bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Pilot Study of a Culturally Adapted Early Intervention for Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders in China
Authors: Xu Yun , Yang Jian , Yao Jing , Chen Jun , Zhuang Xiangxiang , Wang Wenxiang , Zhang Xiaoli , Lee Gabrielle T.
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study was to pilot test the effects of a culturally adapted early intervention influenced by the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) on reduction of autism symptoms and severity categorization for young children with autism spectrum disorders in China. Participants were randomly assigned to either the control or intervention groups. The children’s age ranged from 24 to 60 months in this study. Children in the control group ( n = 20) received eclectic intervention services for a minimum of 2 hr per day, 10 hr per week, while children in the intervention group ( n = 16) received the culturally adapted intervention 1 hr per day, 5 hr per week, plus 5 hr per week of the same services as the control group for a total of 8 weeks. After 8 weeks, children in the intervention group demonstrated a significant decrease in autism symptoms and improved severity categorization, compared with children in the control group. Future studies and implications of the culturally adapted early intervention in China are discussed.
Adaptive behaviors can improve the system consilience of a network system
Authors: Hu Xiao-Bing , Shi Peijun , Wang Ming , Leeson Mark S
Published: December 2017

As a recently reported network property, consilience degree (CSD) indicates how well a network system integrates its topology and node activities together to serve a specific systemic goal. As is well known, many natural and man-made systems are complex networks where, besides network topology, node activity states also play an important role in determining system performance. For example, a collaborative project involving friends is more likely to succeed than one involving enemies, even though the topology of network organization is the same. The concept of CSD can quantitatively distinguish the difference between the involvement of friends and the involvement of enemies. This article reports a simulation study on the adaptive behaviors of nodes based on the selfish rule and the following-others rule, and the simulation results show that based on such adaptive behaviors of nodes, a network system will automatically evolve to a high level of system consilience. The simulation study also demonstrates that a high level of system consilience resulting from adaptive behaviors will contribute to increased system resistance to external disturbances. The generality of adaptive behaviors in reality implies that CSD is an inherent attribute of real-world network systems, and therefore, the concept of CSD has significant application potential in the study of adaptive behaviors in network systems.
Long-Acting Bronchodilator Use in the Management of Stable COPD
Authors: Abukwaik Aya Wail , Mansukhani Rupal , Bridgeman Mary Barna
Published: December 2017

Objective: To review the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with a focus on updated information regarding the use of long-acting bronchodilators in the prevention of exacerbations and outcomes associated with this disease. Data Sources: A literature search of the MEDLINE databases through November 2017 was conducted. All published articles regarding use of bronchodilator therapy in the management of COPD were evaluated. References of selected articles, data from poster presentations, and abstract publications were additionally reviewed. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Available English-language data from reviews, abstracts, presentations, and clinical trials of the treatment of stable COPD with bronchodilator therapy in humans were reviewed; relevant clinical data were selected and included. Data Synthesis: COPD is a prevalent medical condition worldwide that results in functional impairment, and worsened quality of life and overall health status. Numerous treatment options are available; the rationale for the optimal agents to utilize in a particular patient case is dependent on a multitude of patient-specific factors and severity of disease. In this review, a discussion of the role of long-acting bronchodilators, including long-acting β agonists and long-acting muscarinic antagonists will be explored. Additionally, an update on the roles of novel delivery devices for delivering respiratory medications in this medical condition will be described. Conclusion: Although numerous treatment options are available, management of COPD remains a clinical challenge. Long-acting bronchodilators represent a significant class of medications that have the potential to reduce exacerbations and related hospitalizations and improve overall health outcomes.
Age and Gender Differences in the Variability of Vocational Interests
Authors: Ion Andrei , Nye Christopher D. , Iliescu Dragoş
Published: December 2017

Gender- and age-related differences in the variability of various human attributes and abilities have been investigated. This article investigates the age and gender differences in the variability of Holland’s six vocational dimensions with a sample including 1,519 participants, divided into four age groups: early adolescence (12–15 years old), adolescence (16–20 years old), young adulthood (21–30 years old), and adulthood (31–59 years old). The results showed nontrivial differences in the variability of vocational interests across gender and age groups alike. Although significant differences in variability were observed for all vocational interest dimensions except investigative, the most pronounced differences in variability across age and gender were observed for realistic and conventional dimensions. Generally, the observed differences in variability were larger in adolescence than in adulthood. Overall, vocational interests displayed less differentiation within the younger age groups (early adolescence and early adulthood) as compared to adulthood.
The Academic Environment and Faculty Well-Being: The Role of Psychological Needs
Authors: Larson Lisa M. , Seipel Matthew T. , Shelley Mack C. , Gahn Sandra W. , Ko Stacy Y. , Schenkenfelder Mary , Rover Diane T. , Schmittmann Beate , Heitmann Megan M.
Published: December 2017

