bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Silas Weir Mitchell (1829–1914): The Rewards of Versatility and its Price
Authors: Biderman Aya , Herman Joseph
Published: January 2017

Dr Silas Weir Mitchell, known as the father of neurology in the United States and as the author of several best-selling novels, pursued many interests during a long career in medicine and literature. He was also a renowned public figure and an able laboratory scientist who, according to President Theodore Roosevelt, served his country well. Mitchell was well ahead of his time and his refusal to conform to certain rigid ideas about what was and what was not permitted to a physician brought him into conflict with some of his contemporaries. This paper examines aspects of Mitchell's versatility, the rewards it brought him and the price he paid for it.
Harry Goodsir and the Last Franklin Expedition, of 1845
Authors: Kaufman Matthew H
Published: January 2017

Henry Duncan Spens (“Harry”) Goodsir was one of the younger brothers of John Goodsir, Professor of Anatomy at the University of Edinburgh from 1846 to 1867. Harry Goodsir qualified with the LRCS Edinburgh diploma in 1840, and was an anatomist and naturalist of the highest promise. He was Conservator of the Museum of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh from 1843 until 1845, when he was appointed assistant surgeon and naturalist to the Franklin Expedition. This sailed to the Arctic seas under Sir John Franklin, to find the North-West Passage, but was lost. Its fate was never determined satisfactorily, although several subsequent expeditions attempted to do so.
Sung Tz'u (1186–1249) and Medical Jurisprudence in Ancient China
Authors: Fu Louis Kuo Tai
Published: January 2017

The evolution of medical jurisprudence in ancient China is discussed in relation to Sung Tz'u (1186–1249), a district judge in the Southern Sung Dynasty. His work represents some of the earliest on the subject.
The Death of George Washington (1732–99) and the History of Cynanche
Authors: Cohen Ben
Published: January 2017

George Washington died in the winter of 1799 from acute epiglottitis during an epidemic of influenza. The details of the illness were fully recorded by his secretary, Tobias Lear, and this is the first published description in English of this condition. An account is given of the medical treatment and controversies that arose in criticism of the attendant doctors.
Results from the NHS Breast Screening Programme 1990–1993
Authors: Moss S M , Michel M , Patnick J , Johns L , Blanks R , Chamberlain J
Published: January 2017

Objective

–To present results from the NHS breast screening programme (NHSBSP) for the three year period 1990 to 1993, and to examine the extent to which interim targets are being met.

Methods

–Data have been collated from all screening programmes in the United Kingdom on standard “Korner” returns, supplemented for the year 1991/92 by data from the radiology quality assurance programme. Most of the data refer to the prevalent screening round, but some data on rescreening are also available.

Results

–The total cancer detection rate at prevalent screens was 6·0/1000, 18% being in situ cancers; the detection rate of invasive cancers ⩽ 10 mm in diameter was 1·3/1000, but data on size were missing for 12% of cancers. Referral rates were significantly lower for programmes using' two view mammography at the prevalent screen than for those using single view, and cancer detection rates were significantly higher. For prevalent screens over the three year period, 70% of programmes had a referral rate of ≤ 7%, 87% had a benign biopsy rate of ≤ 5/1000, and 79% had a cancer detection rate of ≥ 5/1000. By contrast, only 30% of programmes appeared to meet the target detection rate of > ⩽5/1000 for invasive cancers ≤ 10 mm in diameter.

Conclusions

– While the majority of interim targets are being met by the NHSBSP, the rate of detection of small invasive cancers requires careful monitoring. Collection of more accurate data on size of cancers and interval cancer rates will give a better indication of progress towards the target mortality reduction.
A Randomised Controlled Trial of Strategies to Prompt Attendance for a Pap Smear
Authors: Bowman Jenny , Sanson-Fisher Rob , Boyle Catherine , Pope Stephanie , Redman Sally
Published: January 2017

Objective

– To assess the comparative efficacy, by randomised controlled trial, of three interventions designed to encourage “at risk” women to have a Pap smear: an educational pamphlet; letters inviting attendance at a women's health clinic; and letters from physicians.

Methods

– Subjects at risk for cervical cancer who had not been adequately screened were identified by a random community survey and randomly allocated to one of the intervention groups or a control group. Six months after intervention implementation, a follow up survey assessed subsequent screening attendance. Self report was validated by comparison with a national screening data base.

Results

– A significantly greater proportion of women (36.9%) within the group receiving a physician letter reported screening at follow up than in any other group (P =0.012). The variables most strongly predicting screening attendance were: age, perceived frequency of screening required, use of oral contraceptives, and allocation to receive the physician letter intervention.

