bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mind-reading a friend: A better way to ask the polling question?
Authors: Aitchison John
Published: March 2018

This article reports on differences observed when asking a simple polling question in a traditional way—that is, asking respondents for predictions about their own voting behavior versus asking respondents for predictions about a friend’s voting behavior. My intuition, based on a reading of the behavioral science literature, was that a polling question based on “reading the mind” of a friend might yield more accurate results than a traditional self-declared polling question. Four independent studies among UK adults were fielded using Google Surveys, two for each approach at the start of the electoral campaign and two for each approach at the end of the campaign. Analysis of survey results suggested that the question asking for predictions about a friend was more accurate, and more sensitive to campaign shifts, than the self-declared question. Furthermore, it was the only approach that seemed to predict a decline in turnout among older voters—a subtlety that was not more widely recognized until the numbers had been crunched post-election. We conclude by suggesting that the authenticity of the approach could be enhanced when combined with pollsters’ weighting models and that as a technique it deserves greater consideration within quantitative market research generally.
A primer on Bayesian distributional regression
Authors: Umlauf Nikolaus , Kneib Thomas
Published: March 2018

Abstract:

Bayesian methods have become increasingly popular in the past two decades. With the constant rise of computational power, even very complex models can be estimated on virtually any modern computer. Moreover, interest has shifted from conditional mean models to probabilistic distributional models capturing location, scale, shape and other aspects of a response distribution, where covariate effects can have flexible forms, for example, linear, non-linear, spatial or random effects. This tutorial article discusses how to select models in the Bayesian distributional regression setting, how to monitor convergence of the Markov chains and how to use simulation-based inference also for quantities derived from the original model parametrization. We exemplify the workflow using daily weather data on (a) temperatures on Germany's highest mountain and (b) extreme values of precipitation for the whole of Germany.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication Service by Speech–Language Pathologists in Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Meng-Ju
Published: March 2018

Speech language pathologists (SLPs) play a leading role in overall augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) service delivery. Several changes (e.g., the provision of university AAC courses) related to AAC occurred in Taiwan in the past. However, little information of AAC services provided by SLPs in Taiwan is available. The purpose of the article is to review the evolution of AAC service delivery by SLPs in Taiwan. Findings from Australia, New Zealand, and Hong Kong served as a reference. A questionnaire was mailed to 302 participants registered with the Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Taiwan (SLHA) as SLPs. A response rate is 33%. Most SLPs work in a department of rehabilitation in a hospital setting which is in northern Taiwan. Workshops held by the SLHA were the major resources for obtaining professional knowledge in AAC. Collaboration with an AAC team and training in the use of high-tech communication devices were the most desired forms of information and/or training. Implications are discussed.
Outcomes of Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair for Acute Type B Dissection in Patients With Intractable Pain or Refractory Hypertension
Authors: Laquian Liza , Scali Salvatore T. , Beaver Thomas M. , Kubilis Paul , Beck Adam W. , Giles Kristina , Huber Thomas S. , Feezor Robert J.
Published: March 2018

Purpose: To compare uncomplicated acute type B aortic dissection (UATBAD) patients with intractable pain/refractory hypertension treated with thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) to UATBAD subjects without these features receiving best medical therapy (BMT). Methods: Interrogation of the hospital database identified 101 consecutive UATBAD patients admitted between January 2011 and December 2014. Of these, 74 patients (mean age 62±13 years; 44 men) were treated with BMT; the other 27 UATBAD patients (mean age 63±13 years; 17 men) were subsequently treated with TEVAR for intractable pain (24, 89%) and/or refractory hypertension (3, 11%) at a mean 2.4±3.3 days (median 1, range 0–12) after admission. Mixed models were employed to determine differences in centerline measured aortic remodeling. Propensity analysis was employed to mitigate selection bias. Kaplan-Meier methodology was used to estimate reintervention and survival. Results: The groups were well matched; there was no difference in demographics, comorbidities, or proportion with visceral involvement (70% for TEVAR vs 86% for BMT, p=0.08). There was no significant difference in length of stay (9.6±6.3 for TEVAR vs 10.3±7.8 for BMT, p=0.3), complications (19% for TEVAR vs 24% for BMT, p=0.6), or 30-day mortality (0 for TEVAR vs 7% for BMT, p=0.1). One (4%) TEVAR patient experienced retrograde dissection. BMT resulted in greater mean increase in discharge antihypertensive medications (1.7±1.9 vs 0.7±1.7 for TEVAR, p=0.03), but there was no difference in narcotic utilization. Mean follow-up was greater in the TEVAR group (17.9±16.0 months) compared with BMT patients (11.5±10.8 months, p=0.05). TEVAR significantly improved rates of aortic diameter change (1.5% vs 12.9% for BMT, p=0.007), complete false lumen thrombosis (41% vs 11% for BMT, p=0.004), and true lumen expansion (85% vs 7% for BMT, p<0.01). However, there was no difference in reintervention (25.9% for TEVAR vs 23% for BMT, p=0.2) or survival (log-rank p=0.8). Conclusion: TEVAR for UATBAD with intractable pain/refractory hypertension is safe but offers no short-term outcome advantage when compared to UATBAD patients without these features receiving BMT. A significant improvement in aortic remodeling was identified after TEVAR. The potential long-term reintervention and aorta-related mortality benefits of this favorable remodeling have yet to be defined and randomized trials are warranted.
Midterm Outcomes After Endovascular Intervention for Occluded vs Stenosed External Iliac Arteries
Authors: Kokkinidis Damianos G. , Alvandi Bejan , Hossain Prio , Foley T. Raymond , Kielhorn Caitlin E. , Singh Gagan D. , Waldo Stephen W. , Laird John R. , Armstrong Ehrin J.
Published: March 2018

