bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusion of Two Potential Anti-HIV Microbicides across Intact and De-Epithelialised, Human Vaginal Mucosa
Authors: Van Der Bijl P. , Van Eyk A.D. , Van Zyl J.M. , Moll L.M. , Schols D. , Balzarini J.
Published: January 2017

The lectins derived from Hippeastrum hybrid ( Hippeastrum hybrid agglutinin, HHA) and from the stinging nettle Urtica dioica (UDA) have been investigated as anti-HIV microbicides. The present study was conducted to determine their diffusion through intact and de-epithelialised human vaginal epithelium. Both lectins were labelled with fluorescein isothiocyanate groups (FITC) and analysed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. While UDA appeared to be fairly homogeneous with an average Mw of ∼ 8.5 kDa, HHA was a heterogeneous mixture of compounds with Mw's ranging between ∼ 13 and 52 kDa. Fresh human vaginal mucosa was snap-frozen in liquid nitrogen and stored at −85°C. Prior to an experiment, the tissue was defrosted to 20°C in PBS buffer, pH 7.4, and placed in the seven flow cells of a flow-through perfusion apparatus. Either FITC-labelled HHA or UDA was then pipetted into the donor chamber of the flow cell. Samples from each flow cell were collected every 2 hours (1.5 ml/h) over a 24-hour period and analysed by fluorospectrophotometry. Permeability experiments were repeated with vaginal mucosa specimens from which the epithelial layers had been removed by heat-stripping. Both lectins diffused through vaginal mucosa at rates proportionate to their average molecular weights, the flux rates of the smaller UDA being ∼ 5x higher than that of the larger HHA. Removal of the vaginal epithelium increased the flux rates of both HHA and UDA across the mucosa and this may have implications for a more rapid in vivo uptake of these lectins when used as anti-HIV microbicides.
In vitro Zidovudine-Induced Apoptosis Demonstrated by a Model of Placental Histoculture Useful for the Study of the Apoptotic Effects of Antiretroviral Drugs
Authors: Di Stefano M. , Cantatore S. , di Maio S. , Gesualdo L. , Greco P. , Pastore G. , Fiore J.R.
Published: January 2017

This study aims to evaluate the use of a placenta histoculture system based on placental villi culture on collagen sponge gels at the liquid/air interface, for the detection of zidovudine-induced apoptosis. Explant cultures from full term placentas were exposed to different concentrations of zidovudine (1, 10, 100 uM) up to 7 days and samples were analysed for apoptosis with different methods after 3, 24, 48 hours and 7 days of exposure. Apoptotic phenomena were demonstrated at 10 and 100 uM zidovudine, more delayed at the lowest concentration: this demonstrates that zidovudine-induced placenta apoptosis in vitro is both time- and dose-dependent and that also concentrations near to those achievable in vivo might cause placenta apoptosis. This has to be taken into account when considering possible consequences of antiretroviral treatments during pregnancy. Placental histocultures on collagen sponge cells are a reliable tool for the study of antiretroviral-induced toxicity in placenta: in fact, explants cultured for more prolonged periods (up to 7–14 days) in a “physiological milieu” allow the detection of biological effects otherwise not evident in the commonly used, short-term, placental cultures.
Clinical and Laboratory Changes in the Uncomplicated Course of Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Reconstruction: A Prospective Observational Study in 58 Patients
Authors: Calvisi V. , Lupparelli S. , Rossetti S. , Salini V.
Published: January 2017

Knowledge of post-operative clinical and laboratory changes in the uncomplicated course of ACL reconstruction could assist orthopaedic surgeons in making a timely diagnosis of septic arthritis. A total of 58 candidates to ACL reconstruction were enrolled in this study according to inclusion/exclusion criteria. Pre- and post-operative changes on 1st, 3rd, 7th, 15th, and 30th day were collected for skin body temperature (SBT), knee pain (KP), white blood cell (WBC) count, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP). Post-operative joint effusion was recorded when inhibiting quadriceps contraction. The post-operative changes were compared with baseline values at each time point in the whole sample and in the subgroups of patients receiving bone-patellar-tendon-bone (BPTP) or hamstring tendon (HT) autograft. Follow-up at six month was considered adequate to rule out surgery-related septic arthritis. Mean SBT significantly increased on 1st, 3rd and 7th post-operative day and returned to values not differing from baseline on 15th and 30th day. Median KP was significantly elevated during the first month. Joint effusion was observed on 7th post-operative day in 52% of patients. Mean WBC count significantly increased on 1st, 7th and 15th day while no difference from baseline was observed on 3rd and 30th day. Mean ESR was significantly elevated on 1st day, increased on 3rd day and peaked on 7th day. ESR decreased on 15th and 30th day but remained significantly higher than baseline. Mean CRP significantly increased on 1st day, peaked on 3rd day and decreased on 7th day, while levels on 15th and 30th day did not differ from baseline. The SBT, KP, WBC count, ESR and CRP changes stratified in relation to the type of autograft showed the same variation trend as in the whole sample. Close clinical surveillance may be advisable when SBT, occurrence of joint effusion and CRP levels deviate from the described reference trend two weeks after surgery.
Elispot and Elisa Assessment of Interferon-Gamma after Sublingual Immunotherapy
Authors: Ciprandi G. , Fenoglio D. , Ferrera F. , de Amici M. , Marseglia G.
Published: January 2017

