bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using an innovative model of service delivery to identify children who are struggling in school
Authors: Missiuna Cheryl , Pollock Nancy , Campbell Wenonah , DeCola Cindy , Hecimovich Cathy , Sahagian Whalen Sandra , Siemon Jennifer , Song Kaiwen , Gaines Robin , Bennett Sheila , McCauley Dayle , Stewart Debra , Cairney John , Dix Leah , Camden Chantal
Published: January 2017

Introduction

School-age children with motor coordination challenges typically require formal referral for occupational therapy services and often experience lengthy wait times for one-to-one intervention. In a new service delivery model called Partnering for Change, therapists work collaboratively with educators in classrooms to observe, identify, and support children. This study describes children identified through a traditional referral process and compares them with children identified by occupational therapists through classroom observation and dynamic performance analysis.

Methods

Participants included 246 children enrolled in a 2-year evaluative study of the Partnering for Change service delivery. Parents completed a demographic questionnaire, the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire, and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Children’s educators completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire and the School Function Assessment. Children completed the Movement Assessment Battery for Children.

Results

Children identified were significantly younger and more likely to be girls than those referred under the traditional model. Using observation and dynamic performance analysis, occupational therapists identified children who had equally marked difficulties as those who came from the waitlist. In the Partnering for Change model, waitlists for service were eliminated for all children.

Conclusions

Occupational therapists can identify children who are experiencing significant challenges participating at school without the need for standardized assessment, formal referrals, and waitlists.
Storm and the Message of Job
Authors: Luc Alex
Published: January 2017

The significance of God's responses ‘from the storm’ for the meaning of the book of Job has well been recognized—a fact that is reflected in the use of ‘whirlwind’ and ‘tempest’ in the titles of many studies dealing with Job. But the recurring storm motif itself as a primary subject of study has received scant attention. In examining the relation of the storm to Job (chs. 9; 13; 30), to wisdom (ch. 28), and to God (chs. 38; 40), this study shows how the storm motif, serving as a negative image for Job's experience but a positive portrayal of God's design and control, provides one of the important ways to the understanding of the message of Job.
Socialist Institutions and Family Wealth Flows Reversal
Authors: Chang Kyung-Sup
Published: January 2017

The study examines a hypothesis explaining the historical impact of socialist agricultural institutions on Chinese rural fertility. The implementation of collective agricultural management and socialization of traditional family relations under various types of socialist rural institutions are shown to have affected Chinese peasants' fertility by changing the “intergenerational wealth flows” situation. To take into account the extraneous effects of economic conditions and family planning policy on rural fertility, statistical models are constructed which compute residual fertility fluctuations unexplained by these factors. By comparing the unexplained fluctuations of rural fertility with institutional changes that in varying degrees weakened the traditional sociopolitical and economic functions of family, we assess our hypothesis on the relation between macro institutional changes and fertility behavior of rural families.
Making of ‘Modern’ Theatre and Actresses’ Question: Negotiation and Contestation
Authors: Singh Lata
Published: January 2017

Theatre was an important representation site of the burgeoning middle class during the colonial period in its search for cultural identity. ‘Modern’ theatre of the middle class was linked up with its quest for respectability and the question of respectability assumed its sharpest form when the issues concerned women. The politics of social class, gendered ideologies and nationalism permeating the theatre space came to construct the female performer/actress as the ‘other’ of the domesticated, ‘pure’ and ‘spiritual’ middle class women. The paper looks at the construction of actresses as the ‘other’ in the middle class discourse. For the actresses despite their tremendous artistic talent, all evidences of respectability were ruled out. The actresses’ lives were indicative of the contradictions of a new world of middle class cultural production. The paper also makes an attempt to move beyond the paradigm of respectability discourse by fore-fronting the other identities of the actresses, which hitherto has not received scholarly attention. The whole middle class respectability discourse by invisibilizing the other identities of actresses forecloses their struggles and contestations.
Nationalism and the Visibility of Women in Public Space: Tilak's Criticism of Rakhmabai and Ramabai
Authors: Rao Parimala V.
Published: January 2017

‘Under the alien rule… when Brahmins break the law they are punished like other persons and women are visible in public like railway carriages where men could cast improper glances’. These were the words from the article ‘Shivaji's Utterances’ in the nationalist weekly Kesari for which Tilak was prosecuted for sedition in 1897. Vishwanath Narayan Mandalik, Vishnu Shastri Chiplunkar and Bal Gangadhar Tilak criticized the reformers for encouraging women and non-Brahmins to occupy public space. They called their opposition as nationalist and reformers’ support to women and non-Brahmins as ‘un-national’. They argued that the caste system and confining women to the domestic space formed the basis of the Hindu nation. Reformers like Jotirao Phule, Gopal Hari Deshmukh, Mahadev Govind Ranade, Kashinath Triyambak Telang, Ramakrishna Gopal Bhandarkar and Narayan Ganesh Chandavarkar were criticized as ‘denationalised persons.’ The nationalists in Maharashtra questioned ‘the right of alien rulers to interfere in the internal affairs of the Hindu society who encouraged the non-Brahmins and women to take up education and become visible in the public space’. This formed the core of the nationalist agenda during 1880-1920.
Using Platelet-Rich Plasma to Promote Healing and Prevent Seroma Formation in Abdominoplasty Procedures
Authors: Jackson Robert F.
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

