bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Limb Ischemia and Outcomes With Vorapaxar in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease
Authors: Bonaca Marc P. , Gutierrez J. Antonio , Creager Mark A. , Scirica Benjamin M. , Olin Jeffrey , Murphy Sabina A. , Braunwald Eugene , Morrow David A.
Published: January 2016

Background—

Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are at heightened risk of acute limb ischemia (ALI), a morbid event that may result in limb loss. We investigated the causes, sequelae, and predictors of ALI in a contemporary population with symptomatic PAD and whether protease-activated receptor 1 antagonism with vorapaxar reduced ALI overall and by type.

Methods and Results—

The Trial to Assess the Effects of Vorapaxar in Preventing Heart Attack and Stroke in Patients With Atherosclerosis–Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 50 (TRA2°P-TIMI 50) was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of vorapaxar in stable patients, including 3787 with symptomatic PAD. ALI was a prespecified adjudicated end point using a formal definition. A total of 150 ALI events occurred in 108 patients during follow-up (placebo 3-year rate, 3.9%; 1.3% annualized). For patients with symptomatic PAD, previous peripheral revascularization, smoking, and the ankle-brachial index were predictive of ALI. The majority of ALI events occurred as a result of surgical graft thrombosis (56%), followed by native vessel in situ thrombosis (27%). Stent thrombosis and thromboembolism caused ALI in 13% and 5%, respectively. Amputation occurred in 17.6% presenting with ALI. Vorapaxar reduced first ALI events by 41% (hazard ratio, 0.58; 95% confidence interval, 0.39–0.86;
P
=0.006) and total ALI events by 41% (94 versus 56 events; risk ratio, 0.59; 95% confidence interval, 0.38–0.93;
P
=0.022). The efficacy of vorapaxar was consistent across types of ALI.

Conclusions—

In selected patients with symptomatic PAD and without atrial fibrillation, ALI occurs at a rate of 1.3%/y, is most frequently caused by acute bypass graft thrombosis or in situ thrombosis of a diseased vessel, and often results in limb loss. Vorapaxar reduces ALI in patients with symptomatic PAD with consistency across type, including PAD resulting from surgical graft thrombosis and in-situ thrombosis.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00526474.
“It’s Irrelevant to Me!” Young Black Women Talk Back to VH1’s Love and Hip Hop New York
Authors: Edwards Erica B.
Published: January 2016

The reality television show Love and Hip Hop New York enjoyed immense popularity during its fourth season. The show, which profiles the love and relationship experiences of its Black and Latino cast, overwhelmingly perpetuates stereotypes of people of color through a narrow lens of Black masculinity and femininity. This article uses critical discourse analysis to unveil the ways in which the show invites its cast members to create hegemonic representations of themselves. It also argues against the effects model in hip-hop scholarship—which dogmatically asserts that these types of representations are inherently harmful to Black youth. Using audience analysis, the article works to add complexity to the findings of the critical discourse analysis by inviting young Black women to talk back to the representations transmitted by the show.
Molecular dynamics simulation of functionalized SWCNT–polymer composites
Authors: Sharma Sumit , Chandra Rakesh , Kumar Pramod , Kumar Navin
Published: January 2016

The analysis of the influence of functionalization on the mechanical properties of the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has been poorly addressed, especially when compared with the extensive amount of work on pristine CNTs. This article analyzes the effect of carboxylic (COOH), ester (COOCH3), silane (COSiCH3), and vinyl (CH = CH2) groups attached on the surface of single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) on elastic properties of polypropylene (PP) composites reinforced with functionalized SWCNTs along the axial direction of the CNTs by using MD approach. Effect of CNT aspect ratio and volume fraction on the elastic moduli has also been studied. The results show that although chemical functionalization of SWCNTs has been considered as a means to increase the load-transfer efficiency in a nanotube–polymer composite, this functionalization has, in fact, degraded most of the macroscopic elastic stiffness components of the composite materials considered in this study. The decrease in longitudinal modulus of functionalized SWCNT–PP composite with respect to pristine SWCNT reinforced PP composite is largest for COOH functionalized SWCNT–PP composites. The values of transverse moduli are approximately one-tenth the corresponding values of longitudinal modulus .
Pragmatic RCT on the Efficacy of Proximal Caries Infiltration
Authors: Meyer-Lueckel H. , Balbach A. , Schikowsky C. , Bitter K. , Paris S.
Published: January 2016

