bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection mimicking autoimmune hepatitis exacerbation in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Yamashita H , Shimizu A , Tsuchiya H , Takahashi Y , Kaneko H , Kano T , Mimori A
Published: March 2014

Chronic active Epstein-Barr virus infection (CAEBV) is characterized by chronic infectious mononucleosis-like symptoms. We report a very rare case with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) complicated by CAEBV. A 50-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) complicated by AIH began to suffer from acute respiratory failure and her clinical symptoms improved rapidly in response to steroid treatment. However, during the gradual tapering of the steroid dose, a steady increase of the serum hepatobiliary enzyme levels subsequently was observed and the patient began to have continuous fever. Moreover, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed multiple intractable gastric ulcers. When EBER-ISH was performed on liver biopsy and gastric mucosal biopsy specimens, EBER-positive lymphocytes were observed. When peripheral blood was examined, 2.1 × 106 copies/µg of EBV-DNA were observed in the CD4-positive T cells, confirming the diagnosis of CAEBV. A cooling therapy was started by steroid and cyclosporine. Thereafter, despite the start of CHOP therapy, she developed a malignant lymphoma (PTCL-NOS) and died of hepatic failure. When treatment-resistant AIH patients are encountered, not only AIH exacerbation but also CAEBV should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
Humanism Within Globalization
Authors: Weber Jennifer E.
Published: March 2014

The complexity of adult learning connects it to almost all other facets of human endeavor. Consequently, the future of adult education depends, to a large extent on who participates and the quality of such participation. Quality participation, when teamed with environments committed to a concern for humanity, launches opportunities for varied distribution of power and is thus a catalyst for individual growth, change, and development. Analyzing who participates in adult learning, why they can or cannot participate, and what happens when they actually do, offers an examination of factors that ultimately contribute to overall participation in adult learning environments.
Novel astrocyte targets
Authors: Crunelli Vincenzo , Carmignoto Giorgio , Steinhäuser Christian
Published: March 2014

During the last 20 years, it has been well established that a finely tuned, continuous crosstalk between neurons and astrocytes not only critically modulates physiological brain functions but also underlies many neurological diseases. In particular, this novel way of interpreting brain activity is markedly influencing our current knowledge of epilepsy, prompting a re-evaluation of old findings and guiding novel experimentation. Here, we review recent studies that have unraveled novel and unique contributions of astrocytes to the generation and spread of convulsive and nonconvulsive seizures and epileptiform activity. The emerging scenario advocates an overall framework in which a dynamic and reciprocal interplay among astrocytic and neuronal ensembles is fundamental for a fuller understanding of epilepsy. In turn, this offers novel astrocytic targets for the development of those really novel chemical entities for the control of convulsive and nonconvulsive seizures that have been acknowledged as a key priority in the management of epilepsy.
Presynaptic and Postsynaptic Scaffolds
Authors: Ziv Noam E. , Fisher-Lavie Arava
Published: March 2014

The development of methods to follow the dynamics of synaptic molecules in living neurons has radically altered our view of the synapse, from that of a generally static structure to that of a dynamic molecular assembly at steady state. This view holds not only for relatively labile synaptic components, such as synaptic vesicles, cytoskeletal elements, and neurotransmitter receptors, but also for the numerous synaptic molecules known as scaffolding molecules, a generic name for a diverse class of molecules that organize synaptic function in time and space. Recent studies reveal that these molecules, which confer a degree of stability to synaptic assemblies over time scales of hours and days, are themselves subject to significant dynamics. Furthermore, these dynamics are probably not without effect; wherever studied, these seem to be associated with spontaneous changes in scaffold molecule content, synaptic size, and possibly synaptic function. This review describes the dynamics exhibited by synaptic scaffold molecules, their typical time scales, and the potential implications to our understanding of synaptic function.
Combined Remote Perconditioning and Postconditioning Failed to Attenuate Infarct Size and Contractile Dysfunction in a Rat Model of Coronary Artery Occlusion
Authors: Sachdeva Jaspreet , Dai Wangde , Gerczuk Paul Z. , Kloner Robert A.
Published: March 2014

Objective:

Although preconditioning remains one of the most powerful maneuvers to reduce myocardial infarct size, it is not feasible in the clinical setting to pretreat patients prior to acute myocardial infarction (MI). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of more clinically relevant therapies of remote perconditioning, postconditioning, and the combined effect of remote perconditioning and postconditioning on myocardial infarct size in an anesthetized rat model.

Methods:

Anesthetized rats were subjected to 45 minutes of proximal left coronary artery occlusion followed by 2 hours of reperfusion. Remote perconditioning was performed 5 minutes after left coronary occlusion with 4 cycles of 5 minutes of occlusion and reperfusion of both the femoral arteries. Postconditioning was applied immediately prior to 2 hours of full reperfusion with 6 cycles of 10 seconds occlusion–reperfusion of the coronary artery. The combined effect was produced by preceding the postconditioning regimen with remote perconditioning, after 5 minutes of left coronary occlusion.

