bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Globalization, Labor Market Transformation, and Union Decline in U.S. Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Vachon Todd E. , Wallace Michael
Published: November 2013

In this study, we analyze the determinants of total, private, and public sector union density among 191 U.S. metropolitan statistical areas in 2003. In particular, we examine the effects of globalization and labor market transformation on metropolitan union density while controlling for labor market structure, the business cycle, and the political climate. Our analysis demonstrates that (1) globalization and labor market transformation have crosscutting but, on balance, negative effects on union density; (2) there are both similarities and differences in determinants of private and public sector unionism; and (3) business cycle and labor market structure variables are weak, but political climate variables are strong determinants of union density.
A Research Note on the Relationship Between Long Working Hours and Weight Gain for Older Workers in the United States
Authors: Mercan Murat Anil
Published: November 2013

Working long hours may be related to obesity in older adults. No studies have focused on older workers and long work hours, although the risk of obesity is high among this population group. This study is the first attempt to investigate the relationship between obesity and the older workforce. Panel data from the Health and Retirement Study are examined using Cox regression techniques. We found that older workers who work more than 59 hr a week are more likely to gain weight than older workers who work less than 59 hr per week.
Number of Siblings and Social Skills Revisited Among American Fifth Graders
Authors: Downey Douglas B. , Condron Dennis J. , Yucel Deniz
Published: November 2013

Most research on the consequences of the number of siblings highlights their downside—the negative association between sibship size and educational outcomes. But recently scholars have begun to understand the potential benefits of siblings, with some research indicating that kindergartners are more socially adept when they have at least one brother or sister. We expand this line of inquiry by studying fifth graders, a point where sufficient school-based peer interactions have occurred to potentially eliminate the social skills deficit observed among only children beginning kindergarten. Analyzing 11,820 children from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study—Kindergarten Cohort of 1998-99, we find that, contrary to our expectations, only children failed to gain more social skills between kindergarten and fifth grade than their counterparts with siblings. This pattern has important implications for the one in five children now raised without siblings.
Effect of body mass index on early clinical outcomes after cardiac surgery
Authors: Allama Amr , Ibrahim Islam , Abdallah Ayat , Ashraf Saeed , Youhana Aprim , Kumar Pankaj , Bhatti Farah , Zaidi Afzal
Published: November 2013

Background

there are several reports on the outcomes of cardiac surgery in relation to body mass index. Some concluded that obesity did not increase morbidity or mortality after cardiac surgery, whereas others demonstrated that obesity was a predictor of both morbidity and mortality.

Methods

this was a retrospective study of 3370 adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery. The patients were divided into 4 groups according to body mass index. The 4 groups were compared in terms of preoperative, operative, and postoperative characteristics.

Results

obese patients had a significantly younger mean age. Diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia were significantly more common in obese patients. The crossclamp time was significantly longer in the underweight group. Reoperation for bleeding, and pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and renal complications were significantly more common in the underweight group. Wound complications were significantly more frequent in the obese group. Mortality was inversely proportional to body mass index. The adjusted odds ratios of the early clinical outcomes demonstrated a higher risk of wound complications in overweight and obese patients

Conclusion

body mass index has no effect on early clinical outcomes after cardiac surgery, except for a higher risk of wound complications in overweight and obese patients.
Treatment outcomes of pneumothorax with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Ota Hideki , Kawai Hideki , Matsuo Tsubasa
Published: November 2013

Background

Coexisting pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema in the same individual has received increased attention. We retrospectively investigated treatment outcomes of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with both pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema.

Methods

Among 362 consecutive secondary spontaneous pneumothorax patients treated at our hospital from 2003 to 2012, 58 with emphysema-dominant chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (all elderly men with a smoking history) were enrolled and divided into 2 groups based on computed tomography images: emphysema alone ( n = 51) and coexisting emphysema and pulmonary fibrosis ( n = 7). The clinical characteristics and mortality were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in the recurrence rate after nonsurgical treatment. No patient died of pneumothorax-related complications, but one of 2 with pulmonary fibrosis who underwent surgery died of a postoperative respiratory complication. The mortality rate from respiratory failure during follow-up was significantly higher in the group with pulmonary fibrosis (6/7) than in the group without pulmonary fibrosis (11/51, p = 0.002). The median survival was 0.8 years in the group with pulmonary fibrosis vs. and 5.4 years in the group without pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusions

The coexistence of pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema on computed tomography images may represent a predictor of respiratory mortality in elderly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with secondary spontaneous pneumothorax. Because of the potential risk of respiratory failure, we recommend nonsurgical treatment for secondary spontaneous pneumothorax in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with these radiological features.
Minimal extracorporeal circulation (MECC) does not result in less hypertrophic scar formation as compared to conventional extracorporeal circulation (CECC) with dexamethasone
Authors: Soykan EA , Butzelaar L , de Kroon TL , Beelen RHJ , Ulrich MMW , Mink van der Molen AB , Niessen FB
Published: November 2013

Introduction:

Cardiopulmonary bypass surgery is associated with a systemic inflammatory response through the interaction of air, blood and synthetic components in the bypass system and the physical trauma of surgery. An alternative cardiopulmonary bypass system, minimal extracorporeal circulation (MECC), has shown promising results in terms of reducing the inflammatory response. We hypothesized that this system may reduce pathological excessive scarring. To study this assumption, the effects of MECC and the effects of conventional extracorporeal circulation (CECC) with dexamethasone on skin scarring were compared in a standardized wound-healing model.

