bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New and rare sponges from the deep shelf of the Alboran Island (Alboran Sea, Western Mediterranean)
Authors: SITJÀ CÈLIA , MALDONADO MANUEL
Published: January 2014

The sponge fauna from the deep shelf (70 to 200 m) of the Alboran Island (Alboran Sea, Western Mediterranean) was investigated using a combination of ROV surveys and collecting devices in the frame of the EC LIFE+ INDEMARES Grant aimed to designate marine areas of the Nature 2000 Network within Spanish territorial waters. From ROV surveys and 351 examined specimens, a total of 87 sponge species were identified, most belonging in the Class Demospongiae, and one belonging in the Class Hexactinellida. Twenty six (29%) species can be regarded as either taxonomically or faunistically relevant. Three of them were new to science (Axinella alborana nov. sp.; Axinella spatula nov. sp.; Endectyon filiformis nov. sp.) and 4 others were Atlantic species recorded for the first time in the Mediterranean Sea (Jaspis eudermis Lévi & Vacelet, 1958; Hemiasterella elongata Topsent, 1928; Axinella vellerea Topsent, 1904; Gelliodes fayalensis Topsent, 1892). Another outstanding finding was a complete specimen of Rhabdobaris implicata Pulitzer-Finali, 1983, a species only known from its holotype, which had entirely been dissolved for its description. Our second record of the species has allowed a neotype designation and a restitution of the recently abolished genus Rhabdobaris Pulitzer-Finally, 1983, also forcing a slight modification of the diagnosis of the family Bubaridae. Additionally, 12 species were recorded for the first time from the shelf of the Alboran Island, including a few individuals of the large hexactinellid Asconema setubalense Kent, 1877 that provided the second Mediterranean record of this "North Atlantic" hexactinellid. ROV explorations also revealed that sponges are an important component of the deep-shelf benthos, particularly on rocky bottoms, where they make peculiar sponge gardens characterized by a wide diversity of small, erect species forming a dense "undergrowth" among a scatter of large sponges and gorgonians. The great abundance and the taxonomic singularities of the sponge fauna occurring in these deep-shelf bottoms strongly suggest these habitats to be considered within the environmental protection of the Nature 2000 Network.
Model Simulation and Projection of European Heat Waves in Present-Day and Future Climates
Authors: Lau Ngar-Cheung , Nath Mary Jo
Published: January 2014

The synoptic behavior of present-day heat waves (HW) over Europe is studied using the GFDL high-resolution atmospheric model (HiRAM) with 50-km grid spacing. Three regions of enhanced and coherent temperature variability are identified over western Russia, eastern Europe, and western Europe. The simulated HW characteristics are compared with those derived from Climate Forecast System Reanalysis products. Composite charts for outstanding HW episodes resemble well-known recurrent circulation types. The HW region is overlain by a prominent upper-level anticyclone, which blocks the passage of synoptic-scale transients. The altered eddy vorticity transports in turn reinforce the anticyclone. The anticyclone is part of a planetary-scale wave train. The successive downstream development of this wave train is indicative of Rossby wave dispersion.

Additional runs of HiRAM are conducted for the “time slices” of 2026–35 and 2086–95 in the climate scenario corresponding to representative concentration pathway 4.5 (RCP4.5). By the end of the twenty-first century, the average duration and frequency of HW in the three European sites are projected to increase by a factor of 1.4–2.0 and 2.2–4.5, respectively, from the present-day values. These changes can be reproduced by adding the mean shift between the present and future climatological temperatures to the daily fluctuations in the present-day simulation. The output from a continuous integration of a coupled general circulation model through the 1901–2100 period indicates a monotonic increase in severity, duration, and HW days during the twenty-first century.
Left Ventricular Assist Devices in Patients With End-Stage Heart Failure
Authors: Fantidis Panayotis , Sánchez Eladio , Tarhini Ibrahim , Khan Ijaz , Pineda Tomas , Corrales Juan Antonio , González José Ramón
Published: January 2014

Encouraging results were obtained by using left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) in patients with end-stage heart failure (HF) that exhibits extremely high mortality and who were not candidates for heart transplantation. By using this so-called destination therapy (DT), a substantial percentage of these patients achieved sufficient improvement in cardiac function to permit the explantation of the device. The combination of mechanical and pharmacological therapy increased the frequency and durability of myocardial recovery as compared with other therapeutic approaches. Although cardiac transplantation, LVADs, and cardiac resynchronization therapy have provided a major advance in DT, their limitations stimulate the search for alternative therapies. We discuss the limitations of these 3 treatment options for end-stage HF. Also, we propose and discuss the possible advantages of a new intracorporeal procedure that works continuously as intraaortic balloon counterpulsation without an extracorporeal or intracorporeal computer-controlled mechanism.
Development of a 5-Item Parent Questionnaire to Screen Preschool Children for Reading Problems
Authors: Iyer Sai Nandini , Sawyer Mark I. , Germany Marcus , Super Dennis M. , Needlman Robert D.
Published: January 2014