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is characterized by a Th2 polarized immune response, and specific immunotherapy modifies this arrangement, restoring a physiologic Th1 profile. Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is widely prescribed. The aim of the study is to evaluate two different methods for assessing IFN-γ, namely ELISPOT and ELISA, before and after a pre-seasonal SLIT course as marker for Th1 response. Thirty-eight AR patients with pollen allergy assumed pre-seasonal SLIT for 3 months. Patients' blood samples for assessing IFN-γ serum levels were collected before initiating SLIT (baseline – T0), after 3 months pre-seasonal SLIT course (T1), and three months after completion of SLIT (T2). IFN-γ-specific producing cells, after allergen stimulation, were assessed by cytokine ELISPOT at the same time points. IFN-γ-specific producing cells significantly increased after SLIT both at T1 and T2 (p=0.0002). On the contrary, ELISA assessment did not reveal an increase in IFN-γ serum levels at any time point. In conclusion, these results demonstrate that ELISA assessment of serum IFN-γ is not suitable for identifying an early response.
Usefulness of Ifn-Gamma Release Assays in Clinical Management of Difficult TB Cases: Evidence from Clinical Practice
Authors: Bocchino M. , Matarese A. , Bellofiore B. , Giacomelli P. , Russo A. , Signoriello G. , Galati D. , Sanduzzi A.
Published: January 2017

Performance of T-SPOT.TB™ (TS-TB) and QuantiFERON TB Gold- In tube (QFT-IT) assays was evaluated for detection of M. tuberculosis (Mtb) infection in patients with suspected extra-pulmonary or smear-negative pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in a low prevalence country. Twenty-one out of 35 patients were affected by active TB. Mtb culture isolation was achieved in 76% of cases. Tuberculin skin testing (TST), TS-TB, and QFT-IT yielded a positive result in 67%, 95% and 81% of cases, respectively. Agreement of interferon-γ release assays and TST was 70% (κ=0.18 for TS-TB; κ=0.46 for QFT-IT). Increased sensitivity of blood assays (>80%) improved diagnostic evaluation of difficult TB cases.
Reconsidering the economic impact of the EU manufacturing and export provisions
Authors: Sussell Jesse A , Tebeka Mahlet G , Jena Anupam B , Vanderpuye-Orgle Jacqueline
Published: January 2017

Background

The European Commission is considering two provisions which would permit limited generic drug production in the EU prior to supplemental protection certificate expiration. A recent study by Vicente and Simões addressed the potential economic consequences of these provisions and concluded that the provisions could result in 178, 698 million (M) new units produced, 8,890 new direct jobs, 26,670–35,560 new indirect jobs, and 37 new medium-sized pharmaceutical enterprises over the period 2014–2022. This paper assesses the accuracy of these findings through a critical review of the Vicente and Simões analysis.

Methods

We replicated the Vicente and Simões model and applied a series of adjustments including (1) correction of an arithmetic error, (2) introduction of a counterfactual analysis, (3) substitution of evidence-based parameters and (4) accounting for statistical uncertainty. Like Vicente and Simões, we model effects on four key outcomes: units produced, medium-sized pharmaceutical enterprises launched, and direct and indirect jobs created. Given data limitations, we were unable to replicate the Vicente and Simões export provision model.

Results

Our adjustments yield estimates of the economic effects that are substantially smaller than those reported by Vicente and Simões. Our revisions suggest the provisions would lead to 124,992 M new manufactured units (a 30% reduction relative to Vicente and Simões), 1,898 new direct jobs (78% reduction), 6,642 new indirect jobs (75–81% reduction), and 14 new medium-sized pharmaceutical enterprises (62% reduction). When parameter uncertainty is considered, the estimate of the number of direct and indirect jobs created is not statistically distinguishable from zero.

Conclusion

The Vicente and Simões analysis contains several limitations, most notably a substantial arithmetic error. While difficult to assess, the study implicitly assumes that increased demand leads to job gains in the generic sector, but that reduced demand does not lead job losses in the branded sector. Addressing these limitations substantially reduces the estimated economic effects of the proposed EU provisions.
A comparison of the visual and story frames Al Jazeera English and CNN employed during the 2011 Egyptian revolution
Authors: Haigh Michel M. , Bruce Michael
Published: January 2017

This study examines a month of cable news coverage of the Egyptian uprising in 2011. Specifically it examines how Al Jazeera English and CNN differ in their use of story and visual frames. The quantitative content analysis ( N = 503) found significant differences between the two networks. Al Jazeera English employs more frames about Egyptian history, political strategies, public engagement, public opinion, economy and the impact on the future of the country more frequently than CNN. When examining visual frames of conflict, Al Jazeera English was more likely to employ conflict frame–not violent than CNN. CNN was more likely than Al Jazeera English to employ the conflict frame–latent violence.
Constructing victimhood in divided Germany: The case of the Association of the Victims of Stalinism (1950–1989)
Authors: Clarke David
Published: January 2017

