bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An inquiry into the transformation of the PR roles’ concept
Authors: Fieseler Christian , Lutz Christoph , Meckel Miriam
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– Recent years have seen resurgent interest in professionalism in public relations, with several initiatives to enquire about the state of the communication profession and its part in organizational strategy. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the findings of a quantitative investigation into the work roles of European communication professionals. In particular, the research investigates different professional roles, as developed in previous roles research, while taking a particular look at managerial role enactment.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors report the findings of an explorative study among 551 European communication professionals. The measures are used in this study are closely aligned with previous roles research, but modernized. The authors analyzed the data with factor analysis and structural equation modeling.

Findings

– The authors unfold four distinct contemporary managerial tasks (“diagnosis,” “coaching,” “liaison,” and “execution”), extending previous research rooted in distinguishing these managerial tasks from more technical ones. As a result the authors show that managerial role enactment is predominately determined by education and work experience, with a diminishing gender gap when it comes to performing managerial tasks alone, and that these roles just partly relate to salary but highly relate to job satisfaction, particularly when it comes to taking part in management decision making (tasks that require responsibility, accountability, job diversity, and also an analytical, strategic mindset).

Originality/value

– The results of the study point to the further transformation of the PR Roles’ concept, turning a more execution oriented job profile into a more managerial and strategically oriented profession.
YouTube stickiness: the needs, personal, and environmental perspective
Authors: Chiang Hsiu-Sen , Hsiao Kuo-Lun
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– Many video sharing sites (e.g. YouTube, Vimeo, and Break) host user-generated video content in the hopes of attracting viewers and thus profits. Therefore, continuous use and video sharing behavior on the part of site users is critical to the continue enjoyment of other users and to the video service providers business. The purpose of this paper is to provide an improved understanding of what motivates internet users to share videos and spend more time on video sharing web sites.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors propose a research model based on Uses and Gratification Theory and on Social Cognitive Theory, incorporating key determinants of web site stickiness. An online survey instrument was developed to gather data, and 265 questionnaires were used to test the relationships in the model.

Findings

– The causal model was validated using SmartPLS 2.0, and 14 out of 18 study hypotheses were supported. The results indicated that continuance motivation and sharing behavior were important antecedents of YouTube stickiness and mediated the influence of need, personal, and environmental factors.

Practical implications

– The proposed framework can be used by online video service providers to develop a platform that satisfies user needs and to enhance sharing intention.

Originality/value

– The study provides a comprehensive framework of the antecedents and effects of continuance motivation and sharing behavior on video sharing web sites.
Simply Sport Bikes case study
Authors: Ebben Jay , Johnson Alec
Published: January 2015

Synopsis

This case is intended to introduce undergraduate entrepreneurship students to business models via an entrepreneur who has two businesses: a used-car dealership, which he owns with his father, and a used-sport-bike dealership, which he solely owns. Although these businesses seem similar, there are subtle differences in business model that make the sport-bike business much more attractive. Case analysis involves a step-by-step comparison of the two firms' revenue models, cost structures, and investment needs and leaves students with two decision: first, how to best grow the sport-bike business, and second, whether to continue operating the used-car business once his father retires.

Research methodology

Primary interviews, company document review, secondary market research.

Relevant courses and levels

Undergraduate introduction to entrepreneurship.
Configurational landscape heterogeneity shapes functional community composition of grassland butterflies
Authors: Perović David , Gámez‐Virués Sagrario , Börschig Carmen , Klein Alexandra‐Maria , Krauss Jochen , Steckel Juliane , Rothenwöhrer Christoph , Erasmi Stefan , Tscharntke Teja , Westphal Catrin
Published: January 2015

Landscape heterogeneity represents two aspects of landscape simplification: (i) compositional heterogeneity (diversity of habitat types); and (ii) configurational heterogeneity (number, size and arrangement of habitat patches), both with different ecological implications for community composition.

We examined how independent gradients of compositional and configurational landscape heterogeneity, at eight spatial scales, shape taxonomic and functional composition of butterfly communities in 91 managed grasslands across Germany. We used landscape metrics that were calculated from functional maps based on habitat preferences of individual species during different life stages. The relative effects of compositional and configurational landscape heterogeneity were compared with those of local land‐use intensity on butterfly taxonomic diversity, community composition and functional diversity of traits related to body size, feeding breadth and migratory tendency.

As expected, compositional heterogeneity had strong positive effects on taxonomic diversity, while configurational heterogeneity had strong positive effects on trait dominance within the community. When landscapes had smaller mean patch size and greater boundary area, communities were dominated by species with more specialized larval feeding, decreased forewing length and limited migratory tendency.

The positive effects of increased configurational landscape heterogeneity outweighed the negative effects of local land‐use intensity on larval‐feeding specialization, at all spatial scales, highlighting its importance for specialists of all dispersal capabilities.

