bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of Life for Patients in Medical–Surgical Wards
Authors: Ahmad Muayyad M. , Al-Daken Laila Ismae’l , Ahmad Huthaifa M.
Published: February 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the quality of life (QoL) for patients in medical–surgical wards in Jordanian hospitals. A cross-sectional design was performed. The data were collected between January and April 2011 through individual interviews ( n = 746) using the Medical Outcome Study 36-item Short-Form (MOS-SF-36) and Charlson’s Co-morbidity Index (CCI). The private and public hospitals in the three largest cities in Jordan were represented. The MANOVA test was used to examine the health status based on patients’ co-morbidity level. The results showed that QoL for patients with severe co-morbidity has been affected negatively in many aspects more than both patients with no co-morbidity and patients with mild co-morbidity. However, although it is difficult to change the demographic characteristics, it is possible to improve the health status of patients with multiple co-morbidities, which will result in having a better QoL.
Physical interface ontology for management of conflicts and risks in complex systems
Authors: Holley Vincent , Jankovic Marija , Yannou Bernard
Published: February 2014

Interface definitions are important in complex system design because they contribute to the definition and satisfaction of functional flows. Design structure matrix approaches have only recently focused on supporting the challenge of integrating possible interface types in conceptual design. We propose a physical interface data model to define the interface design space and thus support interface definition. This data model is integrated into the system architecture definitions and uses shared design parameters to detect risk and conflicts in collaborative design. A case study in an oil industry has been conducted to test the proposed approach and define difficulties in the implementation phase.
Directed Consultation, the SEALS Model, and Teachers’ Classroom Management
Authors: Motoca Luci M. , Farmer Thomas W. , Hamm Jill V. , Byun Soo-yong , Lee David L. , Brooks Debbie S. , Rucker Nkecha , Moohr Michele M.
Published: February 2014

Directed consultation is presented as a professional development framework to guide and support teachers in the implementation of evidence-based interventions that involve contextual and process-oriented approaches designed to be incorporated into daily classroom management. This approach consists of four components: pre-intervention observations and interviews with school professionals, professional development workshops, online training modules, and team- and individual-level implementation meetings. In the current study, directed consultation was used to train sixth-grade teachers to use the Supporting Early Adolescent Learning and Social Support (SEALS) program, a multicomponent intervention model, to promote productive and supportive classroom contexts during the transition to middle school. The current report involved classroom observations in 14 schools (7 interventions, 7 controls) as part of a broader cluster-randomized control trial. A total of 144 classrooms were observed in late fall of the sixth grade during ongoing professional development training activities and again in the spring at the completion of the SEALS training. As compared with control classrooms, teachers in intervention classrooms used more positive feedback and less negative feedback and redirection. Furthermore, teachers in intervention classrooms provided more effective use of classroom structure, feedback to students, behavior management, communication with students, groups and social dynamics, and motivation strategies. Results are discussed in terms of implications for professional development activities aimed at enhancing classroom management.
Freedom and the Human in “Evolutionary” Political Theory
Authors: Anker Elisabeth
Published: February 2014

“Evolutionary” political theory is a dynamic process of scholarship that collides disparate ideas into each other to form new, symbiogenetic concepts that were previously unthinkable. As evolutionary political theory, “Species Evolution and Cultural Freedom” enacts the dynamics of species evolution the essay examines, colliding theories of freedom into theories of evolution to offer new ways of imagining the self. Yet I argue that the essay’s evolutionary argument moves beyond the “self” to untether freedom from the human and to redefine the human as the symbiogenetic effect of colliding force fields: both human and nonhuman, cultural and environmental, genetic and evolutionary.
Development and Validation of the Vocational Identity Measure
Authors: Gupta Arpana , Chong SinHui , Leong Frederick T. L.
Published: February 2014

Having a strong vocational identity is a prelude to the formation of individuals’ overall identity. Hence, vocational identity has long been a variable of interest in vocational research. However, most existing studies utilized Holland, Gottfredson, and Power’s My Vocational Situation (MVS) vocational identity subscale to measure vocational identity. Due to how its items are worded, we contend that the MVS was not able to accurately capture vocational identity as a stable construct. Its dichotomous response scale also limits researchers’ attempts to evaluate its psychometric properties. To address these issues, we developed and validated a new “Vocational Identity Measure (VIM)” that utilizes Likert-type responses. The VIM seeks to measure how aware individuals are of their stable career goals, interests, and abilities. Results (Studies 1 and 2) suggest that the VIM possesses sound internal reliability, a stable single-factor structure, and incremental validity over the MVS. The scale also has good convergent validities with relevant constructs such as career decision self-efficacy and exploration. Based on these findings, the strengths and limitations of the VIM scale are discussed, and future research directions are proposed.
Multiple Roles, Role Satisfaction, and Sense of Meaning in Life
Authors: Kulik Liat , Shilo-Levin Sagit , Liberman Gabriel
Published: February 2014

