bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landslide Risk Assessment Expert System Along the Oil and Gas Pipeline Routes
Authors: Wang Peng Cheng , Xu Zhao Yi , Bai Ming Zhou , Du Yan Qing , Mu Shu Huai , Wang Dong , Yang Yin Jing
Published: December 2011

The West-East gas pipeline project in Western China was as an example in the research work. Expert system platform was used as a basic tool. The typical model database systems of West-East gas pipeline project was built. On the base of collection, collation, comprehensive analysis of existing data, through a case study of a large number of landslides, the induced landslides and stability control factor were becoming clear. A landslide risk assessment criteria and evaluation index system was established. On this basis, through application of expert system method, a Expert system platform based landslide risk evaluation expert system about long-distance pipeline routes was developed.It also give a application example of this expert system.
Study on the Heat-Press Bonding Optimum Technics of Stitchless Apparel
Authors: Tang Jie Fang , Wang Li Jun , Zou Feng Yuan , Sou Hong Yi
Published: December 2011

The heat-press bonding technology of water proof and breathable fabrics with thermoplastic adhesives will play an important role in the processing of stitchless apparels, they will influence not only the stiffness and the processability, but also influence the function and the quality of stitchless apparels. This study will analyze the influence factor about the processability through the test index of the breaking strength. The results showed that pressing time was one of most easily controlled technology in stitchless apparels production.
Study of Fire Control Safety of High-Rise Building and Countermeasures
Authors: Wang Qi Heng
Published: December 2011

For the current Chinese high-rise building fire prevention safety, the present situation and the problem of high-rise building fire prevention safety are expounded from the view of characteristics and cause of high-rise building fire; fire prevention safety management measures and countermeasures for high-rise building are also proposed. Directed analysis is raised from the state policies, high-rise building design, medium construction, equipment of fire control facilities, and later period management; appropriate measures are taken from the general layout, fire prevention division of evacuation staircase, fire-resistant limit, evacuation passages, and automatic warning system.
Continuous Cooling Transformation Behavior of Vercooling Austenite of Low Carbon-Manganese Steel
Authors: Duan Li Wei , Feng Yun Li , Qi Xue Jing
Published: December 2011

Continuous cooling transformation rules of Low Carbon-Manganese Steel were investigated on Gleeble-3500 thermomechanical simulator. The study indicates that as cooling rate increases, Ar3 loweres and Ar1 behaves similarly but much slowly. The microstructure composes of dominant ferrite and some pearlite. As cooling rate enhances, the ferritic grain become finer, when cooling rate is up to 30°C/s, a little bainite appears. With the increasing of cooling rate the dimension of ferrite decreases. Under the experimental deformation conditions, ferritic grain refinement gets weak when the cooling rate is greater than or equal to 20°C/s. Therefore, with a certain strain, ferritic grain can refined to some degree by accelerated cooling.
Influence of Organic Sealed on the Corrosion Behaviors of Micro Arc Oxidation Coated ZM5 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Xi Jian Jun , Zhao Jun
Published: December 2011

An attempt was made to produce organic sealed micro arc oxidation coatings on ZM5 magnesium alloy using two different kinds of organic solution which are acrylics and PTFE. The thickness, potentiodynamic polarization test, corrosion weight lost and morphologies of the coatings were investigated. The results indicate that PTFE sealed micro arc oxidation coatings has relatively dense and uniform surface to show the best anti-corrosion performance.
Finite Element Simulations of Mechanical Properties of Solid Expandable Tubular Threaded Joint
Authors: Zhang Jian Bing , Jia Ying Lin , Lv Xiang Hong
Published: December 2011

In this paper, threaded joint dedicated for the solid expandable tubular is taken as the basic structure and specific parameters for the threaded joint is set. 16Mn improved material is selected as the material, and MSC/Marc software is adopted to conduct finite element analog study on technical performance of the threaded joint and to analyze the distribution and strain condition of microstress and macrostress for the thread after make-up as well as the tensile strength and sealing property for the joint after make-up. Multiple important data concerning the designed expandable tubular threaded joint have been obtained through the study. It is convinced that the solid expandable tubular threaded joint shall adopt be a flush one with both internal and external walls parallel and level with the tubular body, and the type of thread shall take a shape of reversed hook. Besides, the expandable tubular threaded joint shall adopt the sealing structure with the rubber seal as the main sealing type and metallic seal auxiliary.
Mechanical Characteristics on Asynchronous Parallel Connection of Linear Ultrasonic Motors
Authors: Wang Jin Peng , Pan Zhen Feng , Jin Jia Mei , Zhao Chun Sheng
Published: December 2011