Methods and Results:

Pre-sternal scars were evaluated prospectively at four and 12 months postoperatively. The height and width of the scars were measured, using a slide caliper and sonography. The scars were scored using the validated Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale. Additional risk factors for hypertrophic scar formation were identified by means of a questionnaire. During surgery, MECC was used in 45 patients and CECC/dexamethasone in 42 patients. Four months postoperatively, 22 patients of the MECC group (49%) and 18 patients in the CECC/dexamethasone group (43%) had developed hypertrophic scars. Twelve months postoperatively, the hypertrophic scars in four patients of the MECC group and in two patients of the CECC/dexamethasone group had become normotrophic. In 18 patients of the MECC group (38%) and 16 patients of the CECC group (41%) the scars remained hypertrophic at 12 months. These differences between the two groups were not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

MECC does not reduce hypertrophic scar formation compared with CECC with dexamethasone, but its use is more beneficial than the use of CECC/dexamethasone because of the circulatory and immunological advantages and because treatment with dexamethasone can be omitted.
Creating, Closing, and Reversing the Gender Gap in Test Performance
Authors: Autin Frédérique , Branscombe Nyla R. , Croizet Jean-Claude
Published: November 2013

We investigate how selection policies—the rules defining access to a valued position—can act as situational cues signaling social identity threat or safety among women and men. College students took a logic test ostensibly determining their assignment to a position of leader or subordinate for a subsequent task. Study 1 showed that when only the test score determined the selection, women experienced more identity threat and performed worse than men. When the policy allowed the selection of women at a lower level of performance than men to promote diversity, men’s performance decreased compared to the merit condition, falling to the level of women’s performance and thus closing the gender gap. Study 2 replicated these findings and established that the meaning derived from selection practices affects candidates’ performance. A third policy that also preferentially selected women, but to correct for unequal treatment based on gender, leads to a reversed gender gap (i.e., women outperformed men). These findings suggest that structural features of test settings including selection practices can constrain individuals’ potential access to opportunities.
Ultra-Low Velocity Knee Dislocations
Authors: Werner Brian C. , Gwathmey F. Winston , Higgins Sean T. , Hart Joseph M. , Miller Mark D.
Published: November 2013

Background:

Knee dislocations resulting in multiligament knee injuries (MLIs) are usually associated with high-energy mechanisms such as motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries; however, obese patients are at risk of MLIs from simple falls. Termed “ultra-low velocity” (ULV) dislocations, these injuries occur in obese patients during activities of daily living and may be associated with higher associated risks and complications.

Hypothesis:

Ultra-low velocity knee dislocations occur more commonly in obese female patients, are associated with higher risks of neurovascular injuries, and have more significant perioperative complications compared with other MLIs.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The records of 215 consecutive patients with MLIs were identified over a 12-year period. Their charts were reviewed to identify a cohort of patients with mechanisms consistent with ULV dislocations (n = 23). This cohort was compared with all patients with MLIs. Additionally, ULV patients with neurovascular injuries were compared with those without neurovascular injuries.

Results:

The average body mass index (BMI) was significantly higher in the ULV cohort (49.1 kg/m2) compared with all patients with MLIs (34.1 kg/m2). Injuries occurred more commonly in female patients in the ULV cohort (69.6%) compared with all patients with MLIs (24.3%). Peroneal nerve injuries occurred more commonly in the ULV cohort (39.1%) compared with all patients with MLIs (8.4%), as did vascular injuries (28.1% vs 4.7%, respectively). Postoperative complications were common among all ULV-MLI patients regardless of neurovascular injury status. Seventeen patients (6/12 in the intact group and 11/11 in the neurovascular injury group) had significant complications postoperatively. A significantly higher overall complication rate was noted in the ULV-MLI group (73.9%) compared with the entire MLI cohort (21.4%). Additionally, the ULV-MLI cohort had a higher reoperation rate, wound infection rate, deep venous thrombosis rate, and presence of vascular claudication.

