bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Which conditions foster high-involvement work processes? A synthesis of the literature and agenda for research
Authors: Boxall Peter , Winterton Jonathan
Published: September 2015

High-involvement models of working are associated with high levels of worker influence over the work process, identified through worker perceptions of their jobs and working environment. This article reviews what is known about the conditions that foster the adoption of such models. Drawing on studies of worker participation in management since the 1950s, the article seeks to understand what explains the dispersion of high-involvement work processes in the private sector. In terms of understanding the potential for worker involvement in decision-making, the article argues that it is important to analyse the way in which managers develop production systems in firms. A range of conditions in manufacturing and in services are then discussed. While economic incentives are critical, the ongoing existence of societal differences, including a pronounced ‘Nordic effect’, suggests that economically unattractive environments do not necessarily lack opportunities to enhance worker well-being through greater involvement.
Prevention of Subsequent Catheter‐Related Bloodstream Infection Using Catheter Locks in High‐Risk Patients Receiving Home Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Davidson Jacob B. , Edakkanambeth Varayil Jithinraj , Okano Akiko , Whitaker Jennifer A. , Bonnes Sara L. , Kelly Darlene G. , Mundi Manpreet S. , Hurt Ryan T.
Published: September 2015

Introduction:Catheter‐related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is a serious complication in patients receiving home parenteral nutrition (HPN). Antibiotic lock therapy (ALT) and ethanol lock therapy (ELT) can be used to prevent CRBSI episodes in high‐risk patients. Methods: Following institutional review board approval, all patients enrolled in the Mayo Clinic HPN program from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2013, with catheter locking were eligible to be included. Patients without research authorization and <18 years old at the initiation of HPN were excluded. Total number of infections before and after ALT or ELT were estimated in all patients. Results: A total of 63 patients were enrolled during the study period. Of 59 eligible patients, 29 (49%) were female, and 30 (51%) were male. The median duration of HPN was 3.66 (interquartile range, 0.75–8.19) years. The mean age ± SD at initiation of HPN was 49.89 ± 14.07 years. A total of 51 patients were instilled with ALT, and 8 patients were instilled with ELT during their course of HPN. A total of 313 CRBSI episodes occurred in these patients, 264 before locking and 49 after locking (P < .001). Rate of infection per 1000 catheter days was 10.97 ± 25.92 before locking and 1.09 ± 2.53 after locking (P < .001). Discussion: The major findings of the present study reveal that ALT or ELT can reduce the overall rate of infections per 1000 catheter days. ALT or ELT can be used in appropriate clinical setting for patients receiving HPN.
Functioning in lymphoedema from the health professionals’ perspective using the international classification of functioning, disability and health as a reference
Authors: Viehoff Peter B , Pelzer Lianne , Heerkens Yvonne F , van Ravensberg Dorine C , Neumann Martino
Published: September 2015

Purpose

To capture the views of different health care providers involved in the treatment of patients with lymphoedema from various countries around the world on the functioning of lymphoedema patients and the factors influencing functioning of these patients using the international classification of functioning, disability and health (ICF).

Method

A worldwide e-mail survey with questions based on components of the ICF.

Results

In total, 142 health professionals from seven different health professions and 20 different countries answered the questions. The aspects of functioning that were named by the health professionals could be linked to 359 different ICF categories. Of these categories, 109 belonged to body functions (30.4%), 55 to body structures (15.3%), 121 to activities and participation (33.7%) and 74 to environmental factors (20.6%). Overall, the most mentioned items were health services, systems and policies, immunological system functions, looking after one’s health, products and technology for personal use in daily life and dressing.

Conclusions

The ICF provided a valuable reference for identifying concepts in statements from international health care professionals experienced in the treatment of lymphoedema patients. The results of this research will be used in the development of ICF core sets for lymphoedema.
Exploring the Shaping of Markets through Controversies
Authors: Blanchet Vivien , Depeyre Colette
Published: September 2015

Markets are sites of conflicting practices that raise controversies over their very organization. Drawing on Actor-Network Theory, this article defines controversies as dispute processes during which actors make sense of a situation by confronting their interests, beliefs, values, and opinions with those of others, and, in so doing, elaborate social facts. It develops propositions to study and narrate such controversies around three key methodological questions: case selection, data collection, and data analysis. The intention is to respect the complexity of controversies while at the same time structuring their analysis in a way that allows for intelligible accounts. The article therefore contributes to the study of modern agora and market shaping. It enables macromarketing scholars to go beyond dichotomies between human and non-human and between theory and practice, and to push forward our understanding of the links between markets, marketing, and society.
Administration of unfractionated heparin with prolonged fasting could reduce physiological 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in the heart
Authors: Masuda Atsuro , Naya Masanao , Manabe Osamu , Magota Keiichi , Yoshinaga Keiichiro , Tsutsui Hiroyuki , Tamaki Nagara
Published: September 2015

Background

The physiological uptake of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) in the heart often interferes with the accurate diagnosis of inflammatory cardiac diseases (CDs). Unfractionated heparin (UFH) administration may suppress its uptake through the alteration of myocardial metabolism.