Objective. To develop a brief tool for screening of emergent literacy skills in preschool children (3-5 years old) in pediatric clinics. Methods. Parents were given an 8-item questionnaire, and the children were tested with the Get Ready to Read–Revised (GRTR-R) screener. With the GRTR-R score as gold standard, the parent questionnaire was optimized using various combinations of questions and response weights in one half of the sample. The resulting 5-item questionnaire was then validated using the other half of the sample. Results. A total of 203 patients were enrolled. In the validation sample, the 5-item questionnaire had sensitivity and specificity vis-à-vis the GRTR-R of 100% and 78.6% in 5-year-olds (cutoff score of 8) and 78.6% and 68.2% in 4-year-olds (cutoff of 6). The questionnaire did not perform well in 3-year-olds. Conclusion. A very brief parent questionnaire may be useful as a first-line screener for early reading problems.
How Long Is a Metre?
Authors: Dearden Harvey T
Published: January 2014

To start at the end (!) we can definitively pronounce a metre to be as long as the distance travelled by light in a vacuum in 1/299,792,458 of a second. This is the current definition of the metre as established in 1983. As a standard, it has the particular virtue of not being identified in terms of an artefact (a manufactured exemplar), but rather in terms of universal constants of nature. In principle, this reference can be reproduced at any time and in any place; you just need to make room in your garage for one or more stabilised lasers, an interferometer and an optional atomic clock (for extra accuracy). But why 1/299,792,458 of a second particularly rather than any other time interval? This new question requires us to start at the beginning …
The Big-Fish-Little-Pond Effect in Mathematics
Authors: Marsh Herbert W. , Abduljabbar Adel Salah , Parker Philip D. , Morin Alexandre J. S. , Abdelfattah Faisal , Nagengast Benjamin
Published: January 2014

This substantive-methodological synergy demonstrates evolving multilevel latent-variable models for cross-cultural data. Using Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) 2007 data for U.S. and Saudi Arabian eighth grade students, we evaluate the psychometric properties (measurement invariance, method effects, and gender differences) of math self-concept, positive affect, coursework aspirations, and achievement. Extending the studies of the “paradoxical cross-cultural self-concept effect” largely based on U.S.-Asian comparisons, country-level differences strongly favored the United States for achievement test scores, but favored Saudi Arabia for self-concept and aspirations. Latent mean gender differences, of particular interest because of Saudi Arabia’s single-sex school system, interacted with country for all constructs. The largest interaction was for achievement test scores; there were no significant gender differences for U.S. students (in coed schools), but in single-sex Saudi schools, Saudi girls performed substantially better than Saudi boys. Consistently with previous (mostly Western) research, but not previously evaluated with TIMSS, in each of the four (2 gender × 2 country) groups all three outcomes (self-concept, affect, and aspiration) were positively influenced by individual student achievement but negatively influenced by class-average achievement (the Big-Fish-Little-Pond Effect: BFLPE). BFLPEs were similar in size for boys and girls in coeducational (United States) and in single-sex (Saudi) classrooms.
Melt spinning of continuous fibers by cold air attenuation I: experimental studies
Authors: Jia Jun , Yao Donggang , Wang Youjiang
Published: January 2014

Traditionally ultrafine continuous fibers below 1 dpf are produced by extrusion followed by mechanical drawing. In this study, a modified melt spinning apparatus with a high-speed air nozzle was designed and fabricated to produce continuous polypropylene (PP) fibers by cold air drawing only. With this setup, the fiber is quenched and simultaneously attenuated by a symmetric cold air jet. Since the formation of the fiber structure is highly dependent on the processing conditions, the new process provides a unique operation window to study fiber attenuation and structural formation under high-speed cold air drawing. A parametric study was carried out under different process conditions which included processing temperature, air velocity and polymer volume flow rate. Effects of changes in processing variables on the fiber diameter, molecular orientation, tensile strength and other properties were studied. Findings from this study could lead to new processing technologies for producing innovative fiber products.
Outcomes of a Church-based Diabetes Prevention Program Delivered by Peers
Authors: Tang Tricia S. , Nwankwo Robin , Whiten Yolanda , Oney Christina
Published: January 2014

Purpose

This purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility and potential health impact of a church-based diabetes prevention program delivered by peers.

Methods

Thirteen at-risk African American adults were recruited to a peer-led diabetes prevention program adapted from the National Diabetes Education Program’s Power to Prevent curriculum. The program consisted of 6 core education sessions followed by 6 biweekly telephone support calls. Components of feasibility examined included recruitment, attendance, and retention. Baseline, 8-week, and 20-week assessments measured clinical outcomes (percentage body weight change, waist circumference, lipid panel, blood pressure) and lifestyle behaviors (eg, physical activity and diet).