Recent research has examined the well-being of higher education faculty, but it has typically lacked a theoretical model. The present study used self-determination theory to model the well-being of 581 tenured and tenure-eligible faculty members at a large mid-Western university. Volitional autonomy, perceived competence, and perceived relatedness were hypothesized to partially mediate the relationships between several environmental factors (e.g., administrative support, research support, promotion and tenure support) and faculty well-being (i.e., teaching/service satisfaction and global satisfaction). Results of path analysis indicated that all relations between the environment and teaching/service satisfaction were fully mediated by volitional autonomy and perceived competence, whereas all relations between the environment and global satisfaction were partially mediated by perceived relatedness. These findings highlight the centrality of psychological needs in understanding the relations between the environment and faculty well-being. Additional implications and future directions for research are discussed.
Achilles Tendon Resting Angle Relates to Tendon Length and Function
Authors: Zellers Jennifer A. , Carmont Michael R. , Silbernagel Karin Grävare
Published: December 2017

Background:

Following Achilles tendon rupture, tendon elongation leads to long term deficits in calf function. A surrogate measure of Achilles tendon length, Achilles tendon resting angle (ATRA), has been described but has not been validated against length measured using ultrasound. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to validate the ATRA against ultrasound. Secondarily, this study aimed to identify the relationship of other factors (tendon mechanical properties, heel-rise test performance) to the ATRA.

Methods:

Individuals following unilateral Achilles tendon rupture were included. ATRA was measured in knee flexed and extended positions. Tendon elongation was measured using extended field of view ultrasound imaging. Continuous shear wave elastography quantified tendon mechanical properties. The relationship between variables was tested using Spearman’s ρ. Subgroup analysis was used to compare subjects with less then or greater than 1 year following rupture. A total of 42 participants (with a mean of 18.2 months following rupture [SD = 35.9]) were included.

Results:

Tendon elongation related with relative ATRA with knee flexed (ρ = .491, P = .001) and knee extended (ρ = 0.501, P = .001) positions. In individuals greater than 1 year following rupture, relative ATRA with the knee flexed related to shear modulus (ρ = .800, P = .01) and total work on the heel-rise test (ρ = –.782, P = .008) relative to the uninjured side.

Conclusion:

Relative ATRA in both knee flexed and knee extended positions has a moderate relationship to tendon elongation within the first year following rupture. After 1 year, the relative ATRA with knee flexed may be a better indicator of tendon elongation and also related to tendon mechanical properties and heel-rise test performance.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, case-control study.
Trends and Patterns of Corticosteroid Use During Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery in the United States
Authors: Donneyong Macarius M. , Kulik Alexander , Gagne Joshua J.
Published: December 2017

Background:

Several clinical trials have documented clinical benefits associated with prophylactic corticosteroid administration at the time of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, including a reduction in the risk of atrial fibrillation and hospital length of stay. Despite the published data, the extent to which providers have adopted the perioperative use of corticosteroids remains unknown.

Objectives:

To assess temporal trends, between-hospital variation, and determinants of perioperative intravenous corticosteroid use during CABG surgery.

Methods:

We identified all patients admitted for CABG surgery in the Premier Healthcare Database (2003-2014), a large US-based inpatient database. We determined the proportion of patients administered prophylactic corticosteroids on the day of CABG surgery. Linear time-series models were used to estimate the rate and trend of corticosteroid use over time. Separate multivariable generalized estimating equation models were used to quantify the variation in and determinants of perioperative corticosteroid use.

Results:

Of 401 788 eligible patients who underwent a CABG surgery between 2003 and 2014, 20% (n = 80 681) were administered intravenous prophylactic perioperative corticosteroids (methylprednisolone, dexamethasone, or hydrocortisone). Corticosteroid use increased from 17.5% in 2003 to 22.6% in 2014 (annual rate = 0.42%; P < .001). Individual hospitals accounted for >50% of variation in corticosteroid use. High between-hospital variation was also observed, and the probability of utilization was ≥32.4% in the upper versus ≤3.4% in the bottom quartiles of hospitals.

