bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precarious employment among South Korean women: Is inequality changing with time?
Authors: Bonneuil Noël , Kim Younga
Published: February 2017

Theories of precarious employment based on the constructs of job quality and job stability have highlighted the issue of transitions, linked to gender and age, from long-duration employment in bad-quality jobs, into good-quality stable employment. This article uses Markov chain analysis to study the labour market transitions of South Korean women in different age groups. It shows the importance of differentiating the effects of contemporary labour market conditions, shaped by the forces of the moment, from conditions created by the institutional legacy of the past. Women’s traditional position in the labour market has resulted in age-linked gendered precariousness, while the conditions of the moment are generating a tendency towards less precarious employment. Transition matrices are developed for types of precarious employment defined by the combination of job stability and job quality, taking into account duration by age group, time period, and covariates. These matrices yield distributions of asymptotic prevalence, reflecting labour market conditions of the moment. The forces of the moment favour the predominance of stable good-quality employment, whereas observed prevalence at a given date is characterised by the polarisation of the labour market between stable good-quality and unstable bad-quality employment. Asymptotic prevalence reveals a steady increase in stable but bad-quality employment. Older women are observed mostly in unstable bad-quality employment, but labour market conditions are tending to attenuate this age cleavage over time, as the conditions of the moment are reducing the proportions of older women in stable bad-quality and unstable good-quality employment. The conclusion is an age-based polarisation, in which older women are faring badly, but where possibilities are now opening up to younger South Korean women, reflected in the sharp break between the situation inherited from the past and the conditions of the moment. But possibilities for younger women will be realised only through a reinforcement of government policies to support career breaks and work–family balance through decent part-time jobs.
Identification by next-generation sequencing of Aichivirus B in a calf with enterocolitis and neurologic signs
Authors: Moreira Ana S. D. , Raabis Sarah M. , Graham Melissa E. , Dreyfus Jennifer M. , Sibley Samuel D. , Godhardt-Cooper Jennifer A. , Toohey-Kurth Kathy L. , Goldberg Tony L. , Peek Simon F.
Published: February 2017

An 11-d-old Holstein bull calf was presented to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at the University of Wisconsin–Madison because of a 4-d history of diarrhea and persistent low-grade fever. Initial diagnosis was enteritis caused by Cryptosporidium and rotavirus. During hospitalization, the calf became stuporous and was only responsive to noxious stimuli, with hypotonia of all 4 limbs, tail, head, and neck. A cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed xanthochromia, with marked lymphocytic pleocytosis, which was suggestive of viral meningitis and/or encephalitis. Aichivirus B, which belongs to the Kobuvirus genus, was tentatively identified in spinal fluid by next-generation DNA sequencing. This virus can affect a multitude of species, including humans and cattle, and has been isolated from both healthy and diarrheic individuals. However, to date, a possible connection with neurologic disease has not been described, to our knowledge.
Comparison of the Sysmex XT-2000iV with microscopic differential counts of canine bone marrow
Authors: Pernecker Iris , Bauer Natali B. , Johannes Sigrid , Ginder Melanie , Harleman Johannes H. , Moritz Andreas
Published: February 2017

Canine bone marrow is frequently assessed in the advanced preclinical research environment. Automated analysis provides time savings and objectivity over the gold standard of microscopic (cytologic) evaluation. We compared the analysis of 90 canine bone marrow samples by the Sysmex XT-2000iV hematology analyzer (Sysmex Corp., Kobe, Japan) with cytologic evaluation. Gates for cell populations were created in the system’s WBC/BASO channel. Variables “total nucleated red blood cells” (total_NRBC), “poly- and orthochromatic nucleated red blood cells” (poly_orth_NRBC), “total neutrophils” (total_NEUT), “mature neutrophils” (mature_NEUT), and myeloid-to-erythroid (M:E) ratio were compared with cytologic evaluation. Intra-assay repeatability and total error (TE) were calculated for both methods. Intra-assay repeatability was 0.95–2.48% for the XT-2000iV and 8.32–23.23% for cytology. Observed TE for the automated measurement was 5.16–46.8% and for cytology 22.70–76.74%. Spearman rank correlation was excellent for M:E ratio (0.91) and fair for the other populations (0.65–0.71). Absolute bias for M:E ratio was low (−0.114). A negative absolute bias of −7.71% for the XT-2000iV was found for poly_orth_NRBC, whereas the bias was positive for total_NEUT (7.10%) and mature_NEUT (14.67%). M:E ratio of canine bone marrow samples can be precisely determined using the Sysmex XT-2000iV WBC/BASO channel. Total_NRBC, poly_orth_NRBC, total_NEUT, and mature_NEUT can be estimated rapidly. With distinctly lower coefficient of variation and observed TE compared with cytology, automated measurement provides advantages in terms of standardization, and it is suited to the advanced preclinical research environment where large numbers of samples are investigated.
Oasistan
Authors: de Jong Martin , Warmelink Harald
Published: February 2017

Aim. Although cultural dimensions theory is a topical strand of quantitative cultural research, few intercultural simulation games use it. We present the design and review of the application of OASISTAN, an intercultural role-playing simulation game that is specifically based on cultural dimensions theory.

