bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Giant epicardial cyst presenting as acute cardiac tamponade in a 2-year-old boy
Authors: Masuoka Ayumu , Sakurai Hayato , Shiraishi Masahisa , Yoshiba Shigeki , Katogi Toshiyuki , Suzuki Takaaki
Published: January 2015

Cystic structures within the pericardial cavity are rare. They are divided into epicardial and pericardial variants. Pericardial and epicardial cysts rarely cause symptoms. This report describes a case of epicardial cyst with acute cardiac tamponade in a 2-year-old boy with no previous cardiac history who was transferred to our hospital because of hemodynamic instability. Emergency drainage of the pericardial effusion and complete excision of the cyst were performed through a median full sternotomy.
Antioxidant intake and bone status in a cross-sectional study of Brazilian women with osteoporosis
Authors: De França Natasha AG , Camargo Marilia BR , Lazaretti-Castro Marise , Martini Lígia Araújo
Published: January 2015

This study aimed to investigate the association between antioxidant intake and bone mineral density (BMD) in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. We conducted a cross-sectional study with 150 women, mean age 68.7 (SD 9.1) years. BMD and body composition were obtained using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). We assessed anthropometric measures and dietary intake and applied an adapted Dietary Antioxidant Quality Score (a-DAQS) to evaluate the antioxidant consumption. 65.3% of women had higher scores on the a-DAQS. We found no relationship between the a-DAQS and BMD; however, we observed an inverse correlation between vitamin A and lumbar spine (LS) BMD in g/cm2 ( r = – 0.201; p = 0.013). An analysis of variance (ANOVA) test also showed that vitamin A was negatively associated with the LS BMD (F = 6.143; p = 0.013, but without significance when a multivariate analysis was applied. The a-DAQS did not have an association with BMD; however, Vitamin A showed a negative correlation with BMD, but such an association disappeared when the other antioxidants were taken together. Our findings encourage an antioxidant-based dietary approach to osteoporosis prevention and treatment, since the negative effect of vitamin A was neutralized by the intake of such nutrients.
Cybersecurity, Bureaucratic Vitalism and European Emergency
Authors: Simon Stephanie , de Goede Marieke
Published: January 2015

Securing the internet has arguably become paradigmatic for modern security practice, not only because modern life is considered to be impossible or valueless if disconnected, but also because emergent cyber-relations and their complex interconnections are refashioning traditional security logics. This paper analyses European modes of governing geared toward securing vital, emergent cyber-systems in the face of the interconnected emergency. It develops the concept of ‘bureaucratic vitalism’ to get at the tension between the hierarchical organization and reductive knowledge frames of security apparatuses on the one hand, and the increasing desire for building ‘resilient’, dispersed, and flexible security assemblages on the other. The bureaucratic/vital juxtaposition seeks to capture the way in which cybersecurity governance takes emergent, complex systems as object and model without fully replicating this ideal in practice. Thus, we are concerned with the question of what happens when security apparatuses appropriate and translate vitalist concepts into practice. Our case renders visible the banal bureaucratic manoeuvres that seek to operate upon security emergencies by fostering connectivities, producing agencies, and staging exercises.
Is information enough to save the region?
Authors: Machin-Mastromatteo Juan D
Published: January 2015

Latin America does not exist. These 42 diverse and developing countries are hardly a union. However, they share geographical proximity, history, strangely unique elements, and the wish to progress. This first issue of a new column, ‘Developing Latin America’, explores some information issues, literacy rates, regional prominence in scholarly publications, and relevant topics taken from Information Development’s publication history.
The Plutonomy of the 1%: Dominant Ownership and Conspicuous Consumption in the New Gilded Age
Authors: Di Muzio Tim
Published: January 2015

This article offers a study on the plutonomy of dominant owners and what their consumptive practices might tell us from the lens of the capital as power framework in IPE. I argue that the differential consumption of dominant owners is an important dimension of an internationalised capitalist mode of power for two reasons. First, Nitzan and Bichler argue that the primary driver of accumulation is the desire for differential power symbolically expressed in a magnitude of money. In this article, I argue that there is a secondary dimension noted but underdeveloped in their framework and influenced by Veblen: the drive for social status and the display of positionality through differential intraclass consumption. Second, as identified by Kempf, I argue that the consumptive practices of dominant owners are helping to lock global society into an unsustainable and ethically indefensible quest for perpetual economic growth. This growth project not only undermines calls for needed social and economic change but also threatens populations with environmental collapse.
Minding the Brain: IR as a Science?
Authors: Epstein Charlotte
Published: January 2015

