bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient Safety Communication Among Differently Educated Nurses: Converging and Diverging Meaning Systems
Authors: Anbari Allison Brandt , Vogelsmeier Amy , Dougherty Debbie S.
Published: December 2017

Studies that suggest an increased number of bachelor’s prepared nurses (BSNs) at the bedside improves patient safety do not stratify their samples into traditional bachelor’s and associates (ADN) to BSN graduates. This qualitative study investigated potential differences in patient safety meaning among BSNs and ADN to BSN graduates. Guided by the theory of Language Convergence/Meaning Divergence, interview data from eight BSN and eight ADN to BSN graduates were analyzed. Findings indicate there are two meaning levels or systems, the local level and the systemic level. At the local level, the meaning of patient safety is focused at the patient’s bedside and regulated by the nurse. The systemic level included the notion that health system factors such as policies and staffing are paramount to keeping patients safe. More frequently, ADN to BSN graduates’ meaning of patient safety was at the local level, while BSNs’ meaning centered at the systemic level.
The Coming Era of Time-Free Transparency
Authors: Brink Nicholas
Published: December 2017

In his book The Ever-Present Origin, Jean Gebser describes the new era of consciousness into which we are moving as we move from the era of rational consciousness into the an era of time-free transparency. This article describes in greater detail the meaning and nature of consciousness that is time-free and transparent. Both of these features are most apparent in night-time dreams and other altered states of consciousness, features that were and are available to the shamans of both ancient and contemporary hunting-gathering cultures. A direct way of experiencing these features of this new consciousness is through the altered state of ecstatic trance as researched by the anthropologist Felicitas Goodman as described in her book Where the Spirits Ride the Wind. The induction of this altered state of consciousness is then described.
Sexist Ideology and Endorsement of Men’s Control Over Women’s Decisions in Reproductive Health
Authors: Petterson Aino , Sutton Robbie M.
Published: December 2017

Feminist scholars have argued that men’s control over women’s reproductive autonomy is a central feature of male dominance. Building on recent research that shows sexist ideology informs support for restricting women’s reproductive autonomy, we examined the relation of sexism and the belief that men should be able to restrict the behavior of women. Study 1 ( N = 366 undergraduate psychology students in the United Kingdom) and Study 2 ( N = 281 Amazon Mechanical Turk workers in the United States) showed that controlling for various demographics and ideological measures (e.g., right-wing authoritarianism, support for abortion rights), hostile sexism was related to support for men having the right to prevent their pregnant partner from having an abortion. Further, hostile sexism was related to the endorsement of men’s right to withdraw financial support for the child if a woman chooses not to terminate her pregnancy. Hostile sexism was also uniquely related to support for men’s right to veto their female partner’s decisions during pregnancy and childbirth. The present studies show that hostile sexism is associated with perceptions that men have the right to constrain women’s reproductive choices. Our findings highlight the adverse pressures on women’s reproductive autonomy, including sexist ideology, and may suggest that practitioners should be mindful of this when assisting women in discussing reproductive questions. Further, by creating awareness about the different factors that shape the perception of men’s role in reproductive decisions, sexual health educators could potentially help affirm women’s autonomy in reproductive health. Additional online materials for this article (measures used in this study) are available on PWQ’s website at http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/suppl/10.1177/0361684317744531 . Data files, together with syntax detailing the statistical analyses, are available at https://osf.io/vwjus/ . Online slides for instructors who want to use this article for teaching are available on PWQ's website at http://journals.sagepub.com/page/pwq/suppl/index
A review on management of spent lithium ion batteries and strategy for resource recycling of all components from them
Authors: Zhang Wenxuan , Xu Chengjian , He Wenzhi , Li Guangming , Huang Juwen
Published: December 2017

The wide use of lithium ion batteries (LIBs) has brought great numbers of discarded LIBs, which has become a common problem facing the world. In view of the deleterious effects of spent LIBs on the environment and the contained valuable materials that can be reused, much effort in many countries has been made to manage waste LIBs, and many technologies have been developed to recycle waste LIBs and eliminate environmental risks. As a review article, this paper introduces the situation of waste LIB management in some developed countries and in China, and reviews separation technologies of electrode components and refining technologies of LiCoO2 and graphite. Based on the analysis of these recycling technologies and the structure and components characteristics of the whole LIB, this paper presents a recycling strategy for all components from obsolete LIBs, including discharge, dismantling, and classification, separation of electrode components and refining of LiCoO2/graphite. This paper is intended to provide a valuable reference for the management, scientific research, and industrial implementation on spent LIBs recycling, to recycle all valuable components and reduce the environmental pollution, so as to realize the win–win situation of economic and environmental benefits.
Optic Pathway Gliomas in Neurofibromatosis Type 1
Authors: Campen Cynthia J. , Gutmann David H.
Published: December 2017