Conclusions

– The relative efficacy of the GP letter in prompting screening attendance shows that this strategy is worthy of further investigation. There remains a need to examine the barriers to screening for older women, and to develop tailored strategies for this population.
Problems in Assessing Screening Experience in Observational Studies of Screening Efficacy: Example of Urinalysis Screening for Bladder Cancer
Authors: Friedman Gary D , Hiatt Robert A , Quesenberry Charles P , Weiss Joe V , Weiss Noel S
Published: January 2017

Objective

– To evaluate screening urinalysis for its efficacy in preventing fatal bladder cancer.

Methods

–A case-control study of 290 case subjects with fatal bladder cancer v 290 age and sex matched control subjects, with ascertainment of urinalyses by medical record review.

Results

–In the five years before the symptoms that led to the detection of bladder cancer, case subjects had significantly fewer routine (screening) urinalyses than controls (matched odds ratio for one or more urinalyses v none = 0.60 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 0.87], adjusted for cigarette smoking and occupational bladder cancer risk). However urinalyses for urinary symptoms and problems before those that led to bladder cancer diagnosis were more frequent in the cases; hence there was only a small statistically non-significant deficit in cases of urinalyses for all reasons combined (corresponding adjusted odds ratio 0.94, 95% CI 0.61 to 1.46). Since urinalyses for symptoms and problems could have led to the detection of bladder cancer, the latter finding appears more applicable. Methodological problems included: difficulty in assigning the reason for urinalysis; the possibility that clinically indicated urinalyses led to a reduction in screening urinalyses; and difficulty in identifying the detectable and curable preclinical phase for targeting ascertainment of urinalyses. Reducing potential efficacy, haematuria on urinalysis, particularly transient or mild asymptomatic microhaematuria, was often not followed up by cystoscopy.

Conclusions

–This study did not show that ordinary urinalysis was effective in preventing fatal bladder cancer but because of methodological problems a clear answer may require a randomised controlled trial.
Public Understanding of Medical Screening
Authors: Cockburn Jill , Redman Selina , Hill David , Henry Elaine
Published: January 2017

Aim

–To estimate the extent of public understanding of mass screening for disease and of the benefits and limitations of screening.

Methods

– Telephone interviews were conducted with a national sample of 835 Australians.

Results

– Of total respondents, 68% claimed to have heard of screening tests, but only 21% correctly understood that screening tests are for asymptomatic people. This understanding was related to education. The most frequently named tests were mammography (51%) and Pap tests (33%), and for all age groups these were mentioned by more women than men. Around 27% of respondents thought that the Pap test would detect 95% or more of cases, 45% thought the test would detect 90% or more, while 60% of respondents thought the test would detect 80% or more of cases. Around 29% of respondents thought that mammography would detect 95% or more of cases, 49% thought the test would detect 90% or more, while 65% of respondents thought the test would detect 80% or more of cases. Of all respondents, 33% favoured compensation when cases were “missed” by screening provided people were warned beforehand, 58% were not in favour, and 9% were unsure.

Conclusions

– There are misconceptions among the public concerning the purpose of screening and the accuracy of screening tests. However, most people accept that some cases of disease will be missed by screening and that if people are adequately informed beforehand compensation should not automatically follow for those whose disease is missed.
The Concept of Health Promoting Schools to Enhance Positive Youth Development
Authors: Lee A
Published: January 2017

The concept of Health Promoting Schools improves the school's physical and social environment, its curriculum, teaching and learning methods, and the personal and social development of students. It will enable the participating schools create a ‘learning perspective', ‘community perspective', and ‘capacity building’ environment to improve both educational and health outcomes of students. As the scheme promotes self-esteem of students, staff development, parental education, involvement of the whole school community and linkage with different stakeholders, it will also enhance positive youth development. It will help to shift the paradigm from handling crisis to prevention approaches emphasizing on youth support before problem behaviours occur, and also address the circumstances (families, schools, communities, peer groups) of youth's lives.
How can we Build Resilience in Primary School Aged Children? The Importance of Social Support from Adults and Peers in Family, School and Community Settings
Authors: Stewart D , Sun J
Published: January 2017

This study examines the association between firstly, student resiliency and their perceptions of social support from parents/caregivers, teachers, and peers, and secondly, between student's perception of their general health status and their social support. A cross-sectional research project was designed and conducted in 2003 in an urban and remote area of Queensland, Australia. The study population comprised of 2580 students (Years three, five, and seven) across 20 primary schools. The main outcome measures were self-reported health status and resiliency behaviours. Independent variables included student perceptions of support from parents/caregivers, teachers, school peers, and prosocial groups. Students who perceived parents, teachers, and peers as supportive were more likely to have higher resiliency behaviour in communication and cooperation, self-esteem, empathy, help-seeking, goals and aspirations. Students who considered that their parents, peers at school and prosocial groups were supportive, were more likely to feel healthy. Findings suggest that providing adult and peer support to students at primary school age is a vital strategy in promoting student resiliency and general health for children of primary school age.
Dichotomy, Dialectic and Dialogic: How Do Sociology Terms Assist Career Development Theory?
Authors: Burns Edgar A. M.
Published: January 2017

