded graphite sheet as an efficient method for preventing heat explosion in portable gas stoves
Authors: Nam Ki-Hun , Kim Kwang-Il , Ann Byung-Ho
Published: December 2017

In Korea, a total of 112 explosions related to portable butane gas stoves occurred between 2011 and 2015. This resulted in the injury of 187 people and the death of 8 others. Although safety devices are installed in portable gas stoves or canisters, reliability is low. We conducted experiments to identify the process of the portable butane gas stove’s explosion and performance of an improved portable gas stove. The improved one has an attached expanded graphite sheet inside the gas canister cover which has a directional high thermal conductivity to diffuse heat. As a result of these experiments, we found the process, characteristics, and trends of explosions of portable butane gas stoves. Moreover, we checked that the stoves with an attached graphite sheet help prevent explosions by diffusing heat. In addition, the temperature of canisters was constant until most of the butane gas was consumed. These results provide data to improve safety devices for portable gas stoves as well as to prevent deadly accidents.
Quality in cancer care: Lessons from the Canadian partnership for quality radiotherapy
Authors: Brown Erika , Milosevic Michael
Published: December 2017

With the increasing complexity of cancer treatment and the emergence of technologies that offer individualized therapy options for people being treated for the disease, cancer care professionals are facing greater demands for knowledge exchange and information input. The Canadian Partnership for Quality Radiotherapy was established in 2010 in response to such demands and has used both bottom-up and top-down approaches to successfully support improved program planning, treatment delivery, and patient care within the Canadian radiation treatment community. Focusing on shared priorities using this bilateral engagement is a lesson that can be applied broadly across the cancer system.
Evolution of cancer treatment and evolving challenges
Authors: Nakashima Lynne
Published: December 2017

This article will provide an overview of the evolving nature of cancer treatment, the benefits and challenges of these new treatments, and the leadership strategies required to manage the evolution from a system perspective. The number and complexity of novel cancer therapies, while offering improved patient outcomes, has become a challenge for the healthcare system due to the high cost of these new therapies. In Canada, the implementation of the pan-Canadian Oncology Drug Review and the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance helps to streamline the review and negotiating process and to ensure consistency across provinces. Strategies to support these processes include ensuring safe patient treatment, patient counselling, clinician education, and practice innovation.