bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change in circadian cortisol rhythmicity in patients with intracranial tumour
Authors: Bellastella Antonio , Criscuolo Tullio , Sinisi Antonio Agostino , Mango Antonio , Mignini Raniero , Iorio Sergio , Parlato Filomena , Smisi Antonia Maria , Faggiano Michelangelo
Published: July 2017

To verify the influence of intracranial expanding processes on circadian cortisol rhythm, we studied its occurrence in 10 normal subjects, in 5 patients with extrasellar tumour, and in 3 patients with intracranial haematoma. All patients were tested every 4 h. Cortisol was measured by RIA. A cosine function was fitted to the data by mean cosinor method to evidence any rhythm and its parameters. A significant circadian rhythm was detected in the normal subjects with acrophase at 07.55 (07.15–08.25). The patients with extrasellar tumour and those with intracranial haematoma showed a lack of circadian rhythmicity due to a significant increase of cortisol levels at 20.00 and at 00.00, respectively. Our results suggest that study of the cortisol rhythm is useful, especially when an extrasellar tumour is suspected.

Nous avons étudié le rythme circadien du cortisol plasmatique RIA chez 10 sujets normaux, chez 5 sujets atteints de tumeur entre-cranien extrasellaire et 3 sujets atteints d'hématome entre-cranien. Les données obtenues ont été élaborées avec le méthode du Cosinor. Une périodicite circadienne normale a été relevée chez les sujets normaux, avec acrophase à 07.55 (07.15–08.25). Les patients porteurs d'un tumeur extrasellaire et ceux-là atteints d'hématome entre-cramen montraient un remarquable accroissement des taux de cortisol plasmatique à 20.00 et à 00.00h respectivement sans un rythme circadien significatif. Nos résultats soulignent l'importance de l'étude du rythme circadien du cortisol dans la pathologie entre-cranienne extrasellaire.

E’ stato studiato il ritmo circadiano del cortisolo plasmatico RIA in 10 soggetti normali, in 5 pazienti con tumore cerebrale extrasellare ed in 3 pazienti con ematoma intracranico. I dati ottenuti sono stati elaborati secondo la metodica del single e mean cosinor. Una normale periodicità circadiana è stata evidenziata nei soggetti normali con acrofase alle 07.55 (07.15–08.25). I pazienti con tumore extrasellare e quelli con ematoma intracranico hanno mostrato un notevole incremento dei livelli di cortisolo alle 20.00 ed alle 00.00 rispettivamente senza un ritmo circadiano significativo. I risultati ottenuti sottolineano il valore dello studio del ritmo circadiano del cortisolo per la patologia espansiva intracranica extrasellare.
Regulation of cerebral kynurenine and 5-hydroxyindole pathways during tryptophan loading
Authors: Rizza Victor , Bousquet Ennio , Guerrera Franco , De Regis Massimo
Published: July 2017

Cerebral tryptophan metabolism was studied in rat brain slices. The results show that serotonin production was inhibited at high levels of tryptophan or 5-oxo-l-prolyltryptophan. In contrast, kynurenine formation showed a dose dependent increase at the various concentrations of tryptophan or 5-oxo-l-prolyltryptophan. Measurements of the activities of tryptophan hydroxylase (TH) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDOase) in crude brain homogenates showed that serotonin formation was linear in the presence of dithiothreitol, whereas kynurenine production was inhibited in the presence of diothiothreitol or superoxide dismutase. These results suggest an inverse relationship in the regulation of 5-hydroxyindole and kynurenine pathways. The former being inhibited in the presence of high tryptophan concentration while the latter is enhanced. Furthermore, a high intracellular thiol-disulphide ratio appears to favour serotonin formation, whereas a highly reducing environment decreases kynurenine production.

Nous avons étudié le métabolisme du Trp au mayer de sections de tissu cérébral de rat. Nos résultats montrent que la production de 5-HT est inhibie à hautes concentrations de Trp ou de 5-oxo-l-prolyltryptophane. Au contraire, la production de Kynurenine augmente par rapport à ces concentrations. L'évaluation de l'activité de la TH et de la IDO ase démontre que la production de 5-HT augmente de façon linéaire en presence de di-thio-theréitole tandis que la production de Kinurénine ed inhibite en présence de di-thio-thréitole on super-oxide dismuntase. Ces résultats suggérent une relation inverse dous la régulation du métabolisme du 5-hydroxi-indole er de la Kynurénine: le premier est inhibie en presence de hautes concentrations de Trp tandis que la deuxiéme est stimulée. En ontre, un haut rapport intracellular thide-disulphide semble favoriser la production de 5-HT tandis que une ambiance fort réduisant abaisse la production de Kynurénine.

