bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Sputtering Power on the Structure and Optical Properties of Radio Frequency Sputtered-ZnS Thin Film
Authors: Kim Dong Ryeol , Hwang Donghyun , Son Chang-Sik , Son Young Guk
Published: March 2017

ZnS thin films were deposited on glass substrates by radio frequency (RF) magnetron sputtering. The sputtering power was varied from 60 to 120 W in 20 W increments. The effects of the sputtering powers on the structural and optical properties of the ZnS thin films were characterized
by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and UV-visible spectroscopy. XRD showed that the films were polycrystalline with a cubic structure and preferential orientation along (111) the directions. ZnS thin films deposited at higher sputtering power showed
better crystallinity than that of the films deposited at lower sputtering power. FESEM images of the surface morphology clearly show that a high sputtering power enhanced the particle size and nucleation of the ZnS thin films. The optical band gap was reduced from 3.96 to 3.47 eV and the optical
transmission improved with the sputtering power from 60 to 120 W.
Evolution of Microstructure and Incorporation of Excess Hydrogen During the Growth of Hydrogenated Polymorphous Silicon at High Rate
Authors: Kim Ka-Hyun , Johnson Erik V , Cabarrocas Pere Roca i
Published: March 2017

Hydrogenated polymorphous silicon (pm-Si:H) is a material consisting of a small volume fraction of nanocrystals embedded in an amorphous matrix, and which can be grown at high deposition rates by increasing the radio-frequency power. When grown at high deposition rates, pm-Si:H films
show a shift of their infrared (IR) absorption stretching band peak to higher wavenumbers and a sudden increase in their optical bandgap. The IR absorption spectrum was analyzed by deconvolution into three bands, including a medium stretching mode positioned at 2030 cm−1,
which has been attributed to Si–H bonds at silicon nanocrystal surfaces. Secondary ion mass spectrometry measurements confirmed that an excess of hydrogen is incorporated in pm-Si:H grown at high deposition rate, leading to a sharp increase in the optical bandgap. We suggest that this
sharp increase can be used as a simple tool to detect the deterioration of material quality when using high deposition rate processes.
Biocompatible and Biodegradable Hydrogels Based on Chitosan and Gelatin with Potential Applications as Wound Dressings
Authors: Rusanu Alexandra , Tamaş Alexandra Isabela , Vulpe Raluca , Rusu Alina , Butnaru Maria , Vereştiuc Liliana
Published: March 2017

Hydrogels based on chitosan and gelatin, were prepared by freeze-drying and ionic crosslinking with sodium tripolyphosphate. The anionic crosslinker interact with the protonated amino groups of chitosan and gelatin via electrostatic attractions. The hydrogels with a three-dimensional
structure are macroporous with elongated or spherical pores, randomly or uniformly distributed as a function of the crosslinking degree; the uniformity increases by increase the time of crosslinking. The hydrogels absorb large quantities of phosphate buffered solution and simulated wound fluid.
They are degraded by collagenase, the specific enzyme for collagens. Antimicrobial drug, Norfloxacin was loaded with good efficiency into hydrogel network and kinetics studies for drug release were carried out in phosphate buffered solutions. The drug release data analysis by mathematical
models suggested a combination of swelling and matrix relaxation as major drug release mechanisms. Cytotoxicity assays were performed in order to establish the possibility to use the hydrogels in contact with human body; the prepared hydrogels are biocompatible and stimulate the cells proliferation.
Yeast Cells Immobilized in Ionic Crosslinked Hydrogel Particles Based on Gellan and Gellan/Carboxymethyl Cellulose—Comparative Study
Authors: (Tincu) Camelia Iurciuc , Savin Alexandru , Martin Patrick , Peptu Catalina Anisoara , Popa Marcel
Published: March 2017

The present work deals with the study of obtaining the spherical particles containing brewer yeast cells immobilized in a hydrogel matrix based on gellan and gellan/carboxymethyl cellulose (sodium salt). The influence of some factors of the process for obtaining the particles, by the
ionic gelation with magnesium acetate used as crosslinking agent, by an extrusion process through capillary, on the particles properties such as structural stability, on morphological characteristics and on behavior in aqueous and alcoholic medium of the particles with or without yeast cells
immobilized was studied. The particles were obtained from the mixtures of the two polysaccharides and theirs properties were compared to those based only on gellan. One can observe a certain influence of the CMCNa amount on the above mentioned properties essentially determined by their higher
crosslinking density of the polymers mixture compared to those prepared only with gellan. Biocatalytic properties of the particles with yeast cells immobilized depends also on the crosslinking density; the bioreactors with a higher concentration of CMCNa present a slightly lower biocatalytic
activity. The particles with immobilized yeast cells can be used for a higher number of hydrolitic cycles; the number of cycles decreases when the CMCNa content increases in the particles composition due to the higher crosslinking degree leading to the inhibition of the yeast cells proliferation.
Rheological Investigation of Pluronic F127/PVA Mixtures in Aqueous Solution and Gel State
Authors: Bercea Maria , Morariu Simona
Published: March 2017

