bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Best of Both Worlds: Adaptation During Natural Tasks Produces Long-Lasting Plasticity in Perceptual Ocular Dominance
Authors: Bao Min , Dong Bo , Liu Lijuan , Engel Stephen A. , Jiang Yi
Published: November 2017

In human vision, one eye is usually stronger than the other. This is called ocular dominance. Extremely imbalanced ocular dominance can be found among certain patient groups, for example, in patients with amblyopia. Here, we introduce a novel method to rebalance ocular dominance. We developed an altered-reality system that subjects used to interact with the natural world, the appearance of which was changed through a real-time image process. Several daily adaptation sessions lasting 3 hr each reduced sensory ocular dominance in adults who were not diagnosed with amblyopia and improved vision in patients with amblyopia. Surprising additional strengthening was found over the subsequent 2 months, when subjects experienced natural vision only. Our method effectively trains subjects to use both eyes in the wide variety of everyday tasks. The transfer of this training to everyday vision likely produced the continuing growth in effects during the months after the training. These findings are promising for the application of this method in future clinical research on amblyopia.
University-Affiliated Alcohol Marketing Enhances the Incentive Salience of Alcohol Cues
Authors: Bartholow Bruce D. , Loersch Chris , Ito Tiffany A. , Levsen Meredith P. , Volpert-Esmond Hannah I. , Fleming Kimberly A. , Bolls Paul , Carter Brooke K.
Published: November 2017

We tested whether affiliating beer brands with universities enhances the incentive salience of those brands for underage drinkers. In Study 1, 128 undergraduates viewed beer cues while event-related potentials (ERPs) were recorded. Results showed that beer cues paired with in-group backgrounds (logos for students’ universities) evoked an enhanced P3 ERP component, a neural index of incentive salience. This effect varied according to students’ levels of identification with their university, and the amplitude of the P3 response prospectively predicted alcohol use over 1 month. In Study 2 ( N = 104), we used a naturalistic advertisement exposure to experimentally create in-group brand associations and found that this manipulation caused an increase in the incentive salience of the beer brand. These data provide the first evidence that marketing beer via affiliating it with students’ universities enhances the incentive salience of the brand for underage students and that this effect has implications for their alcohol involvement.
Compliance and persistence with hydroxychloroquine in South Korean patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lee S-G , Park E-K , Park J-H , Kweon S-M , Kim Y-K , Kim G-T
Published: November 2017

We aimed to analyze compliance and persistence with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in real practice and identify risk factors for poor adherence in South Korean patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This retrospective longitudinal study evaluated 235 SLE patients in whom oral HCQ was newly started from 2002 to 2016 at a tertiary hospital in South Korea. Compliance was assessed using one-year medication possession ratio (MPR) and non-compliance was defined as a one-year MPR < 0.8. Persistence was determined as the time from HCQ treatment initiation to discontinuation without interruption for ≥56 days. The mean one-year MPR of HCQ was 0.88 and the frequency of non-compliance was 19.9%. During the study period, 115 (48.9%) patients discontinued HCQ and forgetfulness and/or carelessness (73%) were the most common reason for HCQ non-persistence, followed by adverse events (10.4%), unknown factors (10.4%), and pregnancy (6.1%). Median duration until HCQ discontinuation was 55.1 months and the one-year persistence rate to HCQ was 0.8. SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K)  < 6 was a significant risk factor for non-compliance (OR = 2.98, p = 0.001) and non-persistence (HR = 1.55, p = 0.046) with HCQ after adjusting confounding factors. However, HCQ adherence was not associated with the dose of HCQ or concomitant immunosuppressive medications. Our data showed that overall adherence to HCQ in SLE patients was suboptimal in real practice and SLEDAI-2K score  < 6 was a risk factor for poor adherence, suggesting the need to improve adherence with HCQ treatment in SLE patients, especially in those with low disease activity.
Evaluating nurse understanding and participation in the informed consent process
Authors: Axson Sydney A , Giordano Nicholas A , Hermann Robin M , Ulrich Connie M
Published: November 2017

Background:

Informed consent is fundamental to the autonomous decision-making of patients, yet much is still unknown about the process in the clinical setting. In an evolving healthcare landscape, nurses must be prepared to address patient understanding and participate in the informed consent process to better fulfill their well-established role as patient advocates.

Research objective:

This study examines hospital-based nurses’ experiences and understandings of the informed consent process.

Research design:

This qualitative descriptive study utilized a semi-structured interview approach identifying thematic concerns, experiences, and knowledge of informed consent across a selected population of clinically practicing nurses.

Participants and research context:

In all, 20 baccalaureate prepared registered nurses practicing in various clinical settings (i.e. critical care, oncology, medical/surgical) at a large northeastern academic medical center in the United States completed semi-structured interviews and a demographic survey. The mean age of participants was 36.6 years old, with a mean of 12.2 years of clinical experience.