Based on a sample of 611 employed parents in Israel, the study aimed to examine how occupying multiple roles on the one hand and satisfying roles on other hand are related to a sense of meaning in life (MIL). In addition, the contribution of two types of role conflict—interference of work with family (WIF) and interference of family with work (FIW) —to explaining MIL was examined. The findings revealed that the number of roles as well as the proportion of satisfying roles was directly related to a sense of MIL. Moreover, the number of roles and the proportion of satisfying roles occupied by the participants were indirectly related to their sense of MIL: The relation between the number of roles and sense of MIL was mediated by FIW conflict, whereas the relation between the proportion of satisfying roles and the sense of MIL was mediated by both types of role conflict (FIW and WIF). Men showed a greater tendency than women to experience WIF conflict, whereas no gender differences were found with regard to FIW conflict. Long hours of work outside of the home were positively related to WIF conflict and negatively related to FIW conflict.
The Effect of Syndesmosis Screw Removal on the Reduction of the Distal Tibiofibular Joint
Authors: Song Daniel J. , Lanzi Joseph T. , Groth Adam T. , Drake Matthew , Orchowski Joseph R. , Shaha Steven H. , Lindell Kenneth K.
Published: February 2014

Background:

Injury to the tibiofibular syndesmosis is frequent with rotational ankle injuries. Multiple studies have shown a high rate of syndesmotic malreduction with the placement of syndesmotic screws. There are no studies evaluating the reduction or malreduction of the syndesmosis after syndesmotic screw removal. The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate syndesmotic reduction with CT scans and to determine the effect of screw removal on the malreduced syndesmosis.

Methods:

This was an IRB-approved prospective radiographic study. Patients over 18 years of age treated at 1 institution between August 2008 and December 2011 with intraoperative evidence of syndesmotic disruption were enrolled. Postoperative CT scans were obtained of bilateral ankles within 2 weeks of operative fixation. Syndesmotic screws were removed after 3 months, and a second CT scan was then obtained 30 days after screw removal. Using axial CT images, syndesmotic reduction was evaluated compared to the contralateral uninjured ankle. Twenty-five patients were enrolled in this prospective study. The average age was 25.7 (range, 19 to 35), with 3 females and 22 males.

Results:

Nine patients (36%) had evidence of tibiofibular syndesmosis malreduction on their initial postoperative axial CT scans. In the postsyndesmosis screw removal CT scan, 8 of 9 or 89% of malreductions showed adequate reduction of the tibiofibular syndesmosis. There was a statistically significant reduction in syndesmotic malreductions ( t = 3.333, P < .001) between the initial rate of malreduction after screw placement of 36% (9/25) and the rate of malreduction after all screws were removed of 4% (1/25).

Conclusions:

Despite a high rate of initial malreduction (36%) after syndesmosis screw placement, 89% of the malreduced syndesmoses spontaneously reduced after screw removal. Syndesmotic screw removal may be advantageous to achieve final anatomic reduction of the distal tibiofibular joint, and we recommend it for the malreduced syndesmosis.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, prognostic case series.
The Relationship Between the Self-Report BASC-2 Validity Indicators and Performance Validity Test Failure After Pediatric Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Kirk John W. , Hutaff-Lee Christa F. , Connery Amy K. , Baker David A. , Kirkwood Michael W.
Published: February 2014

In adult populations, research on methodologies to identify noncredible performance and exaggerated symptoms during neuropsychological evaluations has grown exponentially in the past two decades. Far less work has focused on methods appropriate for children. Although several recent studies have used stand-alone performance validity tests with younger populations, a near absence of pediatric work has investigated other indices to identify response bias. The present study examined the relationship between the validity scales from the self-report Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2) and performance on the Medical Symptom Validity Test (MSVT), a stand-alone performance validity test. The sample consisted of 274 clinically referred patients with mild traumatic brain injuries aged 8 through 17 years. Fifty patients failed the MSVT based on actuarial criteria. The majority of these patients (92%) provided valid self-report BASC-2 profiles, with only three patients (6%) producing an invalid profile due to an elevated F index. Analysis of valid/invalid self-report BASC-2 profiles and MSVT pass/fail did not reveal a significant relationship ( p = 0.471, two-tailed Fisher’s exact test). These findings suggest that performance validity tests like the MSVT provide substantively different information about the validity of a neuropsychological profile than that provided by the self-report validity scales of the BASC-2.
The Role of Prior Expectancies and Relational Satisfaction in Crisis
Authors: Kim Sora
Published: February 2014

