bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“You try to keep a brave face on but inside you are in bits”: Grandparent experiences of engaging with professionals in Children’s Services
Authors: Tarrant Anna , Featherstone Brid , O’Dell Lindsay , Fraser Clare
Published: December 2015

This article presents findings from an evaluation conducted in 2012, of the advice and advocacy service provided by the charity Family Rights Group for families involved with children’s services. It specifically focuses on the experiences of grandparents and explores accounts from grandparents who were either in the process of seeking care of their grandchildren or were already caring for grandchildren but without formal support or recognition. The findings suggest that there is a need to pay greater attention to the fears of such grandparents about children’s services in a context where there appears to be a policy preference for adoption. Also evident is a paradox at the heart of contemporary social work practices towards grandparents. While some felt dismissed and marginalized very quickly by social workers and imaginative approaches to care possibilities did not appear to be pursued, others were carrying enormous burdens of care often for very long periods of time without either financial support or legal recognition.

To strengthen the care options for children and respect the ethic of care that is clearly to be observed operating in grandparenting practices, it is suggested that a more thorough interrogation of the multiple and often highly contradictory meanings attached to family is required on the part of social workers.
Challenges facing teachers new to working in schools overseas
Authors: Halicioglu Margaret L
Published: December 2015

This article considers the potential challenges facing teachers moving abroad for the first time, both professional challenges in their school and personal challenges in their private life. It suggests that such teachers embarking on a professional adventure overseas would benefit from careful consideration of the kind of school they will thrive in, mindful preparation for the move to a foreign country, and an awareness that they will experience some form of culture shock. It identifies areas requiring further academic research into the issue.
International Mindedness through the looking glass: Reflections on a concept
Authors: Castro Paloma , Lundgren Ulla , Woodin Jane
Published: December 2015

The aim of this article is to report and reflect on a research project involving the conceptualization of the term International Mindedness, which is used across a range of International Baccalaureate (IB) global and local contexts. The research process involved both a critical analysis of IB official documents and a literature review of concepts related to this term, which revealed important differences in their interpretations. The results shed light on the process of articulating a concept that is used globally and interpreted locally.
Chinese overseas doctoral student narratives of intercultural adaptation
Authors: Ye Lily , Edwards Viv
Published: December 2015

This study aims to explore how Chinese overseas doctoral students adjust to a different academic, social and cultural environment, using Giddens’ theoretical framework of self-identity. The findings indicate the participants proactively used various coping strategies in meeting challenges and adapting to new social environments. Continuity and stability of self-identity were achieved either culturally or academically through self-reflexivity, autonomy, creativity, authenticity and reliance on an ontological identity. The results challenge the grand narrative of essentialised ‘problematic Chinese learners’.
Elite bilingualism? Language use among multilingual teenagers of Swedish background in European Schools and international schools in Europe
Authors: Rydenvald Marie
Published: December 2015

This article explores the language use and language attitudes as reported by a number of multilingual teenagers with a Swedish background in European Schools and international schools in Europe. Special attention is given to the concepts of Third Culture Kids and elite bilingualism in relation to teenagers’ multilingualism. This study is based on a sociolinguistic survey comprising 72 participants. The results show a relationship between the language of instruction in two different international education programmes and participants’ reported language use and attitudes.
Attitudes Toward Punishment and Rehabilitation as Perceived Through Playing a Prison Tycoon Game
Authors: Oleszkiewicz A. , Kanonowicz M. , Sorokowski P. , Sorokowska A.
Published: December 2015

The present study brings personality research into the realm of computer games. We used a novel method—the Prison Tycoon computer game—to explore participants’ attitudes toward rehabilitation and punishment. Forty-two men and 48 women were asked to construct a virtual prison equipped with rehabilitation, correction, and neutral facilities. Financial investment spent on each respective type of facility was treated as an indicator of a participant’s particular attitudes toward punishment. Additionally, participants completed the NEO Five-Factor Personality Inventory. Results indicated that Neuroticism and Openness to experience may be reliable predictors of one’s willingness to rehabilitate prisoners (measured as the amount of money spent on rehabilitation/correction facilities). This novel experimental method sheds new light on the issue of reliably and ecologically measuring attitudes in the lab and provides further evidence that computer games offer a new, effective alternative to classical research methods in this area.
Adherence and Persistence Patterns in Medication Use Among Men With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Authors: Shortridge Emily , Donatucci Craig , Donga Prina , Marcus Michael , Wade Rolin L.
Published: December 2015