Purpose: To evaluate the association between a chronic total occlusion (CTO) and long-term outcomes among patients undergoing endovascular intervention to the external iliac artery (EIA). Methods: A 2-center retrospective study was conducted of 331 patients (mean age 64.7±12.7 years; 221 men) who underwent endovascular intervention for 481 EIA atherosclerotic lesions between 2006 and 2016. A quarter of the lesions (115, 23.9%) were CTOs. The majority of patients (184, 60.9%) were treated for claudication; 172 (38%) lesions were TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus type C or D. Target lesion revascularization (TLR) and major adverse limb event (MALE) rates were compared between lesions with or without an EIA CTO. A Cox proportional hazard model was subsequently developed to determine baseline variables associated with long-term outcomes after successful endovascular intervention of stented EIAs; outcomes are presented as the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The mean lesion length was longer (84 vs 50 mm, p<0.001) among patients treated for CTOs. While overall the target lesion failure rates were very low (2.8%), vessel perforation (2.7% vs 0.3%, p=0.02) and distal embolization (2.7% vs 0.9%, p=0.02) were more common in the CTO group. Among 377 successfully crossed and stented lesions (93 CTOs), the overall 1-year primary patency was 78% and secondary patency was 92%. One-year and 5-year TLR rates were 8.2% and 15.4%, respectively. CTO intervention was associated with higher 5-year TLR rates in the unadjusted analysis (HR 1.72, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.56, p=0.050), but the association did not remain significant after multivariable adjustment. Conclusion: Intervention to EIA CTOs is associated with increased intraprocedural complexity but with similar midterm outcomes, including high patency and low rates of TLR to 5 years.
Predictors of College Enrollment Among Latinx High School Students
Authors: Sanchez Gonzalez Mayra L. , Castillo Linda G. , Montague Marcia L. , Lynch Patricia S.
Published: March 2018

This study investigated the relationship between psychocultural, sociocultural, college knowledge, and citizenship status factors on Latinx high school students’ college enrollment. Participants included 307 Latinx ninth-grade students enrolled across four high schools in central Texas that were followed post–high school graduation. Results indicated that only receiving-culture acquisition and college knowledge were statistically significant predictors of college enrollment. Researchers provide implications for counselors and psychologists.
Post-partum catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome presenting with shock and digital ischaemia – A diagnostic and management challenge
Authors: Sadick Victoria , Lane Stuart , Fischer Eddy , Seppelt Ian , Shetty Anita , McLean Anthony
Published: March 2018

Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome is a rare multisystem autoimmune condition characterised by rapid development of widespread thrombotic disease and subsequent multi-organ failure. It is the most severe complication of antiphospholipid syndrome, carrying significant morbidity and mortality. We report a patient with post-partum catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome with cardiac, hepatic, renal and cutaneous manifestations. The diagnostic challenges in establishing a definitive diagnosis in catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome is discussed, along with the difficulties in managing these patients in the intensive care unit.
Long-term effect of exercise training in patients after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: Follow-up of the SPORT:TAVI randomised pilot study
Authors: Pressler Axel , Förschner Leonie , Hummel Jana , Haller Bernhard , Christle Jeffrey W , Halle Martin
Published: March 2018

Background

Increased exercise capacity favourably influences clinical outcomes after transcatheter aortic valve implantation. In our SPORT:TAVI randomised pilot trial, eight weeks of endurance and resistance training (training group, TG) shortly after transcatheter aortic valve implantation resulted in significantly improved exercise capacity, muscular strength and quality of life compared to usual care (UC). However, the long-term clinical benefits of such an intervention are unknown.

Design

A randomised controlled trial.

Methods

SPORT:TAVI participants underwent reassessment of trial endpoints 24 ± 6 months after baseline: maximal oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and anaerobic threshold (VO2AT) were assessed with cardiopulmonary exercise testing, muscular strength with one-repetition maximum testing, quality of life with the Kansas City cardiomyopathy and medical outcomes study 12-item short-form health survey questionnaires, and prosthetic aortic valve function with echocardiography.

