bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between C-reactive protein and prognostic factors in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Agarwal Reshu , Shoaib Zaheer Mohammad , Ahmad Zubair , Akhtar Jamal
Published: January 2020

Background: The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels and prognostic factors in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Methods: We studied 50 stable COPD patients with: spirometry, 6 minute walk distance, body mass index, GOLD stage (spirometric classification) and smoking status. In these patients hs-CRP values were measured and compared with those of 50 healthy controls. Then the serum hs-CRP was subjected to evaluation for any correlation with the predictors of outcomes in COPD subjects. Results: Hs-CRP levels were higher in COPD patients than in controls (4.82 vs. 0.88 mg/L p < 0.01). Correlation was found between hs-CRP and the following variables: FEV1 (r= −0.813; p < 0.01), 6MWD (r= −0.876; p < 0.01), body mass index (r= −0.710; p < 0.01), GOLD stage (r= 0.797, p < 0.01) and smoking status (r= 0.796; p < 0.01). Using multivariate analysis, FEV1 and 6MWD showed the strongest negative association with hs-CRP levels. Conclusions: The circulating levels of the inflammatory marker hs-CRP are significantly elevated in patients with COPD, supporting the view that COPD is in part an inflammatory disorder. Hs-CRP levels in stable COPD patients are best correlated with FEV1 and 6-minute walk distance (6MWD). This information should be considered when hs-CRP levels are measured in stable COPD patients.
CD24+/CD38- as new prognostic marker for non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Karimi-Busheri Feridoun , Rasouli-Nia Aghdass , Zadorozhny Victoria , Fakhrai Habib
Published: January 2020

Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of death among cancers in the world. The annual death toll due to this disease exceeds the combined deaths caused by colon, breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. As a result, there has been a tremendous effort to identify new biomarkers for early detection and diagnosis of lung cancer. Methods: In this study we report the results of screening a panel of eight non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines originating from different subtypes of lung cancer in an attempt to identify potential biomarkers unique to this disease. We used real-time polymerase chain reaction and flow cytometry techniques to analyze the expression of ALDHA1, EpCAM, CD133, CD24, and CD38 in this panel. Results: We demonstrate for the first time that the majority of NSCLC cells do not express levels of CD38 that would qualify it as a new biomarker for the disease. In contrast, we found that CD24 is over-expressed in 6 out of 8 of the cell lines. The combined CD24+/CD38-/low phenotype was detected in 50% of the cell lines that are also positive for CD133 and EpCAM. Conclusions: We report that CD24+/CD38-/low signature could potentially be used as a new biomarker for the early detection of NSCLC.
Erectile dysfunction and sex hormone changes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients
Authors: Kahraman Hasan , Sen Bilal , Koksal Nurhan , Kilinç Metin , Resim Sefa
Published: January 2020

Background: The prevalence of sexual dysfunction in patients with COPD is high and its significance has not been sufficiently stressed. The aim of this study is to investigate the incidence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and the factors affecting its frequency in COPD patients. Methods: Seventy patients with COPD and 68 healthy volunteers were included in the study. The International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire was used to evaluate ED, and the Beck Depression Inventory was used to evaluate depression. Results: The smoking rate was higher and oxygen saturation (SaO2) and body mass index (BMI) were lower in the COPD group. Blood tests revealed higher levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol. Testosterone level was lower but it was not statistically significant. Various degrees of ED were detected in 78.6% of COPD patients and 55.8% of the controls. Depression was more common in the COPD group. There was a negative correlation between forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) level and ED and between SaO2 and ED in the COPD group. A positive correlation was noted between age and ED in both groups. No significant correlation was found among hormonal status and FEV1, ED, depression, SaO2, or BMI. Conclusions: The present study provides further confirmation that COPD is a risk factor for erectile dysfunction. When establishing a treatment plan for improving the pulmonary function of COPD patients, sexual dysfunction and depression, which are usually neglected but diminish quality of life, should also be addressed.
Oxytocin: an unexpected risk for cardiologic and broncho-obstructive effects, and allergic reactions in susceptible delivering women
Authors: Liccardi Gennaro , Bilò Maria Beatrice , Mauro Ciro , Salzillo Antonello , Piccolo Amedeo , D’Amato Maria , Liccardi Annabella , D’Amato Gennaro
Published: January 2020

Oxytocin (Sintocynon) is considered an uncommon cause of severe allergic reactions during delivery. We have recently shown that allergic sensitization to latex might constitute an important predisposing risk factor for anaphylaxis after the first infusion of oxytocin during delivery. Some oxytocin cardiovascular activities such as lowering blood pressure, negative cardiac inotropy and cronotropy, parasympathetic neuromodulation, vasodilatation etc. can induce significant side effects mimicking cardiac anaphylaxis, and constitute an additional differential diagnostic problem in delivering women with suspected or real allergic background. Finally, some ex vivo models have shown that oxytocin, under pro-inflammatory cytokines stimulation, such as those occurring in asthma, may induce contraction of smooth muscle and airway narrowing. This background suggests that allergic sensitization to latex allergens constitutes a significant but underestimated risk factor for triggering severe systemic reactions after the infusion of oxytocin and, consequently, there is a need of particular attention in managing delivering women suffering from latex allergy and bronchial asthma. An accurate anamnestic, clinical and diagnostic evaluation, latex-free anesthesiological setting, use of oxytocin-alternative agents and, if necessary, a drug premedication are likely to reduce the risk of anaphylactic/broncho-obstructive reactions in these women.
The maximum standardized FDG uptake on PETCT in patients with non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Akif Özgül Mehmet , Kirkil Gamze , Seyhan Ekrem Cengiz , Çetinkaya Erdoğan , Özgül Güler , Yüksel Mahmut
Published: January 2020