Taking the Vereinigung der Opfer des Stalinismus (Association of the Victims of Stalinism) as a case study, this article argues that civil society organisations which claim to represent the interests of victims of historical injustice must seek to construct and propagate notions of the political and social relevance of victimhood. They must do so in such a way that victimhood both offers a coherent point of identification for individual victims and speaks to the concerns of the political system on which victims rely for compensation and recognition. By examining the discourse of officials of this organisation over time, it is possible to demonstrate the extent to which victims’ representatives must adapt their conception of victimhood in order to respond to changing circumstances. The article also points to the challenges these organisations face in remaining relevant in the new political contexts.
Public perceptions of the use of gloves by healthcare workers and comparison with perceptions of student nurses
Authors: Wilson Jennie , Bak Aggie , Whitfield Andrea , Dunnett Andrew , Loveday Heather
Published: January 2017

Introduction:

There is evidence that non-sterile clinical gloves (NSCG) are over-used by healthcare workers (HCWs) and are associated with cross-contamination. This study aimed to determine attitudes of student nurses and members of the public to the use of NSCG.

Methods:

Third-year student nurses completed a questionnaire indicating tasks for which they would wear NSCG and influences on their decision. Correlations between tasks were identified using exploratory factor analysis. An online survey of the public was conducted using snowball sampling method.

Results:

Sixty-seven students completed the questionnaire; they indicated use of NSCG for low-risk tasks and reported their own judgement as the main influence on their decision to wear them. Correlated tasks included ‘perceived to be risky’ or ‘definitive indication for gloves/no gloves’ and ‘related to personal hygiene’. A total of 142 respondents completed the public survey. They reported being uncomfortable with HCW wearing gloves for some personal tasks, e.g. assisting to toilet and dressing, but 94% preferred their use for washing ‘private parts’; 29% had observed inappropriate glove use by HCWs during recent contact with healthcare.

Conclusion:

Student nurses reported using NSCG routinely for tasks for which they are neither required nor recommended. The public observe inappropriate glove use and are uncomfortable with their use for some personal tasks.
Population segmentation: an approach to reducing childhood obesity inequalities
Authors: Mahmood Hashum , Lowe Susan
Published: January 2017

Aims:

The aims of this study are threefold: (1) to investigate the relationship between socio-economic status (inequality) and childhood obesity prevalence within Birmingham local authority, (2) to identify any change in childhood obesity prevalence between deprivation quintiles and (3) to analyse individualised Birmingham National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) data using a population segmentation tool to better inform obesity prevention strategies.

Methods:

Data from the NCMP for Birmingham (2010/2011 and 2014/2015) were analysed using the deprivation scores from the Income Domain Affecting Children Index (IDACI 2010). The percentage of children with excess weight was calculated for each local deprivation quintile. Population segmentation was carried out using the Experian’s Mosaic Public Sector 6 (MPS6) segmentation tool.

Results:

Childhood obesity levels have remained static at the national and Birmingham level. For Year 6 pupils, obesity levels have increased in the most deprived deprivation quintiles for boys and girls. The most affluent quintile shows a decreasing trend of obesity prevalence for boys and girls in both year groups. For the middle quintiles, the results show fluctuating trends.

Conclusion:

This research highlighted the link in Birmingham between obesity and socio-economic factors with the gap increasing between deprivation quintiles. Obesity is a complex problem that cannot simply be addressed through targeting most deprived populations, rather through a range of effective interventions tailored for the various population segments that reside within communities. Using population segmentation enables a more nuanced understanding of the potential barriers and levers within populations on their readiness for change. The segmentation of childhood obesity data will allow utilisation of social marketing methodology that will facilitate identification of suitable methods for interventions and motivate individuals to sustain behavioural change. Sequentially, it will also inform policy makers to commission the most appropriate interventions.
Estimating the Effect of Casino Loyalty Program Offers on Slot Machine Play
Authors: Lucas Anthony F. , Spilde Katherine
Published: January 2017

Annual investment in casino free-play campaigns is usually great, yet little is known about its ability to generate increased gaming expenditures/behavioral loyalty. A method and model are advanced to estimate the impact of these costly and notoriously difficult-to-measure programs, providing critical business intelligence for use in the management of these ongoing campaigns. Actual slot machine performance data from two tribal casinos were examined, allowing for an empirical test of a critical link within an existing theoretical model of customer responses to loyalty programs. Using data from two 365-day samples, our model successfully explains the variation in slot wagering at both donor casinos. One resort’s free-play campaign shows signs of success while the other’s indicates a need to retool its $15 million annual campaign. Although the theoretical linkage of customer responses to loyalty programs (LPs) is well established in the broader context, yet its applicability to casino LPs remains questionable given the mixed support from this study and the results of extant free-play research.
Fast assessment and management of chest pain patients without ST-elevation in the pre-hospital gateway (FamouS Triage): ruling out a myocardial infarction at home with the modified HEART score
Authors: Ishak Maycel , Ali Danish , Fokkert Marion J , Slingerland Robbert J , Tolsma Rudolf T , Badings Erik , van der Sluis Aize , van Eenennaam Fred , Mosterd Arend , ten Berg Jurriën M , van ’t Hof Arnoud WJ
Published: January 2017

Background:

The first study of the FamouS Triage project investigates the feasibility of ruling out a myocardial infarction in pre-hospital chest pain patients without electrocardiographic ST-segment elevation by using the modified HEART score at the patient’s home, incorporating only a single highly sensitive troponin T measurement.

