bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New pseudo-elastic model for polymer-bonded explosive simulants considering the Mullins effect
Authors: Yeom Kee Sun , Jeong Sehwan , Huh Hoon , Park Jungsu
Published: December 2012

This paper proposes a novel pseudo-elastic model for polymer-bonded explosive considering the Mullins effect for isotropic, incompressible, hyperelastic, particle-filled materials. Polymer-bonded explosive, an energetic material in which small explosive crystals are bonded in a polymer matrix, is known to exhibit highly nonlinear behaviors of deformation such as the Mullins effect of stress softening, hysteresis, residual strain, and frequency-dependent responses. The Ogden-Roxburgh model is modified for the unloading state to describe the Mullins effect accurately, which is the most important unloading behavior of polymer-bonded explosive. Uniaxial compressive loading and unloading tests at quasi-static states were undertaken to obtain the mechanical properties of the polymer-bonded explosive simulants. The pseudo-elastic model by Ogden and Roxburgh is subsequently modified for consistency with the test results of the polymer-bonded explosive simulants for the case in which the Mullins effect is dominant. The predictions from the new model exhibit good agreement with the experimental data, demonstrating that the model properly describes the Mullins effect and the loading-unloading behavior of deformation.
Influence of thickness of individual elastomer layers (first shape factor) on the response of unbonded fiber-reinforced elastomeric bearings
Authors: Toopchi-Nezhad Hamid , Tait Michael J , Drysdale Robert G
Published: December 2012

The objective of this paper is to study the influence of thickness of individual elastomer layers (first shape factor) on the vertical and horizontal responses of fiber reinforced elastomeric bearings that are not bonded or mechanically fastened to their top and bottom supports. By definition, the first shape factor, S1, is the ratio of the plan area to the perimeter stress-free area of a single elastomer layer within the bearing. Results of a comprehensive 2D-finite element study on a large group of bearings with different shape factors of 10, 15, 20, 30, and 40 suggest that the shape factor S1 is a critical parameter in controlling both the vertical compression modulus of the bearing and the level of stress in the fiber-reinforcing layers. Furthermore, the secant horizontal stiffness and the stress demand in the bearing elastomer material are to a limited extent influenced by the parameter S1.
Through-thickness elastic constants of composite laminates
Authors: Gibson AG
Published: December 2012

This article presents relationships for the through-thickness elastic constants of composite laminates, needed for modelling three-dimensional stress problems. Using the individual ply elastic constants together with the in-plane laminate elastic constants (from laminate theory) results in explicit relationships for, ν13, ν23, E3, G13 and G23. The Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus expressions apply to all laminate types. The shear modulus relationships apply to balanced laminates, but are extendable to other laminate types. Relationships are developed here for angle-ply, cross-ply and quasi-isotropic laminates. Results are presented for glass/epoxy and carbon/epoxy laminates, above and below the resin Tg. The importance of coupling stresses and their influence on ν13, ν23 and E3 is underlined. It is shown, for instance, that equating the laminate through-thickness modulus to the individual ply value can result in a significant under-estimate.
Assessing the Key Processes of Youth-Led Participatory Research
Authors: Ozer Emily J. , Douglas Laura
Published: December 2012

Youth-led Participatory Action Research (YPAR)—in which young people conduct research aimed at improving problems in their schools and communities—is increasing in public health, youth development, and education. We report on the development and psychometric testing of the YPAR Process Template (YPT)—to assess the quality of key YPAR processes in a systematic, flexible manner. Pairs of raters independently coded 40 live and videotaped observations. All scales achieved good to excellent interrater reliability with the exception of the power sharing over major decisions scale, which had interrater reliability in the acceptable range. This instrument can be useful for a range of settings practicing YPAR and similar youth empowerment programs. We further report findings generated by YPT assessments that demonstrate that power sharing was a robust predictor of observed youth engagement in the YPAR classes after controlling for the classes’ baseline level of engagement.
Travel Decision Making
Authors: Gardiner Sarah , King Ceridwyn , Grace Debra
Published: December 2012

Underpinning generational cohort analysis is the notion that the formative experiences of each cohort influence its members’ lifelong beliefs, values, and behavior. However, previous studies have failed to verify this notion. This study is the first to do so, showing that memories of the formative years influence a generational cohort’s present-day travel decision making. Focus groups and an online survey of Australian Baby Boomer, Generation X, and Generation Y consumers provided data for the development and testing of the model presented here. Structural equation modeling shows the proposed model is robust, substantiating the importance of formative referents influencing salient referents, value perceptions, and attitude and intention to travel. This study provides a theoretical foundation for future research on this topic, highlighting the importance of considering a travel segment’s generational perspective when designing a marketing strategy.
A Social Comparison Explanation for the Third-Person Perception
Authors: Shen Lijiang , Palmer Jason , Mercer Kollar Laura Min , Comer Sarah
Published: December 2012

