bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tracking the release of IPCC AR5 on Twitter: Users, comments, and sources following the release of the Working Group I Summary for Policymakers
Authors: Newman Todd P.
Published: February 2016

Using the immediate release of the Working Group 1 Summary for Policymakers of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Fifth Assessment Report as a case study, this article seeks to describe what type of actors were most active during the summary release, the substance of the most propagated tweets during the summary release, and the media sources that attracted the most attention during the summary release. The results from the study suggest that non-elite actors, such as individual bloggers and concerned citizens, accounted for the majority of the most propagated tweets in the sample. This study also finds that the majority of the most propagated tweets in the sample focused on public understanding of the report. Finally, while mainstream media sources were the most frequently discussed media sources, a number of new media and science news and information sources compete for audience attention.
Moeed’s Externship Imbroglio: The Case of Identity Concealment
Authors: Ahmad M. Ghufran , Azam M. Adnan , Shahid Neha
Published: February 2016

The case is focused on the dilemma faced by an enthusiastic, career oriented and ambitious MBA student who is troubled by the following complicated situation related to his past winter externship with the fertilizer company, Fatima Fertilizer: a) Instructed by his boss to conceal his organizational identity and pose as a university student in order to gather information, the protagonist is now thinking whether he did the right thing. b) The protagonist is also confused whether the benefits of the social responsibility of this particular project, and obligation to offer beneficial products to poor farmers to minimize their losses and play their part in the development of an agricultural country outweigh the negatives of identity concealment.
Damage tolerance in parallel systems
Authors: De Biagi Valerio , Chiaia Bernardino M
Published: February 2016

Damage tolerance is a fundamental prerequisite for the safety and robustness of large complex systems. Here we analyze the response of a system of parallel rods under a damage event. The approach is based on the presence of multiple load paths in a complex structure, that is, various ways to perform a task. We found that, as much as the complexity increases, the presence of effective ways of carrying the load becomes crucial for the robustness of the structural system under a damage process acting at random on the structure. In addition, the size of the system plays an important role: although tendentially more fragile, large systems are able to redistribute and absorb the effects of damage even with low complexity. The results, here discussed with reference to mechanical systems, can be exported to other disciplines.
Matrix-based quality tools for concept generation in eco-design
Authors: Alemam Abdulbaset , Li Simon
Published: February 2016

While quality management systems are familiar to industries for continuous improvements of products, the associated tools can also make significant contributions to address environmental concerns, aligning eco-design in the product improvement process. In this context, this article focuses on the adaptions of quality tools for supporting the generation of eco-design concepts. Particularly, this article develops a method that integrates quality function deployment and functional analysis via relational matrices. The proposed method has three steps. In step 1, an existing design is analyzed, and the associations between design entities are captured in three types of relational matrices: requirements and metrics, metrics and components, and functions and components. In step 2, the mapping between requirements and functions are determined via matrix multiplications, and then a morphological chart is established to generate possible design concepts. In step 3, the generated concepts are evaluated using Pugh charts via the delegated engineering metrics. A hair dryer has been selected as an application to demonstrate the proposed method for supporting eco-design.
H∞ control of periodic piecewise vibration systems with actuator saturation
Authors: Li Panshuo , Lam James , Cheung Kie Chung
Published: February 2016

In this paper, an H∞ controller with actuator saturation consideration is proposed to attenuate the vibration of periodic piecewise vibration systems. Based on a continuous Lyapunov function with a time-varying Lyapunov matrix, the H∞ performance index of periodic piecewise vibration systems is studied first. On the basis of the obtained H∞ criterion, the conditions of designing a state-feedback active vibration controller are proposed in matrix inequality form with actuator saturation taken into account. Because of the nonconvexity of the conditions, a corresponding algorithm to compute the controller gain is developed as well. A representative numerical example is used to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Optimal vibration control of rotors with an open edge crack using an electromagnetic actuator
Authors: Ebrahimi Alireza , Heydari Mahdi , Behzad Mehdi
Published: February 2016

Vibration control, especially in cracked rotors, is an important factor that can prevent the occurrence of disastrous failures. In this paper, vibrational control of a cracked rotor with an electromagnetic actuator has been studied with a continuous model of flexural vibration of cracked rotors. The governing equation of motion for the rotor under the external excitation of the electromagnetic actuator, gravity, and unbalanced forces is presented. A control law for the optimal control method to minimize the vibration of the rotor or stress at the crack section was obtained. To this aim, two cost functions have been introduced, based on the overall vibration of the rotor and the maximum stress at the crack section. The results of these two strategies are compared with each other and their performances are discussed.
Environmental Workplace Behaviors
Authors: Ciocirlan Cristina E.
Published: February 2016

In response to recent calls for more micro-foundation research in corporate social responsibility, this article approaches environmental sustainability from an organizational behavior/human resource perspective. Specifically, this article refines the concept of the environmental workplace behaviors (EWBs), defined here as “work behaviors directed toward the protection or improvement of the natural environment, which may or may not generate value for the organization; these behaviors may be performed by employees situated at any organizational level.” EWBs include organization citizenship behaviors for the environment (OCBEs), environmental in-role behaviors (EIRBs), and environmental counterproductive workplace behaviors (ECWBs). Furthermore, the article distinguishes between low-intensity and high-intensity EWBs and discusses the importance of constructs such as trust and power for green employee engagement in EWBs. The article concludes with recommendations for future research and practice in the area of environmental behaviors in organizations.
Prevalence and breed predisposition for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease in cats
Authors: De Decker Steven , Warner Anne-Sophie , Volk Holger A
Published: February 2016

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the prevalence and possible breed predilections for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) in cats.