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most common brain tumor predisposition syndromes, in which affected children are prone to the development of low-grade gliomas. While NF1-associated gliomas can be found in several brain regions, the majority arise in the optic nerves, chiasm, tracts, and radiations (optic pathway gliomas; OPGs). Owing to their location, 35-50% of affected children present with reduced visual acuity. Unfortunately, despite tumor stabilization following chemotherapy, vision does not improve in most children. For this reasons, more effective therapies are being sought that reflect a deeper understanding of the NF1 gene and the use of authenticated Nf1 genetically-engineered mouse strains. The implementation of these models for drug discovery and validation has galvanized molecularly-targeted clinical trials in children with NF1-OPG. Future research focused on defining the cellular and molecular factors that underlie optic glioma development and progression also has the potential to provide personalized risk assessment strategies for this pediatric population.
Causes of Mortality in ICU-Acquired Weakness
Authors: van Wagenberg Linda , Witteveen Esther , Wieske Luuk , Horn Janneke
Published: December 2017

Background:

Intensive care unit–acquired weakness (ICU-AW) is a common complication of critical illness and is associated with increased mortality, longer mechanical ventilation and longer hospital stay. Little is known about the causes of mortality in patients with ICU-AW. In this study, we aimed to give an overview of the causes of death in a population diagnosed with ICU-AW during hospital admission.

Methods:

Data from a prospective cohort study in the mixed medical–surgical ICU of the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam were used. Patients were included when mechanically ventilated for more than 48 hours. Intensive care unit–acquired weakness was defined as a mean medical research council score <4. Baseline data and data on the time of death were collected.

Results:

Fifty-three patients were included. Irreversible shock with multiple organ failure (MOF) was the most common cause of death (28/53 of patients; 26 patients with septic shock and 2 patients with hypovolemic shock). Most common site of sepsis was abdominal (38.5%) and pulmonary (19.2%). On admission to the ICU, 53% had a do-not-resuscitate code. In 74% of the patients, further treatment limitations were implemented during their ICU stay.

Conclusion:

In this cohort of patients with ICU-AW, most patients died of irreversible shock with MOF, caused by sepsis.
Gendered Perceptions of Intimate Partner Violence Normality: An Experimental Study
Authors: Kuijpers Karlijn F. , Blokland Arjan A. J. , Mercer Natalie C.
Published: December 2017

Knowledge on young adults’ perceptions of intimate partner violence (IPV) is important as these are the ages at which most people form their first serious intimate relationships and begin to develop norms about how to communicate within a relationship. This study uses an experimental vignette design to examine whether the type of violence employed and the gender dynamics within the couple (male perpetrator and female victim vs. female perpetrator and male victim) affect young adults’ perceptions of IPV normality. Gender differences in these perceptions are assessed and moreover, we explore whether these differences can be attributed to respondents’ prior IPV experiences. Young adults ( N = 599) were recruited from various schools and universities throughout the Netherlands. They were randomly assigned to one of 10 experimental vignettes. Findings demonstrate that, generally, scenarios describing more serious types of IPV as well as those describing a male perpetrator and a female victim received lower ratings of normality. Gender differences in perceptions were found and, moreover, the direction of these gender differences appeared to depend on the actual gender dynamics described in the IPV scenario. Prior IPV experiences increased perceptions of IPV normality among female respondents in particular. Moreover, the suggestion that respondents’ prior IPV experiences may better explain respondents’ IPV perceptions than respondents’ gender, was only partly supported. Our findings suggest that this is true for respondents’ prior psychological, but not physical IPV experiences and for the manipulations of the gender dynamics within the couple, but not so much for the type of violence employed. Implications of these findings are discussed. From a prevention perspective, greater insight into these perceptions is relevant as they have been shown to be related to help-seeking and reporting behavior in the case of experiencing or witnessing IPV.
Optimizing torque rheometry parameters for assessing the rheological characteristics and extrusion processability of wood plastic composites
Authors: Feng Chuanxin , Li Zewen , Wang Zhouyi , Wang Bingren , Wang Zhe
Published: December 2017

The rheological behavior of wood plastic composites’ (WPCs’) melts is closely associated with extrusion processability, especially in highly filled systems. This study investigated the extrusion processibility and the effects of test conditions and typical WPC additives on the torque rheological behavior of wood flour/high-density polyethylene (WF/HDPE) mixing melts compounded using a twin-screw extruder. Both equilibrium melt temperature ( Te) and equilibrium torque ( Ma) at steady state increased with WF content. Addition of 2% lubricant TPW604 based on the total weight of WF and HDPE matrix resulted in a decrease in measured Te and Ma, showing a reduction in shear heating in mixing chamber. Adding 4% maleic anhydride grafted polyethylene (MAPE) as compatibilizer resulted in an increase in measured Te and Ma. In this study, adding lubricant TPW604 and/or compatibilizer MAPE can improve the extrusion processability of highly filled WF/HDPE melts. For a WPC system with preset compositions, its Ma value can be used to evaluate its extrusion processability. The results provide both knowledge about the compounding procedure and practical methods for evaluating the effectiveness of WPC additives, the flow performance, and extrusion processability of highly filled WPC melts.
Robust Respondents and Lost Limitations: The Implications of Nonrandom Missingness for the Estimation of Health Trajectories
Authors: Jackson Heide , Engelman Michal , Bandeen-Roche Karen
Published: December 2017

