bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospital Variation in Premature Clopidogrel Discontinuation After Drug‐Eluting Stent Placement in the Veterans Affairs (VA) Healthcare System
Authors: Vigen Rebecca , Maddox Thomas M. , O'Donnell Colin I. , Grunwald Gary K. , Bhatt Deepak L. , Tsai Thomas T. , Rumsfeld John S. , Ho P. Michael
Published: May 2016

Background

Premature clopidogrel discontinuation after drug‐eluting stent placement is associated with adverse outcomes. Little is known about patient and hospital factors associated with premature discontinuation or whether less variation in premature discontinuation exists in integrated health care systems such as the
Veterans Affairs
(VA).

Methods and Results

We evaluated the frequency of premature clopidogrel discontinuation, defined as a gap between clopidogrel refills of ≥90 days during the first 6 months of treatment, among 12 707 patients who received drug‐eluting stents in
VA
hospitals between 2008 and 2010. We evaluated the association between premature discontinuation and all‐cause mortality and/or acute myocardial infarction, variation in the proportion of premature discontinuation among hospitals, the patient and hospital characteristics associated with premature discontinuation, and the extent to which unexplained hospital characteristics contribute to premature discontinuation. Of the patients, 963 (7.6%) discontinued clopidogrel prematurely. Premature discontinuation was associated with acute myocardial infarction and all‐cause mortality (hazard ratio 1.65, 95% CI 1.37–1.99,
P
<0.001). The proportion of patients with premature discontinuation varied across hospitals from 0% to 16.5% (
P
<0.001). We found a median of 24% greater odds of patients with identical covariates with premature discontinuation at one randomly selected hospital compared with another (median odds ratio 1.24, 95% CI 1.17–1.44). Patient factors associated with premature discontinuation included lack of cardiology follow‐up within 30 days of discharge and smaller initial clopidogrel fill.

Conclusion

One in 13 patients prematurely discontinued clopidogrel, and variation in discontinuation across hospitals was observed. Patient factors were associated with premature discontinuation that may represent targets for quality improvement.
Picturing the Size and Site of Stroke With an Expanded National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale
Authors: Agis Daniel , Goggins Maria B. , Oishi Kumiko , Oishi Kenichi , Davis Cameron , Wright Amy , Kim Eun Hye , Sebastian Rajani , Tippett Donna C. , Faria Andreia , Hillis Argye E.
Published: May 2016

Background and Purpose—

The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) includes minimal assessment of cognitive function, particularly in right hemisphere (RH) stroke. Descriptions of the Cookie Theft picture from the NIHSS allow analyses that (1) correlate with aphasia severity and (2) identify communication deficits in RH stroke. We hypothesized that analysis of the picture description contributes valuable information about volume and location of acute stroke.

Methods—

We evaluated 67 patients with acute ischemic stroke (34 left hemisphere [LH]; 33 RH) with the NIHSS, analysis of the Cookie Theft picture, and magnetic resonance imaging, compared with 35 sex- and age-matched controls. We evaluated descriptions for total content units (CU), syllables, ratio of left:right CU, CU/minute, and percent interpretive CU, based on previous studies. Lesion volume and percent damage to regions of interest were measured on diffusion-weighted imaging. Multivariable linear regression identified variables associated with infarct volume, independently of NIHSS score, age and sex.

Results—

Patients with RH and LH stroke differed from controls, but not from each other, on CU, syllables/CU, and CU/minute. Left:right CU was lower in RH compared with LH stroke. CU, syllables/CU, and NIHSS each correlated with lesion volume in LH and RH stroke. Lesion volume was best accounted by a model that included CU, syllables/CU, NIHSS, left:right CU, percent interpretive CU, and age, in LH and RH stroke. Each discourse variable and NIHSS score were associated with percent damage to different regions of interest, independently of lesion volume and age.

Conclusions—

Brief picture description analysis complements NIHSS scores in predicting stroke volume and location.
A NEW SPECIES OF Bolivar Zaldívar-Riverón et Rodríguez-Jiménez (BRACONIDAE, DORYCTINAE) FROM BRAZIL, WITH NEW RECORDS OF THE AMAZONIAN B. ecuadorensis Zaldívar-Riverón et López-Estrada
Authors: NUNES JULIANO FIORELINI , PENTEADO-DIAS ANGELICA MARIA , SOUZA-GADELHA SIAN DE , ZALDÍVAR-RIVERÓN ALEJANDRO
Published: May 2016

A new species of the doryctine genus Bolivar (Braconidae), B. brasiliensis sp. nov., is described from the Atlantic coastal region in Brazil. New records and taxonomic notes of the Amazonian B. ecuadorensis Zaldívar-Riverón et López-Estrada are also provided.
Comparison of Climate Response to Anthropogenic Aerosol versus Greenhouse Gas Forcing: Distinct Patterns
Authors: Wang Hai , Xie Shang-Ping , Liu Qinyu
Published: May 2016