Methods

Medical records and imaging studies of cats diagnosed with thoracolumbar IVDD between January 2008 and August 2014 were retrospectively reviewed and compared with the general hospital population. The association between type of IVDD (ie, intervertebral disc extrusion [IVDE] or intervertebral disc protrusion [IVDP]) and breed, age, sex, and duration and severity of clinical signs was also evaluated.

Results

Of 12,900 cats presented during the study period, 31 (0.24%) were diagnosed with IVDD, including 17 purebred and 14 non-purebred cats. Of all presented purebred cats, 0.52% were diagnosed with thoracolumbar IVDD. More specifically, 1.29% of all British Shorthairs and 1.83% of all presented Persians were diagnosed with IVDD. Compared with the general hospital population, purebred cats ( P = 0.0001), British Shorthairs ( P <0.0001) and Persians ( P = 0.0006) were significantly overrepresented with thoracolumbar IVDD. Affected purebred cats were younger than affected non-purebred cats ( P = 0.02). Of 31 cats with IVDD, 19 were diagnosed with IVDE and 12 with IVDP. Cats with IVDE had a significantly shorter duration of clinical signs ( P = 0.0002) and demonstrated more severe neurological deficits ( P = 0.04) than cats with IVDP.

Conclusions and relevance

Although thoracolumbar IVDD is an uncommon condition in cats, purebred cats, British Shorthairs and Persians, were overrepresented. It is currently unclear if this represents a true breed predisposition or a higher likelihood of owners of purebred cats seeking referral for advanced diagnostic imaging procedures.
Organizing space and time through relational human–animal boundary work: Exclusion, invitation and disturbance
Authors: Sage Daniel , Justesen Lise , Dainty Andrew , Tryggestad Kjell , Mouritsen Jan
Published: February 2016

In this article, we examine the role that animals play within human organizational boundary work. In so doing, we challenge the latent anthropocentricism in many, if not most, theories of organization that locate animal agencies outside the boundary work that is said to constitute organizing. In developing this argument, we draw together diverse strands of work mobilizing Actor–Network Theory that engage the entanglement of human/nonhuman agencies. In bringing this work together, we suggest humans may organize, even manage, by conducting relational boundary work with animal agencies, spacings and timings. Our argument is empirically illustrated and theoretically developed across two cases of the spacings and timings of construction project organizations—an infrastructure project in the United Kingdom and a housing development in Scandinavia. Construction projects are well-known for their tightly managed linear timings and for producing the built spaces that separate humans and animals. Three concepts—Invitation, Exclusion and Disturbance—are offered to help apprehend how such organizings of space and time are themselves dependent upon entanglements between human and animal agencies. We conclude by suggesting that animals should not be negatively constituted as an ‘Other’ to human organizing, or indeed management, but rather acknowledged as sometimes constituting human capacities to organize, even managerially control, space and time.
Screening for MOG-IgG and 27 other anti-glial and anti-neuronal autoantibodies in ‘pattern II multiple sclerosis’ and brain biopsy findings in a MOG-IgG-positive case
Authors: Jarius Sven , Metz Imke , König Fatima Barbara , Ruprecht Klemens , Reindl Markus , Paul Friedemann , Brück Wolfgang , Wildemann Brigitte
Published: February 2016

Background:

Histopathological studies have revealed four different immunopathological patterns of lesion pathology in early multiple sclerosis (MS). Pattern II MS is characterised by immunoglobulin and complement deposition in addition to T-cell and macrophage infiltration and is more likely to respond to plasma exchange therapy, suggesting a contribution of autoantibodies.

Objective:

To assess the frequency of anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG), anti-M1-aquaporin-4 (AQP4), anti-M23-AQP4, anti-N-methyl-d-aspartate-type glutamate receptors (NMDAR) and 25 other anti-neural antibodies in pattern II MS.