Invited by the editors to respond to Professor Neumann’s inaugural lecture,1 in this article I take issue with his core, unquestioned assumption, namely, whether IR should be considered as a science. I use it as a starting point to re-open the question of how the stuff that humans are made of should be studied in IR today. Beyond Neumann’s piece, I critically engage with two emerging trends in the discipline, the so-called new materialisms and the interest in the neurosciences, and articulate my concern that these trends have not addressed the deterministic fallacy that threatens to undermine their relevance for the study of a world made by humans. To the latent anxiety as to whether the discipline has finally achieved recognition of its epistemological status as a science, I respond by recalling that other grand tradition in IR, interpretive methods. The study of meaning from within, without reducing it to countable ‘things’ or to neuronal traces, is, I suggest, better attuned to capturing the contingency, indeterminacy and freedom which constitute key characteristics of the constructed, social world that we study in IR.
The Global Governance of Large Technical Systems
Authors: Mayer Maximilian , Acuto Michele
Published: January 2015

The importance of technology in global affairs is visible to the naked and uninitiated eye. Yet International Relations (IR) still lacks a more systematic and critical attention to the role of technological infrastructures in contemporary global governance dynamics. Here, we seek to prompt IR scholars to move ‘large technical systems’ (LTSs) from the contours of IR narratives to a centre stage, as they hold the potential to respond to pressing challenges for IR scholarship. Employing LTSs to respond to recent publications on the challenge that ‘global governance’ poses to IR, we highlight that an STS-IR encounter can, first, revitalise ‘grand questions’ at the heart of IR and, second, help coping with the complexity of global governance. While this encounter does not offer a ready-tailored panacea for the troubles of IR, a more systematic inquiry into LTSs is a powerful step beyond theoretical and methodological impasses, towards greater inter-disciplinary collaboration.
Introduction: Global Governance in the Interregnum
Authors: Pegram Tom , Acuto Michele
Published: January 2015

Global governance is in flux. Scholarship on the practice of global governance has reimagined it as a realm of disputes and confrontation, rather than one of interest-alignment within multilateral interstate forums. A profound sense of governance deficit is provoking critical reflection both within the corridors of power and among practitioners and scholars. A call within academic circles for renewed reflection on global governance as a practice-oriented scholarship has elicited varied responses from the international relation (IR) fraternity. In taking stock of the state of the art of ‘global governance theory’, a number of scholars have advocated for its revival to be grounded in the kind of critical reflection often absent from mainstream IR discussion. Others contest any meaningful demarcation between IR and global governance scholarship. This forum responds to a number of converging developments. Situating contributions broadly within the notion of an interregnum, it is a first cut towards a more innovative global governance research and practice-oriented agenda. We focus, in particular, on reframing the problematique of global governance from one dominated by multilateral interstate geopolitics, towards a critical reappraisal of both structure and political economy in light of the evident complexity of global governance systems.
PSM and Turnover Intention in Public Organizations
Authors: Campbell Jesse W. , Im Tobin
Published: January 2015

Not all employees contribute equally to the performance of their organizations, and the highest performers may have a disproportionate impact on organizational success. It is thus crucial for public organizations to retain top performers. Public service motivation (PSM) has been shown to be a differentiator of various types of individual job performance, and has also been linked to reduced turnover intention. This study examines the relationship between PSM, change-oriented organizational citizenship behavior (CO-OCB), and turnover intention using survey data from 16 central government ministries in South Korea. Analysis results suggest that CO-OCB plays a mediating role in the relationship between PSM and turnover intention, providing a creative outlet for the most intrinsically motivated employees that in turn strengthens their commitment to their organization. A number of implications of these findings are discussed.
Hyponatremia
Authors: Buffington Mary Ansley , Abreo Kenneth
Published: January 2015

Hyponatremia is the most frequently occurring electrolyte abnormality and can lead to life-threatening complications. This disorder may be present on admission to the intensive care setting or develop during hospitalization as a result of treatment or multiple comorbidities. Patients with acute hyponatremia or symptomatic chronic hyponatremia will likely require treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU). Immediate treatment with hypertonic saline is needed to reduce the risk of permanent neurologic injury. Chronic hyponatremia should be corrected at a rate sufficient to reduce symptoms but not at an excessive rate that would create a risk of osmotic injury. Determination of the etiology of chronic hyponatremia requires analysis of serum osmolality, volume status, and urine osmolality and sodium level. Correct diagnosis points to the appropriate treatment and helps identify risk factors for accelerated correction of the serum sodium level. Management in the ICU facilitates frequent laboratory draws and allows close monitoring of the patient’s mentation as well as quantification of urine output. Overly aggressive correction of serum sodium levels can result in neurological injury caused by osmotic demyelination. Therapeutic measures to lower the serum sodium level should be undertaken if the rate increases too rapidly.
Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate containing scaffolds and their integration with osteoblasts as a model for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Zhang Sai , Prabhakaran Molamma P , Qin Xiaohong , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: January 2015