Methods:

A venous blood sample was drawn in the ambulance from 1127 consecutive chest pain patients for measurement of the pre-hospital highly sensitive troponin T levels, in order to establish a pre-hospital HEART score (i.e. the modified HEART score) and evaluate the possibility of triage at the patient’s home. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of a major adverse cardiac event (MACE) i.e. acute myocardial infarction, percutaneous coronary intervention, coronary artery bypass grafting or death within 30 days after initial presentation.

Results:

Two hundred and six patients (18%) developed a MACE during 30 days of follow-up. Thirty-six per cent of the patients ( n=403) had a low modified HEART score (0–3 points) and none of them developed a MACE during follow-up. Forty-four per cent of the patients ( n=494) had an intermediate modified HEART score (4–6 points) and 18% of them developed a MACE. Twenty per cent of the patients ( n=230) had a high modified HEART score (7–10 points) of which 52% developed a MACE during follow-up.

Conclusion:

It seems feasible to rule out a myocardial infarction at home in chest pain patients without ST-segment elevation by using the modified HEART score. TRIAL ID: NTR4205. Dutch Trial Register [ http://www.trialregister.nl ]: trial number 4205.
If You Had Been Here . . .
Authors: Clark David J.
Published: January 2017

This paper examines the different word order in the otherwise identical words to Jesus of Martha in John 11.21 and of Mary in 11.32, and discusses what the purpose of this difference may have been, and how it could affect the translation of these verses.
Acceptable Anachronism in Biblical Studies
Authors: Malone Andrew S.
Published: January 2017

For the most part, biblical scholars have joined their secular counterparts in being vigilant—and even vigilantes—against anachronistic thinking and language. However, Scripture itself models a variety of apparently intentional anachronisms, such as the introducing of updated equivalents or of outdated archaisms. Such occurrences in both the Old and New Testaments invite us to revisit this complex phenomenon and to consider what anachronism (or some fresh, less pejorative designation) might contribute to our own contemporary interpretation and translation of the Bible.
An Exegetical Reflection on Isaiah 1.18
Authors: Hay Andrew R.
Published: January 2017

The classical Christian reading of Isa 1.18 has usually taken the verse as referring to the grace and mercy of God. But there is a formidable set of objections that challenges this reading. In this article, these objections will be attended to, alongside the offering of a contemporary gloss, in order to offer an alternative to exegetes and translators of this text.
Comment on Kahan and Corbin: Can polarization increase with actively open-minded thinking?
Authors: Baron Jonathan
Published: January 2017

Kahan and Corbin suggest that the cognitive capabilities that constitute actively open-minded thinking (AOT) are used in the defense of favored positions, thus leading to polarization concerning global warming. Such a conclusion is contrary to the definition of AOT. I suggest, and dispute, two ways in which such a result could be consistent with the definition: the scale that measures AOT is correlated with other traits that do increase polarization; or AOT may itself not be a general trait, so that conservatives do not apply it to global warming. A third, more plausible, explanation is that part of the main result is based on a floor effect, a statistical artifact. It is also possible that the effect of AOT is exerted primarily on political identification. The substantial correlation between AOT and political liberalism also helps us interpret prior conflicting results concerning politics and cognitive style, especially in view of the total absence of any correlation between politics and the Cognitive Reflection Test in the same data set.
Chylomediastinum after cardiac surgery through median sternotomy: A case report
Authors: Akutsu Hirohiko , Aizawa Kei , Sato Hirotaka , Misawa Yoshio
Published: January 2017

Background:

Chylous discharge can rarely occur after cardiac surgery through a median sternotomy. Conservative or surgical treatment might be chosen based on the amount of the discharge.

Methods:

We report the case of a patient who developed chylomediastinum after aortic valve replacement through a median sternotomy. A 79-year-old woman underwent aortic valve replacement through a median sternotomy for aortic valve stenosis. The thymus exhibited fatty degeneration and was divided with ligation at the mid-portion of the body without separation between the right and left lobes.

Results:

On the second postoperative day, 100mL of milky fluid was observed from the drainage tube of the retrosternal space after oral intake. We diagnosed the patient with chylomediastinum based on the characteristic appearance of the fluid and the relationship between the oral intake and the event. The drainage and low-fat total parenteral nutrition were continued for 1 week, leading to complete disappearance of the chylous discharge.

