bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building sustainability through greater happiness
Authors: Bartolini Stefano
Published: November 2014

The current unsustainable growth of the world economy is largely a consequence of the crisis of social capital experienced by much of the world’s population. Declining social capital leads economies towards excessive growth, because people seek, in economic affluence, compensation for emotional distress and loss of resources caused by scarce social and affective relationships. To slow down economic growth requires an increase in social capital that is a fundamental contributor to happiness. From a wide range of possible approaches to increasing present happiness, this article suggests policies that would shift the economy to a more sustainable path. It focuses on a more politically sustainable set of proposals for a green ‘new deal’ than some of those currently under discussion.
Emperor’s New Clothes
Authors: Macdonald Stuart
Published: November 2014

Publication in top journals has become an indicator of academic performance that has huge influence on academic careers, on research funding, and on institutional rankings. Pressure to publish in these journals is immense. Pre-publication peer review, never without its critics, cannot cope. Yet, more depends on this peer review than ever before. The activities of academic publishers, governments, research councils, and universities are all ultimately supported by a system that is heavily gamed and cannot withstand scrutiny. The article compares the practice of peer review with its replacement, the peer review of myth. Myth, like religion, is dependent on faith, not logic. The article looks closely at the transition, focusing particularly on management studies. It explores how the practice of peer review, with all its deficiencies, has been superseded by the peer review of myth, with no deficiencies at all. Vested interests profit, but academic research suffers.
Potentially Suboptimal Prescribing for Older Veteran Nursing Home Patients With Dementia
Authors: Hanlon Joseph T. , Aspinall Sherrie L. , Handler Steven M. , Gellad Walid F. , Stone Roslyn A. , Semla Todd P. , Pugh Mary Jo V. , Dysken Maurice W.
Published: November 2014

Background: Nursing home patients with dementia may be more likely to suffer adverse drug events from suboptimal prescribing. Previous studies have not used national samples, nor have they examined multiple types of suboptimal prescribing by dementia severity. Objective: To examine the prevalence of and factors associated with potentially suboptimal prescribing in older veteran nursing home patients with dementia. Methods: This is a retrospective descriptive study of 1303 veterans 65 years or older admitted between January 1, 2004, and June 30, 2005, with dementia for long stays (90+ days) to 133 Veterans Affairs Community Living Centers. Dementia severity was determined by the Cognitive Performance Scale and functional status dependences. Results: Overall, 70.2% with mild-moderate dementia (n = 1076) had underuse because they did not receive an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (AChEI), and 27.2% had evidence of inappropriate use because of a drug-disease or drug-drug-disease interaction. Of the 227 with severe dementia, 36.1% had overuse by receiving an AChEI or lipid-lowering or other agents, and 25.1% had evidence of inappropriate use as a result of a drug-disease or drug-drug interaction. Multinomial logistic regression analyses among those with mild to moderate dementia identified that living in the South versus other regions was the single factor associated with all 3 types of suboptimal prescribing. In those with severe dementia, antipsychotic use was associated with all 3 suboptimal prescribing types. Conclusions: Potentially suboptimal prescribing was common in older veteran nursing home patients with dementia. Clinicians should develop a heightened awareness of these problems. Future studies should examine associations between potentially suboptimal prescribing and health outcomes in patients with dementia.
Exploring the Linkage Between the Components of Motivational Systems Theory and Career Decisiveness
Authors: Chatterjee Srabasti , Afshan Nikhat , Chhetri Prerna
Published: November 2014

This study examined the role of individual and contextual factors in the development of career optimism, which leads to career decisiveness using motivational systems theory (MST). The study was conducted by adopting a longitudinal study design using responses from 254 management students in India. Results of structural equation modeling analyses suggested that the hypothesized model adequately fit the data. Career optimism mediated the relationship between each of the components of MST (goal, capability beliefs, context beliefs, and emotions) and career decisiveness except goals. Career optimism partially mediated the relationship between goals and career decisiveness. Furthermore, results indicated that none of the demographic variables (age, gender, qualification, and academic background) had any effect on either career optimism or career decisiveness.
Assessment of Coronal Plane Subtalar Joint Alignment in Peritalar Subluxation via Weight-Bearing Multiplanar Imaging
Authors: Probasco William , Haleem Amgad M. , Yu Jeanne , Sangeorzan Bruce J. , Deland Jonathan T. , Ellis Scott J.
Published: November 2014

Background:

Patients with adult-acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) develop peritalar subluxation, which may stem from valgus inclination of the inferior surface of the talus. We hypothesized that patients with AAFD would have an increased valgus tilt of the subtalar joint in the coronal plane compared to controls when assessed with a novel multiplanar weight-bearing imaging (MP-WB).

