bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Waste management and recycling in the former Soviet Union: The City of Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic (Kyrgyzstan)
Authors: Sim Natasha M , Wilson David C , Velis Costas A , Smith Stephen R
Published: September 2013

The UN-Habitat Integrated Sustainable Waste Management (ISWM) benchmarking methodology was applied to profile the physical and governance features of municipal solid waste (MSW) management in the former Soviet Union city of Bishkek, capital of the Kyrgyz Republic. Most of the ISWM indicators were in the expected range for a low-income city when compared with 20 reference cities. Approximately 240,000 t yr-1 of MSW is generated in Bishkek (equivalent to 200 kg capita-1 yr-1); collection coverage is over 80% and 90% of waste disposed goes to semi-controlled sites operating with minimal environmental standards. The waste composition was a distinctive feature, with relatively high paper content (20–27% wt.) and intermediate organic content (30–40% wt.). The study provides the first quantitative estimates of informal sector recycling, which is currently unrecognised by the city authorities. Approximately 18% wt. of generated MSW is recycled, representing an estimated annual saving to the city authorities of US$0.7–1.1 million in avoided collection/disposal costs. The waste management system is controlled by a centralised municipal waste enterprise (Tazalyk); therefore, institutional coherence is high relative to lower-middle and low-income cities. However, performance on other governance factors, such as inclusivity and financial sustainability, is variable. Future priorities in Bishkek include extending collection to unserved communities; improving landfill standards; increasing recycling rates through informal sector cooperation; improving data availability; and engaging all stakeholders in waste management strategy decisions. Extending the scope and flexibility of the ISWM protocol is recommended to better represent the variation in conditions that occur in waste management systems in practice.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome in Children
Authors: Chen Tai-Heng , Lin Wei-Chen , Tseng Yong-Hao , Tseng Chien-Ming , Chang Tai-Tsung , Lin Tzeng-Jih
Published: September 2013

To study presentations and outcome of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in children, we retrospectively analyzed 14 patients admitted to our pediatric intensive care unit. We further assessed 94 additional pediatric cases from a systematic review. Our patients had a mean age of 11.6 years. Their precipitating factors were hypertension (100%), immunosuppressants (71%), antineoplastic agents (21%), and hemodialysis (14%). Initial neurologic manifestations included seizures (100%), mental change (100%), headache (79%), and visual disturbance (57%). After prompt diagnosis by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with intensive management, all patients had complete clinical recovery with subsequent radiologic resolution. Systemic literature review indicated that seizures (90%), hypertension (85%), and atypical neuroimaging findings (80%) are common presentations in childhood posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. We conclude that in children presenting with seizures and hypertension, a pediatric neurologist should consider posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome within a comprehensive differential diagnosis of acute encephalopathy. Early recognition and intensive care are essential to ensure complete neurologic recovery in children with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome.
Functional Relapses in Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Carbonell Cristina Fernández , Benson Leslie , Rintell David , Prince Jefferson , Chitnis Tanuja
Published: September 2013

Multiple sclerosis in children is characterized by more frequent relapses than in adult patients. Diagnosing and treating youth with multiple sclerosis present a number of challenges including differentiating organic relapses from functional symptoms. However, there is no literature describing coexistence of functionality in pediatric multiple sclerosis. Here, we report 2 cases in which inconsistency between clinical history, physical examination, imaging, and atypical disease progression led to suspicion of functional relapses. The purpose of this study is to raise awareness of functional relapses, as prompt recognition can prevent overtreatment and iatrogenic risks in children and adolescents with multiple sclerosis. Underlying psychiatric issues also need to be addressed.
Constructing and Presenting the Self Through Private Sphere Dress
Authors: Tawfiq Wijdan A. , Ogle Jennifer Paff
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this interpretive study was to explore how Saudi Arabian women construct and present the self through their choice of dress for the private sphere. The work was situated within the interactionist and dramaturgical traditions. Data were collected via in-depth interviews with 15 Saudi Arabian women and were analyzed using constant comparison processes. Analyses revealed three key themes related to Saudi women’s use of private sphere dress to construct and present the self: (a) conceptualizing the desired self, (b) making sense of the marketplace: the role of traditional and Western dress in mobilizing desired selves, and (c) looking glasses: the role of others in mobilizing desired selves. Findings revealed that as they presented the self through dress within the private sphere, Saudi women engaged in a complex process of navigating Islamic teachings and Saudi cultural conventions, shifting cultural mores, and the diverse expectations of others.
Maternal Anxiety and Breastfeeding
Authors: Adedinsewo Demilade A. , Fleming Alison S. , Steiner Meir , Meaney Michael J. , Girard Amy Webb ,   on behalf of the MAVAN team
Published: September 2013

Background:

Maternal anxiety and depression may impair maternal intention, motivation, and self-efficacy in multiple domains associated with child health including breastfeeding.

Objective:

We tested the hypothesis that mothers who experience substantial anxiety during pregnancy or the postpartum period are at increased risk for reduced initiation, exclusivity, and continuation of breastfeeding.

