bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impairments in Cognitive Function and Brain Connectivity in Severe Asymptomatic Carotid Stenosis
Authors: Cheng Hsien-Lin , Lin Chun-Jen , Soong Bing-Wen , Wang Pei-Ning , Chang Feng-Chi , Wu Yu-Te , Chou Kun-Hsien , Lin Ching-Po , Tu Pei-Chi , Lee I-Hui
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose—

Severe asymptomatic carotid stenosis has been associated with cognitive impairment, but it is unknown whether this association is attributable to effects on brain connectivity. We present cognitive network abnormalities in a group of patients at a presymptomatic stage.

Methods—

Seventeen patients with ≥70% asymptomatic stenosis of unilateral internal carotid artery were compared with 26 healthy controls utilizing a comprehensive neuropsychological battery, the dizziness handicap inventory, and multimodality neuroimaging including diffusion tensor imaging and resting-state functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging. Longitudinally, assessments were completed in a subgroup of 10 patients at 3 months after carotid artery stenting.

Results—

Compared with the healthy controls, the patients had worse dizziness scores, poorer memory, complex visuo-spatial performances, and lower whole-brain mean fractional anisotropy. The Scheltens scores of leukoaraiosis/infarction were not different between groups. Their seed-based functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging showed marked decrements of interhemispheric and intrahemispheric, ipsilaterally to carotid stenosis, functional connectivity in the frontoparietal network. In the default mode network, the intrahemispheric functional connectivity was bilaterally impaired. Importantly, the disrupted mean fractional anisotropy in the patients significantly correlated with the attention and verbal memory functions. After successful carotid artery stenting, small but measurable increments of the mean fractional anisotropy and little functional connectivity in the default mode network ipsilateral-to-carotid artery stenting were noted.

Conclusions—

We identified for the first time distinct patterns of network disruption that correlate with cognitive fragility in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis. Brain connectivity may provide early and useful biomarkers for brain ischemia and reperfusion.
White Matter Lesion Severity in Mild Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients and Functional Outcome After 1 Year
Authors: Leonards Christopher O. , Ipsen Nils , Malzahn Uwe , Fiebach Jochen B. , Endres Matthias , Ebinger Martin
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose—

To determine if severity of visually assessed white matter disease is associated with disability after ischemic stroke.

Methods—

In this Berlin “Cream & Sugar” substudy, all first ischemic stroke patients who received magnetic resonance imaging and completed follow-up between January 2009 and December 2010, were enrolled. Severity of white matter disease was assessed on fluid-attenuated inversion recovery or T2-weighted sequences using the Wahlund and Fazekas visual scales. Functional outcome was assessed after 1 year using the modified Rankin Scale (follow-up [FU] modified Rankin Scale [mRS]).

Results—

Of 101 patients (37% female; median age, 67 years; interquartile range, 54–75; National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, 1; interquartile range, 0–2), median FU mRS was 1 (interquartile range, 0–2). Binary logistical regression adjusted for age (at 5-year intervals), acute National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores, fasting glucose, insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, creatinine, C-reactive protein quartiles, waist circumference, and systolic blood pressure revealed that Fazekas scores of 2 and 3 independently associated with FU mRS (Fazekas score 2: adjusted odds ratio, 8.4; 95% confidence interval, 2.35–30.09;
P
=0.001; Fazekas score 3: adjusted odds ratio, 4.2; 95% confidence interval, 1.04–16.96;
P
=0.044). Wahlund scores >10 were significantly associated with FU mRS when fasting glucose levels were removed from the regression analysis (adjusted odds ratio, 12.17; 95% confidence interval, 1.91–77.54;
P
=0.008).

Conclusion—

Severe white matter disease defined by standard criteria in acute ischemic stroke patients is associated with disability at 1 year and can be assessed quickly using visual rating scales.

Clinical Trial Registration Information—

URLs:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
and
https://eudract.ema.europa.eu
. Unique identifiers: NCT 01378468 and 2009-010356-97.
Dramatic Recovery in Acute Ischemic Stroke Is Associated With Arterial Recanalization Grade and Speed
Authors: Mazighi Mikael , Meseguer Elena , Labreuche Julien , Serfaty Jean-Michel , Laissy Jean-Pierre , Lavallée Philippa C. , Cabrejo Lucie , Guidoux Céline , Lapergue Bertrand , Klein Isabelle F. , Olivot Jean-Marc , Rouchaud Aymeric , Desilles Jean-Philippe , Schouman-Claeys Elisabeth , Amarenco Pierre
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose—

Dramatic recovery (DR) is a predictor of stroke outcome among others. However, after successful recanalization, systematic favorable outcome is not the rule. We sought to analyze the impact of recanalization on DR in patients with acute ischemic stroke eligible for any revascularization strategies (either intravenous or endovascular).

Methods—

We analyzed data collected between April 2007 and May 2011 in our prospective clinical registry. All patients with acute ischemic stroke with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale ≥10 at admission and an identification of arterial status before treatment were included. DR was defined as National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale ≤3 at 24 hours or a decrease of ≥10 points within 24 hours.