In order to meet the demand for high power linear ultrasonic motors (LUSMs) for many applications, the concept, asynchronous parallel connection (APC) of LUSMs, has been proposed. The basic principle is that multiple stators (vibrators) alternately drive a slider (rotor) in a vibration cycle, the actual driving frequency then increases by the order of the quantity of stators, and better output performance can be obtained. Analysis shows, in the APC, increasing the contact frequency between stator and slider can enhance the output force, speed of LUSM, while at the same time, the mutual interference of different stators in synchronous parallel connection (SPC) can be avoided. Experimental results of double-driving-tips LUSMs demonstrate that, in APC, over 30% more loading force is obtained than in SPC, and over 25% more is obtained than the sum of loading forces from single LUSM driven respectively. In APC, the no-load linear velocity of LUSM is increased more than 10% from that of individual LUSM driving.
The Design and Realization of E-Learning System for Organizational Learning
Authors: Wu Zhen Yong , Ming X. G , Song Wen Yan , Xu Zhi Tao , He Li Na
Published: December 2011

Collaboration learning and monitoring the learning procedure are an important key to improve effectiveness and to increase the success rate of the learner in the organizational learning. The requirement of collaboration learning and monitoring the procedure were analyzed and outlined first in this paper, the E-learning system for organizational learning was designed and realized, the collaborative learning and monitoring the procedure were described in detail finally.
Some Comments on Lattice Rotation in Aspect of Brass-Copper Texture Transition
Authors: Wierzbanowski Krzysztof , Wronski Marcin , Baczmanski Andrzej , Bacroix Brigitte , Lipiński Paul , Lodini Alain
Published: December 2011

The classical definition of lattice rotation leads in some cases to different textures than the definition based on the preservation of orientations of selected sample directions and/or planes. For example, if classical {111} slip is taken into account for f.c.c. materials, the former approach enables to predict both copper and brass types of rolling texture, while classical approach predicts only the first one. The analysis of rolling texture formation is done for two types of lattice rotation in function of grain-matrix interaction parameter used in a deformation model. Predicted textures and correlation factors estimating the similarity of predicted and experimental textures are presented.
Comparison of Gradients in Orientation and Stress between Experiment and Simulation
Authors: Rollett Anthony D. , Wagner Francis , Allain-Bonasso Nathalie , Field David P. , Lebensohn Ricardo A.
Published: December 2011

We examine the relationship between local gradients in orientation, which are quantified with the Kernel Average Misorientation, and the grain boundary network in an interstitial-free steel sheet, before and after 12% tensile strain. A portion of the unstrained microstructure is used as input to a full-field spectral viscoplastic code that simulates the same deformation. The orientation gradients are concentrated near grain boundaries in both experiments and simulation. Mapping out stress gradients in the simulation suggests that the development of orientation gradients is strongly correlated with such gradients.
Investigation on Joining Mechanism of SiC Particle Reinforced Aluminum Matrix Composite (Al/SiCp-MMC) by Resistance Spot Welding
Authors: Li Xing Rui , Tang Wen Bo , Niu Ji Tai
Published: December 2011

The present study had investigated the joining performance of SiC particle reinforced aluminum metal matrix composite (Al/SiCp-MMC) having 1.0mm thickness by resistance spot welding processes. The welded joints were subjected to tensile-shearing tests in order to determine the strength of the welded zone. In addition both scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM) were conducted to investigate the micro structural and micro hardness’s changes of the welded joints. The results reveal that: the maximum tensile-shear strength value of welded joint was obtained in these optimum welding parameters as in 17.5kA welding current for 60 periods welding. The electrode pressure was 3.5kN. It was favorable to select relatively high welding current and short welding time for improving mechanical properties of spot welded SiCp/LY12 composite joint. In this base, the welding mechanism of resistance spot welding SiCp/LY12 composite has also been discussed in detail.
Study on Organization and Properties of the New Wear-Resistant Steel
Authors: Li Ning Bo , Xie Jing Pei , Wang Wen Yan
Published: December 2011

By means of wear analysis of the wear-resistant steel used in the process, and adjust the wear-resistant steel composition, by adding alloying elements Cr, Mo and so on, optinlizing heat treatment technique, to get new wear-resistant steel. The HR-150A rock well hardness tester and JB-300B impact tester as well as SHIMADZUAG-I250KV on electronic tensile testing machine were used to test the mechanical properties of materials. In the test of friction and wear performance was done using the high temperature and high-speed friction of wear-testing maching (MMS-1G), and analysis of microscopy and the wear morphology by JSM-5610LV SEM．The results showed that: The hardness of new wear-resistant steel reaches HRC53, the impact toughness 23J/cm2, And at this moment, the sample matrix is the microstructure of small lath martensite and residual austenite.
The Experimental Research of Tension and Performance of Press for 6061 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Xiao Tong Mei , Zhang Jian , Wang Zhi Hua , Bi Da Sen
Published: December 2011

Tensile properties of 6061 aluminum alloy sheet were investigated by means of electric universal test machine, scanning electron microscopy ( SEM) etc．and compared with those parameters of 6010 aluminum alloy; By using machine performance parameters of 6061 aluminum alloy ,finite element software eta/DYNAFORM of Sheet Forming made the numerical simulation of Erichsen tester process of 6061 aluminum alloy sheet ,and the result of numerical simulation compared with actual Erichsen tester. The press forming performance of 6061 alloy sheet have been analyzed．The results show that compared with 6010 aluminum alloy, proof strength σs and tensile strength σb of 6061 aluminum alloy sheet exhibits worse,but even percentage elongation δ of 6061 alloy sheet exhibits similar; The value IE of numerical simulation exhibits similar with actual value IE. So 6061 aluminum alloy sheet have formability in a certain extent and apply in some fields of automobile instead of 6010 aluminum alloy.
Analysis of the Surface Residual Stress in Grinding Aermet100
Authors: Xu Y.Q. , Zhang T. , Bai Y.M.
Published: December 2011