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 80% of new diagnoses of pulmonary carcinoma. This study investigated the correlation between 18 F-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake in computerized tomography integrated positron emission tomography and tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis in patients with NSCLC. Methods: The records of 151 NSCLC patients (139 male, 12 female; mean age 59.60 years) were evaluated retrospectively. Results: Forty-one cases were adenocarcinomas; 45 squamous cell carcinomas; and 65 unspecified NSCLC. When the cases were categorized according to tumor size (group 1, ≤ 3 cm; group 2, > 3 and ≤ 5 cm; group 3, > 5 cm), the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) was significantly lower in groups 1 and 2 compared with group 3 (p = 0.006 for each). Considering all cases, tumor SUVmax was not correlated with age, gender, or histopathological type. Lymph node metastases were pathologically proven in 24 cases: 24% of these were adenocarcinomas, 6% squamous cell carcinomas, and 16% unspecified NSCLC. Neither lymph node involvement nor distant metastases were correlated with tumor SUVmax, although lymph node size was positively correlated with lymph node SUVmax (r = 0.775; p < 0.001). Conclusions: SUVmax was significantly associated with tumor size, but not with distant metastases or lymph node involvement. Therefore, SUVmax on positron emission tomography is not predictive of the presence of metastases.
Pulmonary function testing and chest tomography in patients with acromegaly
Authors: Bittencourt Camilo Gustavo , Silva Guimarães Fernando , Guedes Silva Débora Pedroza , Mogami Roberto , Kasuki Leandro , Gadelha Mônica Roberto , Melo Pedro Lopes , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: January 2020

Background: Despite the gradual improvement in treatment procedures and cure rates of acromegaly, a steady increase in the mortality rate due to respiratory disease has been documented in recent decades. In this study, our objectives were to describe the abnormalities in lung structure and function that occur in acromegalic patients and to correlate these changes with hormonal levels. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 20 acromegalic patients and 20 age-and height-matched control subjects, all non-smokers. All subjects underwent spirometry, whole body plethysmography, carbon monoxide diffusing capacity, and respiratory muscle strength. Acromegalic patients also performed high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT). Results: Most patients were female (65%), with a mean age of 52.5 ± 13 years. Acromegalic patients showed lower values of maximum expiratory pressure (55.9 ± 17.1 vs. 103.7 ± 19.2%; p < 0.001) and maximum inspiratory pressure (71.4 ± 27.8 vs. 85.3 ± 24.1%; p = 0.005) compared to control subjects. The values of forced vital capacity (107.1 ± 15.9 vs. 98.9 ± 21.4%; p = 0.028), total lung capacity – TLC (107.3 ± 12.9 vs. 93.7 ± 7.60%; p = 0.002), residual volume (114.1 ± 22.7 vs. 90.0 ± 14.6%; p < 0.001), and airways’ resistance (3.82 vs. 2.31 cmH2O/L/s; p = 0.039) were greater in acromegalic patients than in control subjects. The difference between the TLC measured by plethysmography and the VA (alveolar volume) measured during the DLCO maneuver was higher in acromegalic patients than in control subjects (0.69 ± 0.46 vs. 0.19 ± 0.61 L; p = 0.021). The main findings in HRCT in acromegalic patients were air trapping, airway calcification and bronchiectasis, which were observed in 60%, 40% and 35% of cases, respectively. There was no significant correlation between the levels of growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I, the lung function and the air trapping. Conclusions: Acromegalic patients show changes consistent with the involvement of the small airways and ventilation inhomogeneity, both in terms of lung function and structure. However, air trapping cannot be explained either by hormone levels or changes in lung function.
Geriatric study in Europe on health effects of air quality in nursing homes (GERIE study) profile: objectives, study protocol and descriptive data
Authors: Annesi-Maesano Isabella , Norback Dan , Zielinski Jan , Bernard Alfred , Gratziou Cristina , Sigsgaard Torben , Sestini Piersante , Viegi Giovanni
Published: January 2020