This study presents some rheological investigations concerning the temperature induced gelation for mixtures of Pluronic F127 and poly(vinyl alcohol) in aqueous solutions. At room temperature the polymer mixtures behave as viscous fluids and under physiological conditions they exhibit
solid-like properties (elastic hydrogels). For a better understanding of the interactions between the two polymers in aqueous solutions, viscometric measurements were performed at 37 °C for different polymer compositions. It was found that the polymer–polymer interactions between
like or unlike macromolecules influence the final properties of hydrogels. The transition from the sol state to soft or hard hydrogel depends on the polymer mixture composition and thermodynamic conditions.
Preparation and Characterization of Carboxymethyl Cellulose-g-Acrylamide Hydrogel
Authors: Mondal Md. Ibrahim H , Haque Md. Obaidul , Islam Md. Anisul , Ahmed Firoz
Published: March 2017

Carboxymethyl cellulose-g-acrylamide, a superabsorbent hydrogel was prepared from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC, DS = 0.7–0.8) and acrylamide (AA) monomer through graft copolymerization by the use of ceric ammonium nitrate (CAN) or Ce4+ as an initiator in aqueous medium.
CMC and hydrogel were characterized using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Atomic force microscopy (AFM). FTIR spectra established crosslinked polymeric network structure of hydrogel through graft copolymerization reaction between CMC and acrylamide indicating incorporation
of acrylamide monomer resulting the formation of carboxamide group (>C=O). AFM showed the surface morphology or properties of the superabsorbent hydrogel. The hydrophilic properties of the superabsorbent hydrogel were identified by the swelling percentage or degree of swelling. Various
physical properties were also identified in terms of water desorption, water absorption or hydration of hydrogel and gel content in hydrogel and the corresponding values of these are 86%, 524% and 70%, respectively.
Patterns of Firm Responses to Different Types of Natural Disasters
Authors: McKnight Brent , Linnenluecke Martina K.
Published: March 2017

This article examines the relationships between disaster type and firms’ disaster responses. We draw on a unique dataset of 2,164 press releases related to the occurrence of 206 natural disasters (hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, and wildfires) over a 10-year period (2005-2014) to analyze how firm responses are shaped by the type of disaster it faces. Firms play an increasingly important role in disaster response. We find that firms engage in more anticipatory responses when the type of disaster a firm faces exhibits even impact dispersion and high expected recurrence, and provides substantial warning. Our study draws a relationship between physical geography, disaster type, and more anticipatory firm responses which can improve how firms and communities respond to the risks posed by different types of natural disasters. The article concludes by outlining an agenda for future research on firm responses to natural disasters.
How to Do Things Without Words: A Theory of Declarations
Authors: Smit J. P. , Buekens Filip
Published: March 2017

Declarations like “this meeting is adjourned” make certain facts the case by representing them as being the case. Yet surprisingly little attention has been paid to the mechanism whereby the utterance of a declaration can bring about a new state of affairs. In this paper, we use the incentivization account of institutional facts to address this issue. We argue that declarations can serve to bring about new states of affairs as their utterance have game theoretical import, typically in virtue of the utterer signaling a commitment to act in an incentive-changing way.
An Informational Influence Perspective on (Non) conformity: Perceived Knowledgeability Increases Expression of Minority Opinions
Authors: Rios Kimberly , Goldberg Matthew H. , Totton Rebecca R.
Published: March 2017

Two studies tested whether perceived knowledgeability, a metacognitive indicator of attitude strength, predicts expression of minority (but not majority) opinions on social/political issues. In Study 1, the tendency for participants in the minority to be slower to report their opinions than participants in the majority was present among those who felt less knowledgeable in their attitudes toward controversial issues, but not among those who felt more knowledgeable. In Study 2, perceived knowledgeability moderated the relationship between minority opinion status on an issue and willingness to discuss an issue with someone who held the opposite opinion as oneself. In both studies, attitude certainty produced similar effects to perceived knowledgeability. Implications for processes of informational versus normative influence in opinion expression and conformity, as well as for the metacognitive model of attitude strength, are discussed.
A Rapid Evidence Assessment of the effectiveness of prison education in reducing recidivism and increasing employment
Authors: Ellison Mark , Szifris Kirstine , Horan Rachel , Fox Chris
Published: March 2017

This is a Rapid Evidence Assessment (REA) of educational programmes delivered within prison. Included in this review are evaluations of vocational, academic, basic skills, accredited and unaccredited educational provision in prison where recidivism and/or employment were measured as outcomes. Initial searches returned 4304 titles and abstracts. Of these, 28 papers met the criteria for inclusion. Only 18 papers provided sufficient information and robust enough research design to be included in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis on 18 reoffending studies identified that delivering education in prison settings has a positive impact on recidivism. Overall, the pooled odds ratio indicates a reduction in the likelihood of recidivating of approximately one-third (0.64 = 64%∼2/3). Meta-analysis on five employment studies identified that education in prison settings has a positive impact on employment. Overall, odds ratios indicated a 24 per cent increase in likelihood of gaining employment if the prisoner engages in prison education. However, this is based on a small number of papers with statistical findings being less robust and evidence drawn largely from the USA.
Readout-segmented echo-planar diffusion-weighted imaging in the assessment of orbital tumors: comparison with conventional single-shot echo-planar imaging in image quality and diagnostic performance
Authors: Xu Xiaoquan , Wang Yanjun , Hu Hao , Su Guoyi , Liu Hu , Shi Haibin , Wu Feiyun
Published: March 2017

