bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neoliberalism and violence: The Big Society and the changing politics of domestic violence in England
Authors: Ishkanian Armine
Published: January 2014

Focusing on the domestic violence sector as a case study, this article examines how the Big Society agenda, coming alongside public spending cuts, is affecting the independence and ability of women’s organizations to engage in progressive policy shaping. By situating the analysis of the Big Society agenda within the broader context of international civil society strengthening programmes, the article considers how the processes currently unfolding in England, share certain similarities to what has happened globally wherever neoliberal policies aimed at instrumentalizing civil society for service delivery have been implemented. It contends that the policies of the Big Society agenda, which are aimed at strengthening the ‘capacity’ of civil society, are instead creating a situation where the independence and ability of civil society organizations to engage in progressive policy making is weakened.
Quantitative measurement to evaluate morphological changes of the corpus callosum in patients with subcortical ischemic vascular dementia
Authors: Wu Xiao-Ping , Gao Yan-Jun , Yang Jun-Le , Xu Min , Sun Dong-Hai
Published: January 2014

Background

Subcortical ischemic vascular dementia (SIVD) is a subtype of dementia associated with abnormalities in the subcortical white matter regions. Recent imaging techniques can be used to detect such abnormalities in vivo.

Purpose

To examine morphological changes of the corpus callosum in patients with SIVD by using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI).

Material and Methods

MRI was performed to explore changes of cerebral white matter, especially corpus callosum. Brain matter diffusivity was examined with DTI by measuring the fractional anisotropy (FA). Results of 30 patients diagnosed with SIVD and 30 healthy subjects were analyzed and compared.

Results

The thicknesses of the genu, the anterior third, middle, and posterior third of the body, and the splenium of the corpus callosum were smaller in SIVD patients compared to healthy controls (0.54 ± 0.08 vs. 0.68 ± 0.09 cm, P = 0.0011; 0.27 ± 0.06 vs. 0.38 ± 0.07 cm, P = 0.002; 0.28 ± 0.05 vs. 0.38 ± 0.08 cm, P = 0.009; 0.18 ± 0.04 vs. 0.26 ± 0.06 cm, P = 0.013; 0.54 ± 0.07 vs. 0.72 ± 0.09 cm, P = 0.003, respectively). The FA values of the genu and splenium of the corpus callosum in patients with SIVD were decreased compared to healthy controls (0.664 ± 0.042 vs. 0.778 ± 0.041, P < 0.001; 0.691 ± 0.038 vs. 0.786 ± 0.039, P = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Patients with SIVD exhibit corpus callosum atrophy and morphological changes, and these characteristics may be useful for diagnosis.
Clinical and laboratory parameters associated with metabolic syndrome in Turkish patients with psoriasis
Authors: Akcali Cenk , Buyukcelik Burcin , Kirtak Necmettin , İnaloz Serhat
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To assess clinical and laboratory parameters associated with metabolic syndrome in Turkish patients with moderate or severe plaque-type psoriasis and nonpsoriatic controls.

Methods

Patients with moderate or severe plaque psoriasis (patient group) or with nonpsoriatic dermatological disease (controls) were included. Waist circumference, weight, height and arterial blood pressure were measured, together with fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein (HDL), fibrinogen, homocysteine and adiponectin levels. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed using National Cholesterol Education Program–Adult Treatment Panel III criteria.

Results

Out of 90 patients (50 with psoriasis; 40 controls), metabolic syndrome was more frequent in the patient group than in controls. In terms of metabolic syndrome parameters, only hypertension was more frequent in patients with psoriasis compared with controls. There was no statistically significant difference between the patient and control groups for obesity, hypertriglyceridaemia, HDL levels or hyperglycaemia. Fibrinogen levels were increased and adiponectin levels were decreased in the psoriasis group. No between-group difference in homocysteine levels was found.

Conclusion

In this small study, metabolic syndrome was found to be more frequently identified in Turkish patients with psoriasis than in controls; metabolic syndrome could lead to increased cardiovascular disease risk in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.
E3 ubiquitin ligases and human papillomavirus-induced carcinogenesis
Authors: Lou Zhifeng , Wang Sheng
Published: January 2014

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is clinically very common. It is usually a major risk factor in the development of cutaneous benign lesions, cervical cancer and a variety of other malignancies. The biological function of ubiquitination as an intracellular proteasomal-mediated form of protein degradation and an important modulator in the regulation of many fundamental cellular processes has been increasingly recognized over the last decade. HPV proteins have been demonstrated to evolve different strategies to utilize the ubiquitin system for their own purposes. The putative roles of E3 ubiquitin ligases in HPV-induced carcinogenesis have become increasingly apparent, although the mechanisms remain unclear. In this review we provide an update on the mechanisms of the involvement of E3 ubiquitin ligases in HPV-induced carcinogenesis, focusing on their interaction with HPV proteins and their roles in several signalling pathways. Targeting the E3 ubiquitin ligases might offer potential therapeutic strategies for HPV-related diseases in future.
Three-dimensional modeling of Lamb wave attenuation due to material and geometry in composite laminates
Authors: Ramadas C
Published: January 2014

