bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Relationship Between Classical Test Theory and Item Response Theory
Authors: Raykov Tenko , Marcoulides George A.
Published: April 2015

The frequently neglected and often misunderstood relationship between classical test theory and item response theory is discussed for the unidimensional case with binary measures and no guessing. It is pointed out that popular item response models can be directly obtained from classical test theory-based models by accounting for the discrete nature of the observed items. Two distinct observational equivalence approaches are outlined that render the item response models from corresponding classical test theory-based models, and can each be used to obtain the former from the latter models. Similarly, classical test theory models can be furnished using the reverse application of either of those approaches from corresponding item response models.
Communication of a schizophrenia diagnosis: A qualitative study of patients’ perspectives
Authors: Loughland Carmel , Cheng Kylie , Harris Gillian , Kelly Brian , Cohen Martin , Sandhu Harsimrat , Varmos Marina , Levin Tomer T , Bylund Carma , Landa Yulia , Outram Sue
Published: April 2015

Background:

Transparent diagnostic communication is considered best practice for clinicians. However, while patients expect to receive a schizophrenia diagnosis from their psychiatrist, research suggests mental health clinicians are often reluctant to provide this information to patients.

Aim:

This study examines the perceptions of people with schizophrenia surrounding the communication of this diagnosis.

Methods:

A generic qualitative methodological approach was used. A total of 14 patients with schizophrenia were recruited through community mental health services ( n = 10) and the Australia Schizophrenia Research Bank (ASRB; n = 4) in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Semi-structured interviews were used to explore the experiences and perceptions of people with schizophrenia about the way a schizophrenia diagnosis was communicated by mental health clinicians. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, codes generated and thematic analysis undertaken aided by NVivo.

Results:

The majority of participants felt it was beneficial to receive a diagnosis despite acknowledging the distress this information sometimes caused, with many reporting this knowledge gave a sense of relief. It helped to understand their experiences and behaviours, improved their trust in the psychiatric system and increased treatment adherence. However, many reported difficulty in obtaining information about their condition, its treatment and prognosis, and expressed dissatisfaction with the way a diagnosis of schizophrenia was communicated.

Discussion:

Insight into the perceptions and experiences of patients with schizophrenia about how a diagnosis of schizophrenia is communicated is a key outcome of this research. This knowledge will inform the development of future training programmes for mental health clinicians, and influence the clinical practice of health professionals treating patients with schizophrenia.
Teaching the African American Experience
Authors: Shafer Gregory
Published: April 2015

In choosing to teach African American literature at my community college, I learned a great deal about a topic for which I thought I was well prepared. As a whole, the semester became a learning experience for the entire class, as we realized that much of the past—its racism and issues of identity—are still lingering with us today and that many of us share a poignant connection to Phillis Wheatley.
Questioning Ethnic Identity
Authors: van Bochove Marianne , Burgers Jack , Geurts Amber , de Koster Willem , van der Waal Jeroen
Published: April 2015

Although studies on ethnicity-of-interviewer effects demonstrate that the interviewer’s ethnic background influences respondents’ answers, they often do not take the multifaceted nature and context-dependency of ethnic identifications into account. We aim to contribute to the literature in two respects. First, we discern two aspects of ethnic identification—defining oneself as being ethnic and expressing feelings of belonging to ethnic groups—of which the latter is expected to be more sensitive to interviewer effects. Second, we compare three, instead of two, interview situations—being interviewed by (a) a majority member, (b) a co-ethnic, and (c) a non-co-ethnic minority member—as to empirically scrutinize the scope of interviewer effects while disentangling whether they are cross-ethnically accommodating (respondents stress their similarities with the non-co-ethnic interviewer) or ethnically affirming (respondents emphasize their own ethnic identity). Our hypotheses are tested on a sample of 225 Surinamese, Turkish, and Moroccan immigrants in the Netherlands. As expected, no interviewer effects occur regarding being ethnic. Regarding feeling ethnic, however, respondents’ identifications in the interviewer situation with a majority member vis-à-vis those in both other situations reveal an accommodating interviewer effect.
Cross-Cultural Differences in Desirable and Undesirable Forms of Self-Consistency and Influence on Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
Authors: Gage Emily , Coker Sian , Jobson Laura
Published: April 2015

This study investigated how cross-cultural differences in desirable and undesirable forms of self-consistency influence symptoms of anxiety and depression. British ( n = 172) and East Asian ( n = 122) participants completed measures of self-consistency (situation-specific self-description task) and depression and anxiety (Hopkins Symptom Checklist–25). British participants had significantly higher overall self-consistency when compared with East Asian participants. British participants also scored significantly higher than East Asian participants in relation to consistently endorsing desirable self-characteristics. In contrast, East Asian participants scored significantly higher in terms of consistently endorsing undesirable self-characteristics than British participants. Finally, in both cultural groups, consistently denying undesirable characteristics was significantly associated with fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety, while consistently endorsing undesirable characteristics was significantly associated with greater symptoms of depression and anxiety. The findings highlight the importance of self-concept content as well as structure when exploring relationships between self-concept and psychological adjustment.
Mouse models of metabolic liver injury
Authors: Ramadori P , Weiskirchen R , Trebicka J , Streetz K
Published: April 2015