To evaluate the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in promoting wound healing and preventing seroma formation, a 30-patient study was conducted between January 2001 and May 2003. The intent of the study was to evaluate the use of platelet-rich concentrate on patients undergoing either full abdominoplasty (4 patients) or crescent tuck abdominoplasty (miniabdominoplasty) surgery. This series of patients was contrasted with a 100-patient study with similar surgery accomplished between 1990 and 2000 and previously reported at the 17th International Congress of the French Society of Aesthetic Surgery and the 5th International Congress of the Society of Lipo-Plasty. In addition, during the 30-patient study, there were 6 patients studied who did not receive platelet-rich concentrate. Those 6 patients were also compared with the 30-patient platelet-concentrate group.

Materials and Methods:

The platelet concentrate was prepared from 54 mL of blood drawn from the patient at the time of surgery. The anticoagulated volume of 60 mL was processed using a uniquely designed centrifuge system manufactured by Harvest Technologies (Plymouth, Mass). The separation process yielded 10 mL of platelet-rich plasma (PRP). This volume was combined with 1 mL of calcium thrombin in a spray that was applied to the surgical site. The calcium thrombin was used to activate the platelets and fibrinogen to form fibrin chains in order to achieve an immediate hemostatic seal on the tissue beds. The calcium thrombin was prepared by adding 5 mL of 10% calcium chloride to 5000 units of bovine thrombin. Only 1 mL of this mixture was used in the procedure. Prior to the application of the platelet concentrate/calcium thrombin to the tissue beds, absolute hemostasis is accomplished and both beds are blotted as dry as possible. Both the top and bottom layer are sprayed with approximately 4.5 mL of platelet concentrate/calcium thrombin. The tissue layers were approximated and the skin surface rolled to express any fluid from the location of the sutures. Sutures were then placed and the remaining PRP/calcium thrombin mixture was sprayed along the suture line. The formal abdominoplasty was done without liposuction in the upper or epigastric area of the abdomen. The crescent tuck abdominoplasty used was the same as the previous 100-patient series.

Results:

No seromas were found in the 30 patients studied as compared with a 7% seroma rate in the previous 100-patient series and 2 out of 6 of the patients who had abdominoplasty during the same time as the 30-patient group developed seromas. Anecdotally, the wounds seemed to heal much more rapidly with more esthetically pleasing incisions.

Discussion:

The addition of platelet-rich plasma is now easily applied at the surgical site with a very easily usable technology that does not require expensive or complicated equipment. The application of platelet-rich plasma as a natural fibrin matrix delivers growth factors to the wound and seems to promote more rapid healing.
Liposhifting: Treatment of Postliposuction Irregularities, Updated
Authors: Saylan Ziya
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

The most common complication after a liposuction is the residual (leftover) fat and hollows. Postliposuction irregularities have been commonly corrected with autologous fat injections, but without any long-term results. In the procedure described below, the fat is shifted under the skin from the surrounding tissues into the hollow without any suctioning, air contact, or injecting.

Materials and Methods:

The procedure is performed in the following stages: (1) marking the skin while the patient is standing; (2) local anesthestizing of the skin; (3) tumescent technique; (4) loosening the fat with a Becker cannula; (5) shifting; and (6) fixation of the shifted fat.

Results:

This technique has been applied to 82 patients over a period of 7 years. The rate of satisfaction was 88% (72 patients). Some cases with large imperfections had to be liposhifted more than once (5 cases, 14%). In 8 cases (9.8%), the results were not that satisfactory, and 2 cases (2.4%) did not respond to this treatment. The most common complication was hematoma due to fat loosening (5 cases, 6%).

Discussion:

Liposhifting is a very promising method for the elimination of larger irregularities on the skin and the underlying tissue caused by liposuction. It is only helpful in the extremities and in the abdominal wall. It is safe because any contamination of the fat transplant via air contact is avoided; it is practical because it does not need any special training or instruments. The irregularities due to liposuction still remain a main problem of the process.
Embolization with Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) Microspheres: In-Vivo Studies
Authors: Kassab A. Ch. , Pişkin E. , Bilgiç S. , Denkbaş E. B. , Xu K.
Published: January 2017

In this study polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB), produced by a methanol-utilizing bacteria, was used to prepare microspheres in the 120-200 μm size range for embolization. A solvent evaporation technique was utilized to obtain microspheres in which methylene chloride, distilled water and polyvinyl alcohol were used as the solvent, precipitation medium and emulsifier, respectively. Dogs were the test animals. Renal angiograms obtained before and after embolization and also the histopathological observations showed the feasibility of using these microspheres as an alternative embolization/chemoembolization agent.
Biodegradation Studies of Rosin-Glycerol Ester Derivative
Authors: Sahu N. H. , Mandaogade P. M. , Deshmukh A. M. , Meghre V. S. , Dorle A. K.
Published: January 2017