Medication adherence and persistence patterns among patients with lower urinary tract symptoms/benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) were analyzed. Electronic medical records of patients from the Reliant Medical Group were examined to evaluate adherence and persistence patterns. A total of 1,807 patients with LUTS/BPH were included in the study, and the number of patients at least 50 years of age was 1,748/1,807 (97%). Overall, 15.77% of patients were prescribed index prescription once, and no patients on combination alpha-blocker and 5-alpha reductase inhibitor therapies were prescribed their index prescriptions once. For all patients with LUTS/BPH, the mean number of prescriptions filled was 6.26, and the percentage of men persisting on index therapy for ≥4 years was 48%. Patients with LUTS/BPH showed a high proportion of both adherent and persistent treatment patterns, especially among patients taking combination therapy. The long follow-up time in our study provides evidence that patients are experiencing sufficient symptom relief to tolerate the challenges of remaining adherent and persistent.
Masculine Traits and Depressive Symptoms in Older and Younger Men and Women
Authors: Price Elizabeth C. , Gregg Jeffrey J. , Smith Merideth D. , Fiske Amy
Published: December 2015

Evidence suggests that men who strongly endorse masculine traits display an atypical presentation of depression, including more externalizing symptoms (e.g., anger or substance use), but fewer typical, internalizing symptoms (e.g., depressed mood or crying). This phenomenon has not been adequately explored in older adults or women. The current study used the externalizing subscale of the Masculine Depression Scale in older and younger men and women to detect atypical symptoms. It was predicted that individuals who more strongly endorsed masculine traits would have higher scores on the measure of externalizing symptoms relative to a measure of typical depressive symptoms Center for Epidemiologic Studies–Depression Scale. It was anticipated that results would differ by age-group but not by gender. Multigroup path analysis was used to test the hypothesis. The hypothesized path model, in which endorsement of masculine traits was associated with lower scores on the Center for Epidemiologic Studies–Depression Scale and with scores on the externalizing, but not internalizing, factor of the Masculine Depression Scale, fit the data well. Results differed significantly by age-group and gender. Masculine individuals reported lower levels of typical depressive symptoms relative to externalizing symptoms, but further research is needed within age- and gender groups. Results are consistent with the gendered responding framework and suggest that current assessment tools, which tend to focus on internalizing symptoms of depression, may not detect depression in individuals who endorse masculine traits.
“Do it All by Myself”: A Salutogenic Approach of Masculine Health Practice Among Farming Men Coping With Stress
Authors: Roy Philippe , Tremblay Gilles , Robertson Steven , Houle Janie
Published: December 2015

Farming is often considered one of the most stressful occupations. At the same time, farming men symbolically represent a strong, traditional, or hegemonic form of masculinity based on stoicism, resourcefulness, and resilience to adversity. A contrast is observed between this social representation and their health status, marked by higher levels of stress, social isolation, psychological distress, and suicide than many other subgroups of men. A salutogenic approach was taken in this study to enable the investigation of the social contexts in which farming men positively engage in health-promoting behaviors that may prevent or ameliorate mental health problems. A focus was placed on how farming men cope with stress on their own, and the relationship of this to their popular image of being resourceful and resilient. Thirty-two individual in-depth interviews with farming men and a focus group with five key informants working in rural areas within the Province of Quebec, Canada, were carried out. Self-distraction and cognitive strategies emerged as the most relevant for participants. Notably, taking work breaks conflicted with the discourse of the “relentless worker” that farmers are expected to be. Pathways to positive coping and recovery implied an ambivalence between contemplation of strategies aligned with negative aspects of traditional masculinity norms in North America and strategies aligned with more positive, progressive aspects of these norms based on the importance of family and work life balance. Health promotion and future research should investigate how various positive masculine practices can be aligned with farmers’ health and well-being and that of their family.
Barriers and Motivators to Participating in mHealth Research Among African American Men
Authors: James Delores C. S. , Harville Cedric
Published: December 2015

Most African American (AA) men own a smartphone, which positions them to be targeted for a variety of programs, services, and health interventions using mobile devices (mHealth). The goal of this study was to assess AA men’s use of technology and the barriers and motivators to participating in mHealth research. A self-administered survey was completed by 311 men. Multinomial logistic regression examined associations between three age groups (18-29 years, 30-50 years, and 51+ years), technology access, and motivators and barriers to participating in mHealth research. Sixty-five percent of men owned a smartphone and a laptop. Men aged 18 to 29 years were more likely willing to use a health app and smartwatch/wristband monitor than older men ( p < .01). Men aged 18 to 29 years were also more likely than older men to be motivated to participate for a free cell phone/upgraded data plan and contribution to the greater good ( p < .05). Older men were more likely than younger ones to be motivated to become more educated about the topic ( p < .05). Younger men were more likely than older ones to report lack of interest in the topic as a barrier to participating ( p < .01), while older men were more likely than younger ones to cite lack of research targeted to minority communities as a barrier ( p < .05). This study suggests that culturally tailored mHealth research using smartphones may be of interest to AA men interested in risk reduction and chronic disease self-management. Opportunities also exist to educate AA men about the topic at hand and why minority men are being targeted for the programs and interventions.
Recommendations for Treating Males: An Ethical Rationale for the Inclusion of Testicular Self-Examination (TSE) in a Standard of Care
Authors: Rovito Michael J. , Manjelievskaia Janna , Leone James E. , Lutz Michael , Cavayero Chase T. , Perlman David
Published: December 2015

