bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health, Education, and Welfare: Explaining Long-Term Trends in Health and Longevity
Authors: Costa Dora L.
Published: December 2013

Dora L. Costa of University of California, Los Angeles reviews, “Explaining Long-Term Trends in Health and Longevity” by Robert W. Fogel. The Econlit abstract of this book begins: “Explores the theory and measurement of aging- and health-related variables and considers how the anthropometric approach to historical analysis has helped reinterpret the nature of economic growth. Discusses secular changes in American and British stature and nutrition; second thoughts on the European escape from hunger—famines, chronic malnutrition, and mortality rates; trends in physiological capital—implications for equity in health care; changes in disparities and chronic diseases through the course of the twentieth century; and some common problems in analysis and measurement. Fogel is Charles R. Walgreen Distinguished Service Professor of American Institutions in the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago.”
On the Notion of Legal Responsibility
Authors: YAkovlyev Vyeniamin
Published: December 2013

The author on the example of criminal and civil law compares the approaches to the regulation of the issues of responsibility in the public and private law. It is concluded that for the full implementation of the measures of responsibility need effective institutions of public protection.
Institute of Legal Responsibility as a Constituent of Land Legal Order
Authors: Galinovskaya Elena
Published: December 2013

Article confirms the view that legal responsibility in land relations is an integral part of law and order. The main goal of such responsibility is to ensure the rational use of land in the Russian Federation. This paper analyzes the main challenges of legal responsibility which relate to both the contradictory provisions of regulations and law enforcement. The author also pays attention to the ways to improve the legislation.
Mechanism of Security Function of Self-Regulation
Authors: Kvanina Valentina
Published: December 2013

The article analyzes the provisional function of self-regulation by the example of auditing and arbitration management. The elements of this function are the liability insurance and compensation fund. It is proved that in the field of auditing provisional function is purely nominal, since the mechanism of its implementation is not defined by law, in the field of arbitration management this function is distorted by the Federal Law “On Insolvency (Bankruptcy)”.
Quality and Accessibility of State Services in the Social Sphere as an Indicator of Efficiency of Activities of Executive Authorities
Authors: Yeryemina Olga
Published: December 2013

This article discusses how to ensure the quality of the executive authorities and the availability of public services in the social sphere.
Legal Solutions in the Economic Sphere
Authors: Akopyan Oganes
Published: December 2013

In this article the author researches a measure of regulation of the economic relations, legal risks, limits of legal regulation in economic sphere, indicators of economic efficiency and expediency of their legal regulation. It is offered to understand as legal decisions use of legal tools for realization of the purposes of economic policy of the state.
Dual Rules for Service Evaluation
Authors: Rolland Erik , Patterson Raymond A. , Messinger Paul R. , Ward Keith F. , Finn Adam
Published: December 2013

We find evidence that customers evaluate services according to different rules depending on whether the overall service experience impression is negative or positive. The functional form by which the underlying service attributes are mapped into an overall satisfaction evaluation is compensatory in the former (negative) case and has conjunctive properties in the latter (positive) case. These findings are based on an examination of a large data set of outpatient healthcare customer satisfaction surveys. We conjecture that different cognitive processes are at work for positive versus negative service encounters.
Co-administration of hyaluronic acid with local anaesthetics shows lower cytotoxicity than local anaesthetic treatment alone in bovine articular chondrocytes
Authors: Onur T. S. , Sitron C. S. , Dang A.
Published: December 2013

Objective

To study the effect of hyaluronic acid (HA) on local anaesthetic chondrotoxicity in vitro.

Methods

Chondrocytes were harvested from bovine femoral condyle cartilage and isolated using collagenase-containing media. At 24 hours after seeding 15 000 cells per well onto a 96-well plate, chondrocytes were treated with media (DMEM/F12 + ITS), PBS, 1:1 lidocaine (2%):PBS, 1:1 bupivacaine (0.5%):PBS, 1:1 lidocaine (2%):HA, 1:1 bupivacaine (0. 5%):HA, or 1:1 HA:PBS for one hour. Following treatment, groups had conditions removed and 24-hour incubation. Cell viability was assessed using PrestoBlue and confirmed visually using fluorescence microscopy.

Results

Media-treated groups had a mean of 1.55×104 cells/well (sem 783). All treated cells showed statistically significant reduced viability when compared with media alone (all p < 0.003). Cells treated with bupivacaine + HA (6.70×103 cells/well (sem 1.10×103)) survived significantly more than bupivacaine (2.44×103 cells/well (sem 830)) (p < 0.001). Lidocaine + HA (1.45×103 cells/well (sem 596)) was not significantly more cytotoxic than lidocaine (2.24×103 cells/well (sem 341)) (p = 0.999). There was no statistical difference between the chondrotoxicities of PBS (8.49×103 cells/well (sem 730) cells/well) and HA (4.75×103 cells/well (sem 886)) (p = 0.294).