When a Lamb wave propagates in a three dimensional (3D) domain, attenuation i.e. reduction in amplitude of the wave with distance of propagation is due to geometry and material. Experimental measurements of attenuation of a Lamb wave consist of both the effects of geometry and material as well. In the present work, a technique to estimate the attenuation due to material from combined attenuation (geometry and material) was proposed. The estimated material attenuation coefficient was then used in 3D numerical simulations of Lamb wave to capture the combined attenuation. The proposed technique was verified through numerical simulations followed by experimentally measured data on a composite laminate. Furthermore, the entire distance of propagation of a Lamb wave was classified into three regions based on attenuation characteristics.
Optimizing the formulation of polypropylene and rubberwood flour composites for moisture resistance by mixture design
Authors: Homkhiew Chatree , Ratanawilai Thanate , Thongruang Wiriya
Published: January 2014

D-optimal mixture experimental design was used to determine the optimal mixture of composites from rubberwood ( Hevea brasiliensis) flour and recycled polypropylene and to systematically analyze the effects of composition, namely recycled polypropylene, rubberwood flour, maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene, and ultraviolet stabilizer fractions. Panel samples were extruded, and their properties were characterized. The overall compositions significantly affected water absorption, thickness swelling, flexural strength and modulus, and maximum strain. Water absorption and thickness swelling increased with the fraction of rubberwood flour. At long immersion times, flexural strength and modulus decreased, but maximum strain increased with high fraction of rubberwood flour. The fraction of maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene only slightly affected water absorption and flexural properties, while the ultraviolet stabilizer fraction had a clear negative effect increasing water absorption and decreasing flexural properties. The models fitted were used for optimization of a desirability score, substituting for the multiple objectives modeled. The optimal formulation found was 68.9 wt% recycled polypropylene, 25.0 wt% rubberwood flour, 5.0 wt% maleic anhydride-grafted polypropylene, 0.1 wt% ultraviolet stabilizer, and 1.0 wt% lubricant. This formulation of the composites can be used for most suitable applications based on the moisture resistance.
Comparison of drill wear mechanism between rotary ultrasonic elliptical machining and conventional drilling of CFRP
Authors: Geng Daxi , Zhang Deyuan , Xu Yonggang , He Fengtao , Liu Fuqiang
Published: January 2014

Carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) is widely used as aircraft structural components for its superior mechanical and physical properties. Meanwhile, the rotary ultrasonic elliptical machining (RUEM), as a new drilling method in which an elliptical ultrasonic vibration is imposed on the end of the drill, can reduce tool wear effectively. In this paper, we firstly presented an investigation on the wear mechanism of diamond core drill in RUEM of CFRP in comparison with the conventional drilling (CD). A series of drilling experiments were performed including the drilling force measurement, the observation of drill topographies, and machined hole surface. The experiment results indicated that the drill performance in RUEM of CFRP was improved significantly in comparison with that in CD. Because the length of steady region rised by 39% and the tool life increased by 28% in RUEM than those in CD, respectively. With the observation of drill surface under a microscope, it was validated that less chip adhesion and more grain micro-fracture appeared in RUEM, which had a positive effect on the better drilling performance, such as lower drilling force, smoother hole surface.
Evaluation of intravenous lipid emulsion on haloperidol-induced hypotension in rabbits
Authors: Moshiri Mohammad , Vahabzadeh Maryam , Mohammadpour Amir Hooshang , Hosseinzadeh Hossein
Published: January 2014

There are many reports on the effects of intravenous lipid emulsion (ILE) as an antidote in drug toxicity. Haloperidol (HAL) is a butyrophenone antipsychotic agent which is highly lipophilic. Hypotension is an important adverse effect of HAL administration and overdose. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial hemodynamic effects of ILE on acute HAL poisoning. We used six groups of five male rabbits. Two groups received aseptic distilled water intravenously followed by infusion of 18.6 ml/kg normal saline, as negative control group, or ILE 20% after 0.5 h. The third group received 18.6 ml/kg normal saline after HAL infusion (2.6 mg/kg). The other three groups received ILE 20% solution (6, 12, and 18.6 ml/kg) following HAL (2.6 mg/kg) administration. We measured blood pressure at 0, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, and 24 h after starting HAL administration, from left forelimb using a noninvasive method that was carried out automatically with a neonatal intensive care unit bedside monitor. ILE 20% at the dose of 18 ml/kg could return the reduced mean arterial pressure and diastolic blood pressure sooner than the other doses and normal saline. In conclusion, ILE could reverse HAL-induced hypotension same as the other lipophilic drugs. However, the clinical use of ILE for this purpose needs more evaluation to determine its exact indication and safety.
Arginine–chitosan- and arginine–polyethylene glycol-conjugated superparamagnetic nanoparticles: Preparation, cytotoxicity and controlled-release
Authors: Hussein-Al-Ali Samer Hasan , Arulselvan Palanisamy , Fakurazi Sharida , Hussein Mohd Zobir , Dorniani Dena
Published: January 2014

Iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) can be used in targeted drug delivery systems for localized cancer treatment. MNPs coated with biocompatible polymers are useful for delivering anticancer drugs. Iron oxide MNPs were synthesized via co-precipitation method then coated with either chitosan (CS) or polyethylene glycol (PEG) to form CS–MNPs and PEG–MNPs, respectively. Arginine (Arg) was loaded onto both coated nanoparticles to form Arg–CS–MNP and Arg–PEG–MNP nanocomposites. The X-ray diffraction results for the MNPs and the Arg–CS–MNP and Arg–PEG–MNPs nanocomposites indicated that the iron oxide contained pure magnetite. The amount of CS and PEG bound to the MNPs were estimated via thermogravimetric analysis and confirmed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Arg loading was estimated using UV–vis measurements, which yielded values of 5.5% and 11% for the Arg–CS–MNP and Arg–PEG–MNP nanocomposites, respectively. The release profile of Arg from the nanocomposites followed a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The cytotoxic effects of the MNPs, Arg–CS–MNPs, and Arg–PEG–MNPs were evaluated in human cervical carcinoma cells (HeLa), mouse embryonic fibroblast cells (3T3) and breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7). The results indicate that the MNPs, Arg–CS–MNPs, and Arg–PEG–MNPs do not exhibit cytotoxicity toward 3T3 and HeLa cells. However, treatment of the MCF-7 cells with the Arg–CS–MNP and Arg–PEG–MNP nanocomposites reduced the cancer cell viability with IC50 values of 48.6 and 42.6 µg/mL, respectively, whereas the MNPs and free Arg did not affect the viability of the MCF-7 cells.
Multi-input submarine control via ℒ1 adaptive feedback despite uncertainties
Authors: Lee Keum W , Singh Sahjendra N
Published: January 2014

The development of a novel adaptive autopilot for the dive-plane control of multi-input multi-output submarines with unmodeled dynamics, based on the ℒ1 adaptive control theory, is the subject of this article. An ℒ1 adaptive autopilot is designed for the trajectory control of the depth and pitch angle using bow and stern hydroplanes. Interestingly, the structure of the adaptive controller remains fixed, regardless of the nonlinearities and external disturbance inputs, retained in the model of the submarine. Unlike the traditional adaptive control laws, the ℒ1 adaptive control input is generated by filtering the estimated control signal. A nice feature of the control law is that it is possible to achieve fast adaptation and desirable performance bounds in the closed-loop system by the choice of large adaptation gains. Simulation results are presented, which show that the autopilot accomplishes precise trajectory control in the dive plane, despite parametric uncertainties, unmodeled nonlinearities, and random disturbance inputs.
Comparison of wireless sensor network and radio frequency identification for the process control of distributed industrial systems
Authors: Abrishambaf Reza , Akbari Aliakbar , Hashemipour Majid
Published: January 2014

In today’s demanding market, flexibility and reconfigurability play an important role in manufacturing industries. This can be achieved by employing distributed control system such as International Electrotechnical Committee 61499 function block, which is a new standard adopted for industrial-process measurement and control system. On the other hand, wireless systems have been adopted recently in manufacturing systems as a replacement for conventional wired systems. This includes the wireless sensor network and radio frequency identification, which are emerging technologies adopted recently in a wide range of applications, especially in industry sectors. This article presents and compares the application of wireless sensor network and radio frequency identification in the process control of industrial system on the basis of International Electrotechnical Committee 61499 standard. Two process control architectures are considered for a case of an assembly line in order to compare and measure performance by employing Petri net as a mathematical modelling tool.
Producing the Urban Poor in Dhaka
Authors: Mohammad Din
Published: January 2014

In this article I am concerned with the nature of the ideological warfare that characterizes contemporary popular music in Bangladesh: how effectively music videos (along with their lyrical contents) are contributing to the meaning-making process of popular music to produce the urban poor. I argue that, with the ongoing prevalence of ‘urban folk’ music in Dhaka city—which has been championed by a group of subaltern musicians—a culture-clash has eventually formed between the two groups of musicians and producers; two different schools of music that roughly represent two different classes. Through an analysis of specific urban folk lyrics, music videos and other related music experiences, this article considers the ideological warfare and culture-clash apparent in the production of urban poor by the music industry; a culture-clash brought about through the differing intentions of the classes involved.
Association Between Palliative Case Management and Utilization of Inpatient, Intensive Care Unit, Emergency Department, and Hospice in Medicaid Beneficiaries
Authors: Wang Lin , Piet Leslie , Kenworthy Catherine M. , Dy Sydney M.
Published: January 2014

