bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical analysis of anaemia deferral in blood donor candidates: the individual in the population perspective
Authors: Oliveira C. Di Lorenzo , Martins G. , Custer B. , Proietti F. A. , Carneiro‐Proietti A. B. F. , César C. Comini 
Published: October 2011

Background and objectives: Deferral due to anaemia is common in blood donor selection, mainly owing to iron deficiency. This study analysed the prevalence of anaemia, its individual and group‐associated factors in 335 095 blood donor candidates in the Hemominas Foundation, a public blood centre in Minas Gerais State, Brazil.Materials and methods: For the hierarchical analysis, gender, self‐reported skin colour and age were included as independent variables at the individual level. Second level variables included proportion of self‐reported white, male proportion, prevalence of sickle cell trait and Human Development Index (HDI) for the cities where the blood centres were located.Results: Deferral due to anaemia was 9·71% in the donor population in the present study. Differences among geographic areas throughout the State were observed; living in an area with lower HDI (P < 0·032), female gender and non‐white skin colour (both P < 0·001) were significantly associated with anaemia. Cities with a lower HDI had higher prevalence rates of anaemia when compared with the others. Anaemia was more pronounced among female and non‐white donors and in the northern part of the State.Conclusion: A high deferral of blood donors due to anaemia, mostly associated with poverty was observed and deserves attention from the public health perspective. Blood centres should consider the profile of donors and their geographic location when planning mobile blood collection or regional campaigns.
Audio‐video decision support for patients: the documentary genré as a basis for decision aids
Authors: Volandes Angelo E. , Barry Michael J. , Wood Fiona , Elwyn Glyn 
Published: October 2011

AbstractObjective Decision support tools are increasingly using audio‐visual materials. However, disagreement exists about the use of audio‐visual materials as they may be subjective and biased.Methods This is a literature review of the major texts for documentary film studies to extrapolate issues of objectivity and bias from film to decision support tools.Results The key features of documentary films are that they attempt to portray real events and that the attempted reality is always filtered through the lens of the filmmaker. The same key features can be said of decision support tools that use audio‐visual materials. Three concerns arising from documentary film studies as they apply to the use of audio‐visual materials in decision support tools include whose perspective matters (stakeholder bias), how to choose among audio‐visual materials (selection bias) and how to ensure objectivity (editorial bias).Discussion Decision science needs to start a debate about how audio‐visual materials are to be used in decision support tools. Simply because audio‐visual materials may be subjective and open to bias does not mean that we should not use them.Conclusion Methods need to be found to ensure consensus around balance and editorial control, such that audio‐visual materials can be used.
Feasibility and acceptability of a decision aid designed for people facing advanced or terminal illness: a pilot randomized trial
Authors: Matlock Dan D. , Keech Tarah A. E. , McKenzie Marlene B. , Bronsert Michael R. , Nowels Carolyn T. , Kutner Jean S. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractBackground  Patients nearing the end of their lives face an array of difficult decisions.Objective  This study was designed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a decision aid (DA) designed for patients facing advanced or terminal illness.Design  We conducted a pilot randomized clinical trial of Health Dialog’s Looking Ahead: choices for medical care when you’re seriously ill DA (booklet and DVD) applied to patients on a hospital‐based palliative care (PC) service.Setting  University of Colorado Hospital – December 2009 and May 2010.Participants  All adult, English‐speaking patients or their decision makers were potentially eligible. Patients were not approached if they were in isolation, did not speak English or if any provider felt that they were not appropriate because of issues such as family conflict or actively dying.Intervention  All participants received a standard PC consultation. Participants in the intervention arm also received a copy of the DA.Measurements  Primary outcomes included decision conflict and knowledge. Participants in the intervention arm also completed an acceptability questionnaire and qualitative exit interviews.Results  Of the 239 patients or decision makers, 51(21%) enrolled in the trial. The DA had no significant effect on decision conflict or knowledge. Exit interviews indicated it was acceptable and empowering, although they wished they had access to the DA earlier.Conclusions  While the DA was acceptable, feasibility was limited by late‐life illness challenges. Future trials of this DA should be performed on patients earlier in their illness trajectory and should include additional outcome measures such as self‐efficacy and confidence.
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Larson AM , Hedgire SS , Deshpande V , Stemmer‐Rachamimov AO , Harisinghani MG , Ferrone CR , Shah U , Thiele EA 
Published: October 2011