Conclusion:

Prophylactic corticosteroid administration during CABG has increased gradually since 2003. To further evaluate the risk–benefit trade-off associated with their use, we believe a large-scale outcomes study is warranted to assess this highly variable practice.
Postoperative Changes in the Systemic Inflammatory Milieu in Older Surgical Patients
Authors: Shih Lauren , Guler Nil , Syed Daneyal , Hopkinson William , McComas Kyra N. , Walborn Amanda , Hoppensteadt Debra , Fareed Jawed , Rondina Matthew T.
Published: December 2017

Dysregulated inflammation is a central component of wound healing following surgery. We prospectively enrolled older patients (n = 25, age 65 ± 7 years) undergoing elective total knee arthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty secondary to advanced osteoarthritis (OA) and healthy controls (n = 48). Inflammatory, proangiogenic (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 [MCP-1], and interleukin-8 [IL-8]), and antiangiogenic (interferon γ [IFN-γ] and IL-4) factors were measured using a high-sensitivity biochip. Patients with OA had significantly higher baseline VEGF (10.5 ± 1.2 pg/mL vs 4.8 ± 0.2 pg/mL, P < .001), MCP-1 (130.6 ± 7.7 pg/mL vs 88.6 ± 3.9 pg/mL, P < .0001), and IL-8 (4.0 ± 0.5 pg/mL vs 2.6 ± 0.1 pg/mL, P < .05). Postoperatively, the levels of VEGF (10.5 ± 1.2 pg/mL vs 18.8 ± 1.5 pg/mL, P < .001) and MCP-1 (130.6 ± 7.7 pg/mL vs 153.1 ± 11.5 pg/mL, P < .05) increased significantly. Baseline and postoperative MCP-1 levels correlated positively and significantly with age. The levels of IFN-γ and IL-4 (which has anti-inflammatory properties) did not significantly differ at baseline in patients with OA compared to controls and did not significantly rise postoperatively. We conclude that systemic levels of pro-inflammatory and angiogenic proteins are increased in patients with OA and rise further postoperatively, while proteins that restrain inflammation and angiogenesis do not coordinately rise. These findings implicate imbalance in inflammatory pathways in OA that may contribute to its pathobiology.
Quality of Anticoagulation With Warfarin at a Tertiary Hospital in Botswana
Authors: Mwita Julius C. , Francis Joel M. , Oyekunle Anthony A. , Gaenamong Marea , Goepamang Monkgogi , Magafu Mgaywa G. M. D.
Published: December 2017

Warfarin treatment requires regular and proper monitoring to avoid overanticoagulation and at the same time to prevent thromboembolic complications. This study assessed the quality of warfarin anticoagulation at Princess Marina Hospital in Botswana. This cross-sectional study consecutively enrolled patients who were on warfarin for at least 3 months in the outpatient medical clinic. The level of anticoagulation was determined by the time in therapeutic range (TTR) using the Rosendaal method that calculates the percentage of days when the international normalized ratio is in the therapeutic range (2.0-3.0). Poor anticoagulation control was defined as an estimated TTR <65%. We performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression to assess predictors of poor anticoagulation control. Of total, 410 (68.8% women) patients whose median age was 46 (interquartile range [IQR], 35-58) years were enrolled. Indications for warfarin included mechanical heart valves, 185 (45.1%); deep vein thrombosis, 114 (26.8%); and atrial fibrillation, 68 (17.8%). Of the 2004 tests (an average of 4.9 tests per patient) assessed, only 20% of the tests were within the therapeutic range. The median TTR was 30.8% (IQR, 15.2-52.7). Most (85.1%) patients had poor anticoagulation control. Cigarette smoking and pulmonary hypertension perfectly predicted poor anticoagulation. Hypertension was a predictor of poor anticoagulation control (adjusted odds ratio = 2.24; 95% confidence interval: 1.02-4.94). The quality of anticoagulant therapy with warfarin in Botswana patients is poor. The evidence calls for efforts to improve the level of anticoagulation control among patients on warfarin in Botswana.
The Transformation of Urban Politics in France the Roots of Growth Politics and Urban Regimes
Authors: Levine Myron A.
Published: December 2017

French urban planning and politics has moved away from traditional spatial and social policy goals toward a new politics of local economic development. The roots of this transformation are found in such factors as local economic distress, European unification, enhanced global and intercity competition, political decentralization, and a change in Socialist party ideology away from its previous anticapitalist stance to a pragmatic, probusiness point of view. Growth coalitions in France and the United States are compared in an effort to identify the roots and structures of growth regimes.
Trends in the Location of Corporate Headquarters, 1969-1989
Authors: Ward Sally K.
Published: December 2017

In this research note, the author examines the regional distribution and suburbanization of corporate headquarters in the United States in 1969, 1979, and 1989. The results confirm a continued concentration of headquarters in a small number of metropolitan areas and a continued concentration in the Northeast and Midwest, despite some growth in locations in the South and West. Significant variations are seen by type of corporation. The suburbanization of headquarters during the decade is qualified in two ways: First, despite further suburbanization, central cities still house a sizable majority of headquarters; and second, the suburbanization pattern varies significantly by region.
Home-Based Treatment for Chronic Constipation
Authors: Al-Momani Laith Adel , Arikapudi Sowminya , Gaddam Sathvika , Treece Jennifer , Rashid Saima , Baumrucker Steven
Published: December 2017