Abbiamo studiato il metabolismo del Trp in sezioni di tessuto cerebrale di ratto. Dai risultati emerge che la produzione di 5-HT viene inibita da alte concentrazioni di Trp o di 5-oxo-l-proliltriptofano. Viceversa la produzione di Kynurenina mostra un incremento dose-dipendente. La valutazione dell-attività della TH e della IDO asi dimostra che la produzione di 5-HT aumenta linearmente in presenza di ditiotreitolo mentre la produzione di Kynurenina viene inibita in presenza di ditiotreitolo o superossido dismutasi. Questi risultati suggeriscono una relazione inversa nella regolazione delle vie metaboliche del 5-idrossi-indolo e della Kynurenina: la prima viene inibita in presenza di alte concentrazioni di Trp, mentre la seconda è potenziata. Inoltre, un alto rapporto intracellulare tiolo-disulfide sembra favorire la produzione di 5-HT mentre un ambiente fortemente riducente abbassa la produzione di Kynurenina.
Migraine and β-Blockade: Modulation of Sympathetic Neurotransmission
Authors: Áblad Bengt , Dahlöf Carl
Published: July 2017

The pathophysiology of both classical and common migraine is still not understood, and there is controversy as to whether the origin is vascular, neuronal, or both. Although the mechanism for the prophylactic effect of β-blockers in migraine has not been elucidated yet, the therapeutic action of β1-blockers and non-selective β-blockers devoid of intrinsic activity is well established by many controlled trials. Mainly on the basis of data from animal experiments, the possible role of central β-adrenoceptor-mediated mechanisms involved in the control of the activity of noradrenergic neurons will be discussed with reference to migraine.
Beta-Adrenergic Effects on Cerebral Circulation
Authors: Olesen Jes
Published: July 2017

Noradrenaline, adrenaline, and isoprenaline were infused intracarotidly and the regional cerebral blood flow measured with the intracarotid injection-stationary detector method in patients undergoing carotid angiography. No effect was seen, and beta blockade with intracarotid propranolol also had no effect. The adrenergic effects on cerebral blood vessels are probably neurogenic, and circulating adrenergic agonists and antagonists are unlikely to play a role. Pertubations of adrenergic substances in blood are therefore unlikely to be important in migraine pathophysiology.
Flunarizine vs. Propranolol in the Prophylaxis of Migraine: Two Double-Blind Comparative Studies in More than 400 Patients
Authors: Lucking Carl Hermann , Oestreich Wolfgang , Schmidt Rainer , Soyka Dieter
Published: July 2017

In the course of a 16 weeks' interval treatment of migraine in connection with two multicenter double-blind studies, flunarizine was compared with propranolol in patients suffering predominantly from “classical migraine”. Eighty-seven patients from 12 outpatient departments were admitted to the first study, while 434 patients from 99 medical practices participated in the second study. After each month of treatment, the patients were clinically evaluated, and the number, duration, and severity of attacks were documented. Concerning the frequency and intensity of attacks, additional analgesics consumption and overall evaluation, both drugs proved to be highly effective in the practice as well as in the hospital study. The percentage and severity of side-effects were comparable in the two treatment groups. Summarizing, it may be stated that the studies proved the efficacy of flunarizine to be rather similar to that of propranolol in the prophylactic treatment of migraine.
Spectral EEG Analysis and Flunarizine Treatment in Migraine Patients
Authors: Formisano Rita , Martucci Nicola , Fabbrini Giovanni , Cerbo Rosanna , Proietti Roberto , Marinis De Milena , Agnoli Alessandro
Published: July 2017

Spectral EEG analysis has been successfully utilized in previous studies on migraine patients. The aim of our study was to evaluate, by means of EEG mapping, potential correlations between the efficacy of flunarizine treatment in migraine patients and the EEG pattern recorded after chronic flunarizine therapy. Flunarizine was found to modify the non-specific EEG abnormalities of our migraine patients as well as evoke a positive clinical response.
Stress-Related Immune Activity in Tension-Type Headache: Analysis of Immune System-Associated Antigen Expressed on Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes
Authors: Yamamoto Keiko , Ikeda Toshimi , Yamamoto Kiyoshi , Takase Yoshitaka , Fukusako Toshihiro , Morimatsu Mitsunori , Yamada Michio
Published: July 2017

In order to evaluate the effect of psychological stress on immune activity, we examined immune system-associated antigen expressed on peripheral blood lymphocytes in tension-type headache. We found differences between the highly stressed patient group and the minimally stressed. These results support the concept that psychological stress my significantly alter the immune activity in patients suffering from tension-type headache depending upon whether they are highly stressed or not.
Diagnostic screen for assessment of the IHS criteria for migraine by general practitioners
Authors: Michel Philippe , Henry Patrick , Letenneur Luc , Jogeix Maïté , Corson Alain , Dartigues Jean François
Published: July 2017

This study examines the sensitivity and specificity of a self-report screen for the diagnosis of migraine according to the IHS criteria in a sample of 1049 employees of the French National Railways. The diagnosis of migraine derived from the self-report instrument was compared to an unstructured diagnostic interview conducted by a neurologist specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of headache. The sensitivity of the diagnostic screen was poor, but the specificity was excellent. Optimal cut-off points for the questionnaire were determined by the Receiver Operator Characteristics (ROC) method. Assessment of the specific IHS criteria for migraine revealed that the following criteria failed to discriminate subjects with migraine from non-cases: “aggravation by physical activity” and “photophobia and phonophobia”. Implications of the findings for modification of the IHS criteria were discussed.
Chronic pelvic pain: Oral contraceptives and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory compounds
Authors: Venturini Pl , Fasce V , Gorlero F , Ginocchio G
Published: July 2017