Background: Indoor air pollution (IAP) constitutes a major global public health problem requiring increasing efforts in research and policymaking that may have special significance for elderly that are likely to spend most of their day indoors and appear to be particularly susceptible to adverse effects of chemical pollutants and bio-contaminants. Yet, evidence existing on the effects of IAP in elderly is scanty. The Geriatric study in Europe on health effects of air quality in nursing homes (GERIE) study aimed to assess health effects of major indoor air pollutants and thermal conditions in elderly (> 70 years) living stably in nursing homes (NH) across Europe. Respiratory effects were particularly considered as airways and lung constitute the first target of air pollutants. Objectives: We describe here the rationale and the methods of the GERIE Study. Methods: 8 nursing homes were randomly selected in 7 European countries. Twenty individuals were randomly selected in each nursing home. Major indoor and outdoor air chemical pollutants (PM10, PM2.5, PM0.1, formaldehyde, NO2; O3, VOC, CO2) and bio-contaminants (moulds, allergens) were assessed objectively with standardized procedures. Major health status indicators were assessed through a standardized questionnaire, non-invasive clinical tests and blood and urine biomarkers as well as saliva for ADN. Results: The GERIE study has given the opportunity to publish two reviews on respiratory health effects of indoor and outdoor air pollution in elderly. In addition it has provided the inventory of air quality and thermal conditions in 50 nursing homes across Europe and data on respiratory health status in 600 elderly aged 82 years in mean. Major future results will include the relationships between NH environment and health in elderly. Conclusions: The main long-term purpose of the GERIE study is to improve the health of elderly who permanently reside in nursing homes or of those who are exposed to indoor air pollution because of reduced mobility.
CT-guided needle lung biopsy is possible during apneic oxygenation: a case series
Authors: Kjaergaard Benedict , Zepernick Peter R. , Bergmann Annette , Jensen Henrik K. , Mladenovic Milka , Rasmussen Bodil S.
Published: January 2020

Background: It can be difficult to perform CT guided biopsy of small pulmonary nodules especially if the position is behind a costa or close to the diaphragm and respiratory movements may hamper the procedure. During apneic oxygenation with a pulmonary standstill these movements can be hindered. Methods: Six patients with decreased lung function and suspicious lung nodules are presented. Under general anesthesia including a muscle relaxant and a cuffed tube in the trachea CT guided biopsy was prepared. Just before the biopsy the ventilation mode was switched to a continuous positive airway pressure of 5–10 cm H2O, maintaining 100% oxygen delivery without ventilation. If the position of the lung nodule was inconvenient for biopsy the pressure was increased to up to 17 cm H2O to expand the lungs to a better biopsy position. After retrieving the biopsy controlled ventilation was re-established and a finishing control CT-scan was performed. Blood gas analyses were performed with few minutes interval. Results: All biopsies were diagnostic. All patients survived the procedure with no major complications, but 3 patients developed pneumothorax. The length of apneic oxygenation was median 10 minutes (8–10 minutes). No major changes in vital parameters were observed, and in all patients the peripheral oxygen saturation was 100% throughout the procedure. The arterial oxygen tension rose to very high values and the lowest pH was 7.18. Conclusions: It is possible to perform lung biopsies in selected patients with decreased lung function during apneic oxygenation in at least 10 minutes in a safe way.
Diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary embolism: a multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Lavorini Federico , Di Bello Vitantonio , De Rimini Maria Luisa , Lucignani Giovanni , Marconi Letizia , Palareti Gualtiero , Pesavento Raffaele , Prisco Domenico , Santini Massimo , Sverzellati Nicola , Palla Antonio , Pistolesi Massimo
Published: January 2020

The diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) is frequently considered in patients presenting to the emergency department or when hospitalized. Although early treatment is highly effective, PE is underdiagnosed and, therefore, the disease remains a major health problem. Since symptoms and signs are non specific and the consequences of anticoagulant treatment are considerable, objective tests to either establish or refute the diagnosis have become a standard of care. Diagnostic strategy should be based on clinical evaluation of the probability of PE. The accuracy of diagnostic tests for PE are high when the results are concordant with the clinical assessment. Additional testing is necessary when the test results are inconsistent with clinical probability. The present review article represents the consensus-based recommendations of the Interdisciplinary Association for Research in Lung Disease (AIMAR) multidisciplinary Task Force for diagnosis and treatment of PE. The aim of this review is to provide clinicians a practical diagnostic and therapeutic management approach using evidence from the literature.
A psychometric evaluation of the 17 itemed Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES-17) in Uganda
Authors: Musenze Ibrahim A. , Mayende Thomas S.
Published: January 2020

Purpose - This study aimed at the establishment of the psychometric properties of the UWES-17 itemed factorial structure.  This was done by examining the similarities and differences in  terms of model fit of the tri-factor model to a one-factor model.  Design/methodology/approach - Using a cross-sectional design, confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate the 17-item uni-dimensional and the 17-item tri-factor UWES respectively on a sample of 323 Education Assistants (professional teachers) in Uganda. Findings - The study confirmed an 11 item tri-factor UWES-Ug as a reliable and parsimonious factor structure within this cohort.Research limitations/implications - The sample was restricted to teachers and this limits the generalisability of the findings.Practical implications - On account of these results, the study sample evidently attests to the fact that work engagement is best represented as a tri-factor construct in Ugandan context.  This study contributes to theory by confirmation of the three-factor structure of work engagement in developing countries through use of perceptual data from a Ugandan sample. Originality/value - This is a pioneer empirical study that validates the UWES 17 itemed scale in Uganda.
Characterisation of Thomas in the Fourth Gospel
Authors: Thomaskutty Johnson
Published: January 2020