Proximal caries infiltration has been shown to be efficacious in hampering caries lesion progression when performed by dentists working in a university setting. The aim of this randomized split-mouth, placebo-controlled clinical trial was to assess the efficacy of resin infiltration of proximal caries lesions being performed by several dentists in private practices, in combination with individualized oral hygiene plus noninvasive measures compared with these alone. In this study, 87 children and young adults (with 238 pairs of proximal caries lesions radiographically extending into the inner half of the enamel [E2] or the outer third of the dentin [D1]) were randomly allocated to either 1 of 2 treatments. Test lesions were infiltrated, and a mock treatment was performed in control lesions by 5 German private practitioners. All patients received instructions for a noncariogenic diet, flossing and fluoridation, and individualized noninvasive interventions. The primary outcome was radiographic lesion progression (pairwise comparison) evaluated independently by 2 evaluators who were blinded to treatment allocation. After approximately 10 mo (mean ± SD 307 ± 43 d), 92 of 148 lesion pairs in 24 of 38 treated patients who were at high caries risk could be re-evaluated clinically as well as radiographically using individualized bitewing holders, as at baseline; 186 of 204 lesion pairs in 70 of 77 patients (35 of 38 high-risk patients) could be evaluated after 18 mo (mean 542 ± 110 d). No unwanted effects were observed. After 10 mo, progression was recorded in 2 of 92 test lesions (2%) and in 22 of 92 control lesions (24%) ( P = 0.001, McNemar/Obuchowski test; relative risk reduction, 91; 95% confidence interval, 62%–98%). After 18 mo, lesion progression was recorded in all included patients in 10 of 186 test lesions (5%) and in 58 of 186 control lesions (31%) ( P < 0.001; relative risk reduction, 83; 95% confidence interval, 67%–91%). Thus, resin infiltration seems to be more efficacious in reducing lesion progression compared with individualized noninvasive measures alone over a period of 18 mo when performed in a private practice setting by various practitioners (German Clinical Trials Register / Deutsches Register Klinischer Studien DRKS00009963).
Addictive Behaviors and Chronic Pain in a High-Risk Population
Authors: Matta Marissa S. , Porter Jeremy R. , Chintakrindi Sriram , Cosby Arthur G.
Published: January 2016

In this study, we use a cross-sectional design to examine the relationship between addictive behaviors and self-reported pain in a high-risk population of driving under the influence (DUI) violators. Our results suggest that individuals identified as having potentially dependent relationships with food, nicotine, drugs, alcohol, and sex have a greater likelihood of experiencing pain. However, the magnitude of the association varied significantly among the addictive domains and in relation to the severity and body location of the reported pain. Our results demonstrate simple and additive effects associated with the confounding relationships between multiple addictions and the likelihood of experiencing chronic pain. Potential explanations for these relationships range from the physiological relationship between obesity and lower body joint strain to potential psychological relationships associated with sex addiction and the experience of pain. Overall, the results highlight statistically important relationships between addiction, multiple addictions, and the experience of chronic pain.
Does Political and Economic Freedom Matter for Inbound Tourism? A Cross-National Panel Data Estimation
Authors: Saha Shrabani , Su Jen-Je , Campbell Neil
Published: January 2016

The article examines the impact of political and economic freedom on inbound tourism for more than 110 countries during 1995–2012. Panel country fixed-effects techniques are utilized to examine the relationship after controlling for other factors that contribute to inbound tourism. The results show that civil liberties and economic freedom (among several other freedom measures) are positively and significantly associated with inbound tourism. Examination of the moderation effect reveals that civil liberties (economic freedom) tend to play a more influential role on inbound tourism when the level of economic freedom (civil liberties) is relatively low.
Injection moulding of high precision optics for light-emitting diodes made of liquid silicone rubber
Authors: Hopmann Christian , Röbig Malte
Published: January 2016

In the market of lighting technologies, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) gradually substitute conventional light sources. Because of their high energy efficiency and long lifetime, they are increasingly used in consumer products, interior and exterior lighting applications in the home and mobility sector as well as in industrial applications. The material properties in the surrounding area of the light-emitting semiconductor chip are crucial to the performance of LED. Although the energy efficiency of LED is higher compared to conventional light sources, temperatures exceed about 150°C close to the semiconductor chip. Especially in combination with high amounts of blue ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the materials for encapsulation cannot meet the requirements and reduce the lifetime of an LED significantly. Contrary to conventional materials, high transparent liquid silicone rubber (LSR) can resist high temperatures as well as UV radiation and offer a great freedom in design. This enables the combination of the encapsulation (primary optics) and the secondary optics in one component. The objective of an ongoing joint research project with various partners from the industry is the development of an innovative injection moulding process for high precision optics in LED applications made of LSR, which is analysed at the Institute of Plastics Processing (IKV), Aachen, Germany. Therefore, the LED board is placed in the injection mould and overmoulded with LSR. The goal is a highly integrated process with major emphasis on the reduction of components, mounting steps and costs. Furthermore, the combination of primary and secondary optics promises an improved effectiveness because losses in light power due to the transition of the primary and secondary optics are reduced.
A New Doctrine in the Making? Doctrinal Foundations of Sub-National Governance Reforms in Hungary (2010-2014)
Authors: Hajnal György , Rosta Miklós
Published: January 2016

