bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing and Proposing the Ethno-Cultural Gerontological Nursing Model
Authors: Phillips Linda R. , Salem Benissa E. , Jeffers Kia Skrine , Kim Haesook , Ruiz Maria Elena , Salem Nancy , Woods Diana Lynn
Published: December 2014

By 2050, for the first time in U.S. history, almost half of elders will be from ethnic minority groups. To meet the needs of this rapidly diversifying population, nurses need to be able to marry transcultural nursing knowledge with gerontological nursing knowledge. The purpose of this article is to propose a new theoretical model for explaining health outcomes and health responses for older individuals in unique ethno-cultural groups and to discuss implications and applications of the model to transcultural gerontological nursing practice and research. The discussion will include (1) an overview of currently available theoretical knowledge in the area, (2) a description of the theory development process, (3) presentation of the proposed ethno-cultural gerontological nursing theoretical model, and (4) discussion of how this model can enhance nursing’s contributions to reducing health disparities. This model is presented not as a finished product but as a basis for future discussion and refinement.
Characterization of fractional order for high-frequency bandwidth model of dielectric ferroelectrics
Authors: Zhang Bin , Ducharne Benjamin , Sebald Gaël , Guyomar Daniel
Published: December 2014

Fractional operators are particularly well adapted for modeling dielectric losses of a ferroelectric material. Common integer derivative operators are generally limited to a relatively weak frequency bandwidth, whereas an approach based on fractional derivatives gives rise to good accuracy between measured hysteresis and simulated loops beyond the frequency bandwidth of classical piezoelectric systems. This article demonstrates the relation between the fractional operator used for the modeling of hysteresis plots (high electric field amplitude, relatively low frequency) and the fractional behavior of a ceramic characterized by the frequency analyzer characterization (low electric field amplitude but high frequency) bandwidth measurements obtained using impedance spectroscopy. In both cases, it was concluded that the dynamic losses had the same physical origin and could consequently be modeled using the same operator and parameters. This notion is particularly interesting as it enables to limit the piezoceramic characterization to the impedance analyzer and to anticipate the high-level excitation behavior in simulation. Finally, it confirms that the fractional operator provides a good view of the dynamic behavior and broadens its domain application to the dynamic variation of the well-known piezoelectric coefficients.
Shear thickening fluid–based energy-free damper: Design and dynamic characteristics
Authors: Zhou Hong , Yan Lixun , Jiang Wanquan , Xuan Shouhu , Gong Xinglong
Published: December 2014

Shear thickening fluid exhibits a tremendous ability to dissipate energy under an un-expected attack by presenting an abrupt increase in viscosity. In this work, a novel prototype shear thickening fluid damper was fabricated and its dynamic characteristics were experimentally investigated. By varying the rheological properties of the shear thickening fluids, the final shear thickening fluid dampers with different mechanical characteristics were obtained. The mechanism was qualitatively analyzed, and it was observed that the output force of shear thickening fluid damper sharply increased as soon as an external stimulus was imposed. The maximum output force of this shear thickening fluid damper can reach to as high as 2.7 kN, which was several orders of magnitude higher than the conventional shear thickening fluid damper. The model composed of an equivalent linear stiffness term, and a power-law viscous damping term was proposed and it agreed well with the nonlinear performance of shear thickening fluid damper.
Ethical Thinking and Sustainability in Role-Play Participants
Authors: Schrier Karen
Published: December 2014

Purpose. Can games provide a holistic understanding of the ethical decision-making process related to sustainability and environmental management?

Method. Thirty participants, 18 to 34 years old, were recruited. Twenty were then randomly assigned to play a popular role-playing game, which raises an issue of whether to drain or preserve a virtual lake. Ten participants were assigned to a control condition, which involved a written version of the lake dilemma. Using a researcher-developed coding scheme, this study compared the ethical thinking skills and thought processes used to approach the lake scenario.

Findings.Control condition participants more frequently chose to drain the lake than game condition participants. The top-ranked thought processes used by the control condition participants were reasoning-related only, whereas the top-ranked thought processes used by the game condition participants were both reasoning- and empathy-related, which may have related to their greater likelihood to preserve the lake. While, most game participants chose to preserve the lake (75%), game participants chose the “negative” choice in this scenario more often than any other (non-sustainability related) scenario provided in the game.

