bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEDI-573, Alone or in Combination with Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Inhibitors, Targets the Insulin-like Growth Factor Pathway in Sarcomas
Authors: Zhong Haihong , Fazenbaker Christine , Breen Shannon , Chen Cui , Huang Jiaqi , Morehouse Christopher , Yao Yihong , Hollingsworth Robert E.
Published: September 2014

MEDI-573 is a human antibody that neutralizes insulin-like growth factor (IGF) I and IGFII. IGFs are overexpressed in multiple types of cancer; their overexpression is a potential mechanism for resistance to IGFI receptor (IGFIR)-targeting therapy. Effects of IGF on cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival are mediated through its binding to and activation of IGFIR or insulin receptor A (IR-A). In this study, we measured the mRNA levels of IGFI, IGFII, and IGFIR in human pediatric sarcoma xenografts, and protein levels in sarcoma cell lines. MEDI-573 potently inhibited in vitro proliferation of sarcoma cell lines, with Ewing sarcoma cell lines being the most sensitive. In addition, MEDI-573 inhibited IGFI- and IGFII-induced sarcoma cell proliferation in vitro. The effect of MEDI-573 on IGF signaling was also examined. Treatment with MEDI-573 markedly reduced levels of pIGFIR, pIR-A, and pAKT and significantly blocked IGFI- and IGFII-induced activation of the IGFIR and AKT pathways. MEDI-573 inhibited the growth of sarcoma xenografts in vivo and inhibition correlated with neutralization of IGFI and IGFII. Combination of MEDI-573 with either rapamycin or AZD2014, another mTOR inhibitor (mTORi), significantly enhanced the antitumor activity of MEDI-573, and this response correlated with modulation of AKT and mTOR signaling. In summary, sarcoma cells respond to autocrine or paracrine growth stimulation by IGFI and IGFII, and inhibition of IGFI and IGFII by MEDI-573 results in significant slowing of tumor growth rate in sarcoma models, particularly in Ewing sarcoma. These data provide evidence for the potential benefits of MEDI-573 and mTORi combinations in patients with Ewing sarcoma. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(11); 2662–73. ©2014 AACR.
Dual Targeting of Hypoxia and Homologous Recombination Repair Dysfunction in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Hunter Francis W. , Hsu Huai-Ling , Su Jiechuang , Pullen Susan M. , Wilson William R. , Wang Jingli
Published: September 2014

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive malignancy with poor clinical outcome and few validated drug targets. Two prevalent features of TNBC, tumor hypoxia and derangement of homologous recombination (HR) repair, are potentially exploitable for therapy. This study investigated whether hypoxia-activated prodrugs (HAP) of DNA-damaging cytotoxins may inhibit growth of TNBC by simultaneously addressing these two targets. We measured in vitro activity of HAP of DNA breakers (tirapazamine, SN30000) and alkylators (TH-302, PR-104, SN30548) in TNBC cell lines and isogenic models, and related this to measures of HR repair and expression of prodrug-activating enzymes. Antitumor activity of HAP was examined in isogenic BRCA2-knockout xenograft models and compared with platinum chemotherapy. All five HAP selectively inhibited growth of TNBC cell lines under hypoxia. Sensitivity to HAP was not strongly associated with BRCA1 genotype. However, HAP sensitivity was enhanced by suppression of HR (assessed by radiation-induced RAD51 focus formation) when BRCA1 and PALB2 were knocked down in a common (MDA-MB-231) background. Furthermore, knockout of BRCA2 markedly sensitized DLD-1 cells to the clinical nitrogen mustard prodrugs TH-302 and PR-104 and significantly augmented sterilization of clonogens by these agents in xenografts, both as monotherapy and in combination with radiotherapy, but had less effect on activity of the benzotriazine di-N-oxide SN30000. PR-104 monotherapy was more effective than cisplatin at inhibiting growth of BRCA2-knockout tumors at equitoxic doses. This study demonstrates the potential for HAP of nitrogen mustards to simultaneously exploit hypoxia and HR defects in tumors, with translational implications for TNBC and other HR-deficient malignancies. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(11); 2501–14. ©2014 AACR.
IL4 Limits the Efficacy of Tumor-Targeted Antibody Therapy in a Murine Model
Authors: Surana Rishi , Wang Shangzi , Xu Wei , Jablonski Sandra A. , Weiner Louis M.
Published: September 2014

