bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protecting the aged heart during cardiac surgery: single-dose del Nido cardioplegia is superior to multi-dose del Nido cardioplegia in isolated rat hearts
Authors: Govindapillai Arun , Hancock Friesen Camille , O’Blenes Stacy B
Published: June 2015

Background:

Aged hearts are particularly vulnerable to reperfusion injury. We recently showed that single-dose del Nido cardioplegia was superior to ‘standard’ multi-dose 4:1 blood cardioplegia in aged rat hearts. This study seeks to determine if multi-dose del Nido cardioplegia offers additional benefits over single-dose del Nido cardioplegia.

Methods:

Functional recovery after 60 min of cardioplegic arrest was assessed in isolated, working, senescent rat hearts. Single-dose del Nido cardioplegia (n=14) was compared to multi-dose del Nido cardioplegia (n=12) delivered every 20 min.

Results:

Troponin release during reperfusion was similar in the single (0.263±0.056 ng/ml) and multi-dose groups (0.261±0.055 ng/ml). Although functional recovery was similar early after reperfusion (stroke work 91±6 ml*mmHg*g−1 vs. 91±8 ml*mmHg*g−1 for single- vs. multi-dose), it declined over time in the multi-dose group (71±9 vs. 43±9 ml*mmHg*g−1 at 60 min, p=0.0175)

Conclusions:

In aged rat hearts, a single-dose del Nido cardioplegia strategy results in superior functional recovery compared to a multi-dose del Nido cardioplegia strategy.
Evidence-based practice knowledge and perfusionists’ clinical behavior
Authors: Long Dennis M , Matthews Eric
Published: June 2015

Introduction:

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has been widely studied and adopted in allied health professions education. Current practitioners may have challenges in adopting EBP into current practice. EBP skills have not been previously assessed in perfusionists, therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify a preliminary analysis of perfusionists’ EBP knowledge and its possible relationship to clinical behavior and educational level

Methods:

A non-randomized convenience study using the Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire (EBPQ) was used to measure EBP of practicing U.S. perfusionists. The EBPQ is a validated survey instrument designed to measure EBP practice, attitude and knowledge subscales. The EBPQ consisted of 24 items on a 1 to 7 Likert Scale, with higher numbers indicating frequent use of skill. Practitioner experience, educational background and employment type were also collected.

Results:

Two hundred and fifty-four responses met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. The mean EBPQ score was 5.0 (SD = 0.9) with similar means for the subscales. There were important differences found in the EBPQ scores, depending on the educational level and work status. There was a positive correlation between the knowledge and practice subscales, demonstrating a relationship in the sample and a possible relationship in the population as a whole.

Conclusion:

The results suggest that perfusionists’ use of EBP in practice does vary, based upon educational level and employment type. The findings also demonstrated areas of lower EBP aptitude. The correlation between EBP knowledge and practice may guide educational efforts at improving EBP practice.
Pharmacological adjuncts for chronic venous ulcer healing: a systematic review
Authors: Varatharajan Lavanya , Thapar Ankur , Lane Tristan , Munster Alex B , Davies Alun Huw
Published: June 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to systematically review the current evidence and determine whether there is a clinical benefit for using pharmacological agents as adjunctive treatment for chronic venous ulcers.

Method

A systematic review of the MEDLINE and EMBASE (from 1 January 1947 through 15 August 2013) and Cochrane databases (from inception through 15 August 2013) was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Inclusion criteria were all randomised controlled trials investigating pharmacological adjuncts for the treatment of venous ulcers with a minimum sample size of 20 patients for each treatment arm.

Results

Ten relevant articles were identified; one pilot randomised controlled trial and four Cochrane reviews were included. Pentoxifylline, aspirin, sulodexide, mesoglycan, flavonoids, thromboxane A2 antagonist (ifetroban), zinc, prostaglandin and prostacyclin analogues were the drugs reviewed. Pentoxifylline was found to be more effective than placebo in terms of complete ulcer healing or in causing a significant improvement (greater than 60% reduction in ulcer size) (RR 1.70, 95% CI 1.30 to 2.24). Aspirin and flavonoids show potential to be effective adjuncts but methodological shortcomings and issues with bias limit the validity of results from trials involving each of these drugs, respectively. There was no significant difference between placebo and Ifetroban and likewise pooled results from trials investigating sulodexide and zinc showed no benefit in comparison to placebo.