Grinding induces residual stresses, which can play an important role on the fatigue of the component. In general, residual stresses in a ground surface are primarily generated due to three effects: thermal expansion and contraction during grinding, plastic deformation caused by the abrasive grains of the wheel and phase transformations due to high grinding temperature. It was found that thermal expansion and plastic deformation in the grinding process were the major causes of residual stresses. In this paper, an analysis model for the calculation of residual stresses induced by a surface grinding process on an ultrahigh-strength steel (Aermet100) workpiece is presented. Firstly, the stress distribution induces by thermal expansion was obtained base on the transient heat conduction equation and the thermal properties of Aermet100. All the calculations were based on the moving heat source solution which was modeled as a uniformly distributed, 2D heat source moving across the surface of a half-space, found in Carslaw and Jaeger. The results show that the near surface residual stress is predominantly tensile and that the magnitude of this stress increases with increasing heat flux values. Secondly, the plastic deformation caused by the abrasive grains of the wheel was simulated base on the grain-workpiece interaction. The chip formation process and the material removal mechanisms can be examined using the micro-scale approach. The results show that the residual stress induced by the grinding force itself is generally compressive which is smaller than the residual tensile stress induced by thermal stress. Therefore, the residual stress brought about by grinding operation is generally a tensile stress. This paper offers an insight into the mechanism understanding of thermal and mechanical residual stresses induced by surface grinding. Key words: grinding, residual stress, grain
TD-GC-MS Analysis on Volatile Organic Compounds of Chinese Fir Biomass in Simulated Hot Drying Environment
Authors: Xie Cheng Ping , Li Kai Fu , Peng Wan Xi , Liu Qi Mei , Gao Dai Wei
Published: December 2011

a necessary process, there are many volatile organic compounds of Chinese fir biomass during hot drying to pollute environment and affect the health of the people. Therefore, the chemical components from Chinese fir biomass in simulated hot drying environment were identified by TD-GC/MS to find the possible utilization of the resources and reduce environmental pollution. The main constituents at 90°С were cedrol (25.2%), 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid, buty l 2-methylpropyl ester (4.62%), 4-imidazolidinone, 5-(phenylmethyl)- 2-thioxo-(3.87%), acetic acid (3.85%), 1-naphthalenepropanol, .alpha.-eth enyldecahydro-.alpha.,5,5,8a-tetra (3.03%), etc. The main constituents at 120°С were cedrol (30.54%), phenol, 2,4-bis (1,1-dimethylethyl) (3.89%), globulol (2.76%), benzofuran, 2,3-dihydro-(2.71%), cyclohexasiloxane, dodecamethyl- (2.70%), .alpha.- cadinol (2.65%), taurolidine (2.33%), 2,4,6-octatrien-1-ol, 3,7-dimethyl-(E,E)- (2.31%), etc. So the volatile organic compounds of Chinese fir biomass during hot drying could be used as biomedicine, bioenergy, and so on.
Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells and C1q Differentially Regulate Inflammatory Gene Induction by Lupus Immune Complexes
Authors: Santer Deanna M. , Wiedeman Alice E. , Teal Thomas H. , Ghosh Pradipta , Elkon Keith B.
Published: December 2011

Immune complexes (ICs) play a pivotal role in causing inflammation in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Yet, it remains unclear what the dominant blood cell type(s) and inflammation-related gene programs stimulated by lupus ICs are. To address these questions, we exposed normal human PBMCs or CD14+ isolated monocytes to SLE ICs in the presence or absence of C1q and performed microarray analysis and other tests for cell activation. By microarray analysis, we identified genes and pathways regulated by SLE ICs that are both type I IFN dependent and independent. We also found that C1q-containing ICs markedly reduced expression of the majority of IFN-response genes and also influenced the expression of multiple other genes induced by SLE ICs. Surprisingly, IC activation of isolated CD14+ monocytes did not upregulate CD40 and CD86 and only modestly stimulated inflammatory gene expression. However, when monocyte subsets were purified and analyzed separately, the low-abundance CD14dim (“patrolling”) subpopulation was more responsive to ICs. These observations demonstrate the importance of plasmacytoid dendritic cells, CD14dim monocytes, and C1q as key regulators of inflammatory properties of ICs and identify many pathways through which they act.
Understanding and Targeting the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway in Chronic Leukemia
Authors: Thanendrarajan S. , Kim Y. , Schmidt-Wolf I. G. H.
Published: December 2011

