bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Controlled Study Comparing a Three Times Daily Dose of Chlordiazepoxide with a Single Night-Time Dose of Trancopal in the Control of Anxiety, Using a Double-Blind, Double-Dummy Technique
Authors: Donald J F , Molla A Layes
Published: September 2014

A double-blind, double-dummy between-patient study in general practice was carried out to compare the effectiveness of a single, night-time dosage of Trancopal and a three times daily dose of chlordiazepoxide in controlling neurotic anxiety. Ninety-three patients received either 400 mg of Trancopal at night and a chlordiazepoxide placebo capsule three times daily or 10 mg of chlordiazepoxide three times daily and one or two Trancopal placebo tablets at night. Each was treated for four weeks. Three assessments were made using a physicians' rating scale (modified Hamilton Scale). A visual analogue scale was completed by patients initially and at weekly intervals and physicians' and patients' global assessments were made at Weeks 2 and 4.

Each treatment group improved considerably over the period of the study both for sleep and anxiety ratings. A statistically significant correlation was found between improvement in day-time fatigue and loss of energy and improvement in sleep disturbance only in the Trancopal group. Loss of concentration was analyzed separately in patients over 40 years old and there was a significant improvement in the physicians' rating in the Trancopal group.

There was a very close correlation throughout between the physician's and patient's own assessment of improvement. Few side-effects not already reported at the start of the trial were reported on either treatment. It was concluded that Trancopal at a usual dosage of 400 mg at night offers an effective alternative to a divided dose of chlordiazepoxide. Not only is the beneficial effect on symptoms of anxiety similar but there is some suggestion of a greater improvement in sleep and less interference with day-time functioning.
A Controlled Study of Trancopal in Sleep Disturbances Due to Rheumatic Disease
Authors: Cohen L
Published: September 2014

A placebo controlled, double-blind study was carried out in six centres in general practice to assess the effectiveness of Trancopal in treating sleep disturbances due to rheumatic disorders. Eighty-five patients received a usual dose of two tablets of Trancopal or matching placebo at night for two weeks. Patients were assessed weekly and kept a daily record of the quality of sleep.

All ratings showed that patients slept significantly better on Trancopal than on placebo. Day-time rheumatic stiffness however was not significantly reduced. Six patients receiving Trancopal reported side-effects chiefly drowsiness (five patients) which was controlled by dose reduction. It was concluded that for rheumatic patients Trancopal offers an acceptable alternative to current hypnotics over which it may prove to have some advantages, particularly for the elderly.
A Comparison of Naproxen, Indomethacin and Acetylsalicylic Acid in Pain after Varicose Vein Surgery
Authors: Aromaa Ulla , Asp Kari
Published: September 2014

Oral naproxen in doses of 500 mg and 750 mg daily was compared with oral indomethacin, 75 mg daily, in a double-blind, completely randomized study of patients with post-operative pain after out-patient varicose vein surgery. Altogether, 120 patients were studied.

In the study 750 mg naproxen proved to be equal in respect of analgesic efficacy to 75 mg indomethacin, and it was clearly superior to 1500 mg acetylsalicylic acid. Naproxen, 500 to 750 mg daily, afforded adequate postoperative analgesia in 98% of patients.

The side-effects were mild. On the basis of the study, naproxen can be recommended as a pain-relieving drug after minor surgery, particularly when an antiphlogistic effect is also desirable.
A Double-Blind, Crossover Controlled Evaluation of a Syrup for the Night-Time Relief of the Symptoms of the Common Cold, Containing Paracetamol, Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide, Doxylamine Succinate and Ephedrine Sulphate
Authors: Thackray Peter
Published: September 2014

Seventy subjects suffering from the common cold were recruited at general practitioner surgeries and were treated with an evening dose of a syrup† containing 600 mg paracetamol, 15 mg dextromethorphan hydrobromide, 8 mg ephedrine sulphate, 7.5 mg doxylamine succinate per 30 ml or an identical-appearing and flavoured control syrup without the active ingredients, in a double-blind crossover design study, lasting two days. Subjects were randomly allotted to two equal groups. One group took active formulation the first evening followed by the control formulation the second evening. The second group took the two formulations in the reverse order. Evaluation of symptomatic relief on a 6-point rating scale against eight major cold symptoms was carried out by each subject at 10 a.m. following the administration of active or control formulation the previous evening. Following combination of data for the two groups, results showed a significant degree of relief provided by the active formulation compared to control for the following symptoms, cough, nasal congestion, nasal discharge, sneezing, generally feeling unwell, headache, sore throat, disturbed sleep, the difference between the two preparations in relief of cough being highly significantly in favour of the “active” preparation. Additionally, a highly significant number of the subjects expressed a preference for the global symptomatic relief provided by the active formulation as compared to control. These results have demonstrated that the “active” formulation provides effective therapy for night-time symptomatic relief of the eight major symptoms of the common cold.
Retrospective Assessment of Thymoxamine (Opilon) in the Treatment of Ménières Disease
Authors: Young J R
Published: September 2014