This study empirically tests (1) expectancy violations theory’s applicability to the setting of organization–public relationships and explores (2) the effectiveness of post-crisis communication in the post-crisis stage by employing a real crisis. The findings suggest that stakeholders’ relational satisfaction and predictive and prescriptive expectancies are significant predictors, determining negative valence, uncertainty level, and other negative responses toward the organization in crises. Finally, the study also suggests that actively communicating crisis-related information, even during the post-crisis stage, is more effective in protecting positive corporate reputation than a no-message or a justification strategy.
Local Logrolling? Assessing the Impact of Legislative Districting in Los Angeles
Authors: Burnett Craig M. , Kogan Vladimir
Published: February 2014

Over the past three decades, a number of U.S. cities have shifted from at-large to district-based elections. Some observers argue that this institutional change encourages elected officials to focus on district priorities while ignoring—and perhaps even sacrificing—broader municipal needs. Must district elections bring parochialism and logrolling to city councils? Using seven years’ worth of roll call data from the Los Angeles City Council, we examine the hypothesis that district elections result in vote-trading among its members. Overall, voting behavior on the council appears inconsistent with conventional logrolling accounts and instead points to a strategy of conditional deference on the part of elected officials. The results suggest that district-based elections do not always push elected officials to ignore the general interests of their city.
New stochastic wear law to predict the abrasive flank wear and tool life in machining process
Authors: Halila Faycel , Czarnota Christophe , Nouari Mohammed
Published: February 2014

Tool wear and tool failure are some of the main critical problems in industrial manufacturing fields since they affect the quality of the machined part and raise production costs. Improving our knowledge of wear mechanisms and capabilities of wear prediction are therefore of great importance in the machining process. Abrasion, adhesion and diffusion are usually identified as the three main wear modes at the tool–chip and the tool–workpiece interfaces. From an experimental point of view, the analysis of mechanisms that govern the wear process is still difficult to conduct. The objective of this research work is then to develop a wear modeling focusing on the abrasive wear mode at the tool–workpiece interface. This wear phenomenon is assumed to be closely linked to the microstructure’s material workpiece and caused by hard conical particles trapped into the contact between the cutting tool and the workpiece. The proposed model is based on an analytical approach including a statistical description governing the distribution of particles with conical shape embedded in the contact area. The volume of the removed material per unit time was chosen in this study as the main parameter to describe abrasive flank wear mode. A parameter [Formula: see text] was introduced as the sudden flank wear which occurs in the former few cutting instants. A parametric study has been conducted that highlights the slight effect of the adopted value. The effect of the cutting conditions (cutting speed, pressure) at the tool flank that has a major influence on the wear rate, was deduced from a numerical study on the 42CrMo4/WC-Co tool–workpiece combination. Finally, a wear criterion has been proposed to estimate the tool life in order to address the concerns of industries.
Development of tapered roller bearing with low torque: Reduction of sliding friction between large flange and roller end faces machined by precision powder shot peening
Authors: Noguchi Shoji , Hotta Tomoya , Kanada Tohru
Published: February 2014

A taper roller bearing can support both radial and axial loads and is available for the differential gear mechanism of a vehicle. Since the inner and outer rings can be separated, the axial force should be loaded to some extent as preload even if the bearing is used for supporting the radial load. However, when the axial force is loaded, the rotational torque becomes larger owing to the sliding friction between the roller end face and the large flange surface of the inner ring. In this research, to reduce the sliding friction inside the taper roller bearing, precision powder shot peening was performed on the large flange surface of the inner ring. Thus the bearing torque was reduced considerably by increasing the surface hardness and residual compressive stress and by smoothing the surface protrusion by grinding Shot Machine A. one Polish treatment. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the wear of the taper roller end face was the same as before and that of the large flange surface could be inhibited.
Enriched presence information on converged communication platforms
Authors: de Reuver Mark , Nikou Shahrokh , Bouwman Harry
Published: February 2014

Consumers have access to an increasingly wide variety of devices and modalities to communicate with others. The concept of enriched presence information helps users to harness such complexity by showing which device and modality is currently being preferred by their contacts. Operators can offer enriched presence information by utilizing recently developed converged communication standards like Rich Communication Suite–Enhanced (RCS-E). The present article tests the usefulness of enriched presence features for two prototype applications built upon RCS standards. A quasi-experiment shows that users become more positive about the usefulness of enriched presence information after trying out the two applications. Whilst findings suggest operators should introduce services that offer enriched presence information, our troublesome and lengthy prototyping process indicates that operators will not get the services to the market in time to hold off Internet players offering similar functionality.
Positive body image and young women’s health: Implications for sun protection, cancer screening, weight loss and alcohol consumption behaviours
Authors: Andrew Rachel , Tiggemann Marika , Clark Levina
Published: February 2014

This study examined the link between positive body image and a range of health behaviours. Participants were 256 women who completed an online questionnaire measuring body appreciation, body dissatisfaction, sun protection, cancer screening, seeking medical attention, weight-loss behaviour and alcohol and tobacco consumption. Results indicated that body appreciation was positively related to sun protection, skin screening and seeking medical attention and negatively related to weight-loss behaviour. Body appreciation explained unique variance, over and above body dissatisfaction, in sun protection, skin screening and weight-loss behaviour. These results have implications for interventions to improve adherence to health behaviours.
Production and governance in hackerspaces: A manifestation of Commons-based peer production in the physical realm?
Authors: Kostakis Vasilis , Niaros Vasilis , Giotitsas Christos
Published: February 2014