Methods:

We obtained data on 255 Canadian pregnant women from the Maternal Adversity, Vulnerability and Neurodevelopment (MAVAN) study recruited between June 2004 and February 2009. We utilized data collected from 18 to 23 weeks gestation through 12 months postpartum. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess whether scores on the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) were associated with initiation, exclusivity, and continuation of breastfeeding.

Results:

Prenatal anxiety was not associated with breastfeeding outcomes. In adjusted models, a single point increase in HAM-A scores at 3 months postpartum was associated with an 11% reduction in the odds of exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80-0.99). A single point increase in STAI State and STAI Trait scores at 3 months postpartum was associated with a 4% (aOR = 0.96; 95% CI, 0.92-0.99) and 7% (aOR = 0.93; 95% CI, 0.86-1.00) reduction, respectively, in the odds of any breastfeeding at 12 months.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest a relationship between maternal anxiety and reduced exclusivity and continuation of breastfeeding. Maternal anxiety should be actively monitored and managed appropriately in the postpartum period to support optimal breastfeeding practices.
Doing Gender, Determining Gender
Authors: Westbrook Laurel , Schilt Kristen
Published: September 2013

This article explores “determining gender,” the umbrella term for social practices of placing others in gender categories. We draw on three case studies showcasing moments of conflict over who counts as a man and who counts as a woman: public debates over the expansion of transgender employment rights, policies determining eligibility of transgender people for competitive sports, and proposals to remove the genital surgery requirement for a change of sex marker on birth certificates. We show that criteria for determining gender differ across social spaces. Gender-integrated spaces are more likely to use identity-based criteria, while gender-segregated spaces, like the sexual spaces we have previously examined (Schilt and Westbrook 2009), are more likely to use biology-based criteria. In addition, because of beliefs that women are inherently vulnerable and men are dangerous, “men’s” and “women’s” spaces are not policed equally—making access to women’s spaces central to debates over transgender rights.
Social Entrepreneurship Versus Intrapreneurship in the German Social Welfare State
Authors: Grohs Stephan , Schneiders Katrin , Heinze Rolf G.
Published: September 2013

Germany is a classic example of a conservative welfare state. The production of social services is characterized by a deeply rooted tradition of corporatist governance, in which the “market” has wielded only marginal influence. Since the late 1990s, these corporatist arrangements have been challenged by the growing pressure for marketization; at the same time, a new discourse on social entrepreneurship and innovation has gained importance. This article examines the empirical impact of the social entrepreneurship movement in two domains: old-age care and youth welfare. We discuss the potential role of social entrepreneurship in these fields and argue for a realistic view of the potential for new actors in established governance arrangements. Our observations lead us to conclude that social innovation has developed not primarily as the result of challenges from new actors but rather from intrapreneurship: social innovations originating from within the established organizational field.
Female Overrepresentation in Public and Nonprofit Sector Jobs
Authors: Lanfranchi Joseph , Narcy Mathieu
Published: September 2013

Women are overrepresented in the public and nonprofit sectors. This article aims to bring to light the reasons behind this phenomenon. The originality of the employer–employee matched data used allows us to consider a large scope of potential reasons. Using a nonlinear decomposition technique, we find that in addition to the well-known occupational segregation effect, the overrepresentation of women in the public and nonprofit sectors is associated with two common factors: greater offerings of family-friendly practices and higher attraction of men for certain fringe benefits that are more frequently provided by the for-profit sector. Sector-specific factors also exist. The higher wage advantage obtained by women compared with men working in the public sector rather than in the for-profit sector contributes to the feminization of the public sector. Similarly, the overrepresentation of women in the nonprofit sector is linked to greater access to part-time jobs and shorter workweeks there.
Cardioprotective effects of fish omega-3 fatty acids on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats
Authors: Uygur R , Aktas C , Tulubas F , Alpsoy S , Topcu B , Ozen OA
Published: September 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects of fish omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids on doxorubicin (DOX)-induced acute cardiotoxicity. A total of 24 rats were divided into three groups: control, DOX-treated, and DOX treated with fish n-3 fatty acids. Control group received 0.4 ml/kg/day of saline intragastrically. The rats in the fish n-3 fatty acid-pretreated group were given 400 mg/kg/day fish n-3 fatty acids for 30 days by intragastric intubation. To induce acute cardiotoxicity, DOX (30 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally by a single dose and the rats were killed after 48 h. DOX treatment caused severe damage in heart tissues. Disorganization of myocardial muscle fibers, myofibrillar loss, and cardiotoxic myocardial fibers with cytoplasmic vacuoles were seen. Fish n-3 fatty acid-treated rats showed an improved histological appearance in the DOX-treated group. Our data indicate a significant reduction in the activity of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling in cardiomyocytes of the DOX-treated group with fish n-3 fatty acids therapy. The DOX-treated with fish n-3 fatty acids group showed a significant decrease in malondialdehyde levels, and an increase in superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities in comparison with the DOX-treated group. This study showed that fish n-3 fatty acids may be a suitable cardioprotector against acute toxic effects of DOX.
Effect of DNA damage response by quinazolinone analogue HMJ-38 on human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Chiang J-H , Yang J-S , Lu C-C , Hour M-J , Liu K-C , Lin J-H , Lee T-H , Chung J-G
Published: September 2013