This study proposes the third-person perception (TPP) can be viewed as a type of comparative social judgment in the domain of media influence, in that it is a function of assimilation, contrast, and anchoring mechanisms in the process of social comparison. The derived hypotheses were tested with web-based experimental data ( N = 511). Results showed some evidence that TPP was a function of assimilation and contrast effects. There was also evidence that there were anchoring effects, and such effects tended to emerge when self was the anchor. Implication and directions for future research on TPP were discussed.
A Meal High in Saturated Fat Evokes Postprandial Dyslipemia, Hyperinsulinemia, and Altered Lipoprotein Expression in Obese Children With and Without Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Mager Diana R. , Mazurak Vera , Rodriguez‐Dimitrescu Carla , Vine Donna , Jetha Mary , Ball Geoff , Yap Jason
Published: December 2012

Background: Hyperinsulinemia and altered lipid and lipoprotein metabolism induced by fast‐food diets may contribute to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We hypothesized that a high saturated fat (SFA) meal would evoke prolonged postprandial lipemia and hyperinsulinemia, increased inflammation, and altered lipoprotein expression in obese children with NAFLD when compared with healthy children. Methods: We prospectively studied 31 children (NAFLD, 13.1 ± 2.6 years, n = 11; age‐matched obese, 14.3 ± 1.7 years, n = 9; lean, 13.6 ± 2.6 years, n = 11) following consumption of a high SFA (18.8%) meal. Prior to and at 1, 3, and 6 hours after meal consumption, blood was collected for analysis of alanine aminotransferase (ALT); aspartate aminotransferase (AST); γ‐glutamyltransferase; leptin; C‐reactive protein; (fasting) insulin; glucose; triglycerides (TGs); total, high‐density lipoprotein, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol; adiponectin; nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs); inflammatory markers (TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐10); apolipoproteins‐B48, B100, and CIII; and fatty acid (FA) composition of TG fractions. Results: Children with NAFLD had significantly higher fasting levels of ALT (87 ± 54 U/L), AST (52 ± 33.5 U/L), and apolipoprotein‐CIII (20.6 ± 11.3 mg/dL) with postprandial hyperinsulinemia (iAUC insulin: 225 ± 207 [NAFLD] vs 113 ± 73 [obese] vs 47 ± 19.9 [lean] mU/L‐h; P < .001); suppression of NEFA (iAUC‐NEFA: 1.7 ± 0.9 [NAFLD] vs 0.6 ± 0.3 [obese] vs 1 ± 0.7 [lean] mEq/L‐h); and prolonged elevations in apolipoprotein‐B48 3–6 hours after meal consumption when compared with obese and lean controls (P < .05). Conclusion: A meal high in saturated fat evokes postprandial dyslipemia, hyperinsulinemia, and altered lipoprotein expression in obese children with and without NAFLD.
‘You Need to be Healthy to be Ill’: Constructing Sickness and Framing the Body in Swedish Healthcare
Authors: Nyberg Daniel
Published: December 2012

Recent trends have seen a move from ‘welfare’ to ‘workfare’ in Europe to increase labour flexibility and reduce state expenditure on sickness absence. This shift in healthcare logics has meant an increasing role for individuals to take an active part in the political process of managing their health and sickness absence. This paper draws upon empirical cases of observations of status meetings, in which the employee’s medical situation and work capacity are evaluated, as well as interviews with participating actors. The study finds that governmental standards are, at times, incompatible with each other and this complexity allows for local strategies in managing the sickness absence process. These findings are discussed in relation to employment and it is concluded that local actors’ translations of policies have important material consequences for employees’ health, rehabilitation opportunities and access to sickness benefits. This contributes to our understanding of how political interventions to govern the population are appropriated locally to govern individual bodies.
How can I enable the gifts and talents of my students to be in the driving seat of their learning?
Authors: Cartwright Sally
Published: December 2012

My most vivid childhood memories of learning at school were not what the teachers taught me but what I found out for myself. I remember at junior school completing a project on childhood games and feeling important when I discovered there was a museum devoted to the topic. In Year 9 in geography a project on industry led me to interview a manager from a local company. In all these projects I remember the emotional engagement with the work because it was unique to me, but what I did not appreciate was the research and thinking processes that underpinned my endeavours. Working individually and independently I lacked the constructive criticism of peers. It is these omissions that have led me to me value not only the TASC framework (Wallace, 2008) and the work of Bognar and Zovko (2008), but also the idea of a research community, as shown by Whitehead and Huxtable (2008) in their University of Bath seminars. Through employment of these strategies in answering the question ‘How can I enable the gifts and talents of my students to be in the driving seat of their learning?’, I have discovered new opportunities for these students. Concurrently I have also been given the confidence through working in a non-judgemental seminar environment to start to recognise that I too have gifts and talents as a teacher. Into this narrative I pull together strands that have been woven together, to form an exciting tapestry for both the student and teacher to develop their gifts and talents. For the student there is a new qualification from the English Examination Board (AQA) called the Extended Project Qualification (AQA, 2007), which appears to meet a need to develop the skills of independent and interdependent learning. For the teacher there is the opportunity afforded by the concept of an educational living theory (Whitehead, 2008).
Re-Mediating Research Ethics
Authors: Chee Florence M. , Taylor Nicholas T. , de Castell Suzanne
Published: December 2012