Conclusion:

Gentle and minimal exploration is required during venous snaring and thymus division for cardiac surgery through a median sternotomy, and minor chylomediastinum could be cured conservatively.
Vaccine Adverse Events
Authors: Follows Jill
Published: January 2017

Millions of adults are vaccinated annually against the seasonal influenza virus. An undetermined number of individuals will develop adverse events to the influenza vaccination. Those who suffer substantiated vaccine injuries, disabilities, and aggravated conditions may file a timely, no-fault and no-cost petition for financial compensation under the National Vaccine Act in the Vaccine Court. The elements of a successful vaccine injury claim are described in the context of a claim showing the seasonal influenza vaccination was the cause of Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Challenges and Opportunities for Occupational Health Nurses in Asia
Authors: Cheung Kin , Ishihara Itsuko , Lai Godfrey Kin Bun , June Kyung Ja
Published: January 2017

This article provides a brief overview of the effect of economic globalization on Asia, presents occupational health issues from select countries, and discusses challenges and opportunities for occupational health nurses.
A Comprehensive Review of the Healthy People 2020 Occupational Safety and Health Objectives
Authors: Chikotas Noreen E. , Parks Carol I. , Olszewski Kimberly
Published: January 2017

This is the second part of a two-part series introducing Healthy People 2020 and the foundational categories that are linked to overarching goals and corresponding measures of progress within the Healthy People 2020 initiative. The two articles together review the 10 objectives for occupational safety and health within the American workplace, provide a resource guide for occupational health nurses, and discuss MAP-IT, the suggested implementation format to reach the Healthy People 2020 goals. The articles are intended to inform occupational health nurses about the current agenda for safety and health of the U.S. work force as articulated in Healthy People 2020 and provide a foundation for better understanding the requirements of a safe work environment in 2020 and beyond.
Electronic Health Records in an Occupational Health Setting—Part I. A Global Overview
Authors: Hunter Euzelia S.
Published: January 2017

Most health care settings have focused on becoming more interconnected using technology. The same trend is occurring in occupational health settings. Using technology to enhance communications, facilitate workers' health, and measure the quality of occupational health services is advantageous to employers. The privacy and security of health information is as much the company's responsibility as protecting financial and personal data. As the health privacy agent for the employer, the occupational health nurse must have knowledge of legal regulations and professional standards that govern the security and privacy of health care information, especially when that information is collected, stored, and potentially transmitted within and outside country boundaries.
Medical Surveillance for Workplace Exposure to Hazardous Drugs
Authors: Chalupka Stephanie
Published: January 2017

NIOSH recommends that employers establish a medical surveillance program as part of a comprehensive program to minimize worker exposure to hazardous drugs.
Implementing a Sharps Injury Reduction Program at a Charity Hospital in India
Authors: Gramling Joshua J. , Nachreiner Nancy
Published: January 2017

Health care workers in India are at high risk of developing bloodborne infections from needlestick injuries. Indian hospitals often do not have the resources to invest in safety devices and protective equipment to decrease this risk. In collaboration with hospital staff, the primary author implemented a sharps injury prevention and biomedical waste program at an urban 60-bed charity hospital in northern India. The program aligned with hospital organizational objectives and was designed to be low-cost and sustainable. Occupational health nurses working in international settings or with international workers should be aware of employee and employer knowledge and commitment to occupational health and safety.
Leveraging Best Practices to Promote Health, Safety, Sustainability, and Stewardship
Authors: Weiss Marjorie D.
Published: January 2017

Strategically leveraging health and safety initiatives with sustainability and stewardship helps organizations improve profitability and positively impact team member and customer attachment to the organization. Collective efficacy enhances the triple bottom line: healthy people, healthy planet, and healthy profits. The HS3™ Best Practice Exchanges group demonstrated that collective efficacy can leverage the social cohesion, communication channels, and activities within workplaces to promote a healthy, sustainable work culture. This in turn (1) protects the health and safety of workers, (2) preserves the natural environment, and (3) increases attachment to the organization. Community-based participatory research using the Attach21 survey assessed the progress of these companies in their efforts to integrate health, safety, sustainability, and stewardship. Monthly Best Practice Exchanges promoted collective efficacy by providing support, encouragement, and motivation to share and adopt new ideas.
Reducing Sodium Consumption
Authors: Randolph Susan A.
Published: January 2017

Occupational and environmental health nurses can educate workers on the dangers of excess sodium and how to make better food choices.
Ergonomics and Nursing in Hospital Environments
Authors: Rogers Bonnie , Buckheit Kathleen , Ostendorf Judith
Published: January 2017