Results

Of the 13 participants enrolled at baseline, 11 completed the intervention. Mean attendance across 6 core sessions was 5.2 classes (87%). At 8 weeks, significant improvements were found for physical activity ( P = .031), waist circumference ( P = .049), serum cholesterol ( P = .036), systolic blood pressure ( P = .013), and fat intake ( P = .006). At 20 weeks, not only did participants sustain the improvements made following the core intervention, but they also demonstrated additional improvements for HDL ( P = .002) and diastolic blood pressure ( P = .004).

Conclusion

Findings suggest that it is feasible to conduct a peer-led diabetes prevention program in a church-based setting that has a potentially positive impact on health-related outcomes.
Freedom, legalism and subject formation
Authors: Yun Tang
Published: January 2014

With self-determination as its implication, freedom can create room for such psychological mechanism as internalization to perform the function of transforming the external social regulation into self-regulation. For this transformation to be viable, however, subject needs to be formed and subsequently social regulation becomes redundant, thanks to the formation of subject. Freedom as a necessary condition for the subject formation and this transfiguration of social regulation is often neglected in favor of social order. Drawing on various intellectual resources, this article explores the inner logic and consequence of Legalism, in its segregation of politics (social order) and morality.
The Role of Immediate Postoperative Systemic Corticosteroids When Utilizing a Steroid‐eluting Spacer Following Sinus Surgery
Authors: Dautremont Jon F. , Mechor Brad , Rudmik Luke
Published: January 2014

Objective

Steroid‐eluting spacers can improve local drug delivery immediately following endoscopic sinus surgery and reduce the recurrence of inflammation warranting systemic corticosteroids. For chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis, the need for systemic corticosteroids immediately following endoscopic sinus surgery when using a steroid‐eluting spacer has not been studied.

Study Design

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.

Setting

Academic rhinology practice.

Subjects and Methods

Chronic rhinosinusitis patients with nasal polyposis who failed medical therapy and elected endoscopic sinus surgery were enrolled. Patients were randomized into either the treatment arm (postoperative prednisone 30 mg daily × 7 days; n = 18) or placebo arm (postoperative placebo pill daily × 7 days; n = 18). Outcomes were evaluated at 1 week, 3 weeks, and 2 months postoperatively. Primary outcome was endoscopic grading at postoperative month 2 using the Lund–Kennedy system. Secondary outcome included disease‐specific quality of life using the Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) survey. Patient enrolment occurred from January 2012 through February 2013 (NCT01564355).

Results

Both arms received significant improvement in endoscopic grading and disease‐specific quality of life from baseline compared to 2‐month follow‐up (P <. 001). There were no significant differences in mean endoscopic scores between the postoperative prednisone and control groups at 1 week (P =. 715), 3 weeks (P =. 883), or 2 months (P =. 343). There were no significant differences in SNOT‐22 scores between groups at all follow‐up points (all P >. 119).

Conclusion

Minimizing systemic corticosteroid use in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis may avoid adverse events. Results from this study suggest that postoperative systemic corticosteroids immediately following endoscopic sinus surgery may not provide improved outcomes when utilizing a steroid‐eluting spacer.
Epidemiology of Vocal Fold Paralyses after Total Thyroidectomy for Well‐Differentiated Thyroid Cancer in a Medicare Population
Authors: Francis David O. , Pearce Elizabeth C. , Ni Shenghua , Garrett C. Gaelyn , Penson David F.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

The population‐level incidence of vocal fold paralysis after thyroidectomy for well‐differentiated thyroid carcinoma (WDTC) is not known. This study aimed to measure longitudinal incidence of postoperative vocal fold paralyses and need for directed interventions in the Medicare population undergoing total thyroidectomy for WDTC.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

US population.

Subjects and Methods

Subjects were Medicare beneficiaries. SEER‐Medicare data (1991‐2009) were used to identify beneficiaries who underwent total thyroidectomy for WDTC. Incident vocal fold paralyses and directed interventions were identified. Multivariate analyses were used to determine factors associated with odds of developing these surgical complications.

Results

Of 5670 total thyroidectomies for WDTC, 9.5% were complicated by vocal fold paralysis (8.2% unilateral vocal fold paralysis [UVFP]; 1.3% bilateral vocal fold paralysis [BVFP]). Rate of paralyses decreased 5% annually from 1991 to 2009 (odds ratio 0.95; 95% confidence interval, 0.93‐0.97; P <. 001). Overall, 22% of patients with vocal fold paralysis required surgical intervention (UVFP 21%, BVFP 28%). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that the odds of postthyroidectomy paralysis increased with each additional year of age, with non‐Caucasian race, with particular histologic types, with advanced stage, and in particular registry regions.