Purpose

To clarify the effectiveness of UFH administration to suppress the physiological FDG uptake in the heart.

Material and Methods

The physiological FDG uptake in the heart was compared among 178 patients who fasted less than 18 h, 37 patients who fasted more than 18 h, and 64 patients who fasted more than 18 h and were administered UFH (UFH-CD group) prior to FDG PET/CT. Free fatty acid (FFA), triglyceride, insulin, and blood glucose levels were measured after UFH administration. Myocardial FDG uptake was evaluated by visual assessment and on the basis of maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax).

Results

In the UFH-CD group, the FFA level increased 15 min after UFH administration ( P < 0.01). Blood glucose and insulin levels remained unchanged ( P = NS). FDG physiological uptake was observed in 69% of the patients who fasted less than 18 h, 38% of the patients fasted more than 18 h, and 22% of the UFH-CD group ( P < 0.01 for trend). SUVmax decreased in the UFH-CD group compared with the patients who fasted less than 18 h ( P < 0.01) and the patients who fasted more than 18 h ( P = 0.029).

Conclusion

UFH administration and fasting more than 18 h could effectively suppress FDG physiological uptake in the heart and can be a useful method of detecting inflammatory CDs and tumors.
Diffusion-weighted MRI findings in Sjögren’s syndrome: a preliminary study
Authors: Ding Changwei , Xing Xiaofei , Guo Qiyong , Liu Dongwu , Guo Yun , Cui Huadong
Published: September 2015

Background

Parotid glands diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in Sjögren’s syndrome patients have provided conflicting results currently.

Purpose

To determine if parotid gland DWI using a small region of interest (ROI) can provide diagnosis and assess therapeutic efficacy in Sjögren’s syndrome.

Material and Methods

Twenty-three women with Sjögren’s syndrome, five with dry mouth who did not meet diagnostic criteria for Sjögren’s syndrome, and 11 healthy volunteers (controls) were evaluated with DWI. All participants received routine T1-weighted (T1W) imaging and T2-weighted (T2W) fat-suppressed imaging, and DWI. The SI ratios (SIRs) and ADC ratios (ADCRs) for parotid gland/spinal cord were then calculated. Approximately 8–10 round ROIs measuring approximately 5 mm2 were placed on each lobe of the parotid gland, and the signal intensity (SI) was measured while avoiding fat, ducts, and blood vessels. A ROI encompassing the entire lobe of the parotid gland was also used to measure SI.

Results

Using 5 mm2 ROIs significantly higher DWI SIRs were noted in participants with Sjögren’s syndrome compared with either participants with dry mouth without Sjögren’s syndrome or healthy volunteers (all, P <0.001). The difference was not related to the presence of fat. No differences were noted when the larger ROI was used. In addition, parotid gland from untreated Sjögren’s participants showed significantly higher SIRs compared with those from treated participants ( P = 0.015).

Conclusion

A small ROI DWI can provide morphological and functional information on the parotid gland in Sjögren’s syndrome patients, and can aid in the diagnosis and evaluation of therapeutic efficacy.
Soft Tissue Mineralization in Captive 2-Toed Sloths
Authors: Han S. , Garner M. M.
Published: September 2015

Soft tissue mineralization was diagnosed in 19 captive 2-toed sloths ( Choloepus didactylus and Choloepus hoffmanni) ranging from 2 months to 41 years of age. Gross mineralization was evident at necropsy in 6 of 19 sloths and was prominent in the aorta and arteries. Histologically, 11 sloths had arterial mineralization, including mural osseous and chondroid metaplasia and smooth muscle hyperplasia consistent with arteriosclerosis. Visceral mineralization most commonly involved the gastric mucosa (17 sloths), kidneys (17 sloths), and lungs (8 sloths). Eleven sloths ranging in age from 5 to 41 years old had moderate to severe renal disease, which may be an important underlying cause of soft tissue mineralization in adult sloths. However, 5 sloths (juveniles and adults) had severe soft tissue mineralization with histologically normal kidneys or only mild interstitial inflammation or fibrosis, suggesting other causes of calcium and phosphorus imbalance. Degenerative cardiac disease was a common finding in 10 sloths with vascular mineralization and varied from mild to severe with fibrosis and acute noninflammatory myocardial necrosis. Although the prevalence of cardiac disease in adult sloths has not been documented, disease may be exacerbated by hypertension from degenerative arteriosclerosis as noted in this study group. Although renal disease likely contributed substantially to mineralization of tissues in most sloths in this study, nutritional causes of soft tissue mineralization—such as imbalances in dietary vitamin D or calcium and phosphorus—may be an important contributing factor.
New initiatives in single-colour image-based fringe order estimation in digital photoelasticity
Authors: Ramesh Krishnamurthi , Ramakrishnan Vivek , Ramya C
Published: September 2015