Nano/micro engineered polymeric materials offer expansive scope of biomimetic scaffolds for bone tissue engineering especially those involving electrospun biodegradable nanofibers incorporated with inorganic nanoparticles, thus mimicking the extracellular matrix of bone both structurally and chemically. For the first time, poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate containing natural poly-(α, β)-DL-aspartic acid and inorganic hydroxyapatite nanofibers were fabricated using poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate: poly-(α, β)-DL-aspartic acid at a ratio of 80:20 (w/w) added with 1% (w/v) of hydroxyapatite, by the process of electrospinning. The surface morphology, chemical, and mechanical properties of electrospun poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate, poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate/poly-(α, β)-DL-aspartic acid, and poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate/poly-(α, β)-DL-aspartic acid/hydroxyapatite nanofibers were characterized by using field emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and tensile tester, respectively. Human fetal osteoblasts were cultured on different nanofibrous scaffolds for evaluating the cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and mineralization. Cells on poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate/poly-(α, β)-DL-aspartic acid/hydroxyapatite scaffolds demonstrated higher proliferation (30.10%) and mineral deposition (37.60%) than the cells grown on pure poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate scaffolds. Obtained results highlight the synergistic effect of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate, poly-(α, β)-DL-aspartic acid, and hydroxyapatite towards the enhancement of the osteoinductivity and osteoconductivity of human fetal osteoblasts, demonstrating the appropriate physicochemical and biological properties of poly-3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate/poly-(α, β)-DL-aspartic acid/hydroxyapatite nanofibers to function as a substrate for bone tissue regeneration.
Is Diversity Management Related to Financial Performance in Family Firms?
Authors: Singal Manisha , Gerde Virginia W.
Published: January 2015

Policies and practices designed to foster diversity in organizations are now well integrated into a firm’s corporate strategy. In this article, we examine the role diversity management policies play in the financial performance of family firms, based on the premise that family firms have unique goals and governance structures that may affect the adoption of such policies. Using a longitudinal data set covering 952 publicly listed firms and multidimensional measures for diversity and financial performance, our empirical analyses suggest that family firms underperform nonfamily firms on diversity performance indicators. Interestingly, however, we find that the weaker diversity management practices of family firms may contribute to their robust financial performance.
Mid-Holocene bottleneck for central European dry grasslands: Did steppe survive the forest optimum in northern Bohemia, Czech Republic?
Authors: Pokorný Petr , Chytrý Milan , Juřičková Lucie , Sádlo Jiří , Novák Jan , Ložek Vojen
Published: January 2015

Revisiting the classical Gradmann’s ‘steppe theory’ for central Europe, we examine whether the early Holocene steppe habitats survived the critical period of maximum Holocene afforestation: the mid-Holocene bottleneck. Despite the undisputable fact that afforestation was a dominant ecological factor in this period, our parallel analyses of pollen and molluscs from sedimentary sequences discovered in the dry lowland area of northern Bohemia, Czech Republic (Zahájí and Suchý potok sites, lower Ohře area) provide strong evidence for uninterrupted local occurrence of steppe grasslands throughout the Holocene. At the onset of the Neolithic agriculture, this area was covered by forest-steppe. Analogously to the present forest-steppe landscapes of eastern Europe and south-western Siberia, dry areas of northern Bohemia were dominated by open-canopy pine–birch forests that enabled continuous survival of many light-demanding plant species from the late Glacial and early Holocene to the Neolithic. Later on, anthropogenic deforestation and livestock grazing created a semi-natural steppe. Our data suggest that this secondary steppe can be viewed as a direct continuation of the late Pleistocene and early Holocene natural steppe rather than a purely cultural steppe developed only after deforestation of a continuously forested mid-Holocene landscape by humans. At the same time, we provide evidence supporting Gradmann’s ‘steppe theory’, assuming that in central Europe, Neolithic farming started in those areas that were not completely forested but contained remnants of natural steppes. This finding has important implications for the interpretation of present biodiversity patterns in central Europe.
Clinical safety assessment of oral higenamine supplementation in healthy, young men
Authors: Bloomer RJ , Schriefer JM , Gunnels TA
Published: January 2015

Objective:

Higenamine, an herbal agent also known as norcoclaurine, is thought to stimulate β-androgenic receptors and possess lipolytic activity. It is currently making its way into the dietary supplement market. To our knowledge, no studies have been conducted to determine the safety profile of oral higenamine when used alone and in conjunction with other commonly used lipolytic agents.

Methods:

Forty-eight men were assigned to ingest either a placebo, higenamine, caffeine, or higenamine + caffeine + yohimbe bark extract daily for a period of 8 weeks. Before and after 4 and 8 weeks of supplementation, the following variables were measured: resting respiratory rate, heart rate, blood pressure, urinalysis, complete blood count, metabolic panel, liver enzyme activity, and lipid panel.