Results—

DR occurred in 75 of 255 patients with acute ischemic stroke (29.4%). Patients with persistent occlusion had a low DR rate (11.1%) than those with no documented occlusion (36.5%) and those with occlusion followed by recanalization (35.3%; both
P
<0.001). Among patients with recanalization monitored by angiography, DR was higher among patients with complete recanalization than among those with partial recanalization (46.8% versus 14.3%;
P
<0.001) and increased with tertiles of time to recanalization (
P
trend
=0.002). In multivariable logistic regression analysis, grade and time to recanalization appeared independently associated with DR; the adjusted ORs were 4.17 (95% CI, 1.61–10.77) for complete recanalization and 1.24 (95% CI, 1.04–1.48) for each 30-minute time decrease. Patients with versus without DR more frequently had modified Rankin Scale ≤1 (67.6% versus 9.0%;
P
<0.001) and less frequently had hemorrhage (17.3% versus 33.9%;
P
=0.024).

Conclusions—

DR is strongly associated with favorable clinical outcome and is dependent on complete recanalization and time to recanalization.
Educational History Is an Independent Predictor of Cognitive Deficits and Long-Term Survival in Postacute Patients With Mild to Moderate Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Ojala-Oksala Johanna , Jokinen Hanna , Kopsi Valtteri , Lehtonen Kalevi , Luukkonen Liisa , Paukkunen Antti , Seeck Lotte , Melkas Susanna , Pohjasvaara Tarja , Karhunen Pekka , Hietanen Marja , Erkinjuntti Timo , Oksala Niku
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose—

Poststroke cognitive decline and white matter lesions (WML) are related to poor poststroke survival. Whether cognitive reserve as reflected by educational history associates with cognitive decline, recurrent strokes, and poststroke mortality independent of WML is not known.

Methods—

A total of 486 consecutive acute mild/moderate ischemic stroke patients subjected to comprehensive neuropsychological assessment (n=409) and magnetic resonance imaging (n=395) 3 months poststroke were included in the study and followed-up for up to 12 years. Odds ratios (OR) for logistic and hazard ratios for Cox regression analyses are reported (OR and hazard ratio ≤1 indicates a beneficial effect).

Results—

Long educational history (per tertile) was associated with lower frequency of executive dysfunction in models adjusted for age, sex, marital status, and stroke severity (OR, 0.75;
P
<0.05) but not when adding WML as a covariate. In contrast, educational history was independently associated with less memory impairment (OR, 0.67;
P
<0.01), aphasia (OR, 0.69;
P
<0.05), visuospatial and constructive deficits (OR, 0.70;
P
<0.05), Mini-Mental State Examination score <25 (OR, 0.53;
P
<0.0001), and dementia (OR, 0.66;
P
<0.01). In Cox regression analysis, educational history was not associated with recurrent strokes, but it associated independently with favorable poststroke survival (hazard ratio, 0.86;
P
<0.05).

Conclusions—

Long educational history associates with less poststroke cognitive deficits, dementia, and favorable long-term survival independent of age, gender, marital status, stroke severity, and WML in patients with mild/moderate ischemic stroke. This supports the hypothesis that educational history as a proxy indicator of cognitive reserve protects against deficits induced by acute stroke.
Religion and Sexual Behaviors
Authors: Adamczyk Amy , Hayes Brittany E.
Published: August 2012

Social scientists have long been interested in how cultural and structural characteristics shape individuals’ actions. We investigate this relationship by examining how macro- and micro-level religious effects shape individuals’ reports of premarital and extramarital sex. We look at how identifying with one of the major world religions—Islam, Hinduism, Christianity, Buddhism, or Judaism—and living in a nation with a Muslim culture shape the likelihood of sex outside of marriage. Using hierarchical modeling techniques and cross-national data from the Demographic and Health Surveys, we find that ever married Hindus and Muslims are less likely to report having had premarital sex than are ever married Jews and Christians, and an earlier age at marriage does not appear to explain the relationship. Married Muslims are also less likely than affiliates of all other religions, except Buddhists, to report extramarital sex. The percentage Muslim within a nation decreases the odds of reports of premarital sex and this relationship is not explained by restrictions on women’s mobility. These findings contribute to research on religion, culture, policy, and health, as well as our understanding of the macro-micro relationship.
Bisphosphonates Use in Children
Authors: Sebestyen Judith F. , Srivastava Tarak , Alon Uri S.
Published: August 2012

Bisphosphonates are synthetic analogues of pyrophosphate that inhibit bone resorption by their action on osteoclasts. In recent years, bisphosphonates have been used in children for treatment of a growing number of disorders associated primarily with generalized or localized osteoporosis, genetic and acquired metabolic bone diseases, heterotopic calcifications in soft tissues, and for hypercalcemia. In this review, the authors address the role of and experience with bisphosphonate therapy in disorders of childhood.
Efforts to Identify At-Risk Children for Blood Lead Screening in Pediatric Clinics—Clark County, Nevada
Authors: Burns Mackenzie S. , Shah Lopa H. , Marquez Erika R. , Denton Scott L. , Neyland Beverly A. , Vereschzagin Diana , Gremse David A. , Gerstenberger Shawn L.
Published: August 2012