The use of single-colour image for determining the fringe orders in digital photoelasticity has gained importance in recent years, and in this, the fringe orders are obtained by comparing the colour information at each pixel of the model image using a calibration table. They were originally used for identifying fringe orders of up to 3, and there have been attempts to extend this to higher fringe orders. The methods proposed were tested only for the special case of the application specimen where the fringe signature is similar to that in the calibration specimen for fringe orders beyond 3. In this article, various colour difference formulae are studied, and a new colour difference formula is proposed to handle fringes beyond 3. The advantage of the new colour difference formula is illustrated for the problem of a thick ring subjected to internal pressure and a finite plate with a hole. A new multi-directional smoothing methodology is proposed to smooth the fringe order obtained. The results are compared with those obtained by 10-step phase shifting technique. Advancing front scanning approach coupled with multiple seed points is used to solve a variety of problems in which both the geometry and the fringe signature are quite different from the calibration specimen. The influence of seed point selection is brought out by solving the problem of a plate with a hole having up to 15 fringe orders. New approaches to handle noisy industrial images are also dealt with.
A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial Evaluating the Effectiveness of Daily Vibration After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Lam Patrick H. , Hansen Kaitlyn , Keighley Geffrey , Hackett Lisa , Murrell George A.C.
Published: September 2015

Background:

Rotator cuff repair is a common method to treat rotator cuff tears; however, retear rates remain high. High-frequency, low-magnitude vibration has been demonstrated to promote new bone formation in both animal models and in humans.

Hypothesis:

This type of mechanical stimulation applied postoperatively will enhance tendon-to-bone healing and reduce postoperative retear rates.

Study Design:

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted to investigate the effects of 5 minutes of 80-Hz vibration applied daily after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair for 6 months on postoperative rotator cuff healing. The primary outcome was ultrasound-assessed repair integrity at 6 months after repair. Recruited patients were randomized into 2 groups: one group received a vibration device that oscillated at 80 Hz, and the other group received a placebo device.

Results:

The postoperative retear rates of both groups were similar (9.1% [5/55] in the vibration group, and 9.3% [5/54] in the placebo group) at 6 months as determined by ultrasound imaging. Vibration did provide acute pain relief at 6 weeks after surgery (visual analog scale [VAS] score, 2.24 ± 0.29 cm) compared with placebo (VAS score, 3.67 ± 0.48 cm) ( P < .003). Six months after surgery, both groups had significant reductions in pain during overhead activities, at rest, and during sleep and overall shoulder pain compared with before surgery ( P < .001). Both the vibration and placebo groups had significant increases in shoulder strength with abduction in the scapular plane, adduction, liftoff, internal rotation, and external rotation 6 months after surgery. Statistical analysis showed that vibration was not a contributing factor at improving these parameters in these periods.

Conclusion:

High-frequency, low-magnitude vibration did provide acute pain relief on application 6 weeks after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery. However, vibration did not improve tendon-to-bone healing, shoulder range of motion, shoulder strength, or shoulder pain with activities, at rest, and at night when compared with placebo.
“There’s More Between Heaven and Earth”
Authors: Arnett Jeffrey Jensen , Jensen Lene Arnett
Published: September 2015

In a qualitative interview study, 18 Danish emerging adults (ages 18-27) were asked about their religious beliefs and moral views. Most had received little or no formal religious training within their families, but they nevertheless participated in the “confirmation” process in the Danish state Lutheran church at age 14. Regarding their current beliefs, the majority were nonbelievers (agnostic, atheist, or no beliefs), and none expressed a traditional Christian faith. Nevertheless, they held a variety of beliefs in some kind of life after death; relatively few participants believed that death is simply the end of existence. In the two questions assessing moral views, participants drew from the Ethic of Autonomy and the Ethic of Community, but not the Ethic of Divinity. This finding also indicated the absence of religious considerations in the lives of Danish emerging adults. Overall, the results provide further information on the religious and moral beliefs of emerging adults, and on views of religious questions in an exceptionally nonreligious country.
Remote Assessment of Cognitive Function in Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (Batten disease)
Authors: Ragbeer Shayne N. , Augustine Erika F. , Mink Jonathan W. , Thatcher Alyssa R. , Vierhile Amy E. , Adams Heather R.
Published: September 2015

Remote technology provides an opportunity to extend the reach of clinical care and research for pediatric rare disease. This pilot study evaluated the feasibility and reliability of neuropsychological evaluation, using remote audiovisual technology, in the assessment of children with juvenile Batten disease. Three children with Batten disease and 1 healthy sibling completed a standardized cognitive assessment. Results indicated high agreement between an in-person and a remote evaluator when comparing the subjects’ cognitive test scores. This initial test of remote cognitive assessment suggests it is feasible and reliable in children with pediatric neurodegenerative disease, for whom disease burden may limit travel and access to expert care and/or clinical trials.
Recent Advances in Understanding and Managing Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Germain Blair , Eppinger Melissa A. , Mostofsky Stewart H. , DiCicco-Bloom Emanuel , Maria Bernard L.
Published: September 2015