Three concepts from sociology—dichotomy and two extensions, dialectic and dialogic—are considered here as social-psychological tools for career practitioners who analyse and investigate career patterns, career motivations and career pathways, whether at career start or at further points of transition. These terms have macro-social applications not discussed here, but the present focus on individual career agency and capacity shows how these concepts can illuminate drivers for change or stability in individual life course and career development. Applying these terms to how career theory accounts for the positive interaction of individuals within the networks of their lives adds additional insight into why and how individuals change—or do not change—careers, and what constrains or enables their personal and occupational paths in the contemporary employment environment.
Vietnamese Students' Transitions in Study Abroad Programs
Authors: Nguyen My Linh Thi
Published: January 2017

Vietnam is at a pivotal point in positioning itself within the global economy. As organisations and government agendas are pushing for a more skilled workforce, it is evident that Vietnam has to deal with the implications for the changing educational landscape. This article presents a review of the literature related to study abroad, looking at examples from neighbouring countries as models and the implications these might have for Vietnam. Push and pull factors contribute to the reasons that more Vietnamese are looking to study abroad programs. The numbers of people choosing to study abroad is projected to climb as more self-funded and career-minded individuals look outwards to gain advanced qualifications. University career services can play an important role in supporting students exiting and returning home, to help to maximise their learning abroad and to integrate more effectively upon their return home.
Career Paths for Managers in the Arts
Authors: Inglis Loretta , Cray David
Published: January 2017

In this article we examine the career paths of top-level managers in the arts. By analysing the training and work history of 23 managers in a variety of arts organisations we evaluate the utility of several existing theories for understanding careers that are characterised by low levels of initial knowledge, the absence of a clear method of entry and the influence of a central interest in artistic activity. Our findings show that while both boundaryless and protean models shed some light on the career trajectories of arts managers, theories based on personality and identity have a large part to play in explaining their choices. The factors describing patterns of movement exhibited by arts managers are likely to be applicable to other groups emerging into a less structured, rapidly changing employment context.
Is university education worth the investment? The expectations of upper secondary school seniors and the role of family background
Authors: Abbiati Giovanni , Barone Carlo
Published: January 2017

This study assesses students’ expectations about the profitability of the investment in university education. We consider Italy as a test case and provide fresh high-quality data on students’ expectations concerning the costs, economic returns and chances of success of this investment. These are compared with data on the corresponding actual values. We find that the estimates provided by upper secondary school seniors are highly inaccurate, highly uncertain and systematically biased. Students overestimate the returns to university degrees, while they are over-pessimistic regarding university costs and drop-out risks. These results confirm previous studies on perceived university costs, but they challenge the dominant view that students can realistically forecast graduate earnings. We trace this discrepancy to two methodological shortcomings of several previous studies on expected graduate earnings. Moreover, we find that information barriers are not equally distributed among social groups. High-status students overestimate the economic returns to university more, and they are more optimistic regarding their chances of success in Higher Education, even after allowing for their higher objective returns and chances of success. Our interpretation of the importance of information barriers focuses on the interaction between cognitive biases and institutional constraints.
Perception and Reception: The Introduction of Licensing of Adventure Activities in Great Britain
Authors: Woollven Rowland , Allison Pete , Higgins Peter
Published: January 2017

The Lyme Bay kayaking incident of 1993, in which four children died, led to an Act of Parliament and the introduction by the British Government of the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA), a body established to regulate adventurous recreational and educational outdoor activities. The perception at the time, a view to which some commentators still hold, was that the introduction of licensing would reduce the opportunities for young people to experience adventure and outdoor activities, and licensing was almost universally condemned by the outdoor sector. Using questionnaires and interviews, this research compares the perception of the effect of licensing to its reception over the first 10 years. Contrary to popular perception, it was found that AALA is seen in a positive light, and the research further indicated that, at the 18 centres studied, opportunities for young children to experience sea kayaking as a medium for outdoor education appear to have increased.
Brexpiprazole
Authors: Markovic Marija , Gallipani Alyssa , Patel Krina H. , Maroney Megan
Published: January 2017