Conclusions

HA co-administration reduced anaesthetic cytotoxicity with bupivacaine but not lidocaine, suggesting different mechanisms of injury between the two. Co-administered intra-articular injections of HA with bupivacaine, but not lidocaine, may protect articular chondrocytes from local anaesthetic-associated death. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2013;2:270–5.
Socializing the C-suite: why some big-box retailers are “greener” than others
Authors: van der Ven Hamish
Published: December 2013

Despite a considerable push by policy-makers to incentivize green business practices, take-up of environmental initiatives amongst North American retailers has been highly uneven. While some “big-box” retailers have launched ambitious environmental initiatives, others continue to conduct business as usual. This paper asks: why do some mega-retailers commit to ambitious environmental agendas while others in the same sector do not? And how can the answer to this question improve public policy? I investigate these questions using comparative case studies of four North American big-box retailers: Wal-Mart, Target, Costco and Kroger. My findings suggest that the socialization of senior executives through multi-stakeholder sustainability networks is the critical variable accounting for progressive environmental practices in some corporations and not others. This finding suggests that existing public policies that focus on making the business case for sustainability are based on incomplete assumptions about why companies “go green.” It further suggests that socialization theory can help explain broader instances of corporate social responsibility and proposes that scholars in this field should devote more attention to the composition of socializing groups.
The role of leptin/adiponectin ratio in metabolic syndrome and diabetes
Authors: López-Jaramillo Patricio , Gómez-Arbeláez Diego , López-López Jose , López-López Cristina , Martínez-Ortega Javier , Gómez-Rodríguez Andrea , Triana-Cubillos Stefany
Published: December 2013

The metabolic syndrome comprises a cluster of cardiometabolic risk factors, with insulin resistance and adiposity as its central features. Identifying individuals with metabolic syndrome is important due to its association with an increased risk of coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Attention has focused on the visceral adipose tissue production of cytokines (adipokines) in metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes mellitus, as the levels of the anti-inflammatory adipokine adiponectin are decreased, while proinflammatory cytokines are elevated, creating a proinflammatory state associated with insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. In this review, we will give special attention to the role of the leptin/adiponectin ratio. We have previously demonstrated that in individuals with severe coronary artery disease, abdominal obesity was uniquely related to decreased plasma concentrations of adiponectin and increased leptin levels. Leptin/adiponectin imbalance was associated with increased waist circumference and a decreased vascular response to acetylcholine and increased vasoconstriction due to angiotensin II. Leptin and adiponectin have opposite effects on subclinical inflammation and insulin resistance. Leptin upregulates proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α and interleukin-6; these are associated with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In contrast, adiponectin has anti-inflammatory properties and downregulates the expression and release of a number of proinflammatory immune mediators. Therefore, it appears that interactions between angiotensin II and leptin/adiponectin imbalance may be important mediators of the elevated risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases associated with abdominal obesity.
Effects of hormones on platelet aggregation
Authors: Farré Antonio López , Modrego Javier , Zamorano-León José J.
Published: December 2013

Platelets and their activation/inhibition mechanisms play a central role in haemostasis. It is well known agonists and antagonists of platelet activation; however, during the last years novel evidences of hormone effects on platelet activation have been reported. Platelet functionality may be modulated by the interaction between different hormones and their platelet receptors, contributing to sex differences in platelet function and even in platelet-mediated vascular damage. It has suggested aspects that apparently are well established should be reviewed. Hormones effects on platelet activity are included among them. This article tries to review knowledge about the involvement of hormones in platelet biology and activity.
Peripartum thromboprophylaxis before and after implementation of a uniform heparin protocol
Authors: Anderson Sarah B. , Lin Stephanie N. , Reiss Jonathan , Skupski Daniel , Grunebaum Amos
Published: December 2013

Study design: The present study is a retrospective review of 500 consecutive births at one academic institution before and after implementation of a uniform thromboprophylaxis policy with heparin for all cesarean deliveries. An “opt-out” policy for ordering physicians was implemented by automatically defaulting to order heparin in the electronic order set used after cesarean delivery.

Results: Cesarean delivery rates were similar during both time periods. Heparin thromboprophylaxis was indicated in 99.6% of the cesarean delivery population before implementation and 94.5% after implementation. Prior to implementation only 5.7% received thromboprophylaxis compared to 96.1% after implementation, P<0.0001.

Conclusion: An opt-out heparin thromboprophylaxis policy improves compliance with thromboprophylaxis guidelines compared to an opt-in policy. Institutions should consider opt-out heparin thromboprophylaxis policies after cesarean deliveries to improve compliance with recommendations.
Cytomegalovirus infection among infants in California neonatal intensive care units, 2005–2010
Authors: Lanzieri Tatiana M. , Bialek Stephanie R. , Bennett Mihoko V. , Gould Jeffrey B.
Published: December 2013

Aim: To assess the burden of congenital and perinatal cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease among infants hospitalized in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

Methods: CMV infection was defined as a report of positive CMV viral culture or polymerase chain reaction at any time since birth in an infant hospitalized in a NICU reporting to California Perinatal Quality Care Collaborative during 2005–2010.

Results: One hundred and fifty-six (1.7 per 1000) infants were reported with CMV infection, representing an estimated 5% of the expected number of live births with symptomatic CMV disease. Prevalence was higher among infants with younger gestational ages and lower birth weights. Infants with CMV infection had significantly longer hospital stays and 14 (9%) died.