Background. Childhood lead poisoning continues to be a public health problem; however, lead screening rates remain low in many areas. Our objective is to increase screening in pediatric clinics, while testing a questionnaire for its predictability of elevated blood lead levels (BLLs). Methods. Participants were approached at pediatric clinics in Las Vegas, Nevada. A brief questionnaire assessed the child’s potential exposure to lead and a blood sample was collected from each child. Results. Of 564 children tested, 35 had detectable BLLs. Two questions from the questionnaire demonstrated significant differences in proportions (Fisher’s exact test: P < .05) of affirmative/negative responses, for the 35 participants with detectable BLLs. Conclusion. The questionnaire failed to identify reliable associations between detectable BLLs and affirmative responses, limiting its use as an in-office tool. More research is recommended to identify and alleviate barriers to childhood lead screening in the clinical setting and to develop more applicable risk assessment tools.
Hirschsprung Disease in the Older Child
Authors: Maerzheuser Stefanie , Bassir Christian , Rothe Karin
Published: August 2012

Background. Hirschsprung disease is usually diagnosed in patients who are younger than 1 year; but in some individuals it is found later in childhood. Objective. This retrospective study is focused on clinical signs and symptoms of Hirschsprung disease in older children. Materials and Methods. Patients with Hirschsprung disease were included in the study if they were older than 14 months at the time of diagnosis. Results. Ten patients older than 14 months were diagnosed with Hirschsprung disease; 7 were males and 3 females. In all, 60% had a positive history of recurrent gastrointestinal infection with vomiting and hospitalization. In 6 patients, the final diagnosis was delayed because of unspecific findings in contrast enema. Rectal biopsy confirmed the diagnosis in all patients. Conclusion. Contrast enema is not a specific method for diagnosing Hirschsprung disease. Rectal biopsy alone confirms the diagnosis and provides a clear indication for surgery.
Predictors of Attrition From a Clinical Pediatric Obesity Treatment Program
Authors: Dolinsky Diana H. , Armstrong Sarah C. , Østbye Truls
Published: August 2012

Objective. To assess the predictors of attrition from a clinical pediatric obesity treatment program. Methods. We evaluated 2- through 20-year-old patients first seen at the Duke University Healthy Lifestyles Program between October 2006 and December 2008. We assessed the predictors of early dropout (not returning for any follow-up visits within 1 year) and of noncompletion (not attending at least 6 visits within 1 year after entry). Results. The sample included 983 patients. In adjusted analyses, non-white non-Hispanic children were more likely to be early dropouts than white non-Hispanic children (odds ratio [OR] = 1.46, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.03-2.07). Non-white non-Hispanic children were more likely to be noncompleters than white non-Hispanic (OR = 1.56, 95% CI = 1.03-2.36) and Hispanic children (OR = 2.56, 95% CI = 1.34-4.90). Conclusions. Race/ethnicity predicted patient attrition. Investigation into this association and program modification are needed to reduce attrition in certain racial/ethnic groups.
Language Spoken at Home and Parental Birthplace Moderate the Association of Race/Ethnicity and Distorted Weight Perception
Authors: Gee Leslie , Peebles Rebecka , Golden Neville H. , Storfer-Isser Amy , Heinberg Leslie J. , Horwitz Sarah M.
Published: August 2012

Distorted weight perception (DWP), specifically overestimating weight status, is common in adolescents and may lead to eating disorders. The authors examined the role of acculturation proxies as effect modifiers of the relationship between race/ethnicity and DWP in a diverse adolescent population. Analysis of the 2005 California Health Interview Survey showed that of 2955 adolescents with underweight or healthy weight status, 10.6% reported DWP. Latino adolescents had increased odds of DWP compared with white adolescents (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.02; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.00, 4.57). Latinos who spoke English and other language(s) at home (aOR = 3.38; 95% CI = 2.11, 5.41) and Latino (aOR = 5.00; 95% CI = 2.34, 10.72) and Asian (aOR = 3.10, 95% CI = 1.15, 8.35) adolescents who spoke no English at home had increased odds of DWP compared with white, English-only speakers. Latino adolescents had increased odds (aOR = 3.98, 95% CI = 2.45, 6.47) of DWP if neither parent was US born. Assessing acculturation proxies may help identify adolescents at risk of DWP.
Electrical and thermal conductivities of aluminum-based composites containing multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Shin SE , Choi HJ , Bae DH
Published: August 2012

Aluminum-based composites containing multi-walled carbon nanotubes are produced by a powder metallurgy route involving a ball-milling technique. Effects of processing parameters on the dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotubes and resulting properties are investigated. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes, initially located on the powder surface with maintaining their connectivity, become dispersed individually and embedded progressively in the aluminum powder during a milling process. The composite with individually dispersed multi-walled carbon nanotubes shows a good strength but poor electrical and thermal conductivities. On the other hand, the composite with a network structure of MWCNTs reveals much enhanced electrical conductivity of 3.316 × 107 Sm−1 and thermal conductivity of 172 W/m K.
Evaluation of jute fiber preforms absorbability using optical profilographometer
Authors: Koziol Mateusz , Wieczorek Jakub , Bogdan-Włodek Aleksandra , Myalski Jerzy
Published: August 2012