The phrase “standard of care” is primarily a legal term representing what procedure a reasonable person (i.e., health practitioner) would administer to patients across similar circumstances. One major concern for health practitioners is delivering and advocating for treatments not defined as a standard of care. While providing such treatments may meet certain ethical imperatives, doing so may unwittingly trigger medical malpractice litigation fears from practitioners. Apprehension to deviate, even slightly, from the standard of care may (seem to) put the practitioner at significant risk for litigation, which, in turn, may limit options for treatment and preventive measures recommended by the practitioner. Specific to testicular treatment, certain guidelines exist for cancer, torsion, vasectomy, and scrotal masses, among others. As it relates to screening, practitioner examination is expected for patients presenting with testicular abnormalities. Testicular self-examination (TSE) advocacy, however, is discouraged by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, which may prompt a general unwillingness among health practitioners to promote the behavior. Considering the benefits TSE has beyond cancer detection, and the historical support it has received among health practitioners, it is paramount to consider the ethical implications of its official “exclusion” from preventive health and clinical care recommendations (i.e., standard of care). Since good ethics should lead practitioner patient care guidelines, not fear of increased malpractice risks, we recommend the development of a standard of care for counseling males to perform TSE.
The role of e-Governance in Europe's image of the Chinese Communist Party
Authors: Paulo Mireia
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this article is to examine official Chinese websites in the framework of e-Governance to understand the opportunities that such a communication tool could bring to improve the European – the European Union countries – audiences' understanding and the image of the central Chinese Government. The research hypothesis is that better accessibility and high-quality information as well as e-services will improve the level of trust of European citizens in the Chinese Government. This research is based on an empirical examination of the way in which official Chinese websites are accessed and perceived by European users. The sample group consists of respondents with a relation to China and studying or working in the fields of business, research, tourism and civil services. The data were collected using an online survey, and the sample totalled 143 respondents. The research revealed that European audiences find a correlation between access to and quality of information and e-services and trustworthiness, as well as a causal relation between quality of information and the improvement of image.
Who benefits more from hemodynamically guided hypotensive therapy? The experience from two randomized, prospective and controlled trials
Authors: Krzesiński Paweł , Gielerak Grzegorz , Stańczyk Adam , Piotrowicz Katarzyna , Skrobowski Andrzej
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

Arterial hypertension (AH) may be related to fluid retention, increased vascular resistance or hyperdynamic heart function. Impedance cardiography (ICG) is shown to be useful in the individualization of antihypertensive therapy but little is known about who most benefits from this therapeutic approach. The aim of this analysis was to estimate the effectiveness of ICG-guided antihypertensive therapy with respect to baseline blood pressure (BP) from the perspective of 12 weeks’ observation in randomized, prospective and controlled trials.

Methods:

This analysis involved 272 patients (average age: 44.1 ± 10.8 years) with AH. After baseline evaluation, including: office BP measurement (systolic, SBP; diastolic, DBP; mean, MBP) and ambulatory BP monitoring (mean 24-h SBP, mean 24-h DBP) the subjects were randomly assigned to groups of empiric [GE] and ICG-guided antihypertensive therapy [HD]. The results were evaluated separately in subgroups derived from median of MBP (110 mmHg): with slightly increased (‘SI_BP’) and more increased BP (‘MI_BP’). The comparative analysis included absolute change in BP (d_OSBP, d_ODBP, d_24-h SBP, d_24-h DBP) and the percentage of patients with reduction of BP ⩾ 10 mmHg (d10_OSBP, d10_ODBP, d10_24-h SBP, d10_24-h DBP).

Results:

ICG-guided therapy was shown to be superior to the empiric approach, especially in MI_BP. In this subgroup, the BP reduction in HD was higher than in GE: d_OSBP (23.3 ± 10.8 versus 18.5 ± 13.9 mmHg; p = 0.035), d_ODBP (16.0 ± 6.3 versus 11.6 ± 9.6 mmHg; p = 0.003), d_24-h SBP (17.7 ± 10.8 versus 13.1 ± 13.1 mmHg; p = 0.035). This benefit was also confirmed by a higher percentage of patients with significant BP reduction: d10_OSBP (87.7% versus 69.1%; p = 0.012), d10_ODBP (69.2% versus 47.3%; p = 0.012) and d10_24-h SBP (72.3% versus 52.7%; p = 0.012). The comparison in the SI_BP subgroup did not reveal such significant differences.