Larson AM, Hedgire SS, Deshpande V, Stemmer‐Rachamimov AO, Harisinghani MG, Ferrone CR, Shah U, Thiele EA. Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex.We explored pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) to determine their incidence in the TSC population; define their clinical, radiological, and pathological characteristics; and investigate their association with underlying genotypes. Retrospectively reviewed abdominal imaging of 219 patients with TSC, evaluating the incidence, size, and architecture of pancreatic lesions. Pathology records at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) were reviewed for all PanNET diagnoses in patients with TSC. Literature was reviewed for TSC‐related PanNET cases. Nine patients with TSC were found to have a pancreatic lesion(s) on abdominal imaging and six patients have been diagnosed with a PanNET by pathology at MGH. Twelve cases of TSC‐associated PanNETs have been reported in the literature. Of these 18 PanNET cases, one third were cystic, and the average age at resection was 26 years. Germline TSC2 mutations were found in all patients for whom genetic data were available (n = 3). We did not identify pancreatic angiomyolipomas in this series. Our results suggest that PanNETs are the most common pancreatic lesion in patients with TSC. Focal pancreatic mass lesions, solid or cystic, in patients with TSC should be considered possible PanNETs, and resection of the lesion may be clinically indicated.
The influence of laboratory‐induced MELD score differences on liver allocation: more reality than myth
Authors: Schouten J.N. , Francque S. , Van Vlierberghe H. , Colle I. , Nevens F. , Delwaide J. , Adler M. , Starkel P. , Ysebaert D. , Gadisseur A. , De Winter B. , Smits J.M. , Rahmel A. , Michielsen P. 
Published: October 2011

Schouten JN, Francque S, Van Vlierberghe H, Colle I, Nevens F, Delwaide J, Adler M, Starkel P, Ysebaert D, Gadisseur A, De Winter B, Smits JM, Rahmel A, Michielsen P. The influence of laboratory‐induced MELD score differences on liver allocation: more reality than myth.  Clin Transplant 2012: 26: E62–E70. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract:  Background:  Liver allocation in Eurotransplant (ET) is based on the MELD score. Interlaboratory MELD score differences in INR and creatinine determination have been reported. The clinical implication of this observation has not been demonstrated.Methods:  MELD scores were calculated in 66 patients with liver cirrhosis using bilirubin, creatinine, and INR analyzed in six liver transplant centers. Based on allocation results of ET, patients transplanted from December 2006 to June 2007 were divided according to MELD score in four groups. For each group, the influence of the match MELD on the probability of receiving a transplant was studied (Cox proportional hazards model).Results:  Laboratory‐dependent significant differences in MELD score were demonstrated. Cox proportional hazards model showed a significant association between MELD score and the probability of organ allocation. The unadjusted hazard ratio for receiving a liver transplant was significantly different between group 2 and group 4 (group 2: MELD 19–24; group 4: MELD > 30).Conclusion:  Laboratory‐dependent significant differences in MELD score were observed between the six transplant centers. We demonstrated a significant association between the MELD score and the probability of organ allocation. The observed interlaboratory variation might yield a significant difference in organ allocation in patients with high MELD scores.
Simultaneous pancreas and kidney (SPK) retransplantation in prior SPK recipients
Authors: LaMattina John C. , Sollinger Hans W. , Becker Yolanda T. , Mezrich Joshua D. , Pirsch John D. , Odorico Jon S. 
Published: October 2011

LaMattina JC, Sollinger HW, Becker YT, Mezrich JD, Pirsch JD, Odorico JS. Simultaneous pancreas and kidney (SPK) retransplantation in prior SPK recipients.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01540.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract:  Introduction:  We have performed 113 renal and 28 isolated pancreas retransplants in our cohort of more than 1200 prior simultaneous pancreas and kidney (SPK) recipients. On the basis of these experiences, we began performing repeat SPK in prior SPK recipients (n = 9).Methods:  This retrospective review summarizes our experience with repeat SPK transplantation in prior SPK recipients. Mean age at retransplant was 39 yr; mean interval to retransplant was 7.8 yr. Thirty‐three percent were pre‐dialysis. Eighty‐nine percent of patients underwent transplant nephrectomy (five during the repeat SPK and three prior to it), and 78% underwent transplant pancreatectomy (four during the repeat SPK and three prior to it). Enteric drainage was performed in all repeat SPKs.Results:  Median length of stay was 11 d. Perioperative complications included the following: renal artery thrombosis (1), pancreatic portal venous thrombosis (1), enteric leak (1), and hematoma (2). Overall pancreatic allograft survival was 78% at one yr and 67% at two yr. Overall renal allograft survival was 89% at one yr and 78% at two yr. Patient survival at one and three yr was 100%.Conclusions:  Survival of repeat SPK allografts is acceptable despite the increased technical and immunologic demands of retransplantation. Graftectomy prior to or at the time of retransplantation is often necessary.
Health‐related quality of life and employment among renal transplant recipients
Authors: Chisholm‐Burns Marie A. , Erickson Steven R. , Spivey Christina A. , Kaplan Bruce 
Published: October 2011