Conclusion:

Ultra-low velocity knee injuries occur in patients with a greater BMI, more frequently in female patients, and with higher rates of concomitant neurovascular injuries compared with other MLIs. Additionally, a significantly greater incidence of postoperative complications can be expected after ligament reconstruction in this population compared with other MLIs.
Protective effects of ethyl acetate fraction of Lawsonia inermis fruits extract against carbon tetrachloride-induced oxidative damage in rat liver
Authors: Hsouna Anis Ben , Mongi Saoudi , Culioli Gérald , Blache Yves , Ghlissi Zohra , Chaabane Rim , El Feki Abdelfattah , Jaoua Samir , Trigui Mohamed
Published: November 2013

This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant properties of different fractions obtained from the fruits of Lawsonia inermis, a widely used medicinal plant, against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced oxidative stress in rat liver. The results show that several fractions obtained from L. inermis fruits possessed important antioxidant activity. Among them, the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction showed the highest antioxidant activity. Then, EA fraction was selected for the purification of potential antioxidant compounds. The hepatoprotective effects of EA fraction and its most active constituent, gallic acid (GA), were evaluated against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. CCl4 induced oxidative stress by a significant rise in serum marker enzymes. However, pretreatment of rats with EA fraction of fruits of L. inermis at a dose of 250 mg kg−1 body weight and GA significantly lowered some serum biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase) in treated rats. A significant reduction in hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and an increase in antioxidant enzymes namely superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase by treatment with plant extract and GA, against CCl4-treated rats, were observed. Histopathological examinations showed extensive liver injuries, characterized by extensive hepatocellular necrosis, vacuolization, and inflammatory cell infiltration. This potential antioxidant activity is comparable to those of the major purified antioxidant compound, GA. Based on these results, it was observed that fruits of L. inermis protect liver from oxidative stress induced by CCl4 and thus help in evaluation of traditional claim on this plant.
Studies on fate and toxicity of nanoalumina in male albino rats
Authors: Morsy Gamal M , El-Ala Kawther S Abou , Ali Atef A
Published: November 2013

The work aimed to evaluate the nanoalumina toxicity on the histological architecture, some haematological and biochemical aspects in male albino rats, during acute and sublethal experiments. Rats, in acute experiments, were injected with a single-acute dose of 3.9 g or 6.4 g or 8.5 g of aluminium oxide (Al2O3) kg−1, whereas those of sublethal were injected with 1.3 g of Al2O3 kg−1 2 days−1. One-way analysis of variance indicated that injected doses and the experimental periods were significantly affected by haemoglobin (Hb) content; haematocrit value (Hct); white blood cell (WBC) count; blood platelet (Plt) count; mean corpuscular volume (MCV); mean corpuscular Hb (MCH) and MCH concentration (MCHC). In acute experiments, Hct, WBC count, MCV and Plt were significantly higher than the corresponding controls, whereas Hb, MCH and MCHC markedly decreased. In comparison with the related controls after 1, 3 and 7 days post-injection, red blood cell count, Hb, Hct, WBC count, Plt and MCV were significantly increased, but begun to decrease after 14 or/and 28 days and were associated with a marked decrease in MCH and MCHC. In serum of rats injected with acute or sublethal dose, the concentrations of total protein (TP) and total lipid (TL) were significantly lesser than the corresponding controls, whereas the levels of urea, uric acid, creatinine and the activities of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase were markedly increased. The injected doses were directly proportional with all the studied biochemical parameter, except the TL and TP that exhibited a negative correlation. Histologically, the highest acute and sublethal doses of nanoalumina caused hepatic irregular disarray, necrosis to the hepatic and Kupffer cells that are associated with congested blood sinusoids. The renal tissues characterized by the appearance of inter-tubular congestion that is accompanied by the dilation of the vascular glomeruli that completely occupied Bowman’s capsule and accompanied with partial disappearance of the renal tubule’s brush border. The brain showed a progressive degeneration of neurons in both the experiments.
Anti-inflammatory Montelukast prevents toxic effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin
Authors: Bentli Recep , Ciftci Osman , Cetin Asli , Otlu Ali
Published: November 2013

This study aimed to investigate the potential beneficial effects of the montelukast (ML) on oxidative stress and histological alterations in liver tissues and cytokine levels in rats intoxicated with 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxin (TCDD). Rats were divided randomly into four equal groups (control, TCDD, ML, TCDD + ML). TCDD were administered by gavages dissolved in corn oil at the doses of 2 µg/kg/week, and ML was given intraperitoneally at the dose of 10 mg/kg/day. Oxidative status, histological alterations, and cytokine levels were analyzed on day 60. The results showed that although TCDD induced oxidative stress via significant increase in formation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance, it caused a significant decline in glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in liver. Besides, TCDD led to significant histopathological damage in liver and serum cytokine levels alterations (increase in tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 1β levels). In contrast, ML treatment reversed oxidative effects of TCDD by increasing the levels of GSH, CAT, and SOD and decreasing the formation of TBARS. Also, it can normalize the levels of histological and cytokine alterations induced by TCDD. In conclusion, it was determined that TCDD exposure caused adverse effects on cytokine levels, histological alterations, and oxidative stress in rats. However, ML treatment partially eliminated toxic effects of TCDD. Thus, it was judged that coadministration of ML with TCDD may be useful to attenuate the negative effects of TCDD.
Alterations in the fatty acid profile, antioxidant enzymes and protein pattern of Biomphalaria alexandrina snails exposed to the pesticides diazinon and profenfos
Authors: Bakry Fayez A , El-Hommossany Karem , Abd El-Atti Mahmoud , Ismail Somaya M
Published: November 2013