Methods:

Thirty-nine serum samples from patients with MS who had undergone brain biopsy ( n = 24; including 13 from patients with pattern II MS) and from histopathologically non-classified MS patients ( n = 15) were tested for anti-MOG, anti-M1-AQP4, anti-M23-AQP4, anti-NMDAR, anti-α-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid receptor-type glutamate receptors (AMPAR), anti-gamma-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABABR), anti-leucine-rich, glioma-activated protein 1 (LGI1), anti-contactin-associated protein 2 (CASPR2), anti-dipeptidyl-peptidase-like protein-6 (DPPX), anti-Tr/Delta/notch-like epidermal growth factor–related receptor (DNER), anti-Hu, anti-Yo, anti-Ri, anti-Ma1/Ma2, anti-CV2/collapsin response mediator protein 5 (CRMP5), anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD), anti-amphiphysin, anti-Ca/RhoGTPase-activating protein 26 (ARHGAP26), anti-Sj/inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor 1 (ITPR1), anti-Homer3, anti-carbonic anhydrase–related protein (CARPVIII), anti-protein kinase gamma (PKCgamma), anti-glutamate receptor delta 2 (GluRdelta2), anti-metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1) and anti-mGluR5, as well as for anti-glial nuclei antibodies (AGNA) and Purkinje cell antibody 2 (PCA2).

Results:

Antibodies to MOG belonging to the complement-activating immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) subclass were detected in a patient with pattern II MS. Detailed brain biopsy findings are shown.

Conclusion:

This is the largest study on established anti-neural antibodies performed in MS so far. MOG-IgG may play a role in a small percentage of patients diagnosed with pattern II MS.
The cognitive reserve theory in the setting of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis
Authors: Pastò Luisa , Portaccio Emilio , Goretti Benedetta , Ghezzi Angelo , Lori Silvia , Hakiki Bahia , Giannini Marta , Righini Isabella , Razzolini Lorenzo , Niccolai Claudia , Moiola Lucia , Falautano Monica , Simone Marta , Viterbo Rosa Gemma , Patti Francesco , Cilia Sabina , Pozzilli Carlo , Bianchi Valentina , Roscio Marco , Martinelli Vittorio , Comi Giancarlo , Trojano Maria , Amato Maria Pia ,   on behalf of the MS Study Group of the Italian Neurological Society
Published: February 2016

Background:

The study of cognitive reserve (CR) in relationship with cognitive impairment (CI) in pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) may provide cues to identifying subjects at higher risk of impairment and scope for therapeutic strategies.

Objectives:

To assess the potential impact of CR on cognition in a cohort of POMS patients.

Methods:

In all, 48 POMS patients were followed up for 4.7 ± 0.4 years. CI was defined as the failure of ⩾3 tests on an extensive neuropsychological battery. Change of neuropsychological performance was assessed through the Reliable Change Index (RCI) method. At baseline, CR was estimated by measuring the intelligence quotient (IQ). The relationships were assessed through multivariable regression analyses.

Results:

At baseline, CI was detected in 14/48 (29.2%) patients. Two out of 57 healthy control (HC; 3.5%) met the same criteria of CI ( p < 0.001). A deteriorating cognitive performance using the RCI method was observed in 18/48 patients (37.6%). Among the 34 cases who were cognitively preserved at baseline, a higher reserve predicted stable/improving performance (odds ratio (OR) = 1.11; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03–1.20; p = 0.006).

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that higher CR in POMS patients may protect from CI, particularly in subjects with initial cognitive preservation, providing relevant implications for counseling and rehabilitation strategies.
The relationship of age with the clinical phenotype in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Scalfari A , Lederer C , Daumer M , Nicholas R , Ebers GC , Muraro PA
Published: February 2016

Background:

The multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical course and relapses frequency before progression vary widely.

Objective:

To investigate the influence of age on the MS phenotype.

Methods:

Among 751 primary progressive (PP = 217) and secondary progressive (SP = 534) MS patients from the London Ontario database, we assessed the relationship of age on the relapse frequency and on the progressive phase evolution, and the impact of relapses on the age at onset of progression.

Results:

Age at onset did not influence the early attacks frequency, but patients younger at onset had larger number of total attacks before progression (age = 27.4, 31.0 and 32.8 mean years; ⩾4, 2–3 and 1 relapses, respectively) and longer latency to SP. Although frequent early relapses predicted younger age at SP onset, patients with no attacks (primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS)), or 1, 2–3 and ⩾4 relapses during the relapsing-remitting phase started progressing at similar age (38.6, 41.3, 41.4 and 39.2 mean years, respectively). The age at onset of progressive phase did not affect its evolution.

Conclusions:

Age strongly influences the phenotype before progression. Relapsing-remitting patients younger at onset are more likely to display a predominantly inflammatory course, yet relapses number does not affect the age at onset of progression.
False positivity of anti aquaporin-4 antibodies in natalizumab-treated patients
Authors: Cohen Mikael , De Sèze Jérome , Marignier Romain , Lebrun Christine
Published: February 2016

Background:

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) represent a differential diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Detection of anti-aquaporin-4 antibodies (AQP4-Ab) is the strongest argument to confirm NMOSD. Diagnosing NMOSD is a major concern because specific MS disease modifying drugs can lead to neurological worsening.

Objective:

To report the case of two natalizumab (NTZ) treated patients who presented a false positive result for AQP4-Ab.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of NTZ-treated patients who were tested positive for AQP4-Ab in our MS center.