The present study aims to explore the mechanism of quinazolinone analogue HMJ-38-induced DNA damage in endothelial cells in vitro. We attempt to evaluate the antiangiogenetic response utilizing human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Herein, the results demonstrated that HMJ-38 incubation triggered DNA damage behavior and showed a longer DNA migration in HUVECs based on the comet assay and the analysis of DNA agarose gel electrophoresis to contact DNA smears. We further gained to determine a marker of DNA double strand breaks, phosphorylated histone H2A.X (Ser139) (γH2A.X), in HMJ-38-treated HUVECs by flow cytometry and Western blotting assay. We consider that HMJ-38 has caused an increase in γH2A.X, and DNA damage seemed to mediate through DNA-dependent serine/threonine protein kinase (DNA-PK) binding to Ku70/Ku80 as well as advanced activated p-Akt (Ser473) and stimulated phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase-3β (p-GSK-3β) conditions in HUVECs. Importantly, the effect of above DNA damage response was prevented by N-acetyl-l-cysteine (a reactive oxygen species scavenger), and NU7026 (a DNA-PK inhibitor) could attenuate DNA-PK catalytic subunit and phosphorylation of H2A.X on Ser139 expression in comparison with HMJ-38 alone treated HUVECs. Therefore, HMJ-38-provoked DNA damage stress in HUVECs probably led to the activation of γH2A.X/DNA-PK/GSK-3β signaling. In summary, our novel finding provides more information addressing the pharmacological approach of newly synthesized HMJ-38 for further development and therapeutic application in antiangiogenetic effect of cancer chemotherapy.
The serum levels of adiponectin and leptin in mustard lung patients
Authors: Rokni Yazdi H , Lari SM , Attaran D , Ayatollahi H , Mohsenizadeh A
Published: September 2013

Introduction:

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to sulfur mustard (SM), known as mustard lung, is an important late pulmonary complication of SM poisoning. Due to the possible role of systemic inflammation in mustard lung, we evaluated the serum levels of adiponectin and leptin in these patients.

Materials and methods:

Thirty nonsmoker mustard lung patients in stable phase were enrolled into this study. Also, 30 COPD and 21 healthy participants were entered as control groups. Complete lung function tests were performed in the participants. The serum levels of adiponectin and leptin were measured in all groups.

Results:

There were no statistically significant differences in mean adiponectin and leptin levels among the groups ( p = 0.38 and p = 0.35, respectively). There was a downward trend in leptin to adiponectin ratio from lower to higher stages of global initiative for chronic obstructive lung disease guidelines in mustard lung patients, which was not statistically significant ( p = 0.8).

Conclusion:

Our results showed that there is no difference in mean adipokine levels in stable mustard lung patients compared with control groups. There was a foot-point in the alterations of serum adipokines regarding the severity of COPD, which needs to be documented by larger sample group.
Measuring Pain Perceptions and Medication Taking Behavior at the End of Life
Authors: Hutt Evelyn , Fink Regina M. , Nelson-Marten Paula , Jones Jacqueline , Kutner Jean S.
Published: September 2013

Background:

Understanding why some patients with terminal illness are reluctant to take sufficient medication to control pain is critical to effective pain management. Objective: As a first step toward exploring the pain medication-taking behavior of palliative care patients, this pilot study tested a survey regarding pain medication adherence, medication beliefs, and quality of life (QoL).

Design:

Convenience sample; survey.

Setting/Subjects:

Six patients receiving inpatient Palliative Care consultations at an academic medical center answered questions about their outpatient pain medication-taking behavior.

Measurements:

Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS), Beliefs about Medications Questionnaire (BMQ), Brief Pain Inventory (BPI), closed-response items from a pain medication adherence study in terminally ill patients, the McGill Quality of Life Questionnaire (McGill), and demographic items.

Results:

The battery of questionnaires took approximately 53 minutes; five of six participants were able to complete all items. Respondents reported moderate to severe pain (mean 4.3/10 for pain on average; 7/10 for worst pain in past 24 hours), and excellent medication adherence. When asked how much relief was provided by pain therapies, respondents reported a mean 73% (range 50-100%) relief. They expressed little concern about addiction, but more concern about medication-induced nausea and constipation. Overall QoL was good (mean 6.8/10, range 5-10, higher score better), with notably high scores in existential and support domains.