Objective: We offer a strategy for quantifying the impact of mortality and attrition on inferences from later-life health trajectory models. Method: Using latent class growth analysis (LCGA), we identify functional limitation trajectory classes in the Health and Retirement Study. We compare results from complete case and full information maximum likelihood (FIML) analyses, and demonstrate a method for producing upper- and lower-bound estimates of the impact of attrition on results. Results: LCGA inferences vary substantially depending on the handling of missing data. For older adults who die during the follow-up period, the widely used FIML approach may underestimate functional limitations by up to 20%. Discussion: The most commonly used approaches to handling missing data likely underestimate the extent of poor health in aging populations. Although there is no single solution for nonrandom missingness, we show that bounding estimates can help analysts to better characterize patterns of health in later life.
Investigations on surface roughness and tribology of miniature brass gears manufactured by abrasive water jet machining
Authors: Phokane Thobi , Gupta Kapil , Gupta Munish Kumar
Published: December 2017

Surface roughness parameters are important indicators for determining the operating performance, tribology behavior, wear and tear characteristics, and service life of engineered parts including gears. This article presents the investigation on surface roughness, and tribology and wear aspects of miniature brass gears manufactured by abrasive water jet machining. Experiments have been conducted based on Taguchi's robust design technique with L9 orthogonal array to machine external spur-type miniature gears of brass having 8.4 mm pitch diameter, 12 teeth, and 5 mm thickness. The effect of three important process parameters namely water jet pressure, abrasive mass flow rate, and stand-off distance on mean roughness depth of miniature gears are analyzed. Surface roughness is found to decrease with the increase in the water jet pressure and abrasive mass flow rate, and increases with the increase in the stand-off distance. Particle swarm optimization technique has been used for parametric optimization to minimize the surface roughness of miniature gears. Confirmation experiment conducted at optimized abrasive water jet machining parameters resulted in superfine surface finish with mean roughness depth value of 4.1 µm superior than the finish obtained by other advanced processes for brass gears. The investigated values of bearing area characteristics, skewness, kurtosis, and friction coefficient confirm the tribological fitness of the miniature brass gear machined at optimum abrasive water jet machining parameters.
A general rollover index for tripped and un-tripped rollovers on flat and sloped roads
Authors: Ataei Mansour , Khajepour Amir , Jeon Soo
Published: December 2017

In order to develop a rollover prevention system, it is essential to have a reliable index that properly indicates real-time rollover danger during vehicle maneuvers. The existing rollover indices are mainly for un-tripped rollovers and have limitations in detecting tripped rollovers. This study introduces a general rollover index (GRI) for the detection of rollover in both tripped and un-tripped cases and also on flat and sloped roads. Based on the lateral load transfer ratio, the proposed index is analytically derived in terms of measurable vehicle parameters and state variables. The general rollover index considers both lateral and vertical road inputs and thus can indicate tripped rollovers in the instance of curbs, soft soil or bumps. Sensitivity analysis for the proposed index is also provided to evaluate the effects of different vehicle parameters and different state variables on tripped and un-tripped rollovers. The introduced index can be used not only for the development of active rollover prevention systems, but also for rollover analysis and design of vehicles. The performance of the introduced general rollover index is validated through simulations using a high-fidelity CarSim model for a SUV.
Identifying the source of food-borne disease outbreaks: An application of Bayesian variable selection
Authors: Jacobs Rianne , Lesaffre Emmanuel , Teunis Peter FM , Höhle Michael , van de Kassteele Jan
Published: December 2017

Early identification of contaminated food products is crucial in reducing health burdens of food-borne disease outbreaks. Analytic case-control studies are primarily used in this identification stage by comparing exposures in cases and controls using logistic regression. Standard epidemiological analysis practice is not formally defined and the combination of currently applied methods is subject to issues such as response misclassification, missing values, multiple testing problems and small sample estimation problems resulting in biased and possibly misleading results. In this paper, we develop a formal Bayesian variable selection method to account for misclassified responses and missing covariates, which are common complications in food-borne outbreak investigations. We illustrate the implementation and performance of our method on a Salmonella Thompson outbreak in the Netherlands in 2012. Our method is shown to perform better than the standard logistic regression approach with respect to earlier identification of contaminated food products. It also allows relatively easy implementation of otherwise complex methodological issues.
Real Versus Accrual-based Earnings Management
Authors: Das Ramesh Chandra , Mishra Chandra Sekhar , Rajib Prabina
Published: December 2017