A correct classification of female pelvic pain originating from gynaecological disorders is essential if the most appropriate therapy is to be chosen. Certain types of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and oral contraceptives reduce the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible in large part for primary dysmenorrhoea. Oestroprogestin formulations become the drugs of choice if the patient also requests contraception. Secondary dysmenorrhoea and chronic pelvic pain may require combined medical and surgical treatment. Oral contraceptives can also be used as post-treatment agents in endometriosis, one of the most common causes of pelvic pain, whereas more specific compounds (GnRH-analogues and Danazol) are used to produce anatomical regression of endometriosis.
A Social Problem Index for Canada
Authors: Thomp son An gus H , Howard An drew W , Jin Yan
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To con struct an in dex that rep re sents the gen eral level of so cial prob lems among Ca na dian prov inces and ter ri to ries.

Method:

Fac tor weights were used to com bine pro vin cial and ter ri to rial rates for ho mi cide, at tem pted mur der, as sault, sex ual assault, rob bery, di vorce, sui cide, and al co hol ism into a sin gle So cial Prob lem In dex.

Results:

The re sult ing in dex dem on strated strong pos i tive intercorrelations among its fac tors across prov inces. That is, prov inces that showed high rates on one fac tor tended to show high rates on the oth ers as well. The va lidity of the So cial Prob lem In dex is dem on strated by its pos i tive cor re la tion with an in de pend ent mea sure of the like li hood o f hav ing ex pe ri enced per sonal trauma.

Conclusions:

The ro bust na ture and ap par ent va lid ity of the So cial Prob lem In dex sug gest that it can be well used for needs a ssess ments and the o ret i cal stud ies and as a feed back mech a nism to na tional, pro vin cial, and com mu nity lead ers on the so cial problem sta tus of their par tic u lar ju ris dic tions.
A Follow-up Study of Patients with DSM-IV Schizophreniform Disorder
Authors: Iancu Iulian , Dannon Pinhas N , Ziv Reuven , Lepkifker Elie
Published: July 2017

Background:

Schizo phreni form dis or der (SFD) has an un clear di ag nos tic and prog nos tic status within the psy chotic spec trum.

Method:

We stud ied 36 in pa tients ad mit ted to our ward be tween 1983 and 1993 due to SFD. The pa tients were con tacted an av er age of 12 years af ter in dex hos pi tali za tion, and we noted the course of their ill ness, as well as their pres ent di ag no sis.

Results:

Of the sam ple, 84% had ad di tional, mostly psy chotic, epi sodes dur ing the follow-up, and 70% had di ag no ses in the schizo phrenic spec trum (that is, schizo phre nia and schizoaf fec tive dis or der). A sur vival analy sis re vealed that con fu sion and the pres ence of at least 2 good prog nos tic fac tors (GPF) at in dex hos pi tali za tion pre dicted bet ter out come.

Conclusions:

SFD seems to be an early mani fes ta tion of schizo phre nia. Only a few of those sam pled did not ex pe ri ence ad di tional re lapses—a pes si mis tic find ing at 12-year follow- up. The find ings of this study ac cord with DSM- IV cri te ria and the lit era ture regard ing the long- term prog no sis of SFD and the im por tance of the GPF.
The Case of the Missing Data: Methods of Dealing with Dropouts and other Research Vagaries
Authors: Streiner Da vid L
Published: July 2017

Miss ing data are com mon in most stud ies, es pe cially when sub jects are fol lowed over time. This can jeop ard ize the va lid ity of a study be cause o f r e duced power to de tect dif ferences, and es pe cially be cause sub jects who are lost to fol low-up rarely rep re sent the group as a whole. There are sev eral ap proaches to han dling miss ing data, but some may re sult in bi ased es ti mates of the treat ment ef fect, and oth ers may over es ti mate the sig nifi cance o f the sta tis ti cal tests. When cross- sectional data (for ex am ple, demo graphic and back ground in for ma tion and a sin gle out come meas ure ment time) are miss ing, re place ment with the group mean leads to an un der es ti mate of the stan dard de via tion (SD) and in fla tion of the Type I er ror rate. Us ing re gres sion es ti mates, es pe cially with er ror built into the im put e d value, less ens but does not elimi nate this prob lem. Mul ti ple im pu ta tion p r e serves the es t imates of both the mean and the SD, even when a sig nifi cant pro por tion of the data are miss ing. With lon gi tu di nal stud ies, the last ob ser va tion car ried for ward (LOCF) ap proach pre serves the sam ple size, but may make un war ranted as sump tions about the miss ing data, re sult ing in ei ther un der es ti mat ing or over es ti mat ing the treat ment ef fects. Growth curve analy sis makes maxi mal use of the ex ist ing data and makes fewer as sump tions.
The Moderating Effects of Coping Strategies on Major Depression in the General Population
Authors: Wang JianLi , Pat ten Scott B
Published: July 2017

Objectives:

To evaluate the moderating effects of various coping strategies on the as sociation between stressors and the prevalence of major depression in the general population.