Ethical considerations:

Participation in this study involved minimal risk and no invasive measures. This study received Institutional Review Board approval from the University of Pennsylvania. All participants voluntarily consented.

Findings:

The majority of participants (N = 19) believe patient safety is directly linked to patient comprehension of the informed consent process. However, when asked if nurses have a defined role in the informed consent process, nearly half did not agree (N = 9). Through this qualitative approach, three major nursing roles emerged: the nurse as a communicator, the nurse as an advocate, and the clerical role of the nurse.

Discussion and conclusion:

This investigation contributes to the foundation of ethical research that will better prepare nurses for patient engagement, advance current understanding of informed consent, and allow for future development of solutions. Nurses are at the forefront of patient–provider interactions and they are often presented opportunities to learn about and engage in the informed consent process.
The Effect of Exchange Rate Volatility on Pakistan’s Bilateral Exports to Major Recipients
Authors: Alam Shaista , Ahmed Qazi Masood , Shahbaz Muhammad
Published: November 2017

The dynamic relationship between bilateral exports demand for Pakistan and exchange rate volatility as well as some selected explanatory variables with six major trading partners’ countries, namely, USA, UK, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Germany and UAE, has been examined during 1982Q1 to 2013Q2. The autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bound testing approach suggests a stable long-run relationship among selected explanatory variables over the sample period from Pakistan’s bilateral exports to each of its chosen trading partner except Japan. The result suggests that exchange rate volatility adversely affects the demand for Pakistani exports to USA but it positively affects demand for Pakistani exports to Germany in the long run. The short-run causality analysis of ARDL demonstrates that exchange rate volatility causes demand for Pakistani exports in USA and UK adversely, while in case of Germany it causes positively. For Saudi Arabia and UAE, real effective exchange rate volatility does not affect demand for Pakistani exports in the short run as well as in the long run. The study concludes that different export elasticities for different export recipient countries derived in the present study suggest that a single trade policy will not provide a solution to improve country’s external trade sector.
Female Candidate Emergence and Term Limits: A State-Level Analysis
Authors: Pettey Samantha
Published: November 2017

This study examines term limits to determine the effect they have on female candidate emergence in state legislatures. Initial research finds a negative relationship between term limits and female representation. I offer a candidate-level theory and empirical approach to reevaluate how term limits affect female representation overtime. I argue term limits create an incentive structure that favors female candidates since the incumbency advantage is lessened. To test this theory, I set up a quasi-natural experiment with term limits as the treatment in a difference-in-differences test. Furthermore, I also run logistical regression analysis using candidate-level data from all fifty states from 1990 to 2000. I find women are more likely to run for office in open seats created by term limits. Last, this pattern holds for both Republican and Democratic female candidates.
Interdisciplinary Science Through the Parallel Curriculum Model: Lessons From the Sea
Authors: Hathcock Stephanie J.
Published: November 2017

The Parallel Curriculum Model (PCM) lends itself to considering curriculum development from different angles. It begins with a solid Core Curriculum and can then be extended through the Curriculum of Connections, Practice, and Identity. This article showcases a way of thinking about the creation of a PCM unit by providing examples from an Antarctic research expedition. The Curriculum of Connections is showcased through the practices of science and engineering and crosscutting concepts. The Curriculum of Practice is elaborated on through vignettes detailing collaborative activities on the ship. Finally, a special focus is placed on the Curriculum of Identity through profiles of people working on the ship who followed both traditional and nontraditional routes to their current careers.
Educating Journalism Students About News Archives: A Global Comparison With Special Focus on Spain and the United States
Authors: Domínguez-Delgado Rubén , Hansen Kathleen A. , Paul Nora
Published: November 2017

Journalists and news archivists are natural allies. Journalists require previously published reporting as context for their new stories. Archivists ensure that material is preserved for future retrieval. Local news archives serve as a cultural, legal, economic, and genealogical resource for their communities. Now, the archiving function in news organizations is relegated to information vendors with little input from journalists. Rarely are journalism and archiving coupled in programs that train future professionals. This article explores the current state of journalism and library science education globally and suggests ways to strengthen education in news archiving in these programs.
Expanding Beyond Public and Private Realities: Evoking Anzaldúan Autohistoria-teoría in Two Voices
Authors: Bhattacharya Kakali , Keating AnaLouise
Published: November 2017

In two voices, we evoke an Anzaldúan framing of autoethnography, or what Anzaldúa named autohistoria-teoría, to investigate our engagement in difficult conversations about current political events at home and at school. More than writing self into existence, autohistoria-teoría represents hybridized creativity and bridge building that uses life stories to generate innovative insights and theories. We see this work as deeply excavatory shadow work: delving into dark, painful parts of our memories, trauma, and identities. In addition, we expand our consciousness beyond the physical realm to draw strength and inspiration while avoiding the trappings of binaried discourses. Such expansive awareness compels us to think of activism in imaginative ways that integrate self-care and collective healing of traumatic wounds. Juxtaposing risky narratives against the political landscape, we invite others to become risk takers and expand possibilities for justice and liberation.
A case of aseptic meningitis in a cetuximab-experienced patient with metastatic colon cancer
Authors: Rohrer Chelsea L , Grullon Zunilda , George Sarah K , Castillo Raul , Karasiewicz Kelli
Published: November 2017