Objective: To review the pharmacology and clinical data for brexpiprazole in schizophrenia and major depressive disorder (MDD). Data Sources: An English-language literature search using PubMed and MEDLINE was performed using the term brexpiprazole. All articles containing human clinical trial data published up to September 2016 were evaluated for inclusion as well as information from the manufacturer’s product labeling. Study Selection/Data Extraction: Phase 3 trials for brexpiprazole were evaluated. Key in vitro and animal data were incorporated into the pharmacology and pharmacokinetic sections where appropriate. Data Synthesis: Four phase 3 trials have evaluated the use of brexpiprazole as a primary therapy for schizophrenia or as an antidepressant adjunct for MDD. For its schizophrenia indication, brexpiprazole was studied in 2 placebo-controlled trials of approximately 1300 patients, with 4 mg of brexpiprazole consistently showing superiority over placebo. For MDD, brexpiprazole was compared with placebo as an adjunct to antidepressants in approximately 1000 patients who had failed trials of 1 to 3 prior antidepressants. The 2-mg and 3-mg dosages of brexpiprazole showed consistent superiority over placebo in the MDD trials. Common treatment emergent adverse effects included akathisia and weight gain. Conclusions: Brexpiprazole showed efficacy for the treatment of schizophrenia in the range of 2 to 4 mg/d and as an adjunct to antidepressant therapy in MDD when dosed at 2 to 3 mg/d. Advantages of this drug include once-daily dosing, good tolerability, and lack of effect on sexual function. Disadvantages include the lack of long-term safety data and potentially high cost.
Results of a Regional Effort to Improve Warfarin Management
Authors: Rose Adam J. , Park Angela , Gillespie Christopher , Van Deusen Lukas Carol , Ozonoff Al , Petrakis Beth Ann , Reisman Joel I. , Borzecki Ann M. , Benedict Ashley J. , Lukesh William N. , Schmoke Timothy J. , Jones Ellen A. , Morreale Anthony P. , Ourth Heather L. , Schlosser James E. , Mayo-Smith Michael F. , Allen Arthur L. , Witt Daniel M. , Helfrich Christian D. , McCullough Megan B.
Published: January 2017

Background: Improved anticoagulation control with warfarin reduces adverse events and represents a target for quality improvement. No previous study has described an effort to improve anticoagulation control across a health system. Objective: To describe the results of an effort to improve anticoagulation control in the New England region of the Veterans Health Administration (VA). Methods: Our intervention encompassed 8 VA sites managing warfarin for more than 5000 patients in New England (Veterans Integrated Service Network 1 [VISN 1]). We provided sites with a system to measure processes of care, along with targeted audit and feedback. We focused on processes of care associated with site-level anticoagulation control, including prompt follow-up after out-of-range international normalized ratio (INR) values, minimizing loss to follow-up, and use of guideline-concordant INR target ranges. We used a difference-in-differences (DID) model to examine changes in anticoagulation control, measured as percentage time in therapeutic range (TTR), as well as process measures and compared VISN 1 sites with 116 VA sites located outside VISN 1. Results: VISN 1 sites improved on TTR, our main indicator of quality, from 66.4% to 69.2%, whereas sites outside VISN 1 improved from 65.9% to 66.4% (DID 2.3%, P < 0.001). Improvement in TTR correlated strongly with the extent of improvement on process-of-care measures, which varied widely across VISN 1 sites. Conclusions: A regional quality improvement initiative, using performance measurement with audit and feedback, improved TTR by 2.3% more than control sites, which is a clinically important difference. Improving relevant processes of care can improve outcomes for patients receiving warfarin.
Implementation of Computerized Clinical Documentation
Authors: Baldwin Donna R.
Published: January 2017

Transition from a paper-driven system to a computerized clinical record is one of the most significant performance improvement activities in which any home health care organization may embark. Implementation of computerized documentation is a change that will impact virlually every aspect of operations within the organization. Although selection of hardware and sof tware is critical, the ultimate success of the project is dependent upon the commitment and effort of the people within the organization. This article will focus on one home care organization's experience implementing laptop technology. The results of this performance improvement activity include increased productivity of both in-of fice and field staff, decreased aggregate visit costs, and continued staff and patient satisfaction.
The Increasing Importance of Patient Empowerment and Its Potential Effects on Home Health Care Information Systems and Technology
Authors: Bruegel Robert B.
Published: January 2017

A large number offactors are combining to generate increasing demands by patients for an increasing role and voice in their health status. Important aspects of this trend include patient access to external sources of information, increasing emphasis on customer service, transparent practice, continuity of information through health networks, electronic interaction with both providers and the electronic record, and remote monitoring. Impacts and implications of these factors on home health care information systems and technology are discussed.
Education and Research for Infrastructure and Public Works
Authors: Grigg Neil S.
Published: January 2017

By clarifying roles through partnerships, the neglect of education and research in policy studies of infrastructure can be remedied, and the public works profession can develop a clear vision of its education and research needs and responsibilities. The American Public Works Association (APWA) has key roles to play, and by using their resources in partnership with K-12 schools and higher education, local chapters can reach out to assist in education and research to benefit both the public works profession and educational institutions. A revitalized APWA education and research program could strengthen the organization and have a global reach. APWA should sort out the cross-cutting and common education themes needed by the public works industry, defining roles that can, in partnerships with others, be implemented clearly and effectively.
Financing the Ecosystem Approach: Trends in Great Lakes States and Areas of Concern
Authors: Gebhardt Alicia , Lindsey Greg
Published: January 2017