Results:

No interaction effects were noted for any variable ( p > 0.05), with no changes of statistical significance occurring across time for any of the four conditions ( p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

This is the first study to determine the safety profile of oral higenamine intake in human subjects. Our data indicate that 8 weeks of daily higenamine supplementation, either alone or in conjunction with caffeine and yohimbe bark extract, does not result in a statistically significant change in any of the measured outcome variables. Additional studies, inclusive of a larger sample size, are needed to extend these initial findings.
Protective role of quercetin against cisplatin-induced hair cell damage in zebrafish embryos
Authors: Lee SK , Oh KH , Chung AY , Park HC , Lee SH , Kwon SY , Choi J
Published: January 2015

Background and objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of quercetin on cisplatin-induced hair cell damage in transgenic zebrafish embryos.

Materials and methods:

Five days postfertilization zebrafish embryos were exposed to 1 mM cisplatin and quercetin at 10, 50, 100, or 200 μM for 4 h. Hair cells within neuromasts of the supraorbital, otic, and occipital lateral lines were analyzed by fluorescent microscopy ( n = 10). Survival of hair cells was calculated as the average number of hair cells in the control group that were not exposed to cisplatin. Ultrastructural changes were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy.

Results:

Hair cell damage in neuromasts was decreased by co-treatment of quercetin and cisplatin (quercetin 100 μM: 8.6 ± 1.1 cells; 1 mM cisplatin only: 5.0 ± 0.5 cells; n = 10, p < 0.05); apoptosis of hair cells examined by special stain was also decreased by quercetin. The ultrastructure of hair cells within neuromasts was preserved in zebrafish by the combination of quercetin (100 μM) and cisplatin (1 mM).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, quercetin showed protective effects against cisplatin-induced toxicity in a zebrafish model. The results of this study suggest the possibility of a protective role of quercetin against cisplatin-induced apoptotic cell death in zebrafish.
Periostin: a novel tissue biomarker correlates with chronicity index and renal function in lupus nephritis patients
Authors: Wantanasiri P , Satirapoj B , Charoenpitakchai M , Aramwit P
Published: January 2015

Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the most serious complications in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). At present, there is no specific biomarker with high sensitivity and renal pathology involvement in use in clinical practice. Periostin is an extracellular matrix protein involved in kidney development and kidney injury. We performed immunohistochemical analysis for periostin and routine staining of 42 kidney tissues from LN patients compared with controlled kidney tissues. Activity index, chronicity index and periostin staining were evaluated and scored by a renal pathologist. Periglomerular staining of periostin was the most predominant finding. Positive periostin staining was also observed in areas with fibrosis such as sclerosed glomeruli, interstitial fibrosis and fibrous vessels. Moreover, the tubules seemed to be the main location for periostin staining. There was a statistically different level of periostin staining score between patient and control tissues. Periostin staining score also correlated with the chronicity index score of renal pathology ( r = 0.594, p < 0.001). Periostin was also correlated with worsening renal outcomes including serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Subgroup analysis within patients with low activity index score or low chronicity index score found that there was a statistical difference in serum creatinine and eGFR between groups with low and high periostin staining scores. We concluded that periostin staining score correlated with chronicity index score and renal function in patients with lupus nephritis.
Developing a Theory of Gamified Learning
Authors: Landers Richard N.
Published: January 2015

Background and Aim

Gamification has been defined as the use of characteristics commonly associated with video games in non-game contexts. In this article, I reframe this definition in terms of the game attribute taxonomy presented by Bedwell and colleagues. This linking is done with the goal of aligning the research literatures of serious games and gamification. A psychological theory of gamified learning is developed and explored.

Conclusion

In the theory of gamified learning, gamification is defined as the use of game attributes, as defined by the Bedwell taxonomy, outside the context of a game with the purpose of affecting learning-related behaviors or attitudes. These behaviors/attitudes, in turn, influence learning by one or two processes: by strengthening the relationship between instructional design quality and outcomes (a moderating process) and/or by influencing learning directly (a mediating process). This is contrasted with a serious games approach in which manipulation of game attributes is typically intended to affect learning without this type of behavioral mediator/moderator. Examples of each game attribute category as it might be applied in gamification are provided, along with specific recommendations for the rigorous, scientific study of gamification.
Augmented Fotonovelas
Authors: Hidalgo LeighAnna
Published: January 2015

Augmented Fotonovelas are a multi-modal new media object centering the knowledge of the Latina/o community in ways accessible and meaningful to multiple audiences by incorporating video interviews, photographs, interactive mapping, smart phone technology, and Augmented Reality (AR) to produce Augmented Scholarship. Augmented Fotonovelas are visual counter-stories highlighting the role of race along with other forms of subordination, focusing on lived experiences, and engaging Communities of Color as co-collaborators in a creative research process. They are pedagogical and social justice tools with the power to raise public consciousness, elicit community action, and social change.
Secondary thrombotic microangiopathy in two patients with Philadelphia-positive hematological malignancies treated with imatinib mesylate
Authors: Ojeda-Uribe Mario , Merieau Sylvain , Guillon Marie , Aujoulat Olivier , Hinschberger Olivier , Eisenmann Jean-Claude , Kenizou David , Debliquis Agathe , Veyradier Agnès , Chantrel François
Published: January 2015

