bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Midlands cadences: Narrative voices in the work of Alan Sillitoe
Authors: Scott Jeremy
Published: November 2016

This paper will examine excerpts from a range of Alan Sillitoe’s prose fiction, Saturday Night and Sunday Morning (1958) and short stories from the collection The Loneliness of the Long-Distance Runner (1958), via a comparative exploration of the texts’ representations of Midlands English demotic. The narrative discourse traces a link between the experience of the Midlands English working classes represented and the demotic language they speak; the narrators have voices redolent of registers rooted in 1950s English working-class life. The texts also contain different methods of representing their protagonists’ consciousness through the demotic idiolects that they speak.

Sillitoe’s is a novelistic discourse which refuses to normalise itself to accord with the conventions of classic realism, and as such prefigures the ambitions of many contemporary writers who incline their narrative voices towards the oral – asserting the right of a character’s dialect/idiolect to be the principal register of the narrative. The paper will demonstrate this thesis through the ideas of Bakhtin, and through an analytical taxonomy derived from literary stylistics. It aims to propose a model which can be used to analyse and explore any fiction which has been labelled as ‘working-class’, and asserts that such an approach leads to a more principled characterisation of working-class fiction (based on its use of language) than current literary-critical discussions based simply on cultural/social context and biography.
Systematicity, a missing term in historical metrics
Authors: Weiskott Eric
Published: November 2016

This essay identifies two persistent problems in the historical study of meter—nonconformant metrical patterns and metrical change—and offers a new term as a conceptual tool for understanding their interdependence. The term ‘systematic’ denotes metrical patterns that conform to synchronically operant metrical principles. The corresponding term ‘asystematic’ denotes the minority of actually occurring metrical patterns that fall outside the metrical system as such for historical reasons. All systematic patterns are necessarily metrical, but not all metrical patterns are systematic. It is argued that the systematicity/metricality distinction in historical metrics is analogous to the regularity/grammaticality distinction in historical linguistics and similarly fundamental to historical analysis. By introducing a new technical term, this essay seeks to shift the metrist’s object of study from the metrical system qua system to meter as a complex historical experience. The value of the concept of systematicity is illustrated through three case studies in asystematic metrical patterns from early English poetic traditions: verses with three metrical positions in Beowulf, lines with masculine ending in Middle English alliterative verse, and the infamous ‘broken-backed lines’ in the pentameter of John Lydgate. In each case, it is argued that the contrast between systematic and asystematic metrical patterns illuminates the diverse historical and perceptual negotiations that inevitably lie behind metered texts.
Transforming Authenticity of Cultural Products: A Case Study of Comic Characters
Authors: Chung Mun-Young , Ju Hyejung
Published: November 2016

Corporate media ownership facilitates the licensing of cultural products for multiple uses. The authenticity of a cultural form, including those included in comic books, has changed through the transformation of the original comic book characters. Moreover, those transformations may engage us more through this evolution from authenticity to transforming character. In the context of Disney’s merger with Marvel Comics in 2009, was the authenticity of popular comic characters’ original visual images transformed by reproduction in other media forms? This study explored potential transformations of the original image of the Marvel Comics character Wolverine in diverse media formats, as well as the possibility of shifting its authenticity through recreations or infantilization to appeal to different audiences.
A waste of energy? A critical assessment of the investigation of the UK energy market by the Competition and Markets Authority
Authors: Amountzias Chrysovalantis , Dagdeviren Hulya , Patokos Tassos
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we assess the findings of the UK energy market investigation by the Competition and Markets Authority, conducted during June 2014–June 2016. We argue that the results of the investigation have been advantageous for the large energy companies and they risk failing to bring any significant and positive change to the energy industry. We highlight three major aspects of the Competition and Markets Authority's assessment. First, the panel examined retail and wholesale segments of the energy industry in isolation, which can be misleading in the assessment of vertical integration. It also considered new entries to the sector as a sign of competitive strength when many were due to favourable government policies in the form of exemptions from various obligations. Second, its conclusion that a position of unilateral market power by the large energy companies arises from weak customer engagement (i.e. low switching rates) shifts the focus and responsibility for the problems of the energy markets away from the conduct of the companies onto customers. Finally, the investigation placed an overemphasis on competition without due reference to its consequences for consumers’ welfare.
Is self-reflection dangerous? Preventing rumination in career learning
Authors: Lengelle Reineke , Luken Tom , Meijers Frans
Published: November 2016

