bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abraham Maslow’s Interest in Psychedelic Research: A Tribute
Authors: Richards William A.
Published: September 2016

In this brief tribute to Abraham Maslow, a founder of the Journal of Humanistic Psychology, his interests in psychedelic research are described by the author who served as his research assistant from 1966 to 1967.
A green in situ synthesis of silver nanoparticles on cotton fabrics using Aloe vera leaf extraction for durable ultraviolet protection and antibacterial activity
Authors: Zhou Qingqing , Lv Jingchun , Ren Yu , Chen Jiayi , Gao Dawei , Lu Zhenqian , Wang Chunxia
Published: September 2016

This study presented a simple and environmentally friendly method of in situ synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on cotton fabrics for durable ultraviolet (UV) protection and antibacterial activity using Aloe vera leaf extraction (AVE) as a reducing and stabilizing agent. Cotton fabrics were pretreated in water, and then immersed in AgNO3 and AVE, respectively. Cotton fabrics were characterized by small angle X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis, UV protection, antibacterial activity, and laundering durability. Comparing with the smooth surface of the control cotton fabric, SEM and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX) results showed that there were a considerable number of Ag2O and AgNPs loading on the surface of the pretreated and Ag loaded cotton fabrics. The XRD pattern indicated, respectively, the existence of Ag2O and AgNPs, the structures of which were similar to JCPDS File No.65-3289 and JCPDS File No. 01-071-4613 on the pretreated and Ag loaded cotton fabrics. The pretreated and Ag loaded cotton fabrics showed excellent UV protection, antibacterial activity, and laundering durability, especially the Ag loaded cotton fabric, of which the UV protection factor value and transmission of UVA were 148 and 1.11%, respectively, after 20 washing cycles, and the clear zone width was more than 4 mm against E. coli or S. aureus. AgNPs facilitated the improvement of the thermal property of the cotton fabrics. Thus this facile in situ reduction of AgNPs with AVE may bring a promising and green strategy to produce functional textiles.
Race and Religious Beliefs Are Associated With Communication Regarding Reproductive Health and Preconception Counseling in Young Women With Diabetes
Authors: Devido Jessica Anne , Sereika Susan M. , Cohen Susan Merle , Charron-Prochownik Denise
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between selected internal and external characteristics and communication (intended and actual) with health care providers (HCPs) about reproductive health and preconception counseling among adolescent females with diabetes.

Methods

A descriptive, correlational design was employed to conduct a secondary analysis of baseline data from a multisite, randomized controlled trial. Participants were 110 female adolescents (92% type 1 diabetes). Analysis included multiple linear regression and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses to examine the association of internal characteristics (age, race, religion, and religious beliefs) and external characteristics (ever sexually active, social support, and type of routine HCP).

Results

Participants were from 13.3 to 20.0 years of age, 82% were Caucasian, 80% had never been sexually active, and 58% perceived low to moderate amounts of social support. For both internal and external characteristics, no significant main effects were found for actual or intended communication. For internal characteristics, there was an interaction between race and religious beliefs for the probability of actual communication. African American women who reported that their religious beliefs did not influence their sexual behavior had the lowest probability of actual communication compared to all other participants.

Conclusion

Race and religious beliefs should be considered when providing reproductive health information to young women with diabetes. Further research with a larger, more diverse sample is warranted. These results may be considered for future development of novel interventions with targeted messages based on these personal characteristics to empower young women to initiate conversations with HCPs about reproductive health and preconception counseling.
The lz(p)* Person-Fit Statistic in an Unfolding Model Context
Authors: Tendeiro Jorge N.
Published: September 2016

Although person-fit analysis has a long-standing tradition within item response theory, it has been applied in combination with dominance response models almost exclusively. In this article, a popular log likelihood-based parametric person-fit statistic under the framework of the generalized graded unfolding model is used. Results from a simulation study indicate that the person-fit statistic performed relatively well in detecting midpoint response style patterns and not so well in detecting extreme response style patterns.
‘Political gladiators’ on Facebook in Zimbabwe: a discursive analysis of intra–Zimbabwe African National Union – PF cyber wars; Baba Jukwa versus Amai Jukwa
Authors: Chibuwe Albert , Ureke Oswelled
Published: September 2016