Drug-mediated thrombotic microangiopathy may cause life-threatening medical emergencies. Novel targeted therapies have dramatically changed the prognosis of a number of oncological diseases. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors of the Breakpoint Cluster Region-Abelson (BCR-ABL) oncoprotein are used in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia or Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Imatinib mesylate, which was the first anti-BCR-ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has demonstrated a high tolerance profile and efficacy in these patients for many years. Good results have also been observed in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors. In this study, we describe two patients with Philadelphia chromosome-positive hematological malignancies who presented with secondary thrombotic microangiopathy that was most likely linked to the use of imatinib. Other potential causes of thrombotic microangiopathy were discarded, and the predisposing role of some comorbidities and potential short or long-term drug–drug interactions was assessed. The clinical and biological data were more indicative of atypical secondary hemolytic uremic syndrome in one of the cases and of secondary thrombotic microangiopathy with renal and cardiac impairment in the other, which is also categorized as secondary hemolytic uremic syndrome. The outcome was favorable after imatinib discontinuation and the treatment of severe cardiac and renal failures.
A case of acute kidney injury from crystal nephropathy secondary to pomalidomide and levofloxacin use
Authors: Baird Phylicia , Leung Sam , Hoang Huy , Babalola Olawumi , Devoe Craig E , Wanchoo Rimda , Jhaveri Kenar D
Published: January 2015

Pomalidomide is an analog of thalidomide with immunomodulatory, anti-angiogenic, and anti-neoplastic activity indicated for the treatment of multiple myeloma refractory to at least two prior therapies. The incidence for renal failure was <5% in a single phase II study of pomalidomide and dexamethasone in patients with multiple myeloma that failed both lenalidomide and bortezomib therapy. We report a case suggesting crystal nephropathy as the mechanism for acute kidney injury in pomalidomide and fluoroquinolone use.
Competing with the radical right
Authors: Immerzeel Tim , Lubbers Marcel , Coffé Hilde
Published: January 2015

The popularity of European Radical Right Populist parties (RRPs) has led to investigations into the distances between RRPs’ and other parties’ stances regarding immigration. This article adds to this literature by investigating the distance between RRPs and the other parties on a wider variety of typical RRP policy and style issues. Based on an Expert Survey organized in 2010, we consider ideological (immigration, nationalism, law and order) and style (anti-establishment, populism) dimensions. Furthermore, we examine to what extent characteristics of other parties and RRPs (ideological position, electoral success, being in office) are associated with these distances. Our results show that right-wing (neo-)conservative and Christian-democratic parties are closest, while green and socialist parties are furthest to RRPs regarding ideological dimensions. The opposite is found for the style dimensions. Additionally, we show that the other parties’ characteristics, rather than those of RRPs, are associated with ideological and style distances between RRPs and other parties.
Transition from paediatric to adult health services in Scotland for young people with cerebral palsy
Authors: Wright Alice E , Robb James , Shearer Morven C
Published: January 2015

Transition from paediatric to adult health-care services has been characterized as being poorly planned and coordinated, resulting in a reduction in services and may be distressing for families. This study aimed to establish what provisions are currently available in Scotland for transition of young people with cerebral palsy and what some clinicians believe future provisions should involve. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 community paediatricians (or equivalents in health boards without community paediatricians) from 12 different Scottish health boards. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed thematically using framework analysis. Both current transition provision and the areas that the clinicians felt needed improvement varied greatly between health boards. Key areas in need of improvement were coordination and communication within health services and also between health services and educational, social services and adult health services to which young people were transitioning. Transition remains problematic and variable. For transition to be improved, further research is needed to explore the effect this variation is having on young people and their families.
Differences in participation rates and lessons learned about recruitment of participants – The European Health Examination Survey Pilot Project
Authors: Tolonen Hanna , Ahonen Sanna , Jentoft Susie , Kuulasmaa Kari , Heldal Johan ,   for the European Health Examination Pilot Project
Published: January 2015

Aims: In the 1980s, participation rates in health interview and health examination surveys were around 80% while now they are around 50–60%. There is also evidence that non-participation is selective. Low participation rates and selective non-participation may cause bias to our survey results based on participants alone. We aim to increase knowledge on cultural differences in acceptance and feasibility of different recruitment methods. Methods: The European Health Examination Survey Pilot Project, conducted in 2009–2012, included pilot surveys in 12 countries among people aged 25–64 years. Information about recruitment methods and participation rates in these surveys was collected. Results: Participation rates ranged from 16% to 57% for men and from 31% to 74% for women, where in most surveys women had higher participation rates than men. A variety of recruitment and promotion methods were used to obtain as high participation rates as possible. Combinations of phone calls, invitation letter and home visits were used to recruit invitees. Obtaining valid phone numbers for survey invitees was difficult in several countries. Incentives, websites and promotion in local media were used to promote the surveys. Conclusions: The European Health Examination Survey Pilot surveys showed that obtaining a participation rate above 50% for a representative population sample is possible but it requires hard work and a well-planned recruitment strategy. Recruitment methods used in one country may not be possible to use in another country due to cultural norms and national regulations.
Who lost what? An analysis of myth, loss, and proximity in news coverage of the Steubenville rape
Authors: Gutsche Robert E , Salkin Erica
Published: January 2015

