bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-employment and Conflict in Colombia
Authors: Bozzoli Carlos , Brück Tilman , Wald Nina
Published: December 2012

Many Colombians are confronted with the ongoing conflict that influences their decision making in everyday life, including their behavior in labor markets. This study focuses on the impact of violent conflict on self-employment, enlarging the usual determinants with a set of conflict variables. Our estimation strategy compares three different estimates: one from fixed-effects panel data (OLS-FE), estimates using lagged conflict indicators instead of contemporaneous regressors, and instrumental variables (IV-FE) estimates. Our results show that a one standard deviation increase in net displacement rates increases the rate of self-employment by about 7 percent points. Dividing the self-employed into different sectors (services and agriculture), we find that net displacement increases self-employment in the services sector but has no effect in agriculture that is affected by attacks by rebel and paramilitary groups, instead. Looking at the income of self-employed individuals, an influx of displaced reduces sharply hourly income in the self-employment sector.
Spelling in Adolescents With Dyslexia
Authors: Tops Wim , Callens Maaike , Bijn Evi , Brysbaert Marc
Published: December 2012

In this study we focused on the spelling of high-functioning students with dyslexia. We made a detailed classification of the errors in a word and sentence dictation task made by 100 students with dyslexia and 100 matched control students. All participants were in the first year of their bachelor’s studies and had Dutch as mother tongue. Three main error categories were distinguished: phonological, orthographic, and grammatical errors (on the basis of morphology and language-specific spelling rules). The results indicated that higher-education students with dyslexia made on average twice as many spelling errors as the controls, with effect sizes of d ≥ 2. When the errors were classified as phonological, orthographic, or grammatical, we found a slight dominance of phonological errors in students with dyslexia. Sentence dictation did not provide more information than word dictation in the correct classification of students with and without dyslexia.
Empirically Derived Test Specifications for the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination
Authors: Leahy Michael J. , Chan Fong , Sung Connie , Kim Muwoong
Published: December 2012

This study examined the major job functions and knowledge domains required for effective rehabilitation counseling practice in today’s rapidly changing practice environment to revise and update the test specifications for the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification examination. This report describes the methodology used in this nationwide study, the primary research questions addressed, the study’s principal findings and recommendations, including the new set of test specifications that will guide future versions of the Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Examination. The results of this study provide empirical support for the description of the knowledge base underlying the practice of rehabilitation counseling and contributes further empirical evidence in relation to the content and construct validity of the knowledge domains identified in this replication and extension of the most recent study completed in 2006.
The Relationship Between FAFSA Filing and Persistence Among First-Year Community College Students
Authors: McKinney Lyle , Novak Heather
Published: December 2012

In 2007-2008, approximately 42% of community college students who were eligible to receive Pell grant funding did not file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Using data from the Beginning Postsecondary Student Study, this study examined the relationship between FAFSA filing status and persistence from the fall to spring semesters among first-year community college students. Results indicate that when controlling for other relevant predictors of persistence, filing a FAFSA was associated with higher odds of within-year persistence among all students and was particularly strong for the restricted sample of students enrolled part time. The implications of these findings are discussed in light of the national completion agenda and recent calls to improve the utilization of financial aid among community college students.
Uncertainties in the Item Parameter Estimates and Robust Automated Test Assembly
Authors: Veldkamp Bernard P. , Matteucci Mariagiulia , de Jong Martijn G.
Published: December 2012

Item response theory parameters have to be estimated, and because of the estimation process, they do have uncertainty in them. In most large-scale testing programs, the parameters are stored in item banks, and automated test assembly algorithms are applied to assemble operational test forms. These algorithms treat item parameters as fixed values, and uncertainty is not taken into account. As a consequence, resulting tests might be off target or less informative than expected. In this article, the process of parameter estimation is described to provide insight into the causes of uncertainty in the item parameters. The consequences of uncertainty are studied. Besides, an alternative automated test assembly algorithm is presented that is robust against uncertainties in the data. Several numerical examples demonstrate the performance of the robust test assembly algorithm, and illustrate the consequences of not taking this uncertainty into account. Finally, some recommendations about the use of robust test assembly and some directions for further research are given.
Nutrition and Fluid Optimization for Patients With Short Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Matarese Laura E.
Published: December 2012