Association between palliative case management (PCM) and the utilization of major health services during the last 30 days of life in Medicaid patients with cancer was assessed using retrospective cohort analysis. There were 132 PCM enrollees in the intervention group and 54 non-PCM enrollees in the comparison group. The intervention group had lower inpatient admission rate than that of the comparison group (56.8% vs 74.1%), lower ICU admission rate (12.9% vs 24.1%), longer mean hospice days (45.8 vs 31.1 days), and lower percentage of persons with death in hospital (24.2% vs 35.9%). No statistically significant differences were found in mean intensive care unit days (8.7 vs 9.7 days), treat-and-release emergency department visit rate (22.0% vs 16.7%), or hospice election rate (65.9% vs 70.4%). Palliative case management may reduce hospitalization and increase hospice use in patients nearing death.
Use of Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors in the Treatment of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Pediatrics
Authors: Park Pauline , Caballero Joshua , Omidian Hossein
Published: January 2014

Objective: To review the current literature on the efficacy and safety of serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors in the treatment of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in the pediatric population. Data Sources: A literature search from 1996 to August 2013 was conducted using MEDLINE, CINAHL, and EMBASE databases. Search terms included attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, pediatric attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, venlafaxine, duloxetine, desvenlafaxine, milnacipran, and nefazodone. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Relevant articles on duloxetine and venlafaxine for the treatment of pediatric ADHD were reviewed; 5 studies on venlafaxine and 1 study on duloxetine were evaluated. Studies included open-label and randomized, double-blind trials. Case studies in pediatric populations and all studies in adult populations were excluded. Data Synthesis: Patients 6 to 17 years old were evaluated in the venlafaxine and duloxetine studies. Trials on venlafaxine, ranging from 2 to 6 weeks, showed patient improvement as measured by the Conners Rating Scale and ADHD Rating Scale. Venlafaxine was initiated at 12.5 to 25 mg/d and titrated up to 1.4 to 3.8 mg/kg/d to a maximum of 150 mg/d. Duloxetine showed minimal efficacy in treating ADHD symptoms at doses of 60 mg/d at 6 weeks. The most common side effects for venlafaxine and duloxetine included drowsiness and decreased appetite, respectively. Conclusions: Data for venlafaxine and duloxetine are limited. However, venlafaxine may be considered as an alternative agent when patients cannot tolerate or fail stimulants, tricyclic antidepressants, or bupropion. Duloxetine has been studied in children; however, with only 1 study available, it is difficult to recommend.
Ziv-aflibercept (Zaltrap) for the Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Perkins Scott L. , Cole Sabrina W.
Published: January 2014

Objective: Review pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of ziv-aflibercept in combination with FOLFIRI for treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) resistant to or progressed following oxaliplatin-containing regimens. Data Sources: Articles indexed in PubMed (1948-August 2013), TOXLINE (2001-August 2013), and Google Scholar as well as meeting abstracts were identified using the search terms ziv-aflibercept and colorectal cancer. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Available English-language articles Data Synthesis: Ziv-aflibercept, a selective vascular endothelial growth factor antagonist, was evaluated as monotherapy for treatment of mCRC in a phase 2 study and added to FOLFIRI in a phase 3 trial. Patient response to ziv-aflibercept as monotherapy did not reach statistical significance. Results suggest that response to ziv-aflibercept treatment is not influenced by prior bevacizumab therapy. A phase 3 trial compared the safety and efficacy of ziv-aflibercept plus FOLFIRI with placebo plus FOLFIRI in patients with mCRC who experienced disease progression on an oxaliplatin-containing regimen. Patients in the ziv-aflibercept arm had a median overall survival of 13.5 months, versus 12.06 months for those receiving placebo (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.817, 95% CI = 0.713 to 0.937). Progression-free survival for patients receiving ziv-aflibercept was higher compared with placebo (HR = 0.758; 95% CI = 0.661 to 0.869). The most common adverse effects observed were anemia, diarrhea, and neutropenia. Conclusions: Ziv-aflibercept is a safe and effective option in combination with FOLFIRI for the treatment of mCRC in patients who progress on oxaliplatin-containing therapy. Superiority over other antiangiogenic treatment has not been established.
Orofacial Dyskinesia Associated With the Use of Levofloxacin
Authors: Host Brian D. , Sloan Walker
Published: January 2014