This article is a theoretical and empirical exploration of the meaning that accompanies contractual agreements, such as the End-User License Agreements (EULAs) that participants of online communities are required to sign as a condition of participation. As our study indicates, clicking “I agree” on the often lengthy conditions presented during the installation and updating process typically permits third parties (including researchers) to monitor the digitally-mediated actions of users. Through our small-scale study in which we asked participants which terms of EULAs they would find agreeable, the majority confirmed that they simply clicked through the terms presented to them without much knowledge about the terms to which they were agreeing. From a research ethics standpoint, we reflect upon whether or not informed consent is achieved in these cases and pose a challenge to the academic research community to attend to the socio-technical shift from informed consent to a more nebulous concept of contractual agreement, online and offline.
‘I wouldn’t say it’s sexism, except that … It’s all these little subtle things’: Healthcare scientists’ accounts of gender in healthcare science laboratories
Authors: Bevan Valerie , Learmonth Mark
Published: December 2012

We explore healthcare scientists’ accounts of men in healthcare science laboratories. By focussing on subtle masculinist actions that women find disadvantageous to them, we seek to extend knowledge about women’s under-representation in senior positions in healthcare science – despite women being in the majority at junior levels. We maintain that healthcare science continues to be dominated by taken-for-granted masculinities that marginalize women, keeping them in their ‘place’. Our aim is to make visible the subtle practices that are normally invisible by showing masculinities in action. Principally using feminist analyses, our findings show that both women and men are often unaware of taken-for-granted masculinist actions, and even when women do notice, they rarely challenge the subtle sexist behaviour.
Twice invisible: Formal representations of radiation danger
Authors: Kuchinskaya Olga
Published: December 2012

This article examines the politics of formal representations of environmental hazards. Certain environmental hazards are made publicly invisible when their formal representations are misaligned with what can be measured in practice under the existing socioeconomic and technoscientific conditions. Conversely, better aligning formal representations and measurement capabilities helps reveal the scope of such hazards. Such (mis)alignment of formal representations is a relative, dialogical, and historically specific process. It requires not only experts and their specialized knowledge, but also contextual knowledge of the actual local conditions. The work of alignment of formal representations requires public ‘un-black-boxing’ of these formalisms. It also depends on much infrastructural work, which I describe as the invisible work of making visible. (Mis)alignment of formal representations is illustrated here with the examples of three successive concepts of radiation protection in Belarus, a former Soviet Union republic that was covered with much of the Chernobyl fallout. Revisions to the radiation protection concept first expanded and then dramatically shrank the scope of the officially recognized and publicly visible radioactive contamination in Belarus.
The low template DNA profiling controversy: Biolegality and boundary work among forensic scientists
Authors: Lawless Christopher J
Published: December 2012

This article describes disputes that have arisen around forms of forensic DNA profiling technologies known as ‘low-template DNA’ methods. These ultra-sensitive techniques, used to analyse trace quantities of DNA, have previously been used in many high-profile criminal cases. However, certain cases have stimulated renewed debate within forensic scientific communities concerning the reliability and validity of low-template DNA. The low-template DNA controversy is used in this article to further explore the co-productive dynamics between biotechnology and criminal justice, which have previously been termed ‘biolegality’. My study describes the boundary work through which interlocutors have attempted to frame the status of low-template DNA as a forensic innovation. A series of published exchanges by forensic scientists in a technical journal is used to highlight the challenges of negotiating a series of technological boundaries through which low-template DNA has been comprehended by actors. I show how the articulation of low-template DNA creates new and varying epistemic relationships and dependencies. In making visible this boundary work, I highlight the potential for further exploration of the interactional dimensions of biolegality.
Cluster headache is associated with an increased risk of depression: A nationwide population-based cohort study
Authors: Liang Jen-Feng , Chen Yung-Tai , Fuh Jong-Ling , Li Szu-Yuan , Liu Chia-Jen , Chen Tzeng-Ji , Tang Chao-Hsiun , Wang Shuu-Jiun
Published: December 2012

Objective

To investigate whether cluster headache (CH) was a risk factor for depression in a nationwide population-based follow-up study.

Background

There are few studies about the relationship between CH and depression, and prior research has been limited by cross-sectional studies or small sample sizes.

Methods

We identified 673 CH patients from the Taiwan National Health Insurance database between 2005 and 2009. The two comparison cohorts included age-, sex- and Charlson’s score-matched migraine patients ( n = 2692) and controls (patients free from migraine or CH, n = 2692). The cumulative incidence of depression was compared among these three cohorts until the end of 2009. We also calculated predictors of depression in the CH cohort.