Implications. This study helps us to understand how people think through sustainability-related scenarios, and how to use games for policy making and education.
Assisting Older Persons With Adjusting to Hearing Aids
Authors: Lane Kari R. , Clark M. Kathleen
Published: December 2014

This intervention study tested the feasibility and initial effect of Hearing Aid Reintroduction (HEAR) to assist persons aged 70 to 85 years adjust to hearing aids. Following this 30-day intervention, hearing aid use increased between 1 and 8 hr per day with 50% of participants able to wear them for at least 4 hr. Hearing aid satisfaction improved from not satisfied to satisfied overall. The study demonstrated that HEAR is feasible and could improve hearing aid use of a substantial number of older persons who had previously failed to adjust to their hearing aids and had given up. However, further testing among a larger and more diverse population is needed to better understand the effectiveness and sustainability of the intervention.
Teachers’ Perceptions of Full- and Part-Time Nurses at School
Authors: Biag Manuelito , Srivastava Ashini , Landau Melinda , Rodriguez Eunice
Published: December 2014

Teachers and school nurses partner together to help ensure students stay healthy and engaged in school. The purpose of this study is to generate a deeper understanding of teachers’ perceptions on the benefits and challenges of working with full- or part-time school nurses. We conducted a qualitative analysis of open-ended survey responses from 129 teachers in nine low-income, ethnically diverse urban schools. These schools were part of a multiyear project that placed full-time nurses in four schools, while five schools with part-time nurses were used as a comparison group. Findings indicate that teachers had strong appreciation for the wide range of responsibilities undertaken by the school nurse. Teachers’ level of satisfaction was linked to the number of hours the nurse is on-site, where teachers reported greater satisfaction with nurses who worked on campus full time. Results point to factors that may improve working relations between teachers and nurses.
A new buffer sizing approach based on the uncertainty of project activities
Authors: Zhang Junguang , Jia Saike , Diaz Estrella
Published: December 2014

A new buffer sizing method based on the uncertainty of the project is proposed in order to improve the accuracy of buffer management. Assuming that the project activities follow lognormal distribution, the model proposed first analyzes the influence of uncertainty, which is characterized as the main factor to affect the activity’s duration. Fuzzy theory is then introduced to calculate the uncertainty and is adjusted using resource tightness and network complexity. Finally, a new buffer sizing model based on the uncertainty and the project attributes is introduced. The effectiveness of the method is verified by employing the Monte Carlo simulation, and the actual duration and cost are obtained on the basis of the mean and variance of the project. The experimental results show that the buffer obtained using this method is smaller than the cut and paste method but larger than the root square error method. These findings indicate that the new model is able to avoid the excessive protection issues of the cut and paste method and overcome the root square error method’s problem as regards an insufficient consideration of project attributes. The method proposed fully considers the factors that affect buffer sizing, signifying that it can provide the project with effective protection and an appropriate buffer size.
Detecting and Explaining Aberrant Responding to the Outcome Questionnaire–45
Authors: Conijn Judith M. , Emons Wilco H. M. , De Jong Kim , Sijtsma Klaas
Published: December 2014

We applied item response theory based person-fit analysis (PFA) to data of the Outcome Questionnaire-45 (OQ-45) to investigate the prevalence and causes of aberrant responding in a sample of Dutch clinical outpatients. The [Formula: see text] person-fit statistic was used to detect misfitting item-score patterns and the standardized residual statistic for identifying the source of the misfit in the item-score patterns identified as misfitting. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict person misfit from clinical diagnosis, OQ-45 total score, and Global Assessment of Functioning code. The [Formula: see text] statistic classified 12.6% of the item-score patterns as misfitting. Person misfit was positively related to the severity of psychological distress. Furthermore, patients with psychotic disorders, somatoform disorders, or substance-related disorders more likely showed misfit than the baseline group of patients with mood and anxiety disorders. The results suggest that general outcome measures such as the OQ-45 are not equally appropriate for patients with different disorders. Our study emphasizes the importance of person-misfit detection in clinical practice.
A Review of Child and Adolescent Diagnostic Interviews for Clinical Practitioners
Authors: Leffler Jarrod M. , Riebel Jordanna , Hughes Honore M.
Published: December 2014

The publication of the DSM-5 poses a challenge for many interview instruments due to the changes for many of the diagnoses. Six of the more widely used and studied interview instruments (structured and semistructured) were reviewed with a focus on usefulness for the practicing clinician and researcher. Use of these types of assessment procedures can facilitate the accuracy of diagnoses given by potentially reducing clinician bias. Each interview instrument varied in its strengths and characteristics related to amount of flexibility associated with administration of items; breadth of coverage of diagnoses based on DSM-IV; time required for administration; presence of screening items or modular format; and psychometric support for its reliability and validity, as well as amount of training required for use, and costs associated with acquiring and learning the format. Recommendations were made regarding the utilization of different instruments for specific diagnostic questions along with future recommendations for enhancing the format and utility of these instruments, especially in relation to the publication of the DSM-5.
Injury-Induced Neurogenesis
Authors: Yu Tzong-Shiue , Washington Patricia M. , Kernie Steven G.
Published: December 2014