Spatial patterns of climate response to changes in anthropogenic aerosols and well-mixed greenhouse gases (GHGs) are investigated using climate model simulations for the twentieth century. The climate response shows both similarities and differences in spatial pattern between aerosol and GHG runs. Common climate response between aerosol and GHG runs tends to be symmetric about the equator. This work focuses on the distinctive patterns that are unique to the anthropogenic aerosol forcing. The tropospheric cooling induced by anthropogenic aerosols is locally enhanced in the midlatitude Northern Hemisphere with a deep vertical structure around 40°N, anchoring a westerly acceleration in thermal wind balance. The aerosol-induced negative radiative forcing in the Northern Hemisphere requires a cross-equatorial Hadley circulation to compensate interhemispheric energy imbalance in the atmosphere. Associated with a southward shift of the intertropical convergence zone, this interhemispheric asymmetric mode is unique to aerosol forcing and absent in GHG runs. Comparison of key climate response pattern indices indicates that the aerosol forcing dominates the interhemispheric asymmetric climate response in historical all-forcing simulations, as well as regional precipitation change such as the drying trend over the East Asian monsoon region. While GHG forcing dominates global mean surface temperature change, its effect is on par with and often opposes the aerosol effect on precipitation, making it difficult to detect anthropogenic change in rainfall from historical observations.
Physiological Motion Axis for the Seat of a Dynamic Office Chair
Authors: Kuster Roman Peter , Bauer Christoph Markus , Oetiker Sarah , Kool Jan
Published: May 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine and verify the optimal location of the motion axis (MA) for the seat of a dynamic office chair.

Background

A dynamic seat that supports pelvic motion may improve physical well-being and decrease the risk of sitting-associated disorders. However, office work requires an undisturbed view on the work task, which means a stable position of the upper trunk and head. Current dynamic office chairs do not fulfill this need. Consequently, a dynamic seat was adapted to the physiological kinematics of the human spine.

Method

Three-dimensional motion tracking in free sitting helped determine the physiological MA of the spine in the frontal plane. Three dynamic seats with physiological, lower, and higher MA were compared in stable upper body posture (thorax inclination) and seat support of pelvic motion (dynamic fitting accuracy). Spinal kinematics during sitting and walking were compared.

Results

The physiological MA was at the level of the 11th thoracic vertebra, causing minimal thorax inclination and high dynamic fitting accuracy. Spinal motion in active sitting and walking was similar.

Conclusion

The physiological MA of the seat allows considerable lateral flexion of the spine similar to walking with a stable upper body posture and a high seat support of pelvic motion.

Application

The physiological MA enables lateral flexion of the spine, similar to walking, without affecting stable upper body posture, thus allowing active sitting while focusing on work.
The problem with everybody’s favourite solution in Syria
Authors: Mitton John
Published: May 2016

As the United States, Canada, and other Western and world allies attempt to devise workable policies vis-à-vis the Syrian crisis, a common thread links many if not most putative policy “solutions”: the need to engage local coalitions of regional actors to provide the military muscle to defeat the Islamic State, thereby setting the stage for a workable political solution to restore stability to the country as a whole. Given the experiences of Iraq and Afghanistan, neither the US nor its allies are particularly keen on deep involvement in Syria. Unfortunately, cultivating and encouraging increased involvement from regional actors (including Sunni Arab nations with, ostensibly, a “vested interest” in defeating the Islamic State) risks promoting long-term instability and conflict as regional political rivals—in particular Iran and Saudi Arabia—exploit and exacerbate the conflict for their own purposes. In a worst-case scenario, this could even contribute to a broader regional war along sectarian (Sunni–Shia) lines.
Impacts of Flipped Classroom in High School Health Education
Authors: Chen Li-Ling
Published: May 2016

As advanced technology increasingly infiltrated into classroom, the flipped classroom has come to light in secondary educational settings. The flipped classroom is a new instructional approach that intends to flip the traditional teacher-centered classroom into student centered. The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of the flipped classroom instructional pedagogy in a ninth grade health education class.
Consideration of Insulin Pumps or Continuous Glucose Monitors by Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes and Their Parents
Authors: Wysocki Tim , Hirschfeld Fiona , Miller Louis , Izenberg Neil , Dowshen Steven A. , Taylor Alex , Milkes Amy , Shinseki Michelle T. , Bejarano Carolina , Kozikowski Chelsea , Kowal Karen , Starr-Ashton Penny , Ross Judith L. , Kummer Mark , Carakushansky Mauri , Lyness D’Arcy , Brinkman William , Pierce Jessica , Fiks Alexander , Christofferson Jennifer , Rafalko Jessica , Lawson Margaret L.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This article describes the stakeholder-driven design, development, and testing of web-based, multimedia decision aids for youth with type 1 diabetes who are considering the insulin pump or continuous glucose monitoring and their parents. This is the initial phase of work designed to develop and evaluate the efficacy of these decision aids in promoting improved decision-making engagement with use of a selected device.