Results

After the median 2.5-year follow-up duration, the CH cohort had a greater risk for developing depression compared to the control cohort (adjusted hazard ratio; aHR = 5.6, 95% CI 3.0–10.6, p < 0.001) but not the migraine cohort (aHR = 1.1, 95% CI 0.7–1.7, p = 0.77). Of the CH patients, the number of cluster bout periods per year was a risk factor for depression (aHR = 3.8, 95% CI 2.6–5.4, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our results showed that CH is associated with an increased risk for depression. The strength of this association is similar to that of migraine.
Airport Runway Capacity and Economic Development
Authors: Tittle Derek , McCarthy Patrick , Xiao Yuxi
Published: December 2012

Using an aggregate production function, the impact of runways at commercial airports on several measures of metropolitan statistical areas’ economic welfare in combination with labor, private capital, and public-sector capital is estimated. By focusing on runways at commercial airports, we estimate the impact of reducing congestion that sets in and takeoffs and landings as air activity nears the technical limit for safe operations. Both the number of runways and the maximum length of runway available at a given airport correlate positively with real gross metropolitan product with a negative cross product between the two, suggesting a trade-off between the number of flights possible and the size of the aircraft that can use the airport. Additional analysis examines the impact of additional runways on other measures of economic activity.
Tensions Across Federalism, Localism, and Professional Autonomy
Authors: Berry Kimberly Scriven , Herrington Carolyn D.
Published: December 2012

Drawing upon research on federalism, localism, and professional autonomy, this article explores how educational stakeholders used social media to discuss and organize against the implementation of Differentiated Accountability in a large Florida school district. The results showed that the stakeholders used social media to engage in sense making and organizing against district policy changes. The authors also find that opposition stemmed from a sense among the commenters that aspects of the policy violated broadly accepted norms of professional autonomy. Strain across the groups ultimately detracted from the fundamental objective of raising student achievement.
Comparison research of two different improved methods in the 2D hypersonic inlet’s design
Authors: Yang Jun , Luo Shi-bin , Huang Wei , Wang Zhen-guo
Published: December 2012

The article mainly employed the numerical simulation method to conduct the 2D hypersonic inlet performance research. In this study, the numerical simulation method that includes a two-equation turbulence model was validated through the test case firstly. For the purpose of oppressing unstart phenomena, extending operating range and improving comprehensive performance of the inlet, the bleeding system and isentropic expansion arc surface were applied to the inlet, respectively. Different kinds of configurations were designed through changing the length of the bleeding or changing the radius of the arc surface. The influence of the bleeding and isentropic expansion arc surface on the 2D hypersonic inlet was analyzed systematically based on different objective parameters. The calculative results show that the bleeding system with appropriate value of the length can improve comprehensive performance of hypersonic inlet remarkably either on the design point or the off-design points, though it has a very small negative impact on the inlet in terms of the mass flow ratio coefficient. As for isentropic expansion arc surface, it can improve the inlet’s performance at the design point on the conditions that the radius of isentropic expansion arc surface has an appropriate value. But it has much more disadvantages over the basic configuration reversely when it comes to the off-design conditions or the large size of the radius of isentropic expansion arc surface.
Actor analysis and action delegitimation of the participants involved in Iran’s nuclear power contention: A case study of The Economist
Authors: Rasti Alireza , Sahragard Rahman
Published: December 2012

The present research aimed at spotting any possible biased coverage a typical Western newspaper such as The Economist gives to the issue of Iran’s nuclear power program at large and specifically to the way in which the main actors involved in the controversy are portrayed and the actions thereof – most notably, the act of delegitimating Iran’s nuclear program – are represented. To this end, a critical discourse analytic approach centered around Wodak’s ‘discursive strategies’ and Van Leeuwen’s representational resources was applied to 23 argumentative articles of The Economist, all dealing exclusively with Iran’s nuclear contention. The results showed that the differential treatment the Western paper gave to the issue at hand, in terms of scope and complexity, was in line with the advocated policy of the aforementioned paper, that is imposing more sanctions on the country.
‘I’m not sexist, but . . .’: How ideological dilemmas reinforce sexism in talk about intimate partner violence
Authors: Harris Kate Lockwood , Palazzolo Kellie E , Savage Matthew W
Published: December 2012

In order to extend knowledge about the communicative aspects of intimate partner violence (IPV), we ask how those who talk about IPV frame the relationship between gender and power. How does their framing account for the role of gender in IPV perpetration? A critical discourse analysis of conversations from focus groups and interviews reveals that when participants talk about IPV, they rely on ideological dilemmas in available understandings of the relationship between gender and power. As participants use disclaimers, competing interpretive repertoires, and extreme case arguments to navigate these dilemmas, their talk closes space for a critique of gender and power that considers systemic factors and benevolent sexism. Instead, participants focus more on individual pathology and the most overt forms of sexism. The tensions that produce this closure may also reveal contradictions that provide opportunities for reshaping public conversations about IPV and its relationship to gender and power.
Circulating interferon-α2 levels are increased in the majority of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and are associated with disease activity and multiple cytokine activation
Authors: Becker-Merok A , Østli-Eilersten G , Lester S , Nossent JC
Published: December 2012