This article examines the relationship between accrual-based earnings management (AM) and real earnings management (RM) in the Indian context by considering 673 listed non-financial companies for the period 2009–2013. The article quantifies AM and RM and tests whether Indian companies choose substitute relationship over complementary relationship between AM and RM after factoring firm-specific parameters such as firm size, market-to-book ratio, leverage, accounting flexibility, return on asset (ROA), business group affiliation and absolute accruals. Modified Jones model (1991) and Roychowdhury model (2006) have been used for quantifying AM and RM, respectively. To model the relationship between AM and RM, two-stage least square (2 SLS) regressions method has been used. The results suggest that Indian companies undertake both AM and RM with a higher predisposition towards AM. The positive association between the two supports complementary relationship between two and indicates that Indian companies use AM and RM to garner greater benefit from earnings management.
“What About Us?” Exploring What It Means to Be a Management Educator With Asperger’s Syndrome
Authors: Wright Sarah , Kaupins Gundars
Published: December 2017

Very little is known on the subject of educators with Asperger’s syndrome (AS), and the available information pales in comparison to the enormous literature studying students with AS. While there are many resources for engaging students with AS, and increasing awareness of how AS affects student learning, discussions about the implications for teaching and learning from the instructor’s perspective are much harder to find. In this article, Professor Gundy Kaupins shares his thoughts and experiences related to the issues educators with AS face and offers an alternative lens to see the advantages that having AS can bring to the management education classroom. Professor Kaupins also offers ideas for behavioral solutions and considerations for future research. We finish with a commentary on the individual and institutional issues pertaining to disclosure of “differences” and invisible disability in the university classroom.
Abaloparatide: Review of a Next-Generation Parathyroid Hormone Agonist
Authors: Boyce Eric G. , Mai Yvonne , Pham Christopher
Published: December 2017

Objective: To review the efficacy, safety, and economics of abaloparatide in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Data Sources: PubMed (1966 to October 2017), Clinicaltrials.gov (October 2017), and Scopus (1970 to October 2017) were searched using abaloparatide, Tymlos, BA058, PTHrP 1-34 analog, and parathyroid hormone–related peptide 1-34 analog. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Human studies published in peer-reviewed publications in English were the primary sources for efficacy, safety, and economic data. Data Synthesis: In the 2 randomized, published clinical studies of 24 weeks and 18 months duration, bone mineral density changes were higher for abaloparatide (lumbar spine, 6.7%-11.2%; femoral head, 3.1%-3.2%; total hip, 2.6%-4.2%) compared with placebo (lumbar spine, 0.6%-1.6%; femoral head, −0.4% to 0.8%; total hip, −0.1% to 0.4%; P < 0.05) and compared with teriparatide in the 24-week study (total hip 2.6% vs +0.5%, P < 0.05). New vertebral and nonvertebral fractures occurred in 0.6% and 2.7% of patients on abaloparatide compared with 4.2% and 4.7% on placebo in the 18-month study ( P < 0.05). Abaloparatide appears to have a somewhat higher risk for adverse effects, discontinuation as a result of adverse effects, and serious or severe adverse effects than teriparatide, but teriparatide has a higher risk for hypercalcemia. Pharmacoeconomic modeling appears to favor abaloparatide if differences in efficacy and cost are maintained. Conclusion: Abaloparatide, which has less effect on osteoclasts, is an alternative to teriparatide in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis who are at high risk for fractures or who have failed antiresorptive therapy based on initial clinical studies and economic modeling.
Longitudinal Transcriptional Response of Glycosylation-Related Genes, Regulators, and Targets in Cancer Cell Lines Treated With 11 Antitumor Agents
Authors: Krushkal Julia , Zhao Yingdong , Hose Curtis , Monks Anne , Doroshow James H , Simon Richard
Published: December 2017

Cellular glycosylation processes are vital to cell functioning. In malignant cells, they are profoundly altered. We used time-course gene expression data from the NCI-60 cancer cell lines treated with 11 antitumor agents to analyze expression changes of genes involved in glycosylation pathways, genes encoding glycosylation targets or regulators, and members of cancer pathways affected by glycosylation. We also identified glycosylation genes for which pretreatment expression levels or changes after treatment were correlated with drug sensitivity. Their products are involved in N-glycosylation and O-glycosylation, fucosylation, biosynthesis of poly- N-acetyllactosamine, removal of misfolded proteins, binding to hyaluronic acid and other glycans, and cell adhesion. Tumor cell sensitivity to multiple agents was correlated with transcriptional response of C1GALT1C1, FUCA1, SDC1, MUC1; members of the MGAT, GALNT, B4GALT, B3GNT, MAN, and EDEM families; and other genes. These genes may be considered as potential candidates for drug targeting in combination therapy to enhance treatment response.
Pasifika Youth Empowerment Programme: a potential public health approach in tackling obesity-health related issues
Authors: Tupai-Firestone Ridvan , Matheson Anna , Prapavessis Danielle , Hamara Mischa , Kaholokula Keawe‘aimoku , Tuisano Hana , Tevita Gertrude , Henderson Jeremy , Schleser Max , Ellison-Loschmann Lis
Published: December 2017