Methods

Qualitative interviews of 36 parents and adolescents who had previously faced these decisions and 12 health care providers defined the content, format and structure of the decision aids. Experts in children’s health media helped the research team to plan, create, and refine multimedia content and its presentation. A web development firm helped organize the content into a user-friendly interface and enabled tracking of decision aid utilization. Throughout, members of the research team, adolescents, parents, and 3 expert consultants offered perspectives about the website content, structure, and function until the design was complete.

Results

With the decision aid websites completed, the next phase of the project is a randomized controlled trial of usual clinical practice alone or augmented by use of the decision aid websites.

Conclusions

Stakeholder-driven development of multimedia, web-based decision aids requires meticulous attention to detail but can yield exceptional resources for adolescents and parents contemplating major changes to their diabetes regimens.
Rasch Analysis and Differential Item Functioning of a Social Support Measure in Jail Inmates With HIV Infection
Authors: Kim Sage , Ouellet Lawrence J. , Mazza Jessica , Spaulding Anne C.
Published: May 2016

The protective effects of social support on health have been documented in a variety of groups. For HIV-infected persons released from correctional settings, strong social support may be particularly important for obtaining effective postrelease medical treatment and supportive services. Researchers and program evaluators seeking to improve access and adherence to postrelease HIV medical care in this population need accurate measures for the level and type of social support, but current measures have not been fully validated for incarcerated individuals with HIV infection. We used the Rasch model to test the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) social support survey. Data for the analysis were collected as part of the EnhanceLink project in the five urban jails where the MOS was administered. Findings indicate that the MOS survey items may not capture the entire variability of person abilities. Respondents showed problems in discriminating among response options, indicating potential systematic bias. In addition, while there was no significant gender difference, overall levels of social support differed by gender. Further research is warranted to develop more effective social support measurement tools that can better guide interventions for persons transitioning from jail and prison to the community.
Truncus arteriosus with interrupted aortic arch in very low birth weight infants
Authors: Fuchigami Tai , Nishioka Masahiko , Akashige Toru , Takahashi Kazuhiro , Nabeshima Taisuke , Nagata Nobuhiro
Published: May 2016

A neonate, born after 29 weeks and 2 days gestation (weight 1015 g), was diagnosed with truncus arteriosus and interrupted aortic arch. On postnatal day 30 (1378 g), we performed bilateral pulmonary artery banding. On postnatal day 107 (3024 g), we carried out aortic arch repair and a Rastelli-type procedure. During follow-up, branch pulmonary artery and ascending aortic stenosis was observed. At 15 months, surgical angioplasty of the ascending aorta and bilateral branch pulmonary arteries was undertaken using the Lecompte maneuver.
The Conquest of the Air: Aeronautics and Social Revolution in Edward Douglas Fawcett's Hartmann the Anarchist and W. Graham Moffat and John White's What's the World Coming To?
Authors: McLean Steven
Published: May 2016

This article examines the way in which two scientific romances published in 1893, Edward Douglas Fawcett's Hartmann the Anarchist and W. Graham Moffat and John White's What's the World Coming To? A Novel of the Twenty-First Century, Etc., respond to late-nineteenth-century developments in aeronautics. Both of these texts appropriate aeronautical speculation to create verisimilitude for their depiction of navigable ‘flying machines’ and intervene in disputes over the most probable means of accomplishing controlled flight. Continuing a longstanding literary tradition in which the balloon is identified as a symbol of anarchy and revolution, Hartmann the Anarchist and What's the World Coming To? A Novel of the Twenty-First Century, Etc. depict the accomplishment of aerial navigation as the catalyst for the attempted or actual overthrow of capitalism in favour of the oppressed multitudes.
The Views of the Public on Youth Offenders and the New Zealand Criminal Justice System
Authors: Barretto Craig , Miers Sarah , Lambie Ian
Published: May 2016

Public perceptions of crime and punishment have taken on increasing importance as countries grapple with how to address youth violence. The current study aimed to compare the views of those who have had personal experience of victimisation from youth offenders and those who have not, on what could be improved in managing youth offending in New Zealand. A qualitative methodology was used with data from open-ended survey responses from a nationally representative sample. Public sentiments favoured addressing systemic issues and providing rehabilitation as main emphases followed by more punitive measures, prevention, and restorative justice. Victims were over-represented on sentiments of prevention whereas non-victims were over-represented in support for more punitive measures and restorative justice. There was also considerable support for a multi-facetted approach that utilised a number of the approaches above, suggesting that the solution is as complex as the offender’s circumstances. These findings are very much in line with the current goals of the youth justice system with its emphasis on diversion and rehabilitation.
Sphenopalatine ganglion stimulation in cluster headache and other types of headache
Authors: Láinez Miguel JA , Marti Ana Suller
Published: May 2016

Objectives

The cluster headache is the most excruciatingly painful primary headache. In some patients, neither preventive treatment nor acute treatment is effective or treatment is poorly tolerated. The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) has an important role in the pathophysiology of cluster headache and, for this reason, SPG stimulation has been used to treat cluster headache.