Conclusion

Many systemic pharmacological agents have been investigated as adjuncts to venous ulcer healing; however, pentoxifylline (400 mg, three times a day) is currently the only drug that has promising evidence to support its use. Other compounds are in early stage research.
Research for Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Ledford Jennifer R. , Hall Emilie , Conder Emily , Lane Justin D.
Published: June 2015

The social and ecological validity of a body of research may impact the degree to which interventions will be used outside of research contexts. The purpose of this review was to determine the extent to which social and ecological validity were demonstrated for interventions designed to increase social skills for young children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Results indicated that although the percentage of studies including social validity assessment has remained stable over the 20-year review period, subjective assessments of social validity have increased and objective assessments have decreased. Acceptability was measured more often than feasibility or importance. Approximately half of the studies included indigenous implementers, typical social partners, or typical settings. Suggestions include additional research on the validity of measures, explicit reporting by researchers, and the use of multiple, objective, and psychometrically sound social validity assessments.
Libraries and reading motivation
Authors: Adkins Denice , Brendler Beth M.
Published: June 2015

Teenagers do better at reading when they are motivated to read. The Programme for International Student Assessment assesses reading literacy for 15-year-olds in over 70 countries worldwide, and also includes questions that explore the relationships between motivation and reading. Country-level results indicate that developing countries have lower reading scores than developed countries. However, they also indicate that students in many developing countries are more motivated to read and spend more time reading than students in developed countries. These results suggest that the ideal role for libraries is to ensure students’ motivation to read through the provision of a variety of materials, a supportive environment for literacy and reading conversations, and encouraging student autonomy in making their reading choices.
The case for international collaboration in academic library management, human resources and staff development
Authors: Smith Bonnie Jean
Published: June 2015

The internationalization of higher education and the continuing expansion of technology as a means for learning and sharing information have radically changed the way in which academic and research libraries offer services and perform outreach. New skills, retooling, re-visioning, and hiring for a rapidly changing environment are essential to maintaining a vibrant and responsive workforce. Library associations offer opportunities for training, sharing expertise, engaging in joint ventures and collaborating to innovate and remain relevant. While international collaborative efforts between library associations are becoming more frequent, these have largely focused on user services. An exploratory study of library associations globally was conducted to determine the level of past efforts and the desirability for greater international exchange between library associations in the areas of management, human resources and staff development. The results of this study indicate a strong desire for greater dialogue especially regarding staff development and library management.
Mobile information-seeking behavior
Authors: Lee Jong-Moon , Song Yoo-Seong
Published: June 2015

The rapid growth of mobile device ownership among college students has greatly challenged academic libraries to reconsider their service profiles. In a recent research project conducted at the University of Illinois, mobile device ownership among college students was surprisingly high. While such a rapid adoption of mobile devices is a worldwide phenomenon, the authors sought to investigate similarities and differences of mobile information-seeking behavior of college students in diverse regions. The authors conducted a series of surveys at the University of Illinois in the United States and Kyungsung University in South Korea. Understanding mobile information-seeking behavior of college students at different locations will offer valuable insights as many academic libraries are creating new initiatives and service profiles for mobile library users.
Ligamentization of Autogenous Hamstring Grafts After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Dong Shikui , Xie Guoming , Zhang Yang , Shen Peng , Huangfu Xiaoqiao , Zhao Jinzhong
Published: June 2015

Background:

In previous studies, unimodal, small-diameter collagen fibrils have been commonly observed as the final collagen ultrastructure of the implanted grafts used in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. However, the native ACL and hamstring tendon show bimodal collagen fibril distribution, consisting of both large- and small-diameter collagen fibrils.

Hypothesis:

Bimodal collagen fibril distribution of the graft is a common phenomenon after ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendon grafts and is time dependent.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 52 patients who underwent double-bundle ACL reconstruction using autogenous hamstring tendons and who also underwent second-look arthroscopic surgery were enrolled. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to the time interval between the 2 operations: the midterm group (27 patients), with a 13- to 30-month time interval between operations, and the long-term group (25 patients) with a 31- to 62-month interval. During the second-look arthroscopic procedures, ACL graft biopsies were performed. Normal ACL tissues were harvested from 9 patients who underwent total knee replacement, and biopsy specimens of the to-be-grafted semitendinosus tendon tissues were also harvested from another 9 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction with hamstring tendons, which were designated as normal controls. Graft vascularity, cellularity, metaplasia, cellular metabolism, and collagen fibril distribution were analyzed.

Results:

Large-diameter (>100 nm) collagen fibrils were detected in 81.5% of the specimens in the midterm group and in 68.0% of the specimens in the long-term group. A typical bimodal distribution mode was observed in 62.6% of the specimens in the midterm group and in 52.0% of the specimens in the long-term group. There was no significant difference between groups with respect to the presence of large-diameter collagen fibrils, bimodal distribution, graft vascularity, cellularity, metaplasia, or cellular metabolic status.

Conclusion:

Graft ultrastructural maturation, characterized by large-diameter collagen fibrils and a bimodal collagen fibril distribution, is a common phenomenon and is not time dependent in the midterm to long term.