Methods:

Subjects from the Alberta buy- incomponent of the 1994 –1995 National Population Health Survey (NPHS) were included in the analysis ( n = 1039). Each subject was asked 8 questions about coping strategies that dealt with unexpected stress from family problems and personal crises. Major depression was measured using the World Health Organization's (WHO) Composite International Diagnostic Interview-Short Form (CIDI- SF) for major depression. The im pacts of coping strategies in relation to psychological stres sors on the prevalence of major depression were de ter mined by examining interactions between coping and life stress on major depression using logistic regression modelling.

Results:

No robust impact of coping strategies in relation to various categories of stress evaluated in the NPHS was observed. There was evidence that the use of “pray and seek religious help” and “talks to others about the situations” as coping strategies by women moderated the risk of major depression in the presence of financial stress and relation ship stress (with a partner). Using emotional expression as a coping strategy by women might de crease the risk of major depression in the presence of 1 or more re cent life events, personal stress, relationship stress (with a partner), and environmental stress.

Conclusion:

Different coping strategies may have a differential impact on the prevalence of major depression in specific circumstances. These findings may be important both to prevent and to treat depressive disorders.
Spirituality and Psychiatry in Canada: Psychiatric Practice Compared with Patient Expectations
Authors: Baetz Marilyn , Griffin Ron , Bowen Rudy , Marcoux Gene
Published: July 2017

Objective:

This study compares psychiatrists' and psychiatric patients' practice, attitudes, and expectations regarding spirituality and religion.

Method:

We mailed surveys to all Canadian psychiatrists registered with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada ( n = 2890). The response rate was 42% ( n = 1204). We recruited patients from a Canadian on-line survey ( n = 67) and from a local mental health clinic ( n = 90).

Results:

Psychiatrists had lower levels of beliefs and practices than did patients and the general population. In both groups, 47% felt there was “often or always” a place to include spirituality in psychiatric assessment, although the perceived importance differed. Among patients, 53% felt it important to have this issue addressed, and 24% considered the psychiatrist's spiritual interest important in their choice of psychiatrist. Barriers to addressing the issue of spirituality and mental health related to psychiatrists' concern regarding its appropriateness and patients' perception that interest is lacking. Psychiatrists' own beliefs and practices were strong predictors of spiritual inquiry.

Conclusions:

Although psychiatrists report lower levels of spiritual and religious belief than do patients, they acknowledge that it is important to include this topic in patient care. Increased discussion and education may lower reported barriers to including spirituality and religion in routine psychiatric assessment.
Antidepressant Treatment of Depression: A Metaanalysis
Authors: Joffe Russell , Sokolov Stephen , Streiner David
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To carry out a metaanalysis of antidepressant studies to calculate the effect sizes for antidepressant effect in depressive disorder.

Method:

A metaanalysis of all antidepressant studies that included an active comparison drug as well as placebo was used to calculate the effect size. Articles were selected from a MEDLINE search for the period January 1966 to June 1995. Forty-nine studies were included in the metaanalysis.

Results:

The effect sizes for antidepressant treatment are moderately larger than for placebo. A larger effect size was observed in studies where objective diagnostic criteria for depression were used.

Conclusions:

We conclude that the superior efficacy of antidepressants over placebo can be demonstrated.
Familial Dementia of Frontal Lobe Type
Authors: Wong Albert HC , van Tol Hubert HM , Schoots Oscar , Shugar Gerald
Published: July 2017

Objective:

To describe an unusual case of familial frontal lobe dementia (FLD) with probable spongiform encephalopathy (SE).

Method:

The patient's clinical presentation, neuropsychological test results, family history, and results on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, among other routine investigations, are described. His leucocyte deoxyriboneucleic acid (DNA) was isolated, and his Prp (prion protein) gene was amplified with the polymerase chain reaction and sequenced using the Sanger method.

Results:

Clinically, the patient had a presenile frontal lobe dementia. Four of the 8 members of the generation preceding the patient had presenile dementia. Autopsies performed on 2 of these cases revealed SE, and a pathological diagnosis of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) was made. One other member of that generation died of a limbic encephalitis, although the neuropathological findings were atypical. Sequencing of the patient's Prp gene did not reveal the abnormalities expected in a familial case of CJD. The results of other investigations were compatible with FLD but were not specific to a particular diagnosis.