The use of pesticides is widespread in agricultural activities. These pesticides may contaminate the irrigation and drainage systems during agriculture activities and pests’ control and then negatively affect the biotic and a biotic component of the polluted water courses. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the pesticides diazinon and profenfos on some biological activities of Biomphalaria alexandrina snails such as fatty acid profile, some antioxidant enzymes (thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) as well as glutathione reductase (GR) and lipid peroxidation (LP)) and protein patterns in snails' tissues exposed for 4 weeks to LC10 of diazinon and profenfos. The results showed that the two pesticides caused considerable reduction in survival rates and egg production of treated snails. Identification of fatty acid composition in snail tissues treated with diazinon and profenfos pesticides was carried out using gas–liquid chromatography (GLC). The results declared alteration in fatty acid profile, fluctuation in percentage of long chain and short chain fatty acid contributions either saturated or unsaturated ones, and a decrease in total lipid content in tissues of snails treated with these pesticides. The data demonstrate that there was a significant inhibition in the activities of tissues SOD, CAT, glutathione reductase (GR), TrxR, and SDH in tissues of treated snails, while a significant elevation was detected in LP as compared to the normal control. On the other hand, the electrophoretic pattern of total protein showed differences in number and molecular weights of protein bands due to the treatment of snails. It was concluded that the residues of diazinon and profenfos pesticides in aquatic environments have toxic effects on B. alexandrina snails.
Cytotoxic effect of chlorpyrifos ethyl and its degradation derivatives by Pseudomonas peli strain isolated from the Oued Hamdoun River (Tunisia)
Authors: Dellai Afef , Dridi Dorra , Sakouhi Seif , Robert Jacques , Djelal Hayet , Mosrati Ridha , Cherif Ameur , Mansour Hedi Ben
Published: November 2013

A bacterium was isolated from the river of Oued Hamdoun (Tunisia), and its phenotypic features, physiological and chemotaxonomic characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA sequence revealed it as Pseudomonas peli ( P. peli). Chlorpyrifos ethyl (CP) was used as the sole source of carbon and energy by P. peli, and it was cometabolised in the presence of glucose. CP was completely degraded by P. peli after 96 h of shake incubation. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated that the biodegradation kinetics was not affected by the addition of glucose into the culture medium. In the present study, only transient accumulation of one major no-identified product was observed after 48 h of incubation, with no other persistent metabolites detected. Cytotoxicity of CP, before and after biodegradation with P. peli, was evaluated in vitro using the MTT-colorimetric assay against three human cancer cell lines (A549, lung cell carcinoma, HT29, colon adenocarcinoma and MCF7, breast adenocarcinoma). CP reduced viability of all human cell lines in a dose-dependent manner. Its activity was very remarkable against A549 cell line. However, cytotoxicity strongly decreased in CP obtained after incubation with P. peli. Hence, we conclude that when incubated under appropriate conditions, P. peli has a metabolism that completely detoxifies CP.
The endocrine disruptor effect of the herbicides atrazine and glyphosate on Biomphalaria alexandrina snails
Authors: Omran Nahla Elsayed , Salama Wesam Mohamed
Published: November 2013

Atrazine (AZ) and glyphosate (GL) are herbicides that are widely applied to cereal crops in Egypt. The present study was designed to investigate the response of the snail Biomphalaria alexandrina (Mollusca: Gastropoda) as a bioindicator for endocrine disrupters in terms of steroid levels (testosterone (T) and 17β-estradiol (E)), alteration of microsomal CYP4501B1-like immunoreactivity, total protein (TP) level, and gonadal structure after exposure to sublethal concentrations of AZ or GL for 3 weeks. In order to study the ability of the snails’ recuperation, the exposed snails were subjected to a recovery period for 2 weeks. The results showed that the level of T, E, and TP contents were significantly decreased ( p ≤ 0.05) in both AZ- and GL-exposed groups compared with control (unexposed) group. The level of microsomal CYP4501B1-like immunoreactivity increased significantly ( p ≤ 0.05) in GL- and AZ-exposed snails and reach nearly a 50% increase in AZ-exposed group. Histological investigation of the ovotestis showed that AZ and GL caused degenerative changes including azoospermia and oocytes deformation. Interestingly, all the recovered groups did not return back to their normal state. It can be concluded that both herbicides are endocrine disrupters and cause cellular toxicity indicated by the decrease of protein content and the increase in CYP4501B1-like immunoreactivity. This toxicity is irreversible and the snail is not able to recover its normal state. The fluctuation of CYP4501B1 suggests that this vertebrate-like enzyme may be functional also in the snail and may be used as a biomarker for insecticide toxicity.
Making a Difference in Eye Care of the Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Alansari Mariam A. , Hijazi Mohammed H. , Maghrabi Khalid A.
Published: November 2013