Results

Of 27 original participants (TG 13; UC 14; age 81 ± 6 years), more patients had died during follow-up in UC ( n = 5) than in TG ( n = 2; P = 0.165); three further patients (TG 1; UC 2) were unavailable for other reasons. In the remaining patients (TG 10; UC 7), a significant between-group difference in favour of TG was observed for change in VO2AT from baseline (2.7 ml/min/kg (95% confidence interval 0.8–4.6); P = 0.008), but not for change in VO2peak (2.1 ml/min/kg (–1.1–5.4); P = 0.178). Changes in muscular strength and quality of life did not differ between groups over time. Overall, prosthetic valve function remained intact in both groups.

Conclusions

Eight weeks of exercise training shortly after transcatheter aortic valve implantation resulted in preserved long-term improvements in VO2AT, but not VO2peak, muscular strength or quality of life compared to usual care. The findings emphasise the importance of ongoing exercise interventions following transcatheter aortic valve implantation to maintain initial improvements long term. Clinical Trial Registration (original trial): Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01935297.
Rehabilitation Outcomes for Total Knee Arthroplasties: Continuous Adductor Canal Block Versus Continuous Femoral Nerve Block
Authors: Brennan Patrick T. , Villa Jesus M. , Rossi Mark D. , Sanchez-Gonzalez Marcos A. , Lavernia Carlos J.
Published: March 2018

Objective:

To determine whether any strength, range of motion (ROM), or functional improvement exists in the adductor canal block (ACB) group after completion of inpatient rehabilitation and following the removal of the continuous block.

Design:

Retrospective cohort.

Setting:

Inpatient rehabilitation at discharge and outpatient orthopedic clinic for follow-up.

Participants:

Two hundred forty-six consecutive primary total knee arthroplasties (TKAs; N = 221 patients) performed by a single surgeon in a single institution between July 2013 and August 2015 for a diagnosis of osteoarthritis.

Interventions:

All TKA cases received a continuous femoral nerve block (FNB) from July 2013 to August 2014 for postoperative pain control. From August 2014 through August 2015, all TKAs received a continuous ACB.

Main Outcome Measures:

Manual muscle tests (MMTs; 0-5 scale) of the quadriceps and passive ROM of the knee were assessed at 3 time periods (hospital discharge [HD], 1-2 weeks, and 1 month). Patient-oriented outcomes and clinical knee scores were examined preoperatively and postoperatively at 3 and 6 months.

Results:

63.6% of FNB cases had an MMT less than 3 at HD and 36.4% of FNB cases had an MMT of 3 or greater at HD. Conversely, 46% of ACB cases had an MMT less than 3 at HD and 54% had an MMT of 3 or greater at HD. There were no statistically significant differences in all postoperative variables at all tested time periods.

Conclusions:

This study showed no short-term postoperative advantages in the ACB group after catheter removal. The superior inpatient rehabilitation course in the continuous ACB group is likely not long enough to translate into any maintained benefit following catheter removal. Nevertheless, the trend toward greater strength in the ACB group in the immediate short term at HD warrants further investigation.
Building Media Capacity for Children Sustainability in Africa: Educational and Partnership Imperatives
Authors: Oyero Olusola , Salawu Abiodun
Published: March 2018

The “African common position” during the Special Session of United Nations (UN) General Assembly on children was that “Today’s investment in children is tomorrow’s peace, stability, security, democracy and sustainable development.” However, the African child remains the most neglected species in the continent as millions of them are still living in poverty, deprived of education, suffer from malnourishment and discrimination, abandoned and vulnerable to abuses including being used as child soldiers in warfare. This situation demands a revisitation of the world union’s call to care for the interest of the child as specified in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. In this regard, the media is fingered as having a role to play in ensuring the realization of children’s many unfulfilled dreams, a responsibility that requires greater capacity. Unfortunately, the current African media capacity for children is very low, a situation traceable to lack of skills and inadequate knowledge base. It is in this direction that this article argues that African media requires an educational framework purposely devoted to children and instituted within the media training purview, as well as partnership to effectively cater for the interest of the child in ensuring sustainable generation for the Continent.
Trends in Lumbar Fusion Surgery Among Octogenarians: A Nationwide Inpatient Sample Study From 2004 to 2013
Authors: Kha Stephanie T. , Ilyas Haariss , Tanenbaum Joseph E. , Benzel Edward C. , Steinmetz Michael P. , Mroz Thomas E.
Published: March 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis.

Objectives:

Given the aging US population and natural degenerative process of the spine, more elderly patients with lumbar spinal disease are surgical candidates. Prior studies have assessed safety and efficacy of lumbar fusion (LF) surgeries in the elderly, but none have reviewed fusion procedures from an epidemiological standpoint. Here, we report 2004-2013 national trends in demographics, discharge time, and economic impact of LF procedures for octogenarians.

Methods:

The Nationwide Inpatient Sample database was queried from 2004 to 2013 for LF procedures in patients aged 80 to 89 years. Patients were grouped by fusion level, demographics, comorbidity score, insurance, and hospital characteristics. Postoperative variables include length of stay and total in-hospital charges. Data was evaluated using chi-squared tests and t tests.