Cetuximab is a monoclonal antibody against epidermal growth factor receptor and is used in the treatment of head and neck cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. This case report describes a rare (<1% incidence) side effect of cetuximab administration: aseptic meningitis. We report a case which is, to our knowledge, the only case at the time of submission of this manuscript of aseptic meningitis in a patient being treated for metastatic colon cancer who was not cetuximab-naïve. This case report may help inform clinicians about the identification and outcome of this adverse event.
Making a place out of space: The social imaginaries and realities of a Business School as a designed space
Authors: Berti Marco , Simpson Ace V , Clegg Stewart R
Published: November 2017

We chart the sociomaterial imaginaries and realities of a new Frank Gehry–designed University of Technology Sydney Business School as both a space and a place. We review the broad sociological literature on space, considering its philosophical and conceptual parameters. Lefebvre’s work is central to such discussion, a centrality that we do not so much question as extend by turning attention from a macro-historical conception of space to consider the specificity of place and placemaking, contributing our ‘place in space’ heuristic model. We apply the model empirically through analysis of the design and occupancy of the business school, highlighting elements that concurrently produce the phenomenology of space and place. Our findings suggest that while organizational space ensconces power and the production of relationships, the translation of these into an identity ordering place is not a linear process. ‘Spatial narratives’, characterizing the imagined functions of the building, have been inconsistently materialized, and different actors have re-inscribed alternative functions and meanings in this new place. Theoretically, the article moves debate beyond the frame bequeathed by Lefebvre while building on it, proposing an analysis that affords equal emphasis to material elements (architectural features, furniture, policies) as to discursive elements (symbols, interpretations, narratives).
Committee chair selection under high informational and organizational constraints
Authors: Chiru Mihail , Gherghina Sergiu
Published: November 2017

This article draws on major theories of committee organization to explain committee chair selection in contexts with high informational and organizational constraints. We test our theoretical expectations through a series of fixed effects conditional logit models run on an original data set which includes all legislators who have served in the Romanian Chamber of Deputies from 1992 to 2012. The findings indicate that sector knowledge matters more for committee chair selection in the first post-communist terms, while chair seniority and party credentials acquire relevance later on. The effect of sector knowledge is stronger than that of chair seniority for the committees that the members of parliament perceive to be the most important, while party leaders have privileged access to the chair position irrespective of how salient the committee is.
Identity work and illness careers of patients with medically unexplained symptoms
Authors: Rossen Camilla Blach , Buus Niels , Stenager Elsebeth , Stenager Egon
Published: November 2017

This article reports a case study of the illness career and identity work of patients who have had medically unexplained symptoms for many years with a particular emphasis on their interactions with a specialized and standardized health care system. Patients with medically unexplained symptoms often experience being met with mistrust and feel their identity threatened as a consequence of being illegitimately ill. There is a strong tendency in health care towards assessment thorough standardized so-called assessment packages.

The study used a case study approach. Ethnographic fieldwork was carried out and several types of data were sampled through theoretical sampling, resulting in data from and about a sample of 13 patients, from which two patients were selected as cases.

The study showed that a standardized health care system characterized by a tendency towards narrow diagnostic assessment with limited time can lead to a diagnostic limbo and that patients and health care professionals keep on searching for legitimate explanations for the patients’ still unexplained symptoms. Consequently the patients were left in a constant identity negotiation.
Rethinking the sexual citizenship from queer and post-Soviet perspectives: Queer urban spaces and the right to the socialist city
Authors: Kondakov Alexander
Published: November 2017

In this article, I use the analysis of citizenship regimes and their revolutionary changes as a point of departure to offer an improvement of the notion of grassroots politics. The focus of the article is on queer citizenship as it evolved in alternative modernity that the USSR conditioned. Immediately after the October Revolution, the new government deliberately proclaimed a new sexual freedom and rearranged the material conditions of living in urban areas of the country. This resulted in unexpected changes of practice, one of which is the multiplication of public space. Contrary to conventional forms of politics, Soviet queer politics was reallocated to parallel urban spaces. This analysis allows one to address the particular relations between one’s sexuality and political participation, citizenship and materiality, market economy and revolutions.
Media meta-commentary and the performance of expertise
Authors: Jacobs Ronald N. , Townsley Eleanor
Published: November 2017