Results:

Two patients treated by NTZ presented a false positive result.

Conclusions:

Clinicians should be aware of potential technical issues in detecting AQP4-Ab in NTZ-treated patients leading to false positive results.
Children with multiphasic disseminated encephalomyelitis and antibodies to the myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG): Extending the spectrum of MOG antibody positive diseases
Authors: Baumann Matthias , Hennes Eva-Maria , Schanda Kathrin , Karenfort Michael , Kornek Barbara , Seidl Rainer , Diepold Katharina , Lauffer Heinz , Marquardt Iris , Strautmanis Jurgis , Syrbe Steffen , Vieker Silvia , Höftberger Romana , Reindl Markus , Rostásy Kevin
Published: February 2016

Background:

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibodies have been described in children with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), recurrent optic neuritis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and more recently in children with multiphasic disseminated encephalomyelitis (MDEM).

Objective:

To delineate the clinical, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and radiological features of paediatric MDEM with MOG antibodies.

Methods:

Clinical course, serum antibodies, CSF, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies and outcome of paediatric MDEM patients were reviewed.

Results:

A total of 8 children with two or more episodes of ADEM were identified from a cohort of 295 children with acute demyelinating events. All children had persisting MOG antibodies (median titre: 1:1280). All ADEM episodes included encephalopathy, polyfocal neurological signs and a typical MRI. Apart from ADEM episodes, three children had further clinical attacks without encephalopathy. Median age at initial presentation was 3 years (range: 1–7 years) and median follow-up 4 years (range: 1–8 years). New ADEM episodes were associated with new neurological signs and new MRI lesions. Clinical outcome did range from normal (four of the eight) to mild or moderate impairment (four of the eight). A total of four children received monthly immunoglobulin treatment during the disease course.

Conclusion:

Children with MDEM and persisting MOG antibodies constitute a distinct entity of relapsing demyelinating events and extend the spectrum of MOG antibody–associated diseases.
Changing Names
Authors: Holland W. W.
Published: February 2016

This article reviews the origin of the term “social medicine” in Great Britain and reviews the understanding, views and work in this field between the middle of the last century to the present. The change to “community medicine” is described as well as the more recent change to “public health medicine.” The changes to the role of medical practitioners as well as their status in the medical profession is discussed.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Old Age. A Study among 76-Year-Old Swedish Urban Citizens
Authors: Grimby Agneta , Wiklund Ingela
Published: February 2016

Health-related quality of life was measured in terms of energy, pain, emotions, sleep, social isolation and mobility with the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP). Five hundred and sixty-five ambulant 76-year-olds in a Swedish city participated and the results were analysed in relation to health and socio-demographic factors. The majority of the subjects lived independently and felt healthy, despite the fact that many had some diagnosed disease or disorder. In general, the sample reported a satisfactory quality of life. Impaired quality of life was correlated to observed and perceived illness, institutionalization, widowhood, loneliness and financial discontent. Women reported more pain, emotional, sleep and mobility problems than men. Mobility problems had the most negative impact on daily activities, whereas sleeping problems had none.
Loneliness and Living Conditions of the Oldest Old
Authors: Holmé Karin , Ericsson Kjerstin , Winblad Bengt
Published: February 2016

This paper describes 211 of the oldest old, 90 years or older, in a broad perspective based upon well-being, living conditions and the living situation during a period of two and a half years. The subjects were interviewed, and at the first contact four out of five old persons were living in their own homes, 66% regarded themselves as healthy and three out of five depended on help for primary ADL. Approximately one of two experienced loneliness, the same proportion in each age group 90, 91 etc. Slight relations were found between experienced loneliness and age and subjective health. Slight relations were also found between subjective health and cognitive impairments. During the follow-up period 43% of the old people had died, and all were being cared for in institutions in their final stage of life.
Preschool Children's Absenteeism from Swedish Municipal Day-Care Centres because of Illness in 1977 and 1990. Geographical Variations and Characteristics of the Day-Care Centres
Authors: Bondestam Margareta , Rasmussen Finn
Published: February 2016

A study was undertaken to compare the absenteeism from Swedish day-care centre departments (DCCDs) because of illness in different geographical areas in 1977 and 1990, and to determine whether any characteristics of DCCDs could explain variations in absenteeism. Recordings of absenteeism were made during the same three months among 0–6–year-olds enrolled at 476 DCCDs in 1977 and at 561 DCCDs in 1990. Absenteeism was measured as the number of days in which the children did not attend their DCCD because of any illness divided by the total number of days for which they could have attended. The results, which are representative for Sweden, showed that absenteeism was highest in the three largest cities and their suburbs and in industrial areas, and lowest in rural and sparsely populated municipalities. In all geographical areas absenteeism was higher in 1977 than in 1990. Among the 0–2-year-olds, absenteeism was higher among those enrolled in groups for young children that among those in extended groups for siblings. For the 0–2-year-olds, the amount of time spent outdoors together with the day-care group was inversely associated with absenteeism.
Epidemiology of Sickness Absence in a Swedish County in 1985, 1986 and 1987 A Three Year Longitudinal Study with Focus on Gender, Age and Occupation
Authors: Alexanderson Kristina , Leijon Margareta , Åkerlind Ingemar , Rydh Hillevi , Bjurulf Per
Published: February 2016