Conclusion

Annual rates of postthyroidectomy vocal fold paralyses are decreasing among Medicare beneficiaries with WDTC. High incidence in this aged population is likely due to a preponderance of temporary paralyses, which is supported by the need for directed intervention in less than a quarter of affected patients. Further population‐based studies are needed to refine the population incidence and risk factors for paralyses in the aging population.
Moderate seismic activity affects contemporary sediment yields
Authors: Vanmaercke Matthias , Kettner Albert J. , Eeckhaut Miet Van Den , Poesen Jean , Mamaliga Anna , Verstraeten Gert , Rãdoane Maria , Obreja Florin , Upton Phaedra , Syvitski James P.M. , Govers Gerard
Published: January 2014

Current models aiming to simulate contemporary sediment yield (SY) implicitly assume that tectonic effects are either irrelevant or are reflected by catchment topography. In this study we analyse the relation between SY and seismic activity, a component of tectonic processes. Results show a spatial correlation between SY and seismic activity expressed as the estimated peak ground acceleration (PGA) with a 10% exceedance probability in 50 years. PGA has a significant impact on the spatial variation of SY, even after correcting for cross-correlations with topography, lithology or other factors that may influence SY. Based on three distinct data sets, we demonstrate that this effect is significant both for small catchments in Europe (0.3–3940 km2) and for large river systems worldwide (1580–6.15×106 km2) and that seismic activity may be even more important for explaining regional variation in SY than land use or many other commonly considered factors (e.g. catchment area, climate). We show that explicitly considering seismic activity may lead to SY-estimates that easily deviate a factor 2 or more compared to estimates that do not consider seismic activity. This is not only the case for highly seismically active regions: also in regions with a weak to moderate seismic regime seismic activity helps explaining regional patterns in SY. We argue that these findings have important implications for a better understanding of SY and its sensitivity to human impacts, as well as for our comprehension of sediment fluxes at longer timescales.
On optimal recovery from terminal understeer
Authors: Klomp Matthijs , Lidberg Mathias , Gordon Timothy J
Published: January 2014

This paper addresses the problem of terminal understeer and its mitigation via integrated brake control. The scenario considered is when a vehicle enters a curve at a speed that is too high for the tyre–road friction limits and an optimal combination of braking and cornering forces is required to slow the vehicle down and to negotiate the curve. Here, the driver commands a step steering input, from which a circular arc reference path is inferred. An optimal control problem is formulated with an objective to minimize the maximum off-tracking from the reference path, and two optimal control solutions are obtained. The first is an explicit analytical solution for a friction-limited particle; the second is a numerically derived open-loop brake control sequence for a nonlinear vehicle model. The particle solution is found to be a classical parabolic trajectory associated with a constant acceleration vector of the global mass center. The independent numerical optimization for the vehicle model is found to approximate closely the kinematics of the parabolic path reference strategy obtained for the particle. Using the parabolic path reference strategy, a closed-loop controller is formulated and verified against the solution from numerical optimization. The results are further compared with understeer mitigation by yaw control, and the parabolic path reference controller is found to give significant improvement over yaw control for this scenario.
High prevalence of asymptomatic sexually transmitted infections in HIV-infected men who have sex with men: A stimulus to improve screening
Authors: Keaveney S , Sadlier C , O’Dea S , Delamere S , Bergin C
Published: January 2014

In Ireland the incidence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is steadily increasing while the number of new HIV-diagnoses in men who have sex with men has more than doubled in the past decade. This study investigated the prevalence of STIs in asymptomatic HIV-infected men who have sex with men (MSM) attending a clinic for routine HIV care in the largest HIV-centre in Ireland. Fifty HIV-infected MSM were included in the study (mean age [SD] 38years [9], 66% Irish). Sixteen per cent of HIV-infected MSM screened were diagnosed with a STI. Thirty-eight per cent reported always using condoms while 4% reported never using condoms, 46% used condoms inconsistently and 10% reported no sexual contacts in the preceding 12 months. Recognising the need to optimise STI screening, a pilot self-screening programme was subsequently introduced to our HIV clinic as a quality improvement initiative. Asymptomatic MSM attending for routine HIV care were invited to have an opportunistic STI screen either provider performed or by self-screening. Seventy-one patients were included in the pilot. Sixty-five (92%) opted for self-collected rectal swabs. Ten STIs were detected in eight patients. This study supports guidelines recommending routine screening for STIs in the care of HIV-infected patients and highlights opportunities to provide relevant screening and education interventions targeting unsafe sexual behaviours.
Worker perceptions of representation and rights in Germany and the USA
Authors: Godard John , Frege Carola
Published: January 2014

Germany and the USA have very different systems of legal representation and rights at work, but these differences and their effects may have lessened. We draw on a large-scale telephone survey to explore worker perceptions of these systems, and find that perceptions of German workers are more favourable than those of their US counterparts, but not by as much as might be expected. Our findings could in part be explained by cross-national differences in both worker ideologies and the way the different systems function, but they also point to the importance of perceptions in understanding and assessing cross-national institutional differences, and have implications for the future of workplace representation and rights in both nations.
External governance, convention ratification and monitoring: The EU, the ILO and labour standards in EU accession countries
Authors: Kahn-Nisser Sara
Published: January 2014