This article examines the rise of meta-commentary in US media, and considers the consequences it has for the social construction and the performance of intellectual expertise. Media meta-commentary is defined as critical reflection about media practices and performances, in which the primary basis for criticism is the comparison of different media formats. Meta-commentary began to emerge with the differentiation of the aesthetic sphere and the development of a new kind of expert, the cultural critic. Cultural criticism led to a proliferation of expert performance styles, including a type of counter-performance that rejects the somber and serious nature of traditional intellectual practices. By the 1980s, these new styles of intellectual performance were being reinforced by important institutional and regulatory changes within the media industry, and ultimately by the proliferation of new digital technologies and DIY culture. By the twenty-first century, media meta-commentary had become a distinctive and peculiar form of expert discourse, which legitimates the act of criticism while also relativizing it. The current environment suggests two possible outcomes: a hopeful one that encourages greater reflexivity, and a more ominous one that points toward populism.
Effects of different snow load arrangements on steel silo roof structures
Authors: Gallego Eutiquio , Fuentes Jose María , Ramírez-Gómez Alvaro , Ayuga Francisco
Published: November 2017

Large diameter steel silos usually require a beam structure to support rooftop inspection gangways and resist loads derived from the snow and wind actions. The existence of localized overloads caused by drifted snow on roofs as a consequence of the wind action has been reported in the literature. European standard EN 1991-1-3 also considers the need of taking into account asymmetric patterns for snow loads calculation. However, conical roofs are not included in the specific list of cases considered by this standard. The present work compares the normal stresses and displacements produced in a conical steel silo roof structure by applying balanced loads distributed on the whole roof and unbalanced loads applied on a roof sector. Experimental measurements and a three-dimensional beam model developed by the authors have been used to predict the stresses and vertical displacements of a metal silo roof structure measuring 18.34 m in diameter. The results show that the existence of an asymmetric load pattern produces higher normal stresses (up to 23%) and vertical displacements (up to 50%) than those derived from balanced loads, for any similar load per beam considered.
Social support, self-rated health and low mood in people on sick leave due to heart failure: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nordgren Lena , Söderlund Anne
Published: November 2017

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate social support in relation to self-rated health and the prevalence of low mood in people on sick leave due to heart failure. Methods: A cross-sectional design was used, and 590 individuals on sick leave due to heart failure in Sweden responded to the postal questionnaire. The questions therein concerned received and needed functional and structural support from managers, work colleagues, families and friends. Multivariate analyses were conducted. Results: The variables of income and needed support from family contributed significantly and negatively to self-rated health. Those who perceived that they needed more support from their manager reported experiencing low mood more frequently. Conclusions: The results showed a negative relation between manager support and low mood. Thus, support from managers and perceptions of low mood during sick leave are negatively associated, however, we do not know anything about the causality of this association. The results also indicated that needed support from family was negatively associated with self-rated health. The results also highlighted a multidimensional frailty in people with heart failure that needs to be recognized in future research as well as in clinical practice.
Recurrent cannabis use among Norwegian students
Authors: Erevik Eilin K. , Torsheim Torbjørn , Andreassen Cecilie S. , Vedaa Øystein , Pallesen Ståle
Published: November 2017

Background:

Research on cannabis has focused on lifetime use or regular/heavy use (i.e., daily or almost daily). Regular, albeit not necessarily daily, cannabis use has received less scientific attention.

Objectives:

This study aims to identify demographic and personality factors associated with recurrent cannabis use (i.e., cannabis usage 5 to 50 times in the last six months) and to investigate the relationship between cannabis use and use of other substances.

Methods:

Public and private university students ( N = 11,236) in Bergen, Norway, participated in an online survey during autumn 2015. Binary logistic regression was run to identify individual characteristics related to recurrent cannabis use. Chi-square tests were conducted to investigate differences in substance use (alcohol, nicotine, and illicit drugs) between recurrent cannabis users and cannabis abstainers/low-frequency users.

Results:

A total of 4.0% of the students reported recurrent cannabis use. Students born in North America, non-Christians (compared to non-religious students), and men were more likely to be recurrent users. Recurrent cannabis users scored higher on extroversion and intellect/imagination compared to abstainers/low-frequency users. Male and female recurrent cannabis users had somewhat different characteristics (e.g., agreeableness scores were negatively associated with recurrent use among females but not among males). Recurrent cannabis use was overall strongly associated with polysubstance use.

