bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavior of a Two-Lobe Journal Bearing With a Scratched Shaft: Comparison Between Theory and Experiment
Authors: Bouyer Jean , Fillon Michel , Helene Mathieu , Beaurain Jérôme , Giraudeau Célia
Published: September 2018

Using the experience acquired within our lab in terms of both thermohydrodynamic (THD) and thermoelastohydrodynamic (TEHD) numerical simulations, a new THD code has been improved by adding the possibility of taking into account geometrical defects, and particularly scratches, which are often discovered by turbine users during maintenance operations. To examine this issue, two numerical codes were coupled to provide the TEHD analysis presented in this work. To validate the numerical results, experimental tests were conducted using the Pprime Institute bearing test rig. The performance of the same two-lobe journal bearing (preload 0.524) as used in a previous study, lubricated with ISO VG 46 oil, was evaluated. Scratches of different depths (varying as a function of the radial clearance) were directly machined onto the shaft. TEHD solutions and experimental data were compared for various rotational speeds and applied loads. Pressure and temperature comparisons for the three scratch depths show good correlation, and give the expected results for cases with a scratch. It was also found that the asymmetry in the pressure field created by the presence of a scratch led to a slight misalignment. The comparisons were improved by taking into account this misalignment, using the balance of momentum.
Numerical Analysis of Industrial Gas Turbine Secondary Air Systems Employing Vortex Reducers
Authors: Sibilli Thierry , Cho GeonHwan , Kholi Foster , Mucci Alberto
Published: September 2018

The rise in temperature and pressure ratios for both turbine and compressor intrinsically require an increased secondary air system performance. The more demanding operating environment of the components to be cooled and the quest for improved efficiency, command a particular attention to the losses faced along the secondary flow path. One of the major pressure drop is experienced with the radial inflow in a rotating cavity, becoming a potential high gain branch of the system. The use of vortex reducers has shown a considerable improvement in performance and this paper presents the work done to minimize the pressure losses for an industrial gas turbine application using various vortex reducers. The numerical results and the set-up of a one-dimensional network model and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model for various configurations are discussed in detail showing an improved system performance with the proposed vortex reducer configuration.
Influence of Blade Loading Profile on Wake Dynamics in High-Pressure Turbine Cascades
Authors: Luymes B. T. , An Q. , Steinberg A. M. , Zhang X.-F. , Vandeputte T.
Published: September 2018

The influences of blade loading profile on wake convection and wake/wake interaction were studied in two different blade designs for high-pressure turbines (front-loaded and aft-loaded), installed in linear cascades. A high-speed moving bar apparatus replicated wake shedding, and a closed loop wind tunnel produced engine-relevant Mach numbers (Ma = 0.7) and Reynolds numbers (Re = 3 × 105). The front-loaded blades had approximately 10% greater total pressure loss when operated with unsteady wake passage. Phase conditioned PIV measurements were made in the aft portion of the blade channel and downstream of the blade trailing edge. The turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) in the wake was approximately 30% higher for the front-loaded blades when the wake entered the measurement field-of-view. The pressure field in the upstream region of the front-loaded blade design is believed to induce high magnitude strain rates — leading to increased TKE production — and more aggressively turn and dilate the unmixed wake — leading to increased mixing related losses. The higher TKE for the front-loaded blades largely dissipated by the time the wake reached the end of the blade passage. The interaction of the convected wake with the wake from the blade trailing edge caused periodic vortex shedding at the second harmonic of the convected wake frequency. This interaction also modulated the strength of the trailing edge wake. However, little difference was found in the modulation amplitudes between the different cases due to similar strengths of the convected wakes in this region. The higher wake TKE in the upstream portion of the blade channel for the front-loaded blades therefore is expected to be the cause of the increased total pressure loss.
Does size matter? Fecundity and longevity of spider mites (Tetranychus urticae) in relation to mating and food availability
Authors: Li Guangyun , Zhang Zhi-Qiang
Published: September 2018