Clinical Relevance:

After hamstring tendon ACL reconstruction, the implanted grafts can transform into ACL-like tissue with a similar ultrastructure and metabolism, implying their usefulness as grafts.
Anxiety and Depression in Adolescents With Epilepsy
Authors: Kwong Karen Ling , Lam David , Tsui Sarah , Ngan Mary , Tsang Brian , Lai Tai Sum , Lam Siu Man
Published: June 2015

The present study examined anxiety and depression in adolescents with epilepsy and the association of these disorders with seizure-related and sociodemographic variables. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale was administered to 140 children with epilepsy and 50 children with asthma aged 10 to 18 years attending mainstream schools. Adolescents with epilepsy had significantly higher scores on the depression subscale than those with asthma (5.2 ± 3.3 vs 4.2 ± 3.2, P = .032). Anxiety subscale scores and the frequency of anxiety and depression in both the epilepsy and asthma groups were not statistically significant. In the epilepsy group, 32.8% had anxiety and 22.1% had depression. Factors associated with anxiety were older age at the time of the study and polytherapy (2 or more antiepileptic drugs). Adolescents who had been seizure-free for 12 months or more at time of the study were less likely to experience anxiety. Factors associated with depression were medical comorbidities, female gender, frequent seizures, and younger age of seizure onset. A common risk factor for both anxiety and depression was the duration of epilepsy. Anxiety and depression were also highly associated with each other. Affective disorders are common in epilepsy and screening for psychiatric symptoms is required.
Effects of Poly-Victimization on Adolescent Social Support, Self-Concept, and Psychological Distress
Authors: Turner Heather A. , Shattuck Anne , Finkelhor David , Hamby Sherry
Published: June 2015

Past research has demonstrated the particularly damaging effects of exposure to multiple forms of victimization, or “poly-victimization,” on youth mental health. The primary objective of the present study is to begin to identify the mechanisms that help explain its powerful impact. Analyses are based on two waves of longitudinal data from the National Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence (NatSCEV), conducted in 2008 and 2010, that comprised a telephone sample of 1,186 youth ages 10 to 17. Using structural equation modeling, we examine direct and indirect effects on distress symptoms of increased, decreased, and stable high poly-victimization between Waves 1 and 2 compared to no or low victimization in both waves. Specifically, we consider the extent to which reductions in core psychosocial resources, including family support, peer support, self-esteem, and mastery, mediate the relationship between these poly-victimization conditions and distress. Relative to stable low victimization, both increased poly-victimization and stable high poly-victimization were associated with declines in all four resources. However, only self-esteem and mastery significantly mediated the association between poly-victimization and distress, with mastery showing the strongest effect. Although significant indirect effects were evident, poly-victimization still had a strong direct effect on distress with resource factors controlled. Findings support the hypothesis that the potent effect of poly-victimization on youth mental health is, in part, due to its damaging influence on core psychosocial resources.
Individualizing Utopia
Authors: Sullivan Esther
Published: June 2015

Through a fourteen-month ethnography of a cohousing community, this study explores how community members reexamine and redefine their collectivist values in an attempt to develop their ideal community. Cohousers voice distaste for the isolation of contemporary U.S. residential arrangements and collaboratively plan neighborhoods that promote common space, increased social interaction, and collective decision making. Despite these organizing principles, I find that the conditions for social cohesion in one cohousing community are based primarily on concessions to autonomy and privacy, and emphasis on personal rewards for individual members. I demonstrate how this occurs in “Sunrise Place” as the group’s members (1) develop spatial arrangements that emphasize domestic privacy and (2) practice consensus decision making in ways that prioritize individual self-reflection over group debate. I show that cohousers’ apparently contradictory focus on the individual actually aids their collectivist agenda by buttressing members’ investment in the project during a prolonged development process; however, the community they develop is physically and spatially insulated, reproducing aspects of domestic privatism they seek to subvert.
Structure–property relationship of halloysite nanotubes/ethylene–vinyl acetate–carbon monoxide terpolymer nanocomposites
Authors: George Gibin , Selvakumar M , Mahendran Arunjunairaj , Anandhan S
Published: June 2015

Poly(ethylene- co-vinyl acetate- co-carbon monoxide) (EVACO)/halloysite nanotube (HNT) nanocomposite films were solution cast. Dispersion of HNTs in the matrix was analyzed by elemental mapping and the role of HNTs on crystallizability, flammability and thermal, mechanical, and electrical properties of the polymer was evaluated. The nature of interaction between the EVACO matrix and HNTs was studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The highest tensile strength was observed for the composite with 1% filler loading, whereas the highest crystallinity was observed for that with 3% filler loading. The decay in the tensile properties at higher filler loading was due to agglomeration of HNTs and debonding of polymer–filler interface. The electrical volume resistivity of the composites decreased with HNT loading because of the ionic charge transfer. The direct current electrical resistivity study of the composites proves that the addition of HNT can improve the antistatic properties of the polymer.
Graduate Student Perceptions and Experiences of Professional Development Activities
Authors: Rizzolo Sonja , DeForest Aubreena R. , DeCino Daniel A. , Strear Molly , Landram Suzanne
Published: June 2015