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is characterized by nutrient malabsorption and occurs following surgical resection, congenital defect, or disease of the bowel. The severity of SBS depends on the length and anatomy of the bowel resected and the health of the remaining tissue. During the 2 years following resection, the remnant bowel undergoes an adaptation process that increases its absorptive capacity. Oral diet and enteral nutrition (EN) enhance intestinal adaptation; although patients require parenteral nutrition (PN) and/or intravenous (IV) fluids in the immediate postresection period, diet and EN should be reintroduced as soon as possible. The SBS diet should include complex carbohydrates; simple sugars should be avoided. Optimal fat intake varies based on patient anatomy; patients with end‐jejunostomies can tolerate a higher proportion of calories from dietary fat than patients with a remnant colon. Patients with SBS are prone to deficiencies in vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids; serum levels should be periodically monitored and supplements provided as needed. Prebiotic or probiotic therapy may be beneficial for patients with SBS, although further research is needed to determine optimal protocols. Patients with SBS, particularly those without a colon, are at high risk of dehydration; oral rehydration solutions sipped throughout the day can help maintain hydration. One of the primary goals of SBS therapy is to reduce or eliminate dependence on PN/IV; optimization of EN and hydration substantially increases the probability of successful PN/IV weaning.
Justice in the Context of Family Balancing
Authors: McGowan Michelle L. , Sharp Richard R.
Published: December 2012

Bioethics and feminist scholarship has explored various justice implications of nonmedical sex selection and family balancing. However, prospective users’ viewpoints have been absent from the debate over the socially acceptable bounds of nonmedical sex selection. This qualitative study provides a set of empirically grounded perspectives on the moral values that underpin prospective users’ conceptualizations of justice in the context of a family balancing program in the United States. The results indicate that couples pursuing family balancing understand justice primarily in individualist and familial terms rather than in terms of social justice for women and girls or for children resulting from sex selection. Study participants indicated that an individual’s desire for gender balance in their family is ethically complex and may not be inherently sexist, immoral, or socially consequential, particularly given the social context in which they live. Our findings suggest that the social conditions that contribute to prospective users’ desires for gender balance in their families may direct them away from recognizing or engaging broader social justice concerns relating to sexism and stratified reproduction.
Genomic Justice for Native Americans
Authors: Garrison Nanibaa' A.
Published: December 2012

In 2004, the Havasupai Tribe filed a lawsuit against the Arizona Board of Regents and Arizona State University (ASU) researchers upon discovering their DNA samples, initially collected for genetic studies on type 2 diabetes, had been used in several other genetic studies. The lawsuit reached a settlement in April 2010 that included monetary compensation and return of DNA samples to the Havasupai but left no legal precedent for researchers. Through semistructured interviews, institutional review board (IRB) chairs and human genetics researchers at US research institutions revealed their perspectives on the Havasupai lawsuit. For interviewees, the suit drew attention to indigenous concerns over genetic studies and increased their awareness of indigenous views. However, interviewees perceived no direct impact from the Havasupai case on their work; if they did, it was the perceived need to safeguard themselves by obtaining broad consent or shying away from research with indigenous communities altogether, raising important questions of justice for indigenous and minority participants. If researchers and IRBs do not change their practices in light of this case, these populations will likely continue to be excluded from a majority of research studies and left with less access to resources and potential benefit from genetic research participation.
The Collaborative Project
Authors: Miller Patrick C. , Grobe William J.
Published: December 2012

The Collaborative Project (CP) began as a pilot project in five North Carolina school districts in 2007 featuring a performance incentive initiative for teachers and administrators. The objective of this study was to document principals’ perceptions of the performance incentive initiative to determine challenges encountered during implementation. The researcher used a qualitative interview process to collect data from participating principals employed in the CP districts. The principals’ responses were analyzed and tables were constructed to show the responses for each question. For triangulation purposes, the results were compared with survey data from a 2009 evaluation completed by the Carolina Institute for Public Policy. Overall, the majority of principals interviewed believed that some components of the teacher performance incentive criteria helped their schools. The interview process revealed some unanticipated results not mentioned in the literature review and the results of the study provided insight into anomalies encountered during implementation.
Artifacts in the Wake
Authors: Fallon Paul D.
Published: December 2012

Although inextricable, the act of leading, the leader, and outcome of leadership are unique entities. Lack of such differentiation may ensnare novice leaders in broad suppositions. This conceptual article introduces a tool for analyzing leadership. Leaders can leverage the model to evaluate the act of leading, in route, via a measurable trajectory toward an outcome of leadership. Mechanisms to detect error, surmount barriers, build leadership capacity, sustain optimum performance, and identify artifacts of leadership are included.
Sensorineural Hearing Loss Associated with Neomycin Eardrops and Nonintact Tympanic Membranes
Authors: Winterstein Almut G. , Liu Wei , Xu Dandan , Antonelli Patrick J.
Published: December 2012

Objective

Use of neomycin eardrops in nonintact tympanic membranes (NITMs) due to tympanic membrane (TM) perforation or tympanostomy tubes (TTs) is controversial because of the potential for ototoxicity. We sought to compare the risk of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in patients with NITMs who received neomycin with those who received fluoroquinolone eardrops.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Administrative claims data analysis, including diagnoses and procedure detail for physician office and hospital visits and pharmacy dispensing events in children eligible for Medicaid fee‐for‐service benefits in 29 states between 1999 and 2006.