Thomas appears four times within the narrative framework of the Fourth Gospel (Jn 11:16; 14:5; 20:24–28; 21:2). His presence in the Gospel introduces some of the strategic transitions within the macro-narrative structure. The following are some of the crucial moments that are introduced through the entry of Thomas: firstly, Thomas’ character is brought to the foreground towards the end of Jesus’ public ministry, where a transition is underway through Lazarus’ death and raising to Jesus’ death and resurrection (11:16); secondly, he appears as a significant interlocutor engaged in dialogue so that Jesus’ identity as ‘the way, the truth, and the life’ may be revealed to the disciples during his private ministry (Jn 14:5–6); thirdly, Thomas’ character appears towards the climax of the Book of Glory as he is instrumental in revealing the identity of Jesus as ‘Lord’ and ‘God’ (Jn 20:24–29); and fourthly, he appears as one of the seven disciples during the post-resurrection context in Galilee (Jn 21:2). The unique placement of Thomas communicates something significant about the character and his development within the narrative.
Building community resilience to climate change: The role of a Population-Health-Environment programme in supporting the community response to cyclone Haruna in Madagascar
Authors: Mohan Vikas , Hardee Karen , Savitzky Caroline
Published: January 2020

No abstract available.
Stabilising large grains in self-forming steep channels
Authors: Booker William H. , Eaton Brett C.
Published: January 2020

Abstract. It is understood that the interaction between sediment supply and discharge drives first-order behaviour of alluvial deposits. The influence of the grain size distribution over the mobility and resultant evolution is, however, unclear. Four experiments were conducted in a scaled physical model for two grain size distributions, analogous to a one-dimensional self-formed alluvial fan. We demonstrate the unsuitability of the median grain size as a predictor of deposit behaviour at flows when the material is not equally mobile. The results instead suggest, during conditions of unequal mobility, that the largest grains control the transport efficiency of the overall sediment mixture, and thus also the morphodynamics of the deposit and its tendency to store or evacuate material. Deposits appear to show a dependence upon the rate of material supply more strongly when the likelihood of its motion is less equally distributed (i.e. under partial transport conditions). If the coarse fraction (e.g. greater than
84th percentile) is instead mobile due to increased discharge or because of their relative size, transport rates will increase and the behaviour of the mixtures converge to a common state, with morphology influenced by the material's mobility.
The destiny of orogen-parallel streams in the Eastern Alps: the Salzach–Enns drainage system
Authors: Trost Georg , Robl Jörg , Hergarten Stefan , Neubauer Franz
Published: January 2020

Abstract. The evolution of the drainage system in the Eastern Alps is inherently linked to different tectonic stages of the alpine orogeny. Crustal-scale faults imposed eastward-directed orogen-parallel flow on major rivers, whereas late orogenic surface uplift increased topographic gradients between the foreland and range and hence the vulnerability of such rivers to be captured. This leads to a situation in which major orogen-parallel alpine
rivers such as the Salzach River and the Enns River are characterized by
elongated east–west-oriented catchments south of the proposed capture
points, whereby almost the entire drainage area is located west of the
capture point. To determine the current stability of drainage divides and to predict the potential direction of divide migration, we analysed their
geometry at catchment, headwater and hillslope scale covering timescales
from millions of years to the millennial scale. We employ χ mapping
for different base levels, generalized swath profiles across drainage
divides and Gilbert metrics – a set of local topographic metrics
quantifying the asymmetry of drainage divides at hillslope scale. Our
results show that most drainage divides are asymmetric, with steeper channels west and flatter channels east of a common drainage divide. Interpreting these results, we propose that drainage divides migrate from west towards east so that the Inn catchment grows at the expense of the Salzach catchment and the Salzach catchment consumes the westernmost tributaries of the Mur and Enns catchments. Gilbert metrics across the Salzach–Enns and Salzach–Mur divides are consistent with inferred divide mobility. We attribute the absence of divide asymmetry at the Inn–Salzach divide to glacial landforms such as cirques and U-shaped valleys, which suggest that Pleistocene climate modulations are able to locally obscure the large-scale signal of drainage network reorganization. We suggest that the eastward-directed divide migration progressively leads to symmetric catchment geometries, whereby tributaries west and east of the capture point eventually contribute equally to the drainage area. To test this assumption, we have reconstructed the proposed drainage network geometries for different time slices. χ mapping of these reconstructed drainage networks indicates a progressive stability of the network topology in the Eastern Alps towards the present-day situation.
Multi-grid algorithm for passive tracer transport in NEMO ocean
circulation model: a case study with NEMO OGCM (version 3.6)
Authors: Bricaud Clément , Le Sommer Julien , Gurvan Madec , Calone Christophe , Deshayes Julie , Ethe Christian , Chanut Jérôme , Levy Marina
Published: January 2020