Tumor-targeted antibody therapy has had a major impact on reducing morbidity and mortality in a wide range of cancers. Antibodies mediate their antitumor activity in part by activating immune effector cells; however, the tumor microenvironment (TME) is enriched with cellular and soluble mediators that actively suppress generation of antitumor immunity. Here, we investigate the potential of prospectively identifying and neutralizing an immunomodulatory soluble mediator within the TME to enhance therapeutic efficacy of the HER2-directed antibody trastuzumab. Using the D5-HER2 cell line and an immunocompetent human HER2 transgenic animal (hmHER2Tg) in which human HER2 is a self-antigen, we determined that IL4 was present in the TME and produced by both tumor and stromal cells. A siRNA-based screening approach identified STAT5A as a novel negative regulator of IL4 production by D5-HER2 tumor cells. Furthermore, IL4 neutralization using the anti-IL4 antibody 11B11 enhanced the efficacy of trastuzumab and modulated the TME. For example, IL4 neutralization resulted in reduced levels of myeloid chemoattractants CCL2, CCL11, and CXCL5 in the TME. Combination therapy with 11B11 and trastuzumab resulted in a reduction of tumor-infiltrating CD11b+CD206+ myeloid cells compared with monotherapy. These data suggest that IL4 neutralization enhances the efficacy of trastuzumab by influencing the phenotype of myeloid cells within the TME and provide further rationale for combining tumor-targeted antibody therapy with agents that neutralize factors in the TME that suppress generation of productive antitumor immune responses. Cancer Immunol Res; 2(11); 1103–12. ©2014 AACR.
Adherence-Related Issues in Adolescents and Young Adults with Hematological Disorders
Authors: Leader Avi , Raanani Pia
Published: September 2014

Nonadherence to medical recommendations is a widespread problem well documented in a multitude of clinical settings. Nonadherence may adversely affect clinical outcomes such as survival and quality of life and increase health-care-related costs. An understanding of the factors driving nonadherence is key to developing effective adherence-enhancing interventions (AEIs). There are ongoing attempts in contemporary adherence research to better define the various components of adherence, to find optimal measures of adherence and correlations with clinical outcomes, and to create a classification system for AEIs. Nonadherence is also widely prevalent among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with chronic hematological diseases, affecting up to 50% of patients and increasing with age. Combined use of objective (i.e. electronic monitoring, EM) and subjective (i.e. self-report) measures of adherence may be the preferred approach to assess adherence. The unique physical, social and emotional aspects of the AYA life stage are closely related to intricate causes of nonadherence in AYAs such as problems in transition to adult care. Until proven otherwise, the empirical target in AYAs with hematological disorders should be perfect adherence. Multilevel AEIs, EM feedback and behavioral interventions are among the most effective types of AEIs. Despite the magnitude of the problem, only a handful of AEIs have been evaluated among AYAs with hematological disorders. Thus, this is a field with unmet needs warranting high-quality trials using standardized and well-specified assessment methods and interventions. This review discusses the prevalence, definition, causes and clinical implications of nonadherence among AYAs with hematological disorders, along with strategies to measure and improve adherence.
Aplastic Anemia in Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: DeZern Amy E. , Guinan Eva C.
Published: September 2014

Adolescent and young adult patient presentations of aplastic anemia require a particular perspective on both diagnosis and treatment. This unique age group necessitates a thorough diagnostic evaluation to ensure the etiology, acquired or inherited, is sufficiently determined. The treatment options include human leukocyte antigen-identical sibling hematopoietic cell transplantation or immunosuppressive therapy, and both require attention to the specific medical and social needs of these adolescents and young adults. Longitudinal surveillance throughout life for the development of late complications of the disease and treatment is mandatory.
Nursing Care for Adolescents and Young Adults with Cancer: Literature Review
Authors: Dreyer Juliet , Schwartz-Attias Irit
Published: September 2014

Cancer patients belonging to the adolescent and young adult (AYA) age group have unique and very specific needs, which require special attention from the caring staff. The difficulty in maintaining the personal and professional development at this age is both natural and normal. Adding to this, coping with a life-threatening disease turns this stage in life into a period with many dilemmas and challenges of quite a complex nature. AYA patients have to deal with issues above and beyond the disease itself, which create a very complex coping picture. On top of that, prognosis for this age group has not improved in recent years, unlike the situation in other age groups like children and adults. The literature on this subject is extensive and comprehensive. However, most of the papers on this subject are very specific and narrow in their approach, each dealing with a specific topic. In this article, we bring together many different papers which make a wide and comprehensive picture of the subject of AYAs coping with cancer, coupled with recommendations for the caring staff. In this review we focus on the various aspects of the disease and treatments in AYAs, based on the conceptual model of quality of life proposed by Ferrell and colleagues [Cancer Nurs 1992;15:153-160; Cancer Nurs 1992;15:247-253], including physical, social, emotional and spiritual aspects. From the psychological standpoint, most of the papers discuss the negative aspects; however, in this article we try to include some articles from the positive psychology school of thought. From our findings it is apparent that there is an opportunity and need to further explore research in this regard. It is apparent that taking a unique approach to AYA cancer patients is needed in order to deal with the unique needs of this age group. This article aims at putting a framework around this issue, with actionable recommendations for the caring staff.
Benefit of Left Atrial Roof Linear Ablation in Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation: A Prospective, Randomized Study
Authors: Arbelo Elena , Guiu Esther , Ramos Pablo , Bisbal Felipe , Borras Roger , Andreu David , Tolosana José María , Berruezo Antonio , Brugada Josep , Mont Lluís
Published: September 2014

Background

Isolation of the pulmonary veins (
PVs
) for the treatment of atrial fibrillation (
AF
) is often supplemented with linear lesions within the left atrium (
LA
). However, there are conflicting data on the effects of creating a roof line (
RL
) joining the superior
PV
s in paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (P
AF
).