Subjects and Methods

Eligible patients (age <18 years) had to have received a study eardrop within 12 months after first diagnosis of NITM. The follow‐up period started from the first eardrop dispensing.

Main Outcome Measures

We compared the 12‐month risk of SNHL using Cox proportional hazards regression models adjusted for SNHL risk factors.

Results

We found 982 SNHL cases in 134,598 children treated with neomycin or fluoroquinolone eardrops. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for 1, 2, and 3 or more prescriptions of neomycin was 0.90 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.76‐1.07), 1.45 (1.05‐2.01), and 1.30 (0.71‐2.36), respectively, when adjusted for SNHL risk factors, the interval between initial diagnosis of NITM and eardrop initiation, and total number of eardrop prescriptions. The results remained unchanged for several sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Short‐term use of neomycin eardrops in patients with NITMs is not associated with an increased risk of SNHL; however, repeated doses (ie, ≥2 prescriptions) showed a significant association with an increased risk of SNHL.
Practical Guide to Understanding Multivariable Analyses, Part B
Authors: Neely J. Gail , Lieu Judith E. Cho , Sequeira Sunitha M. , Graboyes Evan , Paniello Randal C. , Nussenbaum Brian , Grindler David J. , Voelker Courtney C. J.
Published: December 2012

Conjunctive consolidation, one method of multivariable analysis by arranging data into clusters, is intuitive and transparent. An unexpected consequence in writing this article was the discovery of just how useful it is in critically analyzing articles and in designing new projects. It has stimulated a fresh understanding as to the value of multivariable thinking in all clinical research. This article is organized into the sequential steps for performing conjunctive consolidation for critically analyzing an article of interest and for completing the process, pending all required data are available. Investigators, particularly those who perform clinical research, should consider conjunctive consolidation as a valuable method of multivariable analysis with which to report data.
Body Mass Index Predicts Risk for Complications from Transtemporal Cerebellopontine Angle Surgery
Authors: Mantravadi Avinash V. , Leonetti John P. , Burgette Ryan , Pontikis George , Marzo Sam J. , Anderson Douglas
Published: December 2012

Objectives

To determine the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and risk for specific complications from transtemporal cerebellopontine angle (CPA) surgery for nonmalignant disease.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary‐care academic hospital.

Subjects and Methods

Retrospective review of 134 consecutive patients undergoing transtemporal cerebellopontine angle surgery for nonmalignant disease from 2009 to 2011. Data were collected regarding demographics, body mass index, intraoperative details, hospital stay, and complications including cerebrospinal fluid leak, wound complications, and brachial plexopathy.

Results

One hundred thirty‐four patients were analyzed with a mean preoperative body mass index of 28.58. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant difference in body mass index between patients with a postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak and those without (P =. 04), as well as a similar significant difference between those experiencing postoperative brachial plexopathy and those with no such complication (P =. 03). Logistical regression analysis confirmed that body mass index is significant in predicting both postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak (P =. 004; odds ratio, 1.10) and brachial plexopathy (P =. 04; odds ratio, 1.07). Elevated body mass index was not significant in predicting wound complications or increased hospital stay beyond postoperative day 3.

Conclusion

Risk of cerebrospinal fluid leak and brachial plexopathy is increased in patients with elevated body mass index undergoing surgery of the cerebellopontine angle. Consideration should be given to preoperative optimization via dietary and lifestyle modifications as well as intraoperative somatosensory evoked potential monitoring of the brachial plexus to decrease these risks.
Completely‐in‐the‐Canal Magnet‐Drive Hearing Device
Authors: Mahboubi Hossein , Malley Melinda J. D. , Paulick Peyton , Merlo Mark W. , Bachman Mark , Djalilian Hamid R.
Published: December 2012

The magnet‐drive hearing device (MHD) is a small completely‐in‐the‐canal hearing aid prototype that drives the tympanic membrane (TM) through a magnetic interface. A cadaveric temporal bone was prepared. The MHD was coupled to a nickel‐epoxy pellet glued to the umbo. Frequency sweeps between 0.3 and 10 kHz were performed, and the MHD was driven with various levels of current. Displacements of the posterior crus of the stapes were measured using a laser Doppler vibrometer and compared with sound‐induced displacements. The MHD had a linear frequency response and low total harmonic distortion. The pellet placement altered the stapes movements; however, the changes were statistically insignificant. Inputs of 100 and 300 mV produced displacements equivalent to those of the natural sound at 70‐ and 80‐dB sound pressure level, respectively. The coupling of this novel device using a magnetic interface to the umbo had a frequency output wider than air conduction devices, and its actuator was effective in driving the TM.
How my involvement with an inclusive, educational, gifted and talented programme has influenced my work with students who have social, emotional and behavioural difficulties
Authors: Tucker Vicky M
Published: December 2012