Objective: To describe a case of orofacial dyskinesia in a patient treated with levofloxacin for acute diverticulitis. Case Summary: A 77-year-old woman with mild renal insufficiency was admitted with acute diverticulitis. She was initiated on levofloxacin 500 mg IV daily and metronidazole 500 mg IV every 8 hours. On day 4 of treatment, she experienced involuntary, rhythmic facial grimacing accompanied by periodic cervical muscular contractures. Her speech became dysarthric, interrupted by uncontrolled facial and tongue movements, all findings consistent with orofacial dyskinesia. Antibiotics were discontinued, and symptoms resolved after administration of diphenhydramine and lorazepam IV. Discussion: Fluoroquinolone-associated central nervous system (CNS) toxicities are infrequently observed. They are most commonly associated with ciprofloxacin and are thought to be related to inhibition of γ-aminobutyric acid receptors and activation of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors. Orofacial dyskinesia has previously been reported primarily with second-generation fluoroquinolones, with only a single case report implicating a third-generation fluoroquinolone. To our knowledge, we report the second case of orofacial dyskinesia with a third-generation fluoroquinolone, the first such case associated with levofloxacin. The orofacial dyskinesia experienced in this case was categorized as probably related to levofloxacin, as assessed by the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability assessment tool. Contributing factors likely included age and renal function. Conclusions: Although rare, CNS toxicities such as orofacial dyskinesia have been reported with levofloxacin. Patients on fluoroquinolones of advanced age and with renal insufficiency should be monitored closely for such toxicities.
Rapid-Sequence Intubation
Authors: Stollings Joanna L. , Diedrich Daniel A. , Oyen Lance J. , Brown Daniel R.
Published: January 2014

Objective: To summarize published data regarding the steps of rapid-sequence intubation (RSI); review premedications, induction agents, neuromuscular blockers (NMB), and studies supporting use or avoidance; and discuss the benefits and deficits of combinations of induction agents and NMBs used when drug shortages occur. Data Source: A search of Medline databases (1966–October 2013) was conducted. Study Selection and Data Extraction: Databases were searched using the terms rapid-sequence intubation, fentanyl, midazolam, atropine, lidocaine, phenylephrine, ketamine, propofol, etomidate thiopental, succinylcholine, vecuronium, atracurium, and rocuronium. Citations from publications were reviewed for additional references. Data Synthesis: Data were reviewed to support the use or avoidance of premedications, induction agents, and paralytics and combinations to consider when drug shortages occur. Conclusions: RSI is used to secure a definitive airway in often uncooperative, nonfasted, unstable, and/or critically ill patients. Choosing the appropriate premedication, induction drug, and paralytic will maximize the success of tracheal intubation and minimize complications.
Time to Positivity of Blood Cultures Supports Antibiotic De-escalation at 48 Hours
Authors: Pardo Joe , Klinker Kenneth P. , Borgert Samuel J. , Trikha Gaurav , Rand Kenneth H. , Ramphal Reuben
Published: January 2014

Background: Appropriate de-escalation of empirical antimicrobial therapy is a fundamental component of antimicrobial stewardship. Concern for the late detection of bloodstream pathogens may undermine early streamlining efforts and subject patients to protracted courses of nonessential therapy. Objective: To quantify the prevalence of bacterial bloodstream infection (BSI) detection after more than 48 hours of culture incubation. We also assessed the impact of antimicrobial therapy delivered prior to blood sample collection. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated time to blood culture positivity (TTP) in adult patients at an academic tertiary care hospital. Microbiology reports were reviewed to identify the TTP for the first positive blood culture bottle for each episode of BSI occurring from February 1, 2011, to July 31, 2011. Isolates were classified as true pathogens or contaminants. Blood culture results after 48 hours of incubation were compared with results after 120 hours of incubation. Results: The median TTP of 416 monomicrobial BSIs and 210 contamination episodes was 13.7 and 24.4 hours, respectively ( P < .001). The median TTPs in those who received and did not receive prior antibiotics were 17.0 and 12.8 hours, respectively ( P < .001). By 48 hours, 98% of aerobic Gram-positive and Gram-negative BSIs were detected. Culture results at 48 hours were 97% sensitive and had a negative predictive value of 99.8%. Conclusion: Few true BSIs are detected after more than 48 hours of culture incubation. Clinicians may adjust empirical antibiotic coverage at this time with little risk for subsequent bacterial pathogen detection.
Design of a tribometer for investigating tactile perception
Authors: Massi Francesco , Vittecoq Eric , Chatelet Eric , Saulot Aurelien , Berthier Yves
Published: January 2014

The understanding of the tactile perception mechanism implies the reproduction and measurement of friction forces and vibrations induced by the contact between the skin of human fingers and object surfaces. When a finger moves to scan the surface of an object, it activates the receptors located under the skin allowing the brain to identify surfaces and information about their properties. The information concerning the object surface is affected by the forces and vibrations induced by the friction between the skin and the rubbed object. The vibrations propagate in the finger skin and are converted into electric impulses sent to the brain by the mechanoreceptors. Because of the low amplitude of the induced vibrations, it results quite hard to reproduce the tactile surface scanning and measuring it without affecting measurements by external noise coming from the experimental test-bench. In fact the reproduction of the sliding contact between two surfaces implies the relative motion between them, which is obtained by appropriate mechanisms having a more or less complicated kinematics and including several sliding surfaces (bearings, sliders, etc.). It results quite difficult to distinguish between the vibrations coming from the reproduced sliding and the parasitic noise coming from the other sliding contact pairs. This paper presents the design and validation of a tribometer, named TRIBOTOUCH, allowing for reproducing and measuring friction forces and friction induced vibrations that are basilar for a clear understanding of the mechanisms of the tactile sense.
Interferon beta-related nephropathy and interstitial lung disease: a new association and a long-term warning
Authors: Capobianco Marco , Piccoli Giorgina , Neve Vigotti Federica , Scapoli Paola , Deagostini Maria Chiara , Albera Carlo , Roccatello Dario , Bertolotto Antonio
Published: January 2014