Metabolic liver injury is one of the fastest growing health problems worldwide. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic fatty livers have been shown to be associated with progression to end-stage liver diseases, as well as to liver cancers, in humans. More importantly, there are no validated therapies for these disorders, therefore intensive research is required in this area. This review of standard operation procedures focuses on the experimental models of fatty liver disease in the mouse. Firstly, use of these experimental models might improve understanding of underlying mechanisms, and secondly this might help to test potential therapeutic options. This article includes, besides a short historic background, an insight into the pathobiochemical mechanisms and detailed experimental procedures as well as the practical implementation of these models.
The concanavalin A model of acute hepatitis in mice
Authors: Heymann F , Hamesch K , Weiskirchen R , Tacke F
Published: April 2015

The intravenous injection of the plant lectin concanavalin A (ConA) is a widely used model for acute immune-mediated hepatitis in mice. In contrast to several other models for acute hepatic damage, ConA-induced injury is primarily driven by the activation and recruitment of T cells to the liver. Hence, the ConA model has unique features with respect to its pathogenesis and important similarities to immune-mediated hepatitis in humans, such as autoimmune hepatitis, acute viral hepatitis or distinct entities of drug toxicity leading to immune activation. However, the ConA model has considerable variability, depending on the preparation of the compound, genetic background of the mice, sex, age and microbial environment of the animal facility barrier. This standard operating procedure (SOP) comprises a detailed protocol for the ConA application, including preparation of ConA working solution, handling of the animals, choice of the appropriate conditions and endpoints, as well as efficient dose-finding.
Standard Operating Procedures in Experimental Liver Research: Thioacetamide model in mice and rats
Authors: Wallace MC , Hamesch K , Lunova M , Kim Y , Weiskirchen R , Strnad P , Friedman SL
Published: April 2015

In addition to carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), thioacetamide (TAA) represents a second widely used model for the induction of experimental liver fibrosis, but can also be employed for the development of acute liver failure and liver tumours. While TAA itself is not hepatotoxic, its reactive metabolites covalently bind to proteins and lipids thereby causing oxidative stress and centrilobular necrosis. Compared with CCl4, TAA leads to more periportal infiltrates and more pronounced ductal proliferation. While TAA has been shown to induce liver fibrosis development in several different mouse strains, wide variations in the administration routes, doses and treatment durations have been reported. Therefore, an adoption of a universal standard operating procedure for the administration of TAA is urgently needed. For that purpose, we are presenting here two TAA models (intraperitoneal administration of 150 mg/kg of TAA three times per week for 11 weeks in rats, and TAA administration in drinking water at 300 mg/L for 2–4 months in mice) with which we have had success in reliably and reproducibly developing chronic liver injury and fibrosis.
Solar cell model: a bond graph approach
Authors: Tapia-Sánchez R , Medina-Rios A , Villa-Villaseñor N
Published: April 2015

A solar cell model that combines the photovoltaic and electro-thermal processes is proposed. The bond graph methodology is used as a reference frame, allowing the representation of the whole structure in a unified approach. The solar cell structure is modeled as a three-dimensional object allowing observation of a nonuniform solar radiation on the surface. Subsequently, the proposed model is used in the solar cell design.
Composite and Loose Concepts, Historical Analogies, and the Logic of Control in Comparative Historical Analysis
Authors: Møller Jørgen
Published: April 2015

The use of controlled comparisons pervades comparative historical analysis. Heated debates have surrounded the methodological purchase of such comparisons. However, the quality and validity of the conceptual building blocks on which the comparisons are based have largely been ignored. This article discusses a particular problem pertaining to these issues, that is, the danger of creating false historical analogies that do not serve to control for relevant explanatory factors. It is argued that this danger increases when we use composite (thick) concepts that are aggregated via a (loose) family resemblance logic. It is demonstrated that this problem seriously affects the way the concept of feudalism has entered comparative historical analysis. On this basis, an alternative conceptual strategy—centered on teasing out the core attributes of thick and loose concepts—is proposed.
Towards a broad-based innovation policy in the UK: Can design help?
Authors: Payne Jonathan
Published: April 2015

UK innovation policy has focused upon scientific and technological innovations, overlooking the workplace and potential contribution of employees. While other countries have developed workplace innovation programmes to address this challenge, the UK remains a laggard. In Scotland, however, ‘skills utilisation’ has received policy attention, with pilot projects exploring how to help organisations make better use of employees’ capabilities. One project, Creating Cultures of Innovation, explores the role of design. This article considers the lessons which are emerging, and asks whether design might contribute to a broad-based innovation policy that brings the workplace back in.
Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcus Immunology
Authors: Walls Andrew , Cubangbang Maricel , Wang Hongkun , Raiji Manish , Knight Josh , Steehler Matthew , Latimer Elizabeth , Harley Earl H.
Published: April 2015

Objective

To elucidate specific cytokine and chemokine markers in patients diagnosed with pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with streptococcus (PANDAS).