This article presents an empirical analysis of the factors associated with trends in labour standards, in EU accession countries, using a new dataset of labour rights. It focuses on ratification of the ILO’s fundamental conventions, EU monitoring and ILO monitoring. It describes the similarities and differences between the two monitoring schemes and evaluates their roles in shaping labour rights. Generalized estimating equation analysis shows that EU monitoring is positively associated with improved labour rights while ILO monitoring is not. The results further indicate that ratification of ILO fundamental Conventions is positively associated with labour rights protection. The article returns to the notion of external governance to suggest possible explanations for these findings.
The development of the patient privacy scale in nursing
Authors: Özturk Havva , Bahçecik Nefise , Özçelik Kumral Semanur
Published: January 2014

Background:

The developments in technology and communication channels, increasing workload, and carelessness cause problems regarding patient privacy and confidentiality in nursing services.

Research objectives:

The study was conducted to develop a patient privacy scale to identify whether nurses observe or violate patient privacy at workplace.

Research design:

This research was a methodological and descriptive study.

Participants and research context:

Participants were 354 nurses working at private hospitals and hospitals affiliated with the Ministry of Health in Istanbul/Turkey. Data were collected with a questionnaire about the demographic characteristics of nurses and their opinions about patient privacy and with patient privacy scale.

Ethical considerations:

After getting permission from the top management of hospitals, information about the study was given to nurses. Those willing to participate were informed that participation was voluntary and invited to give written consent before data collection.

Findings:

The content validity index of scale was 0.91, Cronbach’s alpha was 0.93, Spearman–Brown and Guttman coefficients were 0.85, the upper and lower 27% test was −29.65, and item-total correlation values ranged from 0.47 to 0.71. The scale had five subscales. In addition, 49% of the nurses stated that patient privacy was always observed in their services/units. They appraised with a mean score of 4.51 ± 0.49 for the total scale, 4.39 ± 0.61 for confidentiality of personal information and private life, 4.39 ± 0.70 for sexual privacy, 4.56 ± 0.57 for the privacy of those unable to protect themselves, 4.60 ± 0.59 for physical privacy, and 4.60 ± 0.52 for ensuring a favorable environment.

Discussion:

The findings of this study were in contrast with the results of some international studies which determined the violation of the patient privacy.

Conclusion:

The patient privacy scale is a valid and reliable tool to collect data on whether nurses observe or violate patient privacy, and the nurses generally reported observing or paying attention to patient privacy in all hospitals and especially private hospitals.
Identifying and Defining the Structures That Guide the Implementation of Participant Direction Programs and Support Program Participants
Authors: Gross Judith M. S. , Blue-Banning Martha , Turnbull H. Rutherford , Francis Grace L.
Published: January 2014

Participant direction (PD) programs offer the individual with a disability or his or her surrogate decision maker varying degrees of choice and control over the individual’s supports and services. We conducted a document analysis using grounded theory methods to identify the design elements of participant direction programs in long-term care. We analyzed 53 documents across multiple disabilities and funding sources. We identified and defined two major components of participant direction programs: policy and aid and assistance. The component of policy was represented by three structures that guide implementation of participant direction programs: (a) option to participant-direct, (b) participation stipulations, and (c) provider qualifications. The component of aid and assistance was represented by 11 structures that support program participants: (a) financial management services, (b) employer of record, (c) emergency back-up, (d) worker registry, (e) advice/counseling, (f) managerial assistance, (g) information dissemination products, (h) service quality monitoring, (i) service coordination, (j) participant training, and (k) provider training. Each structure was represented by one or more continua depicting the range of choice and control participants may have over the structure. The findings of this study have implications for improving the standardization of research on participant direction programs and the development of long-term care policy.
The Importance of Relationship in Understanding the Experiences of Spouse Mental Health Carers
Authors: Lawn Sharon , McMahon Janne
Published: January 2014

The burden of caring for family members with mental illness has been researched extensively; however, knowledge of spouse carers’ experiences is limited. In this article, we explore this from a carers’ perspective, with 28 spouse carers, using qualitative open-ended semistructured interviews and a grounded theory approach informed by the social interactionism tradition to collect and analyze the data. We present six interrelated themes around the central theme of this being “a real and genuine relationship.” The findings indicate that caring for a spouse with severe mental illness is a unique role compared with other caring roles. First and foremost, spouse carers strive for the relationship with their partner and accommodate mental illness into their lives to protect the relationship. Because of this, they often lead surreal lives marked by significant emotional pressure and isolation. This has implications for how mental health service providers work with and support spouse carers.
Impact of Pharmacist-Conducted Medication Reconciliation at Discharge on Readmissions of Elderly Patients With COPD
Authors: Eisenhower Christine
Published: January 2014

