bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validity of the American Sign Language Discrimination Test
Authors: Bochner Joseph H. , Samar Vincent J. , Hauser Peter C. , Garrison Wayne M. , Searls J. Matt , Sanders Cynthia A.
Published: July 2015

American Sign Language (ASL) is one of the most commonly taught languages in North America. Yet, few assessment instruments for ASL proficiency have been developed, none of which have adequately demonstrated validity. We propose that the American Sign Language Discrimination Test (ASL-DT), a recently developed measure of learners’ ability to discriminate phonological and morphophonological contrasts in ASL, provides an objective overall measure of ASL proficiency. In this study, the ASL-DT was administered to 194 participants at beginning, intermediate, and high levels of ASL proficiency, a subset of which ( N = 57) also was administered the Sign Language Proficiency Interview (SLPI), a widely used subjective proficiency measure. Using Rasch analysis to model ASL-DT item difficulty and person ability, we tested the ability of the ASL-DT Rasch measure to detect participant proficiency group mean differences and compared its discriminant performance to the SLPI ratings for classifying individuals into their pre-assigned proficiency groups using resource operating characteristic statistics. The ASL-DT Rasch measure outperformed the SLPI ratings, indicating that the ASL-DT may provide a valid objective measure of overall ASL proficiency. As such, the ASL-DT Rasch measure may provide a useful complement to measures such as the SLPI in comprehensive sign language assessment programs.
Profiting from War
Authors: Loxham Angela
Published: July 2015

This article addresses the lack of research on commercial advertising during wartime. It takes as its focus Bovril ads during World War II, to argue that commercial advertising, rather than diverging from state propaganda consistently drew upon wider representations of war in order to integrate into a society increasingly dominated by the image. To examine this, all of the Bovril ads from World War II appearing in the Times, Daily Express and Daily Mirror are compared in both quantitative and qualitative analyses, which helps to avoid the “cherry picking” problems of relying on a qualitative analysis alone. The main contention is that ads are socially situated media and, as such, cannot strongly divert from other messages being circulated within society because their reception depends upon their message creating an instant identification with the reader. In the 1940s this was especially true because society was confronted with an unprecedented mass of state propaganda.
Respiratory Pathology and Pathogens in Wild Urban Rats (Rattus norvegicus and Rattus rattus)
Authors: Rothenburger J. L. , Himsworth C. G. , Clifford C. B. , Ellis J. , Treuting P. M. , Leighton F. A.
Published: July 2015

Norway ( Rattus norvegicus) and black rats ( Rattus rattus) are common peridomestic species, yet little is known about wild rat ecology, including their natural diseases. We describe gross and histological lesions in the respiratory tract of a sample of 711 wild urban rats. A subset was examined for 19 distinct categories of histological lesions in the respiratory tract. Testing for known respiratory pathogens included serology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) of lung samples. Grossly evident lesions were rare (8/711; 1%). Upper respiratory tract inflammation was present in 93 of 107 (87%) rats and included rhinitis, submucosal and periglandular lymphoplasmacytic tracheitis, and/or tracheal intraluminal necrotic debris and was significantly associated ( P < .05) with the presence of cilia-associated respiratory bacillus (CARB), Mycoplasma pulmonis, and increased body mass (odds ratio [OR] = 1.09; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.05–1.14 per 10 g). Within the lungs, peribronchiolar and/or perivascular lymphoplasmacytic cuffs were present in 152 of 199 rats (76%) and were also significantly associated ( P ≤ .02) with CARB, M. pulmonis, and increased body mass (OR = 1.20; 95% CI = 1.14–1.27 per 10 g). Rats were frequently coinfected with M. pulmonis and CARB, and lesions associated with these pathogens were histologically indistinguishable. Pneumocystis sp was detected in 48 of 102 (47%) rats using PCR but was not significantly associated with lesions. This description of pathology in the respiratory system of wild rats demonstrates that respiratory disease is common. Although the impact of these lesions on individual and population health remains to be investigated, respiratory disease may be an important contributor to wild rat morbidity and mortality.
Pedagogical and Social Climate in School Questionnaire
Authors: Dimitrova Radosveta , Ferrer-Wreder Laura , Galanti Maria Rosaria
Published: July 2015

This study evaluated the factorial structure of the Pedagogical and Social Climate in School (PESOC) questionnaire among 307 teachers in Bulgaria. The teacher edition of PESOC consists of 11 scales (i.e., Expectations for Students, Unity Among Teachers, Approach to Students, Basic Assumptions About Students’ Ability to Learn, School–Home Relations, Teacher Cooperation, Teachers’ Professional Development, Teaching Activities, Student Valuation, Principal’s Pedagogical Leadership, and School Management). A confirmatory factor analysis conducted with structural equation modeling supported a bi-dimensional factor model (Students and Teachers; School Leadership and Management). School climate indicators were also significantly and positively correlated. PESOC is an asset to the literature on assessment of school climate with evidence for factorial validity and reliability in an underresearched international context.
Longer, Higher Quality Videos Preferred by News Viewers
Authors: Chen Peter S. , Wilson Nicholas , Chen Gina Masullo , Chang Chen-Wei
Published: July 2015