We report on a so-far never described association between glomerulonephritis and sarcoid-like lung disease after long-term interferon beta (IFNb) treatment for relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. The interest in this case resides in the documented remission after IFNb discontinuation. The history of IFNb-related adverse events is probably not yet completely written. The rapid reversal of the pathological signs in our patient underlines the importance of careful clinical and laboratory surveillance, including kidney functional parameters, for an early diagnosis of IFNb-related diseases.
Pregnancy, sex and hormonal factors in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Miller David H , Fazekas Franz , Montalban Xavier , Reingold Stephen C , Trojano Maria
Published: January 2014

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is influenced by pregnancy, sex and hormonal factors.

Objectives:

A comprehensive understanding of the role of pregnancy, sex and hormonal factors can provide insights into disease mechanisms, and new therapeutic developments and can provide improved patient care and treatment.

Methods:

Based on an international conference of experts and a comprehensive PubMed search for publications on these areas in MS, we provide a review of what is known about the impact of these factors on disease demographics, etiology, pathophysiology and clinical course and outcomes.

Results and conclusions:

Recommendations are provided for counseling and management of people with MS before conception, during pregnancy and after delivery. The use of disease-modifying and symptomatic therapies in pregnancy is problematic and such treatments are normally discontinued. Available knowledge about the impact of treatment on the mother, fetus and newborn is discussed. Recommendations for future research to fill knowledge gaps and clarify inconsistencies in available data are made.
Consuming Palestine: Palestine and Palestinians in Israeli food culture
Authors: Ranta Ronald , Mendel Yonatan
Published: January 2014

This article sets out to study the role that Palestine and the Arab-Palestinians have had on Israeli national identity through the examination of Israeli food culture. Food culture played an important part not only in the emancipation of European Zionist-Jews who immigrated to Palestine before 1948 but also in the creation of the Israeli national identity, including its collective memory, national psyche and desired political aspirations. However, it is impossible to understand Israeli food culture, and Israeli identity and popular culture, without taking into account the environment in which and the people among whom it developed. In that respect, and as argued hereafter, for political and ideological reasons the Palestinian direct contribution to Israeli food culture, and by extension national identity, has been expunged or overlooked. Early Zionist encounter with the Arab-Palestinian people and their culture contained a mixture of romanticisation, admiration and imitation. However, with the Zionist aim of substituting the Arab-Palestinian people by creating a separate political and economic society, the process of encounter changed to replacement, appropriation and deliberate forgetting and rewriting of the past. In relation to Israeli food culture, the Arab-Palestinian food element was marginalised, blurred and reinterpreted as belonging to the Zionist settlers, or as being brought to Israel by the Mizrahi-Jews. In other words, Israeli food culture ‘needed’ the Arab-Palestinian culture as a source of imitation and localisation, but at the same time desired its de-Palestinianisation, together with the general idea of a separate Jewish state.
An assessment of the dementia CQUIN – an audit of improving compliance
Authors: Mills Jonathan K.A. , Minhas Jatinder S. , Robotham Samantha L.
Published: January 2014

The Department of Health has increased the emphasis on earlier detection of dementia among patients aged over 75 admitted to hospital in an emergency in England. Introduction of a Commissioning for Quality and Innovation (CQUIN) payment provides an incentive for NHS Trusts to screen patients for memory problems on admission. This article reports on how improvements were made to the screening process across three wards in a large university teaching hospital.
Utopia, scenario and plan: A pragmatic integration
Authors: Hoch Charles
Published: January 2014

The concepts utopia, scenario, and plan offer important ways to envision the future of place. Utopia describes the perfect, complete place. Scenario compares good alternative stories. Plans offer useful provisional intentions. All three help us imagine how future consequences of select actions might influence current expectations and hopes. I argue that pragmatism can integrate all three along a continuum from holistic inclusive to selective incremental. Utopia dramatizes emotional attachments to the daily details of a purposeful way of life for some future imagined place. Scenario describes the confluence of narrative and explanation, story and cause as coherent testable accounts of relevant consequences for plausible futures. Plan describes how we compose and compare alternatives to inform practical intentions for choices and decisions for immediate problems we currently face. Framing the three concepts pragmatically avoids the contrast between utopian rupture and narrative continuity by treating both as complementary aspects of a practical imagination. Composing plans requires adaptive attention to specific features of people and place susceptible to purposeful change.
Benevolent Paradox
Authors: de la Torre Adela
Published: January 2014