State and local governments have prepared Remedial Action Plans (RAPs) for Great Lakes Areas of Concern (AOCs). These RAPs are to incorporate an “ecosystem” approach that recognizes ecological interrelationships. The financial implications of this approach have gone largely unexamined. This article describes historical revenues and expenditures for environmental functions by state and local governments in the Great Lakes states and in AOCs. Its purposes are to identify some fiscal measures that will be affected by an ecosystem approach and to document trends in public finances among governmental units with responsibility for implementation of RAPs. Great Lakes state and local governments generally increased spending on ecosystem functions between 1977 and 1987; it will be shown that charge and utility revenues for ecosystem functions also increased, and that municipalities within AOCs generally have higher total expenditures than do their counterparts. Implications for financing of RAPs are also discussed.
Global Shift in Container Traffic and its Implications for Economic Development Along the American Land Bridge
Authors: Boschken Herman L.
Published: January 2017

Since the “container revolution” in the 1970s, seaports on the Pacific Coast have been the engines of economic development, regionally and nationally. But circumstances continue to change that threaten the long-term viability of the intermodal land bridge system that emerged from that revolution. These circumstances include railroads not maintaining rail lines critical to transcontinental container traffic and the shift in the locus of global production that raises the question of obsolescence for the existing infrastructure moving trade West to East from the Pacific Rim. The implications are enormous, especially for policy makers at the regional and local levels as they contemplate the potential gain and loss of economic development momentum in the interregional competition for growth and prestige. This research note discusses public developmental policy as both the core of the problem and a potential source for adjusting to the global dynamics of intermodal transportation.
The Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH): Intervention, Implementation, and Feasibility for Elementary Schools in the United States
Authors: Perry Cheryl L. , Sellers Deborah E. , Johnson Carolyn , Pedersen Sheryl , Bachman Kathryn J. , Parcel Guy S. , Stone Elaine J. , Luepker Russell V. , Wu Margaret , Nader Philip R. , Cook Kathleen
Published: January 2017

The Child and Adolescent Trial for Cardiovascular Health (CATCH) was the largest school-based field trial ever sponsored by the National Institutes of Health. The trial demonstrated positive changes in the school food service and physical education program, as well as in students' cardiovascular health behaviors. Because the CATCH intervention programs were implemented in 56 schools (in four states) that were typical of schools throughout the United States, their reception by schools and degree of implementation provide evidence about their feasibility for schools nationally. Extensive process evaluation data were collected from students, teachers, school food service personnel, and physical education specialists throughout the three school years of the CATCH intervention. Four of the CATCH programs—school food service, physical education, classroom curricula, and home programs—were assessed over the three school years. The process data provide information on participation, dose, fidelity, and compatibility of the CATCH programs in the intervention schools for these programs. High levels of participation, dose, fidelity, and compatibility were observed for the four programs during the 3 school years. CATCH emerges as a model of a feasible multilevel health promotion program to improve eating and exercise behaviors for elementary schools in the United States.
The Meaning of RTI in Vietnam—A Qualitative Study of Illness Representation: Collaboration or Self-Regulation?
Authors: Gorbach Pamina M. , Hoa Dao T. Khanh , Eng Eugenia , Tsui Amy
Published: January 2017

In collaboration with the National Committee for Population and Family Planning, a study was conducted in a rural and urban commune of northern Vietnam to provide community-level information about women's reproductive health and behaviors. Ethnographic and structured interviews were conducted with 32 women. A psychosocial model of health behavior, the Dual Process Model, was applied to provide a theoretical framework for understanding women's interpretations of, and strategies for, coping with symptoms of reproductive tract infections (RTIs). Women were found to interpret and manage RTI symptoms collaboratively with other women. Therefore, women's approach to care seeking was influenced heavily by their peer network and not driven by their method of family planning.
Method Effects in Survey and Focus Group Findings: Understanding Smoking Cessation in Low-SES African American Women
Authors: Manfredi Clara , Lacey Loretta , Warnecke Richard , Balch George
Published: January 2017

The same pool of African American women participated in a survey and in focus groups on motivation to quit smoking. Findings from the two studies were compared to explore potential method effects. Consistent with each method's basic purposes, the survey identified variation in study variables based on accepted theory and association patterns among such variables. The focus groups discovered themes and images salient to the participants and highlighted the situational contexts that gave meaning to smoking and smoking cessation. Survey method limitations included poor sensitivity to topic salience and contextual meanings and a deductive mode that channeled interpretation of results within the boundaries predefined by the study's theoretical framework. Focus group method limitations included an overfocus on the most dramatic and uncommon evidence and lack of systematic ways to identify explanations that may underlie the participants' overt expressions. Together, the multiple findings complemented and explained each other.
Homogeneity of Cigarette Smoking Within Peer Groups: Influence or Selection?
Authors: Engels Rutger C.M.E. , Knibbe Ronald A. , Drop Maria J. , Haan Ypie T. de
Published: January 2017