Social media have been hailed as liberative in contexts of political repression. In Zimbabwe, there are emergent debates on the possibilities of using Facebook to ‘democratise’ political space. But the use of Facebook to settle personal political scores or to relentlessly attack political opposition seemed to have escaped academic scrutiny. This study looks at the use of Facebook by opposing camps in Zimbabwe’s July 2013 election to attack each other, as well as the challenges posed by this scenario. It looks at Baba Jukwa and Amai Jukwa’s pages on Facebook. The study is grounded in the concepts of freedom of expression, the public sphere and democracy. Semiotic analysis and critical discourse analysis were used to analyse the posts by Baba Jukwa and Amai Jukwa. The study sought to explore how the Internet’s liberative potential enhanced by free entry and exit and the ability to remain anonymous impacts on Baba Jukwa and Amai Jukwa’s discourses on Facebook. It revealed that the two pages make use of personal attacks on ‘targets’, and the resultant polarisation is often mirrored in the mainstream media. The study concludes that even though Facebook provides an alternative public sphere, it can also be ‘pulverised’ by irrational debates.
Effects of Karate Training Versus Mindfulness Training on Emotional Well-Being and Cognitive Performance in Later Life
Authors: Jansen Petra , Dahmen-Zimmer Katharina , Kudielka Brigitte M. , Schulz Anja
Published: September 2016

In a randomized controlled trial, we investigated the effects of karate versus a mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) intervention on well-being and cognitive functioning in older adults. Fifty-five adults (52–81 years old) participated in twice-weekly karate versus MBSR sessions or no training for 8 weeks. In pre- and postassessments, subjective well-being, health, cognitive functioning, and chronic stress were measured. Preassessment hair cortisol served as physiological stress marker. The results showed an improvement for the karate group, but not the MBSR and control group, in subjective mental health and anxiety as well as cognitive processing speed. The MBSR group showed by trend as a decrease in stress. No significant correlation between preassessment hair cortisol and postassessment outcomes could be established. But the higher the level of baseline self-reported perceived stress, the higher the increase in depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. Generally, it can be assumed that karate and MBSR showed only small training effects concerning the assessed emotional and cognitive parameters.
Evaluation of information needs of agricultural extension agents in Ghana
Authors: Sam Joel , Osei Simon K. , Dzandu Lucy P. , Atengble Kirchuffs
Published: September 2016

The agricultural sector plays a decisive role in Ghana’s economy, employment, and food security. The study set out to assess the information needs of agricultural extension agents across all the agro-ecological zones of Ghana, in order to provide them with the right information. A structured field survey methodology was used for the study and 472 agricultural extension agents from 40 districts in Ghana served as the respondents. The findings of the study revealed that agricultural extension agents regularly sourced for information from books and reports; visual or pictorial information was the most preferred format for package of information. The AEAs used agricultural extension information to assist in the discharge of their work, and as a basis for advice to farmers on general farm planning and consultancy among others. Challenges identified in accessing information included inadequate information infrastructure and training avenues. The AEAs suggested that critical information infrastructure such as libraries, information centers, and databases be provided as measures to offset the challenges. The study recommended that efforts should be directed at improving extension agents’ access to information infrastructure and that different and wide-ranging media should be developed to supply information to the AEAs.
Piracy of scientific papers in Latin America
Authors: Machin-Mastromatteo Juan D , Uribe-Tirado Alejandro , Romero-Ortiz Maria E
Published: September 2016

Sci-Hub hosts pirated copies of 51 million scientific papers from commercial publishers. This article presents the site’s characteristics, it criticizes that it might be perceived as a de-facto component of the Open Access movement, it replicates an analysis published in Science using its available usage data, but limiting it to Latin America, and presents implications caused by this site for information professionals, universities and libraries.
Hydrodisplacement of sural nerve for safety and efficacy of endovenous thermal ablation for small saphenous vein incompetence
Authors: Rodriguez-Acevedo Omar , Elstner Kristen E , Martinic Kui , Zea Aaron , Diaz Jenny , Martins Rodrigo T , Arduini Fernando , Hodgkinson Alexandra , Ibrahim Nabeel
Published: September 2016

Background

Endovenous radio frequency ablation for small saphenous vein incompetence by and large appears to be superior and safer than conventional open surgery. Small saphenous vein ablation from approximately mid-calf to the point proximally where the small saphenous vein dives into the popliteal fossa is considered to be safe, as the sural nerve is in most cases separated from this segment of the small saphenous vein by the deep fascia. The outcome of the distal incompetent small saphenous vein remains unclear. Efficacy of the endovenous radio frequency ablation can be enhanced by increasing the length of the ablatable small saphenous vein segment.

Methodology

To optimise endovenous radio frequency ablation outcome, the distal small saphenous vein may be made amenable to ablation if safety of the sural nerve can be assured. The sural nerve was successfully located using duplex ultrasound in 100% of our cohort in this study. The standard entry point for venous access was just above the lateral malleolus. After introduction of the introducer sheath, the radio frequency catheter was advanced proximally; the sural nerve was displaced from the small saphenous vein by approximately 1 cm with the administration of tumescent anaesthesia ( hydrodisplacement). A total of 118 patients underwent extended endovenous radio frequency ablation of 124 incompetent small saphenous vein trunks using the method described.