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Study setting

Academic university hospital.

Methods

Tonsil tissue was collected from 24 patients and organized into 3 groups: experimental PANDAS cohort (12 patients), group A beta hemolytic streptococcus control cohort (6 patients), and obstructive sleep apnea control cohort (6 patients). Each tissue sample was extracted with MSD Tris lysis buffer, and protein lysates were analyzed for human chemokines and cytokines by the Human Cytokine 30‐Plex Assay on the Mesoscale System.

Results

We identified a significant difference in expression regarding the 8 following cytokines when comparing the experimental PANDAS, group A beta hemolytic streptococcus, and obstructive sleep apnea control cohorts: tumor necrosis factor–α and eotaxin‐3. In addition, our group also identified a significant reduction in the expression of interleukin (IL)–8, interferon inducible protein–10, IL‐17a, interferon‐γ, IL‐10, and IL‐12 across the aforementioned groups.

Conclusions

Patients diagnosed with PANDAS appear to maintain significantly different concentrations of cytokines when compared with patients afflicted by chronic group A beta hemolytic streptococcus infections and obstructive sleep apnea. As a result, one could potentially use the described characterization of immunologic markers as a basis for future mechanistic and epidemiological studies.
Reconciling cultural technologies, chronologies, and the rising tide at Fishing Bay, Maryland
Authors: Jansen Alex , Rick Torben , Lowery Darrin
Published: April 2015

The archaeological record of the Middle Atlantic and Chesapeake Bay spans some 13,000 years and provides insight into a variety of cultural and environmental issues in eastern North America. In this article, we present an analysis of a diverse assemblage of stone, ceramic, and bone artifacts recovered from a series of radiocarbon (14C) dated Middle and Late Woodland shell middens on Fishing Bay, Maryland. Our analysis documents the technologies Native Americans used at Chesapeake Bay shell middens, illustrates congruence between 14C dates on eastern oyster ( Crassostrea virginica) shell and associated artifacts technologies, and highlights the challenges posed by marine transgression for documenting and interpreting prehistory. Our work demonstrates the ways in which artifact analysis and 14C dating can improve archaeological interpretation of the antiquity, diversity, and evolution of human occupation of coastal archaeological sites.
Utility of the transcervical approach in bilateral synchronous lung cancer
Authors: Obiols Carme , Call Sergi , Rami-Porta Ramón , Trujillo-Reyes Juan Carlos
Published: April 2015

Bilateral pulmonary nodules represent a challenge in distinguishing between synchronous bronchogenic carcinomas and metastatic disease. In the case of potentially curable synchronous lung cancer, it is recommended to treat each lesion with curative intent if there is no evidence of mediastinal involvement or extrathoracic disease. In this situation, surgical staging of the mediastinum is recommended. This case shows the utility of a transcervical approach to perform precise mediastinal staging and lymphadenectomy, and to access the pleural cavity to resect a pulmonary nodule. Moreover, video-assisted mediastinoscopic lymphadenectomy combined with video-assisted lobectomy could be a good option for a radical lymphadenectomy.
Splitting blood and blood product packaging reduces donor exposure for patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Nuszkowski MM , Jonas RA , Zurakowski D , Deutsch N
Published: April 2015

Background:

Cardiopulmonary bypass for congenital heart surgery requires packed red cells (PRBC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to be available, both for priming of the circuit as well as to replace blood loss. This study examines the hypothesis that splitting one unit of packed red blood cells and one unit of fresh frozen plasma into two half units reduces blood product exposure and wastage in the Operating Room.

Methods:

Beginning August 2013, the blood bank at Children’s National Medical Center began splitting one unit of packed red blood cells (PRBC) and one unit of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) for patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The 283 patients who utilized CPB during calendar year 2013 were divided into 2 study groups: before the split and after the split. The principal endpoints were blood product usage and donor exposure intra-operatively and within 72 hours post-operatively.

Results:

There was a significant decrease in median total donor exposures for FFP and cryoprecipitate from 5 to 4 per case (p = 0.007, Mann-Whitney U-test). However, there was no difference in the volume of blood and blood products used; in fact, there was a significant increase in the amount of FFP that was wasted with the switch to splitting the unit of FFP.

Conclusions:

We found that modification of blood product packaging can decrease donor exposure. Future investigation is needed as to how to modify packaging to minimize wastage.
Neck and shoulder muscle strength in patients with tension-type headache: A case-control study
Authors: Madsen Bjarne K , Søgaard Karen , Andersen Lars L , Skotte Jørgen H , Jensen Rigmor H
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Tension-type headache (TTH) is highly prevalent in the general population, and it is characterized by increased muscle tenderness with increasing headache frequency and intensity.