Autism spectrum disorder in children is a group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by difficulties with social communication and behavior. Growing scientific evidence in addition to clinical practice has led the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ( DSM-5) to categorize several disorders into the broader category of autism spectrum disorder. As more is learned about how autism spectrum disorder manifests, progress has been made toward better clinical management including earlier diagnosis, care, and when specific interventions are required. The 2014 Neurobiology of Disease in Children symposium, held in conjunction with the 43rd annual meeting of the Child Neurology Society, aimed to (1) describe the clinical concerns involving diagnosis and treatment, (2) review the current status of understanding in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder, (3) discuss clinical management and therapies for autism spectrum disorder, and (4) define future directions of research. The article summarizes the presentations and includes an edited transcript of question-and-answer sessions.
A hybrid vibration isolator: Design, control, and experiments
Authors: Zhang Yang , Chen Zhaobo , Jiao Yinghou
Published: September 2015

A hybrid vibration isolator (HVI) is presented with its structure, dynamic model, control strategy and preliminary experiments. The HVI is composed of the active piezostack actuator and the passive rubber isolator, which has compact structure and high reliability. Based on the dynamic model and the formula derivation of the transmissibility, the control algorithm is established using the linear quadratic regulator method. The simulations indicate that the vibrations acting on the load platform are vastly reduced, where the active piezostack-based actuator can eliminate the resonance peak significantly. Moreover, the passive rubber-based isolator is effective to isolate a part of vibration once active control fails. Finally, an experimental system is built up to implement integrated passive and active vibration control using the HVI prototype. The experimental results verify the theoretical analysis work.
Socioeconomic Status and Social Support
Authors: John-Henderson Neha A. , Stellar Jennifer E. , Mendoza-Denton Rodolfo , Francis Darlene D.
Published: September 2015

Low socioeconomic status (SES) during childhood confers risk for adverse health in adulthood. Accumulating evidence suggests that this may be due, in part, to the association between lower childhood SES and higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Drawing from literature showing that low childhood SES predicts exaggerated physiological reactivity to stressors and that lower SES is associated with a more communal, socially attuned orientation, we hypothesized that inflammatory reactivity would be more greatly affected by cues of social support among individuals whose childhood SES was low than among those whose childhood SES was high. In two studies, we found that individuals with lower subjective childhood SES exhibited greater reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokine reactivity to a stressor in the presence of a supportive figure (relative to conditions with an unsupportive or neutral figure). These effects were independent of current SES. This work helps illuminate SES-based differences in inflammatory reactivity to stressors, particularly among individuals whose childhood SES was low.
Distributed observer-based consensus protocol for descriptor multi-agent systems
Authors: Chen Wenhai , Gao Lixin , Xu Xiaole , Cui Jia
Published: September 2015

In this paper, the consensus problem of descriptor multi-agent systems is considered. Each agent’s dynamics is given in the general form of a continuous-time linear descriptor system, and the communication topology among the agents is assumed to be directed in fixed topology case and balanced in switching topology case, respectively. Three kinds of distributed observer-based consensus protocols are proposed to solve the descriptor multi-agent consensus problem. Multi-step algorithms are provided to design the gain matrices and coupling constants involved in the protocols. The design approach is based on the generalized Riccati equation, and Lyapunov stability theory. Some sufficient consensus conditions are established to guarantee that the descriptor multi-agent system achieves consensus under the directed fixed topology and balanced switching topology. Furthermore, the state variable feedback consensus problem and the observer-based consensus problem with a desired decay rate are discussed. Finally, a simulation example is provided to illustrate the obtained results.
Assessing agreement between two measurement systems: An alternative to the limits of agreement approach
Authors: Stevens Nathaniel T , Steiner Stefan H , MacKay R Jock
Published: September 2015

The comparison of two measurement systems is important in medical and other contexts. A common goal is to decide if a new measurement system agrees suitably with an existing one, and hence whether the two can be used interchangeably. Various methods for assessing interchangeability are available, the most popular being the limits of agreement approach due to Bland and Altman. In this article, we review the challenges of this technique and propose a model-based framework for comparing measurement systems that overcomes those challenges. The proposal is based on a simple metric, the probability of agreement, and a corresponding plot which can be used to summarize the agreement between two measurement systems. We also make recommendations for a study design that facilitates accurate and precise estimation of the probability of agreement.
A Bibliography of Randomized Controlled Experiments in Social Work (1949–2013)
Authors: Thyer Bruce A.
Published: September 2015

A strong theme in the social work literature contends that randomized experiments are an impractical, inappropriate, unethical, and rarely undertaken research method for use in social work. In a test of this claim, the author undertook a review of the English-language published literature and prepared a provisional bibliography of primary social work studies that used experimental methodology. Astonishingly, over 740 such studies were located, with the first being published in 1949. The existence of this large experimental social work literature has been largely unrecognized, in part, because much of it has appeared in a diverse array of journals associated with other disciplines. It is no longer tenable to claim that experiments are either impractical or inappropriate as a social work research method of value in making causal inferences. This bibliography will be amended in coming years, and subsequent analyses of the types of problems and interventions, which are the focus of these studies, will add to the empirical foundations of social work practice.
Resources, Rent Diversification, and the Collapse of Autocratic Regimes
Authors: Fails Matthew D. , DuBuis Marc C.
Published: September 2015