Results:

Remote perconditioning and postconditioning alone failed to reduce infarct size expressed as percentage of the risk zone (42.2% ± 3.9% and 45.0% ± 4.3%). The combination of remote perconditioning and postconditioning also failed to reduce infarct size (45.3% ± 4.1%) as compared to the untreated ischemia–reperfusion group (48.7% ± 3.4%). Hemodynamics including left ventricular end-systole and end-diastolic pressures, +dP/dt, −dP/dt, and heart rate did not show any improvement in the conditioning groups.

Conclusion:

This study shows that remote perconditioning and postconditioning alone or combined neither improve hemodynamics nor reduce infarct size in the rat model of MI.
Edoxaban
Authors: Plitt Anna , Giugliano Robert P.
Published: March 2014

Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) remain the standard therapy for anticoagulation in prevention and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and for the prevention of stroke in atrial fibrillation (AF). Due to numerous limitations of VKAs, target-specific oral anticoagulants have been developed. Edoxaban is a direct activated factor X inhibitor with attractive features among which are once daily dosing, no need for routine monitoring, and minimal drug–drug interactions. In patients undergoing orthopedic surgery, edoxaban was superior to enoxaparin in preventing VTE. Furthermore, a recent large-scale phase III trial in patients with symptomatic VTE demonstrated that edoxaban was noninferior to warfarin in preventing recurrent VTE and reduced bleeding. In the largest trial of anticoagulation in patients with AF to date, edoxaban was noninferior to warfarin in the prevention of stroke or systemic embolism and reduced bleeding and cardiovascular mortality. This review provides an overview of the pharmacology, clinical trial results, and potential indications for edoxaban.
Monitoring of Anti-Xa in Pregnant Patients With Mechanical Prosthetic Valves Receiving Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin
Authors: Goland Sorel , Schwartzenberg Shmuel , Fan John , Kozak Natasha , Khatri Nudrat , Elkayam Uri
Published: March 2014

Objectives:

We hypothesized that the guideline-recommended peak anti-Xa levels for pregnant women with mechanical prosthetic heart valves (MPHVs) receiving adjusted dose low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) are associated with subtherapeutic trough levels and consequently with an inadequate level of anticoagulation.

Background:

Low-molecular-weight heparin is often used for anticoagulation in pregnant women including those with MPHV. American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association guidelines recommend monitoring of plasma anti-Xa factor peak levels and adjustment of the dose to achieve peak levels of 0.7 to 1.2 U/mL. In spite of these recommendations, cases of valve thrombosis during pregnancy continue to occur.

Methods and Results:

We studied 30 pregnant patients receiving anticoagulation for various indications with adjusted dose LMWH given subcutaneously twice a day which had both trough and peak anti-Xa levels throughout pregnancy for a total of 187 paired determinations. The recommended peak anti-Xa levels (0.7-1.2 U/mL) were obtained in 123 (66%) of the measurements but in 80% of them, the trough levels were found to be subtherapeutic (<0.6 U/mL). Subtherapeutic trough levels were found in 8 (73%) of the 11 measurements with peak levels of 0.7 to 0.79 U/mL, 17 (74%) of the 23 of 0.8 to 0.89 U/mL, 21 (72%) of the 29 of 0.9 to 0.99 U/mL, and 28 (44%) of the 63 of 1.0 to 1.2 U/mL. There were 42 measurements with peak anti-Xa levels >1.2 U/mL and even in these cases, 13 (31%) of the trough levels were found to be subtherapeutic.

Conclusions:

Anticoagulation with adjusted dose LMWH aimed to achieve guideline-recommended peak levels of anti-Xa for patients with MPHVs is commonly associated with subtherapeutic trough levels. Routine measurement of trough anti-Xa levels is therefore advisable in women with MPHV treated with LMWH during pregnancy to assure adequate level of anticoagulation.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV Inhibitors and Ischemic Myocardial Injury
Authors: Yoon Alyssa H. , Ye Yumei , Birnbaum Yochai
Published: March 2014

Diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor for cardiovascular events and patient death. Many animal and clinical studies are now being conducted exploring the potential of antidiabetic drugs such as glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) inhibitors to improve cardiovascular outcomes. This review summarizes the effect of DPP-IV inhibitors on myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury in animal models. The DPP-IV inhibitors prevent the rapid degradation and inactivation of incretins and lead to the accumulation of GLP-1 and other chemokines and cytokines, which appear to have both GLP-1 receptor-dependent and -independent cardioprotective, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Conflicting results, however, have been reported regarding the effect of DPP-IV inhibitors on infarct size in nondiabetic and diabetic animal models. Some studies suggest that DPP-IV inhibitors given as part of preconditioning can decrease infarct size while others found no difference in infarct size compared to placebo. As postconditioning, one study suggested it does provide cardioprotection. No clinical trials have yet been conducted addressing the effect of DPP-IV inhibitors on infarct size. Thus far, clinical trials have not demonstrated improvement in cardiovascular events or mortality from any cause in high cardiovascular risk, type 2 diabetic patients with the use of DPP-IV inhibitors. Although further experiments and clinical trials will be warranted to confirm the results of these studies, the myocardial protection afforded by DPP-IV inhibitors in preclinical animal studies poses a potential breakthrough role for antidiabetic medications in attenuation of ischemia–reperfusion injury that occurs with cardiovascular disease.
Speed control of DC-DC converter fed DC motor using robust adaptive intelligent controller
Authors: Prakash Raghupathy , Vasanthi R
Published: March 2014