Background

Readout-segmented echo-planar imaging (RS-EPI) could improve the imaging quality of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in various organs. However, whether it could improve the imaging quality and diagnostic performance for the patients with orbital tumors is still unknown.

Purpose

To compare the image quality and diagnostic performance of RS-EPI DWI with that of conventional single-shot EPI (SS-EPI) DWI in patients with orbital tumors.

Material and Methods

SS-EPI and RS-EPI DW images of 32 patients with pathologically diagnosed orbital tumors were retrospectively analyzed. Qualitative imaging parameters (imaging sharpness, geometric distortion, ghosting artifacts, and overall imaging quality) and quantitative imaging parameters (apparent diffusion coefficient [ADC], signal-to-noise ratio [SNR], contrast, and contrast-to-noise ratio [CNR]) were assessed by two independent radiologists, and compared between SS-EPI and RS-EPI DWI. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to determine the diagnostic value of ADC in differentiating malignant from benign orbital tumors.

Results

RS-EPI DW imaging produced less geometric distortion and ghosting artifacts, and better imaging sharpness and overall imaging quality than SS-EPI DWI (for all, P < 0.001). Meanwhile, RS-EPI DWI produced significantly lower SNR ( P < 0.001) and ADC ( P < 0.001), and higher contrast ( P < 0.001) than SS-EPI DWI, while producing no difference in CNR ( P = 0.137). There was no significant difference on the diagnostic performance between SS-EPI and RS-EPI DWI, when using ADC as the differentiating index ( P = 0.529).

Conclusion

Compared with SS-EPI, RS-EPI DWI provided significantly better imaging quality and comparable diagnostic performance in differentiating malignant from benign orbital tumors.
Practical Stereology Applications for the Pathologist
Authors: Brown Danielle L.
Published: March 2017

Qualitative histopathology is the gold standard for routine examination of morphological tissue changes in the regulatory or academic environment. The human eye is exceptional for pattern recognition but often cannot detect small changes in quantity. In cases where detection of subtle quantitative changes is critical, more sensitive methods are required. Two-dimensional histomorphometry can provide additional quantitative information and is quite useful in many cases. However, the provided data may not be referent to the entire tissue and, as such, it makes several assumptions, which are sources of bias. In contrast, stereology is design based rather than assumption based and uses stringent sampling methods to obtain accurate and precise 3-dimensional information using geometrical and statistical principles. Recent advances in technology have made stereology more approachable and practical for the pathologist in both regulatory and academic environments. This review introduces pathologists to the basic principles of stereology and walks the reader through some real-world examples for the application of these principles in the workplace.
Age Is Not a Contraindication for Cartilage Surgery: A Critical Analysis of Standardized Outcomes at Long-term Follow-up
Authors: Filardo Giuseppe , Andriolo Luca , Sessa Andrea , Vannini Francesca , Ferruzzi Alberto , Marcacci Maurilio , Kon Elizaveta
Published: March 2017

Background:

Age is commonly accepted as a negative prognostic factor in cartilage surgery, and cutoff values of 30 to 40 years have been previously suggested as treatment indication. However, the lower outcome scores documented in older patients do not take in consideration the decreasing requirements of an aging joint.

Purpose:

To analyze the real effect of age in terms of recovery with respect to the functional level expected for different age categories of patients treated for cartilage lesions.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Patients with International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade 3-4 defects, involving femoral condyles or trochlea without osteoarthritis, were treated with arthroscopic matrix-assisted autologous chondrocyte transplantation; 157 patients were evaluated with IKDC subjective and Tegner scores before surgery and then after 2 and 10 years. Results were first evaluated by dividing patients into 2 age groups according to the generally approved cutoff value of 40 years. The analysis was then repeated after the scores of each patient were standardized according to the score achievable per the normative data in healthy patients for the corresponding sex and age category.

Results:

A significant improvement in all scores was observed. IKDC subjective score improved from 38.9 ± 14.5 to 74.7 ± 21.8 at 10 years. When a cutoff value of 40 years was used, older patients reached a significantly worse IKDC subjective value at 10 years (65.8 ± 24.3 vs 77.2 ± 20.4, P = .007). However, different findings were obtained after the scores were standardized. Although optimal results were still found in younger patients (<30 years), patients older than 40 years also appeared to benefit from the treatment, and no significant differences were noted compared with the younger population.