Conclusions:

The hemodynamically guided pharmacotherapy results in greater BP reduction. This effect is more pronounced in patients with higher baseline BP, while in those with slightly increased BP the empiric approach seems comparable to ICG.
Prognostic significance of adverse events in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma treated with sorafenib
Authors: Granito Alessandro , Marinelli Sara , Negrini Giulia , Menetti Saverio , Benevento Francesca , Bolondi Luigi
Published: December 2015

Sorafenib is the standard treatment for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with advanced stage disease. Although its effectiveness has been demonstrated by randomized clinical trials and confirmed by field practice studies, reliable markers predicting therapeutic response have not yet been identified. Like other tyrosine kinase inhibitors, treatment with sorafenib is burdened by the development of adverse effects, the most frequent being cutaneous toxicity, diarrhoea, arterial hypertension and fatigue. In recent years, several studies have analysed the correlation between off-target effects and sorafenib efficacy in patients with HCC. In this review, an overview of the studies assessing the prognostic significance of sorafenib-related adverse events is provided.
Pulsed low-intensity ultrasound increases proliferation and extracelluar matrix production by human dermal fibroblasts in three-dimensional culture
Authors: Bohari Siti PM , Grover Liam M , Hukins David WL
Published: December 2015

This study evaluated the effect of pulsed low-intensity ultrasound on cell proliferation, collagen production and glycosaminoglycan deposition by human dermal fibroblasts encapsulated in alginate. Hoechst 33258 assay for cell number, hydroxyproline assay for collagen content, dimethylmethylene blue assay for glycosaminoglycan content and scanning electron microscopy were performed on the encapsulated cells treated with pulsed low-intensity ultrasound and a control group that remained untreated. Pulsed low-intensity ultrasound showed a significant effect on cell proliferation and collagen deposition but no consistent pattern for glycosaminoglycan content. Alcian blue staining showed that glycosaminoglycans were deposited around the cells in both treated and control groups. These results suggest that pulsed low-intensity ultrasound alone shows a positive effect on cell proliferation and collagen deposition even without growth factor supplements.
A Nationwide Analysis of Pelvic Ring Fractures
Authors: Buller Leonard T. , Best Matthew J. , Quinnan Stephen M.
Published: December 2015

Background:

Previous studies evaluating the epidemiology of pelvic ring fractures and predictors of mortality are largely based upon non-US populations, potentially limiting their generalizability. This study sought to analyze trends of pelvic ring fractures and associated complications in the United States using the largest and most recent national data set available. The specific aims of this study were to determine whether the incidence of pelvic ring fractures changed over time, whether in-hospital mortality following pelvic ring fracture changed over time, whether hospital length of stay following pelvic ring fracture changed over time, and whether there are independent predictors of in-hospital mortality, adverse events, or nonroutine discharge following pelvic fracture.

Methods:

The National Hospital Discharge Survey was queried to identify all patients admitted to US hospitals with pelvic ring fractures between 1990 and 2007. A cohort representative of 1 464 458 patients was identified, and multivariable logistic regression was used to find independent predictors of mortality, adverse events, and nonroutine discharge to another inpatient facility.

Results:

Between 1990 and 2007, the population-adjusted incidence of pelvic ring fractures increased from 27.24 to 34.30 per 100 000 capita ( P < .001). Mortality declined from 4.2% to 2.8% ( P < .001) paralleling an increase in the proportion of patients treated with surgical fixation (7.22%-10.36%). All forms of internal fixation were associated with decreased odds of mortality, while external fixation was associated with increased odds of mortality. Internal fixation was also associated with lower odds of adverse events and nonroutine discharge to inpatient facilities. The average in-hospital length of stay decreased from 11.2 days to 6.5 days ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

This study provides the largest and most comprehensive epidemiologic analysis of pelvic ring fractures in the United States. Knowledge of the increasing incidence of pelvic fractures and prognostic factors associated with poor outcomes may improve outcomes.
Zero-B: Introducing Green Innovation in Water Purifiers
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Rahman Zillur
Published: December 2015

In 2012, with the release of 48th annual report for 2011–2012, titled ‘Save Today, Secure Tomorrow’, Ion Exchange (India) Limited introduced two new water purifiers for its domestic customers based on green innovation. Despite being the oldest company in water business, it is not making profits in domestic segment. Therefore, the company is searching for success through green innovations. Hence, the concern here is whether these innovative green purifiers may change the fate of the company or not.
MGA Entertainment, Consumer Entertainment Products Company: Marketing Strategies for ‘Bratz’
Authors: Patel Jayesh D. , Trivedi Rohit H. , Savalia Jignasa
Published: December 2015

Toy industry in the US is product driven and full of challenges. This case presents an overview of the California-based Micro Games of America (MGA) Entertainment, which is a consumer entertainment products company, engaged in innovative lines of proprietary and licensed products including toys and games, dolls, consumer electronics, home decor, stationery and sporting goods. It had more than 200 licences. In 2001, MGA launched a fashion doll called ‘Bratz’, and it sold 150 million Bratz dolls all over the world. Bratz line surpassed the legendary brand ‘Barbie’—Mattel, Inc.’s flagship brand—in a short span of time through many innovative marketing strategies and different product placement, roll-outs, tie-ins and other promotional tactics, despite facing many challenges, such as, fast-changing demographics, shorter product life cycle (PLC) and negative perceptions about brand. This case can be used to address two issues: first, structural change drivers and trends that shaped the toy industry in developed economies and, second, how to develop effective marketing strategies for product with shorter PLC in highly product-driven market?
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated conversion of human platelet alloantigen allotypes
Authors: Zhang Nanyan , Zhi Huiying , Curtis Brian R. , Rao Sridhar , Jobaliya Chintan , Poncz Mortimer , French Deborah L. , Newman Peter J.
Published: December 2015