The article presents an analysis of absorbability of polyester resin by jute fabric – untreated and treated in KOH water solutions (various exposure times), toluene diisocyanate, methanol, vinyl acetate and vinylsilane. A change with time in height of a resin droplet put on the fabric specimen was measured using optical profilographometer. The height of droplet was taken as a criterion of absorbability. Additional profilometric scanning observations, scanning electron microscopic observations and a saturation time in vacuum resin infusion tests were conducted in order to confirm and explain the results of the droplet height measurements. Although scanning electron microscopic analysis showed improvement in wetting between the treated fibers and the resin, the droplet height measurements showed that chemical treatment impairs translaminar absorbability of jute fabric. Deterioration of absorbability is caused by swelling of jute strands. However, technological tests showed that in most cases the treatment shortens the saturation time, which testifies an improvement in in-plane absorbability. Especially treatment with vinylsilane and KOH solution visibly shortened the preform impregnation time.
Effect of carbon nanotube lengths on the mechanical properties of epoxy resin: An experimental study
Authors: Inam Fawad , Vo Thuc , Jones Jonathan P , Lee Xu
Published: August 2012

Batches of multi-walled carbon nanotubes having an average length of 2091 nm were aggressively tip-ultrasonicated to produce shortened carbon nanotubes having average lengths of 1689 nm, 1332 nm, 992 nm and 503 nm. Raman spectroscopic analysis confirmed that the shortened carbon nanotubes retained their crystallinity after the shortening process. Carbon nanotubes were then dispersed in the epoxy matrix using high-shear mixing technique (calendering). The mechanical properties were measured for the cured epoxy–0.1 wt% carbon nanotube nanocomposites having carbon nanotubes of different lengths. It was found that the nanocomposites containing long carbon nanotubes (2091 nm and 1689 nm) possess higher tensile strength, elastic modulus, fracture strain and fracture toughness as compared to nanocomposites containing short carbon nanotubes (1332 nm, 992 nm and 503 nm).
Preparation and mechanical properties of SiO2f/BN composites with quasi-sandwich structure for wave transparency
Authors: Cao Feng , Yang Bei , Chen Fei , Zhang Changrui , Shen Qiang , Wang Siqing , Li Bin
Published: August 2012

Silica fibers reinforced boron nitride composites with a quasi-sandwich structure for high-temperature wave transparency were fabricated by precursor infiltration pyrolysis technology. The loading capacity of the quasi-sandwich structure is close to that of the solid samples as theoretically calculated, in addition to showing enhanced electrical properties and lower density. The test results for the mechanical properties are basically consistent with the theoretical values. The bending strength of the longitudinal and latitudinal I-shaped samples was 74% and 69% that of the solid sample. The fracture behavior of longitudinal and latitudinal I-shaped samples was also investigated by using compression testing. There are two types of fracture behaviors, which vary with the weaving direction. In the case of longitudinal samples, solid and I-shaped samples share a similar fracture appearance, while the latitudinal ones show crack expansion in the opposite direction between the solid and I-shaped samples. The dielectric constant of the quasi-sandwich is much lower than that in the solid samples, which is very beneficial in terms of the wave-transparent properties of structures such as radomes.
Manufacturing of single-piece textile reinforced riot helmet shell from vacuum bagging
Authors: Zahid Bilal , Chen Xiaogang
Published: August 2012

The proposed research aims to develop a novel technique for the creation of composite riot helmet shells with reinforcing fibre continuity for better protection against low-velocity impacts. In this research paper, an innovative, simple and effective method of making a single-piece continuous textile reinforced helmet shell using vacuum bagging has been established and discussed. This technique also includes the development of solid collapsible moulding apparatus from nonwoven fibres. Angle-interlock fabric, due to its good mouldability, low shear rigidity and ease of production, is used in this research. Several wrinkle-free single-piece composite riot helmet shells have been manufactured.
Dynamic mechanical and thermal properties of enzyme-treated jute/polyester composites
Authors: Karaduman Y , Onal L
Published: August 2012

Dynamic mechanical and thermal behavior of polyester composites reinforced with enzyme and NaOH-treated jute woven fabrics were studied. Dynamic properties such as storage modulus ( E′), loss modulus ( E″) and damping parameter (tan δ) were determined in a single-cantilever bending mode. The storage modulus of the composites increased up to 110% and 130% with enzymatic and NaOH treatments, respectively. The composites reinforced with NaOH and enzyme-treated fibers showed a shift in loss modulus to a higher region when compared to untreated fiber composites. This was attributed to the increased immobilization of polymer matrix at the fiber–matrix interface as a result of pre-treatments. Tan δ pick values of the samples with treated and untreated jute fibers are fairly close indicating that all the samples showed very similar energy damping behavior. The derivative thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry curves indicated that the thermal stability of the composites slightly decreased in the case of NaOH and enzyme treatments. Scanning electron microscopy pictures revealed a stronger fiber–matrix adhesion in composites with enzyme-treated fibers when compared to untreated fiber composites.
The development of a modified bi-axial composite test specimen
Authors: Torres Anthony S , Maji Arup K
Published: August 2012