Reflection is considered necessary and beneficial within career learning and is deemed to be a condition for successful career-identity development. Indeed, reflection is generally seen as a key competency in learning how to respond effectively to a complex and dynamic post-modern world in which individuals are increasingly exposed to risk. Paradoxically however, reflection can itself form a risk when it results in rumination. It is therefore important to identify the conditions and personal (risk) factors that make reflection a detrimental or beneficial activity and to identify elements within career-learning interventions that promote benefit. The purpose here is to increase awareness about reflective versus ruminative processes and promote responsible use of interventions that aim to stimulate reflection in the process of career-identity formation. Based on the “career writing” method, the authors conclude that a successful career intervention must especially provide good facilitation and a safe holding environment.
Educational pathways of ninth grade adolescents: Transition practices in vocational and academic families
Authors: Vanhalakka-Ruoho Marjatta , Koski Leena , Silvonen Jussi , Tamminen Merja
Published: November 2016

The study analyses how the educational pathways of ninth graders are constructed by practices of adolescents and their parents in families with different educational statuses. The importance of contextualising the educational transition as it occurs in daily life and socially structured family cultures is emphasised. The research question is: How is the choice of educational route of ninth graders constructed by the practices of the adolescents and the parents in vocational and academic families? What does characterise different pathways and what kinds of distinctions, differences and contrasts of transition practices do exist between them? The interview sample consisted of 16 Finnish families. The interviews were carried out in three forms: a family discussion interview, a thematic interview of the adolescents, and a life-history interview of the parents. The results introduce the main characteristics and distinctions of transition practices of the vocational and academic families.
Social Support for Female Sexual Dysfunction in Fibromyalgia
Authors: Granero-Molina José , Matarín Jiménez Tamara María , Ramos Rodríguez Carmen , Hernández-Padilla José Manuel , Castro-Sánchez Adelaida María , Fernández-Sola Cayetano
Published: November 2016

The aim of this study is to describe and understand experiences related to social support for women with fibromyalgia who suffer from sexual dysfunction. An interpretive qualitative research methodology based on Gadamer’s philosophical hermeneutics was used. Data collection included a focus group and in-depth interviews with 13 women who averaged 44.8 years of age and 14.3 years since being diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Data were analyzed using Fleming’s method and two themes were identified: “searching for understanding in socio-family support” and “lack of formal support regarding fibromyalgia patient’s sexuality.” The partner constitutes the main support for women with fibromyalgia. Although they can find understanding and social support in patient associations, they lack formal support from health care professionals. Women demand trusted and expert professionals, like sexologists and nurses, to carry out a multidisciplinary approach to tackle sexual dysfunction associated with fibromyalgia.
It Was the Best of Times; It Was the Worst of Times
Authors: Ross John P. , Intindola Melissa L. , Boje David M.
Published: November 2016

The importance of work–life balance has increased dramatically in recent years. Hyperconnected employees are struggling to balance the “spillover” between internal work and external life demands. We questioned whether there was a difference in organizationally supported work–life balance at Fortune Magazine’s “Best Places to Work For” versus Wall St. 24/7’s “Worst Places to Work.” We analyzed 1,100 unsolicited, open-ended employee reviews from a major career web site and conducted a contextual analysis of the differences between the “best” and “worst” places to work. Our findings show clear differences in the time benefits offered and governance structures used to support these benefits. Our findings also reveal that employees today are not seeking “balance.” Instead, they are seeking “work–life flexibility,” a new, complex way of looking at the employee today. Findings are discussed and implications for work–life flexibility are provided.
Individuals’ Considerations When Responding to Competing Logics
Authors: Brandl Julia , Bullinger Bernadette
Published: November 2016

The question how individuals experience and respond to competing logics has recently received intensified attention, but current theories remain incoherent, and research is restricted to situations with stable constellations of logics. To elaborate on these issues, we use insights from identity control theory, and develop a model for individuals’ considerations during interactions characterized by institutional complexity. We argue that individuals engage with several logics, unless these logics are related to conflicting identities that become salient simultaneously. Conflicting identities encourage individuals to choose the logic that is linked to the identity higher up in their “self.” In situations where the conflict is not clear from the beginning, individuals may distance themselves from the logic that is related to a lower level identity, to maintain self-esteem. This article contributes to research by clarifying the competing perspectives on individual considerations when there are multiple institutional logics and extends research to dynamically evolving situations.
Regime Type and Political Destabilization in Cross-National Perspective
Authors: Slinko Elena , Bilyuga Stanislav , Zinkina Julia , Korotayev Andrey
Published: November 2016