A rosin glycerol derivative was prepared by esterification of rosin with glycerol at 220-240°C in the presence of zinc as catalyst. The product was evaluated for different physicochemical properties. Films were prepared by melt molding with castor oil (20% w/w of the derivative) as an external plasticizer. The in vitro and in vivo biodegradation studies were performed on films as well as on powder. The in vitro studies were performed with microorganisms, enzymes and different buffer solutions while in vivo studies were performed on rabbits by subdermal implantation of rosin ester films. The results of all the studies showed that rosin glycerol ester undergoes biodegradation and follows surface erosion mechanism.
Skill requirements in retail work: the case of high-end fashion retailing
Authors: Nickson Dennis , Price Robin , Baxter-Reid Hazel , Hurrell Scott A
Published: January 2017

This article considers skill requirements in retail work, drawing on the example of high-end fashion retailing. It considers debates about the required ‘soft’ and ‘hard’ elements of skill for such work. Drawing on Cockburn’s typology – skill residing in the worker; in what is required to perform a job; and as a socially constructed political concept – it seeks to offer a more nuanced discussion of the nature of skills in retail work beyond the usual characterization of such work as being inherently low skilled. Data are reported from 37 interviews with managers, supervisors and employees in a range of high-end fashion retailing outlets. The article recognizes how this work was seen as skilled by the interviewees, particularly with regard to the desired product knowledge and selling ability required for such work. Lastly, it seeks to refine Cockburn’s typology in understanding skill requirements in retail work.
The Industrial Placement Experience in the UK
Authors: Leslie David , McAleenan Mary
Published: January 2017

This article examines the role of sandwich education and presents the findings of an investigation into the perceptions of the industrial placement experience of students studying hotel and catering management courses. Significant variances are identified between students' actual experiences and their perceptions. Recommendations are presented with the aim of enhancing the realization of the student benefits attributable to this aspect of education.
Innovation Centres in West Germany
Authors: Sternberg Rolf
Published: January 2017

This article analyses to what degree the innovation centres (ICs) in West Germany have up to now been able to encourage technology transfer between universities and enterprises. Through a series of interviews conducted by the author in ICs and enterprises he concludes that there is reason to believe that technology transfer by universities is positively influenced less by the IC itself than by its effect as a symbol of a ‘climatic’ change in the region.
Training Soviet Managers
Authors: Hibbert Noel
Published: January 2017

This article examines how the economic reforms in the USSR have generated a demand for management training in western business practices. Coventry Polytechnic has pioneered courses for Soviet executives in the UK, and the author discusses the strategy adopted, the technology transfer that followed on from the courses, and the problems revealed by the experience of teaching Soviet managers.
Nuclear Industry–HE Joint Venture
Authors: DellaValle James A.
Published: January 2017

Northeast Utilities (NU) is the largest electric utility in New England and one of the major nuclear utilities in the USA. Faced with stiffening regulatory requirements after the incident at Three Mile Island in 1979 to ensure that adequate engineering and accident assessment capability is possessed by the operating staff at a nuclear power plant, NU embarked on a unique arrangement with a local State Technical College to implement a new degree programme in Nuclear Engineering Technology.
The Role of Patenting in Academic—Industry Links in the UK
Authors: Packer Kathryn
Published: January 2017

In this follow-up article to her paper in the December 1994 issue of Industry and Higher Education, Kathryn Packer summarizes and assesses the views of industrial liaison (IL) staff and university researchers on the activities in UK universities that are designed to promote academic-industry relations in general and increased revenue through patenting in particular. She also looks at the government policy instruments intended to facilitate and speed up these changes. The paper explores the perceptions IL staff have of the changes that have taken place in their own institutions with regard to patenting, what forms of contact they currently have with research staff and what the role of the Department of Trade and Industry sponsored technology audits has been in promoting these links. The author then discusses IL staff's recommendations for future policy activities and changes in the law relating to intellectual property rights.
The Progress of Technology Transfer and the Channel of International Education
Authors: Grady A. , Locke M.
Published: January 2017

Technology transfer is a complex process. It is a process which means many things to many people, a process which takes place within one country as well as between others, and between developed countries as well as between developed and developing countries. This paper examines the process of technology transfer, with reference to the channel of international education. Issues addressed include the concept of technology transfer, classification of technology, and channels through which technology is transferred. A new definition of technology transfer is introduced by the authors. The paper focuses on the channel of international education used by developing countries. Various criticisms are noted regarding the appropriateness of educational programmes, and recommendations are proposed for sending countries.
Synthesis, characterization, thermal and chelation properties of new polymeric hydrazone based on 2, 4-dihydroxy benzaldehyde
Authors: Sankar R. , Sasidaran M. , Kaliyappan T.
Published: January 2017