This article extends previous research on the application of mythical news narratives in times of great community loss, death, or destruction by taking into account the role of perceived dominant news audiences. This article analyzes 6 months of coverage surrounding the 2012 rape of a 16-year-old girl by two teenage boys in Steubenville, Ohio. The article argues audience proximity to news events contributes to the mythical archetypes used to explain everyday life.
Haplotype analyses of CYP17A1 genetic polymorphisms and coronary artery disease in a Uygur population
Authors: Dai Chuan-Fang , Xie Xiang , Ma Yi-Tong , Yang Yi-Ning , Li Xiao-Mei , Fu Zhen-Yan , Liu Fen , Chen Bang-Dang , Gai Min-Tao
Published: January 2015

Background:

The relationship between CYP17A1 genetic polymorphisms and coronary artery disease (CAD) remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to assess the association between CYP17A1 gene polymorphism and CAD in a Chinese Uygur population.

Methods:

A total of 493 people including 266 patients and 227 controls were selected for the present study. All CAD patients and controls were genotyped for the same five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs4919686, rs1004467, rs4919687, rs10786712, and rs2486758) by a real-time PCR method.

Results:

The rs4919686, rs1004467, and rs4919687 polymorphisms were found to be associated with CAD in genotypes, dominant model, recessive model, and allele frequency (rs4919686: all p<0.05, rs1004467: all p≤0.001, rs4919687: all p<0.001); the significant difference was retained (all p<0.05) after adjustment for the major confounding factors. The overall distribution of haplotypes established by SNP1–SNP4 (in total subjects and men) and SNP1–SNP4–SNP5 (in total subjects) were significantly different between the CAD patients and the control subjects ( p=0.006, men: p=0.026, and p=0.030, respectively).

Conclusion:

Polymorphisms rs4919686, rs4919687 and rs1004467 were found to be associated with CAD in this Uygur population.
Applying the principles of Yin–Yang to market dynamics
Authors: Mattsson Lars-Gunnar , Tidström Annika
Published: January 2015

Competition and cooperation are two fundamental market processes and are often viewed as independent opposites. However, there is evidence that they are interdependent, and this interdependence affects market dynamics. To understand market dynamics, we need to explicitly consider the interaction between competition and cooperation. A philosophy that might be helpful is Taoism according to which opposite elements of Yin and Yang continuously interact. The purpose of this article is to investigate how Yin–Yang principles in terms of the interaction between competition and cooperation might improve our understanding of market dynamics. The theoretical reference frame is based on a business network perspective on markets and literature on the interaction between cooperation and competition. An exploratory case study of relations between four Finnish small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is also used. Based on the Yin–Yang principles, the literature, and the case study, propositions about the nature of interaction between competition and cooperation are developed. These propositions are then used as a basis to outline further research opportunities on market dynamics.
The functional linear array model
Authors: Brockhaus Sarah , Scheipl Fabian , Hothorn Torsten , Greven Sonja
Published: January 2015

The functional linear array model (FLAM) is a unified model class for functional regression models including function-on-scalar, scalar-on-function and function-on-function regression. Mean, median, quantile as well as generalized additive regression models for functional or scalar responses are contained as special cases in this general framework. Our implementation features a broad variety of covariate effects, such as, linear, smooth and interaction effects of grouping variables, scalar and functional covariates. Computational efficiency is achieved by representing the model as a generalized linear array model. While the array structure requires a common grid for functional responses, missing values are allowed. Estimation is conducted using a boosting algorithm, which allows for numerous covariates and automatic, data-driven model selection. To illustrate the flexibility of the model class we use three applications on curing of resin for car production, heat values of fossil fuels and Canadian climate data (the last one in the electronic supplement). These require function-on-scalar, scalar-on-function and function-on-function regression models, respectively, as well as additional capabilities such as robust regression, spatial functional regression, model selection and accommodation of missings. An implementation of our methods is provided in the R add-on package FDboost .
Effect of high temperature on the performance of filter fabric
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Arunangshu , Pandit Vipul , Dhawan Kamal
Published: January 2015

