bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
How Political Parties Use Referendums: An Analytical Framework
Authors: Gherghina Sergiu 
Published: March 2019

This article is part of the special cluster titled Political Parties and Direct Democracy in Eastern Europe, guest-edited by Sergiu Gherghina. Extensive research has shown how political parties use referendums to achieve their goals. Most studies use either a policy-oriented or an institution-based approach to explain parties’ actions. In spite of much empirical evidence, to date the analytical dimensions have not been put together to facilitate the study of referendum instrumentalization across countries. This article makes a first step in that direction and proposes a typology that distinguishes between the goals and types of action of political parties. The theoretical reasoning behind such a typology is then backed by empirical evidence from the five East European countries included in the special section of this journal.
Biomechanical Comparison of Low-Profile Contoured Locking Plate With Single Compression Screw to Fully Threaded Compression Screws for First MTP Fusion
Authors: Fuld Richard S. , Kumparatana Pam , Kelley Judas , Anderson Nicholas , Baldini Todd , Younger Alastair S. E. , Hunt Kenneth J. 
Published: March 2019

Background: Open metatarsophalangeal (MTP) arthrodesis using locked plates produces good clinical outcomes. However, arthroscopic fusion with new-generation fully threaded compression screws is emerging as an alternative. The purpose of this study was to compare low-profile contoured locked plates with fully threaded compression screws for first MTP fusion, in a biomechanical cadaveric model. Methods: The first rays of 8 matched pairs of fresh frozen cadaveric feet underwent dissection and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scanning to measure bone mineral density (BMD). The “plate” group was prepared with cup-and-cone reamers, and fixation of the MTP joint with 1 compression screw and low-profile dorsal locked plate. The matched-pair “screws” group was prepared through a simulated arthroscopic technique, achieving fixation with 2 new-generation fully threaded compression screws. The plantar MTP gap was recorded with an extensometer during 250 000 90-N cyclic loads followed by a single load to failure. Results: The screw group demonstrated significantly greater stiffness, 31.6 N/mm (plates) and 51.7 N/mm (screws) ( P = .0045). There was no significant difference in plantar gapping or load to failure, 198.6 N (plates) and 290.1 N (screws) ( P = .2226). Stiffness and load to failure were highly correlated to BMD for the screw group, r =0.79 and r = 0.94, respectively, but less so for the plate group, r = 0.36 and r = 0.62, respectively. The maximum metatarsal head height measured on the lateral view was strongly correlated with load to failure for both the plate- and screw-only groups ( r > 0.9). Conclusion: These data demonstrate that hallux MTP arthrodesis utilizing fully threaded compression screws had similar plantar gapping and load to failure when compared with the low-profile locking plate, but with significantly more stiffness. These results support an increased role of fully threaded screws for MTP arthrodesis using either the arthroscopic or open technique. However, with decreased BMD plate fixation may remain the better fixation choice. Clinical Relevance: Our data suggest that with regard to construct stability, fully threaded headless compression screws may be just as effective as low-profile locking plates, but BMD and MTP joint fluoroscopic measurements should be considered in the decision-making process for fixation.
Validation of the Super Simple Hip score combined with the University of California, Los Angeles activity scale for younger patients
Authors: de Vlieger Johan C N , van Kampen Paulien M , Henkus Hans-Erik , van Beers Loes W A H , Wolkenfelt Julius , Wolterbeek Nienke , Jaspars Coen , Hogervorst Tom 
Published: March 2019