Conclusions:

Inpatients receiving palliative care consultation were able to complete interviewer-administered questionnaires regarding their pain perceptions, medications, and QoL. Further studies using these instruments are feasible and could inform shared decision making about pain management.
Evaluation of the Validity of the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire–Simplified-Wording Form (MPQ-SF) in Adolescents With Treatment Histories
Authors: Javdani Shabnam , Finy M. Sima , Verona Edelyn
Published: September 2013

The Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire (MPQ) is a widely used personality assessment instrument informing lower- and higher-order personality dimensions. Despite recent developments of brief (MPQ-BF) and simplified wording (MPQ-SF) forms, there is relatively little work on the utility and validity of the MPQ in younger samples with lower reading levels. This study is the first to assess the reliability, factor structure, and criterion validity of the MPQ-SF in a sample of treatment-referred mid-adolescents ( N = 105; 12-17 years). Results suggest adequate reliabilities for most of the lower-order primary scales and support a three-factor structure of the MPQ-SF, consistent with previous research with adult and college-aged samples. However, there were also notable cross-loadings for particular scales, which we discuss in relation to the four-factor MPQ model and the Five Factor Model of Personality. Relationships between MPQ personality dimensions and psychopathology using youth, parent, and clinician-rated psychopathology indices supported criterion-related validity. Together, these results confirm the utility of the MPQ in youth with treatment histories.
Circadian Variation of Stent Thrombosis and the Effect of More Robust Platelet Inhibition
Authors: Mogabgab Owen , Wiviott Stephen D. , Cannon Christopher P. , Sloan Sarah , Sabatine Marc S. , Antman Elliott M. , Braunwald Eugene , Giugliano Robert P.
Published: September 2013

Background:

The well-described morning peak in the onset of acute coronary syndromes has been partly attributed to increased platelet activity upon arising. It has been suggested that stent thrombosis (ST) exhibits a similar pattern. We assessed whether a diurnal variation in ST occurs, and whether more robust antiplatelet therapy with prasugrel (vs clopidogrel) can attenuate a morning excess.

Methods and Materials:

Patients from the Trial to Assess Improvement in Therapeutic Outcomes by Optimizing Platelet Inhibition with Prasugrel–Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TRITON-TIMI) 38 trial (N = 13 608) with adjudicated ST classified per the Academic Research Consortium definitions of definite (N = 135) and probable (N = 27) were grouped into prespecified 8-hour intervals by time of onset: early (6 am-2 pm), late-day (2 pm-10 pm), and overnight (10 pm-6 am). We compared the rates per 1000 patients of ST across time intervals and stratified by treatment and stent type.

Results:

A diurnal variation in definite/probable ST was observed with rates of 6.5, 3.7, and 2.1 for early, late-day, and overnight intervals, respectively ( P < .001), per 1000 patients treated. A sensitivity analysis excluding periprocedural acute-ST (<24 hours after index percutaneous coronary intervention [PCI]) resulted in similar findings (5.2, 2.5, and 1.8 per 1000, P < .001). The circadian variation in ST was observed in patients on clopidogrel (9.7, 4.8, and 3.1 per 1000, P < .001) with the highest rate of ST early in the day. Patients on prasugrel also demonstrated a circadian variation with particularly low rates of overnight ST (3.4, 3.0, and 1.1 per 1000, P = .020).

Conclusions:

In TRITON-TIMI 38 trial, the timing of ST exhibited a significant diurnal variation similar to that seen with onset of other acute coronary syndromes. ST occurred less frequently among patients randomized to prasugrel compared to clopidogrel with the greatest absolute reduction (6.2 per 1000 patients) in events earlier in the day when platelet activity is known to be highest.
Development and Validation of the Measurement Instruments of the Determinant Elements of Integrated Rural Tourism
Authors: Marzo-Navarro Mercedes , Pedraja-Iglesias Marta , Vinzón Lucia
Published: September 2013

In order to advance in a scientific field the key concepts have to be validated. Despite growing academic interest in integrated rural tourism, there is no research on validating its key concepts. The objective of this research was to propose and validate measurement models for the elements networks, embeddedness, endogeneity, complementarity, scale, and empowerment, which potentially determine this type of tourism. As a result, a refined and validated measurement instrument was developed, offering a reliable tool to use in future research.
Risk factors for urinary tract infection with multiple drug-resistant Escherichia coli in cats
Authors: Hernandez Juan , Bota Doroteia , Farbos Marion , Bernardin Fanny , Ragetly Guillaume , Médaille Christine
Published: September 2013

The emergence of multiple drug-resistant (MDR) bacteria is a growing public health problem. The objective of this retrospective study was to identify risk factors associated with MDR Escherichia coli infection of the urinary tract in cats. All cats presenting with an E coli urinary infection between March 2010 and December 2012 were included and divided into two groups: an MDR group and a non-MDR group. The effects of different variables on the occurrence of an MDR E coli infection were evaluated: age, sex, additional diseases, number of antibiotics and number of days of hospitalisation. Fifty-two cats were identified (10 MDR and 42 non-MDR). The number of antibiotic groups used within the last 3 months was associated with an increased risk of MDR E coli urinary infection ( P = 0.007). The association of the number of days of hospitalisation within the last 3 months and the increased risk of MDR E coli urinary infection did not reach significance ( P = 0.090). This study provides evidence that systematic urinary culture with antibiotic sensitivity testing should be recommended when treating urinary tract infections if antibiotics have been prescribed within the past 3 months. Moreover, the selection of MDR bacteria through antibiotic use should be considered as a potential risk associated with treatment.
Gastric cylicospirurosis in a domestic cat from Italy
Authors: Ibba Fabrizio , Lepri Elvio , Veronesi Fabrizia , Di Cesare Angela , Paltrinieri Saverio
Published: September 2013