The study attempts to reveal the doctrinal foundations of Hungary’s sweeping sub-national governance reforms (SGRs) that took place in the period 2010-2014. It compares actual SGRs with internationally mainstream doctrines of major contemporary reform, to determine the extent to and the ways in which Hungarian SGRs are a mixture of these trends as opposed to being a novel paradigm of its own. The study concludes that Hungary’s reform path substantially diverges from all three major reform paradigms examined—that is, New Public Management, New Public Governance, and the Neo-Weberian State. We end with the proposition that this deviation is not of an unintended or accidental nature; rather, it seems to be part of a coherent and rationally pursued vision of (sub-national) governance, possibly referred to as “illiberal.”
Mixture of Arginine, Glutamine, and β‐hydroxy‐β‐methyl Butyrate Enhances the Healing of Ischemic Wounds in Rats
Authors: Gündoğdu Rıza Haldun , Temel Hande , Bozkırlı Bahadır Osman , Ersoy Eren , Yazgan Aylin , Yıldırım Zuhal
Published: January 2016

Background: This study investigated the effects of an amino acid mixture containing arginine, glutamine, and β‐hydroxy‐β‐methyl butyrate on secondary healing of ischemic wounds in a rat model (N = 18). Methods: After the formation of a bipediculated flap on each rat, 2 full‐thickness excisional skin wounds (2 × 2 cm) were created on every flap. The rats were then randomized into the control and treatment groups. Every rat received standardized rat food throughout the study. The rats in the treatment group were administered an extra 200 mg/kg of L‐arginine, 200 mg/kg of L‐glutamine, and 40 mg/kg of β‐hydroxy‐β‐methyl butyrate per day. Wound sizes were measured on days 0, 4, 10, and 14. The rats were sacrificed, and the wounds were excised for biochemical and histologic examination on the 14th day. Results: As compared with the control group, the treatment group's wound sizes were significantly smaller on days 10 and 14 (P < .001), as was its inflammatory cell accumulation score (P = .008). There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in collagen accumulation (P = .340), granulation tissue maturation (P = .161), angiogenesis (P = .387), or reepithelialization (P = .190) and no significant difference between hydroxyproline concentrations in wounds (P = .287). Discussion: This amino acid combination seems to have a positive impact on the secondary healing of experimental ischemic wounds when introduced as a supplement to the standard diet, and the reduction in the inflammatory process appears to play a role in this effect.
An Examination of the Temporal Intricacies of Job Engagement
Authors: Hernandez Morela , Guarana Cristiano L.
Published: January 2016

In this article, we theoretically develop and test the temporal intricacies of job engagement. Drawing on the attention view of social cognition, we examine the interplay of employees’ temporally relevant perspectives of fit (i.e., retrospected, current, and anticipated) within their ongoing membership to the organization. Utilizing field data gathered from a large multinational company over multiple time periods, we found support for a conditional indirect effect model. Specifically, our findings showed that current needs-supply (NS) fit accounted for two of the previously investigated antecedents of job engagement (i.e., psychological meaningfulness and safety), especially when organizational identification was low. Moreover, anticipated perceptions of NS fit fully mediated the influences of psychological meaningfulness and availability on job engagement. The mediating effect relating to psychological availability was also especially pronounced when organizational identification was low. By shedding light on employees’ temporally constructed psychological experiences, our research suggests that job engagement is not only affected by employees’ contemporaneous understandings of their jobs but also influenced by their perceptions of anticipated opportunities.
Disappearing into the Object: Aesthetic Subjectivities and Organizational Control in Routine Cultural Work
Authors: Siciliano Michael
Published: January 2016

Taking a labor process approach to organizations in cultural industries, this article compares expressive and routine workers (audio engineers and studio attendants) within a US music-recording organization. I describe a practical control strategy that aims to reproduce the pleasurable feel of expressive work among routine cultural workers. Because this strategy depends upon workers’ aesthetic experiences of technological objects, I term this strategy aesthetic enrollment. Drawing upon theories of aesthetic experience and Callon and Law’s enrollment processes, I theorize this strategy as a form of control. Engineers come to love their ability to express creativity at work and appear captivated by the organization’s aesthetically compelling technical artifacts (music equipment or “gear”). Among rehearsal hall attendants, management provides similar aesthetically appealing, expressive technologies. These objects afford experiences among routine staff that resemble those found in more expressive occupations, providing opportunities for creativity in the context of routine, task-oriented work. This strategy manages the “feel” of work and thus incorporates employees by way of their relationship with technical artifacts – part of the organization’s aesthetic landscape.
Theoretical models of comprehension skills tested through a comprehension assessment battery for primary school children
Authors: Tobia Valentina , Ciancaleoni Matteo , Bonifacci Paola
Published: January 2016