In this article, we re-analyze the hypothesis that the relationship between the type of political regime and its political instability forms an inverted U shape. Following this logic, consistent democracies and autocracies are more stable regimes, whereas intermediate regimes (anocracies) display the lowest levels of political stability. We re-test this hypothesis using a data set that has not been previously used for this purpose, finding sufficient evidence to support the hypothesis pertaining to the aforementioned U-shaped relationship. Our analysis is specifically focused on the symmetry of this U shape, whereby our findings suggest that the U-shaped relationship between regime types and sociopolitical destabilization is typically characterized by an asymmetry, with consistently authoritarian regimes being generally less stable than consolidated democracies. We also find that the character of this asymmetry can change with time. In particular, our re-analysis suggests that U-shaped relationship experienced significant changes after the end of the Cold War. Before the end of the Cold War (1946-1991), the asymmetry of inverted U-shaped relationship was much less pronounced—though during this period consistent authoritarian regimes were already less stable than consolidated democracies, this very difference was only marginally significant. In the period that follows the end of the Cold War (1992-2014), this asymmetry underwent a substantial change: Consolidated democracies became significantly more stable, whereas consolidated autocracies became significantly more unstable. As a result, the asymmetry of the U-shaped relationship has become much more pronounced. The article discusses a number of factors that could account for this change.
Depression among left-behind children in China
Authors: Liang Ying , Wang Lei , Rui Guoqiang
Published: November 2016

By retrieving literature published from 2005 to 2015 from Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, Vip, PubMed, and Web of Science, we filtered out studies using the Children’s Depression Inventory only and compared left-behind children and non-left-behind children. The methodological quality of the papers was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Finally, we included six studies to carry out a meta-analysis. The results showed that the Children’s Depression Inventory scores of left-behind children are significantly higher than those of non-left-behind children (standardized mean difference: −0.233, 95% confidence interval: −0.036 to −0.430, p < 0.05).
Individual differences in the propensity to make attributions to prejudice
Authors: Miller Stuart S. , Saucier Donald A.
Published: November 2016

Whether racism is perceived in ambiguous situations may depend on individual differences in perceivers’ beliefs about the prevalence of racial prejudice and discrimination, trivialization of targets’ concerns, and vigilance and confidence in recognizing instances of racial prejudice. In Studies 1 and 2, we develop a psychometrically sound measure of these beliefs, the Propensity to Make Attributions to Prejudice Scale (PMAPS), and provide evidence that the PMAPS is related to individual differences in the justification and suppression of prejudice. Studies 3 and 5 provide evidence that the PMAPS predicts attributions to prejudice in a variety of situations. Theoretically consistent racial and gender differences in the PMAPS were found in a large sample (Study 4). Together, these data provide evidence supporting the reliability and validity of the PMAPS and provide insights about the role that beliefs and expectations play in third-party observers’ judgments about expressions of prejudice.
The last plumassier: storying dead birds, gender and Paraffection at Maison Lemarié
Authors: Pacault Marine , Patchett Merle
Published: November 2016

Founded in 1875, Maison Lemarié is one of the last remaining plumassiers (feather-makers) anywhere in the world. In highly concentrated and minutely detailed work, the artisans at Lemarié painstakingly treat, dye and apply fragile feathers to haute couture garments. Mindful of preserving these rarefied skills, Chanel (a global fashion empire) purchased the workshop in 1997 as part of ‘Paraffection’. Paraffection, which roughly translates to ‘for the love of it’, is a Chanel subsidiary company established to preserve and promote the heritage, craft and manufacturing skills of highly specialized fashion ateliers. By enacting a visit to Maison Lemarié, this article demonstrates how its heritage and skills are embodied not only in the artisans working there but also in the feathered remains used and housed in the workshop. Unravelling the stories held in human and avian bodies, we suggest, enables a series of broader geographical reflections on skill, gender and Paraffection.
Interpreting and Tolerating Speech
Authors: Doherty David , Stancliffe James
Published: November 2016

We report findings from an experiment where participants read a story about a speech that sharply criticized U.S. foreign policy. The story varied how elites framed the speech, the speaker’s apparent ethnicity, and the content of the speech. We assess how each of these factors affected not only tolerance judgments but also inferences about the speaker’s motives and the likely consequences of the speech—considerations that play a central role in free speech jurisprudence. Troublingly, we find that the effects of elite framing and the speaker’s apparent ethnicity are often comparable with the effect of the speech explicitly calling for violence. Our design also allows us to assess the extent to which the effectiveness of elite framing is constrained by “facts on the ground.” However, we find little evidence that the framing effects we identify depend on the content of the speech or the speaker’s ethnicity.
Comparison of Drug-Eluting Balloon and Standard Balloon Angioplasty for Infrapopliteal Arterial Diseases in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Oz Ibrahim Ilker , Serifoglu Ismail , Bilici Muammer , Altinbas Namik Kemal , Oz Evrim Bozay , Akduman Ece Isin
Published: November 2016

Objective:

To consider the clinical outcomes and restenosis rates of drug-eluting balloons (DEBs) and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) in diabetic patients with infrapopliteal (IP) arterial disease.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective, single-center study included 51 patients (37 males; mean age: 63.43 ± 9.81 years) with diabetes mellitus having IP arterial disease, from October 2012 to September 2014. Twenty-two patients were treated with PTA, and 29 patients were treated with DEBs. After intervention, the patients were evaluated in the first week and every 3 months, clinically and radiologically. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes of diabetic patients with IP arterial disease who were treated with either DEBs or PTA.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of age and gender, risk factors, characteristics of lesions, or the diameters or length of the balloons ( P > .05). Primary patency was higher in the DEB group than in the PTA group (97.8% vs 81.1%, P = .020) in the first 3 months. However, there was no statistically significant difference at 1-year follow-up (68.2% vs 48.5%, P = .131). At the 12-month follow-up, there was no difference in clinical improvement between the groups ( P = .193).