This study describes workplace conditions, the environment, and activities that may contribute to musculoskeletal injuries among nurses, as well as identifies solutions to decrease these risks and improve work-related conditions. The study used a mixed-methods design. Participants included nurses and stakeholders from five hospitals. Several focus groups were held with nurses, walk-throughs of clinical units were conducted, and stakeholder interviews with key occupational health and safety personnel were conducted in each of the five hospitals, as well as with representatives from the American Nurses Association, Veterans Health Administration hospital, and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Several key contributing factors, including the physical environment (e.g., layout and organization of work stations), work organization and culture (e.g., heavy workload, inadequate staffing, lack of education), and work activities (e.g., manual lifting of patients, lack of assistive devices), were identified. Recommendations included the need for a multifaceted and comprehensive approach to developing a sound ergonomics program.
The Effect of Cushioning Insoles on Back and Lower Extremity Pain in an Industrial Setting
Authors: Jefferson John R.
Published: January 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between low back pain and lower extremity pain in a group of factory workers and determine the effect of cushioning insoles on low back pain and lower extremity pain. Data were gathered via questionnaire from 306 employees of an aircraft engine assembly factory. A subset of 40 workers who had reported significant levels of back or lower extremity pain were sampled for four consecutive 12-hour shifts wearing their normal footwear and then a week later for four consecutive shifts wearing cushioning insoles. High levels of low back pain and lower extremity pain were reported by workers on the plant floor, but low back pain was poorly correlated to lower extremity pain ( r = 0.371). The effect of insoles on the subset of 40 workers was to lower low back pain by 38%, foot pain by 37%, and knee pain by 38% ( p < .001). The reduction in low back pain, however, was not correlated to the reduction in lower extremity pain; workers reporting a decrease in low back pain differed from those reporting less lower extremity pain.
Antiretroviral Adherence Perspectives of Pregnant and Postpartum Women in Guyana
Authors: Vitalis Deborah , Hill Zelee
Published: January 2017

The Caribbean region has the second highest HIV prevalence after Sub-Saharan Africa. Guyana’s adult HIV prevalence is 1.9% among pregnant women, with women accounting for an estimated 58% of all persons living with HIV. However, there are few studies on ART adherence in the Caribbean, none from Guyana, and none focusing on adherence in pregnancy and the postpartum period. The objective of this study was to explore the perspectives of HIV-infected pregnant and postpartum women and healthcare providers in Guyana about barriers and facilitators to ART adherence. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews with 24 HIV-infected pregnant and postpartum women and nine healthcare professionals at five clinics between February and April 2012. The Framework Method for analysing qualitative data identified facilitators and barriers related to five core themes: (i) Concern for wellbeing of children; (ii) ART-related factors; (iii) Disclosure; (iv) Socio-economic issues; and (v) Religious and cultural beliefs. Non-disclosure did not adversely affect adherence, contrary to other studies in the literature. Two broad categories emerged from the lived experiences of women in Guyana. The first is related to the act of actually taking their medication where their tenacity is displayed in efforts made to ensure ART is taken. The second relates to the significance of ART to them in terms of reduced risk of MTCT, and the possibility of better health for themselves to enable them to care for their children. However, issues related to poverty, food insecurity and side effects reduced adherence need to be adequately addressed.
Serodiscussion, Perceived Seroconcordance, and Sexual Risk Behaviors Among Dyads of Men Who Have Sex with Men Who Use Geosocial-Networking Smartphone Applications in London
Authors: Goedel William C. , Schneider John A. , Hagen Daniel , Duncan Dustin T.
Published: January 2017

Serodiscussion—the mutual discussion of HIV statuses between sexual partners—can be viewed as an essential prerequisite for risk-reduction behaviors among men who have sex with men (MSM). The current study aimed to assess the prevalence of serodiscussion with one’s most recent sexual partner and its association with sexual behaviors with these partners. Broadcast advertisements were placed on a geosocial-networking smartphone application, encouraging users to complete an online survey. A total of 200 MSM completed the survey. Serodiscussion occurred in 43.5% of dyads, and it was most common in dyads where both partners were reported to be HIV positive, χ2(5) = 60.3, P < .001. Serodiscussion was associated with engagement in both condomless insertive, χ2(1) = 3.847, P = .046, and receptive anal intercourse, χ2(1) = 6.5, P = .011. However, there were no significant differences in how recently a respondent was tested for HIV, representing potentially high-risk scenarios.
Factors Associated with Delayed Enrollment in HIV Medical Care among HIV-Positive Individuals in Odessa Region, Ukraine
Authors: Neduzhko Oleksandr , Postnov Oleksandr , Perehinets Ihor , DeHovitz Jack , Joseph Michael , Odegaard David , Kaplan Robert , Kiriazova Tetiana
Published: January 2017

In Ukraine, about one-third of identified HIV-positive individuals are not connected to care. We conducted a cross-sectional survey (n = 200) among patients registered at Odessa AIDS centers in October to December 2011. Factors associated with delayed enrollment in HIV care (>3 months since positive HIV test) were evaluated using logistic regression. Among study participants (mean age 35 ± 8.2 years, 47.5% female, 42.5% reported history of injecting drugs), 55% delayed HIV care enrollment. Odds of delayed enrollment were higher for those with lower educational attainment (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04-6.76), not feeling ill (aOR: 2.98, 95% CI: 1.50-5.93), or not having time to go to the AIDS center (aOR: 3.89, 95% CI: 1.39-10.89); injection drug use was not associated with delayed enrollment. Programs linking HIV-positive individuals to specialized care should address enrollment barriers and include education on HIV care benefits and case management for direct linkage to care. HIV testing and treatment should be coupled to ensure a continuum of care.
The Effect of Noninvasive Positive Pressure Ventilation on Pneumonia Hospitalizations in Children With Neurological Disease
Authors: Zaman-Haque Abeyat , Campbell Craig , Radhakrishnan Dhenuka
Published: January 2017