Bigger animals tend to live longer than the small ones across species, but whether body size also has a robust relationship with survival within species remains to be determined. Here, the association between body size and fitness traits was examined through two food treatments (starvation and fed ad libitum) for both virgin and mated spider mites, Tetranychus urticae. The longevity of spider mites differed significantly across treatments, with feeding ad libitum increasing the survival of both males and females, mating decreasing male survival when starved and female survival when fed ad libitum. The body size of females but not of males increased with food. For each treatment, no clear correlations between body size and longevity were found. However, female fecundity was shown to have a positive relationship with body size. These results suggested that within species, for spider mites, there is no clear association between body size and longevity, but the fecundity increased with the body size, although this association is weak.
Effects of PERK eIF2α Kinase Inhibitor against Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Augusto Leonardo , Martynowicz Jennifer , Staschke Kirk A. , Wek Ronald C. , Sullivan William J.
Published: September 2018

Toxoplasma gondii
is an obligate intracellular parasite that has infected one-third of the population. Upon infection of warm-blooded vertebrates, the replicating form of the parasite (tachyzoite) converts into a latent form (bradyzoite) present in tissue cysts.
In VitroandIn VivoAssessment of FK506 Analogs as Novel Antifungal Drug Candidates
Authors: Lee Yeonseon , Lee Kyung-Tae , Lee Soo Jung , Beom Ji Yoon , Hwangbo Areum , Jung Jin A , Song Myoung Chong , Yoo Young Ji , Kang Sang Hyeon , Averette Anna F. , Heitman Joseph , Yoon Yeo Joon , Cheong Eunji , Bahn Yong-Sun
Published: September 2018

FK506 (tacrolimus) is an FDA-approved immunosuppressant indicated for the prevention of allograft rejections in patients undergoing organ transplants. In mammals, FK506 inhibits the calcineurin-nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) pathway to prevent T-cell proliferation by forming a ternary complex with its binding protein, FKBP12, and calcineurin.
The Coronavirus Transmissible Gastroenteritis Virus Evades the Type I Interferon Response through IRE1α-Mediated Manipulation of the MicroRNA miR-30a-5p/SOCS1/3 Axis
Authors: Ma Yanlong , Wang Changlin , Xue Mei , Fu Fang , Zhang Xin , Li Liang , Yin Lingdan , Xu Wanhai , Feng Li , Liu Pinghuang
Published: September 2018

Type I interferons (IFN-I) play essential roles in restricting viral infections. Coronavirus infection induces ER stress and the interferon response, which reflects different adaptive cellular processes. An understanding of how coronavirus-elicited ER stress is actively involved in viral replication and manipulates the host IFN-I response has remained elusive. Here, TGEV inhibited host miR-30a-5p via the ER stress sensor IRE1α, which led to the increased expression of negative regulators of JAK-STAT signaling cascades, namely, SOCS1 and SOCS3. Increased SOCS1 or SOCS3 expression impaired the IFN-I antiviral response, promoting TGEV replication. These findings enhance our understanding of the strategies used by coronaviruses to antagonize IFN-I innate immunity via IRE1α-mediated manipulation of the miR-30a-5p/SOCS axis, highlighting the crucial role of IRE1α in innate antiviral resistance and the potential of IRE1α as a novel target against coronavirus infection.
Urgent care axis for the older adult: where is best to target interventions?
Authors: Bunn Jonathan Graeme , Croft Susan Jane , O’Keeffe Colin , Jacques Richard M , Simpson Rebecca M , Stone Tony , Conroy Simon Paul , Mason Suzanne M
Published: September 2018

Background

We explored the urgent care axis across EDs in Yorkshire and Humber (Y&H) for patients aged ≥75 years to identify where interventions could be targeted to prevent ED attendances and inpatient admissions.

Methods

Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data for attendances across 18 EDs in Y&H from April 2011 to March 2014 were retrospectively analysed. HES A&E and Admitted Patient Care patient records data were linked to describe the entire patient pathway. The population studied was adult patients attending type 1 EDs, comparing those ≥75 years with those under 75. Data analysed included arrival mode, presentation time, time in ED, outcome (admitted/discharged), admission length of stay, International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) and cause codes related to admission. Short-stay admissions and admissions with potentially avoidable conditions (identified by ICD-10 codes and cause codes) were identified. Comparative analysis was undertaken between sites.

Results

There were 3 736 541 ED attendances, of which 625 772 (16.7%) were ≥75 years. Older patients were significantly more likely to attend via ambulance than the younger cohort (OR 7.7, 95% CI 7.6 to 7.7), and had significantly longer median stays within ED (195 vs 136 min, p<0.001) and increased likelihood of admission (OR 4.5, 95% CI 4.5 to 4.6). Short-stay admissions accounted for 28.3% of older adult admissions. 37.3% of older adult admissions were with conditions that were potentially avoidable, accounting for 42.3% of short-stay admissions. There was regional variation in the proportions of older adults admitted (between 34.3% and 40.9%).