DC motors have been extensively used in many industrial applications. The control of the speed of a DC motor is therefore an important issue and has been studied since the early decades of the last century. This paper presents a novel neural network (NN)-based model reference adaptive control (MRAC) to improve the trajectory tracking performance of a DC motor. In this scheme, the controller is designed using a parallel combination of the conventional MRAC scheme and an NN controller. The controller is used to change the duty cycle of the converter and, thereby, the voltage fed to the armature of the separately excited motor to regulate the speed. The operating characteristics of the proposed drive system are compared with MRAC control to verify the effectiveness under various conditions by investigating the transient responses for the step change of the speed command and the load torque. Finally, simulated and experimental results show that on the one hand the proposed controller provides high-performance dynamic characteristics, and on the other hand that this scheme is robust with respect to load disturbances.
Nonconservative pipes conveying fluid: evolution of mode shapes with increasing flow velocity
Authors: Wang L , Dai HL , Ni Q
Published: March 2014

When the velocity of fluid flow in a cantilevered pipe is successively increased, the vibration characteristics of the system may vary remarkably. This paper is concerned with exploring the evolution of the actual mode shapes of the pipe with increasing flow velocity. Results show that the mode shapes of the cantilevered system may dramatically change due to the increment of flow velocity. At higher flow velocity, these mode shapes, indeed, differ much from those of the classical cantilevered beam. When a critical mass ratio at which the so-called ‘mode exchange’ phenomenon occurs was chosen, the corresponding two modes of the cantilevered pipe would have the same shape. In addition, the nonlinear responses of the system have also been linked to the lowest three mode shapes by comparing the calculated mode shapes with the limit-cycle motions obtained experimentally.
Cutting sound signal processing for tool breakage detection in face milling based on empirical mode decomposition and independent component analysis
Authors: Shi Xinhua , Wang Ran , Chen Quntao , Shao Hua
Published: March 2014

Owing to the inherent complexity and variability of the machining process, the sound signals of the cutting process are usually polluted by chip breakage signals and environmental noise which makes it very difficult for tool breakage detection based on sound signals. An approach based on empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and independent component analysis (ICA) is presented to deal with the blind source separation problem of cutting sound signals in face milling with the objective of separating cutting oriented sound signals from those background noises. The advantage of EMD is its ability to adaptively decompose an arbitrary complicated time series into a set of components, called intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). With EMD, cutting sound signals in face milling process are composed into a set of IMFs. Using fast ICA to analyze these series, some independent components are obtained, from which different types of sound signals can be extracted. Experimental results show that the proposed EMD-ICA method is capable of separating cutting sound signals in face milling, where different source components related to a normal insert and a broken one are extracted successfully. This makes tool breakage detection possible.
Design and implementation of a novel inertia flywheel pendulum mechatronic kit
Authors: Lin Jonqlan , Chen Shin Yuan , Gau Wei-Hsin
Published: March 2014

The inertia flywheel pendulum exhibits several characteristics, such as underactuation and nonlinearity, that make it attractive for research and advanced control education. The main goal of this paper is to develop a novel mechatronic kit with a control methodology for an inertia flywheel pendulum. The mechatronic kit has a motor and flywheel mounted at the top of the body. It is a physical pendulum with a symmetric wheel attached to the end, which is free to spin around an axis parallel to the axis of rotation of the pendulum. The flywheel is actuated by a direct current motor and the coupling torque generated by angular acceleration of a wheel disk is used to dynamically control the system. The hybrid control strategy for stabilization of the inertia flywheel pendulum is presented and examined. The control aim is achieved by the solution of the following two particular control problems: swinging the pendulum up to a certain neighborhood of the inverted position and balancing it in this position. The energy control was designed for swing-up of the inverted pendulum. The genetic algorithm proportional-integral-derivative controller was implemented for balancing the inverted pendulum. The proposed hybrid control methodology has successfully performed stabilization control, even when unexpected loading conditions occur. Consequently, the novel flywheel pendulum system is ideally suited for advanced control courses for educating university students.
Different Cultural Understandings of Honor That Inspire Killing
Authors: Doğan Recep
Published: March 2014