The aim of this retrospective single-institution observational study was to identify whether the frequency of hospitalizations for pneumonia would change before and after the initiation of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation in children with neurological conditions. Included patients were 1 to 18 years old with an underlying neurological disease and had been prescribed nocturnal noninvasive positive pressure ventilation. The authors excluded patients with a tracheostomy or those who used noninvasive positive pressure ventilation solely for obstructive sleep apnea. A total of 14 patients were included in the study, among whom there was no significant change in the mean number of pneumonias 2 years before versus after the initiation of noninvasive positive pressure ventilation (mean difference = −0.714, standard deviation = 2.4, P = .312). These findings suggest that while noninvasive positive pressure ventilation may not reduce absolute pneumonia frequency, it may have the beneficial value of preventing an increase in the frequency of pneumonias over time, especially in children with progressive respiratory compromise.
Discourse of Leadership
Authors: Aritz Jolanta , Walker Robyn , Cardon Peter , Li Zhang
Published: January 2017

This study aims to more fully understand leadership when it is understood as primarily discursive in nature and coconstructed by those involved in interactions in which influence emerges. More specifically, it explores the performative role of questions as speech acts. In this case, we look at how questions are employed as a key discourse type to enable professionals to construct their authority and establish leadership roles. The data consist of transcripts of decision-making meetings. A scheme for coding the question-response sequence in conversation was used to identify the form, social function, and conversational sequence of question use. The questions then were analyzed by speaker and his or her role as leader versus nonleader. While questions can result in or encourage group collaboration by opening the discussion and inviting contributions, they can also be used to direct team members, seize the floor, and influence decision making. The study contributes to the study of leadership and team decision making by looking at how questions operate as a multifunctional discourse type, and how they are used to establish influence in decision-making meetings.
Gamification in the Business Communication Course
Authors: Veltsos Jennifer R.
Published: January 2017

Interest in gamification in higher education has been growing steadily in the past decade. Using games and game elements has been shown to increase student engagement, motivation, and autonomy. This article draws parallels between game elements, instructional design, and the teaching of business and professional communication. It suggests ways that teachers can incorporate game elements into their courses (or perhaps identifies ways in which readers are already doing so without realizing it). The article concludes with an example of how game elements are used in the design of an introductory business communication course.
Gender, Parental Status, and the Wage Premium in Finance
Authors: Lin Ken-Hou , Neely Megan Tobias
Published: January 2017

Previous research documents a growing wage premium for elite financial workers since the 1980s. A second line of research finds substantial gender disparities in earnings and career mobility among elite financial workers. Yet little is known about whether women in finance still receive a wage premium compared with their nonfinance counterparts. In addition, few studies examine whether similar gender disparities exist among nonelite financial workers. This article examines how the wage premium for working in the financial sector varies by gender and parental status across the wage distribution. We report that women earn a greater wage premium than men in low-wage financial jobs, while almost all of the increase in wages in high finance is captured by elite men, particularly fathers. Consequently, the financial sector simultaneously exacerbates and mitigates gender inequalities at different locations of the labor market. Our findings highlight the significance of institutional context in amplifying and attenuating the reward and penalty associated with gender and parental status.
Aesthetics, policy and the politics of popular culture
Authors: Street John
Published: January 2017

Study of the politics of popular culture has tended to focus on the familiar territory of censorship, propaganda and protest. Without wishing to deny the importance of these aspects of popular culture's politics, this article argues for a broader perspective, one that encompasses policy and aesthetics. It suggests not only that the recent interest in both aesthetics and policy is important to the politics of culture, but that the two need to be linked: that political values and arrangements shape aesthetic judgements and that aesthetic values inform policy decisions. This argument is developed through an analysis of recent debates about aesthetic judgement, focusing in particular on the work of Simon Frith.
The crucial in between: the centrality of mediation in cultural studies
Authors: Fornas Johan
Published: January 2017

This essay argues against trends in cultural studies to avoid textuality and mediation in favour of a presumably direct access to reality, materiality or lived experience. Grand gestures of stepping out of modern thinking in toto might be rhetorically effective, but turn out to be expressions of a critical self-reflexivity on the productive contradictions within modernity. The centrality of the concept of mediation is defended in two opposite directions. Against reductionisms of absence that reify and totalize textual structures, communication is understood as a dialectic tension between subjects, texts and contexts. Against reductionisms of presence or immediacy, textual interpretations provide necessary mediations for all experience. Problematic formulations by Lawrence Grossberg and others are discussed, where material relations or histories and ethnographies of lived experience are believed to render textual interpretations superfluous. On the basis of Paul Ricoeur's hermeneutics, a communicative model for culture and cultural studies is outlined.
BCAP inhibits proliferation and differentiation of myeloid progenitors in the steady state and during demand situations
Authors: Duggan Jeffrey M. , Buechler Matthew B. , Olson Rebecca M. , Hohl Tobias M. , Hamerman Jessica A.
Published: January 2017