A retrospective study of 305 patients treated with thymoxamine (Opilon) for Ménières disease is described. Thymoxamine controlled symptoms in 78.7% of patients and the time to maximum improvement ranged from six weeks to three months. Seven patients suffered side-effects.
The D-Xylose Test in Obstructive Airways Disease
Authors: Fulcher R , Fielding J F
Published: September 2014

The absorption and excretion of D-xylose was independent of either the presence, or the degree, of obstructive airways disease.
A Single Dose Study Comparing the Analgesic Effects of Diflunisal, Acetylsalicylic Acid, and Placebo in Pain following Meniscectomy
Authors: Honig W J , Cremer C W R J , Manni J G , Buntinx A , Steelman S L , Besselaar G H
Published: September 2014

A single dose experiment was used to evaluate the analgesic effect of diflunisal, a new salicylic acid derivative. Three dose levels of diflunisal (125 mg, 250 mg, and 500 mg) were compared to one dose level of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) (600 mg) and placebo.

The maximal analgesia induced by 500 mg diflunisal was comparable to that of 600 mg ASA. The onset of action was slightly more rapid with ASA but the duration of the analgesic effect was far longer for diflunisal, extending beyond 8 hours after administration.

Diflunisal is a promising drug for the treatment of post-operative pain because of its long-lasting effect.
A Comparison of the Efficacy and Acceptability of Two Formulations of Injectable Serenace in the Treatment of States of Excitement
Authors: Suleman D E
Published: September 2014

Serenace was tested in its two formulations of dextrose and saline base and the results confirm no significant differences between the two preparations, either in their efficacy and acceptability or in the control of presenting symptoms.
A Comparative Clinical Trial of Mianserin (Norval®) and Amitriptyline in the Treatment of Depression in General Practice
Authors: Murphy J Eric , Bridgman K M
Published: September 2014

A double-blind controlled comparative trial of mianserin (Norval®) and amitriptyline was conducted in general practice. Fifty-one patients were treated with amitriptyline and fifty-five with mianserin. The dosage for the first week was 25 mg t.d.s. for amitriptyline and 10 mg t.d.s. for mianserin, increasing to 50 mg t.d.s. and 20 mg t.d.s. respectively for the subsequent three weeks. Both drugs proved equally effective in relieving the symptoms of primary depression but mianserin showed a reduced incidence of side-effects which was statistically significant.
Concomitant Administration of Timolol and Hydrochlorothiazide/Amiloride in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Hintzen A H J , Henquet J W M , Chappin J J M L , Slagboom G
Published: September 2014

In an open dose titration study we evaluated the antihypertensive effect of the concomitant administration of timolol and hydrochlorothiazide/amiloride, administered on a b.i.d. basis.

Twenty-eight out of 39 patients completed the study.

Supine and standing systolic and diastolic blood pressures and pulse rate were significantly lower at the end of the titration period than at the end of the diuretic period.
The Therapeutic Effect of Chondroitin Polysulphate in Elderly Atherosclerotic Patients
Authors: Nakazawa K , Murata K
Published: September 2014

The therapeutic effect of chondroitin polysulphate (CPS) in atherosclerosis was clinically investigated following oral administration to 46 elderly age-matched patients. Half of the patients received CPS in a daily dose of 3 g and the remaining patients received placebo treatment. The treatment period varied between 6 and 64 months. During the study 4 patients died; 3 had been receiving placebo treatment and 1 had been receiving CPS. In a control group of 40 completely untreated elderly patients, matched for age, there were, by comparison, 16 deaths. Serum cholesterol measured in the CPS-treated group, fell to mean values between 10% and 20% lower than the pre-treatment values and serum triglyceride fell, significantly, to mean values 27% lower than those of controls. After 3 months of CPS treatment, mean clotting time was prolonged by 50%. In 1 patient with angina pectoris there was marked electrocardiographic evidence of improvement, with diminution of ST depression. No side-effects attributable to the medication were recorded during the study. The anti-lipaemic and anti-thrombogenic properties of CPS were thus demonstrated in clinical practice.
Netilmicin Treatment of Serious Infections in Patients with Renal Insufficiency
Authors: Jonsson Marianne , Julander Inger , Tunevall Gösta , Haeger Knut
Published: September 2014

Out of 24 patients with suspected moderate to severe infections and treated with the semisynthetic aminoglycoside netilmicin, 11 patients had decreased renal function. Non-bacterial aetiology was present in five cases. There was good netilmicin effect in 10 cases, indeterminate effect in 6 cases (due to simultaneously given other antibiotics) and failure in 3 cases. Pharmacokinetic parameters were studied. Curves are given for serum concentration patterns relative to creatinine clearance, and serum half lives are calculated in renal dysfunction.

In this series of very ill patients including impaired renal function, netilmicin proved to be an efficient antibiotic with low toxicity. Only one transient minor vestibular abnormality in an 80-year-old man with concomitant diuretic medication was registered.
Psychopharmaca, Psychic Illness, and Driving Ability: A Contribution to the Debate
Authors: Hobi V
Published: September 2014

Four studies treating methodological and clinical aspects of the question of driving ability of the mentally ill under psychopharmaca have been discussed. The complexity of the integral interplay in the domain of physiological, emotional, and psychomotor-cognitive functions relevant for driving behaviour makes an equally complex experimental design appear necessary to tackle this problem. Although the various test apparatus marketed for the investigation of driving fitness allow a relatively proper estimate, the examination of mentally ill patients under psychopharmaca calls for the differentiated inclusion of physiological, pharmacological, pharmacokinetic, pschomotor-cognitive, and personality-specific dimensions.