Aim

The aim of this case-control study was to compare muscle strength in neck and shoulder muscles in TTH patients and healthy controls by examining maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) during shoulder abduction, neck flexion and extension as well as the extension/flexion strength ratio of the neck.

Methods

Sixty TTH patients and 30 sex- and age-matched healthy controls were included. Patients were included if they had TTH ≥8 days per month. The MVC neck extensor and flexor muscles were tested with the participant seated upright. MVC shoulder abduction was tested with the individual lying supine.

Results

Compared to controls TTH patients had significantly weaker muscle strength in neck extension ( p = 0.02), resulting in a significantly lower extension/flexion moment ratio ( p = 0.03). TTH patients also showed a tendency toward significantly lower muscle strength in shoulder abduction ( p = 0.05). Among the 60 TTH patients, 25 had frequent episodic TTH (FETTH), and 35 had chronic TTH (CTTH).

Conclusion

Patients with TTH exhibited decreased muscle strength in the neck extensor muscles, inducing a reduced cervical extension/flexion ratio compared to healthy people.
Two-Year Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair in Recreational Athletes Older Than 70 Years
Authors: Bhatia Sanjeev , Greenspoon Joshua A. , Horan Marilee P. , Warth Ryan J. , Millett Peter J.
Published: April 2015

Background:

Outcomes after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair in recreational athletes older than 70 years are not widely reported.

Purpose:

To evaluate clinical outcomes after arthroscopic repair of full-thickness rotator cuff tears in recreational athletes aged 70 years or older.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Institutional review board approval was obtained before initiation of this study. Data were collected prospectively and were retrospectively reviewed. From December 2005 to August 2012, patients who were at least 70 years of age, who described themselves as recreational athletes, and who underwent a primary or revision arthroscopic repair of full-thickness supraspinatus tears by a single surgeon were identified from a surgical registry. Demographic data, surgical data, and the following pre- and postoperative clinical outcomes scores were collected: American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), Short Form–12 Physical Component Summary (SF-12 PCS), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE). Acromiohumeral distance and Goutallier classifications were recorded. Patient satisfaction (range, 1-10, 10 = best) and reasons for activity modification were collected at final follow-up.

Results:

Forty-nine shoulders (44 patients) were included. The mean age was 73 years (range, 70-82 years). There were 33 men and 11 women (5 bilateral). The mean preoperative acromiohumeral distance was 9.2 mm (range, 3.0-15.9 mm). All patients had Goutallier classifications of 0, 1, or 2. Mean follow-up was 3.6 years (range, 2.0-6.9 years) in 43 of 49 (88%) shoulders. No rotator cuff repairs were revised, however, 1 patient had surgical treatment for stiffness. All postoperative outcomes measures demonstrated significant improvements when compared with their preoperative baselines. The mean ASES score was 90.3 (range, 60-100), the mean SANE score was 85.1 (range, 29-100), the mean QuickDASH score was 11.3 (0-50), and the mean SF-12 PCS score was 51.6 (range, 38-58) with a median patient satisfaction of 10 (range, 1-10). Patients who modified their recreational activities due to postoperative weakness were significantly less satisfied ( P = .018). In this study, 24 of 31 (77%) who responded were able to return to their sport at a similar level of intensity.

Conclusion:

Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair was highly effective at reducing pain, improving function, and returning patients to sport in recreational athletes 70 years of age and older.
Twilight Dominates Over Moonlight in Adjusting Drosophila’s Activity Pattern
Authors: Schlichting Matthias , Grebler Rudi , Menegazzi Pamela , Helfrich-Förster Charlotte
Published: April 2015

Light is the most important zeitgeber for the synchronization of the Drosophila melanogaster circadian clock. In nature, there is twilight, and the nights are rarely completely dark, a fact that is usually disregarded in lab experiments. Recent studies showed contrary effects of simulated twilight and moonlight on fly locomotor activity, with twilight shifting morning and evening activity into the day and moonlight shifting it into the night. A currently unanswered question is, what may happen to locomotor activity when flies are exposed to more natural conditions in which both moonlight and twilight are simulated? Our data demonstrate that flies are able to integrate twilight and moonlight. However, twilight seems to dominate over moonlight as both, morning and evening activity peaks, take place at dawn or at dusk, respectively, and not during the night. Furthermore, nocturnal activity decreases in the presence of twilight. The compound eyes are essential for this behavior, and by investigating different photoreceptor mutants, we unraveled the importance of photoreceptor cells 7 and 8 for wild-type phases of the activity peaks. To adjust nocturnal activity levels to a wild-type manner, all photoreceptor cells work together in a complex way, with rhodopsin 6 having a prominent role.
At-Sea Trial of 24-h-Based Submarine Watchstanding Schedules with High and Low Correlated Color Temperature Light Sources
Authors: Young Colin R. , Jones Geoffrey E. , Figueiro Mariana G. , Soutière Shawn E. , Keller Matthew W. , Richardson Annely M. , Lehmann Benjamin J. , Rea Mark S.
Published: April 2015