Key Points

BCAP is expressed in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells and inhibits myeloid cell development in a cell-intrinsic manner. In the absence of BCAP, hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells are more proliferative, particularly in demand situations.
Epidemiology of pediatric burns and future prevention strategies—a study of 475 patients from a high-volume burn center in North India
Authors: Dhopte Amol , Tiwari V. K. , Patel Pankaj , Bamal Rahul
Published: January 2017

Background

Pediatric burns have a long-term social impact. This is more apparent in a developing country such as India, where their incidence and morbidity are high. The aim of this study was to provide recent prospective epidemiological data on pediatric burns in India and to suggest future preventive strategies.

Methods

Children up to 18 years old admitted to the Department of Burns, Plastic & Maxillofacial Surgery, VMMC & Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, between January and December 2014 were included in the study. Data regarding age, sex, etiology, total body surface area (TBSA), circumstances of injury, and clinical assessment were collected. The Mann-Whitney test or Kruskal-Wallis test or ANOVA was used to compare involved TBSA among various cohort groups accordingly. Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses were used to determine the predictors of TBSA.

Results

There were a total of 475 patients involved in the study, including seven suicidal burns, all of whom were females with a mean age greater than the cohort average. Age, type of burns, mode of injury, presence or absence of inhalation injury, gender, and time of year (quarter) for admission were found to independently affect the TBSA involved. Electrical burns also formed an important number of presenting burn patients, mainly involving teenagers. Several societal issues have come forth, e.g., child marriage, child labor, and likely psychological problems among female children as suggested by a high incidence of suicidal burns.

Conclusions

This study also highlights several issues such as overcrowding, lack of awareness, dangerous cooking practices, and improper use of kerosene oil. There is an emergent need to recognize the problems, formulate strategies, spread awareness, and ban or replace hazardous substances responsible for most burn accidents.
Frontline Science: Multiple cathepsins promote inflammasome-independent, particle-induced cell death during NLRP3-dependent IL-1β activation
Authors: Orlowski Gregory M , Sharma Shruti , Colbert Jeff D , Bogyo Matthew , Robertson Stephanie A , Kataoka Hiroshi , Chan Francis K , Rock Kenneth L
Published: January 2017

Sterile particles cause several chronic, inflammatory diseases, characterized by repeating cycles of particle phagocytosis and inflammatory cell death. Recent studies have proposed that these processes are driven by the NLRP3 inflammasome, a platform activated by phagocytosed particles, which controls both caspase-1–dependent cell death (pyroptosis) and mature IL-1β secretion. After phagocytosis, particles can disrupt lysosomes, and inhibitor studies have suggested that the resulting release of a lysosomal protease—cathepsin B—into the cytosol somehow activates NLRP3. However, using primary murine macrophages, we found that particle-induced cell death occurs independent of NLRP3/caspase-1 and depends instead on multiple, redundant cathepsins. In contrast, nigericin, a soluble activator of NLRP3 inflammasomes, induced cell death that was dependent on the NLRP3. Interestingly, nigericin-induced cell death depended partly on a single cathepsin, cathepsin X. By inhibiting or silencing multiple cathepsins in macrophages, several key proinflammatory events induced by sterile particles are blocked, including cell death, pro–IL-1β production, and IL-1β secretion. These data suggest that cathepsins might be potential therapeutic targets in particulate-mediated inflammatory disease. In support of this concept, we find that a broad-spectrum cathepsin inhibitor can suppress particle-induced IL-1–dependent peritonitis.
Intrinsic properties of limb bud cells can be differentially reset
Authors: Saiz-Lopez Patricia , Chinnaiya Kavitha , Towers Matthew , Ros Maria A.
Published: January 2017

An intrinsic timing mechanism specifies the positional values of the zeugopod (i.e. radius/ulna) and then autopod (i.e. wrist/digits) segments during limb development. Here, we have addressed whether this timing mechanism ensures that patterning events occur only once by grafting GFP-expressing autopod progenitor cells to the earlier host signalling environment of zeugopod progenitor cells. We show by detecting Hoxa13 expression that early and late autopod progenitors fated for the wrist and phalanges, respectively, both contribute to the entire host autopod, indicating that the autopod positional value is irreversibly determined. We provide evidence that Hoxa13 provides an autopod-specific positional value that correctly allocates cells into the autopod, most likely through the control of cell-surface properties as shown by cell-cell sorting analyses. However, we demonstrate that only the earlier autopod cells can adopt the host proliferation rate to permit normal morphogenesis. Therefore, our findings reveal that the ability of embryonic cells to differentially reset their intrinsic behaviours confers robustness to limb morphogenesis. We speculate that this plasticity could be maintained beyond embryogenesis in limbs with regenerative capacity.