In this study, two alternative theoretical models were compared, in order to analyze which of them best explains primary school children’s text comprehension skills. The first one was based on the distinction between two types of answers requested by the comprehension test: local or global. The second model involved texts’ input modality: written or oral. For this purpose, a new instrument that assesses listening and reading comprehension skills (ALCE battery; Bonifacci et al., 2014) was administered to a large sample of 1,658 Italian primary school students. The two models were tested separately for the five grades (first to fifth grade). Furthermore, a third model, that included both the types of answers and the texts’ input modality, was considered. Results of confirmatory factor analyses suggested that all models are adequate, but the second one (reading vs. listening) provided a better fit. The major role of the distinction between input modalities is discussed in relation to individual differences and developmental trajectories in text comprehension. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.
The sural nerve: Sonographic anatomy, variability and relation to the small saphenous vein in the setting of endovenous thermal ablation
Authors: Rodriguez-Acevedo Omar , Elstner Kristen , Zea Aaron , Diaz Jenny , Martinic Kui , Ibrahim Nabeel
Published: January 2016

Background

Neurological complications are well documented in association with both surgical stripping or disconnection and thermal ablation of the small saphenous vein. The sural nerve (medial sural cutaneous nerve) is most vulnerable due to its close relationship to the small saphenous vein.

Objective

This is a cross-sectional observational study of the sonographic anatomy of 115 Australian patients to determine the course of the sural nerve and its relationship to the small saphenous vein, and to identify its relevance in the thermal ablation of the small saphenous vein.

Method

Sonographic mapping of the right sural nerve was performed with a Philips L12.5 and Sonosite 10.5 MHz ultrasound machine on 115 patients. The sural nerve was traced proximally from the level of the lateral malleolus to the popliteal fossa in order to measure its distance from the small saphenous vein at four reference points in the lower leg.

Results

A total of 115 patients were studied (females 82, males 33). The sural nerve was identified in 100% of patients; 64 patients (55.7%) showed usual sural nerve anatomy, while 51 patients (44.3%) demonstrated a range of anatomical variations, including the sural nerve becoming epifascial at a higher point than usual.

Conclusion

The sural nerve was identifiable on duplex ultrasound in 100% of cases. Classic anatomical relations and the perceived protection of the sural nerve conferred by the deep fascia of the upper calf are unreliable. Preoperative strategies can help to approach and protect the sural nerve in the endovenous ablation setting.
Effectiveness of balance training programme in reducing the frequency of falling in established osteoporotic women: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mikó Ibolya , Szerb Imre , Szerb Anna , Poor Gyula
Published: January 2016

Objective:

To investigate the effect of a 12-month sensomotor balance exercise programme on postural control and the frequency of falling in women with established osteoporosis.

Design:

Randomized controlled trial where the intervention group was assigned the 12-month Balance Training Programme and the control group did not undertake any intervention beyond regular osteoporosis treatment.

Subjects:

A total of 100 osteoporotic women – at least with one osteoporotic fracture – aged 65 years old and above.

Main measures:

Balance was assessed in static and dynamic posture both with performance-based measures of balance, such as the Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Up and Go Test, and with a stabilometric computerized platform.

Interventions:

Patients in the intervention group completed the 12-month sensomotor Balance Training Programme in an outpatient setting, guided by physical therapists, three times a week, for 30 minutes.

Results:

The Berg Balance Scale and the Timed Up and Go Test showed a statistically significant improvement of balance in the intervention group ( p = 0.001 and p = 0.005, respectively). Balance tests using the stabilometer also showed a statistically significant improvement in static and dynamic postural balance for osteoporotic women after the completion of the Balance Training Programme. As a consequence, the one-year exercise programme significantly decreased the number of falls in the exercise group compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

The Balance Training Programme significantly improved the balance parameters and reduced the number of falls in postmenopausal women who have already had at least one fracture in the past.
Cerebral 5-HT release correlates with [11C]Cimbi36 PET measures of 5-HT2A receptor occupancy in the pig brain
Authors: Jørgensen Louise M , Weikop Pia , Villadsen Jonas , Visnapuu Tanel , Ettrup Anders , Hansen Hanne D , Baandrup Anders O , Andersen Flemming L , Bjarkam Carsten R , Thomsen Carsten , Jespersen Bo , Knudsen Gitte M
Published: January 2016