This study reports people prefer longer, high-quality videos to any other type on newspaper websites and poor quality videos can harm the news brand. Editors should be much more critical of the videos they post and journalists should have multi-media training.
Younger Journalists More Likely to Use Social Media
Authors: Gillis Tamara L. , Johnson Kirsten
Published: July 2015

A national survey of journalists’ social media use found that younger journalists used social media tools in newsgathering more often than did their older colleagues. Social media use ranked lower as a newsgathering tool, compared to face-to-face interviews, phone calls and email correspondence.
Insulin and the Brain
Authors: Bilotta F. , Lauretta M. P. , Tewari A. , Haque M. , Hara N. , Uchino H. , Rosa G.
Published: July 2015

Background:

Insulin receptors (IRs) in the brain have unique molecular features and a characteristic pattern of distribution. Their possible functions extend beyond glucose utilization. In this systematic review, we explore the interactions between insulin and the brain and its implications for anesthesiologists, critical care physicians, and other medical disciplines.

Methods:

A literature search of published preclinical and clinical studies between 1978 and 2014 was conducted, yielding 5996 articles. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 92 studies were selected for this systematic review.

Results:

The IRs have unique molecular features, pattern of distribution, and mechanism of action. It has effects on neuronal function, metabolism, and neurotransmission. The IRs are involved in neuronal apoptosis and neurodegenerative processes.

Conclusion:

In this systematic review, we present a close relationship between insulin and the brain, with discernible effects on memory, learning abilities, and motor functions. The potential therapeutic effects extend from acute brain insults such as traumatic brain injury, brain ischemia, and hemorrhage, to chronic neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer and Parkinson disease. An understanding of the wider effects of insulin conveyed in this review will prompt anaesthesiologists and critical care physicians to consider its therapeutic potential and guide future studies.
Curcumin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles for enhanced anti-colorectal cancer applications
Authors: Udompornmongkol Panisa , Chiang Been-Huang
Published: July 2015

The purpose of the present study was to fabricate polymeric nanoparticles as drug carriers for encapsulated curcumin with enhanced anti-colorectal cancer applications. Nanoparticles were formulated from chitosan and gum arabic, natural polysaccharides, via an emulsification solvent diffusion method. The formation of curcumin nanoparticles was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimeter. The results show that curcumin was entrapped in carriers with +48 mV, 136 nm size, and high encapsulation efficiency (95%). Based on an in vitro release study, we inferred that curcumin nanoparticles could tolerate hydrolysis due to gastric juice or small intestinal enzymes, and therefore, it should reach the colon largely intact. In addition, curcumin nanoparticles had higher anti-colorectal cancer properties than free curcumin due to greater cellular uptake. Therefore, we concluded that curcumin was successfully encapsulated in chitosan-gum arabic nanoparticles with superior anti-colorectal cancer activity.
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of polyphenylene sulfide composites based on organic clay modified by benzimidazolium salt
Authors: Jian Xing , Xuebing Wang , Bingyao Deng , Qingsheng Liu
Published: July 2015

Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS)/organic clay nanocomposites were prepared by simple melt blending. A synthesized benzimidazolium salt was used to modify the sodium montmorillonite in order to improve the compatibility with the PPS. The nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of PPS/organic clay composites were investigated by differerntial scanning calorimetry(DSC). It was observed that the crystallization peak temperature of PPS/organic clay composites was higher than pure PPS at various cooling rates. Several models such as the Ozawa and Mo equation were used to characterize the nonisothermal cooling crystallization kinetics of the PPS/organic clay composites. The results indicated that the Ozawa equation was not successful, while the Mo equation was successful to describe the nanoisothermal ctystallization kinetics of PPS/organic clay nanocomposites. The results also indicated that organic clay not only served as heterogeneous nucleating agents for PPS crystallization at lower content but also restricted the mobility and diffusion of PPS chains at higher content. These results were further supported by the crystallization activation energy of the samples determined by the Kissinger method.
Drying kinetics of cotton based yarn bobbins in a pressurized hot-air convective dryer
Authors: Akal Dinçer , Kahveci Kamil , Akyol Ugur , Cihan Ahmet
Published: July 2015