High-temperature filtration is one of the most promising developments in particle collection technology. Process gases if cleaned (filtered) at elevated temperatures, then processes can be made more efficient in terms of energy and more integrated in terms of process technology. The present study embodies the effect of high temperature and dust concentration on the performance of different filter media (P84 with PTFE scrim and P84 with P84 scrim) in terms of emissions, filtration efficiency, pressure drop and other related factors. At low temperature and higher feed dust concentration level of 90 g/m3, P84/PTFE shows lower emissions in comparison to P84/P84, but at higher temperature the emissions were similar with different dust concentration levels for both the fabrics. However, at lower feed dust concentration (5 g/m3), the emissions from both fabrics are similar in the experimental region of gas temperature. Filtration efficiency was found to increase at elevated temperatures but at the cost of increased residual pressure drop. In order to predict the performance of filter fabric at high temperature by testing at lower temperature, empirical equations were developed taking into account the operating temperature and dust concentration.
A Comparative Study of Australian and New Zealand Male and Female Nurses’ Health
Authors: Tuckett Anthony , Henwood Tim , Oliffe John L. , Kolbe-Alexander Tracy L. , Kim Jae Rin
Published: January 2015

The aim of this research was to compare the health and lifestyle behaviors between male and female nursing professionals. Biological, workplace, and lifestyle factors as well as health behaviors and outcomes are reported as different between male and female nurses. Although male nurses show distinct health-related patterns and experience health disparities at work, few studies have investigated health differences by sex in a large cohort group of nursing professionals. This observation study of Australian and New Zealand nurses and midwives drew data from an eCohort survey. A cohort of 342 females was generated by SPSS randomization (total N=3625), to compare against 342 participating males. Measures for comparison include health markers and behaviors, cognitive well-being, workplace and leisure-time vitality, and functional capacity. Findings suggest that male nurses had a higher BMI, sat for longer, slept for less time, and were more likely to be a smoker than their female nurse counterparts. Men were more likely to report restrictions in bending, bathing, and dressing. In relation to disease, male nurses reported greater rates of respiratory disease and cardiovascular disease, including a three times greater incidence of myocardial infarction, and were more likely to have metabolic problems. In contrast, however, male nurses were more likely to report feeling calm and peaceful with less worries about their health. Important for nurse workforce administrators concerned about the well-being of their staff, the current study reveals significant sex differences and supports the need for gender-sensitive approaches to aid the well-being of male nurses.
Gender Differences in Weight-Related Attitudes and Behaviors Among Overweight and Obese Adults in the United States
Authors: Tsai Sandra A. , Lv Nan , Xiao Lan , Ma Jun
Published: January 2015

Few studies have used nationally representative data to focus specifically on gender differences in weight-related outcomes. This article examines gender differences in weight-related outcomes across the body mass index (BMI) spectrum in overweight and obese adults. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2009–2010 was analyzed. Weight-related outcomes were accurate weight perception, weight dissatisfaction, attempted weight loss, successful weight loss, and weight loss strategies. Compared with women, overweight and obese men were less likely to have accurate weight perception (odds ratio [OR] = 0.36; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.30–0.44), weight dissatisfaction (OR = 0.39; 95% CI = 0.32–0.47), and attempted weight loss (OR = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.48–0.63). The modifying effect of gender on these associations decreased as BMI increased. By BMI 35, the mean probability of women and men to have accurate weight perception and weight dissatisfaction was 90%; attempted weight loss was 60% (women) and 50% (men). At lower BMIs, men had up to 40% less probability than women for these weight loss outcomes. Men who attempted weight loss were more likely than women to lose and maintain ≥10 lb over 1 year (OR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.20–1.65) and increase exercise and eat less fat as weight loss strategies; women were more likely to join weight loss programs, take prescription diet pills, and follow special diets. A need exists for male-specific interventions to improve overweight and obese men’s likelihood for accurate weight perception, attempted weight loss, and ultimately, successful weight loss.
Gender-Atypical Mental Illness as Male Gender Threat
Authors: Michniewicz Kenneth S. , Bosson Jennifer K. , Lenes Joshua G. , Chen Jason I.
Published: January 2015

The present study examined whether men view gender-atypical (i.e., feminine) psychological disorders as threats to their gender status. Men and women ( N = 355) rated their expectations of gender status loss, feelings of distress, and help-seeking intentions in response to 10 different stereotypically masculine and feminine psychological disorders. Men as compared to women expected greater gender status loss for, and reported more distress to, gender-atypical versus gender-typical disorders. Expectations of gender status loss partially mediated the link between participant gender and distress at the thought of gender-atypical disorders. These findings suggest that feminine disorders pose more powerful gender status threats for men than masculine disorders do and that men’s expectations of gender status loss for feminine disorders drive their negative reactions to these mental illnesses. The discussion emphasizes the importance of considering the gender-typicality of disorders, and the implications of these findings for clinical interventions.
Infrared Thermal Imaging for Automated Detection of Diabetic Foot Complications
Authors: van Netten Jaap J. , van Baal Jeff G. , Liu Chanjuan , van der Heijden Ferdi , Bus Sicco A.
Published: January 2015

Background:

Although thermal imaging can be a valuable technology in the prevention and management of diabetic foot disease, it is not yet widely used in clinical practice. Technological advancement in infrared imaging increases its application range. The aim was to explore the first steps in the applicability of high-resolution infrared thermal imaging for noninvasive automated detection of signs of diabetic foot disease.