Synthesis and applications. We show that landscapes with high compositional heterogeneity support communities with greater taxonomic diversity, while landscapes with high configurational heterogeneity support communities that include vulnerable species (feeding specialists with larger body size, sedentary nature and more negatively affected by local management intensity). A decline in functional community composition can lead to functional homogenization, affecting the viability of the ecosystems by decreasing the variability in their responses to disturbance and altering their functioning. A landscape management for grasslands that promotes the maintenance of small patch sizes and a diversity of land uses in the surrounding landscape (within 250–1000 m) is recommended for the conservation of diverse butterfly communities. These strategies could also benefit government programmes such as the EU 2020 Biodiversity Strategy in their efforts to reduce the loss of biodiversity in agricultural landscapes.
Understanding health through social practices: performance and materiality in everyday life
Authors: Maller Cecily Jane
Published: January 2015

The importance of recognising structure and agency in health research to move beyond methodological individualism is well documented. To progress incorporating social theory into health, researchers have used Giddens’ and Bourdieu's conceptualisations of social practice to understand relationships between agency, structure and health. However, social practice theories have more to offer than has currently been capitalised upon. This article delves into contemporary theories of social practice as used in consumption and sustainability research to provide an alternative, and more contextualised means, of understanding and explaining human action in relation to health and wellbeing. Two key observations are made. Firstly, the latest formulations of social practice theory distinguish moments of practice performance from practices as persistent entities across time and space, allowing empirical application to explain practice histories and future trajectories. Secondly, they emphasise the materiality of everyday life, foregrounding things, technologies and other non‐humans that cannot be ignored in a technologically dependent social world. In concluding, I argue the value of using contemporary social practice theories in health research is that they reframe the way in which health outcomes can be understood and could inform more effective interventions that move beyond attitudes, behaviour and choices.
Stopped hearts, amputated toes and NASA: contemporary legends among healthy volunteers in US phase I clinical trials
Authors: Fisher Jill A.
Published: January 2015

The first stage of testing new pharmaceuticals in humans is referred to as a phase I clinical trial. The purpose of these studies is to test the safety of the drugs and to establish appropriate doses that can later be given to patients. Most of these studies are conducted under controlled, in‐patient conditions using healthy volunteers who are paid for their participation. To explore healthy volunteers’ experiences in clinical trials, an ethnographic study was conducted at six in‐patient phase I clinics in the USA. In addition to the observation of clinic activities (from informed consent procedures to dosing to blood draws), 268 semi‐structured interviews were conducted, 33 with clinic staff and 235 with healthy volunteers. Drawing on this dataset, this article explores healthy volunteers’ exchange of contemporary legends about phase I clinical trials. In addition to potentially scaring the listener and communicating distrust in the medical community, these incredible stories help participants cope with perceived stigma and establish a gradient of risk of trial participation, creating potential boundaries to their participation in medical research. The article argues that contemporary legends play a productive role in society, shaping how people view themselves and others and influencing their decisions about risky activities.
Prolonged second stage of labour, maternal infectious disease, urinary retention and other complications in the early postpartum period
Authors: Stephansson O , Sandström A , Petersson G , Wikström A‐K , Cnattingius S
Published: January 2015

Objective

To study the association between duration of second stage of labour and risks of maternal complications (infection, urinary retention, haematoma or ruptured sutures) in the early postpartum period.

Design

Population‐based cohort study.

Setting and sample

We included 72 593 mothers with singleton vaginal deliveries at ≥37 weeks of gestation in cephalic presentation, using the obstetric database from the Stockholm‐Gotland region in Sweden, 2008–12.

Methods

Logistic regression analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were calculated and adjustments were made for maternal age, body mass index, height, smoking, cohabitation, gestational age, labour induction, epidural analgesia and oxytocin augmentation.

Results

Rates of any complication varied by parity from 7.3% in parous women with previous caesarean section, 4.8% in primiparas and 1.7% in parous women with no previous caesarean section. Compared with a second stage <1 hour, the adjusted ORs for any complication (95% CI) in primiparas were for 1 to <2 hours 1.28 (1.11–1.47); 2 to <3 hours 1.54 (1.32–1.79), 3 to <4 hours 1.63 (1.38–1.93) and ≥4 hours 2.08 (1.74–2.49). The corresponding adjusted ORs for parous women without previous caesarean were 2.27 (1.78–2.90), 2.97 (2.09–4.22), 3.65 (2.25–5.94) and 3.16 (1.44–6.94), respectively. The adjusted ORs for women with previous caesarean were for 1 to <2 hours 1.62 (1.13–2.32); 2 to <3 hours 1.56 (1.00–2.43), 3 to <4 hours 2.42 (1.52–3.87), and ≥4 hours 2.31 (1.25–4.24).