Results

Successful extended ablation of the small saphenous vein was achieved in 100% of cases and it was confirmed by duplex scanning at one and six weeks. Two neurological events were recorded during the study:  1. One patient with temporary foot drop lasting for less than 6 h with complete recovery.  2. A second patient with a sural nerve sensory deficit reported by the patient at day 2–3, which remains current at six weeks.

Conclusions

Extended endovenous radio frequency ablation of the small saphenous vein to optimise length of the ablatable vein segment is feasible with careful identification and hydrodisplacement of the sural nerve. This method is shown to be associated with fewer neurological complications than other methods reported in the literature.
Evaluation of a liquid culture system in the detection of mycobacteria at an antituberculosis institution in China; A retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Ping , Yu Qin , Chen Liang , Zhang Man
Published: September 2016

Objective

A retrospective study comparing the diagnostic performance of the BACTEC™ MGIT™ 960 system (M960 system; BD Worldwide, Franklin Lakes, NJ, USA) with Löwenstein–Jensen (L–J) culture to detect mycobacteria in sputum specimens from patients with suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (TB).

Methods

Sputum samples were analysed for the presence of acid-fast bacilli (AFB). Samples were inoculated into the M960 system and L–J culture. Positive cultures were examined for the presence of AFB.

Results

The M960 method detected significantly more positive samples than L–J culture (818/1676 [48.8%] vs 692/1676 [41.3%]). Using L–J culture as reference, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive and negative predictive values of the M960 system were 91.0%, 76.1%, 77.0% and 92.2%, respectively. The time-to-detection of mycobacteria was 11.78 ± 5.16 days for M960 and 24.17 ± 8.73 days for L–J.

Conclusions

The M960 system had better diagnostic capability than L–J culture. Clinical value may be maximized by combining results from both methods.
Incidence of insulin resistance and diabetes in patients with portosystemic shunts without liver dysfunction
Authors: Li Ying , Yang Gao , Qiang Jinwei , Cai Songqi , Zhou Hao
Published: September 2016

Objective

To investigate the incidence of insulin resistance (IR) and diabetes in patients with chronic hepatic schistosomiasis japonica (HSJ) and portosystemic shunts (PSS).

Methods

Pre- and post-contrasted computed tomography images obtained from patients with HSJ and control subjects were reviewed by two radiologists who identified and graded any shunting vessels. Anthropometric measurements, hepatic enzymes, lipid profile, blood levels of albumin, glucose, insulin and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-2) index of all participants were also assessed.

Results

Fifty-two patients with HSJ and 30 control subjects were involved in the study. The coronary, short gastric and perisplenic veins were the most common shunting vessels. There were no significant differences between patients and controls in terms of body mass index or liver function. The degree of shunting vessels, blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test120/0, insulin, HOMA-2 index, glycosylated haemoglobin, cholesterol, high- and low-density lipoprotein, and C-reactive protein were significantly higher in the patients with IR. A positive correlation was found between the degree of the shunting vessels and the HOMA-2 index.

Conclusions

Patients with chronic HSJ and PSS without liver dysfunction had a high incidence of IR and diabetes. The study showed that PSS and IR are related and therefore patients with PSS should be screened for IR and vice versa.
Submission from the IRR to the Labour Party Inquiry into anti-Semitism and other forms of racism, including Islamophobia
Authors: Sivanandan A. , Fekete Liz , Bourne Jenny
Published: September 2016

Following a number of accusations of anti-Semitism against British Labour Party activists, including former London mayor Ken Livingstone, an inquiry into racism, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia was instituted by Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn in May 2016 – to be chaired by Shami Chakrabarti (former director of Liberty). This article consists of the submission to the inquiry from the Institute of Race Relations which suggests the parameters within which recent accusations of anti-Semitism should be analysed: the personalising of racism in society at large and the gradual blurring of the line between what incites hatred and what merely gives offence. While racism is offensive, not everything which gives offence is per se racist. The challenge for the Labour Party is to strike the correct balance between education against prejudice, protection from racial hatred and freedom of speech. The IRR believes that the Party would be in danger of losing that balance if it were to adopt the proposition (recently advocated by Eric Pickles, former secretary of state for communities and local government) to extend the definition of anti-Semitism to include particular types of criticism of the state of Israel.
A simplified structural analysis of statically indeterminate continuous thick beams
Authors: Hassan Osama AB
Published: September 2016

In the study presented here, a simplified exact analytical solution of the problem of indeterminate continuous beams is derived and compared with the numerical solution, finite element. For the analytical method, the structure is divided into a simply supported element with internal support moments. The moments are first calculated with the help of boundary rotation conditions by taking into account both the shear and bending deformations. Second, the deflection functions of the beam members are derived. The results of a two-span continuous beam show that both methods yield an excellent agreement. The advantage of the presented method is that it is simplified, general, not time-consuming, and it can be standardized to this type of structures. Solution methods discussed in this paper can be of interest within the framework of mechanical and civil engineering education in which bending and shear of thick beams are taught.
The influence of migraine and female hormones on capsaicin-induced dermal blood flow
Authors: Ibrahimi Khatera , Vermeersch Steve , Frederiks Pascal , Geldhof Vincent , Draulans Cedric , Buntinx Linde , Lesaffre Emmanuel , MaassenVanDenBrink Antoinette , de Hoon Jan
Published: September 2016

Background

Migraine is much more common in females than in males, and occurrence is associated with changes in female sex hormones. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) plays a key role in migraine, and variations in female sex hormones may affect CGRP sensitivity and/or production.