It has been revealed that the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway plays an important role in the development of solid tumors and hematological malignancies, particularly in B-cell neoplasia and leukemia. In the last decade there have been made experimental approaches targeting the Wnt pathway in chronic leukemia. In this paper we provide an overview about the current state of knowledge regarding the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in chronic leukemia with special focus on therapeutic options and strategies.
First- and Second-Trimester Reference Intervals for Thyroid Hormones during Pregnancy in “Rhea” Mother-Child Cohort, Crete, Greece
Authors: Karakosta Polyxeni , Chatzi Leda , Bagkeris Emmanouil , Daraki Vasiliki , Alegakis Dimitris , Castanas Elias , Kogevinas Manolis , Kampa Marilena
Published: December 2011

Estimation and interpretation of thyroid function tests in pregnant women is of utmost importance for maternal, fetal and neonatal health. Our objective was to calculate laboratory- and geography-specific reference intervals for thyroid hormones during pregnancy in an iodine-sufficient area of the Mediterranean, Crete, Greece. This project was performed in the context of “Rhea” mother-child cohort. Fulfillment of extensive questionnaires and estimation of free triiodothyronine (fT3), free thyroxine (fT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and antithyroid antibodies were performed. The reference population was defined using inclusion criteria regarding thyroidal, obstetric, and general medical status of women. Reference interval for TSH was 0.05–2.53 μIU/mL for the first and 0.18–2.73 μIU/mL for the second trimester. 6,8% and 5,9% of women in the first and second trimester, respectively, had TSH higher than the upper reference limit. These trimester-specific population-based reference ranges are essential in everyday clinical practice for the correct interpretation of thyroid hormone values and accurate classification of thyroid disorders.
Diagnostic Utility of CSF Tau and Aβ42 in Dementia: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Agarwal Rachna , Tripathi Chandra Bhushan
Published: December 2011

CSF tau and Aβ42 are considered as important markers to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease in early stages. Hence, it is important to assess their status in different types of dementia. The main objective of this study was to assess whether these CSF biomarkers can be used to make the differential diagnosis of AD. In the present study, articles published from 1998 till 2009 were taken and meta‐analysis was performed to clarify the consistency in trends of biomarkers‐ CSF tau and Aβ42 in AD and other dementias and whether the same can be used as diagnostic biomarkers for its early diagnosis. 11 out of 60 for CSF tau and 07 out of 40 for CSF Aβ42, dementia case‐control studies were selected for final analysis. Descriptive statistics shows that median effect size (raw mean difference) of CSF tau was 429 pg/mL (range: 32 to 910 pg/mL) in AD whereas in Dementia due to other causes (DOC) studies it was 69 pg/mL (range: −53 to 518 pg/mL). Similarly the median effect size of CSF Aβ42 levels was −442 pg/mL (range: −652 to −41.200 pg/mL) whereas in DOC studies it was −193 pg/mL (range: −356 to −33 pg/mL).
A Case of Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage Associated with Tegafur plus Uracil and Warfarin Therapy
Authors: Itoh Masayuki , Oh-ishi Shuji , Nemoto Kenji , Senba Seitaro , Adachi Hideki , Kishi Koji , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Takahashi Harumi
Published: December 2011

A 72-year-old man who received warfarin for myocardial infarction (prothrombin time-international normalized ratio [PT-INR] controlled between 2.2 and 2.5) for 2 years. He developed lung cancer, underwent surgery, and received tegafur plus uracil (UFT) after 1 month. After 2 months, he was admitted for hemoptysis and dyspnea. Chest radiography and computed tomography showed bilateral alveolar infiltration (PT-INR, 8.9). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) disclosed hemorrhagic features in sequential samples. And he was diagnosed with diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH). A known interaction exists between fluoropyrimidines and warfarin. So, they were discontinued, and vitamin K was intravenously administered. One day later, the PT-INR returned to 1.14. The symptoms improved and, alveolar infiltration resolved after 2 weeks. Alveolar hemorrhage may be due to an interaction between UFT and warfarin. When fluoropyrimidines and warfarin are prescribed simultaneously, we recommend that PT-INR should be closely monitored.
New Pharmacotherapies in the Treatment of Advanced Prostate Cancer
Authors: El-Ayass Walid , El-Amm Joelle , Jain Maneesh , Aragon-Ching Jeanny B.
Published: December 2011

Recent drug approvals in the field of prostate cancer therapy have brought about a change in the treatment landscape of locally advanced and metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. While this improvement offers a welcoming change in the standard treatment practice of prostate cancer, questions remain with regard to the proper sequencing of the right therapy for the appropriate patient. This review highlights the pre-clinical, safety and clinical studies that help bring to the forefront the drugs recently approved for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer and offer some insights to its use.
Mini-Workshop: Mathematical Models, Analysis, and Numerical Methods for Dynamic Fracture
Authors: Dal Maso Gianni , Larsen Christopher J. , Ortner Christoph
Published: December 2011