Chisholm‐Burns MA, Erickson SR, Spivey CA, Kaplan B. Health‐related quality of life and employment among renal transplant recipients.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01541.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract:  Objective:  To examine the relationship between health‐related quality of life (HQoL) and employment status in renal transplant recipients (RTRs).Methods:  Eighty‐two RTRs met inclusion criteria: 21–65 yr of age; greater than one yr post‐transplant; and received calcineurin inhibitors. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted using a demographics questionnaire and the following HQoL instruments: SF‐12 Health Survey version 2 (Physical Component Summary [PCS‐12] and Mental Component Summary [MCS‐12]) and Kidney Transplant Questionnaire (KTQ). Two multivariate logistic regression analyses (SF‐12 model and KTQ model) were conducted to determine whether HQoL and demographic variables were independently associated with employment status.Results:  Seventy‐five RTRs were included in the analysis. Compared with employed RTRs, a greater number of unemployed RTRs were non‐white, had lower education levels, and had deceased donor transplants (p < 0.05). Employed RTRs had significantly higher SF‐12 scores (p < 0.05). In the SF‐12 logistic regression model, PCS‐12 and education level were significant predictors of employment status (p < 0.05). In the KTQ model, the Fatigue subscale and education level were significant predictors of employment status (p < 0.05).Conclusions:  Findings suggest higher PCS‐12, higher KTQ‐Fatigue, and education level are independently associated with employment status. Interventions targeted to improve HQoL, decrease fatigue, and increase education level are discussed.
The Effects of Venture Capitalists on the Governance of Firms
Authors: Bonini Stefano , Alkan Senem , Salvi Antonio 
Published: October 2011

ABSTRACTManuscript Type: EmpiricalResearch Question/Issue: What determines venture capitalists influence on the governance of firms? How do venture capitalists shape the governance of their investees? Are venture capitalists governance practices consistent across countries? These important questions are under‐investigated in the extant literature. In this study, we shed light on the effects of venture capital investors on a large set of governance decisions and we discover the existence of striking cross‐country differences.Research Findings/Insights: We test our conjectures on a unique hand‐collected questionnaire‐based dataset of 164 companies in five countries and two regions (Europe and the US). Our empirical results show that there is a strong and positive relationship between VCs' funding and their influence on some factors like decisions on CEO hiring, executive compensation, board decisions and appointments. Employee incentives are also positively related to the proportion of VC funding. On the other hand, results show that the proportion of VC funding is only marginally significant in explaining VC influence on strategy direction and investment planning. Our analysis though, offers a remarkably different view after splitting data into European and American subsamples.Theoretical/Academic Implications: Our results provide a novel view of the functioning of the Venture Capital industry and its degree of pervasiveness in the management of portfolio companies. Adopting a unique dataset, we add new evidence on detailed governance decisions, thus supporting the idea that the incremental contribution of a professional investor to a new venture is largely exceeding the capital infusion only. Finally, we show that governance decisions exhibit significant country effects. This evidence supports the view that a global theory of corporate governance cannot rely on a single interpretation framework such as agency theory, but needs to be integrated with predictions from alternative views such institutional theory.Practitioner/Policy Implications: Corporate governance is the essential mechanism allowing proper management of financial and corporate resources by aligning incentives of employees and investors, thus enabling oversight and control on companies. Yet, corporate governance rules and mechanisms are costly and have different effectiveness across countries. Our results provide guidance to investors in selecting the appropriate set of governance provisions conditional on a set of investment‐specific factors.
Social support in single parents' transition from welfare to work: Analysis of qualitative findings1
Authors: Cook Kay E. 
Published: October 2011