In New Zealand, the burden of obesity is greatest among Pacific people. However, targeted prevention strategies among Pacific communities are needed to learn about how to partner with indigenous groups to successfully apply such strategies. The aim of this study was to pilot the Pasifika Youth Empowerment Programme (YEP), which consisted of five interactive learning modules, among 15 Pasifika youth (18–24 years) from Wellington, New Zealand. This article describes the YEP methodology, to understand how to address obesity-related issues for Pasifika youth. At the completion of the YEP, the participants identified three causes of obesity relevant to Pasifika youth and developed preventative action plans targeting these causes: (a) poor diet, (b) lack of education, and (c) lack of physical activity. This study highlights that capacity and capability development of young people in understanding the key issues related to obesity is important to champion culturally acceptable strategies.
Trial-Level Regressor Modulation for Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Designs Requiring Strict Periodicity of Stimulus Presentations: Illustrated Using a Go/No-Go Task
Authors: Motes Michael A , Rao Neena K , Shokri-Kojori Ehsan , Chiang Hsueh-Sheng , Kraut Michael A , Hart John
Published: December 2017

Computer-based assessment of many cognitive processes (eg, anticipatory and response readiness processes) requires the use of invariant stimulus display times (SDT) and intertrial intervals (ITI). Although designs with invariant SDTs and ITIs have been used in functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) research, such designs are problematic for fMRI studies because of collinearity issues. This study examined regressor modulation with trial-level reaction times (RT) as a method for improving signal detection in a go/ no-go task with invariant SDTs and ITIs. The effects of modulating the go regressor were evaluated with respect to the detection of BOLD signal-change for the no-go condition. BOLD signal-change to no-go stimuli was examined when the go regressor was based on a (a) canonical hemodynamic response function (HRF), (b) RT-based amplitude-modulated (AM) HRF, and (c) RT-based amplitude and duration modulated (A&DM) HRF. Reaction time–based modulation reduced the collinearity between the go and no-go regressors, with A&DM producing the greatest reductions in correlations between the regressors, and greater reductions in the correlations between regressors were associated with longer mean RTs and greater RT variability. Reaction time–based modulation increased statistical power for detecting group-level no-go BOLD signal-change across a broad set of brain regions. The findings show the efficacy of using regressor modulation to increase power in detecting BOLD signal-change in fMRI studies in which circumstances dictate the use of temporally invariant stimulus presentations.
Effects of Minerva Orthosis on Larynx Height in Young, Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Hosseini Pegah Saddat , Karimi Mohammad Taghi , Moayedfar Saeideh , Golabbakhsh Marzieh , Abnavi Fatemeh
Published: December 2017

Background:

During speech, larynx is higher in the neck for high-pitched sounds and lower for low-pitched sounds. Patients with different problems in cervical and cervicothoracic spine use cervical orthosis to limit cervical motion. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Minerva orthosis on larynx height in young, healthy volunteers.

Subjects and methods:

This study included 18 subjects. Acoustic measurement of frequency variability has been assessed in 3 brace conditions: (1) without brace, (2) with brace, and (3) 30 minutes after wearing the brace.

Results:

Several statistically significant differences were found in the comparison between Minerva and 30 minutes after Minerva.

Conclusion:

When planning cervical orthosis treatment, it is important to consider the reduction in larynx height that may result from bracing for those who are already at risk of developing dysphagia and dysphonia.
It’s time for Acting Up!
Authors: Prichard Craig , Benschop Yvonne
Published: December 2017

All ranking journals, including critical ones such as Organization, regard a contribution to theory as the Holy Grail of academic writing. But it is a long way to a better world through theory alone. In this article, we discuss the challenges of making action and activism a feature of academic work and we introduce a new space in Organization, entitled Acting Up, for short papers that take up such a challenge.
Talking about cancer: Explaining differences in social support among Chinese American and European American breast cancer survivors
Authors: Hsu Becky Yang , Chentsova Dutton Yulia , Adams Inez F. , Gomez Scarlett Lin , Allen Laura , Huang Ellen , Wang Judy Huei-yu
Published: December 2017

Cultural models of emotional disclosure and its impact on seeking support are understudied in the context of cancer diagnosis. We argue that two different cultural norms must be considered: (1) the importance of emotional disclosure and (2) attitudes toward seeking support from loved ones. Our interviews with 37 foreign-born Chinese American and 23 European American breast cancer survivors revealed differences in disclosure of cancer diagnosis and perception of social support. Both Chinese American and European American survivors receive and provide emotional and social support with loved ones, but their manifestations of disclosure and help-seeking behaviors are culturally specific.
Changes in behavioral outcomes among children affected by HIV: Results of a randomized controlled trial in China
Authors: Li Li , Liang Li-Jung , Lin Chunqing , Lan Chiao-Wen , Ji Guoping , Xiao Yongkang
Published: December 2017