In this study, the drying kinetics of cotton bobbin drying process in a pressurized hot-air convective bobbin dryer was investigated, and a drying model was introduced for the simulation of drying. Tests were conducted for drying temperatures of 70℃, 80℃, and 90℃; effective drying air pressures of 1, 2, and 3 bars; three volumetric flow rates of 42.5, 55, and 67.5 m3/h; and for three different bobbin diameters of 10, 14, and 18 cm. Optimum drying conditions were specified in terms of drying time and energy consumption. Results indicate that the total drying time depends significantly on the drying temperature, pressure, and volumetric flow rate. Results show that the minimum energy consumption is obtained for low values of drying air temperatures and pressures, and for moderate and high values of drying air volumetric flow rates. It was also found that the Page model is suitable for simulating the drying behavior of cotton yarn bobbins. Finally, results show that effective diffusion coefficient values are between 1.132 × 10−7 m2/s and 3.453×10−7 m2/s depending on the values of drying parameters.
Efficacy Assessment of an Intervention Program With Batterers
Authors: Cunha Olga Soares , Gonçalves Rui Abrunhosa
Published: July 2015

This study examines the efficacy of an intervention program with male batterers. Twenty-six batterers who attended the intervention and 19 batterers who did not attend the intervention were compared using self-report measures. Batterers who attended the intervention showed significant reductions in abusive behaviors, in attitudes toward domestic violence, in risk of future violence, and in psychopathology, and an increase in self-esteem and problem solving. These changes were confirmed at the 6-month follow-up. The control group also revealed reductions in abusive behaviors, psychopathology, and risk of violence; however, the intervention group showed higher effect sizes. Comparing the groups at post-test, differences were found on abusive behaviors, attitudes, and risk of violence; at the follow-up, differences were found on abusive behaviors, attitudes, self-esteem, and problem solving, with intervention group showing more positive changes. These findings suggest that the intervention program has a therapeutic effect and reduces the risk of future violence.
Physician Communication in Pediatric End-of-Life Care
Authors: Bateman Lori Brand , Tofil Nancy M. , White Marjorie Lee , Dure Leon S. , Clair Jeffrey Michael , Needham Belinda L.
Published: July 2015

Objective:

The objective of this exploratory study is to describe communication between physicians and the actor parent of a standardized 8-year-old patient in respiratory distress who was nearing the end of life.

Methods:

Thirteen pediatric emergency medicine and pediatric critical care fellows and attendings participated in a high-fidelity simulation to assess physician communication with an actor-parent.

Results:

Fifteen percent of the participants decided not to initiate life-sustaining technology (intubation), and 23% of participants offered alternatives to life-sustaining care, such as comfort measures. Although 92% of the participants initiated an end-of-life conversation, the quality of that discussion varied widely.

Conclusion:

Findings indicate that effective physician–parent communication may not consistently occur in cases involving the treatment of pediatric patients at the end of life in emergency and critical care units.

Practice Implications:

The findings in this study, particularly that physician–parent end-of-life communication is often unclear and that alternatives to life-sustaining technology are often not offered, suggest that physicians need more training in both communication and end-of-life care.
Acceptance of Advance Directives and Palliative Care Referral for Veterans With Advanced Cancer
Authors: Patel Manali I. , Bhattacharya Jay , Asch Steven M. , Kahn James
Published: July 2015

Objectives:

To evaluate the documentation of advance directive (ADs) and physician orders for life-sustaining treatment (POLST) with acceptance of palliative care (PC) services referral among patients with cancer.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed veterans with advanced cancers at the Veterans Administration Palo Alto Health Care System. Chi-square tests estimated AD and POLST documentation and referral to PC. Logistic regression models estimated the odds of AD and POLST documentation and PC referral.

Results:

Two hundred and forty-six veterans were diagnosed with cancer. In all, 53% had a documented AD, 5% had a POLST, and 47% accepted referral to PC. The AD documentation was not associated with acceptance of PC.

Discussion:

We found no association of AD documentation and PC referral. Future studies should evaluate other factors that influence referral to these services.
Nodular Lymphocyte-Predominant Hodgkin Lymphoma in a Warthin Tumor of the Parotid Gland
Authors: Di Napoli Arianna , Mallel Giuseppe , Bartolazzi Armando , Cavalieri Elena , Becelli Roberto , Cippitelli Claudia , Ruco Luigi
Published: July 2015

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) associated with Warthin tumor (WT) is extremely rare, accounting for only 3 cases of classical HLs. Here, we report for the first time the occurrence of a nodular lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) involving the lymphoid stroma of a WT of the parotid gland. Pathogenesis of WT is controversial, with both a nodal and a parenchymal possible origin. On the other hand, extranodal involvement by HLs is uncommon. In our case, the coexistence of a WT and of a NLPHL within its stroma and in cervical lymph node emphasizes the importance of a careful evaluation of the lymphoid tissue in WT in order to exclude the possibility of an associated lymphoid malignancy.
High-performance simulation of fracture in idealized ‘brick and mortar’ composites using adaptive Monte Carlo minimization on the GPU
Authors: Lim Rone Kwei , Pro J William , Begley Matthew R , Utz Marcel , Petzold Linda R
Published: July 2015