Mutations in interferon (IFN) regulatory factor genes and the biological activity of type I IFN on expression of specific genes that are induced by IFN have been associated with various aspects of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Circulating levels of IFN-α in SLE has not been extensively studied because of limited sensitivity of available ELISA assays. We performed a cross-sectional case-control study where circulating levels of IFN-α2 were measured by a highly sensitive, solution phase multiplex magnetized bead assay and investigated the relation of IFN-α2 with autoantibody profiles, clinical disease activity and levels of inflammatory cytokines in SLE patients ( n = 87). Cytokine levels were determined on stored sera aliquots with cut-off levels determined by the geometric mean + 2SD in healthy controls ( n = 27). IFN-α2 levels were increased in 64% of SLE patients, who displayed more renal disease and higher disease activity ( p = 0.06) and had a significantly higher sum of activated cytokines (median 4.5, range 7) compared to patients with normal IFN-α2 (median one, range 3; p < 0.001). Solution phase micro-bead assay thus identified increased IFN-α2 levels in two-thirds of SLE patients with longstanding disease. The association with clinical disease and activation of multiple inflammatory cytokines supports a role for IFN-α2 in disease perpetuation in a large subset of SLE patients.
Barriers and Facilitators to Integrating SWPBIS in Alternative Education Settings With Existing Behavior Management Systems
Authors: McDaniel Sara C. , Jolivette Kristine , Ennis Robin P.
Published: December 2012

Alternative education (AE) settings such as residential and juvenile justice facilities and self-contained schools are complex settings for students with unique academic and behavioral needs. The schoolwide positive behavioral interventions and support (SWPBIS) model has proven utility in traditional schools, but little research exists to inform SWPBIS implementation in AE settings. To address this research gap, the researchers conducted two separate focus groups with similar AE settings regarding their integration of SWPBIS with an existing behavior management system. Resulting themes between and within groups are presented in terms of systems, data, and practice. The two settings discussed similar challenges, although their responses to these challenges were in stark contrast, as were the resulting success of SWPBIS integration. Limitations and future directions for researchers are described in addition to specific policy implications.
Factors Associated With Inappropriate Chemical Prophylaxis of Thromboembolism in Surgical Patients
Authors: Khorgami Zhamak , Mofid Roza , Soroush Ahmadreza , Aminian Ali , Araghi Negin Hosseini , Hanafi Somayeh
Published: December 2012

Introduction:

Despite various guidelines for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention, malpractice in prescribing thromboprophylaxis is common. In this study, factors associated with prescribing or not prescribing appropriate chemical thromboprophylaxis were assessed.

Materials and methods:

We enrolled high-risk patients for VTE (based on Caprini score) in the general surgery ward. They were divided into 2 groups based on receiving appropriate prophylaxis or not. Factors associated with prescribing thromboprophylaxis were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 613 patients were enrolled in this study. Head and neck operations ( P < .0001), minor surgeries ( P = .001), mastectomy ( P = .012), and medical treatment ( P = 0.034) were the factors associated with not prescribing thromboprophylaxis. In contrast, age ( P < .0001), laparoscopic surgeries ( P = .011), surgery duration (< .0001), oral contraceptive pill consumption ( P = .005), and complete bed rest ( P = .002) were protective factors.

Conclusion:

Minor surgeries, head and neck operations, mastectomy, and medical treatment are associated with overlooking anticoagulant administration. It is recommended to consider aforementioned pitfalls in routine practice and education.
Can sociocultural and historical mechanisms influence the development of borderline personality disorder?
Authors: Paris Joel , Lis Eric
Published: December 2012

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a common and severe clinical problem. While cross-cultural research suggests that this condition can be identified in different societies, indirect evidence suggests that BPD and some of its associated symptoms (suicidality and self-harm) have a higher prevalence in developed countries. If so, sociocultural and historical mechanisms may have influenced the development of the disorder. While the vulnerabilities underlying BPD are broad and nonspecific, specific symptoms can be shaped by culture. The mechanisms involve the influence of a “symptom bank,” as well as the role of social contagion. These trends may be related to a decrease in social cohesion and social capital in modern societies.
Is the public healthcare sector a more strenuous working environment than the private sector for a physician?
Authors: Heponiemi Tarja , Kouvonen Anne , Sinervo Timo , Elovainio Marko
Published: December 2012

Aims: The present study examined the differences between physicians working in public and private health care in strenuous working environments (presence of occupational hazards, physical violence, and presenteeism) and health behaviours (alcohol consumption, body mass index, and physical activity). In addition, we examined whether gender or age moderated these potential differences. Methods: Cross-sectional survey data were compiled on 1422 female and 948 male randomly selected physicians aged 25–65 years from The Finnish Health Care Professionals Study. Logistic regression and linear regression analyses were used with adjustment for gender, age, specialisation status, working time, managerial position, and on-call duty. Results: Occupational hazards, physical violence, and presenteeism were more commonly reported by physicians working in the public sector than by their counterparts in the private sector. Among physicians aged 50 years or younger, those who worked in the public sector consumed more alcohol than those who worked in the private sector, whereas in those aged 50 or more the reverse was true. In addition, working in the private sector was most strongly associated with lower levels of physical violence in those who were older than 50 years, and with lower levels of presenteeism among those aged 40–50 years. Conclusions: The present study found evidence for the public sector being a more strenuous work environment for physicians than the private sector. Our results suggest that public healthcare organisations should pay more attention to the working conditions of their employees.
Different measures of body weight as predictors of sickness absence
Authors: Korpela Katri , Roos Eira , Lallukka Tea , Rahkonen Ossi , Lahelma Eero , Laaksonen Mikko
Published: December 2012