This article deals with the phenomenon of hackerspaces and sheds light on the relationship of their underlying values, organizational structures and productive processes to those of the online communities of Commons-based peer production projects. While hackerspaces adopt hybrid modes of governance, this article attempts to identify patterns, trends and theory that can frame their production and governance mechanisms. Using a diverse amount of literature and case studies, it is argued that, in many cases, hackerspaces exemplify several aspects of peer production projects’ principles and governance mechanisms.
Electronic patient information systems and care pathways: The organisational challenges of implementation and integration
Authors: Dent Mike , Tutt Dylan
Published: February 2014

Our interest here is with the ‘marriage’ of e-patient information systems with care pathways in order to deliver integrated care. We report on the development and implementation of four such pathways within two National Health Service primary care trusts in England: (a) frail elderly care, (b) stroke care, (c) diabetic retinopathy screening and (d) intermediate care. The pathways were selected because each represents a different type of information and data ‘couplings’, in terms of task interdependency with some pathways/systems reflecting more complex coordinating patterns than others. Our aim here is identify and explain how health professionals and information specialists in two organisational National Health Service primary care trusts organisationally construct and use such systems and, in particular, the implications this has for issues of professional and managerial control and autonomy. The article is informed by an institutionalist analysis.
Managing employees’ talk about problems in work in performance appraisal interviews
Authors: Scheuer Jann
Published: February 2014

Performance appraisal interviews are carried out on the basis of known-in-advance written materials such as preparation forms and interview guides. This article demonstrates how participants manage interviews by following a question–answer–response format fit to address interview guide entries one at a time. Two recurring supervisor responses to employees’ talk about problems in work are investigated: positive prediction and advice. It is suggested that these responses serve to establish supervisor authority and deter participants from discussing issues raised in employee answers and thus go against norms emanating from literature on management communication. Results obtained in interviews are put down in writing along the way and subsequently summarized in documents to be signed by both participants, that is, employee and supervisor. The article demonstrates how participants use positive prediction and advice to coordinate talk-in-interaction with handling written materials and note taking, as well as formulating conclusions suitable for writing. The analyses shed light on how talk in an institutional context becomes a middle-medium, that is, a bridge between writings, and how this process is accomplished in turn-taking procedures.
Living in wealthy neighborhoods increases material desires and maladaptive consumption
Authors: Zhang Jia Wei , Howell Ryan T , Howell Colleen J
Published: February 2014

Despite the presumed national economic benefits that result from high levels of discretionary spending, past studies suggest that material consumption decreases individual economic and subjective well-being. However, most research on the development of materialistic values has examined how persuasive materialistic messages cause materialism. We recruited 2702 participants to test our prediction that living in wealthy neighborhoods should increase material desires and maladaptive consumption in much the same way it decreases happiness. Interestingly, our regression models revealed that individual socioeconomic status (SES) and neighborhood SES have unique, and opposite, predictive patterns of material consumption. Specifically, after controlling for age, gender, and population size, greater neighborhood SES predicted greater desires for material consumption, more impulsive buying, and fewer savings behaviors while individual SES showed the reverse pattern. Our path model suggests that greater neighborhood SES leads to increased material desires, which then predicts more frequent impulsive buying, and fewer savings behaviors. We discuss why neighborhood SES might change values and consumer behaviors.
Presence and regulation of insulin-regulated aminopeptidase in mouse macrophages
Authors: Nikolaou Alexandros , Stijlemans Benoit , Laoui Damya , Schouppe Elio , Tran Huyen TT , Tourwé Dirk , Chai Siew Y , Vanderheyden Patrick ML , Van Ginderachter Jo A
Published: February 2014

Introduction:

The insulin-regulated aminopeptidase (IRAP) is expressed in several cell types, where it is mainly located in specialized secretory endosomes that are quickly recruited to the cell surface upon cell type-specific activation. Here we describe for the first time the expression and subcellular distribution of IRAP in macrophages.

Methods:

IRAP mRNA expression, protein expression and presence at the cell surface was investigated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot and [3H]IVDE77 binding, respectively.

Results:

IRAP mRNA expression was increased by interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), but not by anti-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-4, IL-10, transforming growth factor β (TGF-β)). IFN-γ increased [3H]IVDE77 binding steadily over time, while LPS quickly and transiently recruited IRAP to the cell surface. Combined stimulations with IFN-γ and LPS showed the same pattern as LPS alone. Latex particles also induced a transient recruitment of IRAP to the cell surface, but no difference was observed in phagocytic uptake between wild-type and IRAP–/– macrophages, suggesting that the enzymatic activity of IRAP is not required for the ingestion of particles.