Conclusion:

The findings of this study reveal that DEB is a safe alternative treatment method for IP arterial disease in diabetic patients.
Guaranteed convergence control for consensus of mobile sensor networks with dynamical topologies
Authors: Li Xiangshun , Lei Cheng , Dong Lijing , Nguang Sing-Kiong
Published: November 2016

Mobile sensors need to reach consensus in many applications such as unmanned vehicles, multi-agent systems and environmental monitoring. In these scenarios, it is very important to reduce the power consumption as well as make sensors reach consensus as fast as possible. In this article, we propose a novel guaranteed convergence control algorithm to switch topologies of mobile sensors so that we can reduce power consumption in the sensor network and make the mobile sensors reach consensus with guaranteed convergence as well. The topology graphs over the mobile sensors are unconnected, directed, dynamical and switched periodically at any moment, while the joint graphs of dynamical topologies are connected in a bounded time period. The guaranteed convergence rate of consensus is derived on a method based on the variable decomposition. Some illustrative examples are provided to demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the results.
Resource management model based on cloud computing environment
Authors: Kim Ahyoung , Lee Junwoo , Kim Mucheol
Published: November 2016

In this article, we propose the dynamic resources management model in a cloud computing environment. For monitoring the certain resource, we should utilize not only a cloud management module but also a network management module. However, it is difficult to check the duration time and to observe the digested information about the resources. To investigate these problems in a cloud computing environment, we designed and deployed the cloud service infrastructure based on open-source software, namely, CloudStack. The proposed model regularly stores the usage data for computing resources based on Hadoop and HBase. In addition, our model analyzes the raw data for virtual machines and makes an effective recommendation regarding the consumption of computing resources.
“. . . I’ve Gone Through This My Own Self, So I Practice What I Preach . . . ”
Authors: Slack Catherine , Thabethe Siya , Lindegger Graham , Matandika Limba , Newman Peter A. , Kerr Philippa , Wassenaar Doug , Roux Surita , Bekker Linda-Gail
Published: November 2016

There has not been enough study of the processes by which site staff help participating community members and potential participants to understand complicated concepts for HIV vaccine trials. This article describes strategies reported in six focus group discussions with Community Advisory Board members, educators, and consent counselors at an active HIV vaccine trial site in South Africa. Thematic analysis identified a considerable range of strategies, and findings suggest that such staff do not only try to promote understanding of critical information but also try to build trust in communicated information, to respect cultural differences, and to promote voluntariness. Findings also suggest occasional tensions between these implicit goals. Actual engagement and consent encounters at HIV vaccine trial sites should be observed, recorded, and analyzed; and the relationship between practices and valued outcomes should be assessed. These efforts may help to make consent-related encounters as “potent” as possible given finite resources.
Perceptions of emotional abuse in the coach–athlete relationship in youth sport: The influence of competitive level and outcome
Authors: Gervis Misia , Rhind Daniel , Luzar Amber
Published: November 2016

Emotional abuse has been highlighted as a key issue within the youth sport context. The present study investigated how perceptions of emotional abuse are influenced by situational factors. Two hundred and eight participants (107 athletes and 101 coaches) were shown a series of vignettes depicting emotionally abusive behaviour by a coach towards a 14-year-old athlete. Differences in perceptions were explored in relation to the level of competition (elite, county and club) and performance outcome (successful/unsuccessful) depicted in the vignette. Participants rated each vignette on a 5-point scale in terms of the extent to which the coach’s behaviour had an impact on the athlete’s performance and well-being as well as the perceived commonality and acceptability of the behaviour. Two-way ANOVAs revealed that competitive level and performance outcome, both as main effects and as an interaction, significantly influenced perceptions. These findings can inform policy and practice to change attitudes and behaviours which support and justify emotionally abusive behaviours in youth sport contexts.
Testing the moderating effect of the perceived importance of the coach on the relationship between perceived coaching feedback and athletes’ perceptions of competence
Authors: Amorose Anthony J , Nolan-Sellers Wendy
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this study was to explore whether the importance athletes place on behaviors of their coach moderates the relationship between athletes’ perceptions of their coach’s feedback and their own perceptions of competence. Adult female softball players participating in a competitive league completed questionnaires assessing (a) their perceptions of competence, (b) their perceptions of feedback they typically receive from their coach, and (c) the importance they place on what their coach says and does. Overall, results of various regression analyses provided general support for the hypothesis that a stronger effect of coach feedback on athletes’ perceptions of competence would emerge for those athletes placing greater importance on their coach. This effect was primarily a function of variations in the interpretation of positive and informational feedback. Results are discussed relative to theory and research on coaching behavior and self-perceptions.
The microcirculation and its measurement in sepsis
Authors: Charlton Matthew , Sims Mark , Coats Tim , Thompson Jonathan P
Published: November 2016