Method. OASISTAN was first designed in 1999 for use in Master’s courses on cross-cultural management at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands, attracting 20-23 year old students with a Bachelor degree in engineering and from various cultural backgrounds. Since its first design the game has been played approximately 45 times at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands and three times at Harbin Institute of Technology in China in the years 2006-2008. We reviewed their experiences designing and facilitating OASISTAN since 1999.

Results. The game has a no-tech role-play design and revolves around the geopolitically complex region of the Caspian Sea, specifically the fictional country of ‘Oasistan’. The game consists of students forming small teams of Oasistani, Western and non-Western public/private actors collaborating with each other to try and reach the common goal of oil exploration and production in this country. In total 15-30 students were involved. We found that OASISTAN allowed its players not only to intensely experience the difficulty and awkwardness of being confronted with cultural differences, but also to interpret and understand these differences through cultural dimensions. Students who played OASISTAN identified ten out of the 12 dimensions by Maleki and De Jong. The two dimensions that students were not able to identify are uncertainty avoidance and collaborativeness.

Conclusion. OASISTAN shows how a game design field (i.e., intercultural simulation gaming) can be reinvigorated in light of new or updated scientific theories pertaining to the field’s subject matter (i.e., cultural dimensions). Several opportunities for future research are identified.
Experientially Learning and Teaching in a Student-Directed Classroom
Authors: Breunig Mary
Published: February 2017

There exists a relatively coherent body of research relevant to problem-based and transformational learning but too few studies that have empirically explored the many anecdotal claims of the attributes of experiential, student-directed pedagogy. The purpose of this present study was to explore students’ and professor experiences with/in a student-directed experiential education elective course. What successes and challenges do students and the professor experience and how? What surprises, new learnings, and pedagogical risks ensue? The primary results include (a) Student Responsibility and Accountability, (b) Structure, (3) Role of the Professor, (4) Experiences With Self-Study Participation, and 5) Informing and Transforming Practice. These results and the review of literature add to the body of knowledge relevant to “doing” student-directed experiential education and Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) in the postsecondary classroom.
Assessment of Implicit Self-Esteem in Older Adults: The Role of Actual and Ideal Self-Esteem in Negative Mood
Authors: Demeyer Ineke , Romero Nuria , De Raedt Rudi
Published: February 2017

The interplay between actual and ideal self-esteem may be a key component in emotional disorders. Since automatic self-evaluations are not always consciously accessible, assessment through implicit measures is necessary. Given the lack of implicit self-esteem measures in late life, we aimed to identify a reliable measure and to clarify the role of actual and ideal self-esteem in mood and depressive symptoms in older adults. Forty-nine older adults completed two adapted Go/No go Association tasks measuring implicit actual and ideal self-esteem and measures of mood and depressive symptoms. The two Go/No go Association tasks showed satisfactory internal consistency. Moderation analyses revealed that lower actual self-esteem in older adults is related to higher levels of sad mood when ideal self-esteem is high. Moreover, lower actual self-esteem is related to more anxious mood. Given the role of self-esteem in emotional well-being, a reliable measure for older adults is crucial to improve age-appropriate diagnostics and treatment.
Voters Who Abstain: Explaining Abstention and Ballot Roll-Off in the 2014 Toronto Municipal Election
Authors: McGregor R. Michael
Published: February 2017

This article explores the correlates of ballot roll-off in the 2014 Toronto municipal election. While turnout in the mayoral contest was comparatively high, roughly 4.3% of voters abstained from council races. Using data from the Toronto Election Study, a large- N survey of electors conducted around the time of the 2014 Toronto Election, this study identifies a series of factors related to roll-off from mayoral to council elections. These variables include a number of sociodemographic characteristics and attitudinal factors commonly associated with turnout, measures of attachment to the city, and a series of election-specific factors. Results reveal that many factors commonly associated with abstention similarly drive roll-off, but that the experiences of individual voters also have an impact upon roll-off rates.
Isolated and Broken Bridges from Interorganizational Emergency Management Networks: An Institutional Collective Action Perspective
Authors: Jung Kyujin , Song Minsun , Feiock Richard
Published: February 2017