Methods

We have reviewed the published literature on the role of the SPG in cluster headache and the use of different treatments targeting the SPG.

Results

Multiple procedures have been used over the SPG to treat pain and trigemino-autonomic symptoms in patients with refractory cluster headache. After obtaining good results in a small number of patients, a miniaturized stimulator was developed. Stimulation of the SPG with this device proved to be efficacious in acute and preventive treatment in a clinical trial involving patients with chronic refractory cluster headache. Implantation of the device is minimally invasive and the most frequent side-effects are mild, such as paraesthesia and pain over the maxillary area. In patients who have used the SPG device for longer than one year, the therapeutic effect remains effective and the side-effects decrease.

Conclusions

The reported studies have demonstrated that SPG stimulation is a safe and effective treatment for chronic cluster headache. Long-term studies have shown that the effect remains over time and this treatment could be a good choice in patients with chronic refractory headache. We need more data about its potential use in other forms of headache, such as other trigemino-autonomic headaches or migraine.
Physiological and psychological factors associated with onset of high-altitude headache in Chinese men upon acute high-altitude exposure at 3700 m
Authors: Guo Wen-Yun , Bian Shi-Zhu , Zhang Ji-Hang , Li Qian-ning , Yu Jie , Chen Jian-Fei , Tang Cai-Fa , Rao Rong-Sheng , Yu Shi-Yong , Jin Jun , Huang Lan
Published: May 2016

Aim

We aimed to identify clinical characteristics and risk factors associated with onset of high-altitude headache (HAH) after acute exposure at 3700 m.

Method

In two hours, 163 individuals ascended by plane to 3700 m. Demographic information, physiological and psychological measurements, cognitive function, physical work capacity tests and profile of mood states within one week prior to the departure and within 24 hours after arrival were examined.

Results

HAH patients featured significantly higher vertebral artery diastolic velocity (Vd), heart rate (HR) and pulmonary artery diameter. HAH was also associated with a more negative mood state, including scores for tension anxiety, depression, hostility, fatigue and confusion, as well as lower vigor (all p values <0.05). Furthermore, negative emotions were positively related to HAH severity. HAH slightly decreased cognitive functioning. HR, Vd, lack of vigor, confusion and self-reported anxiety (all p values <0.05) were independent risk factors for HAH. We have identified three independent baseline predictors for HAH including internal diameter of the left ventricle (LVD), Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and confusion score.

Conclusions

Higher HR, Vd, confusion and self-reported anxiety and insufficient vigor were independent risk factors for HAH. Furthermore, higher baseline LVD, AIS and confusion score are independent predictors of HAH.
The Importance of Animal Source Foods for Nutrient Sufficiency in the Developing World
Authors: Zhang Zhiying , Goldsmith Peter D. , Winter-Nelson Alex
Published: May 2016

There have been successful interventions fortifying staple foods to mobilize micronutrients as well as agricultural efforts to raise yields of staple foods to increase food availability. Zambia serves as an interesting case study because since 1961 there has been a notable decline in the availability of animal source foods (ASFs) and pulses and a significant increase in the supply of cassava and vegetable oils. The shift in food availability was partly attributed to the agricultural success in high-yielding and drought-resistant varieties that made cassava and oil crops more affordable and readily available. In this research, we explore another policy strategy that involves ASF as a mechanism to help remedy micronutrient inadequacies in a population. A scenario modeling analysis compares the changes in the nutrient profile of the Zambian diet through adding either staple plant source foods (PSFs) or ASFs. The scenarios under study involve the addition of (1) 18 fl oz of whole cow’s milk; (2) 60 g of beef, 30 g of chicken, and 5 g of beef liver; (3) milk plus meat; or (4) 83 g of maize flour, 123 g of cassava, and other staple PSF, that is, isocaloric to the “milk + meat” group. The findings alert program planners and policy makers to the value of increasing the availability, accessibility, and utilization of ASF to simultaneously address multiple nutrient deficiencies, as well as the nutrition challenges that remain when expanding the availability of plant-based staples.
Most students get breaking news first from Twitter
Authors: Tandoc Edson C. , Johnson Erika
Published: May 2016

This study examines news consumption patterns of college students by asking where respondents get breaking news and where this source leads them next. The findings, based on an online survey, show the majority gets breaking news from Twitter first, but Twitter also leads users to get more information from websites of traditional news organizations, whose news reports students view as more credible than Twitter.
Revisiting regulatory independence: The relationship between the formal and de-facto independence of the Egyptian telecoms regulator
Authors: Badran Ahmed
Published: May 2016