A growing literature demonstrates that “unearned income”—such as that which stems from natural resources—stabilizes authoritarian regimes. In this paper, we refine this argument to emphasize not just the volume of these rents but also their diversity and the extent to which they can act as substitutes for one another. Specifically, a greater number of distinct sources of rents, and a more equitable distribution among them, provide an important hedge against any sudden change in the ability of autocracies to capture these rents and should lead to more stable regimes. We use a procedure from the literature on market concentration to develop a single measure, termed rent diversification, which captures these characteristics. We then use this new measure in a quantitative analysis examining the likelihood of regime failure. Our findings provide strong evidence that autocracies with more diversified rent portfolios are much less likely to collapse.
Political Constraints on Adaptive Governance
Authors: Gaudreau Matthew , Cao Huhua
Published: September 2015

Rapid urbanization and industrialization have placed significant pressure on ecological systems in China. This study investigates a network of local environmental organizations working to combat pollution in Nanjing’s Qinhuai River. Research in adaptive governance has pointed to the importance of such nonstate actors in contributing to responsive management of ecosystems. However, these actors are embedded in larger political contexts that constrain their ability to exchange information and contribute to improved ecosystem governance. A network approach is used to provide empirical detail of relationships among nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and government while applying theory from Chinese politics to explain barriers and opportunities to adaptive governance. The results reveal the dominant corporatist relationship between the state and a single designated NGO, while also uncovering a separate group of information producing NGOs. Studies in adaptive governance can apply similar approaches to create a deeper interdisciplinary understanding of underlying political structures influencing information sharing and collaboration.
Statin Antiarrhythmic Effect on Atrial Fibrillation in Statin-Naive Patients Undergoing Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Rezaei Yousef , Gholami-Fesharaki Mohammad , Dehghani Mohammad Reza , Arya Arash , Haghjoo Majid , Arjmand Nasim
Published: September 2015

Background:

Statin therapy has been thought to improve outcomes in cardiac surgeries. We aimed to determine the statin effects on the development of postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF), hospital length of stay (LOS), and inflammatory status in patients undergoing cardiac surgeries.

Methods:

A systematic literature search in databases was performed, until January 2015. Randomized clinical trial (RCT) studies evaluating statin effect on statin-naive patients with sinus rhythm undergoing cardiac surgeries were eligible to be analyzed.

Results:

Twelve RCTs involving 1116 patients, 559 receiving statin and 557 receiving control regimen, were analyzed. Postoperative AF occurred in 17.9% and 36.1% of patients in the statin and control groups, respectively. The statin therapy was associated with decreases in the postoperative AF (risk ratio [RR] 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.41-0.61, P < .000010), hospital LOS (mean difference in days, RR −0.44, 95% CI −0.67 to −0.20, P = .0002), and postoperative C-reactive protein (CRP) compared with control (mean difference in mg/L, RR −12.37, 95% CI −23.87 to −0.87, P = .04). The beneficial effects on AF and CRP were more marked in patients receiving atorvastatin compared to other statins. Decrease in postoperative AF was greater in coronary artery bypass graft surgery compared to that in isolated valvular surgery.

Conclusion:

Perioperative statin therapy in statin-naive patients with sinus rhythm undergoing cardiac surgeries was associated with decreases in the development of postoperative AF, the hospital LOS, and the CRP level. However, there were insufficient data to provide evidences regarding statin impacts in patients undergoing isolated valvular surgery.
Primary Prevention Is? A Global Perspective on How Organizations Engaging Men in Preventing Gender-Based Violence Conceptualize and Operationalize Their Work
Authors: Storer Heather L. , Casey Erin A. , Carlson Juliana , Edleson Jeffrey L. , Tolman Richard M.
Published: September 2015

Engaging men in addressing violence against women (VAW) has become a strategy in the global prevention of gender-based violence. Concurrently, Western public health frameworks have been utilized to guide prevention agendas worldwide. Using qualitative methods, this study describes how global anti-violence organizations that partner with men conceptualize primary prevention in their work. Findings suggest that “primary prevention” is not a fixed term in the context of VAW and that front-line prevention work challenges rigidly delineated distinctions between levels of prevention. Much can be learned from global organizations’ unique and contextualized approaches to the prevention of VAW.
Effect of modified atmosphere packaging on the shelf life of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum 1792) mince
Authors: Kocatepe Demet , Turan Hülya , Altan Can Okan , Keskin Irfan , Ceylan Asuman
Published: September 2015