Though there is substantial literature on different cultural understandings of honor and shame that inspire violence, little has been written from the point of view of the defendants who have committed and have been found guilty of murder committed in the name of honor. To gain a better understanding of the different cultural perspectives of honor and shame that inspire honor killing, it is necessary to interrogate the accounts of these defendants and their understanding of actions as honorable and dishonorable. This article attempts to make a start in supplying this missing focus and argues that the concept of honor, here, is different from other honor-related homicides that other commentators and the relevant literature reflect.
Cuddling and Spooning
Authors: Anderson Eric , McCormack Mark
Published: March 2014

This article examines the prevalence of homosocial tactility and the contemporary status and meaning of heteromasculinity among British male youth. Drawing on in-depth interviews with forty student-athletes at a British university, we find that thirty-seven participants have cuddled with another male. In addition to this cuddling, participants also engage in “spooning” with their heterosexual male friends. Demonstrating the pleasurable aspects of being a man in this culture, we argue that the expansion of esteemed homosocial behaviors for heterosexual men is evidence of an expansion of changing conceptions of masculinity in contemporary culture. We call for the discussion of heteromasculinities and contextualize our findings using inclusive masculinity theory.
Helping foster parents understand the foster child’s perspective: A relational learning framework for foster care
Authors: Kelly Wendy , Salmon Karen
Published: March 2014

The behaviour of children in foster care is influenced by a variety of factors including previous experiences of maltreatment and adverse parenting, as well as the impact of separation from birth parents and placement in care. These factors make it difficult for foster parents to accurately interpret the child’s behavioural cues, a necessary precursor to sensitive parenting. The relational learning framework introduced in this article, drawing on attachment theory, facilitates the foster parents’ access to some features of the child’s mental representations, or internal working model, which may be pivotal in understanding the child’s behaviour and therefore successfully managing it. Recent studies suggest that parents’ ability to understand the child’s psychological perspective, or mental state, is related to the child’s cognitive and social development. This article presents a method to enhance the foster parents’ understanding of the child’s psychological perspective. The model is currently being evaluated for use with foster parents, mental health and social work practitioners.
The relationship between mothers’ thin-ideal and children’s drive for thinness: A survey of Japanese early adolescents and their mothers
Authors: Yamazaki Yoko , Omori Mika
Published: March 2014

We examined the association of mothers’ thin-ideal internalization and children’s drive for thinness. Early adolescents (175 girls and 198 boys) completed a questionnaire to assess their drive for thinness and perceptions of mothers’ attitudes and behaviors related to body shape. The questionnaire for mothers ( n = 206) measured mothers’ thin-ideal internalization. Mothers’ thin-ideal internalization was associated with girls’ drive for thinness through the perception of mothers’ attitudes directed to girls, and with boys’ drive for thinness through mothers’ weight-loss behavior. The findings suggest the possibility that mothers transmit social standards on body shape to their children.
Barriers and facilitators to participation in physical activity: The experiences of a group of South African adolescents with cerebral palsy
Authors: Conchar Lauren , Bantjes Jason , Swartz Leslie , Derman Wayne
Published: March 2014

Participation in regular physical activity promotes physical health and psychosocial well-being. Interventions are thus needed to promote physical activity, particularly among groups of individuals, such as persons with disability, who are marginalised from physical activity. This study explored the experiences of a group of South African adolescents with cerebral palsy. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 adolescents with cerebral palsy. The results provided insight into a range of factors that promote and hinder participation in physical activity among adolescents with cerebral palsy in resource-scarce environments.
Validation of French and German versions of a Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire among young Swiss males, and its relationship with substance use
Authors: Dupuis Marc , Studer Joseph , Henchoz Yves , Deline Stéphane , Baggio Stéphanie , N’Goran Alexandra , Mohler-Kuo Meichun , Gmel Gerhard
Published: March 2014

This study main purpose was the validation of both French and German versions of a Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire. The sample group comprised 5065 Swiss men from the “Cohort Study on Substance Use Risk Factors.” Multigroup Confirmatory factor analysis showed that a three-factor model fits the data well, which substantiates the generalizability of Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire factor structure, regardless of the language. The Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire demonstrated excellent homogeneity ( α = 95) and split-half reliability ( r = .96). The Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire was sensitive to community size and participants’ financial situation, confirming that it also measures real social conditions. Finally, weak but frequent correlations between Perceived Neighborhood Social Cohesion Questionnaire and alcohol, cigarette, and cannabis dependence were measured.
Implicit and explicit Theory of Mind reasoning in autism spectrum disorders: The impact of experience
Authors: Schuwerk Tobias , Vuori Maria , Sodian Beate
Published: March 2014