A gastric nodule was found in a cat examined following a car accident. Cytological examination showed a mixed, mainly eosinophilic, inflammation with reactive fibroblasts and ovoidal elements resembling nematode eggs. The cat was euthanased because of rapid worsening of clinical signs due to secondary injuries, and the gastric nodule was excised for examination. The intramural mass was smooth and spherical, with an intact mucosal surface and a little opening from which several reddish worms were extruding. Histopathological examination confirmed severe reactive fibroplasia and inflammation, surrounding sections of a nematode worm. The latter was then identified with polymerase chain reaction as belonging to the Cylicospirura genus. Cylicospirura species worms should be considered in the differential diagnosis of gastric nodules in the cat.
Like a Fish Needs a Bicycle
Authors: Scott Nick A.
Published: September 2013

Many wealthy societies have become dependent on the car for everyday transportation. This article contributes to a critical literature on automobility that examines the social, spatial, and cultural conditions that sustain car dependence. It argues that Henri Lefebvre’s work can sharpen a critical and historically situated politics of mobility, particularly by mobilizing the dynamic theory of the production of space that underlies Lefebvre’s various observations on the car. The article outlines the possible contours of such a politics by interrogating the heterogeneous relations of mundane mobilities and urban space. It contends that mobilities and space interact over time in uneven ways that produce distinctive and overlapping “neighborhoods of mobility.” After elaborating this conceptual approach, relying on critical geographic understandings of the neighborhood, and specifying how Lefebvre’s theory of space helps elucidate neighborhood–mobility relations, the article moves on to address two relevant criticisms of Lefebvre’s work as it pertains to the car. Finally, the article applies the notion of neighborhoods of mobility in an exploratory case study, examining how automobility has reassembled neighborhood in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Ottawa represents a critical case of this specific transition in neighborhoods of mobility, as it was conceived in a modernist blueprint and one of the most comprehensively implemented urban plans in Canadian history.
Charting and challenging digital media convergence practice and rhetoric through longitudinal media population surveys
Authors: Stenport Anna Westerståhl , Markstedt Elias , Crain Matthew
Published: September 2013

This article employs national longitudinal media and opinion surveys from Sweden’s SOM Institute as a lens to engage media convergence theory during the period 1995 to 2012. Building on rhetorical analysis of SOM questions, the article both concretizes media convergence theory and promotes a reexamination of default categories of media analysis: content, platform, and user behavior, or protocol. By using a triangular vector composition model, the article shows how theories of media convergence can be critically evaluated using SOM questions as a data set and that SOM questions reflect and construct fluid and flexible relationships integral to media convergence theory. SOM’s questions regarding emerging media are embedded in the specific historical context of Sweden’s striking, though incomplete and contested, digital transformation. This article is the first of its kind to analyze the content of SOM questions; it does not engage in quantitative survey methodology evaluation. Topical foci are news coverage, digitally networked communication, especially the Internet, and digital cinema. The article further gestures to how SOM questions concretize links between media convergence and political engagement, with specific reference to an accompanying rhetoric on agency and activism that is often abstract. To conclude, we discuss some of the larger implications of SOM surveys with respect to changing media convergence discourse in the 21st century.
Aerodynamic characteristics of human movement behaviours in full-scale environment: Comparison of limbs pendulum and body motion
Authors: Han Z. Y. , Weng W. G. , Huang Q. Y. , Fu M. , Yang J. , Luo N.
Published: September 2013

The aerodynamic effects of human movement can significantly influence the airflow motion and contaminants transmission in enclosed environments such as in aircraft cabins, cinema and conference room, and so it is necessary and important to study the characteristics of these aerodynamic effects. This work focuses on the aerodynamic characteristics of human movement behaviours including limbs pendulum and body motion. A thermal manikin is used in the corresponding environments to simulate these behaviours. The step frequencies of 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 double steps per minute for limbs pendulum and the moving speeds of 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25 and 1.5 m/s for body motion are investigated in the experiments. In each case, the velocity distribution around the human body is measured by using hot-wire anemometers. The experimental results show that the characteristics of the velocity distribution induced by limbs pendulum depend on pendulum frequency and spatial location, and for body motion, it depends on moving speed, moving distance and spatial location. The analysis results show that body motion has a significant influence on the flow field, and its aerodynamic effects are greater than those due to limbs pendulum. When a human moves, more detailed profile of the human body leads to more complicated flow field in the nearby area.
Evidence of political moderation over time: Utah’s immigration debate online
Authors: Harris Brian D , Morgan Charlie V , Gibbs Benjamin G
Published: September 2013