Conclusion:

IRAP is more highly expressed in pro-inflammatory M1-activated macrophages and its presence at the cell surface is modulated upon exposure to IFN-γ, LPS or exogenous particles.
Association between urinary angiotensinogen, hypertension and proteinuria in pregnant women with preeclampsia
Authors: Yilmaz Z , Yildirim T , Yilmaz R , Aybal-Kutlugun A , Altun B , Kucukozkan T , Erdem Y
Published: February 2014

Introduction:

Preeclampsia is a life-threatening disorder of pregnancy. The pathogenic mechanisms of preeclampsia remain uncertain. The aim of this study is to investigate the relation between urinary angiotensinogen (UAGT) levels, an indicator of local renin–angiotensin system (RAS) activity in the kidney, and blood pressure and urinary protein excretion in preeclampsia.

Materials and methods:

For this study, 90 women aged between 20–39 years were recruited. Spot urine samples were collected to measure urinary angiotensinogen/creatinine ratio (UAGT/UCre). Log(UAGT/UCre) was compared in pregnancies with and without preeclampsia and non-pregnant controls. Factors affecting log(UAGT/UCre) in pregnancies were also investigated.

Results:

In all pregnancies log(UAGT/UCre) levels were significantly higher than in non-pregnant controls (0.58±0.19 vs. 0.33±0.14, respectively, p=0.002). However, log(UAGT/UCre) levels in pregnancies with preeclampsia were slightly lower than in normal pregnancies (0.52±0.18 vs. 0.64±0.19, respectively, p=0.012). Log(UAGT/UCre) levels were correlated positively with blood pressure and proteinuria in pregnancies with preeclampsia. However, log(UAGT/UCre) levels were not correlated with age, height, body weight, gestational age, body mass index, and serum creatinine.

Conclusion:

This study showed that elevated local RAS activity in kidney was correlated with high blood pressure and proteinuria in preeclampsia. Local RAS activation in the kidneys may be one of the contributing factors in the development of preeclampsia.
Renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system gender differences in an Afro-Caribbean population
Authors: Cohall Damian H , Scantlebury-Manning Thea , James Stephen , Hall Kiana , Ferrario Carlos M
Published: February 2014

Hypothesis / introduction:

Prior studies have denoted gender differences in the expression and therapeutic benefits of hypertension treatment and clinical outcomes. This study documents for the first time gender differences in the expression of blood and urine angiotensin peptides in normotensive Afro-Caribbean Barbadians (25 males; 26 females).

Materials and methods:

Participants provided clinical anthropometric measurements, 24h ambulatory blood pressure and urine collections, and a blood sample for measurements of angiotensin peptides.

Results:

Plasma renin activity ranged between 0.00 and 3.00 ng/ml/h. Plasma and urinary Ang II were comparable in both genders, while urinary Ang-(1-7) was greater in females ( p<0.05). Urinary Ang-(1-7) and office systolic blood pressure correlated significantly in females only ( p<0.01), while plasma Ang-(1-7) and Ang II correlated significantly in both genders ( p>0.05).

Conclusions:

A shift in the balance between Ang II and Ang-(1-7) and their respective pressor and depressor axes might be markers of the cardio-renal protective mechanisms that may be present in females of Afro-Caribbean descent.
Interpersonal relationships and patient autonomy in clinical rehabilitation teams
Authors: Ringstad Øystein
Published: February 2014

In interprofessional clinical teams, the patients have interpersonal relationships with several practitioners. The aim of this study was to explore patients’ and practitioners’ perceptions of how such relationships may contribute to promote the whole team’s respect for the patient’s autonomy, as interpersonal patient–provider relationships may contribute to enhance patient autonomy. Sixteen qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 informants, including patients, nurses, physiotherapists, and physicians from three rehabilitation teams. Data were analysed according to Grounded Theory procedures. The informants discussed interpersonal relationships as an integral and significant part of the team work. The practitioners tried to adjust their professional approach to the patients’ genuine opinions and let patients decide the teams’ goals. Close relationships with patients could be important to accomplish this, particularly described by nurses and physiotherapists, who could facilitate the communication with the rest of the team.
A principlist approach to presumed consent for organ donation
Authors: Welbourn Hannah
Published: February 2014