This study assessed the effects of a multilevel intervention on HIV-affected children’s negative behaviors. A total of 536 children aged 6–18 years from 475 HIV-affected families in Anhui, China, participated in the randomized controlled trial. A significant overall intervention effect on reducing negative behaviors was observed at 18-month follow-up, and the effect remained at 24-month follow-up. The intervention showed greater effects for children aged 13–18 years than those aged 6–12 years. Study findings suggest that a multilevel intervention approach could be beneficial for reducing negative behavior in HIV-affected children. Age-specific programs should be considered to maximize the intervention effects.
Interpersonal needs and satisfaction with life among rural lesbians: A Spanish sample study
Authors: Fernández-Rouco Noelia , Oswald Ramona Faith , Cantero Pablo , Carcedo Rodrigo J
Published: December 2017

The aim of this study is to investigate interpersonal needs and life satisfaction among lesbians in rural Spain. Forty in-person interviews were conducted to collect both survey and interview data. The quantitative results show that life satisfaction is inversely associated with romantic-emotional loneliness and positively associated with sexual satisfaction. Qualitative data are used to then elucidate these associations. The findings highlight the importance of romantic relationships in the lives of rural lesbians who live in communities that lack organized support for sexual minorities. Increased visibility might help them to better fulfil some of their interpersonal needs.
Snus use during the life-course and risk of the metabolic syndrome and its components
Authors: Byhamre Marja Lisa , Gustafsson Per E , Jansson Jan-Håkan , Wennberg Maria , Hammarström Anne , Wennberg Patrik
Published: December 2017

Objective: We aimed to investigate the association between life-course exposure to snus and prevalence of the metabolic syndrome and its components in adulthood. Design and method: Tobacco habits at baseline (age 16) and three follow-ups (ages 21, 30 and 43) were assessed among 880 participants in a population-based cohort in Northern Sweden. Presence of the metabolic syndrome at age 43 was ascertained using the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Odds ratios and CIs for risk of the metabolic syndrome and its components by snus use at 16, 21, 30 and 43 years were calculated using logistic regression. Cumulative snus use was defined as number of life periods (1–4) with current snus use. Results: At age 43, 164 participants (18.6%) were current snus users. We found no association between exclusive snus use at the ages of 16, 21, 30 and 43 years and the metabolic syndrome at age 43 years. Snus use (among non-smokers) was associated with raised triglycerides and high blood pressure in crude analysis, but not in multivariable models. There was no association between cumulative snus use and risk of the metabolic syndrome. Cumulative snus use was associated with central obesity, raised triglycerides and impaired fasting glucose/diabetes mellitus type 2 in crude analyses, but not after adjustments. Conclusions: The health consequences of snus exposure from adolescence to mid-adulthood do not seem to include increased risk of the metabolic syndrome or its components. The cardio-metabolic risk of dual exposure to snus and cigarettes may warrant further attention.
Low-frequency sound transmission through rough bubbly air–water interface at the sea surface
Authors: Bolghasi Alireza , Ghadimi Parviz , Feizi Chekab Mohammad A
Published: December 2017

Transmission of a sound generated by a localized point source in the air through a realistic sea surface is studied by the use of the Kirchhoff-Helmholtz integral. An earlier approach had been based on the Kirchhoff-Helmholtz integral which only considered the effects of rough surface. In the current study, not only the effect of the rough surface is taken into account but also the effects of subsurface bubbles are included in modeling the real phenomenon more accurately. In order to include the effects of subsurface bubble population, the classic relations of the Kirchhoff-Helmholtz integral are reformulated. Accordingly, a three-phase region of air, water, and bubbly water at the sea surface is analyzed, and the rough interface of bubbly water–air is discretized. Through considering an element area Ai, the transmission coefficient [Formula: see text], incident angle [Formula: see text], transmitted angle [Formula: see text], and local surface acoustical roughness Ri are investigated for each individual element. Also, the effects of subsurface bubbles, transmission change as a function of frequency f, wind speed W, incident angle [Formula: see text], source/receiver position ratio (D/H), surface acoustical roughness, and subsurface bubble population are examined. Results of the modified Kirchhoff-Helmholtz integral method display good agreement against available experimental data.
The Influence of Neighbor Effect and Urbanization Toward Organ Donation in Thailand
Authors: Wongboonsin Kua , Jindahra Pavitra , Teerakapibal Surat
Published: December 2017

Introduction:

Toward population wellness, an extreme scarcity of organ supply is proven to be an enormous hindrance. Preferences toward organ donation are vital to raise the organ donation rate. Notably, the area people live in can address the social influence on individual preference toward organ donation.

Research Questions:

This article studies the impact of the neighbor effect on organ donation decisions, addressing the social influence of urbanization on preferences. How neighborhood-specific variables, population density, and socioeconomic status drive the neighbor effect is investigated. The pursuit of organ donor traits is to be answered.

Design:

The study uses organ donation interview survey data and neighborhood-specific data from Thailand to estimate a series of logistic regression models.

Results:

Individuals residing in urban areas exhibit a greater likelihood to sign the donor card than those in rural areas. The neighborhood socioeconomic status is the key driver. An individual is more willing to be an organ donor when having neighbors with higher socioeconomic statuses. Results also reveal positive influences of males and education on the organ donation rate.