Many studies stress the relevance of peer group influence as a determinant of smoking behavior of adolescents. Recent research, however, concludes that homogeneity of behavior in friendships is also due to selection; youngsters choose new friends whose behavioral patterns are similar to their own. Data from a three-wave longitudinal study among students of secondary education ( N = 1,063) was used to examine sources of peer similarities. The results demonstrated that both influence and selection processes contributed to peer group homogeneity, but the largest part of similarities in smoking status had to be attributed to selection. No support was found for friendships breaking down for reasons of dissimilarity in smoking status. Our findings underscore the complexity of processes and interactions with regard to the relationships of teenagers and offer new views on prevention programs.
Psoriasis Vulgaris Caused by Ceramic Inserts Used in Total Hip Replacement
Authors: Higuchi Fujio , Tsuruta Daisuke , Ishibashi Yumiko , Imamura Kazuko , Shimoyama Tokiko , Ookawa Takahiro , Kume Shinichiro , Yoshida Shiro , Gotoh Masafumi , Noda Akio , Mori Toshie , Hamada Takahiro , Ishii Norito , Dainichi Teruki , Kobayashi Hiromi , Nagata Kensei , Hashimoto Takashi
Published: January 2017

Background:

Ceramics are inorganic nonmetallic materials and are used as bioinert components in joint replacement surgeries. Ceramics are known to be low allergenic. We experienced a ceramic-induced psoriasis.

Objective:

We report a first case of possible ceramic-induced psoriasis caused by a ceramic insert.

Methods:

A 55-year-old female received an implanted ceramic-on-ceramic total hip replacement for osteoarthritis of the right hip joint. Following surgery, she developed psoriatic lesions, which continued for 10 years. We suspected that psoriasis was caused by a ceramic insert and removed it surgically.

Results:

When the ceramic insert was replaced with a polyethylene-on-metal hip joint, the psoriatic lesions completely disappeared.

Conclusion:

The pathogenesis of psoriasis is still an enigma, although deregulation of nuclear factor κB signaling and resulting abnormal cytokine secretion are speculated to be involved. Ceramics may affect these signaling events and cause the onset of psoriasis.

Renseignements de base:

Les céramiques sont des matériaux non métalliques inorganiques et sont utilisées comme composants bio-inertes dans les arthroplasties. Les céramiques sont reconnues pour être peu allergisantes. Nous avons observé un psoriasis provoqué par la céramique.

Objectif:

Nous exposons un premier cas possible de psoriasis provoqué par la céramique causé par un implant en céramique.

Méthodes:

Une femme de 55 ans a reçu une prothèse céramique-sur-céramique implantée lors d'une arthroplastie totale de la hanche pour traiter l'arthrose de l'articulation de la hanche droite. Après la chirurgie, elle a développé des lésions psoriasiques dont la manifestation s'est poursuivie pendant 10 ans. Nous avons soupçonné que le psoriasis était causé par l'implant en céramique, et nous l'avons enlevé chirurgicalement.

Résultats:

Une fois l'implant en céramique remplacé par une prothèse articulaire en polyéthylène-sur-métal, les lésions psoriasiques ont disparu complètement.

Conclusion:

La pathogenèse du psoriasis demeure une énigme, bien qu'on suppose que la dérégulation de la voie de signalisation NF-κB et que la sécrétion anormale de cytokines résultante soient impliquées. Les céramiques peuvent affecter ces événements de signalisation et provoquer l'apparition du psoriasis.
Vibration Transmission Between Columns and Built Up Structures
Authors: Steel John A.
Published: January 2017

Vibration transmission from columns into built up structures is studied using laboratory models. Beams attached to plates, forming built up structures, can influence transmission characteristics at these joints. Good agreement is found between measured and predicted results. The orientation of the beams effects coupling and strongest coupling is through a twisting moment applied to the beam. The effects of these changes in coupling on sound transmission between floors is discussed.
Absorption Characteristics of Suspended Absorbers
Authors: Kortchmar L. , Araujo M. A. Nabuco De , Gerges S.N.Y.
Published: January 2017

The question of the arrangement of sound absorbers has been under study for some time. In our approach we conducted a sequence of experiments in a reverberation chamber to determine the optimal sound absorption for different configurations of suspended absorbers using various air spaces and a central dividing panel between them. The results obtained were compared with measurements of the panels, tested against a solid backing as specified in ISO-R-354. It is shown that a porous absorber is more efficient at high frequencies if it is suspended in the sound field rather than against a solid backing. It was also found that the efficiency of an air space between the two porous sheets that compose a suspended absorber is moderately increased when a central divider is used. The statistical precision of the test was also investigated.
Emitted Noise Levels of Common Home Appliances Used to Clean and Wash
Authors: Öztürk Cüneyt
Published: January 2017

Common home appliances used to wash dishes and clothes, and clean the home are often significant noise sources. Increasing awareness of this problem by consumers and their growing demand for quieter products have caused manufacturers to be more aware of potential problems. Manufacturers well understand that in order to stay competitive in the market they need to develop quieter products.

