bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daily hassles and coping dispositions as predictors of psychological adjustment
Authors: Seglem Karoline B. , Oppedal Brit , Roysamb Espen
Published: February 2014

This study examined daily hassles and coping dispositions in relation to life satisfaction and depressive symptoms among resettled unaccompanied refugees and other youth in the resettlement country. A total of 223 unaccompanied refugees ( M = 20 years) was compared with 609 ethnic minority and 427 majority youth in Norway. Unaccompanied refugees reported higher levels of depressive symptoms, daily hassles and engagement and disengagement coping than the other two groups, but equal level of life satisfaction. Daily hassles and disengagement coping predicted lower life satisfaction and more depressive symptoms across groups. Engagement coping predicted higher life satisfaction in all groups, but not less depressive symptoms among unaccompanied refugees. Multiple mediation analyses showed that daily hassles and coping dispositions partly explained group differences in depressive symptoms, and that at the same level of hassles and disengagement coping, unaccompanied refugees would be significantly more satisfied with life. Findings suggest that interventions to promote more effective coping strategies to handle the many hassles in their daily lives may improve unaccompanied refugees’ psychological adjustment and chances to succeed in the resettlement country.
Examining commitment and relational maintenance in formal youth mentoring relationships
Authors: Gettings Patricia E. , Wilson Steven R.
Published: February 2014

This study utilizes a social exchange perspective to examine mentors’ reported commitment and relational maintenance in formal youth mentoring relationships. One hundred and forty-five adult mentors from four mentoring programs completed surveys about aspects of their current youth mentoring relationship. Study measures assessed Investment Model variables (satisfaction, alternatives, investments, and commitment), stay/leave behavior, and reported use of relational maintenance strategies. Analyses supported hypotheses derived from the Investment Model, and commitment, in turn, predicted stay/leave behavior for mentors. In addition, a mediation model demonstrated that commitment mediates the relationships between some Investment Model variables and three of five relational maintenance strategies. The unique nature of formal youth mentoring relationships as prescribed is discussed, as are practical applications for mentoring programs.
Grasping deformable planar objects: Squeeze, stick/slip analysis, and energy-based optimalities
Authors: Jia Yan-Bin , Guo Feng , Lin Huan
Published: February 2014

Robotic grasping of deformable objects is difficult and under-researched, not simply due to the high computational cost of modeling. More fundamentally, several issues arise with the deformation of an object being grasped: a changing wrench space, growing finger contact areas, and pointwise varying contact modes inside these areas. Consequently, contact constraints needed for deformable modeling are hardly established at the beginning of the grasping operation. This paper presents a grasping strategy that squeezes the object with two fingers under specified displacements rather than forces. A ‘stable’ squeeze minimizes the potential energy for the same amount of squeezing, while a ‘pure’ squeeze ensures that the object undergoes no rigid body motion as it deforms. Assuming linear elasticity, a finite element analysis guarantees equilibrium and the uniqueness of deformation during a squeeze action. An event-driven algorithm tracks the contact regions as well as the modes of contact in their interiors under Coulomb friction, which in turn serve as the needed constraints for deformation update. Grasp quality is characterized as the amount of work performed by the grasping fingers in resisting a known push by some adversary finger. Simulation and multiple experiments have been conducted to validate the results over solid and ring-like 2D objects.
Ultrasound-guided percutaneous microwave ablation of sporadic renal angiomyolipoma: preliminary results
Authors: Zhi-yu Han , Ping Liang , Xiao-ling Yu , Zhi-gang Cheng , Fang-yi Liu , Jie Yu
Published: February 2014

Background

Microwave ablation (MWA) has been developed as one of the most commonly used local oncologic treatments. However, there is still a dearth of studies concerning MWA in the treatment of renal angiomyolipomas (AML).

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound (US)-guided percutaneous MWA when treating AML.

Material and Methods

Nineteen lesions with pathologically confirmed AML in 14 patients (5 men, 9 women; mean age, 49.2 ± 14 years) were treated with US-guided percutaneous MWA with one or two cooled-shaft needle antennae. A power output of 45 W or 50 W for 300–1140 s was emitted to achieve complete tumor necrosis. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) was performed to observe the treatment efficacy 3 days later. Patients were followed up with CEUS, computed tomography (CT), and/or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) after 1, 3, and 6 months, and long-term ablation efficacy was evaluated every 6 months thereafter.