The mathematical foundation of fracture mechanics has seen considerable advances in the last fifteen years. While this progress has been substantial, it has been largely limited to quasi-static evolutions based on global energy minimization, which is known to produce non-physical results. What is missing is a generally accepted mathematical theory of dynamic crack growth, which accounts for material inertia. Such a theory would not only be able to describe the most physically realistic setting, but it would also provide a trusted starting point to resolve pressing questions about quasistatic evolutions, e.g., a rigorous justification of the quasi-static setting as an asymptotic limit of inertial dynamics. This workshop brought together researchers in mathematical analysis, mechanics, applied mathematics, and numerical analysis and laid the groundwork for progress on these questions.
Random Matrices, Geometric Functional Analysis and Algorithms
Authors: Ledoux Michel , Rudelson Mark , Schechtman Gideon
Published: December 2011

The workshop gathered close to 50 participants on the topics of random matrix theory, high dimensional convex geometry and probabilistic methods in theoretical computer science. It favored cooperation between researchers in these interlaced areas by providing an interacting working atmosphere most appreciated by the participants. We hope this workshop will advance the developments at these interfaces further.
Finite-dimensional Approximations of Discrete Groups
Authors: Arzhantseva Goulnara N. , Thom Andreas , Valette Alain
Published: December 2011

The main objective of this workshop was to bring together experts from various fields, which are all interested in finite and finite-dimensional approximations of infinite algebraic and analytic objects, such as groups, algebras, dynamical systems, group actions, or even von Neumann algebras.
Stochastic Analysis
Authors: Guionnet Alice , Werner Wendelin , Zeitouni Ofer
Published: December 2011

The meeting took place on May 30-June 3, 2011, with over 55 people in attendance. Each day had 6 to 7 talks of varying length (some talks were 30 minutes long), except for Thursday: the traditional hike was moved to Thursday due to the weather (and weather on thursday was indeed fine). The talks reviewed directions in which progress in the general field of stochastic analysis occurred since the last meeting of this theme in Oberwolfach three years ago. Several themes were covered in some depth, in addition to a broad overview of recent developments. Among these themes a prominent role was played by random matrices, random surfaces/planar maps and their scaling limits, the KPZ universality class, and the interplay between SLE (Schramm-Loewner equation) and the GFF (Gaussian free field).
Influence of Injection and Flame Propagation on Combustion in Motorcycle Engine - Investigation by Visualization Technique
Authors: Yumoto Miki , Goto Kazuhiro , Kato Shouichi , Iida Minoru
Published: December 2011

This paper reports visualization of behavior of spray, wall film, and initial flame propagation in an SI engine with port fuel injection system for motorcycle in order to directly investigate their influences on combustion and relations among them. Borescopes were used to visualize the flame propagation in the combustion chamber and wall film in the intake port. Various injection systems and injection parameters were tested: injection direction, timing, and size of droplets to investigate the effect of mixture formation. It is concluded that combustion stability under low load condition is greatly influenced by mixture inhomogeneity in the combustion chamber whose evidence is the luminous emission. It is caused by direct induction of considerable amount of liquid fuel with large size of droplets into combustion chamber or too inhomogeneous mixture in the intake port. Luminous emission in the flame was also seen under wide open throttle condition due to direct introduction of wall film into combustion chamber. Finally, great potential of highly atomized spray to keep combustion stability under low load condition and homogeneity under high load condition without defect of transient behavior due to wall film has been shown with injection timing of IVO.
The Relationship between Self-Efficacy, Attitudes, Intake Compared to Others, Consumption, and Stages of Change Related to Fruit and Vegetables
Authors: Brug Johannes , Glanz Karen , Kok Gerjo
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study examined whether eating practices and psychosocial factors differed across stages of change for fruit and vegetables.

Design.

Data were collected using a self-administered written survey among a convenience sample of 739 Dutch adults. Response rate was 92%.

Setting.

Data were collected as part of the baseline assessment for a nutrition intervention study.

Measures.

Fruit and vegetable intake was measured as self-reported consumption with a validated eight-item food frequency questionnaire. Psychosocial variables were measured with six items on bipolar seven-point scales and stage-of-change classifications were based on separate four-item algorithms for fruits and vegetables. Differences in psychosocial factors and consumption were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance with Scheffé's multiple-comparison test.

Results.

Significant differences were found between stages of change in dietary intake, attitudes, self-efficacy, and judgment of one's own intake compared to others. Attitudes were most positive in preparation and action and least positive in precontemplation. Intake and self-efficacy were more positive in action/maintenance than in pre-action stages.

Conclusions.

The findings suggest that nutrition education aimed at encouraging higher intake of fruits and vegetables might be most effective if it is stage-tailored. Messages to influence attitudes about fruits and vegetables are likely to affect people in precontemplation, and self-efficacy information to increase confidence in overcoming barriers to consumption is likely to be effective with persons in contemplation and preparation stages.
Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Prevention Capabilities of Selected HMOs: Findings of an Employer Survey
Authors: Chapman Larry S. , Nelson Lou , Sloan Beverly , Plankenhorn Robert
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To survey Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) of a major employer regarding the extent of their health promotion and disease prevention capabilities.

Design.

A one-time cross-sectional survey.

Setting.

The setting involved in this study was managed care organizations.

Subjects.