Chronic constipation is a very common problem that negatively affects the quality of life of patients, especially the elderly population. It can also lead to significant health care expenditure. Careful assessment by obtaining a thorough history and physical examination with limited indicated diagnostic testing is important to identify potential underlying etiologies and to treat effectively.
Sample Retention in an Urban Context: Exploring Influential Factors Within a Longitudinal Randomized Evaluation
Authors: Karras-Jean Gilles Juliana , Astuto Jennifer , Gjicali Kalina , Allen LaRue
Published: December 2017

Secondary data analysis was employed to scrutinize factors affecting sample retention in a randomized evaluation of an early childhood intervention. Retention was measured by whether data were collected at 3 points over 2 years. The participants were diverse, immigrant, and U.S.-born families of color from urban, low-income communities. We examined how the initial recruitment and enrollment process, and sample demographics related to retention. Effects that adversely related to retention included recruitment from a public area (e.g., bus stop) versus personally salient locations (e.g., child’s school); assignment to the control group versus the treatment group; longer time lapses in communication between researchers and participants; and living in a less-resourced, low-income neighborhood relative to higher resourced, low-income neighborhoods. Being born outside the United States was positively associated with retention relative to participants born in the U.S. Implications for evaluators and recommendations for evaluation methodology are discussed.
Procedural Justice and Citizen Review of Complaints Against the Police: Structure, Outcomes, and Complainants’ Subjective Experiences
Authors: Worden Robert E. , Bonner Heidi S. , McLean Sarah J.
Published: December 2017

People who file complaints against the police tend to experience objectively unfavorable outcomes, for most complaints are not sustained. But features of citizen oversight might be expected to enhance the procedural justice of the complaint review process and, hence, provide positive subjective experience despite the outcomes. Using data collected through interviews with complainants about their experience with complaint review in a city that provides for citizen oversight, we examine the factors associated with complainants’ subjective experiences. We find that complainants’ subjective experiences are shaped mainly by outcomes, while features of the process that might be expected to enhance its procedural fairness have little or no effect on complainants’ judgments.
Tests of whether candidate A or B would fare better against C—and other polling enrichments to open up party strategy
Authors: Potthoff Richard F
Published: December 2017

Our main setting is a single-winner election contested by two major parties. A goal is to find whether candidate A or B of one party would be the stronger opponent running against candidate C of the other party. A poll (as many polls do) asks the same set of respondents to choose both between A and C and between B and C. The classical McNemar test and two novel extensions thereof can evaluate the difference between A and B regarding their strength against C. The first extension treats the case where some respondents answer one question but not both, a condition that the McNemar test itself does not handle well. The second covers the case where respondents who do not answer a question are probed further to see if they lean toward either candidate. We provide empirical examples related to the 2016 US presidential election. The A-versus-B strength difference vis-à-vis C can be statistically significant even if the difference between A’s showing against C and B’s showing against C is small. We argue finally that other insights helpful to party and candidate strategy can also emerge from novel augmentations to polling practices.
“That little doorway where I could suddenly start shouting out”: Barriers and enablers to the disclosure of distressing voices
Authors: Bogen-Johnston Leanne , de Visser Richard , Strauss Clara , Berry Katherine , Hayward Mark
Published: December 2017

Hearing distressing voices is a key feature of psychosis. The time between voice onset and disclosure may be crucial as voices can grow in complexity. This study aimed to investigate barriers and enablers to early voice disclosure. In total, 20 voice hearers were interviewed, and Thematic Analysis was used to identify themes. Beliefs about the effect of disclosure on self and others acted as a barrier and enabler to voices being discussed. Voice hearing awareness should be increased among young people, the public, and care services. To support earlier disclosure, measures should be taken to increase skill among those likely to be the recipients of disclosure.
TBLT implementation and evaluation: A meta-analysis
Authors: Bryfonski Lara , McKay Todd H.
Published: December 2017

Task-based language teaching (TBLT) is an empirically investigated pedagogy that has garnered attention from language programs across the globe. TBLT provides an alternative to traditional grammar translation or present-practice-produce pedagogies by emphasizing interaction during authentic tasks. Despite several previous meta-analyses investigating the effect of individual tasks or short-term task-based treatments on second language (L2) development, no studies to date have synthesized the effects of long-term implementation of TBLT in authentic language classrooms. The present study uses meta-analytic techniques to investigate the effectiveness of TBLT programs on L2 learning. Findings based on a sample of 52 studies revealed an overall positive and strong effect ( d = 0.93) for TBLT implementation on a variety of learning outcomes. The study further examined a range of programmatic and methodological features that moderated these main-effects (program region, institution type, needs analysis, and cycles of implementation). Additionally, synthesizing across both quantitative and qualitative data, results also showed positive stakeholder perceptions towards TBLT programs. The study concludes with implications for the domain of TBLT implementation, language program evaluation, and future research in this domain.
Family structure and children’s unmet health-care needs
Authors: Irvin Katherine , Fahim Farhan , Alshehri Saeed , Kitsantas Panagiota
Published: December 2017