A chelating polymer poly(2-hydroxy-4-methacryloyloxy benzaldehyde hydrazone) poly(2H4MBH) was prepared in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) at 70°C using benzoyl peroxide as initiator. Poly (2H4MBH) was characterized by infra-red and 1H-NMR spectroscopic techniques. The molecular weight of the polymer was determined by gel permeation chromatography. Polychelates were obtained when the DMF solution of the polymer containing a few drops of ammonia was treated with the aqueous solution of Cu(II)/Ni(II). Elemental analysis of the polychelates indicates that the metal-ligand ratio was about 1: 2. The infrared spectra of polychelates suggest that the metals were coordinated through the oxygen of the phenolic—OH group and nitrogen of the azomethine group. The EPR (Electron paramagnetic resonance) and magnetic moment data indicate a square planar structure for Cu(II) complex whereas octahedral structure for Ni(II) complex. The thermogravimetric analysis, differential calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction data indicated that the incorporation of the metal ions significantly enhanced the degree of crystallinity. The sorption properties of the chelate-forming polymer towards various divalent metal ions Cu(II) and Ni(II) were studied as a function of pH, nature, and concentration of electrolytes.
Online updating of space-time disease surveillance models via particle filters
Authors: Rodeiro Carmen L Vidal , Lawson Andrew B
Published: January 2017

Online surveillance of disease has become an important issue in public health. In particular, the space-time monitoring of disease plays an important part in any syndromic system. However, methodology for these systems is generally lacking. One approach to space-time monitoring of health data is to consider the space-time model parameters as the focus and to monitor their changes as multivariate time series (Lawson AB. Some considerations in spatial-temporal analysis of public health surveillance data. In Brookmeyer R, Stroup DF eds. Monitoring the Health of Populations. Oxford University Press, 2004; Vidal Rodeiro CL, Lawson AB. Monitoring changes in spatio-temporal maps of disease. Biometrical Journal 2006; to appear). However with complex space-time models, this becomes very time consuming. Some simplifications may be necessary and these can be made in a number of ways. In this article, the focus is on particle filters that can be used to resample the history of the process and thereby reduce computation time. This article describes a particular case of particle filters, the resample-move algorithm, proposed by Gilks and Berzuini (Gilks WR, Berzuini C. Following a moving target - Monte Carlo inference for dynamic Bayesian models. Journal of the Royal Statistical Society, Series B 2001; 63: 127-46), in the context of disease map surveillance. This is followed by an application to a real data set in which a comparison between the use of Markov chain Monte Carlo methods and the resample-move algorithm is carried out.
Outdoor NOx and stroke mortality: adjusting for small area level smoking prevalence using a Bayesian approach
Authors: Maheswaran Ravi , Haining Robert P , Pearson Tim , Law Jane , Brindley Paul , Best Nicola G
Published: January 2017

There is increasing evidence, mainly from daily time series studies, linking air pollution and stroke. Small area level geographical correlation studies offer another means of examining the air pollution-stroke association. Populations within small areas may be more homogeneous than those within larger areal units, and census-based socioeconomic information may be available to adjust for confounding effects. Data on smoking from health surveys may be incorporated in spatial analyses to adjust for potential confounding effects but may be sparse at the small area level. Smoothing, using data from neighbouring areas, may be used to increase the precision of smoking prevalence estimates for small areas. We examined the effect of modelled outdoor NO x levels on stroke mortality using a Bayesian hierarchical spatial model to incorporate random effects, in order to allow for unmeasured confounders and to acknowledge sampling error in the estimation of smoking prevalence. We observed an association between NO x and stroke mortality after taking into account random effects at the small area level. We found no association between smoking prevalence and stroke mortality at the small area level after modelling took into account imprecision in estimating smoking prevalence. The approach we used to incorporate smoking as a covariate in a single large model is conceptually sound, though it made little difference to the substantive results.
Pronounced Metabolic Response to Modest Theophylline Overdose
Authors: Hagley Michael T. , Traeger Sheldon M. , Schuckman Hugh
Published: January 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To describe a patient who developed significant metabolic abnormalities in response to a low-level theophylline ingestion.

CASE SUMMARY:

An 18-year-old man was examined after ingesting theophylline 3 g in a suicide attempt. Although his peak theophylline concentration was 157 μmol/L (28.2 μg/mL), it was associated with significant leukocytosis, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypophosphatemia, hyperglycemia, and lactic acidosis. These abnormalities have been previously associated with theophylline intoxication, but only in conjunction with much higher peak concentrations of theophylline.

CONCLUSIONS:

Significant metabolic abnormalities can occur with suicidal ingestion of relatively small amounts of theophylline. The presence of these abnormalities should be sought in theophylline overdoses. In the proper clinical circumstances, such abnormalities should raise suspicion of covert theophylline ingestion.
Prevention of Anaphylactoid Reactions in High-Risk Patients Receiving Radiographic Contrast Media
Authors: Wittbrodt Eric T. , Spinler Sarah A.
Published: January 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To review various pretreatment regimens for the prophylaxis of anaphylactoid reactions to radiographic contrast media (RCM) in high-risk patients. The proposed etiologies and risk factors for such reactions are also reviewed.

DATA SOURCES:

A MEDLINE search of the English-language literature was used to identify pertinent human studies and reviews.