Methods:

Eighteen normal and 36 stage II AAFD patients scheduled to undergo operative reconstruction were evaluated by MP-WB through measuring 3 novel angles of the subtalar joint in the coronal view: (1) angle between inferior facet of the talus and the horizontal/floor (inftal-hor), (2) angle between inferior and superior facets of the talus (inftal-suptal), and (3) angle between inferior facet of the talus and superior facet of the calcaneus (inftal-supcal). Intra- and interobserver reliability were evaluated via intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Differences in angles between AAFD patients and controls were evaluated using Wilcoxon rank-sum test.

Results:

Intra- and interobserver reliability were excellent for inftal-hor (ICC .942 and .991, respectively) and inftal-suptal (ICC .948 and .989, respectively), and moderate-good for inftal-supcal (ICC .604 and .742, respectively). Inftal-hor and inftal-suptal angles were found to be significantly greater in AAFD patients ( P < 0.001) at all 3 locations along the posterior subtalar joint, while inftal-supcal did not demonstrate a significant difference ( P = .741). While controls exhibited varus orientation at the anterior aspect of the joint, AAFD patients maintained a valgus orientation throughout.

Conclusion:

Inftal-hor and inftal-suptal angles provided a reliable means of evaluating the orientation of the subtalar joint axis in AAFD via MP-WB, and showed that the subtalar joint had increased valgus orientation in AAFD compared to controls. This may allow for identification of patients at risk for developing AAFD, and could potentially be used in guiding operative reconstruction.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, comparative series.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Varying the Number of Loops in a Repair of a Physiological Model of Achilles Tendon Rupture
Authors: Grieco Preston W. , Frumberg David B. , Weinberg Maxwell , Pivec Robert , Naziri Qais , Uribe Jaime A.
Published: November 2014

Background:

Numerous suturing techniques have been described to treat Achilles tendon ruptures. No prior studies have evaluated frayed tendon ends on construct strength and whether this allows for less extensile exposure.

Methods:

Forty bovine Achilles tendons were divided into groups: 1 control and 4 experimental. Experimental groups were sectioned with ends frayed longitudinally in 2 mm intervals for 2 cm with no fraying for the control group. Four-stand Krackow sutures were used for repairs with 3 loops in the control group, 2 loops in frayed section for experimental groups, and varying numbers of loops (1-4) in healthy tendon. Samples were tested in loading cells at 100 N and 190 N for 1000 cycles. Gap width and maximum load failure were measured.

Results:

Gapping was <5 mm in controls at 100 N-190 N, significantly lower than experimentals. Greatest gapping occurred in groups with 1-2 loops in healthy tendon (10.9-13.9 mm). Most early catastrophic failures (5/8) occurred in groups with 1-2 loops in healthy tendon. Two failures at 100 N occurred in 1-loop healthy tendons. The least failures occurred in controls (2/8), at 190 N.

Conclusion:

Suture loops incorporated into frayed tendon portions predisposed repairs to significantly greater gapping and lower maximal failure forces than 4-strand Krackow repairs in unfrayed tendons.

Clinical Relevance:

We cannot recommend attempting more limited exposures with sutures in frayed tendon as this may lead to early repair failure. We provided a physiologic model utilizing frayed tendon ends that resembles in vivo Achilles tendon rupture.
Sagittal Subtalar and Talocrural Joint Assessment With Weight-Bearing Fluoroscopy During Barefoot Ambulation
Authors: McHenry Benjamin D. , Exten Emily L. , Long Jason , Law Brian , Marks Richard M. , Harris Gerald
Published: November 2014

Background:

Identifying talar position during ambulation has proved difficult as the talus lacks palpable landmarks for skin marker placement and more invasive methodologies such as bone pins are not practical for most clinical subjects. A fluoroscopic motion system was used to track the talus and calcaneus, allowing kinematic analysis of the talocrural and subtalar joints.

Methods:

Thirteen male subjects (mean age 22.9 ± 3.0 years) previously screened for normal gait were tested. A fluoroscopy unit was used to collect images at 120 fps during stance. Sagittal motion of the talocrural and subtalar joints were analyzed.

Results:

The intersubject mean and standard deviation values for all 58 trials of 13 subjects are reported. Maximum talocrural joint plantarflexion of 11.2 degrees (4.3 degrees of standard deviation) occurred at 11% stance and maximum dorsiflexion of −6.9 degrees (5.6 degrees of standard deviation) occurred at 85%. Maximum subtalar joint plantarflexion of 4.8 degrees (1.0 degrees of standard deviation) occurred at 96% stance and maximum dorsiflexion of −3.6 degrees (2.3 degrees of standard deviation) occurred at 30%. Talocrural and subtalar range of motion values during stance were 18.1 and 8.4 degrees, respectively.

Conclusion:

Existing fluoroscopic technology was capable of defining sagittal plane talocrural and subtalar motion during gait. These kinematic results compare favorably with more invasive techniques. This type of assessment could support more routine analysis of in vivo bony motion during gait.