Aims: Excessive weight is associated with increased sickness absence from work due to obesity-linked health problems. However, it is not known which obesity measure best predicts sickness absence. First, we aimed to compare body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) as predictors of sickness absence spells of various lengths. Second, we aimed to compare BMI based on self-reported and measured weight and height as a predictor of sickness absence to assess the validity of self-reported BMI. Methods: The participants were 5750 employees of the City of Helsinki, aged 40–60 years, who were followed up on average for 4.8 years using the employer’s register. Sickness absence spells were classified as self-certified short (1–3 days), medically certified medium length (4–14 days), and long (>14 days) absence spells. Results: All measures of body weight predicted sickness absence. The relative rates of long sickness absence in the highest quintile as compared to the lowest quintile varied in women from 1.62 (95% CI 1.35–1.94) to 1.89 (95% CI 1.62–2.23) and in men from 1.40 (95% CI 0.76–2.59) to 2.33 (95% CI 1.32–4.11). Differences in the predictive power of BMI and WC were small: both were more strongly associated with sickness absence than WHR. Self-reported BMI performed equally well as measured BMI. Conclusions: BMI – measured or self-reported – is a valid anthropometric indicator of body weight and predictor of obesity-associated health-risks. Its use is feasible for research purposes as well as for the assessment of weight-related risks to work ability.
Joint purpose? Intersectionality in the hands of anti-racist and gender equality activists in Europe
Authors: Nielsen Helene Pristed
Published: December 2012

Taking as a start Crenshaw’s point that anti-racism often fails to interrogate patriarchy and that feminism often reproduces racist practices (1991: 1252), this paper asks what are the theoretical reasons for believing that feminism and anti-racism can be regarded as fighting for the joint purpose of anti-discrimination in Europe today? And what empirical evidence may be found for such a joint approach? The paper discusses how the contemporary EU context differs from the American context, which is what prompted Crenshaw to raise the point about intersectionality, and it analyses documents and interviews from each of the two European umbrella organisations (the European Women’s Lobby and the European Network against Racism), as well as a number of their national member organisations from across Europe, within both EU and non-EU member states.
Targeting reduction of proteinuria in glomerulonephritis: Maximizing the antifibrotic effect of valsartan by protecting podocytes
Authors: Gu Chunyan , Zhou Guangyu , Noble Nancy A , Border Wayne A , Cheung Alfred K , Huang Yufeng
Published: December 2012

Although angiotensin (Ang) II blockade has become a standard antifibrotic therapy in kidney disease, the therapeutic efficacy of Ang II blockade is yet to be optimized. Considering the prognostic impact of proteinuria reduction, we hypothesized that titration of Ang II blockade for optimal anti-proteinuric effect would improve renoprotection. One day after induction of Thy 1.1 glomeruonephritis, rats were treated with increasing doses of the Ang II receptor blocker valsartan in drinking water. Six days after disease induction, the therapeutic effect on proteinuria, podocyte injury and glomerular fibrosis was evaluated. Increasing doses of valsartan resulted in increasing reduction of proteinuria. The maximally effective dose of valsartan was determined to be 1000 mg/l, which reduced proteinuria by 80% and maximally reduced glomerular matrix expansion, fibronectin, collagen I and collagen III staining and glomerular mRNAs for TGFß1, PAI-1, FN and collagen I. Notably, valsartan given at this dose prevented podocyte dysfunction by preserving expression of podocin and nephrin and the counter-regulating molecule B7-1 that is involved in podocyte injury. These results support the hypothesis that higher doses of valsartan are required to optimize proteinuria reduction and glomerulosclerosis amelioration. Further, the optimal dose of valsartan also provides an additional therapeutic effect by preventing podocyte dysfunction.
Angiotensin II type I receptor A1166C polymorphism increases the risk of pregnancy hypertensive disorders: Evidence from a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang LuShun , Yang HanQi , Qin HaoJie , Zhang Kui
Published: December 2012

Pregnancy hypertensive disorders (PHDs) are considered to be a multifactorial and multisystemic disorder with a genetic predisposition. Alterations in the renin–angiotensin system are considered to play a significant role in the pathogenesis of the PHDs. However, results from published studies on the association between the angiotensin II type-1 receptor (AT1R) A1166C (rs5186) gene polymorphism and the risk of PHDs are conflicting. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate whether an association exists between AT1R A1166C gene polymorphism and PHDs in epidemiologic studies. We searched the PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Chinese Biomedicine Literature (CBM) databases from their inception to July 2012. A total of 18 case–control studies, including a total of 1635 cases and 1934 controls, were available for this analysis. A significantly positive correlation was observed between the C allele and the AC/CC genotypes with PHDs in an overall comparison. In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, the results suggested that the C allele and the AC/CC genotypes were associated with risk of PHDs in Asians. Our findings indicate that the AT1R gene 1166C allele and the AC/CC genotypes were positively associated with the PHDs, especially in Asians. However, well-designed multicenter studies with a larger sample size should be conducted to confirm the results.
The Needs of Patients With Early Onset Dementia
Authors: Armari Elizabeth , Jarmolowicz Anna , Panegyres Peter K.
Published: December 2012

Aim:

The burden of early-onset dementia (EOD) is often overshadowed by an ageing population.