Conclusions

Risks of maternal complications in the postpartum period increase with duration of second stage of labour also after accounting for maternal, pregnancy and delivery characteristics. Special attention has to be given to parous women with previous caesarean deliveries.
Rheological, Physical, and Sensory Attributes of Gluten‐Free Rice Cakes Containing Resistant Starch
Authors: Tsatsaragkou Kleopatra , Papantoniou Maria , Mandala Ioanna
Published: January 2015

In this study the effect of resistant starch (RS) addition on gluten‐free cakes from rice flour and tapioca starch physical and sensorial properties was investigated. Increase in RS concentration made cake batters less elastic (drop of G'(ω), G''(ω) values) and thinner (viscosity decreased). Cakes specific volume increased with an increase in RS level and was maximized for 15 g/100 g RS, although porosity values were significantly unaffected by RS content. Crumb grain analysis exhibited a decrease in surface porosity, number of pores and an increase in average pore diameter as RS concentration increased. During storage, cake crumb remained softer in formulations with increasing amounts of RS. Sensory evaluation of cakes demonstrated the acceptance of all formulations, with cake containing 20 g/100 g RS mostly preferred. Gluten‐free cakes with improved quality characteristics and high nutritional value can be manufactured by the incorporation of RS.
Association between serum lipids and membrane fatty acids and clinical characteristics in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Solberg D. K. , Bentsen H. , Refsum H. , Andreassen O. A.
Published: January 2015

Objective

Earlier reports indicate that patients with schizophrenia have altered lipid levels in serum and cell membranes. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between clinical characteristics and serum and membrane lipids.

Method

Fifty‐five patients with schizophrenia and 51 healthy controls were included. The patients were characterized with Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF). Serum lipids [high‐ and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL, LDL) and triglyceride (TG)] and erythrocyte polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were measured.

Results

Among the participants with schizophrenia, there was a significant correlation between serum triglyceride levels and PANSS‐positive symptoms (r = 0.28, P = 0.04), GAF‐S (r = −0.48, P = 0.001) and GAF‐F (r = −0.32, P = 0.01), and between HDL level and GAF‐S (r = 0.37, P = 0.008) and GAF‐F (r = 0.28, P = 0.04). Long‐chain PUFA were significantly associated with PANSS‐negative symptoms (r = 0.52, P < 0.001), GAF‐S (r = −0.32, P = 0.02), and GAF‐F (r = −0.29, P = 0.04). The patients with schizophrenia had significantly higher TG (P < 0.001) and lower HDL (P < 0.001) levels than healthy controls. HDL was also lower in the subgroup (n = 11) not receiving antipsychotic medication (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

The results suggest associations between lipid profile and clinical characteristics. This may indicate a role for lipid biology in schizophrenia pathophysiology.
Effectiveness of Shrinkage and Variable Selection Methods for the Prediction of Complex Human Traits using Data from Distantly Related Individuals
Authors: Berger Swetlana , Pérez‐Rodríguez Paulino , Veturi Yogasudha , Simianer Henner , de los Campos Gustavo
Published: January 2015

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have detected large numbers of variants associated with complex human traits and diseases. However, the proportion of variance explained by GWAS‐significant single nucleotide polymorphisms has been usually small. This brought interest in the use of whole‐genome regression (WGR) methods. However, there has been limited research on the factors that affect prediction accuracy (PA) of WGRs when applied to human data of distantly related individuals. Here, we examine, using real human genotypes and simulated phenotypes, how trait complexity, marker‐quantitative trait loci (QTL) linkage disequilibrium (LD), and the model used affect the performance of WGRs. Our results indicated that the estimated rate of missing heritability is dependent on the extent of marker‐QTL LD. However, this parameter was not greatly affected by trait complexity. Regarding PA our results indicated that: (a) under perfect marker‐QTL LD WGR can achieve moderately high prediction accuracy, and with simple genetic architectures variable selection methods outperform shrinkage procedures and (b) under imperfect marker‐QTL LD, variable selection methods can achieved reasonably good PA with simple or moderately complex genetic architectures; however, the PA of these methods deteriorated as trait complexity increases and with highly complex traits variable selection and shrinkage methods both performed poorly. This was confirmed with an analysis of human height.
Low signal quality pulse oximetry measurements in newborn infants are reliable for oxygen saturation but underestimate heart rate
Authors: Narayen Ilona C. , Smit Marrit , van Zwet Erik W. , Dawson Jennifer A. , Blom Nico A. , te Pas Arjan B.
Published: January 2015

Aim

We assessed the influence of system messages (SyMs) on oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate measurements after birth to see whether clinical decision‐making changed if clinicians included SyM data.

Methods

The heart rate and SpO2 of term infants were recorded using Masimo pulse oximeters. Differences in means and standard deviations (SD) were calculated. Permutation corrected the nonrandom distribution and intersubject variation. SpO2 and heart rate centile charts were computed with, and without, SyMs.

Results

Pulse oximetry measurements from 117 neonates provided 28 477 data points. SyMs occurred in 46% of measurements. Low signal quality accounted for 99.9% of SyMs. The mean SpO2 was lower with SyMs (p < 0.001), while the SpO2 SD was similar to data without SyMs. The SpO2 centile charts were approximately 2% lower with SyMs included, but they were not more dispersed. Mean heart rate was lower (p < 0.001) and more dispersed (p < 0.001) when a SyM occurred. The heart rate centile charts were lower, with increased variability, when SyMs were included.