Results:

The national sample included 17 471 LF procedures (mean age = 82.65 years). From 2004 to 2013, the annual number of LF procedures increased from 1144 to 2061 patients. Percentage of multilevel LF was relatively maintained (mean = 18%). The majority of patients were female (mean = 62%). The proportion of males increased during the study period (31.8% to 42.5%; P < .0001). The proportion of patients with a comorbidity score of 2 or 3 increased during the study period ( P < .0001). Over time, average length of stay decreased (from 6 to 4.5 days; P < .0001), and total in-hospital charges increased (from $58 471 to $111 235; P < .0001).

Conclusions:

These results suggest that more lumbar fusion procedures are being performed on octogenarians in recent years. While these patients are discharged from hospitals more quickly after surgery, there is also greater financial burden placed on patients, hospitals, and society.
Preoperative Nutritional Status as a Risk Factor for Major Postoperative Complications Following Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Ukogu Chierika O. , Jacobs Samantha , Ranson Willliam A. , Somani Sulaiman , Vargas Luilly , Lee Nathan J. , Di Capua John , Kim Jun S. , Vig Khushdeep S. , Cho Samuel K.
Published: March 2018

Study Design:

Retrospective study.

Objectives:

To determine rates of medical and surgical postoperative complications in adults with hypoalbuminemia undergoing anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF).

Methods:

This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS-NSQIP) database of patients (≥18 years old) undergoing ALIF procedures, identified by CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code from 2011 to 2014. Poor nutritional status was defined by a preoperative serum albumin level <3.5 g/dL, and albumin levels above this were considered normal. Multivariate logistic regression models were utilized to assess preoperative risk factors including nutritional status as predictors of specific postoperative complications. Significance was defined as P < .05 and odds ratios (ORs) were calculated with a 95% confidence interval (CI). This model was used to determine the strength of nutritional status as an adjusted predictor of adverse postoperative events.

Results:

There were 3184 ALIF cases, including 1,275 (40%) of which had preoperative serum albumin levels. 53 (4.15%) patients were classified as having poor nutrition status. Poor preoperative nutritional status was shown to be a strong independent predictor of length of stay ≥5 days (OR = 2.56, 95% CI 1.43-4.59, P = .002), urinary tract infection (OR = 5.93, 95% CI 2.11-16.68, P = .001), and sepsis (OR = 5.35, 95% CI 1.13-25.42, P = .035) compared to patients with normal preoperative serum albumin levels.

Conclusions:

Our analysis shows that patients with poor nutritional status before ALIF are independently at risk for sepsis as well as increased length of stay and urinary tract infection.
Hypereosinophilic Syndrome Complicated by Eosinophilic Myocarditis With Dramatic Response to Steroid
Authors: Khalid Mazin , Gayam Vijay , Dahal Sumit , Ur Rahman Ebad , Fadllala Kamal , Kaler Jaspreet , Khalid Mowyad , Dufresne Alix
Published: March 2018

Introduction. Eosinophilic myocarditis is an infiltrative disease that affects the myocardium leading to various presentations. It can be precipitated by medications, helminthiasis, or hypereosinophilic syndrome. Case. We present the case of a young, male patient who presented with palpitations and dyspnea and was found to have heart failure with reduced ejection fracture of 12%. His past medical history was significant for recent lung problem treated with steroids. Based on his history and laboratory findings, he was started on intravenous steroids for treatment of eosinophilic myocarditis. Within 3 days, his ejection fracture improved to 35%. Conclusion. Given the nonspecific clinical presentations, mimicking other diseases, high index of suspicion is warranted to diagnose eosinophilic myocarditis. This is crucial as early detection and treatment with steroids can lead to a dramatic response.
Does the Reliability of Reporting in Injury Surveillance Studies Depend on Injury Definition?
Authors: Cross Matthew , Williams Sean , Kemp Simon P.T. , Fuller Colin , Taylor Aileen , Brooks John , Trewartha Grant , Stokes Keith
Published: March 2018

Background:

Choosing an appropriate definition for injury in injury surveillance studies is essential to ensure a balance among reporting reliability, providing an accurate representation of injury risk, and describing the nature of the clinical demand.

Purpose:

To provide guidance on the choice of injury definition for injury surveillance studies by comparing within- and between-team variability in injury incidence with >24-hour and >7-day time-loss injury definitions in a large multiteam injury surveillance study.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Injury data were reported for 2248 professional rugby union players from 15 Premiership Rugby clubs over 12 seasons. Within-team percentage coefficient of variation and mean between-team standard deviation (expressed as a percentage coefficient of variation) in injury incidence rates (injuries per 1000 player match hours) were calculated. For both variables, a comparison was made between >24-hour and >7-day injury incidence rates in terms of the magnitude of the observed effects.

Results:

The overall mean incidence across the population with a >24-hour time-loss injury definition was approximately double the reported incidence with the >7-day definition. There was a 10% higher between-team variation in match injury incidence rates with the >24-hour time-loss definition versus the >7-day definition.