Clinical Relevance:

Fluoroscopic technology offers improved sagittal plane motion evaluation during weight-bearing with potential application in patients with end-stage ankle arthritis, postoperative ankle replacements and fusions, and orthotics and braces.
Increased Epicardial Adipose Tissue Thickness is Associated With Angiographic Thrombus Burden in the Patients With Non-ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Bakirci Eftal Murat , Degirmenci Husnu , Duman Hakan , Inci Sinan , Hamur Hikmet , Buyuklu Mutlu , Ceyhun Gokhan , Topal Ergun
Published: November 2014

We aimed to evaluate the relation among epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) thickness, angiographic presence of thrombus, and the no-reflow in the patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention. The study population consisted of 229 patients. The EAT thickness and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were significantly higher in the patients with coronary thrombus than in those without coronary thrombus (6.1 ± 1.1 vs 5.1 ± 1.3 mm, P < .001 and 3.4 ± 0.9 vs 2.5 ± 0.7, P < .001, respectively) and in the patients with no-reflow compared to patients with reflow. The EAT thickness was found to be correlated positively with the degree of the thrombus burden, NLR, and waist circumference and negatively with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that EAT thickness and NLR independently predicted coronary thrombus formation and no-reflow. We have suggested that EAT can play an important role in the pathophysiology of coronary thrombus formation and the no-reflow.
Social Networks of Professionals in Health Care Organizations
Authors: Tasselli Stefano
Published: November 2014

In this article, we provide an overview of social network research in health care, with a focus on social interactions between professionals in organizations. We begin by introducing key concepts defining the social network approach, including network density, centrality, and brokerage. We then review past and current research on the antecedents of health care professionals’ social networks—including demographic attributes, professional groups, and organizational arrangements—and their consequences—including satisfaction at work, leadership, behaviors, knowledge transfer, diffusion of innovation, and performance. Finally, we examine future directions for social network research in health care, focusing on micro–macro linkages and network dynamics.
What Is the Cost of Quality for Diabetes Care?
Authors: Abraham Jean M. , Crespin Daniel J. , McCullough Jeffrey S. , Christianson Jon B.
Published: November 2014

Increasing the quality of care and reducing cost growth are core objectives of numerous private- and public-sector performance improvement initiatives. Using a unique panel data set for a commercially insured population and multivariate regression analysis, this study examines the relationship between medical care spending and diabetes-related quality measures, including provider-initiated processes of care and patient-dependent quality activities. Empirical evidence generated from this analysis of the relationship between a comprehensive set of diabetes quality measures and diabetes-related spending does not lend support for the assumption that high-quality preventive and primary care combined with effective patient self-management can lead to lower costs in the near term. Finally, we find no relationship between adjusted spending and intermediate clinical outcomes (e.g., HbA1c level) measured at the clinic level.
Medication adherence to oral cancer therapy: The promising role of the pharmacist
Authors: Felton Maria A , van Londen GJ , Marcum Zachary A
Published: November 2014

Medication adherence to oral cancer therapy is a critical component to achieving optimal patient outcomes. As the US population ages, growing numbers of patients will be prescribed oral cancer therapy regimens, highlighting the need for innovative and scalable solutions. Clinical pharmacists offer tremendous promise to help patients improve their adherence to oral cancer therapy. Moreover, addition of oral chemotherapy to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) medication adherence quality measures has the potential to improve care and result in better therapeutic outcomes with fewer costs for patients and payers. Future research is needed to test the use of pharmacist-managed interventions to improve adherence to oral cancer therapy.
New Allometric Scaling Relationships and Applications for Dose and Toxicity Extrapolation
Authors: Cao Qiming , Yu Jimmy , Connell Des
Published: November 2014

Allometric scaling between metabolic rate, size, body temperature, and other biological traits has found broad applications in ecology, physiology, and particularly in toxicology and pharmacology. Basal metabolic rate (BMR) was observed to scale with body size and temperature. However, the mass scaling exponent was increasingly debated whether it should be 2/3, 3/4, or neither, and scaling with body temperature also attracted recent attention. Based on thermodynamic principles, this work reports 2 new scaling relationships between BMR, size, temperature, and biological time. Good correlations were found with the new scaling relationships, and no universal scaling exponent can be obtained. The new scaling relationships were successfully validated with external toxicological and pharmacological studies. Results also demonstrated that individual extrapolation models can be built to obtain scaling exponent specific to the interested group, which can be practically applied for dose and toxicity extrapolations.
Pathways to Gender-equitable Men
Authors: Levtov Ruti Galia , Barker Gary , Contreras-Urbina Manuel , Heilman Brian , Verma Ravi
Published: November 2014