Partial recovery from brain injury due to trauma, hypoxia, or stroke, is ubiquitous and occurs largely through unknown mechanisms. It is now well accepted that injury enhances proliferation of quiescent stem and progenitor cells in specialized niches within the brain. However, whether this injury-induced neurogenesis contributes to recovery after brain injury remains controversial. Recent evidence suggests that hippocampal neural stem/precursor cell activation and subsequent neurogenesis are responsible for at least some aspects of spontaneous recovery following brain injury from a variety of causes. However, other aspects of injury-induced neurogenesis, including its contribution to adverse sequelae such as seizures, are still being investigated. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of adult hippocampal neurogenesis and how it relates to injury and explain how current mouse technology is allowing for better understanding of whether manipulating this natural process might eventually help inform therapy following brain injury.
Radial vibrations in an isotropic elastic hollow cylinder with rotation
Authors: Yahya GA , Abd-Alla AM
Published: December 2014

In this paper, the effect of rotation on the radial vibrations of elastic hollow cylinder is studied. The fundamental equations of elastodynamic have been solved in terms of radial displacement. The equation of elastodynamic is solved in terms of radial displacement. The frequency equation is obtained when the boundaries are free, fixed and mixed boundary conditions are calculated numerically. The determination is concerned with the eigenvalues of the natural frequency of the radial vibrations in the case of harmonic vibrations. It was shown that the dispersion curves of guided waves were significantly influenced by the rotation of the elastic cylinder. The results obtained theoretically have been computed numerically and are presented graphically The results indicate that the effect of rotation is very pronounced.
Frequency-modulation input shaping for multimode systems
Authors: Masoud Ziyad , Alhazza Khaled
Published: December 2014

This paper presents an input shaping strategy for vibration control of multimode systems. The strategy combines the use of single-mode input shaping techniques with a model-based frequency-modulation system. The strategy utilizes the fact that a single-mode input shaper can eliminate vibrations in a multimode system provided that, there exists a common frequency for which all frequencies of the system are odd multiples of that common frequency. Model-based feedback is used to modulate the frequencies of the system to the point where the odd multiple frequencies condition is satisfied. The primary mode frequency of the model-based feedback system is designed to be the common frequency that satisfies the aforementioned condition. Several single-mode input shapers are implemented with design frequencies equal to the primary mode frequency of the modulated system, thus eliminating vibrations in all modes of the system simultaneously. Simulations and experiments on multiple pendulum models are used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the performance of the frequency-modulation input shaping strategy.
Propagation of a torsional surface wave in a non-homogeneous anisotropic layer over a heterogeneous half-space
Authors: Kundu Santimoy , Gupta Shishir , Saha Anup , Manna Santanu
Published: December 2014

This paper aims to study the dispersion of torsional surface waves in a non-homogeneous anisotropic layer over heterogeneous half-space. We consider the inhomogeneity varies exponentially with depth in the layer and in half-space three types of heterogeneities, namely, quadratic, hyperbolic and exponential are assumed. The dispersion equation has been deducted for each case in a closed form by means of variable separable method. It has been observed that for homogeneous isotropic upper layer over a homogeneous half-space, the velocity of torsional surface waves coincides with that of Love waves. Dispersion curves are plotted for different variation in inhomogeneity parameters. The effects of the medium characteristics on the propagation of torsional surface waves are discussed.
Three-dimensional dynamic inflow below the rotor disk based on the finite-state method
Authors: Fei Zhongyang , Zhang Yang
Published: December 2014

This paper studies the problem of dynamic inflow below the rotor disk for skewed flow. With the information from the adjoint inflow equations plus the normal states, one can calculate the velocity in the hemisphere below the rotor disk plane without losing accuracy or convergence rate. The methodology enables one to calculate the velocity below the rotor disk with the finite-state method with the only cost of adding the uncoupled co-states. The three components of inflow are considered here and compared with the results from the convolution integrals. Numerical results in the frequency domain for simple harmonic motion show the effectiveness of the new method in three-dimensional inflow with big skew angle below the rotor disk.
Criminal Investigations in Child Protective Services Cases
Authors: Cross Theodore P. , Chuang Emmeline , Helton Jesse J. , Lux Emily A.
Published: December 2014