Conclusions: Reported prevalence of CMV infection in NICUs represents a fraction of total expected disease burden from CMV in the newborn period, likely resulting from underdiagnosis and milder symptomatic cases that do not require NICU care. More complete ascertainment of infants with congenital CMV infection that would benefit from antiviral treatment may reduce the burden of CMV disease in this population.
Cellulose fibre-cellulose acetate hybrid composites with nanosilica
Authors: Pang Chaowei , Shanks Robert , Daver Fugen
Published: December 2013

Biocomposites incorporating cellulose fibres, a renewable resource, have high modulus and strength and flexibility suitable for structural applications. Solution casting, ultrasonication, and compression moulding methods were used to prepare the specimens. Results show that plasticiser indeed improved the flexibility of the composite and adding fillers further enhanced the performance of the composite.
Morphology, mechanical, bound rubber, swelling, and dynamic mechanical studies of chlorobutyl elastomer nanocomposites: effect of multiwalled carbon nanotube and solvent
Authors: Tiwari Shashi K. , Sahoo Bibhu P. , Mahapatra Shyama P.
Published: December 2013

Multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) reinforced chlorobutyl elastomer nanocomposites were prepared. The morphology of nanocomposite samples has been studied from scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effect of MWCNT loadings on mechanical properties shows increase in tensile strength, hardness, and modulus and decrease in elongation at break with MWCNT loadings, which can be attributed toward better chlorobutyl-MWCNT interaction. At higher filler loading, the rate of increase slowly decreases. The above explanation was also verified from bound rubber (BdR) measurements, showing increase in BdR contents with MWCNT loading. Swelling of the nanocomposites in chloroform, benzene, and trichloroethylene was measured and found to be dependent on both MWCNT concentration and the type of solvent used. The degree of swelling, diffusion coefficient, and penetration rate was calculated. The effect of solvent on swelling properties at different periods of time shows that the degree of swelling increases with time and decreases with concentration of MWCNT loading. Dynamic mechanical properties of nanocomposites have been studied as a function of temperature (from -100°C to 100°C) at a constant frequency of 1 Hz and 1% strain. The effect of MWCNT loading on storage modulus, loss modulus, and loss tangent has been studied. The nonlinearity in tan δ and storage modulus and loss modulus was explained on the basis of MWCNT-elastomer interaction. The smooth Cole-Cole plots explain the nonlinearity in the nanocomposites as well as good distribution of MWCNT in the elastomer matrix.
Expression and cellular distribution of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (Cdk4) and connexin 43 (Cx43) in porcine oocytes before and after in vitro maturation
Authors: Kempisty Bartosz , Ziółkowska Agnieszka , Piotrowska Hanna , Antosik Paweł , Bukowska Dorota , Zawierucha Piotr , Jaśkowski Jędrzej , Brüssow Klaus-Peter , Nowicki Michał , Zabel Maciej
Published: December 2013

It is recognised that connexin 43 (Cx43) and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (Cdk4) are involved in the cumulus cell-oocyte communication via gap junctions and the control of cell cycle progress. However, little is known about their mRNA expression pattern and encoded proteins distribution in porcine oocytes during in vitro maturation (IVM). Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from 31 puberal crossbred Landrace gilts and analysed for their Cdk4 and Cx43 mRNA expression using RQ-PCR and for the respective protein expression by confocal microscopic observations. An increased Cdk4 and Cx43 mRNA expression was found in oocytes after IVM (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively). Confocal microscopic observations revealed a significant increase of Cdk4 protein expression in the cytoplasm of oocytes during the maturation process. The localisation of Cx43 changed from zona pellucida before to cytoplasm of oocytes after IVM. It is supposed that the increased expression of Cdk4 and Cx43 mRNA in oocytes after IVM is linked with the accumulation of a large amount of templates during the process of oocyte maturation. The translocation especially of Cx43 from the zona pellucida into the cytoplasm may be associated with a decrease in gap junction activity in fully grown porcine oocytes. Both Cdk4 and Cx43 can be used as ‘checkpoints’ of oocyte maturation.
Control of ovulation after prostaglandin treatment by means of ultrasonography and effect of the time of ovulation on conception rate in dairy cows
Authors: Répási Attila , Szelényi Zoltán , Reiczigel Jenő , Bajcsy Árpád , Horváth András , Szenci Ottó
Published: December 2013