Purpose: Beginning in fiscal year 2015, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will measure all-cause readmissions for patients admitted for exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Hospitals will incur a payment penalty for unplanned 30-day readmissions. Elderly patients frequently present a challenge because of polypharmacy, which contributes to a greater risk for medication-related readmissions. Objective: To determine whether pharmacist-conducted medication reconciliation at discharge decreased medication discrepancies and reduced 30-day readmissions for elderly patients with COPD. Methods: Patients aged 65 years and olderadmitted for a COPD exacerbation between January 31, 2012, and February 29, 2012, were included. The pharmacist reviewed the discharge form for discrepancies. Patients who were readmitted within 30 days of discharge were identified. The rate of 30-day readmission was compared with baseline data. Length of stay and cost for admission versus readmission were also assessed. Results: A total of 29 patients were admitted for a COPD exacerbation; 6 medication discrepancies were identified and reported to prescribers. Four patients were readmitted within 30 days of discharge. The 30-day readmission rate was lower than the baseline rate (16.0% vs 22.2%). When comparing admissions with readmissions, a slight reduction in average length of stay and slight increase in cost was observed. Conclusions: Pharmacist-conducted medication reconciliation at discharge decreased discrepancies for elderly patients admitted for exacerbation of COPD. The 30-day readmission rate could be decreased further by expanding pharmacist responsibilities during transitions of care. This includes patient counseling, tracking outpatient adherence, selecting affordable medications, and expanding the process to include other chronic disease states.
Medication Therapy Management and Complex Patients With Disability
Authors: Chrischilles Elizabeth A. , Doucette William , Farris Karen , Lindgren Scott , Gryzlak Brian , Rubenstein Linda , Youland Kelly , Wallace Robert B.
Published: January 2014

Background: Drug therapy problems, adverse drug events (ADEs), and symptom burden are high among adults with disabilities. Objective: To compare the effects of a modified medication therapy management (MTM) program within a self-efficacy workshop versus the workshop alone or usual care on symptom burden among adults with activity limitations. Methods: Three-group randomized controlled trial among adults (age 40 and older) with self-reported activity limitations in community practice. Interventions: 8 weekly Living Well With a Disability (LWD) 2-hour workshop sessions with and without a collaborative medication management (CMM) module. Primary outcome: mean number of moderate to very severe symptoms from a list of 11 physical and mental symptoms. Process measures: changes in medication regimens and self-reported ADEs. Analysis: general linear mixed models (continuous outcomes) and generalized estimating equations (categorical outcomes). Results: Participants had high symptom burden, low physical health, and took many medications. There was a significant increase in ADE reporting in the LWD + CMM group relative to the other 2 groups (Study group × Time P = .014), and there were significantly more changes in medication regimens in the LWD + CMM group ( P = .013 LWD only vs LWD + CMM). The oldest third of participants had significantly fewer mean symptoms but received more intense CMM. There was no difference between the LWD-only, LWD + CMM, and usual care groups in symptom burden over time. Conclusion: Pharmacist MTM practices and MTM guidelines may need to be modified to affect symptom burden in a population with physical activity limitations.
Concurrent realisation and quality assurance of products in the automotive industry
Authors: Kušar Janez , Rihar Lidija , Duhovnik Jožef , Starbek Marko
Published: January 2014

The aim of the concurrent product realisation and quality assurance of products is to shorten the realisation time, reduce realisation costs, increase the quality of products and thus increase customer satisfaction. In a case study of a project of the concurrent realisation of products (components for the automotive industry), it is shown how the requirements of quality standards for the automotive industry can be integrated in processes of the concurrent product realisation project, based on track-and-loop principle and three strategies: parallelness, standardisation and integration. This article gives an overview of quality-related standards in the automotive industry, the principles of sequential and concurrent product realisation and the course of concurrent product realisation and quality assurance of products in the automotive industry. Five loops of concurrent product realisation processes are defined for the automotive industry, as well as seven milestones of advanced product quality planning. A course of concurrent realisation and quality assurance of products in the automotive industry is shown in the case of the concurrent realisation of a car component.
Shrinking the Public Safety Net or Helping the Poor Play by the Rules? The Changes in the State-Level Policies That Affected Low-Income Families With Children in the Welfare Reform Era
Authors: Aratani Yumiko , Lu Hsien-Hen , Aber J. Lawrence
Published: January 2014

Despite the claimed success of the 1996 Welfare Reform, little research using multivariate regression has examined changes in multiple public safety-net programs. Thus, we still do not know whether public safety-net programs for the poor have shrunk or increased nationwide, along with the sharp declines in cash assistance. Using state-level data between 1994 and 2002 and state fixed-effects model, this study examines changes in nine safety-net programs designed for low-income families with children along with decreases in support from Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC)/Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and the results indicate that the decline in AFDC/TANF support was not associated with increases in support for the economic self-sufficiency of low-income families; safety-net programs for the poor shrunk during the 1996 reform. As there is an increasing need for an effective use of public dollars to assist the poor in the present recession, future researchers should turn their attention to the study of multiple safety-net policies.
The decline of membership-based politics
Authors: Biezen Ingrid van , Poguntke Thomas
Published: January 2014