The microcirculation describes the smallest elements of the cardiovascular conducting system and is pivotal in the maintenance of homeostasis. Microcirculatory dysfunction is present early in the pathophysiology of sepsis, with the extent of microcirculatory derangement relating to disease severity and prognosis in ICU patients. However, at present microcirculatory function is not routinely monitored at the bedside. This article describes the pathophysiology of microcirculatory derangements in sepsis, methods of its measurement and evidence to support their clinical use.
Appraisals, Emotions, and Inherited Intentional Objects
Authors: Shargel Daniel
Published: November 2016

Modern appraisal theories inherited a problem from the Schachter theory: are emotions directed at intentional objects, and if so, why? On both theories the emotion is initiated by some sort of cognitive state, which according to Schachter produces a state of arousal, and according to appraisal theorists a cluster of emotion-specific states. If cognitions are components of the emotional state it may seem like we can explain why emotions inherit objects from those cognitions. In this article I focus on appraisal theories, and argue that appraisals are emotional components because they are synchronized with other emotion subsystems. However, emotions do not inherit their intentional objects from appraisals, because the appraisals that are emotional components are generic, rather than object-directed.
Experimental and numerical investigations of a new type of propulsion using modular umbrella-like wings
Authors: Gao Fei , Lv Jiangang
Published: November 2016

This paper describes the experiment and simulation of a new type of propulsion that uses modular umbrella-like wings oscillating symmetrically in counterphase to generate thrust. The principle of the propulsion and movement of the modular umbrella-like wings was first developed, and the mechanism used to implement the movement of the modular wings was subsequently designed. Then a kinematic model of the propulsion mechanism was established for performance analysis. Finally, experiments and simulations were completed to study the kinematic and mechanical performances of the propulsion mechanism for different parameters. The experimental results indicate that modular umbrella-like wings oscillating symmetrically in counterphase can generate a valid driving power. Increasing the frequency can enhance the average aerodynamic force in one cycle. The numerical results indicate that the wings would achieve a relatively high performance at a lower reciprocating speed. We can obtain a bigger aerodynamic force by increasing the extent of the generatrix of umbrella-like wing. These results can provide theoretical and practical guidance on making a medium-sized prototype and optimizing the structure design.
Antiangiogenic therapy for refractory colorectal cancer: current options and future strategies
Authors: Riechelmann Rachel , Grothey Axel
Published: November 2016

Even though significant improvements in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) have been made in recent years, survival rates for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) are poor. Effective treatment options for metastatic colorectal cancer remain limited, and new therapeutic strategies are desperately needed. Several tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that target angiogenesis, a critical process for facilitating tumor cell growth, invasion, and metastasis, are either approved or in clinical development for the treatment of mCRC. Many of these agents have shown efficacy in mCRC, both as single agents and in combination with standard chemotherapy regimens. However, there is a need for predictive markers of response to identify those patients most likely to benefit from antiangiogenic therapy, and, to date, no markers of this type have been validated in patients. Additionally, because antiangiogenic agents typically cause cytostatic as opposed to cytotoxic antitumor effects, it is important to determine the best strategies for evaluating therapeutic response in mCRC to ensure maximum clinical benefit. In this review, we summarize the efficacy and tolerability of approved and investigational antiangiogenic agents for the treatment of mCRC. We also discuss potential markers of response to antiangiogenic agents and how these markers, along with appropriate endpoint selection, can improve clinical trial design.
Technique Tip
Authors: Waryasz Gregory R. , Marcaccio Stephen , Gil Joseph A.
Published: November 2016

Lisfranc injury fixation or arthrodesis typically involves the reduction and fixation of several tarsometatarsal joints with either screws or a plate and screw constructs. A successful fixation or arthrodesis of the Lisfranc joint requires proper screw placement from the medial cuneiform to the base of the second metatarsal. This is typically done free-hand; however, we describe use of an anterior cruciate ligament guide to help maintain reduction and assist with drill trajectory for more accurate screw or suture button construct placement.

Levels of Evidence: Level V
Towards a better understanding of reasons for non-adherence to treatment among patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A focus group study
Authors: Lee Wan Pin , Lee Sharon Song-Song , Xin Xiaohui , Thumboo Julian
Published: November 2016

Objective:

To explore common reasons for non-adherence to treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Singapore.