This study assessed children’s unmet health-care needs within different family types (two-parent biological/adoptive, two-parent stepfamily, and single-mother family type) using data from the 2011/2012 National Survey of Children’s Health. Findings indicate that 10.4% of children in single-mother family types had unmet health-care needs compared to 8.7% of children from a two-parent stepfamily and 5.3% for those from two-parent biological/adoptive families. Further analyses revealed racial/ethnic disparities with Black children from two parent-biological/adoptive families being 1.54 (95% confidence interval 1.13, 2.05) times more likely to have unmet health-care needs, while Hispanic children were less likely to have unmet health-care needs relative to their white counterparts. Children from lower income two-parent families had a higher likelihood of unmet health-care needs. The noncontinuous insurance coverage was a risk factor for increasing unmet health-care needs across all three different family types. These findings show major differences in unmet health-care needs among children living in different family structure types. It is recommended that interventions for increasing access to care need to be tailored differently across various family types in order to achieve continuous and sufficient health-care services for our children.
Nonlinear cumulative damage model and application to bridge fatigue life evaluation
Authors: Wang Huili , Qin Sifeng , Wang Yunjie
Published: December 2017

Fatigue is a damage accumulation process in which material property deteriorates continuously. Fatigue life prediction issues are important for safety. This article aims to develop a nonlinear cumulative damage model. A fatigue damage model based on the continuum damage mechanics is addressed and applied to bridge fatigue life evaluation. First, the bridge nonlinear cumulative damage model based on damage mechanics is propounded and equivalent effective stress range is given. Then, the effects of the main parameter in the model are analyzed. Finally, Xinghai Bay Bridge is taken as a case study. The results indicate that the damage is increased with the material parameter [Formula: see text] reduced. [Formula: see text] is a material parameter depending on stress amplitude and without physical meaning. If [Formula: see text], the effect of [Formula: see text] is negligible. If [Formula: see text], nonlinear cumulative damage model degrades into Miner’s rule and effect of [Formula: see text] to structural damage is maximum. The cumulative damage curve calculated by the nonlinear cumulative damage model is nonlinear, with a low cumulative rate initially but a very high cumulative rate at the end of the design life, whereas the Miner’s rule is linear. The nonlinear cumulative damage model can reflect actual damage process, while Miner’s rule is pessimistic.
Outcomes of High-Frequency Gastric Electric Stimulation for the Treatment of Severe, Medically Refractory Gastroparesis in Finland
Authors: Laine M. , Sirén J. , Koskenpato J. , Punkkinen J. , Rantanen T. , Typpö I. , Kokkola A. , Sallinen V.
Published: December 2017

Background and Aims:

Severe, medically uncontrollable gastroparesis is a rare entity, which can be treated using a high-frequency gastric electric stimulator implanted surgically. Previous follow-ups have proven positive outcomes with gastric electric stimulator in patients with gastroparesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of gastric electric stimulator in patients, in whom gastroparesis could not be controlled by conservative means in our country.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective multi-center cohort comprising all patients who had been implanted gastric electric stimulator for severe, medically refractory gastroparesis during 2007–2015 in Finland.

Results:

Fourteen patients underwent implantation of gastric electrical stimulator without any postoperative complications. Laparoscopic approach was used in 13 patients (93%). Prior implantation, all patients needed frequent hospitalization for parenteral feeding, 13 had severe nausea, 11 had severe vomiting, 10 had notable weight loss, and 6 had frequent abdominal pain. After operation, none of the patients required parenteral feeding, 11 patients (79%) gained median of 5.1 kg in weight (P < 0.01), and symptoms were relieved markedly in 8 and partially in 3 patients (79%). Of partial responders, two continued to experience occasional vomiting and one mild nausea. Five patients needed medication for gastroparesis after the operation. One patient did not get any relief of symptoms, but gained 6 kg in weight. No major late complications occurred.

Conclusion:

Gastric electrical stimulator seems to improve the nutritional status and give clear relief of the symptoms of severe, medically uncontrollable gastroparesis. Given the low number of operations, gastric electrical stimulator seems to be underused in Finland.
Feasibility of a Clinical Pathway With Early Oral Intake and Discharge for Laparoscopic Gastrectomy
Authors: Nakagawa M. , Tomii C. , Inokuchi M. , Otsuki S. , Kojima K.
Published: December 2017

Background and Aims:

Although some studies have reported the safety of early oral intake after gastrectomy, it still remains controversial. This study focused on the feasibility of a clinical pathway with early oral intake and discharge setting for exclusively laparoscopic distal gastrectomy.