Is public debate on the Internet polarizing? Some scholars warn that the Internet is an ‘anti-commons’ where political positions are extreme, while others view the Internet as a moderating influence on political polarization. We examine polarization trends in a regional, Utah-based news website, with a random sample of 1768 comments over a two-year period. Focusing on the most contentious issue during this time—immigration—we find that extreme anti-immigrant sentiment decreases over time despite key political and religious events. We argue that emerging public spheres, like newspaper discussion forums, might reveal a general public inclination towards moderation during heated national and regional debate.
Computer game modders’ motivations and sense of community: A mixed-methods approach
Authors: Poor Nathaniel
Published: September 2013

Computer game modding, from modifying, combines several important issues: digital skills, play, community, making, and remixing. Yet, little academic work has explored the motivations and sense of community that modders have. This study is the first quantitative survey of game modders, and combines quantitative survey data with qualitative interview material. Findings suggest that modders are both old and young, mod more than one game or game series, have a strong sense of community, and enjoy helping others. Many respondents had contributed to other mods or had co-authored mods, and modding communities may function as online collaboratories. Although some research stresses how modders hope to get jobs in the gaming industry, overall the industry was not a motivator for most respondents.
Are digital media institutions shaping youth’s intimate stories? Strategies and tactics in the social networking site Netlog
Authors: De Ridder Sander
Published: September 2013

Drawing on a participatory observation in the popular social networking site (SNS) Netlog among Northern Belgium youngsters, this paper offers insights on how SNS institutions can be understood as actors that order storytelling practices in everyday life. Specifically, this paper deals with intimate storytelling practices that give meaning to sexuality, gender and relationships, developing a feminist and queer political critique on SNSs’ focus on the production of intelligible intimate identities and endless performative flows of stories. Theoretically, this paper proposes to put central everyday media-related practices to understand SNSs as actors shaping intimate stories, dialectically brought in relation to the website’s political economies and the cultural powers through which software is designed. Empirical illustrations show how de Certeau’s concept of tactics is useful to expose a complex struggle between digital media institutions power and everyday appropriations.
Exodus to the real world? Assessing the impact of offline meetups on community participation and social capital
Authors: Shen Cuihua , Cage Charles
Published: September 2013

Despite the increasing popularity of offline “meetups” among online community participants, little is known about their effect on the health and function of these communities. Using longitudinal network data of both public and private communications among participants of an online community for science fiction fans, this study represents one of the first systematic assessments of the impact of meetups on community participation and members’ bridging and bonding social capital. Results showed that meetups would enhance attendees’ bonding social capital, but that increase would come at the expense of bridging social capital, reducing the opportunity for new members to join and find acceptance in the community. The effect of meetup on community participation was mixed.
Chinese-language Cyberspace, homeland media and ethnic media: A contested space for being Chinese
Authors: Yin Hang
Published: September 2013

This article investigates how the Chinese-language Cyberspace influences the identity construction of migrant netizens. Two dimensions of the Chinese-language Cyberspace are identified – homeland media and ethnic media. While ethnic media has been researched extensively, online homeland media is largely overlooked in academic research. Using Chinese migrants in New Zealand as a case study and combining the analyses of empirical data derived from interviews and online texts, this research argues that online homeland media is a potent factor in the construction of migrant identity and deserves more academic attention. It reinforces a sense of being ‘authentic Chinese’ among migrant netizens. Simultaneously yet in contrast, online ethnic media helps to reconstruct ‘being Chinese’ – as migrants and as an ethnic minority in the host country. The deterritorialised Chinese-language Cyberspace provides a virtual space where migrant identity is constantly negotiated between various factors of acquired Kiwiness and inherited and reconstructed Chineseness.
Playing a crusader role or just playing by the rules? Role conceptions and role inconsistencies among environmental journalists
Authors: Tandoc Edson C , Takahashi Bruno
Published: September 2013

Environmental journalists have historically struggled between journalistic objectivity and environmental advocacy. But the roles they embrace are based not only on their individual conceptions but also on their perceptions of what their organizations expect from them. Thus, journalistic role conceptions are the melding of individual and organizational role conceptions. These roles do not always correspond, especially for environmental journalists who must compete for space and attention with more sensational and more accessible political, crime or entertainment stories that organizations in search for profit might prioritize. This study finds that such role inconsistencies exist and are influenced by both individual and organizational factors.
The impact of assessment tasks on subsequent examination performance
Authors: Van Gaal Frank , De Ridder Annemieke
Published: September 2013