Primiparous and multiparous lactating crossbred dairy cows (after Day 40 postpartum) with a mature corpus luteum (CL) (diameter of ≥ 17 mm determined by ultrasonography) and having a follicle with a diameter of ≥ 10 mm were treated with natural prostaglandin F2α (n = 80). Those from the cows that showed oestrus within 5 days after treatment were inseminated (Group 1: n = 39). Other group of cows showing oestrus without treatment (Group 2: n = 41) were inseminated and served as controls. The ovaries of each cow were scanned by transrectal ultrasonography from the day of detected oestrus (Day −1p.m.) until ovulation, to measure the changes in the areas of the CL and the largest follicle and to determine the occurrence of ovulation. Although no significant differences were found between the treated and untreated cows in terms of a reduction in the area of the corpora lutea and of an increase in the area of the dominant follicles, the mean area of these follicles in Group 2 was somewhat greater than in Group 1. The highest conception rate was achieved if AI was performed at the same day as ovulation occurred in both groups (conception rate in treated group was: 62.5%, in untreated group: 66.6%, respectively) between Day 0a.m. to Day 0p.m.. In Group 1, 54.5% conception rate has been achieved if ovulation occurred between Day 0p.m. to Day 1p.m., or 50% between Day 1p.m. to Day 2p.m. after AI, and 53.3% and 44.4% in Group 2, respectively. The conception rate for cows that ovulated before AI in Group 2 was 25%. No ovulation occurred in 7 cows until Day 2p.m. after AI and none of them became pregnant. The overall conception rate was approximately 50% in both groups, but when the cows had ovulated too early or too late relative to the time of AI, the conception rate was significantly lower, thus determination of the optimal time for AI is of great practical importance in dairy herds.
Effects of skim-milk supplementation on the quality and penetrating ability of boar semen after long-term preservation at 15 °C
Authors: Namula Zhao , Kodama Risa , Tanihara Fuminori , Morita Yasuhiro , Sato Yoko , Wittayarat Manita , Taniguchi Masayasu , Otoi Takeshige
Published: December 2013

This study investigated the effects of skim-milk supplementation on the quality and penetrating ability of boar semen preserved at 15 °C. When boar semen samples were preserved in Modified Modena extender supplemented with various concentrations (0, 7.5, 15, 30 and 50 mg/mL) of skim milk powder at 15 °C for 4 weeks, higher sperm motility and viability were observed in the case of 7.5 mg/mL skim-milk supplementation compared with the control group (0 mg/mL) during the preservation (P < 0.05). Whenin vitromatured oocytes were co-incubated with boar sperm that had been preserved in Modified Modena extender with three different concentrations (0, 7.5 or 15 mg/mL) of skim milk powder at 15 °C for two weeks, there were no apparent effects of skim-milk supplementation on the rates of fertilisation and development to blastocysts of oocytes after co-incubation. However, the monospermic fertilisation rate of sperm preserved with 15 mg/mL skim milk powder was higher (P < 0.05) than that of fresh non-preserved sperm, but did not differ among the preservation groups. The results indicate that the supplementation of Modified Modena extender with 7.5 mg/mL skim milk powder improves the motility and viability, but not the penetrating ability, of sperm after liquid preservation for at least two weeks.
Heparin binding analysis of boar sperm and its relation with farrowing capacity
Authors: Dapino Dora , Teijeiro Juan , Cane Fernando , Marini Patricia
Published: December 2013

New methods for the evaluation of semen quality according to in vivo reproductive data are useful tools for identifying boars of lower fertility among individuals with standard semen parameters. In this study, indirect fluorescence microscopy was used to evaluate the heparin binding site distribution upon capacitation of sperm from eight boars arbitrarily distributed into Groups I and II according to differential farrowing rates (Group I: ≥ 70%, Group II: < 70%). Additionally, the ability of sperm to bind to solubilised zona pellucida (ZP) was assayed in the presence or absence of heparin. Samples of two individuals of Group II showed lower percentage of B pattern in relation to other individuals (P < 0.001). The number of spermatozoa attached to ZP after 2 h of incubation in capacitating conditions with heparin was significantly lower than in its absence (P < 0.0001). These results suggest that heparin binding site distribution concerning capacitation may be indicative of the availability of proteins involved in the fertilisation process, specifically at the initial sperm—oocyte recognition. Differences in heparin binding site dynamics during capacitation may help identify a subpopulation of individuals with lower fertilising capacity and normal spermiogram, which is particularly useful at high-production establishments.
Data on the parasitological status of golden jackal (Canis aureus L., 1758) in Hungary
Authors: Takács András , Szabó László , Juhász Lajos , Takács András , Lanszki József , Takács Péter , Heltai Miklós
Published: December 2013

In Hungary, twenty Canis aureus individuals were submitted to parasitological examinations in 2010–2012. Two Coccidia: Cystoisospora canis (15%) and Toxoplasma-type oocysts (5%), one Trematoda: Alaria alata (10%), six Cestoda: Mesocestoides lineatus (20%), Echinococcus granulosus (10%), Dipylidium caninums (5%), Taenia hydatigena (15%), Taenia pisiformis (20%), Taenia crassiceps (40%), and nine Nematoda: Angiostrongylus vasorum (10%), Crenosoma vulpis (30%), Capillaria aerophila (5%), Toxocara canis (20%), Toxascaris leonina (15%), Trichuris vulpis (10%), Ancylostoma caninum (45%), Uncinaria stenocephala (40%), Capillaria plica (45%) have been identified. Angiostronglyus vasorum has been reported from carnivores in Europe, Africa, South America and North America. The helminth A. vasorum or French heartworm is a metastrongylid nematode, widely distributed in Western Europe, that infects the pulmonary arterial tree of dogs, various species of foxes, wolves, Eurasian badgers, coyotes and stoats. To our knowledge, this is the first report of natural A. vasorum infection in golden jackal.
Hová tartasz sentinelbiopszia, avagy az elmúlt 15 év gyakorlata az axilla ellátásában az Uzsoki Utcai Kórházban
Authors: Mersich Tamás , Faludi Sándor , Ping Orsolya , Jóbaházi Jenő , Szabó Balázs , Dede Kristóf , Besznyák István , Bursics Attila
Published: December 2013

