bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulation of multiconductor transmission lines with random parameters via stochastic differential equations approach
Authors: Brančík Lubomír , Kolářová Edita
Published: May 2016

This article addresses a method for the simulation of multiconductor transmission lines (MTLs) with fluctuating parameters based on the theory of stochastic differential equations (SDEs). Specifically, confidence intervals of an MTL model’s stochastic responses are effectively evaluated. First, the MTL’s deterministic model with lumped parameters, based on generalized Π sections connected in cascade, is formulated and described through a state variable method, which results in a vector ordinary differential equation (ODE) in the time domain. A vector SDE is then developed by incorporating the respective stochastic processes into its deterministic counterpart. Next, the first two moments of the stochastic processes are calculated via the solution of respective Lyapunov-like ODEs, to assess expectations and the variances of stochastic responses, and also to determine relevant confidence intervals. A statistical processing of individual stochastic trajectories is used to validate the results.
What do young adults on the edges of homeownership look like in big cities in an emerging economy: Evidence from Shanghai
Authors: Chen Jie , Yang Zan
Published: May 2016

The characteristics of young households positioned on the edges of homeownership in a rapidly growing economy are investigated. This empirical work is based on a unique survey conducted in 2011 in Shanghai, which enables us to determine how young renters assess their major financial obstacles to becoming homeowners. We distinguish whether young renters attempting to access homeownership are constrained by a lack of sufficient funds for a down-payment, or by inadequate income, or by both. By connecting young renters’ individual characteristics to the various financial constraints they face, we are able to characterise the renters who are situated on the edges of homeownership. Based on these findings, we make policy recommendations on how the government could improve the homeownership prospects of young households close to the boundary between renting and owning in urban China, as opposed to those with minimal chances of attaining homeownership.
Diagnosing Cartman
Authors: Yalch Matthew M. , Vitale Erika M. , Ford J. Kevin
Published: May 2016

Recent changes to the diagnosis of child antisocial behavior provide different methods of conceptualizing it (e.g., traditional symptom-based diagnoses and alternative trait-based methods). However, there is little research on how psychology students might use these different methods and what kind of instructional formats might be amenable to teaching students about them. In this study, we examined how students in an advanced psychopathology course used symptom-based and trait-based methods to conceptualize child antisocial behavior in a case study format. Results indicated that students perceived symptom-based and trait-based methods as providing complementary information that students found useful for diagnosis. Implications and future directions are also discussed.
Projection of Romantic and Sexual Desire in Opposite-Sex Friendships
Authors: Lemay Edward P. , Wolf Noah R.
Published: May 2016

In two studies, the authors examined the projection of romantic and sexual desire in opposite-sex friendships. In both studies, perceivers who strongly desired their friends projected this desire onto their friends, believing that their desire was more reciprocated than was actually the case. In turn, projection of desire appeared to motivate perceivers into enacting relationship initiation behaviors, which predicted changes in targets’ romantic and sexual desires over time (Study 2). Projection was elevated for perceivers who saw themselves as high in mate value, and targets appeared to be influenced by perceivers’ overtures primarily when they believed perceivers were high in mate value. This research suggests that, for perceivers high in mate value, romantic and sexual desire creates biased perceptions that initiate self-fulfilling prophecies.
Ambiguous Financial Responsibilities: Second Wives and Alimony Reform Activism in the United States
Authors: Crowley Jocelyn Elise
Published: May 2016

Alimony, which involves financial transfers from mostly men to women after a divorce, has recently received more scrutiny in the United States by members of an emerging social movement. These activists are attempting to change alimony policy in ways that economically benefit them. One important part of this movement are second wives, who ally themselves with their new husbands and against first wives in the pursuit of alimony reform. This analysis examines how these second wives articulate their objections to alimony by introducing the concept of economic boundary ambiguity, meaning in this case, a state of human relationships where financial obligations between first and second wives are contested. In addition to creating several tangible stressors, economic boundary ambiguity can also have important consequences for women’s own social identities as well as the collective identity and the success of the social movement overall.
Improving Access to Head and Neck Cancer Surgical Services through the Incorporation of Associate Providers
Authors: Paydarfar Joseph A. , Gosselin Benoit J. , Tietz Annette M.
Published: May 2016

Objective

The urgent nature of head and neck cancer referrals often results in overbooked schedules, access delays, and patient, physician, and staff dissatisfaction. The goal of this study is to examine how incorporation of associate providers (APs) into a head and neck tumor clinic (HNTC) can improve access.

Methods

Scheduling data for the Dartmouth‐Hitchcock HNTC 2 years prior (January 2011 to December 2012) and 2 years subsequent (January 2013 to December 2014) to program initiation were abstracted, including number of new patients seen per month, third available for new and established patients, overbooked hours, surgeon productivity, and patient satisfaction scores.