Methods:

Patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis for ⩾ 1 year being followed up at the Singapore General Hospital and meeting pre-defined criteria of non-adherence were invited to participate in focus groups to discuss issues related to adherence to their rheumatoid arthritis treatment. Each focus group was homogenous in terms of gender, language spoken and ethnicity. Discussions were audio recorded and subsequently transcribed verbatim for thematic analysis.

Results:

Of the 26 patients who participated in the study, seven reported non-adherence to medication, two reported non-adherence to doctors’ appointments, and 11 reported non-adherence to both. The most commonly mentioned reasons for non-adherence were forgetfulness ( n=13), low perceived need for treatment ( n=10), actual or perceived medication side effects ( n=6) and intentional delay due to busyness ( n=4). Eleven participants acknowledged more than one of these four reasons for non-adherence.

Conclusion:

There are multiple reasons for non-adherence to treatment among patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Singapore. Findings from this study provide important empirical evidence to inform strategies to improve adherence and in turn treatment outcomes for this group of patients in Singapore.
Nurses’ perceptions of bedside clinical handover in a medical-surgical unit: An interpretive descriptive study
Authors: Roslan Shahidah Binte , Lim Mei Ling
Published: November 2016

Background:

Clinical handover is the transfer of relevant and important information and responsibility for patient care from one healthcare provider to another. An effective clinical handover is determined by the transition of critical information and the continuity of quality care for the patient. In the inpatient settings, bedside clinical handover mainly occurs during shift changes (morning to afternoon shift, afternoon to night shift and night to morning shift). Bedside clinical handover can take place in a cohort room of up to six patients or a single-bedded room with only one patient. Various nurses in the nursing hierarchy are involved in the handover, each contributing to ensure patients’ safety and continuity of quality care.

Aim:

To explore nurses’ perceptions of bedside clinical handover in an inpatient acute-care ward in Singapore.

Methodology:

An interpretive, descriptive, qualitative study was conducted using focus group interviews with semi-structured questions. The interviews were conducted with 20 nurses from an acute-care hospital in Singapore. The interviews were audiotaped and transcribed verbatim. Data collected were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Nurses described that bedside clinical handover could potentially compromise patient’s confidentiality and that the patient and/or their family members and the environment were sources of constant interruptions and distractions. Bedside clinical handover also acted as a platform for communication amongst nurses and between nurses and patients.

Conclusion:

This study provided an insight into nurses’ perceptions of bedside clinical handover and offered a foundation for nurses to improve the handover process.
The theological uses of sociology
Authors: Paeth Scott R
Published: November 2016

This article examines the way in which theological concept has been both utilized and criticized within the discipline of theology. It considers recent attempts to “end the dialogue between theology and social theory” and the flaws of that approach, while arguing that sociology can make a significant contribution to the ongoing work of theological analysis. It ends by asking whether this is a one-way relationship, or whether there is a way that theological concepts can be useful in the ongoing constructive work of sociology.
Political participation in Japan
Authors: Jou Willy , Endo Masahisa
Published: November 2016

There is a large volume of studies on political participation, including motivations for citizens to become involved in various channels of engagement. Building on this extensive literature, the present study examines factors that affect participation, with particular attention on the linear (conservative vs. progressive) and curvilinear (moderate vs. radical) impact of ideological orientations, and also considers the influence exerted by political interest and partisanship. Utilizing data from Japan spanning nearly three decades, we analyze changes and continuities in patterns of participation in four categories of activities: election turnout; campaigning; system-affirming; and elite-challenging. Empirical analysis reveals that radicals take a more active part in campaigning than moderates, and progressives are more inclined toward elite-challenging activities than conservatives, while no consistent results are found for turnout. The study also discusses possible causes and consequences of a long-term decline in participation in Japan.
Vascular Ring Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Evans William N. , Acherman Ruben J. , Ciccolo Michael L. , Carrillo Sergio A. , Mayman Gary A. , Luna Carlos F. , Rollins Robert C. , Castillo William J. , Restrepo Humberto
Published: November 2016

Background:

Vascular rings (VRs) are recognized as uncommon but not rare cardiovascular malformations.

Methods:

We analyzed data from all patients born in Southern Nevada, who underwent diagnosis and management of VR from 1990 to 2015,

Results:

From 1990 to 2015, a total of 92 patients were diagnosed prenatally and postnatally. Of the 92 patients, 73 (79%) had right aortic arch and aberrant left subclavian artery (RAA-ALS) with a left ductus arteriosus or ligamentum, 17 (19%) had a double aortic arch (DAA), and 2 (2%) had a pulmonary artery sling. Of the 92 patients, 75 had an isolated VR and 17 VR had significant additional congenital heart disease (CHD). Of the 75 patients with an isolated VR, 52 underwent surgical repair, and the most common surgical diagnosis was DAA in 6 (66%) of 9 for the period 1990 to 2005 versus less common in 9 (21%) of 43 during the period 2006 to 2015, P < .05. The isolated VR repair age significantly negatively correlated with increasing time from 1990 to 2015, R = −0.7 ( P < .0001). Of the 75 isolated VR, 23 remain asymptomatic. The 17 VR with CHD were treated during infant palliation or intracardiac repair. Of the total 92 VR, 60 were born after a 2004 community introduction of the three-vessel fetal echocardiography view, from then the prenatal-detection rate has significantly increased—2004 to 2006, 0 (0%) of 9; 2007 to 2009, 1 (9%) of 11; 2010 to 2012, 11 (55%) of 20; and 2013 to 1015, 14 (70%) of 20 ( P < .0001).