Abstract. Ocean biogeochemical models are key tools for both scientific and operational applications. Nevertheless the cost of running these models is often expensive because of the large number of biogeochemical tracers. This has motivated the development of multi-grid approaches where ocean dynamics and tracer transport are computed on grids of different spatial resolution. However, existing multi-grid approaches to tracer transport in ocean modelling do not allow to compute ocean dynamics and tracer transport simultaneously. This paper describes a new multi-grid approach developed for accelerating the computation of passive tracer transport in the NEMO ocean circulation model. In practice, passive tracer transport is computed at runtime on a grid with coarser spatial resolution than the hydrodynamics, which allows to reduce the CPU cost of computing the evolution of tracer. We describe the multi-grid algorithm, its practical implementation in the NEMO ocean model, and discuss its performance on the basis of a series of sensitivity experiments with global ocean model configurations. Our experiments confirm that the spatial resolution of hydrodynamical fields can be coarsened by a factor 3 in both horizontal directions without significantly affecting the resolved passive tracer fields. Overall, the proposed algorithm yields a reduction by a factor 7 of the overhead associated with running a full biogeochemical model like PISCES (with 24 passive tracers). Propositions for reducing further this cost without affecting the resolved solution are discussed.
Improving the Accuracy of Model-based Quantitative NMR
Authors: Matviychuk Yevgen , Steimers Ellen , von Harbou Erik , Holland Daniel J.
Published: January 2020

Abstract. We proposed an effective and computationally simple mechanism to improve the accuracy of model-based quantification in NMR data analysis. The proposed adjustment procedure aims to account for all useful signal left in the residual after the usual least squares fit, which can signify a case of model misspecification – a problem notoriously difficult to avoid in most model-based qNMR methods. Our alternative optimization criterion explicitly relies on the denoising of residual and smoothing the remaining baseline and is particularly effective in correcting errors in spectrum phasing. The results of analysis of experimental datasets obtained with high and medium field spectrometers indicate the accuracy improvement by 20–40 % compared to the usual least-squares model fit.
Aeroelastic response of a multi-megawatt upwind horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) based on fluid–structure interaction simulation
Authors: Shkara Yasir , Cardaun Martin , Schelenz Ralf , Jacobs Georg
Published: January 2020

Abstract. With the increasing demand for greener, sustainable, and
economical energy sources, wind energy has proven to be a potential
sustainable source of energy. The trend development of wind turbines tends
to increase rotor diameter and tower height to capture more energy. The
bigger, lighter, and more flexible structure is more sensitive to smaller
excitations. To make sure that the dynamic behavior of the wind turbine
structure will not influence the stability of the system and to further
optimize the structure, a fully detailed analysis of the entire wind turbine
structure is crucial. Since the fatigue and the excitation of the structure are highly depending
on the aerodynamic forces, it is important to take blade–tower interactions
into consideration in the design of large-scale wind turbines. In this work,
an aeroelastic model that describes the interaction between the blade and
the tower of a horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT) is presented. The
high-fidelity fluid–structure interaction (FSI) model is developed by
coupling a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver with a finite element
(FE) solver to investigate the response of a multi-megawatt wind turbine
structure. The results of the computational simulation showed that the
dynamic response of the tower is highly dependent on the rotor azimuthal
position. Furthermore, rotation of the blades in front of the tower causes
not only aerodynamic forces on the blades but also a sudden reduction in the
rotor aerodynamic torque by 2.3 % three times per revolution.
Focusing on SELF (Safety, Empowerment, Living Life Differently, and Forging a New You): Evaluating a New Approach toward Sexual Trauma Treatment for Military Service Members
Authors: Berry-Caban Cristobal S. , Lewis Sabrina S. , Thielmann Lindsey N. , Wilkins Aletia L. , Wright Qwanquita T. , Adams Ashley , Guenthner Christopher J.
Published: January 2020

Sexual assault is a pervasive problem in the United States military. The U.S. Department of Defense established the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office as the centralized helm of all sexual assault efforts. Their focus however, is on prevention, surveillance, and the reporting of sexual assault. Safety, Empowerment, Living Life Differently and Forging a New You (SELF) was designed at a large military treatment facility as a supplemental treatment option for female active-duty service members who require additional clinical services in an outpatient setting. SELF’s goal is to facilitate change and instill hope in trauma survivors by providing psychoeducation and utilizing evidenced-based interventions that focus on the developmental, psychological, and social impact of trauma. A total of 19 female active-duty soldiers completed all eight sessions. Pre- and post-test data were available for 23 participants. Numerical variables were reported in medians and interquartile ranges. All categorical variables were reported in counts and frequencies. Paired pre- and post- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5) differences were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank and differences in initial PCL-5 score between attendance adherence groups were determined using the Kruskal Wallis test. Results show a mean decrease of 10 from baseline (p = .001). SELF may provide a supplement to current treatment modalities for survivors of sexual trauma.
Promoting Political Engagement in the Classroom and Beyond: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Schmitt Carly , Bryant Jane
Published: January 2020