Results

New patients seen per month increased from 44 ± 4 to 60 ± 5 (P <. 001). Third available for new patients decreased from 56 ± 4 to 27 ± 2 days and from 43 ± 3 to 35 ± 2 days for follow‐ups (P <. 001). Overbooked hours decreased from 14.7 ± 3.1 to 8.6 ± 1.7 hours (P <. 001). Surgeon productivity remained stable (109% ± 11% vs 113% ± 6%, P =. 56). Patient satisfaction in seeing APs versus surgeons was comparable (94 ± 2 vs 94 ± 3, P =. 79).

Discussion

Incorporation of APs into the HNTC increases the number of new patients seen by the surgeon, decreases wait times for all appointments, and decreases overbooking while maintaining patient satisfaction and surgeon productivity.

Implications for Practice

AP incorporation significantly improves access to head and neck surgical services. With improved access, new cancer patients could start treatment sooner, potentially affecting outcome.
Adverse Event Reporting for Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy
Authors: Abramowitz Jason , Thakkar Punam , Isa Arton , Truong Alan , Park Connie , Rosenfeld Richard M.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To assist clinicians in counseling patients regarding the risk of adverse events from proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), by synthesizing evidence from published systematic reviews of antireflux therapy.

Data Sources

Cochrane Library, CINAHL, PubMed, Web of Knowledge.

Review Methods

Overview based on PRISMA reporting standards (preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses) of English‐language meta‐analyses and systematic reviews of PPI therapy for reflux disease through December 2014. Two independent investigators assessed study eligibility, rated the review quality with AMSTAR criteria (assessing the methodological quality of systematic reviews), and abstracted data for adverse events.

Results

Thirty‐three systematic reviews met inclusion criteria. The most commonly reported adverse events were community‐acquired pneumonia (odds ratios, 1.04‐1.92), with a greater association noted with shorter duration of therapy and higher doses. Hip fractures were also associated with PPI use (odds ratios, 1.16‐1.50), especially with long‐term therapy. Last, enteric infection with Clostridium difficile was more common with PPI therapy (odds ratios, 1.69‐1.33). Other less commonly reported adverse events included electrolyte and vitamin deficiency. Risk factors for adverse events are reported in the text.

Conclusion

Our overview shows that PPI therapy is associated with significant and potentially serious adverse events that should be discussed with patients. The effect sizes and risk factors provided should facilitate this discussion and promote shared decision making.
Understanding first-year students’ transition to university: A pilot study with implications for student engagement, assessment, and feedback
Authors: Blair Alasdair
Published: May 2016

This article discusses the findings of a pilot study that examined the adjustment experience of first-year students to university study. Based on a sample of 51 first-year students at one UK university, the article finds that while the majority of students considered that workloads, nature of assessment, level of independent reading, and learning were broadly in line with their expectations, they were less satisfied with the support provided in terms of contact time with tutors and feedback on performance. These results thus provide a mixed picture, whereby academic workload and content are in line with students’ expectations, but students do not fully comprehend what tutors want in assignments, despite knowing where to go for support.
Sharing experienced sadness: Negotiating meanings of self-defined sad music within a group interview session
Authors: Peltola Henna-Riikka
Published: May 2016

Sadness induced by music listening has been a popular research focus in music and emotion research. Despite the wide consensus in affective sciences that emotional experiences are social processes, previous studies have only concentrated on individuals. Thus, the intersubjective dimension of musical experience – how music and music-related emotions are experienced between individuals – has not been investigated. In order to tap into shared emotional experiences, group discussions about experiences evoked by sad music were facilitated. Interpretative phenomenological analysis revealed four levels of discourses in the sharing of experiences evoked by joint music listening: (1) describing the emotional experience, (2) describing the music, (3) interpreting the music, and (4) describing autobiographical associations. Negotiated meanings of musical expression and emotional content were present. When exposed to different types of music and musical expression, the informants distinguished various kinds of sadness with distinct meanings. Shared experiences were affected by expectations of the musical style, structure, and performance, as well as expectations of the emotional content of music. Additionally, social norms and cultural conventions played important roles in the negotiations.
Female Diplomats in Jewish Elephantine? A New Look at a Papyrus from the Yedaniah Archive
Authors: Tamber-Rosenau Caryn
Published: May 2016

This article reexamines a fragmentary Aramaic letter from the Yedaniah communal archive in Elephantine. The document, TAD A4.4, tells a tale of intrigue involving burglaries, arrests, and failed diplomacy. Many details of the letter escape us because the text is incomplete, but it is clear that five men and six women from Elephantine were seized at the gate in Thebes. Scholarly treatments have tended to discuss the women's presence at Thebes as an ancillary fact, as if they were merely wives and daughters along with their men on a business trip. This article analyzes the internal evidence of TAD A4.4, brings to bear contemporary material from Elephantine, and proposes alternatives for the role of the captured women. I argue that TAD A4.4 provides further insight into the roles of women in Elephantine and discuss how and why their roles might differ from those implied in biblical texts of this period.
‘On His Law He Meditates’: What Is Psalm 1 Introducing?
Authors: Lefebvre Michael
Published: May 2016