Absztrakt

Bevezetés: Az 1996-ban bevezetett őrszemnyirokcsomó-biopszia technikája jelentős előrelépést jelentett az emlőrák sebészi kezelésében, csökkentve azon betegek számát, akik az axillaris nyirokcsomó-dissectio (ALND) korai és késői szövődményétől szenvednek. Összefoglalónkban a sentinelbiopszia elmúlt 15 éves európai „evolúcióját” szeretnénk bemutatni, és ehhez kapcsolódóan beszámolni a saját betegeink kezelésében történt változásokról az axilla staging tekintetében. Módszerek: A szerzők ismertetik és elemzik az őrszemnyirokcsomó-biopszia technikájával kapcsolatos irodalmat, valamint a 2001. január 1. – 2012. december 31. között végzett emlőműtétek adatait. Eredmények: Az Uzsoki Utcai Kórházban 2001 és 2013 között 3756 beteget operáltunk emlőbetegség miatt, ezek közöl 2742 műtét malignus tumor miatt történt. Összesen 744 sentinelnyirokcsomó-biopsziát végeztünk. A sentinelnyirokcsomó-biopsziát igénylő betegek aránya emelkedik, 2001–2006 között 24,6%, 2007–2012 között 29,2% volt. A sentinelbiopszia indikációs köre világszerte szélesedik, multifocalis, multilocularis daganatok, redo műtétek, férfi-emlődaganatok és terhességi emlőrák esetén is létjogosultsága lehet a technika alkalmazásának. Következtetések: A sentinel-nyirokcsomó szövettani vizsgálata és pozitivitásának hatása a komplex kezelésre és a beteg túlélésére a legújabb ismeretek szerint a sebészi axilla staginget egészen új aspektusba helyezheti a nem túl távoli jövőben.
Frequency of intraoperative cardiac arrest and medium-term survival
Authors: Sebbag Ilana , Carmona Maria Jose Carvalho , Gonzalez Maria Margarita Castro , Alcantara Hermes Marcel , Lelis Rolison Gustavo Bravo , Toledo Flavia de Oliveira , Aranha Gustavo Fabio , Nuzzi Rafael Ximenes do Prado , Auler Junior Jose Otavio Costa
Published: December 2013

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Although advances in surgical and anesthetic techniques have reduced perioperative morbidity-mortality, the survival rate following cardiac arrest remains low. The aim of this study was to evaluate, over the course of one year, the prevalence of intraoperative cardiac arrest and the 30-day survival rate after this event in a tertiary teaching hospital. DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective cohort study in a tertiary teaching hospital. METHODS: Following approval by the institutional ethics committee, anesthetic procedures and cases of intraoperative cardiac arrest between January and December 2007 were evaluated. Patients undergoing cardiac surgery were excluded. The data were gathered prospectively using the modified Utstein model, with evaluation of demographic data, pre-arrest conditions, intraoperative care, care during arrest and postoperative outcome up to the 30th day. The data were recorded by the attending anesthesiologist. RESULTS: During the study period, 40,379 anesthetic procedures were performed, and 52 cases of intraoperative cardiac arrest occurred (frequency of 13:10,000). Among these, 69% presented spontaneous return of circulation after the initial arrest, and only 25% survived for 30 days after the event. The following factors were associated with shorter survival: American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status IV and V, emergency surgery, hemorrhagic events, hypovolemia as the cause of arrest and use of atropine during resuscitation. CONCLUSIONS: Although the frequency of cardiac arrest in the surgical environment has declined and resources to attend to this exist, the survival rate is low. Factors associated with worst prognosis are more frequent in critical patients.
Sentido de Vida, Bem-Estar Psicológico e Qualidade de Vida em Professores Escolares
Authors: Damásio Bruno Figueiredo , Melo Rômulo Lustosa Pimenteira de , Silva Joilson Pereira da
Published: December 2013

O presente estudo objetivou avaliar os índices de sentido de vida (SV), de bem-estar psicológico (BEP) e de qualidade de vida (QV) em uma ampla amostra de professores escolares, e observar como o SV poderia atuar como variável moderadora da relação entre o BEP e a QV geral. Participaram do estudo 517 professores, de 57 escolas públicas e privadas da cidade de Campina Grande, Paraíba, Brasil, sendo 174 homens e 343 mulheres (idade média de 36,5 anos, DP = 10,34). Os resultados demonstraram que uma parcela significativa de profissionais apresentou índices negativos de SV, BEP e QV. Análises inferenciais apresentaram o SV como uma variável preditora tanto de BEP quanto de QV. Análises de moderação demonstraram que o BEP e a QV geral apresentam correlações distintas para sujeitos com alto e com baixo nível de SV. Reflexões para pesquisas futuras e intervenções em saúde do trabalhador são apontadas.
Experiências de Estágio: Contribuições para a Transição Universidade-Trabalho
Authors: Silva Cláudia Sampaio Corrêa da , Teixeira Marco Antônio Pereira
Published: December 2013