In order to get a better epidemiological base for preventive intervention in the county of Östergötland, Sweden, a comprehensive study of sickness absence was done. During the years 1985, 1986 and 1987, all new periods of sick-leave exceeding seven days were registered with demographic variables. This information was related to data about the total population of Östergötland. Each year approx. 45,000 persons had approx. 61,000 sickness spells. These figures were stable over the years while the number of sick-leave days increased. Blue-collar occupations had the highest sick-leave rates and the female sick-leave rate was higher in general and much higher in most male-dominated occupations. The male rate was lower within female-dominated areas, except among secretaries and textile workers. Females in extremely male-dominated groups had the highest rates, while both male and female sick-leave rates were lower in more gender-integrated occupations.
Quality Assurance of a Diarrhoea Control Programme in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Barros Fernando C. , Forsberg Birger C. , Victora César G. , Maranhäo Ana G. K. , Stegeman Marijke , Gonzalez-Richmond Alejandro , Martins Reynaldo M. , Neumann Zilda A. , McAuliffe Jay , Branco Joäo A.
Published: February 2016

In this study quality assurance methods were used in an evaluation of a programme for Control of Diarrhoeal Diseases (CDD) in northeastern Brazil. Seventy-eight randomly selected public primary care facilities in four states were assessed by trained surveyors. Problems observed in the facilities were lack of information on target population and coverage, lack of equipment to permit rehydration in the premises, and frequent unavailability of trained professionals. Health workers showed deficiencies in history taking, physical examination and knowledge on diarrhoea management. Many caretakers had difficulties in recalling information given to them in the health facilities. Eighty-four percent of the cases were treated with oral rehydration, but 90% were sent home immediately and not kept in the facilities to practice rehydration under guidance as recommended by the national CDD programme. An overuse of the medical treatment was observed. More than two-thirds of health professionals gave wrong indications for use of antibiotics. The study showed that oral rehydration therapy is well established in the government health services in the region but that the CDD programme needs to take early action to correct deficiencies in logistics, case management and health education.
Malignant Disease Observed in a Cohort of Women A Validation of Swedish Cancer Registry Data
Authors: Helgesson Östen , Bengtsson Calle , Lapidus Leif , Merck Christer , Sparén Pär
Published: February 2016

A longitudinal study of altogether 1462 women aged 38 to 60 years started in Gothenburg, Sweden in 1968–69. Based on information from the population study and from the Swedish Cancer Registry 35 women had a history of malignant disease when initially examined in 1968–69. During a 12-year follow-up period a total of 79 malignant tumours developed in 73 women. A comparison was made between the 1988 Cancer Registry listing and the observations made in the population study. All but one out of 103 cases (99%) were registered in the Cancer Registry and all but one (99%) in the population study. It may be concluded that the accuracy of the population study registration as well as that of the Cancer Registry at that time were very high. This enables us to draw relatively safe conclusions from our own material when testing for risk factors.
Japanese Attitudes towards Truth Disclosure in Cancer
Authors: Tanida Noritoshi
Published: February 2016

Despite the increasing concerns of truth disclosure, most cancer patients are not told the truth about their disease in Japan. The author has tried to provide some insight into this issue by evaluating results from questionnaires given to hospital patients, clients in a mass cancer survey, and doctors of a college hospital. Results showed that 72% of patients and 83% of clients wanted to be told the truth, but only 33% and 34% of them thought that the truth should be told to cancer patients. These attitudes of patients and clients regarding truth disclosure were more positive than those of the general public and health care workers in previous studies. At present, 13% of doctors inform cancer patients of their disease. These trends indicate that the Japanese attitude toward avoiding truth disclosure stems primarily from paternalism but is also influenced by social characteristics including insufficient understanding of this issue. Open discussion involving all factions of society is necessary to attain a better understanding of this issue and to promote eventual truth disclosure.
Norm Systems in Transition Changes in Health-Related Values among Male Smelters at an Industrial Plant in Northern Sweden
Authors: Dahlgren Lars G. , Sandström Anita I. M.
Published: February 2016

Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an excess mortality caused by cancer and cardiovascular diseases among the workers employed at a smeltery in Northern Sweden. The aim of this paper is to elucidate the attitudes of the smelter workers to their working environment and to their health and to examine how these attitudes have changed over time. Moreover, in the analysis, we have sought explanations in the norm systems surrounding the workers and the changes in these. Interviews were carried out with 40 employees and previous employees at the smeltery. The interviewees were strategically chosen to reflect the development process of these norms within the company from its inception in the 1920s and onwards. We have attempted to describe the differences in behavioural patterns and norm expectations which characterize different periods in the history of the smeltery using four ideal type categories; the heroic man, the working-class man, the independent man and the anomic man. The workers' reactions to the norm systems have shifted gradually from conformity to indifference. The degree of individuality during these decades could be shown as a u-shaped curve.
Seasonal Variation of Neonatal and Infant Deaths by Cause in Greece
Authors: Apostolidou Ipatia , Katsouyanni Klea , Touloumi Giota , Kalpoyannis Nikolaos , Constantopoulos Andreas , Trichopoulos Dimitrios
Published: February 2016