The demand for donor organs for transplantation in the UK far exceeds the supply. A number of improvements in the infrastructure surrounding organ donation, as well as attempts to increase public awareness, have been made over recent years, but there remains a massive shortfall. It has been proposed that a system of presumed consent for organ donation, in which all individuals are considered to be potential organ donors after death unless they have previously opted out, may serve to increase the supply of organs. Recently the Welsh Assembly passed a Bill introducing presumed consent by 2015, but the debates regarding legislative changes are still on-going in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The ethical implications of presumed consent legislation are at the centre of these discussions. When examined by a principlist approach, presumed consent may be deemed to be an ethically beneficial measure to increase organ donation rates. It is argued here that the system of presumed consent may actually be more respectful of the principle of autonomy than a system of explicit consent, on the basis that it goes against the wishes of the fewest number of people, and it has clear benefits in terms of beneficence and justice whilst also being compatible with the principle of nonmaleficence. Although there is some debate about the precise impact that presumed consent would have on donation rates, there is evidence to suggest that it would result in an increase in the donor organ supply, when combined with improvements in education and infrastructure.
A novel tensile test device for effective testing of high-modulus multi-filament yarns
Authors: Rypl Rostislav , Chudoba Rostislav , Mörschel Ulrich , Stapleton Scott E , Gries Thomas , Sommer Guido
Published: February 2014

The paper introduces a novel clamp adapter with the goal to improve the quality of the tensile test setup for high-modulus multi-filament yarns. Common tensile test machines damage the yarns initially or prematurely due to non-uniform load introduction which causes stress concentrations. As a result, the theoretical yarn strength (perfectly clamped filaments at a unique length and no initial damage) is underestimated. With the new clamp adapter, higher strengths close to the theoretical values can be measured since the adapter largely eliminates the problems with non-uniform load introduction. A test series comparing yarns strengths tested with the clamp adapter and with commonly used test methods has been performed and the results are discussed in this paper. Furthermore, they are compared with theoretical values using the Daniels’ fibre-bundle model.
The Problem with Fair Trade Coffee
Authors: Cole Nicki Lisa , Brown Keith
Published: February 2014

Many people purchase fair trade certified products because they trust that doing so makes a difference in the lives of small producers around the world. Sociologists Nicki Lisa Cole and Keith Brown discuss how changes to certification policy have modified the meaning of fair trade in a way that has troubling implications for small coffee farmers.
Attitudes toward clinical trials among patients with sickle cell disease
Authors: Haywood Carlton , Lanzkron Sophie , Diener-West Marie , Haythornthwaite Jennifer , Strouse John J , Bediako Shawn , Onojobi Gladys , Beach Mary Catherine ,   for the IMPORT Investigators
Published: February 2014

Background

A substantial number of planned clinical trials for sickle cell disease (SCD) have terminated early due to insufficient patient enrollment.

Purpose

To describe attitudes toward clinical trials among a sample of adults with SCD and identify patient-level factors associated with these attitudes.

Methods

Our data came from a sample (N = 291) of primarily adults with SCD participating in the Improving Patient Outcomes with Respect and Trust (IMPORT) study, which is a federally funded observational study of SCD patient experiences in seeking healthcare. Attitudes toward clinical trials were assessed using items from the Perceptions of Participation in Clinical Research instrument. Patient factors examined as potential correlates of clinical trial attitudes were demographics, disease severity, engagement in self-care, trust, healthcare experience ratings, and prior history of participation in clinical trials. Multiple regression analyses were used to identify patient-level correlates of clinical trial attitudes.

Results

Our sample of SCD patients expressed overwhelmingly favorable attitudes about clinical trials, with 77%–92% of our sample expressing agreement with a series of positive statements about clinical trials in general. Demographics, engagement in self-care, healthcare experience ratings, and prior trial participation each explained significant portions of the variability in clinical trial attitudes.

Limitations

The generalizability of our results to the entire SCD population may be of concern as the study participants were all receiving care at comprehensive sickle cell centers and already participating in clinical research.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that, in principle, adults with SCD enrolled in an observational study express very positive general attitudes about clinical trial participation and that specific factors attached to particular clinical trial opportunities may play a greater role in a SCD patient’s decision to participate than a general unwillingness to participate.
‘We’ll show you gang’: The subterranean structuration of gang life in London
Authors: Densley James A , Stevens Alex
Published: February 2014

This article uses data from interviews with 69 self-described members and associates of street gangs in London to explore how young people choose their actions and construct their identities from the material and cultural resources they find in their locales. It explores ‘drift’ as a potential explanation of actions of gang members and finds it wanting. It suggests that Giddens’ concept of structuration, when combined with Matza and Sykes’ notion of subterranean traditions, offers a powerful tool for the explanation of how and why some young people in socio-economically deprived urban areas seek association with gangs through the performance of violence.
No evidence of nitrate tolerance caused by nebivolol
Authors: Stoschitzky Kurt , Stoschitzky Gergana , Pieske Burkert , Wascher Thomas
Published: February 2014

Background:

Continuous long-term treatment with nitrates may cause nitrate tolerance. Nebivolol is a highly selective beta1-adrenergic antagonist with additional nitric oxide (NO)-mediated vasodilatory effects. However, there have been no investigations into whether or not the long-term administration of nebivolol might cause nitrate tolerance.