Conclusion:

Over 25 years in Southern Nevada, VR prenatal diagnosis has increased, isolated VR age at surgery has decreased, and the percentage of those with RAA-ALS has increased.
Rapid Response Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Deployment—Surgical Technique
Authors: Peer Syed M. , Ramakrishnan Karthik , Wade James R. , Endicott Kendal M. , Jonas Richard A. , Nath Dilip S.
Published: November 2016

The availability of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the standard of care at most high-acuity congenital heart surgery programs. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is also an integral part of managing children with in-hospital cardiac arrest refractory to conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation). In this article, we aim to provide a practical guide to initiate rapid ECMO in a nonoperating room setting.
Current Status of Tissue Engineering Heart Valve
Authors: Shinoka Toshiharu , Miyachi Hideki
Published: November 2016

The development of surgically implantable heart valve prostheses has contributed to improved outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease. However, there are drawbacks, such as risk of infection and lack of growth potential. Tissue-engineered heart valve (TEHV) holds great promise to address these drawbacks as the ideal TEHV is easily implanted, biocompatible, non-thrombogenic, durable, degradable, and ultimately remodels into native-like tissue. In general, three main components used in creating a tissue-engineered construct are (1) a scaffold material, (2) a cell type for seeding the scaffold, and (3) a subsequent remodeling process driven by cell accumulation and proliferation, and/or biochemical and mechanical signaling. Despite rapid progress in the field over the past decade, TEHVs have not been translated into clinical applications successfully. To successfully utilize TEHVs clinically, further elucidation of the mechanisms for TEHV remodeling and further translational research outcome evaluations will be required. Tissue engineering is a major breakthrough in cardiovascular medicine that holds amazing promise for the future of reconstructive surgical procedures. In this article, we review the history of regenerative medicine, advances in the field, and state-of-the-art in valvular tissue engineering.
Notes on war technology and military engineering in pre-modern India
Authors: Khan Iqtidar A.
Published: November 2016

These notes form a preliminary effort to trace changes in the forms and technology of warfare since early times to the colonial conquest. There has been much research in the field, whose results need to be brought out. At the same time, it is important to point out where gaps in our knowledge still remain.
Value Expectation, Expression and Estimation
Authors: Özdilek Ünsal
Published: November 2016

The meaning and the sources of value have been debated for centuries. Still, value gets confused when compared with price, cost and income (PCI); this inescapably increases errors in its approximation when applying different approaches. Based on a new perspective, the differences between value, PCI and estimation approaches are distinguished.
An Overview of Applications of Proper Scoring Rules
Authors: Carvalho Arthur
Published: November 2016

We present a study on the evolution of publications about applications of proper scoring rules. Specifically, we consider articles reporting the use of proper scoring rules when either measuring the accuracy of forecasts or for inducing honest reporting of private information within a certain context. Our analysis of a data set containing 201 articles published between 1950 and 2015 suggests that there has been a tremendous increase in the number of published articles about proper scoring rules over the years. Moreover, the weather/climate, prediction markets, psychology, and energy domains are the four most popular application areas. After providing some insights on how proper scoring rules are applied in different domains, we analyze the publication outlets where the articles in our data set were published. In this regard, we find that an increasing number of articles are now being published in conference proceedings related to artificial intelligence, as opposed to traditional academic journals. We conclude this review by suggesting that the wisdom-of-crowds phenomenon might be a driving force behind the recent popularity of proper scoring rules.
Keeping sick children in hospital SAFE from harm
Authors: Glasper Alan
Published: November 2016

Emeritus Professor Alan Glasper, from the University of Southampton, discusses the quest by the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health to improve safety and reduce preventable deaths in UK paediatric units
Honey and larvae in the treatment of foot gangrene: a reflection
Authors: Dickinson Ruth
Published: November 2016

With the introduction of the Nursing and Midwifery Council's (NMC) (2015a) revalidation directive, nurses are required to demonstrate an ongoing commitment to providing safe and effective care by continually combining sound empirical evidence with reflective practice ( Sackett et al, 1996 ; Rolfe et al, 2011 ). Using Gibbs' (1998) model, I will reflect on an episode of care undertaken while I was on a recent placement. This reflective account will discuss the clinical use of honey and larvae therapy in the treatment of foot gangrene following meningococcal septicaemia. The psychosocial impact of ill health will also be considered. The use of newly acquired nursing skills and knowledge will be evaluated and the nurse-patient therapeutic relationship explored.
Autolysis: mechanisms of action in the removal of devitalised tissue
Authors: Atkin Leanne , Rippon Mark
Published: November 2016