Positron emission tomography (PET) can, when used with appropriate radioligands, non-invasively generate temporal and spatial information about acute changes in brain neurotransmitter systems. We for the first time evaluate the novel 5-HT2A receptor agonist PET radioligand, [11C]Cimbi-36, for its sensitivity to detect changes in endogenous cerebral 5-HT levels, as induced by different pharmacological challenges. To enable a direct translation of PET imaging data to changes in brain 5-HT levels, we calibrated the [11C]Cimbi-36 PET signal in the pig brain by simultaneous measurements of extracellular 5-HT levels with microdialysis and [11C]Cimbi-36 PET after various acute interventions (saline, citalopram, citalopram + pindolol, fenfluramine). In a subset of pigs, para-chlorophenylalanine pretreatment was given to deplete cerebral 5-HT. The interventions increased the cerebral extracellular 5-HT levels to 2–11 times baseline, with fenfluramine being the most potent pharmacological enhancer of 5-HT release, and induced a varying degree of decline in [11C]Cimbi-36 binding in the brain, consistent with the occupancy competition model. The observed correlation between changes in the extracellular 5-HT level in the pig brain and the 5-HT2A receptor occupancy indicates that [11C]Cimbi-36 binding is sensitive to changes in endogenous 5-HT levels, although only detectable with PET when the 5-HT release is sufficiently high.
Design Features of Explicit Values Clarification Methods
Authors: Witteman Holly O. , Scherer Laura D. , Gavaruzzi Teresa , Pieterse Arwen H. , Fuhrel-Forbis Andrea , Chipenda Dansokho Selma , Exe Nicole , Kahn Valerie C. , Feldman-Stewart Deb , Col Nananda F. , Turgeon Alexis F. , Fagerlin Angela
Published: January 2016

Background. Values clarification is a recommended element of patient decision aids. Many different values clarification methods exist, but there is little evidence synthesis available to guide design decisions. Purpose. To describe practices in the field of explicit values clarification methods according to a taxonomy of design features. Data Sources. MEDLINE, all EBM Reviews, CINAHL, EMBASE, Google Scholar, manual search of reference lists, and expert contacts. Study Selection. Articles were included if they described 1 or more explicit values clarification methods. Data Extraction. We extracted data about decisions addressed; use of theories, frameworks, and guidelines; and 12 design features. Data Synthesis. We identified 110 articles describing 98 explicit values clarification methods. Most of these addressed decisions in cancer or reproductive health, and half addressed a decision between just 2 options. Most used neither theory nor guidelines to structure their design. “Pros and cons” was the most common type of values clarification method. Most methods did not allow users to add their own concerns. Few methods explicitly presented tradeoffs inherent in the decision, supported an iterative process of values exploration, or showed how different options aligned with users’ values. Limitations. Study selection criteria and choice of elements for the taxonomy may have excluded values clarification methods or design features. Conclusions. Explicit values clarification methods have diverse designs but can be systematically cataloged within the structure of a taxonomy. Developers of values clarification methods should carefully consider each of the design features in this taxonomy and publish adequate descriptions of their designs. More research is needed to study the effects of different design features.
The new left in Spain: Some aspects to consider
Authors: Mateo Juan Pablo
Published: January 2016

This paper addresses the current situation of the left in Spain (excluding traditional social democracy) and its future prospects. Since the so-called 15-M movement of May 2011 and the subsequent creation of Podemos (‘We Can’), there has been a perceived possibility of the overcoming the neoliberal offensive and the so-called regime of 1978, the political structure of the last decades. However, it is argued here that the rise of this ‘new left’ does not necessarily imply a strengthening of the subject of transformation, the labour movement, nor the political framework for achieving social rights in the future.
Organizing for Good Jobs
Authors: Bernhardt Annette , Osterman Paul
Published: January 2016

Over the past several decades, there has been a remarkable surge of economic justice organizing across the country. The goal of this article is to examine these efforts and provide a framework for understanding their potential, their limitations, and their future. In what follows, the authors first describe five distinct organizing movements focused on low-wage work that have flourished in recent years. The authors then develop a framework for thinking about these movements. They distinguish among these efforts along the two dimensions of goals and strategies, assessing relative strengths and weaknesses. With these distinctions in hand, they then take up the question of the scalability of the movements and analyze the challenges they face in terms of growth strategy, sustainability, constituencies, and cohesion. This overall framework yields a picture of significant promise in America’s economic justice organizing—but one that will take equally significant resources and political power to realize.
Learning Through Political Participation
Authors: Serrat Rodrigo , Petriwskyj Andrea , Villar Feliciano , Warburton Jeni
Published: January 2016

Older people’s civic participation contributes to community development while at the same time providing opportunities for personal growth in later life. One important dimension of civic participation that has been largely underexplored is informal learning. The aim of this study is to explore the learnings experienced by Spanish older people through their participation in political organizations as one important type of participation that has received little attention in the literature to date. A total of 192 people aged 65 years and older and actively engaged in three kinds of political organizations participated in the study. Participants answered an open-ended question regarding learnings through political participation. Results show a range of informal learnings, relating to social, political, or instrumental domains. Both the type of organization and some sociodemographic and participatory characteristics are associated with the type of learnings experienced by participants. Implications for political organizations are discussed.
Chronotype, Light Exposure, Sleep, and Daytime Functioning in High School Students Attending Morning or Afternoon School Shifts
Authors: Martin Jeanne Sophie , Gaudreault Michael M. , Perron Michel , Laberge Luc
Published: January 2016