Efforts to promote gender equality have recognized the importance of involving men and boys. Yet, in general, we have done little in terms of large-scale research in the Global South to understand how men are responding to the global gender equality agenda. This article presents findings from the International Men and Gender Equality Survey (IMAGES), one of the most comprehensive efforts of its kind to gather data on men’s attitudes and practices related to gender equality in eight low- and middle-income countries: Brazil, Chile, Mexico, India, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. It provides a current picture of men’s attitudes about gender and gender equality, explores the determinants of equitable attitudes, and investigates the associations between equitable attitudes and relationship behaviors. We find that men report positive but ambivalent attitudes toward gender equality, and that education, income, and more equitable practices in men’s childhood homes are associated with men’s more equitable attitudes and practices. Finally, we show that in most countries, men’s equitable attitudes are also associated with more equitable practices, including more participation in the home and reduced use of violence, as well as higher sexual satisfaction. The findings suggest both the need for program approaches that change attitudes, as well as policy and structural approaches that create lived experiences of gender equality for men. Given how much early childhood experiences influenced men's adult attitudes and practices, the findings also emphasize the need for programs and policies to promote equitable caregiving.
Pathways to Gender Equitable Men
Authors: Shefer Tamara
Published: November 2014

This article reflects on the findings of the International Men and Gender Equality survey through the lens of contemporary South African contexts of change. While huge strides have been made toward gender justice in South Africa since 1994, there are many indications, including high rates of gender-based violence, that inequalities on the basis of gender intersected with other forms of inequality persist. Further, some research illustrates a growing resistance among men and women to gender justice policies and measures. The article argues that far more work is required in South Africa to shift both men and women’s perceptions of the value of gender justice for boys and men, and in facilitating a more authentic investment for boys and men in their own and social change. It also points to how much of the current scholarship on men and boys focuses on “problems” that reproduces a negative construction of certain groups of boys and men that is also raced and classed. In taking stock of a lack of progress in twenty years of democracy and gender equality goals in South Africa, the article argues the importance of shifting emphasis to what may be seen as the “positive” moments of men’s relationship to gender equality and justice. It argues that the findings of the survey point to the value of strategic engagement with and acknowledgment of existing participation of boys and men in alternative, equitable, and constructive practices, such as more active participation in caring practices.
Pre-service teachers’ attitudes towards children with disabilities
Authors: Tindall Daniel , MacDonald Whitney , Carroll Edith , Moody Brigitte
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a 10-week adapted physical activity programme on the attitudes and perceptions of 64 Irish pre-service teachers (aged 19–25) towards teaching children and young people with physical, intellectual, and learning disabilities. Data were collected through written pre-programme expectations, weekly reflective logs, and a final written reflection. Data were analysed qualitatively through reading and rereading the data sources, identifying similarities and differences, themes, and patterns. Results revealed a positive change in attitude and perception toward both the idea of inclusion and working with persons with disabilities. Specifically, pre-programme anxieties diminished, confidence increased, and the benefits of the programme design (combining theory and practice) were realised. The findings of this study support the continued implementation of this type of ‘lived’ learning experience as an integral part of physical education initial teacher education programming in Ireland.
Entrepreneurship as a means for restructuring employment patterns
Authors: Atef Tamer Mohamed , Al-Balushi Masooma
Published: November 2014

The growing numbers of youth seeking to enter the labor market place great pressure on educational institutions to reshape curricula, equip graduates with the right skills and qualifications, and reconcile the discrepancies between educational programs and labor market needs. Most new graduates join the labor market by accepting positions in government (public) or private sector organizations. Few of them undertake entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurial intention has been a dynamic field of study due to the job and career creation it involves and economic development it spurs as a result. The present study assessed receptiveness for entrepreneurship and the factors affecting entrepreneurial intentions among students in the Tourism Department of Sultan Qaboos University (College of Arts and Social Sciences), located in the Sultanate of Oman. Based on a survey of 36 students, findings reveal that the respondents are considering and interested in entrepreneurship and that pull and push factors influence and shape their entrepreneurial intentions. Reducing barriers and increasing support for students to pursue self-employment versus traditional public or private sector employment would increase opportunities for graduates to successfully join the regional, national, and international workforce, consequently easing the individual and national strain of unemployment.
Models of adult safeguarding in England: A review of the literature
Authors: Graham Katherine , Norrie Caroline , Stevens Martin , Moriarty Jo , Manthorpe Jill , Hussein Shereen
Published: November 2014

This article presents the findings of a narrative synthesis of literature published between January 2000 and September 2013 exploring the organisation of adult safeguarding services in England. The review sought to identify the characteristics of safeguarding practice, which may be important for local authorities to consider when choosing between models of organisation.

Findings

The findings suggest that the development of adult safeguarding policy and practice has prompted local authorities to develop specialist safeguarding roles. The implications of specialism have not been extensively explored. However, several important characteristics of safeguarding practice are identifiable from the literature including specialism within the organisation of adult safeguarding; decision-making and thresholds for safeguarding response; and multi-agency working.