The seasonal variation of neonatal and infant deaths in Greece was analyzed for nine consecutive years (1979–1987) by cause of death, age of death and urbanization of permanent residence. Data were supplied by the National Statistical Service of Greece. Statistical analysis was done using the Edward's method. The seasonal patterns of the number of deaths and death rates were similar. Neonatal deaths in total did not show significant seasonality but post-neonatal deaths showed seasonal variation with a peak in the winter, more evident in rural areas. Neonatal deaths from prematurity showed statistically significant seasonal variation with a peak in May. Postneonatal deaths from infections and mainly those from pneumonia showed very significant seasonal variation with a peak in February that was more prominent in rural areas. Seasonal pattern with peak in late winter was also found for postneonatal deaths from injuries. The seasonal patterns for neonatal and postneonatal deaths from sudden infant death syndrome were suggestive of an increased occurrence during the winter months mainly in urban areas.
Moral Reasoning in Biomedical Research Protocols
Authors: Holm Søren
Published: February 2016

An analysis was performed of the ethics section in 134 biomedical research protocols submitted for review to a Danish Research Ethical Committee (REC) in 1990.

The statements made in the ethics sections were identified and classified.

It was found that 20% of the protocols lack an ethics section despite a specific requirement for such a section in the Helsinki-II declaration and the guidelines issued by the REC. The ethics sections have a median length of 6 lines of text and contain a median of 3 ethically relevant statements, thereby comprising 1.13% of the total research protocol.

An analysis of the statements made show that 32% are purely formal and 30% are concerned with the area of information, consent and voluntariness. The remaining 38% are spread over a wide range of considerations.

It is hypothesized that this relatively meager result reflects the researchers perception of the research review procedure as a mostly formal procedure.
Social Mobility and Health in a Prospective Study of Middle-Aged Men
Authors: Faresjö Tomas , Svärdsudd Kurt , Tibblin Gösta
Published: February 2016

Many social factors and social phenomena and their influence on health are now of interest for epidemiological research and also for health policy. One social phenomenon of interest is mobility in the social structure of society.

In this prospective study of a sample of 50-year-old men born in 1913 in Gothenburg, Sweden, it was possible to study intergenerational social mobility and different measures of ill-health, like health complaints, incidence of myocardial infarction and mortality.

The results of the study indicate that individuals who find themselves in a lower social group than that of their father at the age of 50 exhibit a somewhat poorer subjective state of health and report more complaints and symptoms at the age of 60. They also tended to be slightly more at risk with regard to myocardial infarction, but there were no mortality differences in a long-term follow-up.
Occupational Retirement in Women due to Age Health Aspects
Authors: Östberg Henrik , Samuelsson Sven-Mårten
Published: February 2016

The impact of occupational age-retirement on physical and mental health was investigated in 116 female municipal employees (age 62–64 years old) in Malmö. Interviews and physical examinations were made about six months prior to and five months after retirement. The women were asked about present state of subjective health, earlier and present diseases, various symptoms, medication, calls to physicians, smoking habits, physical activity and sleeping habits.

The majority ( n = 109.94%) felt healthy before retirement. At least one definable disease was noted in 41 (35%). A proportion of them had a low level of subjective health which, however, improved after retirement. The disease most commonly found was hypertension. After retirement the subjective health improved in 22% and got worse in 9%. Blood pressure diminished and particularly musculo-skeletal and psychiatric symptoms were less common. Calls to physicians diminshed. Intake of drugs, smoking and sleeping habits and physical activity changed little. In general, occupational retirement due to age was associated with mostly positive influences on health.
What Are the Determinants of Children's Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke at Home?
Authors: Jaakkola Niina , Ruotsalainen Risto , Jaakkola Jouni J. K.
Published: February 2016

The objective of the study was to assess the role of smoking parents' education, socioeconomic status and knowledge of the child's health as determinants of the child's exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) at home. A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out by mailing a parent-administered questionnaire (response rate 80.3%) to a random sample of children aged 1 to 6 years, in Espoo. The present analyses focused on the 1003 children at whom one or both parents or guardians were currently smokers. A total of 253 children (25.2%) of smoking parents were reported to be exposed to ETS at home at the time when the questionnaire was filled in, while 750 (74.8%) children were not. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) for being exposed to ETS were assessed in the logistic regression. The risk of exposure to ETS was significantly higher when the parents had no professional education, compared to university or college education (OR 2.42, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 1.43–4. 11), but socioeconomic status was not associated with exposure. The risk was higher with a single parent or guardian than in families with two parents (2.17, 1.36–3.44). The risk decreased significantly for atopic children (0.61, 0.38–0.98), indicating that knowledge of the child's illness affects the smoking behavior of the parents.
Epidemiology of School Injuries in the Northern Part of Sweden
Authors: Hammarström Anne , Janlert Urban
Published: February 2016