Materials and Methods:

A clinical pathway was applied to 403 patients until December 2014. In the protocol, patients are allowed to take a sip of water and a soft diet on the first and second days after the operation, respectively, and the discharge day is set as the fifth to seventh day after the operation. Clinicopathological variables were prospectively collected, and risk factors for discharge variances were analyzed.

Results:

The completion rate of the clinical pathway was 76.9%. There were five re-admissions (1.2%). The overall morbidity rate was 18% ( n = 72), and major complications (Clavien-Dindo IIIa or greater) occurred in 13 patients (3%). Complications were the causes for discharge variances in 68 cases (73%), while the attending surgeons’ judgment was the cause in 25 cases (27%). On multivariate analysis, age (odds ratio = 2.23, 95% confidence interval = 1.38–3.60, p = 0.001) and operative time (odds ratio = 2.38, 95% confidence interval = 1.45–3.98, p = 0.001) were independent risk factors for discharge variances.

Conclusion:

A high completion rate of a clinical pathway with early oral intake and discharge setting for laparoscopic distal gastrectomy was achievable with an acceptably low re-admission rate. Laparoscopic distal gastrectomy is recommended as a first step for a clinical pathway with an early oral intake and discharge protocol.
Political economy and social movement studies: The class basis of anti-austerity protests
Authors: della Porta Donatella
Published: December 2017

Mainstream social movement studies have developed a useful kit of concepts and theories, well adapted to understanding social movements in core capitalist countries at the peak of growth of the welfare state. Widespread assumptions about the role of political opportunities, resource mobilization and framing processes need to be updated to make sense of contentious global politics in the 2000s, in particular, adding a focus on the socio-economic conditions for protests. In order to illuminate research results about the social basis of anti-austerity protests, the article critically reviews some recent contributions to political economy. In particular, some of the most influential contributions within Marxist and post-Marxist approaches to relevant capitalist transformations are discussed, with reflections on different temporalities in capitalist transformations.
Living Labour and Social Movements: A Dialogue with Antonio Negri
Authors: Chironi Daniela , Tomasello Federico
Published: December 2017

In this interview, Antonio Negri first focuses on the possibility of defining the concept of ‘social movement’. By mobilizing a spectrum of references that goes from Carl Schmitt to the Weberian sociology of religion, he insists on the necessity, not to sociologically crystallize the concept, but, instead, to think about it in a historical manner. Social movements would then be attempts at activating ‘liberation processes’, which nowadays can only be thought of within the conditions of financial capitalism. Negri then proceeds to examine the relation between the concept of social movement and those of class and class struggle: he suggests a dynamic and relational interpretation of the Marxian concept of ‘living labour’ as a bridge between a class analysis of society and the study of social movements, movements which in the contemporary landscape are ready to take an ‘entrepreneurial’ connotation. The political and intellectual experience of Italian Workerism in the 1960s is then recalled as a fertile example of the application of this method of social analysis, but also as an exemplification of the principle of ‘unrepeatability’ of social movements. The author finally claims to be a ‘theorist of immaterial labour’ in order to then develop a radical critique of the idea of so-called ‘post-materialist’ movements and of the effects that such a notion has had on the sociology of social movements.
‘Fluid fields’ and the dynamics of risk in social research
Authors: Sampson Helen
Published: December 2017

In recent decades social scientists have expanded their understanding of risk in the field to extend from concern with participants to awareness of how researchers themselves may be exposed to a variety of physical, emotional, ethical and professional ‘dangers’. A variety of accounts have exposed the kinds of risks concerned with fieldwork, many of which are difficult to anticipate. However, this article takes a further step forward in considering the ways in which risks combine in the field, the coalescence of risk in particular circumstances, and the ways in which risk should be understood as dynamic and unpredictable. The article concludes that these considerations require researchers to take a leading role in assessing the risks that they face, that risks should not be considered as uniform for all team members in conjunction with projects involving multiple researchers, and that researchers should receive greater training on appropriate risk management in an effort to change the prevailing research culture in many institutions.
Association between TNF-a promoter -308G/A polymorphism and essential hypertension in the Asian population: A meta-analysis
Authors: Yao Ying-shui , Chang Wei-wei , Jin Yue-long
Published: December 2017

Objective:

The results of studies on the association between tumor necrosis factor-a -308G/A (TNF-a -308G/A) polymorphism, and susceptibility to essential hypertension are controversial. To derive a more precise estimation, we conducted a meta-analysis of all similar articles.