In this article, the impact of assessment tasks on examination result (measured by examination grades) is investigated. Although many describe the advantages of electronic assessment tasks, few studies have been undertaken which compare a traditional approach using a classical examination with a new approach using assessment tasks. The main hypothesis of this study is that assessment tasks have a positive impact on results. It should motivate students to avoid procrastination and to adopt a deep learning approach. We test this research hypothesis in a case study with undergraduate students in their second year at university. Study results of students before and after the implementation of the assessment tasks are compared using t-tests. A regression analysis is performed to investigate the impact of the assessment tasks on the examination result. Empirical evidence of whether or not a positive effect of assessment tasks on the examination result is presented. The impact of how assessment tasks affect students with differing levels of performance is provided, and implications for educators is offered.
Influenza Vaccine Use Among Health Care Workers
Authors: Marshall Robert J.
Published: September 2013

Public health authorities regularly recommend that health care workers receive influenza vaccine annually to protect themselves, coworkers, patients, and others from the potentially serious health consequences of influenza. Despite this recommendation, a minority (about 40%) of health care workers in the United States and abroad routinely comply. Formative research developed using a social marketing approach indicates a complex structure of perceptions, information, attitudes, and intentions underlying this behavior among health care workers in Rhode Island. As a result, a revised policy (take the vaccine or wear a mask) effective upon designation of widespread influenza in the state produced a substantial increase in vaccination rates among this group. This example indicates the use of social marketing to inform the development of “upstream” policy interventions in public health and discusses the ethical context of this approach.
20-Over Versus 50-Over Cricket
Authors: Cannonier Colin , Panda Bibhudutta , Sarangi Sudipta
Published: September 2013

Using 2008-2009 data, we identify winning input combinations for the game of cricket in two different formats: 50-over one-day internationals and 20-over games from Twenty20 internationals and the Indian Premier League. We find that attacking batting and bowling are the best determinants of the winning probability in both formats in an international setting despite their 30-over difference. Interestingly, attacking batting and defensive bowling are the optimal input combinations in the league version of the 20-over format. Finally, we speculate about their implications for the future of cricket, especially for the popularity of formats, choices of players, and player development.
Chitosan nanoparticle carrying small interfering RNA to platelet-derived growth factor B mRNA inhibits proliferation of smooth muscle cells in rabbit injured arteries
Authors: Xia He , Jun Ji , Wen-ping Ling , Yi-feng Pan , Xiao-ling Chen
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the transfection of chitosan nanoparticle carrying small interfering RNA against platelet-derived growth factor B (PDGF-B) to inhibit the expression of PDGF-B mRNA and proliferation of smooth muscle cells. A rabbit iliac artery injury model was constructed. A small interfering RNA (siRNA) against PDGF-B mRNA expression vector was constructed and packaged by chitosan nanoparticle to transfect into the vascular smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) of balloon catheter-injured rabbit iliac artery wall, using a therapeutic ultrasound for the gene delivery. The experiment was divided into two groups: experimental group, denudation and nano-PDGF-B siRNA treated, and only single denudation as control. Effects of the siRNA on the expressions of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and PDGF-B mRNA by vSMCs and the proliferation of vSMCs were observed with the methods of routine pathological, immunohistochemical staining, in situ hybridization and morphometry. The nano siRNA against PDGF-B was successfully transfected. The nano siRNA significantly inhibited the expressions of PCNA and PDGF-B mRNA in intimal vSMCs. The local intimal thickness and area were also reduced remarkably. In conclusion, transfection of chitosan nanoparticle carrying siRNA against PDGF-B mRNA could inhibit proliferation of vSMCs in the rabbit iliac artery injury model.
Pseudoaneurysm a rare complication of transradial cardiac catheterization: a case report
Authors: Bhat Tariq , Bhat Hilal , Teli Sumaya , Rajiv Bartaula , Akhtar Muhammad , Gala Bhavesh
Published: September 2013

Transradial access for cardiac catheterization is a safe and viable approach with significantly lower incidence of major access-related complications compared with the transfemoral approach. As this form of access is getting wider acceptance among interventional cardiologists, awareness of its complications is of vital importance. Asymptomatic radial artery occlusion, non-occlusive radial artery injury and radial artery spasm are commonly reported complication of this approach. Symptomatic radial arterial occlusion, pseudoaneurysm and radial artery perforation are rarely reported complications of transradial approach. Early identification of these uncommon complications and their urgent management is of significant importance. We present the case of an 80-year-old lady who developed pseudoaneurysm a week after transradial cardiac catheterization managed with surgical excision with no long-term sequela.
Endovascular reconstruction of iliac artery bifurcation atherosclerotic disease with the kissing technique
Authors: Vourliotakis Georgios , Mantas Georgios , Katsargyris Athanasios , Aivatidi Christine , Kandounakis Yannis
Published: September 2013