This article reports a quasi-experimental study that assessed whether purposeful political engagement efforts in the general education classroom, coupled with co-curricular programming, enhances student interest in politics and political efficacy. The subjects of the study were students in political science general education courses at a comprehensive Midwestern university during the 2016 election. The treatment group received weekly campaign “check-ins” and students were required to attend out-of-class political engagement programs hosted by the campus American Democracy Project. The study's findings indicate that students are responsive to these educational experiences, but that increases in student political engagement are best achieved by faculty integrating political engagement into their pedagogy.
Citizen Epistemology and Interdisciplinary, Inclusive Curriculum
Authors: Moll Ellen
Published: January 2020

To be effective citizens, students need a great deal of epistemological sophistication. This need has become increasingly visible in curricular, research, and pedagogical efforts in higher education. This reflection considers how “citizen epistemology” across the curriculum might enhance student learning about the politics and ethics of knowledge work in ways that better equip them for civic engagement. Furthermore, the complexity of citizen epistemology suggests a need to more fully invest in interdisciplinary and inclusive general education curricula.
Deliberative Communication about Complex Social Issues: An Innovative General Education Course for Honors Students
Authors: Britt Lori L. , Ball Timothy C.
Published: January 2020

In 2017, representatives from the James Madison University Honors College asked if faculty members in the School of Communication Studies would develop a version of the General Education human communication course for all incoming Honors undergraduate students in the fall semester. The goal was to provide these students with a common cohort experience in their first semester at the university. A group of faculty members designed a series of three interconnected assignments grounded in communication, but infused with civic engagement. Working through these interconnected assignments requires students to move beyond surface-level understanding of issues and to consider the tensions inherent in public issues. They must also grapple with how to communicate deliberatively and understand that we may share different values, commitments, and understandings of public problems.
A systematic review for the role of systemic thrombolysis in intermediate-risk (submassive) pulmonary embolism
Authors: Seif Mohamed Ahmed
Published: January 2020

Background: Pulmonary emboli (PE) represents an extended spectrum of diseases. 10% of submassive PE progress to massive PE, and while overall mortality is around 5%, it can reach 30%, highlighting the potential severity of submassive PE. Treatment of low and high-risk PE is rather straightforward. However, treating intermediate risk PE is challenging due to the potential risks associated with aggressive therapy. We assessed the effect of adding thrombolytic therapy to standard treatment with heparin on short-term mortality, clinical deterioration, and bleeding in intermediate-risk PE cases. Intermediate-risk PE in this systematic review is objectively confirmed PE either by computer tomography (CT) or ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scan in normotensive patients (systolic blood pressure ≥ 90 mmHg) with evidence of right ventricular strain by echocardiography or CT with or without evidence of myocardial injury by raised cardiac biomarkers. Methods: A literature search was conducted using PubMed, OvidSP Platform, Google Scholar, BestBETs, The Cochrane Library - Databases, American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), American Heart Association (AHA), European Society of Cardiology (ESC), American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), and NICE guidelines from 1946 to the 21st March 2018. References of retrieved articles were reviewed for other possibly related citations. The randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were studied and appraised using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool (). Results: From 66 potentially relevant studies, six RCTs were published between 2002 and 2017 and included in this systematic review (). A total of 1568 patients were enrolled: 747 received thrombolytic therapy with alteplase (two trials, 155 patients) or tenecteplase (four trials, 592 patients), and 821 were treated with heparin only. None of these RCTs proved that adding thrombolytic therapy to standard anticoagulant treatment statistically decreased early mortality. The five studies looking at clinical deterioration proved that thrombolysis was beneficial. Five out of six RCTs resulted in a non-significant difference in major bleeding prevalence. Only the PEITHO trial proved the opposite. The incidence of minor bleeding was significantly higher in the four studies in which it was measured (). Conclusions: Currently, there is inadequate evidence to support the use of systematic thrombolysis for patients with acute intermediate-risk PE. Although it may prevent clinical deterioration which necessitates escalation of treatment in the short term, it comes with increased risk of bleeding. Individual risk-benefit patient assessment and shared decision making may be wise until better evidence to proceed otherwise is demonstrated. Larger clinical trials concerning reduced thrombolytic doses and prolonged infusion rate is essential.
Evaluación en línea
Authors: Rizo Rodríguez Marlene
Published: January 2020

La evaluación es uno de los factores más importantes en un proceso de aprendizaje, por medio de ésta se comprueban los logros alcanzados, se identifican las competencias y habilidades que han alcanzado los estudiantes en relación con los objetivos de las asignaturas. En el caso de la evaluación en línea (e-Learning) tiene cierta particularidad, dado que se hace uso de las herramientas tecnológicas. Por ello, es importante precisar las estrategias a utilizar, según la finalidad de la misma. Este ensayo, surge a partir de la experiencia como facilitadora de cursos en línea mediante la plataforma MOODLE de la asignatura Informática Básica que se imparte en todas las carreras que se ofertan en la Facultad Regional Multidisciplinaria, Estelí, UNAN-Managua. Se destacan brevemente conceptos básicos relacionados con la evaluación de aprendizajes en línea, funciones de la evaluación, la evaluación en línea, características principales, instrumentos para evaluar en línea, así como la experiencia en MOODLE.
El Cálculo Matemático aplicado a las Ciencias Económicas en el aula de clase
Authors: Hernández Muñoz Donald Ariel
Published: January 2020