Results

Among the 19 renal lesions, 17 achieved complete ablation as monitored by US after one session of MWA, and two patients required a second session of MWA. Postoperative evaluation with CEUS showed that complete ablation was obtained in 15 lesions; however, in four lesions, complete ablation could not be attained. During the follow-up period of 6–36 months (median, 10 months), a fistula to the descending colon was found in one patient and local infection around the ablation zone was found in another. Neither injury to the renal pelvis nor damage to renal function was observed. None of the patients exhibited hematuria or abnormalities in routine urine tests during the hospitalization period or during follow-up. Minor complications, such as subcapsular bleeding, mild to moderate pain, and fever were eliminated after appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

MWA is an effective and minimally invasive technique for the management of AML that can preserve renal function with acceptable complication rates.
The role of US in finding intussusception and alternative diagnosis: a report of 100 pediatric cases
Authors: Ja Lim Kyoung , Lee Kwanseop , Yoon Dae Young , Moon Jin Hee , Lee Hyun , Kim Min-Jeong , Kim Sam Soo
Published: February 2014

Background

The clinical diagnosis of intussusception remains challenging, because many children with intussusception may present with non-specific signs and symptoms, which overlap with other conditions. Therefore imaging, in particular ultrasonography (US), plays a significant role in the management of these patients.

Purpose

To evaluate how US can contribute to the diagnosis in clinically suspected intussusception and finding alternative diagnosis.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed reports of US examinations and medical records of 100 patients (51 boys, 49 girls; mean age, 23.0 ± 12.1 months) who underwent abdominal US for clinically suspected intussusception. Each US study was assessed for the presence or absence of intussusception and for a possible alternative diagnosis in cases interpreted as negative for intussusception.

Results

Thirty-seven patients had US findings consistent with intussusception, which was confirmed by air enema. In seven patients, US studies were normal. Alternative diagnoses were identified by US for each of the remaining 56 patients, including ileocolitis ( n = 20), terminal ileitis ( n = 18), mesenteric lymphadenitis ( n = 13), choledochal cyst ( n = 1), accessory spleen torsion ( n = 1), small bowel ileus ( n = 1), midgut volvulus with bowel ischemia ( n = 1), and hydronephrosis ( n = 1).

Conclusion

With the high sensitivity and specificity of this study we conclude that US is valuable in detecting intussusception and finding the alternative diagnosis.
Triptan use after starting prophylactic migraine treatment: A retrospective cohort study in a primary care population
Authors: Smelt Antonia FH , Assendelft Willem JJ , van Dijk Christel E , Blom Jeanet W
Published: February 2014

Background

Clinical trials on the prophylactic effect of propranolol and metoprolol for migraine show that starting this medication leads to a decrease in the use of attack medication of 0.9–8.9 doses per month. However, studies in daily practice are lacking.

Methods

We compared the number of triptans prescribed in the six months before and the six months after the start of propranolol/metoprolol in a Dutch national representative primary care cohort.

Results

Of the 168 triptan-using patients who started with propranolol or metoprolol, the number of triptans prescribed before starting was 4.6 doses per month. The number of triptans prescribed six months before compared with six months after starting propranolol/metoprolol decreased with 1.0 dose per month (Wilcoxon rank test; p = 0.000).

Conclusion

In this primary care population, although the number of triptans prescribed decreased after starting propranolol or metoprolol, the decrease is relatively small compared to data from clinical trials.
Not Ideal: The Association Between Working Anything but Full Time and Perceived Unfair Treatment
Authors: Kmec Julie A. , O’Connor Lindsey Trimble , Schieman Scott
Published: February 2014

Ideal-worker norms permeate workplaces, guiding employers’ evaluation of workers and perceptions of workers’ worth. The authors investigate how an ideal-worker norm violation—working anything but full time—affects workers’ perception of unfair treatment. The authors assess gender and parental status differences in the relationship. Analyses using Midlife Development in the United States II data reveal that women who violate the norm when they have children perceive greater unfair treatment than women who violate the norm but do not have children in the study period. Men who work anything but full time do not perceive unfair treatment. The authors’ findings inform efforts to challenge ideal-worker norms.
Toward a Model of Work Redesign for Better Work and Better Life
Authors: Perlow Leslie A. , Kelly Erin L.
Published: February 2014

Flexible work accommodations provided by employers purport to help individuals struggling to manage work and family demands. The underlying model for change is accommodation—helping individuals accommodate their work demands with no changes in the structure of work or cultural expectations of ideal workers. The purpose of this article is to derive a Work Redesign Model and compare it with the Accommodation Model. This article centers around two change initiatives—Predictability, Teaming and Open Communication and Results Only Work Environment—that alter the structure and culture of work in ways that enable better work and better lives.
Assessment of composition and generation rate of healthcare wastes in selected public and private hospitals of Ethiopia
Authors: Tesfahun Esubalew , Kumie Abera , Legesse Worku , Kloos Helmut , Beyene Abebe
Published: February 2014