In this article, three common assumptions about the way Psalm 1 introduces the Psalter are examined, and alternatives proposed. First, rather than interpreting the Hebrew word torah in Ps. 1.2 as the book of Psalms itself, it is argued that the passage refers to singing psalms as a means of meditation on the Mosaic Torah. Second, rather than regarding ‘delight’ in God's law as meaning obedience, it is argued that the Psalm promotes hope in God's reign. Third, rather than viewing Psalm 1 as a hermeneutical lens for re-interpreting other psalms, this study argues for a reading of Psalm 1 that explains the collection.
Carbonscapes and beyond
Authors: Haarstad Håvard , Wanvik Tarje I.
Published: May 2016

Geographers tend to see energy systems as intricately interwoven with society and relatively resistant to change. We argue that there is a danger of exaggerating the permanence and stability of the energy–society relationship. Therefore we propose a framework that is more open to instability and transformation. Using assemblage theory, we frame the social and material landscapes of oil – carbonscapes – as having emergent capacities for change built into their relations of exteriority. We illustrate this by discussing instabilities at particular points within the global oil production network: extractive hot zones, energy distribution infrastructures, and urban spaces of consumption and practice.
Comparison of different filtering strategies to reduce noise in strain measurement with digital image correlation
Authors: Baldoni Jacopo , Lionello Giacomo , Zama Fabiana , Cristofolini Luca
Published: May 2016

The main limitation of digital image correlation is the remarkable noise affecting the digital image correlation–computed strain distributions. Neither manufacturers of digital image correlation systems nor the literature provide guidelines for optimal filtering of digital image correlation strain distributions. However, filtering is also associated with loss of information (smoothing of the strain gradients). We systematically explored different filtering strategies to reduce noise while minimizing the loss of information in the digital image correlation–computed strain distributions. The first filtering strategy was directly applied to the acquired images that were then fed to the digital image correlation software. Median adaptive low-pass filters and notch filters were used to eliminate noise: both strategies increased (rather than reducing) the noise in the digital image correlation–computed strain distributions. The second strategy explored was a Gaussian low-pass filtering of the strain distributions. When the optimal cutoff frequency was selected, the noise was remarkably reduced (by 70%) without excessive loss of information. At the same time, when non-optimal cutoff frequencies were used, the residual noise and/or loss of information seriously compromised the results. Finally, image combination techniques were applied both to the input images and to the strain distributions. This strategy was extremely time-consuming but not very effective (noise reduction <10%). In conclusion, the only truly effective noise reduction strategy, if measurements are carried out using commercial closed software, consists in filtering the strain distribution.
Incidence, Degree, and Clinical Effect of Subchondral Bone Overgrowth After Microfracture in the Knee
Authors: Mithoefer Kai , Venugopal Vivek , Manaqibwala Moiz
Published: May 2016

Background:

Subchondral bone overgrowth has been described with variable frequency after microfracture, but little systematic information is available about the clinical incidence, risk factors, or clinical relevance of this phenomenon.

Hypothesis:

Subchondral overgrowth (1) occurs with high incidence and various degrees after microfracture, (2) is associated with risk factors, and (3) affects clinical outcome score and failure rate.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 84 patients undergoing microfracture in the knee were prospectively followed up to 6 years postoperatively through use of cartilage-sensitive magnetic resonance imaging to detect the incidence of subchondral bone overgrowth. The quantity of the overgrowth was graded systematically and was then correlated to patient and lesion characteristics, surgical technique, validated functional outcome scores, and failure rate.

Results:

Subchondral bone overgrowth was observed in 62% of patients at a mean of 22 months after surgery. Most bone overgrowth (64%) was low grade and developed during the first 12 months after microfracture. Risk factors for bone overgrowth included high body mass index, defects on the lateral femoral condyle, and aggressive debridement of the calcified cartilage layer. Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score results were not significantly different between patients with or without subchondral bone overgrowth. However, 93% of patients who failed microfracture demonstrated osseous overgrowth, and patients with osseous overgrowth showed a significantly higher failure rate (25%) than patients without overgrowth (3.1%; P < .01).