Conclusions:

The prevalence of recurrent cannabis use among Norwegian students is low. Recurrent cannabis use seems more prevalent among individuals marked by extroversion and intellect/imagination, which supports the notion of cannabis use as a social activity for individuals identifying themselves as outgoing and unconventional. Cannabis use among students seems strongly associated with use of other substances, suggesting that cannabis should not be considered a replacement drug.
Between facts and wills: Tönnies, Durkheim, and the sociological critique of modern obligation
Authors: Marcucci Nicola
Published: November 2017

This article explores the relation between Durkheim and Tönnies’ sociological thinking. Instead of focusing on their divergences, it shows how the content of their mutual criticisms, before being naturalized in national sociological traditions, reveals a shared epistemological aim: to rethink modern moral and political obligation via sociological theory. From this perspective, the opposition between Durkheim’s social fact and Tönnies’ social will reveals how classical sociological theory has been engaged in a general critisicm of modern natural law in order to furnish a different understanding of modern poltical concepts, in particular of the notion of state.
Law contra sociology: The critique of the social sciences, especially Durkheimian sociology, by Kelsen and Schmitt
Authors: Terrier Jean
Published: November 2017

This article explores the reception of Emile Durkheim in Germany at the beginning of the twentieth century. In recent years, the classical assumption according to which sociology is neatly organised in distinct national traditions has been challenged. This article further contributes to this challenge by analysing the case of two prominent German-speaking legal scholars, Hans Kelsen and Carl Schmitt. Despite major differences in their political and scientific outlook, both argued against the encroachments of the social sciences into the field of legal studies. This article shows how Kelsen mounted a polemic against Durkheim, on the basis of a first-hand knowledge of his writings. Kelsen believed that Durkheim committed several errors. In particular, he interpreted Durkheim’s famous sentence according to which ‘social facts must be treated as things’ as a clear sign of a materialistic, deterministic and positivistic attitude which neglects the power of ideas and norms. Schmitt targeted sociology by way of a criticism not of Durkheim but of Léon Duguit, who had been inspired by Durkheim and pleaded for a collaboration between legal scholars and social scientists. According to Schmitt, a sociological approach to law amounts to a dangerous denial of the centrality of the state in politics.
Critique of politics: Adorno on Durkheim
Authors: Christ Julia
Published: November 2017

This paper analyzes a dual relationship between Adorno and Durkheim: on the one hand, Adorno adopts Durkheim’s perspective on society, describing it as an obscure, opaque thing that individuals cannot understand by themselves; on the other, he tries to get out of the opacity that he recognizes as a structural moment of the society he lives in. This last point engages us in a discussion of the relationship between political sociology and philosophy of emancipation, which allows to study in a new perspective the only text Adorno published in his lifetime on Durkheim: his preface to Philosophy and Sociology, the critical violence of which is well known and often interpreted as a complete rejection of Durkheim’s sociology. The thesis of this article is that the conflict between Adorno and Durkheim is a political one and that the division between the two authors lies in their evaluation of the capacity of the modern capitalist society to produce out of itself common ideals that assure the justice of the actual social order.
Interview by Gregor Fitzi and Nicola Marcucci with Hans Joas on the reception of Émile Durkheim in Germany. Berlin: Humboldt University of Berlin, 6 October 2014
Authors: Fitzi Gregor , Joas Hans , Marcucci Nicola
Published: November 2017

The interview offers a reconstruction of the German reception of Durkheim since the middle of the 1970s. Hans Joas, who was one of its major protagonists, discusses the backdrop that finally permitted a scholarly examination of Durkheim’s sociology in Germany. Focussing on his personal reception Joas then gives an account of the Durkheimian themes that inspire his work.
Are your students safe to learn? The role of lecturer’s authentic leadership in the creation of psychologically safe environments and their impact on academic performance
Authors: Soares André Escórcio , Lopes Miguel Pereira
Published: November 2017

As the role of students and lecturers in higher education changes, several questions emerge about the role of each of them on students’ academic performance. This includes questions regarding the impact of the relationships between students, lecturer’s characteristics and the social environment on students’ performance. To address these questions, this article reports a study of the impact of lecturer authentic leadership, psychological safety and network density on academic performance. It explores the relationship between network density, psychological safety and lecturer authentic leadership. A questionnaire was distributed to undergraduate students. A positive impact of lecturer authentic leadership and psychological safety on academic performance was found. Students from high-density groups tended to show better academic performance, higher psychological safety and tended to see their lecturers as being more authentic. A reflection on the role of the lecturer in higher education settings is presented. It also presents some recommendations on how student academic performance can be improved by the adoption of specific behaviours by their lecturer.
The Spotify Effect: Digital Distribution and Financial Growth
Authors: Vonderau Patrick
Published: November 2017

This article analyzes Spotify as a media company that operates at the intersection of advertising, technology, music, and finance. In doing so, this article contributes to media industry studies as a field that investigates the relation between various industrial and economic actors. Given that the media industries, as any other industry, can be defined as a set of markets, one of which is the leading market, and to which other markets are auxiliary, the question asked is what market is leading in the case of Spotify. What the article describes as the “Spotify effect” is the company’s ability to fold markets into each other: to make disappear an aggressive financial growth strategy and business set-up based on ad tech engineering by creating an aura of Nordic cool and public benefit around its use of music. Spotify’s financial strategy has implications for the digital distribution of cultural content more generally.
Evaluation Fucoidan Extracts From Undaria pinnatifida and Fucus vesiculosus in Combination With Anticancer Drugs in Human Cancer Orthotopic Mouse Models
Authors: Burney Maryam , Mathew Lata , Gaikwad Anjali , Nugent Elizabeth K. , Gonzalez Anneliese O. , Smith Judith A.
Published: November 2017