The subjects were 22 HMOs located in the western part of the United States.

Measures.

The study involved completion of a survey grid on a fairly comprehensive range of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention activities.

Results.

Twenty-two HMOs were surveyed and 20 responded, providing a response rate of 90.9%. Analysis of distribution of responses and simple means were used. If a “perfect score” included addressing all 52 prevention targets across all 13 intervention modalities (minus inappropriate combinations) and that represented a score of 100%, the highest scoring HMO indicated that it provided or addressed 36.8% of all possible modalities and prevention target combinations. The composite average score for all three areas of prevention for all responding HMOs was slightly less than 13%. Additionally, five of the HMO respondents provided approximately 59% of all the prevention activity reported in the survey. Nonrepresentativeness of the HMOs in the sample represents the most significant study limitation.

Conclusions.

Results suggest that prevention capabilities among the HMOs surveyed are unevenly distributed and somewhat concentrated.
Job Strain and Health Behaviors: Results of a Prospective Study
Authors: Landsbergis Paul A. , Schnall Peter L. , Deitz Diane K. , Warren Katherine , Pickering Thomas G. , Schwartz Joseph E.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To assess the association between job demands, job decision latitude, and job strain (defined by Karasek as a combination of high demands and low decision latitude) and cardiovascular disease-related health behaviors such as cigarette smoking, alcohol use, lack of exercise, and overweight.

Design.

Cross-sectional and prospective.

Setting.

Nine New York City public and private sector worksites.

Subjects.

Two hundred eighty-five male employees, aged 30 to 60, in a wide variety of white-collar and blue-collar job titles.

Measures.

Medical examinations and surveys, which included demographic, health behavior, and job characteristics data.

Results.

Prospectively, among 189 men, increase in job decision latitude over 3 years was associated with decrease in cigarette smoking, by analysis of covariance, controlling for age, race, education, marital status, and number of children at home (F (8, 180) = 4.37, p = .005). The largest increase in latitude occurred among the 13 men who quit smoking. However, change in job characteristics was not associated with change in overweight or alcohol use. Cross-sectional analyses did not produce consistent associations.

Conclusions.

The effectiveness of smoking cessation may be aided by modification of structural features of the work environment, such as job decision latitude. This study is limited by the small number of subjects who were engaged in high risk behaviors.
Attitudes and Perceptions Related to Smoking among Pregnant and Postpartum Women in a Low-Income, Multiethnic Setting
Authors: Dunn Caroline L. , Pirie Phyllis L. , Lando Harry A.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

The purpose of this study was to gain insight into attitudes and perceptions about smoking during pregnancy, passive smoke exposure, barriers to quitting, and program preferences among women in a low-income, ethnically diverse setting.

Design.

Nine focus group discussions were conducted with African-American, Native American, and white women. Discussions were moderated by local residents who shared the same ethnic background as group participants.

Setting.

Discussions were held in neighborhood centers and clinics in an urban area.

Subjects.

A total of 57 women participated. Moderators recruited participants from within their social networks and from neighborhood programs. The informal process of recruitment did not allow calculation of response rates.

Measures.

A series of open-ended questions with selected probes was used to guide the conversation.

Results.

Participants were aware that smoking during pregnancy is harmful and were concerned to varying degrees about their smoking behavior. Most women who smoked took active steps to reduce the risks. Actions were frequently accompanied by beliefs that rationalized moderate levels of smoking. While concerned, women were uncertain about what constituted harmful, passive smoke exposure. Personal barriers to quitting included being around others who smoked, feelings of stress and boredom, addiction, and not believing smoking is dangerous enough. Participants tended to value pregnancy-related advice from female friends and relatives over advice from professionals.

Conclusions.

Results suggest that many women respond to warnings about smoking during pregnancy, but actions are not necessarily measured, in quit rates. Misconceptions about the risks may help to rationalize continued smoking. Subjects lacked knowledge about how best to reduce the risks of passive smoke. Educational efforts may be effective when directed at networks of women who share information. The nature of qualitative data collection prevents extrapolation of these results to a larger population.
Spousal Similarities in Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
Authors: Macario Everly , Sorensen Glorian
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To explore similar patterns of fruit and vegetable consumption between health center employees and their spouses.

Design.

Cross-sectional mailed survey assessing frequency of fruit and vegetable consumption, as well as demographics and knowledge, attitudes, access, and social support related to fruit and vegetable consumption.

Setting.

Six Massachusetts health centers.

Subjects.

Two hundred eleven health center employee/spouse pairs (422 individuals).

Measures.

The kappa statistic measured agreement in fruit and vegetable consumption between employees and spouses. The Spearman rho coefficient measured correlations for individual responses. Multiple Linear Regression Models examined variables that explained fruit and vegetable consumption level differences.

Results.