Objectives

Investigate repeatability, gender differences, influence of the menstrual cycle and of migraine on CGRP-dependent changes in dermal blood flow (DBF).

Methods

CGRP-dependent increases in DBF were assessed using laser Doppler perfusion imaging after topical application of 300 or 1000 µg capsaicin on the forearm of healthy subjects and migraine patients.

Results

In healthy males, DBF response did not vary over time and was comparable with DBF in male migraineurs. In healthy females, capsaicin-induced DBF responses to both doses of capsaicin were higher during menstruation compared to the late-secretory phase (p < 0.05); this menstrual cycle dependence was absent in female migraine patients. Compared to healthy subjects, female migraineurs displayed a higher DBF response both during menstruation and during the late-secretory phase (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

An increased capsaicin-induced, CGRP-mediated DBF response was observed during menstruation in healthy women, but in female migraine patients this increased response was not affected by the menstrual cycle.
Data analysis on fiber-reinforced polymer shear contribution of reinforced concrete beam shear strengthened with U-jacketing fiber-reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Ji Chunyang , Li Weiwen , Hu Chengyue , Xing Feng
Published: September 2016

Lots of studies have investigated the shear contribution of the fiber-reinforced polymer of reinforced concrete beams with externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP). In this paper, based on more than 200 collected experimental results of reinforced concrete beams shear strengthened with U-jacketing fiber-reinforced polymer composites, four existing design guidelines on the fiber-reinforced polymer shear contribution of strengthened reinforced concrete beams are compared in terms of the effect of the shear span-to-effective depth ratio, beam size, and stirrup ratio. These three influence factors are found to play significant roles in the prediction accuracy of different design guidelines. This paper, therefore, proposes an advanced shear strength model, which considers the effect of shear span-to-effective depth ratio, beam size, and stirrup ratio. The proposed model can provide better predictions of fiber-reinforced polymer shear contribution.
The English Version of the Gilles de la Tourette Syndrome–Quality of Life Scale for Children and Adolescents (C&A-GTS-QOL)
Authors: Su Merina T. , McFarlane Fiona , Cavanna Andrea E. , Termine Cristiano , Murray Imogen , Heidemeyer Larissa , Heyman Isobel , Murphy Tara
Published: September 2016

Gilles de la Tourette syndrome is a chronic neuropsychiatric disorder that can have a detrimental impact on the health-related quality of life of children with the condition. To date no patient-reported health-related quality of life measures have been developed for children and adolescents in the English language. This study validated the first disease-specific scale for the quantitative assessment of health-related quality of life in 118 children and adolescents with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (C&A-GTS-QOL) following language adaptation from Italian to English in the United Kingdom. Standard statistical methods were used to test the psychometric properties of the rating scale. Principal component factor analyses led to the identification of six health-related quality of life domains (cognitive, copro-phenomena, psychological, physical, obsessive-compulsive, and activities of daily living), explaining 66.7% of the overall variance. The C&A-GTS-QOL demonstrated satisfactory scaling assumptions and acceptability; validity was supported by interscale correlations (range 0.2-0.7), confirmatory factor analysis, and correlation patterns with other rating scales and clinical variables.
Association of Microcirculation, Macrocirculation, and Severity of Illness in Septic Shock: A Prospective Observational Study to Identify Microcirculatory Targets Potentially Suitable for Guidance of Hemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Sturm Timo , Leiblein Julia , Schneider-Lindner Verena , Kirschning Thomas , Thiel Manfred
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

Clinically unapparent microcirculatory impairment is common and has a negative impact on septic shock, but specific therapy is not established so far. This prospective observational study aimed at identifying candidate parameters for microcirculatory-guided hemodynamic therapy.

:

NCT01530932.

Materials and Methods:

Microcirculatory flow and postcapillary venous oxygen saturation were detected during vaso-occlusive testing (VOT) on days 1 (T0), 2 (T24), and 4 (T72) in 20 patients with septic shock at a surgical intensive care unit using a laser Doppler spectrophotometry system (O2C).