In many developing countries, the inadequacy of data regarding the quantity and composition of healthcare waste is one of the major reasons for improper healthcare waste management. We investigated the generation rate and composition of healthcare wastes in six public and three private hospitals. We conducted healthcare waste composition and characterization measurements for seven consecutive days in the selected hospitals following the protocol described by the World Health Organization (WHO). The results revealed that the total generation rate of healthcare wastes of hospitals ranged from 0.25 to 2.77 kg/bed/day with a median value of 1.67 kg/bed/day for inpatients to 0.21–0.65 in kg/patient/day with a median value of 0.31 kg/patient/day for outpatients. The waste generation rate in private hospitals (median 3.9 kg/bed/day) was significantly greater (Kruskal–Wallis test, P < 0.05) than in government hospitals (median 1.5 kg/bed/day). The median values of percent hazardous waste estimated for private and government hospitals were 63.4% and 52.2%, respectively. These figures are about three times greater than the threshold values recommended by the WHO. This situation might be attributed to the improper practice of healthcare waste segregation by health professionals and auxiliary health workers due to inadequate risk perception and lack of enforced public health regulations. The study revealed that the generation rate and proportion of hazardous waste significantly varies between public and private hospitals and number of patients treated per day.
Nutrition Management After Pediatric Solid Organ Transplantation
Authors: Asfaw Meheret , Mingle Jillian , Hendricks Jessica , Pharis Maegan , Nucci Anita M.
Published: February 2014

Survival rates for pediatric transplant recipients and organ grafts have increased due to improvements in surgical techniques and with immunosuppressant treatment therapies. Interdisciplinary management after pediatric organ transplantation is essential to assist not only with the complex medical issues and complications that can result from immunosuppressant therapy but also with the achievement of normal growth and development. Impaired growth is a complication frequently experienced by pediatric transplant patients. The presence or absence of impaired growth is affected by the length of illness prior to transplant, graft function, the use of corticosteroids, and the development of infectious complications after surgery. A review of posttransplant nutrition assessment, nutrition requirements, and nutrition goals is provided. In addition, a case series of experiences with nutrition management of pediatric solid organ transplant recipients is described.
Intimate Partner Violence in a Lebanese Population Attending Gynecologic Care
Authors: Awwad Johnny , Ghazeeri Ghina , Nassar Anwar H. , Bazi Tony , Fakih Ahmad , Fares Farah , Seoud Muhieddine
Published: February 2014

Occurrence of intimate partner violence (IPV) against women in the Lebanese society has been largely ignored by local legal and religious authorities. Our aim is to estimate the prevalence of IPV among married Lebanese women, and investigate perception of abuse, referral patterns, and measures taken to deal with abusive situations. In this cross-sectional study, married women aged 20 to 65 presenting to the American University of Beirut Medical Center for gynecological care were interviewed on various forms of IPV. Out of 100 women invited to participate, 91 consented to take part in the survey of whom 37 (40.67%) gave a history of physical abuse, 30 (33.0%) of sexual abuse, 59 (64.8%) of verbal abuse, and 17 (18.7%) of emotional abuse. Spouse-imposed social isolation was reported in 20 (22.0%) women, and economic abuse in 30 (33.0%). Reasons for deciding to stay in an abusive relationship were “lack of any family or social support” (40.5%), “lack of financial resources” (40.5%), and “fear that the partner may take away the children” (37.8%). Women expressed satisfaction with their spouse’s treatment irrespective of the existence of various forms of violence. A significant increase in the risk of weapon use against wife was correlated with decreased monthly income of the household, whereas a protective effect was conferred by an increased number of children. This study highlights the need for routine screening in health care settings for better identification of victims of violence. The selective conventional perception of abuse and the reactive normalization of violence observed indicate the necessity for culturally informed interventional strategies to complement screening.
Drive geometry construction method of machining features for aircraft structural part numerical control machining
Authors: Wang Wei , Li Yingguang , Tang Limin
Published: February 2014

Feature-based manufacturing methodologies offer opportunity for numerical control machining effectively and efficiently. However, the loss of drive geometries caused by the complex shape and machining process of aircraft structural parts undercuts the advantage of feature-based manufacturing tools. To better address the gap between the process planning and tool path generation for aircraft structural part, a drive geometry construction approach based on the topological relationships and machining process of machining features for process planning are proposed. The created drive geometries correspond with the optimized machining process. The drive geometries that define the machining areas of machining features are categorized into guide lines and guide faces in accord with the machining mode, such as 2.5- to 3-axis machining and multi-axis machining. In contrast to the traditional performing of intersection operations with a series of slice planes and the part model manually, the drive geometries are constructed by extracting the existing topological entities and creating some auxiliary topological entities automatically. The drive geometry preparing time and the consumption of computer memory are reduced significantly. The proposed approach has been tested and used in a pilot feature-based programming system that is developed for some aircraft manufacturers in China.
Fabrication of nano-sized grain micro features using ultrasonic-assisted jet electrodeposition with pulsed current supply
Authors: Rajput Mridul S , Pandey Pulak M , Jha Sunil
Published: February 2014