The significance of bi-axial testing is increasing with the use of composites in more complex applications and the advent of new manufacturing techniques (Ash and Welsh. Collection of Technical Papers - AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference, 2004, vol. 2, pp.1402–1412). Existing failure theories have not been proven to be accurate for predicting failure for laminated composites and very limited test data are available for woven composites (Ash and Welsh. Collection of Technical Papers – AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference, 2004, vol 2, pp.1402–1412). It is believed that the fabrication process used to make composite bi-axial specimens induces initial damage into the specimen (Smits. Exp Anal Nano Eng Mater Struct 2007; 35: 933–934). Two different methods were developed to reduce the amount of damage induced into a bi-axial tests specimen. In addition, the effect of stress concentration due to a center hole added to a composite bi-axial specimen is studied.
Nonlinear dynamic response of functionally graded materials circular plates subject to low-velocity impact
Authors: Dai Hong-Liang , Guo Zhi-Yang , Yang Lei
Published: August 2012

Based on the theory of the first-order shear deformation, a new set of equilibrium equations is developed by the principle of Hamilton. Using the Giannakopoulos’ contact model, the expressions of the contact force and the central deflection for a functionally graded materials circular plate are obtained. By using the orthotropic collocation point method and Newmark method, the unknown variable functions are discreted in space domain and time domain, and the whole problem is solved by the iterative method synthetically. Numerical results show that the material compositions, geometrical parameters and the initial velocity of the striking ball have great effects on the nonlinear dynamic response of the functionally graded materials circular plate.
Prevalence of Periodontitis in Adults in the United States: 2009 and 2010
Authors: Eke P.I. , Dye B.A. , Wei L. , Thornton-Evans G.O. , Genco R.J.
Published: August 2012

This study estimated the prevalence, severity, and extent of periodontitis in the adult U.S. population, with data from the 2009 and 2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) cycle. Estimates were derived from a sample of 3,742 adults aged 30 years and older, of the civilian non-institutionalized population, having 1 or more natural teeth. Attachment loss (AL) and probing depth (PD) were measured at 6 sites per tooth on all teeth (except the third molars). Over 47% of the sample, representing 64.7 million adults, had periodontitis, distributed as 8.7%, 30.0%, and 8.5% with mild, moderate, and severe periodontitis, respectively. For adults aged 65 years and older, 64% had either moderate or severe periodontitis. Eighty-six and 40.9% had 1 or more teeth with AL ≥ 3 mm and PD ≥ 4 mm, respectively. With respect to extent of disease, 56% and 18% of the adult population had 5% or more periodontal sites with ≥ 3 mm AL and ≥ 4 mm PD, respectively. Periodontitis was highest in men, Mexican Americans, adults with less than a high school education, adults below 100% Federal Poverty Levels (FPL), and current smokers. This survey has provided direct evidence for a high burden of periodontitis in the adult U.S. population.
Minimal Cooperation
Authors: Paternotte Cédric
Published: August 2012

Most definitions of cooperation provide sufficient but not necessary conditions. This paper describes a form of minimal cooperation, corresponding to mass actions implying many agents, such as demonstrations. It characterizes its intentional, epistemic, strategic, and teleological aspects, mostly obtained from weakening classical concepts. The rationality of minimal cooperation turns out to be part of its definition, whereas it is usually considered as an optional though desirable feature. Game-theoretic concepts thus play an important role in its definition. The paper concludes by answering concrete questions about what should and should not be called cooperation.
Immigrant experiences of fairness at work in Ireland
Authors: Cross Christine , Turner Thomas
Published: August 2012

In recent years many European countries have experienced a substantial growth in immigrants working in the labour market. Empirical data on their work experiences are, however, relatively scarce. Based on a survey of immigrants this article focuses on the expectations, perceptions of unfairness and outcomes of relatively recent immigrants in the workplace in Ireland. Using organizational justice and relative deprivation theory, a theoretical model was developed predicting a set of associations between expectations arising from particular reference groups, fairness at work, met expectations and outcomes. Overall, the model highlights the central importance of fairness in the workplace for met expectations and personal outcomes. This research assists in building a picture of the workplace experiences of these new immigrants, which is useful for both national and organizational policy-makers.
Security and change: The Swedish model and employment protection 1995–2010
Authors: Murhem Sofia
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study is to analyse the content of the industrial relations system concerning employment protection and how the development relates to the Swedish model. Has it changed fundamentally between 1995 and 2012 and have those changes meant that the regime has changed too, or have they been in line with the model, and the model thus malleable? How have changes been made politically acceptable? Have the economic crises of the 1990s and the 21st century paved the way? Judging from the evidence, there have been comparatively few changes to employment security in Sweden and the changes made have either been in line with the model, or if not, made in times of severe crises which made it possible for social democrats and trade unionists to argue for the changes, and made in a way that was in line with the model, i.e. mutual agreements.
Quiescence continued? Recent strike activity in nine Western European economies
Authors: Gall Gregor
Published: August 2012