This is a response as to how my involvement with the Gifted and Talented Programme initiated by Bath and North East Somerset made me reassess my living educational values and beliefs, thus influencing my delivery and provision for the students with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties with whom I work. As I consider the issues implicit within this statement I am aware that many will be bewildered by any connection between gifted and talented students and students with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD). I, too, find it hard to think in terms of highly motivated able, gifted and talented students when I look around the SEBD provision within which I spend on average 10 hours five days a week! However, ‘Higher Standards, Better Schools for all’ (White Paper, 2005) clearly sets out the government’s ambition for every student – they should have the right personalised support to reach the limits of their capabilities – and later states, ‘We will legislate to prescribe curriculum entitlements for learners aged 14–19.’ My methodology for this enquiry is a narrative style of methodology (Clandinin, 2007) I feel strongly that in shaping and telling my story I am continuing to understand and learn from my own educational journey as well as clarifying it to readers. Constructing the story turns tension into attention, and telling the recognised narrative expresses intention. ( Maree, 2007 : 2)
Intrapersonal moderators of the association between relationship satisfaction and depressive symptoms
Authors: Whitton Sarah W. , Kuryluk Amanda D.
Published: December 2012

In a sample of 484 emerging adults in dating relationships, we tested whether four intrapersonal characteristics (masculinity, femininity, neuroticism, and co-rumination) moderated the association between relationship satisfaction and depressive symptoms. Femininity demonstrated a moderating effect for women only; relationship satisfaction and depressive symptoms were more strongly associated in women with higher, versus lower, femininity. Co-rumination had a moderating effect for both sexes; relationship satisfaction was more strongly associated with depressive symptoms for individuals with higher, versus lower, levels of co-rumination. No moderating effects were found for masculinity or neuroticism. Findings support clinical and feminist theories that high femininity may place women at risk of dysphoric reactions to relationship distress and suggest that co-rumination may represent a risk factor for depression.
Lexical choice and language selection in bilingual preschoolers
Authors: Greene Kai J , Peña Elizabeth D , Bedore Lisa M
Published: December 2012

This study examined single-word code-mixing produced by bilingual preschoolers in order to better understand lexical choice patterns in each language. Analysis included item-level code-mixed responses of 606 five-year-old children. Per parent report, children were separated by language dominance based on language exposure and use. Children were assigned to a no-risk or at-risk for language impairment group based on individual performance from an English–Spanish screening battery. Data analysis compared the prevalence, frequency, and accuracy of code-mixed responses on expressive semantic items across participants’ language dominance and risk status. Language dominance and risk status impacted children’s code-mixing patterns. The correct number of code-mixed responses on the English screener was influenced by risk status, whereas language dominance determined the number of correct code-mixed answers on the Spanish screener. Lexical choice and language selection depend on linguistic knowledge and skill. During this emergent stage of bilingualism, preschoolers demonstrate the use of code-mixing as a compensatory strategy to fill lexical gaps. Consistent with previous studies, findings indicate that code-mixing necessitates linguistic competence in more than one language.
Home is where the business is: Incidents in everyday life and the formation of home-based businesses
Authors: Vorley Tim , Rodgers Peter
Published: December 2012

Home-based businesses (HBBs) represent an increasingly important form of entrepreneurial activity, yet often remain overlooked within academic literature and largely invisible within official statistics. Set against the background of the home becoming a more common place of business, this article unpacks owner-entrepreneurs’ experiences in forming their HBB. By employing Lefebvre’s concept of everyday life and drawing on de Certeau’s work, it examines the trajectories and tactics of HBB owner-entrepreneurs in the Sheffield City Region in the UK. Focusing on the creative industries sector, the article problematises the push/pull, opportunity/ necessity based binary to elucidate how incidents experienced by HBB owner-entrepreneurs affect the formation of HBBs. The motivations for creating HBBs are shown to be complex, comprising personal and work-related incidents which are related to the lived practices of owner-entrepreneurs. Finally, the article broadens the discussion to reflect on implications for public policy and outlines directions for further research into HBBs as an increasingly pertinent field of entrepreneurship.
Managing coopetition to create opportunities for small firms
Authors: Bengtsson Maria , Johansson Marlene
Published: December 2012

This article investigates how coopetition enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to create entrepreneurial opportunities in fast-paced industries. We explore the managerial challenges SMEs face when collaborating with large powerful competitors, and examine how they balance this relationship to create and sustain business opportunities through coopetition. Based on three exploratory case studies in the information technology and telecoms industry, the article develops a theoretical model suggesting that SMEs can manage the liabilities of smallness and newness, and sustain independence in and balance coopetitive relationships with large firms if they develop alliance portfolio managing capabilities. We find that the ability to build legitimacy, enhance agility and create role flexibility plays an important role in balancing and navigating among different coopetitive relationships, thereby creating and sustaining opportunities.
Messenger and social network sites as tools for sociability, leisure and informal learning for Spanish young people
Authors: Sánchez-Navarro Jordi , Aranda Daniel
Published: December 2012