Conclusion

A SyM occurred frequently during pulse oximetry in term infants after birth. SpO2 measurements with low signal quality proved reliable for monitoring an infant's clinical condition. However, heart rate could be underestimated by low signal quality measurements.
Green grabs, land grabs and the spatiality of displacement: eviction from Mozambique's Limpopo National Park
Authors: Lunstrum Elizabeth
Published: January 2015

The Mozambican state is currently working to relocate 7000 people from the interior of the Limpopo National Park (LNP), itself part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park (GLTP). As the process began in 2003, this stands out as one of the region's most protracted contemporary conservation‐related evictions. I draw from this case to shed light on the increasingly complex spatial dynamics of land and green grabs and, more specifically, demonstrate the importance of zooming out from discrete land acquisitions to examine how their resulting displacements are increasingly shaped by spatial processes at and beyond their borders. In doing so, we begin to see that displacement from the LNP is not a simple case of eviction from a discrete protected area. Rather, it has been provoked by the opening of the international border, hence drawing transfrontier conservation areas (TFCAs) like the GLTP into the purview of land and green grabs. At the same time, competition over space with an adjacent grab – a sugarcane/ethanol plantation – has severely interfered with relocation, drastically prolonging it. The case, more broadly, sheds light on how conservation, agricultural extraction and climate change mitigation – all forms of land acquisitions that incite dislocation – come together to produce novel patterns of environmental displacement, placing profound pressures on rural communities and their abilities to occupy space and access resources, including labour opportunities.
Previous Breastfeeding Experience and Duration of Any and Exclusive Breastfeeding among Multiparous Mothers
Authors: Bai Dorothy Li , Fong Daniel Yee Tak , Tarrant Marie
Published: January 2015

Background

High breastfeeding attrition rates have been attributed to a number of factors, but the effect of previous breastfeeding experience on subsequent breastfeeding duration has not been adequately investigated.

Methods

In this study, 559 multiparous mothers were recruited and followed prospectively for 12 months or until the infant was weaned.

Results

When compared with having previously breastfed for > 3 months, no previous breastfeeding experience (HR 3.24 [95% CI 2.37–4.42]) or a breastfeeding duration of ≤ 3 months (HR 2.56; 95% CI 2.05?3.20) substantially increased the risk of early weaning. Similarly, participants who had not exclusively breastfed (HR 1.82 [95% CI 1.46?2.26]) or who had exclusively breastfed for ≤ 2 months (HR 1.65 [95% CI 1.29?2.10]) were more likely to stop exclusive breastfeeding when compared with those who had exclusively breastfed for > 2 months. More than 40 percent of the participants who had previously breastfed for > 3 months had shorter current breastfeeding durations. The median decreases in any and exclusive breastfeeding for this group were 16.4 weeks and 13.1 weeks, respectively.

Conclusions

Multiparous women with no previous breastfeeding experience and those with a short duration of previous breastfeeding should be provided with greater support to promote a longer duration of breastfeeding. Multiparous women with a longer duration of breastfeeding should be strongly encouraged to meet or exceed this duration with their current infant.
There aren't plenty more fish in the sea: A causal network approach
Authors: Nikolic Milena , Lagnado David A.
Published: January 2015

The current research investigated how lay representations of the causes of an environmental problem may underlie individuals' reasoning about the issue. Naïve participants completed an experiment that involved two main tasks. The causal diagram task required participants to depict the causal relations between a set of factors related to overfishing and to estimate the strength of these relations. The counterfactual task required participants to judge the effect of counterfactual suppositions based on the diagrammed factors. We explored two major questions: (1) what is the relation between individual causal models and counterfactual judgments? Consistent with previous findings (e.g., Green et al., 1998, Br. J. Soc. Psychology, 37, 415), these judgments were best explained by a combination of the strength of both direct and indirect causal paths. (2) To what extent do people use two‐way causal thinking when reasoning about an environmental problem? In contrast to previous research (e.g., White, 2008, Appl. Cogn. Psychology, 22, 559), analyses based on individual causal networks revealed the presence of numerous feedback loops. The studies support the value of analysing individual causal models in contrast to consensual representations. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed in relation to causal reasoning as well as environmental psychology.
Managerial and Disciplinary Responses to Abandoned Acquisitions in Bidding Firms: A New Perspective
Authors: McCann Michael , Ackrill Robert
Published: January 2015

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

Existing research suggests that internal and external corporate governance mechanisms substitute for one another to mitigate agency problems in bidding firms. This paper tests whether the interaction between these mechanisms is more complementary.