Methods:

The plantar foot surfaces of 15 diabetes patients were imaged with an infrared camera (resolution, 1.2 mm/pixel): 5 patients had no visible signs of foot complications, 5 patients had local complications (e.g., abundant callus or neuropathic ulcer), and 5 patients had diffuse complications (e.g., Charcot foot, infected ulcer, or critical ischemia). Foot temperature was calculated as mean temperature across pixels for the whole foot and for specified regions of interest (ROIs).

Results:

No differences in mean temperature >1.5 °C between the ipsilateral and the contralateral foot were found in patients without complications. In patients with local complications, mean temperatures of the ipsilateral and the contralateral foot were similar, but temperature at the ROI was >2 °C higher compared with the corresponding region in the contralateral foot and to the mean of the whole ipsilateral foot. In patients with diffuse complications, mean temperature differences of >3 °C between ipsilateral and contralateral foot were found.

Conclusions:

With an algorithm based on parameters that can be captured and analyzed with a high-resolution infrared camera and a computer, it is possible to detect signs of diabetic foot disease and to discriminate between no, local, or diffuse diabetic foot complications. As such, an intelligent telemedicine monitoring system for noninvasive automated detection of signs of diabetic foot disease is one step closer. Future studies are essential to confirm and extend these promising early findings.
Repeatability of Infrared Plantar Thermography in Diabetes Patients: A Pilot Study
Authors: Balbinot Luciane Fachin , Robinson Caroline Cabral , Achaval Matilde , Zaro Milton Antônio , Brioschi Marcos Leal
Published: January 2015

Objective:

Infrared (IR) thermography has been used as a complementary diagnostic method in several pathologies, including distal diabetic neuropathy, by tests that induce thermoregulatory responses, but nothing is known about the repeatability of these tests. This study aimed to assess the repeatability of the rewarming index in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and nondiabetic control subjects.

Methods:

Using an IR camera, plantar IR images were collected at baseline (pre-) and 10 min after (post-) cold stress testing on two different days with 7 days interval. Plantar absolute average temperatures pre- and post-cold stress testing, the difference between them (AT), and the rewarming index were obtained and compared between days. Repeatability of the rewarming index after the cold stress test was assessed by Bland-Altman plot limits of agreement.

Results:

Ten T2DM subjects and ten nondiabetic subjects had both feet analyzed. Mean age did not differ between groups ( p = .080). Absolute average temperatures of plantar region pre- ( p = .033) and post-cold stress test ( p = .019) differed between days in nondiabetic subjects, whereas they did not differ in T2DM subjects (pretest, p = .329; post-test, p = .540). AT and rewarming index did not differ between days for both groups, and the rewarming index presented a 100% agreement of day-to-day measurements from T2DM subjects and 95% with nondiabetic subjects.

Conclusions:

The rewarming index after cold stress testing presented good repeatability between two days a week in both groups. Despite T2DM subjects presenting no differences on absolute temperature values between days, ΔT or rewarming index after cold stress testing remain recommended beside absolute temperature values for clinical use.
Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and Gait: Does Footwear Modify This Association?
Authors: Grewal Gurtej S. , Bharara Manish , Menzies Robert , Talal Talal K. , Armstrong David , Najafi Bijan
Published: January 2015

Background:

Gait-related fall risk is the leading cause of mortality among patients with diabetes, especially those older than 65 years. Deterioration in balance and loss of protective sensation in lower extremities contribute significantly to fall risk in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). This study aimed to explore the impact of neuropathy and foot ulcer on gait.

Methods:

We recruited 39 participants (age, 56.9 ± 8.2 years; body mass index, 29.6.3 ± 4.7 kg/m2), including 15 DPN patients without foot ulcers, 16 DPN patients with foot ulcers, and 8 healthy aged-matched controls. Patients with active foot ulcers wore an offloading device during gait examination, including removable cast walker.

Results:

Results suggest that neuropathy alters gait mainly by increasing gait initiation, gait variability (coefficient of variation of gait velocity), and double support (DS) time, while reducing knee range of motion and center of mass sway ( p < .05). Interestingly, the presence of foot ulcer does not impact gait velocity ( p > .1) but enhances some of the gait parameters such as gait variability and DS time.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates that neuropathy deteriorates gait, but the presence of foot ulcers does not alter gait parameters further than neuropathy. In addition, patients with foot ulcers demonstrated a better gait compared with DPN patients without ulcers. We speculate that offloading footwear may be enhancing the somatosensory feedback from sensate skin, thereby positively affecting gait parameters. A study with a larger sample is required to explore the effect of prescribed footwear in the DPN population in order to validate the findings of this research study.