Conclusion:

There was a likely higher degree of between-team variation in match injury incidence rates with a >24-hour time-loss definition than with a >7-day definition of injury. However, in professional sports settings, it is likely that the benefits of using a more inclusive definition of injury (improved understanding of clinical demand and the appropriate and accurate reporting of injury risk) outweigh the small increase in variation in reporting consistency.
A 5-Strand Hamstring Autograft Achieves Outcomes Comparable to Those of a 4-Strand Hamstring Autograft With a Graft Diameter of 8 mm or More in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Krishna Lingaraj , Tan Xin Yang , Wong Francis Keng Lin , Toh Shi Jie
Published: March 2018

Background:

Quadrupled (4-strand) hamstring tendon autografts are commonly used in anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, but there is significant variability in their diameter. The 5-strand hamstring autograft has been used as a means of increasing the graft diameter in patients with undersized hamstring grafts.

Purpose:

To report the outcomes of primary ACL reconstruction using 5-strand hamstring autografts in patients in whom the 4-strand configuration produced a graft diameter of <8 mm and to compare these outcomes with those of ACL reconstruction using 4-strand semitendinosus-gracilis autografts with a graft diameter of ≥8 mm.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The primary study group comprised 25 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction using a 5-strand hamstring autograft. The comparison group comprised 20 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction using a 4-strand hamstring autograft with a graft diameter of ≥8 mm. Interference screw fixation was used at the tibial and femoral ends for both groups of patients. Subjective questionnaires, including the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), the Lysholm score, and the Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary of the Short Form–36 (SF-36), were administered preoperatively as well as at 1- and 2-year follow-up visits.

Results:

There were no significant differences in the patient demographics and preoperative scores between the 2 groups. The mean graft diameter was 9.06 ± 0.60 mm in the 5-strand group and 8.13 ± 0.32 mm in the 4-strand group ( P < .05). There was no statistically significant difference between groups on postoperative Lysholm, KOOS Pain, KOOS Symptoms, KOOS Activities of Daily Living, KOOS Sports, KOOS Quality of Life, and SF-36 Physical Component Summary scores.

Conclusion:

In primary ACL reconstruction, the 5-strand hamstring autograft achieves clinical outcomes that are comparable to those of the 4-strand hamstring autograft with a graft diameter of ≥8 mm. The 5-strand graft technique is therefore a useful means of increasing the graft diameter when faced with an undersized hamstring graft.
Are Parents’ Ratings and Satisfaction With Preschools Related to Program Features?
Authors: Bassok Daphna , Markowitz Anna J. , Player Daniel , Zagardo Michelle
Published: March 2018

This study examines whether parents’ overall satisfaction with their child’s early childhood education (ECE) program is correlated with a broad set of program characteristics, including (a) observational assessments of teacher-child interactions; (b) structural features of the program, such as teacher education and class size; (c) practical and convenience factors (e.g., hours, cost); and (d) a measure of average classroom learning gains. It then describes associations between parents’ evaluation of specific program characteristics and externally collected measures of those features. Leveraging rich data from a sample of low-income parents whose 4-year-olds attend publicly funded ECE programs, we find little correspondence between parents’ evaluations of program characteristics and any external measures of those same characteristics. We discuss policy implications, especially in light of recent federal and state informational initiatives, which aim to help families make informed ECE choices.
Decrease in pulmonary function and oxygenation after lung resection
Authors: Brocki Barbara Cristina , Westerdahl Elisabeth , Langer Daniel , Souza Domingos S.R. , Andreasen Jan Jesper
Published: March 2018

Respiratory deficits are common following curative intent lung cancer surgery and may reduce the patient's ability to be physically active. We evaluated the influence of surgery on pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength and physical performance after lung resection.

Pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength (maximal inspiratory/expiratory pressure) and 6-min walk test (6MWT) were assessed pre-operatively, 2 weeks post-operatively and 6 months post-operatively in 80 patients (age 68±9 years).

Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery was performed in 58% of cases. Two weeks post-operatively, we found a significant decline in pulmonary function (forced vital capacity −0.6±0.6 L and forced expiratory volume in 1 s −0.43±0.4 L; both p<0.0001), 6MWT (−37.6±74.8 m; p<0.0001) and oxygenation (−2.9±4.7 units; p<0.001), while maximal inspiratory and maximal expiratory pressure were unaffected. At 6 months post-operatively, pulmonary function and oxygenation remained significantly decreased (p<0.001), whereas 6MWT was recovered.

We conclude that lung resection has a significant short- and long-term impact on pulmonary function and oxygenation, but not on respiratory muscle strength. Future research should focus on mechanisms negatively influencing post-operative pulmonary function other than impaired respiratory muscle strength.
The pronounced high expression of discoidin domain receptor 2 in human interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Bian Huan , Nie Xiaowei , Bu Xin , Tian Feng , Yao Libo , Chen Jingyu , Su Jin
Published: March 2018

The most typical structural feature of human interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) is the accumulation of vast amounts of collagens within the lung interstitium. The membrane receptors that are responsible for recognising collagens and then transducing signals into the cells include four members of the integrin family (α1β1, α2β1, α10β1 and α11β1) and two members of the discoidin domain receptor family (DDR1 and DDR2). However, it remains unknown whether these six collagen receptors similarly contribute to the pathogenesis of fibrotic lung diseases.

Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) was utilised to assess the mRNA expression of the genes studied. Immunoblot experiments were performed to analyse the protein abundance and kinase activity of the gene products. The tissue location was determined by immunohistochemical staining.

qPCR data showed thatDDR2mRNA displays the most dramatic difference between idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients and healthy groups. The outstanding increases in DDR2 proteins were also observed in some other types of ILD besides IPF. DDR2-expressing cells in ILD tissue sections were found to exhibit spindle or fibroblastic shapes.

Our investigation suggests that DDR2 might represent a major cell surface protein that mediates collagen-induced cellular effects in human ILD and, hence, is suitable for their diagnosis and therapy.
Mental health law in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Novotni Antoni , Manusheva Nensi , Novotni Gabriela
Published: March 2018

Psychiatrists are often confronted with the problem of non-consensual treatment. This paper focuses on the rights of patients with mental health disorders in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in relation to non-consensual treatment and deprivation of liberty. The current mental health legislation and its implementation in local services is described with an emphasis on the assessment and treatment of patients with mental disorders.
Restrictive environments: the challenge of implementing of Brunei's 2014 Mental Health Order
Authors: Ho Hilda
Published: March 2018

In 2014, Brunei implemented the Mental Health Order, which replaced the 1929 Lunacy Act. This new legislation was designed to improve the treatment of mental disorders and to protect the rights and welfare of people with mental disorders. This short report describes the experience and challenge of implementing the new legislation, with a particular focus on the use of involuntary treatment and the restrictions imposed on people with mental disorders despite the new legislative framework.
THE PROBLEM OF PROMOTING FAMILY VALUES IN THE YOUTH AUDIENCE
Authors: Литвинова Наталья , Litvinova Natalya
Published: March 2018

Currently in the youth age group is most strongly expressed deep contradictions between traditional values and modern attitudes in the system of marriage and family relations, in reproductive attitudes and behaviour, in assessing the role and value of family as a social institution and for the person and for society and for the state. The consequence of contradictions are: a preference for youth unregistered forms of marriage; the perception of the fact of divorce as a norm of public life; the increasing statistics of children born out of wedlock and teenage mothers; the increase in age of marriage; young families experience financial difficulties and the need for socio – psychological support.

Today important new methods, which are society and social institutions, seeking to ensure the homeostasis of society and personal balance. These methods include social PR designed to solve different social problems, including such important as strengthening the social institution of the family through various activities
Principles for the Formation of Corporate Integrated Reporting
Authors: Бочкарева Н. , Bochkareva N. , Кожухов В. , Kozhukhov V.
Published: March 2018

A feature of corporate integrated reporting is a broad view of not only financial information in it. Key elements of such reporting are positions that oft en do not have an accurate and unambiguous valuation. The implementation of the principle of integration in corporate reporting should be based on three fundamental provisions that contain a common ideology and basic principles: rationality, prudence, verifiability, reliability, publicity, relevance, feedback principle, predictive value.
Pathwise Dynamic Programming
Authors: Bender Christian , Gärtner Christian , Schweizer Nikolaus
Published: March 2018

We present a novel method for deriving tight Monte Carlo confidence intervals for solutions of stochastic dynamic programming equations. Taking some approximate solution to the equation as an input, we construct pathwise recursions with a known bias. Suitably coupling the recursions for lower and upper bounds ensures that the method is applicable even when the dynamic program does not satisfy a comparison principle. We apply our method to three nonlinear option pricing problems, pricing under bilateral counterparty risk, under uncertain volatility, and under negotiated collateralization.
Inpatient surgical treatment of paediatric proximal humerus fractures between 2000 and 2012
Authors: Cruz A. I. , Kleiner J. E. , Gil J. A. , Goodman A. D. , Daniels A. H. , Eberson C. P.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To estimate the rate of surgical treatment of paediatric proximal humerus fractures over time utilizing a large, publicly available national database.

Methods

The Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids’ Inpatient Database was evaluated between the years 2000 and 2012. Proximal humerus fractures were identified using International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9 CM) diagnosis codes. ICD-9 CM procedure codes were used to identify patients who received surgical treatment. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine variables associated with greater proportions of surgical treatment. All statistical analyses were performed utilizing SAS statistical software v.9.4. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

Results

A total of 7520 proximal humerus fracture admissions were identified; 3247 (43.2%) were treated surgically. The percentage of patients receiving surgery increased from 39.3% in 2000 to 46.4% in 2012 (p < 0.001). After adjustment for potential confounders, increased age, increased ICD-9 derived injury severity scores (ICISS) and more recent year were associated with an increased proportion of patients receiving surgical treatment (p < 0.001). Medicaid payer status (p < 0.001) and admission to a children's hospital (p = 0.045) were associated with a lower proportion of surgical treatment.