Introduction: Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) are used increasingly, but for young patients with hip complaints, traditional scoring systems have a ceiling effect that limits their usability. We developed and validated the Super Simple Hip (SUSHI) score, a PROM specifically targeted at younger patients with hip complaints. Although the SUSHI measured hip problems adequately, the responsiveness of its activity rating component was considered inadequate. Consequently, we replaced the activity rating component by the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) activity scale. The aim of this study was to validate the resulting new 10-item SUSHI-UCLA score. Methods: A prospective multicentre observational cohort study was performed. Patients between 18 and 59 years, who visited the Orthopaedic Department with hip complaints, completed the SUSHI-UCLA and hip osteoarthritis outcome score (HOOS) twice before their 1st appointment, and once 16 months after. Results: 142 patients were included (mean age 49 years; SD 8.8). The SUSHI-UCLA score correlated well with the HOOS, both before and after treatment (Spearman’s rho = 0.739 and 0.847, respectively, both p < 0.001). The responsiveness of both the SUSHI-UCLA score and the UCLA activity scale was high (standardised response mean = 2.51 and 1.35 respectively). The reproducibility was good (interclass correlation coefficient for agreement = 0.962). The minimal important change was 21.2. No significant floor or ceiling effect was observed. Conclusion: The SUSHI-UCLA score is an adequate PROM to measure hip complaints in younger patients and includes a validated activity rating.
Antithrombotic Therapy After Revascularization in Patients With Peripheral Arterial Disease: What Is Here, What Is Next
Authors: Amer Mostafa R. , Chaturvedula Surya Teja , Joshi Saurabh , Ingrassia Joseph 
Published: March 2019

Objective: The optimal antithrombotic regimen in peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is not known, leading to significant variations in antithrombotic treatment protocols in randomized trials and clinical practice. In device trials, antithrombotic regimens in patients receiving peripheral vascular interventions have not been clearly reported on. This review summarizes and discusses the most recent evidence on this topic to provide a potential guide to clinical practice. Methods: A search of the literature was done for publications that reported outcomes of major PAD device trials. Reported outcomes and various antithrombotic regimens were studied. Results: Use of antithrombotic therapy varied significantly between various device trials. Reporting of antithrombotic regimens at the time of follow-up is lacking. Conclusion: Outcome data on optimal antithrombotic regimens are presently lacking largely due to the significant heterogeneity and underreporting of antithrombotic regimens at follow-up among prior clinical trials. Standardization and reporting of precise antithrombotic regimens at various points of follow-up in device trials of patients with PAD should be attempted so as to minimize differences in treatment patterns when evaluating new devices.
Reported Prevalence of Radiographic Cam Deformity Based on Sport: A Systematic Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Knapik Derrick M. , Gaudiani Michael A. , Camilleri Brian E. , Nho Shane J. , Voos James E. , Salata Michael J. 
Published: March 2019

Background: Repetitive loading and shear stress across the proximal femur account for the high prevalence of cam deformity in athletes. Purpose: To systematically review the literature to identify the reported number, age, mean alpha angle measurements, and differences between male and female athletes with radiographic cam deformity based on sport. Study Design: Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: A systematic review was conducted of studies in the literature between January 1990 and March 2018 that reported on athletes with radiographic cam deformity based on sport. PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed, and PubMed, Biosis Previews, SPORTDiscus, PEDro, and EMBASE databases were used. Inclusion criteria included studies documenting radiographic cam deformity based on alpha angle measurements categorized according to the athlete’s primary sport and according to sex. Exclusion criteria were (1) studies not documenting primary sport, (2) studies not reporting total number of athletes with radiographic cam deformity, and (3) studies not separating cam deformity based on sex or using alpha angle measurements. Statistical analysis was used to compare mean reported age and alpha angle measurements between males and females. Results: A total of 28 studies consisting of 1160 male and 53 female athletes with radiographic cam deformity were identified. Cam lesions were most commonly reported in soccer athletes among both males and females, followed by hockey and American football. Male athletes had significantly higher mean alpha angle measurements (59.9° ± 5.5°) compared with female athletes (48.3° ± 6.9°) ( P = .001). No significant difference in age was appreciated between males (21.1 ± 4.0 years) and females (21.7 ± 3.0 years) ( P = .62). Conclusion: Radiographic cam deformity is most commonly reported in athletes participating in soccer and hockey. Males possessed significantly greater mean alpha angle measurements compared with females, whereas no significant difference in mean age at the time of diagnosis was appreciated between sexes.
Anticonvulsant Prophylaxis and Steroid Use in Adults With Metastatic Brain Tumors: ASCO and SNO Endorsement of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons Guidelines
Authors: Chang Susan M. , Messersmith Hans , Ahluwalia Manmeet , Andrews David , Brastianos Priscilla K. , Gaspar Laurie E. , Gatson Na Tosha N. , Jordan Justin T. , Khasraw Mustafa , Lassman Andrew B. , Maues Julia , Mrugala Maciej , Raizer Jeffrey , Schiff David , Stevens Glen , Sumrall Ashley , van den Bent Martin , Vogelbaum Michael A. 
Published: March 2019