Regulatory governance scholars tend to focus on either the formal or de-facto independence of regulatory agencies. Very little attention has been given to linking these two sides together and even less has been said about the relationship between these two aspects. In this paper, the relationship between the formal and de-facto independence of the Egyptian telecoms regulator will be investigated. The aim is to contrast these two aspects of regulatory independence. In addition, the way in which the formal independence is translated by the sector regulator into practice. The paper argues that the formal independence of the Egyptian telecoms regulatory agency is an important but not a sufficient factor to guarantee the de-facto independence of the agency. Empirical data collected from 44 interviews with different stakeholders in the Egyptian telecommunications market is analyzed. Documentary analysis of the telecoms Law and other official policy documents and reports is also considered. The initial findings of the paper show that the telecoms law grants the regulator the ability to act independently from the Ministry and the regulated industry. Nonetheless, this strong legal mandate has not been fully translated into independent practices on the ground in regards to the way the regulatory agency connects with the Ministry of Telecoms and the previous sector incumbent. The paper suggests that the relationship between formal and de-facto independence of telecoms regulators should be carefully considered.
Evaluating the potential of a rolling deflection measurement system to estimate track modulus
Authors: Fallah Nafari Saeideh , Gül Mustafa , Roghani Alireza , Hendry Michael T , Cheng JJ Roger
Published: May 2016

Over the past two decades, a rolling deflection measurement system aiming to continuously measure the track modulus has been under development at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln under the sponsorship of the Federal Railroad Administration. This system measures the relative vertical distance (referred to as Yrel) between the rail surface and the rail/wheel contact plane at a distance of 1.22 m from the nearest wheel to the sensor system. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of using the Yrel measurement as an indicator of the track modulus for various rail foundation conditions. To meet this objective, a detailed finite element model capable of simulating moving loads and track modulus variation was developed. One of the unique contributions of this study is that it presents a comprehensive study of the Yrel–track modulus relationship by defining more realistic support conditions using discrete spring supports and by simulating the stochastic nature of the track modulus along a 160-m track length. The numerical model was employed to examine the accuracy of estimating the track modulus using the Yrel measurements when foundation stiffness is variable. Furthermore, the correlation between the statistical properties of the track modulus and Yrel was studied over different track segment lengths.
Effect of Work–Life Balance on Organizational Citizenship Behaviour: Role of Organizational Commitment
Authors: Pradhan Rabindra Kumar , Jena Lalatendu Kesari , Kumari Itishree Gita
Published: May 2016

Balancing work and life stands as an on-going challenge in contemporary times. Today’s global market place demands conflicting professional responsibilities in the form of unflinching ‘work–life commitment’. In organizational context, a high quality of work–life balance is essential to continue attracting and retaining its employees. This kind of practice is having significant implications on employee attitudes, behaviours, well-being as well as organizational effectiveness. In contemporary times, many multinational corporations (MNCs) have been found focusing on organizing work–life programmes as these are becoming an intelligent choice to help in increasing job satisfaction among employees and in career accomplishment. On the other hand, the popular concept of ‘organizational citizenship behaviour’ inherently strives from its employees to extend their discretionary behaviours beyond the expected normal duties. However, this kind of anticipated behaviour of employees is somehow silently contradicting the notion of work–life balance. Thus, in this context, the influences of work–life balance on organizational citizenship behaviour need to be explored. Keeping this objective in mind, the present study examines the effect of work–life balance on organizational citizenship behaviour. It examines the role of organizational commitment on the relationship between work–life balance and organizational citizenship behaviour. A survey was conducted using a set of established questionnaire on work–life balance, organizational citizenship behaviour and organizational commitment with employees and executives of manufacturing industries in eastern India. The study reports significant effects of work–life balance on organizational citizenship behaviour. It also shows the mediating effect of organizational commitment on the relationship between work–life balance and organizational citizenship behaviour. The study has suggested implications for researchers and practitioners in the field of human resource management and experts in the area of organizational development.
A Bereavement Common Assessment Framework in Palliative Care: Informing Practice, Transforming Care
Authors: Blackburn Pippa , Dwyer Kris
Published: May 2016

This article describes the development of a bereavement assessment framework for the Western Australia Country Health Service Palliative Care Services bereavement program. The framework is grounded in a clearly articulated evidence base, integrating research from the bereavement field that has informed the development of a standardized assessment framework referred to as the bereavement common assessment framework (B-CAF). The B-CAF identifies the many facets of experiences of the bereaved, creating a holistic and contextual assessment and providing professionals with a tool to enhance assessment and intervention practices. The palliative–curative model of care has also been reconceptualized to recognize that earlier interventions may mitigate adverse outcomes in bereavement. This framework may have implications for further research and service delivery of bereavement support programs.
Family Anticipatory Grief: An Integrative Literature Review
Authors: Coelho Alexandra , Barbosa António
Published: May 2016