Conclusion:

Subchondral bone overgrowth is frequently observed after microfracture surgery but is mostly of low grade. Several risk factors were identified that can affect the incidence of this phenomenon. Importantly, subchondral overgrowth is associated with an increased rate of postoperative failure after microfracture.
Experimental and numerical study of basalt fibre cloth strengthened structural insulated panel under windborne debris impact
Authors: Meng Qingfei , Hao Hong , Chen Wensu
Published: May 2016

Strong wind causes damages and losses around the world. The windborne debris carried by strong wind might impact on building and create openings on the building envelop, which might threaten the occupants and cause further damages to the building. To address this issue, some wind loading codes including the Australian Wind Loading Code (AS/NZS 1170:2:2011) give design requirements. The resistance capacity of oriented strand board skins structural insulated panel was investigated and proved having low resistance to the projectile impact, and could not meet the impact resistance requirement for application in cyclonic region C and D defined in Australian Wind Loading Code. In this study, basalt fibre cloth is used to strengthen oriented strand board structural insulated panel to increase its capacity to resist windborne debris impact. This paper presents experimental and numerical study of structural insulated panel with or without basalt fibre cloth strengthening under windborne debris impact. Five specimens with different configurations were tested. The dynamic responses were quantitatively compared in terms of residual speed of debris after impact. The results indicate that basalt fibre cloth enhanced the resistance capacity of oriented strand board structural insulated panel. A numerical model is developed in LS-DYNA to simulate the debris impact. The testing results are used to verify the accuracy of the numerical model, which can be used in subsequent parametric studies.
Social Factors & Elderly Frailty - An Application of the Frail Scale in Italy
Authors: Poli Stefano , Pandolfini Valeria
Published: May 2016

This article explores relationships between social factors and physical frailty among older people, and describes the results of a survey realized with a sample of 540 elderly cases in Genoa, Italy. With the objective of realizing and validating proper methodological tools to evaluate frailty in ageing in a multidimensional approach, the study represents the first validation in Italy of the FRAIL scale aimed at evaluating physical frailty and combines its application with different tools exploring the relationship of health with socioeconomic conditions, life styles, social capital, services availability and social activation of elderly people.
Solidarity Networks of Spanish Migrants in the UK and Germany: The Emergence of Interstitial Trade Unionism
Authors: Roca Beltrán , Martín-Díaz Emma
Published: May 2016

This article aims to study the collective strategies and social networks of young Spanish emigrants in the European Union, paying special attention to their perceptions of and practices regarding working conditions, as well as their relationships with the trade unions and social movements. The article focuses on two case studies of migrant self-organisation networks: the Union Action Group of Berlin, Germany and the Solidarity Federation in Brighton, UK. On the basis of semi-structured interviews and document analysis, the article concludes that the existing gap between trade unions and migrant labour can, under certain circumstances, favour the emergence of solidarity networks which in part play the role of trade unions. We call this type of organisation interstitial trade unionism.
Integrated inventory model with backorder and minimal repair in a supply chain
Authors: Yang Ming-Feng , Lin Yi
Published: May 2016

This study explores the feasibility of applying an integrated inventory model with the consideration of incorporating production programs and maintenance to an imperfect process involving a deteriorating production system. The main target of this research is to build an integrated inventory model with the issues of backorder and repair. Additionally, our proposed model tries to provide an optimal number of shipments m and lower cost. Furthermore, this article offers the detailed discussion of two preventive maintenances of the production run period which are named as perfect preventive maintenance and imperfect preventive maintenance. Also, in this study, we develop various special cases that consider the failure rate such as Weibull, geometric and learning effect. Based on the results, the demand and production ratio influences the holding cost and purchase cost and has the highest impact on the integrated model.
Book Review: Maidul Islam, Limits of Islamism: Jamaat-e-Islami in Contemporary India and Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md. Mizanur
Published: May 2016

Maidul Islam, Limits of Islamism: Jamaat-e-Islami in Contemporary India and Bangladesh. New Delhi: Cambridge University Press, 2015, pp. x + 345, $99.
Which Way India?
Authors: Sharma Shalendra D.
Published: May 2016

Jagdish Bhagwati and Arvind Panagariya, Why Growth Matters: How Economic Growth in India Reduced Poverty and the Lessons for Other Developing Countries. New York: Public Affairs, 2014, pp. 280, US$28.99.

Jean Dreze and Amartya Sen, An Uncertain Glory: India and its Contradictions. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2013, pp. 448, Paperback US$19.95, Hardcover US$29.95.
The Productivity Commission and industrial relations reform
Authors: Peetz David
Published: May 2016

This article considers the political economy of the Productivity Commission in industrial relations reform; in particular, its review of the industrial relations framework foreshadowed in 2013 and conducted in 2015. Following a history of the establishment of the Productivity Commission and its predecessor agencies, it argues that the concepts of third-party independence and third-party endorsement are important for understanding the role of the Productivity Commission. A review of the politics of industrial relations reform leads into the central analysis of the political economy of the Productivity Commission’s 2015 inquiry into the Australian workplace relations framework. The concepts of third-party independence and endorsement are applied in analysing some of the inquiry’s key recommendations. The conclusion discusses several difficulties in the political economy of the Productivity Commission and its relationships to government and, indeed, to evidence, when the latter contradicted its mainly liberal market stance.
Phenytoin-Induced Lymphadenopathy
Authors: Schwinghammer Terry L. , Howrie Denise L.
Published: May 2016