In this study, a study has been conducted on fabrication and control of different grain sizes of micro features fabricated by ultrasonic-assisted jet electrodeposition process using pulsed current power supply. At the present time, grain sizes have been controlled to improve the mechanical properties of fabricated micro features. The centre of attention of the study is application of pulsed power supply on the developed ultrasonic-assisted jet electrodeposition set-up, which involves pulsed current application between nozzle (electrolyte) and work surface in ultrasonic-assisted jet electrodeposition process instead of direct current application. The impacts of frequency and duty cycle on the grain size, nanomechanical properties and microhardness of fabricated micro features have been studied. It is experimentally observed that the pulsed current ultrasonic-assisted jet electrodeposition process has the capability to fabricate nano-sized grain micro parts and yields better mechanical properties as compared to those obtainable using direct current ultrasonic-assisted jet electrodeposition process.
Dopamine and the Cognitive Downside of a Promised Bonus
Authors: Aarts Esther , Wallace Deanna L. , Dang Linh C. , Jagust William J. , Cools Roshan , D’Esposito Mark
Published: February 2014

It is often assumed that the promise of a monetary bonus improves cognitive control. We show that in fact appetitive motivation can also impair cognitive control, depending on baseline levels of dopamine-synthesis capacity in the striatum. These data not only demonstrate that appetitive motivation can have paradoxical detrimental effects for cognitive control but also provide a mechanistic account of these effects.
Model reference adaptive control for twin rotor multiple-input and multiple-output system via minimal controller synthesis
Authors: Chelihi Abdelghani , Chemachema Mohamed
Published: February 2014

A model reference adaptive controller for a twin rotor multiple-input multiple-output system is considered in this article. The objective is to make the twin rotor multiple-input multiple-output system move quickly and accurately to the desired attitudes specified by a reference model. Because of the coupling influence between the two axes of the twin rotor multiple-input multiple-output system and its nonlinear complexity, the controller design is performed on the vertical plane and horizontal plane separately. Thus, the nonlinear multiple-input and multiple-output model of the twin rotor multiple-input multiple-output system is decoupled into two subsystems, and the cross-couplings are considered as disturbances to each other. The obtained two models are transformed via Lie derivatives to a canonical form required for adaptive controller design. Then, a hyperstability-based adaptive control technique is applied for each subsystem. The proposed controller design is evaluated in simulations of cross-coupled condition. The obtained results show that the controlled system is robust against disturbances with high tracking performance.
Late-Holocene storm imprint in a coastal sedimentary sequence (Northwest Iberian coast)
Authors: Feal-Pérez Alejandra , Blanco-Chao Ramón , Ferro-Vázquez Cruz , Martínez-Cortizas Antonio , Costa-Casais Manuela
Published: February 2014

A combination of sedimentological, geomorphological, and pedological methods has been used to study a late-Holocene sedimentary sequence in a rock coast sector from NW Spain, with the aim of relating it to storm events and their morphodynamic effects. The sequence contains two coarse beach layers at an elevation of 2.8–3.5 m above the present highest astronomical tide (HAT). Radiocarbon dating revealed that their deposition had begun during 1735–1590 cal. yr BP and has continued until the present. The entire beach system experienced considerable morphological change after 1320–1230 cal. yr BP, with a westward displacement of the beach and a retreat of the sedimentary cliff in the eastern section. The two beach layers seem to have been formed by vertical aggradation of clasts and sand during high-energy storm events, highlighting the role of these events in the formation of sedimentary sequences on the rocky coasts of mid-Atlantic Europe. The effects of a recent storm event, recorded in March 2008, and the results of wave calculations suggest that long swell waves were needed for the accretion of the clasts. Using a hindcast model of wave data, we found a positive correlation between the winter North Atlantic Oscillation (WNAO) index and the winter monthly mean wave height and peak period. While the 14C chronology of beach sedimentation coincides with known climatic periods dominated by a positive NAO index, these results point to the importance of high-energy events and the synergies between past and present processes in the recent evolution and the morphodynamics of rock coast environments.
The impact of Mt Mazama tephra deposition on forest vegetation in the Central Cascades, Oregon, USA
Authors: Long Colin J , Power Mitchell J , Minckley Thomas A , Hass Alisa L
Published: February 2014