STUDY SELECTION:

All studies comparing pretreatment regimens for anaphylactoid reactions to RCM were reviewed as well as studies comparing the incidence of anaphylactoid reactions between lower and higher osmolar RCM.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

The two types of reactions to RCM are the dose-independent, unpredictable anaphylactoid (pseudoallergic or idiosyncratic) reactions and the dose-dependent, predictable physicochemical (intrinsic, nonidiosyncratic) reactions. Prophylaxis of the former type is targeted at stemming the effects of certain chemical mediators, primarily histamine. The use of lower osmolar RCM is associated with a lower incidence of anaphylactoid reactions compared with higher osmolar RCM, but is significantly more expensive. Risk factors for such reactions are a history of previous anaphylactoid reaction to RCM, asthma, and reaction to skin allergens or penicillin. Discontinuation of any beta-blockers before the procedure is suggested. Pretesting patients with a small amount of RCM has little predictive value for an anaphylactoid reaction. Various pretreatment prophylactic regimens have been studied. Almost all included a corticosteroid to target the inflammatory response and a histamine1 (H1)-antagonist to blunt the effects of histamine. In some clinical trials, ephedrine was added for bronchodilation and cimetidine for its antagonism at the histamine2-receptor. The few controlled clinical trials that have been performed show the combination of prednisone and diphenhydramine to be most beneficial in preventing anaphylactoid reactions to RCM. The addition of ephedrine or cimetidine to a pretreatment regimen remains controversial.

CONCLUSIONS:

More controlled clinical studies comparing various pretreatment regimens for high-risk patients need to be performed, especially in patients receiving lower osmolar RCM. Recommendations for high-risk patients who must receive RCM include use of a lower osmolar agent, pretreatment with a corticosteroid and an H1-antagonist, discontinuation of beta-blockers if the patient is taking any, and bedside availability of appropriate medications and equipment to treat anaphylaxis.
Monitoring Warfarin Therapy with the International Normalized Ratio
Authors: Howard Patricia A.
Published: January 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To report a case of suboptimal warfarin monitoring.

CASE SUMMARY:

A patient with a history of rheumatic heart disease and a mechanical mitral valve was admitted to the local hospital complaining of left-sided weakness. At the time, she was receiving warfarin 5 mg/d. Upon admission her prothrombin time (PT) was 15 s. An initial computed tomography (CT) scan of the head was negative. On the basis of the initial findings, it was unclear whether the symptoms were caused by a cerebrovascular accident (CVA). The patient was transferred to the University Medical Center for a more thorough evaluation. The diagnosis of CVA was confirmed by a repeat CT scan seven days after the event. On the basis of the information obtained from the local hospital, it was determined that the initial PT of 15 s converted to an International Normalized Ratio (INR) of 1.5, which is below the recommended range for patients with mechanical heart valves. Prior to discharge, the warfarin dosage was increased to obtain an INR in the recommended range of 2.5–3.5.

DISCUSSION:

This case illustrates the problems that exist with the current system of PT reporting and the potential advantages of using the INR. Variations in the sensitivity of the thromboplastin reagents used to perform the PT may result in misinterpretation of the level of anticoagulation and errors in warfarin dosage adjustments. The potential for suboptimal anticoagulation is greatly increased in patients, such as the one reported here, who are having PTs performed by multiple laboratories.

CONCLUSIONS:

To maximize efficacy and minimize the risk of bleeding complications, warfarin therapy must be individualized and closely monitored. Standardization of PT monitoring through the use of the INR would significantly reduce the potential for suboptimal anticoagulation associated with the traditional system of reporting.
Recommended Treatment for Urinary Tract Infection in Pregnancy
Authors: Vercaigne Lavern M. , Zhanel George G.
Published: January 2017

OBJECTIVE:

To establish and recommend a therapeutic regimen for the treatment of urinary tract infection (UTI) in pregnancy based on the published studies.

DATA SOURCES:

An English-language literature search employing MEDLINE, Index Medicus, and bibliographic reviews of the references obtained were searched (key terms: urinary tract infection, UTI, pregnancy, bacteriuria).

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

All identified human studies dealing with bacteriuria or UTI in pregnancy were analyzed.

DATA SYNTHFSIS:

Limited data are available regarding the appropriate antibiotic management of UTI in pregnancy. Single-dose cure rates with amoxicillin are approximately 80 percent. Trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole provides cure rates of greater than 80 percent. Cephalosporins and nitrofurantoin produce variable results.

CONCLUSIONS:

We recommend separating pregnant subjects with UTI into two groups. Those with asymptomatic bacteriuria can be treated with a single dose of an antimicrobial to which the organism is susceptible. For those with symptomatic UTI, we recommend amoxicillin 500 mg tid for three days. Urine cultures should be repeated seven days following therapy to assess cure or failure. Well-designed studies need to be performed, comparing single-dose and three-day therapy for UTI in pregnancy.
Oral Contraceptives and HRT Risk of Thrombosis
Authors: Gialeraki Argyri , Valsami Serena , Pittaras Theodoros , Panayiotakopoulos George , Politou Marianna
Published: January 2017