Conclusions:

This case is a novel type of SE. The patient presented clinically with FLD, but based on the family history and neuropathology, a diagnosis of prion dementia seems likely. There were no mutations found in the Prp gene, so it is possible that there are SEs caused by genes or other pathological processes unrelated to the Prp gene.
Progressive Failure Analysis for Filament Wound Pressure Vessel
Authors: Doh Y. D. , Hong C. S.
Published: July 2017

An investigation was conducted to study the burst failure of the filament wound pressure vessel composed of T-800 graphite/epoxy. Of particular concern was to predict the propagation of damage after initial failure and the burst pressure of the filament wound pressure vessel as a function of applied load. In the present study a degenerated finite shell element was implemented for the analysis. This element takes into account the variations of the winding angle and the thickness along the meridional line of the vessel. This model can also represent geometrical nonlinear behavior by considering large displacements/large rotations. In order to predict the burst pressure, a progressive failure analysis was performed by using a failure criteria with a property degradation model. Experiments were also conducted to measure the strains and the burst pressure of the filament wound pressure vessel. A fairly good agreement was obtained between the analysis and the test results.
Transient Thermoelastic Analysis of Composite Brake Disks
Authors: Sonn H. W. , Kim C. G. , Hong C. S. , Yoon B. I.
Published: July 2017

This paper presents a modeling analysis of transient thermoelastic behavior occurring in composite brake disks. A finite element code was developed which allowed an effective investigation of the transient thermoelastic analysis. The coupled heat and elastic analysis was done using the finite element method differently from other previous researches.

The result of the finite element analysis presented the pressure distributions and the temperature distributions along the friction surfaces, and heat flux vectors for the present model. The thermoelastic state on any friction surface affected the other friction surfaces each other. Thus, the whole modeling of brake disks was necessary for accurate results.

The orthotropic brake disks showed better characteristics as a brake friction material than the isotropic ones. Since the composite multiple brake disk system showed the larger contact region of the friction surfaces, the smoother heat flow through the contact interfaces took place. Therefore, the more uniform and lower temperatures and the milder pressure distributions along the friction surfaces than the isotropic multiple brake disk system was caused.
Survey of Transumbilical Breast Augmentation (TUBA)
Authors: Shiffman Melvin A. , Caleel Richard T. , Haiavy Jacob , Hendrick David , Nguyen Tuan , Shumway Robert
Published: July 2017

Transumbilical breast augmentation (TUBA) has been used for at least the past 17 years as an alternative to other approaches for augmentation. There are essentially few articles that have included the possible risks and complications and their rate. This study, using a form, was done to collect as many cases as possible to determine the type of TUBA procedure used and the rate of some of the possible complications. A total of 5073 cases were reported and the statistics evaluated.
BioMatrix Lift — Tissue Regeneration in the Surgical Rejuvenation of the Midface and Aging Periorbita
Authors: Henley Julian , Fattal Michael
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

Standard face-lift and blepharoplasty techniques historically have been of limited benefit in the midface, nasolabial folds, temporal periorbita, and orbital trough. Over the years, these challenging areas have been addressed with customized repositioning surgical maneuvers. The use of a new bioactive tissue matrix in conjunction with these maneuvers is a new approach to treating these challenging problems.

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen patients were treated with a combination of esthetic facial surgery and tissue regeneration matrix over 2 years by the senior author (J. H.). Preoperatively, all procedures were explained to the patients and written consent was obtained. During these procedures, the Biodesign tissue generation matrix was used to provide both supportive and volumetric expansion in a variety of areas of the face and neck for purposes of volumetric enhancement, neck suspension, and in one case for carotid artery coverage. The implant was soaked in sterile normal saline for no longer than 5 minutes to provide rehydration. The shape of the implant used was determined at the time of implantation based on the surgical need.

Results:

In total, 15 patients received the Biomatrix implantation in various areas. The results have been esthetically pleasing to both the surgeon and the patients, and complications have been minimal. While no attempt for quantitative volumetric analysis was made, this report provides photographic examples of the unique results that have been observed in surgical areas previously not well addressed with other techniques.

Conclusions:

By combining established methods of tissue lifting and reposition with strategic tissue replenishment and suspension, the benefits of facial surgery can be expanded beyond the prior limitations of surgery alone. The use of the biologic matrix to provide volumetric expansion in areas of volume loss due to aging is a robust, reliable, and safe adjunct to traditional cosmetic surgical procedures of the face.
Acne Keloidalis Nuchae: Surgical Management with Electrosection and Second-Intention Healing
Authors: Carqueville Jordan C. , Engel George H. , Engasser Holly C.
Published: July 2017

Introduction:

Acne keloidalis nuchae is a frustrating disorder for both patient and physician when it is refractory to nonsurgical treatment options. Excision with adjuvant steroid injection is an accepted standard treatment for extensive or intractable lesions. However, surgical excision at this vascular anatomic region can be a tedious and bloody procedure. Repairs with grafting and flaps usually lead to less than satisfactory cosmetic results. We describe a surgical technique for refractory acne keloidalis nuchae that provides a clean and relatively bloodless surgical field and leaves the patient with cosmetically pleasing results.

Materials and Methods:

Nine patients with refractory occipital scalp and/or posterior neck acne keloidalis nuchae were treated with electrosection, using a blended cut and coagulation current on the Conmed Sabre 2400 electrosurgical unit. Healing was by second intention; no grafting or flaps were used. The surgical excision was followed by monthly postoperative intralesional triamcinolone acetonide (40 mg) injections for 3 months.

Results:

All 9 patients experienced excellent cosmetic results, and there was no evidence of recurrence during follow-up periods ranging from 2 to 21 months. Intraoperative bleeding was minimal, maintaining a clear operating field for the surgeon. Postoperative pain was controlled with acetaminophen alone or acetaminophen with codeine or hydrocodone.