Graduate higher education has done little to assess and understand graduate students’ needs and experiences beyond the classroom. Therefore, we conducted a phenomenological study using multiple data collection tools, including survey and focus groups from two different time periods to implement a multiphase needs assessment. The goal of the evaluation was to better understand graduate students’ overall needs and experiences related to professional development at a public Carnegie classified Doctoral Research University in the Rocky Mountain Region. Results revealed the following themes: perceptions of professional development in graduate school, finding balance is never ending, experiences of personal and professional barriers, and the importance of faculty and peer relationships. Discussion, implications, limitations, and a conclusion are provided.
Contraceptive Methods
Authors: Colquitt Charlie W. , Martin Tonya S.
Published: June 2015

The prevention of pregnancy remains an important part of the practice of medicine. Contraception can occur at a number of points in the basic reproductive biological process and through a number of contraceptive product options. Pharmacists are health care providers appropriately positioned to assist patients in suitable contraceptive product selection based on their personal situations and lifestyles. This article provides an overview of available products for prevention of pregnancy and associated risks and benefits. Contraceptive products are categorized by their hormonal content and method of action. Hormonal options include oral contraceptive pills, contraceptive patch, implants, injection, intravaginal, and intrauterine devices. Barrier products prevent pregnancy by creating a physical obstacle to the successful fertilization of an egg by sperm. All products and methods are associated with benefits and potential complications that must be considered as patients, and health care providers select the most satisfactory option.
The Impact of Health Literacy Level on Inhaler Technique in Patients With Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Beatty Collin R. , Flynn Laura A. , Costello Tracy J.
Published: June 2015

Background:

Inhaled medications are recommended as first-line treatment for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and can reduce exacerbations and hospitalizations. Low health literacy is associated with poor inhaler technique.

Objective:

This study examined whether handouts written specifically for patients with low health literacy are more effective in showing patients how to use their medications when compared to standard education materials.

Methods:

A prospective, experimental study was performed at a community-based hospital. Patients included in the study were admitted to the hospital with a diagnosis of COPD, taking at least 1 inhaled medication and identified as having low health literacy based on a Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine—Short Form. Low health literacy handouts were compared against the standard hospital educational materials for inhalers. Correct technique during each demonstration was evaluated using a standardized checklist.

Results:

Mean baseline scores for inhaler technique were 12.2 ± 2.2 steps correct for the control group and 13.4 ± 1.3 for the low health-literacy group of the 18 maximum points ( P = nonsignificant). The mean change in inhaler technique score for the control group was 1.0 ± 1.8, while the mean change in inhaler technique score for the low health-literacy group was 2.1 ± 2.7 ( P = .03).
Aeroelastic tailoring of composite sandwich panel with lamination parameters
Authors: Jin Peng , Song Bifeng , Zhong Xiaoping , Yu Tianxiang , Xu Fei
Published: June 2015

For sandwich panel with a thick core, stiffness matrix of composite sandwich panel can be formulated as function of membrane lamination parameters of the composite facesheet. In this paper, the flutter speed of a cantilevered sandwich panel is studied using lamination parameters of composite facesheet, with influence of transverse shear on sandwich panel considered. The results show that the flutter mode switch is not only related to the bending stiffness change, and also the transverse shear effect can result in switch of flutter mode. A minimum weight design of composite sandwich panel is conducted by using master-slave parallel real-coded genetic algorithm, with lamination parameters of facesheet and transverse shear modulus of foam core as design variables. The constraints considered include the flutter and divergence velocity constraints, the bound constraints of thicknesses of the facesheet and foam core. The feasible region constraints of membrane lamination parameters are also considered.
Design and wind tunnel experimental validation of a controlled new rotary actuation system for a morphing wing application
Authors: Kammegne Michel Joël Tchatchueng , Grigorie Lucian Teodor , Botez Ruxandra Mihaela , Koreanschi Andreea
Published: June 2015

The paper presents the design and the experimental validation of a position controller for a morphing wing application. The actuation mechanism uses two DC motors to rotate two eccentric shafts which morph a flexible skin along two parallel actuation lines. In this way, the developed controller aim is to control the shape of a wing airfoil under different flow conditions. In order to control the actuators positions, a proportional–derivative control algorithm is used. The morphing wing system description, its actuation system structure, the control design, and its validation are highlighted in this paper. The results, obtained both by numerical simulation and experimental validation, are obtained following the control design and its validation. An analysis of the wind flow characteristics is included as a supplementary validation; the pressure coefficients obtained through numerical simulation for several desired airfoil shapes are compared with those obtained through measurements for the experimentally obtained airfoil shapes under different flow conditions.
Where are Tribals in Their Development? A Century of Indian Forest Legislations
Authors: Satpathy Bijayashree
Published: June 2015