Estrogen-containing medication, prescribed either for contraception in women of reproductive age or for prevention of cardiovascular events and osteoporosis as well as for alleviation of symptoms related to menopause, is associated with changes in the hemostatic balance and contributes to increased risk of development of venous thromboembolic complications. This risk is dose and medication dependent, increases with age, congenital and/or acquired predisposition to thrombosis, and mode of administration. This review attempts to summarize the current knowledge regarding the pathophysiology of oral contraceptive (OC) and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) -induced prothrombotic state in women, the risk of thrombosis associated with administration of various commercially available OCs and HRT, the additional risk in women with hereditary or acquired thrombophilia, and the currently available recommendations regarding massive screening of women for thrombophilia prior to initial prescription or continuation of treatment with OCs and HRT preparations.
Factor X Friuli Coagulation Disorder: Almost 50 Years Later
Authors: Girolami Antonio , Cosi Elisabetta , Santarossa Claudia , Ferrari Silvia , Girolami Bruno , Lombardi Anna Maria
Published: January 2017

The story of factor X (FX) Friuli. Factor X Friuli was discovered in 1969 to 1970. However, the story of that disease was an international event since patients with this defect were studied in France and in Italy, and different diagnoses were reached—FVII; FX; combined prothrombin complex; and combined FII, FVII, and FX deficiencies. The diagnostic difficulties were due to the peculiar clotting pattern presented by these patients, namely, prolonged partial thromboplastin time, prolonged prothrombin time but normal Russell viper venom clotting time. Only suitable anti-FX antisera clarified the pattern. Altogether 12 homozygotes and 102 heterozygotes have been followed during 4 decades. Six homozygotes died, 2 of them due to HIV infection and 1 due to hepatitis B liver cirrhosis. The other 3 died of nontransfusion-related morbidity. Bleeding tendency has been moderate in agreement with the extrinsic or intrinsic system assay results—FX level of 4% to 5% is considered normal. Heterozygotes may present occasional bleeding manifestations usually during surgery or delivery. Molecular analysis have shown that the mutation responsible for the defect is a Pro343Ser substitution in exon 8. Chimeric FX Friuli mice have been useful in studying the effect of FX levels on embryonic or natal mortality of these animals. No new homozygote but several heterozygotes have been recently seen. The study of FX Friuli has revolutionized the diagnostic approach to FX deficiencies. The FX should be assayed by all assay systems. The FX Friuli has never been described in any other country, and all patients studied come from the Friuli Meduna River Valley.
Gender and Journal Scholarship in Mass Communication: How Well are Women Doing? A Twenty-Year Content Analysis
Authors: Bodle John Torres , Burriss Larry , Farwell Tricia , Hammaker Shana , Joshi Jaya
Published: January 2017

A census of authorship (N = 9,090 articles produced by 14,348 gender-identified authors) in eighteen primary journalism and mass communication journals during 1986–2005 indicates that over the time period women produced 32.3% of the journal scholarship—a per capita rate greater than their numeric representation on journalism and mass communication faculties nationally. In recent years (2001–2005) women produced 38.7% of journal scholarship while representing about 32% of faculty. Female assistant professors produced the most (31.2%) journal scholarship.
A Fifteen-Year Census of Gender-Based Convention Research: Scholarship Rates by Women within AEJMC Divisions, Interest Groups, and Commissions (1994 to 2008)
Authors: Applegate Edd , Bodle John Torres , Farwell Tricia M. , Livingston Randy
Published: January 2017

This study considers refereed scholarship and levels of inclusion by gender within and between AEJMC's divisions, interest groups, and commissions. It is a census of all blindly reviewed research accepted to the AEJMC conventions from 1994 to 2003. Women are authoring convention research at rates (49.2%) above their percentage of membership in AEJMC (between 40% in 2002 and 44.6% in 2010). Women currently author a majority of the convention scholarship on issues related to cultural and critical studies (60.8%); they have drastically increased their participation in research related to media management and economics.
Mice with a deficiency in CLEC-2 are protected against deep vein thrombosis
Authors: Payne Holly , Ponomaryov Tatyana , Watson Steve P. , Brill Alexander
Published: January 2017

Key Points

Absence of CLEC-2 abrogates venous thrombosis. Podoplanin expression is upregulated in the vessel wall and correlates with the degree of thrombosis.
Assessment of circulating tumor cells and serum markers for progression-free survival prediction in metastatic breast cancer: a prospective observational study
Authors: Bidard François-Clément , Hajage David , Bachelot Thomas , Delaloge Suzette , Brain Etienne , Campone Mario , Cottu Paul , Beuzeboc Philippe , Rolland Emilie , Mathiot Claire , Pierga Jean-Yves
Published: January 2017

Introduction

Circulating tumor cells (CTC) have been recently proposed as a new dynamic blood marker whose positivity at baseline is a prognostic factor and whose changes under treatment are correlated with progression-free survival (PFS) in metastatic breast cancer patients. However, serum marker levels are also used for the same purpose, and no clear comparison has been reported to date.