Methods:

We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study in 16 healthy men. Subjects received 5 mg nebivolol or placebo once daily for 8 days in random order divided by a drug-free interval of 2 weeks. Forearm blood flow (FBF) was measured by venous occlusion plethysmography 3 h after oral intake of the first and last doses of nebivolol and placebo, respectively. FBF was measured again following the intravenous administration of 4 μg nitroglycerin/kg body weight/min for 5 min.

Results:

Following 8 days of continuous intake of placebo, nitroglycerin increased FBF by 54% ( p < 0.05), whereas nitroglycerin increased FBF by 96% ( p < 0.01) following 8 days of continuous intake of nebivolol, and the increase after 8 days of nebivolol was significantly ( p < 0.05) more pronounced than after 8 days of placebo.

Conclusions:

These findings indicate no evidence of nitrate tolerance caused by long-term administration of nebivolol. On the contrary, long-term intake of nebivolol increases rather than decreases the NO-mediated vasodilating effects.
Assisted suicide: Would you participate?
Authors: Finnikin Samuel
Published: February 2014

One cannot fail to notice the media interest surrounding the emotive subject of assisted dying. Multiple, high profile cases, celebrity commentary and legal proceedings are underpinned by tragic personal stories involving individuals who find themselves in the unimaginable position of wanting to end their lives but being unable to do so without assistance. As GPs, patients may come to us to discuss the issue of assisted dying. We need to be prepared for these difficult consultations. This article will clarify the current legal position and explore possible changes that are being debated. Arguments on both sides of the debate will be outlined in order to help inform your answer to the question: would you participate?
Treatment of older patients with colorectal cancer: a perspective review
Authors: Kordatou Z. , Kountourakis P. , Papamichael Demetris
Published: February 2014

In a continuously aging population, the burden of colorectal cancer (CRC) is rising among older patients. Despite the fact that almost half of the cases occur in patients over 75 years, this age group is subjected to disparities regarding diagnostic and therapeutic options. So far, exclusion of older patients from randomized clinical trials has resulted in a lack of evidence-based guidelines. Nevertheless, newer data from studies specifically targeting older patients and subgroup analyses indicate that proper treatment planning and specific medical and geriatric assessment can achieve a safe and beneficial treatment result in older patients, often with similar outcomes to their younger counterparts. Resection of the primary tumour, if feasible, should be the primary goal of surgery aiming for cure, although it should be avoided under emergency conditions. Chronological age per se should not be an exclusion criterion for adjuvant or palliative chemotherapy, or targeted therapies. Careful patient selection, dose adjustments, close monitoring and early intervention in the event of side effects are essential. The benefits of treatment must be balanced with potential effects of treatment and patients’ wishes.
G-749, a novel FLT3 kinase inhibitor, can overcome drug resistance for the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lee Hee Kyu , Kim Hong Woo , Lee In Yong , Lee Jungmi , Lee Jaekyoo , Jung Dong Sik , Lee Sang Yeop , Park Sung Ho , Hwang Haejun , Choi Jang-Sik , Kim Jung-Ho , Kim Se Won , Kim Jung Keun , Cools Jan , Koh Jong Sung , Song Ho-Juhn
Published: February 2014

Key Points

A novel inhibitor G-749 is very potent against FLT3 kinase mutants including D835Y and ITD/F691L that confer resistance to PKC412 and AC220. G-749 shows several desirable characteristics to overcome other drug resistances conferred by patient plasma, FLT3 ligand, and stromal cells.
Increased BCR responsiveness in B cells from patients with chronic GVHD
Authors: Allen Jessica L. , Tata Prasanthi V. , Fore Matthew S. , Wooten Jenna , Rudra Sharmistha , Deal Allison M. , Sharf Andrew , Hoffert Todd , Roehrs Philip A. , Shea Thomas C. , Serody Jonathan S. , Richards Kristy L. , Jagasia Madan , Lee Stephanie J. , Rizzieri David , Horwitz Mitchell E. , Chao Nelson J. , Sarantopoulos Stefanie
Published: February 2014

Key Points

Human cGVHD B cells have increased proximal BCR signaling protein expression and are more BCR responsive than non-cGVHD B cells. Inhibiting Syk kinase activity abrogates the BCR-driven ex vivo proliferative and survival advantage of human chronic GVHD B cells.
Positive expiratory pressure techniques in respiratory patients: old evidence and new insights
Authors: Clini E.
Published: February 2014

Educational aims

To describe the rationale for the use of positive expiratory pressure (PEP) techniques as a means of chest physiotherapy in respiratory patients.

To compare both the effectiveness and problems of the most popular PEP devices in clinical practice.

To introduce the impact and potential interest of temporary PEP (TPEP) techniques in this field.