Historically, forest resources were being accessed and utilized predominantly by the forest dwelling tribal communities (FDTCs), but during the colonial regime and later by the State’s interventions, accessibility and ownership on forests were being regularized and controlled through forest legislations. Over the century, forest acts and policies have claimed to conserve and provide the equitable and justifiable distribution of forest resources among the human populace. Ironically, the State has been using its eminent domain power to exclude FDTCs from their rights to livelihood and thereby from social equity and justice. In the pre- and post-independence periods, focus moved from the commercialization of forest resources to communities’ livelihood and participation in the forest governance. Laws are inherently centralized both at the planning and implementation levels and, therefore, hardly there is any scope for principles like social equity and justice for the local communities. This article attempts to address the trends in the forest policies and acts through a critical review and also by analyzing empirical studies on its formulation. In doing so, it will explore the major changes in the Indian forest policies and their relationship with the rights and livelihood of FDTCs.
Local Government for Rural Development in Thailand
Authors: Khongsatjaviwat Darin , Routray Jayant K.
Published: June 2015

This article attempts to analyze the roles and functions of local government for rural development in Thailand. Based on the research, findings indicate that Tambon Administrative Organizations (TAOs), the local government at the bottom level of the rural areas, in Phitsanulok province had received insufficient budget from the government authorities. Consequently, TAOs are unable to effectively deliver public services as per the expectations of the people. A need arises to review the responsibilities assigned to the TAOs and readjust the activities for making the TAOs more functional beyond undertaking routine activities. To achieve local development through TAOs, Central Government needs to redefine the tasks with adequate financial support, simultaneously augmenting the staffing situation with professional and management skills.
Sedimentation behaviour of hierarchical porous TiO2 microspheres electrorheological fluids
Authors: Ma Limin , Zheng Fengxia , Zhao Xiaopeng
Published: June 2015

Increasing the specific surface area of particles improves the suspension stability of electrorheological fluids. In this study, we introduced three TiO2 electrorheological materials, namely, mesoporous TiO2: Ce4+, hollow TiO2: Ce4+ and mesoporous hollow TiO2, all of which possess better sedimentation stability than pure solid TiO2 electrorheological materials. We aim to highlight the advantages of nanostructured materials with large surface area in improving the sedimentation stability of electrorheological fluids. The results indicated that the suspension composed of Ce-doped mesoporous TiO2 particles in silicone oil exhibited a strong electrorheological effect. The yield stress of a typical Ce-doped TiO2 electrorheological fluid was approximately 5.0 kPa at 1.5 kV/mm and 6.0 kPa at 2 kV/mm, which were 10 times higher than that of pure TiO2 electrorheological fluid. Hollow TiO2: Ce4+ spheres using the polymer polystyrene as the hollow template not only showed good electrorheological effect but also greatly increased settleability. The specific surface area of the mesoporous TiO2 hollow spheres was twice that of the mesoporous TiO2 and thus showed better suspension stability.
Doctor–Patient Relationship Between Individuals With Fibromyalgia and Rheumatologists in Public and Private Health Care in Mexico
Authors: Colmenares-Roa Tirsa , Huerta-Sil Gabriela , Infante-Castañeda Claudia , Lino-Pérez Leticia , Alvarez-Hernández Everardo , Peláez-Ballestas Ingris
Published: June 2015

The aim of this article was to describe and analyze the doctor–patient relationship between fibromyalgia patients and rheumatologists in public and private health care contexts within the Mexican health care system. This medical anthropological study drew on hospital ethnography and patients’ illness narratives, as well as the experiences of rheumatologists from both types of health care services. The findings show how each type of medical care subsystem shape different relationships between patients and doctors. Patient stigmatization, overt rejection, and denial of the disease’s existence were identified. In this doctor–patient-with-fibromyalgia relationship, there are difficult encounters, rather than difficult patients. These encounters are more fluid in private consultations compared with public hospitals. The doctor-centered health care model is prevalent in public institutions. In the private sector, we find the characteristics of the patient-centered model coexisting with the traditional physician-centered approach.
Back to the Basics
Authors: Patti Angela L.
Published: June 2015

The individualized education program (IEP) is the foundation for the provision of special education services for a child with a disability. While special education teachers learn about IEP writing in their teacher preparation programs, it can still be difficult to translate this knowledge into practice. Therefore, when faced with the task of leading the IEP team in drafting portions of this critical document, many special education teachers feel underprepared and overwhelmed. This article provides five practical tips to facilitate the process of IEP writing. The tips are: (a) gather input, (b) tell the child’s story, (c) incorporate data, (d) make it flow, and (e) utilize resources. By following these simple and practical suggestions, special education teachers can be well on their way to successful IEP writing.
Who Goes Where? Exploring Factors Related to Placement Among Group Homes
Authors: Farmer Elizabeth M. Z. , Wagner H. Ryan , Burns Barbara J. , Murray Maureen
Published: June 2015