As experiências de formação no ensino superior são fundamentais para o desenvolvimento profissional. Este estudo teve por objetivo compreender de que forma as experiências de estágio contribuem para o desenvolvimento da adaptabilidade de carreira e para a transição entre os papéis de estudante a profissional em formandos universitários. Participaram seis formandos de um curso de Engenharia Civil, com idades entre 22 e 29 anos. Foram realizadas entrevistas semi-estruturadas individuais, posteriormente analisadas quanto ao conteúdo. Os resultados revelaram que as experiências de estágio influenciam o desenvolvimento da adaptabilidade de carreira, especialmente nas dimensões de curiosidade e confiança. Além disso, várias características dos estágios mencionadas pelos entrevistados mostraram-se relacionadas ao desenvolvimento de carreira, revelando sua importância para o processo de transição do papel de estudante para o de profissional. O artigo conclui com implicações para a prática e a pesquisa.
Graduate and Undergraduate Studies: Neighbors Without Affinity?
Authors: Menandro Paulo Rogerio Meira , Tourinho Emmanuel Zagury , Bastos Antonio Virgilio Bittencourt , Yamamoto Oswaldo Hajime
Published: December 2013

This article presents two sets of information of historical interest for Psychology: regarding the context in which the profession of psychologist was regulated, and the graduate level formation. These sets of information are used to discuss the difficulty in promoting de facto articulation between undergraduate and graduate level programs. This is an especially curious difficulty, as, since the initial phase of the organization of the Brazilian Graduate Program, the need to consider its integration with the undergraduate formation has always been highlighted. Nevertheless, some difficulties still persist with respect to this integration. Some proposals of activities that could provide articulation between the different levels of formation are presented for debate, both in the sphere of teaching and supervision, as well as in the context of research, with related activities that can serve the same purpose also being mentioned.
Parent-Infant Psychotherapy and Postpartum Depression: The Fathers Participation
Authors: Silva Milena da Rosa , Prado Luiz Carlos , Piccinini Cesar Augusto
Published: December 2013

Given the specificities of postpartum maternal depression, the literature recommends that fathers become involved in psychological interventions within this context. This study presents an investigation of the participation of fathers in parent-infant psychotherapy in the context of maternal postpartum depression. Two families participated in this study, both with a child aged between 7 and 8 months old, whose mothers showed depressive symptoms. These families participated in parent-infant psychotherapy lasting approximately 12 sessions. Analysis of the fathers’ participation in psychotherapy showed that their presence during sessions enables the therapy to address aspects of parenthood, and also reduce the feeling of mothers as being the only ones responsible for the family’s process of change. In regard to the technique, the presence of fathers during sessions allows the therapist to see and address the issues concerning mother-father-infant during sessions.
Learning Strategies and Emotional Regulation of Pedagogy Students
Authors: Bortoletto Denise , Boruchovitch Evely
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the learning strategies and emotional regulation of 298 students of private and public university teacher formation courses of a city in Minas Gerais state. The study also examined the joint contribution of emotional regulation, age group and year of the course on the learning strategies scores of the participants. The participants were of both sexes, ranging from 18 to 54 years of age and enrolled in the first to the fourth year of two universities. Data was collected using two Likert type scales for university students: one for the evaluation of learning strategies and the other for the evaluation of emotional regulation strategies. Results showed a positive, significant, moderate correlation between learning strategies and emotional regulation strategies. Emotional regulation, age range and year of the course showed a joint association with learning strategies scores. Data is discussed in terms of its psychoeducational implications.
Childhood Cancer: Meanings Attributed to the Disease by Parent Caregivers
Authors: Quintana Alberto Manuel , Wottrich Shana Hastenpflug , Camargo Valeri Pereira , Cherer Evandro de Quadros
Published: December 2013

This study aimed to comprehend the meanings that parents/caregivers of children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer attribute to their child’s disease. It is a qualitative, exploratory/descriptive study. Data were collected through group discussions and individual interviews with the parents/caregivers of children/adolescents and categorized using content analysis. The impressions of the researchers were recorded in a field diary, contributing to the data analysis. The results indicate that the disease and treatment involve periods of psychological suffering that affect the family structure. Cancer was reported as a real enemy to be fought through coping or avoidance, which generates expectations about the future and causes feelings of fear, as well as hope. It was concluded that the childhood cancer causes repercussions in the family relationships, the recognition of which can contribute to both the preparation of professional teams who work with this population, as well as the public health policies developed.
Shear behaviour of steel-fibre-reinforced concrete simply supported beams
Authors: Abbas Ali A. , Syed Mohsin Sharifah M. , Cotsovos Demetrios M. , Ruiz-Teran Ana M.
Published: December 2013

The structural behaviour of steel-fibre-reinforced concrete beams was studied using non-linear finite-element analysis and existing experimental data. The work aim was to examine the potential of using steel fibres to reduce the amount of conventional transverse steel reinforcement without compromising ductility and strength requirements set out in design codes. To achieve this, the spacing between shear links was increased while steel fibres were added as a substitute. Parametric studies were subsequently carried out and comparisons were also made with BS EN 1992-1-1 predictions. It was concluded that the addition of steel fibres enhanced the load-carrying capacity and also altered the failure mode from a brittle shear mode to a flexural ductile one. The provision of fibres also improved ductility. However, interestingly it was found that adding excessive amounts of fibres led to a less-ductile response. Overall, the study confirmed the potential for fibres to compensate for a reduction in conventional shear reinforcement.
Experimental studies on axial load performance of high-strength concrete short columns
Authors: Zhu Wei-Qing , Meng Gang , Jia Jin-Qing
Published: December 2013