We examine how interorganizational networks evolved after a disaster with an integrated approach that combines both social network perspectives and emergency management perspectives. This research describes changes in organizations that play a bridging role in interorganizational collaboration and examines endogenous and exogenous factors that lead organizations to be isolated during a disaster. Building from the Institutional Collective Action (ICA) framework, we argue that organizations that play the bridging role between two other organizations may fail to sustain their ties after a disaster. Because the bridging strategy involves risks, organizations are more likely to forge direct ties to other organizations that have resources they need rather than rely on bridges that they created before the disaster. We apply a stochastic actor-oriented model to show the dynamics of emergency management networks during the 2013 Seoul floods. This study contributes to understanding how the bridging strategy can be emasculated by endogenous and exogenous factors.
Individual personality is best understood as process, not structure: A Confucian-inspired perspective
Authors: Giordano Peter J
Published: February 2017

A structural approach to understanding personality, which is rooted in a being or substance ontology, is most useful for making between individual and group comparisons. In contrast, a process-centric approach, which is anchored in a Becoming or event-based ontology, is most helpful for understanding individual personality process and variation. A process-centric model, using classical Confucianism as a starting point, has a number of advantages in that it (1) integrates persons and situations, (2) is inherently relational, which implies an aesthetic dimension to personality development and functioning, (3) focuses on the uniqueness of individual personalities, (4) views qualitative and quantitative inquiry as complementary and of equal scientific value, and (5) encourages intra- and inter-disciplinary collaborations.
Towards a sustainable urban tourism development in Europe
Authors: Önder Irem , Wöber Karl , Zekan Bozana
Published: February 2017

The development of indicators and metrics systems has been identified as being of paramount importance by many tourism boards and international tourism organizations. This article discusses the bottom-up, micro-level approach of TourMIS, which is a platform for exchanging tourism statistics among tourism organizations, for collecting measures of sustainable urban tourism development. The authors provide a synthesis of various frameworks for sustainable tourism indicators for subnational regions and cities, concluding that it is more feasible to analyse existing sustainable tourism indicators than to introduce new measures lacking in direct practical applicability for the organizations. The application of data envelopment analysis (DEA) for benchmarking urban tourism destinations is then demonstrated by assessing measures available in TourMIS. Findings include inefficiency scores that suggest both managerial and political implications. Furthermore, the concept of a virtual reference destination assisting managers and politicians to analyse their destination’s strengths and weaknesses is introduced.
UNESCO sites and performance trend of Italian regional tourism destinations
Authors: Cuccia Tiziana , Guccio Calogero , Rizzo Ilde
Published: February 2017

This article analyzes the role of United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) sites on the enhancement of tourism destinations (TDs) performance, taking the Italian regions over the period 1995–2010 as a case study. Specifically, we aim at studying the effect of the inscription in the World Heritage List (WHL) upon the dynamics of the efficiency of the Italian regions as TDs. We use a two-stage data envelopment analysis window analysis, to detect efficiency trends and resort to both semiparametric pooled-truncated and panel data estimators to evaluate the determinants of the efficiency changes in TDs over time. Moreover, we test for the presence of spatial dependence in the efficiency of TDs. The results reveal that the WHL does not play a significant role in enhancing technical efficiency of TDs. These empirical findings are robust to alternative estimators and model specifications. Furthermore, the spatial analysis does not reveal significant spillover effects in the efficiency of TDs.
Identification and regulation of emotions in adults of varying weight statuses
Authors: Kass Andrea E , Wildes Jennifer E , Coccaro Emil F
Published: February 2017

Comparing individuals of varying weight statuses on their identification and regulation of emotions may increase our understanding of mechanisms that drive excess weight gain and highlight more precise weight regulation targets. In Study I ( N = 1333), adults with obesity had reduced self-reported attention to and repair of emotions compared to adults with overweight or normal weight. In Study II ( N = 85), adults with obesity had deficits in assessor-administrated tasks of strategic emotional intelligence (i.e. understanding and using emotional information for self-management). Problems identifying and regulating emotions could impact emotion regulation processes that lead to problematic behaviors associated with eating and weight gain.
Relaxing the straight male anus: Decreasing homohysteria around anal eroticism
Authors: Branfman Jonathan , Stiritz Susan , Anderson Eric
Published: February 2017

This study examines the practice and perception of receptive anal eroticism among 170 heterosexual undergraduate men in a US university. We analyze the social stigmas on men’s anal pleasure through the concept of homohysteria, which describes a cultural myth that the wrongdoing of gender casts homosexual suspicion onto heterosexual men. For men’s anal eroticism, this means that only gay, emasculated or gender deviant men are thought to enjoy anal pleasure. We suggest, however, that decreasing homohysteria has begun to erode this cultural ‘ban’ on anal stimulation for straight men. Our data finds self-identified straight university-aged men questioning cultural narratives that conflate anal receptivity with homosexuality and emasculation. We also show that 24 percent of our respondents have, at least once, received anal pleasure. These results suggest that cultural taboos around men’s anal pleasure may be shifting for younger men and the boundaries of straight identity expanding. We call for further research to clarify how anal erotic norms are shifting among men of different racial, geographic, socioeconomic, and age demographics, and to determine how these shifts may foster more pluralistic and inclusive views of gender and sexuality.
Form-finding and analysis of an alternative tensegrity dome configuration
Authors: Uzun Fatih
Published: February 2017