United States Navy submariners have historically lived with circadian disruption while at sea due to 18-h-based watchschedules. Previous research demonstrated that circadian entrainment improved with 24-h-based watchschedules. Twenty-nine male crew members participated in the study, which took place on an actual submarine patrol. The crew were exposed, first, to experimental high correlated color temperature (CCT = 13,500 K) fluorescent light sources and then to standard-issue fluorescent light sources (CCT = 4100 K). A variety of outcome measures were employed to determine if higher levels of circadian-effective light during on-watch times would further promote behavioral alignment to 24-h-based watchschedules. The high CCT light source produced significantly higher circadian light exposures than the low CCT light source, which was associated with significantly greater 24-h behavioral alignment with work schedules using phasor analysis, greater levels of sleep efficiency measured with wrist actigraphy, lower levels of subjective sleepiness measured with the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale, and higher nighttime melatonin concentrations measured by morning urinary 6-sulfatoxymelatonin/creatinine ratios. Unlike these diverse outcome measures, performance scores were significantly worse under the high CCT light source than under the low CCT light source, due to practice effects. As hypothesized, with the exception of the performance scores, all of the data converge to suggest that high CCT light sources, combined with 24-h watchschedules, promote better behavioral alignment with work schedules and greater sleep quality on submarines. Since the order and the type of light sources were confounded in this field study, the results should only be considered as consistent with our theoretical understanding of how regular, 24-h light-dark exposures combined with high circadian light exposures can promote greater behavioral alignment with work schedules and with sleep.
New structures for challenges in healthcare management
Authors: Miners Christine , Hundert Mark , Lash Rick
Published: April 2015

Government initiatives aimed at improving the healthcare available to Canadians pose a significant challenge to leaders responsible for developing and implementing strategies to translate these initiatives into reality. This article presents a new approach to management structures and processes designed to address this challenge. The approach includes new senior leadership skills focusing on collaboration and influence, functional rather than hierarchical teams, and clarity in team mandates and team empowerment to facilitate achievement of expectations.
The Acute Management of Sport Concussion in Pediatric Athletes
Authors: Resch Jacob E. , Kutcher Jeffrey S.
Published: April 2015

During the past two decades the focus on sport concussion has increased significantly. Young athletes represent the most vulnerable population to sustain a sport concussion yet receive the least amount of attention. Specifically, young athletes who sustain a sport concussion can go unrecognized and continue to participate in sport putting them at an increased risk for a more significant injury. The purpose of this review is to provide a clinical framework for the evaluation and management of sport concussion. In addition, this review provides considerations for health care professionals in regard to clinical measures and follow-up strategies during the acute phase following concussion in young concussed athletes following injury.
Bilayer electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol)–gelatin mat and biphasic calcium phosphate–pectin–gelatin hydrogel for application in bone hemorrhage
Authors: Linh Nguyen Thuy Ba , Padalhin Andrew R , Lee Byung-Yeol , Lee Byong-Taek
Published: April 2015

A bilayer composite scaffold consisting of a biphasic calcium phosphate–pectin–gelatin hydrogel and an electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol)–gelatin matrix was developed and investigated for application in bone hemorrhage. The aim of this research is to develop a new biomaterial system that provides a hemostatic effect on bone hemorrhage and does not interfere with native bone regeneration. The role of electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol)–gelatin in scaffolds is to provide the covering of the wound, while encapsulation and absorption of red blood cells are attributed to the biphasic calcium phosphate–pectin–gelatin hydrogel. Cell viability and cell proliferation were assessed by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, Live/Dead assay, and immunofluorescence assay using pre-osteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells. The effects with and without hemostatic bilayer scaffolds on rat calvaria were compared at 1 and 3 weeks. The hemostatic bilayer agent showed good blood absorption behavior and efficient bone healing properties after 3 weeks, as observed by micro-computed tomography and hematoxylin and eosin staining.
A Community Health Clinic Breastfeeding-Friendly Pilot
Authors: Johnson Donna B. , Lamson Erica , Schwartz Rachel , Goldhammer Camie , Ellings Amy
Published: April 2015

Background:

Implementing evidence-based practices and policies for breastfeeding support in community clinics is a promising, but challenging, approach to reducing disparities in breastfeeding rates.

Objective:

This study aimed to apply a policy process research framework to increase knowledge of factors that facilitate adoption and implementation of breastfeeding policy changes.

Methods:

In 2013, Washington State piloted a process to encourage 8 clinics to adopt and implement steps to become breastfeeding friendly. Evaluation data were collected through interviews, project reports, training evaluations, and pre– and post–self-assessments of achievement of the steps.