Despite their widespread use as a placement option for youth with mental health problems, there is relatively little research on group homes for youth. Available data highlight concerns with practices and treatment within group homes and mixed results on youth-level outcomes. However, existing research appears to collapse a wide range of group residential settings into a single amorphous category. This article explores potential variations among group homes to examine whether different programs are systematically serving different types of youth. It examines, in particular, placement in homes using the teaching family model (TFM) versus homes that do not. Findings suggest that demographics are not significantly associated with TFM placement. However, custody status, types of mental health problems, and use of psychotropic medications are. Homes appear to be serving distinct niches within a geographic area. Implications for future research and policy/practice are discussed.
Assessing Intimate Relationships of Chinese Couples in Taiwan Using the Marital Satisfaction Inventory–Revised
Authors: Lou Yu-Chiung , Lin Chien-Heng , Chen Chien-Min , Balderrama-Durbin Christina , Snyder Douglas K.
Published: June 2015

The current study examined the psychometric characteristics of the Chinese translation of the Marital Satisfaction Inventory–Revised (MSI-R) in a community sample of 117 couples from Taiwan. The Chinese MSI-R demonstrated moderate to strong internal consistency. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed similar scale factor structures in the Taiwanese and U.S. standardization samples. Mean profile comparisons between the current Taiwanese sample and the original MSI-R standardization sample revealed statistically significant but small differences on several subscales. Overall, the psychometric characteristics of the Chinese MSI-R lend support to its use with couples from diverse cultural backgrounds whose sole or preferred language is Chinese. It may also be appropriate to use the MSI-R in clinical settings for prevention or intervention efforts directed at Chinese-speaking couples. The implications of these findings for clinical and research purposes are discussed.
Direct Vasodilators and Sympatholytic Agents
Authors: McComb Meghan N. , Chao James Y. , Ng Tien M. H.
Published: June 2015

Direct vasodilators and sympatholytic agents were some of the first antihypertensive medications discovered and utilized in the past century. However, side effect profiles and the advent of newer antihypertensive drug classes have reduced the use of these agents in recent decades. Outcome data and large randomized trials supporting the efficacy of these medications are limited; however, in general the blood pressure-lowering effect of these agents has repeatedly been shown to be comparable to other more contemporary drug classes. Nevertheless, a landmark hypertension trial found a negative outcome with a doxazosin-based regimen compared to a chlorthalidone-based regimen, leading to the removal of α-1 adrenergic receptor blockers as first-line monotherapy from the hypertension guidelines. In contemporary practice, direct vasodilators and sympatholytic agents, particularly hydralazine and clonidine, are often utilized in refractory hypertension. Hydralazine and minoxidil may also be useful alternatives for patients with renal dysfunction, and both hydralazine and methyldopa are considered first line for the treatment of hypertension in pregnancy. Hydralazine has also found widespread use for the treatment of systolic heart failure in combination with isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN). The data to support use of this combination in African Americans with heart failure are particularly robust. Hydralazine with ISDN may also serve as an alternative for patients with an intolerance to angiotensin antagonists. Given these niche indications, vasodilators and sympatholytics are still useful in clinical practice; therefore, it is prudent to understand the existing data regarding efficacy and the safe use of these medications.
Assessment of Tissue Level of Histone Deactylase-2 (HDAC-2) in Patients With Mycosis Fungoides
Authors: El Tawdy Amira , Amin Iman , Abdel Hay Rania , Rashed Laila , Gad Zeiad
Published: June 2015

Background:

Histone deactylases (HDAC) have a role in the pathogenesis of mycosis fungoides (MF) through their actions on different apoptosis pathways.

Objective:

To assess the possible role played by HDAC-2 in MF by estimating the tissue expression of HDAC2 mRNA in different stages of MF.

Methods:

This study included 28 MF patients and 30 controls. The HDAC-2 levels were detected by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Correlations of HDAC-2 levels with clinical presentation and different stages of MF were analyzed.

Results:

Mean HDAC-2 level was significantly higher in patients ( P < .001) than in controls. HDAC-2 highest mean value was significantly detected in patients with stage IIb, and the lowest mean value was detected in patients with stage Ia ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Up-regulation of tissue HDAC-2 in MF patients might develop a new approach in the understanding of the pathogenesis of MF. Histone deactylases are important targets for molecular cancer therapeutics.
Investigation of microstructure, mechanical, and tribological properties of solid self-lubricating copper hybrid composites processed by solid-state mixing technique
Authors: Sundararajan S , Rajadurai J Selwin
Published: June 2015