Results:

Reperfusional maximal venous capillary oxygen saturation (SvcO2max) showed negative correlations with Simplified Acute Physiology Score II (SAPSII)/Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score, norepinephrine dosage, and lactate concentration and showed positive correlations with cardiac index (CI). At T24 and T72, SvcO2max was also inversely linked to fluid balance. With respect to any predictive value, SvcO2max and CI determined on day 1 (T0) were negatively correlated with SAPS II/SOFA on day 4 (T72). Moreover, SvcO2max measured on day 1 or day 2 was negatively correlated with cumulated fluid balance on day 4 ( r= −.472, P < .05 and r = −.829, P < .001). By contrast, CI neither on day 1 nor on day 2 was correlated with cumulated fluid balance on day 4 ( r = −.343, P = .17 and r = −.365, P = .15).

Conclusion:

In patients with septic shock, microcirculatory reserve as assessed by SvcO2max following VOT was impaired and negatively correlated with severity of illness and fluid balance. In contrast to CI, SvcO2max determined on day 1 or day 2 was significantly negatively correlated with cumulative fluid balance on day 4. Therefore, early microcirculatory measurement of SvcO2max might be superior to CI in guidance of sepsis therapy to avoid fluid overload. This has to be addressed in future clinical studies.
Comparing State Legislative Aides’ Perspectives on Tobacco Policymaking in States With Strong and Weak Policies: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Wray Ricardo J. , Weaver Nancy , Jupka Keri , Zellin Stacie , Berman Susan , Vijaykumar Santosh
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

The study compared perceptions of state legislative aides about tobacco policymaking in states with strong and weak tobacco control policies.

Approach:

Qualitative in-depth interviews carried out in 2009.

Setting:

The US states were ranked on a combination of tobacco prevention funding, taxes, and presence of smoke-free policies. States at the top and bottom of the rankings were chosen.

Participants:

Interviews were conducted with 10 legislative aides in 5 states with strong tobacco control policies and 10 aides in 7 states with weak policies.

Method:

Twenty semistructured interviews were conducted, coded, and analyzed using a consensus coding process.

Results:

Tobacco control was a lower priority in states with weak policies, and respondents from these states listed more barriers to tobacco control policymaking than those from states with strong policies. Successful arguments for tobacco control emphasized operational applications, for example, enhanced revenue from tobacco taxes or safety of children and employees.

Conclusion:

Our findings support propositions posited in the Advocacy Coalition Framework. They point to the preeminence of contextual factors, notably political leanings and economic climate on success of policy change efforts. Lessons learned from participants from states with strong policy nonetheless show promise for success in states with weak policy.
An Empirical Analysis of the Association Between Cigarette Smoking and Participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
Authors: Adams Grace Bagwell
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To examine the association between smoking and participation in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) among low-income families.

Design:

A quasi-experimental design using pooled cross-sectional data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Expenditure Diary Survey.

Setting:

A national, representative sample of US households from 2005 through 2012.

Participants:

A total of 19 395 low-income households.

Measures:

US poverty thresholds were used, in conjunction with household income, to create a sample of families at 130% of the federal poverty level and below. Expenditures on cigarettes and self-reported enrollment in SNAP were used to measure smoking behavior and program participation, respectively.

Analysis:

Estimation of a maximum likelihood model was used to predict the probability of smoking given participation in SNAP.

Results:

The SNAP participation among low-income households was associated with a 30% ( P < .01) increase in the likelihood of a household containing at least 1 smoker, relative to low-income non-SNAP households. Among smokers, SNAP households do not spend more money on tobacco products than non-SNAP households.

Conclusion:

Given the strong association found between SNAP participation and smoking, connecting program participants who smoke to effective smoking cessation programs could be an effective tool in reducing the prevalence of smoking among the low-income population. States have a unique opportunity to use SNAP-Education programs to integrate tobacco prevention and cessation into curriculum for direct client impact.
Why Has the Health-Promoting Prison Concept Failed to Translate to the United States?
Authors: Woodall James
Published: September 2016

Two decades since the World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe published a report on health promotion in prison that stimulated further debate on the concept of the “health-promoting prison,” this article discusses the extent to which the concept has translated to the United States. One predicted indicator of success for the health-promoting prison movement was the expansion of activity beyond European borders; yet 2 decades since the European model was put forward, there has been very limited activity in the United States. This “Critical Issues and Trends” article suggests reasons why this translation has failed to occur.
Identification of Undiagnosed Hyperlipidemia: Do Work Site Screening Programs Work?
Authors: Koyama Alain K. , Bali Vishal , Yermilov Irina , Legorreta Antonio P.
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

We evaluated the rate of hyperlipidemia identified during workplace screening in previously undiagnosed individuals, the association between workplace hyperlipidemia screening and use of medical care during follow-up, and changes in lipid profile among individuals with hyperlipidemia at screening.

Design:

Nonexperimental longitudinal study.

Setting:

Employees who participated in a workplace health screening.