Response rate was 59%. Mean fruit and vegetable daily intake was 4.68 and 4.30 servings for employees and spouses, respectively. Over 75% of employee and spouse estimates measuring fruit and vegetable consumption-related information, on average, were within one survey response category of each other. Knowledge, attitudes, and access indices were significantly correlated with fruit and vegetable consumption for both employees and spouses. The social support index was significantly correlated with fruit and vegetable consumption only for the spouses. Differences in knowledge, attitudes, and access indices between employees and spouses helped to explain different fruit and vegetable consumption levels. Nonresponse, selection, recall, and seasonal reporting biases may limit the findings' generalizability.

Conclusions.

The effectiveness of worksite nutrition interventions may be improved by involving family/household members.
An Organization-Based Intervention to Improve Support for Employee Heart Health
Authors: Golaszewski Thomas , Barr Donald , Cochran Sandra
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a management training seminar, developed through a partnership among a college, a managed care company, and a state public health department, to increase the level of organizational support for employee heart health in selected companies.

Design.

Quasiexperimental.

Setting.

Worksites, including heavy and light industries, school districts, insurance companies, county health agencies, and health care centers.

Subjects.

Twenty western New York companies matched on size, industry type, and interest in worksite health promotion.

Intervention.

Seven training seminars held at a college for 1 year and directed primarily at human resource managers. Training was supplemented by the availability of student interns, faculty consulting, a vendors' fair, and various program planning aids.

Measures.

Groups were assessed using HeartCheck, a measure of organizational support for employee heart health.

Results.

A fourfold difference in change for HeartCheck was observed by the experimental vs. comparison groups (p < .01), along with significantly greater increases on five of the instrument's six subscales (p < .05). The level of HeartCheck reached in the experimental group matched those seen in highly acclaimed commercially sponsored programs.

Conclusion.

This study represents one of the first attempts to intervene at the organizational level within a worksite health promotion initiative. Positive results were observed that appear to be both meaningful and cost-effective.
The Impact of Including Incentives and Competition in a Workplace Smoking Cessation Program on Quit Rates
Authors: Koffman Dyann Matson , Lee Jerry W. , Hopp Joyce W. , Emont Seth L.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To determine the effectiveness of a multicomponent smoking cessation program supplemented by incentives and team competition.

Design.

A quasi-experimental design was employed to compare the effectiveness of three different smoking cessation programs, each assigned to separate worksites.

Setting.

The study was conducted from 1990 to 1991 at three aerospace industry worksites in California.

Subjects.

All employees who were current, regular tobacco users were eligible to participate in the program offered at their site.

Intervention.

The multicomponent program included a self-help package, telephone counseling, and other elements. The incentive-competition program included the multicomponent program plus cash incentives and team competition for the first 5 months of the program. The traditional program offered a standard smoking cessation program.

Measures.

Self-reported questionnaires and carbon monoxide tests of tobacco use or abstinence were used over a 12-month period.

Results.

The incentive-competition program had an abstinence rate of 41% at 6 months (n = 68), which was significantly better than the multicomponent program (23%, n = 81) or the traditional program (8%, n = 36). At 12 months, the quit rates for the incentive and multicomponent programs were statistically indistinguishable (37% vs. 30%), but remained higher than the traditional program (11%). Chi-square tests, t-tests, and logistic regression were used to compare smoking abstinence across the three programs.

Conclusions.

Offering a multicomponent program with telephone counseling may be just as effective for long-term smoking cessation as such a program plus incentives and competition, and more effective than a traditional program.
Family Members' Influence on Decision Making about Food: Differences in Perception and Relationship with Healthy Eating
Authors: De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , Van Oost Paulette
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study provides insight into decision making about food choices in the family and its relationship with (un)healthy eating, by including the responses of four members of the family as a sampling unit.

Setting.

The study was conducted through four medical centers, visited by 69 classes from 19 different schools in Belgium.

Subjects.

Ninety-two family quartets, including both parents and two adolescents between 12 and 18 years old, completed questionnaires independently.

Measures.

Four previously investigated measures of decision-making power (30 items on a seven-point scale) were administered, along with a short food choice questionnaire and demographic variables.

Results.

Results indicate that the influence of fathers but more especially that of children is important in food decisions. Moreover, the relative influence of each family member is dependent on the kind of product or product group considered. Differences in perceptions between the four family members show the importance of considering the responses of all the people involved in family decision making. Finally, it is clear that in families where adolescents have more power, food choices are less healthy.

Conclusions.

Our main conclusion is the rejection of the “gatekeeper hypothesis” as an artifact of biased measurement. A multidimensional approach to the issue of influence in food decision making in the family is potentially richer and leads to different conclusions. The necessity of the involvement of the entire family for the introduction and adoption of healthy eating is emphasized.
Comparison of the Scope of Allopathic and Osteopathic Medical School Health Promotion Programs for Students
Authors: Hooper Jacqueline , Cox Carolyn C. , Cambre Karl , Wilburn Debbie , Webster Michael , Wolf Thomas
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To compare the number and scope of health promotion programs for students in allopathic and osteopathic medical schools in the U. S. and Canada.

Design.

A one-time cross-sectional survey design was applied in this study.

Setting.

This study was conducted in 141 accredited allopathic and 17 accredited osteopathic medical schools.

Subjects.