Applications

The review found limited evidence relating to the organisation of adult safeguarding, which suggests that further empirical research is needed. The critical features of safeguarding practice identified here comprise a useful starting point from which to explore the implications of different ‘models’ of safeguarding organisation.
Circadian rhythm of plasma and urinary angiotensinogen in healthy volunteers and in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Nishijima Yoko , Kobori Hiroyuki , Kaifu Kumiko , Mizushige Tomoko , Hara Taiga , Nishiyama Akira , Kohno Masakazu
Published: November 2014

The urinary angiotensinogen (AGT) excretion rate could be a novel biomarker for the intrarenal activity of the renin-angiotensin system. Little is known about the circadian rhythm of AGT levels in plasma or urine. In this short article, making use of data in plasma and urine of healthy volunteers and patients with chronic kidney diseases, we first report that we were unable to find evidence for a circadian rhythm of AGT under any condition. Next we critically discuss to what degree elevated urinary AGT levels might be considered an independent biomarker that is not simply the non-specific consequence of proteinuria.
The role of the culture of Japanese students in acquisition of academic English: An ethnographic study
Authors: Mertin Patricia Anne
Published: November 2014

This ethnographic study examines the role of Japanese students’ culture and its effects on the rate of acquisition of academic English. It is based on observation of classes in Japanese schools, both in Japan and Germany, as well as in an international school, together with interviews, questionnaires, student responses and case studies over a period of 6 years. Data collection concentrated on the school, the family and friendships, as well as the different understandings of teaching and learning in Japanese schools and international schools.
Arterial elasticity in obese adolescents with clinical features of insulin resistance
Authors: Ho Mandy , Benitez-Aguirre Paul Z , Donaghue Kim C , Mitchell Paul , Baur Louise A , Jenkins Alicia J , Craig Maria E , Cowell Chris T , Garnett Sarah P
Published: November 2014

Objective:

To determine whether arterial elasticity differs between obese adolescents with clinical insulin resistance (IR), type 1 diabetes (T1D) and healthy non-obese controls.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study evaluated 69 adolescents with clinical IR, 91 with T1D and 63 age-matched (10- to 18-year-old) controls. Arterial elasticity was measured using radial tonometry pulse-wave analysis. Stepwise multiple regression analyses were performed to assess the determinants of the small and large arterial elasticity indices (SAEI and LAEI).

Results:

SAEI and LAEI raw values were higher in the IR group than the controls, and these did not differ between the T1D and control groups. Weight and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were significant predictors of SAEI. After adjustment for weight and DBP, SAEI decreased by 0.65 mL/mmHg × 100 for each 1-year increase in age in the IR group. SAEI was not different across the groups after controlling for weight and DBP. Height was the strongest predictor of LAEI which remained higher in the IR group after controlling for height and blood pressure.

Conclusion:

Obese adolescents with clinical IR have a higher SAEI, which declines with age; this may reflect a pathway to an increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease.
A Systematic Review of Prevalence and Risk Factors for Elder Abuse in Asia
Authors: Yan Elsie , Chan Ko-Ling , Tiwari Agnes
Published: November 2014

The number of older victims of domestic violence is expected to increase drastically in Asia as many countries are experiencing rapid population aging. In 2012, 11% of the population in Asia were aged 60 years and over. This is expected to rise to 24% by 2050. This article discusses the unique features of Asian cultures that are relevant to the understanding of elder abuse and summarizes the existing literature looking at the prevalence and risk factors of such abuse in Asian populations.
The Single Entity Status of a Sports League
Authors: Kesenne Stefan
Published: November 2014

Without dealing with the pure juridical discussions and arguments about a sports league as a single entity, I discuss only the economic consequences of the single entity idea, which I consider only as an attempt to shun North American antitrust laws or E.U. competition laws, in order to monopolize the product market, the player labor market, and the media markets. However, economists know that monopolies are reducing welfare. So who needs that single entity?
Laughing Alone Like a Mad Person
Authors: Coskan-Johnson Gale P.
Published: November 2014

This article examines discursive and methodological complexities involved in publishing writing by marginalized figures. The analysis is framed by the notion of “raw material” through which particular writers are excluded from communities of scholars, human rights workers, and agents of the state. It offers a close reading of one writer and examines the context in which she is published. It performs a critical examination of the visual rhetorics of each volume, and argues that these texts are infused with a savior narrative that promotes the “good work” of the NGO but infantilizes the writers and pre-empts their reentrance into the public sphere. This article ends by proposing ways of reading that might lead to relationships of solidarity and so produce oppositional rhetorics capable of disrupting public, academic, and state-based discourses of measurement.
Clinical Compliance of Donepezil in Treating Alzheimer’s Disease in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Yun-Ping , Yang Chiu-Hsien , Chou Mei-Chuan , Chen Chun-Hung , Yang Yuan-Han
Published: November 2014

Background/Rationale:

Adherence to cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI) is associated with treatment effectiveness in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We investigated the clinical adherence to donepezil in Taiwan.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study. Patients treated with donepezil were recruited from Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital and Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Hospital from February 2004 to April 2013. We analyzed their treatment duration in months.