Participants:

A total of 18 993 individuals from 39 self-insured employers in the United States.

Measures:

Total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides were measured during screening. A claims-based algorithm was used to identify hyperlipidemia cases.

Analysis:

Discrete-time survival analysis was used to estimate monthly rates of new hyperlipidemia diagnoses or prescriptions. Paired t tests were used to evaluate 1-year changes in lipid profile.

Results:

A total of 1872 (9.9%) individuals had hyperlipidemia at screening. Among all individuals, a significantly greater rate of new hyperlipidemia diagnoses was observed during the first month after screening, compared to the 3 months before screening (odds ratio [95% CI]: 2.99 [2.66-3.36]). Among the 987 individuals who were followed up 1 year later, significant improvements were observed in total cholesterol (−8.5% ± 13.6%) and LDL levels (−10.2% ± 19.3%).

Conclusion:

Workplace health screenings in an insured population were associated with a subsequent increase in physician visits and prescriptions for hyperlipidemia. After 1 year, significant improvements in total cholesterol and LDL levels were observed among individuals who screened positive for hyperlipidemia.
Organizational Dissent Dynamics
Authors: Zaini Raafat Mahmoud , Elmes Michael B. , Pavlov Oleg V. , Saeed Khalid
Published: September 2016

This article proposes a conceptual framework for dissent dynamics in organizations. We integrate the dissent expression and management framework of Kassing with the dynamic institution composition structure of Saeed and Pavlov to construct a generic model for understanding organizational dissent. Our model hypothesizes the impact of dissent accumulation on organizational dissent climate, composition, and performance. Two performance measures comprise the performance grid to describe the current state of an organization and its dissent management policies—perceived management responsiveness and organizational productivity. We argue that dissent expression, tolerance, and management policies affect whether an organization is high or low performing. The conceptual model provides a future platform for experimentation and learning by simulating different policy scenarios and their influence on the paths of change and the new homeostasis eventually achieved by the organization.
Exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets/poly(arylene ether nitrile) nanocomposites
Authors: Zhan Yingqing , Long Zhihang , Wan Xinyi , He Yi , Liu Xiaobo
Published: September 2016

In this work, we demonstrate a method for synthesis of exfoliated graphite nanoplatelets (xGnPs)/poly(arylene ether nitrile) (PEN) nanocomposites via an efficient in situ polymerization. The GnPs were treated by the ultrasonic bath to reduce the layers of the GnPs, where the PEN were intercalated subsequently. Therefore, the dispersion of xGnP in the PEN resin was enhanced through in situ polymerization, which was characterized and confirmed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. It was found that the tensile strength and modulus were greatly enhanced with the addition of xGnP. For 2.5 wt% of xGnP-reinforced PEN, the tensile strength and modulus were increased to 115 MPa and 3121 MPa, respectively. Owing to the well dispersion of xGnP, the low rheological percolation of 2.5 wt% for PEN nanocomposites was obtained. Besides, with 1 wt% of xGnP, the corresponding initial decomposition temperature ( Tin) increased from 451°C in pure PEN to 470°C. The addition of xGnP showed enhanced thermal stability of PEN nanocomposites, which demonstrated a promising method for preparing advanced polymer-based nanocomposites.
A simple single variable shear deformation theory for a rectangular beam
Authors: Shimpi Rameshchandra P , Shetty Rajesh A , Guha Anirban
Published: September 2016

This paper proposes a simple single variable shear deformation theory for an isotropic beam of rectangular cross-section. The theory involves only one fourth-order governing differential equation. For beam bending problems, the governing equation and the expressions for the bending moment and shear force of the theory are strikingly similar to those of Euler–Bernoulli beam theory. For vibration and buckling problems, the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory governing equation comes out as a special case when terms pertaining to the effects of shear deformation are ignored from the governing equation of present theory. The chosen displacement functions of the theory give rise to a realistic parabolic distribution of transverse shear stress across the beam cross-section. The theory does not require a shear correction factor. Efficacy of the proposed theory is demonstrated through illustrative examples for bending, free vibrations and buckling of isotropic beams of rectangular cross-section. The numerical results obtained are compared with those of exact theory (two-dimensional theory of elasticity) and other first-order and higher-order shear deformation beam theory results. The results obtained are found to be accurate.
Study on the influence of gear hobbing and shaft misalignments on the geometric interference of cylindrical worm gear set
Authors: Sohn Jonghyeon , Park Nogill
Published: September 2016