Methods

The IC 2006-04 enrolled prospectively 267 metastatic breast cancer patients treated by first line chemotherapy and confirmed that CTC levels are an independent prognostic factor for PFS and overall survival (OS). A secondary pre-planned endpoint was to compare prospectively the positivity rates and the value of CTC (CellSearch®), of serum tumor markers (carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cancer antigen 15.3 (CA 15-3), CYFRA 21-1), and of serum non-tumor markers (lactate deshydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP)) at baseline and under treatment for PFS prediction, independently from the other known prognostic factors, using univariate analyses and concordance indexes.

Results

A total of 90% of the patients had at least one elevated blood marker. Blood markers were correlated with poor performance status, high number of metastatic sites and with each other. In particular, CYFRA 21-1, a marker usually used in lung cancer, was elevated in 65% of patients. A total of 86% of patients had either CA 15-3 and/or CYFRA 21-1 elevated at baseline. Each serum marker was associated, when elevated at baseline, with a significantly shorter PFS. Serum marker changes during treatment, assessed either between baseline and week 3 or between baseline and weeks 6 to 9, were significantly associated with PFS, as reported for CTC. Concordance indexes comparison showed no clear superiority of any of the serum marker or CTC for PFS prediction.

Conclusions

For the purpose of PFS prediction by measuring blood marker changes during treatment, currently available blood-derived markers (CTC and serum markers) had globally similar performances. Besides CEA and CA 15-3, CYFRA 21-1 is commonly elevated in metastatic breast cancer and has a strong prognostic value.
Structural modeling defines transmembrane residues in ADAM17 that are crucial for Rhbdf2–ADAM17-dependent proteolysis
Authors: Li Xue , Maretzky Thorsten , Perez-Aguilar Jose Manuel , Monette Sébastien , Weskamp Gisela , Le Gall Sylvain , Beutler Bruce , Weinstein Harel , Blobel Carl P.
Published: January 2017

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17 (ADAM17) controls the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα, also known as TNF) and is crucial for protecting the skin and intestinal barrier by proteolytic activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) ligands. The seven-membrane-spanning protein called inactive rhomboid 2 (Rhbdf2; also known as iRhom2) is required for ADAM17-dependent TNFα shedding and crosstalk with the EGFR, and a point mutation (known as sinecure, sin) in the first transmembrane domain (TMD) of Rhbdf2 (Rhbdf2sin) blocks TNFα shedding, yet little is known about the underlying mechanism. Here, we used a structure–function analysis informed by structural modeling to evaluate the interaction between the TMD of ADAM17 and the first TMD of Rhbdf2, and the role of this interaction in Rhbdf2–ADAM17-dependent shedding. Moreover, we show that double mutant mice that are homozygous for Rhbdf2sin/sin and lack Rhbdf1 closely resemble Rhbdf1/2−/− double knockout mice, highlighting the severe functional impact of the Rhbdf2sin/sin mutation on ADAM17 during mouse development. Taken together, these findings provide new mechanistic and conceptual insights into the critical role of the TMDs of ADAM17 and Rhbdf2 in the regulation of the ADAM17 and EGFR, and ADAM17 and TNFα signaling pathways.
Alterations in the balance of tubulin glycylation and glutamylation in photoreceptors leads to retinal degeneration
Authors: Bosch Grau Montserrat , Masson Christel , Gadadhar Sudarshan , Rocha Cecilia , Tort Olivia , Marques Sousa Patricia , Vacher Sophie , Bieche Ivan , Janke Carsten
Published: January 2017

Tubulin is subject to a wide variety of posttranslational modifications, which, as part of the tubulin code, are involved in the regulation of microtubule functions. Glycylation has so far predominantly been found in motile cilia and flagella, and absence of this modification leads to ciliary disassembly. Here, we demonstrate that the correct functioning of connecting cilia of photoreceptors, which are non-motile sensory cilia, is also dependent on glycylation. In contrast to many other tissues, only one glycylase, TTLL3, is expressed in retina. Ttll3−/− mice lack glycylation in photoreceptors, which results in shortening of connecting cilia and slow retinal degeneration. Moreover, absence of glycylation results in increased levels of tubulin glutamylation in photoreceptors, and inversely, the hyperglutamylation observed in the Purkinje cell degeneration (pcd) mouse abolishes glycylation. This suggests that both posttranslational modifications compete for modification sites, and that unbalancing the glutamylation–glycylation equilibrium on axonemes of connecting cilia, regardless of the enzymatic mechanism, invariably leads to retinal degeneration.
Sexual health beliefs among minority ethnic families in the north of England
Authors: Ochieng Bertha , Meetoo Danny D
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore beliefs and attitudes regarding sexual health among minority ethnic families. Focus group discussions with a convenience sample from a black African community comprising 32 adults (38–58 years of age) were undertaken. The group discussions were recorded, transcribed and analysed for themes. The findings were analysed using descriptive analysis and a variation of the constant comparative method. Primary themes included the participants' understanding of the concept of sexual health; an insight into sexual health discourse in the home; and the need for culturally appropriate sexual health promotion. This study contributes to our knowledge of black African parents' views on sexual health. It adds to previous literature on sexual health, gives voice to minority parents and their adolescent children, and highlights the importance of social norms, family and cultural values on sexual health.
The practice teacher role in facilitating a supportive clinical learning environment for students
Authors: Phillips Kate Elizabeth
Published: January 2017