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between explicit and implicit forms of Theory of Mind reasoning and to test the influence of experience on implicit Theory of Mind reasoning in individuals with autism spectrum disorders and in neurotypical adults. Results from two standard explicit Theory of Mind tasks are mixed: Individuals with autism spectrum disorders did not differ from neurotypical adults in their performance in the Strange Stories Test, but scored significantly lower on the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test. Furthermore, in an implicit false-belief task, individuals with autism spectrum disorders differed from neurotypical adults in false belief–congruent anticipatory looking. However, this group difference disappeared by (1) providing participants with the outcome of a false belief–based action and (2) subsequently repeating this test trial. Although the tendency to fixate the false belief–congruent location significantly increased from the first to the second test trial in individuals with autism spectrum disorders, it differed in neither test trial from chance. These findings support the notion of an implicit Theory of Mind deficit in autism spectrum disorders, but give rise to the idea that anticipatory looking behaviors in autism spectrum disorders may be affected by experience. Additionally, the pattern of results from implicit and explicit Theory of Mind measures supports the theory of two independent Theory of Mind reasoning systems.
Cannabis use and violence: Is there a link?
Authors: Norström Thor , Rossow Ingeborg
Published: March 2014

Background: While several studies suggest that cannabis users are at increased risk of interpersonal violence, it is not clear to what extent the association is causal. Our paper aims to assess the association between cannabis use and violence by using a method that diminishes the risk of confounding. Methods: We analysed data on cannabis use and violent behaviour from the second (1994) and third (1999) waves of the Young in Norway Longitudinal Study (cumulative response rate: 68.1%, n = 2681). We applied fixed-effects modelling to estimate the association between these behaviours, implying that changes in the frequency of violence were regressed on changes in the frequency of cannabis use. The effects of time-invariant confounders were hence eliminated. In addition, we included two time-varying covariates. Results: The elasticity estimate implies that a 10% increase in cannabis use frequency is associated with a 0.4% increase in frequency of violence ( p=.024). Conclusions: Analyses of panel data on Norwegian youths reveals a statistically significant association between cannabis use and violence.
Bullying, cyberbullying, and mental health in young people
Authors: Landstedt Evelina , Persson Susanne
Published: March 2014

Objective: To investigate the factors associated with exposure to in-real-life (IRL) bullying, cyberbullying, and both IRL and cyberbullying and to explore the relationship between these types of bullying and mental health among 13–16-year-old Swedish boys and girls. Methods: Data was derived from a cross-sectional web-based study of 13–16-year-old students in northern Sweden ( n=1214, response rate 81.9%). Results: The combination of IRL- and cyberbullying was the most common type of bullying. A non-supportive school environment and poor body image were related to exposure to bullying for both genders but the relationship was more distinct in girls. All types of bullying were associated with depressive symptoms in both boys and girls and all forms of bullying increased the likelihood of psychosomatic problems in girls. Conclusions: Cyberbullying can be seen as an extension of IRL bullying. A combination of IRL- and cyberbullying seems to be particularly negative for mental health. Interventions should focus on improved school environment and body image as well as anti-violence programmes. Gender aspects of bullying need to be acknowledged.
Physical work load and psychological stress of daily activities as predictors of disability pension due to musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Ropponen Annina , Svedberg Pia , Koskenvuo Markku , Silventoinen Karri , Kaprio Jaakko
Published: March 2014

Aims: Physical work loading and psychological stress commonly co-occur in working life, hence potentially having an interrelationship that may affect work incapacity. This prospective cohort study aimed to investigate the effect of stability and change in physical work loading and stress on the risk of disability pension (DP) due to musculoskeletal diagnoses (MSD), while accounting for familial confounding in these associations. Methods: Data on 12,455 twins born before 1958 were surveyed of their physical work loading and psychological stress of daily activities in 1975 and 1981. The follow-up data was collected from pension registers until 2004. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used. Results: During the follow up, 893 participants were granted DP due to MSD. Stable high (hazard ratio, HR, 2.21), but also increased physical work loading (HR 2.05) and high psychological stress (HR 2.22) were associated with increased risk for DP, and had significant interaction ( p=0.032). The associations were confirmed when accounting for several confounding factors. Conclusions:Stable high but also increased physical work loading and psychological stress of daily activities between two timepoints with 6 years apart confirms their predictive role for an increased risk of DP. Both physical work loading and psychological stress seem to be independent from various confounding factors hence suggesting direct effect on risk for DP providing potential for occupational health care to early identification of persons at risk.
Long-term mortality and causes of death among hospitalized Swedish drug users
Authors: Fugelstad Anna , Annell Anders , Ågren Gunnar
Published: March 2014

Aim: To study long-term mortality and causes of death in a cohort of drug users in relation to main type of drug use and HIV-status. Methods: A total of 1640 hospitalized drug users in Stockholm was followed up from 1985 to the end of 2007. The mortality was compared with the general Swedish population and hazard ratios (HR) for the main risk indicators were calculated. The causes of death were studied, using information from death certificates. Results: 630 persons died during the observation period. The Standard Mortality Ratio (SMR) was 16.1 (males 13.8, females 18.5). The crude mortality rate was 2.0 % (males 2.2% and females 1.5%). The mortality rate was higher in heroin users than among amphetamine users, HR 1.96, controlled for age and other risk factors. The mortality rate among individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was high (4.9 %), HR 2.64, compared with HIV-negative individuals. Most of the deaths were from other causes than acquired immune deficiency syndrome. One-third of deaths (227) were caused by heroin intoxication. The number of deaths from HIV-related causes decreased after 1996, when highly active anti-retroviral therapy was introduced. In all, there were 92 HIV-related deaths. Deaths from natural causes increased during the observation period. The SMR was highest for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. The results indicate a correlation between amphetamine use and death from cerebral haemorrhage. A high proportion of natural deaths were alcohol-related. Conclusions: The death rate among illicit drug users was persistently high. Alcohol consumption was a contributing factor to premature death.
Experimental investigation and modelling of human-walking-induced particle resuspension
Authors: You Siming , Wan Man Pun
Published: March 2014