This article examines whether the downward trajectory in strike activity in nine Western European economies has continued over recent years. In doing so, it considers the nature of the dominant forms of extant strike activity and how these relate to systems of collective bargaining and political exchange. The main findings are three-fold. First, while there has been a general decline in aggregate strike activity, this has often been punctuated by sharp peaks. Second, the dominant nature of the strike activity, especially the sharp peaks, has become increasingly concerned with mounting demonstrative collective mobilizations in the political, rather than industrial, arena. Consequently, much strike activity is increasingly being deployed as a tool of political leverage with governments rather than as a tool of industrial leverage with (private sector) employers. Third, official data on strikes are becoming increasingly unreliable as they contain ever more significant exclusions, raising not so much the prospect of an end to quiescence but an over-estimation of the extent of decline.
In vitro comparison of two different methods of cell washing
Authors: Smith T , Riley W , FitzGerald D
Published: August 2012

The storage of red blood cells (RBC) results in increased concentrations of plasma free hemoglobin, potassium, glucose, and lactate, among other undesirable substances. These concentrations continue to increase as RBC products age and can cause deleterious effects to the patient. In the setting of cardiac surgery, the autotransfusion devices are routinely used to wash blood that is shed from the surgical site. These devices could also be used to wash stored RBC units obtained from the blood bank. The objective of this study was to compare the product created by washing a unit of RBCs with the AutoLog autotransfusion device in the operating room to the washed products from a standard cell washer in the blood bank.

Eleven outdated RBC units (stored for >42 days at 4°C) were split in half. One half was washed using the Medtronic AutoLog device; the other half was washed using the blood bank’s Cobe 2991 Cell Processor. Analytes were measured on samples from the unwashed parent unit and from the washed daughter units. The parameters measured included hematocrit, free hemoglobin, lactate, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), potassium, glucose, and pH.

When compared to the original untreated RBCs, the glucose, lactate, and potassium levels were decreased when washed in an autotranfusion device. Additionally, the free hemoglobin and LDH levels were significantly lower with the Medtronic Autolog cell saver than in the COBE 2991 Cell Processor.

Washing the RBC donor units in an autotransfusion device prior to transfusion can effectively attenuate the increases seen in glucose, potassium, free hemoglobin, and LDH associated with RBC storage lesion.
Quantitative Benefit-Risk Assessment Using Only Qualitative Information on Utilities
Authors: Caster Ola , Norén G. Niklas , Ekenberg Love , Edwards I. Ralph
Published: August 2012

Background: Utilities of pertinent clinical outcomes are crucial variables for assessing the benefits and risks of drugs, but numerical data on utilities may be unreliable or altogether missing. We propose a method to incorporate qualitative information into a probabilistic decision analysis framework for quantitative benefit-risk assessment. Objective: To investigate whether conclusive results can be obtained when the only source of discriminating information on utilities is widely agreed upon qualitative relations, for example, ‘‘sepsis is worse than transient headache’’ or ‘‘alleviation of disease is better without than with complications.’’ Method: We used the structure and probabilities of 3 published models that were originally evaluated based on the standard metric of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs): terfenadine versus chlorpheniramine for the treatment of allergic rhinitis, MCV4 vaccination against meningococcal disease, and alosetron for irritable bowel syndrome. For each model, we identified clinically straightforward qualitative relations among the outcomes. Using Monte Carlo simulations, the resulting utility distributions were then combined with the previously specified probabilities, and the rate of preference in terms of expected utility was determined for each alternative. Results: Our approach conclusively favored MCV4 vaccination, and it was concordant with the QALY assessments for the MCV4 and terfenadine versus chlorpheniramine case studies. For alosetron, we found a possible unfavorable benefit-risk balance for highly risk-averse patients not identified in the original analysis. Conclusion: Incorporation of widely agreed upon qualitative information into quantitative benefit-risk assessment can provide for conclusive results. The methods presented should prove useful in both population and individual-level assessments, especially when numerical utility data are missing or unreliable, and constraints on time or money preclude its collection.
New Media and the Coproduction of Safety
Authors: Meijer Albert Jacob
Published: August 2012

The new media have been argued to strengthen the coproduction of safety by reducing the costs of interactions between government and citizens and providing new communicative potential. Does that lead to relevant additional input from citizens in police work? Or are preexisting interactions reproduced online? This empirical study of police practices in the Netherlands shows that new media indeed strengthen the coproduction of safety by enabling the police to reach more citizens and contact them 24/7. The police build new connections to citizens: mediated citizen networks form an important addition to offline networks. The costs are reduced most in a situation where new media replace face-to-face contacts between police and citizens, that is, in the coproduction of police patrol work. The article concludes that new media support the trend of responsibilization: the police use new media to build virtual networks with citizens and engage them anywhere and anytime in the coproduction of safety.
Biogeosciences survey
Authors: Martin Yvonne E. , Johnson Edward A.
Published: August 2012