Today’s youth are the first generation to have grown up in an environment characterized by the widespread use of the Internet, especially in the form of instant messaging services (such as Messenger) and social network sites (SNSs), which are part of their everyday life and constitute essential tools to communicate, share, participate and create. This research note discusses qualitative information obtained from various discussion groups about the actual use of the Internet, messaging services and SNSs. In addition, quantitative data obtained through a survey of the Spanish population between 12 and 18 years old are provided as a general context to position the discussion. The data show that young people have mainly learnt to use the Internet in informal spaces. For them, these technologies are primarily tools for leisure and sociability. Moreover, youth perceptions about their own use of digital technologies show characteristic forms of management of their social needs related to being a teenager, as well as the construction of their own codes and communication protocols.
Academic Self-Presentation Strategies and Popularity in Middle School
Authors: Zook Joan M. , Russotti Justin M.
Published: December 2012

This study examined early adolescents’ beliefs about which academic self-presentation strategies hypothetical hard-working, high-achieving students should use with popular peers, adolescents’ own use of self-presentation strategies, and links between popularity and self-presentation strategies. In response to scenarios in which popular classmates ask high-achieving students about their grades, most seventh- and eighth-grade participants ( N = 312) believed they should be honest or give a vague response. In their own interactions, participants reported using strategies that hid grades more frequently than strategies that involved lying. Popularity was not related to adolescents’ use of self-presentation strategies, but self-presentation strategy beliefs varied by popularity, grade, and gender. Popular seventh-grade students believed high-achieving students should be honest about their grades and effort, whereas popular eighth-grade students believed they should claim to have studied less. Among popular eighth-grade students, girls were more likely than boys to believe they should give a vague response.
The Timing of School Transitions and Early Adolescent Problem Behavior
Authors: Lippold Melissa A. , Powers Christopher J. , Syvertsen Amy K. , Feinberg Mark E. , Greenberg Mark T.
Published: December 2012

This longitudinal study investigates whether rural adolescents who transition to a new school in sixth grade have higher levels of risky behavior than adolescents who transition in seventh grade. Our findings indicate that later school transitions had little effect on problem behavior between sixth and ninth grades. Cross-sectional analyses found a small number of temporary effects of transition timing on problem behavior: Spending an additional year in elementary school was associated with higher levels of deviant behavior in the Fall of Grade 6 and higher levels of antisocial peer associations in Grade 8. However, transition effects were not consistent across waves and latent growth curve models found no effects of transition timing on the trajectory of problem behavior. We discuss policy implications and compare our findings with other research on transition timing.
Finnish Sixth Graders as Victims of Adult, Peer, and Co-Occurring Adult and Peer Violence
Authors: Uusitalo-Malmivaara Lotta
Published: December 2012

This study examined the experiences of peer and adult victimization of 737 12-year-old Finnish students. Of the respondents, 28.4% had experienced peer or adult, or both kinds of violence. Peer violence was the most common type of violence, while adult violence was rare. The associations between victimization and depression, somatization and violent ideation were analyzed among different victim groups and among nonvictims. Peer victimization predicted depression, somatization, and violent ideation. Those victimized by both peers and adults had the highest number of symptoms but the small sample size precluded statistical decision making. Controlling for the number of close friends, relations with parents or experiences of parents’ fighting or drinking did not eliminate the association between victimization and the psychobiological symptoms studied.
Effectiveness of Correctional Programs With Ethnically Diverse Offenders
Authors: Usher Amelia M. , Stewart Lynn A.
Published: December 2012

Numerous studies have examined the effects of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) on criminal recidivism, and several meta-analyses have confirmed the overall effectiveness of this approach. Few studies, however, have examined the efficacy of these programs specifically with adult offenders from diverse ethnic backgrounds. The present research uses meta-analytic techniques to examine the outcomes for Canadian federal offenders participating in correctional programs according to self-identified ethnic group (Caucasian, Aboriginal, Black, and Other). Correctional programs within the Correctional Service of Canada adhere to the Risk, Need, Responsivity principles outlined in the effective correctional literature. Within-group analyses compared offenders from the same ethnic background who participated in correctional programs with a nontreatment comparison group. Odds ratios ranged from 1.36 to 1.76, indicating significant reductions in recidivism for offenders participating in correctional programs, regardless of ethnic status. Furthermore, the difference in effect size magnitude between ethnic groups was nonsignificant suggesting offenders from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds can benefit from correctional programs rigorously developed and implemented using a CBT framework.
Waiving Away the Chance of Freedom
Authors: Best Brianna L. , Wodahl Eric J. , Holmes Malcolm D.
Published: December 2012