Long-term exposure to airborne particulate matter (PM) indoors can cause adverse health effects to the occupants. Such exposure can be influenced by human-walking-induced particle resuspension (HWIPR). Several factors affecting HWIPR were investigated experimentally. The resuspension rates during walking were calculated based on the mass balance model, and the power law was applied to fit the resuspension rate data. The resuspension rate was further normalized for investigating the effects of various factors on HWIPR. It was found that the normalized resuspension rate of PM10 was about 2.5 times that of PM2.5 for both carpet and wood polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The normalized resuspension rate from carpet was about twice as much as the rates from wood PVC and four times that from vinyl. For both carpet and vinyl, the resuspension rates under the low relative humidity (RH) (41%) were three times that under the medium RH (63%) and 3.5 times that under the high RH (82%). The experimental results suggest that the addition of the mechanical mechanism is critical for HWIPR. Based on the power law relationship, an airborne particle concentration model was developed for HWIPR. The modelled concentration profiles were consistent with the experimentally determined particle concentrations associated with HWIPR. The proposed airborne particle concentration model provides a new way of predicting human exposure to airborne particles due to HWIPR.
Orientalism at home: Islamophobia in the representations of Islam and Muslims by the New Labour Government
Authors: Moosavi Leon
Published: March 2014

In the decade following 9/11, numerous studies have confirmed that anti-Muslim prejudice, commonly referred to as Islamophobia, has become a prominent feature of many societies. As a result, Muslims have been demonised and subjected to discrimination in various ways. While the role of sensationalist media and Far Right groups in perpetuating Islamophobia has been widely commented on, not enough attention has been given to the role played by mainstream politicians in fostering Islamophobia. In this article, I examine how British Cabinet ministers of the Labour Government represented Muslims and Islam in speeches given between 2001 and 2007. Using discourse analysis, I deconstruct the representations of Islam and Muslims in 111 speeches made by these influential ministers. I also consider the discourse surrounding related issues such as multiculturalism, Britishness, integration and terrorism. I argue that Islamophobia based on generalisations, assumptions and stereotypes of Islam and Muslims were present in the speeches. Thus, this article calls for an awareness of the way in which mainstream politicians in Britain have been involved in stigmatising Islam and Muslims, and perpetuating Islamophobia.
Ethnicity, cultural wounding and the ‘healing project’: What happens when the wounded survive?
Authors: Kearney Amanda
Published: March 2014

In this paper, I introduce the term ‘cultural wounding’ as central to an analysis of ethnicity and ethnic identities that have experienced trauma through inter-ethnic conflict. Cultural wounding speaks to rupture and assault in a physical, emotional, spiritual and ideological sense. By establishing the definitional character of cultural wounding, I present a discussion of the ‘wounds’ that result from the deliberate targeting of ethnic groups in campaigns of violence and conflict. I focus the attention here on instances of wounding and healing within historical and contemporary contexts of Indigenous Australia. The primary aim here is to propose a framework for understanding wounding, healing and transformation as experienced by ethnic groups that undergo change brought about by conflict. Wounding, healing and transformation are steps in the journey to not only surviving but also thriving along ethnic lines in the aftermath or amidst moments of conflict and challenge. Drawing on instances of cultural wounding and the healing project amongst Indigenous groups in Australia, I propose a discourse that articulates what happens when the wounded survive, examining the link between wounding and healing, action and projection.
Dietary Quercetin Reduces Chemotherapy-Induced Fatigue in Mice
Authors: Mahoney Sara E. , Davis J. Mark , Murphy E. Angela , McClellan Jamie L. , Pena Marjory M.
Published: March 2014