Key Points

The genome of iPSCs has been edited to encode antigenically-distinct human platelet alloantigens. The iPSC-derived megakaryocyte progenitor cells express the designed alloantigens for diagnostic, investigative, and future therapeutic use.
s-ITSF: a service based intelligent transportation system framework for smart accident management
Authors: Lee Jeong Kyu , Jeong Young Sik , Park Jong Hyuk
Published: December 2015

Recently, traffic jams and accidents increase due to increase of traffic volume. Thus, intelligent transport system (ITS) is developed to provide efficient road situation and information is actively studying. However, it is mainly focused on traffic jam and management of traffic situation that a systematic management is not provided when an accident occurs. An action to prevent an accident providing the reliable information and a systematic management after accident is needed. In this paper we propose a service based intelligent transportation system framework (s-ITSF) to provide efficient and systematic accident management. The s-ITSF provides an efficient ITS service such as before/after accident management using the accident prevention and management and traffic information data through provision of highly reliable information through encryption and authentication based on vehicular cloud computing (VCC) environment. In addition, it provides systematic accident management which may reduce loss of lives and properties from the traffic accident by quick settlement.
A single chromosome assembly of Bacteroides fragilis strain BE1 from Illumina and MinION nanopore sequencing data
Authors: Risse Judith , Thomson Marian , Patrick Sheila , Blakely Garry , Koutsovoulos Georgios , Blaxter Mark , Watson Mick
Published: December 2015

Background

Second and third generation sequencing technologies have revolutionised bacterial genomics. Short-read Illumina reads result in cheap but fragmented assemblies, whereas longer reads are more expensive but result in more complete genomes. The Oxford Nanopore MinION device is a revolutionary mobile sequencer that can produce thousands of long, single molecule reads.

Results

We sequenced Bacteroides fragilis strain BE1 using both the Illumina MiSeq and Oxford Nanopore MinION platforms. We were able to assemble a single chromosome of 5.18 Mb, with no gaps, using publicly available software and commodity computing hardware. We identified gene rearrangements and the state of invertible promoters in the strain.

Conclusions

The single chromosome assembly of Bacteroides fragilis strain BE1 was achieved using only modest amounts of data, publicly available software and commodity computing hardware. This combination of technologies offers the possibility of ultra-cheap, high quality, finished bacterial genomes.
Nonneural Androgen Receptors Affect Sexual Differentiation of Brain and Behavior
Authors: Swift-Gallant Ashlyn , Coome Lindsay A. , Ramzan Firyal , Monks D. Ashley
Published: December 2015

Testosterone, acting via estrogenic and androgenic pathways, is the major endocrine mechanism promoting sexual differentiation of the mammalian nervous system and behavior, but we have an incomplete knowledge of which cells and tissues mediate these effects. To distinguish between neural and nonneural actions of androgens in sexual differentiation of brain and behavior, we generated a loxP-based transgenic mouse, which overexpresses androgen receptors (ARs) when activated by Cre. We used this transgene to overexpress AR globally in all tissues using a cytomegalovirus (CMV)-Cre driver (CMV-AR), and we used a Nestin-Cre driver to overexpress AR only in neural tissue (Nes-AR). We then examined whether neural or global AR overexpression can affect socio-sexual behaviors using a resident-intruder paradigm. We found that both neural and global AR overexpression resulted in decreased aggressive behaviors and increased thrusting during mounting of intruders, consistent with a neural site of action. Global, but not neural, AR overexpression in males led to an increase in same-sex anogenital investigation. Together, these results suggest novel roles for nonneural AR in sexual differentiation of mice, and indicate that excess AR can lead to a paradoxical reduction of male-typical behavior.
P2O5–MsOH-mediated Facile Synthesis of Semi-aromatic Polyketones Bearing 1,4-Cyclohexanediyl Units
Authors: Maeyama Katsuya , Katada Ayumu , Mizuguchi Nanako , Matsutani Hiroshi
Published: December 2015

Direct polycondensation of trans-1,4-cyclohexanedicarboxylic acid with several electron-rich arenes in a P2O5–CH3SO3H (MsOH) mixture gave semi-aromatic polyketones bearing 1,4-cyclohexanediyl units in the main chains. The resulting polyketones have sufficiently high thermal stability and excellent transparency.
An alternative regional anti-terrorism law: why the state of the Muslim world are not ready to adopt a Comprehensive Antiterrorism Conventions
Authors: Чернядьева Наталья
Published: December 2015