This paper reports the effect of different concentrations of CO2/N2 gases on chemical/sensorial stability, color properties (L*, a*, and b* values), and microbiological properties of trout mince stored at 3 ± 1℃. The gas mixtures were used as follows; 60%CO2 + 40%N2 (B), 75%CO2 + 25%N2 (C), 40%CO2 + 60%N2 (D). Control samples (A) were packed under atmospheric air. Analyses were carried out on the 1st, 4th, 8th, 12th, 16th, 20th, 24th and 28th days of storage. Among three modified atmosphere gas compositions, the best preservation method and most suitable gas concentration for trout mince were found in group C including 75% CO2. The inconsumable day of trout mince packed with air (control) and MAPs (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) (group B, C, and D) were 12th, 16th, 24th, and 16th days, respectively.
Neurogenic urinary retention in cats following severe cluster seizures
Authors: Balducci Federica , De Risio Luisa , Shea Anita , Canal Sara , Stabile Fabio , Bernardini Marco
Published: September 2015

Case series summary

Four cats that presented with severe cluster seizures developed neurogenic urinary retention in the postictal phase. None of the cats had previous seizures. Micturition was reported as normal in all cats for 3 or more years before seizure onset. All cats required a continuous rate infusion of propofol to control the seizure activity. In all cats manual bladder expression was performed every 8 h until recovery of normal micturition. One cat was started on phenoxybenzamine to reduce internal urethral sphincter tone. All cats recovered normal micturition within 4 weeks of the last cluster of seizures.

Relevance and novel information

Transient neurogenic urinary retention has not previously been reported in cats or dogs following severe cluster seizures. Urinary retention should be considered a potential postictal deficit, requiring prompt recognition and treatment to avoid urinary tract infection and detrusor muscle atony.
Effect of autoignition characteristics of fuels on knocking properties
Authors: Tanoue Kimitoshi , Chado Yuichi , Jimoto Taishu , Nomura Takashi , Shimada Fumio , Hashimoto Jun
Published: September 2015

The correlation between the autoignition characteristics of n-butane/di-methyl ether/air mixtures and the knock intensity in a rapid compression and expansion machine was studied. The propagation velocity was obtained from the images of propagating flames at the moment of autoignition by a high-speed camera. The dimensionless parameters, ε and ξ, were used in the investigation, which are based on the theories of Zeldovich and Bradley. To obtain these dimensionless parameters, the numerical calculation using CHEMKIN-PRO with AramcoMech1.3 was carried out. The smaller gradient of autoignition delay time for n-butane with the higher amounts of di-methyl ether addition caused the higher flame propagation velocity and the resultant higher knock intensity, while significant differences of excitation times for autoignition heat release could not be seen. As a result, the gradient of autoignition delay time was concluded to have a strong influence on the knock intensities.
Perceived adequacy of illumination, spatial brightness, horizontal illuminance and mean room surface exitance in a small office
Authors: Duff J , Kelly K , Cuttle C
Published: September 2015

This paper presents a pilot study that investigated the suitability of mean room surface exitance as a predictor of spatial brightness and perceived adequacy of illumination, and then compared these results with how horizontal illuminance predicted both items under the same conditions. The experiment included 26 participants. A small office was used for the study. It exposed participants to three levels of mean room surface exitance, each delivered with three different light distributions and across three different surface reflectances, resulting in a total of 27 light scenes. A clear relationship existed between mean room surface exitance and both perceived adequacy of illumination and spatial brightness, but not between horizontal illuminance and either item. Correlations were drawn between reported levels of spatial brightness and reported levels of perceived adequacy of illumination.
Research Note: A self-luminous light table for persons with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Figueiro MG , Plitnick B , Rea MS
Published: September 2015

Light can be used to consolidate sleep in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, but the light delivery method is one of the greatest challenges for successful treatment. Based on our field observations, it was hypothesised that a self-luminous light table would be a practical way to deliver light because persons with Alzheimer’s disease typically spend a significant amount of time sitting at tables. Compared to a baseline week, sleep percent and efficiency significantly increased and agitation and depression scores significantly decreased during the four intervention weeks. The self-luminous light table was an effective and practical method to deliver circadian-effective light to persons with Alzheimer’s disease.
Obesity/Overweight and the Role of Working Conditions
Authors: Nobrega Suzanne , Champagne Nicole , Abreu Marlene , Goldstein-Gelb Marcy , Montano Mirna , Lopez Isabel , Arevalo Jonny , Bruce Suezanne , Punnett Laura
Published: September 2015