Conclusion:

The benefit of cartilage treatments in patients with increasing age but without any sign of osteoarthritis was higher than previously reported in literature. In fact, when the decreasing functional level expected by an aging population was considered, standardized results showed an overall benefit after cartilage treatment in patients older than 40 years that was not significantly different from the outcome achieved in younger patients. Thus, age is not a strict contraindication as previously suggested, and future studies should consider standardization of data to prove the real age limit of cartilage treatments.
Origin of Cam Morphology in Femoroacetabular Impingement
Authors: Morris William Z. , Li Ryan T. , Liu Raymond W. , Salata Michael J. , Voos James E.
Published: March 2017

Cam morphology of the proximal femur is an abnormal contour of the femoral head-neck junction present in approximately 15% to 25% of the asymptomatic population, predominantly in males. Alpha angle and femoral head-neck offset ratio are 2 objective measurement tools that define cam morphology. Both primary (idiopathic) and secondary cam deformity develops through distinct mechanisms. The cause of primary (idiopathic) cam morphology remains incompletely understood. Mounting evidence suggests that idiopathic cam morphology develops during adolescence through alterations in the capital femoral epiphysis in response to participation in vigorous sporting activity. While the exact cause of epiphyseal extension has not yet been determined, preliminary evidence suggests that epiphyseal extension may reflect a short-term adaptive response to provide stability to the physis at the long-term cost of the development of cam morphology. Commonly recognized causes of secondary cam deformity include frank slipped capital femoral epiphysis, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, and deformity after fracture of the proximal femur. Recent studies also support subtle slipped capital femoral epiphysis as a unique and silent cause of a small percentage of subjects previously thought to have idiopathic cam deformity.
Towards a sociology of movement: Application of Kinetography Laban to the study of collective phenomena in the Paris subway
Authors: Abe Naoko
Published: March 2017

This article focuses on the collective behavior of Paris subway passengers in a public space as a social and anonymous phenomenon through the study of their movements and postures. For this purpose, I use the ‘Subcam’ data-acquisition device and a human movement scoring system, ‘Kinetography Laban’. The latter, created by Rudolf Laban and developed in choreography, is little known in the scientific world, but it could make a significant contribution in sociology. Kinetography Laban allows us to objectify and analyze human movement, which is often considered to be an elusive object. The case study is conducted on the Paris subway, at stops on the number 14 line during rush hour. The scoring of passengers’ movements and bodily postures highlights the existence of recurring patterns in the way people move. This work also demonstrates the existence of bodily techniques, which are often referred to by sociologists such as Mauss, Bourdieu and Boltanski without empirical evidence. This research shows not only that Kinetography Laban is applicable to social scientific research but also that it is possible to do a sociological study through movement and bodily postures using this method. The article therefore opens up a new field of research in sociology: sociology of movement.
Shift Work and Cognitive Flexibility: Decomposing Task Performance
Authors: Cheng Philip , Tallent Gabriel , Bender Thomas John , Tran Kieulinh Michelle , Drake Christopher L.
Published: March 2017

Deficits in cognitive functioning associated with shift work are particularly relevant to occupational performance; however, few studies have examined how cognitive functioning is associated with specific components of shift work. This observational study examined how circadian phase, nocturnal sleepiness, and daytime insomnia in a sample of shift workers ( N = 30) were associated with cognitive flexibility during the night shift. Cognitive flexibility was measured using a computerized task-switching paradigm, which produces 2 indexes of flexibility: switch cost and set inhibition. Switch cost represents the additional cognitive effort required in switching to a different task and can impact performance when multitasking is involved. Set inhibition is the efficiency in returning to previously completed tasks and represents the degree of cognitive perseveration, which can lead to reduced accuracy. Circadian phase was measured via melatonin assays, nocturnal sleepiness was assessed using the Multiple Sleep Latency Test, and daytime insomnia was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Index. Results indicated that those with an earlier circadian phase, insomnia, and sleepiness exhibited reduced cognitive flexibility; however, specific components of cognitive flexibility were differentially associated with circadian phase, insomnia, and sleepiness. Individuals with an earlier circadian phase (thus more misaligned to the night shift) exhibited larger switch costs, which was also associated with reduced task efficiency. Shift workers with more daytime insomnia demonstrated difficulties with cognitive inhibition, whereas nocturnal sleepiness was associated with difficulties in reactivating previous tasks. Deficits in set inhibition were also related to reduced accuracy and increased perseverative errors. Together, this study indicates that task performance deficits in shift work are complex and are variably impacted by different mechanisms. Future research may examine phenotypic differences in shift work and the associated consequences. Results also suggest that fatigue risk management strategies may benefit from increased scope and specificity in assessment of sleep, sleepiness, and circadian rhythms in shift workers.
An Ecological Momentary Assessment of Primiparous Women’s Breastfeeding Behavior and Problems From Birth to 8 Weeks
Authors: Demirci Jill R. , Bogen Debra L.
Published: March 2017

Background:

Primiparous women are at risk for early, unintended breastfeeding reduction and cessation. Breastfeeding patterns that contribute to these outcomes require further exploration.