This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation into the axial load performance of steel-reinforced high-strength concrete short columns. The performance of a total of ten specimens is investigated, including the failure pattern, load–strain response, compressive strength and ductility. The parameters considered in this study are stirrup and structural steel arrangements. The definition of effective strength is developed to measure the compressive strength of columns due to the sudden drop of strength at peak. The ductility of columns is characterised by the ratio of after-peak and before-peak area under the curve of the axial load plotted against axial strain. Based on the experimental research, it is found that stirrups affect ductility and residual strength of columns, but not the peak strength. Structural steel influences the peak and residual strength and ductility of columns. Ductility of columns is approximately proportional to the effective confinement index if stirrups yield after peak. The effect of structural steel on ductility is more obvious when the effective confinement index is larger.
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Hate Crimes and Suicidality Among a Population-Based Sample of Sexual-Minority Adolescents in Boston
Authors: Duncan Dustin T. , Hatzenbuehler Mark L.
Published: December 2013

Objectives. We examined whether past-year suicidality among sexual-minority adolescents was more common in neighborhoods with a higher prevalence of hate crimes targeting lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals.

Methods. Participants’ data came from a racially/ethnically diverse population-based sample of 9th- through 12th-grade public school students in Boston, Massachusetts (n = 1292). Of these, 108 (8.36%) reported a minority sexual orientation. We obtained data on LGBT hate crimes involving assaults or assaults with battery between 2005 and 2008 from the Boston Police Department and linked the data to the adolescent’s residential address.

Results. Sexual-minority youths residing in neighborhoods with higher rates of LGBT assault hate crimes were significantly more likely to report suicidal ideation (P = .013) and suicide attempts (P = .006), than were those residing in neighborhoods with lower LGBT assault hate crime rates. We observed no relationships between overall neighborhood-level violent and property crimes and suicidality among sexual-minority adolescents (P > .05), providing evidence for specificity of the results to LGBT assault hate crimes.

Conclusions. Neighborhood context (i.e., LGBT hate crimes) may contribute to sexual-orientation disparities in adolescent suicidality, highlighting potential targets for community-level suicide-prevention programs.
Analyzing Whether Countries Are Equally Efficient at Improving Longevity for Men and Women
Authors: Barthold Douglas , Nandi Arijit , Mendoza Rodríguez José M. , Heymann Jody
Published: December 2013

Objectives. We examined the efficiency of country-specific health care spending in improving life expectancies for men and women.

Methods. We estimated efficiencies of health care spending for 27 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries during the period 1991 to 2007 using multivariable regression models, including country fixed-effects and controlling for time-varying levels of national social expenditures, economic development, and health behaviors.

Results. Findings indicated robust differences in health-spending efficiency. A 1% annual increase in health expenditures was associated with percent changes in life expectancy ranging from 0.020 in the United States (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.008, 0.032) to 0.121 in Germany (95% CI = 0.099, 0.143). Health-spending increases were associated with greater life expectancy improvements for men than for women in nearly every OECD country.

Conclusions. This is the first study to our knowledge to estimate the effect of country-specific health expenditures on life expectancies of men and women. Future work understanding the determinants of these differences has the potential to improve the overall efficiency and equity of national health systems.
Using Organizational Network Analysis to Plan Cancer Screening Programs for Vulnerable Populations
Authors: Lobb Rebecca , Carothers Bobbi J. , Lofters Aisha K.
Published: December 2013

Objectives. We examined relationships among organizations in a cancer screening network to inform the development of interventions to improve cancer screening for South Asians living in the Peel region of Ontario.

Methods. From April to July 2012, we surveyed decision-makers, program managers, and program staff in 22 organizations in the South Asian cancer screening network in the Peel region. We used a network analytic approach to evaluate density (range = 0%–100%, number of ties among organizations in the network expressed as a percentage of all possible ties), centralization (range = 0–1, the extent of variability in centrality), and node characteristics for the communication, collaboration, and referral networks.

Results. Density was similar across communication (15%), collaboration (17%), and referral (19%) networks. Centralization was greater in the collaboration network (0.30) than the communication network (0.24), and degree centralization was greater in the inbound (0.42) than the outbound (0.37) referral network. Diverse organizations were central to the networks.

Conclusions. Certain organizations were unexpectedly important to the South Asian cancer screening network. Program planning was informed by identifying opportunities to strengthen linkages between key organizations and to leverage existing ties.
Raising Sexual Minority Youths’ Health Levels by Incorporating Resiliencies Into Health Promotion Efforts
Authors: Herrick Amy L. , Egan James E. , Coulter Robert W. S. , Friedman M. Reuel , Stall Ron
Published: December 2013

Myriad health inequities that sexual minority youths (SMYs) experience have been documented over the past several decades. Evidence demonstrates that these are not a result of intrinsic characteristics; rather, they result from high levels of adversity that SMYs experience. Despite the pervasive marginalization that SMYs face, there is also evidence of great resilience within this population. It seems likely that if a culture of marginalization produces health inequities in SMYs, a culture of acceptance and integration can work to produce resiliencies.