This study analyzed the frequency and correlates of criminal investigation of child maltreatment in cases investigated by child protective service (CPS), using national probability data from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being. Criminal investigations were conducted in slightly more than 25% of cases. Communities varied substantially in percentage criminally investigated. Sexual abuse was the most frequent type of maltreatment criminally investigated followed by physical abuse. Logistic regression results indicated that criminal investigations were more likely when caseworkers perceived greater harm and more evidence; when CPS conducted an investigation rather than an assessment; when a parent or a legal guardian reported the maltreatment; and when cases were located in communities in which CPS and police had a memorandum of understanding (MOU) governing coordination. Most variation between communities in criminal investigation remained unexplained. The findings suggest the potential of MOUs for communities wanting to increase criminal investigation.
Variational Feedback Control for a nonlinear beam under an earthquake excitation
Authors: Pepe G , Carcaterra A , Giorgio I , Del Vescovo D
Published: December 2014

The present paper reports on the application of the VFC (Variational Feedback Control) to the mitigation of the vibrational motion of continuous structures. The control method has been very recently proposed in the context of mechanical engineering to obtain suspensions characterized by better comfort performances. In this paper the same methodology is indeed applied to a simply nonlinear supported beam that is forced by a seismic excitation. The earthquake shaking, modelled as a random displacement of the beam hinges, is moderated by the presence of a controllable damper interposed between the beam and the oscillating ground, and its damping is subjected to the VFC controller. The inputs processed by the controller are the accelerations measured by two sensors, one on the ground, and the second on the beam. Numerical results are examined and some preliminary considerations are presented in which the considered method is applied to piezoelectromechanical beams.
The Dynamics of Honor Killings and the Perpetrators’ Experiences
Authors: Doğan Recep
Published: December 2014

As a final part of a trilogy based on the same data set, this article adds to the growing body of knowledge on homicides against women by examining and identifying patterns, dynamics, and perpetrators’ experiences in honor killings. In-depth interviews conducted with a sample of the perpetrators provide further insight into the factors behind the perpetrators’ behavior, and the chain of events that may have been part of the context of the murder. Unlike two previous articles by this author, by exploring in as much detail as possible what was felt, lived, and experienced by the perpetrators in such cases, the author here attempts to identify concepts, patterns, and social dynamics that emerge from the accounts of the prisoners serving their sentences in Turkish prisons. The perpetrators’ perspectives are used to address whether special explanations are needed to explain the whole dynamics of honor killings.
Credit Supply and Housing Prices in National and Local Markets
Authors: Wachter Susan M.
Published: December 2014

The phenomenon of “irrational exuberance” around housing prices is now well established as a driving force of housing bubbles. However, the roles of credit supply and the mispricing of credit are less well understood. This article, discusses the recent literature on the relationship between credit supply and housing prices in national and local markets, with a view to identifying gaps in understanding this relationship as well as the implications of these gaps for the ability of market participants and regulators to detect systemic risk. This article connects the literature to the articles in this special issue, which emphasizes the importance of understanding local market conditions, including ways in which housing finance affects and is in turn affected by local markets.
Appearance-based trust behaviour is reduced in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Ewing Louise , Caulfield Frances , Read Ainsley , Rhodes Gillian
Published: December 2014

Typical individuals make rapid and reliable evaluations of trustworthiness from facial appearances, which can powerfully influence behaviour. However, the same may not be true for children with autism spectrum disorder. Using an economic trust game, the current study revealed that like typical children, children with autism spectrum disorder rationally modulate their trust behaviour based on non-face cues to partner trustworthiness (e.g. reputation information). Critically, however, they are no more likely to place their trust in partners with faces that look trustworthy to them, than those that look untrustworthy. These results cannot be accounted for by any group differences in children’s conceptualization of trustworthiness, ability to read trustworthiness from faces or understanding of the experimental paradigm. Instead, they seem to suggest that there may be a selective failure to spontaneously use facial cues to trustworthiness to guide behaviour in an ecologically valid context.
Shared identity predicts enhanced health at a mass gathering
Authors: Khan Sammyh S. , Hopkins Nick , Reicher Stephen , Tewari Shruti , Srinivasan Narayanan , Stevenson Clifford
Published: December 2014

Identifying with a group can impact (positively) upon group members’ health. This can be explained (in part) through the social relations that a shared identity allows. We investigated the relationship between a shared identity and health in a longitudinal study of a month-long pilgrimage in north India. Questionnaire data ( N = 416) showed that self-reported health (measured before, during, and after the event) was better at the event than before, and although it reduced on returning home, it remained higher than before the event. This trajectory was predicted by data concerning pilgrims’ perceptions of a shared identity with other pilgrims at the event. We also found evidence that a shared identity amongst pilgrims had an indirect effect on changes in self-assessed health via the belief one had closer relations with one’s fellow pilgrims. We discuss the implications of these data for our understandings of the role of shared identity in social relations and health.
On the notion of pre-request
Authors: Fox Barbara
Published: December 2014