A total of 158 representatives from the allopathic and osteopathic medical schools participated in this study. The response rate for the survey was 100%.

Measures.

A structured telephone interview was conducted to survey representatives from the medical schools. The survey contained 85 multiple-choice questions organized into four sections: administrative characteristics, types of institutional and health promotion program policies, participation incentives and facilities, and type/scope of health promotion program activities. Chi-square analysis was used to analyze survey variables by type of medical education and level of intervention.

Results.

Of the 158 medical schools, only 20 % (n = 32) provided a health promotion program for students. Although osteopathic institutions (29.4%) had a greater percentage of programs than allopathic schools (19.2%), there was no significant difference in scope of program offerings by type of medical education. Allopathic programs offered exercise and nutrition/weight management significantly more often and at a higher level of intervention. Lastly, allopathic programs had significantly more monetary resources available for programming. Following prudent research protocol, investigators should be mindful of the limitations of this study. In this study, some school representatives chose not to answer personnel- and finance-related questions. Additionally, because of the self-report nature of the survey, the responses given to the questions may not have been accurate.

Conclusion.

Allopathic and osteopathic medical school health promotion programs for students were very similar in scope.
Nitrate and oxygen flux across the sediment‐water interface observed by eddy correlation measurements on the open continental shelf
Authors: Johnson Kenneth S. , Barry James P. , Coletti Luke J. , Fitzwater Steve E. , Jannasch Hans W. , Lovera Chris F.
Published: December 2011

Chemical fluxes into and out of permeable seafloor sediments, such as those found on much of the continental shelf, are difficult to measure using conventional techniques. To overcome this difficulty, the eddy correlation method was adapted by oceanographers to determine oxygen flux across the sediment‐water interface. In this article, we demonstrate that the eddy correlation method can also be used to measure nitrate flux across the sediment‐water interface. A modified ISUS (In Situ Ultraviolet Spectrophotometer) optical nitrate sensor was used to measure dissolved nitrate at a frequency of 1.8 Hz. These observations were combined with vertical velocity measurements to calculate nitrate fluxes. Oxygen fluxes were also determined using a fast oxygen electrode system. The results for nitrate and oxygen flux compare well with simultaneous benthic flux chamber measurements made at a muddy sediment site at 95 m depth in Monterey Bay on the central California coast. The nitrate fluxes determined by the eddy correlation technique were considerably higher than benthic flux chamber values at sandy sediment sites at similar depths to the north and south of Monterey Bay. This difference is expected in permeable sediments where lateral flow through sediments will ventilate chamber water.
Evaluation of the Pressure Ulcer Prevention Clinical Decision Report for Bedside Nurses in Acute Care Hospitals
Authors: Tschannen D. , Guo Y. , Kazemi J. , Talsma A.
Published: December 2011

Background: Hospital stays for patients with pressure ulcers (PU) increased nearly 80% from 1992 to 2006. Most PU’s developed during an admission, often despite preventive efforts from clinical staff. Data from Electronic medical records (EMR’s) were used to prepare daily patient risk factor and PU information for nurses to help prevent PU development and exacerbations.

Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine whether: 1) dissemination of an automated daily report with patient risk and current status of pressure ulcers (“PU Daily”) helps prevent the development of pressure ulcers, and 2) using the PU Daily information impacts the severity of pressure ulcers that develop in an acute care setting.

Methods: A pre-post study with four control units was designed to determine the impact of the PU Daily in intensive care units (ICU) in a large medical center. The control units included ICU’s using the same EMR and similar complexity of cases with a high risk of developing a PU. The pre-post study took place over a six month period (March – August 2009).

Results: A total of 6,735 cases were included in the study. The intervention unit showed a significant decrease (p = 0.004) in PU’s at post-evaluation; none of the four comparison units showed a decrease at the p<0.05 level. The intervention led to a significant reduction in the total number of PU’s documented (p <0.000) and the number of Stage II PU’s (p = 0.046).

Conclusion: The intervention with the PU Daily showed a significant decrease in the total PU’s and severity of PU’s and allowed for implementation of interventions that help prevent the development of PU’s. As EMR’s become more widely available, this intervention showed a reduction in PU’s. Future studies should further develop this intervention and include multiple institutions and patient populations.
El método científico y su aplicación en las Ciencias de la Información (Relaciones Públicas)
Authors: Solano Luis Felipe
Published: December 2011

Tras un somero análisis sobre el método científico y su aplicación tanto a las Ciencias de la Naturaleza como a las Ciencias de la Cultura, el presente artículo de investigación pretende establecer qué método o, mejor dicho, qué métodos son los más adecuados para las ciencias que nos ocupan, es decir, las Ciencias de la Información, en tanto en cuanto se trata de Ciencias Sociales, Culturales, valorativas y finalistas, y más concretamente, las Relaciones Públicas como conjunto de saberes nacidos de la práctica y para la práctica como muchos afirmamos. Así mismo, se abordan cuáles serían los fundamentos y principios de los que, a nuestro juicio, deberían partir las Relaciones Públicas a la hora de investigarlas desde la reflexión teorética.