Adolescent maturation is associated with delays of the endogenous circadian phase. Consequently, early school schedules may lead to a mismatch between internal and external time, which can be detrimental to adolescent sleep and health. In parallel, chronotype is known to play a role in adolescent health; evening chronotype adolescents are at higher risk for sleep problems and lower academic achievement. In the summer of 2008, Kénogami High School (Saguenay, Canada) was destroyed by fire. Kénogami students were subsequently relocated to Arvida High School (situated 5.3 km away) for the 2008-2009 academic year. A dual school schedule was implemented, with Arvida students attending a morning schedule (0740-1305 h) and Kénogami students an afternoon schedule (1325-1845 h). This study aimed to investigate the effects of such school schedules and chronotype on sleep, light exposure, and daytime functioning. Twenty-four morning and 33 afternoon schedule students wore an actigraph during 7 days to measure sleep and light exposure. Academic achievement was obtained from school. Subjects completed validated questionnaires on daytime sleepiness, psychological distress, social rhythms, school satisfaction, alcohol, and chronotype. Overall, afternoon schedule students had longer sleep duration, lower sleepiness, and lower light exposure than morning schedule students. Evening chronotypes (E-types) reported higher levels of sleepiness than morning chronotypes (M-types) in both morning and afternoon schedules. Furthermore, M-types attending the morning schedule reported higher sleepiness than M-types attending the afternoon schedule. No difference was found between morning and afternoon schedule students with regard to academic achievement, psychological distress, social rhythms, school satisfaction, and alcohol consumption. However, in both schedules, M-type had more regular social rhythms and lower alcohol consumption. In summary, this study emphasizes that an early school schedule is associated with detrimental effects in terms of sleep deprivation and daytime sleepiness, even for M-types. Furthermore, irrespective of school schedule, E-type adolescents face an increased risk for poor daytime functioning.
Aluminum-doped zinc oxide nanoparticles attenuate the TSLP levels via suppressing caspase-1 in activated mast cells
Authors: Kim Min-Ho , Seo Jun-Ho , Kim Hyung-Min , Jeong Hyun-Ja
Published: January 2016

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZO-NPs) are used as antimicrobials, anti-inflammatories, and to treat cancer. However, although ZO-NPs have excellent efficiency and specificity, their cytotoxicity is higher than that of micron-sized zinc oxide. Doping ZO-NPs with aluminum can improve therapeutic efficacy, but the biological effects and mechanisms involved have not been elucidated. Here, we reported the efficacy of aluminum-doped ZO-NP (AZO) on thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) production and caspase-1 activation in human mast cell line, HMC-1 cells. AZO significantly reduced TSLP levels as well as interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α without inducing cytotoxicity. Furthermore, AZO more effectively reduced TSLP, IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α levels than ZO-NP. The levels of inflammatory cytokine mRNA were also reduced by AZO treatment. AZO blocked production of IL-1β and activations of caspase-1 and nuclear factor-κB by inhibiting IκB kinase β and receptor interacting protein 2. In addition, AZO attenuated phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases, such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinases, and p38. These findings provide evidence that AZO improves anti-inflammatory properties and offer a safe and effective potential treatment option.
Everyday religiosity in the state sphere: Folk beliefs and practices in a Chinese state-run orphanage
Authors: Qian Linliang
Published: January 2016

The religious sector in contemporary China is often portrayed as resisting or negotiating with an interventionist state in order to survive or protect its autonomy. This article, however, shows how it enters the state sphere and imbues the presumed state agents. By exploring folk beliefs and practices in a state-run orphanage (such as philanthropists’ activities, which they related to accumulation of karmic merits, childcare workers’ discourses, conduct associated with predestined relationships and baby ghosts, and institution officials’ preoccupation with palmistry, fortune telling and karmic retribution), and the impact of folk belief and practices on the working of the state apparatus, this study aims to enrich current scholarship by looking at state–religion interactions beyond the religious sphere and also reversing the image of Chinese religions as merely passive or reactive actors.
Multiple objective crashworthiness optimization of circular tubes with functionally graded thickness via artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms
Authors: Baykasoğlu Adil , Baykasoğlu Cengiz
Published: January 2016

The objective of this paper is to develop a multiple objective optimization procedure for crashworthiness optimization of circular tubes having functionally graded thickness. The proposed optimization approach is based on finite element analyses for construction of sample design space and verification; artificial neural networks for predicting objective functions values (peak crash force and specific energy absorption) for design parameters; and genetic algorithms for generating design parameters alternatives and determining optimal combination of them. The proposed approach seaminglesly integrates artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms. Artificial neural network acts as an objective function evaluator within the multiple objective genetic algorithms. We have shown that the proposed approach is able to generate Pareto optimal designs which are in a very good agreement with the finite element results.
A determination criterion for predicting the outcome of oblique collision between an oil droplet and solid surface
Authors: Fang Long , Chen Guoding , Liu Deng
Published: January 2016