Discussion

Large numbers of older adults present to EDs mainly by ambulance. Significant proportions are admitted for short periods with conditions that might potentially be managed outside of hospital. Variation across the region warrants further study.
‘The House of God’: reflections 40 years on, in conversation with author Samuel Shem
Authors: Ward Joel , Papanikitas Andrew N , Lee Regent , Warner Naomi , Mckenzie-Edwards Emma , Bergman Stephen , Handa Ashok Inderraj
Published: September 2018

The House of God is a seminal work of medical satire based on the gruelling internship experiences of Samuel Shem at the Beth Israel Hospital. Thirteen ‘Laws’ were offered to rationalise the seemingly chaotic patient management and flow. There have been large shifts in the healthcare landscape and practice since, so we consider whether these medical truisms are still applicable to contemporary National Health Service practice and propose updates where necessary:

1. People are sometimes allowed to die.

2. GOMERs (Get Out of My Emergency Room) still go to ground.

3. Master yourself, join the multidisciplinary team.

4. The patient is the one with the disease, but not the only one suffering.

5. Placement (discharge planning) comes first.

6. There is no body cavity that cannot be reached with a gentle arm and good interventional radiologists.

7. Fit the rule to the patient rather than the patient to the rule.

8. They can always pay you less.

9. The only bad admission is a futile one.

10. If you don’t take a temperature you can’t find a fever and if you are not going to act on it, don’t do the test.

11. Show me a BMS (best medical student) who ONLY triples my work, and I’ll show you a future Foundation Year 1 doctor (FY1) who is an asset to the firm.

12. Interpret radiology freely, but share your clinical findings with the radiologist and in a timely fashion.

13. Doing nothing can be a viable option.

These were developed in conversation with Samuel Shem, who also offers further insight on the creation of the original laws.
Innovations in counterfeiting tax stamps: a study of ultraviolet watermarks in a sample of discarded New York City packs
Authors: Kurti Marin , von Lampe Klaus , He Yi , Delnevo Cristine , Qin Da
Published: September 2018

Objective

Document the use of ultraviolet watermark in counterfeit joint New York City/New York State cigarette tax stamps to assess the scale at which distributors of illegal cigarettes adapt to measures protecting the integrity of the system of tobacco tax collection.

Methods

In 2016, we collected 2357 empty discarded cigarette packs along a stratified random sample of block groups in New York City (n=114) and analysed 449 joint New York City/New York State tax stamps using long wave ultraviolet irradiation, light microscopy and taggant testers developed by the tax stamp manufacturer, Meyercord Revenue, to determine whether the tax stamps were counterfeit and how they differed from their genuine equivalent.

Findings

23% (n=102) of the joint NYC/NYS tax stamps examined were counterfeit. Subsequent investigation revealed that almost two-thirds (n=58) of the counterfeit sample bore ultraviolet watermark that closely resembled genuine tax stamps in terms of fluorescence, watermark colour and wording. However, microscopic findings revealed that counterfeit tax stamps mismatched the genuine ultraviolet watermark in regards to font style and word orientation.

Conclusion

Counterfeiters are using ultraviolet watermarks which makes it difficult to differentiate counterfeit joint New York City/New York State tax stamps from their genuine equivalent when UV irradiation is used as the sole screening tool. Innovations in counterfeiting technology may be the result of fluorescent ink being available for purchase in the mainstream market. Independent monitoring of trends in the illicit market for tobacco products is advised to keep apace of counterfeiting methods.
On the filtered symplectic homology of prequantization bundles
Authors: Ginzburg Viktor L. , Shon Jeongmin
Published: September 2018

We study Reeb dynamics on prequantization circle bundles and the filtered (equivariant) symplectic homology of prequantization line bundles, aka negative line bundles, with symplectically aspherical base. We define (equivariant) symplectic capacities, obtain an upper bound on their growth, prove uniform instability of the filtered symplectic homology and touch upon the question of stable displacement. We also introduce a new algebraic structure on the positive (equivariant) symplectic homology capturing the free homotopy class of a closed Reeb orbit — the linking number filtration — and use it to give a new proof of the non-degenerate case of the contact Conley conjecture (i.e. the existence of infinitely many simple closed Reeb orbits), not relying on contact homology.
A Low Noise Amplifier Suitable for Biomedical Recording Analog Front-End in 65nm CMOS Technology
Authors: Nagulapalli R. , Hayatleh K. , Barker S. , Tammam A. A. , Yassine N. , Yassine B. , Ben-Esmael M.
Published: September 2018