In early work within Conversation Analysis, utterances within a request sequence which inquire regarding some of the preconditions of granting the request (such as having the item or having the ability to perform the action) are analyzed as pre-requests. Levinson, in an extended discussion of the organization of pre-requests and request sequences, treats utterances such as ‘do you have X?’, ‘can I have X?’ or ‘can you X for me?’ as inquiring about preconditions that could prevent the recipient from granting the request. By checking on preconditions, the requester works to avoid producing a request which will be declined, which is a dispreferred action. In other words, pre-requests, like other pre-sequences, function to project that another action will be produced if a favorable response is given; if not, that projected action may not be produced. In this view, then, they work to maintain the preference organization. This study uses requesting in service encounters to re-examine the evidence for an analysis of such utterances as pre-requests and finds that alternative analyses are more suited in these requesting activities.
Effect of hydrogen peroxide addition to methane fueled homogeneous charge compression ignition engines through numerical simulations
Authors: Hammond Zachary M , Mack John H , Dibble Robert W
Published: December 2014

The effect of the direct injection of hydrogen peroxide into a port-injected methane fueled homogeneous charge compression ignition engine was investigated numerically. The injection of aqueous hydrogen peroxide was implemented as a means of combustion phasing control. A single-cylinder homogeneous charge compression ignition engine (2.43 L Caterpillar) was modeled using the Cantera 2.0 flame code toolkit, the GRI-Mech 3.0 chemical reaction mechanism, and a single-zone slider-crank engine model. Start of injection timing and the amount of injected hydrogen peroxide were manipulated to achieve desired combustion phasing under a wide range of intake temperatures. As the concentration of hydrogen peroxide is increased, the combustion phasing is advanced up to 22° for the conditions investigated in this study. This advancing effect is most pronounced at small concentrations (<10 g H2O2/kg CH4) and early injection timings (start of injection < 25° before top dead center). The model suggests hydrogen peroxide can be introduced as a means of combustion phasing control while maintaining the low emissions and peak in-cylinder pressures inherent in homogeneous charge compression ignition engines.
Integrated practice in the early years in Australia: The assumptions, omissions and contradictions of policy reform
Authors: Macfarlane Kym , Nolan Andrea , Cartmel Jennifer
Published: December 2014

The aim of this article is to examine current national early years’ policy reform, which emphasises the importance of service integration, national quality standards and a quality knowledge base for educators concerning the provision of early childhood education and care. Using Queensland, Australia, as an example, a policy discourse analysis identifies two problematics of implementing current national policy – the early childhood education and care problematic and the integration problematic. The article argues that speedy implementation of a national policy in order to meet national targets has unintended consequences for the knowledge base of educators and the possibility of collaboration within service provision. Although government commitment in this area is evident, these consequences and the current difficulties surrounding integration are the result of the lack of a specific integration strategy, and government investment focussed on the development of an integrated workforce.
Investigating affordance of opportunity for young children’s language interactions in a nursery setting: How can small group talk act as a forum for language learning?
Authors: King Sarah Elizabeth , Dockrell Julie E
Published: December 2014

The importance of research on the unique nature of the communication supporting environment in nurseries has been heightened by growing evidence of the significance of early language skills for later academic and social development. This study focussed on children’s language use during small group times. Opportunities to hear and practise language were examined to uncover variation in conversational experiences for children with differing language needs. In this mixed-methods study, different measures were used to examine the relationship between participation and language level. Participants were an Early Years practitioner and 19 3- to 4-year-olds in two cohorts. Children’s language levels were measured using the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals Pre-School (2) UK. Quantitative analysis of interaction rates was made from video recordings of small group conversations. This was followed by detailed qualitative examination of talk during episodes of more sustained conversation. Differences were revealed in affordance of opportunity for children according to language level. Children’s interaction rates were positively correlated with scores on the Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals Pre-School (2) UK at the start. Analysis showed conversational features of both formal and informal talk. Combining features from each was found to be associated with episodes of sustained conversation. Patterns of turn-taking were associated differently with participation for children with higher and lower language levels. Findings support the role for small group times as a forum for language development, facilitating opportunities for children differently according to their language needs. This has important implications for practice in supporting children to make the transition from informal to formal talk in the educational setting.
Family involvement in early intervention service planning: Links to parental satisfaction and self-efficacy
Authors: Popp Tierney K , You Hyun-Kyung
Published: December 2014