Objective: To determine the activity of fucoidan from Undaria pinnatifida (UPF) and Fucus vesiculosus (FVF) when given in combination of chemotherapy drugs using selected human breast or ovarian cancer orthotopic mouse models. Methods: Mice were inoculated with 1 × 106 cells of TOV-112d, MCF-7, or ZR-75 subcutaneously or SKOV3-GFP-Luc intraperitoneally on day 0. MCF-7 and ZR-75 mice were administered with estradiol valerate 2 mg/kg in 0.2 mL castor oil subcutaneously two days prior to cell inoculation. Mice were randomized to one of six arms (N = 10/arm) paclitaxel, UPF/paclitaxel, FVF/paclitaxel, tamoxifen, UPF/tamoxifen, or FVF/tamoxifen. Tumors were measured three times per week for 28 days. Results: Improved activity was observed with UPF or FVF in combination with tamoxifen in both the MCF-7 and ZR-75D breast cancer mouse models. Decreased activity of paclitaxel was observed when given in combination with UPF or FVF in both breast cancer mouse models. The combination of FVF/tamoxifen in the TOV-112d ovarian cancer mouse model had improved activity but no there was difference observed with the UPF/tamoxifen in either ovarian cancer mouse model. No difference was observed with combination of UPF or FVF with paclitaxel in human ovarian cancer SKOV3 or TOV-112d orthotopic mouse models. Conclusion: This study did confirm that UPF/FVF in combination with tamoxifen did not decrease tamoxifen activity in both breast and ovarian cancer, with some potential to improve activity compared to tamoxifen alone in breast cancers. Previous in vitro studies had suggested UPF and FVF had overall synergistic activity with paclitaxel; however, in the current in vivo human cancer mouse model studies there was no change in paclitaxel activity when given in combination with UPF or FVF in either of the two human ovarian cancer models. Furthermore, this study demonstrated that UPF or FVF given in combination with paclitaxel had a potential antagonistic effect in breast cancer models. Additional studies are warranted to delineate mechanisms contributing to variation in the in vivo activity when given in combination with paclitaxel. As a first step, a clinical pharmacokinetic study evaluating impact of FVF/UPF given in combination with chemotherapy in patients with solid tumors is underway.
Linking Participatory Action Research on Health Systems to Justice in Global Health: A Case Study of the Maternal and Neonatal Implementation for Equitable Health Systems Project in Rural Uganda
Authors: Pratt Bridget , Hyder Adnan A.
Published: November 2017

An ethical framework called “research for health justice” provides initial guidance on how to link health systems research in low- and middle-income countries to health equity. To further develop the largely conceptual framework, we tested its guidance against the experience of the Maternal and Neonatal Implementation for Equitable Health Systems (Manifest) project, which was performed in rural Uganda by researchers from Makerere University. We conducted 21 in-depth interviews with investigators and research implementers, directly observed study sites, and reviewed study-related documents. Our analysis identifies where alignment exists between the framework’s guidance and the Manifest project, providing initial lessons on how that was achieved. It also identifies where nonalignment occurred and gaps in the framework’s guidance. Suggestions are then made for revising and expanding “research for health justice.”
Mixed Methods Designs for Making Cross-Cultural Comparisons
Authors: Schrauf Robert W.
Published: November 2017

Mixed methods, cross-cultural designs are a special case of the more general, mixed methods between-groups designs. The defining feature of mixed methods is the principled integration of qualitative and quantitative approaches, and cross-cultural comparison is premised on the systematic collection and analysis of data from two or more cultural settings for the explicit purpose of between-groups comparisons. This article explores the interaction of mixed methods integration and cross-cultural between-groups comparison to develop cross-cultural versions of five prototypical mixed methods designs: sequential (exploratory and explanatory), parallel, conversion, fully integrated, and multilevel. Each is exemplified by published studies. Final reflections explore possible additional contributions that mixed methods might make to issues of cross-cultural equivalence in data collection and analysis.
Utility of bulging technique for endovascular treatment of small and wide-necked aneurysms with a Low-profile Visualized Intraluminal Support (LVIS Jr.) device: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Inoue Akihiro , Tagawa Masahiko , Matsumoto Shirabe , Nishikawa Masahiro , Kusakabe Kosuke , Watanabe Hideaki , Kunieda Takeharu
Published: November 2017