Simulation of the nonlinear mechanical response of materials with explicit representation of microstructural features is extremely challenging. These models typically involve a very large number of degrees of freedom, and are prone to convergence difficulties when searching for roots to nonlinear equilibrium equations. We focus on an idealized material model that is motivated by the microstructure of synthetic nacre: individual ‘bricks’ (representing ceramic platelets) interact through nonlinear cohesive springs (representing a small volume fraction of polymer that bonds the platelets). The model simulates composite fracture through rupture of the cohesive springs. The problem is cast in terms of energy minimization and is essentially described by ‘nearest neighbor’ interactions. The principal focus of this paper is to illustrate the computational gains achievable by the strategic marriage of robust, global Monte Carlo minimization algorithms to the graphics processing unit architecture, and to describe how they were realized on the Nvidia GPU. Results comparing the computation times for graphics processing unit and central processing unit implementations demonstrate that a new adaptive version of the simulated annealing algorithm yields a speedup of approximately 5 times, whereas the graphics processing unit implementation yields a speed-up of about 16 times over conventional four-core central processing unit implementations. The resulting speed enhancement for adaptive graphics processing unit minimization of a factor of 80 enables a far broader range of simulations than has previously been possible. Simulations involving as many as 300,000 bricks can be performed in hours, as compared to weeks required by central processing unit implementation. Many aspects of this approach are translatable to other physical problems involving energy minimization in systems with large numbers of degrees of freedom.
How opposition parties sustain single-party dominance
Authors: Ziegfeld Adam , Tudor Maya
Published: July 2015

When elections are free and fair, why do some political parties rule for prolonged periods of time? Most explanations for single-party dominance focus on the dominant party’s origins, resources, or strategies. In this article, we show how opposition parties can undermine or sustain single-party dominance. Specifically, opposition parties should be central in explaining single-party dominance in countries with highly disproportional electoral systems and a dominant party whose vote share falls short of a popular majority. Employing a quantitative analysis of Indian legislative elections as well as a paired case study, we show that opposition coordination plays a crucial part in undermining single-party dominance.
A one-way text messaging intervention for obesity
Authors: Ahn Ahleum , Choi Jaekyung
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Worldwide, there has been a startling increase in the number of people who are obese or overweight. Obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality. Mobile phone messaging is an important means of human communication globally. Because the mobile phone can be used anywhere at any time, mobile phone messaging has the potential to manage obesity. We investigated the effectiveness of a one-way text messaging intervention for obesity.

Methods

Participants' body mass index and waist circumference were measured at the beginning of the programme and again after 12 weeks. The text message group received text messages about exercise, dietary intake, and general information about obesity three times a week, while the control group did not receive any text messages from the study.

Results

Of the 80 participants, 25 subjects in the text message group and 29 participants in the control group completed the study. After adjusting for baseline body mass index, the body mass index was significantly lower in the text message group than in the control group (27.9 vs 28.3; p = 0.02). After adjusting for the baseline waist circumference, the difference of waist circumference between the text message group and control group was not significant (93.4 vs 94.6; p = 0.13).

Discussion

The one-way text messaging intervention was a simple and effective way to manage obesity. The one-way text messaging intervention may be a useful method for lifestyle modification in obese subjects.
War and peace in the Harry Potter series
Authors: Lacassagne Aurélie
Published: July 2015

The Harry Potter series functions as an allegory of 20th century world history and the war against Nazism. In this literary work, one finds several interrelated discourses on peace and violence, affect and emotions, as well as civilising and decivilising processes that mirror our ‘muggle’ real world. All of these themes constitute the foundation of Norbert Elias’s sociology. Therefore, this article develops an Eliasian interpretation of the thematic discourses of Harry Potter and defends the position that literary works can and should be taken seriously as sociological accounts. The first part deals with violence: How is violence alternately exercised and eschewed? Why do some people employ violence easily and delight in inflicting harm on others? The second part looks at discourses on peace and war and how they reflect discourses of good and evil: How does obtaining, maintaining or refusing power affect the totality of social relations? How are discourses of inclusion and exclusion related to conditions of war and conditions of peace?
Asian invisibility/Asian threat: Australians talking about Asia
Authors: Fozdar Farida
Published: July 2015

Members of a marginal Australian political party recently sparked controversy by claiming China wants to ‘take over’ Australia. While apparently the opinion of a minority fringe, little is known about how Australians actually feel about Asia. This article explores the ways in which Asia is constructed in the Australian imagination, arguing it is both ‘invisible’, yet also a source of deep anxiety. Data from 26 focus groups conducted across Australia offer evidence of this invisibility, with Australians preferring to discuss domestic issues over international ones. But Asia is simultaneously a source of anxiety, in that when Australians do talk about Asia, it is in relation to a perceived threat from Asia’s economic power, its large population, its polluting practices, its military might, and its pursuit of mineral and agricultural resources. Such concerns mask fears of a cultural threat. Discursive analysis reveals how the threat from Asia is articulated, and implications for national and post-national identities.
US penal-reform catalysts, drivers, and prospects
Authors: Green David A
Published: July 2015