The aim of this one-year investigation of school accidents is to obtain more knowledge for preventive work. In the agegroup 7–19 years, 547 injuries were registered, mainly at three hospitals. The incidence rate was 25 per 1000 boys and 20 per 1000 girls per year. Most injuries occurred in intermediate and upper secondary school among boys and in upper school among girls. The relative risk of school injury compared with spare-time injury was 1.8 for boys and 2.6 for girls of compulsory school age. Most injuries occurred in sports area (boys: 34%, girls: 46%). The incidence of sports injuries showed no gender differences. The highest incidence rate was found in senior school girls. Twenty-five percent of all injuries were caused by other pupils, intentional violence being one important mechanism. Head injuries were more common among school injuries compared with spare-time injuries.
Trends and Geographical Distribution of Childhood Leukemia in Greece in Relation to the Chernobyl Accident
Authors: Petridou Eleni , Proukakis Charalambos , Tong Donald , Kassimos Dimitrios , Athanassiadou-Piperopoulou Fani , Haidas Stavros , Kalmanti Maria , Koliouskas Dimitrios , Kosmidis Helen , Louizi Annie , Simopoulos Simos , Trichopoulos Dimitrios
Published: February 2016

Parts of Greece have been exposed to fallout radiation from the Chernobyl accident as much as any of the countries boardering with the former Soviet Union, because of the direction of the prevailing winds after the accident. Although fallout radiation did not reach levels expected to be associated with measurable effects, there is widespread concern in Greece that the incidence of childhood leukemia may be rising in the more heavily affected parts of Greece. Patient discharge data from all Greek hospitals treating childhood leukemia were used to calculate the annual incidence of the disease from January 1980 to June 1986 (preaccident period), from July 1986 to June 1988 (immediate postaccident period) and from July 1988 to June 1991 (“relevant” post-accident period, that accommodates the presumed latent period of the disease). Fallout radiation measurements (in Bq/kg Cs-137) were used to create 17 regions of similar (within regions) but highly variable (between regions) levels of fallout deposition. Background radiation (in Bq/kg Ra-226) and annual incidence of childhood leukemia by region were also estimated. There was no evidence of increased incidence of childhood leukemia during the immediate or the “relevant” post-Chemobyl period in any part of the country. Furthermore, regression analyses did not show any significant or suggestive association of childhood leukemia by region with either background or fallout radiation. These results indicate that the Chemobyl accident did not affect noticeably the incidence of childhood leukemia in Greece during the five-year post accident period.
Regional variation in surgical procedure rates in Finland
Authors: Keskimäki Ilmo , Aro Seppo , Teperi Juha
Published: February 2016

The aim was to describe the regional variation of population based surgery rates in Finland with special reference to the comparison of surgical activities in individual hospitals. Data on 11 common procedures covering all Finnish hospitals were obtained from the Finnish Hospital Discharge Register and the Finnish Medical Birth Register of the years 1987 and 1988. The variations of age and sex standardized procedure rates were studied across the procedure specific hospital service areas. The variation was estimated by three methods: extremal quotient, coefficient of variation, and systematic component of variation. The statistical significance of the variation measures was tested with a computerized simulation model. The variation was small for mastectomy, inguinal hernia repair, and hip replacement due to fracture, and large for lumbar disc operations, haemorrhoidectomies, and uterus operations. The results are similar to those of comparable studies elsewhere. The results indicate that there are clear differences in surgical activities between Finnish hospitals.
Multiple cause-of-death data as a tool for detecting artificial trends in the underlying cause statistics: a methodological study
Authors: Lindahl B. I.B. , Johansson Lars Age
Published: February 2016

The aims of the study were: (i) to identify trends in the underlying cause-of-death statistics that are due to changes in the coders' selection and coding of causes, and (ii) to identify changes in the coders' documented registration principles that can explain the observed trends in the statistics.

31 Basic Tabulation List categories from the Swedish national cause-of-death register for 1970–1988 were studied. The coders' tendency to register a condition as the underlying cause of death (the underlying cause ratio) was estimated by dividing the occurrence of the condition as underlying cause (the underlying cause rate) with the total registration of the condition (the multiple cause rate). When the development of the underlying cause rate series followed more closely the underlying cause ratio series than the multiple cause rate series, and a corresponding change in the registration rules could be found, the underlying cause rate trend was concluded to be due to changes in the coders' tendency to register the condition.