In a bearing chamber, oil droplets shed from the bearing impinge on the outer chamber housing with different angles. The outcome of oblique collision between an oil droplet and the outer chamber housing determines the flow characteristic of wall oil film which has an important meaning to realize the rigorous lubrication design in the bearing chamber. However, the study of predicting the outcome of oblique collision between an oil droplet and solid surface is relatively rare. In this paper, an experimental setup about oil droplet–solid surface oblique collision and a numeric calculation model using Volume of Fluid (VOF) method have been built. And a lot of experimental work and numerical calculations have been done in a wide range of conditions. Based on that, a determination criterion is ultimately established for predicting the outcome of oblique collision between an oil droplet and solid surface. With the experimental data from literatures and this paper, the determination criterion is verified. The research work in this paper is not only a foundation work for better understanding the conditions of lubrication in bearing chamber but also an important reference for the study of droplet–solid surface collision.
Response surface model and genetic algorithm-based multi-objective optimization of stator structures of hollow-type traveling wave ultrasonic motors
Authors: Zijie Niu , Zhijun Sun , Hua Zhu , Jun Zhang
Published: January 2016

The stators of hollow-type traveling wave ultrasonic motors have certain problems stemming from their complex and hollow structures, significant differences between the two orthogonal modal frequencies, incomplete separation of the design model and interferential model, low-vibration amplitude, and significant localized inner stress during vibration, etc. In this paper, a dimensional parameterized finite elemental model for the motor was established by utilizing the finite elemental method. Afterwards, modal assurance criteria were used to identify the vibration models with various objectives for optimization established from this and integrating multiple objectives for optimization into a single optimization objective. Then a response surface model was established in the design space the Latin-hypercube random sampling method. Finally, a globally optimal solution was obtained according to the self-adaptive genetic algorithm and the response surface model. In order to prove the reasonableness of the optimized result, the stators are processed according to the sizes determined before and after the optimization. This paper describes the vibration of stators tested by a Doppler vibration tester. The Z-direction amplitude of the optimized stator changed from 1.0 µm to 2.5 µm. According to the testing results, the structural optimization plan used in this paper is reasonable and obviously helpful for vibration optimization of the stator.
Demographic factors associated with moral sensitivity among nursing students
Authors: Tuvesson Hanna , Lützén Kim
Published: January 2016

Background:

Today’s healthcare environment is often characterized by an ethically demanding work situation, and nursing students need to prepare to meet ethical challenges in their future role. Moral sensitivity is an important aspect of the ethical decision-making process, but little is known regarding nursing students’ moral sensitivity and its possible development during nursing education.

Objectives:

The aims of this study were to investigate moral sensitivity among nursing students, differences in moral sensitivity according to sample sub-group, and the relation between demographic characteristics of nursing students and moral sensitivity.

Research design:

A convenience sample of 299 nursing students from one university completed a questionnaire comprising questions about demographic information and the revised Moral Sensitivity Questionnaire. With the use of SPSS, non-parametric statistics, including logistic regression models, were used to investigate the relationship between demographic characteristics and moral sensitivity.

Ethical considerations:

The study followed the regulations according to the Swedish Ethical Review Act and was reviewed by the Ethics Committee of South-East Sweden.

Findings:

The findings showed that mean scores of nursing students’ moral sensitivity were found in the middle to upper segment of the rating scale. Multivariate analysis showed that gender (odds ratio = 3.32), age (odds ratio = 2.09; 1.73), and parental status (odds ratio = 0.31) were of relevance to nursing students’ moral sensitivity. Academic year was found to be unrelated to moral sensitivity.

Discussion and conclusion:

These demographic aspects should be considered when designing ethics education for nursing students. Future studies should continue to investigate moral sensitivity in nursing students, such as if and how various pedagogical strategies in ethics may contribute to moral sensitivity in nursing students.
Normative Social Support in Young Adult Cancer Survivors
Authors: Iannarino Nicholas T. , Scott Allison M. , Shaunfield Sara L.
Published: January 2016