The biogeosciences are a rapidly expanding field, and for this reason the full scope of possible topics falling under this heading is not always recognized. The biogeosciences cover all fields of the biological sciences and their interactions with the relevant Earth spheres (i.e. atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere), and are studied over a wide range of temporal and spatial scales. While interdisciplinary work has been recognized for many years, it is recommended that all biogeosciences studies should ultimately strive to understand process operation and feedbacks, and in doing so a common ground to approaches of study can be defined. The notion of multidisciplinary versus interdisciplinary research is considered herein. It is by following an approach of explanation-based science that the complex interplay of biological and environmental processes can be understood best. Understanding of system behaviour and functioning should be a core goal of biogeosciences research. This review offers a proposed classification and summary of the full range of topics falling under the umbrella of the biogeosciences, and in doing so sets the stage for a future series of progress reports focusing on recent developments in the biogeosciences.
Autoimmune Encephalitis in Children
Authors: Armangue Thaís , Petit-Pedrol Mar , Dalmau Josep
Published: August 2012

The causes of encephalitis are numerous, and extensive investigations for infectious agents and other etiologies are often negative. The discovery that many of these encephalitis are immune mediated has changed the approach to the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. Moreover, the broad spectrum of symptoms including, psychosis, catatonia, alterations of behavior and memory, seizures, abnormal movements, and autonomic dysregulation usually requires a multidisciplinary treatment approach. This review focuses in several forms of encephalitis that occur in children, and for which an autoimmune etiology has been demonstrated (eg, anti- N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor encephalitis) or is strongly suspected (eg, Rasmussen encephalitis, limbic encephalitis, opsoclonus-myoclonus). The authors also review several disorders that may be immune mediated, such as the rapid onset obesity with hypothalamic dysfunction, hypoventilation and autonomic dysregulation (ROHHAD) syndrome and some encephalopathies with fever and status epilepticus. Recognition of novel immune-mediated encephalitis is important because some of these disorders are highly responsive to immunotherapy.
TiO2-doped phosphate glass microcarriers: A stable bioactive substrate for expansion of adherent mammalian cells
Authors: Guedes Joana C , Park Jeong-Hui , Lakhkar Nilay J , Kim Hae-Won , Knowles Jonathan C , Wall Ivan B
Published: August 2012

Scalable expansion of cells for regenerative cell therapy or to produce large quantities for high-throughput screening remains a challenge for bioprocess engineers. Laboratory scale cell expansion using t-flasks requires frequent passaging that exposes cells to many poorly defined bioprocess forces that can cause damage or alter their phenotype. Microcarriers offer a potential solution to scalable production, lending themselves to cell culture processes more akin to fermentation, removing the need for frequent passaging throughout the expansion period. One main problem with microcarrier expansion, however, is the difficulty in harvesting cells at the end of the process. Therefore, therapies that rely on cell delivery using biomaterial scaffolds could benefit from a microcarrier expansion system whereby the cells and microcarriers are transplanted together. In the current study, we used bioactive glass microcarriers doped with 5% TiO2 that display a controlled rate of degradation and conducted experiments to assess biocompatibility and growth of primary fibroblast cells as a model for cell therapy products. We found that the microcarriers are highly biocompatible and facilitate cell growth in a gradual controlled manner. Therefore, even without additional biofunctionalization methods, Ti-doped bioactive glass microcarriers offer potential as a cell expansion platform.
Analysis of 16 Years of Homicides and Suicides Involving the Use of Weapons Recorded at the Milan Medicolegal Bureau
Authors: Gentile Guendalina , Clerici Carlo , De Micheli Angelo , Merzagora Isabella , Palazzo Elisa , Rancati Alessandra , Veneroni Laura , Zoja Riccardo
Published: August 2012

The criminal use of weapons is a very topical issue in the industrialized countries and worldwide, and a reconsideration of the legislation governing their possession is warranted. We retrospectively analyzed the homicides and suicides involving the use of firearms and piercing and/or cutting weapons recorded at the Medicolegal Bureau in Milan from January 1, 1993, to December 31, 2008. First we considered the clinical histories of the deceased and the circumstantial details of their deaths, then we examined the data relating to the cause of death recorded in the autopsy reports. Our case series consisted of 414 homicides (54.2%) and 350 suicides (45.8%). Firearms were responsible for more deaths (64%) than piercing and/or cutting weapons (36%). The firearms involved were legally licensed in 40% of cases (suicides) and illegal in 22% (homicides). Our findings suggest the need to review the criteria considered for the issue of firearms licenses, in Italy at least.
Women’s Reactions to Interpersonal Violence Research
Authors: Edwards Katie M. , Probst Danielle R. , Tansill Erin C. , Gidycz Christine A.
Published: August 2012

This study assessed women’s immediate and long-term reactions to completing self-report measures of interpersonal violence. College women completed surveys at the beginning and end of a 2-month academic quarter for course credit. Results showed that 7.7% of participants experienced immediate negative emotional reactions to research participation. Greater immediate negative reactions were related to interpersonal victimization and psychological distress variables. Attrition from the study over the 2-month follow-up was not predicted by participants’ immediate negative emotional reactions to the research or anticipation of future distress. Of the participants who returned for the follow-up, 2.1% of participants reported experiencing distress over the interim period as a result of their initial participation in the study. These long-term reactions were bivariately related to a number of victimization, psychological distress, and reaction variables measured at the first study session. However, in the regression analyses, only immediate negative emotional reactions to the research and anticipation of future distress predicted long-term negative emotional reactions.
The Relationship Between Victimization and Substance Use Among Homeless and Runaway Female Adolescents
Authors: Tyler Kimberly A. , Gervais Sarah J. , Davidson M. Meghan
Published: August 2012