Ocular surface disorders are frequently encountered in patients under sedation and paralyzed patients in intensive care units (ICUs). In the ICUs, treatment is usually focused on the management of organ failures, and eye care becomes a side issue. As a result, ophthalmological complications do occur (incidence ranges from 3.6% to 60%) and are frequently overlooked in this setting. To identify the best available evidence in providing the best eye care to prevent exposure keratopathy, a literature review was performed. The databases of PUBMED, COCHRAN, and EMBASE library were searched. We only looked at higher quality articles. Among various eye care measures that have been advocated to prevent exposure keratopathy, the most effective is the application of polyethylene covers. Early diagnosis and effective treatment will help prevent microbial keratitis and visual loss.
Neurogenic Stunned Myocardium Following Acute Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Murthy Santosh B. , Shah Shreyansh , Rao Chethan P. Venkatasubba , Bershad Eric M. , Suarez Jose I.
Published: November 2013

Neurogenic stunned myocardium (NSM) is a triad of transient left ventricular dysfunction, electrocardiogram changes, and elevation in cardiac enzymes, often mimicking a myocardial infarction. It has been described following acute brain injury. The purported mechanism is catecholamine excess resulting in cardiac dysfunction. From the clinical standpoint, the most frequently encountered electrocardiographic changes are QTc prolongation and ST-T changes, with modest elevations in troponin levels. Basal and mid-ventricular segments of the left ventricle are most commonly involved. NSM poses therapeutic challenges when it occurs secondary to aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage, particularly in the setting of coexisting vasospasm. Overall, NSM carries good prognosis if recognized early, with appropriate management of hemodynamic and cardiopulmonary parameters.
Historic Preservation and Urban Revitalization in the Twenty-first Century
Authors: Ryberg-Webster Stephanie , Kinahan Kelly L.
Published: November 2013

Historic preservation is largely an urban profession with strong ties to city planning and development. Advocates tout preservation as a key driver of urban revitalization, but there remains a dearth of empirical research that addresses this intersection. This article reviews the current state of affairs in preservation practice and scholarship and builds new connections with four leading discourses in urban revitalization: the New American City, place matters, anchor institutions, and legacy cities. We call for an expansive research agenda to address preservation’s role in revitalization and to rethink preservation policy in the twenty-first century.
Factors Associated With Battered Filipino Women’s Decision to Stay in or Leave an Abusive Relationship
Authors: Estrellado Alicia F. , Loh Jennifer (M. I.)
Published: November 2013

There is a dearth of research on battered Filipino women’s stay or leave decision-making process. The present study interviewed 40 battered women in the Philippines to explore factors associated with their decisions to stay or leave their husbands or partners. Results revealed that (a) battered women’s decision to stay was associated with intrapersonal and interpersonal factors such as personality characteristics, lack of personal resources, absence of social support, presence of children, length of relationship, and sociocultural factors and (b) battered women’s decision to leave their abusive partners was associated with factors such as personality characteristics, personal resources, social support, nature of abuse, and spousal factors. Implications for research and practice were discussed.
Implications of Court Versus Conference
Authors: Scheuerman Heather L. , Keith Shelley
Published: November 2013

Courts and conferences emphasize varying elements of procedural justice to ensure that outcomes are fair and invoke moral regret or shame among offenders. How procedural justice relates to the various ways shame is experienced or managed is, however, not clear. Using data from the Australian Reintegrative Shaming Experiments (RISE), we examine how four types of shame management—shame acknowledgment, shame displacement, shame avoidance, and internalizing shame—operate within the context of traditional court processing and the restorative justice conference. Results indicate that the type of treatment offenders receive (court vs. conference) and perceptions of procedural justice affect shame management, highlighting important implications for understanding how shame management influences recidivism within court and conference.
Volume of Milk Obtained in Relation to Location and Circumstances of Expression in Mothers of Very Low Birth Weight Infants
Authors: Acuña-Muga Juliana , Ureta-Velasco Noelia , de la Cruz-Bértolo Javier , Ballesteros-López Rosa , Sánchez-Martínez Rocío , Miranda-Casabona Eugenia , Miguel-Trigoso Almudena , García-San José Lidia , Pallás-Alonso Carmen
Published: November 2013

Background:

Given the importance of mother’s milk for very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, it would be helpful to know which circumstances are most favorable for milk expression.

Objective:

This study aimed to estimate the volume of milk obtained by mothers of VLBW infants as a function of proximity to the infant and use of the kangaroo position during the actual expression.

Methods:

In this prospective cohort study, when the infant was stable and the mother had established a breastfeeding routine, she was given a notebook in which to record the location of expression and the amount of milk expressed for 10 consecutive days. Breast milk expression volumes were recorded and analyzed.

Results:

Data were collected on 26 mother-VLBW infant dyads and 1642 milk expressions. The first early morning expressions (n = 276, 17%) were conducted at home. Thereafter, 743 (45%) expressions were conducted far from the infant, either in a different room within the hospital or at home, and 623 (38%) were performed in proximity to the infant (beside the incubator, during kangaroo mother care [KMC], after KMC, or during kangaroo father care). The mean milk volume was significantly higher when expression was conducted in proximity to the infant. When only milk expressions conducted in proximity to the infant were considered, volumes obtained during KMC (107.7 mL, 91.8-123.5) and after KMC (117.7 mL, 99.0-136.5) were significantly higher than those obtained beside the incubator (96.9 mL, 79.9-113.9), respectively, P = .0030 and P = .0024.