Results:

In 6 months, clinics increased the breastfeeding-friendly steps that they were implementing from a median (interquartile range) of 1.5 (0-3) to 6 (5-7). Improvements were most likely in the steps that required the fewest resources and administrative changes. Barriers to implementation included misperceptions about breastfeeding and breastfeeding support; lack of administrative “buy-in”; need for organizational changes to accommodate actions like monitoring breastfeeding rates and allowing providers training time; and the social-political climate of the clinic. Several factors, including actions taken by public health practitioners, enhanced the change process. These included fostering supportive relationships, targeting technical assistance, and providing resources for planning and training.

Conclusion:

This pilot project demonstrates that it is possible to make changes in breastfeeding support practices and policies in community clinics. Recommendations to enhance future work include framing and marketing breastfeeding support in ways that resonate with clinic decision makers and enhancing training, resources, and advocacy to build capacity for internal and external systems changes to support breastfeeding best practices.
Control of morphology and electromagnetic properties of polypyrrole synthesized by the template method
Authors: Li Yanbin , Jiang Yanman , Hu Shuchun , Zhang Xiandi , Zhai Jing , Han Hongchuan , Xiao Da , Liu Pengfei
Published: April 2015

This article presents a contribution to a better understanding of the effects of pH value on the morphology, conductivity, and reflection loss of polypyrrole (PPy) prepared at different pH values using indigo carmine (IC) as the synthesis template. The results indicate that the morphology of PPy changes from spiral rods to nonspiral rods, then to particles, which is attributed to the gradual morphological change of IC micelle templates from prismatic structure to rugby-like structure, and finally to spherical structure. Further study demonstrates that the conductivity of PPy decreases with the gradual decrease of the pH value, as a result of gradually increased contact resistance and the degree of electron delocalization. With the decrease of the pH value, the maximum reflection loss of PPy gradually increases and the corresponding loss peak moves to higher frequency points simultaneously.
Nonlinear analysis of rotor system supported by oil lubricated bearings subjected to base movements
Authors: Wang Rui , Guo Xinglin , Wang Yuefang
Published: April 2015

Response analysis of rotor system subjected to the base movements in a large rotational machinery is a complex high-dimensional nonlinear problem. In this paper, rotor system of a centrifugal pump with a pair of oil lubricated bearings is modeled as a six-degrees-of-freedom nonlinear system by the Lagrange method. The Runge–Kutta–Felburg method with variable step size is applied to solve the equations based both on nonlinear bearing model and on linearized bearing model. Poincaré maps, phase trajectories, bifurcation diagrams, and cascade diagrams are used to illustrate the dynamics of the rotor with the two bearing models. The responses of these two kinds of systems under El Centro seismic wave are obtained. The acceleration data of the seismic wave are used as the input of base movements. The short bearing model is applied to express the nonlinear oil film force. Compared to the system with model of linearized bearing, the nonlinear bearing–rotor system can accurately reflect the dynamics of the system. Furthermore, trigonometric functions are employed to express the base movements, and the responses of nonlinear bearing–rotor system subject to the base movements are obtained. The fast Fourier transform is used to analyze the nonlinear bearing–rotor system with effects of the base movements. The results reveal not only the dynamic behavior of the rotor of the centrifugal pump supported by two nonlinear bearings, but also the responses of the nonlinear bearing–rotor system with the combined effects of centrifugal force and base movements.
Neural network algorithm for evaluating wind velocity from pressure measurements performed on a train’s surface
Authors: Cheli Federico , Rocchi Daniele , Schito Paolo , Tomasini Gisella
Published: April 2015

Starting from the knowledge of flush air data-sensing systems developed in the aerospace field, a system able to evaluate the crosswind velocity (absolute and angle) from pressure measurements performed on a train’s surface has been studied and developed. The crosswind evaluation algorithm is based on a neural network and is created and tested using pressure measurements carried out during wind tunnel tests on a scale-model of a railway vehicle. The number and positions of pressure taps on the surface of the train’s leading car are optimized, in terms of the sensitivity and robustness of the measurement system. The system is calibrated and validated using steady and quasi-steady wind tunnel tests on a scale model of a train. The designed neural network gives a maximum error of about 1 m/s for the modulus and 1° for the angle of the relative velocity.
State augmentation-based iterated divided difference filtering
Authors: Liu Meihong , Zhan Xingqun , Li Wei
Published: April 2015

Due to the drawbacks in the two typical iterated divided difference filters with additive measurement noise, a state augmentation-based iterated divided difference filter (SIDDF) is proposed in this paper. In each iterated step of the measurement updates of the SIDDF, the state is firstly augmented with the measurement noise and then propagated using the same measurement update steps as the traditional divided difference filter, which made the state statistically independent of the measurement noise in the iterated steps. This filter approach is then applied to a benchmark problem of estimating the trajectory of an entry body from discrete-time noisy range data measured by a radar system. Simulation results show that the proposed filter algorithm can produce better estimation results than those of the previous filter algorithms.
SAS doctors career progression survey 2013
Authors: Oroz Carlos , Sands Lorna R , Lee John
Published: April 2015