Geiger domes are composed of cable and strut elements. This property of cable domes is the same as tensegrity structures, but in contraction to tensegrity structures, strut elements do not have a function that balances tension in cable elements with compression. In this study, a new cable dome configuration, that mimics the form of tensegrities, is proposed which is able to spread effect of an applied load into all elements of the dome and reduces its local impact. Form-finding and analysis of the Geiger and new dome configurations are performed based on the principle of minimum potential energy. Self-equilibrium forms with minimum potential energy are determined using genetic algorithms. The ability of genetic algorithm based potential energy minimization approach to perform form-finding of loaded or load free cable domes is investigated. Performance of the proposed configuration is tested and compared with the Geiger configuration under various loading conditions.
Change is an emotional state of mind: Behavioral responses to online petitions
Authors: Koenig Abby , McLaughlin Bryan
Published: February 2017

Scholars are increasingly concerned about the rising level of negativity in social media sites. This negativity has found its way into sites that are supposedly intended for prosocial civic engagement. To examine how hostility impacts behavior in a user-generated, prosocial context, an experimental study was conducted using an online petition modeled after those posted to the website Change.org . This study examines whether negativity causes a contagion effect leading to more negativity and the different types of negativity that may occur. Results suggest that when users read negative-toned petitions, a contagion effect increases both anger and anxiety. However, our findings are not consistent with previous literature that argues anger leads to increased proactive behavior. Instead, we find that while anxiety leads to an increase in petition-related action, anger does not. These findings have important theoretical and practical implications for scholars and those looking to participate in social justice via online platforms.
Analysing the image of Abu Dhabi and Dubai as tourism destinations – The perception of first-time visitors from Germany
Authors: Martens Hanno M , Reiser Dirk
Published: February 2017

The Middle East is one of the fastest growing tourism regions in the world. Especially Dubai (since the 1980s) and Abu Dhabi (since the 1990s) have invested heavily in tourism development to firstly enhance their recognition as international destinations and secondly to diversify their economies away from the oil production. Surprisingly, there is a lack of academic published articles on those two emirates’ international destination image. This paper attempts to fill this gap by studying and comparing the images of Abu Dhabi and Dubai amongst potential first-time visitors from one of their main source markets – Germany. An empirical study amongst 300 respondents from North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany, was conducted to reveal the cognitive image attributes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi for non-visitors. Despite both places having a similar basis for destination development, their images differ. Thus, Abu Dhabi and Dubai are not seen as competitors on the tourism market, instead they could even increase the mutual benefits through highlighting specific images more distinctly. Further, the research identified a missing fit between the desired tourism destination image for both destinations and the perceived destination image. This is especially significant for the aspect of sustainability, which both emirates try to promote. Potential tourists rather perceive both emirates as unsustainable and not environmentally conscious.
Engaging elementary students in higher order talk and writing about text
Authors: Peterson Debra S
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this article is to describe higher order talk and writing about text with seven and eight year old students. Much research has been conducted with intermediate and secondary students but less is known about higher order thinking with primary grade students. Participants in this study included all second and third grade teachers and students in 23 schools across three years. Teachers were observed three times each year. Qualitative analysis of the observational field notes was conducted using the constant comparative method. The results were used as formative data for teacher reflection and professional learning. The types of higher order questions that most commonly produced higher order responses from students included questions on (a) theme, (b) character interpretation and (c) relating the text to one's life. Student-led discussions also produced student talk and writing that was at a higher level than that produced by students during teacher-directed recitations.
A new modelling procedure of the engine room ventilation system for work risk prevention and energy saving
Authors: Orosa José A , Costa Ángel M , Pérez José A
Published: February 2017

Maritime transport is one of the primary international objectives for energy saving and pollution reduction, in agreement with the International Maritime Organization. Within the most interesting energy-saving topics, the ventilation system of the engine room must be highlighted, which represents about 5% of the nominal power of a modern ship. Nevertheless, its energetic optimization is not simple and must consider also work risk criteria, since the engine room is the hottest and, in consequence, one of the hazardous places in the ship. In this research, a complete three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics model of the engine room of a real ship has been developed in order to identify the hottest places and fully characterize their thermal conditions. On the basis of this analysis, a mathematical model of the maximum working time allowed has been defined, which can be directly used to design an efficient control algorithm for the ventilation system. In a complementary way, the minimum time required to rest in the control engine room to release the cumulated heat has also been analysed, in order to optimize its set-point conditions.
The assumptions of ethical rationing: An unreasonable man’s response to Magelssen et al.
Authors: Loughlin Michael
Published: February 2017