The mediating role of parental satisfaction in the relation between family involvement in early intervention service planning and parental self-efficacy was explored. Participants included families of children with disability or delay involved in early intervention ( n = 2586). Data were examined upon entry into early intervention (T1) and at conclusion of early intervention (T2). Structural equation modeling was used to predict parental satisfaction (overall satisfaction and satisfaction with providers) at T2 and parental self-efficacy at T2 from family involvement in service planning at T1. Results suggest that family involvement in service planning was significantly and positively associated with both measures of satisfaction. Satisfaction with service providers mediated the relation between family involvement and parental self-efficacy such that more family involvement led to increased satisfaction, which in turn was related to higher reports of self-efficacy. Findings are discussed in terms of the importance of families’ initial involvement in service planning and satisfaction with parent–provider relationships.
Learning about children’s school preparation through photographs: The use of photo elicitation interviews with low-income families
Authors: Miller Kyle
Published: December 2014

As part of a larger project on the transition to kindergarten, eight families volunteered for a photography-based study. The purpose of this study was to gain further insight into how low-income families prepare children for kindergarten. Following a photo elicitation approach, eight families used a digital camera for 1 week to document activities they did with their children to prepare them for school. Families then participated in a follow-up interview to discuss the meaning behind the images. Interview data were thematically analyzed, and findings suggested that school readiness for families involved both traditional school-like activities and nontraditional everyday activities. A variety of nontraditional images often not associated with preparing children for school were captured by participants, suggesting that many home-based activities may go unrecognized by the early childhood community. Implications for early childhood professionals are discussed, specifically related to building on family strengths.
The effects of oscillating positive expiratory pressure therapy in adults with stable non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis
Authors: Lee Annemarie L , Williamson Hannah C , Lorensini Sarah , Spencer Lissa M
Published: December 2014

Airway clearance techniques (ACTs) are recommended for patients with stable non-cystic fibrosis (non-CF) bronchiectasis, but the efficacy of oscillating positive expiratory pressure (PEP) therapy compared to other techniques has not been reviewed. A systematic review of studies was conducted in stable patients comparing the effect of oscillating PEP therapy to other ACTs or a control condition. Data were extracted related to sputum expectoration, lung function, gas exchange, quality of life (QOL), symptoms, and exacerbation rate. Seven studies were included with a total of 146 patients, with a mean (SD) PEDro score of 7(1). Oscillating PEP therapy enhanced sputum expectoration compared to no treatment, but has equivalent benefits as the active cycle of breathing technique with gravity-assisted drainage (mean difference [95% CI] −2.8 g [−8.8 to 3.2 g]). Oscillating PEP has a similar effect as other ACTs on dynamic lung volumes, gas exchange and breathlessness. Use of oscillating PEP improved disease-specific QOL ( p < 0.001) and cough-related QOL ( p < 0.002) compared to no treatment but did not reduce exacerbation rate. In conclusion, in stable non-CF bronchiectasis, oscillating PEP therapy is associated with improvement in sputum expectoration and QOL compared to no treatment. Compared to other ACTs, the effect upon sputum expectoration, lung function, gas exchange, and symptoms are equivalent.
Virtues of Violence
Authors: Walsh Aylwyn , Tsilimpounidi Myrto
Published: December 2014

This is a performance of statements/records/made up lies.

We collected testimonies that spoke of some of the violences that we are facing—from Greece and Turkey—but these glimpses of frustration, bruising, broken dreams are evident everywhere, with different masks and excuses: “neoliberalism”/“extremism”/“unionism.” All have the common suggestion: that this is how we play the game.

The mediated moral panic about urban insurrections demonstrates how insidious representations of violence are at once everyday and ideologically driven. This text of a performance lecture offers an intimate, embodied consideration of the problem of violence and its representations. The texts from each city (Athens and Istanbul) became scripts for presenting and representing the ways public and private, nation and terror, Self and Other are negotiated. We investigated the nature of violence in protests in both cities with the aim of presenting the findings through performance.
Characteristics of “Masculinized” Industries
Authors: Collins Joshua C.
Published: December 2014

Masculinized industries encompass many work contexts described as masculine, male-dominated, and/or gendered. However, the use of any of those three latter designations hinges on the gender binary (men and women) and the inequitable distribution of power in favor of men. Describing an industry or group of industries as “masculinized” is more political, inferring the stance that male privilege applies only to certain men working in these industries. The purpose of this structured literature review was to systematically examine the literature on masculine, male-dominated, gendered, and masculinized work contexts. Findings indicated that masculinized industries create metaphorical barricades that serve to sustain long-standing traditions, customs, policies, and practices potentially detrimental to many, including gay men. Overall, this article moves the conversation about inequality in these industries beyond that of the gender binary.
Nitric oxide suppresses LPS-induced inflammation in a mouse asthma model by attenuating the interaction of IKK and Hsp90
Authors: Lee Ming-Yung , Sun Kuang-Hui , Chiang Chien-Ping , Huang Ching-Feng , Sun Guang-Huan , Tsou Yu-Chi , Liu Huan-Yun , Tang Shye-Jye
Published: December 2014