Despite all the investment in research, uncertainty persists in anticipatory grief (AG) literature, concerning its nuclear characteristics and definition. This review aimed to synthesize recent research in order to develop further knowledge about the family experience of AG during a patient’s end of life. An integrative review was performed using standard methods of analysis and synthesis. The electronic databases Medline, Web of Knowledge, and EBSCO and relevant journals were systematically searched since 1990 to October 2015. Twenty-nine articles were selected, the majority with samples composed of caregivers of terminally ill patients with cancer. From systematic comparison of data referring to family end-of-life experience emerged 10 themes, which correspond to AG nuclear characteristics: anticipation of death, emotional distress, intrapsychic and interpersonal protection, exclusive focus on the patient care, hope, ambivalence, personal losses, relational losses, end-of-life relational tasks, and transition. For the majority of family caregivers in occidental society, AG is a highly stressful and ambivalent experience due to anticipation of death and relational losses, while the patient is physically present and needed of care, so family must be functional and inhibit grief expressions. The present study contributes to a deeper conceptualization of this term and to a more sensitive clinical practice.
Using Video Modeling and Mobile Technology to Teach Social Skills
Authors: Haydon Todd , Musti-Rao Shobana , McCune Ashley , Clouse Diane E. , McCoy Dacia M. , Kalra Hilary D. , Hawkins Renee O.
Published: May 2016

There has been growing interest in the field of education regarding the use of technology in classrooms to improve student outcomes. Specifically, researchers have demonstrated positive outcomes for using mobile technology with students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Fewer studies have used mobile technology with students with emotional and behavioral disability (EBD). The purpose of this article is to discuss the effectiveness of video modeling as an intervention package and highlight the benefits of using video modeling and mobile technology to teach behavioral skills to students with EBD. The article provides guidelines and resources for teachers to implement video modeling instruction using mobile technology in the general education setting.
Eating Habits and Associated Factors Among Adolescent Students in Jordan
Authors: Dalky Heyam F. , Al Momani Maysa H. , Al-Drabaah Taghreed Kh. , Jarrah Samiha
Published: May 2016

The study aimed to assess adolescent patterns of eating habits, determine factors influencing these patterns, and identify male and female differences related to eating habits. Using a cross-sectional study approach, a sample of adolescents ( N = 423) in randomly selected clusters chosen from government and private schools in the south of Jordan completed self-administered questionnaires relating to socio-demographic data and personal eating habits. Results showed that parents, peers, and mass media are contributing factors, with peer pressure likely outweighing parental guidance. Males were more likely to be influenced by peers than females, whereas females were more likely to be influenced by media-based advertising. Lower body mass indices correlate with eating breakfast, which a majority of adolescents reported they do not do. Interventions targeted toward improving eating and active behaviors should involve peers as well as parents.
Delayed Gratification
Authors: Baker Travis J.
Published: May 2016

Americans expect the president to lead Congress, but Congress’s partisan divide typically widens on presidential priorities. More often, presidents are reduced to leading their copartisans rather than Congress as a whole, but why? In this paper, I argue that competition for White House control creates incentives for parties to disagree on presidents’ policy agendas, regardless of the contents of those agendas. I use an original data set of members’ roll-call vote decisions on presidents’ agendas between 1971 and 2010 to show that partisan polarization is larger on presidents’ priorities and largest on their top priorities, above and beyond what we would expect from members’ ideologies and standard party effects. These findings persist over time and under a wide range of alternative model specifications, bringing us closer to understanding the partisan conflict so prevalent in today’s politics.
Perspectiva Masculina
Authors: Gutierrez Daniel , Barden Sejal M. , Gonzalez Jessica , Ali Shainna , Cruz-Ortega Luis G.
Published: May 2016

After receiving a cancer diagnosis, couples commonly face significant difficulties such as adjusting to new family roles, diminishing cohesion and communication, and increases in marital conflict. Latina breast cancer survivors report feeling less emotional support from their partners and an intimate partners’ level of distress can have a deleterious influence on the cancer survivor. The current study explores the influence of breast cancer on Latino male partners. Analysis of the data resulted in nine domains that provide significant insight into participant experiences. Results of this study also suggest several implications for counselors.
Optimal Unemployment Insurance with Endogenous Negative Duration Dependence
Authors: Lehr Brandon
Published: May 2016

This article characterizes optimal unemployment insurance (UI) in an economy with endogenous negative duration dependence in hiring rates for the unemployed. The characterization generalizes the standard Baily–Chetty result and is independent of the particular mechanism generating endogenous hiring rates. I find that at the social optimum, UI equates the moral hazard cost with the sum of the insurance benefit and a new externality correction term. The sign of this externality correction term depends, in part, on the responsiveness of hiring rates to the UI benefit. I show how the effect of UI on hiring rates in turn depends on the particular assumptions about firm behavior, considering the cases of employer screening and human capital depreciation models.
In Vivo and In Vitro Arsenic Exposition Induces Oxidative Stress in Anterior Pituitary Gland
Authors: Ronchetti Sonia A. , Bianchi María S. , Duvilanski Beatriz H. , Cabilla Jimena P.
Published: May 2016