El cálculo ha sido el instrumento elegido desde el principio, porque el concepto de «pequeñas variaciones» se encuentra en el centro de muchos problemas económicos. Este ensayo fue realizado con el propósito de analizar el cómo aprenden los estudiantes con perfil económico, algunos de los conceptos más importantes relacionados al Cálculo Matemático en el aula de clase, es decir reflexionar sobre algunos aspectos de la tarea de enseñar Matemáticas que resulta fundamental e importante, para promover mejores aprendizajes, de modo de seguir construyendo un marco interpretativo compartido sobre las características que debe asumir el trabajo matemático en el aula. Por ende, se tomado como muestra el segundo año de la carrera de Contaduría Pública y Finanzas de la UNAN – Managua, FAREM - Estelí.
El valor del dinero en el tiempo
Authors: Mairena Bellorín Milton Ulises
Published: January 2020

El valor del dinero en el tiempo es una herramienta que permite descubrir cómo cambia el poder adquisitivo del dinero y cuáles son los diferentes métodos que se utilizan para realizar ese cálculo. Ante las diferentes situaciones cotidianas, conocer y aplicar el valor del dinero en el tiempo permite tomar mejores decisiones relacionadas a las finanzas, para que el dinero se pueda emplear mejor y construir un futuro más seguro, tranquilo y productivo. Esta herramienta es sumamente importante en el mundo de los negocios y se aplica perfectamente en la vida personal. La mayor parte de las decisiones financieras, sean de índole personal o empresarial, es fundamental tomar en cuenta los aspectos del término; se debe tener en cuenta que una unidad de dinero hoy tiene más valor que una unidad de dinero en el futuro, pues el dinero en el tiempo tiene la capacidad de generar más valor.
Las Finanzas Personales un instrumento de desarrollo socio económico de los estudiantes de la FAREM-Estelí
Authors: Montoya Orozco Martha Lorena
Published: January 2020

Este ensayo nace como parte de las estrategias desarrolladas por la Facultad Regional Multidisciplinaria, Estelí, en la promoción de escritura académica de parte de los docentes. La temática abordada está dentro de la asignatura Finanzas I, abordando específicamente el tema de Finanzas personales como un instrumento de desarrollo socio económico de los estudiantes de la FAREM-Estelí, haciendo énfasis en los en la gestión de la economía del individuo como son el presupuesto, los ingresos, los gastos, el ahorro y la importancia de la educación financiera como pilar del desarrollo personal y su relación con el entorno así como también se exploran las consecuencias de la poca educación financiera que es ahora preocupación a nivel mundial. Se determina el concepto de finanzas personales y las diferencias con las finanzas corporativas y se habla del porqué del resurgimiento de las finanzas personales.
Prácticas de laboratorio: la antesala a la realidad
Authors: Reyes Aguilera Edwin Antonio
Published: January 2020

Las prácticas de laboratorio constituyen un estado efectivo de aprender a hacer, razonar, interactuar, debatir, poner en común ideas, puntos de vista y por supuesto poder transformar la realidad. Constituyen en efecto, un mero acercamiento a la realidad que el futuro ingeniero en energías renovables encontrará, constituye una ruta abierta entre la teoría y la práctica de manera que a través de la experimentación la teoría pueda ser comprobada o por el contrario falseada. En el presente ensayo se realiza una pequeña reflexión sobre la importancia de las prácticas de laboratorio y el rol del docente en el desarrollo de estas, finalmente se presenta parte de la experiencia como docente hacedor de prácticas de laboratorio en diferentes asignaturas y el impacto en los estudiantes egresados.
Una buena práctica de empresa, es clave para el desarrollo profesional de estudiantes de Energía Renovable
Authors: Betanco Maradiaga Juan Alberto
Published: January 2020

El ingeniero de hoy debe saber hacer las cosas, manejar muy bien los aspectos de su especialidad, tener capacidad de aprender lo que necesite ante los problemas que surjan y nunca olvidar el aspecto humano. La formación universitaria del ingeniero requiere énfasis en que las prácticas de formación que realiza el estudiante en las empresas sean de calidad. Las reflexiones en el presente ensayo giran en torno a experiencias de estudiantes de IV año de ingeniería en Energias Renovables en su práctica de especialización. Se han considerado aspectos relacionados a la importancia del ingeniero para la sociedad, los aspectos curriculares que sustentan el desarrollo de las prácticas de especialización, la interacción de la academia, la empresa y el estado como sistema de fortalecimiento educativo mientras se forma el profesional, se culmina con evidencias de algunas vivencias en actividades especializadas que ejecutaron los jóvenes practicantes incidiendo positivamente en su desarrollo profesional.
EFL Teachers’ Perceptions of the Effectiveness of Online Professional Development in Higher Education in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alzahrani Fatimah Yousef , Althaqafi Abeer Sultan
Published: January 2020