Methods and Results

A cohort of 120 patients with drug‐refractory P
AF
referred for ablation were prospectively randomized into 2 strategies: (1)
PV
isolation in combination with
RL
ablation (LA roof ablation [
LARA]
‐1: 59 patients) or (2)
PV
isolation (
LARA
‐2: 61 patients). Follow‐up was performed at 1, 3, and 6 months after the procedure and every 6 months thereafter. After a 3‐month blanking period, recurrence was defined as the ocurrence of any atrial tachyarrhythmia lasting ≥30 seconds.
PV
isolation was achieved in 89% and complete
RL
block in 81%.
RF
duration, fluoroscopy, and procedural times were slightly, but not significantly, longer in the
LARA
‐1 group. After 15±10 months, there was no difference in the arrhythmia‐free survival after a single
AF
ablation procedure (
LARA
‐1: 59% vs.
LARA
‐2: 56% at 12 months; log rank
P
=0.77). The achievement of complete
RL
block did not influence the results. The incidence of
LA
macroreentrant tachycardias was 5.1% in the
LARA
‐1 group (n=3) versus 8.2% in the
LARA
‐2 (n=5) (
P
=ns). Univariate analysis only identified
AF
duration as a covariate associated with arrhythmia recurrence (hazard ratio, 1.01 [95% confidence interval, 1.002 to 1.012];
P
<0.01).

Conclusion

The linear block at the
LA
roof is not associated with an improved clinical outcome compared with
PV
isolation alone.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL
: ClinicalTrials.gov. Unique identifier:
NCT
01203241.
Imperative Wh-Interrogatives: Pragmatic Analysis and Empirical Evidence from German
Authors: Müller Sonja
Published: September 2014

This paper is concerned with wh-interrogative clauses in which the imperative verbal mood occurs. According to some authors (cf. in particular Lohnstein, 2000; Chiba, 2009), such constructions are ill-formed. Lohnstein offers a semantic account (based on his theory of sentence mood) ruling out imperative (wh-)interrogatives by arguing for the impossibility of partitioning propositions which are not open for truth value assignment. Chiba argues for the ungrammaticality of such structures by assuming that sentence types (as defined by Sadock & Zwicky, 1985) cannot be combined. This paper will show that unacceptable as well as acceptable imperative wh-interrogatives exist and that, therefore, both approaches make the wrong predictions. A pragmatic approach is developed which argues for the realization of incompatible illocutionary acts. This account makes it possible to derive the unacceptability of certain imperative wh-interrogatives and to allow the acceptable cases which can be observed. An advantage of referring to illocutionary acts is that it becomes possible to speak about various subtypes of the erothetic illocution which can be proven to play a role in distinguishing between acceptable and unacceptable imperative wh-interrogatives. The results of controlled acceptability judgements confirm this assumption.
A Survey of “Intercultural Pragmatics” and Its Outlook on the Gricean Philosophy of Communication
Authors: Dynel Marta
Published: September 2014

This paper critically revisits the recent volume entitled “Intercultural Pragmatics” by Istvan Kecskes in the context of the Gricean notions which offer bedrock assumptions for a number of postulates put forward by the author. Attention is paid to the Gricean view of the Cooperative Principle, the speaker’s intention and speaker meaning, as well as the status of what is said, in tandem with their conceptualisations in intercultural pragmatics.
Callicarpa qianyiyongii (Lamiaceae): A new name for the Flora of China
Authors: Zhang Li-Bing
Published: September 2014

Callicarpa qianyiyongii Li Bing Zhang is proposed as a replacement name for the later homonyms, Callicarpa minutiflora Y.Y. Qian and Callicarpa tenuiflora Li Bing Zhang & Yi F. Duan.
The Usability of Electronic Personal Health Record Systems for an Underserved Adult Population
Authors: Czaja Sara J. , Zarcadoolas Christina , Vaughon Wendy L. , Lee Chin Chin , Rockoff Maxine L. , Levy Joslyn
Published: September 2014

Objective:

The goals of this study were to identify the demands associated with using electronic personal health records (PHRs) and to evaluate the ability of adults of lower socioeconomic status and low health literacy to use PHRs to perform health management activities.

Background:

PHRs are proliferating in clinical practices and health care organizations. These systems offer the potential of increasing the active involvement of patients in health self-management. However, little is known about the actual usability of these tools for health consumers.

Method:

We used task analysis and health literacy load analysis to identify the cognitive and literacy demands inherent in the use of PHRs and evaluated the usability of three currently available PHR systems with a sample of 54 adults. Participants used the systems to perform tasks related to medication management, interpretation of lab/test results, and health maintenance. Data were also gathered on the participants’ perception of the potential value of using a PHR.

Results:

The results indicated that a majority of the participants had difficulty completing the tasks and needed assistance. There was some variability according to task and PHR system. However, most participants perceived the use of PHRs as valuable.

Conclusions:

Although considered a valuable tool by consumers, the use of PHR systems may be challenging for many people. Strategies are needed to enhance the usability of these systems, especially for people with low literacy, low health literacy, or limited technology skills.