In one of his last publications, Peter Mair documented how party membership had declined substantially in virtually all European democracies. As his collaborators on this piece, it seems pertinent that we take these findings as a point of departure and discuss what they mean for our understanding of party democracy. After all, the collapse of membership figures calls into question one of the central elements of our conceptualization of representative democracy, namely that it is based on voluntary political participation within political parties. All authoritative typologies of political parties consider the role of members to be one of their defining elements, although the cartel party most clearly envisages the marginalization of party members by professional party politicians. The traditional organizational allies of political parties (e.g. trade unions, organized religion) are subject to similar processes of erosion. In this article, we review the evidence of the social anchorage of political parties and discuss how political parties and party democracy can survive in an age where amateur politicians are becoming an increasingly rare species and parties are being transformed into organizational vehicles for those to whom politics is a profession rather than a vocation.
Interpersonal Violence on College Campuses
Authors: Littleton Heather
Published: January 2014

This commentary discusses the contributions of Drs. Antonia Abbey and Catherine Kaukinen to our understanding of risk factors for sexual and physical aggression among college students. Major contributions of their work are outlined. These include Abbey’s contributions to our understanding of trajectories of sexually aggressive behavior among college men, risk factors for engaging in sexual aggression among men, and the role of alcohol in sexual aggression. In addition, Kaukinen’s work has increased our understanding of the frequency of violence in college dating relationships as well as the association of violent relationships with health risk behaviors. Directions for future research are also outlined including a need to identify trajectories of violence risk as well as a need to understand the complex interrelationships among health risk behaviors and interpersonal violence. Finally, implications for practice and university policy are discussed, including a focus on the development of effective preventive strategies and proactive responses to violence.
Assessing Peer Advisor Intervention Fidelity Using Video Skits in a Peer Support Implementation Trial
Authors: Lewis Marquita W. , Cherrington Andrea L. , Gamboa Christopher M. , Halanych Jewell H. , Martin Michelle Y. , Safford Monika M.
Published: January 2014

In community-based interventions involving lay health workers, or “community health workers,” peer–client interactions are not typically observed by investigators, creating challenges in assessing intervention fidelity. In the context of a community-based randomized controlled trial of the effectiveness of peer support on diabetes outcomes of people with diabetes in rural Alabama, a region characterized by poverty and low literacy, we developed a video assessment tool that assessed participant perceptions of peer–client interactions. The video assessment consisted of four short skits on areas of emphasis during peer training: directive versus nondirective counseling style and setting a specific versus a more general goal. The video tool was evaluated for association with questionnaire-derived measures of counseling style and goal setting among 102 participants. For counseling style, 44% of participants reported that their peer advisor was most similar to the nondirective skit. For goal setting, 42% reported that their peer advisor was most similar to the specific goal skit. There was no statistically significant relationship between skit selection and questionnaire-derived measures. The video assessment was feasible, but results suggest that video and questionnaire assessments in this population yield different results. Further validation to better understand the differences between questionnaire reports and video assessment is warranted.
Lower Limb Movement Preparation in Chronic Stroke
Authors: Rea Massimiliano , Rana Mohit , Lugato Nicola , Terekhin Pavel , Gizzi Leonardo , Brötz Doris , Fallgatter Andreas , Birbaumer Niels , Sitaram Ranganatha , Caria Andrea
Published: January 2014

Background. Thus far, most of the brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) developed for motor rehabilitation used electroencephalographic signals to drive prostheses that support upper limb movement. Only few BCIs used hemodynamic signals or were designed to control lower extremity prostheses. Recent technological developments indicate that functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS)-BCI can be exploited in rehabilitation of lower limb movement due to its great usability and reduced sensitivity to head motion artifacts. Objective. The aim of this proof of concept study was to assess whether hemodynamic signals underlying lower limb motor preparation in stroke patients can be reliably measured and classified. Methods. fNIRS data were acquired during preparation of left and right hip movement in 7 chronic stroke patients. Results. Single-trial analysis indicated that specific hemodynamic changes associated with left and right hip movement preparation can be measured with fNIRS. Linear discriminant analysis classification of totHB signal changes in the premotor cortex and/or posterior parietal cortex indicated above chance accuracy in discriminating paretic from nonparetic movement preparation trials in most of the tested patients. Conclusion. The results provide first evidence that fNIRS can detect brain activity associated with single-trial lower limb motor preparation in stroke patients. These findings encourage further investigation of fNIRS suitability for BCI applications in rehabilitation of patients with lower limb motor impairment after stroke.
Autologous Fat Grafting
Authors: Kakagia Despoina , Pallua Norbert
Published: January 2014