Small and broad-necked aneurysms are generally very difficult to treat using endovascular therapy. The arrival of the low-profile stent (e.g., Low-profile Visualized Intraluminal Support; LVIS) has enabled reconstructive treatment for these aneurysms. In addition, the bulging technique using LVIS is an effective and attractive technique for performing stent-assisted coiling to preserve parent arteries and achieve neck coverage. We report here a patient with a small and wide-necked ruptured basilar artery (BA) top aneurysm, in whom successful treatment was achieved by stent-assisted coiling with LVIS Jr. using the bulging technique. A 74-year-old woman with moderate hypertension consulted for treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage with a ruptured BA top aneurysm measuring 2.7 mm in height with a 4.3 mm neck. We initially tried emergency balloon-assisted coiling, but coiling proved difficult. We therefore performed stent-assisted coiling with LVIS Jr. using the bulging technique. The postoperative course was uneventful, with no aggravation of neurological symptoms, and the patient was discharged 14 days postoperatively. This treatment strategy with LVIS Jr. using the bulging technique may be very useful for patients with a ruptured aneurysm with a small and broad neck that would otherwise require treatment with intravascular devices or open surgery.
No time to talk! Teachers’ perceptions of organizational communication: Context and climate
Authors: Schad Elinor
Published: November 2017

Teachers’ perceptions of organizational communication were assessed using a tailored questionnaire, sampling 401 primary and lower secondary school teachers from two municipalities in Sweden. Overall, the teachers were satisfied with the workplace communication climate, the communication structure, and collegial communication; however, a lack of time for communication was reported. Using a job demands–resource framework and hierarchical linear regression, the organizational communication variables were shown to predict job satisfaction even when controlling for relevant work environment indicators. In total, the model predicted 49.2% of the variance in job satisfaction. It is argued that school leaders should focus primarily both on providing opportunities for collegial interactions and working actively to improve the communication climate in schools.
Community singing groups for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: participant perspectives
Authors: Skingley Ann , Clift Stephen , Hurley Sadie , Price Sonia , Stephens Lizzi
Published: November 2017

Aim:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health issue which is irreversible and progressive, but previous research suggests that singing may have beneficial effects. The aim of this study was to establish the views of participants with COPD taking part in a singing for better breathing programme.

Methods:

This was a descriptive qualitative study nested within a single-cohort feasibility study which included measures of lung function and wellbeing. Participants ( n = 37) were interviewed following a community singing programme that ran over 10 months in South East England.

Results:

Findings support those from previous studies regarding the impact of singing on respiratory wellbeing. These included the teaching on breath control, relaxation and the breathing exercises, singing as a means to deflect attention away from breathing problems, leading to increased activity levels and the mutual support for respiratory problems. Beyond the impact on breathing, the singing was also seen as fun, and provided friendship and a ‘feel-good’ factor which led to motivation to participate in further activities. For some, it was the highlight of the week, and singing together in a group was felt to be central to the benefits experienced. Findings are compared with the quantitative measures within the same study.

Conclusion:

The majority of participants reported improvements in respiratory symptoms as well as mental and social wellbeing following the programme. The study contributes to the evidence base in supporting and highlighting the consistently positive experiences of a large sample of participants, despite variable outcomes in clinical measures.
Evidence-based management of Raynaud’s phenomenon
Authors: Herrick Ariane L.
Published: November 2017

Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) is relevant to the rheumatologist because it may signify an underlying connective tissue disease and also because it can be very challenging to treat, especially when it has progressed to digital ulceration or critical ischaemia. This review article discusses diagnosis (does this patient have an underlying connective tissue disease?), including the role for nailfold capillaroscopy, and treatment. Management of ‘uncomplicated’ RP is first described and then treatment of RP complicated by progression to digital ulceration or critical ischaemia, highlighting recent advances (including phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibition, and endothelin 1 receptor antagonism) and the evidence base underpinning these. Possible future therapies are briefly discussed.
Observational in-vitro study comparing the efficacy of fluid warming devices: Ranger© 24500 versus ANIMEC AM-2S
Authors: Chang See Seong , Lim Wan Yen , Ho Vui Kian
Published: November 2017

Background:

Intraoperative hypothermia is detrimental to the patient. This, however, can be minimized with infusion of warmed fluids.

Objectives:

We investigated the warming capabilities of the Ranger© 24500 (Ranger) and ANIMEC AM-2S (ANIMEC) at various low infusion rates. We also examined the use of two ANIMEC warmers placed in series along the intravenous tubing.

Methods:

We had three comparative trial groups for our experiment. Trial group 1 involved the use of an ANIMEC fluid warmer. Trial group 2 involved the use of two ANIMEC fluid warmers placed in series. Trial group 3 involved the use of the Ranger. Three different infusion rates (1 ml/min, 5 ml/min and 10 ml/min) were examined.