Results:

A total of 273 patients were included in our analysis. Sixty-seven patients withdrew from donepezil treatment with mean treatment duration of 28.0 ± 25.9 months. Better initial scores on the Mini-Mental Status Examination ( P = .007), Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument ( P = .003), and the Clinical Dementia Rating Scale (CDR) Sum of Boxes ( P = .011) were positively associated with clinical adherence. The clinical adherent rate was higher in the CDR-0.5 group than in the CDR-2.0 group with significant difference.

Conclusion:

Although there are some limitations in our study, these findings indicate that early intervention with ChEI in patients with AD should be emphasized and may lead to a better clinical adherence.
Long Latency Auditory Evoked Potentials during Meditation
Authors: Telles Shirley , Deepeshwar Singh , Naveen Kalkuni Visweswaraiah , Pailoor Subramanya
Published: November 2014

The auditory sensory pathway has been studied in meditators, using midlatency and short latency auditory evoked potentials. The present study evaluated long latency auditory evoked potentials (LLAEPs) during meditation. Sixty male participants, aged between 18 and 31 years (group mean ± SD, 20.5 ± 3.8 years), were assessed in 4 mental states based on descriptions in the traditional texts. They were ( a) random thinking, ( b) nonmeditative focusing, ( c) meditative focusing, and ( d) meditation. The order of the sessions was randomly assigned. The LLAEP components studied were P1 (40-60 ms), N1 (75-115 ms), P2 (120-180 ms), and N2 (180-280 ms). For each component, the peak amplitude and peak latency were measured from the prestimulus baseline. There was significant decrease in the peak latency of the P2 component during and after meditation ( P < .001; analysis of variance and post hoc analysis with Bonferroni adjustment). The P1, P2, and N2 components showed a significant decrease in peak amplitudes during random thinking ( P < .01; P < .001; P < .01, respectively) and nonmeditative focused thinking ( P < .01; P < .01; P < .05, respectively). The results suggest that meditation facilitates the processing of information in the auditory association cortex, whereas the number of neurons recruited was smaller in random thinking and non-meditative focused thinking, at the level of the secondary auditory cortex, auditory association cortex and anterior cingulate cortex.
Art Video Games
Authors: Castaño Díaz Carlos Mauricio , Tungtjitcharoen Worawach
Published: November 2014

This study conducted analytical and semiexperimental research with the purpose of testing if art video games serve as a form of transmission of social representations and feelings. Accordingly, a free-association questionnaire was used after participants played the game The Graveyard. The associative method was paired with item hierarchization and clustering techniques using a structural approach. The data were analyzed using mixed methods (frequency analysis, semantic weight, and categorical clustering). Additionally, a cluster analysis was conducted to determine connections between representations. Afterward, categories were compared with the representations the game designers wanted to transmit to the players. The results of the research confirmed the possibility of accessing people’s social representations using a video game as stimulus. Cluster analyses depicted that these representations were emotionally linked and socially shared among the players without regard to age or gender. The relation with the designers’ representations about the game was found to be not significant.
A Mixed Methods Examination of the Influence of Dimensions of Support on Training Transfer
Authors: Schindler Laura A. , Burkholder Gary J.
Published: November 2014

The purpose of this mixed methods sequential explanatory study was to explore how specific dimensions of supervisor support (mentoring, coaching, social support, and task support) influence the transfer of learned knowledge and skills to the job. Quantitative data were collected from employees ( N = 48) who develop curriculum at an educational organization and analyzed using multiple regression analysis; this was followed by in-depth interviews ( n = 10) that focused on participants’ lived experiences of supervisor support, transfer motivation, and training transfer. Findings suggest that mentoring, coaching, social support, and task support directly and/or indirectly facilitate training transfer and provide greater insight into the underlying mechanisms that account for how and why supervisor support influences training transfer.
Rap as Threat? The Violent Translation of Music in American Law
Authors: Hirsch Lily E.
Published: November 2014

In Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. Jamal Knox and Rashee Beasley (2013), the defendants were charged with making “terroristic threats” after their rap song “F* the Police” appeared on YouTube. This unique case (similar only to U.S. v. Elonis of the same year) exposes significant issues within the law: ambiguity surrounding the law’s definitions of threat and the problematic assumption at court that rap as evidence is a literal text or confessional. It also, however, reveals a certain consistency in the court’s treatment of music: general dismissal. That mishandling of music, in this case, allowed for a rather drastic translation of “F* the Police” – a court-constituted violence credited to the defendants alone.
Advertising war: Picturing Belgium in First World War publicity
Authors: Green Leanne
Published: November 2014