The eruption of Mt Mazama, c. 7630 yr BP, was the largest North American volcanic event during the Holocene. High-resolution pollen and charcoal analyses were used to examine the impact of Mt Mazama tephra on forest vegetation and possible synergistic interactions with fire activity in the Central Oregon Cascade Range. We selected four small watersheds on a longitudinal transect north of Mt Mazama and recovered lake sediment that spanned the period of tephra deposition. Our sediment records had between 14 and 50 cm of tephra deposited, and we analyzed the sediment at centimeter resolution before and after the deposition horizon in each sediment record. Our analysis shows that nonarboreal pollen percentages and accumulation rates were depressed after Mazama tephra deposition. Recovery to pre-tephra deposition rates occurred after approximately 50–100 years. Arboreal pollen percentage and accumulation rates were less severely impacted, suggesting that the Mazama tephra deposition disrupted understory communities more significantly than overstory species, and that forest communities returned to their pre-tephra-deposition conditions after approximately 50–100 years. Fire events in conjunction with the Mazama tephra occurred in two of the four sites, suggesting that tephra deposition did not create conditions that precipitated a fire event in a consistent way. This research reinforces the notion that disturbance events may have cumulative effects on forest vegetation, but that the impacts of disturbance events need to be felt by similar constituents of the forest ecosystem to be truly additive.
Community-based newborn hearing screening programme for early detection of permanent hearing loss in Iran: An eight-year cross-sectional study from 2005 to 2012
Authors: Firoozbakht Mohsen , Mahmoudian Saeid , Alaeddini Farshid , Esmaeilzadeh Mansour , Rafiei Minoo , Firouzbakht Aryan , Rahimi Farzad , Farhadi Mohammad
Published: February 2014

Objectives

We here present the results of the first eight years of the newborn hearing screening programme in Iran, with a view to establishing the prevalence of hearing impairment among infants, and the efficacy of the programme.

Methods

A total of 3,350,995 infants were screened using the series method of transient evoked otoacoustic emissions (TEOAEs)/automated auditory brainstem responses (AABRs), between 2005 and 2012. The infants were first tested for TEOAEs (three times). Based on the results of this test, the positive cases were referred to the next stage, where they were tested for AABRs. If they also tested positive on AABRs, they were referred to the diagnostic and rehabilitation stages.

Results

Results of this study indicated an infant hearing impairment prevalence of 3 per 1000. Although this rate was as high as 5 per 1000 in the early years of the programme, it decreased to 2.6 per 1000 in the last year. The absolute referral rate was 14.5% in the first stage, which decreased to 0.9% and 0.2% in the second and the third stages, respectively. The follow-up rate was 70% in the first stage, which increased up to 73% and 85% in the second and the third stages, respectively.

Conclusion

The study results suggest that the prevalence of hearing impairment in infants in Iran is comparable with that in developed and developing countries, and that the series TEOAEs/AABRs method used in the screening programme in Iran is efficient.
Prevalence and Predictors of Text-Based and Visually Explicit Cybersex among Adolescents
Authors: Beyens Ine , Eggermont Steven
Published: February 2014

This study investigates different types of cybersex behaviours among adolescents and examines whether the compensation and recreation hypothesis remain valid explanatory models in a context of more explicit types of cybersex. An online survey was completed by 594 adolescents (ages 15–18). Results show that engagement in both text-based and more visual types of cybersex appears to be remarkably common among adolescents. It was further tested whether text-based sexually arousing online conversations are more prevalent among socially anxious adolescents and whether more visual types of online sexual communication are more prevalent among adolescents with low levels of social anxiety, or whether these cybersex behaviours need be seen as a response to a need for sensation. Findings indicate that socially anxious adolescents are less inclined to engage in more visual cybersex with a dating partner and that sensation seeking explains boys’ involvement in text-based sexually arousing communication.
Suicide literacy, suicide stigma and help-seeking intentions in Australian medical students
Authors: Chan Wen I , Batterham Philip , Christensen Helen , Galletly Cherrie
Published: February 2014

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to measure levels of suicide literacy and stigma amongst Australian medical students in comparison to a general university population, and to assess medical students’ help-seeking intentions.

Method:

A cross-sectional survey was administered to 165 currently-enrolled Australian National University (ANU) postgraduate medical students and 54 final year undergraduate medical students at the University of Adelaide. These samples were compared to another sample of 676 general members of the ANU, undertaken six months earlier.

Results:

Final year postgraduate and undergraduate students had significantly higher levels of mental health literacy (measured using the Literacy of Suicide Scale) than other medical students or general university staff and students. Suicide stigma (measured using the Stigma of Suicide Scale) was comparable across the samples. Less exposure to suicide was associated with greater stigma and increased intentions of informal help seeking. Students who normalised suicide had significantly lower intentions of seeking help for thoughts of suicide.

Conclusions:

The findings indicate that exposure to suicidal people through clinical experience may improve knowledge about suicide but may lead to more negative attitudes toward informal help-seeking. The suicide prevention curriculum should aim to raise mental health literacy levels, reduce stigmatising attitudes and limit the normalisation of suicide.
Unauthorised absences from leave from an Australian security hospital
Authors: Scott Russ , Goel Vikram , Neillie Darren , Stedman Terry , Meehan Tom
Published: February 2014

Objective:

To consider incidents relating to absences without permission from authorised leave from a security hospital.