PURPOSE The Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) has developed a series of guidelines for the treatment of adults with metastatic brain tumors, including systemic therapy and supportive care topics. ASCO has a policy and set of procedures for endorsing clinical practice guidelines that have been developed by other professional organizations. METHODS Two CNS guidelines were reviewed for developmental rigor by methodologists, and an independent multidisciplinary Expert Panel was formed to review the content and assess agreement with the recommendations. The Expert Panel voted to endorse the two guidelines, and ASCO and Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) independently reviewed and approved the ASCO/SNO guideline endorsement. RESULTS The ASCO/SNO Expert Panel determined that the recommendations from the CNS anticonvulsants and steroids guidelines, published January 9, 2019, are clear, thorough, and based on the most relevant scientific evidence. ASCO/SNO endorsed these two CNS guidelines with minor alterations. RECOMMENDATIONS Key recommendations include the following: prophylactic antiepileptic drugs were not recommended for routine use; and corticosteroids, specifically dexamethasone, were recommended for temporary symptomatic relief in patients with neurologic symptoms and signs related to mass effect from brain metastases. Additional information is available at www.asco.org/neurooncology-guidelines .
Pgc suppresses the zygotically acting RNA decay pathway to protect germ plasm RNAs in the Drosophila embryo
Authors: Hanyu-Nakamura Kazuko , Matsuda Kazuki , Cohen Stephen M. , Nakamura Akira 
Published: March 2019

ABSTRACT
Specification of germ cells is pivotal to ensure continuation of animal species. In many animal embryos, germ cell specification depends on maternally supplied determinants in the germ plasm. Drosophila polar granule component (pgc) mRNA is a component of the germ plasm. pgc encodes a small protein that is transiently expressed in newly formed pole cells, the germline progenitors, where it globally represses mRNA transcription. pgc is also required for pole cell survival, but the mechanism linking transcriptional repression to pole cell survival remains elusive. We report that pole cells lacking pgc show premature loss of germ plasm mRNAs, including the germ cell survival factor nanos, and undergo apoptosis. We found that pgc– pole cells misexpress multiple miRNA genes. Reduction of miRNA pathway activity in pgc– embryos partially suppressed germ plasm mRNA degradation and pole cell death, suggesting that Pgc represses zygotic miRNA transcription in pole cells to protect germ plasm mRNAs. Interestingly, germ plasm mRNAs are protected from miRNA-mediated degradation in vertebrates, albeit by a different mechanism. Thus, independently evolved mechanisms are used to silence miRNAs during germ cell specification.
Selective Synthesis and Photocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Activities of Tantalum/Nitrogen-Codoped Anatase, Brookite and Rutile Titanium Dioxide
Authors: Nishioka Shunta , Kobayashi Makoto , Lu Daling , Kakihana Masato , Maeda Kazuhiko 
Published: March 2019

Abstract
Tantalum/nitrogen codoped titanium dioxide (TiO2:Ta,N) having a rutile structure has recently been reported to be a good photocatalyst for visible-light water oxidation. In this work, three different polymorphs of TiO2:Ta,N (anatase, brookite and rutile) were synthesized by a hydrothermal method using water-soluble titanium/tantalum complexes as precursors, followed by thermal nitridation with dry ammonia gas. Effects of the physicochemical properties on photocatalytic activity for O2 evolution from an aqueous silver nitrate solution under visible light (λ &gt; 400 nm) were investigated. Experimental results indicated that defect formation during the nitridation procedure was the dominant factor for photocatalytic activity. Anatase TiO2:Ta,N was the most active for O2 evolution among the three polymorphs, and also served as an O2 evolution photocatalyst in Z-scheme overall water splitting in combination with Rh-doped strontium titanate (SrTiO3:Rh) and an Fe3+/Fe2+ redox-shuttle mediator.
Finding a Needle in a Haystack: The Effects of Searching and Learning on Pick-Worker Performance
Authors: Batt Robert J. , Gallino Santiago 
Published: March 2019