It will be conducted in this article about the role of the religious factor, in particular the Muslim version, in the structure of the terrorist movement. The author shows that the terror under the banner of Islamic fundamentalism is due to the specific understanding of religion as the most convenient way of socialization of terrorist ideas. The complexity of relationships in the organization of international security is reflected in Muslim regional and international agreements, for example, in the general understanding of the phenomenon of international terrorism. Signs of terrorism have significant differences compared with the concept recognized by the international community. This fact plays an important role in assessing the prospects for approval of the draft Comprehensive Antiterrorist Convention by Muslim countries
Legal bases, conditions, imperatives and restrictions of public financing of professional sports sphere: foreign experience
Authors: Понкин Игорь , Ponkin Igor , Понкина Алена , Ponkina Alena
Published: December 2015

The article investigates legal possibilities, conditions and limits of public financial support of professional sport. The authors present examples of enshrined in foreign laws guarantees and restrictions of public financial support of professional sport. The article provides an overview of the experience of Austria, Canada, Spain, Mexico, Poland, Portugal, Finland, Chile, Switzerland (Switzerland - at both the federal and regional levels) - on the grounds of legal regulation and limits of state financial support to professional sports. The article concluded that the analysis of the experience of other countries highlights the many challenges faced by the public authorities in dealing with the financial support of professional sports, including the problems that put the question at all about the feasibility of such financial support.
Parliamentary oversight in a presidential form of government in modern Kazakhstan: condition and problems of improvement
Authors: Караев Алипаша , Karaev Alipasha
Published: December 2015

In the article the features of Kazakhstan´s Parliament in a presidential form of government, examines various aspects of parliamentary control in the context of the interests of society and the state and the individual.

By studying the problem of improving the forms of parliamentary control, the author pays special attention to the availability of legislative gaps that hinder the processes of formation of parliamentarism in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
SOCIO-CULTURAL MATRIX CODING OF POLITICAL AND LEGAL PROCESSES
Authors: Мамычева Диана , Mamycheva Diana , Мамычев Алексей , Mamychev Aleksey , Овчинников Алексей , Ovchinnikov Alyeksyey
Published: December 2015

The article is subjected to a comprehensive review sociocultural foundations of the state-legal development, discusses the traditions and innovations in the study of the latter, as well as formulated and argued the author´s theoretical and methodological

program for the reconstruction of data bases. The authors argued that the socio-cultural foundations of concrete historical legitimize the operation of public power institutions and their further transformation through the formation of a special socio-political state of society — political metanarratsiyu. It is shown that socio-cultural

foundation is always associated with the dominant socio-political and legal thinking activity of society, its possibilities and limits, are a set of trends and vectors of public power transformation.
The Categorical Imperative and Structural Reproduction: Dynamics of Technological Entry in the Semiconductor Industry
Authors: Carnabuci Gianluca , Operti Elisa , Kovács Balázs
Published: December 2015

Extant organizational literature argues that straddling institutionalized categories begets an illegitimacy discount, leading organizations to reproduce established categorical boundaries. If gaining legitimacy requires compliance with this “categorical imperative,” why do we frequently observe categorical straddling even in uncontested and fully institutionalized categorical structures? To address this question, we propose that de novo (i.e., newly founded) and de alio (i.e., diversifying) organizations respond differently to the categorical imperative. Specifically, de novo organizations are more likely to enter and fit in high-contrast categories than in low-contrast ones, whereas the opposite is true for de alio entrants. To test these hypotheses, we follow technological entry dynamics within the semiconductor industry between 1976 and 2002. Using patent information, we examine how category contrast affects which technological categories de novo and de alio organizations enter, and the performance associated with those entry events. A comprehensive set of empirical analyses lend support to our hypotheses. Besides clarifying the link between the categorical imperative and structural reproduction, this study bears implications for entrepreneurship and strategy research on entry dynamics.
The influence of women's perceived entitlement to have postnatal depression on the disclosure process
Authors: Abraham-Smith Kelly , Keville Saskia
Published: December 2015

Studies showing the impact of maternal depression on the mother, infant and wider family have highlighted the importance of mothers feeling able and entitled to disclose postnatal depression (PND) and seek support from others. This paper reports a subset of findings from an interpretative phenomenological analysis of five women interviewed about their experiences of disclosing symptoms of postnatal depression. The findings extend the literature on in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and PND by identifying that perceived entitlement to have PND or seek support can influence the disclosure process. Entitlement appeared to be influenced by the women's own personal contextual factors, including financial status and lifestyles, having children who slept well, partner support and having successful IVF treatment. The findings have clinical implications for health professionals who have regular contact with women in the antenatal and postnatal periods by creating safe contexts to address their beliefs about PND, facilitating disclosure and implementing intervention more promptly.
Community midwives' workplace experiences: A case study from a resource-poor country
Authors: Mohammad Yasmeen , Jan Rafat , McIntyre Helen , Lakhani Arusa , Anwar Shahnaz , Levi Amy J
Published: December 2015

Objective:

To explore community midwives' (CMs') experiences with respect to deployment policies and processes developed and used in Pakistan.