Conclusion:

Milk expression conducted in proximity to the infant, particularly during and immediately after KMC, is associated with higher milk volume.
Preparation of aluminum oxide-coated carbon nanotubes and the properties of composite epoxy coatings research
Authors: Yi He , Chen Chunlin , Zhong Fei , Xu Zhonghao
Published: November 2013

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were acidized to get MWCNTs-COOH; the aluminum oxide (Al2O3)-coated MWCNTs hybrid material were prepared by sol–gel method and the result of cladding was verified using x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. Silane-coupling agent (KH560) was used to modify the hybrid materials. Composite coating with different concentrations of MWCNTs and Al2O3-coated MWCNTs was prepared. The wear resistance of the composite coating was tested by wear tester. The impedance performance and flexibility of Al2O3-coated MWCNTs/epoxy (2 wt%) and MWCNTs/epoxy (2 wt%, composite coating containing 2 wt% nanometer powder) were measured by the electrochemical workstation and mechanical testing equipment (MTS). The results show that the corrosion resistance and wear resistance of the Al2O3-coated MWCNTs/epoxy composite coating have some improvement compared with MWCNTs/epoxy, but a reduction in the flexibility of the Al2O3-coated MWCNTs/epoxy (2 wt%) composite coating.
Investigations on the tribological properties of poly(arylene ether ketone) copolymer with 3-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl pendants and biphenyl units
Authors: Li Na , Jiang Bo , Sun Daye , Shang Yingshuang , Zhu Ye , Wang Yongpeng , Zhang Haibo
Published: November 2013

High-molecular-weight poly(arylene ether kekone) (PAEK) containing 3-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl pendants and biphenyl units with a mole ratio of 3:7 (FP30-PEDEKK) has been synthesized by nucleophilic substitution copolymerization from 3-(trifluromethyl) phenylhydroquinone, 4,4′-biphenol, and 1,4-bis(p-flurobenzoyl) benzene. FP30-PEDEKK shows good mechanical strength and high thermal stability. The friction and wear behaviors of the copolymer were investigated on pin-on-disk tribological test method using UMT-2. Compared to poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK), FP30-PEDEKK has better friction reduction property and more stable friction behavior, although it shows lower wear resistance. These results could be supported by the scanning electron microscope investigations which showed that FP30-PEDEKK did have smoother worn surface than PEEK under given conditions. From microscopic images and the evolution of the friction coefficient and specific wear rate, the wear mechanisms of FP30-PEDEKK were suggested. This work significantly highlights the potential of molecular design as a route toward the tribological development of PAEK.
Below-Baseline Suppression of Competitors During Interference Resolution by Younger but Not Older Adults
Authors: Healey M. Karl , Ngo K. W. Joan , Hasher Lynn
Published: November 2013

Resolving interference from competing memories is a critical factor in efficient memory retrieval, and several accounts of cognitive aging suggest that difficulty resolving interference may underlie memory deficits such as those seen in the elderly. Although many researchers have suggested that the ability to suppress competitors is a key factor in resolving interference, the evidence supporting this claim has been the subject of debate. Here, we present a new paradigm and results demonstrating that for younger adults, a single retrieval attempt is sufficient to suppress competitors to below-baseline levels of accessibility even though the competitors are never explicitly presented. The extent to which individual younger adults suppressed competitors predicted their performance on a memory span task. In a second experiment, older adults showed no evidence of suppression, which supports the theory that older adults’ memory deficits are related to impaired suppression.
Investigation of the vapour–liquid two-phase flow in the low-pressure cylinder of a 1000 MW nuclear power steam turbine
Authors: Li L , Yang J-d , You W , Wu X-m , Feng Z-p
Published: November 2013

The vapour–liquid two-phase flow in the low-pressure cylinder of a 1000 MW nuclear steam turbine has been investigated. Firstly, a comparative study of the flows with equilibrium and non-equilibrium condensation is described. The vapour extraction and moisture removal processes are included in the calculations to simulate the actual operating conditions in the low-pressure cylinder. Differences in the thermodynamic expansion lines, and in the distributions of wetness and degree of reaction, for equilibrium and non-equilibrium flow calculations are discussed. Secondly, the deposition of the fog and coarse water droplets in the last stage stator is investigated computationally. An empirical approach, together with the predictions of the non-equilibrium flow calculation, is used to redistribute the spanwise profile of the wetness at inlet to the last stage of the turbine. The movement and deposition of the water droplets are tracked in a Lagrangian frame. The variations of the fog and coarse water deposition rates are obtained in both the spanwise and axial-chordwise directions.
Extended follow-up of the CYCLOFA-LUNE trial comparing two sequential induction and maintenance treatment regimens for proliferative lupus nephritis based either on cyclophosphamide or on cyclosporine A
Authors: Závada J , Pešičková S Sinikka , Ryšavá R , Horák P , Hrnčíř Z , Lukáč J , Rovenský J , Vítová J , Havrda M , Rychlík I , Böhmova J , Vlasáková V , Slatinská J , Zadražil J , Olejárová M , Tegzova D , Tesar V
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the extended follow-up of the CYCLOFA-LUNE trial, a randomized prospective trial comparing two sequential induction and maintenance treatment regimens for proliferative lupus nephritis based either on cyclophosphamide (CPH) or cyclosporine A (CyA).