The rise in online and multichannel retailing has pushed retailers to give increased attention to their order-fulfillment operations. We study “chaotic storage” fulfillment systems in which dissimilar items are stored together in a single location. This necessitates a searching task as part of the picking process, which has not been previously studied. We show that pick times increase by as much as 16% as the searching task becomes more difficult. However, the deleterious effect of searching decreases with pick-worker experience. Using simulation, we show that pick times can be improved by incorporating distance, bin density, and picker experience into pick assignments and pick routing. Through properly combining the details of the task and the workers, order-fulfillment productivity can be increased by approximately 5%. This paper was accepted by Vishal Gaur, operations management.
Efeitos dos exercícios de vibração de corpo inteiro na flexibilidade e no nível da dor de mulheres com síndrome metabólica: um estudo piloto
Authors: Paiva Patrícia C. , Figueiredo Claudia A. , Francisca-Santos Arlete , Silva Aline R. , Paineiras-Domingos Laisa , Sá-Caputo, Danúbia C. , Bernardo-Filho Mario 
Published: March 2019

Efeitos dos exercícios de vibração de corpo inteiro na flexibilidade e no nível da dor de mulheres com síndrome metabólica: um estudo piloto A síndrome metabólica (SMet) é caracterizada por um conjunto de fatores de risco, como diabetes e/ou resistência insulínica, obesidade abdominal, dislipidemia, hipertrigliceridemia e pressão arterial elevada, que aumenta o risco cardiovascular do indivíduo. O exercício físico regular promove a redução dos fatores de risco coronariano, bem como dos efeitos deletérios da SMet. Os exercícios de vibração de corpo inteiro (EVCI) executados na plataforma oscilante/vibratória (POV) são uma alternativa de fácil aplicação para a melhora também da força muscular e da qualidade de vida. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos cumulativos dos EVCI na flexibilidade e na dor em mulheres com SMet. Material e Métodos: Os efeitos cumulativos do EVCI (seis semanas) sobre a flexibilidade e a dor de dez mulheres, sendo cinco no grupo controle (GC) e cinco no grupo de EVCI (GEVCI), foram avaliados por meio do teste de flexão anterior de tronco (FAT) e do nível de dor pela escala numérica de dor (END). Resultados: Em relação à flexibilidade, os resultados sugerem que no efeito cumulativo houve melhora (p≤0,05) no GEVCI. Considerando o nível de dor, também foi verificado no efeito cumulativo uma redução da dor. Conclusão: Os EVCI seriam capazes de gerar respostas fisiológicas para melhorar a flexibilidade de mulheres com SMet, assim como alterar o nível de dor, no efeito cumulativo.Descritores: Síndrome metabólica; Exercício de vibração decorpo inteiro; Flexibilidade; Dor.
Inclusive Practice and Transformative Leadership Are Entwined
Authors: Opiyo Rose Atieno 
Published: March 2019

Inclusive Education (IE) is arguably a popular discourse in education systems as, not merely a concept that addresses needs of Learners with Special Needs (LSEN), but rather a relatively broad approach, continuous process that looks into how to transform both formal and non-formal education systems and other learning environments to respond to diversity. IE is placed at the core of human rights movement, Education for All (EFA) and social equity agenda with lots of educational social and economic premiums attached to this movement. While a lot is documented on the factors that slows down the progress towards more inclusive schools in Kenya, less is known about leadership acumen of school leaders yet, the art and science of transformation of the school into an effective inclusive environment squarely lies in the province of school leaders. This theoretical review is underpinned in the social model of disability. Based on personal inquiries, consultations with researchers in the area of transformative education and an extensive review of World Wide Web of organizations, databases, references, and on-line publications of empiric literature on transformative leadership, education management and inclusive education, this paper provides evidence that inclusive IE and transformative leadership are closely knit .It urges that IE initiatives geared towards supporting effective implementation and sustainability of inclusive schooling must interrogate leadership ability of school leaders and develop them as critical ingredients in turning round schools into effective inclusive learning environments.
Examining Child Development from an African Cultural Context
Authors: Mucherah Winnie , Mbogori Teresia 
Published: March 2019