The present state of science requires the repeated judgment of the treating therapist in addition. This judgment can only be made on the basis of a partnership between doctor and patient.
A Comparison of the Effect of Combined Frusemide and Controlled-Release Potassium Tablets (Diumide-K Continus Tablets) and Frusemide and Slow-K Tablets in Elderly Patients with Cardiac Failure
Authors: Rao C R
Published: September 2014

Serum potassium levels, weight, heart function and patient's opinion of therapy were assessed in a study comparing 40 mg of frusemide and 600 mg of controlled-release potassium chloride in a combined tablet to frusemide and potassium supplements given as separate tablets in thirty elderly patients in cardiac failure. Potassium levels were significantly higher, heart function was significantly improved and patient's opinion of therapy was better after the combined tablet therapy than both pre-trial and after the separate tablet therapy. There was no significant difference in weight reduction.
Chronic Stable Angina: Comparison of Verapamil and Propranolol
Authors: Southall E , Nutt N R , Thomas R D
Published: September 2014

The effect of verapamil 120 mg t.d.s. was compared with propranolol 160 mg b.d. in the treatment of stable angina pectoris. Nineteen patients were studied in a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial, using patient diaries, exercise-testing and ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring. Both drugs were given for 1 month. On average the number of attacks of angina was reduced equally by verapamil and propranolol. The degree of electrocardiographic evidence of myocardial ischaemia was decreased by the same amount, but verapamil was significantly more effective in prolonging the exercise time. Both drugs reduced the number of episodes of ST-segment depression during 24 hours of ambulatory electrocardiographic monitoring, which was analyzed in nine patients. It is concluded that verapamil compares very favourably with propranolol in the treatment of stable angina, and is more beneficial in improving exercise capacity.
Clinical Comparison of Alclometasone Dipropionate and Desonide Ointments (0·05%) in the Management of Psoriasis
Authors: Frost P , Horwitz S N
Published: September 2014

This was a double-blind, randomized, parallel-groups comparison of alclometasone dipropionate and desonide ointments (0·05%) applied twice daily without occlusion for 3 weeks by patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. Data from thirty-three patients in each group showed that both treatments produced rapid amelioration of erythema, induration, and, especially, scaling; substantial improvement was evident after 1 week and continued thereafter. Differences between the groups were not statistically significant, but trends consistently favoured alclometasone. No adverse drug reaction occurred.
Effect of Salicylic Acid on the Activity of Betamethasone-17,21-Dipropionate in the Treatment of Erythematous Squamous Dermatoses
Authors: Elic Robert , Durocher Louis-Philippe , Kavalec Edward C
Published: September 2014

Forty adult out-patients with erythematous squamous dermatoses of the scalp were treated in this 21-day double-blind study with an alcohol base lotion containing either 0·05% betamethasone-17,21-dipropionate, 2% salicylic acid, 0·05% betamethasone-17,21-dipropionate + 2% salicylic acid or their respective placebo. The four treatments were assigned randomly to the patients according to a 2 × 2 orthogonal factorial design. Changes in severity of redness, scaling, pruritus and size of lesions were evaluated. Since very few patients presented with excoriation and lichenificatioh, these symptoms could not be ascertained. Results were assessed for significance by covariance analysis where initial status was used as regressor. A potentiation of the betamethasone-17,21-dipropionate activity by salicylic acid was observed for scaling. An additive effect was noted for redness and pruritus. According to the physician's global evaluation, patients treated with the combination drug showed a better evolution than those treated with placebo.

The results suggest that addition of a keratolytic agent enhances the corticosteroid effect in the treatment of erythematous squamous dermatoses.
Treatment of Constipation with Chenodeoxycholic Acid
Authors: Bazzoli F , Malavolti M , Petronelli A , Barbara L , Roda E
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the cathartic effect of chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) could be helpful in the management of chronic constipation. Twenty cholesterol gall-stone patients with chronic constipation were randomly treated with either CDCA (750 mg/day in three divided doses at meals) or placebo for a period of 4 weeks.

The administration of CDCA produced a significant increase of stool frequency and a decrease of stool consistency, while placebo was not effective in improving the bowel habit of the patients. As some patients complained of diarrhoea, and some had no modification of bowel frequency, further studies are needed to determine the most appropriate dose for each patient.
Treatment of Chronic Constipation by a Bulk-Forming Laxative (Fibrolax®)
Authors: Borgia M , Sepe N , Brancato V , Costa G , Simone P , Borgia R , Lugli R
Published: September 2014

Seventy-five patients affected by chronic constipation were treated for 4 weeks with an Ispaghula Husk preparation (Fibrolax®), a bulk-forming laxative.