Purpose. While fatigue is the most commonly reported symptom of chemotherapy, there are currently no effective treatments for chemotherapy-induced fatigue (CIF). We used a mouse model to examine the benefits of quercetin on CIF as measured by voluntary wheel running activity and sought to determine whether quercetin may be associated with a decrease in inflammation and/or anemia. Methods. Mice were assigned to 1 of 4 groups: placebo-vehicle (Plac-PBS), placebo-5-fluorouracil (Plac-5FU), quercetin-vehicle (Quer-PBS), or quercetin-5-fluorouracil (Quer-5FU). All mice were given a daily injection of either 60 mg/kg of 5-FU or phosphate buffered saline (PBS) for 5 days. Quercetin (0.02%) treatment was administered in the food 3 days prior to 5-FU administration and for the duration of the experiment (ie, days −2 to 14). A second group of mice was sacrificed at 5 and 14 days post initial injection for assessment of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and anemia. Results. Voluntary wheel running was reduced in both the Plac-5FU and Quer-5FU groups following 5-FU injection ( P < .05). However, the Quer-5FU group recovered to baseline levels by approximately day 7, whereas the Plac-5FU group remained suppressed. MCP-1 was significantly elevated at 14 days in Plac-5FU ( P < .001), but no changes were seen with Quer-5FU. Treatment with 5-FU resulted in anemia at both 5 days and 14 days; however, quercetin blocked this effect at 14 days ( P < .001). Conclusion. These results demonstrate the beneficial effect of quercetin on improving recovery of voluntary physical activity following 5-FU treatment, which may be linked to a decrease in inflammation and anemia.
Bilateral Priming Before Wii-based Movement Therapy Enhances Upper Limb Rehabilitation and Its Retention After Stroke
Authors: Shiner Christine T. , Byblow Winston D. , McNulty Penelope A.
Published: March 2014

Background. Motor deficits after a stroke are thought to be compounded by the development of asymmetric interhemispheric inhibition. Bilateral priming was developed to rebalance this asymmetry and thus improve therapy efficacy. Objective. This study investigated the effect of bilateral priming before Wii-based Movement Therapy to improve rehabilitation after stroke. Methods. Ten patients who had suffered a stroke (age, 23-77 years; 3-123 months after stroke) underwent a 14-day program of Wii-based Movement Therapy for upper limb rehabilitation. Formal Wii-based Movement Therapy sessions were immediately preceded by 15 minutes of bilateral priming, whereby active flexion-extension of the less affected wrist drove mirror-symmetric passive movements of the more affected wrist through a custom device. Functional movement was assessed at weeks 0 (before therapy), 3 (after therapy), and 28 (follow-up) using the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT), upper limb Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA), upper limb range of motion, and Motor Activity Log (MAL). Case-matched controls were patients who had suffered a stroke who received Wii-based Movement Therapy but not bilateral priming. Results. Upper limb functional ability improved for both groups on all measures tested. Posttherapy improvement on the FMA for primed patients was twice that of the unprimed patients (37.3% vs 14.6%, respectively) and was significantly better maintained at 28 weeks ( P = .02). Improvements on the WMFT and MAL were similar for both groups, but the pattern of change in range of motion was strikingly different. Conclusions. Bilateral priming before Wii-based Movement Therapy led to a greater magnitude and retention of improvement compared to control, especially measured with the FMA. These data suggest that bilateral priming can enhance the efficacy of Wii-based Movement Therapy, particularly for patients with low motor function after a stroke.
Single-Incision Versus Standard Multiple-Incision Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Tamini Nicolò , Rota Matteo , Bolzonaro Elisa , Nespoli Luca , Nespoli Angelo , Valsecchi Maria Grazia , Gianotti Luca
Published: March 2014

Objective. The advantages of single-incision surgery for the treatment of gallstone disease is debated. Previous meta-analyses comparing single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SILC) and standard laparoscopic multiport cholecystectomy (SLMC) included few and underpowered trials. To overcome this limitation, we performed a meta-analysis of randomized and nonrandomized studies. Methods. A MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library literature search of studies published in and comparing SILC with SLMC was performed. The primary outcome was safety of SILC as measured by the overall rate of postoperative complications and biliary spillage. Feasibility was another primary outcome as measured by the conversion and operative time. Postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, perioperative blood loss, time to return to normal activity, and cosmetic satisfaction were secondary outcomes. Results. We identified 43 studies of which 30 were observational reports and 13 experimental trials, for a total of 7489 patients (2090 SILC and 5389 SLMC). The overall rate of complications was comparable between groups (relative risk [RR] = 1.08; 95% CI = 0.87-1.35; P = .46), as were the rates of biliary spillage (RR = 1.16; 95% CI = 0.73-1.84; P = .53) and conversion rate (RR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.53-1.46; P = .62). Operative time was in favor of SLMC (weighted mean difference = 0.73; 95% CI = 0.67-0.79; P < .0001). Secondary outcomes favored SILC, but with marginal advantages. Conclusions. SILC is a feasible technique but without any significant advantage over SLMC for relevant end points. Although secondary outcomes favored SILC, the small magnitude of the advantage and the low quality of assessment methods question the clinical significance of these benefits.
Setting the collective memory agenda: Examining mainstream media influence on individuals’ perceptions of the past
Authors: Kligler-Vilenchik Neta , Tsfati Yariv , Meyers Oren
Published: March 2014