Cook KE. Social support in single parents' transition from welfare to work: Analysis of qualitative findingsSince 1995, single parents have been required to participate in welfare‐to‐work activities. While quantitative meta‐analyses have consolidated the social and economic impacts of such transitions, no attempt has yet been made to synthesise the qualitative evidence. In this article, I offer an analysis of 16 qualitative articles that explore the role of social support in the lives of single mothers making the transition from welfare to work. By focusing on the functions and reciprocal nature of social support, this study examined how welfare‐to‐work programmes shift women's dependence from the state onto family and friends, many of whom are in similarly impoverished situations and/or are unable to provide adequate support. Furthermore, women are often required to reciprocate the support they receive, which creates additional barriers to a successful welfare‐to‐work transition.
Cute Masquerade and the Pimping of Japan
Authors: MILLER LAURA 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThis essay will consider gendered aspects of Cool Japan ideology as found in government‐sponsored texts and imagery, as well as in other international arenas. Although scholars have recently offered critiques of Cool Japan as a form of nationalistic nation branding, uses of an objectified femininity have rarely been included in these analyses. By displacing female innovations and creativity in cultural production to the margins, Cool Japan reifies and officially promotes male geek culture. We find general dematerialization of the producers of Cool Japan ideology, which in turn becomes characterized as creative, quirky, edgy, and benign, thus masking the way Cool Japan has been produced, critiqued, imagined and endorsed primarily by male elites in Japan and internationally. This discussion suggests that Cool Japan's otaku ethos does not include women and girls who fail to conform to a narrow model of cute femininity, thus maintaining and promoting structures of gender stratification. In addition, the global spread and government exploitation of uncomplicated cuteness (kawaii) often confounds a flat understanding of the aesthetic with a gendered perspective and its expressions in girl culture. Women and girls are contained in Cool Japan ideology, and are not usually represented as shaping, resisting, creating or critiquing Japanese popular culture.
The Pitfall Facing the Cool Japan Project: The Transnational Development of the Anime Industry under the Condition of Post‐Fordism*
Authors: MŌRI YOSHITAKA 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThis paper examines the way in which the anime industry has developed since the mid‐1960s, by looking at transnational production systems and the international division of labor. First, it tries to demonstrate that anime, though seen both as a cultural product originating from Japan and as an export within the recent Cool Japan project promoted by the Japanese government, has, from the beginning of its history, been a very hybridized product due to the transnational production system, in particular among Japan, Korea and China. Second, the paper also shows how this transnational production system has led to the lasting poor labor conditions suffered by Japanese animators, one of the prototypes for freeters in the 1990s. Third, by examining the anime promotion policy led by the Chinese government, I would like to discuss the possible future of anime production systems in the age of digital production in Asia.
Fabricating Japaneseness? The Identity Politics of Young Designers and Artists in Global Cities
Authors: FUJITA YUIKO 
Published: October 2011

AbstractThe present study explores the identity politics of young Japanese designers and artists working across national boundaries today. It addresses the following research questions: (i) Do young designers and artists aim to produce works with “universal” appeal or strategically make use of “Japaneseness”? (ii) Do they develop new transnational identities or regard themselves as “Japanese”? and (iii) Who do they think has the power to label their works as “Japanese” in the art worlds? For this purpose, I conducted in‐depth interviews with professional designers and artists who have migrated from Japan to London, New York, or Paris. The results show that most designers and artists who were interviewed indeed aim to produce works with “universal” appeal, while only a few respondents attempt to strategically express “Japaneseness” in their works. However, regardless of whether they make use of “Japaneseness” or not, all respondents regard themselves as “Japanese” without developing new transnational identities. Even so, they do not search for or hold onto Japaneseness; but rather the media, as well as a certain part of the art world, persistently attempt to emphasize “Japaneseness,” due to the structure of the art world, where whiteness continues to be the “norm.” While designers and artists are increasingly oriented toward creating works with new forms and values through the transnational production system, gatekeepers and legitimators of the art world continue to fabricate “the nation” and reinforce boundaries of national culture.
Social Integration in Post‐Multiculturalism: An Analysis of Social Integration Policy in Post‐war Britain
Authors: ADACHI SATOSHI 
Published: October 2011

AbstractSocial integration is one of the most urgent issues in Western countries, where cultural diversity has been recognized to make social unity danger. In the past, social integration used to be tackled by multiculturalism, which was an effort to recognize cultural diversity as a positive aspect of society. However, multiculturalism is losing the moral support of society because multiculturalism itself could not be a social glue among different people; rather it is thought to make society unstable. Thus, a new philosophy and policy is required to manage the issues of social integration in a globalized social environment. In order to create social integration, on one hand, people with different backgrounds need to share the same concept of society. On the other hand, people have to become accustomed to cultural diversity. However, this is not easily accomplished because both measures for social integration seem to be politically contradictory and incompatible. How, and by what reasons, could these two conditions of social integration be satisfied? To answer this question, this paper scrutinizes the changes in social integration policy in post‐war Britain. I divide social integration policy in Britain into three stages focusing on the relationship between social unity and cultural diversity: from after World War II to 1979; Thatcher's and Major's Conservative Governments; and Blair's new Labour Government. The social integration policy and philosophy of the new Labour Government in particular is important because it represents post‐multiculturalism discourse for social integration. The Labour Government tried to establish social integration by introducing an abstract common identity, which both the majority and minority groups could accept and which is compatible with various cultural or religious conventions and teaching, as it were, citizenship and Britishness, as a set of liberal values. Although the Labour Government's policy itself was controversial, it is giving us a reference point for the debate on social integration in a post‐multicultural era.