A feature of allergic airway disease is the observed increase of nitric oxide (NO) in exhaled breath. Gram-negative bacterial infections have also been linked with asthma exacerbations. However, the role of NO in asthma exacerbations with gram-negative bacterial infections is still unclear. In this study, we examined the role of NO in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation in an ovalbumin (OVA)-challenged mouse asthma model. To determine whether NO affected the LPS-induced response, a NO donor ( S-nitroso- N-acetylpenicillamine, SNAP) or a selective inhibitor of NO synthase (1400W) was injected intraperitoneally into the mice before the LPS stimulation. Decreased levels of proinflammatory cytokines were demonstrated in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from mice treated with SNAP, whereas increased levels of cytokines were found in the 1400W-treated mice. To further explore the molecular mechanism of NO-mediated inhibition of proinflammatory responses in macrophages, RAW 264.7 cells were treated with 1400W or SNAP before LPS stimulation. LPS-induced inflammation in the cells was attenuated by the presence of NO. The LPS-induced IκB kinase (IKK) activation and the expression of IKK were reduced by NO through attenuation of the interaction between Hsp90 and IKK in the cells. The IKK decrease in the lung immunohistopathology was verified in SNAP-treated asthma mice, whereas IKK increased in the 1400W-treated group. We report for the first time that NO attenuates the interaction between Hsp90 and IKK, decreasing the stability of IKK and causing the down-regulation of the proinflammatory response. Furthermore, the results suggest that NO may repress LPS-stimulated innate immunity to promote pulmonary bacterial infection in asthma patients.
Integrative Frequency Power of EEG Correlates with Progression of Mild Cognitive Impairment to Dementia in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Gu Youquan , Chen Jun , Lu Yaqin , Pan Suyue
Published: December 2014

Clinically, predicting the progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and diagnosing dementia in Parkinson’s disease (PD) are difficult. This study aims to explore an integrative electroencephalography (EEG) frequency power that could be used to predict the progression of MCI in PD patients. Twenty-six PD patients, in this study, were divided into the mild cognitive impairment group (PDMCI, 17 patients) and dementia group (PDD, 9 patients) according to cognitive performance. Beta peak frequency, alpha relative power, and alpha/theta power were recorded and analyzed for the prediction. Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores at initiation, in the first year, and in the second year were examined. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, Matthew correlation coefficient, and positive likelihood ratio were calculated in both the integrative EEG biomarkers and single best biomarker. Of the 17 patients with MCI for 2 years, 6 progressed to dementia. Integrative EEG biomarkers, mainly associated with beta peak frequency, can predict conversion from MCI to dementia. These biomarkers had sensitivity of 82% and specificity of 78%, compared with sensitivity of 61% and specificity of 58% of the beta peak frequency. In conclusion, the integrative EEG frequency powers were more sensitive and specific to MCI progression in PD patients.
Segmental clavicle fracture and acromio-clavicular joint disruption: an unusual case report
Authors: Marjoram Tom P , Chakrabarti Anil
Published: December 2014

Clavicle fractures are common, accounting for 2.6% of all adult fractures. We describe a most unusual segmental fracture pattern of the clavicle with concurrent disruption of acromioclavicular (AC) joint. We were unable to find any publications or reports describing this fracture pattern. During surgery for a medial one-third shaft of clavicle fracture and AC joint dislocation, the medial clavicle was exposed, leading to the discovery (on table) of a previously unidentified additional undisplaced fracture of the medial clavicle cleaving the bone into three distinct fragments. An anatomical plate was successfully applied, fixing both fractures. The AC joint was then reduced with a hook plate. At 8 months, after removal of the hook plate, the patient has an excellent outcome with an Oxford Shoulder Score of 45/48 and a full range of movement without instability of the AC joint. We describe the operative management of this rare fracture pattern. This also highlights that segmental fractures of the clavicle are easily missed. It was successfully treated with a medial anatomic plate and lateral hook plate. We were unable to find any publications or reports describing the fracture pattern in this case.
Comparative Performance Assessment of Point-of-Care Testing Devices for Measuring Glucose and Ketones at the Patient Bedside
Authors: Ceriotti Ferruccio , Kaczmarek Ewa , Guerra Elena , Mastrantonio Fabrizio , Lucarelli Fausto , Valgimigli Francesco , Mosca Andrea
Published: December 2014

Background:

Point-of-care (POC) testing devices for monitoring glucose and ketones can play a key role in the management of dysglycemia in hospitalized diabetes patients. The accuracy of glucose devices can be influenced by biochemical changes that commonly occur in critically ill hospital patients and by the medication prescribed. Little is known about the influence of these factors on ketone POC measurements. The aim of this study was to assess the analytical performance of POC hospital whole-blood glucose and ketone meters and the extent of glucose interference factors on the design and accuracy of ketone results.