Geometric interference can occur in cylindrical worm gear set that makes use of oversized hob to cut the worm gear. In particular, the interference occurs easily in the design with high lead and low pressure angles. The interference results in a corner contact. In this study, we examined the influence of the machine tool setting errors of the worm gear hobbing and the influence of the shaft misalignments of the worm gear set on the interference. To determine the interference, we used the surface separation topology based on differential geometry. In addition, we also examined the hob oversize range required to avoid the interference under the condition of the machine tool setting errors and shaft misalignments. This study found that the interference can be avoided not only when the hob oversize is larger than the upper limit, but also when the hob oversize is smaller than the lower limit. This study also found that the interference can be avoided by applying the intended errors on the machine tool setting and shaft alignment, without manipulating the hob oversize.
A formulation of tooth deformation and its error compensation for worm gear transmission mechanisms
Authors: Zhao Pengbing , Huang Jin , Shi Yaoyao
Published: September 2016

Milling head and rotary table are the key components in five-axis CNC machine tools. However, tracking and positioning precision of these rotary axes based on worm gear mechanisms are affected by the backlash, friction, elastic deformation, and other nonlinearities. Therefore, finding out a simple and universal principle to predict the tooth deformation in an initial design is quite significant. A novel deformation calculation and compensation method with finite element analysis and circular plate theory is proposed for the worm gear transmissions. When the relationship (form factor) between the solutions of circular plate theory and finite element analysis is derived, deformation calculation with finite element analysis can be replaced by multiplying the solution of circular plate theory and the form factor. Analysis and calculation results show that the presented method can provide a reference for the compensation control of the positioning errors.
Effects of periodic wakes on boundary layer development on an ultra-high-lift low pressure turbine airfoil
Authors: Lu Xingen , Zhang Yanfeng , Li Wei , Hu Shuzhen , Zhu Junqiang
Published: September 2016

The laminar-turbulent transition process in the boundary layer is of significant practical interest because the behavior of this boundary layer largely determines the overall efficiency of a low pressure turbine. This article presents complementary experimental and computational studies of the boundary layer development on an ultra-high-lift low pressure turbine airfoil under periodically unsteady incoming flow conditions. Particular emphasis is placed on the influence of the periodic wake on the laminar-turbulent transition process on the blade suction surface. The measurements were distinctive in that a closely spaced array of hot-film sensors allowed a very detailed examination of the suction surface boundary layer behavior. Measurements were made in a low-speed linear cascade facility at a freestream turbulence intensity level of 1.5%, a reduced frequency of 1.28, a flow coefficient of 0.70, and Reynolds numbers of 50,000 and 100,000, based on the cascade inlet velocity and the airfoil axial chord length. Experimental data were supplemented with numerical predictions from a commercially available Computational Fluid Dynamics code. The wake had a significant influence on the boundary layer of the ultra-high-lift low pressure turbine blade. Both the wake’s high turbulence and the negative jet behavior of the wake dominated the interaction between the unsteady wake and the separated boundary layer on the suction surface of the ultra-high-lift low pressure turbine airfoil. The upstream unsteady wake segments convecting through the blade passage behaved as a negative jet, with the highest turbulence occurring above the suction surface around the wake center. Transition of the unsteady boundary layer on the blade suction surface was initiated by the wake turbulence. The incoming wakes promoted transition onset upstream, which led to a periodic suppression of the separation bubble. The loss reduction was a compromise between the positive effect of the separation reduction and the negative effect of the larger turbulent-wetted area after reattachment due to the earlier boundary layer transition caused by the unsteady wakes. It appeared that the successful application of ultra-high-lift low pressure turbine blades required additional loss reduction mechanisms other than “simple” wake-blade interaction.
Evidence of a short-lived episode of olive (Olea europaea L.) cultivation during the Early Bronze Age in western Mediterranean (southern Italy)
Authors: D’Auria Alessia , Buonincontri Mauro Paolo , Allevato Emilia , Saracino Antonio , Jung Reinhard , Pacciarelli Marco , Di Pasquale Gaetano
Published: September 2016

Anthracological analysis was carried out in the archaeological site of Punta di Zambrone on the Tyrrhenian coast of Calabria in southern Italy. Archaeological excavation documented at the site settlement deposits dated mainly to Early Bronze Age (EBA, 21st–18th century BC) and the Recent Bronze Age (RBA, 13th to early 12th century BC). In the phase of the EBA village, the high frequency of Olea europaea in the charcoal data suggests the tree may well have been cultivated by favouring the spread of the scant olive trees growing wild. Comparison with existing archaeobotanical data indicates that olive cultivation spread over a large portion of southern Italy from the EBA and the early Middle Bronze Age (MBA, 17th–15th century BC), thus calling into question the hypothesis of its first cultivation related to the interaction between Mycenaean Greece and local cultures in southern Italy. The early domestication event at Punta di Zambrone supports the idea of multiple independent primary events of olive domestication throughout the Mediterranean basin. In the following phase of the fortified settlement dated to the RBA, the frequency of olive charcoal diminished and the expansion of a more or less dense forest dominated by Quercus was judged to be a consequence of human depopulation that characterises the end of MBA and also a different land use of RBA. This forest increase, also recorded by other archaeobotanical proxies in the central and southern Italian peninsula, is found to be related to the diffusion in southern Calabria of the Subapennine culture, spreading from more northerly areas of Italy and bringing different economic systems and agronomic knowledge. These far-reaching changes appear to have brought to a halt the first event of olive cultivation recorded at Punta di Zambrone.
Breast cancer in systemic lupus
Authors: Bernatsky S , Ramsey-Goldman R , Petri M , Urowitz M B , Gladman D D , Fortin P F , Ginzler E , Romero-Diaz J , Peschken C , Jacobsen S , Hanly J G , Gordon C , Nived O , Yelin E H , Isenberg D , Rahman A , Bae S-C , Joseph L , Witte T , Ruiz-Irastorza G , Aranow C , Kamen D , Sturfeldt G , Foulkes W D , Hansen J E , St Pierre Y , Raymer P Chrétien , Tessier-Cloutier B , Clarke A E
Published: September 2016