Method:

A retrospective audit over a 10-year period of all critical incidents relating to leave from the High Security Inpatient Services, Brisbane, Australia.

Results:

There has been a low incidence of patients absenting themselves without permission from leave. Of the 12 patients who went absent without permission over the 10-year study period, only one patient was reported to have committed an offence and no patient seriously self-harmed.

Conclusions:

Attention to patient selection and risk management strategies have been effective in minimising the risk to patients and to the community as a direct result of absences without permission from authorised leave.
The Science of Social Work and Its Relationship to Social Work Practice
Authors: Anastas Jeane W.
Published: February 2014

As John Brekke has observed, social work does not use the word “science” to define itself, suggesting a need to articulate a science of social work. This article discusses the science of social work and its relationship to social work practice in the United States, arguing that a “rapprochement” between practice and science should be effected to their mutual benefit. It begins by unpacking both the definitions of social work and of science; considers epistemologies; and underlines the importance of theory in social work science and practice. The article concludes with ideas for identifying common ground and enhancing the practices of both scientists and practitioners in our field. These suggestions include acknowledging shared aims of improving care and services, fully embracing methodological pluralism, using theories and exploring domains within the field that are important to both practitioners and scientists, developing sustainable structures where scientists and practitioners can come together on an equal footing to learn from each other and to collaborate in practice-relevant research, and developing a knowledge broker service for practitioners.
Career Compromise, Career Distress, and Perceptions of Employability
Authors: Creed Peter A. , Gagliardi Ruth-Eva
Published: February 2014

We surveyed 175 university undergraduates and assessed whether career compromise was associated with career distress and perceptions of employability (employment demand and employment confidence), and tested whether core-self evaluations and social capital buffered the effects of career compromise. Career compromise was associated positively with career distress and negatively with self-perceptions of employment demand. Social capital moderated the relationship between compromise and employment demand and between compromise and employment confidence. No assessed variable moderated between compromise and career distress. Understanding the correlates of career compromise and under what conditions these relationships are strengthened or weakened contributes to an understanding of how goal adjustment in the career domain might affect young people’s well-being and career progress.
The Development and Initial Validation of a Career Calling Scale for Emerging Adults
Authors: Praskova Anna , Creed Peter A. , Hood Michelle
Published: February 2014

Career calling, a salient career goal that is personally meaningful and oriented toward helping others, is a developmental construct that is especially important for emerging adults when making career decisions and setting career goals. As no existing measure reflects the developmental aspect of career calling, we devised an age-appropriate measure suitable for use with this population. We reviewed the extant literature, conducted focus groups, and used expert reviews to generate 34 initial items. Item and exploratory factor analyses were employed to reduce these items to 15, representing three reliable subscales (Study 1; N = 345 emerging adults). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the initial factor structure (Study 2; N = 527). Expected correlations with adult measures of career calling (search and presence), general career indecision, and life satisfaction supported construct validity (Study 2; N = 435). The implications for research and practice are discussed.
The Work Cognition Inventory
Authors: Nimon Kim , Zigarmi Drea
Published: February 2014

We present evidence of the construct validity of a revised version of the Work Cognition Inventory (WCI-R). With the addition of three new scales and the reforming of two from the WCI, the WCI-R contains 12 subscales to measure the cognitive factors associated with employee work passion. Across the majority of scales, the WCI-R was found to produce scores that were conceptually distinct from the preexisting measures. The WCI-R also uniquely demonstrated factor construct validity across the full set of constructs.
Maximising Opportunity and Minimising Risk?
Authors: Lidström Lena , Holm Ann-Sofie , Lundström Ulf
Published: February 2014

This article explores young people’s upper secondary school choices after recent reforms of school choice and competition in Sweden, drawing on interviews with students and school staff. The respondents identify important motives and strategies in students’ school choices, for example, the character of school and schooling, the influence of marketing and education policy, as well as young people’s identities and positions. Young people’s ‘horizons of action’ and decision-making seem to vary, according inter alia to the degree of urbanity of their geographical locality and exposure to competition. Gender-, ethnicity- and social class-related factors also appear to be influential. We conclude that the school choice and competition reforms draw schools’ attention to students’ preferences, but the motive for the interest seems to have little to do with a concern to help young people to make educational school choices and future school-to-work transitions. Finally, we advocate modifications in the provision of career information and guidance.
Comparison of short-term outcome of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and gastric bypass in the treatment of morbid obesity: A prospective randomized controlled multicenter SLEEVEPASS study with 6-month follow-up
Authors: Helmiö M. , Victorzon M. , Ovaska J. , Leivonen M. , Juuti A. , Peromaa-Haavisto P. , Nuutila P. , Vahlberg T. , Salminen P.
Published: February 2014

Background and Aims:

The long-term efficacy of laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in the treatment of morbid obesity has already been demonstrated. Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy has shown promising short-term results, but the long-term efficacy is still unclear. The aim of this prospective randomized multicenter study is to compare the results of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy.