Following a cancer diagnosis, young adults (YAs; that is, 18-39) often experience altered social relationships with family, friends, romantic partners, and peers. In light of the social struggles YA patients and survivors report due to cancer’s biographical disruption, we elicited narratives from 30 YA cancer survivors to examine how their normative perceptions of social support functioned to hinder and assist them in coping with the cancer experience. Through thematic narrative analysis of their individual accounts, YA survivors explained why and how they perceived various support attempts from peers and loved ones to be effective (i.e., being treated “normally”), ineffective (i.e., receiving pity, negative stories, rudeness, excessive self-monitoring, and returns from estrangement), and both effective and ineffective (e.g., instrumental and relational support) in integrating cancer into their biographies. Implications for the advancement of interpersonal communication theory and for the development of age-appropriate communication interventions, educational programs, and informational resources are discussed.
Urban-Dwelling Community Members’ Views on Biomedical Research Engagement
Authors: Cortés Yamnia I. , Arcia Adriana , Kearney Joan , Luchsinger Jose , Lucero Robert J.
Published: January 2016

In this study, we explore community members’ overall understanding and experience with biomedical research engagement. We conducted a qualitative analysis to explore a concept that emerged but was not specifically addressed in a pre-existing dataset obtained using four focus group sessions with 30 urban-dwelling community members. Transcripts were read in an iterative process, and an emergent content analysis was performed. Five main themes were identified: (a) engaging in research to contribute to personal or greater good, (b) hierarchy of trust, (c) the importance of disclosure and transparency, (d) practical barriers to research engagement, and (e) fear of research procedures. Community members view research engagement as a collaborative process whereby community members and researchers are involved in all stages of the investigation. Focusing on research engagement, and not merely participation, may enhance community knowledge of the research process and advance scientific knowledge.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy
Authors: Westerman Nancy K. , Cobham Vanessa E. , McDermott Brett
Published: January 2016

Repeated retelling of trauma narratives within Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) assists participants to habituate to experiences that have precipitated symptoms of post-traumatic stress. In this study, the narratives produced by children and adolescents, who developed post-traumatic stress disorder following a natural disaster, and who were treated with a manualized TF-CBT intervention, were examined. The first author developed a coding system utilizing three major concepts (coherence, elaboration, and evaluation) to identify changes in the narratives as they were retold at each therapeutic session. Analysis using this coding system identified that the internal logic of the stories was maintained as the detail diminished, and that the level of evaluation increased. Compression emerged as a major pattern, alongside the reduction in participant distress over the course of the treatment. Although requiring replication, these trial concepts, developed by the coding system, have potential analyzing trauma narratives and enhancing clinician observations.
Health Care Professionals’ Knowledge Regarding Patient Safety
Authors: Brasaite Indre , Kaunonen Marja , Martinkenas Arvydas , Mockiene Vida , Suominen Tarja
Published: January 2016

This study looks to describe health care professionals’ knowledge regarding patient safety. A quantitative study using questionnaires was conducted in three multi-disciplinary hospitals in Western Lithuania. Data were collected in 2014 from physicians, nurses, and nurse assistants. The overall results indicated quite a low level of safety knowledge, especially in regard to knowledge concerning general patient safety. The health care professionals’ background factors such as their profession, education, the information about patient safety they were given during their vocational and continuing education, as well as their experience in their primary speciality seemed to be associated with several patient safety knowledge areas. Despite a wide variation in background factors, the knowledge level of respondents was generally found to be low. This requires that further research into health care professionals’ safety knowledge related to specific issues such as medication, infection, falls, and pressure sore prevention should be undertaken in Lithuania.
A Comprehensive Review on the Predictive Performance of the Sheiner-Tozer and Derivative Equations for the Correction of Phenytoin Concentrations
Authors: Kiang Tony K. L. , Ensom Mary H. H.
Published: January 2016

Objective: In settings where free phenytoin concentrations are not available, the Sheiner-Tozer equation—Corrected total phenytoin concentration = Observed total phenytoin concentration/[(0.2 × Albumin) + 0.1]; phenytoin in µg/mL, albumin in g/dL—and its derivative equations are commonly used to correct for altered phenytoin binding to albumin. The objective of this article was to provide a comprehensive and updated review on the predictive performance of these equations in various patient populations. Data Sources: A literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar was conducted using combinations of the following terms: Sheiner-Tozer, Winter-Tozer, phenytoin, predictive equation, precision, bias, free fraction. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All English-language articles up to November 2015 (excluding abstracts) were evaluated. Data Synthesis: This review shows the Sheiner-Tozer equation to be biased and imprecise in various critical care, head trauma, and general neurology patient populations. Factors contributing to bias and imprecision include the following: albumin concentration, free phenytoin assay temperature, experimental conditions (eg, timing of concentration sampling, steady-state dosing conditions), renal function, age, concomitant medications, and patient type. Although derivative equations using varying albumin coefficients have improved accuracy (without much improvement in precision) in intensive care and elderly patients, these equations still require further validation. Conclusions: Further experiments are also needed to yield derivative equations with good predictive performance in all populations as well as to validate the equations’ impact on actual patient efficacy and toxicity outcomes. More complex, multivariate predictive equations may be required to capture all variables that can potentially affect phenytoin pharmacokinetics and clinical therapeutic outcomes.