Contributors to the debate on ethical rationing bring with them assumptions about the proper role of moral theories in practical discourse, which seem reasonable, realistic and pragmatic. These assumptions function to define the remit of bioethical discourse and to determine conceptions of proper methodology and causal reasoning in the area. However well intentioned, the desire to be realistic in this sense may lead us to judge the adequacy of a theory precisely with reference to its ability to deliver apparently determinate answers to questions that strike most practitioners and patients as morally arbitrary. By providing ethical solutions that work given the world as it is, work in clinical ethics may serve to endorse or protect from scrutiny the very structures that need to change if real moral progress is to be possible. Such work can help to foster the illusion that fundamentally arbitrary decisions are ‘grounded’ in objective, impartial reasoning, bestowing academic credibility on policies and processes, making it subsequently harder for others to criticise those processes. As theorists, we need to reflect on our political role and how best to foster virtuous, critical practice, if we are to avoid making contributions to the debate that not only do no good, but may even be harmful. A recent debate in this journal illustrates these issues effectively.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? Retention in First-Generation College Students
Authors: Pratt Ian S. , Harwood Hunter B. , Cavazos Jenel T. , Ditzfeld Christopher P.
Published: February 2017

The current project uses our university’s new student survey to compare previously reported trends in first-generation college student (FGCS) retention with those found on our campus and discusses potential directions for future research and intervention programs. Consistent with previous research, our data showed that financial concerns were a particularly strong predictor of freshman-to-sophomore retention. FGCS reported that they were significantly more concerned about money and expected to maintain employment throughout their college career at higher rates. This emphasis on work reduces the amount of time FGCS engage in college-related activities and hinders their feeling of connection with their peers. For example, our FGCS expected to encounter more difficulty performing well academically, fitting into the campus environment, and making new friends than non-FGCS students. Our future research agenda extends these findings to other aspects of campus life, examining issues such as cultural fit, family ties, and university inclusiveness.
Developing a mobile game to support students in learning color mixing in design education
Authors: Wang Chia-Sui , Huang Yong-Ming , Hsu Kuei-Shu
Published: February 2017

Chromatics provides a theoretical basis for the production of visual effects that is crucial to design education. As one of the pillars supporting chromatics, knowledge about color mixing is thus necessary for students who plan to design products. However, students tend to be bored by traditional learning methods in this regard. To remedy this deficiency, this study designed a mobile color mixing game to assist students in learning color mixing. On a more specific basis, this game not only enables students to learn color mixing anytime and anywhere but also provides them with an effective mechanism for exploring the potentials of this technology. Using the technology acceptance model, this study developed a questionnaire concerning the subjects’ perceptions of the mobile game, according to which the effectiveness of the game was evaluated. The research findings of this study showed that most of the subjects found the game not only easy to use but also of significant help for them to learn color mixing.
A new method for calculating the sonic conductance of airflow through a short-tube orifice
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Gangyan , Hu Dawei , Kagawa Toshiharu
Published: February 2017

In this study, we proposed a method for calculating the sonic conductance of a short-tube orifice. First, we derived a formula for calculating the sonic conductance based on a continuity equation, a momentum equation and the definition of flow-rate characteristics. The flow-rate characteristics of different orifices were then measured using the upstream constant-pressure test method in ISO 6358. Based on these test data, the theoretical formula was simplified using the least squares fitting method, the accuracy of which was verified experimentally. Finally, the effects of the diameter ratio, the length-to-diameter ratio and the critical pressure ratio were analysed with reference to engineering applications, and a simplified formula was derived. We conclude that the influence of the diameter ratio is greater than that of the length-to-diameter ratio. When the length-to-diameter ratio is <5, its effect can be neglected. The critical pressure ratio has little effect on the sonic conductance of a short-tube orifice, and it can be set to 0.5 when calculating the sonic conductance in engineering applications. The formula proposed in this study is highly accurate with a mean error of <3%.
Characteristic analysis of the efficiency hill chart of Francis turbine for different water heads
Authors: Guo Pengcheng , Wang Zhaoning , Sun Longgang , Luo Xingqi
Published: February 2017