The rising U.S. prevalence of obesity has generated significant concern and demonstrates striking socioeconomic and racial/ethnic disparities. Most interventions target individual behaviors, sometimes in combination with improving the physical environment in the community but rarely involving modifications of the work environment. With 3.6 million workers earning at or below the federal minimum wage, it is imperative to understand the impact of working conditions on health and weight for lower income workers. To investigate this question, a university–community partnership created a participatory research team and conducted eight focus groups, in English and Spanish, with people holding low-wage jobs in various industries. Analysis of transcripts identified four themes: physically demanding work (illnesses, injuries, leisure-time physical activity), psychosocial work stressors (high demands, low control, low social support, poor treatment), food environment at work (available food choices, kitchen equipment), and time pressure (scheduling, having multiple jobs and responsibilities). Physical and psychosocial features of work were identified as important antecedents for overweight. In particular, nontraditional work shifts and inflexible schedules limited participants’ ability to adhere to public health recommendations for diet and physical activity. Workplace programs to address obesity in low-wage workers must include the effect of working conditions as a fundamental starting point.
Noncontact inspection of impact damage properties of woven fabric-reinforced composites after low-velocity impact by using air-coupled ultrasonic technique
Authors: Ahmed Azzam , Mohmmed Ramadan , Bingjie Zhou , Wei Li
Published: September 2015

The impact response to twill weave carbon fabric/epoxy composite laminate structure has been investigated by employing two types of the stacking sequences of composite laminate structure to low-velocity impact loadings by using a Drop-Weight Machine (CEAST 9350 drop tower). An engine hood is the intended application for the composites. The air-coupled ultrasonic C-scan technique (NAUT21) has been selected in order to characterize impact damage size, delamination, flaw detection, and damage in composite laminate structures. The effect of increasing impact energy was illustrated with both types of the stacking sequences of the composite laminate structures until complete perforation of specimens at 25 J due to degradation of mechanical properties of composite laminates. The failure processes of damaged specimens for different three impact energies (5 J, 15 J, and 25 J) were being evaluated comparing load–displacement curves and images of damaged samples were taken from both impacted and nonimpacted sides through C-scan. The performance index and absorbed energy of the tested structures were investigated. The primary damage modes were found to be fiber fracture, delamination, and matrix cracks.
Acute Limb Ischemia in Pediatric Population Secondary to Peripheral Vascular Cannulation
Authors: Sadat Umar , Hayes Paul D. , Varty Kevin
Published: September 2015

Introduction:

In this article, we discuss published literature on the management of pediatric patients with acute limb ischemia and also present our center’s experience.

Results:

Literature review suggests that in the absence of imminent risk of limb loss, noninterventional management with anticoagulants and systemic thrombolysis is preferable and associated with better clinical outcomes than surgery such as reduced per operative morbidity and mortality. In selected more severe cases, surgery may be required. We propose an algorithm for improved clinical outcomes based on the published literature and the American College of Chest Physicians’ recommendations for antithrombotic management in the pediatric population.

Conclusion:

Literature review suggests an inverse relationship between age and surgical success, particularly in preschool pediatric population. Conservative management as a preliminary strategy seems most beneficial. It is hoped that the proposed intercalated algorithm of medical and surgical management of these patients can further improve clinical outcomes.
Decisions by Finnish Medical Research Ethics Committees
Authors: Hemminki Elina , Virtanen Jorma I. , Regushevskaya Elena
Published: September 2015

Review by research ethics committees (RECs) is the key in medical research regulation. Data from meeting notes and project summaries were abstracted from all projects submitted in 2002 ( n = 1,004) and 2007 ( n = 1,045) to the official medical RECs in Finland. Data from consecutive submissions were combined per project. When comparing RECs, logistic regression was used to adjust for application characteristics. The number of projects handled varied notably by REC. In the first handling, 85% of applications in 2002 and 77% in 2007 were approved, while 13% and 20% were tabled. For 61% of the projects, the review time was <30 days, 16% had >89 days, and 6% had 6 months or longer. The variation by REC in approval rates, number of handlings, or long review times was not explained by project characteristics. In the last handling, 94% of the projects in both years were approved or concluded not to need a statement from that REC. The most common reason for tabling or not approving an application was patient autonomy, usually centered on the patient leaflet. The next most common reasons were requests for further information and dissatisfaction with the scientific aspects of the project. The reasons classified as “ethics” in the narrow sense were rare. The REC focus was to assure that researchers follow the various rules on medical research and to improve the quality of research and project documents. REC considerations could be divided into decisions based on ethics and recommendations covering other aspects.
Application of the Wei–Lachin multivariate one-directional test to multiple event-time outcomes
Authors: Lachin John M , Bebu Ionut
Published: September 2015

Background/aims:

Cardiovascular outcome trials, among others, aim to assess the beneficial effects of a treatment on multiple event-time outcomes, such as the time to a myocardial infarction and the time to a stroke. The traditional approach is to conduct a simple analysis of a composite outcome defined as the time to the first component event using a logrank test or the Cox Proportional Hazards regression model. This ignores information from other component events after the first. The composite outcome analysis also treats all initial outcome events as equally important, for example, non-fatal myocardial infarction is as important as cardiovascular death.

Methods:

Herein, we describe the application of the Wei–Lachin multivariate one-sided (or one-directional) test to the analysis of multiple event-time outcomes. The test is based on the unweighted mean of the treatment group coefficients from individual Cox proportional hazards models fit to the outcomes, where the covariance of the set of coefficients is obtained from a partitioning of the information sandwich estimate. A weighted test is also described, weighing the outcomes by a scoring of their clinical importance. These and other methods are compared with application to the Prevention of Events with Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibition cardiovascular outcome study.