Frequency, stool consistency, abdominal pain and signs of venous stasis improved after treatment. No important side-effect was recorded. Cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides did not show significant changes.
Chlorthalidone-Triamterene: A Potassium-Sparing Diuretic Combination for the Treatment of Oedema
Authors: Webb Edmund L , Godfrey John C , Rosenbaum Robert , Zisblatt Martin , Vukovich Robert A , Neiss E S
Published: September 2014

The efficacy of a once-daily combination of chlorthalidone 50 mg plus triamterene 50 mg or chlorthalidone 100 mg plus triamterene 100 mg was compared to that of chlorthalidone 50 mg or 100 mg. This double-blind study was carried out in eighty-eight patients over a treatment period of 12 weeks. All patients entered the active medication period of 12 weeks after a placebo run-in period of 3 to 7 days, during which pretibial or maleolar pitting oedema averaging 2 to 4 mm developed. All patients started at the lower doses, i.e. forty-one started on chlorthalidone 50 mg plus triamterene 50 mg and forty-seven started on chlorthalidone 50 mg. The protocol provided for doubling the dose (but not for reducing it thereafter) at any time during the 12-week period when control of oedema was deemed inadequate. Eight of the combination therapy patients and sixteen of those on chlorthalidone required the higher doses. By Week 12, 96% of the chlorthalidone plus triamterene patients and 100% of the chlorthalidone patients had shown a reduction of at least 2 mm in depth of pits, and 92% and 72%, respectively, had complete disappearance of oedema. The decreases in pitting oedema were paralleled by mean weight losses of 2·4 kg and 3·1 kg, respectively, for the combination treatment group and the chlorthalidone group. Average serum potassium levels throughout the 12-week treatment period were 3·70 mEq/L for the patients taking the combination compared to 3·41 mEq/L of those taking chlorthalidone.

Serum potassium levels were significantly (p < 0·05) better maintained in the chlorthalidone plus triamterene group than in the chlorthalidone group. It is concluded that the combination is as effective as chlorthalidone alone in the treatment of patients with oedema, and that the combination has significantly greater potassium-sparing effect than does chlorthalidone at comparable doses.
Comparison of Topical Treatment with Desoxymethasone Solution 0·25% with Salicylic Acid 1% and Betamethasone Valerate Solution 0·1% in Patients with Psoriasis of the Scalp
Authors: Hillström Lars
Published: September 2014

A new preparation for treatment of psoriasis of the scalp, containing desoxymethasone 0·25%, salicylic acid 1% and polyol-fatty esters in ethanolic solution (Ibaril®) was tested in patients with psoriasis of the scalp. In a double-blind study comprising forty patients there was a significant difference in favour of this solution in comparison with betamethasone valerate solution, 0·1% (Betnovat®) after 2 weeks of treatment.
Comparison of Dicyclomine with Antacid and without Antacid in Dyspepsia
Authors: Kagan G , Huddlestone L , Wolstencroft P
Published: September 2014

In a study of forty-two patients with dyspepsia, hiatus hernia or duodenal ulcer, dicyclomine (Merbentyl) has been demonstrated to be effective in the control of the symptoms of this disorder.

Under double-blind conditions an antacid or placebo supplement was provided and no significant difference in benefit was recorded. The antacid was given in a large tablet and this preparation was more conscientiously taken by patients, and this was equally true for large placebo tablets.

Clearly patients like to take frequent treatment for dyspepsia, but symptom control is quite adequate if Merbentyl is given alone.
Capturing Crime
Authors: Wright Kevin A. , Bouffard Leana A.
Published: September 2014

The qualitative analysis of individual cases has a prominent place in the development of criminological theory, yet progression in the scientific study of crime has largely been viewed as a distinctly quantitative endeavor. In the process, much of the theoretical depth and precision supplied by earlier methods of criminological knowledge production have been sacrificed. The current work argues for a return to our criminological roots by supplementing quantitative analyses with the qualitative inspection of individual cases. We provide a specific example of a literature (i.e., criminal specialization/versatility) that has become increasingly quantitative and could benefit from the use of the proposed approach. We conclude by offering additional areas of research that might be advanced by our framework presented here.
Measurement of visual sensitivity in migraine: Validation of two scales and correlation with visual cortex activation
Authors: Cucchiara Brett , Datta Ritobrato , Aguirre Geoffrey K , Idoko Kimberly E , Detre John
Published: September 2014

Objective

The objectives of this article are to compare interictal and ictal visual sensitivity between migraine and controls using two published questionnaires, and to correlate responses with a physiologic measure of visual cortex activation.

Methods

Migraine with (MWA, n = 51) and without (MwoA, n = 45) aura and control individuals ( n = 45) were enrolled and underwent BOLD fMRI with a visual stimulus. The visual discomfort score (VDS) assessed interictal and the migraine photophobia score (MPS) assessed ictal visual sensitivity.

Result

VDS was significantly higher both in MWA and MwoA vs controls (both p < 0.0001). MPS was greater in MWA vs MwoA ( p = 0.008). Ictal and interictal visual sensitivity strongly correlated in MWA ( p = 0.004) but not MwoA patients ( p = 0.12). BOLD activation in visual cortex was greater in MWA vs controls (2.7% vs 2.3%, p = 0.003) but similar between MwoA and controls. Increasing VDS was associated with greater BOLD signal change in MWA ( p = 0.03) but not MwoA ( p = 0.65) or controls ( p = 0.53). MPS did not correlate with BOLD activation in either group.