This paper presents a fully integrated front-end, low noise amplifier (LNA), dedicated to the processing of various types of bio-medical signals, such as Electrocardiogram (ECG), Electroencephalography (EEG), Axon Action Potential (AAP). A novel noise reduction technique, for an operational transconductance amplifier (OTA), has been proposed. This adds a current steering branch parallel to the differential pair, with a view to reducing the noise contribution by the cascode current sources. Hence, this reduces the overall input-referred noise of the LNA, without adding any additional power. The proposed technique implemented in 65[Formula: see text]nm CMOS technology achieves 30 dB closed-loop voltage gain, 0.05[Formula: see text]Hz lower cut-off frequency and 100 MHz 3-dB bandwidth. It operates at 1.2[Formula: see text]V power supply and draws 1[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]A static current. The prototype described in this paper occupies 3300[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m2 silicon area.
Global Image Dehazing via Frequency Perception Filtering
Authors: Xu Linli , Han Jing , Wang Tian , Bai Lianfa
Published: September 2018

In outdoor scenes, haze limits the visibility of images, and degrades people’s judgement of the objects. In this paper, based on an assumption of human visual perception in frequency domain, a novel image haze removal filtering is proposed. Combining this assumption with the theory of frequency domain filtering, we first estimate the cut-off frequency to divide the frequency domain of the hazy image into three components — low-frequency domain, intermediate-frequency domain and high-frequency domain. Then, by introducing the weighting factors, the three components are recombined together. After the theoretical deduction of frequency domain, the establishment of the actual model and adjusting the cut-off frequency and weighting factors, we finally acquire a global and adaptive filtering. This filtering can restore the details and the contours of the images, which have less noise, and improve the visibility of the objects in hazy images. Moreover, our method is simple in structure and strongly applicable, and rarely affected by parameters. Our algorithm is stable and performs well in heavy fog and the scene changes.
Dexmedetomidine Ameliorates Acute Stress‐Induced Kidney Injury by Attenuating Oxidative Stress and Apoptosis through Inhibition of the ROS/JNK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Chen Yongping , Feng Xiujing , Hu Xueyuan , Sha Jichen , Li Bei , Zhang Huayun , Fan Honggang
Published: September 2018

Acute stress induces tissue damage through excessive oxidative stress. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) reportedly has an antioxidant effect. However, protective roles and related potential molecular mechanisms of DEX against kidney injury induced by acute stress are unknown. Herein, rats were forced to swim 15 min followed by restraint stress for 3 h with/without DEX (30 μg/kg). Successful model establishment was validated by an open‐field test. Assessment of renal function (creatinine, urea nitrogen), histopathology, oxidative stress (malondialdehyde, glutathione, and superoxide dismutase), and apoptosis (transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end labeling) was performed. Localization of apoptosis was determined by immunohistochemistry of cleaved caspase 3 protein. In addition, key proteins of the death receptor‐mediated pathway, mitochondrial pathway, endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) pathway, and ROS/JNK signaling pathway were measured by Western blot. We found that DEX significantly improved renal dysfunction, ameliorated kidney injury, reduced oxidative stress, and alleviated apoptosis. DEX also inhibited the release of norepinephrine (NE), decreased the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and inhibited JNK phosphorylation. Additionally, DEX downregulated the expression of Bax, cytochrome C, cleaved caspase 9, and cleaved caspase 3 proteins in mitochondria‐dependent pathways. In summary, DEX protects against acute stress‐induced kidney injury in rats by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis via inhibition of the ROS/JNK pathway.
Estimation for Two-Dimensional Nonsymmetric Coherently Distributed Source in L-Shaped Arrays
Authors: Wu Tao , Deng Zhenghong , Gu Qingyue , Xu Jiwei
Published: September 2018