Conclusion

The rate of operative treatment of paediatric proximal humerus fractures increased over time between 2000 and 2012. Increased surgical rates were independently associated with older age, increased ICISS, treatment at a non-children's hospital and non-Medicaid insurance status. Further study is needed to provide evidence to support improved outcomes after operative treatment of paediatric proximal humerus fractures.

Level of Evidence IV
Twenty years post US welfare reform and state family caps aka child exclusion: an overdue assessment
Authors: Romero Diana , Agénor Madina
Published: March 2018

The 1996 welfare reform legislation sought to discourage poor women from childbearing by allowing a family-cap policy prohibiting an increase in cash assistance when a new child is born. We conducted key-informant interviews with officials from all 24 family-cap states on the policy's status, implementation, opinions regarding its effectiveness, benefits and disadvantages. Most stated that the policy's administrative burden and negative economic impact on poor families outweighed its potential benefits. Some states implemented related policies that further undermined family wellbeing and/or did not adopt the Medicaid expansion increasing access to family planning, revealing a punitive social policy of questionable effectiveness.
Association Between Mast Cells and Collagen Maturation in Chronic Periodontitis in Humans
Authors: e Ribeiro Lívia S.F. , dos Santos Jean N. , Rocha Clarissa A.G. , Cury Patricia R.
Published: March 2018

Mast cells (MCs) can influence the maturation of collagen fibers. This study evaluated the relationship between the distribution and degranulation of MCs and collagen maturation in human gingival tissue in chronic periodontitis. A total of 16 specimens of patients clinically diagnosed as periodontitis and 18 controls clinically diagnosed as healthy or gingivitis were included. Immunohistochemistry and Picrosirius staining were performed to identify MCs and assess collagen fibers, respectively. Chi-square, t test, and Pearson’s correlation test ( p<0.05) were used. In control specimens, there was a positive association between MCs in the connective tissue and the presence of immature collagen ( p=0.001); in periodontitis samples, this association was not confirmed ( p≥0.12). There was no significant relationship between periodontal diagnosis and collagen maturation or MC degranulation ( p≥0.35). MC density was significantly higher ( p=0.04) in periodontitis tissue (339.01 ± 188.94 MCs/mm2) than in control tissue (211.14 ± 131.13 MCs/mm2) in the area of connective tissue containing inflammatory infiltrate. There was a correlation between the number of MCs and probing depth ( r = 0.34, p=0.04). MCs are involved in the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases and might be associated with collagen maturation in periodontal tissue during the early stages of periodontal disease pathogenesis.
Knowledge management alignment to the community of practice in a company of cutting and bending steel
Authors: De Barros Jerônimo Taciana , Coutinho de Melo Fagner José , Tomaz de Aquino Joás , Gonzaga de Albuquerque André Philippi , Dumke de Medeiros Denise
Published: March 2018

This article aims to analyze the characteristics of a community of practice focused on the quality of management decision making in a company in the metallurgical industry, which is a company of cutting and bending steel for construction. Quality management requires greater flexibility in the activities, information sharing, skills development of individuals, and engagement among employees. The scientific method adopted was the descriptive cross-analysis case study, whose data was collected through semi-structured interviews conducted with 180 individuals. It was observed that the creation of communities of practice does not occur at random, and its main features are defined identity of shared interest; the way to build the image belonging to a particular social group; and involvement in joint activities that allow them to learn from each other.
The contribution of ergonomics to the effectiveness of the public service: analysis of the implementation of the Electronic Judicial Process (PJe)
Authors: Yparraguirre Ivany Rocha
Published: March 2018

The Brazilian Justice, propelled by the benefits that the technological era can bring to the speed of the jurisdictional provision, proposed the implementation of the Electronic Judicial Process (PJe). In this context of demand for effectiveness, this article aims to identify and evaluate comparatively the ergonomics practices versus the recommendations of the theory on the search of the effectiveness of the Brazilian public service. The analysis focuses on the implantation of the PJe in the Brazilian Courts of Justice and the repercussions on the Quality of Work Life, identifying opportunities for the improvement of the results through the development and application of Ergonomics. The methodological strategy included a review of the literature, field observation, unstructured interviews, document analysis and comparative evaluation of theoretical models and practices in the implantation of the PJe. The results obtained were constituted by a chart illustrating the comparison between practices identified in the implantation of the PC and the possible opportunities of Light Improvements of the literature in Ergonomics. It could be observed that, after almost 10 years since the publication of Law 11,419 / 2006, which defined the implantation of the PJe in the Brazilian Judiciary, there are still few studies that consider and implement care regarding the ergonomic risks and the health and safety of the servers.
Organizational skills development: the context of information technologies
Authors: Pereira de Moraes Carlos Alexandre , Bezerra Pimentel Leonardo , Esteves Lattanzi Iasmim
Published: March 2018