Conclusions:

Electrosection with second-intention healing is a quick and effective technique for treating refractory acne keloidalis nuchae that yields excellent aesthetic results.
Gauging Employee Familiarization with Mission: A Qualitative Review of Service Delivery Attitudes
Authors: Lumb Richard C. , Miller Kenneth
Published: July 2017

This article examines employee understanding of values, mission, goals, and resulting service delivery within the framework of community-policing. In a quasi-military structure, it is often assumed that once the chief sets the direction, all employees will comply in their behavior and actions. Change in organizational structure, aptly illustrated by the implementation of community-policing, disrupts core practices and is traumatic to many employees. Determining employee understanding, core beliefs, and readiness for a new program is an important first step to sustained change. Jumping into a new program and providing employees with a single “one size fits all” training program is not sufficient. This study examined employees’ perceptions regarding community-policing as practiced by their respective agencies. Focus group sessions were conducted in four police or sheriff agencies, separating each group by its rank or position. Outcomes of this study disclosed variations of definition, meaning, application, and practice expectations, stratified by rank or position in the departments studied.
Visitation at County Jails: Potential Policy Implications
Authors: Sturges Judith E.
Published: July 2017

This study sought to better understand the concerns of correctional officers and visitors about the process of visitation at five county jails in Pennsylvania. Two qualitative methods, observations and interviews, were used to gather data from correctional officers, visitors, and wardens. Correctional officers were concerned about security and working with unruly visitors. Concerns of visitors were that they wanted to have contact visits with inmates, to have some improvements made with the visitation process, and to be treated better by criminal justice personnel. These issues were discussed with the wardens, and suggestions for improving the visitation process were discussed. Potential policy changes are presented in this article, such as identifying visitors of inmates and scheduling visits. It is also suggested that training correctional personnel with interpersonal communication skills and a human service orientation may enhance their jobs and alleviate some of the problems with the visitation process at jails.
A Study of Police Vehicle Pursuit Policy Characteristics
Authors: Falcone David N. , Wells L. Edward
Published: July 2017

Police vehicle pursuits are a discretionary activity involving substantial risks to police officers, bystanders, and communities, as well as legal liabilities for police agencies. Recent legal decisions clearly indicate the need for explicit formal policies to regulate pursuit behaviors and tactics. However, policing organizations vary widely in whether or not they have formal written policies to regulate pursuit behavior, and in how extensive and explicit these guidelines might be. To evaluate this diversity, the paper analyzes vehicle pursuit policies from a nonrandom national sample of 288 municipal and county police agencies solicited by the Police Executive Research Forum in 1995. Written pursuit policies were content analyzed, coded on their coverage of 12 policy concerns (including 114 specific issues), and scored on overall policy comprehensiveness and restrictiveness. These measured pursuit policy variables were first factor analyzed to identify dominant policy themes or dimensions. Next, the policy variables were cross-tabulated with police agency characteristics (e.g., location, size, type of agency) to determine how organizational variables may influence or correlate with the specific content, comprehensiveness, and restrictiveness of their policies.
An In-House Coordinator Program to Increase Organ Donation in Public Trauma Hospitals
Authors: Shafer Teresa , Wood R. Patrick , Van Buren Charles , Guerriero William , Davis Kimberly , Sullivan Hermione , Reyes DeAnn , Levert-Cole Tina , Oppermann Suzanne
Published: July 2017

A 4-year retrospective study was conducted regarding the donor potential, consent rates, and organ recovery at a large 500-bed public trauma hospital. An independent organ procurement organization hired two in-house coordinators, one white and one black, to work exclusively in the hospital. The duties of the in-house coordinators included the following: working with nurses, physicians, and residents to identify donors; closely managing and coordinating the consent process; and assisting organ procurement coordinators in donor management. Following the program's implementation and the use of race-specific requesters, a 64% increase in consent rate resulted along with an overall increase of 94% in the number of organ donors. The consent rate of blacks increased 115%, whereas the number of black organ donors increased 154%. The Hispanic consent rate increased 48% with a corresponding increase of 83% in the number of Hispanic organ donors. In addition, the white consent rate increased from 55% (the 3-year average from 1993 to 1995) to 75% in 1996, resulting in a 36% increase following the implementation of the program. The investment of dedicated race-sensitive personnel in large urban county trauma facilities can result in a significant increase in donor conversion rates.
The MMR Vaccine
Authors: Webster Ruth
Published: July 2017

The policy on mass childhood immunization is an established element of the UK's approach to public health. During the late 1990s the triple measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine was the subject of widespread concern vis-a-vis its possible link with bowel disorders and autism. The government resisted calls for policy change despite a decline in MMR uptake. Why did the government continue to support MMR? The article explores this question and advances a possible explanation of policy stability in the face of pressure for policy change. It draws on the advocacy coalition framework to examine the immunization policy process, analyse the role of expert advice and contrast the relative strength of the government's case with the relative weakness of those actors advocating policy change. While the advocacy coalition framework helps to frame the analysis, it is an imperfect fit for the case study. Instead of a policy subsystem of competing advocacy coalitions, the case reveals a dominant group of actors (likened to a policy fortress) presiding over immunization policy. It is suggested that the presence of such a group would make it difficult for all but the most highly organized, strategically minded actors to advance their cause.
Preferred luminance distribution in windowless spaces
Authors: Collins J.B. , Plant C.G.H.
Published: July 2017