Objective

There is a decreased breast cancer risk in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) versus the general population. We assessed a large sample of SLE patients, evaluating demographic and clinical characteristics and breast cancer risk.

Methods

We performed case-cohort analyses within a multi-center international SLE sample. We calculated the breast cancer hazard ratio (HR) in female SLE patients, relative to demographics, reproductive history, family history of breast cancer, and time-dependent measures of anti-dsDNA positivity, cumulative disease activity, and drugs, adjusted for SLE duration.

Results

There were 86 SLE breast cancers and 4498 female SLE cancer-free controls. Patients were followed on average for 7.6 years. Versus controls, SLE breast cancer cases tended to be white and older. Breast cancer cases were similar to controls regarding anti-dsDNA positivity, disease activity, and most drug exposures over time. In univariate and multivariate models, the principal factor associated with breast cancers was older age at cohort entry.

Conclusions

There was little evidence that breast cancer risk in this SLE sample was strongly driven by any of the clinical factors that we studied. Further search for factors that determine the lower risk of breast cancer in SLE may be warranted.
25-hydroxyvitamin D is associated with metabolic syndrome among premenopausal women with systemic lupus erythematosus in China
Authors: Wang L-M , Zheng Z-H , Li T-F , Han L-S , He Y-J , Zhang Y-L , Zeng H-L , Liu S-Y
Published: September 2016

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the status of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and its association with metabolic syndrome (MS) and different MS components among premenopausal women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in China.

Patients and methods

Altogether 113 premenopausal women with SLE and the age-matched healthy cohorts were recruited in this cross-sectional study. Clinical manifestations and laboratory data including serum 25(OH)D concentration were collected. A multivariable analysis was performed to analyze the association of 25(OH)D with MS and its components.

Results

The prevalence of 25(OH)D deﬁciency (25(OH)D < 20 ng/ml) and MS were common (24.8% and 30.1%, respectively) in premenopausal patients with SLE in China. Analysis of the association between 25(OH)D, MS and its components demonstrated that the lower level of 25(OH)D was associated with increased MS prevalence (OR = 0.920, p = 0.012), a decreased level of high-density lipoprotein (OR = 1.059, p = 0.033) and a higher level of fasting glucose (OR = 0.810, p = 0.004). These associations were still detectible after adjustment for age, body mass index and SLE-related variables.

Conclusion

The level of 25(OH)D is associated with MS and its components in premenopausal women with SLE.
The prevalence of self-reported lower limb and foot health problems experienced by participants with systemic lupus erythematosus: Results of a UK national survey
Authors: Cherry L , Alcacer-Pitarch B , Hopkinson N , Teh L S , Vital E M , Edwards C J , Blake A , Williams A E
Published: September 2016

Objective

The main aim of this survey was to determine the frequency of self-reported lower limb or foot and ankle complications experienced by participants with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A secondary aim was to determine the frequency of treatments that have been received or that participants with SLE may like to receive if offered.

Method

A quantitative, cross-sectional, self-reported survey design was utilized. The developed survey was checked for face and content validity prior to patient partner cognitive debriefing in order to ensure usability, understanding of the process of completion and of the questions posed. The full protocol for survey development has been published previously.

Results

This is the first comprehensive national UK survey of lower limb and foot health problems reported by participants with SLE. A high prevalence of vascular, dermatological and musculoskeletal complications was reported by survey respondents. Additionally, whilst the relative prevalence of sensory loss was low, a quarter of people reported having had a fall related to changes in foot sensation demonstrating a previously unknown rate and cause of falls.

Conclusion

Complications related to vascular, dermatological and musculoskeletal health are identified as particularly prevalent in participants with SLE. Further, there is a suggestion that the provision of interventions to maintain lower limb health is highly varied and lacks national standardization, despite there being a strong indication of participant reported need. The findings of this work can be used to inform care guideline development in addition to identifying areas for future research.