Methods:

The summary effect odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were obtained. Funnel plots and Egger’s test were used to estimate publication bias, and heterogeneity was assessed by the chi-square-based Q-test and I2 test.

Results:

Nine studies (with 1437 cases and 1487 controls) were included. In the overall analysis, the combined results showed that there were significant differences in genotype distribution between essential hypertension cases and controls, AA+GA versus GG (OR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.25–1.88, p < 0.00001). In the stratified analysis by country, we found that essential hypertension cases had a significantly higher frequency of AA+GA versus GG (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.18–1.81, p = 0.0004) than control in the Asian population.

Conclusions:

This meta-analysis supports previous findings that TNF-a -308G/A polymorphism may increase the risk of essential hypertension, at least in the Asian population.
The challenge of simple graphics for multimodal studies: articulation and time scales in fuel retail logos
Authors: Johannessen Christian Mosbæk
Published: December 2017

This article suggests that a Multimodal Social Semiotics (MSS) approach to graphics is severely challenged by structurally very simple texts. Methodologically, multimodal studies favour the level at which elements from discrete modes are integrated grammatically into texts. Because the tradition has this focus, the analytical description of the expression plane of many modes is underdeveloped. In the case of graphics, there is no descriptive or explanatory readiness for graphic form. The author aims to remedy this problem by combining (i) a small inventory of formal dichotomies for graphic shape features at a general level of delicacy with (ii) a fractal-derived understanding of composition as a nested hierarchy of traces from articulatory events on different time scales. In combination, the two approaches cast a light on the meaning potential of texts that are too simple to specify lexico-grammatical meaning potential as typically understood by MSS. In order to demonstrate the usefulness of the approach, the article carries out a comparative reading of two logos for Scandinavian fuel retail companies: Norwegian Statoil Fuel and Retail ASA, and Swedish Preem AB.
Informed decision-making with and for people with dementia: Developing and pilot testing an education program for legal representatives (PRODECIDE)
Authors: Lühnen Julia , Mühlhauser Ingrid , Richter Tanja
Published: December 2017

Background

People living with dementia are often appointed a legal representative, to support and protect their ethical and legal rights to informed healthcare decisions. However, legal representatives usually have no qualifications in healthcare.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore decision-making processes with participation of legal representatives and, resulting from this, to develop and pilot test an education program for legal representatives in Germany.

Methods

We conducted interviews with legal representatives and senior citizens about decision-making processes in healthcare, with special focus on percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, physical restraints, and prescription of antipsychotics for people with dementia. We generated a curriculum based on systematic literature searches and the results of these interviews. We tested the education program for comprehensibility, feasibility, usability, and acceptance.

Results

Personal interviews with voluntary ( n = 12) and professional ( n = 12) representatives, and senior citizens ( n = 14) were conducted. Preferences, attitudes, and wishes regarding percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, physical restraints, and antipsychotics, and the process of decision-making, were heterogeneous. A structural approach is lacking. The education program proxy-decison-making (PRODECIDE) comprises four modules: (A) decision-making processes and methods; (B–D) evidence-based knowledge about percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy, physical restraints, and antipsychotics. We conducted eight trainings with 47 legal representatives. PRODECIDE was well accepted. Comprehensibility of contents and materials was rated high. The program seems feasible for implementation.

Conclusion

PRODECIDE seems suitable to improve the decision-making processes of legal representatives in Germany. Implementation will be appropriate if efficacy is proven; a randomized controlled trial is currently underway.
Effects of Tai Chi-based cardiac rehabilitation on aerobic endurance, psychosocial well-being, and cardiovascular risk reduction among patients with coronary heart disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Ting , Chan Aileen WK , Liu Yun Hong , Taylor-Piliae Ruth E
Published: December 2017

Introduction:

Tai Chi is an attractive exercise to improve cardiovascular health. This review aimed to synthesize articles written both in Chinese and in English to evaluate the effects of Tai Chi-based cardiac rehabilitation on aerobic endurance, psychosocial well-being and cardiovascular diseases risk reduction for coronary heart diseases patients.

Methods:

PRISMA guidelines were used to search major health databases to identify randomized controlled trials or non-randomized controlled clinical trials that evaluated Tai Chi intervention compared with active or non-active control groups in coronary heart disease patients. When suitable, data were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis model.

Results:

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Tai Chi groups showed a large and significant improvement in aerobic endurance compared with both active and non-active control interventions (standard mean difference (SMD) 1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.58–1.66; p <0.001). Tai Chi groups also showed a significantly lower level of anxiety (SMD=9.28; CI: 17.46–1.10; p=0.03) and depression (SMD=9.42; CI: 13.59–5.26; p <0.001), and significantly better quality of life (SMD=0.73; 95% CI: 0.39–1.08; p <0.001) compared with non-active control groups.