In this experimental study, Cu-5 wt% Gr- X wt% SiC ( X = 0, 5, 10, and 15) metal matrix hybrid composites were successfully fabricated using solid-state mixing (powder metallurgy) technique through the conventional atmospheric sintering process. The effect of hard reinforcement SiC content on the microstructure, density, micro-hardness, wear resistance, and coefficient of friction of copper-based hybrid composites were investigated. The effect of the percentages of hard reinforcement, applied normal load ( L), sliding distance ( D), and sliding speed ( V) on wear resistance and anti-friction properties of composites were estimated at room temperature under dry sliding conditions using a pin-on-disc apparatus. The tribological test with an investigational plan of six applied loads (10–60 N), six sliding distances (500–3000 m), and five sliding speeds (0.5–2.5 m/s) were performed to record the loss in mass due to dry sliding wear. The result illustrated that the wear loss of the composite containing 15 wt% of SiC were superior to that of the other composites and unreinforced copper. The sintered cylindrical pins have been characterized by X-ray diffraction. Optical microstructural studies showed that the distribution of the hard SiC and soft graphite reinforcements were uniform on the copper matrix. The worn surfaces and wear debris of worn surfaces were analyzed through a scanning electron microscope to identify the type of wear mechanism involved in copper-based hybrid composites.
Affect and the Judicial Assessment of Offenders
Authors: Rossmanith Kate
Published: June 2015

In most common law jurisdictions worldwide, an offender’s remorse is a mitigating factor in sentencing. It matters whether or not a person who has committed a crime is truly sorry for what they have done. And yet how judges evaluate such expressions is unclear. Drawing on 18 interviews with judges in the New South Wales criminal justice system in Australia, this article examines the status of offenders’ live, sworn evidence in the judiciary’s assessment of offenders’ remorse. These interviews with the judiciary reveal that remorse assessment often operates beyond semiotic, representational paradigms (such as ‘demeanour assessment’) and instead works, in experiential terms, as a feeling. When it comes to offenders getting into the witness box and speaking of their remorse, it seems that sometimes something gets felt by judges at the level of embodied affect that then enables them to declare: ‘This person is remorseful.’
Waikato Teledermatology: a pilot project for improving access in New Zealand
Authors: McGoey Suzanne T , Oakley Amanda , Rademaker Marius
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Teledermatology can improve access to specialist dermatological advice. We describe a retrospective review of the first 12 months of Waikato Teledermatology (WT), a low-cost, secure, website-based, store-and-forward teledermatology network using the Collegium Telemedicus platform.

Methods

We determined specialist response time, referral metrics, patient diagnosis and progress reports from the network’s database. The programme’s value was evaluated by post-pilot online surveys of referrers and specialist dermatologists.

Results

WT was used by 31 referring doctors for 309 consultations with four dermatologists between July 2013 and June 2014. Mean and median specialist response time was 2.07 hours (range: 0.13–5.64 hours). The researchers categorized the referrals as tumours (56.8%) and rashes (43.2%), including inflammatory dermatoses (51.9%), infection (18.1%), uncertain (16.5%), miscellaneous (7.5%), and of environmental origin (6%). Thirty tumours were biopsied, including nine melanomas and three basal cell carcinomas. A total of 158 progress reports and 35 survey responses were received. Reported advantages included decreased delay, improved accuracy of diagnosis and treatment compared to that made without specialist input, decreased unnecessary procedures such as biopsies of undiagnosed conditions, and increased appropriate referrals for face-to-face assessment, thus leading to cost savings for the patient and the health care system. The major disadvantages were the time burden for clinicians to complete consultations, the lack of integration with the patients’ usual electronic medical record and absence of funding.

Discussion

WT proved an effective and acceptable approach to improving patient access to dermatologic services.
Physiochemical characteristics of indoor PM2.5 with combustion of dried yak dung as biofuel in Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: Hu Tafeng , Cao Junji , Lee Shuncheng , Ho Kinfai , Li Xuxiang , Liu Suixin , Chen Ji
Published: June 2015

People inhabiting the Tibetan Plateau rely for survival on the yak, the region's native cattle. One of the important products of yak is dung, which has been served as cooking and heating fuels in the traditional Tibetan pastoralist society for several thousand years. The indoor air quality (IAQ) at eight residential homes with altitudes ranging from 3212 m to 4788 m was investigated in November 2012 to obtain a shot-term profile of emission from combustion of dried yak dung as biofuel in pastoral and agro-pastoral regions on the Tibetan Plateau. The indoor temperature, relative humidity, CO2 and mass concentrations of PM2.5 were monitored for around a 4-h period (5 kg dried fuel was consumed) at each site. Filter-based aerosol samples were also collected to characterize their elemental compositions, water-soluble ions, carbonaceous species and individual particle morphologies. The results showed that combustion of solid biomass fuel in cast-iron stove is the preliminary source of indoor particulate pollution. The average indoor and outdoor PM2.5 mass concentrations were 330.7 and 29.1 μg/m3, respectively. Individual particle analysis showed that most of the particles in smoke from dung burning were in the submicrometer size range. Regular and irregular organic balls and soot aggregates were the predominant species in the smoke (>90% in numbers). The data set in this study can provide significant basis for IAQ and epidemiology study on the Tibetan Plateau.
Everywear: The quantified self and wearable fitness technologies
Authors: Gilmore James N
Published: June 2015