We explore the estimation of a two-dimensional (2D) nonsymmetric coherently distributed (CD) source using L-shaped arrays. Compared with a symmetric source, the modeling and estimation of a nonsymmetric source are more practical. A nonsymmetric CD source is established through modeling the deterministic angular signal distribution function as a summation of Gaussian probability density functions. Parameter estimation of the nonsymmetric distributed source is proposed under an expectation maximization (EM) framework. The proposed EM iterative calculation contains three steps in each cycle. Firstly, the nominal azimuth angles and nominal elevation angles of Gaussian components in the nonsymmetric source are obtained from the relationship of rotational invariance matrices. Then, angular spreads can be solved through one-dimensional (1D) searching based on nominal angles. Finally, the powers of Gaussian components are obtained by solving least-squares estimators. Simulations are conducted to verify the effectiveness of the nonsymmetric CD model and estimation technique.
The Patient in Precision Medicine: A Systematic Review Examining Evaluations of Patient-Facing Materials
Authors: Wynn Rachel M. , Adams Katharine T. , Kowalski Rebecca L. , Shivega Winnie G. , Ratwani Raj M. , Miller Kristen E.
Published: September 2018

Precision medicine (PM) has the potential to tailor healthcare to the individual patient by using their genetic information to guide treatment choices. However, this process is complex and difficult to understand for patients and providers alike. With a recent push in the healthcare community to understand the patient experience and engage patients in their care, it is important to give patients the opportunity to learn about PM. We performed a systematic review to identify previous work assessing the quality of patient-facing PM materials from 2008 to July 2018. Ten studies were identified, which used varying methods and measures. A qualitative assessment was conducted to compare key elements of the studies, including study design, characteristics of the participant population, what measurements were used to assess the PM materials, understandability, preference, psychological reactions, and the type of PM materials being assessed. The studies identified provide important groundwork by highlighting consistent aspects of design that aid in comprehension. Eight of the ten studies focused on the content and organization of genomic test results, while the remaining two assessed educational tools. Two main design elements that appeared across the studies were appropriately designed visual aids and simplified language. The studies identified were limited by the participant populations that were used, which were primarily white and well educated. Only one study attempted to oversample patient populations typically underrepresented in this type of research. Through our systematic review, it is evident that the breadth of knowledge in this field is limited in scope and that more work must be done to ensure that patients can engage in their care when faced with PM.
Association between Radiotherapy and Anatomic Severity of Coronary Artery Disease: A Propensity Score Matching Comparison Among Adult-Onset Thoracic Cancer Survivors
Authors: Hu Shunying , Gao Hai , Zhang Jianzhong , Han Xian , Yang Qian , Zhang Juan , Chen Yundai
Published: September 2018

Objective: To investigate the association between radiotherapy and anatomic severity of coronary artery disease (CAD) using the SYNTAX scores (SXscores) of coronary angiograms in adult-onset thoracic cancer survivors. Methods: A total of 152 patients who previously had thoracic cancer and underwent coronary angiography between 2010 and 2016 were examined. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to identify 27 well-matched pairs of patients. Characteristics and coronary angiograms were collected from each patient. Coronary artery abnormalities were assessed using SXscores of coronary angiograms. Results: Among the 152 patients, the SXscores and percentage of high SXscores were higher in the radiotherapy group than in the non-radiotherapy group; however, the latter was not significantly different (p = 0.0266 and p = 0.064, respectively). After PSM, the SXscores and percentage of high SXscores were significantly higher in the radiotherapy group than in the non-radiotherapy group (22 [interquartile range (IQR) 10.00–30.00] vs. 15.00 [IQR 4.00–26.00], p = 0.0459), (70.07 vs. 44.44%, p = 0.027), respectively. After adjusting for related risk factors and chemotherapy, the OR of radiotherapy for a high SXscore was 3.674 (95% CI 1.094–12.343) by logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: Thoracic cancer survivors who underwent radiotherapy have higher SXscores and are at a higher risk of developing anatomically severe CAD, independent of chemotherapy.
Staphylococcus epidermidis Activates Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Signaling in Human Keratinocytes: Implications for Cutaneous Defense
Authors: Rademacher Franziska , Simanski Maren , Hesse Bettina , Dombrowsky Gregor , Vent Nikolas , Gläser Regine , Harder Jürgen
Published: September 2018