Various lymph node abnormalities have been associated with phenytoin therapy. Four distinct categories of lymphadenopathy have been described: lymphoid hyperplasia, pseudolymphoma, pseudo-pseudolymphoma, and lymphoma. These presentations vary from a benign symptom complex, with enlarged lymph nodes, that is reversible upon drug discontinuance to a true malignant lymphoma that is progressive and ultimately fatal. Benign lymph node hyperplasia and pseudolymphoma may result in erroneous diagnosis and treatment of malignant lymphoma if phenytoin-associated lymphadenopathy has not been considered. We describe a patient who developed enlarged inguinal lymph nodes while receiving chronic phenytoin therapy. An initial diagnosis of malignant lymphoma was made, and recurrent hospitalizations and treatment with cytotoxic drugs ensued. Repeat biopsy, as well as reexamination of the removed nodes, later revealed phenytoin-associated hyperplasia. Patients who develop enlarged lymph nodes while receiving phenytoin should be evaluated carefully so that phenytoin-induced lymphadenopathy may be differentiated from true malignant lymphoma and appropriate treatment may be given.
The Pharmacist as a Member of the CPR Team: Evaluation by other Health Professionals
Authors: Ludwig Dennis J. , Abramowitz Paul W.
Published: May 2016

Physician and nurse evaluation of the pharmacist's participation on the cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) team was studied, in an attempt to justify the pharmacist's role.

A pharmacist-evaluation questionnaire was prepared, based on the Likert Method. This questionnaire contained ten statements related to organizational and mechanical contributions, drug information contributions, and overall contribution and desire, by other health professionals, for continuance of this service.

Pharmacists attended all CPRs during a six-month period and distributed a questionnaire to one physician and one nurse in attendance. Verification was obtained that these individuals had attended previous arrests where pharmacists were not in attendance. Only those evaluations that were completed and returned by the physician or the nurse, to the Department of Pharmaceutical Services, were evaluated.

Results indicated that physicians and nurses are in agreement with the pharmacist's organizational and mechanical contribution. Both physicians and nurses tended toward agreement with the pharmacist's drug information contribution. Finally, physicians and nurses are in agreement with the pharmacist's overall contribution to the CPR team and desire continuance of this service.
Phenytoin and Phenobarbital Protein Binding Alterations in a Uremic Burn Patient
Authors: Pugh Carol B.
Published: May 2016

A case is reported in which dramatic decreases in the protein binding of Phenytoin and phenobarbital were noted. A 57-year-old burn patient with a history of a seizure disorder had increased free fractions of phenytoin and phenobarbital. The patient later developed renal failure and the free fractions of both drugs were further increased. Decreases in the protein binding of Phenytoin in patients with hypoalbuminemia and/or uremia have been well documented, but the effects of these conditions on phenobarbital protein binding have not been well studied. In the case described here, the presence of both hypoalbuminemia and uremia were necessary before a doubling of the free fraction of phenobarbital was noted. Although it is not a highly protein-bound drug, in some circumstances protein binding alterations of phenobarbital may be of clinical significance.
Pharmacy-Enforced Outpatient Drug Treatment Protocols: A Case Study of Medi-Cal Restrictions for Cefaclor
Authors: Mccombs Jeffrey S. , Nichol Michael B.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To evaluate whether a pharmacy-enforced treatment protocol successfully limited the use of a high-cost medication to high-risk patients.

Design

A case study cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted to evaluate a treatment protocol for cefaclor. Episodes of care were defined, healthcare expenditures for all services were aggregated, and demographic data were retrieved from a five percent random sample of California Medicaid (Medi-Cal) recipients. Data were available for episodes occurring before cefaclor was made available under Medi-Cal.

Setting

Medi-Cal added cefaclor to its formulary, limiting its use to patients over 50 years of age with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). The unit of analysis was an episode of outpatient antibiotic treatment.

Patients

Confirmed LRTI episodes and unconfirmed LRTI cefaclor episodes were analyzed, including multiple episodes of treatment for individual patients. A total of 7855 non-cefaclor LRTI episodes and 2556 cefaclor episodes were analyzed.

Main outcome Measures

The primary outcome measures were healthcare expenditures three months after the initiation of antibiotic therapy, differentiated by type of service.

Results

Physicians directed cefaclor toward higher-risk patients over age 50 years, even in unconfirmed LRTI episodes. Cefaclor use was estimated to reduce posttreatment costs by $388 per patient (p<0.001), primarily because of reduced hospital expenditures of $366 (p<0.001).

Conclusions

Pharmacy-enforced outpatient drug treatment protocols may be a viable alternative to restrictive formularies and prior authorization. In the case of cefaclor, the Medi-Cal treatment protocol appeared to allow high-risk patients better access to a high-cost medication while reducing total posttreatment costs.
Hepatotoxicity Associated with Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
Authors: Hagley Michael T. , Hulisz Darrell T. , Burns Colleen M. , Hartshorn Edward A.
Published: May 2016

Objective

To review published reports of hepatotoxicity associated with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and to explore possible mechanisms of injury.