Research Findings/Insights

While there is evidence for disciplinary responses to bids for unrelated targets involving strategic retrenchment and significant asset divestment, the influence of the information conveyed by this characteristic on the likelihood of post‐abandonment discipline is not amplified when boards are less independent.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The results suggest that certain characteristics are used to distinguish between abandoned bidders which require discipline and those that do not. However, our findings do not suggest that interaction between internal and external governance mechanisms is contingent on board independence. Instead, these interactions between shareholders and boards seem to be contingent on a range of company, industry, and situation‐specific factors.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

While policy in the UK has focused on board independence as a means of effective corporate governance, our results suggest that this is not a panacea. Effective governance involves active owners, communicating their interests to boards, and boards responding accordingly. Further encouragement of such communication before, during, and after acquisitions will improve signals to managers that shareholders can target the necessary discipline of those whom they perceive to need it most.
Surgical complications after kidney transplantation: different impacts of immunosuppression, graft function, patient variables, and surgical performance
Authors: Koch Martina , Kantas Alexandros , Ramcke Katja , Drabik Anna I. , Nashan Björn
Published: January 2015

The population of kidney transplant (KTx) recipients often has complex medical and immunological conditions. Surgical complications (SCs) contribute to the increasing morbidity and costs in these patients. We analyzed the risk factors for SC in 405 KTx patients treated using defined immunosuppressive regimens according to their clinical and immunological risk profile: (1) standard immunosuppression (SIS) with IL‐2 receptor mAb, CNI, and (a) mycophenolic acid (MPA) or (b) mTOR inhibitor; and (2) more intense immunosuppression (IIS) with (a) ATG or (b) the additional use of plasma exchange and B‐ and T‐cell‐depleting agents. In a mixed effects logistic regression model, we identified the following risk factors for SC: male gender, diabetes, and post‐operative dialysis. No difference was found between the patients who received SIS with MPA and those who received mTOR inhibitors. The risk of suffering complications with IIS increases with age. In addition to IIS, diabetes was a risk for wound healing disorders. Therapeutic anticoagulation and a third or subsequent retransplantation increased the rate of bleeding. We did not identify immunosuppression or patient demographics as risk factors for lymphoceles or ureter complications; however, we demonstrated that the surgeon had a significant impact on severe complications, especially those of the ureter.
Development of postural adjustments during reaching in infants at risk for cerebral palsy from 4 to 18 months
Authors: Van Balen Lieke C , Dijkstra Linze‐Jaap , Bos Arend F , Van Den Heuvel Edwin R , Hadders‐Algra Mijna
Published: January 2015

Aim

To investigate postural adjustments during reaching in infants at high risk for cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

Observational cohort study in which 25 infants at high risk (11 males, 14 females) and 11 infants with typical development (six males, five females) were assessed at 4, 6, and 18 months corrected age. Reaching movements were elicited during supported and unsupported sitting, while surface electromyography was recorded of arm, neck, and trunk muscles. Percentages of direction‐specific adjustments (first level of control), and recruitment patterns and anticipatory activation (second level of control) were calculated. Statistical analyses were performed with a binomial generalized estimating equations model for dichotomous variables and a linear mixed model for continuous variables.

Results

Postural activity of infants at high risk for CP at 4 months was virtually similar to that of infants with typical development. At 18 months, infants at high risk differed from infants with typical development with less direction‐specificity (median values 20% vs 58% at trunk and neck level, OR 0.38, 95% CI 0.18–0.82); longer latencies to trunk muscle activation; and less anticipatory activation (41% vs 55%, in any direction‐specific muscle, OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.32–0.89). In unsupported sitting, results were largely similar to those in supported sitting.

Interpretation

Infants at high risk for CP grew into a postural deficit: at 18 months they showed delayed development of direction‐specificity, and postural dysfunction as evidenced by slower recruitment of postural muscles and less frequent anticipatory activation.
Characterisation of the surface damage of X38CrMoV5 (AISI H11) tool steel at room temperature and 600 °C
Authors: Shah M. , Mabru C. , Rezaï‐Aria F.
Published: January 2015

A novel approach is used to characterise the surface damage of AISI H11 hot work tool steel. The fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) experiments on thin specimens, considered representative of the surface of tool steels, are carried out. Single edge notched tension specimens of 8 mm width and different thicknesses are used in the study. Initially, the effect of thickness (scale) on the FCGR is investigated to establish if there exists a difference between bulk and near surface properties of the tool steel. Then, the effect of R value on the thin specimens is investigated. All the experiments are carried out at room temperature and 600 °C. These temperatures represent the limits of use of this steel. Paris curves are established. Effect of R ratio on the threshold value of propagation at elevated temperatures is investigated in detail. A special ascending ΔK experiment for establishing the threshold of propagation at elevated temperatures in small specimens is proposed, and the results are presented. The increase in R ratio increases the FCGR at low temperature, while it has no effect at 600 °C. A reduction in thickness shows a reduction in the FCGR. Increase in temperature increases the FCGR and dramatically increases the threshold of crack propagation. The sharp increase in threshold value is studied in detail. Scanning electron microscopy of the specimens is performed to explain some of the characteristics observed in the specimen testing.
Size independent fracture energy evaluation for plain cement concrete
Authors: Trivedi N. , Singh R. K. , Chattopadhyay J.
Published: January 2015