With the German invasion of Belgium on 4 August 1914, Britain was given a noble cause. Not only had the Germans apparently violated an international treaty in their invasion of neutral land, but according to press reports they were showing no remorse as they committed alleged acts of atrocity upon the innocent nation. As the press justified the war in terms of the sanctity of the law and the safety of civilians, Britain’s involvement became difficult to dispute. The invasion of Belgium merged parliamentary and press support for the war and provided the two with a powerful tool that they fully intended to exploit. This article argues that because of Britain’s vast machinery for the production and distribution of propaganda, visual representations of the German invasion of Belgium had ramifications for the way that the meaning of the war was addressed to the British public. The plight of Belgium featured prominently in the British press during the first few months of war. Visual propaganda from both public and private concerns used rhetorical frameworks of national loyalty, gender and the family to manipulate public opinion. War advertising was instrumental in providing a link between the state and the masses. Also used by charities and other interest groups, it was perceived as a crucial and effective link to the public. Drawing from a collection of war advertising held at the Imperial War Museum, the author traces the way that both public and private concerns targeted the wave of ‘Belgianitis’ that was spreading across Britain at the time of their production, notably to justify and garner support for the war, to raise funds and promote recruitment.
Out of sight, out of mind? The inclusion and identification of people with intellectual disability in public health research
Authors: Brooker Katie , van Dooren Kate , Tseng Chih-Han , McPherson Lyn , Lennox Nick , Ware Robert
Published: November 2014

Aims:

Adults with intellectual disability experience substantial health inequities. Public health research aiming to improve the lives of this population group is needed. We sought to investigate the extent to which a sample of international public health research includes and identifies people with intellectual disability.

Methods:

In this systematic review, we examined a select number of public health journals to determine (1) how often people with intellectual disability are explicitly included in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies and (2) how the presence of intellectual disability is identified and reported.

Results:

Among eligible articles in these selected public health journals, it was found that cohort studies passively exclude people with intellectual disability, while RCTs actively exclude this population. Most general population articles that explicitly identified people with intellectual disability did so through self-report or proxy report and databases.

Conclusions:

A more extensive and adequate evidence base relating to the health of this overlooked population group is needed. A useful first step would be for researchers specialising in intellectual disability to identify how we can best assist mainstream researchers to include and identify people with intellectual disability in their population-level studies.
Comparing Fixation Used for Calcaneal Displacement Osteotomies
Authors: Lucas Douglas E. , Simpson G. Alex , Philbin Terrence M.
Published: November 2014

Background. The calcaneal displacement osteotomy is a procedure frequently used by foot and ankle surgeons for hindfoot angular deformity. Traditional techniques use compression screw fixation that can result in prominent hardware. While the results of the procedure are generally good, a common concern is the development of plantar heel pain related to prominent hardware. The primary purpose of this study is to retrospectively compare clinical outcomes of 2 fixation methods for the osteotomy. Secondarily a cost analysis will compare implant costs to hardware removal costs. Methods. Records were reviewed for patients who had undergone a calcaneal displacement osteotomy fixated with either lag screw or a locked lateral compression plate (LLCP). Neuropathy, previous ipsilateral calcaneus surgery, heel pad trauma, or incomplete radiographic follow-up were exclusionary. Results. Thirty-two patients (19.4%) required hardware removal from the screw fixation group compared to 1 (1.6%) of the LLCP group, which is significant ( P < .05). Time to radiographic healing was not significantly different ( P = .87). The screw fixation group required more follow-up visits over a longer period of time ( P < .05). Implant cost was remarkably different with screw fixation costing on average $247.12, compared to the LLCP costing $1175.59. Although the LLCP cost was significantly higher, cost savings were identified when the cost of removal and removal rates were included. Conclusion. This study demonstrates that this device provides adequate stabilization for healing in equivalent time to screw fixation. The LLCP required decreased rates of hardware removal with fewer postoperative visits over a shorter period of time. Significant savings were demonstrated in the LLCP group despite the higher implant cost.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level III, Retrospective Comparative Study
Evaluation of Standing Stability in Individuals With Flatfeet
Authors: Tahmasebi Razieh , Karimi Mohammad Taghi , Satvati Behnaz , Fatoye Francis
Published: November 2014