Data Sources

Published reports of hepatotoxicity associated with use of ACE inhibitors and investigations that suggest potential mechanisms of injury.

Data Synthesis

Nineteen cases of ACE-inhibitor–associated hepatotoxicity are presented. Early theories regarding mechanisms are reviewed. Laboratory investigations of hepatic effects of eicosanoids on hepatic function are reviewed and a novel mechanism by which ACE inhibitors may cause hepatic injury is postulated.

Conclusions

Hepatotoxicity, usually cholestatic in nature, has been reported with captopril, enalapril, and lisinopril use. Apparent cross-reactivity has been reported twice. Potential mechanisms of injury include idiopathic hypersensitivity and modulation of eicosanoid metabolism by inhibition of kininase II and subsequent increased hepatic bradykinin activity. Mediation via altered eicosanoid metabolism provides a plausible explanation for cross-reactivity among ACE inhibitors. Hepatotoxicity resolves if ACE inhibitors are stopped but may progress to liver failure if treatment is continued.
Optimizing Prescribing Practices of High-Cost Medications With Computerized Alerts in the Inpatient Setting
Authors: Gipson Gregory , Kelly Janet L. , McKinney Christy M. , White Andrew A.
Published: May 2016

Current literature does not consistently show a benefit to providing medication cost information to inpatient health care prescribers. This study assessed the effectiveness of computerized provider order entry alerts that displayed the cost of a high-cost medication alongside a lower cost alternative, targeting 3 high-cost medications. Medication utilization during the one year prior to the intervention was compared to usage in the year after implementation. Reduced utilization of high-cost medications was found when comparing pre to post. Ipratropium hydrofluoroalkane and fluticasone hydrofluoroalkane metered dose inhaler utilization were reduced by 29% and 62%, respectively ( P < .001 for both). A 71% decrease in intravenous chlorothiazide was observed ( P < .001); however, its effect was unable to be separated from implementation of a heart failure diuretic protocol during the study period. Overall, these results suggest computerized medication cost alerts that recommend a lower cost therapeutic alternative are effective in changing prescribing practices.
A Wireless Text Messaging System Improves Communication for Neonatal Resuscitation
Authors: Hughes Driscoll Colleen A. , Schub Jamie A. , Pollard Kristi , El-Metwally Dina
Published: May 2016

Handoffs for neonatal resuscitation involve communicating critical delivery information (CDI). The authors sought to achieve ≥95% communication of CDI during resuscitation team requests. CDI included name of caller, urgency of request, location of delivery, gestation of fetus, status of amniotic fluid, and indication for presence of the resuscitation team. Three interventions were implemented: verbal scripted handoff, Spök text messaging, and Engage text messaging. Percentages of CDI communications were analyzed using statistical process control. Following implementation of Engage, the communication of all CDI, except for indication, was ≥95%; communication of indication occurred 93% of the time. Control limits for most CDI were narrower with Engage, indicating greater reliability of communication compared to the verbal handoff and Spök. Delayed resuscitation team arrival, a countermeasure, was not higher with text messaging compared to verbal handoff ( P = 1.00). Text messaging improved communication during high-risk deliveries, and it may represent an effective tool for other delivery centers.
Radiographic Evaluation of Ankle Joint Stability After Calcaneofibular Ligament Elevation During Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Calcaneus Fracture
Authors: Wang Chien-Shun , Tzeng Yun-Hsuan , Lin Chun-Cheng , Huang Ching-Kuei , Chang Ming-Chau , Chiang Chao-Ching
Published: May 2016

Background:

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the influence of sectioning the calcaneofibular ligament (CFL) during an extensile lateral approach during open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of calcaneal fractures on ankle joint stability.

Methods:

Forty-two patients with calcaneal fractures that received ORIF were included. Talar tilt stress and anterior drawer radiographs were performed on the operative and contralateral ankles 6 months postoperatively.

Results:

The average degree of talar tilt on stress radiographs was 3.4 degrees (range, 0-12 degrees) on the operative side and 3.2 degrees (range, 0-14 degrees) on the contralateral side. The mean anterior drawer on stress radiographs of the CFL incised ankle was 6.1 mm (range, 2.4-11.8 mm) and on the contralateral ankle was 5.7 mm (range, 2.6-8.6 mm). There was no statistically significant difference of talar tilt and anterior drawer between the CFL incised side and the contralateral side ( P = .658 and .302, respectively).

Conclusion:

The results suggest that sectioning of the CFL without any repair during ORIF of a calcaneal fracture does not have a negative effect on stability of the ankle. Repair of the CFL is, thus, probably not necessary following extended lateral approach for ORIF of calcaneal fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Level II, comparative study.
Impact of Intraoperative Cone Beam Computed Tomography on Reduction Quality and Implant Position in Treatment of Tibial Plafond Fractures
Authors: Vetter Sven Yves , Euler Finn , von Recum Jan , Wendl Klaus , Grützner Paul Alfred , Franke Jochen
Published: May 2016

Background:

The intraoperative assessment of the articular surface in displaced intra-articular distal tibia fractures can be challenging using conventional fluoroscopy. The aim of the study was to determine the frequency and the method of intraoperative corrections of fracture reductions or implant placements during open reduction, internal fixation by using cone beam computed tomography (CT) after conventional fluoroscopy.