This paper describes the operation of such appliances and the associated noise generating mechanisms which have been measured in terms of sound power, directivity and spectral content. Standard recommended methods of measurement are also described.
Structure-borne Sound Sources in Buildings
Authors: Gibbs B.M.
Published: January 2017

It is more difficult to solve structure-borne noise problems, including those in buildings, than airborne noise problems. One reason for this is that there is not an agreed approach; in particular, on how to describe machines as vibrational sources. A review is given of proposed approaches to the characterisation of machines as structure-borne sound sources. It is demonstrated that both a machine's activity and its dynamic characteristics are needed to properly describe its ability to emit structure-borne sound. It is also demonstrated that emission and source characterisation are distinctly different. In addition, at present, there does not appear to be a compromise possible between a proper characterisation and methods which are simple and practical and it is argued that present attempts to produce standards are premature. In the short term, a measure of source activity such as free velocity may be acceptable. A source descriptor is described which is a proper characterisation but requires the acquisition and processing of much data. It would appear worthy of development but the challenge remains to present product data in a simple and practical way.
Sound Transmission Via the Foundation of a Cavity Wall
Authors: Wilson R. , Craik R.J.M.
Published: January 2017

This paper presents a simple model for predicting the transmission of bending waves from one leaf of a cavity wall to the other via a strip foundation. It accounts for both the inertia effects of the foundation and the stiffness of the soil and the results show reasonable agreement with measured data obtained from a small test wall supported on a concrete strip foundation.
The Liquid Drop Impact as a Source of Sound and Vibration
Authors: Petersson B.A.T.
Published: January 2017

The liquid drop excitation of structures is studied with respect to the structural acoustic effects. The pertinent literature is surveyed and it is found that the impact phase of the drop contact is thoroughly treated whereas the flow phase has not been paid much attention. A model employing two simplified geometrical shapes of the drop is developed and the approximate force pulses and force spectra are determined. It is found that the liquid drop to rigid solid contact results in a force spectrum which is flat up to a frequency given by the ratio of the impact velocity to the drop diameter. For non-rigid receiving systems it is found that the influence of the receiver can be assessed from a comparison of the flow impedance of the drop with the point impedance of the receiver. A comparison of the ordinary mass impedance of the drop, seen as a particle, with the point impedance of the structure is found erroneous, leaving a misleading force spectrum. Based on the theoretical analysis, some aspects of the structural acoustic effects of liquid drop impacts are studied experimentally. The study which is limited to low drop speeds, i.e. in the range of 2–10 m/s, shows that the force pulse has a high repeatability. Further, the results reveal no significant influence of the surface tension or adhesive forces upon contact with a receiving structure. The experiments with a high mobility receiver demonstrate a catching effect which lowers the peak force and prolongs the duration of the pulse. Finally, the dependence of the pulse on the thickness of a water layer on the receiver is examined. It is found that the kinetic energy of the drop is transferred to the water layer whereby the force exerted on the receiver may be enlarged as compared with a dry impact.
The Prediction of Noise from Construction Sites – The History of a National Standard
Authors: Jones R.D.
Published: January 2017

The British Standard Code of Practice for noise control on construction and demolition sites has been in existence for 21 years. In that time, it has evolved and been expanded to cover both other open site activities and also to include vibration. This paper considers the evolution and some of the thought processes and driving forces to implement the changes which have occurred. It also reviews experience of the use of the Code and perceived shortfalls, and whether these have any material impact on the Code's validity.

Experience has shown that the Code has stood the test of time and served the construction industry well, particularly where it has been more widely used on major development and infrastructure projects.
General Theory of the Energy Relations in Halls with Asymmetrical Absorption
Authors: Arau Higini
Published: January 2017

In this paper we describe a method of calculation of the energy relations in halls where the existence of a non-uniform distribution of absorptive material in the room results in a non-diffuse sound field. The cases of halls used for concerts and speech have both been treated in order to derive new energy relations that yield known expressions when applied to a diffuse sound field. The importance of the initial reverberation time corresponding to the first portion of the decay has been verified showing that the main subjective parameters relating to the sound energy are influenced strongly by this portion, which is called the Early Decay Time if it is measured in the first 10 dB of the decay.
The Effectiveness of Pre-Cast Wall-Piles in Reducing Ground Vibration
Authors: Hayakawa K. , Kani Y. , Matsubara N. , Woods R.D.
Published: January 2017

This paper presents the results of a study of the effectiveness of pre-cast wall-piles for controlling ground vibrations. Field measurements have been performed for five cases of different types of pre-cast wall-piles. A method for estimation of vibration reduction by pre-cast wall-piles has been developed, based on wave penetration theory.