Application:

The data from this study have implications for the design of PHRs.
The perceptions of Quebec social practitioners of relations between fellow immigrants from countries experiencing violent conflict: Reported pitfalls and possible solutions for social interventions
Authors: Arsenault Stéphanie , Hinse Séléna
Published: September 2014

We found that social service agents who worked with refugees and were exposed to group dynamics over long periods observed varying levels of tension between exiled compatriots as well as limits to their relations. Consequently, most of them tried to work with mixed rather than homogeneous groups whenever possible. Most of the agents seemed to favour neutrality, at least in appearances, with respect to factors that could cause divisions within a group. By contrast, others would forego the neutral ideal and would not hesitate to harness the mobilizing potential of certain affinities among specific sub-groups within larger groups of compatriots.
Resilience and personality in social work students and social workers
Authors: de las Olas Palma-García María , Hombrados-Mendieta Isabel
Published: September 2014

The goal of the study was to explore the relationship between personality characteristics and the development of resilience in the context of social work. To do this, combining the transverse and longitudinal approaches, we investigated 479 students and professional social workers. For students, the within-subject analysis shows that this group, while pursuing a university degree, are reaching greater openness, accountability, extraversion and kindness and, by contrast, are reducing their levels of neuroticism, which is the personality trait that acquires smaller presence on the professional stage. The regression results also confirmed the influence and predictive ability of personality traits on the resilience of students and social workers.
Rejecting ‘the child’, embracing ‘childhood’: Conceptual and methodological considerations for social work research with young people
Authors: Williams Timothy P , Rogers Justin
Published: September 2014

This article examines how the social studies of childhood can inform social work research. The first half of the article considers how notions of ‘childhood’ as a social construction diverge from normative, uniform and universal ideas of what might otherwise constitute ‘the child’. The second half then considers this discussion in regards to social work research. It considers the extent to which childhood scholarship has been used within the discipline of social work and illustrates this point by drawing upon recent empirical contributions to the foster care literature in the UK.
Characterization of GFRP butt-joint under tensile and flexural loading
Authors: Ladhwe RN , Kumar Prashant , Singh KK , Sarkar PK
Published: September 2014

A GFRP butt-joint was formed between two adherends of an aluminium pipe by winding a wetted roving of glass fiber with epoxy at ±45° angle. The butt-joint was studied through two kinds of tests: tensile and bending. The specimens were of two types: thin and thick GFRP sleeve. In tension tests, the thin sleeve specimens failed due to the failure of the GFRP sleeve at the joint plane as the axial stress developed in the GFRP sleeve exceeded its ultimate strength. However, the thick sleeve specimens resisted higher load but one of the two adherends slipped out of the GFRP sleeve. In bending experiments, the failure in specimens with a thin GFRP sleeve occurred due to the breakage of the sleeve at the joint plane. However, the specimens of thick GFRP sleeve did not fail within the sleeve. Numerical analysis using ANSYS was carried out to explain the experimental results.
Performance of the polyurethane-matrix nanocomposites with different polymer types in polymer/organoclay system
Authors: Rezaei F , Zahedi AR
Published: September 2014

Different conditions of process and preparation methods to intercalate and exfoliate organoclay in constituents of final nanocomposite, based on polyol or isocyanate have been studied. Different formulations of polyurethane-matrix nanocomposites have been examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), field emission gun scanning electron microscopy (FEGSEM), and rheological measurement. The results obtained from this study provide a good understanding of the relationship between the formulation, processing conditions, and performance. The processing conditions have great effects on the final properties of nanocomposites such as mechanical properties. The results show a high performance nanocomposite systems produced by high strength ultra-sonication in a short time.
An Inquiry into the Use of Illegal Electoral Practices and Effects of Political Violence and Vote-buying
Authors: Gutiérrez-Romero Roxana
Published: September 2014

This article investigates whether vote-buying and the instigation of violence in the disputed 2007 Kenyan elections were strategically motivated and whether those affected by vote-buying or post-electoral violence changed their views toward ethnopolitics and the use of violence. To answer these questions, a panel survey conducted before and after the elections is combined with external indicators of electoral violence. We find that vote-buying was used to mobilize parties’ own strongholds. Political parties also targeted vote-buying and threats toward specific ethnic groups and areas, potentially to weaken the support of their political rivals. In addition, we find that the victims of post-electoral violence are more likely to identify in ethnic terms and support the use of violence. The non-victims of post-electoral violence, but who experienced vote-buying after our first survey are also more likely to support the use of violence.
Osterix Couples Chondrogenesis and Osteogenesis in Post-natal Condylar Growth
Authors: Jing J. , Hinton R.J. , Jing Y. , Liu Y. , Zhou X. , Feng J.Q.
Published: September 2014