Chronic wounds affect millions of people worldwide. In the UK alone, the cost of their treatment is estimated to be between £4.5bn and £5.1bn. The implementation of wound-bed preparation strategies remove the barriers to healing and wound debridement is a key component in preparing the wound bed for wound progression. This article aims to review one of the several debridement methods available to clinicians: autolytic debridement. Autolysis (i.e. autolytic debridement) uses the body's own enzymatic mechanisms to remove devitalised tissue in order to remove the barriers to healing. This review aims to provide clinicians working in wound care with a better understanding of the mechanisms and implications of autolytic debridement.
Lifelong health effects
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: November 2016

Mark Greener presents recent studies exploring good health practice during pregnancy
The role of non-medical prescribing in critical care outreach: A case study
Authors: Hyde-Wyatt Jaime
Published: November 2016

Non-medical prescribing (NMP) is an advanced role that has been adopted by many nursing specialties to enhance efficiency in the NHS. For many specialist nurses the ability to develop a personal formulary is fairly straight-forward, e.g. analgesics and adjuvants for acute pain specialists. Prescribing as part of the critical care outreach (CCO) role poses some difficulties due the range of conditions likely to be encountered among critically ill patients, but experience suggests this may be an area appropriate for practice development. This article will discuss one case example where the ability to prescribe would have been an invaluable addition to the CCO nurse's toolkit.
An overview of the use of compression in lower-limb chronic oedema
Authors: Elwell Rebecca
Published: November 2016

Chronic oedema in the lower limbs can be a debilitating condition and has a negative effect on a patient's quality of life. As yet, there is no known cure for this condition; however, it can be controlled and managed, and its recurrence can be prevented. One of the most common and successful ways of managing this condition is the use of compression hosiery. With an expanding knowledge base of compression hosiery, lymphoedema specialists are now able to address historical problems of poor fit and concordance. Moreover, there is a wide choice of garments available today for clinicians to use, that not only help to control and treat the oedema, but have also improved patients' quality of life because the garments are comfortable and inconspicuous. Evidence has shown that concordance is greatly increased when patients participate in their treatment and help to decide on the most suitable garment for themselves. This article gives an overview of the use of compression garments when treating lower-limb chronic oedema in patients, and explains the aspects to bear in mind when choosing and prescribing compression hosiery.
Perbandingan Masalah Psikososial pada Remaja Obes dan Gizi Normal Menggunakan Pediatric Symptom Checklist (PSC)-17
Authors: Pujiastuti Endah , Fadlyana Eddy , Garna Herry
Published: November 2016

Latar belakang. Obesitas pada anak merupakan faktor penting karena cenderung meningkat dan dapat berpotensi sebagai penyebab berbagai konsekuensi medis serta masalah psikososial. Remaja obes cenderung mengalami rasa rendah diri, penghargaan diri yang buruk, depresi, mengalami kesulitan di sekolah, dan kesulitan belajar dibandingkan dengan remaja dengan status gizi normal.Tujuan. Mengetahui perbandingan masalah psikososial antara remaja obes dan remaja status gizi normal dengan menggunakan kuesioner pediatric symptom checklist (PSC)-17, suatu kuesioner yang telah tervalidasi untuk mendeteksi masalah psikososial pada anak.Metode. Rancangan analitik dengan metode potong silang, dilakukan pada bulan Mei–l Juli 2011 di Sekolah Menengah Pertama Negeri 14 Bandung. Subjek penelitian adalah siswa usia 12–16 tahun yang dipilih secara berurutan (consecutive sampling), terdiri atas 31 remaja obes dan gizi normal. Indeks massa tubuh didapat dari pengukuran tinggi badan dan berat badan, kemudian dikelompokkan menjadi status gizi obes (>+3SD) dan gizi normal (-2 sampai +2 SD). Subjek mengisi kuesioner PSC-17 yang berisi beberapa pertanyaan mengenai variabel masalah psikososial, yaitu internalisasi, eksternalisasi, dan masalah perhatian. Uji statistik dengan chi-square test untuk perbandingan kedua kelompok.Hasil. Terdapat 15/31 remaja obes dan 5/31 remaja gizi normal mengalami masalah psikososial (p=0,007). Analisis aspek masalah psikososial kuesioner PSC memperlihatkan perbedaan bermakna mengenai masalah internalisasi antara kedua kelompok (p=0,007).Kesimpulan. Masalah psikososial kelompok remaja obes lebih tinggi dibandingkan dengan kelompok remaja gizi normal.