Methods:

A qualitative, descriptive, exploratory design was used; 11 CMs' perspectives were gained through two focus groups.

Results:

The findings are summarised under a key theme, ‘Surviving as community midwives', and four related categories: (1) lack of identity and recognition; (2) state of helplessness; (3) depletion of competence and confidence; (4) unavailability of resources and financial support.

Conclusion:

The study findings highlight the need for revising the deployment policies, especially those related to the preparation of CMs for working independently in communities; introducing the CMs and their roles within the communities; establishing independent work stations (birthing centres); and streamlining the remuneration processes. The findings recommend greater preparation of district and regional-level government officials by policy makers for the implementation of the new CMs' deployment plan.
Exploring health professionals' perceptions of promoting oral health in children
Authors: Coll Anne Marie , Filipponi Teresa , Richards Wayne
Published: December 2015

Objectives:

The study aimed to explore the views of health professionals with regard to their role in oral health promotion and their understanding of the issues surrounding the delivery of effective oral health promotion within their daily practice.

Method:

A focus group was conducted with school nurses (n=6) and health visitors (n=3) who had recently completed the ‘Evidence Based Public Health’ core module as part of their higher degree Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (SCPHN) programme of study (May 2014). A 12-item focus group interview schedule was devised in which face and content validity were established. A thematic analysis was then undertaken in which themes and sub-themes were identified.

Results:

Three over-arching themes were identified: the ‘responsibility’ the participants felt they had towards their clients, the responsibility the parents should have towards their children's oral health and the responsibility of the state and its policies; the main ‘barriers’ encountered in the participants' practice; and the need for a ‘cohesive approach’ in promoting the communication of key messages on oral health.

Conclusions:

Although school nurses and health visitors are best placed to take the lead on oral health promotion in children and young people, several barriers were identified, which prevented them from performing this role effectively and confidently. The participants' belief that the consequences of poor oral health is incentive enough for behaviour change may well have been a main contributory factor to their perceived ineffectiveness and frustration. A recommendation is made for more training, which focused on behaviour change principles of concordance and setting realistic targets tailored to the needs of those children and young people who need it most.
Developing a working knowledge of ethical principles in research
Authors: Sherwin Sarah
Published: December 2015

It is essential that school nurses develop a working knowledge of the ethical principles and implications of research, not only to help them assess the quality of studies underpinning their practice, but also to conduct and produce their own data and research.
Knee manipulation under anaesthetic following total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Dzaja I. , Vasarhelyi E. M. , Lanting B. A. , Naudie D. D. , Howard J. L. , Somerville L. , McCalden R. W. , MacDonald S. J.
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to compare clinical outcomes of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) after manipulation under anaesthesia (MUA) for post-operative stiffness with a matched cohort of TKA patients who did not requre MUA.

In total 72 patients (mean age 59.8 years, 42 to 83) who underwent MUA following TKA were identified from our prospective database and compared with a matched cohort of patients who had undergone TKA without subsequent MUA. Patients were evaluated for range of movement (ROM) and clinical outcome scores (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index, Short-Form Health Survey, and Knee Society Clinical Rating System) at a mean follow-up of 36.4 months (12 to 120). MUA took place at a mean of nine weeks (5 to 18) after TKA. In patients who required MUA, mean flexion deformity improved from 10° (0° to 25°) to 4.4° (0° to 15°) (p < 0.001), and mean range of flexion improved from 79.8° (65° to 95°) to 116° (80° to 130°) (p < 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in ROM or functional outcome scores at three months, one year, or two years between those who required MUA and those who did not. There were no complications associated with manipulation.

At most recent follow-up, patients requiring MUA achieved equivalent ROM and clinical outcome scores when compared with a matched control group. While other studies have focused on ROM after manipulation, the current study adds to current literature by supplementing this with functional outcome scores.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1640–4.
Tranexamic acid reduces the blood loss and blood transfusion requirements following peri-acetabular osteotomy
Authors: Wassilew G. I. , Perka C. , Janz V. , Krämer M. , Renner L.
Published: December 2015

We have investigated the effect of using tranexamic acid (TXA) during peri-acetabular osteotomy (PAO) on peri-operative blood loss and blood transfusion requirements. In addition we analysed whether the use of TXA was associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) following this procedure.

A consecutive series of 96 PAOs, performed by a single surgeon, were reviewed. A total of 48 patients received TXA and 48 did not. The TXA group received a continuous infusion of TXA at a rate of 10 mg/kg/h. The primary outcome measure was the requirement for blood transfusion. Secondary outcomes included total blood loss, the decrease in the level of haemoglobin in the blood, the length of hospital stay, and the complications of this treatment.