What does it mean to wear a routine? This article explores a number of implications for the engagement of wearable fitness technology in everyday life. It straddles both a critical hermeneutic that explores the institutional prescription of wearable technology to combat the so-called “obesity epidemic” in American society, as well as a more phenomenological and experiential analysis that argues these data-driven technologies actually produce a qualitative re-engagement with social relationships. Expanding and enriching Adam Greenfield’s concept of “everyware” to describe ubiquitous technologies, this article develops the sub-variant “everywear” as a way to understand the increasing prevalence of technologies that are worn or in some way tethered to the body. Ultimately, it argues that studies of technology in everyday life must attend to a multiplicity of complex individual and institutional values and engagements. Furthermore, it suggests quantitative and qualitative modes of being operate dialectically in the production of everyday practice and experience.
Intimacy and social capital on Facebook: Beyond the psychological perspective
Authors: Lambert Alex
Published: June 2015

Social capital has become a key concept in the study of social network sites such as Facebook. An influential body of literature has emerged which links the accumulation of social capital on Facebook to various psychological traits and depositions. There is a need to augment this work with a more critical, qualitative approach which recognises other key social and technological aspects of Facebook. Based on ethnographic research, I explore how the exchange of social capital on Facebook is significantly influenced by mobility, surveillance and norms of public intimacy. Facebook users must continually negotiate intimacy when claiming on social capital, and this involves a nascent set of social skills and digital literacies. I suggest the term ‘intimacy capital’ to conceptualise the way in which these skills are distributed unevenly in society, opening up a critical way of thinking about social capital and intimacy on Facebook.
Silent censor: The influence of authoritarian family socialisation on professional journalism in Ethiopia
Authors: Dirbaba Birhanu , O’Donnell Penny
Published: June 2015

This article explores the influence of family socialisation on journalistic practice in Ethiopia, a country in transition to democracy that suffers from a persistently authoritarian media system and weak journalistic professionalism. Drawing on Shoemaker and Reese’s pioneering model for assessing the hierarchy of influences on media content, it argues family socialisation is an important but neglected influence that predisposes Ethiopian journalists to adopt dysfunctional newsgathering and reporting practices, prioritise political allegiances ahead of responsibilities to either the public or professional colleagues and wait for state intervention to bring about change in the media system. This argument is empirically grounded in the recent mixed methods research on Ethiopian journalists’ role perceptions and practices. An important task for future research on the sources of influence on journalistic professionalism in repressive media milieus is to investigate the influence of journalistic agency at both the individual and collective levels.
Correlates of immigrant youth crime in Finland
Authors: Salmi Venla , Kivivuori Janne , Aaltonen Mikko
Published: June 2015

Differences in the crime involvement of immigrants and the native population have been a major topic in criminology for decades. This interest stems from the fact that immigrants are overrepresented in the crime statistics of many European countries. Our study compares delinquency among native and immigrant youth in Finland. The analysis is based on the 2012 sweep of the Finnish Self-Report Delinquency Study ( N = 8914). The results show that several forms of delinquency were more prevalent among immigrants than among native youth. Multivariate analyses indicate that routine activities and parental control were related to the immigrant youths’ higher risk of active delinquency. After adjusting for a wide range of background variables, the immigrants’ higher risk of delinquency decreased, but remained significant.
A self-control/life-course theory of criminal behavior
Authors: Pratt Travis C.
Published: June 2015

This article presents an integrated self-control/life-course theory of criminal behavior. Coming in the form of 10 propositions, the broad message is that these two seemingly incompatible theoretical traditions can be successfully linked together when: (1) self-control is viewed as dynamic and subject to considerable change both situationally and over time, and (2) self-control is seen as an important cause of selection into the kinds of significant life events (both positive and negative ‘turning points’) that are assumed to, in turn, influence offending. The implications for testing this integrated model and for continued theoretical development are discussed.
Higher Levels of Serum Triglycerides Were Associated With Postoperative Deep Vein Thrombosis After Total Hip Arthroplasty in Patients With Nontraumatic Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Xu Zhihong , Dai Xiaoyu , Yao Yao , Shi Dongquan , Chen Dongyang , Dai Jin , Teng Huajian , Jiang Qing
Published: June 2015

This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the association of serum lipids and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risk following total hip arthroplasty (THA) in patients with nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). A total of 224 nontraumatic ONFH patients were enrolled. Serum levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were detected preoperatively. All the patients underwent unilateral lower extremity venography on postoperative days 3 to 5 for DVT screening. In females, patients who were venogram positive for DVT had a higher serum TG level than those who were venogram negative for DVT ( P = .029) and a higher TG level was associated with an increased DVT risk ( P = .042). Serum TG levels considerably affect DVT risk after THA in female nontraumatic ONFH patients.