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) is at the top of toxic metalloids. Inorganic arsenic-contaminated water consumption is one of the greatest environmental health threats worldwide. Human iAs exposure has been associated with cancers of several organs, neurological disorders, and reproductive problems. Nevertheless, there are no reports describing how iAs affects the anterior pituitary gland. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms involved in iAs-mediated anterior pituitary toxicity both in vivo and in vitro. We showed that iAs administration (from 5 to 100 ppm) to male rats through drinking water increased messenger RNA expression of several oxidative stress-responsive genes in the anterior pituitary gland. Serum prolactin levels diminished, whereas luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were only affected at the higher dose tested. In anterior pituitary cells in culture, 25 µmol/L iAs significantly decreased prolactin release in a time-dependent fashion, whereas LH levels remained unaltered. Cell viability was significantly reduced mainly by apoptosis evidenced by morphological and phosphatidylserine externalization studies. This process is characterized by early depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential and increased levels of reactive oxygen species. Expression of some key oxidative stress-responsive genes, such as heme oxygenase-1 and metallothionein-1, was also stimulated by iAs exposure. The antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine prevented iAs-induced effects on the expression of oxidative stress markers, prolactin release, and apoptosis. In summary, the present work demonstrates for the first time that iAs reduces prolactin release both in vivo and in vitro and induces apoptosis in anterior pituitary cells, possibly resulting from imbalanced cellular redox status.
Over a Decade of Neuroeconomics: What Have We Learned?
Authors: Konovalov Arkady , Krajbich Ian
Published: May 2016

At its inception, neuroeconomics promised to revolutionize economics. That promise has not yet been realized, and neuroeconomics has seen limited penetration into mainstream economics. Nevertheless, it would be a mistake to declare that neuroeconomics has failed. Quite to the contrary, the yearly rate of neuroeconomics papers has roughly doubled since 2005. While the number of direct applications to economics remains limited, due to the infancy of the field, we have learned an amazing amount about how the brain makes decisions. In this article, we review some of the major topics that have emerged in neuroeconomics and highlight findings that we believe will form the basis for future applications to economics. When possible, we focus on existing applications to economics and future directions for that research.
The rise of interdisciplinary studies in social sciences and humanities and the challenge of comparative sociology
Authors: Arjomand Saïd Amir
Published: May 2016

After briefly surveying three generations of comparative sociologists, interdisciplinary regional and trans-regional studies are shown to complement the work of the third generation of comparative sociologists on civilizational analysis and multiple modernities. Drawing examples from the interdisciplinary Persianate studies, promoted by the Association for the Study of Persianate Societies in the last two decades, and by other recent interdisciplinary studies of performance and world literature as well as Caribbean regional studies, it is argued that the rise of interdisciplinary studies in social sciences and humanities may in fact redeem the unfulfilled promise that comparative sociology once offered. These recent studies constitute a significant contribution to our theoretical understanding of different patterns of socio-cultural development beyond the West, whose historical experience gave birth to modern social science disciplines, and thereby to register the historical experience of a very sizeable portion of humankind as the basis for the reconstruction of social theory in the global age.
Computational assessment of a full-scale Mediterranean building incorporating wallboards with phase change materials
Authors: Stamatiadou Marianna E. , Katsourinis Dimitrios I. , Founti Maria A.
Published: May 2016

In this study, a lightweight residential building in Greece was investigated, focusing on the summer comfort when wallboards with phase change materials (PCM) were installed in the external and internal walls. The effectiveness of the PCM wallboards installed was numerically assessed, while the energy performance of the building was examined, in order to quantify the effect of PCM in the annual cooling load needs, as a way of saving energy. Potential bigger energy savings were evaluated by defining the appropriate PCM melting temperature range and the ‘energy-conscious’ occupant behaviour (passive vs. active). Results were expressed in terms of percentage savings of cooling loads and with comparison to wall elements incorporated with plain gypsumboards instead of the PCM wallboards. The optimum phase change temperature change for the specific location was investigated by examining two-phase change transition temperatures of the PCM wallboards (PCM24 and PCM26 respectively). The use of PCM24 produced a 29% reduction of annual cooling loads, compared to 16% reduction produced by PCM26. Five scenarios were also examined, showing the behaviour of the PCM which was enhanced when a cooling system was installed. The cooling needs were lowered by an average of 25.7%, compared to the respective no-PCM scenarios.
Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Neuropsychological Interventions on Cognitive Function in Non–Central Nervous System Cancer Survivors
Authors: Zeng Yingchun , Cheng Andy S. K. , Chan Chetwyn C. H.
Published: May 2016