Osterix (Osx) is a transcription factor essential for osteoblast differentiation and bone mineralization. Although there are indications that Osx also plays a regulatory role in cartilage, this has not been well-studied. The goal of this study was to define the function of Osx in the post-natal growth of the secondary cartilage at the mandibular condyle. Conditional Osx knockout (cKO) mice that were missing Osx only in cartilage were generated by crossing Osx-loxP mice to Aggrecan-Cre mice. Cre activity was induced by tamoxifen injection twice a week from day 12 to 1 mo of age, and specimens were collected at 1 and 5 mo of age. At 1 mo of age, the condylar hypertrophic chondrocyte zone in the cKO-mice was > three-fold thicker than that in the age-matched control, with little sign of endochondral bone formation. Immunohistochemistry and analysis of histological data revealed a defect in the coupling of chondrogenesis and osteogenesis in the cKO mice. In five-month-old mice examined to address whether late-stage removal of the Cre-deletion event would alleviate the phenotype, the hypertrophic chondrocyte zone in the cKO condyles was considerably larger than in wild-type mice. There were large discrete areas of calcified cartilage in the hypertrophic zone, few signs of endochondral bone formation, and large regions of disorganized intramembranous bone. Analysis of these data further strengthens the notion that Osterix is essential for the coupling of terminal cartilage differentiation and endochondral ossification in mandibular condylar cartilage.
Smad2 is Involved in Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans-induced Apoptosis
Authors: Yoshimoto T. , Fujita T. , Ouhara K. , Kajiya M. , Imai H. , Shiba H. , Kurihara H.
Published: September 2014

Apoptosis is thought to contribute to the progression of periodontitis. It has been suggested that the apoptosis of epithelial cells may contribute to the loss of epithelial barrier function. Smad2, a downstream signaling molecule of TGF-β receptors (TGF-βRs), is critically involved in apoptosis in several cell types. However, the relationship between smad2 and bacteria-induced apoptosis has not yet been elucidated. It is possible that the regulation of apoptosis induced by periodontopathic bacteria may lead to novel preventive therapies for periodontitis. Therefore, in the present study, we investigated the involvement of smad2 phosphorylation in apoptosis of human gingival epithelial cells induced by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans ( Aa). Aa apparently induced the phosphorylation of smad2 in primary human gingival epithelial cells (HGECs) or the human gingival epithelial cell line, OBA9 cells. In addition, Aa induced phosphorylation of the serine residue of the TGF-β type I receptor (TGF-βRI) in OBA9 cells. SB431542 (a TGF-βRI inhibitor) and siRNA transfection for TGF-βRI, which reduced both TGF-βRI mRNA and protein levels, markedly attenuated the Aa-induced phosphorylation of smad2. Furthermore, the disruption of TGF-βRI signaling cascade by SB431542 and siRNA transfection for TGF-βRI abrogated the activation of cleaved caspase-3 expression and repressed apoptosis in OBA9 cells treated with Aa. Thus, Aa induced apoptosis in gingival epithelial cells by activating the TGF-βRI-smad2-caspase-3 signaling pathway. The results of the present study may suggest that the periodontopathic bacteria, Aa, activates the TGF-βR/smad2 signaling pathway in human gingival epithelial cells and induces apoptosis in epithelial cells, which may lead to new therapeutic strategies that modulate the initiation of periodontitis.
Coping Strategies
Authors: Ricciardelli Rosemary
Published: September 2014

Researchers have established that prisons are violent spaces where prisoners use aggressive or passive strategies to manage the threat of victimization. Using in-depth semi-structured interviews, this study explores the coping strategies of 56 former Canadian federal prisoners. Most respondents used passive, aggressive, or passive/aggressive coping strategies. Differences emerged among respondents who used individual strategies (self-dependence) or alliance strategies (dependence on affiliates) to cope with prison living. Only alliance strategies appeared simultaneously passive and aggressive. Theoretical implications are discussed.
Audit of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infections in paediatric patients, 2006–2013
Authors: Mullan Emily , Lucas Carol , Mackie Sarah , Carachi Robert
Published: September 2014

Background

Infection following ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement remains a significant complication with an incidence of 3–27% cited in literature. Infections cause significant morbidity, and it is important that empirical antibiotic therapy for management is guided by accurate knowledge of prevailing aetiologies and local antibiotic sensitivity patterns.

Aims

To establish the incidence of shunt infections in our paediatric population, to identify the causative micro-organisms, and to determine the antibiotic resistance patterns of the responsible micro-organisms.

Methods

Retrospective data collection utilising existing databases in the Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Yorkhill, between 1 January 2006 and 30 September 2013.

Results

Total number of shunt operations was 308 with 28 episodes of infection involving 27 patients (male = 12, female = 15). The incidence of infection was 9%. In all, 79% of the episodes involved a single pathogen with 21% being mixed pathogens. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the most common cause of infection (44%). Gram-positive sensitivity to flucloxacillin and gentamicin was noticeably low at 22% and 14%, respectively with 87% of coagulase-negative staphylococci resistant to gentamicin and 81% resistant to flucloxacillin.