Most recent analyses of US penality describe and explain the exceptional harshening of punishment over the previous three decades. This article challenges and qualifies these accounts by identifying 10 cultural, moral, and practical drivers of a bipartisan reconsideration of the discourses and policies responsible for mass incarceration. These penal-reform catalysts and drivers include: (1) the crime decline; (2) the Great Recession; (3) the prisoner-reentry movement and attendant changes in the moral status of prisoners; (4) apparent shifts in public attitudes about punishment; (5) ‘punitive saturation’ and the cyclical nature of penal thinking and policy; (6) changing dominant conceptions of the criminal offender; (7) the return of human dignity to US jurisprudence; (8) the ideational influence of Christian reformers who assail the morality of excessive punishment; (9) the conservative ‘Right on Crime’ initiative that promotes a range of reforms formerly associated with the Left; and (10) the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), whose model legislation once drove mass incarceration but now aims to curtail it. The article also invites theoretical analysis of whether ongoing shifts represent a structural reordering of the penal field akin to the punitive turn or merely a set of benevolent tendencies within the same carceral paradigm.
Weathering the crisis: Evidence of diffuse support for the EU from a six-wave Dutch panel
Authors: Ringlerova Zuzana
Published: July 2015

Political regimes draw legitimacy from diffuse political support. How diffuse is support for the European Union? By focusing on cross-sectional data, the extant literature fails to demonstrate that support for the European Union displays the key defining characteristic of diffuse support: individual-level stability over a time of crisis. I use a six-wave panel data set from the Netherlands to study stability in support for the European Parliament during the 2008 economic crisis. I argue that public support for the European Parliament is highly diffuse. Using three analytical techniques, I find that individual-level support for the European Parliament remained highly stable from 2007 to 2012. These results suggest that in times of crisis, the European Union can draw on mass public support as a source of resilience.
Teachers’ conceptions of motivation and motivating practices in second-language learning: A self-determination theory perspective
Authors: Muñoz Ana , Ramirez Marta
Published: July 2015

Based on self-determination theory, we conducted an exploratory study aimed at identifying teachers’ beliefs about motivation and motivating practices in second-language teaching at a private language center in Medellin, Colombia. To gather data, 65 teachers were surveyed; from this initial group, 11 were interviewed and observed in class during 2012. The results show that teachers’ potential to promote motivation is mostly centered on relatedness and that while teachers recognize the positive and beneficial effects of promoting autonomy and competence, their teaching practices do not evidence those beliefs. Based on the results, we conclude that in order to promote autonomy and competence, it is important, first of all, to establish the right social conditions, i.e. meaningful teacher-student relationships.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy With Mindfulness and Acceptance Skills for the Treatment of Older Adults
Authors: Marino Patricia , DePasquale Alyssa , Sirey Jo Anne
Published: July 2015

Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is a psychotherapy approach for the treatment of depression in older adult populations. This article discusses an extension of CBT to include mindfulness and acceptance skills for the treatment of depression in older adults with comorbid medical illness. Findings support that a brief intervention of 12 weeks was effective in producing a clinically significant change in depression and quality of life at the completion of therapy and at follow-up. This suggests that mindfulness and acceptance skills in addition to CBT skills may be an effective intervention for the treatment of depression of older adults with chronic medical illnesses.
Digital Games as a Source of Enjoyment in Later Life
Authors: De Schutter Bob , Brown Julie A.
Published: July 2015

As playing digital games has become a popular pastime among older adults, the study of the older audience of digital games would do well to exchange exploratory research for more specialist and focused areas. This article follows this reasoning and focuses on game enjoyment in later life. This topic is explored through two qualitative studies with actively playing older adults. The first study ( n = 35, aged between 49 and 73) took place in Flanders (the Dutch-speaking part of Belgium), while the second study ( n = 40, aged between 44 and 77) was held in the U.S.A. (Virginia and Kentucky). Using the principles of Grounded Theory, three interpretations of game enjoyment in later life were identified, namely, telic, hedonic, and eudaimonic enjoyment. The article offers a number of design recommendations based on its findings and discusses how the interpretations are influenced by context and player gender, and are subject to change throughout the life span of an aging player.
Patient-Specific 3-Dimensional Printed Titanium Truss Cage With Tibiotalocalcaneal Arthrodesis for Salvage of Persistent Distal Tibia Nonunion
Authors: Hsu Andrew R. , Ellington J. Kent
Published: July 2015

Management of large structural defects of the ankle and hindfoot is challenging with modest outcomes in the literature. Tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) arthrodesis using a retrograde intramedullary nail has been used for the treatment of talar avascular necrosis, severe tibial plafond fractures, ankle and hindfoot nonunions, Charcot arthropathy, and failed total ankle arthroplasty. External fixators and spatial frames provide robust multiplanar correction of deformity, but little is known in the literature regarding the salvage treatment of persistent nonunion refractory to frame treatment. In this report, we present the case of an open tibial plafond fracture with nonunion despite 1 year of fixator and frame management that was successfully treated using a patient-specific 3-dimensional printed titanium truss cage in combination with a retrograde TTC nail. At most recent 1-year follow-up, the patient had minimal pain, no wound complications, and was able to ambulate and work independently without an assistive device for the first time in 2 years since his original injury. The case presented here serves as a proof of principle that requires future research to determine its long-term clinical benefits, cost-effectiveness, and complications.