Little is known about inmates’ decisions regarding seeking release on parole, even though many choose to waive their parole hearings. Using semistructured, in-depth interviews with 25 adult male parole-eligible inmates who had waived a parole hearing, we seek to better understand the reasons inmates forgo the possibility of parole. We frame the study in rational choice theory, which suggests that inmates balance the perceived costs and benefits of remaining in prison versus returning to the community in reaching their decisions. A large majority of inmates attributed the decision to waive their hearings, in part, to concerns about the hearing process (e.g., parole denial likely, fear of negative experience), and most also listed various reasons that made remaining in prison a better outcome compared with release on parole (e.g., prison easier than parole, fear of revocation). The findings suggest that inmates’ parole waiver decisions involve multiple factors that merit further examination.
Micromechanical Properties and Collagen Composition of Ruptured Human Achilles Tendon
Authors: Hansen Philip , Kovanen Vuokko , Hölmich Per , Krogsgaard Michael , Hansson Patrick , Dahl Morten , Hald Martin , Aagaard Per , Kjaer Michael , Magnusson S. Peter
Published: December 2012

Background:

The Achilles tendon is one of the strongest tendons in the human body, and yet it frequently ruptures, which is a substantial clinical problem. However, the cause of ruptures remains elusive.

Hypothesis:

Ruptured human Achilles tendon displays inferior biomechanical properties and altered collagen composition compared with noninjured tendon.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

Biopsy specimens were obtained at the rupture site and the noninjured part of the tendon (internal controls) in 17 patients with acute Achilles tendon rupture. Age- and weight-matched human cadaveric Achilles tendons (external controls) were also obtained. Tendon samples were tested micromechanically and biochemically.

Results:

The mean Young modulus was lower ( P < .01) in ruptured (256.7 ± 100.8 MPa) and internal control tendon (262.4 ± 111.5 MPa) compared with external control tendon (512.9 ± 209.6 MPa; P < .01), whereas failure strength did not display similar differences ( P = .06-.16). Collagen content, lysyl pyridinoline (LP), hydroxylysyl pyridinoline (HP), and pentosidine (PENT) did not display regional differences between ruptured and noninjured tendon. However, collagen content was less in ruptured (0.457 ± 0.093 mg/mg) and noninjured tendon (0.476 ± 0.072 mg/mg) compared with external control tendon (0.585 ± 0.044 mg/mg, P < .001). Pentosidine was similar in all tendon samples and was positively related to age in all samples ( r2 = 0.44-0.72, P < .05). Collagen content was positively related to failure stress but only in ruptured samples ( r2 = 0.36; P < .05). HP, LP, and PENT content were unrelated to failure stress and Young modulus in ruptured, noninjured, and cadaveric tendon.

Conclusion:

These data imply that there may be a mechanical weakening of the tendon and that a reduced collagen content may be related to the pathophysiological characteristics of Achilles tendon rupture.

Clinical Relevance:

Earlier studies have demonstrated that specific training regimens to treat tendon injury can improve tendon composition and mechanical properties. This study supports the notion that treatment measures should aim to increase tendon collagen content and improve micromechanical quality of the tendon matrix.
Remembering Our Roots
Authors: Popkin Charles A. , Gundry Cooper R. , Larson Christopher M. , Murnaghan M. Lucas
Published: December 2012

For as long as athletes have been competing, injuries from competition have resulted. Sports medicine has a rich and storied history with significant contributors from many different countries and civilizations. Over time, we have honored the contributions of important figures in sports medicine with the use of eponyms. However, the continued use of eponyms in medicine has been called into question by a number of authors. They cite inaccuracies in definition and context, lack of descriptive value, and the possible celebration of unsavory characters. However, eponyms are pervasive in the medical literature. They bring color and character and allow us to honor those who came before us. Furthermore, eponyms can hide some distressing aspects of a disease. This review of eponyms in sports medicine provides an opportunity to celebrate our predecessors, recognize the international flavor of sports medicine, and promote accurate use of eponyms for the future.
Natural fiber reinforced poly(vinyl chloride) composites: A review
Authors: Khalil HPS Abdul , Tehrani MA , Davoudpour Y , Bhat AH , Jawaid M , Hassan A
Published: December 2012