Conclusions

The changing spectrum of Gram-positive organisms has impacted on antibiotic sensitivity patterns, and our local prescribing policy has been adapted in order to manage shunt infections most effectively.
Coparenting Mediates the Association Between Relationship Quality and Father Involvement
Authors: Varga Colleen M. , Gee Christina B. , Rivera Lyzaida , Reyes Claudia X.
Published: September 2014

The study of adolescent childbearing is a major public policy concern, and father involvement is a particular focus. Previous research with married couples has found that coparenting may be a better predictor of father involvement than relationship quality. The current study examined 94 primiparous African American and Latino parents to determine whether coparenting expectations during pregnancy better predict concurrent father involvement secondary to a mediation effect. Results were mixed; simple mediation was supported, but structural equation modeling (SEM) results suggested a better fitting model for mothers than for fathers. For mothers, relationship quality predicted coparenting. For fathers, relationship quality and coparenting predicted father involvement, but relationship quality did not predict coparenting. This examination suggests that both relationship quality and coparenting are important for father involvement in unmarried adolescents but to differing degrees for mothers and fathers. Pregnancy may be an important potential intervention point for increasing subsequent father involvement.
Facebook Practices in Western European Municipalities
Authors: Bonsón Enrique , Royo Sonia , Ratkai Melinda
Published: September 2014

The objective of this article is to provide an initial assessment of Facebook use by Western European municipalities considering two aspects: citizens’ engagement and municipalities’ activity. Data on 75 local governments in 15 countries were collected and tested for both government use and citizens’ engagement. Findings show that the use of Facebook by Western European local governments has become commonplace. The audiences of the official Facebook pages are rather high, but citizen engagement in general is low. Activity levels by municipalities and engagement levels by citizens in general terms are not statistically related to municipality characteristics, Facebook page metrics, or the technological readiness of the population. It seems that channel activity is more a decision on the part of local governments than a consequence of citizen demand. This article proposes a methodology that can be used in future research to measure citizen engagement on social media (SM) platforms. Furthermore, this research highlights the importance that local governments attach to clearly establishing the main purpose of their SM accounts to avoid frustration on the part of citizens that can lead to distrust and reduce the chances that citizens will invest their resources, time, and knowledge in participation.
Barriers and Facilitators to Managing Multiple Chronic Conditions
Authors: Koch Gina , Wakefield Bonnie J. , Wakefield Douglas S.
Published: September 2014

The prevalence of multiple chronic conditions (MCC) is increasing, creating challenges for patients, families, and the health care system. A systematic literature search was conducted to locate studies describing patient’s perceptions of facilitators and barriers to management of MCC. Thirteen articles met study inclusion criteria. Patients reported nine categories of barriers including financial constraints, logistical challenges, physical limitations, lifestyle changes, emotional impact, inadequate family and social support, and the complexity of managing multiple conditions, medications, and communicating with health care providers. Four facilitators were found, including health system support, individualized care education and knowledge, informal support from family and social systems, and having personal mental and emotional strength. Existing research on management of MCC from the patient’s perspective is limited. Interventions are needed to improve management practices with particular attention to the knowledge and skills required by this unique population.
Humanitarian Otolaryngology: A Navy Hospital Ship Experience
Authors: Chadwick Jonathan L. , Sridhara Shankar , Goodrich Jennifer , Mitchell Allen O. , Gessler Eric M.
Published: September 2014

The USNS Comfort (T‐AH‐20) is 1 of 2 United States Navy hospital ships. In 2011, she deployed to 9 countries in Central and South America including Jamaica, Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Haiti. Eight surgical specialties including otolaryngology were involved, for a combined total of about 150 cases per country. An advance team coordinated patients with the Host Nation to be seen for presurgical screening. Selected patients were then taken aboard the ship for surgery and recovered in either the ship's intensive care unit or ward. They were then discharged prior to ship embarkment to the next country. A total of 95 otolaryngology cases were performed during 9 mission stops. The mean number of procedures performed was 12 per country, with thyroidectomy being the most common. A wide variety of general otolaryngology procedures were performed without significant complications, markedly impacting the quality of life in these underserved countries.
Noninvasive evaluation of single-ventricle patients before Fontan operation
Authors: Yassin Haytham , Bhat Akhlaque N , Tysarowski Pawl , Masud Faraz , Dilawar Muhammad
Published: September 2014

Objective

To determine whether patients with single-ventricle physiology who are free from known risk factors could skip routine pre-Fontan hemodynamic evaluation, without affecting the postoperative outcome.

Methods

A diagnostic algorithm including echocardiographic, clinical, and angiographic risk factors was used retrospectively to evaluate all 44 patients who underwent Fontan completion at Hamad General Hospital between January 2000 and December 2012. We evaluated the efficacy of this algorithm as a screening tool to identify inoperable and high-risk patients in whom pre-Fontan cardiac catheterization should be performed.

Results

Mean age at Fontan completion was 5.9 years (range 1.08–24.5 years), and mean weight was 18 kg (range 7.4–60 kg). Three patients were found to be inoperable based on hemodynamic cardiac catheterization results. The algorithm was highly sensitive in detecting all 3 inoperable patients who were classified as high-risk subjects. Of the other 41 patients, 17 (41%) had no risk factors and 24 (59%) had one or more risk factors. This noninvasive algorithm showed a sensitivity of 83% and specificity of 76% in detecting adverse postoperative outcomes. The sensitivity did not change after adding hemodynamic data obtained by cardiac catheterization as additional risk factors.