Methods:

StatStrip glucose/ketone, Optium FreeStyle glucose/ketone, and Accu-Chek Performa glucose were also assessed and results compared to a central laboratory reference method. The analytical evaluation was performed according to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) protocols for precision, linearity, method comparison, and interference.

Results:

The interferences assessed included acetoacetate, acetaminophen, ascorbic acid, galactose, maltose, uric acid, and sodium. The accuracies of both Optium ketone and glucose measurements were significantly influenced by varying levels of hematocrit and ascorbic acid. StatStrip ketone and glucose measurements were unaffected by the interferences tested with exception of ascorbic acid, which reduced the higher level ketone value. The accuracy of Accu-Chek glucose measurements was affected by hematocrit, by ascorbic acid, and significantly by galactose. The method correlation assessment indicated differences between the meters in compliance to ISO 15197 and CLSI 12-A3 performance criteria.

Conclusions:

Combined POC glucose/ketone methods are now available. The use of these devices in a hospital setting requires careful consideration with regard to the selection of instruments not sensitive to hematocrit variation and presence of interfering substances.
Empowerment Evaluation, Postprofessionalization, and Oligarchy
Authors: Fielding Stephen L.
Published: December 2014

Here, I venture into the sociology of the professions to discuss the impact of empowerment evaluation on the autonomy of its practitioners. I do so because I found the process of conducting an empowerment evaluation to be challenging during the first four years of a Substances and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) system-of-care (SOC) mental health services transformation for youth with serious emotional disturbance (SED). My goal is to offer readers some suggestions about how to avoid these challenges in the future.
Lead Poisoning Prevention for Preschool Settings
Authors: Saatciler Eda
Published: December 2014

Lead is a naturally occurring metal that has been linked to neurological impairments and insanity since ancient times. It has been used in many products such as paint, pipes, and ceramics and still remains a public hazard. Young children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years with lead-contaminated housing are at the greatest risk for cognitive, neurological, and behavioral health problems. Briefly, lead exposure is around us and it correlates with learning deficits and violent behaviors as these children become adults. It also can cause anemia, abdominal pain, seizure, and death.
Health Education
Authors: Conway Sharon M.
Published: December 2014

Formal health education occurs in the classroom, is guided by a well-designed lesson plan, and is aligned with the National Health Education Standards. Formal health education needs to be well thought out and planned in advance to achieve success. Health education is part of a coordinated school health program, and the school nurse plays an essential role in teaching students health knowledge and skills that will allow them to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Cold Thermal Temperature Threatens Belonging
Authors: Chen Zhansheng , Poon Kai-Tak , DeWall C. Nathan
Published: December 2014

Recent research suggests that thermal (cold vs. warm) experience influences people’s perception and construal of the social world. Extending this line of research, the present investigation examined whether cold thermal temperature would influence people’s psychological feelings of belonging. We found that drinking cold water threatened feelings of belonging (Study 1). An additional study replicated this effect and further showed that it was moderated by perceived family support, such that the effect of cold water on the belonging was only found among participants with low family support (Study 2). These findings not only strengthen the interconnection between social and physical experiences, but they also demonstrate the interactive effect of these two types of experiences on psychological feelings. Implications are discussed.
Changes in Marital Beliefs Among Emerging Adults
Authors: Willoughby Brian J. , Medaris Melissa , James Spencer , Bartholomew Kyle
Published: December 2014

Although research on marital beliefs among emerging adults has increased in recent years, most studies assume that marital beliefs are static features of emerging adulthood. Using a sample of 134 emerging adults in the United States tracked over a 1-year period, we explored if these emerging adults exhibited changes in their marital beliefs over time and what predicted such changes. We found that emerging adults in the sample showed significant growth over the 1-year period in the importance they placed on marriage while at the same time expecting to place less importance on their eventual marital role. Staying single and breaking up with a romantic partner were both related to decreases in marital salience, while cohabiting between data collections was associated with decreases in marital centrality. Finally, stronger marital salience at Time 1 was predictive of decreased binge drinking at Time 2, net of Time 1 assessments of such behavior. Such findings validate previous theoretical assumptions regarding marital beliefs.