Research aim:

This study aimed to describe early, “real-time” breastfeeding behaviors and perceived problems of primiparous women.

Methods:

First-time mothers intending to exclusively breastfeed downloaded a commercial infant-feeding app during their postpartum hospitalization. Women logged feedings and their breastfeeding experiences, as they occurred, through 8 weeks postpartum. Additional feeding and background data were collected via electronic medical records and questionnaires administered at enrollment and 2 and 8 weeks postpartum. Summary statistics were compiled to examine weekly breastfeeding behaviors and problems.

Results:

In this sample of 61 primarily highly educated, White women committed to breastfeeding, 38% ( n = 23) used formula during the postpartum hospitalization and 68% ( n = 34) used formula at least once by 2 weeks. Nine women stopped breastfeeding during the study. Women using any formula in the hospital and those with less positive baseline attitudes toward breastfeeding were less likely to be exclusively breastfeeding at 2 and 8 weeks, respectively ( p < .05). There was a trend toward declining at-breast feeds and high rates of milk expression during the study. Breastfeeding problems peaked at Week 2, with 81% of women ( n = 39) endorsing at least one problem at that time. The most prevalent problems included perception of inadequate milk, pain, latching, and inefficient feeds.

Conclusion:

Interventions to address suboptimal breastfeeding in primiparous women should consider the pervasiveness of early milk expression and in-hospital formula supplementation in this population, as well as the trajectory of common problems.
Moral Character, Reformed Theology, and Jonathan Edwards
Authors: Crisp Oliver D.
Published: March 2017

Reformed theology is often thought to be antipathetic to virtue theory. However, Jonathan Edwards is a counterexample to this way of thinking. In this article, I offer an account of Edwards’s moral thought as a case study of Reformed theology that is also a species of virtue theory, focusing on what he says about the formation of character. I argue that key doctrinal commitments drive his moral theology, and generate some interesting problems for his ethics. Although his work is not without shortcomings, Edwards is a thinker whose moral theology might be usefully repaired and retrieved by contemporary theologians in the Reformed tradition for whom ‘duties are founded on doctrines’.
Effects of automotive paint spray technology on the paint transfer efficiency – a review
Authors: Poozesh Sadegh , Akafuah Nelson , Saito Kozo
Published: March 2017

Automotive spray painting is among the most sophisticated and controlled industrial painting operations currently performed. Nevertheless, improvements in it are still sought in efforts to minimize the costs, the energy use and the environmental impacts. One compelling aspect of improvement is the paint transfer efficiency, i.e. the amount of paint that remains on a vehicle relative to the amount supplied to the paint applicator during coating operations, because currently it has been estimated that the overall paint transfer efficiency in the automotive industry is between 50% and 60%. Hence, this review assesses current automotive spray coating technologies with respect to their transfer efficiencies and discusses the fundamental and operational parameters that influence it. A comprehensive characterization of paint spray applicators (air sprayers, high-volume low-pressure sprayers, airless sprayers, air-assisted airless sprayers, rotary bell atomizers, electrostatic sprayers, and effervescent atomizers) is included. Some problems associated with evaluating and improving their paint transfer efficiencies are discussed. Also, the potential of and the technology needs for developing these applicators are considered.
The effect of native silk fibroin powder on the physical properties and biocompatibility of biomedical polyurethane membrane
Authors: Zhuang Yan , Zhang Qian , Feng Jinqi , Wang Na , Xu Weilin , Yang Hongjun
Published: March 2017

Naturally derived fibers such as silk fibroin can potentially enhance the biocompatibility of currently used biomaterials. This study investigated the physical properties of native silk fibroin powder and its effect on the biocompatibility of biomedical polyurethane. Native silk fibroin powder with an average diameter of 3 µm was prepared on a purpose-built machine. A simple method of phase inversion was used to produce biomedical polyurethane/native silk fibroin powder hybrid membranes at different blend ratios by immersing a biomedical polyurethane/native silk fibroin powder solution in deionized water at room temperature. The physical properties of the membranes including morphology, hydrophilicity, roughness, porosity, and compressive modulus were characterized, and in vitro biocompatibility was evaluated by seeding the human umbilical vein endothelial cells on the top surface. Native silk fibroin powder had a concentration-dependent effect on the number and morphology of human umbilical vein endothelial cells growing on the membranes; cell number increased as native silk fibroin powder content in the biomedical polyurethane/native silk fibroin powder hybrid membrane was increased from 0% to 50%, and cell morphology changed from spindle-shaped to cobblestone-like as the native silk fibroin powder content was increased from 0% to 70%. The latter change was related to the physical characteristics of the membrane, including hydrophilicity, roughness, and mechanical properties. The in vivo biocompatibility of the native silk fibroin powder–modified biomedical polyurethane membrane was evaluated in a rat model; the histological analysis revealed no systemic toxicity. These results indicate that the biomedical polyurethane/native silk fibroin powder hybrid membrane has superior in vitro and in vivo biocompatibility relative to 100% biomedical polyurethane membranes and thus has potential applications in the fabrication of small-diameter vascular grafts and in tissue engineering.
Influence of age on arsenic-induced behavioral and cholinergic perturbations: Amelioration with zinc and α-tocopherol
Authors: Kumar MR , Reddy GR
Published: March 2017