We have described how promoting forms of acceptance and integration could work to promote resilient SMYs despite an overarching culture of marginalization.

Building on SMYs’ resiliencies may potentiate the effectiveness of health promotion interventions to reduce health disparities within this population.
Sexual Orientation Disparities in Papanicolaou Test Use Among US Women: The Role of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services
Authors: Agénor Madina , Krieger Nancy , Austin S. Bryn , Haneuse Sebastien , Gottlieb Barbara R.
Published: December 2013

We investigated sexual orientation disparities in Papanicolaou screening among US women aged 21 to 44 years (n = 9581) in the 2006 to 2010 National Survey of Family Growth. The odds ratios for lesbian versus heterosexual women and women with no versus only male sexual partners were 0.40 and 0.32, respectively, and were attenuated after adjustment for sexual and reproductive health (SRH) care indicators. Administering Papanicolaou tests through mechanisms other than SRH services would promote cervical cancer screening among all women.
Military Sexual Trauma Among US Servicewomen During Deployment: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Burns Bridgit , Grindlay Kate , Holt Kelsey , Manski Ruth , Grossman Daniel
Published: December 2013

Objectives. We explored qualitatively US servicewomen’s experiences with and perceptions of military sexual trauma (MST), reporting, and related services.

Methods. From May 2011 to January 2012, we conducted 22 telephone interviews with US servicewomen deployed overseas between 2002 and 2011. We analyzed data thematically with modified grounded theory methods.

Results. Factors identified as contributing to MST included deployment dynamics, military culture, and lack of consequences for perpetrators. Participants attributed low MST reporting to negative reactions and blame from peers and supervisors, concerns about confidentiality, and stigma. Unit cohesion was cited as both a facilitator and a barrier to reporting. Availability and awareness of MST services during deployment varied. Barriers to care seeking were similar to reporting barriers and included confidentiality concerns and stigma. We identified several avenues to address MST, including strengthening consequences for perpetrators.

Conclusions. We identified barriers to MST reporting and services. Better understanding of these issues will allow policymakers to improve MST prevention and services.
Exploring Alcohol-Use Behaviors Among Heterosexual and Sexual Minority Adolescents: Intersections With Sex, Age, and Race/Ethnicity
Authors: Talley Amelia E. , Hughes Tonda L. , Aranda Frances , Birkett Michelle , Marshal Michael P.
Published: December 2013

Objectives. We examined sexual orientation status differences in alcohol use among youths aged 13 to 18 years or older, and whether differences were moderated by sex, age, or race/ethnicity.

Methods. We pooled data from the 2005 and 2007 Youth Risk Behavior Surveys and conducted weighted analyses, adjusting for complex design effects. We operationalized sexual orientation status with items assessing sexual orientation identity, sexual behavior, sexual attraction, or combinations of these.

Results. Compared with exclusively heterosexual youths, sexual-minority youths were more likely to report each of the primary study outcomes (i.e., lifetime and past-month alcohol use, past-month heavy episodic drinking, earlier onset of drinking, and more frequent past-month drinking). Alcohol-use disparities were larger and more robust for (1) bisexual youths than lesbian or gay youths, (2) girls than boys, and (3) younger than older youths. Few differences in outcomes were moderated by race/ethnicity.

Conclusions. Bisexual youths, sexual-minority girls, and younger sexual-minority youths showed the largest alcohol-use disparities. Research is needed that focuses on identifying explanatory or mediating mechanisms, psychiatric or mental health comorbidities, and long-term consequences of early onset alcohol use, particularly frequent or heavy use, among sexual-minority youths.
Behavioral Adaptation and Late-Life Disability: A New Spectrum for Assessing Public Health Impacts
Authors: Freedman Vicki A. , Kasper Judith D. , Spillman Brenda C. , Agree Emily M. , Mor Vincent , Wallace Robert B. , Wolf Douglas A.
Published: December 2013

Objectives. To inform public health efforts to promote independent functioning among older adults, we have provided new national estimates of late-life disability that explicitly recognize behavioral adaptations.

Methods. We analyzed the 2011 National Health and Aging Trends Study, a study of Medicare enrollees aged 65 years and older (n = 8077). For 7 mobility and self-care activities we identified 5 hierarchical stages—fully able, successful accommodation with devices, activity reduction, difficulty despite accommodations, and receipt of help—and explored disparities and associations with quality of life measures.

Results. Among older adults, 31% were fully able to complete self-care and mobility activities. The remaining groups successfully accommodated with devices (25%), reduced their activities (6%), reported difficulty despite accommodations (18%), or received help (21%). With successive stages, physical and cognitive capacity decreased and symptoms and multimorbidity increased. Successful accommodation was associated with maintaining participation in valued activities and high well-being, but substantial disparities by race, ethnicity, and income existed.

Conclusions. Increased public health attention to behavioral adaptations to functional change can promote independence for older adults and may enhance quality of life.