Conclusion

Increased interictal visual sensitivity is present both in MWA and MwoA. However, the correlation with ictal visual sensitivity and with cortical hyper-responsivity varies between MWA and MwoA, suggesting underlying differences between groups.
Retear Rate in the Late Postoperative Period After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Kim Jae Hwa , Hong In Tae , Ryu Keun Jung , Bong Sun Tae , Lee Yoon Seok , Kim Jang Hwan
Published: September 2014

Background:

Few clinical studies have evaluated the integrity of repaired tendons and identified the timing of retears through the use of serial imaging.

Hypothesis:

Retears after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair are uncommon in the late postoperative period (after 3 months).

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Among 221 arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs that were performed at a single hospital between May 2010 and February 2012, 61 were involved in this study. Rotator cuff tears consisted of 12 small, 31 medium, 8 large, and 6 massive rotator cuff tears. Additionally, 4 isolated subscapularis tears were included. For clinical evaluation, all patients were assessed both preoperatively and postoperatively by use of the University of California–Los Angeles Shoulder Rating Scale, absolute and relative Constant scores, and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons score; active range of motion was assessed as well. For radiological evaluation, all 61 patients had a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation at 3 months postoperatively. Among them, 23 patients were evaluated for repaired tendon integrity on postoperative MRI at a minimum of 1 year after surgery (mean, 14.1 months; range, 12-19 months), and results were classified according to the Sugaya classification: type I, sufficient thickness with homogeneously low intensity on each image; type II, sufficient thickness, partial high-intensity area; type III, less than half the thickness without discontinuity; type IV, minor discontinuity; and type V, major discontinuity. The remaining 38 patients, who refused to undergo MRI again for financial reasons, were evaluated through ultrasound.

Results:

Statistically significant clinical improvements were observed after surgery. The MRI conducted at 3 months postoperatively identified 9 patients with Sugaya type I, 28 patients with type II, and 24 patients with type III repairs. No patients showed Sugaya type IV or V repairs at postoperative 3 months. Thirty-seven patients who had shown Sugaya type I or II repairs on 3-month postoperative MRI had no retear on imaging study at a minimum of 1 year. Of 24 patients who had shown type III repairs on 3-month postoperative MRI, 1 patient exhibited retear (Sugaya type IV) on 1-year postoperative MRI and 3 patients showed full-thickness retear on 1-year postoperative ultrasonography. All 4 of these patients had had large to massive tears preoperatively.

Conclusion:

Retears occurred infrequently in the late postoperative period (after 3 months) in well-healed tendons that had shown intact cuff repair integrity with sufficient mechanical and biological healing within the first 3 postoperative months.
Experimental investigation on bending behavior of 3D non-crimp orthogonal composite
Authors: Sun Fei , Sun Ying , Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Diantang , Chen Li
Published: September 2014

This paper presents an experimental study of the microstructure characteristics and bending behavior of three-dimensional (3D) non-crimp orthogonal composite panel. A novel preform technique is developed to produce 3D non-crimp orthogonal reinforcements with different z-binder volume fractions. Combined with various consolidation pressures in the resin infiltration process, five different types of 3D non-crimp orthogonal composites are measured. Quasi-static three-point bending coupon tests are carried out to measure the bending behavior in both x-axis and y-axis directions. Test results reveal that the average bending failure strength of the coupon with higher z-binder volume fractions is higher than those with lower z-binder volume fractions, while the bending modulus has dependence on the z-binder fineness. In addition, higher consolidation pressure leads to yarns compaction and crimp, which is beneficial for the bending resistance of composites. The fracture surfaces are also studied using scanning electron microscope, and the bending damage modes are discussed. It is noted that the crack causes the z-binder/matrix interface debonding, yarns breakage and fibers pull-out slightly.
Women of Mystery
Authors: Gouthro Patricia A.
Published: September 2014

This article explores the learning pathways of 15 Canadian and American female crime fiction authors. Using a critical feminist perspective, it argues that despite the neoliberal rhetoric of individual choice, as in most careers, there are social-structural factors that create opportunities and barriers for women mystery writers. The article explores the background factors that shape women’s interest in writing crime fiction, considers the challenges that they face in developing their careers, and looks at the supports that may help them to attain success. Despite challenges, there is often intrinsic value in doing meaningful work that may motivate women to develop a fiction-writing career.
Losing professional identity? Deck officers in the Spanish merchant marine, 1868–1914
Authors: Garcia Enric
Published: September 2014

As transatlantic trade between Spain and her American colonies developed from the sixteenth century onwards, a new class of ocean-going vessel commander emerged. Gradually, pilotos, who were trained in nautical schools, replaced the former coastal trade patrones as masters and mates in long-distance navigation. During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, accession to this professional class entailed the completion of a challenging programme of study, which was assessed through a range of examinations and tests to yield a mate’s qualification for those who successfully negotiated the course. Only then would ship-owners have sufficient confidence to consider mates for promotion to the rank of master and manager of a shipping venture. The transition from sail to steam greatly affected the work and life of seafarers in the world shipping industry, especially those who belonged to the class of professional masters and mates. This was particularly so in the Spanish merchant marine, which had some peculiarities that must be borne in mind if this particular process of change is to be fully understood. The aim of this article is to analyse from various perspectives the complex roles of the master, who functioned as both employer and employee, in Spanish shipping enterprises. By so doing, it is intended that a platform for further research, and broader, comparative analyses, will be constructed.
Labyrinth of war: archipelago fleets and society in the Gulf of Finland 1520–1809
Authors: Huhtamies Mikko
Published: September 2014