A 71-year-old male patient with severe left buttock and lower-extremity claudication due to iliac artery bifurcation stenoses was referred to our institution for endovascular treatment. A ‘kissing’ technique was used in order to dilate the proximal parts of both internal and external iliac arteries and avoid compromization of the internal iliac artery during proximal external iliac artery stenting. A balloon expandable stent was inserted via a left ipsilateral retrograde access to the narrowed origin of the left external iliacartery and a balloon catheter via a right contralateral access inside the origin of the left internal iliac artery. Simultaneous balloons inflation restored full patency of both vessels. Twelve months later the patient is doing well, free of buttock or lower-extremity claudication symptoms. For iliac artery bifurcation atherosclerotic disease, endovascular repair with the ‘kissing’ technique can achieve a complete bifurcation reconstruction offering significant clinical benefit in selected patients.
A symptomatic pseudoaneurysm caused by stent fracture in the external iliac artery
Authors: Huynh Khiem Dinh , Mafi Hossain Mohit , Budtz-Lilly Jacob William , Eldrup Nikolaj
Published: September 2013

Pseudoaneurysms, as a result of endovascular stent fracture, are a rare yet important vascular surgery complication. A 64-year-old man presented with a painful mass in the left groin with accompanying critical ischemia of the left leg. Diagnostic angiography revealed a pseudoaneurysm caused by stent fracture in the left external iliac artery. The patient was treated with embolization of the left external iliac artery and ultimately above-the-knee amputation. Awareness of this uncommon complication is important due to its potential risk of severe disability.
Value(s)-driven decision-making
Authors: Hammersley-Fletcher Linda
Published: September 2013

This article considers the experiences and perceptions of practising English headteachers and the tensions that they face when juggling government prescription and government initiatives, which may be antagonistic to their educational values and beliefs. Managerial control over teachers work has been particularly acute and destructive to ‘human flourishing’. Headteachers have a moral and ethical responsibility for the welfare and education of pupils. Such professional ethics oblige the professional to seek the good of the pupil and therefore good is viewed as intrinsic to the work of an educator. Thus headteachers are directly involved in negotiating between sometimes contradictory imperatives and drivers. How then does the headteacher cope with what Colley refers to as ‘situated ethics work’? This article presents data derived from written responses from 10 headteachers that begin to open up this question. I argue that it is not uncommon for people to weaken in their values-driven stance when under great pressure. It is however important to recognize the extent to which educational values are constrained by neo-liberal value-based market agendas in order to continually question and re-evaluate what is happening within education rearticulating this for the benefit of pupils.
Ritual and Symbolic Power in Rousseau’s Constitutional Thought
Authors: Daly Eoin
Published: September 2013

Rousseau’s constitutional writings place a seemingly eccentric emphasis on public ceremony, festival and pageantry as integral aspects of statecraft. The obvious function of such republican rituals is to promote the participative civic dispositions which provide stability for a deliberative politics based on common goods. In some accounts, therefore, Rousseau’s ritualistic constitutionalism has parallels in the mild ceremonial practices of contemporary liberal states. I argue, however, that Rousseau envisages a much broader purpose for republican ritual: not merely to supplement, but to substitute the complex symbolic rituals of liberal society and thus to supplant the need for private sources of aesthetic and symbolic distinction. Accordingly I argue that his politics of “transparency” is informed by an understanding of social practice which, in some respects, closely resembles Pierre Bourdieu’s account of habitus and symbolic power.
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome: how to diagnose a rare but highly fatal disease
Authors: Aguiar Cassyanne L. , Erkan Doruk
Published: September 2013

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a multisystem autoimmune condition characterized by vascular thromboses and/or pregnancy loss associated with persistently positive antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Catastrophic APS (CAPS) is the most severe form of APS with multiple organ involvement developing over a short period of time, usually associated with microthrombosis. ‘Definite’ and ‘probable’ CAPS have been defined based on the preliminary classification criteria; however, in a real-world setting, aPL-positive patients with multiple organ thromboses and/or thrombotic microangiopathies exist who do not fulfill these criteria. Previous APS diagnosis and/or persistent clinically significant aPL positivity is of great importance for the CAPS diagnosis; however, almost half of the patients who develop CAPS do not have a history of aPL positivity. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the diagnostic challenges and the recently updated diagnostic algorithms for CAPS providing a ‘step-by-step’ approach for clinicians (and researchers) in the assessment of patients with multiple organ thromboses.
Patients’ Perception of Patient–Provider Communication in Fertility Preservation Decision Making Among Young Women With Cancer
Authors: Mathur Aakrati , Orellana E. Robert , Frohnmayer Amy , Jivanjee Pauline , Nail Lillian , Hayes-Lattin Brandon , Block Rebecca G.
Published: September 2013

Fertility preservation (FP) for patients with cancer is an emerging field. With the advancement of technology, patients may face a complex decision-making process about whether to preserve fertility. The purpose of this article is to explore how young women with cancer perceive patient–provider communication in FP decision making. In this study, 25 women between the ages of 18 and 39 were interviewed retrospectively. They were interviewed one time to learn about their decision-making process related to FP. Results of this analysis indicate that patients seek support and involvement from providers throughout the process of decision making. They prefer providers to be directive when referring to the fertility clinic. Later in the process, they expect a supportive style of communication from providers. Patient-accessible language, supportive and reassuring styles of communication, and an existing relationship with providers may enhance well-being of the patients.