Level of Evidence: Level V: Expert Opinion
Characterization of Tissue Response to Impact Loads Delivered Using a Hand-Held Instrument for Studying Articular Cartilage Injury
Authors: Bonnevie Edward D. , Delco Michelle L. , Fortier Lisa A. , Alexander Peter G. , Tuan Rocky S. , Bonassar Lawrence J.
Published: July 2015

Objective:

The objective of this study was to fully characterize the mechanics of an in vivo impactor and correlate the mechanics with superficial cracking of articular surfaces.

Design:

A spring-loaded impactor was used to apply energy-controlled impacts to the articular surfaces of neonatal bovine cartilage. The simultaneous use of a load cell and displacement sensor provided measurements of stress, stress rate, strain, strain rate, and strain energy density. Application of India ink after impact was used to correlate the mechanical inputs during impact with the resulting severity of tissue damage. Additionally, a signal processing method to deconvolve inertial stresses from impact stresses was developed and validated.

Results:

Impact models fit the data well (root mean square error average ~0.09) and provided a fully characterized impact. Correlation analysis between mechanical inputs and degree of superficial cracking made visible through India ink application provided significant positive correlations for stress and stress rate with degree of surface cracking ( R2 = 0.7398 and R2 = 0.5262, respectively). Ranges of impact parameters were 7 to 21 MPa, 6 to 40 GPa/s, 0.16 to 0.38, 87 to 236 s−1, and 0.3 to 1.1 MJ/m3 for stress, stress rate, strain, strain rate, and strain energy density, respectively. Thresholds for damage for all inputs were determined at 13 MPa, 15 GPa/s, 0.23, 160 s−1, and 0.59 MJ/m3 for this system.

Conclusions:

This study provided the mechanical basis for use of a portable, sterilizable, and maneuverable impacting device. Use of this device enables controlled impact loads in vitro or in vivo to connect mechanistic studies with long-term monitoring of disease progression.
Categorization of Functional Constipation in Traditional Persian Medicine
Authors: Elsagh Mahin , Behbahani Farshad Amini , Fartookzadeh Mohammad Reza , Adibi Peyman , Kamalinejad Mohammad , Anushiravani Majid
Published: July 2015

Functional constipation (FC) is a common clinical condition without any specific physiological causes with economic cost and adverse effects on patients’ quality of life. The present study aimed to evaluate the causes of nonobstructive constipation in traditional Persian medicine and its prevalence in patients with functional constipation by content analysis of patients’ interviews and clinical exams. In this study, almost two thirds of the patients with functional constipation had mild to severe cold distemperament of the gastrointestinal system, and in almost half of them the signs and symptoms were compatible with dry distemperament of the gastrointestinal. This observational study reports high prevalence of gastrointestinal system distemperaments in patients with functional constipation. According to the results, we can consider the proposed management of distemperaments in traditional Persian medicine for functional constipation treatment and pathophysiology explanation. This project is a novel study that provides the opportunity for investigating the epidemiological aspects of these distemperaments and their relationship with functional constipation.
EMSA Eritin Drives Expansion of Regulatory T Cells and Promotes T Cells Differentiation in Irradiated Mice
Authors: Ibrahim Mansur , Widjajanto Edi , Widodo M. Aris , Sumitro Sutiman B.
Published: July 2015

Sublethal irradiation therapy in cancer treatment causes generalized immunosuppression, which results in a range of DNA damage. We examined the significance of a polyherbal medicine called “EMSA Eritin” on immunological responses in sublethally irradiated mice focusing on the involvement of Treg, naïve T cell, and also the development and differentiation of T cells in thymus. Normal BALB/c mice were sublethally irradiated with dose of 600 rad. The irradiated mice were then orally administered by EMSA Eritin once a day at different doses: 1.04, 3.12, 9.37 mg/g body weight. The treatment was performed for 14 days. On day 15, immunological responses were observed by analyzing the status of Treg and differentiation of T cells in thymus. The administration of EMSA Eritin to irradiated mice resulted in a significant increase of pre T cells, Treg cells, and naïve T cells, which in general could maintain and normalize healthy condition in mice.
Self-Models and Relationship Threat
Authors: Ford Máire B. , Collins Nancy L.
Published: July 2015