This research note provides an overview of archipelago warfare and its impact on society in the Gulf of Finland during the early modern period. It focuses on geographical conditions in the Gulf, and the birth of archipelago warfare. The inner archipelago of the Finnish coast was a labyrinth of war, and a peculiar theatre for naval warfare, in which galleys dominated battles over sea lines of communications. In the sixteenth century, Sweden had one of the largest galley fleets in the world. The Vasa dynasty even tried to initiate naval co-operation with the superpower of the era, Spain, ruled by Philip II. In the seventeenth century, Denmark emerged as the main enemy. Accordingly, war in the archipelago temporarily came to an end, and emphasis was placed on fleets built for the open sea. After the founding of St Petersburg in 1703, a new era of galley warfare began in the Gulf, and both Russians and Swedes assembled remarkable fleets of oared vessels. The founding of Sveaborg fortress as a base for the archipelago fleet in 1748 was a turning point, for its construction had a major impact on the vicinity and paved the way for the growth of Helsinki. The Gulf of Finland was the last place in the world in which oared vessels were used in warfare.
‘These peaceable times are the devil’: Royal Navy officers in the post-war slump, 1815–1825
Authors: Wilcox Martin
Published: September 2014

During the Napoleonic War, the Royal Navy grew to an unprecedented size, but with the return of peace it dispensed with the services of an also unprecedented 124,000 men. By 1818, around 90% of commissioned officers were unemployed and on half pay. Drawing on the papers of navy agent Robert Brine, as well as Admiralty and Parliamentary sources, this paper sets out the scale of the unemployment problem among commissioned officers and the effects it had upon them, and surveys the options available to erstwhile sea officers and the strategies the deployed to make a living amid the post-war slump.
African islands and the formation of the Dutch Atlantic economy: Arguin, Gorée, Cape Verde and São Tomé, 1590–1670
Authors: da Silva Filipa Ribeiro
Published: September 2014

The role played by Atlantic islands in the formation of European overseas empires, and the development of coastal and intercontinental commercial routes and business networks, is relatively well studied for the Iberian Atlantic. Few scholars have, however, examined the functions of isles in the building of Dutch maritime connections. This paper partially fills this void in the literature by looking at the African islands of Arguin, Gorée, Cape Verde and São Tomé, and highlighting their significance within the seventeenth-century Dutch Atlantic. Using information from the notarial archives of Amsterdam, the collection of the Dutch West India Company (WIC) and journals of voyages, we examine the role played by these islands in the formation and operationalization of Dutch commercial circuits in the Atlantic, and emphasize their geo-strategic importance for the achievement of the colonial aspirations and military ambitions of the Dutch Republic and the WIC.
Nutrition Status of Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B or C
Authors: Menta Penélope Lacrísio dos Reis , Correia Maria Isabel Toulson Davisson , Vidigal Paula Vieira Teixeira , Silva Luciana Diniz , Teixeira Rosângela
Published: September 2014

Objective: Nutrition disorders in patients with chronic liver disease have become a recent concern because these disorders influence outcomes. We investigated patients' nutrition status, included consecutively in the last 2 years to the study, and related the results with the severity of liver disease. Methods: A total of 230 patients with hepatitis B (n = 80) or C (n = 150) were evaluated by the subjective global assessment (SGA) and body mass index (BMI). The risk of metabolic complications was assessed by waist circumference (WC) and the percentage of body fat (%BF). Alcohol abuse was defined as daily consumption >20 g and >30 g for women and men, respectively. Results: The mean age was 54 years, with 52.6% women, 75% patients without cirrhosis, and 15% patients with cirrhosis. According to the SGA, 86.5% of patients were nourished, and 13.5% were malnourished. Malnutrition was associated with cirrhosis (prevalence ratio [PR], 1.25; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1–1.4; P < .001), alcohol abuse, direct bilirubin >3.0 mg/dL, international normalized ratio >1.1, platelet <150 × 103/mm3, hemoglobin <12 g/dL, and serum albumin <3.5 g/dL (P < .05). According to the BMI, 43.9% of patients were eutrophic, 33.5% were overweight, 21.3% were obese, and 1.3% were underweight. Obese patients had a higher prevalence of steatosis than eutrophic (PR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.15–2.04; P = .003) and overweight (PR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.33–2.20; P < .001) patients. Overweight/obesity was associated with WC >94 cm (men) and >80 cm (women), %BF >25% (men) and >32% (women) (P < .01), triglyceride >150 mg/dL, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol <40 mg/dL, glucose >99 mg/dL, insulin >20 µU/mL, homeostatic model assessment–insulin resistance >3.2, and thyroid‐stimulating hormone >2.5 µU/mL (P < .05). Conclusions: Overweight/obesity is prevalent among patients with hepatitis B and C and can contribute to the development of steatosis. Malnutrition is also observed and is related to the severity of liver disease.
Vitamin D Status Following Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Cole Abigail J. , Beckman Lauren M. , Earthman Carrie P.
Published: September 2014