Patients and methods

Data for kidney function and adverse events were collected by a cross-sectional survey for 38 of 40 patients initially randomized in the CYCLOFA-LUNE trial.

Results

The median follow-up time was 7.7 years (range 5.0–10.3). Rates of renal impairment and end-stage renal disease, adverse events (death, cardiovascular event, tumor, premature menopause) did not differ between the CPH and CyA group, nor did mean serum creatinine, 24 h proteinuria and SLICC damage score at last follow-up. Most patients in both groups were still treated with glucocorticoids, other immunosuppressant agents and blood pressure lowering drugs.

Conclusion

An immunosuppressive regimen based on CyA achieved similar clinical results to that based on CPH in the very long term.
Acute presentation of thrombocytopaenia in systemic lupus erythematosus is associated with a high mortality in South Africa
Authors: Patel N , Mody GM
Published: November 2013

The objective of this study was to determine the pattern of presentation, response to treatment, and outcome in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and thrombocytopaenia (TCP). A retrospective review of the records of patients with SLE and TCP and a matched control group of SLE patients without TCP, seen in the rheumatology department in Durban, South Africa, was performed. The demographic data, clinical findings, laboratory findings, treatment and outcome were recorded. There were 54 patients and an equal number of controls. They comprised 30 Indians and 24 African Blacks, median age of 33 years and female to male ratio 5.8:1. A group of eight patients who initially presented with idiopathic thrombocytopaenic purpura (ITP) and subsequently developed SLE were analysed separately. An acute presentation was noted in 31 patients (57%). Patients with an acute presentation had an increased prevalence of renal disease (77% vs 43.5%; p = 0.01) and an increased number of deaths (38.7% vs 4.4%; p = 0.004). The majority of patients responded to corticosteroids (68.5%) and splenectomy. There was an increased prevalence of renal disease ( p = 0.03) and deaths ( p = 0.004) among patients with TCP. The majority of deaths had an acute presentation ((12/13; 92.3%) ( p = 0.004)), and were due to infection and active lupus. TCP with an acute presentation is associated with a high mortality and predicts survival in SLE.
Response-based tuning of a negative capacitance shunt for vibration control
Authors: Beck Benjamin S , Cunefare Kenneth A , Collet Manuel
Published: November 2013

The control of vibrating structures using piezoelectric elements attached to simple control circuits, known as shunts, is a widely studied field. Many different shunt circuits have been researched that have been shown to obtain effective performance in both narrow and broadband frequency ranges. Yet, the choice for the exact parameters of the circuit elements for these vibration-suppressing shunts can be found by various methods. In this study, a new method of selecting the circuit parameters of a negative capacitance shunt is presented. The method predicts the magnitude of the strain-induced voltage caused by the vibrating substrate computed from a single voltage measurement. Therefore, minimizing the strain-induced voltage will mean that the deflection of the structure is also minimized. The tuning theory is confirmed experimentally, which validates that it is possible to experimentally obtain the shunt parameters that produce maximum control through measurement of the shunt response. The suppression ability of the shunt is also compared to the maximum power dissipated. It is found that at high frequency, the parameters that cause maximum power dissipated obtain maximum suppression, but there is no correlation between maximum power dissipated and maximum suppression at low frequency.
Effect of temperature on the crystalline phase and dielectric and ferroelectric properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride) film
Authors: Yang Lu , Ji Hongli , Qiu Jinhao , Zhu Kongjun , Shao Bin
Published: November 2013

As a functional polymer material, poly(vinylidene fluoride) has attracted broad attention due to its outstanding electroactive properties. The electroactive properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride) depend greatly on its crystalline structure, which in turn depends on the processing conditions. In our recent study, poly(vinylidene fluoride) films were prepared by a solution crystallization method, and the effect of evaporation temperatures on the crystalline phase, crystallinity, and morphology of poly(vinylidene fluoride) was investigated. The results reveal that evaporation temperature is the key factor when studying crystalline structure of poly(vinylidene fluoride). Low temperatures can facilitate the nucleation of β-phase; however, they are disadvantageous for the crystal nucleation and crystal growth. It was also found that the dielectric and ferroelectric properties are closely related to the crystallinity of β-phase of poly(vinylidene fluoride) films. Moreover, the porous structure formed in low evaporation temperatures can lead to a decline in dielectric property and breakdown strength. The films fabricated at 80 °C owned the highest crystallinity of β-phase (49%) and presented the maximum εr (12.5, 103 Hz) and Pr (7 µC/cm2), suggesting that the optimum temperature to prepare poly(vinylidene fluoride) films with excellent electroactive properties is 80 °C.
Combined squeeze-shear properties of magnetorheological fluids: Effect of pressure
Authors: Spaggiari Andrea , Dragoni Eugenio
Published: November 2013