This study investigated a key claim of risk regulation theory, namely, that psychological internalizing of a relationship threat will serve as a mediator of the link between self-models (self-esteem and attachment anxiety) and relationship responses (moving closer to a partner vs. distancing from a partner). Participants ( N = 101) received feedback that threatened their current romantic relationship (or no feedback) and then completed measures of internal–external focus, relationship closeness–distancing, and acceptance–rejection of the feedback. Results showed that participants with negative self-models responded to the relationship threat by becoming more internally focused and by distancing from their partners, whereas those with positive self-models became more externally focused and moved closer to their partners. Mediation analyses indicated that the link between self-models and relationship closeness–distancing was partially explained by internal focus.
Friction-Reducing Devices for Lateral Patient Transfers
Authors: Baptiste Andrea , Boda Sruthi V. , Nelson Audrey L. , Lloyd John D. , Lee William E.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of lateral transfer devices compared with the traditional draw sheet method in acute care settings through subjective feedback of caregivers actually using the devices. Every 2 weeks, the eight participating acute care units each received one of the devices, which had been randomly selected. Data were collected through caregiver surveys, which rated comfort, ease of use, perceived injury risk, time efficiency, and patient safety. An overall performance rating was calculated as the sum of these five categories. Caregivers rated air-assisted devices significantly higher ( p < .05) than other devices. Lateral transfer devices are recommended over the traditional draw sheet method for performing lateral patient transfers. These friction-reducing devices are a cost-effective solution to the load of lateral patient transfers and should be favorably considered when purchasing patient-handling technologies.
Injuries Associated with Teacher Assaults
Authors: Levin Pamela F. , Martinez Michelle Quigley , Walcott-McQuigg Jacqueline , Chen Shu Pi , Amman Mary , Guenette Caroline
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this retrospective study was to describe the magnitude, nature, and costs of assault injuries among teachers, a high-risk group. Review of assault cases ( N = 341) was based on internal and case management vendor records. The 3-year assault rate was 3.24 per 1,000 teachers. Assaults were predominately physical, occurring during classroom disputes and while restraining students. Assaults accounted for 2,480 lost workdays and more than $714,000 in lost wages and case management fees. The most costly injuries on a per-case basis were strain-sprain injuries resulting in lost workdays and fractures not resulting in lost workdays. Less than 20% of the assaults accounted for all of the lost workdays and most of the case costs. Study variables accounted for 13% of case costs. Occupational health nurses should collaborate with school personnel, administrators, and parents to develop prevention programs, which may include de-escalation techniques for teachers as well as case management strategies.
Pregnant Women in the Workplace
Authors: Draper London
Published: July 2015

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in 2001 that 51% of married women return to the work force before their children are 1 year old (Rojjanasrirat, 2004). Women's roles in the United States are rapidly changing, and the workplace environment is also changing to meet the added demands of women in the work force. Many women assimilate the multiple roles of wife, mother, and working professional into a cohesive unit; however, this is often difficult. Occupational health nurses play a vital role advocating for women in the work force. A critical area of advocacy (and education) focuses on providing necessary support to pregnant employees.
What Can Case Managers Do When They are Not the Ones Controlling Health Benefits?
Authors: Brown Norman DePaul , Haag Annette B. , Kalina Christine M.
Published: July 2015

The panel approach provides a forum for sharing ideas, viewpoints, and perspectives. Panel members come with expertise from a variety of case management arenas and have agreed to share their opinions and perspectives in response to specific questions or scenarios. Opinions and perspectives are those of the panel members and do not necessarily represent the views of AAOHN, the Editor, or the Publisher. We encourage readers to submit their questions or scenarios for the panel. This month's panel members include Norman DePaul Brown, Annette B. Haag, and Christine M. Kalina.
Changing the Work Environment to Promote Wellness
Authors: Gates Donna , Brehm Bonnie , Hutton Scott , Singler Mary , Poeppelman Amanda
Published: July 2015

It is estimated that employers spend more than 75 billion dollars annually on obesity-attributable health care. Interventions to reduce or prevent the risk of obesity are increasingly common at worksites and include health fairs, weight loss and nutrition classes, and fitness programs. However, many companies lack the resources to plan and implement these types of programs. Environmental approaches offer companies a low-cost option. A community-based participatory research model was used to bring academic researchers, human resources personnel, and health department educators together to plan and implement an environmental program aimed at increasing healthy eating and physical activity at four small manufacturing companies. The Diffusion of Innovations Theory guided the development of focus group questions. A focus group study was then conducted to gather information from employees and managers at these four companies. The questions identified workplace strategies that would aid in reducing barriers and developing appropriate communication channels to enhance employee participation in the program. The researchers identified themes from manager and employee focus groups regarding the following five environmental components: signs, walking paths, food changes, educational strategies, and advisory groups.
Literacy and Hazard Communication
Authors: Bouchard Christine
Published: July 2015