Material and Methods:

A total of 240 morbidly obese patients were randomized to undergo either Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. The primary end point of study was weight loss, and the secondary end points were resolution of comorbidities and morbidity. The short-term results at 6 months were analyzed.

Results:

The mean excess weight loss at 6 months was 49.2% in the sleeve gastrectomy group and 52.9% in the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass group (p = 0.086). Type 2 diabetes was resolved or improved in 84.3% of patients in the sleeve gastrectomy group and 93.3% in the Roux-en-Y gastric bypass group (p = 0.585). The corresponding results for arterial hypertension were 76.8% and 81.9% (p = 0.707) and for hypercholesterolemia 64.1% and 69.0% (p = 0.485). There was no mortality at 6 months. There was one major complication following sleeve gastrectomy and two after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (p = 0.531). Eight sleeve gastrectomy patients and 11 Roux-en-Y gastric bypass patients had minor complications (p = 0.403).

Conclusion:

The short-term results of sleeve gastrectomy and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass regarding weight loss, resolution of obesity-related comorbidities and complications were not different at 6 months.
A natural lighting system using a prismatic daylight collector
Authors: Yeh S-C
Published: February 2014

In this paper, a natural lighting system composed of a tilted prismatic daylight collector, an outdoor reflector and an indoor diffuse reflector is described. The light emerging from the hypotenuse of the prismatic daylight collector is redirected onto the indoor reflector for natural light illumination. The results of measured illuminances are in agreement with the results of calculation. The prismatic daylight collector not only decreases discomfort glare but also collects daylight for the natural lighting system. The open natural lighting system, which uses less material, can be realized by the detailed analysis of the characteristics of the light emerging from the hypotenuse of the prismatic daylight collector for sunlight incident on the collector.
Treatment of Postoperative Lower Extremity Wounds Using Human Fibroblast–Derived Dermis
Authors: Carlson Russell M. , Smith Nicholas C. , Dux Katherine , Stuck Rodney M.
Published: February 2014

Human fibroblast–derived dermis skin substitute is a well-studied treatment for diabetic foot ulcers; however, no case series currently exist for its use in healing postoperative wounds of the lower extremity. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 32 lower extremity postoperative wounds treated weekly with human fibroblast–derived dermis skin substitute. Postoperative wounds were defined as a wound resulting from an open partial foot amputation, surgical wound dehiscence, or nonhealing surgical wound of the lower extremity. Wound surface area was calculated at 4 and 12 weeks or until wound closure if prior to 12 weeks. Postoperative wounds treated with weekly applications showed mean improvement in surface area reduction of 63.6% at 4 weeks and 96.1% at 12 weeks. More than 56% of all wounds healed prior to the 12-week endpoint. Additionally, only one adverse event was noted in this group. This retrospective review supports the use of human fibroblast–derived dermis skin substitute in the treatment of postoperative lower extremity wounds. This advanced wound care therapy aids in decreased total healing time and increased rate of healing for not only diabetic foot wounds but also postoperative wounds of the lower extremity, as demonstrated by this retrospective review.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV: Case series, retrospective
Safety evaluation and risk assessment of electronic cigarettes as tobacco cigarette substitutes: a systematic review
Authors: Farsalinos Konstantinos E. , Polosa Riccardo
Published: February 2014

Electronic cigarettes are a recent development in tobacco harm reduction. They are marketed as less harmful alternatives to smoking. Awareness and use of these devices has grown exponentially in recent years, with millions of people currently using them. This systematic review appraises existing laboratory and clinical research on the potential risks from electronic cigarette use, compared with the well-established devastating effects of smoking tobacco cigarettes. Currently available evidence indicates that electronic cigarettes are by far a less harmful alternative to smoking and significant health benefits are expected in smokers who switch from tobacco to electronic cigarettes. Research will help make electronic cigarettes more effective as smoking substitutes and will better define and further reduce residual risks from use to as low as possible, by establishing appropriate quality control and standards.
Health 2.0—Lessons Learned
Authors: Sharma Suparna , Kilian Reena , Leung Fok-Han
Published: February 2014

The advent of social networking as a major platform for human interaction has introduced a new dimension into the physician–patient relationship, known as Health 2.0. The concept of Health 2.0 is young and evolving; so far, it has meant the use of social media by health professionals and patients to personalize health care and promote health education. Social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter offer promising platforms for health care providers to engage patients. Despite the vast potential of Health 2.0, usage by health providers remains relatively low. Using a pilot study as an example, this commentary reviews the ways in which physicians can effectively harness the power of social networking to meaningfully engage their patients in primary prevention.
Freedom Project
Authors: Suarez Alejandra , Lee Dug Y. , Rowe Christopher , Gomez Alex Anthony , Murowchick Elise , Linn Patricia L.
Published: February 2014