Several applications of magnetorheological fluids are nowadays present in the industrial world; however, sometimes material properties are not sufficient to meet the system requirements. Among the technical literature, there is experimental evidence of the squeeze-strengthen effect, which is a pressure dependency of the yield stress of the magnetorheological fluid. Since many magnetorheological systems are rotary devices, such as brakes and clutches, this article investigates the behaviour of magnetorheological fluids under pressure when a rotation is applied to shear the fluid. The system is designed to apply both the magnetic field and the pressure following a design of experiment method. The experimental apparatus comprises a cylinder in which a piston applies both pressure and a prescribed rotation. The magnetic circuit is designed to provide a tunable, nearly constant magnetic induction field inside the fluid. The experimental apparatus measures the torque produced by the magnetorheological fluid as a function of the variables considered, and consequently, the yield shear stress is evaluated. A statistical analysis of the results finds a positive interaction between the magnetic field and the pressure, which enhances the magnetorheological fluid performances, measured in terms of yield stress, up to more than two times the manufacturer’s datasheet values.
Lead-free piezoelectric materials’ performance in structural active vibration control
Authors: Sharma Anshul , Kumar Rajeev , Vaish Rahul , Chauhan Vishal S
Published: November 2013

In this article, lead-free piezoelectric ceramics are investigated for active vibration control of piezolaminated composite shell structure. The shell structure is in the form of layered composite shell. Finite element modeling is performed to obtain vibratory response of the piezolaminated shell structure. Modeling is based on first-order shear deformation theory and linear piezoelectric theory. Fuzzy logic controller is used as controlling technique to reduce the vibration amplitude of vibrating shell using piezoelectric ceramics (both lead-based and lead-free). The simulation results reveal that Pb0.83La0.17(Zr0.3Ti0.7)0.9575O3 (lead zirconate titanate sensor) and (K0.475Na0.475Li0.05)(Nb0.92Ta0.05Sb0.03)O3 (KNLNTS actuator) combination reduces the vibration amplitude of vibrating shell structure faster than lead zirconate titanate (sensor) and lead zirconate titanate (actuator) combination. Moreover, for complete replacement of lead-based piezoelectric ceramics, 0.885(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3–0.05(Bi0.5K0.5)TiO3–0.015(Bi0.5Li0.5)TiO3–0.05BaTiO3 (BNKLBT sensor) and KNLNTS (actuator) combination is a potential candidate for active vibration control application.
Returning to Ourselves
Authors: Popper-Giveon Ariela , Weiner-Levy Naomi
Published: November 2013

Studies of traditional healers in various cultures describe their initiation into the healing profession as a climax that constructs their professional and personal identity. Literature emphasizes the healers’ intense association with the culture in which they work, as reflected in the initiation narratives that healers in various cultures recount. In this article we reveal unique initiation stories and identity formation from Palestinian nonconventional healers in Israel who described a cross-cultural journey: After studying healing traditions of foreign cultures and on returning to their own cultural environment, they developed a unique and complex combination of healing values and traditions. We examine the stories of these healers, whose personal and professional identities are affected by cultural, political, and social contexts. We note the blending of healing traditions and practices, and the changes in identity, assessing them against cultural processes that many Palestinians in Israel have been undergoing over the past few decades.
Connected Health: Cancer Symptom and Quality-of-Life Assessment Using a Tablet Computer
Authors: Aktas Aynur , Hullihen Barbara , Shrotriya Shiva , Thomas Shirley , Walsh Declan , Estfan Bassam
Published: November 2013

Incorporation of tablet computers (TCs) into patient assessment may facilitate safe and secure data collection. We evaluated the usefulness and acceptability of a TC as an electronic self-report symptom assessment instrument. Research Electronic Data Capture Web-based application supported data capture. Information was collected and disseminated in real time and a structured format. Completed questionnaires were printed and given to the physician before the patient visit. Most participants completed the survey without assistance. Completion rate was 100%. The median global quality of life was high for all. More than half reported pain. Based on Edmonton Symptom Assessment System, the top 3 most common symptoms were tiredness, anxiety, and decreased well-being. Patient and physician acceptability for these quick and useful TC-based surveys was excellent.
Racial Disparities in Receipt of Hospice Services Among Nursing Home Residents
Authors: Frahm Kathryn A. , Brown Lisa M. , Hyer Kathryn
Published: November 2013

This study examined the relationship between race and advance care planning, hospitalization, and death among nursing home residents receiving hospice care. Secondary data analysis using the 2007 Minimum Data Set (MDS) was used to identify documentation of these activities for White, Black, Hispanic, and Asian residents with linear regression models fitted to each dependent variable. Across different types of advance directives, compared to White nursing home residents, Black, Hispanic, and Asian residents who received hospice services were significantly less likely overall to have documented advance directives. All racial groups were also more likely to experience hospitalization while on hospice, regardless of whether they had a documented “do not hospitalize” order. As nursing homes become more diverse, recognizing differences in hospice use and end-of-life planning will continue to increase in importance.