This study was planned to determine arsenic (As) (10 mg/kg body weight given through oral gavage) induced behavioral and cholinergic perturbations in three different age groups of rats; young (postnatal day 21), adult (3 months), and aged (18 months) at 7 days post-acute exposure ( n = 6 for each of the four groups of all three age points). Further, we also evaluated the ameliorative effect of essential metal zinc (Zn; 0.02% through drinking water) and an antioxidant, α-tocopherol (vitamin E; 125 mg/kg body weight through oral gavage) against As-induced neurotoxicity. As exposure showed significant alterations in behavioral functions (open-field behavior, total locomotor activity, grip strength, exploratory behavior, and water maze learning). Cholinergic studies in three brain regions (cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and hippocampus) of different age groups also showed significant increase in acetylcholine levels and a decrease in acetylcholinesterase activity. These effects were more pronounced in hippocampus followed by cerebral cortex and cerebellum. Among the three different age points, aged animals were found to be more vulnerable to the As-induced toxicity as compared to young and adult animals suggesting that As neurotoxicity is age dependent. These As-induced alterations were significantly reversed following supplementation with Zn or vitamin E. However, vitamin E was found to elicit greater protection as compared to Zn in restoring the altered behavioral and cholinergic perturbations, providing evidence for As-induced oxidative damage.
Mental Health and Related Factors of Hospital Nurses
Authors: Nukui Hiroshi , Murakami Michio , Midorikawa Sanae , Suenaga Minako , Rokkaku Yuichi , Yabe Hirooki , Ohtsuru Akira
Published: March 2017

The mental health of hospital nurses is a key health issue in public health promotion during the recovery phase following the Fukushima disaster. In this study, conducted 4 years after the disaster, we analyzed the overall mental health, knowledge, risk perception of radiation, and work and daily life burdens of nurses working at medical institutions in the Fukushima Prefecture (collection rate = 89.6%; response number = 730). Overall mental health status was estimated using the 12-item version of the General Health Questionnaire, and 333 respondents (45.6%) scored above the 12-item General Health Questionnaire threshold point (≥4), indicating probable emotional distress compared with the general population under normal circumstances. Multivariate logistic analysis suggested that the ability to cope with daily life and work-related stressors were more important than risk perception and acquisition of knowledge regarding radiation and its control methods for supporting the mental health of nurses following the Fukushima disaster.
Pregnancy and Birth Survey of the Fukushima Health Management Survey
Authors: Ishii Kayoko , Goto Aya , Ota Misao , Yasumura Seiji , Fujimori Keiya
Published: March 2017

The Pregnancy and Birth Survey was started by Fukushima Medical University as part of the Fukushima Health Management Survey in 2011 in order to assess the physical and mental health of mothers and provide parenting support (telephone counseling) for those in need. The present study reviewed the major findings from 4 annual surveys conducted from 2011 to 2014. Overall proportions of preterm deliveries, low birth weight infants, and congenital anomalies in the first year were almost the same as those in national surveillance data. The prevalence of depressive symptoms among the mothers held steady at about 25% over the 4 years. Regarding the content of parenting counseling, the proportion of mothers who voiced concerns about radiation decreased each year. This survey should be continued to provide support to mothers in Fukushima.
Psychosocial Issues Related to Thyroid Examination After a Radiation Disaster
Authors: Midorikawa Sanae , Tanigawa Koichi , Suzuki Satoru , Ohtsuru Akira
Published: March 2017

A thyroid ultrasound examination program has been conducted in the aftermath of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident to address concerns about the increased risk of thyroid cancer similar to those experienced by local residents after the 1986 Chernobyl accident. This is the second-largest thyroid cancer screening in younger age ever, following only that conducted after Chernobyl. As the natural history of thyroid cancer in younger populations is not well characterized, large-scale screening using thyroid ultrasound could result in overdiagnosis, even with careful planning, as has been experienced in South Korea. Awareness regarding the thyroid gland is generally low among residents, who tend to directly associate examination results with radiation exposure and are likely to develop newfound anxiety and feelings of self-condemnation and guilt. We reviewed the dilemma surrounding cancer screening and particularly underscored the need to address psychosocial issues associated with possible overdiagnosis. We modified our approach to address individual and social anxiety induced by results of screening conducted after the Fukushima accident. These findings and our experiences regarding the psychosocial issues related to thyroid examination should assist residents in their lifelong decision making and help them prepare for future disasters.
Fukushima Health Management Survey and Related Issues
Authors: Yasumura Seiji , Abe Masafumi
Published: March 2017