Individuals with extreme obesity who qualify for bariatric surgery are frequently vitamin D deficient before and after surgery. The anatomical changes that occur during some bariatric procedures may lead to decreased absorption of vitamin D, although vitamin D absorption and metabolism has not been quantified or compared across surgeries, and multiple other factors could influence vitamin D status in these individuals. Vitamin D treatment and dosing studies show that there is variability in how individuals respond to supplementation regimens regardless of the bariatric procedure. It is unknown if improving vitamin D status before and/or after bariatric surgery can affect health‐related outcomes in this population beyond the traditional roles of vitamin D. Vitamin D has been purported to positively influence a variety of obesity‐related comorbidities. Furthermore, in light of the potential role of vitamin D in immunity and inflammation, it seems important to consider the ramifications of vitamin D deficiency in the postbariatric individual in the critical care setting and particularly in the context of aging. Additional research is needed to develop evidence‐based guidelines for optimal treatment of vitamin D deficiency in individuals before and after bariatric surgery and to determine the impact of vitamin D repletion on non–bone health–related outcomes in these individuals.
Association of the Nipple-Areola Complexes with Age, Parity, and Breastfeeding in Korean Premenopausal Women
Authors: Park In Yang , Kim Mee Ran , Jo Hyun Hee , Lee Min Kyoung , Kim Min Jeong
Published: September 2014

Background:

There is no standard method of measuring the nipple-areola complex or defining the normal range and the changes seen in this complex. Numerous factors are involved in the anthropometric characteristics of the nipple-areola complex.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the anthropometric characteristics of the nipple-areola complex related to age, parity, and breastfeeding in 234 premenopausal Korean women (468 breasts).

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2011 to June 2012. Five parameters of both nipple-areola complexes were measured in volunteers who were placed in a supine position. The diameters of the nipple-areola complex and the nipple projection were measured using micrometer calipers.

Results:

The size of the nipple-areola complex increased according to age ( P < .05). The measurements of the right nipple and the vertical diameter of the right areola were larger than those of the left sides in all age groups. There were no differences in the horizontal areola diameter and nipple projection between the 2 sides. The left horizontal areola diameter in breastfeeding parous women was larger than that in the nonbreastfeeding parous women group ( P = .011). The nipple projection was associated with the duration of breastfeeding (especially more than 12 months). The percentage of women with retracted nipples was 11.2%.

Conclusion:

Our study may be helpful in understanding nipple-areola complex changes related to age, parity, and breastfeeding. These results should be evaluated with larger study cohorts and more longitudinal studies to better understand factors related to changes of the nipple-areola complex.
Shining Stars, Blind Sides, and “Real” Realities
Authors: van den Scott Lisa-Jo K. , Forstie Clare , Balasubramanian Savina
Published: September 2014

Competitive reality television is a pervasive part of contemporary American culture and encompasses a range of topics and forms. We identify three categories, or spheres, of contestant-elimination reality shows: External Vote, Internal Vote, and Choosing Individual/Deity. Within each sphere, we examine the locus of blame and the structure of the show as contexts for the elimination as symbolic death. This symbolic death presents allegories of loss of fame, social isolation, and individual loss of job, career, or love across these spheres. Contestants perform eulogy work to cope publicly with their elimination at the moment of exit. Eulogy work enables departing contestants to frame their “death” as a good death and to “cool themselves out” in an attempt to save face. In this way, contestants deal with conceptions of self in the show and the transfer of that self back to a reality outside of the bracketed time and space of the show. Drawing on literature from the sociology of emotions, the sociology of death, and the sociology of ritual, we provide the concept of eulogy work to capture the performance of the self specifically in the context of loss.
Analysis of the Value of Celebrity Affiliation to Nonprofit Contributions
Authors: Harris Erica E. , Ruth Julie A.
Published: September 2014

Nonprofit organizations rely on contributions to achieve mission-based objectives. While many determinants of contributions have been uncovered (e.g., fundraising budget, organization age, and operational efficiency), little is known about the role that celebrity affiliation plays in generating contributions. Using a sample of more than 500 industry-diverse charities with known celebrity affiliations, we find support for the celebrity-lift hypothesis—that celebrity-affiliated nonprofits are associated with increased contributions. We also find that celebrity affiliation has a substitution effect such that fundraising expenses are lower at celebrity-affiliated organizations.
Social Diversity and Civic Engagement
Authors: Polson Edward C.
Published: September 2014

A growing body of research has been devoted to examining the community service activities of congregations. Yet there is much we still do not know about factors that affect variation in levels of congregational community service. One area that deserves attention is the relationship between congregational services and increasing levels of diversity in the United States. Are homogeneous or diverse congregations more or less likely to provide services to their communities? Does the makeup of a congregation’s surrounding community affect the likelihood that it will become involved in the provision of services? Utilizing data from the U.S. Congregational Life Survey (USCLS), I explore the effects that diversity has on the community service activities of congregations. Results from multivariate analyses suggest that some types of diversity may increase the number of service programs provided by congregations.
Child-headed households under watchful adult eyes: Support or surveillance?
Authors: Haley Jeanne F , Bradbury Jill
Published: September 2014