We conducted a national survey of Staff, Associate Specialists and Specialty (SAS) doctors working in sexual health clinics in the UK in 2013 in order to explore their career progression. The aim of the survey was to assess SAS doctors’ experience in passing through the thresholds and to gather information about the adherence by SAS doctors and employers to the terms and conditions of service laid out by the new 2008 contract. Out of 185 responders, whom the authors estimate comprise 34% of the total workforce, 159 were on the new contract. Of those, most SAS doctors were women (84%), the majority (67%) worked less than nine programmed activities per week; only a few had intentions to join the consultant grade (15%), and a considerable minority (26%) were older than 54 years of age and likely to retire in the next ten years. The survey showed that most participating SAS doctors had undergone appraisal in the previous 15 months (90%), most had a job planning discussion (83%) with their employer and most had some allocated time for supporting professional activities (86%). However, a significant minority had no appraisal (10%), no job planning discussion (17%) and had no allocated supporting professional activities (14%), which allows time for career development in the specialty. Most SAS doctors, who had the opportunity, had progressed through the thresholds automatically (88%); some experienced difficulties in passing (8%) and only a few did not pass (4%). SAS doctors must ensure that they work together with their employer in order to improve adherence to the terms and conditions of service of the contract, which allow for career progression and benefit both the individual doctors and ultimately service provision.
Color Is Processed Less Efficiently Than Orientation in Change Detection but More Efficiently in Visual Search
Authors: Huang Liqiang
Published: April 2015

Basic visual features (e.g., color, orientation) are assumed to be processed in the same general way across different visual tasks. Here, a significant deviation from this assumption was predicted on the basis of the analysis of stimulus spatial structure, as characterized by the Boolean-map notion. If a task requires memorizing the orientations of a set of bars, then the map consisting of those bars can be readily used to hold the overall structure in memory and will thus be especially useful. If the task requires visual search for a target, then the map, which contains only an overall structure, will be of little use. Supporting these predictions, the present study demonstrated that in comparison to stimulus colors, bar orientations were processed more efficiently in change-detection tasks but less efficiently in visual search tasks (Cohen’s d = 4.24). In addition to offering support for the role of the Boolean map in conscious access, the present work also throws doubts on the generality of processing visual features.
Financial literacy: Do people know the ABCs of finance?
Authors: Lusardi Annamaria
Published: April 2015

Increasingly, individuals are in charge of their own financial security and are confronted with ever more complex financial instruments. However, there is evidence that many individuals are not well-equipped to make sound saving decisions. This article looks at financial literacy, which is defined as the ability to process economic information and make informed decisions about financial planning, wealth accumulation, debt, and pensions. Failure to plan for retirement, lack of participation in the stock market, and poor borrowing behavior can all be linked to ignorance of basic financial concepts. Financial literacy impacts financial decision making, with implications that apply to individuals, communities, countries, and society as a whole. Given the lack of financial literacy among the population, it may be important to remedy it by adding financial literacy to the school curriculum.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy as Treatments for Academic Procrastination
Authors: Wang Shuo , Zhou Ya , Yu Shi , Ran Li-Wen , Liu Xiang-Ping , Chen Yu-Fei
Published: April 2015

Objective:

This study tested the efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), compared with Cognitive–Behavioral Therapy (CBT), in alleviating academic procrastination.

Method:

A total of 60 (53.3% male) undergraduates suffering from academic procrastination were randomly assigned to two treatment groups (ACT and CBT) and a control group. The procrastination symptoms and related psychological mechanisms were assessed immediately after the closure of treatment and at 3-month follow-up (FU).

Results:

Both therapies showed remarkable short-term effects in decreasing procrastination, but ACT had a better long-term effect. Participants achieved self-esteem enhancement through treatment of both ACT and CBT. While ACT significantly decreased negative affect and improved neuroticism, CBT had a stronger effect on time management.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that both CBT and ACT are effective interventions for procrastinators but may have different therapeutic mechanisms.
Personalized manufacturing service recommendation using semantics-based collaborative filtering
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Guo Shanshan , Zhang Shuai
Published: April 2015

With the growing emergence of distributed manufacturing services over the Internet, many efforts have been made to semantically describe the manufacturing services, facilitating accurate retrieval of the required services derived from semantic matchmaking of service capabilities. However, semantic annotation of vast manufacturing services remains an open issue. Most of the efforts have been proposed to semantically annotate the manufacturing services in an inefficient manual manner. This article presents a novel collaborative filtering method for automating the semantic annotation of manufacturing service capabilities and making the personalized manufacturing service recommendation based on the usage data of previous retrievals made for similar annotations. A prototype system is built and validated with an illustrative example from manufacturing industry to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed approach for automatic service annotation and personalized service recommendation.
Temporary Internal Fixation for Ligamentous and Osseous Lisfranc Injuries
Authors: Abbasian Mohammad Reza , Paradies Felix , Weber Martin , Krause Fabian
Published: April 2015

Background:

Open rather than closed reduction and internal fixation as well as primary definitive arthrodesis are well accepted for ligamentous and osseous Lisfranc injuries. For ligamentous injuries, a better outcome after primary definitive partial arthrodesis has been published.