The relationship of preferred ceiling luminance to that of recessed louvered fittings at different luminance levels was determined by observations in a model representing a windowless office. By optical simulation, observations were also made to determine optimum luminance of surface-mounted fittings in relation to illuminance. Preferred luminance levels gave a degree of glare approaching IES recommended limits at 500 lux, but a lower degree was required at higher levels. Preferred ceiling luminances with the surface-mounted fittings were in the region of 150-200 cd/m2.
Gorbachev'S Asia-Pacific Security and its Implications for the South Asian Regional State System
Authors: Paranjpe Shrikant
Published: July 2017

The developing and changing international scene since the world wars has highlighted two facts on the part of nation-states as actors in the environment: One, the constant need for an effective and acceptable “governing image” and two, the construction or resetting of values, goals or structures so as to collaborate with the governing image of the times. The governing image is essentially international in character, though created by a nation or a group of nations as a world view projection and the adjustments to the international environment.

In concrete terms, the post-war world has been dominated by such images as bi-polarity, containment, liberation, socialist international or nonalignment. While alliances have been a product of most of these, the last, nonalignment, emerged as an alternative world view of the then periphery powers.

The situation started to change in the 1970s. Economic power and political influence became more diffuse. The utility of military force to achieve political influence reduced. Success in cases of controlled uses of military power also became problematic. United States' Vietnam and Soviet Union's Afghanistan are cases illustrative enough. The decline of Super Power capability to use their will throughout the international arena is becoming increasingly evident.

The world today is entering into what has been described as a ‘post-post war era’. In this era the United States and the USSR are still major powers that have continued to retain their lethal military capabilities. The INF Pact nevertheless, both the powers continue to hold a significant strategic force capability. Yet, the range of their political influence is in fact contracting. The Soviets are pulling out of Afghanistan, Namibian probem has been resolved; there have also been no ‘interventions’ in Burma, in the Maldives or in Eastern Europe. One may argue that the Soviet Union is going through a phase of rest and recuperation under Gorbachev'sperestroika and that the United States has already overreached itself. The fact remains that in the post-post war era there are no longer empty spaces between the United States and the USSR that need filling up. There are powers in those areas. The focus today has shifted to the regional powers and the regional state systems that they have evolved.
Incorporating the Concept of Mindfulness in Informal Outdoor Education Settings
Authors: Frauman Eric
Published: July 2017

What do you do when your educational programs begin to lose some of their audience appeal? One tool to recapture your audience or simply to keep your existing ones engaged is introducing the mindfulness concept into your educational efforts. According to Langer (1989, 1997), mindfulness is expressed by actively processing information within one's surrounding context, and it is more likely when a setting or situation (a) is varied, interactive, and involving; (b) facilitates perceptions of control; (c) appears relevant to one's interests; and (d) is perceived as unique, new, or different. The primary purpose of this paper is to introduce the concept of mindfulness and propose a model based on mindfulness principles for use in informal outdoor education settings. It is hoped that the model will provide an additional tool to help professionals achieve educational goals and objectives, and to facilitate increased learning, overall satisfaction, and responsible environmental behavior among participants.
Placement Opportunities for Human Factors Engineering and Ergonomics Professionals
Authors: Moroney William F. , Anderson Brian M. , Soest Jennifer I.
Published: July 2017

During the period from November 1995 through October 1996, the Placement Service of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society distributed announcements describing 195 positions available for human factors engineers and ergonomics professionals. This paper describes placement opportunities for HFE and ergonomics professionals in industry, government/military and consulting positions (N=162), while an overview of all advertised positions, and a description of academic (N=8) and internship positions (N=25) is provided in Part I (Moroney, Proulx & Parker, 1997). The attributes of the position descriptions examined include: degree requirements, major field of study, industrial sector, areas of expertise, required work experience, salary, geographic location, job description and skills required.

Fifty-seven percent of the positions describe the masters degree as the minimum requirement, with 18% of the opportunities in the consulting sector. The area of expertise most frequently requested (69%) was HCI, with test and evaluation (specifically usability testing) being specified for 44% of the positions. The most frequently cited (35%) primary area of responsibility was interface design.
Human Factors Expert Testimony after Daubert (1993)
Authors: Barrett Gerald V. , Ortiz Rafael C.
Published: July 2017

This paper reviewed Human Factors expert testimony after the Supreme Court decision in Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (1993). Daubert (1993) set a new standard for Experts testifying in federal courts. Failure of a Human Factors expert to meet the Daubert standard will result in the exclusion of the expert's testimony. Court cases after Daubert (1993) were reviewed and principles were applied which resulted in acceptance or rejection of the Human Factors expert testimony. Considerations for Human Factors professionals testifying in court are discussed.
Supporting Flexible Assembly through Human Factors
Authors: Vazquez Michelle , Resnick Marc L.
Published: July 2017