Vibration levels as registered on the off-side of the PC wall-piles barrier were 5 to 7 dB lower than that recorded at the site with no such barrier. Theoretical results, using the wave penetration theory showed good agreement with the field tests.
A New Concept for the Acoustic Requirements in the Norwegian Building Regulations
Authors: Turunen-Rise Iiris H.
Published: January 2017

A new concept for building regulations together with sound and vibration classification standards are introduced. The regulations, which are harmonised with EC directives, specify general acoustic and vibration requirements. A new Norwegian Standard, NS 8175, was prepared in parallel with the new technical regulations. The standard specifies the detailed technical acoustic requirements and classes for the various types of buildings concerned. The sound insulation and noise criteria are given in four classes A, B, C and D. The classification system makes it possible to choose better acoustic qualities and climate in buildings. Another new standard, NS 8176, containing a measurement method for determining vibrations from heavy road and rail transport, and a similar classification system as for acoustic conditions, based on dose-effect relationship, is in preparation.
Acoustic Quality and Sound Insulation between Dwellings
Authors: Rindel Jens Holger
Published: January 2017

During the years, there have been several large field investigations in different countries with the aim to find a relationship between sound insulation between dwellings and the subjective degree of annoyance. This paper presents an overview of the results, and the difficulties in comparing the different findings are discussed. An attempt is made to establish dose-response relationships between airborne sound insulation or impact sound pressure level according to ISO 717 and the percentage of people being annoyed by noise from neighbours. The slopes of the dose-response curves vary from one investigation to another, however, several of the results show a slope around 4 % per dB. The results may be used to evaluate the acoustic quality level of a certain set of sound insulation requirements, or they may be used as a basis for specifying the desired acoustic quality of future buildings.
Transglutaminase-6 is an autoantigen in progressive multiple sclerosis and is upregulated in reactive astrocytes
Authors: Cristofanilli Massimiliano , Gratch Daniel , Pagano Benjamin , McDermott Kelsey , Huang Jessie , Jian Jeffrey , Bates Deneb , Sadiq Saud A
Published: January 2017

Background:

Transglutaminase-6 (TGM6), a member of the transglutaminase enzyme family, is found predominantly in central nervous system (CNS) neurons under physiological conditions. It has been proposed as an autoimmune target in cerebral palsy, gluten-sensitive cerebellar ataxia, and schizophrenia.

Objective:

To investigate TGM6 involvement in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods:

Antibody levels against TGM6 (TGM6-IgG) were measured in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 62 primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS), 85 secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS), and 50 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients and 51 controls. TGM6 protein expression was analyzed in MS brain autopsy, murine experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), and cultured astrocytes.

Results:

CSF levels of TGM6-IgG were significantly higher in PPMS and SPMS compared to RRMS and controls. Notably, patients with clinically active disease had the highest TGM6-IgG levels. Additionally, brain pathology revealed strong TGM6 expression by reactive astrocytes within MS plaques. In EAE, TGM6 expression in the spinal cord correlated with disease course and localized in reactive astrocytes infiltrating white matter lesions. Finally, knocking down TGM6 expression in cultured reactive astrocytes reduced their glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression.

Conclusion:

TGM6-IgG may be a candidate CSF biomarker to predict and monitor disease activity in progressive MS patients. Furthermore, TGM6 expression by reactive astrocytes within both human and mouse lesions suggests its involvement in the mechanisms of glial scar formation.
Energy cost of exercise in multiple sclerosis patients with low degree of disability
Authors: Tantucci C , Massucci M , Piperno R , Grassi V , Sorbini CA
Published: January 2017

In 10 patients (five females) suffering from multiple sclerosis with mild degree of disability, (EDSS ranging from 0 to 2) and in 10 age and sex matched control subjects we investigated lung function, respiratory muscles strength and cardiorespiratory response to incremental exercise in order to assess the metabolic cost of exercise. In the absence of any impairment of lung volumes and flows and in-and expiratory maximal mouth pressures, at peak of exercise oxygen consumption (VO2max=1886 ± 145 ml/min) and workload (Wmax = 137 ± 9.8 watts) were slightly diminished in patients, as compared with controls (VO2max = 2246 ± 196 ml/min and Wmax = 164 ± 14.7 watts). These findings were associated with an increased heart rate (HR) and reduced oxygen pulse (VO2/HR) at the same workloads. During the whole exercise, however, the slope of the linear relationship between VO2 and work exhibited by the patients, amounting to 9.9 ± 0.6 ml/min/watt, was similar to that of the controls (10.9 ± 0.42 ml/min/watt). Incidentally, both at rest and during exercise, the patients showed a significantly greater minute ventilation (due to a faster respiratory rate, associated with an augmented dead space (P<0.05). We conclude that an increase of metabolic cost of exercise does not occur in multiple sclerosis patients with mild disability, suggesting a lack or a low degree of spasticity and/or ataxia elicited by the effort Thus, their exertional capacity appears to be limited mainly by a poor training. The tachypnea observed in these patients at rest and during exercise was unexpected and the reason for adopting such a pattern of breathing is unclear.