The mean rate of transfusion was significantly lower in the TXA group (62.5% vs 12.5%, p < 0.001). The mean blood loss was also significantly reduced in the TXA group (1.9 L (standard deviation (sd) 0.9) vs 1.5 L (sd 0.7), p < 0.01). No post-operative episodes of VTE were identified in either group.

The use of TXA reduced the blood loss and the rate of transfusion after PAO significantly, without adverse effects such as an increased rate of VTE.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1604–7.
A randomised controlled trial of cemented and cementless femoral components for metal-on-metal hip resurfacing
Authors: Tice A. , Kim P. , Dinh† L. , Ryu J. J. , Beaulé P. E
Published: December 2015

The primary purpose of this study of metal-on-metal (MoM) hip resurfacing was to compare the effect of using a cementless or cemented femoral component on the subsequent bone mineral density (BMD) of the femoral neck.

This was a single-centre, prospective, double-blinded control trial which randomised 120 patients (105 men and 15 women) with a mean age of 49.4 years (21 to 68) to receive either a cemented or cementless femoral component. Follow-up was to two years. Outcome measures included total and six-point region-of-interest BMD of the femoral neck, radiological measurements of acetabular inclination, neck-shaft and stem-shaft angles, and functional outcome scores including the Harris hip score, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index and the University of California at Los Angeles activity scale.

In total, 17 patients were lost to follow-up leaving 103 patients at two years. There were no revisions in the cementless group and three revisions (5%) in the cemented group (two because of hip pain and one for pseudotumour).

The total BMD was significantly higher in the cementless group at six months (p < 0.001) and one year (p = 0.01) than in the cemented group, although there was a loss of statistical significance in the difference at two years (p = 0.155).

All patient outcomes improved significantly: there were no significant differences between the two groups.

The results show better preservation of femoral neck BMD with a cementless femoral component after two years of follow-up. Further investigation is needed to establish whether this translates into improved survivorship.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1608–14.
Spinal imaging update
Authors: Patel A. , James S. L. , Davies A. M. , Botchu R.
Published: December 2015

The widespread use of MRI has revolutionised the diagnostic process for spinal disorders. A typical protocol for spinal MRI includes T1 and T2 weighted sequences in both axial and sagittal planes. While such an imaging protocol is appropriate to detect pathological processes in the vast majority of patients, a number of additional sequences and advanced techniques are emerging. The purpose of the article is to discuss both established techniques that are gaining popularity in the field of spinal imaging and to introduce some of the more novel ‘advanced’ MRI sequences with examples to highlight their potential uses.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1683–92.
The use of plots in orthopaedic literature
Authors: Cool P. , Ockendon M.
Published: December 2015

Plots are an elegant and effective way to represent data. At their best they encourage the reader and promote comprehension. A graphical representation can give a far more intuitive feel to the pattern of results in the study than a list of numerical data, or the result of a statistical calculation.

The temptation to exaggerate differences or relationships between variables by using broken axes, overlaid axes, or inconsistent scaling between plots should be avoided.

A plot should be self-explanatory and not complicated. It should make good use of the available space. The axes should be scaled appropriately and labelled with an appropriate dimension.

Plots are recognised statistical methods of presenting data and usually require specialised statistical software to create them. The statistical analysis and methods to generate the plots are as important as the methodology of the study itself. The software, including dates and version numbers, as well as statistical tests should be appropriately referenced.

Following some of the guidance provided in this article will enhance a manuscript.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1593–1603.
The radiological evaluation of the hip joint after prosthetic arthroplasty of the proximal femur in patients with a tumour using a bipolar femoral head
Authors: Drexler M. , Gortzak Y. , Sternheim A. , Kollender Y. , Amar E. , Bickels J.
Published: December 2015

Excision of the proximal femur for tumour with prosthetic reconstruction using a bipolar femoral head places a considerable load on the unreplaced acetabulum.

We retrospectively reviewed the changes which occur around the affected hip joint by evaluating the post-operative radiographs of 65 consecutive patients who underwent proximal prosthetic arthroplasty of the femur, and in whom an acetabular component had not been used. There were 37 men and 28 women with a mean age of 57.3 years (17 to 93). Radiological assessment included the extent of degenerative change in the acetabulum, heterotopic ossification, and protrusio acetabuli.

The mean follow-up was 9.1 years (2 to 11.8). Degenerative changes in the acetabulum were seen in three patients (4.6%), Brooker grade 1 or 2 heterotopic ossification in 17 (26%) and protrusion of the prosthetic head in nine (13.8%).

A total of eight patients (12.3%) needed a revision. Five were revised to the same type of prosthesis and three (4.6%) were converted to a total hip arthroplasty.

We conclude that radiological evidence of degenerative change, heterotopic ossification and protrusion occur in a few patients who undergo prosthetic arthroplasty of the proximal femur for tumour. The limited extent of these changes and the lack of associated symptoms do not justify the routine arthroplasty of the acetabulum in these patients.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2015;97-B:1704–9