Conclusion:

Significant effects of Tai Chi have been found in improving aerobic endurance and psychosocial well-being among coronary heart disease patients. Tai Chi could be a cost-effective and safe exercise option in cardiac rehabilitation. However, the effect of Tai Chi on cardiovascular disease risk reduction has not been amply investigated among coronary heart disease patients. Caution is also warranted in view of a small number of studies for this meta-analysis and potential heterogeneity in differences in the varied designs of Tai Chi intervention.
Street Pastors: On security, care and faith in the British night-time economy
Authors: van Steden Ronald
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a study of Street Pastors in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. Street Pastors are Christian volunteers who look after vulnerable people in the night-time economy. In this manner, they provide securitas through empathy and care. The motives of Street Pastors for engaging with partygoers are multi-layered, but their personal faith appears to be a key explanation. A certain kind of orthodox certitudo – of being safe in, and saved by, a higher power – gives the pastors their strength to go out on the street, face the unknown and feel compassion for their fellow citizens. As such, both ‘securitas’ and ‘certitudo’ highlight positive (that is, constitutive) connotations of safety and security not commonly heard in the criminological literature.
Day fines: A European comparison and Czech malpractice
Authors: Drápal Jakub
Published: December 2017

Day fines are an expression of equality for rich and poor alike. Although the theoretical concept of day fines (also called unit or structured fines) has been thoroughly studied, there has not been any empirical study examining the link between the amount of one day fine and the wealth of an offender, to establish whether or not day fines in reality create equality between offenders with different levels of wealth. This paper reports a study conducted in the Czech Republic, which suggests that the concept of day fines does not function without a clear formula specifying how day fines should be calculated. A comparison of all states in Europe that use day fines indicates that only two states have such a formula. The other 20 states have no formula, and thus their propensity for misusing day fines may be high. Several other characteristics of day fines, such as the number of day fines issued and the conversion rate at which unpaid fines are transformed into days in prison, are also discussed.
Think tanks and the pedagogical dispositions and strategies of socially critical researchers: A case study of inequalities in schooling
Authors: Lupton Ruth , Hayes Debra
Published: December 2017

This paper is motivated by a shared concern over the apparent lack of inclusion of socially critical research in educational policy intended to address inequitable outcomes from schooling. We recognise that while this is partly (perhaps mainly) a political problem, an effective response by socially critical scholars must also take into account the mechanics of research/policy relationships. We need to understand who else is operating in the contest for ideas, how and why they use research, and how their practices promote and reinforce some types of knowledge and some messages while others are excluded. One example is the work of think tanks. To gain insight into these issues, we construct and consider ‘activity profiles’ of two think tanks operating to influence policy around socio-economic inequalities and education. These suggest some points of interest for researchers working in that same area: points about the differences between different think tanks and about their strengths and weaknesses vis-a-vis the policy process, compared with those of academics. In response, we argue that researchers need to develop a pedagogical not just a critical disposition, and propose a number of potential strategies they could adopt. In order to have an impact, academics must find ways of communicating beyond their scholar peers, in forms that are accessible and digestible, while maintaining the hall marks of robust, peer-reviewed and deeply evidence-based knowledge.
Role of microRNA in the detection, progression, and intervention of acute kidney injury
Authors: Zou Yan-Fang , Zhang Wen
Published: December 2017

Acute kidney injury, characterized by sharply decreased renal function, is a common and important complication in hospitalized patients. The pathological mechanism of acute kidney injury is mainly related to immune activation and inflammation. Given the high morbidity and mortality rates of hospitalized patients with acute kidney injury, the identification of biomarkers useful for assessing risk, making an early diagnosis, evaluating the prognosis, and classifying the injury severity is urgently needed. Furthermore, investigation into the development of acute kidney injury and potential therapeutic targets is required. While microRNA was first discovered in Caenorhabditis elegans, Gary Ruvkun’s laboratory identified the first microRNA target gene. Together, these two important findings confirmed the existence of a novel post-transcriptional gene regulatory mechanism. Considering that serum creatinine tests often fail in the early detection of AKI, testing for microRNAs as early diagnostic biomarkers has shown great potential. Numerous studies have identified microRNAs that can serve as biomarkers for the detection of acute kidney injury. In addition, as microRNAs can control the expression of multiple proteins through hundreds or thousands of targets influencing multiple signaling pathways, the number of studies on the functions of microRNAs in AKI progression is increasing. Here, we mainly focus on research into microRNAs as biomarkers and explorations of their functions in acute kidney injury.

Impact statement

Firstly, we have discussed the potential advantages and limitations of miRNA as biomarkers. Secondly, we have summarized the role of miRNA in the progress of AKI. Finally, we have made a vision of miRNA’s potential and advantages as therapeutic target intervention AKI.