Objective: Flatfoot is one of the most common foot disorders, which not only influences the performance of the foot but also affects the alignments of the ankle, knee, and hip joints. The performance of the flat-arched individuals differs from that of normal individuals during walking. However, there is not enough information in the literature regarding their standing stability. Moreover, the influence of use of foot insole on standing stability has not been evaluated. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate standing stability in individuals with flatfoot with and without insole. Methods: Two groups of normal and flat-arched individuals were recruited into this study. A Kistler force plate was used to measure the center of pressure (CoP), which is recognized as a good approximation of sway of center of gravity in a horizontal plane. Stability was determined by calculating the CoP excursions, path length, and velocity in the mediolateral and anteroposterior directions. The difference between stability in normal individuals and those with flatfoot was examined using the independent t test. The paired t test was used to determine the difference between stability in each group with and without insole. Significant P value was set at α ≤.05. Results: There was a significant difference between stability of flat-arched and normal individuals based on CoP velocity and total velocity. In addition, there was no direct correlation between the severity of flatfoot and instability during quiet standing. However, the mean values of CoP total velocity during standing with and without insole were significantly different ( P < .001). Conclusion: This study suggests that individuals with flatfoot are more unstable when compared with normal individuals during quiet standing. It seems that the foot insole improves the alignment of foot structure and reduces the forces applied on the ligament, thus, improving standing stability. Therefore, stability assessment in patients with flatfoot may be important, and the insole is a useful modality that can be used to improve stability in this patient group.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level II: Prospective, comparative trial
Hindfoot Deformity and Calcaneal Tuberosity Osteotomies
Authors: Jastifer James R. , Coughlin Michael J.
Published: November 2014

Calcaneal tuberosity osteotomies are commonly used to treat coronal plane deformities of the hindfoot. Assessing hindfoot alignment can be difficult and there is little evidence to guide the physician when considering the surgical treatment of these deformities. The indications for a calcaneal osteotomy are unclear in the literature because most of the published studies supporting their use are confounded by concurrent procedures such as in adult-acquired flatfoot correction or cavovarus reconstruction. For the same reason, the biomechanical consequences, long-term effects, and performance in vivo are largely unknown.

Level of Evidence: Expert opinion, Level V
Mediatization and Government Communication
Authors: Laursen Bo , Valentini Chiara
Published: November 2014

Social actors see exposure in the news media as attractive for publicity purposes and are under pressure to adapt their press work to a “media logic” to be attractive sources for journalists and editors. This article investigates the European Parliament’s press officers’ professional practices in the light of mediatization and government communication theories. Without one pan-European public sphere, the European Parliament, like the other European Union (EU) institutions, competes with national actors for the news media’s attention in the EU’s twenty-eight national public spheres, where EU affairs do not tend to get a media coverage that matches the EU’s considerable influence on European citizens’ daily lives. This study, which is based on in-depth interviews with European Parliament press officers, concludes that these professionals are indeed attuned to a “media logic” in their communication efforts, and that they face a daily professional challenge as they attempt to promote the European Parliament and its activities to the news media in a way that will not compromise their credibility as government sources. The study provides new insights into communicative aspects of EU governance, and particularly into the thinking that guides the efforts of these European Parliament officials to increase European citizens’ awareness of, and support for, the European Parliament that is meant to voice the citizens’ concerns in political processes at the EU level.
The fusion of tissue spheroids attached to pre-stretched electrospun polyurethane scaffolds
Authors: Beachley Vince , Kasyanov Vladimir , Nagy-Mehesz Agnes , Norris Russell , Ozolanta Iveta , Kalejs Martins , Stradins Peteris , Baptista Leandra , da Silva Karina , Grainjero Jose , Wen Xuejun , Mironov Vladimir
Published: November 2014

Effective cell invasion into thick electrospun biomimetic scaffolds is an unsolved problem. One possible strategy to biofabricate tissue constructs of desirable thickness and material properties without the need for cell invasion is to use thin (<2 µm) porous electrospun meshes and self-assembling (capable of tissue fusion) tissue spheroids as building blocks. Pre-stretched electrospun meshes remained taut in cell culture and were able to support tissue spheroids with minimal deformation. We hypothesize that elastic electrospun scaffolds could be used as temporal support templates for rapid self-assembly of cell spheroids into higher order tissue structures, such as engineered vascular tissue. The aim of this study was to investigate how the attachment of tissue spheroids to pre-stretched polyurethane scaffolds may interfere with the tissue fusion process. Tissue spheroids attached, spread, and fused after being placed on pre-stretched polyurethane electrospun matrices and formed tissue constructs. Efforts to eliminate hole defects with fibrogenic tissue growth factor-β resulted in the increased synthesis of collagen and periostin and a dramatic reduction in hole size and number. In control experiments, tissue spheroids fuse on a non-adhesive hydrogel and form continuous tissue constructs without holes. Our data demonstrate that tissue spheroids attached to thin stretched elastic electrospun scaffolds have an interrupted tissue fusion process. The resulting tissue-engineered construct phenotype is a direct outcome of the delicate balance of the competing physical forces operating during the tissue fusion process at the interface of the pre-stretched elastic scaffold and the attached tissue spheroids. We have shown that with appropriate treatments, this process can be modulated, and thus, a thin pre-stretched elastic polyurethane electrospun scaffold could serve as a supporting template for rapid biofabrication of thick tissue-engineered constructs without the need for cell invasion.