For thirteen categories (fourteen trends), the trends could be explained by changes in the coders' interpretation practice: five upward, four insignificant, and five downward trends. In addition, for three categories the trends could be explained by new explicit ICD-9 rules.
Are there still social inequalities in height and body mass index of Stockholm children?
Authors: Cernerud Dr Lars
Published: February 2016

Height and body mass index (BMI) of all non-immigrant schoolchildren in Stockholm in the age interval 10.0–10.9 years born in 1981 were related to the mother's educational level and the number of siblings. The two social variables were dichotomized and two extreme groups of socially more and less privileged children were formed. Socially less privileged boys were 1.1 cm shorter than their more privileged peers, whereas there was no difference as regards girls. Socially less privileged children were expected to show higher BMI, but the finding was contrary. More privileged boys were heavier. The findings were compared to a previous study of Stockholm children born in 1933–1963. Major social inequalities in height were levelled out for Stockholm children in the 1950s, a social gap reappeared in the 1960s and small disparities still exist for boys today.
Suicides in the Baltic Countries, 1968–90
Authors: Värnik Airi , Wasserman Danuta , Eklund Gunnar
Published: February 2016

Trends of male and female suicides in the Baltic countries - Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania - in the years 1968–90 were studied. As throughout the former USSR, suicide rates declined sharply from 1986, the year marking the onset of turbulent social change.

During the “period of stagnation” from 1968 to 1984, the mean value of male suicide rates per 100,000 males were 55.7 in Estonia, 52.5 in Latvia and 51.7 in Lithuania. The figures for female suicide rates were 14.3, 14.3 and 10.4, respectively. Suicide rates remained consistently high in Estonia and Latvia, while in Lithuania the male suicide rate rose gradually from 33.0 to 61.3 and the female rate from 8.0 to 13.1, during the stagnation period.

In conjunction with perestroika in the former USSR (including a restrictive alcohol policy and the first tentative steps towards democracy), annual male suicide rates per 100,000 in the years 1986–90 fell considerably below those in the stagnation period. Mean values of male suicide rates decreased by 26.6% in Estonia, 26.6% in Latvia and 14.4% in Lithuania in the period 1986–90 compared with the mean values for the period 1968–84. Female suicide rates were relatively stable and the male-female ratio was accordingly lower in 1986–90 (Estonia and Latvia 3.1, Lithuania 4.2) than in 1968–84 (Estonia 3.9, Latvia 3.7 and Lithuania 5.0).
Parasuicide in the Nordic Countries
Authors: Wasserman D , Fellman M , Bille-Brahe U , Bjerke T , Jacobsson L , Jessen G , Lönnqvist JK , Njåstad O , Ostamo A , Salander-Renberg E
Published: February 2016

This article gives an account of some findings of the WHO/EURO multicentre study on parasuicide from the five Nordic centres: Helsinki (Finland), Stockholm (Sweden), and the counties of Funen (Denmark), Sør-Trøndelag (Norway) and Västerbotten (Sweden). For parasuicide patients treated in hospital in these five Nordic centres, the parasuicide rates per 100,000 inhabitants per annum were 222 for women, 213 for men and 224 for both sexes combined. In all the Nordic centres except Helsinki, women had higher parasuicide rates than men. The female/male parasuicide ratio was 1.16 for all Nordic centres. The highest parasuicide rates in the whole material were found in Helsinki, Stockholm and Funen, and the lowest in Sør-Trøndelag and Västerbotten. The highest parasuicide rates lay in the 30–39 age interval, i.e. the peak of parasuicide rates was in older age groups than previously reported. Single people, especially divorcees and those who have never been married, constitute a high-risk group in both sexes. The risk of parasuicide for single men is three times that for married men in all the Nordic centres except Sør-Trøndelag, where the risk is five times higher. The parasuicide risk for single women is twice as high as for married women except for women in Funen, where the risk for single and married women is almost equal. Exceptionally high parasuicide rates are also reported for Finnish citizens in Sweden, compared with Finns from the Helsinki centre. Parasuicide rates appear to be correlated with population density, since the densely populated areas of Helsinki, Stockholm and Funen evince higher parasuicide rates than the sparsely populated areas of Sør-Trøndelag and Vasterbotten.
Fertility, Infertility and Child Survival of Somali Women
Authors: Omar Maymuna M. , Högberg Ulf , Bergström Brita
Published: February 2016

The relationship of reproductive patterns, some socio-economic factors and child survival was studied in 766 rural Somali women. A structured questionnaire was the method of data collection. Teenage marriage was the norm for the women, and divorce was very common. The mean number of live births was 5.2, and the mean number of surviving children was 3.7. 2/3 of the women aged 45+ had a parity of 6 or more, about one third had had at least one miscarriage and one fifth had experienced one stillbirth. Primary infertility was observed in 7% of the women aged 45+, while 20% were considered subfertile. Verbal autopsy showed that mortality was highest among infants and accounted for 63% of the child deaths. Major causes of death were neonatal tetanus, diarrhoea and respiratory diseases. Child survival and reproductive outcome ratios were found to be negatively related to the increasing age of the mother and parity. Divorce and widowhood were also found to be associated with low child survival.