According to several model test results of Francis turbines, complete model efficiency hill charts were constructed. The formation and inevitability of diversified hydraulic phenomena on model efficiency hill chart for typical head range were analyzed and the difference is compared, as well as characteristics and commonness toward the curves are discussed and summarized. Furthermore, hydraulic performance and geometric features are presented by particularly analyzing the efficiency hill charts. The inherent characteristics of Francis turbine is expressed by all kinds of curves on the model efficiency hill charts, and these curves can be adjusted and moved in a small range but cannot be removed out. Due to wide range of unit speed in terms of medium-low-head hydraulic turbines, incipient cavitation curve on suction side can be observed and it is positioned close to the operation zone; however, it fails to be visualized for the high-head turbine. The blade channel vortex curves are in the vicinity of optimum region for low-head hydraulic turbines, while high-head shows reverse trend. The interaction between zero incidence angle and zero circulation curve has a significant influence on isoefficiency circles. All comparisons and analyses could provide hydraulic design basis and retrofit references.
Age-dependent cellular reactions of the human immune system of humanized NOD scid gamma mice on LPS stimulus
Authors: Rodewohl Anja , Scholbach Johanna , Leichsenring Anna , Köberle Margarethe , Lange Franziska
Published: February 2017

Despite sepsis being a life-threatening disease, targeted drugs that improve the therapy of affected patients are still lacking. Infants and adults differ in the maturity level of their immune system and this results in distinct reactions to Gram-negative bacteria. To study reactions of human immune cells in vivo, we used NOD scid gamma mice transplanted with human CD34+ stem cells to engraft a functional human immune system. Human cells undergo differentiation and maturation in these mice after transplantation and, accordingly, animals were divided into two groups: 8–13 wk and 15–22 wk after transplantation. Endotoxemia was induced by injecting LPS. Six h later, mice were euthanized. In both groups, LPS stimulation induced a decrease of CD14+ monocytes in peripheral blood, an up-regulation of activation markers on different cell subsets such as myeloid dendritic cells, and a release of the human cytokines TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10. However, significant differences were detected with regard to the amounts of released cytokines, and 8–13-wk-old mice produced more IL-6, while PTX3 was mainly released by 15–22-wk-old animals. Thus, here we provide a potential model for preclinical research of sepsis in infants and adults.
A case of pulmonary carcinoid in pregnancy and review of carcinoid tumours in pregnancy
Authors: Kevat D , Chen M , Wyld D , Fagermo N , Lust K
Published: February 2017

Carcinoid tumours are rare slow growing tumours which arise from primitive neuroendocrine cells. The effect of the pregnant state on carcinoid tumours and vice versa remains unclear, as does the optimal management of carcinoid tumours during the pregnancy including labour. We report the rare case of a 36 year old primigravida woman with large bilateral pulmonary carcinoid tumours. The patient's disease was minimally symptomatic with no clinical suspicion of carcinoid syndrome. Under close observation, the pregnancy progressed well and the patient proceeded to a spontaneous vaginal delivery of a healthy child. We conduct the the first literature review in 30 years of all reported cases in this area and make suggestions as to assessment and monitoring of cases of carcinoid during pregnancy.
Thrombolysis in peripheral artery disease
Authors: Giannakakis Sotirios , Galyfos George , Sachmpazidis Ioannis , Kapasas Kostas , Kerasidis Stavros , Stamatatos Ioannis , Geropapas Georgios , Kastrisios Georgios , Papacharalampous Gerasimos , Maltezos Chrisostomos
Published: February 2017

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) has been associated with severe morbidity and mortality worldwide, affecting the quality of life for millions of patients. Acute thrombosis has been identified as a major complication of PAD, with proper management including both open as well as endovascular techniques. Thrombolysis has emerged as a reasonable option in the last decades to treat such patients although data produced by randomized trials have been limited. This review aims to present major aspects of thrombolysis in PAD regarding its indications and contraindications, technique tips as well as to review literature data in order to produce useful conclusions for everyday clinical practice.
“It’s Catchy, but It Gets You F*cking Nowhere”
Authors: Groot Kormelink Tim , Costera Meijer Irene
Published: February 2017

This paper explores how political information can be told in such a way that news users experience it as captivating. More specifically, it seeks to move beyond Irene Costera Meijer’s “double viewing paradox” and bridge the gap between what attracts and satisfies viewers by developing bottom–up, user-defined, quality criteria for current affairs TV. Items from two Dutch current affairs shows were watched and discussed with fifty-four viewers. A key finding is that participants greatly appreciated feeling enabled to better understand how politics work and impact society. This suggests that what viewers want from political journalism might differ from what journalists produce yet is perfectly compatible with their democratic remit.
Platelet-Rich Plasma and Hyaluronic Acid Are Not Synergistic When Used as Biological Adjuncts with Autologous Osteochondral Transplantation
Authors: Smyth Niall A. , Ross Keir A. , Haleem Amgad M. , Hannon Charles P. , Murawski Christopher D. , Do Huong T. , Kennedy John G.
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Autologous osteochondral transplantation (AOT) is a treatment for osteochondral lesions with known concerns, including histological degradation of the graft and poor cartilage integration. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) have been described has having the potential to improve results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of PRP and HA on AOT in a rabbit model.