Methods:

Displaced intra-articular distal tibia fractures were retrospectively analyzed from August 2001 until December 2011. The fractures were classified according to the standards of the AO/OTA as type B or C and treated with open reduction and internal plate fixation. After primary reduction using conventional fluoroscopy, an additional cone beam CT scan was used to determine the alignment of the joint line and the implant position. The number of intraoperative revisions of the primary reduction due to the use of cone beam CT was analyzed.

Results:

A total of 143 patients with an intra-articular tibial plafond fracture were included in the analysis. In 43 patients (30%), an intraoperative correction was performed after the cone beam CT scan. In 34 (24%) of these cases, intraoperative correction was required because of inadequate joint line reduction. Nine (6%) corrections were required as a result of a malposition of the implant. The revision rate did not differ by fracture classification.

Conclusion:

Despite its acceptance as the standard method of imaging, intraoperative conventional fluoroscopy for the assessment of implant positioning and fracture reduction of tibial plafond fractures is limited. The intraoperative utilization of cone beam CT provided additional information for the surgeon to detect insufficient reduction or implant malposition.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.
Chronicling the land rights movement: the democratic role of Australian Indigenous land rights publications
Authors: Burrows Elizabeth
Published: May 2016

The Australian land rights debate has polarized public opinion since the 1960s. Deliberative democratic theory argues that sound public opinion forms after citizens engage in discussions about issues of concern, including mediated conversations. Yet, mainstream media coverage of native title disputes has often excluded and ridiculed Indigenous stakeholders. This study draws on in-depth interview and archival data and newspaper content analysis, to examine how land rights publications produced since 1971 have injected Indigenous voices and perspectives into mediated public debates. Producers of land rights publications have sought to redress the balance in democratic processes by providing access to authentic, Indigenous voices. Their content has influenced political policy and public opinion and challenged inaccuracies and misrepresentations within mainstream media coverage.
Improvement of thermal insulation of residential buildings’ façades via acoustic insulation
Authors: Paris-Newton JAE , Prokofieva E , Henry N
Published: May 2016

The European community has been undertaking noise mapping of major cities and transportation routes over the last decade. Implementation of the action plan to achieve reduction in people noise exposure is a key aim of the European Noise Directive action planning. The French Environment and Energy Management Agency and Réseau Ferré de France combine their resources to reduce the noise exposure of noise sensitive receivers near railway lines. The acoustic insulation of façades near railway lines is quantified and improved if necessary. As part of these operations, a parallel improvement to the thermal performance of the façades is often possible, and may be incorporated into the acoustic mitigation designs. This article aims to evaluate the acoustic and thermal improvements achieved during an European Union pilot project concerned with the mitigation of freight train noise in three towns in the Rhône-Alpes region of France. Calculations of both the energy consumption and sound insulation of noise sensitive receiver façades prior to mitigation work are compared with measurements undertaken following the façade upgrades. This study focuses on a sampling of typical buildings built prior to 1978 (over 900 properties).
Care leavers’ involvement in research: An ethnographic case study on impact
Authors: Liabo Kristin
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Reporting data from a case study of a collaborative systematic review, this paper discusses the impact service user involvement might have on research, and how research might benefit from this.

Methods

This was a qualitative case study. The researcher analysed process data on the collaboration in the form of meeting transcripts and minutes, reflective interviews and the researchers’ own field diary. The review was also compared with two systematic reviews on a similar topic, using the AMSTAR checklist.

Results

The young people had influence at all stages of the review, but most importantly shifted its focus from healthcare to education, emphasising education as an important determinant of health.

Conclusion

Young people involved in this review influenced the researcher’s reviewing as well as the review, which shows that involving service users in research is important in order to reduce researcher bias in social care research.
The haptoglobin 2-2 genotype is associated with inflammation and carotid artery intima-media thickness
Authors: Dalan Rinkoo , Liew Huiling , Goh Liuh Ling , Gao Xiao , Chew Daniel EK , Boehm Bernhard O , Leow Melvin Khee Shing
Published: May 2016