Niños Sanos, Familia Sana (NSFS) is a 5-year multi-intervention study aimed at preventing childhood obesity among Mexican-origin children in rural California. Using a transdisciplinary approach and community-based participatory research (CBPR) methodology, NSFS’s development included a diversely trained team working in collaboration with community partners. The systematic development of the research funding application and the iterative proposal-development process provide the basis for understanding greater opportunities for funding, and modifications needed to be successful with higher level sponsors of CBPR projects.
Recovering and Framing the George I. Sanchez Legacy of Chicana/o Student and Policy Advocacy
Authors: Rodríguez Cristóbal
Published: January 2014

Recovering and critically examining the pioneering scholarship and history of George I. Sanchez provide an interpretation toward a legacy of a Chicana/o student and policy advocacy framework for Chicana/o scholars to consider. The author of this work applies a critical policy theoretical analysis by Frank Fischer to develop a Chicana/o student and policy advovacy framework that will further Sanchez’ legacy of social change for Chicana/o students throughout the educational pipeline.
Behavioral Interventions to Enhance Smoking Cessation
Authors: Ciccolo Joseph T. , Busch Andrew M.
Published: January 2014

In the United States, the rate of cigarette smoking has significantly declined over the past 2 decades, but much more work is needed, as almost 20% of adults still smoke and smoking continues to be the leading preventable cause of death. Furthermore, rates of smoking in certain subpopulations have remained relatively stable and have historically been neglected in smoking cessation research. Pharmacotherapy (both prescription and over-the-counter) and behavioral support are known to aid cessation, and their combination is more effective than either alone. There are significant barriers to access, use, and adherence, however, especially with pharmacotherapy. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide an update and overview of the numerous behavioral approaches that have been used to enhance smoking cessation. The research described can be classified into the type of approach used, the setting in which it is delivered, and the population targeted. Regardless of the classification, all the approaches attempt to provide smokers with the information, motivation, and behavioral skills thought to be necessary for achieving initial cessation and sustained abstinence. Recommendations for future research on behavioral smoking cessation are also included.
Pompeii and its Hinterland Connection: The Fuel Consumption of the House of the Vestals (c. Third Century BC to AD 79)
Authors: Veal Robyn
Published: January 2014

Bio-archaeological studies can contribute significantly to understanding the economic interactions between cities and their hinterland. In Pompeii, where research has often been intramurally focussed, analysis of biological remains is often confined to bones and macro-botanicals consumed as foodstuffs. Charcoal, if collected, often remains unexamined, and yet this material is key to understanding the fuel economy of a city. This study has two goals: first, to describe an efficient method for charcoal sampling and analysis in a dense urban environment using only dry-sieved charcoals above 5 mm; and, second, in doing so, to demonstrate the dependent relationship between Pompeii and its hinterland for the provision of fuel in a case study from the House of the Vestals. A pilot study of 25 contexts from six ‘rooms’ and 750 charcoal fragments was followed by an extended study of 62 contexts over 14 rooms (a total of 1579 charcoal fragments). The extended results identified only two further (minor) taxa (represented by only three fragments). The most important wood identified was beech (Fagus sylvatica), which constituted 50–75 per cent of the fuel supply, depending on the time period. Beech grows preferentially above about 900 m in central and southern Italy. Pompeii lies at 30 m altitude with the nearest mountain areas at least 15 km away. The study suggests that a methodology that relies on collection of charcoal from routine dry sieving (5 mm grid), in soils where this is possible, can provide robust results in a cost effective manner in an urban setting.
Death, Relics, and the Demise of Huts: Patterns of Planned Abandonment in Middle BA Central Iberia
Authors: Sánchez-Polo Alejandra , Blanco-González Antonio
Published: January 2014

This paper addresses the formation processes at an unparalleled Bronze Age settlement in the Iberian Meseta. The site of El Cerro (Burgos, Spain) presents a series of challenging features: the simultaneous inhumation of three subadults alongside a dwelling quarter and adjacent pits, some of them filled with apparent formality, including such anachronistic elements as Neolithic and Beaker items and several placed deposits, such as a leg of a cow. A critical evaluation of the contextual dataset, a re-fitting operation, and an assessment of the abrasion and size of a ceramic sample were carried out. The archaeological peculiarities of the site are explained as a contextually specific cultural response to a grievous and traumatic episode: the death of three young siblings, which entailed the abandonment of the settlement through prescribed practices. Some depositions are a product of recognizable intentionality, while others are regarded as unintended cumulative outcomes.
Analysis of factors predicting mortality of new patients commencing renal replacement therapy 10 years of follow-up
Authors: Browne Oliver T , Allgar Victoria , Bhandari Sunil
Published: January 2014

Background

The natural history of patients commencing dialysis in East Yorkshire is not well characterised and there is little convincing evidence which has studied the impact of potential factors prior to commencement of renal replacement therapy (RRT) at predicting mortality during dialysis. The aim of this study was to examine the previously published 5-year data on end stage renal disease and co-morbid risk factors for mortality at 10 years.