After the Great East Japan Earthquake on March 11, 2011, the Tokyo Electric Power Company Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident occurred. The Fukushima prefectural government decided to launch the Fukushima Health Management Survey; Fukushima Medical University was entrusted to design and implement the survey. The survey process and development is described from the standpoint of its background and aim. An overview of the basic survey and 4 detailed surveys is briefly provided. Issues related to the survey are discussed from the perspective of supporting the Fukushima residents.
Mental Health Consequences and Social Issues After the Fukushima Disaster
Authors: Maeda Masaharu , Oe Misari
Published: March 2017

The Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent nuclear power plant accident caused multidimensional and long-term effects on the mental health condition of people living in Fukushima. In this article, focusing on the influence of the nuclear disaster, we present an overview of studies regarding the psychosocial consequences of people in Fukushima. Studies revealed that the experiences of the explosions at the plant as well as the tsunami are deeply embedded in their memory, leading to posttraumatic responses. Chronic physical diseases, worries about livelihood, lost jobs, lost social ties, and concerns about compensation were also associated with posttraumatic responses. Furthermore, the radioactive fallout brought chronic anxiety regarding physical risks of radiation exposure to people, especially young mothers. People often have different opinions about the radiation risk and their own future plans, resulting in a reduction in the resilience that communities and families had before the disaster. In addition, such weakened community resilience may produce a significant increase in disaster-related suicide in Fukushima. Specific social issues, such as “radiation stigma” among the public and self-stigma among evacuees, that are never seen with other natural disasters also increased in Fukushima.
Using and Explaining Individual Dosimetry Data
Authors: Miyazaki Makoto
Published: March 2017

Measurement of individual radiation dose is crucial for planning protective measures after nuclear accidents. The purpose of this article is to explain the various initiatives taken after the TEPCO Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, including the D-shuttle project wherein residents from affected areas wore a personal dosimeter to measure their own external exposure. The experience in Fukushima revealed several issues such as gaining residents’ trust and ensuring appropriate communication of the measured data. The D-shuttle project also revealed that obtaining individual dose measurement data had 2 purposes, as the information obtained was to be utilized by the residents for self-protection and by the authorities for deriving the dose distribution of the population to aid in designing large-scale protection measures. The lessons learned are that both the residents and the authorities need to understand and share the meaning of individual dose measurements and the measurement results must be used with due respect for the residents’ privacy and other concerns.
Changes in Cardiovascular Risk Factors After the Great East Japan Earthquake
Authors: Ohira Tetsuya , Nakano Hironori , Nagai Masato , Yumiya Yui , Zhang Wen , Uemura Mayu , Sakai Akira , Hashimoto Shigeatsu ,   for the Fukushima Health Management Survey Group
Published: March 2017

The Great East Japan Earthquake occurred on March 11, 2011, and was followed by a nuclear accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant. The government ordered a mandatory evacuation from the high radioactive concentration area in Fukushima. This evacuation may have forced many evacuees to change specific aspects of their lifestyles such as diet and physical activity, which in turn may lead to future incidence of lifestyle diseases such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). To address this concern, the association between the evacuation and changes in CVD risk factors before and after the disaster was examined in the Fukushima Health Management Survey. In the present study, we reviewed the results of longitudinal studies in the Fukushima Health Management Survey. The proportion of overweight/obese people and those with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, liver dysfunction, atrial fibrillation, and polycythemia increased after the disaster. Furthermore, the evacuation was associated with an increase of these cardiovascular risk factors. Therefore, evacuees may be more disposed to CVDs such as myocardial infarction and stroke after the disaster. The prevention of future CVDs among evacuees from Fukushima requires ongoing preventive programs for obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia, in collaboration with local governments and communities.
Partner Abuse Among HIV-Positive Sexual Minority Men: “That Was All I Deserved . . .”
Authors: Pantalone David W. , Valentine Sarah E. , Jackson Michelle A. , Andrasik Michele P. , Simoni Jane M.
Published: March 2017

Living with HIV can be both a precipitant and a consequence of partner abuse (PA) across populations, including male–male partnerships. However, overlapping experiences of living with HIV and experiencing PA are not well characterized. We conducted 24 qualitative interviews with urban HIV-positive sexual minority men (SMM) recruited from a public hospital HIV clinic in Seattle, Washington, who reported lifetime PA histories, and analyzed them using content analysis. Participants reported psychological, physical, and sexual victimization from partners, varying in severity. Themes included (a) how HIV and minority stress (e.g., through self-stigma, serosorting) and (b) familial and repeated exposure to violence (e.g., through normalization or acceptance of PA, partnering as strategy for increasing one’s own safety, esteem, or social status), independently and in combination, provided a context for the men’s victimization. Our findings suggest that PA-related interventions might focus on coping with stigma, expanding social networks, and educating SMM about dysfunctional relationship dynamics.
ALK-Negative Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma Presenting as an Extranodal Soft-Tissue Mass With an Unusual Alveolar Growth Pattern: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: AbdullGaffar Badr , Seliem Rania M.
Published: March 2017

Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a T-cell lymphoma which has been recognized to have a variable clinical presentation and a broad spectrum of histomorphologic features. Its variable histomorphologic appearances are sometimes diagnostically challenging for the pathologists since they can mimic sarcomas, melanomas and undifferentiated carcinomas. To our knowledge, a previous case of axillary soft-tissue mass of ALK-positive ALCL with an alveolar growth pattern has been so far reported in the literature. This alveolar appearance is unusual for ALCL. It can impose a diagnostic pitfall, particularly in extranodal soft-tissue masses. We report a case of ALK-negative ALCL that presented as an extranodal soft-tissue neck mass in an adult man. Histologically, it showed a characteristic alveolar growth pattern composed of well-defined nests of dyscohesive highly pleomorphic large neoplastic cells separated by thin fibrovascular septae. Morphologically, it mimicked sarcomas, carcinomas, melanoma and germ cell neoplasms. Initially, a histologic diagnosis of ALCL was not considered. However, the negative immunomarkers for the above mimickers and the strong CD30 positivity have raised the suspicion of anaplastic lymphomas. Further immunohistochemistry studies showed the neoplastic cells to be positive for CD4 and CD43. This case report emphasizes the potential diagnostic pitfalls associated with an ALK-negative ALCL when manifests as a soft-tissue mass with an alveolar growth pattern. Pathologists should be aware of this uncommon growth pattern in ALCLs. They should implement a broad panel of immunomarkers in soft-tissue masses of anaplastic pleomorphic cells with an alveolar morphology.
Living as an LGBTQ Adolescent and a Parent’s Child: Overlapping or Separate Experiences
Authors: Mehus Christopher J. , Watson Ryan J. , Eisenberg Marla E. , Corliss Heather L. , Porta Carolyn M.
Published: March 2017

It is well known that parental and community-based support are each related to healthy development in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, but little research has explored the ways these contexts interact and overlap. Through go-along interviews (a method in which participants guide the interviewer around the community) with 66 youth in British Columbia, Massachusetts, and Minnesota, adolescents (aged 14-19 years) reported varying extent of overlap between their LGBTQ experiences and their parent–youth experiences; parents and youth each contributed to the extent of overlap. Youth who reported high overlap reported little need for resources outside their families but found resources easy to access if wanted. Youth who reported little overlap found it difficult to access resources. Findings suggest that in both research and practice, considering the extent to which youth feel they can express their authentic identity in multiple contexts may be more useful than simply evaluating parental acceptance or access to resources.
Identifying Synergies in Multilevel Interventions
Authors: Lewis Megan A. , Fitzgerald Tania M. , Zulkiewicz Brittany , Peinado Susana , Williams Pamela A.
Published: March 2017

Social ecological models of health often describe multiple levels of influence that interact to influence health. However, it is still common for interventions to target only one or two of these levels, perhaps owing in part to a lack of guidance on how to design multilevel interventions to achieve optimal impact. The convergence strategy emphasizes that interventions at different levels mutually reinforce each other by changing patterns of interaction among two or more intervention audiences; this strategy is one approach for combining interventions at different levels to produce synergistic effects. We used semistructured interviews with 65 representatives in a cross-site national initiative that enhanced health and outcomes for patients with diabetes to examine whether the convergence strategy was a useful conceptual model for multilevel interventions. Using a framework analysis approach to analyze qualitative interview data, we found three synergistic themes that match the convergence strategy and support how multilevel interventions can be successful. These three themes were (1) enhancing engagement between patient and provider and access to quality care; (2) supporting communication, information sharing, and coordination among providers, community stakeholders, and systems; and (3) building relationships and fostering alignment among providers, community stakeholders, and systems. These results support the convergence strategy as a testable conceptual model and provide examples of successful intervention strategies for combining multilevel interventions to produce synergies across levels and promote diabetes self-management and that may extend to management of other chronic illnesses as well.
Average Treatment Effect of School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports on School-Level Academic Achievement in Florida
Authors: Gage Nicholas A. , Leite Walter , Childs Karen , Kincaid Don
Published: March 2017

The relationship between school-wide positive behavioral interventions and supports (SWPBIS) and school-level academic achievement has not been established. Most experimental research has found little to no evidence that SWPBIS has a distal effect on school-level achievement. Yet, an underlying assumption of SWPBIS is that improving social behavior and reducing problem behavior increasingly exposes all students to classroom instruction and the opportunity for academic success. Therefore, we examined the average treatment effect of SWPBIS implemented with fidelity on the treated schools by leveraging 10 consecutive years of school-level academic achievement data. All elementary schools in Florida (~2,033 schools), including an average of 235 schools implementing SWPBIS with fidelity each year, were included in this study. We estimated a two-level mixed-effects regression model, with schools nested in districts across time, and modeled the percentage of students at or above grade-level benchmark on the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) reading and mathematics. Results indicate that schools implementing SWPBIS with fidelity had statistically significantly more students at or above grade-level benchmarks, however the effect sizes were small. The results are discussed within the context of distal effects and the fact that few evidence-based academic interventions have demonstrated larger effects when experimentally evaluated.