The haptoglobin 2-2 genotype is associated with atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetes mellitus. We examined the associations of the haptoglobin 2-2 genotype with C-reactive protein (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) and carotid artery intima-media thickness, adjusting for age, gender, ethnicity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, smoking status, body mass index, blood pressure, glycated haemoglobin, non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and medications via logistic multivariate regression in 200 subjects (160 type 2 diabetes mellitus versus 40 healthy individuals). The prevalence of the haptoglobin 2-2 genotype was 58% (115/200), higher in the Indians than in Chinese (72% versus 45%, p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that the haptoglobin 2-2 genotype was associated with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [mean: 3.5 ± 3.9 versus 2.2 ± 2.6 mg/L (non-haptoglobin 2-2), p < 0.001], haptoglobin concentration [mean: 116.9 ± 54.4.0 versus 147.2 ± 54.5 mg/dL (non-haptoglobin 2-2), p < 0.001] and average carotid artery intima-media thickness (multiplied by 10) [6.15 ± 1.22 versus 5.98 ± 1.20 mm (non-haptoglobin 2-2), p = 0.013]. This pilot study shows an association of the haptoglobin 2-2 genotype with low-grade inflammation, haptoglobin concentration and carotid artery intima-media thickness in multi-ethnic Singapore.
Brief Communication: Plasma lipid oxidation predicts atherosclerotic status better than cholesterol in diabetic apolipoprotein E deficient mice
Authors: Petersen Karen Ekkelund , Lykkesfeldt Jens , Raun Kirsten , Rakipovski Günaj
Published: May 2016

Increased levels of oxidative stress have been suggested to play a detrimental role in the development of diabetes-related vascular complications. Here, we investigated whether the concentration of malondialdehyde, a marker of lipid oxidation correlated to the degree of aortic plaque lesions in a proatherogenic diabetic mouse model. Three groups of apolipoprotein E knockout mice were studied for 20 weeks, a control, a streptozotocin-induced diabetic, and a diabetic enalapril-treated group. Enalapril was hypothesized to lower oxidative stress level and thus the plaque burden. Both diabetic groups were significantly different from the control group as they had higher blood glucose, HbA1c, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, very low-density lipoprotein, together with a lower high-density lipoprotein concentration and body weight. Animals in the diabetic group had significantly higher plaque area and plasma malondialdehyde than controls. The two diabetic groups did not differ significantly in any measured characteristic. In summary, there was a positive correlation between plasma malondialdehyde concentration and aorta plaque area in apolipoprotein E knockout. Even though further investigation of the role of lipid oxidation in the development of atherosclerosis is warranted, these results suggest that biomarkers of lipid oxidation may be of value in the evaluation of cardiovascular risk.
Ambivalent Violence in Contemporary Game Design
Authors: Maloney Marcus
Published: May 2016

Through a textual analysis of three noted examples— Bioshock, Spec Ops: The Line, and Grand Theft Auto V—This article explores the capacity for ambivalence in violent video games. The analyses bring into dialogue film scholarship which has sought to understand a comparable trend in cinema with games scholarship, most notably Darley’s discussion of narrative “decentering” and Bogost’s notion of “procedural rhetoric.” In all three games, the core gameplay in which players are rewarded for repetition of violent behaviors is juxtaposed with ambivalent narrative-contextual aspects. However, in the more overtly “multidimensional” video games medium, this juxtaposition plays out in a more fractured manner than in the flatter visual space of cinema.
Can student health professionals accurately estimate alcohol content in commonly occurring drinks?
Authors: Sinclair Julia , Searle Emma
Published: May 2016

Objectives:

Correct identification of alcohol as a contributor to, or comorbidity of, many psychiatric diseases requires health professionals to be competent and confident to take an accurate alcohol history. Being able to estimate (or calculate) the alcohol content in commonly consumed drinks is a prerequisite for quantifying levels of alcohol consumption. The aim of this study was to assess this ability in medical and nursing students.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey of 891 medical and nursing students across different years of training was conducted. Students were asked the alcohol content of 10 different alcoholic drinks by seeing a slide of the drink (with picture, volume and percentage of alcohol by volume) for 30 s.

Results:

Overall, the mean number of correctly estimated drinks (out of the 10 tested) was 2.4, increasing to just over 3 if a 10% margin of error was used. Wine and premium strength beers were underestimated by over 50% of students. Those who drank alcohol themselves, or who were further on in their clinical training, did better on the task, but overall the levels remained low.

Conclusions:

Knowledge of, or the ability to work out, the alcohol content of commonly consumed drinks is poor, and further research is needed to understand the reasons for this and the impact this may have on the likelihood to undertake screening or initiate treatment.
Differential Effects of Aging on Autobiographical Memory Tasks
Authors: Dijkstra Katinka , Janssen Steve M. J.
Published: May 2016

This study examined the role of aging in the recall and recognition of autobiographical memories. Young and older adults submitted personal events during a period of 3 months to an Internet diary. After this period, they performed a cued-recall test based on what, who, and where retrieval cues. Three months later, participants completed a recognition test in which the descriptions of half the entries were altered. The results indicated no age differences on the cued-recall task, but several age differences on the recognition task. Older adults were more susceptible to accept altered entries as authentic, particularly when these changes had been subtle. However, despite their lower performance, older adults were more confident with the accuracy of their decisions. The results suggest that different mechanisms underlie the recall and recognition of autobiographical memories, and that only tasks that subtly tap into source monitoring abilities are affected by cognitive aging processes.