In recent years, a large number of PEP devices, used to assist in airway clearance or, at the very least, to allow for effective self-administered physiotherapy, have been developed. A secondary clinically relevant objective of these devices is to prevent recurring infections and atelectasis, or to improve pulmonary mechanics and facilitate gas exchange, thus lowering the impact of disease progression. The use of PEP devices in this field has become widely accepted for two main reasons: 1) their clinical efficacy, which is as great as that of conventional chest physiotherapy practice, and 2) the high level of acceptance and compliance by patients, which makes PEP devices very useful in the domiciliary environment. The functional and clinical response of any specific PEP device, with or without vibration effect, may vary according to a specific diagnostic group. Ultimately, the choice of airway clearance strategy may be the one that is clinically effective, cost-effective and preferred by the patient and which, therefore, supports adherence. Recent technology has enabled the development of a new machine, which is able to apply a TPEP at a level several times lower than that applied with previous devices; thus, at least potentially, it is able to reduce the risk of mechanical stress injury to the bronchial tree and lung parenchyma. In this review, we will discuss the rationale for the use of PEP devices and compare both their effectiveness and problems in clinical practice. Finally, we will introduce the application and potential interest of TPEP as a new means for treating patients with hypersecretion.
Neonatal resuscitation and respiratory support in prevention of bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Roehr C.C. , Bohlin K.
Published: February 2014

Educational aims

To understand the physiology of respiratory support immediately after birth

To learn the current guidelines for neonatal resuscitation

To discuss noninvasive ventilation strategies in relation to development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains the most common severe adverse pulmonary outcome of preterm birth. Low gestational age and birth weight are the strongest risk factors for the development of BPD, but the pathogenesis is complex. The strategy for respiratory support immediately after birth and during the initial neonatal period may have a critical impact on the development of BPD. The preterm lung is highly susceptible to injury. An understanding the physiology of the first breath, the initiation of breathing and respiratory adaptation after birth is essential for adequate resuscitation measures and a lung protective ventilation strategy. Excessive oxygen use in preterm infants can increase the risk of BPD. The recently developed nomograms for oxygen saturation levels during the neonatal transition phase have become part of the newly revised resuscitation guidelines. For term neonates, starting resuscitation with air, rather than 100% oxygen, is now advised. Preterm infants may require a higher initial inspiratory oxygen fraction than term infants; however, the ideal level remains to be defined. Primary intubation is no longer a prerequisite for preterm survival. Recent trials have demonstrated that even very preterm infants can be safely stabilised after delivery with continuous positive airway pressure and later be selectively treated with surfactant for respiratory distress syndrome. This initially less invasive strategy has the advantage of reducing the need for mechanical ventilation and, thereby, the risk of lung injury; however, to date, it has not been clearly shown to reduce the incidence of BPD. Combining an approach of noninvasive ventilator support with a strategy of minimally invasive surfactant administration is important, but questions remain about the optimal timing, mode of delivery and value of predictive tests for surfactant deficiency.
Analysis of the floral transcriptome of Tarenaya hassleriana (Cleomaceae), a member of the sister group to the Brassicaceae: towards understanding the base of morphological diversity in Brassicales
Authors: Bhide Amey , Schliesky Simon , Reich Marlis , Weber Andreas PM , Becker Annette
Published: February 2014

Background

Arabidopsis thaliana, a member of the Brassicaceae family is the dominant genetic model plant. However, while the flowers within the Brassicaceae members are rather uniform, mainly radially symmetrical, mostly white with fixed organ numbers, species within the Cleomaceae, the sister family to the Brassicaceae show a more variable floral morphology. We were interested in understanding the molecular basis for these morphological differences. To this end, the floral transcriptome of a hybrid Tarenaya hassleriana, a Cleomaceae with monosymmetric, bright purple flowers was sequenced, annotated and analyzed in respect to floral regulators.

Results

We obtained a comprehensive floral transcriptome with high depth and coverage close to saturation analyzed using rarefaction analysis a method well known in biodiversity studies. Gene expression was analyzed by calculating reads per kilobase gene model per million reads (RPKM) and for selected genes in silico expression data was corroborated by qRT-PCR analysis. Candidate transcription factors were identified based on differences in expression pattern between A. thaliana and T. hassleriana, which are likely key regulators of the T. hassleriana specific floral characters such as coloration and male sterility in the hybrid plant used. Analysis of lineage specific genes was carried out with members of the fabids and malvids.

Conclusions

The floral transcriptome of T. hassleriana provides insights into key pathways involved in the regulation of late anthocyanin biosynthesis, male fertility, flowering time and organ growth regulation which are unique traits compared the model organism A. thaliana. Analysis of lineage specific genes carried out with members of the fabids and malvids suggests an extensive gene birth rate in the lineage leading to core Brassicales while only few genes were potentially lost during core Brassicales evolution, which possibly reflects the result of the At-β whole genome duplication. Our analysis should facilitate further analyses into the molecular mechanisms of floral morphogenesis and pigmentation and the mechanisms underlying the rather diverse floral morphologies in the Cleomaceae.