Results:

The use of two ANIMEC fluid warmers delivered the warmest fluid in all three study infusion rates. The mean (SD) delivered temperature was 24.11 (0.62)°C at 1 ml/min, 29.59 (0.10)°C at 5 ml/min and 29.27 (0.10)°C at 10 ml/min. The Ranger delivered the lowest temperatures at infusion rates of 1 ml/min and 5 ml/min. The mean temperatures were 21.01 (0.38)°C and 23.87 (0.34)°C respectively. The mean temperatures of utilizing one ANIMEC fluid warmer were 21.49 (0.35)°C, 25.47 (0.08)°C and 24.78 (0.12)°C at infusion rates of 1 ml/min, 5 ml/min and 10 ml/min respectively.

Conclusion:

The ANIMEC performs better than the Ranger at low flow rates of up to 5 ml/min. A novel method of placing the two ANIMEC warming devices in series can further improve its warming capabilities.
Defocus Discrimination in Video: Motion in Depth
Authors: Petrella Vincent A. , Labute Simon , Langer Michael S. , Kry Paul G.
Published: November 2017

We perform two psychophysics experiments to investigate a viewer’s ability to detect defocus in video; in particular, the defocus that arises in video during motion in depth when the camera does not maintain sharp focus throughout the motion. The first experiment demonstrates that blur sensitivity during viewing is affected by the speed at which the target moves towards the camera. The second experiment measures a viewer’s ability to notice momentary defocus and shows that the threshold of blur detection in arc minutes decreases significantly as the duration of the blur increases. Our results suggest that it is important to have good control of focus while recording video and that momentary defocus should be kept as short as possible so it goes unnoticed.
Influence of longitudinal position on the evolution of steady-state signal in cardiac cine balanced steady-state free precession imaging
Authors: Spear Tyler J , Stromp Tori A , Leung Steve W , Vandsburger Moriel H
Published: November 2017

Background

Emerging quantitative cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI) techniques use cine balanced steady-state free precession (bSSFP) to measure myocardial signal intensity and probe underlying physiological parameters. This correlation assumes that steady-state is maintained uniformly throughout the heart in space and time.

Purpose

To determine the effects of longitudinal cardiac motion and initial slice position on signal deviation in cine bSSFP imaging by comparing two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) acquisitions.

Material and Methods

Nine healthy volunteers completed cardiac MRI on a 1.5-T scanner. Short axis images were taken at six slice locations using both 2D and 3D cine bSSFP. 3D acquisitions spanned two slices above and below selected slice locations. Changes in myocardial signal intensity were measured across the cardiac cycle and compared to longitudinal shortening.

Results

For 2D cine bSSFP, 46% ± 9% of all frames and 84% ± 13% of end-diastolic frames remained within 10% of initial signal intensity. For 3D cine bSSFP the proportions increased to 87% ± 8% and 97% ± 5%. There was no correlation between longitudinal shortening and peak changes in myocardial signal. The initial slice position significantly impacted peak changes in signal intensity for 2D sequences ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The initial longitudinal slice location significantly impacts the magnitude of deviation from steady-state in 2D cine bSSFP that is only restored at the center of a 3D excitation volume. During diastole, a transient steady-state is established similar to that achieved with 3D cine bSSFP regardless of slice location.
The Use of Prior Knowledge for Perceptual Inference Is Preserved in ASD
Authors: Van de Cruys Sander , Vanmarcke Steven , Van de Put Ines , Wagemans Johan
Published: November 2017

An amorphous collection of black and white patches (so-called Mooney images) can be perceived dramatically differently before versus after exposure to the natural source image. Prior experience causes the patches to (re)organize and fit together in a meaningful whole. Given recent hypotheses on a weaker role of priors in perception in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), we looked at improvements in recognition accuracy for Mooney images, before and after exposure to their source image, in typically developing (TD) individuals varying in ASD-like traits, and in a clinical group of adolescents with ASD (versus matched TD sample). We found typical prior-based performance improvements irrespective of ASD-like traits or ASD diagnosis, suggesting that the fast formation and application of specific priors is preserved in ASD. Together with earlier studies reporting intact use of other types of perceptual priors, these findings narrow down the candidate Bayesian accounts that are plausible for ASD.
Diplomacy, trade, and South Korea’s rise to international influence
Authors: Patterson Dennis , Choi Jangsup
Published: November 2017

The story of South Korea’s post-armistice economic ascendance has been well documented, but its parallel rise as an influential international actor is just beginning to receive the scholarly attention it deserves. Moreover, in the work that has been produced thus far, scholars have assumed that it was its remarkable economic growth that drove South Korea’s rise to international influence. This assumption misses the important fact that South Korea was elevating itself internationally while it was still a poor nation. As we demonstrate in this paper, what is missing in existing work is that it was the diplomatic efforts of South Korean presidents early in the post-armistice period that put the country on the path to its current international influence both directly and indirectly. They did this directly by removing it from the diplomatic isolation it inherited after the Korean War, and they accomplished this indirectly by using the tools of diplomacy to expand South Korea’s trading relations, without which it would not have enjoyed the remarkable economic growth it experienced.