Conclusion

This noninvasive diagnostic algorithm could be used as an effective screening tool to detect patients in whom pre-Fontan cardiac catheterization could be avoided; magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography can be a good substitute.
Acute coronary artery bypass graft failure in a patient with polycythemia vera
Authors: Osada Hiroaki , Nakajima Hiroyuki , Meshii Katsuaki , Ohnaka Motoaki
Published: September 2014

Polycythemia vera in patients undergoing cardiac surgery is clinically rare. A 65-year-old man with polycythemia vera was admitted with effort-related chest discomfort. We planned coronary artery bypass grafting for left anterior descending artery and obtuse marginal branch stenosis, using bilateral internal thoracic arteries, with perioperative prophylactic management to avoid thromboembolism. His internal thoracic arterial grafts occluded during and after surgery due to thrombus, and ST-elevation myocardial infarction developed, which needed a percutaneous coronary intervention. This case suggests that optimal management methods should be studied further to contribute to better patient outcomes in this condition.
Measuring Drug Court Adherence to the What Works Literature
Authors: Blair Lesli , Sullivan Carrie Coen , Lux Jennifer , Thielo Angela J. , Gormsen Lia
Published: September 2014

Quality correctional programming is important, particularly for drug courts. In this article, we chronicle the development of a tool designed to evaluate juvenile and adult drug courts, the Evidence-Based Correctional Program Checklist–Drug Court (CPC-DC). The history of the CPC-DC is traced by exploring research that indicates why program evaluation is important. This article also discusses the development of two predecessor assessment tools designed to measure how closely correctional programs adhere to evidence-based practice, the Correctional Program Assessment Inventory (CPAI) and the Evidence-Based Correctional Program Checklist (CPC). Results are briefly presented on the outcomes of the CPC-DC assessments completed to date by the University of Cincinnati (UC). Finally, recommendations are offered for operating an evidence-based drug court.
Distinct Effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma and BMP13 on Rotator Cuff Tendon Injury Healing in a Rat Model
Authors: Lamplot Joseph D. , Angeline Michael , Angeles Jovito , Beederman Maureen , Wagner Eric , Rastegar Farbod , Scott Bryan , Skjong Christian , Mass Daniel , Kang Richard , Ho Sherwin , Shi Lewis L.
Published: September 2014

Background:

Although platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is used clinically to augment tendon healing, bone morphogenetic protein–13 (BMP13) may provide a better therapeutic avenue to improve early tendon healing and repair.

Hypothesis:

Exogenous expression of BMP13 in tenocytes will up-regulate genes involved in tendon healing. Direct delivery of adenovirus-mediated BMP13 (AdBMP13) into the injured rat supraspinatus tendon will increase biomechanical properties.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Exogenous expression of BMP13 and the major growth factors in PRP (transforming growth factor–β1 [TGF-β1], vascular endothelial growth factor–A [VEGF-A], and platelet-derived growth factor–BB [PDGF-BB]) was accomplished by using recombinant adenoviral vectors. The expression of tendon- and matrix-associated genes in growth factor–treated tenocytes was analyzed by use of semiquantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. A total of 32 rats with supraspinatus defect were divided into 4 groups and injected with adenovirus-containing green fluorescent protein (AdGFP; negative control), PRP, AdBMP13, or PRP+AdBMP13. All rats were sacrificed at 2 weeks after surgery, and tendons were harvested for biomechanical testing and histologic analysis.

Results:

BMP13 up-regulated type III collagen expression compared with AdGFP control and PRP growth factors ( P < .01). BMP13 and PRP growth factors each up-regulated fibronectin expression ( P < .01). There was an increase in stress to failure in each of the 3 treatment groups ( P < .05 for PRP; P < .01 for AdBMP13 or PRP+AdBMP13) compared with AdGFP control. AdBMP13 demonstrated higher stress to failure than did the PRPs ( P < .01). The addition of PRP did not increase the BMP13-enhanced stress to failure or stiffness. The biomechanical results were further supported by histologic analysis of the retrieved samples.

Conclusion:

Exogenous expression of BMP13 enhances tendon healing more effectively than PRP as assessed by tendon- and matrix-associated gene expression, biomechanical testing, and histologic analysis.

Clinical Relevance:

While PRP is used in the clinical setting, BMP13 may be explored as a superior biofactor to improve rotator cuff tendon healing and reduce the incidence of retears.
Growing Everyday Multiculturalism
Authors: Shan Hongxia , Walter Pierre
Published: September 2014

While official rhetoric of multiculturalism claims to value cultural diversity, everyday multiculturalism focuses on how people of diverse cultural backgrounds live together in their everyday lives. Research on everyday multiculturalism has documented ways through which people negotiate senses, sensibilities, emotionality, and relationality across intercultural contact zones. While recognizing the importance of human intentionality and community in conditioning coexistence, this article also points to the constitutive power of practice-based learning that emerges through the coming together of human and nonhuman beings. Drawing on a qualitative study of the learning experiences of six Chinese immigrants in community gardens on a university campus in Canada, this article shows three ways of learning that foster knowing, connecting, and hybrid knowledge production across cultures: (a) learning through communities of conviviality; (b) learning mediated through nonhuman things such as land, waste, and free-floating seeds; and (c) learning through assemblages that fold in culture, place, and space.
Re-Thinking Hate Crime
Authors: Chakraborti Neil
Published: September 2014