Methods

Thirty-six rabbits underwent bilateral knee AOT treated with either the biological adjunct (PRP, n = 12; HA, n = 12; PRP + HA, n = 12) or saline (control). PRP and HA were administered as an intra-articular injection. The rabbits were euthanized at 3, 6, or 12 weeks postoperatively. The graft sections were assessed using the modified International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) scoring system. The results from the PRP alone group is from previously published data.

Results

The mean modified ICRS histological score for the PRP-treated group was higher than its control ( P = 0.002). The mean modified ICRS histological score for the HA-treated group showed no difference compared with its control ( P = 0.142). The mean modified ICRS histological score for the PRP + HA–treated group was higher than its control ( P = 0.006). There was no difference between the mean modified ICRS scores of the PRP- and the PRP + HA–treated grafts ( P = 0.445).

Conclusion

PRP may decrease graft degradation and improve chondral integration in an animal model. In this model, the addition of HA was not synergistic for the parameters assessed. Level of Evidence. Basic science, Level V. Clinical Relevance. PRP can be used as an adjunct to AOT, which may decrease graft degeneration and improve clinical outcomes. HA may not influence AOT.
Changes in management of stress urinary incontinence following the 2011 FDA Health Notification
Authors: Khan Aqsa A , Rosenblum Nirit , Brucker Benjamin , Nitti Victor
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

We sought to assess for impact on management trends in new patients presenting to our institution with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) following the release of the FDA Health Notification in July 2011 for vaginal mesh.

Materials and methods:

Chart analysis was performed on patients assigned a primary International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9) diagnosis code of 625.6 for SUI at initial consultation by two providers at our institution between June 1, 2010 and November 30, 2014. Rates of treatment and types of procedures performed were analyzed: urethral bulking, mesh sling, or pubovaginal sling.

Results:

A total of 333 new patients were identified with an increasing trend over time. One hundred and twenty-three patients underwent 153 procedures for stress incontinence. The mean proportion that had a procedure per six-month period was 37%, with decreasing proportions over time. Initially all procedures were midurethral mesh slings, with a decline at the time of and after the notification, and a temporary increase in bulking procedures. Subsequently, there was a rise again in sling placement, namely with an increase in pubovaginal slings. Of the 20 pubovaginal slings placed, 13 were placed in patients who had a prior anti-incontinence surgery (eight for sling failure, vaginal mesh, or fixed urethra, and two in patients with mesh extrusion/erosion). Seven were performed in patients who had never had prior surgery (two for very high-grade incontinence, two with urethral diverticulectomy, and three in patients who expressed concern about mesh).

Conclusions:

Although there were an increasing number of patients seen for management of SUI over time, there was a progressive decrease in the proportion of patients having anti-incontinence procedures after release of the FDA notification. There was an overall decrease in the use of mesh slings and an increase in bulking, and more notably, placement of pubovaginal slings.
Surgical correction of hallux valgus complicated with adult-type pes plano-valgus
Authors: Choi Jun Young , Yoon Hyeong Hwa , Suh Yu Min , Suh Jin Soo
Published: February 2017

Purpose:

To investigate the efficiency of simultaneous correction of moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity and adult-type pes planus.

Methods:

Twenty cases of moderate to severe hallux valgus complicated with adult-type pes planus in 19 consecutive patients (15 (79%) women, 4 (11%) men; mean age: 44.50 ± 17.13 years, mean follow-up duration: 31.30 ± 17.02 months) were included. Medial calcaneal sliding osteotomy was performed to correct hindfoot valgus, whereas treatments of hallux valgus were case dependent.

Results:

The mean postoperative hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, hindfoot alignment angle, and hindfoot alignment ratio were 8.40 ± 5.29°, 4.20 ± 2.54°, 3.09 ± 2.92º and 0.41 ± 0.17, respectively. Although a hallux varus deformity occurred as a postoperative complication in one case (5%), there were no cases of postoperative recurrence.

Conclusion:

Simultaneous correction of hallux valgus and pes plano-valgus using medial calcaneal sliding osteotomy is an effective technique that reduces recurrence of hallux valgus and increases satisfaction in patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus deformity complicated with adult-type pes planus accompanying hindfoot valgus.
C5 nerve root palsy after posterior cervical spine surgery
Authors: Pan Fu-Min , Wang Shan-Jin , Ma Bin , Wu De-Sheng
Published: February 2017

Background:

C5 palsy is a serious complication after cervical decompression surgery in which the patient shows a deterioration in power of the deltoid or biceps brachii by at least one grade in the manual muscle test without aggravation of lower extremity function. Although there are several hypotheses regarding the etiology of C5 palsy, the pathogenesis and preventive measures remain unidentified and many other controversies remain.