The present work deals with the investigation of a robust analytical scheme to assess the size‐independent fracture energy of concrete. The study involves the numerical modelling of three‐point bend (TPB) concrete beams that are geometrically similar, having constant length to depth ratio with varying range of notch to depth (a/W) ratios. The unique nonlinear behaviour of concrete 1material is incorporated through fracture energy‐based strain‐softening model in the finite‐element numerical simulation. The International Union of Laboratories and Experts in Construction Materials, Systems and Structures (RILEM) fracture energy values are evaluated through numerical simulation of several set of experimentally observed load‐load line displacement response. The RILEM fracture energy values associated with geometrically similar beams have been utilised to develop a methodology for assessment of the size‐independent fracture energy of concrete. The numerically predicted and experimentally evaluated size‐independent fracture energy using the RILEM fracture energy values are found to be in close agreement.
Effect of resistance training using bodyweight in the elderly: Comparison of resistance exercise movement between slow and normal speed movement
Authors: Watanabe Yuya , Tanimoto Michiya , Oba Naoko , Sanada Kiyoshi , Miyachi Motohiko , Ishii Naokata
Published: January 2015

Aim

The present study investigated whether a slow movement protocol can be applied to resistance training using bodyweight. In addition, the intervention program combined plyometric exercise with resistance exercise to improve physical function overall.

Methods

A total of 39 active elderly adults participated in a 16‐week intervention. The program consisted of five resistance exercises and four plyometric exercises using their own bodyweight with a single set for each exercise. Participants were assigned to one of two experimental groups. One group carried out resistance exercise with slow movement and tonic force generation (3‐s concentric, 3‐s eccentric and 1‐s isometric actions with no rest between each repetition). The other group as a movement comparison followed the same regimen, but at normal speed (1‐s eccentric and 1‐s concentric actions with 1‐s rest between each repetition). Muscle size, strength and physical function were measured before and after the intervention period.

Results

After the intervention, strengths of upper and lower limbs, and maximum leg extensor power were significantly improved in both groups. Muscle size did not change in either group. There were no significant differences in any of the parameters between groups.

Conclusions

The intervention program using only own bodyweight that comprised resistance exercise with slow movement and plyometric exercise can improve physical function in the elderly, even with single sets for each exercise. However, there was no enhanced muscle hypertrophic effect. Further attempts, such as increasing performing multiple sets, would be required to induce muscle hypertrophy. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 1270–1277.
Survival benefits of post‐acute care for older patients with hip fractures in Taiwan: A 5‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Peng Li‐Ning , Chen Wei‐Ming , Chen Cheng‐Fong , Huang Ching‐Kuei , Lee Wei‐Ju , Chen Liang‐Kung
Published: January 2015

Aim

To evaluate the survival benefits of different models of post‐acute care (PAC) services for older patients with hip fractures in Taiwan

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study that recruited elderly patients with hip fractures receiving surgical treatment from 2007 to 2009 for study. All patients were provided home‐based PAC, institution‐based PAC or conventional home care (CHC) based on their capacity of family care resources. Functional status and survival status was followed for 4 years.

Results

Overall, 453 hip fracture patients (mean age 81.9 ± 6.8 years, 58.8% men) were recruited for the present study. Among them, 29.4% (133/453) patients received home‐based PAC, 25.6% (116/453) patients received institution‐based PAC and 45.0% (204/453) received CHC. During follow up, 28.9% (131/453) died within the mean of 940.3 ± 453.40 days. Adjusted for age, sex, living status, visual acuity, mood status, previous fall history, and prefracture activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), ADL fully recovered patients were significantly more likely to survive in the 4‐year follow up (HR 2.791, P = 0.01, 95% CI 1.261–6.149). Patients receiving either home‐ or institution‐based PAC had better survival than the CHC group after adjustment for age, sex, living status, visual acuity, mood status, previous fall history, prefracture ADL and IADL (HR 0.486, P = 0.008, 95% CI 0.284–0.832 for home‐based PAC; HR 0.546, P = 0.036, 95% CI 0.311–0.960 for institution‐based PAC).

Conclusions

PAC services were of great survival benefit for elderly hip fracture patients, and the home‐based model was more likely to achieve complete functional recovery, which was important for long‐term survival. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 28–36.
Factors associated with deterioration of self‐rated chewing ability among adults aged 60 years and older over a 6‐year period
Authors: Gellacic Alzira Sueli , Teixeira Doralice SC , Antunes José Leopoldo F , Narvai Paulo Capel , Lebrão Maria Lúcia , Frazão Paulo
Published: January 2015

Aim

To assess factors associated with the deterioration of self‐rated chewing ability among adults aged 60 years and older over a 6‐year period.

Methods

We carried out a case–control study nested in a cohort involving 890 individuals living in the city of Sao Paulo from 2000 to 2006. The outcome was the reduction of self‐rated chewing ability. Covariates on demographic, socioeconomic, behavior, cognitive, and functional and physical status variables were investigated. Simple and multiple analyses were carried out using unconditional logistic regression with hierarchical selection of variables.