Memory studies scholars tend to stress the significance of the media in shaping collective memories. This study offers a quantitative–empirical examination of this phenomenon. Applying a “memory-setting” research design, inspired by agenda-setting theory, the study examines correlations between the “media memory-agenda” and “public memory-agenda,” to illuminate the influence of the media on the shaping of collective perceptions of the past. Findings point at a significant correlation between media and public memory-agendas, one that increases during periods of heightened coverage of past events. On the individual level, the role of media exposure to commemorative content is significant, surpassing that of direct participation in public commemoration. At the same time, some of the findings point to the resiliency of the public memory-agenda. Therefore, the study’s findings offer a novel understanding of the role of mass media in shaping collective memory, as well as the limits to its influence.
Can restricting calories help you to live longer?
Authors: Brown James E
Published: March 2014

Excess calorie consumption is associated with metabolic disorders and increased incidence of morbidity. Restricting calorie content, either by daily calorie restriction or intermittent fasting periods, has multiple benefits including weight loss and improved body composition. Previous research has shown that restricting calories in this way can increase longevity and slow the ageing process in laboratory animals, although only sparse data exist in human populations. This review critically evaluates the benefits of these dietary interventions on age-related decline and longevity.
Thawing the frozen shoulder
Authors: Seth Ajai
Published: March 2014

Frozen shoulder can be a painful, disabling and prolonged condition that is commonly managed in the primary care setting. It can either occur spontaneously without an obvious predisposing cause or be associated with a variety of local or systemic disorders. True frozen shoulder is a clinical diagnosis, which can be easily spotted in general practice. The aim of this article is to define the clinical features of frozen shoulder and how to distinguish it from other painful conditions that can affect the shoulder. The possible aetiology, clinical findings and management options are discussed.
Future initiatives to reduce lung cancer incidence in the United Kingdom: smoking cessation, radon remediation and the impact of social change
Authors: Denman Antony R , Rogers Stephen , Timson Karen , Phillips Paul S , Crockett Robin GM , Groves-Kirkby Christopher J
Published: March 2014

Aims:

Smoking and radon cause lung cancer, with smoking being the more significant risk factor. Although programmes to identify UK houses with raised radon levels and to encourage remedial action started in 1990, uptake has been limited and those most at risk, smokers and young families, are not being reached. The risks from smoking and radon are multiplicative. Public health campaigns have reduced smoking prevalence significantly. Since most radon-induced lung cancers occur in smokers, reducing the number of smokers will reduce the number of radon-induced lung cancers. This article considers the impact of reducing smoking prevalence on the effectiveness of radon remediation programmes, combining this with demographic trends and regional variations to assess implications for future public health.

Methods:

Results on cost-effectiveness of smoking cessation and radon remediation programmes were combined with government figures for smoking prevalence to estimate the number of cancers averted and the cost-effectiveness of such programmes, taking into account demographic changes, including increasing life expectancy. Regional variations in smoking prevalence and smoking cessation programmes were reviewed, comparing these to the geographic variation of radon.

Results:

The continuing impact of smoking cessation programmes in reducing smoking prevalence will reduce the number of radon-induced lung cancers, but with a lag. Smoking cessation programmes are more cost-effective than radon remediation programmes, presenting an additional opportunity to reduce radon risk to smokers. Regional data show no correlation between smoking prevalence and radon levels.

Conclusions:

Reduced smoking prevalence reduces the effectiveness of radon remediation programmes. This, coupled with limited uptake of radon remediation, suggests that radon remediation programmes should be targeted, and that an integrated public health policy for smoking and radon is appropriate. Lack of correlation between smoking prevalence and radon suggests that local assessment of relative priorities for public health strategies, such as the ‘Total Place’ initiative, is appropriate.
Finnish pupils’ perceptions of health education as a school subject
Authors: Aira Tuula , Välimaa Raili , Paakkari Leena , Villberg Jari , Kannas Lasse
Published: March 2014

Only a few countries have introduced health education (HE) as a stand-alone school subject. In Finland every pupil in basic education grades 7–9 takes three obligatory courses in HE. This study investigated Finnish pupils’ perceptions of the teaching and learning of HE. It also explored how school- and family-related background variables are associated with these perceptions. Nationally representative data were obtained from a 2010 school-based study on Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC). A total of 4262 pupils from 7th and 9th grades (13 and 15 years old) responded anonymously to the questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the associations between perceptions of HE and school- and family-related background variables. The majority of the pupils had positive perceptions of HE. In terms of their own learning, girls’ perceptions were more positive than boys’: 86% of 13- and 15-year-old girls agreed that HE classes had taught them to think about the advantages and disadvantages of various health behaviours, whereas only 79% of boys shared this opinion. School engagement had the strongest association with perceptions of HE: the more positive the attitudes towards school, the more positive were the perceptions of HE. Older girls perceived their learning and their participation in class discussions more positively than younger ones, and older boys were more critical of the teaching than younger ones. The pupils’ educational aspirations were not associated with their perceptions of HE, and perceived family affluence was associated only with girls’ perceptions of participation in HE classes. The pupils’ feedback on HE was positive and encouraging. There is a demand for the subject in society, and HE seems to have the potential to augment young people’s positive attitudes towards health issues, and to enhance their health literacy.