The objective is to discuss the notions of Cyberculture in institutional teaching-learning practices articulated to other important contemporary concepts, coming from the great area of sociology, with a view to positioning the guiding questions of social engagement in teaching-learning practices. In this way, it aims to support in this approach the pertinent perspective of social engagement associated with the plurality of the different socioeconomic contexts in which formal education is carried out. In this sense, the political and economic context that constitutes the teaching practice in the undergraduate courses of the Brazilian universities and their unfolding in the teaching practices is emphasized. In this sense, the political and economic contexts that constitute the teaching practice in the undergraduate courses of the Brazilian universities and their unfolding in the teaching practices is emphasized.
Identification technologies evaluation method: an application in cattle chain
Authors: Cabral Ribeiro Priscilla Cristina , Batalha Mário Otávio , M. Chudoba Katherine , Bailey Deevon , Scavarda Annibal Jose
Published: March 2018

The objective of this paper is to apply an identification technologies evaluation method in cattle chain in a sample in Brazil and in USA. These technologies are information and communication technologies, such as Radio Frequency Identification and barcode. The research methodology used was a qualitative study, with an extensive literature review on information technology, information systems, and Radiofrequency evaluation methods. A scale was created to decide what decision the case study has to take according to its technology. The method proposed can contribute to the theory of information technology evaluation and can offer practitioners an efficient and effective way to evaluate prospective information technology implementations. The rankings showed that American respondents evaluate RFID with a better performance in security variables. Brazilian agents evaluate Radiofrequency with a better performance in technical and organizational variable. The scale revealed that the Americans have more agents in Group B (8), which means reevaluation of the identification method, and just one in Group A, meaning that it has to change its information technology. Brazilian agents have more cases in Group B (6), than group C (3), and Group A (1). This means that the majority of the sample has to reevaluate their method to trace cattle.
Applying CBM and PHM concepts with reliability approach for Blowout Preventer (BOP): a literature review
Authors: Brandão Martins Filipe , Cardoso Rodolfo , Tammela Iara , Colombo Danilo , Acioli de Matos Bruno
Published: March 2018

The sensibility originated by the Blowout Preventer (BOP) theme, due to all attention gathered after the Macondo event, established a high level of requirements from regulatory agencies, clients and Drilling Contractors themselves. Based on these pillars, the concept of reliability has been constantly applied in the oil industry, especially in the Well Safety and Control System, where it is extremely important for the equipment to be reliable and operational when required. In parallel, the Condition Based Maintenance (CBM) and Prognostic Health Management (PHM) concepts, widely used in critical industries, which require high reliability levels, are being pointed out as the future for the BOP system management. Within this context, the purpose of this paper is to review the literature on Condition Based Maintenance and Prognostic Health Management, integrated with reliability concepts, and to enable them to be applied in the BOP health management. The paper identifies different concepts needed to support the main theme and, through research and selection criteria, it brings together a set of publications to obtain consistent theoretical framework. This research outlines important techniques used in high reliability industries and the way they can be applied on the BOP system and it also provides many useful references and case studies to assist on further development works in terms of well control and operational safety.
Valuation methodologies for business startups: a bibliographical study and survey
Authors: Batista de Oliveira Fabrício , Perez Zotes Luís
Published: March 2018

The aim of this study was to research and analyze the different methodologies used for the valuation process and identify which are the most suitable for startup companies in the Brazilian market. The investigation was carried out by means of bibliographical research articles through the databases Scopus and Web of Science and through interviews with professional experts in valuation of companies. The approach of the subject valuation for business startups, presents plenty of opportunities in the countries of Central and South America by their limited amount of scientific production found in databases of scientific productions. From the market point of view, the article presents important contribution to the promotion and maintenance of startups projects, many of which in the early stage of deployment, since it will serve as a source of consultation for such category of company that needs to identify the better options in the process of valuation for startups and companies as support for the economic and financial viability study of projects in the early stage, supporting the professional segments of Administration, Finance and Engineering Production, not limited only to those. The originality of this research is to make a direct relationship of valuation commonly used with startups definitions proposed by Blank and Dorf (2014) and Ries (2011).
Experimental Investigation of Flame Speed of Gasoline Fuel-Air Mixture
Authors: Obayes Oras Khudhair , Shahad Haroun A.K.
Published: March 2018

Flame speed is an important aspect of fuel combustion characteristics. It affects combustion system design and performance. In this study, a laboratory experimental rig has been built to investigate the effect of equivalence ratio of gasoline-air mixture in a centrally ignited constant volume combustion chamber on flame speed at an initial pressure of 1bar and an initial temperature of 483 K using high speed flame photography technique. The results of the outwardly expanding spherical flame showed that the flame speed depends on both equivalence ratio and flame radius. It decreases slightly with the increase of flame radius and increases with the equivalence ratio until slightly larger than stiochiometric and then decreases. The flame speed reached 1.45 m/s at Φ= 0.8, (1.6) m/s at Φ= 1 and 1.27 m/s at Φ= 1.5