This reflective account explores how a practice teacher applied learning theory and styles to facilitate a supportive clinical learning environment for a health visiting student, which acknowledged their individuality and personal needs.
Press, pause, play…
Authors: McKeown Sal
Published: January 2017

Sal McKeown meets Puppet Pals, an app for the iPad which gives pre-schoolers free rein to create their own stories and visuals. She finds out how group work on one animation project has fuelled communication skills.
Wash and brush up
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: January 2017

It can be useful if home hygiene practices support routines carried out in the nursery. Annette Rawstrone outlines some of the key areas in which parents can help their children to become hygiene-aware.
Pebble in my palm
Authors: Hewson Claire
Published: January 2017

Children love to create collections and take great pride in showing them to others and talking about what they have found. Claire Hewson kicks off this new series on the subject, with a focus on pebbles.
Self-directed Groupwork – social justice through social action and empowerment
Authors: Fleming Jennie , Ward Dave
Published: January 2017

Self-directed Groupwork and its values and methodology have taken root in a range of disciplines and in peer, volunteer and professionally facilitated groups addressing a diverse range of issues and across many countries. It has promoted and sustained the mindset and practices needed for achieving social justice through social action and community empowerment. Addressing, in particular, the theories that have informed Self-directed Groupwork, we show that Self-directed Groupwork is alive and well, but argue that it is vital to re-engage with the core vision and mission and to re-energise open and honest collaboration with community members and users of services as partners in change.
β-mercaptoethanol assists efficient construction of sperm bacterial artificial chromosome library
Authors: Fujikura Kohei , Abe Masanori , Kuroda Reiko
Published: January 2017

Bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library plays a critical role in the strategic research in genomics. Sperm is known as a good source for BAC library construction. However, preparation of intact DNA from the highly condensed sperm nuclei is not easy. Here we developed and validated an efficient DNA extraction strategy for BAC library construction from sperm embedded in agarose plugs. The protocol used a combination of lauroylsarcosine, proteinase K and β-mercaptoethanol (a reducing agent of nucleus) In comparison with the normal protocol without reducing agents, β-mercaptoethanol released high-molecular-weight DNA from the protamines which permit DNA to be packed very densely within the spermatozoan nucleus, without damaging DNA. Extracted DNA by this method was readily digested by restriction enzymes and ideal for BAC library construction.
Sociabilidad y actores sociales en el espacio rural de Costa Rica: el caso de “La Fortuna” de San Carlos en la segunda mitad del siglo XX
Authors: Villalobos Cubero Lissy Marcela
Published: January 2017

Este artículo presenta la manera en que los actores sociales rurales construyeron formas y espacios de sociabilidad pública y privada, en la segunda mitad del siglo XX. El estudio se enmarca en un distrito llamado La Fortuna, al norte de Costa Rica y evidencia cómo los grupos comunitarios se convirtieron en actores que crearon vínculos o solidaridades para solventar necesidades y desarrollar proyectos locales.
La región Atlántico-Caribe de Costa Rica: las imágenes de la construcción regional
Authors: Viales Hurtado Ronny J.
Published: January 2017

Las historias nacionales se presentan a partir de etapas, en una perspectiva evolucionista y teleológica, en la cual los Estados nación aparecen como un resultado preconcebido. Aunque la historia nacional, como producto, abarca totalidades nacionales, es importante no dejar de lado el hecho de que en su interior existen temporalidades diferenciadas, que se explican porque hay una autonomía relativa de las realidades y de las subjetividades construidas en las regiones y las localidades.
Las mujeres, sus cuerpos y sus bellezas: Prácticas y rituales en la Costa Rica del período 1950-1980
Authors: Rodríguez Corrales Gloriana
Published: January 2017

La profundización en las prácticas y rituales de belleza, aporta un eje fundamental para el análisis del cuerpo, pues se relacionan directamente con las medidas económicas, políticas, comerciales y culturales de la sociedad; con los espacios de poder, con fragmentos controlados, con normatividad y modelamiento. Este artículo examina las representaciones sociales y culturales de los concursos de belleza y de los salones de belleza, a partir de la historia oral, para la reconstrucción de algunos estereotipos de belleza y representaciones corporales presentes en la Costa Rica de 1950- 1980. La historia oral será parte del utillaje necesario para poner en primer plano la voz, la conciencia y la visibilización de las temáticas relevantes para las mujeres; desde lo micro, se definirán los focos de atención, la articulación de los espacios, las problemáticas así como las contradicciones a la norma y el cumplimiento de ésta.
Comparative Physiology and Nutrition of Lagenidium callinectes and Haliphthoros milfordensis, Fungal Parasites of Marine Crustaceans
Authors: Bahnweg G. , Bland Ch. E.
Published: January 2017

Lagenidium callinectes Couch and Haliphthoros milfordensis Vishniac. facultative parasites of marine crustaceans, were subjected to a detailed analysis of their physiological and nutritional requirements. Twelve isolates, six of each species. were used in this study. Temperature, salinity, and pH ranges of growth were determined. Vitamins B