Materials from renewable resources – also called biomaterials or ‘green’ materials – are presently gaining in importance worldwide. In these times of continuous increases in the price of crude oil and discussion of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, conventional plastics have reached a price level and a questionable image which promotes the search of alternatives. Natural fibers are a renewable natural resource and are biodegradable, which is an important characteristic for components that must be disposed of at the end of their useful life. They are recyclable and can be easily converted into thermal energy through combustion without leaving residue. In this study, we will discuss the natural fiber reinforced polyvinyl chloride composites, reinforcing effect, plasticization effect along with modification by coupling agents, properties, and applications based on composite materials. Also, the polyvinyl chloride-based composite materials with specific emphasis on effect of coupling agent, foamed polyvinyl chloride composites, and the effect of natural fiber reinforcement on its material properties will be reviewed. One of the best alternatives is natural fiber reinforced plastics composites. These are composites that are typically filled or reinforced with plant fibers, as well as plastics such as polyvinyl chloride or recently, even bioplastics.
Experimental studies on thin sandwich panels under impact and static loading
Authors: Ugale VB , Singh KK , Mishra NM , Kumar Prashant
Published: December 2012

Several thin sandwich panels (thickness close to 3 mm) of different configurations were studied to explore an alternative material for the outer body of various machines and appliances such as automobile, refrigerator, washing machine, lathe machine, drill press, cupboards, light furniture, etc. Three types of sandwich panels with the outer face sheets made of glass fabric/epoxy were fabricated for the present study: (1) XM-Core panel was made of polyester foam Coremat XM/epoxy as core material, (2) Xi-Core panel was made of polyester foam Coremat Xi/epoxy as core material, and (3) J-Core Panel was made of layers of Jute fabric/epoxy as core material. A very thin transition layer of glass chopped strand mat/epoxy was provided between the face sheets and the core to improve their bonding strength. The sandwich panels were analyzed for low velocity normal impact loading under a drop weight impact test set up and transverse static loading under universal testing machine. Damage area, indentation depth and permanent depression over damage area, and failure modes were observed under incident impact loading. The transverse static test was performed to observe load versus deflection relation and to characterize the flexural strength and stiffness.
Reliability and Validity of the Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) as a Function of Parent and Teacher Ratings
Authors: Barbu Otilia C. , Levine-Donnerstein Deborah , Marx Ronald W. , Yaden David B.
Published: December 2012

This study examined reliability and validity of the Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA), based on samples of parents and teachers’ ratings of 1,145 entering kindergartners in the Southwest. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that DECA presented good reliability and validity for manifest variables, corroborating previous findings. Three latent variables (initiative, self-control, and attachment) substantiated reliability estimates but showed insufficient discriminant validity because of multicollinearity among latent variables. We recommended caution in interpreting and applying results of DECA assessments in practice because of a lack of discriminant validity. Thus, these findings addressed the need for researchers, educators, and policy makers to consider alternative instruments for early identification of social and emotional problems in young children until new research and a revised DECA model show evidence for the validity of outcomes.
Flânerie between Net and Place
Authors: Apostol Ileana , Antoniadis Panayotis , Banerjee Tridib
Published: December 2012

The information and communication technology (or ICT) revolution adds new possibilities for providing information about places and communities that may be used in planning processes. In this article we introduce the practice of flânerie in the physical and virtual space as a method to produce representative images of contemporary social life. We suggest how planning may be instrumental in shaping a public good alternative in this emerging hybrid social space, where the practice of flânerie can stimulate engagement in deliberative planning practices. Finally, we discuss some of the trade-offs and design choices for eliciting information from citizens about their localities to understand how future development may lead to qualitative changes in community life.
The effect of chemical warfare on respiratory symptoms, pulmonary function tests and their reversibility 23–25 years after exposure
Authors: Boskabady Mrteza , Boskabady Mohammad Hossein , Zabihi Narges Amel , Boskabady Marzie
Published: December 2012

Pulmonary complications due to mustard gas exposure range from no effect to severe bronchial stenosis. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and respiratory symptoms in chemical war victims were studied 23–25 years after exposure to sulfur mustard (SM). Respiratory symptoms were evaluated in a sample of 142 chemical war victims and 120 control subjects with similar age from the general population using a questionnaire including questions on respiratory symptoms in the past year. PFT values were also measured in chemical war victims before and 15 min after the inhalation of 200 µg salbutamol and baseline PFT in controls. All chemical war victims (100%) reported respiratory symptoms. Wheezing (66.19%), cough (64.78%), and chest tightness (54.4%) were the most common symptoms and only 15.5% of chemical war victims reported sputum ( p < 0.01 for sputum and p < 0.001 for other symptoms compared with control group). In addition, 49.3% of chemical war victims had wheeze in chest examination, which were significantly higher than control group ( p < 0.001). The severity of respiratory symptoms was also significantly higher than control subjects ( p < 0.05 for sputum and p < 0.001 for other symptoms). All the PFT values were also significantly lower in chemical war victims than that in control subjects ( p < 0.001 for all cases). In addition, all the PFT values improved significantly after the inhalation of 200 µg salbutamol ( p < 0.05– p < 0.001). These results showed that chemical war victims, 23–25 years after exposure to chemical warfare have higher frequencies and severity of respiratory symptoms. PFT values were also significantly reduced among chemical war victims, which showed reversibility due to the inhalation of 200 µg salbutamol.
Induction of vitellogenin synthesis in immature male yellowfin seabream (Acanthopagrus latus) exposed to 4-nonylphenol and 17β-estradiol
Authors: Naderi Mohammad , Safahieh Alireza , Madiseh Simin Dehghan , Zolgharnein Hossein , Ghatrami Ebrahim Rajabzade
Published: December 2012