Freedom Project trains prisoners in nonviolent communication and meditation. Two complementary studies of its effects are reported in this article. The first study is correlational; we found decreased recidivism rates among prisoners trained by Freedom Project compared with recidivism rates in Washington state. The second study compared trained prisoners with a matched-pair control group and found improvement in self-reported anger, self-compassion, and certain forms of mindfulness among the trained group. Ratings of role-plays simulating difficult interactions show increased social skills among the group trained by Freedom Project than in the matched controls.
Client Self-Assessment in Community Aged Care
Authors: Ottmann Goetz , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Millicer Anna
Published: February 2014

Self-assessment of support needs is a relatively new and under-researched phenomenon in domiciliary aged care. This article outlines the results of a comparative study focusing on whether a self-assessment approach assists clients to identify support needs and the degree to which self-assessed needs differ from an assessment conducted by community care professionals. A total of 48 older people and their case managers completed a needs assessment tool. Twenty-two semi-structured interviews were used to ascertain older people’s views and preferences regarding the self-assessment process. The study suggests that while a co-assessment approach as outlined in this article has the potential to assist older people to gain a better understanding of their care needs as well as the assessment process and its ramifications, client self-assessment should be seen as part of a co-assessment process involving care professionals. Such a co-assessment process allows older people to gain a better understanding of their support needs and the wider community aged care context. The article suggests that a co-assessment process involving both clients and care professionals contains features that have the capacity to enhance domiciliary aged care.
Polar Business Design
Authors: Caisse Sébastien , Montreuil Benoit
Published: February 2014

Polar business design aims to enable entrepreneurs, managers, consultants, researchers, and business students to better tackle model-based analysis, creation, and transformation of businesses, ventures, and, more generically, collective endeavors of any size and purpose. It is based on a systems-thinking approach that builds on a few interrelated core concepts to create holistic visual frameworks. These core concepts act as poles linked by meaningful dyads, flows, and faces arranged in geometric shapes. The article presents two such polar frameworks as key findings in an ongoing analytic autoethnography: the three-pole Value−Activity−Stakeholder (VAS) triquetra and the four-pole Offer−Creation−Character−Stakeholder (OCCS) tetrahedron. The VAS triquetra is a more aggregated model of collective endeavors. The OCCS tetrahedron makes a trade-off between a steeper learning curve and deeper, richer representation potential. This article discusses how to use these two frameworks as well as their limits, and explores the potential that polar business design offers for future research.
The dual face of heparin in severe infection
Authors: Levi Marcel
Published: February 2014

In this issue of Blood, Wildhagen et al demonstrate that nonanticoagulant heparin effectively blocks histone-mediated cytotoxicity and improves survival in animal models of severe infection and inflammation.1
Control of blood proteins by functional disulfide bonds
Authors: Butera Diego , Cook Kristina M. , Chiu Joyce , Wong Jason W. H. , Hogg Philip J.
Published: February 2014

Most proteins in nature are chemically modified after they are made to control how, when, and where they function. The 3 core features of proteins are posttranslationally modified: amino acid side chains can be modified, peptide bonds can be cleaved or isomerized, and disulfide bonds can be cleaved. Cleavage of peptide bonds is a major mechanism of protein control in the circulation, as exemplified by activation of the blood coagulation and complement zymogens. Cleavage of disulfide bonds is emerging as another important mechanism of protein control in the circulation. Recent advances in our understanding of control of soluble blood proteins and blood cell receptors by functional disulfide bonds is discussed as is how these bonds are being identified and studied.
Dyspnoea: a multidimensional and multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Laviolette Louis , Laveneziana Pierantonio
Published: February 2014

Dyspnoea is a debilitating symptom that affects quality of life, exercise tolerance and mortality in various disease conditions/states. In patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), it has been shown to be a better predictor of mortality than forced expiratory volume in 1 s. In patients with heart disease it is a better predictor of mortality than angina. Dyspnoea is also associated with decreased functional status and worse psychological health in older individuals living at home. It also contributes to the low adherence to exercise training programmes in sedentary adults and in COPD patients. The mechanisms of dyspnoea are still unclear. Recent studies have emphasised the multidimensional nature of dyspnoea in the sensory–perceptual (intensity and quality), affective distress and impact domains. The perception of dyspnoea involves a complex chain of events that depend on varying cortical integration of several afferent/efferent signals and coloured by affective processing. This review, which stems from the European Respiratory Society research symposium held in Paris, France in November 2012, aims to provide state-of-the-art advances on the multidimensional and multidisciplinary aspects of dyspnoea, by addressing three different themes: 1) the neurophysiology of dyspnoea, 2) exercise and dyspnoea, and 3) the clinical impact and management of dyspnoea.