Methods:

A questionnaire comprising 12 items was completed by 18 patients with EOD (15 with Alzheimer’s disease [AD] and 3 with frontotemporal dementia) and 39 caregivers (20 spouses, 8 children, 7 siblings, 2 carers, and 2 health professionals). The onset of patients’ symptoms was prior to the age of 65 years. Caregivers had to be supporting someone who matched these criteria.

Results:

Early recognition and referral was perceived as the principle area of improvement by both patients (94.4%) and carers (69.2%; P < .0002). Patients evaluated “diagnosis” as the area of most need (88.9%) compared with caregivers who rated “treatment” (69.2%) as their principle concern.

Conclusion:

The perceived concerns of patients with EOD differ from that of the caregivers. Continued consumer involvement is essential in ensuring a tailored approach to young people with dementia.
Effect of wrist position on the measurement of carpal indices on the lateral radiograph
Authors: Koh K. H. , Lee H. I. , Lim K. S. , Seo J. S. , Park M. J.
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study was to find out whether the carpal indices measured on lateral radiographs with a slightly malpositioned wrist are the same as those measured in the true neutral position. Lateral radiographic views of 25 wrists were taken with 5° intervals from 20° of flexion to 20° of extension. Most carpal indices measured in the flexed or extended position were significantly different from the wrist in zero flexion-extension, except scapholunate angle at 5° of extension and scaphocapitate angle at 5° and 10° of flexion. Starting from the flexed position, there was an average of −4.0° change in radioscaphoid angle, −1.0° in scapholunate angle, −1.0° in scaphocapitate angle, +3.0° in radiolunate angle, and +2.0° in lunocapitate angle for each 5° of extension with linear trends. The results from this study suggest that even minimal degrees of flexion-extension can affect the measurements of carpal indices on lateral radiographs.
Fibroma of tendon sheath of the hand: a series of 20 patients with 23 tumours
Authors: Al-Qattan M.M.
Published: December 2012

Fibroma of tendon sheath is an uncommon fibrous tumour that has a predilection for the hand. Large series from Histopathological Units report a local recurrence rate of 24% after surgical excision. In the hand/orthopaedic surgery literature, fibroma of tendon sheath was generally reported as isolated case reports with unusual presentations, such as triggering and carpal tunnel syndrome. The current article reports on a series of 23 tumours of the hands of 20 patients. These were all adults (mean age of 36 years) with a male to female ratio of 3:1. The thumb and index were the most common sites. A slow-growing painless mass was the clinical presentation in every case. Total surgical excision was ensured by excision of part of flexor sheath/palmar fascia to which the tumour was attached. Diagnosis was confirmed by the classic histological features of fibroma of tendon sheath. There were no recurrences at final follow-up 2–5 years after surgery.
Clinical testing for neutralizing antibodies to interferon-β in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Creeke Paul I. , Farrell Rachel A.
Published: December 2012

Biopharmaceuticals are drugs which are based on naturally occurring proteins (antibodies, receptors, cytokines, enzymes, toxins), nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) or attenuated microorganisms. Immunogenicity of these agents has been commonly described and refers to a specific antidrug antibody response. Such immunogenicity represents a major factor impairing the efficacy of biopharmaceuticals due to biopharmaceutical neutralization. Indeed, clinical experience has shown that induction of antidrug antibodies is associated with a loss of response to biopharmaceuticals and also with hypersensitivity reactions. The first disease-specific agent licensed to treat multiple sclerosis (MS) was interferon-β (IFNβ). In its various preparations, it remains the most commonly used first-line agent. The occurrence of antidrug antibodies has been extensively researched in MS, particularly in relation to IFNβ. However, much controversy remains regarding the significance of these antibodies and incorporation of testing into clinical practice. Between 2% and 45% of people treated with IFNβ will develop neutralizing antibodies, and this is dependent on the specific drug and dosing regimen. The aim of this review is to discuss the use of IFNβ in MS, the biological and clinical relevance of anti-IFNβ antibodies (binding and neutralizing antibodies), the incorporation of testing in clinical practice and ongoing research in the field.
How School Nurses Can Benefit From Immunization Information Systems
Authors: Bobo Nichole , Etkind Paul , Martin Kimberly , Chi Alison , Coyle Rebecca
Published: December 2012