Results

We analyzed 236 cases and 654 controls. In the unadjusted assessment, the reduction of self‐rated chewing ability was associated with being aged older than 74 years, widowed, low schooling/income, not having a microwave oven or a car, physical inactivity, poor/regular self‐rated health, to feel disgusted, poor/regular self‐rated memory, one or more compromised daily life activities, dependence for daily life activities and to report less than half of teeth. Older adults aged older than 74 years and widowers had twice the odds of the outcome in the final model. Adjusted for demographic variables, individuals with lower income showed a similar increase of odds (OR 2.06 95% CI 1.31–3.23). To report poor/regular memory (OR 1.85 95% CI 1.28–2.67) and less than half remaining teeth (OR 1.76 95%CI 1.06–2.93) were significant factors in the adjusted model.

Conclusion

Advanced age, low income, widowhood, poor/regular memory and less than half remaining teeth were important risk indicators for the reduction of self‐rated chewing ability among individuals aged 60 years or older. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 46–54.
Attenuated phagocytosis of secondary necrotic neutrophils by macrophages in aged and SMP30 knockout mice
Authors: Takahashi Rei , Totsuka Sayuri , Ishigami Akihito , Kobayashi Yoshiro , Nagata Kisaburo
Published: January 2015

Aim

Secondary necrotic cells generated in vivo induce inflammatory responses; for example, the production of macrophage inflammatory protein‐2 (MIP‐2) and subsequent infiltration of neutrophils. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the effect of aging on the phagocytosis of secondary necrotic cells and the inflammatory responses by using either wild‐type (WT) young mice, WT aged mice or senescence‐accelerated mice (SMP30−/− mice).

Methods

The phagocytosis of secondary necrotic neutrophils with resident macrophage from either WT young mice, WT aged mice or SMP30−/− mice was examined by coculturing macrophages with secondary necrotic neutrophils in vitro. To investigate the inflammatory response induced by secondary necrotic cells, time‐dependent infiltration of neutrophils and production of MIP‐2 were determined in the peritoneal cavity on the injection of secondary necrotic cells.

Results

The phagocytosis of secondary necrotic cells by macrophages from WT aged and SMP30−/− mice was significantly reduced as compared with that by macrophages from WT young mice. On peritoneal injection of secondary necrotic cells, the peak time of neutrophil infiltration was earlier in SMP30−/− mice than in WT young mice. The number of neutrophils in SMP30−/− mice at the peak time was also greater than that in WT young mice.

Conclusions

Our findings showed that the phagocytosis of secondary necrotic cells was attenuated in aged mice and SMP30−/− mice, and that the MIP‐2 production was enhanced and subsequently neutrophil infiltration was exaggerated on peritoneal injection of secondary necrotic cells into those mice. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 135–142.
Survey on the use of health consultation services provided in a Japanese urban public housing area with a high elderly population
Authors: Fukui Sakiko , Otoguro Chizuru , Ishikawa Takako , Fujita Junko
Published: January 2015

Objective

The aim of the present study was to determine how the elderly in an urban public housing area intends to utilize health consultation services.

Methods

In December 2011, a cross‐sectional posting survey was carried out on 2000 randomly selected elderly residents in an urban public housing area in Japan. The survey included information on the intention of use of health consultation services provided in the community, demographic background, living situation, medical and social care situation, and the concerns and desires about the services.

Results

We received 553 responses from the survey. Of the 534 responders who had never used the service, 150 (28.1%) intended to use, 313 (58.6%) were undecided and 71 (13.3%) expressed having no intention to use. Binominal logistic regression analysis showed that individuals who intended to use it tended to have the following features: aged ≥70 years (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.41–3.93), resident of the complex for <10 years (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.15–3.27), low sense of well‐being (OR 3.69, 95% CI 1.03–13.26), family‐related stress (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.01–2.93), outpatient of internal medicine (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.10–2.75), outpatient of cancer treatment (OR 2.58, 95% CI 1.15–5.77), history of unpleasant medical experience (OR 1.68, 95% CI 1.03–2.73), desire for a free health consultation (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.07–3.04), desiring to consult about diseases (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.27–3.18) and desiring to consult about caregiving (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.05–2.56).

Conclusion

Approximately 30% of residents had the intention of using the health consultation services provided in the community. The people who were more likely to use the services tended to have more intensive consultation support. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 81–88.
Celecoxib vs Prednisone for the Treatment of Withdrawal Headache in Patients With Medication Overuse Headache: A Randomized, Double‐Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Taghdiri Foad , Togha Mansoureh , Razeghi Jahromi Soodeh , Paknejad Seyed Mohammad Hassan
Published: January 2015

Objective

To compare the efficacy of celecoxib for treatment of withdrawal headache vs prednisone in patients with medication overuse headache (MOH).