Methods:

Of 135 Lisfranc injuries that were treated from 1998 to 2012 with open reduction, temporary internal fixation by screws and plates, and restricted weight bearing in a lower leg cast for 3 months followed by an arch support for another 4 to 6 weeks, 29 ligamentous Lisfranc injuries were available for follow-up. They were compared with 29 osseous Lisfranc injuries matched in age and gender.

Results:

Between the groups, there were no significant differences in average age (39.9 vs 38 years) or in average follow-up time (8.3 vs 9.1 years). Also, no significant differences were seen in the AOFAS midfoot score (84 vs 85.3 points), the FFI pain scale (9.9 vs 14.9 points), SF 36 physical component (56.2 vs 53.9 points), SF 36 mental component (57 vs 56.4 points), or VAS for pain (1.6 vs 1.5 points). The FFI function scale was significantly lower in the ligamentous group (11.6 vs 19.5 points). Radiographically, loss of reduction was recorded 3 times in the ligamentous injuries and 4 times in the osseous injuries. Arthritis was mild/moderate/severe in 5/3/0 ligamentous injuries and in 7/2/1 osseous injuries, requiring 1 definitive secondary Lisfranc arthrodesis in each group.

Conclusion:

With longer and conservative postoperative management, open reduction and temporary internal fixation in ligamentous and osseous Lisfranc injuries led to equal medium-term outcome. Inferior outcome in ligamentous injuries was not found.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative cohort study.
Euromech 563 Cisterna di Latina 17–21 March 2014 Generalized continua and their applications to the design of composites and metamaterials: A review of presentations and discussions
Authors: Placidi Luca , Giorgio Ivan , Della Corte Alessandro , Scerrato Daria
Published: April 2015

In the present paper, a rational report on Euromech 563, Generalized continua and their applications to the design of composites and metamaterials (Cisterna di Latina 17–21 March 2014), is provided.

The frank and constructive spirit which animated the workshop by Dell’Isola et al. ( ZAMM 2014; 94(5): 367–372) also characterized Euromech Colloquium 563. All presentations were video-recorded and are freely available online at the address http://www.memocsevents.eu/euromech563/?page_id=1013 . The topics treated were selected by the organizers in order to allow a comparison of the available experimental evidence with the predictive capability of current theoretical models. The numerical investigations selected and presented aimed to make more effective the aforementioned comparison. The interested reader will find more details about the colloquium at the dedicated webpage http://www.memocsevents.eu/euromech563 . The design and use of advanced materials and structural elements requires an extensive and rigorous process of mathematical modeling. The organizers of Euromech 563, being aware of this need, have chosen as participants renowned and reputed scientists (and some promising young researchers) who all agree on recognizing to mathematical sciences their role of unifying and coordinating tool in the effort for the advance of technology. The Colloquium has indeed surely contributed to the development of more advanced technological possibilities and to the theoretical conception of completely new ones.
Dysplastic Nevus
Authors: Sapra Priya , Rosen Cheryl , Siddha Sanjay , Lynde Charles W.
Published: April 2015

Background:

The management of dysplastic nevi is controversial. No studies have collected data regarding management of the lesion amongst Canadian dermatologists.

Objective:

To provide a comprehensive review of what the prevailing opinions are, regarding treatment and terminology of dysplastic nevi, amongst Canadian dermatologists.

Methods:

An online survey of 25 questions was e-mailed to 613 members of the Canadian Dermatology Association, in French and English.

Results:

A total of 179 responses were received. Varying numbers of participants completed each question. The majority of participants think that the term dysplastic nevus should not be abandoned, and they indicated that they never reexcise lesions with mild to moderate atypia even when the margins are positive.

Conclusions:

The majority of Canadian dermatologists retain the use of the term dysplastic nevus and do not reexcise lesions with mild to moderate atypia even when the margins are positive.
Tourism satisfaction effect on general country image, destination image, and post-visit intentions
Authors: De Nisco Alessandro , Mainolfi Giada , Marino Vittoria , Napolitano Maria Rosaria
Published: April 2015

The study analyzes the relationship between tourism satisfaction, cognitive and affective country image, destination image, and post-visit intentions. The proposed research model is tested with a survey on a sample of 542 international tourists intercepted in two Italian airports at the end of their journey. Results suggest that general country and destination images are able to mediate the effect of tourism satisfaction on post-visit behavioral intentions. Moreover, empirical findings show that a high-quality tourism experience is able to not only affect intention to return and willingness to recommend the country as a tourism destination but also induce more positive intentions toward the products made in the sojourn country. On the basis of results, the study concludes with discussion of managerial and research implications.