Discussion:

This article documents the “neighbor effect” on the organ donation decision via living area type, offering an alternative exposition in raising the organ donation rate. In shifting the society norm toward organ donation consent, policy-makers should acknowledge the benefit of urbanization on organ donation decision derived from resourceful urban areas. Moreover, raising education levels does improve not only citizens’ well-being but also their tendency to exhibit an altruistic act toward others.
Use of Transcranial Direct Stimulation in the Treatment of Negative Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Authors: Pontillo Maria , Costanzo Floriana , Menghini Deny , Averna Roberto , Santonastaso Ornella , Tata Maria Cristina , Vicari Stefano
Published: December 2017

Schizophrenia is a debilitating disease that affects approximately 1% of the population. Negative symptoms are among the major determinants of the functional impairment and a significant proportion of patients with negative symptoms will continue to experience these symptoms despite antipsychotic medications. There are promising results in the application of brain stimulation, particularly transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), for the reduction of negative symptoms of schizophrenia. However, findings are still controversial. This is a selective review of the literature published between 2011 and 2017 on use of tDCS in treatment of negative symptoms of schizophrenia. We included only randomized controlled trials where schizophrenia and negative symptoms were assessed using any psychometrically validated scale (eg, Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale or Scale for the Assessment of Negative Symptoms). Studies of participants with neurological conditions were excluded, as were those that did not report any symptom outcome variables. Only 5 studies are included. Three studies showed a decrease of negative symptoms. The other studies did not show any therapeutic effects of tDCS in the severity of positive and negative symptoms compared to controls. Our findings suggest that negative symptoms in schizophrenia can be treated with tDCS over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, but results are affected by several factors, such as the electrode montage, the concomitant medication, the homogeneity of the sample, the intensity of the tDCS treatment. Further randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled studies in large samples are still needed to establish the effectiveness of the tDCS in the treatment of negative symptoms in schizophrenia, but there is the potential for tDCS to become a useful complementary treatment option in this population.
Readability of Human Subjects Training Materials for Research
Authors: Hadden Kristie B. , Prince Latrina , James Laura , Holland Jennifer , Trudeau Christopher R.
Published: December 2017

Institutions are required to ensure that persons involved in human subjects research receive appropriate human subjects protections training and education. Several organizations use the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) program to fulfill training requirements. Most researchers find the CITI program too complex for community members who collaborate with researchers. This study aimed to determine the readability of CITI modules most frequently used in community-based participatory research (CBPR). The mean readability level of the CITI modules is 14.8 grade; CBPR readability levels ranged from 11.6 to 12.0 grade (sixth- to eighth-grade reading level is recommended). With a baseline objective measure, modifications can be made to improve the plain language quality and understandability of human subjects training modules for community members.
Interfragmentary Compression Forces Vary Based on Scaphoid Bone Screw Type and Fracture Location
Authors: Patel Samik , Tiedeken Nathan , Qvick Lars , Debski Richard E. , Kaufmann Robert , Fowler John R.
Published: December 2017

Background: The objective of this study was to determine the interfragmentary compression forces generated in a foam model as a function of headless compression screw type (fully threaded and central threadless) and fracture location. Methods: Eighty-eight polyurethane foam models were fixed across a simulated transverse fracture with either a fully threaded screw or a central threadless screw. The location of the transverse fracture varied along the length of the foam model in 2 mm increments for 11 fracture locations. The force generated at the fracture site upon fixation was utilized to determine the interfragmentary compression. Interfragmentary compression was compared using a paired t test and 2-way analysis of variance, with significance set at P < .05. Results: Interfragmentary compression was found to vary based on fracture location and screw type. The fully threaded screw generated significantly greater compression for fracture locations at 12 mm and 18 mm from the top edge of the foam model, while the central threadless screw generated significantly greater compression for fractures located 2 mm from the top edge of the foam model. Conclusions: The central threadless screw and the fully threaded screw had different fracture locations where maximum compression force occurred. The fully threaded screw generated greater compression force toward the screw center due to greater thread purchase. However, the central threadless screw generated greater compression at the most proximal fracture location due to its greater thread pitch toward the screw head. Maximizing interfragmentary compression may aid in reducing nonunion rates associated with the internal fixation of proximal scaphoid fractures.
How Discrimination Shapes Social Identification Processes and Well-Being Among Arab Americans
Authors: Hakim Nader H. , Molina Ludwin E. , Branscombe Nyla R.
Published: December 2017

The increasingly xenophobic U.S. climate warrants a close investigation of Arab American responses to discrimination. We conducted secondary analyses of two large data sets to examine social identity processes and their relationship to well-being. In a representative sample of Muslim Arab Americans (Study 1, n = 228), discrimination was related to decreased American identification, which in turn predicted lower well-being. Another large sample of Arab Americans (Study 2, n = 1,001) revealed how social identity processes differ by religious group. For Christian Arab Americans, discrimination predicted an indirect negative effect on well-being through decreased American identification. Muslim Arab Americans showed the same pattern, but also stronger religious and ethnic identification the more they experienced discrimination, which partially buffered the harmful effects on well-being. These data present a social cohesion challenge where the maintenance of national identity necessitates less discrimination and injustice against minorities.
Feline vertebral angiomatosis: two cases
Authors: Frizzi Massimo , Ottolini Nicola , Spigolon Claudia , Bertolini Giovanna
Published: December 2017