Methods

An observational cohort study of subjects commencing dialysis in 2001/02 in East Yorkshire with a mean follow up from dialysis initiation of 8.8 years. Predictors of mortality were determined by univariate, multivariate analysis and survival via Kaplan-Meier analysis. Assessment of the utility of the Tangri risk calculator was carried out in addition to slope change in eGFR prior to dialysis commencement.

Results

Baseline characteristics and the preferred mode of dialysis remained concordant with the original trial. The mortality rate at the end of the study period was 60% (56/94) with 30% (29) of patients having been transplanted. Highlighted in the 5 year data a significant proportion of mortality was made up of vascular disease and sepsis (71%) but this proportion had decreased (57%) by 10 years. Cardiac disease was the commonest cause of death but notably in 18% of patients, death was related to dialysis or withdrawal of treatment. Vascular disease and diabetes remained independent risk factors and predicative of mortality. Calcium - phosphate product which was associated in the early years with mortality was not in later years. Use of the risk calculator was predictive of commencement of RRT but not mortality but slope change in eGFR was predictive of mortality.

Conclusions

Although diabetes and vascular disease remained predictive of mortality, interestingly calcium-phosphate levels are no longer significant and may be a more specific predictor of early cardiac mortality. Slope eGFR changes prior to RRT are a predictor of mortality. We speculate that aggressive management of cardiac risk factors in addition to early transplantation may be key to influencing the impact of survival in this cohort in addition to possible measures to delay renal progression.
Challenges to implementation of developmental screening in urban primary care: a mixed methods study
Authors: Morelli Deanna L , Pati Susmita , Butler Anneliese , Blum Nathan J , Gerdes Marsha , Pinto-Martin Jennifer , Guevara James P
Published: January 2014

Background

Research is needed to identify challenges to developmental screening and strategies for screening in an urban pediatric setting.

Methods

Parents of young children and clinicians at four urban pediatric practices participated in focus groups prior to implementation of screening. Participants were queried regarding attitudes, social norms, and barriers to developmental screening. Using information from the focus groups, workflow strategies were developed for implementing screening. Referral rates and satisfaction with screening were gathered at the conclusion.

Results

Six focus groups of parents and clinicians were conducted. Major themes identified included 1) parents desired greater input on child development and increased time with physicians, 2) physicians did not fully trust parental input, 3) physicians preferred clinical acumen over screening tools, and 4) physicians lacked time and training to conduct screening. For the intervention, developmental screening was implemented at the 9-, 18-, 24-, and 30-month well visits using the Ages & Stages Questionnaire-II and the Modified Checklist for Toddlers. 1397 (98% of eligible) children under 36 months old were enrolled, and 1184 (84%) were screened at least once. 1002 parents (85%) completed a survey at the conclusion of the screening trial. Most parents reported no difficulty completing the screens (99%), felt the screens covered important areas of child development (98%), and felt they learned about their child’s strengths and limitations (88%).

Conclusions

Developmental screening in urban low-income practices is feasible and acceptable, but requires strategies to capture parental input, provide training, facilitate referrals, and develop workflow procedures and electronic decision support.
Promotion of a healthy lifestyle among 5-year-old overweight children: health behavior outcomes of the 'Be active, eat right’ study
Authors: van Grieken Amy , Renders Carry M , Veldhuis Lydian , Looman Caspar WN , Hirasing Remy A , Raat Hein
Published: January 2014

Background

This study evaluates the effects of an intervention performed by youth health care professionals on child health behaviors. The intervention consisted of offering healthy lifestyle counseling to parents of overweight (not obese) 5-year-old children. Effects of the intervention on the child having breakfast, drinking sweet beverages, watching television and playing outside were evaluated.

Methods

Data were collected with the 'Be active, eat right’ study, a cluster randomized controlled trial among nine youth health care centers in the Netherlands. Parents of overweight children received lifestyle counseling according to the intervention protocol in the intervention condition (n = 349) and usual care in the control condition (n = 288). Parents completed questionnaires regarding demographic characteristics, health behaviors and the home environment at baseline and at 2-year follow-up. Cluster adjusted regression models were applied; interaction terms were explored.

Results

The population for analysis consisted of 38.1% boys; mean age 5.8 [sd 0.4] years; mean BMI SDS 1.9 [sd 0.4]. There were no significant differences in the number of minutes of outside play or television viewing a day between children in the intervention and the control condition. Also, the odds ratio for having breakfast daily or drinking two or less glasses of sweet beverages a day showed no significant differences between the two conditions. Additional analyses showed that the odds ratio for drinking less than two glasses of sweet beverages at follow-up compared with baseline was significantly higher for children in both the intervention (p < 0.001) and the control condition (p = 0.029).

Conclusions

Comparison of the children in the two conditions showed that the intervention does not contribute to a change in health behaviors. Further studies are needed to investigate opportunities to adjust the intervention protocol, such as integration of elements in the regular well-child visit. The intervention protocol for youth health care may become part of a broader approach to tackle childhood overweight and obesity.

Trial registration

Current Controlled TrialsISRCTN04965410