Methods

In this prospective, double‐blind, parallel‐group clinical trial, 97 consecutive subjects with MOH were randomized (simple randomization using computer‐generated numbers) for treatment with either 400 mg/day celecoxib (for the first 5 days then decreased at a rate of 100 mg every 5 days) or prednisone 75 mg/day orally (for the first 5 days then tapered off every 5 days). Subjects who met the International Headache Society criteria for MOH were included in the trial. The change in headache days and intake of rescue medication were considered as primary outcomes while the change in headache severity defined as a secondary outcome.

Results

Patients treated with celecoxib experienced lower headache intensity during the first 3 weeks after withdrawal (after 3 weeks, the median of visual analog scale was 3 for patients in celecoxib group vs 4.5 for prednisone group [P < .001]). However, headache frequency and the need for rescue medication intake were not different between 2 groups.

Conclusion

During withdrawal in MOH, in order to reduce headache days or rescue medication intake, using either of celecoxib or prednisone as a bridge is not different.
Tooth bleaching with hydrogen peroxide and nano‐hydroxyapatite: a 9‐month follow‐up randomized clinical trial
Authors: Vano M , Derchi G , Barone A , Genovesi A , Covani U
Published: January 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to compare the amount of tooth colour change, rebound rate and tooth sensitivity in patients submitted to a bleaching technique with 6% hydrogen peroxide (HP) with or without 2% nano‐hydroxyapatite (n‐HA).

Methods

Sixty subjects were included in this examiner‐blinded, randomized clinical trial using a 6% HP gel with or without 2% n‐HA. Tooth colour and tooth sensitivity were analysed before and after treatment. All data were analysed statistically.

Results

After bleaching, both treatments demonstrated significant improvements in tooth shade (P < 0.05 for both groups). At the 9‐month recall, tooth shade remained significantly lighter than at baseline (P < 0.05 for both groups). However, a relapse of the tooth shade was observed compared with the immediate post‐bleaching result (P < 0.05). 6% HP with 2% n‐HA produced significantly lower sensitivity (P < 0.05) than the bleaching product without n‐HA. Colour change evaluation resulted in no difference between the two groups.

Conclusion

Both treatments demonstrated significant improvements in tooth shade. The bleaching effectiveness of the tested products was comparable. The use of 6% HP with 2% n‐HA reduced the incidence of sensitivity during the bleaching treatment compared to a bleaching agent that did not contain n‐HA.
Long‐term results of the use of oxybutynin for the treatment of plantar hyperhidrosis
Authors: Wolosker Nelson , Teivelis Marcelo P. , Krutman Mariana , de Paula Rafael P. , Kauffman Paulo , de Campos José R. M. , Puech‐Leão Pedro
Published: January 2015

Background

Plantar hyperhidrosis is a common illness with significant impact on quality of life. Oxybutynin presents good short‐term results, but longer follow‐up results are lacking. We evaluated oxybutynin effectiveness in patients who were not surgically treated and who had at least six months of follow‐up.

Methods

From September 2007 to September 2013, 85 consecutive patients were enrolled in our institutional protocol for the “pharmacological‐first” treatment of primary plantar hyperhidrosis with oxybutynin. Eight patients were lost to follow‐up, 15 patients have not yet been under treatment for six months, and data were available for 39 patients (all female) treated for at least six months. Data at the start of the protocol, six weeks after beginning treatment, and at their final visit were analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐three of the 77 patients (29.87%) did not improve after pharmacological therapy. From the 39 patients with more than six months of follow‐up (median 16.9 months, range 9–71), 79.5% reported moderate/great improvement in excessive plantar sweating after six weeks of treatment, and this rate increased to 84.7% in the last follow‐up visit; 82.85% showed improvement in other sites presenting hyperhidrosis. Dry mouth was the most common side effect; 51.6% of patients reported it to be moderate/severe at the last visit.

Conclusion

In patients with good initial response to oxybutynin, more than 82% presented moderate or great improvement in plantar and other sites' excessive sweating; dry mouth was the most common side effect but was tolerable and did not lead any patient to interrupt treatment.
Changes during storage of dried Moringa oleifera leaves prepared by heat pump‐assisted dehumidified air drying
Authors: Potisate Yuparat , Kerr William L. , Phoungchandang Singhanat
Published: January 2015

Moringa oleifera leaves contain phytochemicals that are retained during heat pump‐assisted dehumidified air drying. Changes in phytochemicals, antioxidant capacity and colour were evaluated at 15–35 °C, during storage of dried leaves in polypropylene (PP) or high barrier (PET/Al/PE) packaging for up to 6 months. The aw of samples in PP increased from 0.373 to 0.669. Decreases in total phenolics were greatest at 35 °C in PP (48%) and least at 15 °C in PET/Al/PE (19%). There were few significant changes in DPPH inhibition after 2 months storage. There was little change in kaempferol and some increase in quercetin. During storage, samples became less green, suggesting breakdown in chlorophyll had occurred. The degradation of flavonoids followed first‐order kinetics. The half‐life for total flavonoids ranged from 2.13 to 1.47 months for samples stored in PP and from 2.59 to 1.83 months for samples stored in PET/Al/PE.