Case series summary

Two cats aged between 1 and 2 years were presented for paraparesis, general discomfort, back pain and urinary retention. Extradural spinal cord compression at the level of T4 and T8 was evident on CT examination and on MRI. Hemilaminectomy and partial corpectomy were performed to achieve spinal cord decompression. Histopathology of the abnormal bone tissue was suggestive of vertebral angiomatosis. After initially worsening, both cats recovered their normal gait and functional urination. Both cats have been followed-up for >1 year, without any recurrence.

Relevance and novel information

This is the first report of vertebral angiomatosis with complete data (CT, MRI, surgical procedures, histopathology and >1 year follow-up) and provides important information about the prognosis of this rare vascular malformation.
Complex realism in social research
Authors: Williams Malcolm , Dyer Wendy
Published: December 2017

In recent years, both realism and complexity have begun to have methodological influence in social research. Yet for the most part, these have existed separately and have had limited impact on empirical research. In this article, we develop a theoretical argument for complex realism, grounded in an ontology of probability, that may be operationalised to demonstrate the reality of social change at a micro- and meso-level. We apply our conception of complex realism to an example using the method of longitudinal case–based cluster analysis to analyse the trajectories over time of male and female prisoners aged 18 and above who were at risk of self-harm.
Factors Associated With Injury Among Employees at a U.S. Army Hospital
Authors: Schuh-Renner Anna , Canham-Chervak Michelle , Hearn Darren W. , Loveless P. Ann , Jones Bruce H.
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate injury incidence and factors associated with injury among employees at a large U.S. Army hospital to inform injury prevention planning and health promotion education efforts. Demographics, health behaviors, and injury history were collected by survey from hospital employees between October and December 2014. Descriptive statistics were reported and factors associated with injury were determined using multiple logistic regression. Respondents (380; 56% females, 44% males; 54% active duty military, 45% civilians) reported a prevalence of unhealthy behaviors (e.g., not enough exercise [58%] and poor sleeping habits [49%]). Nearly half of respondents (47%) reported at least one occupational injury in the past 12 months. Leading mechanisms of injuries were repetitive overuse (36%), falls (15%), and single twisting movement/overexertion (14%). Leading activities at the time of injury were physical training (24%), walking/hiking (15%), and lifting or moving objects (11%). Factors associated with injury included active duty military status, less education, tobacco use, overuse of alcohol or drugs, and stress. Health education efforts and materials intended for hospital staff should incorporate identified modifiable injury risk factors (e.g., alcohol and drug use, stress, tobacco use, poor sleep). Injury prevention initiatives should focus on physical training, walking/hiking, and lifting. Establishment of surveillance and routine review of employee injury, illness, and health behavior data are recommended to monitor program effects and collect data necessary to inform future prevention priorities and planning.
Spine Surgeon Treatment Variability: The Impact on Costs
Authors: Alvin Matthew D. , Lubelski Daniel , Alam Ridwan , Williams Seth K. , Obuchowski Nancy A. , Steinmetz Michael P. , Wang Jeffrey C. , Melillo Alfred J. , Pahwa Amit , Benzel Edward C. , Modic Michael T. , Quencer Robert , Mroz Thomas E.
Published: December 2017

Study Design:

Cross-sectional analysis.

Objectives:

Given the lack of strong evidence/guidelines on appropriate treatment for lumbar spine disease, substantial variability exists among surgical treatments utilized, which is associated with differences in costs to treat a given pathology. Our goal was to investigate the variability in costs among spine surgeons nationally for the same pathology in similar patients.

Methods:

Four hundred forty-five spine surgeons completed a survey of clinical and radiographic case scenarios on patients with recurrent lumbar disc herniation, low back pain, and spondylolisthesis. Those surveyed were asked to provide various details including their geographical location, specialty, and fellowship training. Treatment options included no surgery, anterior lumbar interbody fusion, posterolateral fusion, and transforaminal/posterior lumbar interbody fusion. Costs were estimated via Medicare national payment amounts.

Results:

For recurrent lumbar disc herniation, no difference in costs existed for patients undergoing their first revision microdiscectomy. However, for patients undergoing another microdiscectomy, surgeons who operated <100 times/year had significantly lower costs than those who operated >200 times/year ( P < .001) and those with 5-15 years of experience had significantly higher costs than those with >15 years ( P < .001). For the treatment of low back pain, academic surgeons kept costs about 55% lower than private practice surgeons ( P < .001). In the treatment of spondylolisthesis, there was significant treatment variability without significant differences in costs.

Conclusions:

Significant variability in surgical treatment paradigms exists for different pathologies. Understanding why variability in treatment selection exists in similar clinical contexts across practices is important to ensure the most cost-effective delivery of care among spine surgeons.