Recorded and retrievable information from state immunization information systems (IIS)—previously known as immunization registries—benefits schools, students, families, state and local immunization programs, and the medical home. The National Association of School Nurses (NASN), the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO), the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO), and the American Immunization Registry Association (AIRA) support state IIS as a way to facilitate immunization compliance, prevent immunization duplications, and sustain high immunization rates. There is much variability from state to state on who can access and/or input data into the IIS. School nurses need to know they can pick up the phone and contact their state IIS, and state IIS personnel need to know that school nurses desire full access to their state registry to view records and record vaccines administered and/or documented by families.
Reduction in Wire Tension Caused by Wire Clamping and Wire Tensioner Removal: An Experimental Ilizarov Frame Study
Authors: La Russa Valentina , Skallerud Bjørn , Klaksvik Jomar , Foss Olav A
Published: December 2012

The stability of an external ring fixator mainly depends on wire tension. Wire fixators should maintain the tension during both wire clamping to the ring and removal of the tensioner device. In the present study the loss in wire tension related to fixator clamping and wire tensioner removal using three different wire fixator designs was studied. The fixators were based on two different cannulated bolts and a washer. Effects from two different pretension levels in combination with three different bolt torque levels upon loss in wire tension were described. Emitted wire vibration frequency was used to assess the corresponding wire tension. Wire tension was determined after each wire fixator tightening and after the removal of the wire tensioner. Increased bolt torque led to a small decrease in tension for both pretension levels. A considerable higher tension loss was measured when removing the wire tensioner. In all cases, the combination of a new cannulated bolt and a washer maintained the highest tension.
Lessons Learned From a Colocation Model Using Psychiatrists in Urban Primary Care Settings
Authors: Weiss Meredith , Schwartz Bruce J.
Published: December 2012

Objectives: Comorbid psychiatric illness has been identified as a major driver of health care costs. The colocation of psychiatrists in primary care practices has been proposed as a model to improve mental health and medical care as well as a model to reduce health care costs. Methods: Financial models were developed to determine the sustainability of colocation. Results: We found that the population studied had substantial psychiatric and medical burdens, and multiple practice logistical issues were identified. Conclusion: The providers found the experience highly rewarding and colocation was financially sustainable under certain conditions. The colocation model was effective in identifying and treating psychiatric comorbidities.
Comparison of Vitamin D Label Dosing Recommendations to North American National Guidelines
Authors: Gregory Philip J. , Hein Darren J. , Abe Andrew M. , Cochrane Zara Risoldi , Wilson Amy F.
Published: December 2012

Supplementation with vitamin D has become increasingly popular over the past decade, and numerous organizations have developed recommendations for the appropriate intake of vitamin D. Vitamin D supplements come in a variety of formulations and strengths and vary in their directions for use. This study was designed to compare vitamin D label dosing information with the recommendations in North American guidelines. A systematic search was conducted to identify 62 single-ingredient vitamin D products of which 1000 IU was the most common strength. Assessment of North American guidelines found recommended vitamin D dosing to range from 400 to 1000 IU daily, depending on age. Twenty-four (39%) of the products recommended a maximum dose within the range of 400 to 1000 IU daily. Thirty-eight (61%) and 19 (31%) products recommended maximum doses more than 1000 IU daily and 2000 IU daily, respectively. Labeled dosing recommendations of commercially available vitamin D supplements are largely inconsistent with North American recommendations.
BCR-ABL1 compound mutations in tyrosine kinase inhibitor–resistant CML: frequency and clonal relationships
Authors: Khorashad Jamshid S. , Kelley Todd W. , Szankasi Philippe , Mason Clinton C. , Soverini Simona , Adrian Lauren T. , Eide Christopher A. , Zabriskie Matthew S. , Lange Thoralf , Estrada Johanna C. , Pomicter Anthony D. , Eiring Anna M. , Kraft Ira L. , Anderson David J. , Gu Zhimin , Alikian Mary , Reid Alistair G. , Foroni Letizia , Marin David , Druker Brian J. , O'Hare Thomas , Deininger Michael W.
Published: December 2012

BCR-ABL1 compound mutations can confer high-level resistance to imatinib and other ABL1 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). The third-generation ABL1 TKI ponatinib is effective against BCR-ABL1 point mutants individually, but remains vulnerable to certain BCR-ABL1 compound mutants. To determine the frequency of compound mutations among chronic myeloid leukemia patients on ABL1 TKI therapy, in the present study, we examined a collection of patient samples (N = 47) with clear evidence of 2 BCR-ABL1 kinase domain mutations by direct sequencing. Using a cloning and sequencing method, we found that 70% (33/47) of double mutations detected by direct sequencing were compound mutations. Sequential, branching, and parallel routes to compound mutations were common. In addition, our approach revealed individual and compound mutations not detectable by direct sequencing. The frequency of clones harboring compound mutations with more than 2 missense mutations was low (10%), whereas the likelihood of silent mutations increased disproportionately with the total number of mutations per clone, suggesting a limited tolerance for BCR-ABL1 kinase domain missense mutations. We conclude that compound mutations are common in patients with sequencing evidence for 2 BCR-ABL1 mutations and frequently reflect a highly complex clonal network, the evolution of which may be limited by the negative impact of missense mutations on kinase function.