More than 30 million American workers are exposed to hazardous chemicals in the workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration first promulgated the Hazard Communication Standard in 1983 to ensure that workers were informed of the hazardous chemicals with which they work. Nine research studies published from 1983 to 2005 evaluating the relationship between literacy and hazard communication were reviewed. Three main gaps were identified: lack of learner involvement to improve hazard communication, lack of employer assessment of employee understanding of training provided, and lack of studies assessing retention of the material taught and its application at the worksite. Studies need to involve learners, assist employers in assessing employees' understanding of the material taught, and assess retention and application of the material at a later date. Nurses are often the only health care providers at worksites. Thus, they may be responsible for teaching hazard communication content, or possibly reinforcing material covered during training. Some workers may have low health literacy levels. Occupational health nurses must provide workers with hazard communication training they understand, retain, and can apply at the worksite.
Health Surveillance for Rural Volunteer Firefighters and Emergency Medical Services Personnel
Authors: Gaetano Diana E. , Ackerman Susan , Clark Arleen , Hodge Bernadette , Hohensee Thomas , May John , Whiteman Wendy
Published: July 2015

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of coronary heart disease risk screening as a primary prevention tool. Screening included a lipid screening and American College of Cardiology Framingham cardiac risk profile for volunteers 45 years and older desiring A (interior) or B (exterior) classifications. Health surveillance records from 1998 to 2003 were reviewed for all firefighters and emergency medical services personnel in a rural New York county. Of the 1,458 volunteers evaluated, 1,166 were men and 292 were women. Three hundred fifteen individuals were screened for coronary heart disease risk; 52 had scores indicative of substantially increased risk. Subsequently, a health care provider or cardiologist saw 39 of these individuals, 26 (67%) of whom received pharmacologic, surgical, or other health care intervention. Coronary heart disease risk screening is an effective intervention in this population, and provides volunteers and their primary care providers with added motivation to actively reduce the risk of coronary heart disease via early intervention.
What Role Does the Case Manager Play in a Litigated Case?
Authors: Haag Annette B. , Kalina Christine M. , Brown Norman D.
Published: July 2015

The panel approach provides a forum for sharing ideas, viewpoints, and perspectives. Panel members come with expertise from a variety of case management arenas and have agreed to share their opinions and perspectives in response to specific questions or scenarios. Opinions and perspectives are those of the panel members and do not necessarily represent the views of AAOHN, the Editor, or the Publisher. We encourage readers to submit their questions or scenarios for the panel. This month's panel members include Annette B. Haag, Christine M. Kalina, and Norman D. Brown.
The Costs of Obesity
Authors: Thompson Debra L.
Published: July 2015

Each year millions of Americans struggle with obesity and health problems related to it. Despite the focus on health promotion and healthy lifestyles, the obesity epidemic is worsening. Disability, decreased quality of life, greater health care use, decreased workplace productivity, and increased absenteeism may be associated with obesity, leading to higher costs to businesses and society. The financial impact on businesses, especially health care costs to treat obese employees, is staggering. This is a burden for businesses trying to control expenses. Occupational health nurses are key to developing effective wellness programs for employers.
Characterization of Women's Occupational Musculoskeletal Exposures
Authors: Landry Lynette G.
Published: July 2015

Although women are often characterized as having “safe” occupations, they are at risk of experiencing occupational musculoskeletal injuries. This cross-sectional study examined the health status, occupations, and job tasks of a random sample of working women ( N = 123) to characterize their risk of occupational injury. The women had been employed, most full-time, in the 12 months prior to administration of the telephone survey. The women tended to cluster into two types of occupational exposures. Overall, the women rated their health as excellent. However, those with diagnosed musculoskeletal disorders had significantly worse scores on two scales of the Short Form Health Survey than those without musculoskeletal disorders. Women are exposed to occupational musculoskeletal stressors that increase their risk of experiencing musculoskeletal injuries.
Reduction of Injuries Associated with Patient Handling
Authors: Wardell Hal
Published: July 2015

Nurses experience more back injuries than the general population due to their physically demanding work. Research indicates that the implementation of a comprehensive patient-handling program will reduce the number of patient-handling injuries and associated sequelae. A significant barrier to the effectiveness of safe patient-handling programs includes lack of appropriate and easily accessible equipment for caregivers. Caregivers were questioned to identify changes in the use of and perceptions about patient-handling equipment following the implementation of a patient-handling program at a medium-sized nonprofit community hospital. The study found an increased use of patient-handling equipment by caregivers following the implementation of a patient-handling program, with a significant improvement in the perception of patient-handling equipment. Effective planning to adequately address each of the elements of a comprehensive patient-handling program is essential to program success.
Visual Ergonomics in the Workplace
Authors: Anshel Jeffrey R.
Published: July 2015

This article provides information about visual function and its role in workplace productivity. By understanding the connection among comfort, health, and productivity and knowing the many options for effective ergonomic workplace lighting, the occupational health nurse can be sensitive to potential visual stress that can affect all areas of performance. Computer vision syndrome—the eye and vision problems associated with near work experienced during or related to computer use—is defined and solutions to it are discussed.
Ensuring Nurses' Safety in Violent Workplaces
Authors: Childre Frances , Gallant-Roman Mary A.
Published: July 2015

Occupational and environmental health nurses can play a critical role in encouraging nurses to report workplace violence. By empowering nurses to be assertive, they may stop violent behavior.