Objective. Recent advances in adipose cellular biology have repopularized autologous fat grafting as a method widely used in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. This review aims to summarize our current knowledge on autologous fat grafting emphasizing harvesting techniques and processing methods as well as current trends and approaches. Methods. A thorough search of earlier and recent literature until October 2013 was conducted using the terms autologous fat grafting, autologous fat transfer, lipoaspirate, lipoinjection, fat harvest, and lipotransfer in PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases, and relevant English- and German-language articles were included. Results. Findings were categorized in a step-by-step approach of the fat grafting procedure into indications, selection of donor site, techniques for harvesting, processing, and reimplantation of autologous fat. Conclusions. Further in-depth knowledge will provide definite answers on fat graft survival; demonstrate safe methods to increase cell viability, grafting outcome predictability; and reliability; enhance safety; and strengthen the scientific and clinical establishment of this increasingly promising method.
Rhodococcus equi Pericarditis in a Patient Living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Gundelly Praveen , Thornton Alice , Greenberg Richard N. , McCormick Malkanthie , Myint Thein
Published: January 2014

Introduction:

Rhodococcus equi, previously called Corynebacterium equi, is known to cause pneumonia in foals and swine. Although it was known to cause infection rarely in humans, R equi infection in humans has increased with the advent of HIV and increased use of immunosuppressants.

Case:

We report a case of a 48-year-old male patient with newly diagnosed HIV/AIDS presenting with recurrent R equi bacteremia, pericardial effusion, and pericardial cyst. The infection was treated with drainage of the pericardial effusion and cyst and 2 weeks of intravenous vancomycin and 6 months of oral azithromycin and levofloxacin.

Discussion:

Rhodococcus equi causes pericarditis and pericardial effusion. It can be effectively treated with debridement, drainage, and a prolonged course of antibiotics. In vitro antibiotic susceptibility should be checked as resistance to antibiotics can develop, especially if drainage is inadequate.
Health Care Practices and Associated Service Needs in a Sample of HIV-Positive Incarcerated Men in Puerto Rico
Authors: Rodríguez-Díaz Carlos E. , Rivera-Negrón Rosa M. , Clatts Michael C. , Myers Janet J.
Published: January 2014

Objective:

This report describes the HIV-related health care practices and associated support service needs of a sample of HIV-positive incarcerated men in Puerto Rico.

Methods:

Data are derived from a random sample of HIV-positive incarcerated men (n = 37) in Puerto Rico who completed a brief survey. Analysis included descriptive statistics to examine lifetime prevalence of substance use, selected health care practices, receipt of services, and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection.

Results:

Most men (97.3%) reported history of alcohol or drug use, prior incarceration, and drug use as the main risk factors for HIV infection (73.0%). In all, 83.8% of the men reported having had their first HIV screening test in a correctional facility, 55.6% reported intermittent HIV therapy, and most (83.8%) had also been diagnosed with HCV.

Conclusions:

Correctional facilities can be important settings for engaging high-risk populations in health care, capturing and enrolling unidentified HIV/HCV infections for clinical care, and engaging in substance abuse treatment. In order for these public health outcomes to be achieved, it is important to consider strategies to optimize care inside prison and in the community.
Serum complement C4b, fibronectin, and prolidase are associated with the pathological changes of pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Wang Chong , Li Yan-Yuan , Li Xiang , Wei Li-Liang , Yang Xiu-Yun , Xu Dan-Dan , Jiang Ting-Ting , Li Zhong-Jie , Chen Zhong-Liang , Zhang Xing , Liu Ji-Yan , Ping Ze-Peng , Li Ji-Cheng
Published: January 2014

Background

Mycobacterium tuberculosisinfection can activate the immune system, leading to characteristic pathological changes such as inflammatory granuloma, caseous necrosis, and cavity formation.

Methods

Clinical data of 187 cases of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) were analyzed using statistical methods, while serum levels of complement C4b (C4b), fibronectin (FN), and prolidase (PEPD) were detected using the ELISA method among the control, minimal PTB, moderate PTB, and advanced PTB groups.

Results

We found significantly higher levels of serum C4b and PEPD (P = 0.018,P = 0.003), and significantly lower levels of serum FN (P < 0.001) in PTB patients. Furthermore, the serum levels of 3 proteins were significantly different among 3 PTB groups. FN level was significantly higher in the moderate PTB group, compared with patients in the minimal and advanced PTB groups (P < 0.05,P < 0.01). PEPD level was significantly higher in the moderate PTB group, compared with the minimal PTB group (P < 0.05). Analysis of clinical data showed that serum albumin, C-reactive protein (CRP), prealbumin, and C4 were significantly higher (P < 0.05), while serum globulin was significantly lower in patients with PTB (P < 0.001). A significant negative correlation was found between C4b and albumin, prealbumin. On the other hand, a significant positive correlation was found between C4b and globulin, CRP, PEPD, as well as between PEPD and CRP (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our study showed that C4b, FN, and PEPD are associated with tissue damage, granuloma formation, and cavity formation, respectively, in patients with PTB. The present study provides a new experimental basis to understand the pathogenesis and pathological changes of PTB.