Hate crime has become an increasingly familiar term in recent times as the harms associated with acts of bigotry and prejudice continue to pose complex challenges for societies across the world. However, despite the greater recognition now afforded to hate crimes by scholars, policy makers and law enforcers, uncertainty continues to cloud the scope and legitimacy of existing policy frameworks. This article draws from an emerging body of inter-disciplinary scholarship and empirical research to highlight a series of important realities about hate crime victimization and perpetration that tend to remain peripheral to the process of policy formation. It suggests that the focus on particular strands of victims and particular sets of motivations has overshadowed a range of significant issues, including the experiences of “marginal” groups of victims, and the way in which identity characteristics intersect with one another—and with other situational factors and context—to leave some targets of hate crime especially vulnerable. The article calls for a more fluid and multi-layered approach to policy formation, which engages with these realities, and which maximizes the real-life value of hate crime discourse.
The Relation Between Trait Mindfulness and Aggression in Men Seeking Residential Substance Use Treatment
Authors: Shorey Ryan C. , Anderson Scott , Stuart Gregory L.
Published: September 2014

There has been an abundance of research in recent years on mindfulness, including mindfulness within individuals seeking substance use treatment. However, to date, there has been no research on whether trait mindfulness is associated with increased aggression among individuals seeking substance use treatment. Past research has demonstrated that individuals in substance use treatment evidence higher levels of aggression than non-substance abusers, and preliminary research has shown that trait mindfulness is inversely associated with aggression in non-substance-use treatment-seeking populations. The current study examined whether trait mindfulness was associated with aggression among men seeking residential substance use treatment ( N = 116). Results demonstrated that lower trait mindfulness was associated with increased aggression (physical, verbal, and aggressive attitude). Moreover, this relation held for both verbal aggression and aggressive attitude after controlling for alcohol use, drug use, and age, all known predictors of aggression. Findings provide the first evidence that mindfulness is negatively associated with aggression among men in substance use treatment, which could have important implications for intervention. That is, mindfulness-based interventions may prove helpful for the treatment of both substance use and aggression.
Gender, work, employment and society: feminist reflections on continuity and change
Authors: McDowell Linda
Published: September 2014

At the conference to celebrate 25 years of publishing Work, Employment and Society, held at the British Library in 2012, I had the privilege of being asked to talk about feminist approaches to the changing nature of work and employment. Despite being something of an interloper – I am a geographer, not a sociologist – as a committed reader of the journal I was delighted to be invited. I was even more delighted when the organizers suggested that I turn my remarks into this comment.
Taguchi approach for modelling of surface hardness in investment casting
Authors: Singh Sunpreet , Singh Rupinder
Published: September 2014

This paper deals with modelling of surface hardness in investment casting as a case study of ball valve spherical disc. Three controllable factors of the investment casting process (namely, volume/surface area ratio of components, slurry layer combination and type of metal/metal pouring temperature) were studied by Taguchi’s parametric approach, and single-response optimisation was conducted to identify the main factors controlling surface hardness. Investment casting was prepared with aluminium, mild steel and stainless steel at recommended parameters. The microstructure analysis supported with cooling curves has been presented. The result of the study suggests that the surface hardness of investment casting can be improved significantly by controlling the type of metal. Confirmation experiments were conducted for final validation of model.
Yaws
Authors: Marks Michael , Lebari Dornubari , Solomon Anthony W , Higgins Stephen P
Published: September 2014

Yaws is a non-venereal endemic treponemal infection caused by Treponema pallidum sub-species pertenue, a spirochaete bacterium closely related to Treponema pallidum ssp. pallidum, the agent of venereal syphilis. Yaws is a chronic, relapsing disease predominantly affecting children living in certain tropical regions. It spreads by skin-to-skin contact and, like syphilis, occurs in distinct clinical stages. It causes lesions of the skin, mucous membranes and bones which, without treatment, can become chronic and destructive. Treponema pallidum ssp. pertenue, like its sexually-transmitted counterpart, is exquisitely sensitive to penicillin. Infection with yaws or syphilis results in reactive treponemal serology and there is no widely available test to distinguish between these infections. Thus, migration of people from yaws-endemic areas to developed countries may present clinicians with diagnostic dilemmas. We review the epidemiology, clinical presentation and treatment of yaws.
Pain as Social Glue: Shared Pain Increases Cooperation
Authors: Bastian Brock , Jetten Jolanda , Ferris Laura J.
Published: September 2014

Even though painful experiences are employed within social rituals across the world, little is known about the social effects of pain. We examined the possibility that painful experiences can promote cooperation within social groups. In Experiments 1 and 2, we induced pain by asking some participants to insert their hands in ice water and to perform leg squats. In Experiment 3, we induced pain by asking some participants to eat a hot chili pepper. Participants performed these tasks in small groups. We found evidence for a causal link: Sharing painful experiences with other people, compared with a no-pain control treatment, promoted trusting interpersonal relationships by increasing perceived bonding among strangers (Experiment 1) and increased cooperation in an economic game (Experiments 2 and 3). Our findings shed light on the social effects of pain, demonstrating that shared pain may be an important trigger for group formation.