There is a growing trend in many industries to expand the diversity of product offerings to meet widespread customer needs. This trend has increased the need for flexibility in manufacturing processes. Advances in flexible automation have far outpaced the research supporting flexibility in the manual operations that are required alongside automation. The objective of this study was to test a real-time computer support system that provided interactive assembly instructions through a graphical user interface combining text and illustration for workers on a flexible assembly line. The interface simplifies the expertise required of an assembly worker by replacing complex blueprints with simple directions and illustrations, thus supporting the rapid introduction of new products and the assembly of a wide variety of parts with minimal off-line training. The results of the study strongly support the use of this type of system. Assembly times were significantly reduced, in most cases by over 50%. Furthermore, assembly errors were virtually eliminated.
Beyond ‘Hits’ and ‘Misses’: Evaluating Performance on Typical Inspection Tasks of Regional Airline Inspectors
Authors: Wenner Caren , Wenner Frederick , Drury Colin , Spencer Floyd
Published: July 2017

Eleven inspectors from regional airlines participated in a study on inspection performance conducted at the FAA's Airworthiness Assurance NDI Validation Center (AANC) at Sandia Laboratories. These inspectors were asked to perform six inspection tasks, typical of inspections performed in their airline's maintenance department, on a testbed aircraft using workcards developed by the researchers. Performance on these six tasks varied widely between inspectors. Differences in performance were due to three main factors: differences in the domain knowledge of the inspectors, differences in workcard familiarity, and differences in the way the tasks were approached. The major factor seemed to be the individual's approach to the tasks.
Body Parts and Nature of Injuries Associated with Manual Materials Handling Workers' Compensation Claims
Authors: Hashemi Lobat , Dempsey Patrick G.
Published: July 2017

Workers' compensation claims associated with manual materials handling (MMH) represent the single largest source of claims and costs. There have been few analyses of such losses associated with MMH. An examination of the nature of the injuries associated with MMH as well as the body parts most frequently affected can lead to a better understanding of the losses attributed to MMH to suggest further research efforts. A large sample of MMH claims was analyzed and stratified with respect to body part affected and the nature of the injury. The cost distribution associated with the claims was considerably skewed, and an attempt to fit several known distributions to the data did not produce a statistically-significant fit. The lower back area and upper extremities were the body parts associated with the majority of claims. Strain was the nature of injury most frequently reported (51.3%). Lower back area strains were the most frequently reported nature of injury and body part combination.
New Light through Old Windows: The Role of Cognitive Compatibility in Aircraft Dial Design
Authors: Banbury Simon P. , Selcon Stephen J. , McCrerie Claire M.
Published: July 2017

This paper reports the results of a study investigating the role of cognitive compatibility in the design of aircraft dials. Of particular relevance to this study is the relationship between the visual display and the required response. Using a four-by-four layout of aircraft engine dials, participants were instructed to respond to a single, disparate reading by making an appropriate left-right judgement. Both compatible and incompatible response mappings were tested: instruments grouped by engine (left and right), and instruments grouped by status (primary and secondary), respectively. The results indicated that a layout incompatible with the response significantly increased reaction times and error rate, regardless of graphical cues to encourage perceptual grouping into the correct response mapping. Finally, disparities between dial readings were harder to detect at oblique angles compared to those oriented to the horizontal axis. These results are interpreted in the light of current theories regarding cognitive compatibility and the oblique effect, and design guidelines for dials are discussed.
Maximum Aerobic Capacity of Combined Manual Materials Handling and Standard Tasks
Authors: Iridiastadi H. , Aghazadeh F. , Waly S.M.
Published: July 2017

The present study was aimed at determining Maximum Aerobic Capacity (MAC) of Combined Manual Materials Handling (CMMH) tasks. The study also determined whether MAC values based on standard treadmill tasks are significantly different from those based on combined manual materials handling tasks. Results of this study showed that, on the average, MAC of Treadmill tasks was 2.44 l/m (SD = 0.56 l/m), whereas the MAC of CMMH tasks was 1.73 l/m (SD = 0.36 l/m). Based on the results, it is concluded that standard treadmill tasks result in significantly higher MAC than do the CMMH tasks. Moreover, the MAC values of CMMH tasks is relatively lower than those of lifting tasks reported in the literature.
Mechanical Fault Management in Navy Helicopters
Authors: Deaton John E. , Glenn Floyd A. , Federman Philip J. , Nickerson G. William , Byington Carl. S. , Malone Robert , Stout Rene'e , Oser Randall , Tyler Robert R.
Published: July 2017

Recent research on mechanical diagnostics technology has revealed the possibility of utilizing advanced mechanical diagnostics technology capabilities in real-time environments. The goal of the current investigation was to conduct systematic interview's with flight crew regarding their information requirements for using new diagnostic systems to predict and mitigate inflight mechanical system emergencies. Future research in this area will determine how best to present information to the aircrew in order to improve aircrew safety and enhance mission effectiveness.