Background. Cognitive impairment is a common complaint among cancer survivors, significantly impacting working memory, attention, executive function, and information processing speed. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the effect of neuropsychological interventions on the cognitive function of non–central nervous system (non-CNS) cancer survivors. Methods. Three databases (PubMed, PsycInfo, and CAJ Full-text Database) were searched from January 2010 to September 2015. Controlled clinical trials of neuropsychological interventions for the treatment of cognitive impairment in cancer survivors were considered for inclusion. Results. A total of 10 eligible trials were included in this meta-analysis. Three trials assessed the effects of cognitive rehabilitation (CR) interventions, and the weighted mean difference (WMD) for the overall intervention effect was −0.19 (95% confidence interval [CI] = −2.98 to 2.61). Two trials examined the effects of cognitive training (CT) interventions on the cognitive function of cancer survivors; the standardized mean difference (SMD) for the overall effect was 0.52 (95% CI = 0.06 to 0.98). The overall effect of CR interventions on neuropsychological status at postintervention was 5.66 (95% CI = 2.97 to 8.35). The SMD of CR and CT intervention for objective function by verbal learning tests was 0.50 (95% CI = 0.19 to 0.81) at postintervention, and 0.58 (95% CI = 0.19-0.98) at follow-up assessment within 6 months. Conclusion. Findings from this meta-analysis indicate that neuropsychological interventions can improve cognitive function in non-CNS cancer survivors, and support the need for future research. However, the conclusion from this meta-analysis was based on trials with small sample sizes. Future research should be conducted using a larger sample size. Relevant clinical implications were discussed accordingly.
Effects of a Community-Based Multimodal Exercise Program on Health-Related Physical Fitness and Physical Function in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Foley Michael P. , Hasson Scott M.
Published: May 2016

Purpose. Breast cancer and oncological treatment can result in significant acute and late localized and systemic negative effects on health-related physical fitness and physical function. The aim of this single-arm study was to examine the effects of a 12-week community-based multimodal exercise program on health-related physical fitness and physical function in breast cancer survivors. Methods. A total of 52 female breast cancer survivors (mean age = 59.7 ± 10.4 years) completed supervised exercise training consisting of (1) aerobic conditioning, (2) resistance training, and (3) balance and flexibility training, for 30 minutes each, totaling 90 minutes twice weekly for 12 weeks. Pretreatment and posttreatment outcome measures—mobility: (1) Timed Up and Go (TUG) and (2) 6-minute walk test (6MWT); muscular strength: (3) leg press strength and (4) chest press strength; upper-extremity flexibility: (5) back scratch test; and balance: (6) functional reach (FR) and (7) single-leg stance time—were assessed and compared. Results. Postintervention assessment measures given as percentage improvement and effect size (ES) for mobility, TUG (18%, 0.59), and 6MWT (14%, 0.74) were significantly ( P < .001) improved. Outcome measures of muscular strength, leg press strength (32%, 0.58) and chest press strength (40%, 0.61), both significantly ( P < .001) improved. Postintervention assessment measure of upper-extremity flexibility (42%, 0.41) showed significant ( P < .001) improvements. Outcome measures for balance, FR (18%, 0.75) and single leg stance time (24%, 0.30), showed significant ( P < .001) improvements. Conclusions. Outcome measures showed moderate to large ES improvements after participants completed the 12-week multimodal exercise program for breast cancer survivors.
Chemopreventive Activity of MGN-3/Biobran Against Chemical Induction of Glandular Stomach Carcinogenesis in Rats and Its Apoptotic Effect in Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Badr El-Din Nariman K. , Abdel Fattah Salma M. , Pan Deyu , Tolentino Lucilene , Ghoneum Mamdooh
Published: May 2016

In the current study, we investigated the chemopreventive activity of arabinoxylan rice bran, MGN-3/Biobran, against chemical induction of glandular stomach carcinogenesis in rats. Gastric cancer was induced by carcinogen methylnitronitrosoguanidine (MNNG), and rats received MNNG alone or MNNG plus Biobran (40 mg/kg body weight) for a total of 8 months. Averaged results from 2 separate readings showed that exposure to MNNG plus Biobran caused gastric dysplasia and cancer (adenocarcinoma) in 4.5/12 rats (9/24 readings, 37.5%), with 3.5/12 rats (7/24 readings, 29.2%) showing dysplasia and 1/12 rats (8.3%) developing adenocarcinoma. In contrast, in rats treated with MNNG alone, 8/10 (80%) developed dysplasia and adenocarcinoma, with 6/10 rats (60%) showing dysplasia and 2/10 rats (20%) developing adenocarcinoma. The effect of combining both agents was also associated with significant suppression of the expression of the tumor marker Ki-67 and remarkable induction in the apoptotic gastric cancer cells via mitochondrial-dependent pathway as indicated by the upregulation in p53 expression, Bax expression, downregulation in Bcl-2 expression, an increase in Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, and an activation of caspase-3. In addition, Biobran treatment induced cell-cycle arrest in the subG1 phase, where the hypodiploid cell population was markedly increased. Moreover, Biobran treatment protected rats against MNNG-induced significant decrease in lymphocyte levels. We conclude that Biobran provides protection against chemical induction of glandular stomach carcinogenesis in rats and may be useful for the treatment of human patients with gastric cancer.