Objective:

To systematically review the clinical features, risk factors, mechanism, and preventive measures of C5 palsy after posterior cervical decompression surgery.

Materials and methods:

PubMed was searched to identify eligible studies that contained more than 10 cases and focused on C5 palsy. Microsoft Excel was used to analyze the data. Statistical comparisons were made when appropriate.

Results:

Out of 718 papers involving C5 palsy, 28 met the inclusion criteria. The average incidence rate was 7.8% (range, 1.4–23.0%). Risk factors for C5 palsy included age, male gender, ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament, and stenosis of the C4–C5 intervertebral foramen. C5 palsy occurred from immediately to 2 months after surgery, and recovery time ranged from 48 h to 41 months. Hypotheses for the mechanism of C5 palsy included root involvement and spinal cord impairment. Foraminotomy and intraoperative neuromonitoring were the two main methods used to prevent C5 palsy.

Conclusion:

C5 palsy is a serious complication occurring at the early stage after cervical decompression surgery. Foraminotomy and intraoperative neuromonitoring were the two main methods to prevent C5 palsy. The incidence of C5 palsy is low, but it can place a serious burden on the patients’ quality of life and finances. The risk factors and mechanism of C5 palsy are still controversial. However, under conservative therapy, the prognosis is usually good. Higher quality studies are necessary for drawing more reliable and convincing conclusions about this disease.
Using Kahoot! in the Classroom to Create Engagement and Active Learning: A Game-Based Technology Solution for eLearning Novices
Authors: Plump Carolyn M. , LaRosa Julia
Published: February 2017

Instructional games are gaining acceptance in the classroom as the eLearning merits of student engagement and immediate feedback are recognized. Within higher education, the use of these tools is often limited due to lack of time, insufficient experience, or doubts regarding the scholarly merits of such activities. Kahoot! is a popular eLearning tool that can easily be used to add vitality, student engagement, and meta-cognitive supports to higher education classrooms with limited instructor or student training required. The free online learning platform has gained wide acceptance globally with more than 30 million users worldwide, and it is based on current user-centered and behavioral design methodologies. Student responses and our experiences using Kahoot! in graduate and undergraduate classrooms indicate that students welcome the use of this game. The real-time feedback provides opportunities for professors in various disciplines to tailor their instruction based on student understanding on quizzes while the surveys allow for anonymous classroom participation, which further engages all students.
Comparison of Two Intravenous Insulin Titration Methods in Hyperglycemic Crisis
Authors: Rohrbach Eileen F. , Webb Kellianne , Costello Tracy
Published: February 2017

Background: Glycemic control using intravenous insulin infusions is an important component of hyperglycemic crisis treatment. Literature supports the use of standardized titration protocols; however, comparisons of specific methods are limited. Objective: Compare the safety and efficacy of 2 insulin infusion titration methods used in hyperglycemic crisis. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted including adults admitted to an inpatient facility from August 1, 2013, to August 1, 2015, who were treated for at least 4 hours with an intravenous insulin infusion. Primary efficacy outcomes of time to anion gap closure and time to goal blood glucose was studied in patients meeting criteria for diabetic ketoacidosis (n = 79), while the primary safety outcome of rates of hypoglycemia were compared among all study patients (n = 200). Results: The fixed-rate titration method had statistically shorter time to blood glucose <200 mg/dL compared to the multiplier titration group (6.1 [4.0] vs 8.8 [4.4], respectively; P = .018; mean time in hours [standard deviation]); however, no statistically significant difference was seen in the other primary efficacy and safety outcomes. Statistical improvements were found in secondary outcomes of intensive/progressive care units, length of stay, and infusion duration in the fixed-rate titration method, while less deviation from titration recommendations was found in the multiplier titration group. Conclusions: Significant differences seen in time to a goal blood glucose, deviation prevalence, and holds of the infusion for low blood glucose have identified areas for optimization, additional study, and staff education.
Role of RUNX1 in hematological malignancies
Authors: Sood Raman , Kamikubo Yasuhiko , Liu Paul
Published: February 2017

RUNX1 is a member of the core-binding factor family of transcription factors and is indispensable for the establishment of definitive hematopoiesis in vertebrates. RUNX1 is one of the most frequently mutated genes in a variety of hematological malignancies. Germ line mutations in RUNX1 cause familial platelet disorder with associated myeloid malignancies. Somatic mutations and chromosomal rearrangements involving RUNX1 are frequently observed in myelodysplastic syndrome and leukemias of myeloid and lymphoid lineages, that is, acute myeloid leukemia, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia. More recent studies suggest that the wild-type RUNX1 is required for growth and survival of certain types of leukemia cells. The purpose of this review is to discuss the current status of our understanding about the role of RUNX1 in hematological malignancies.