This study aimed at examining EFL teachers’ perceptions of the effectiveness of an OPD program provided by a Saudi University. The program lasted for almost one year, and consisted of different courses about teaching English language. An online questionnaire was sent to the teachers to examine their perceptions of the effectiveness of the program through examining teachers’ perceptions of the significant features of the program, their learning in the program, and their use of the new knowledge and skills. Findings indicated limitations in teachers’ positive perceptions of the features of the OPD courses, teachers’ learning, and teachers’ use of new skills and knowledge. Providers of OPD need to take into consideration teachers’ needs and preferences, and the obstacles that might inhibit teachers’ learning. Needs analysis might be helpful to discover their needs and preferences and solutions for the obstacles they face.
Evaluation of the properties of polymer
composites with carbon nanotubes
in the aspect of their abrasive wear
Authors: Krzyżak A. , Kosicka E. , Szczepaniak R. , Szymczak T.
Published: January 2020

Purpose: Carbon nanotubes are used in composite materials due to the improvement of
(including tribological) properties of composites, especially thermoplastic matrix composites.
This demonstrates the potential of CNTs and the validity of research on determining the
impact of this type of reinforcement on the composite materials under development.
Design/methodology/approach: The article presents selected results of research on
polymer composites made of C.E.S. R70 resin, C.E.S. H72 hardener with the addition of
a physical friction modifier (CNTs) with a percentage by volume of 18.16% and 24.42%,
respectively, which also acts as a reinforcement. The produced material was subjected to
hardness measurements according to the Shore method and EDS analysis. The study of
abrasive wear in reciprocating movement was carried out using the Taber Linear Abraser
model 5750 tribotester and a precision weight. The surface topography of the composite
material after tribological tests was determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
Some of the mentioned tests were carried out on samples made only of resin, used as the
matrix of the tested polymer composite.
Findings: Carbon nanotubes used in polymer matrix composites, including bisphenol A/F
epoxy resin have an influence on the tribological properties of the material. The addition of
carbon nanotubes contributed to a 24% increase in the Ra parameter relative to pure resin,
to a level corresponding to rough grinding of steel.
Research limitations/implications: The results of the tests indicate the need to
continue research in order to optimize the composition of composites in terms of operating
parameters of friction nodes in broadly understood aviation.
Originality/value: The analysed literature did not find any studies on the impact of the
addition of carbon nanotubes on epoxy resins based on bisphenol A/F. Due to the wide
scope of application of such resins, the properties of such composite materials in which
carbon nanotubes are the reinforcing phase have been investigated.
Engaging with the Natural Environment
Authors: Kujala Johanna , Heikkinen Anna , Nieminen Jere , Jokinen Ari , Tapaninaho Riikka , Mäkelä Hannele ,   International Association for Business and Society
Published: January 2020

The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the debate on how nature can be understood as a stakeholder and to develop the idea of nature-inclusive stakeholder engagement. While acknowledging the arguments against the stakeholder status of nature, we build on a growing stream of literature that argues that nature should and can have stakeholder status. To move beyond the arguments for and against the stakeholder status of nature, we suggest the idea of nature-inclusive stakeholder engagement that builds on the ideas of strong sustainability and ecocentrism. We suggest, first, that urban nature as an ideal context for the empirical examination of the nature-inclusive stakeholder engagement. Second, we claim that multidisciplinary research is needed to understand the nature-inclusive stakeholder engagement. Third, we highlight that specification of the particularities of nature is needed when speaking about the nature-inclusive stakeholder engagement.
Workshop Report: Blue Marble Thinking for the Future of Business in Society: Where Does the Business in Society Field Go from Here?
Authors: Waddock Sandra , Elm Dawn R. , Wasieleski David , Van Buren Harry , Glozer Sarah , Higgins Colin ,   International Association for Business and Society
Published: January 2020

Blue Marble or holistic systems thinking focuses on the big picture—the system as a whole. The ‘blue marble’ is Earth viewed from space, where it can be seen as an unboundaried whole. To understand the Blue Marble, we need to zoom out—and then zoom in to specific issues and systems—and then zoom back out again. Panelists outlined key issues facing the business in society field: the need to get the field “unstuck” towards the truly difficult, big picture issues facing the world today. Presenters discussed: what it means to be human today, how natural sciences can inform research, implications of inequality, organizational responsibilities in the digital age, and the importance of language, narrative, and metaphors. Discussion emphasized how to move the field towards greater understanding of complexity and the roles that businesses and we as scholars play in understanding and even working towards resolving those issues?
Accountable Capitalism, Responsible Capitalism, and Political Capitalism
Authors: Windsor Duane ,   International Association for Business and Society
Published: January 2020

This paper compares three recent prescriptive proposals for practicing capitalism: Accountable Capitalism (Senator Elizabeth Warren), Responsible Capitalism (Professor R. Edward Freeman), and Political Corporate Social Responsibility (Professors Andreas Scherer and Guido Palazzo and colleagues). Warren’s Accountable Capitalism is a corporate governance reform proposal. Freeman’s Responsible Capitalism prescribes effective stakeholder management through entrepreneurial value creation. Political CSR (expanded here to Political Capitalism) is a prescription for democratization inside and outside of businesses and provision of public goods in instances of governmental incompetence. The rationale for this examination is the possibility of political crisis in the relationship between democracy and capitalism.