Results:

The Wei–Lachin test provides an inference with strong control of the type 1 error probability on the difference between groups for the set of outcomes considered. However, it does not provide an inference on the individual components specifically with control of the overall type 1 error probability. By direct computation of relative efficiency and by simulation, we show that the power of the Wei–Lachin one-directional test can be greater than that of the traditional composite outcome analysis based on the time to the first observed component event.

Conclusion:

The Wei–Lachin multivariate one-directional test may be more powerful than the traditional analysis of a composite outcome defined as the time to the first component outcomes experienced by each subject.
Afterword: The dialectics of mediation in ‘distant suffering studies’
Authors: Chouliaraki Lilie
Published: September 2015

This article looks back to the rich contributions of this special issue so as to offer reflections on three kinds of challenges that traverse the emerging field of ‘distant suffering studies’: epistemological, conceptual and sociological challenges. It concludes by calling for due attention to be paid to the dialectics of mediation, the co-constitutive relationship among the different ‘moments’ of meaning-production in the circuit of mediation. Such attention, it argues, can substantially enhance the growing theoretical and empirical work in this important new area of Communication Studies.
Linguistic Capital and Development Capital in a Network of Cultural Producers: Mutually Valuing Peer Groups in the ‘Interactive Fiction’ Retrogaming Scene
Authors: Allington Daniel
Published: September 2015

This article reports on a mixed-methods study of the cultural valuing of ‘interactive fiction’ or ‘text adventure games’: a formerly commercial videogame genre sometimes associated with electronic literature but here argued to be best understood in context of the under-researched phenomenon of ‘retrogaming’ or ‘old school gaming’. It is argued that a model for the study of retrogaming scenes is provided in Lena and Peterson’s account of ‘traditionalist’ musical genres, and that these in turn exhibit similarities with Bourdieu’s ‘field of restricted production’. On the basis of qualitative analysis of interviews and documents and quantitative analysis of valuing behaviour on a website used by the interactive fiction community, it is proposed that entrance into the mutually-valuing peer group of interactive fiction developers is facilitated by possession of two intangible resources: linguistic capital (in the form of proficiency in Standard English) and development capital (in the form of expertise with programming languages specific to the production of interactive fiction), where development capital is a new concept that may be extensible to other technically-oriented digital cultures (for example, the working cultures of professional software developers and the communities that form around open source projects). Expressions of value in the form of star ratings were collected procedurally through data scraping, and represented as a directed graph. Seidman’s k-core was innovatively used as an instrument for detecting mutually-valuing peer groups within that graph. It is argued that this methodology has general application for the study of cultural value and its production within social networks (both online and off), including networks associated with more established cultural fields such as art and literature.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament and Elbow Adaptations in High School Baseball Pitchers
Authors: Marshall Nathan E. , Keller Robert A. , Van Holsbeeck Marnix , Moutzouros Vasilios
Published: September 2015

Background:

Baseball pitchers have adaptive changes in the soft tissues of the throwing elbow.

Hypothesis:

High school baseball pitchers would show adaptive changes in the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), such as calcifications and hypoechoic foci, thickening, and increased ulnohumeral joint laxity, on dynamic ultrasound (DUS).

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 3.

Methods:

Twenty-two asymptomatic high school pitchers, designated as their primary position by their coach, underwent DUS and physical examination of the throwing and nonthrowing elbows prior to the start of the season. UCL substance consistency and thickness, ulnohumeral joint space widening, and soft tissue elbow structures were evaluated.

Results:

The mean age of the cohort was 16.9 years. Calcifications of the UCL were similar, being present in 7 of 22 (32%) throwing elbows versus 8 of 22 (36%) nonthrowing elbows ( P = 0.11). UCL hypoechoic foci also were similar between elbows: 2 of 22 (9%) throwing elbows versus 0 of 22 nonthrowing elbows ( P = 0.11). UCL thickness was also found to be similar in both elbows (throwing arm, 6.54 mm vs nonthrowing, 6.71 mm; P = 0.48). Ulnohumeral joint laxity unloaded (throwing arm, 3.13 mm vs nonthrowing, 3.17 mm; P = 0.835) and loaded (throwing arm, 3.87 mm vs nonthrowing arm, 4.11 mm; P = 0.30) was similar between elbows. Throwing elbows showed posteromedial olecranon spurring in 36%, effusions in 27%, and synovitis in 9%.

Conclusion:

High school pitchers show limited adaptive changes in the elbow, including UCL calcifications, hypoechoic foci, posteromedial olecranon spurring, and effusions. However, these changes are similar to those seen in the nonthrowing elbow, and these younger athletes lack findings seen in professional and collegiate pitchers such as UCL thickening and increased ulnohumeral joint space laxity.

Clinical Relevance:

Preseason ultrasound examination of the high school pitching elbow lacks the adaptive changes to the elbow as seen in professional pitchers. These changes likely occur later in a pitcher’s career.