Human development is multifaceted and characterized by physical, cognitive, social and emotional aspects. This development is strongly shaped by one’s socio-cultural context. It’s impossible to separate one’s culture explaining their development fully. For example, constructs like motivation for academic achievement, self-concept, self-esteem, and identity development can only be adequately understood within one’s social-cultural contexts. What motivates a student in Kenya to achieve academically may be different from what motivates a student in the US to achieve. Unfortunately most frames of reference in explaining “optimal” development seem to be based on Western and/or European standards. Most examples in textbooks are Western or European based, hardly any from an African perspective, unless it’s explaining “inadequate” development. Clearly, there is a need for transformation in the education system on the continent of Africa. This paper will address five key aspects of child development that needs to be critically examined within the African context.
OPTIONS FOR SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CHRONIC C2 ODONTOID FRACTURES
Authors: Kuleshov A. A. , Shkarubo A. N. , Eskin N. A. , Vetrile M. S. , Lisyansky I. N. , Makarov S. N. , Ponomarenko G. P. , Chernov I. V. 
Published: March 2019

The paper presents a review of three clinical cases of treating patients with chronic fractures of the odontoid process of C2 vertebra using various combinations of surgical techniques. In all cases, complete decompression of the spinal cord and stabilization of the upper cervical segment of the spine were achieved. A decrease in the range of motion in the cervical spine was observed, which did not affect patient satisfaction. A gradual regression of the neurological status and increase in muscle strength were recorded. Comparative analysis of the neurological status was carried out before and after surgical treatment. When assessing the general condition of patients using the index of disability due to pain in the neck (NDI), an improvement in the quality of life was noted. These data show the opportunities and peculiarities of methods for treating patients with chronic C2 odontoid fractures.Type of publication: description of clinical cases. Evidence level: IV.
DEGENERATIVE SPINE DISORDERS COMPLICATED BY RADICULAR SYNDROME IN CHILDREN: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL ANALYSIS OF A 17-YEAR REGIONAL COHORT STUDY
Authors: Snishchuk V. P. , Mushkin A. Yu. 
Published: March 2019

Objective.To analyze epidemiological and clinical features of degenerative disease of the spine complicated by radicular syndrome in children, as well as the effectiveness of its treatment on the example of one of the largest regions of the Russian Federation.Material and Methods.Design of the study corresponds to a retrospective cohort clinical and epidemiological study for 17 years. The study included 201 patients aged 10–17 years with degenerative changes in the spine complicated by radicular syndrome. An epidemiological analysis included the assessment of the regional incidence of degenerative diseases of the spine in children, and clinical analysis – the effectiveness of conservative and surgical treatment. The age and sex structure of the cohort, the level of pathology, the effectiveness of surgical treatment, and age-related features of early spinal discosis in children as compared with degenerative lesions of the spine in adults were analyzed.Results.The epidemiological frequency of degenerative diseases accompanied by clinical manifestations and requiring special treatment in the Leningrad Region was assessed as 8.7 per 100 thousand children aged 10–17 years. Conservative treatment was effective in 172 patients, and 29 patients were treated with surgery. Surgical results were followed up for 1 to 16 years after surgery and were evaluated as excellent, good, and satisfactory respectively in 4 (14 %), 20 (69 %), and 5 (17 %) cases. Complications were reported in two cases: migration of the interbody stabilizing implant and positional neuropathy of the peroneal nerve associated with the position on the operating table.Conclusion. The epidemiological analysis conducted on a regional cohort of the Leningrad Region can be used in assessing the potential need for conservative and surgical treatment of children with degenerative pathology in other regions of Russia. Conservative treatment of this pathology is quite effective, and surgical decompression of nerve roots was required only in 14.4 % of cases.