In the present study, the effects of xenoestrogen 4-nonylphenol (4-NP) and 17β-estradiol (E2) on the synthesis of vitellogenin (VTG) in immature male yellowfin seabream ( Acanthoparus latus) were assessed to determine the potential use of this species as a biological model for studying endocrine disrupters in the Musa estuary in southern seawaters of Iran. A total number of 104 fish were injected by 10, 50, 100, 150 and 200 µg g−1 week−1 of 4-NP and 2 µg g−1 week−1 of E2, and their blood plasma was obtained for biochemical analysis on days 0, 7 and 14. The hepatosomatic index (HSI) of each fish was also recorded at each sampling time. The results showed that 4-NP significantly induced VTG synthesis in A. latus, which was detected by gel electrophoresis as two major protein bands (∼210 and 191 KDa). The induction of VTG was also determined indirectly by measuring the alkali-labile phosphate, total plasma calcium and protein. All of these VTG indicators significantly increased in the plasma of 4-NP- and E2-treated fish. Meanwhile, a significant dose-dependent increase was observed in HSI, indicating the activation of hepatic VTG production in 4-NP- and E2-injected fish. Furthermore, the plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase concentrations significantly increased in 4-NP-treated fish, presumably reflecting a situation of hepatic tissue damage due to 4-NP toxicity. Based on the results, it is suggested that A. latus could be used successfully as a model species for future studies of endocrine disrupting contaminants in the Musa estuary.
Assessing Appropriateness of Parenteral Nutrition Usage in an Acute Hospital
Authors: Smyth Niamh D. , Neary Elaine , Power Siobhan , Feehan Sinead , Duggan Sinead N.
Published: December 2012

Background: Although parenteral nutrition (PN) has become an integral component of patient care, the risks and costs associated with this therapy must be weighed against the benefits. The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at our tertiary referral, university‐affiliated hospital has audited the use of enteral nutrition and PN based on criteria devised from guidelines developed by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.). We aimed to examine the use of PN over time and in particular to investigate the appropriate and inappropriate use of this feeding method. Materials and Methods: Each patient referred for PN was assessed by a dietitian and need for PN evaluated. The appropriateness of the PN was categorized according to predefined criteria. Results: A total of 1191 patients had 1409 episodes of PN during the study period. According to the predefined criteria, 82% of PN episodes were considered “appropriate.” PN was “appropriate but avoidable” in 13% of cases. In 5% of episodes, the commencement of PN was considered “inappropriate.” The use of appropriate PN increased significantly over the study period (P = .018). Conclusion: Most PN episodes were deemed appropriate. We saw 5% inappropriate usage, which is lower than reported in comparable studies. This study underlines the importance of continuous audit and evaluation of practice to maintain appropriate and evidence‐based practice in nutrition support.
Osteoporosis in Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Yadav Anitha , Carey Elizabeth J.
Published: December 2012

Osteoporosis is a common skeletal complication seen in patients with chronic liver disease. Osteoporosis is usually asymptomatic and, if untreated, can result in fractures and impaired quality of life. For this review, we performed a systematic search of the PubMed database, and all recent peer‐reviewed articles regarding the prevalence, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of osteoporosis in chronic liver disease were included. The prevalence of osteoporosis varies between 11% and 58% in patients with chronic liver disease and in transplant recipients. The etiology of osteoporosis is multifactorial and only partially understood. Various factors linked to the pathogenesis of bone loss are vitamin D, calcium, insulin growth factor–1, receptor activation of nuclear factor–κB ligand (RANKL), bilirubin, fibronectin, leptin, proinflammatory cytokines, and genetic polymorphisms. Management of osteoporosis involves early diagnosis, identifying and minimizing risk factors, general supportive care, nutrition therapy, and pharmacotherapy. Osteoporosis is diagnosed based on the bone mineral density (BMD) assessment using dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scan. Measurement of BMD should be considered in all patients with advanced liver disease and in transplant recipients. Vitamin D and calcium supplementation is recommended for all patients with osteoporosis. Specific agents used for treatment of osteoporosis include bisphosphonates, calcitonin, hormonal therapy, and raloxifene. Bisphosphonates have become the mainstay of therapy for osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Prolonged suppression of bone remodeling resulting in atypical fractures has emerged as a significant complication with long‐term use of bisphosphonates. Newer treatment agents and better fracture prevention strategies are necessary to prevent and treat osteoporosis.