This article is based on a narrative study involving six adolescent heads of households and their siblings from an informal township and a rural village in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, focusing on how they construct their sense of self and family. The article explores the stories emerging from the study about the relationship between children in child-headed households and adults in the wider community. While these young people do experience networks of support, perceptions of hostile adult surveillance emerged as an unexpected competing dominant theme. Furthermore, this surveillance is particularly gendered, with girls positioned as ‘whores’ and boys as ‘thugs’. It is suggested that this pejorative policing may be indicative of high levels of anxiety about the disintegration of family and community life.
Experimental investigation of the effect of temperature in semisolid casting using cooling slope method
Authors: Kolahdooz Amin , Nourouzi S , Bakhshi Jooybari M , Hosseinipour SJ
Published: September 2014

In this work, the cooling slope method is employed to produce the A356 feedstock in semisolid processing. This paper discusses the effect of temperature on the final microstructure of A356 aluminum alloy in this method. These temperatures are casting temperature, mold temperature, and cooling slope plate temperature. The dendritic primary phase in the conventionally cast A356 alloy is transformed into a non-dendritic one in ingots cast over a cooling plate at casting temperature of 600 ℃, 615 ℃, 625 ℃, 650 ℃, and 680 ℃, and at condition of using a cooling system or without it. After pouring, the melt which becomes semisolid at the end of the plate is consequently poured into cylindrical steel mold at temperatures of 25 ℃, 200 ℃, and 400 ℃. The cooling slope is adjusted at the angle of 50° with respect to the horizontal plane and 500 mm length. It is found that the pouring, plate, and mold temperatures affect the size and morphology of α-Al phase. The effects of these are 22% decrease on average grain diameter and 8.5% increase on the shape factor at the weakest case. The results illustrated that by modifying the temperature the hardness of the specimens is increased. The results indicated that the highest uniformity with the grain size of ∼88 µm and maximum shape factor of 0.68 are related to pouring and mold temperature of 625 ℃ and 200 ℃, respectively using water cooling system.
Cost-effectiveness of annual versus biennial screening mammography for women with high mammographic breast density
Authors: Pataky Reka , Ismail Zahra , Coldman Andrew J , Elwood Mark , Gelmon Karen , Hedden Lindsay , Hislop Greg , Kan Lisa , McCoy Bonnie , Olivotto Ivo A , Peacock Stuart
Published: September 2014

Objectives

The sensitivity of screening mammography is much lower among women who have dense breast tissue, compared with women who have largely fatty breasts, and they are also at much higher risk of developing the disease. Increasing mammography screening frequency from biennially to annually has been suggested as a policy option to address the elevated risk in this population. The purpose of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of annual versus biennial screening mammography among women aged 50–79 with dense breast tissue.

Methods

A Markov model was constructed based on screening, diagnostic, and treatment pathways for the population-based screening and cancer care programme in British Columbia, Canada. Model probabilities and screening costs were calculated from screening programme data. Costs for breast cancer treatment were calculated from treatment data, and utility values were obtained from the literature. Incremental cost-effectiveness was expressed as cost per quality adjusted life year (QALY), and probabilistic sensitivity analysis was conducted.

Results

Compared with biennial screening, annual screening generated an additional 0.0014 QALYs (95% CI: −0.0480–0.0359) at a cost of $819 ($ = Canadian dollars) per patient (95% CI: 506–1185), resulting in an incremental cost effectiveness ratio of $565,912/QALY. Annual screening had a 37.5% probability of being cost-effective at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100,000/QALY.

Conclusion

There is considerable uncertainty about the incremental cost-effectiveness of annual mammography. Further research on the comparative effectiveness of screening strategies for women with high mammographic breast density is warranted, particularly as digital mammography and density measurement become more widespread, before cost-effectiveness can be reevaluated.
Book Review: Pushpa Sundar, Business and Community: The Study of Corporate Social Responsibility in India
Authors: Tripathi Dwijendra
Published: September 2014

Pushpa Sundar, Business and Community: The Study of Corporate Social Responsibility in India, New Delhi: SAGE Publications, 2013, 392 pp.
Test and Extension of Multiple Foci/Multiple Components of Workplace Commitment in a Hospital in India
Authors: Kwantes Catherine T. , Prasad L.
Published: September 2014

Employees who are committed to their organization confer a distinct advantage to that organization. The bases upon which employees in different occupations may become committed to their organization, and the focus of that commitment may differ, however. This research examined different occupations (physicians, staff, nurses) in a hospital in southern India to compare the strength of different components of organizational commitment (affective, continuance, normative) as well as the focus of commitment (organization, supervisor, co-worker). As hypothesized, different categories of occupations resulted in different levels of commitment as well as differential patterns of commitment to different foci. Nurses reported the highest level of overall commitment. The framework of psychological contracts is used to interpret these findings, with different needs and expectancies of each category of employee causing different psychological contract expectations. Managerial implications are discussed.