Each year, thousands of female adolescents run away from home due to sexual abuse, yet they continue to be victims of sexual assault once on the street. To date, few studies have examined how various forms of victimization are related to different types of substance use. The purpose of this article is to investigate the relationship between street exposure, childhood abuse, and different forms of street victimization with alcohol and marijuana use among 137 homeless and runaway female adolescents. Results from path analysis revealed that child sexual abuse was positively linked to trading sex and sexual and physical victimization. In addition, those who have traded sex experienced greater physical victimization, and who have spent more time away from home, used alcohol more frequently. Moreover, trading sex and experiencing more types of sexual victimization were positively linked to more frequent marijuana usage. Age, age at first run, longest time away from home, sexual abuse, and trading sex had significant indirect effects on alcohol and/or marijuana use. Together, these factors accounted for 27% of the variance in alcohol use and 37% of the variance in marijuana use.
Domestic Violence in India
Authors: Kimuna Sitawa R. , Djamba Yanyi K. , Ciciurkaite Gabriele , Cherukuri Suvarna
Published: August 2012

This article assesses the prevalence and risk factors of domestic violence in India. The study uses the 2005-2006 India National Family Health Survey-III (NFHS-III) and focuses on the 69,484 ever-married women ages 15 to 49 from all regions, who were administered the domestic violence module. The results show that 31% of respondents experienced physical violence in the past 12 months before the survey; the corresponding figure for sexual violence was 8.3%. The multivariate logistic regression results show key determinants of physical and sexual violence. Some of the most salient findings are that urban residence, household wealth, affiliation with Christian religious denominations, wife’s age at marriage and education are associated with lower risk of physical and sexual violence. In contrast, being employed and being the wife of a man who drank alcohol increased the odds of experiencing both physical and sexual violence. Moreover, respondents who believed that wife-beating was justified under certain circumstances were more likely to experience domestic violence. These results and significant regional differences observed in this study suggest that gender role conditioning and cultural norms both contribute to domestic violence. Interventions, therefore, need to go beyond the institutional and legal levels to include cultural capital, which addresses partner and relationship issues.
Mediating Links Between Maternal Childhood Trauma and Preadolescent Behavioral Adjustment
Authors: Min Meeyoung O. , Singer Lynn T. , Minnes Sonia , Kim Hyunsoo , Short Elizabeth
Published: August 2012

Structural equation modeling was used to simultaneously examine maternal psychological distress and social support as mediators linking maternal childhood trauma (MCT) to both maternal and child-reported behavior at 9 years of age in 231 birth mother-child dyads, who were primarily poor, urban, and African American. One half of the mothers ( n = 116) reported a history of childhood abuse and neglect. Although MCT was associated with both increased maternal psychological distress and limited social support at 6 years, the pathway to child behavior ratings at 9 years was informant dependent. MCT influenced maternal ratings of her child’s behavior, with some effects mediated through psychological distress. MCT indirectly influenced children’s self-perception of behavior through maternal experience of social support. Maternal ratings and child self-ratings of child behavior problems were moderately correlated. No significant gender interaction was found. Findings suggest a need for understanding trauma histories in the lives of mothers who seek assistance for parenting and child behavior problems, especially in urban low income communities. Interventions targeting both increasing maternal social support and reducing psychological distress may promote competency and resiliency among children for whom MCT poses a risk to optimal development.
Child-to-Parent Violence
Authors: Calvete Esther , Orue Izaskun , Gámez-Guadix Manuel
Published: August 2012

Child-to-parent violence (CPV) includes acts committed by a child to intentionally cause physical, psychological, or financial pain to a parent. Available data indicate increasing rates of CPV in Spain, which have been attributed to a tendency toward more permissive parenting styles and changes in the power cycles within the families. The primary aim of this study was to assess the predictive role of some behavioral and emotional characteristics of adolescents who perpetrate CPV. A total of 1,072 adolescents (601 girls) filled out measures of CPV, proactive and reactive aggression, depressive symptoms, and substance abuse at Time 1, and measures of CPV 6 months later. The results showed that CPV was predicted by proactive, but not by reactive, aggression. This finding supports an instrumental role for CPV, which should be understood in the context of permissibility and lack of limits within the family. Depression and substance abuse also predicted the increase of CPV over time. Moreover, there were no sex differences in the prevalence of physical CPV, but verbal CPV was more predominant among girls. Although there were sex differences in some of the risk factors for CPV, the predictive model linking these risks to CPV was similar for boys and girls. Findings of this study suggest a psychological profile that combines internalizing problems and an instrumental use of violence in adolescents who perpetrate CPV. These characteristics are important for interventions.