Bacterial challenge of keratinocytes with the abundant skin commensal Staphylococcus epidermidis induces distinct innate immune responses, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are still emerging. We report that the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) was activated in human primary keratinocytes infected with S. epidermidis, leading to induction of the AhR-responsive gene cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1). In addition, functional AhR was required for S. epidermidis-mediated induction of IL-1β expression in keratinocytes. AhR-dependent gene induction of IL-1β and CYP1A1 was mediated by factor(s) < 2 kDa secreted by S. epidermidis. Blockade of the AhR in a 3D organotypic skin equivalent infected with S. epidermidis attenuated the S. epidermidis-induced CYP1A1 and IL-1β expression. Moreover, S. epidermidis also induced expression of IL-1α and of the antimicrobial peptide human β-defensin-3 in an AhR-dependent manner in a 3D skin equivalent. An increased outgrowth of S. epidermidis on the surface of skin explants treated with a specific AhR inhibitor further indicate a pivotal role of the AhR in mediating an epidermal defense response. Taken together, our data expand the role of the AhR in innate immunity and support a previously unappreciated contribution for the AhR in cutaneous defense.
Regional Contributions to Poststroke Disability in Endovascular Therapy
Authors: Sheth Sunil A. , Malhotra Konark , Liebeskind David S. , Liang Conrad W. , Yoo Albert J. , Jahan Reza , Nogueira Raul G. , Pereira Vitor , Gralla Jan , Albers Greg , Goyal Mayank , Saver Jeffrey L. ,   for the SWIFT/STAR/SWIFT PRIME Investigators
Published: September 2018

Background and Purpose: The relative contribution of each Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) region to poststroke disability likely varies across regions. Determining the relative weights of each ASPECTS region may improve patient selection for endovascular stroke therapy (EST). Methods: In the combined Solitaire Flow Restoration with the Intention for Thrombectomy (SWIFT), Solitaire Flow Restoration Thrombectomy for Acute Revascularization (STAR), and Solitaire Flow Restoration with the Intention for Thrombectomy as Primary Endovascular Treatment (SWIFT PRIME) databases, we identified patients treated with the Solitaire stent retriever. Using 24-h CT scan, a multivariate ordinal regression was used to determine the relative contribution of each ASPECTS region to clinical outcome separately in each hemisphere. The coefficients from the regression were used to create a weighted ASPECTS (wASPECTS), which was compared with the original ASPECTS to predict 90-day modified Rankin Scale disability outcomes in an independent validation cohort. Results: Among 342 patients treated with EST, the average age was 67 years, 57% were female, and the median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score was 17 (IQR 13–20). The median ASPECTS at presentation was 8 (IQR 7–10). The most commonly involved ASPECTS regions on 24-h CT were the lentiform nuclei (70%), insula (55%), and caudate (52%). In multivariate analysis, preservation of M6 (β = 9.7) and M4 (β = 4.4) regions in the right hemisphere was most strongly predictive of good outcome. For the left hemisphere, M6 (β = 5.5), M5 (β = 4.1), and M3 (β = 3.1) generated the greatest parameter estimates, though they did not reach statistical significance. A wASPECTS incorporating all 20 parameter estimates resulted in improved discrimination against the original ASPECTS in the independent cohort (C-statistic 0.78 vs. 0.67, right hemisphere). Conclusions: For both right and left hemisphere, preservation of the high cortical regions was more strongly associated with improved outcomes compared to the deep regions. Our findings support taking into consideration the location and relative weightings of the involved ASPECTS regions when evaluating a patient for EST.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Brief Overview of the Treatment
Authors: Bullock Jacqueline , Rizvi Syed A.A. , Saleh Ayman M. , Ahmed Sultan S. , Do Duc P. , Ansari Rais A. , Ahmed Jasmin
Published: September 2018

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, inflammatory, systemic autoimmune disease, affecting the joints with varying severity among patients. The risk factors include age, gender, genetics, and environmental exposure (cigarette smoking, air pollutants, and occupational). Many complications can follow, such as permanent joint damage requiring arthroplasty, rheumatoid vasculitis, and Felty syndrome requiring splenectomy if it remains unaddressed. As there is no cure for RA, the treatment goals are to reduce the pain and stop/slow further damage. Here, we present a brief summary of various past and present treatment modalities to address the complications associated with RA.
Sauna Bathing and Risk of Psychotic Disorders: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Laukkanen Tanjaniina , Laukkanen Jari A. , Kunutsor Setor K.
Published: September 2018

Objective: Sauna bathing has been suggested to promote mental well-being and relaxation, but the evidence is uncertain with respect to mental disorders. We aimed to assess the association of frequency of sauna bathing with risk of psychosis in the Kuopio Ischemic Heart Disease prospective population-based study. Subjects and Methods: Baseline sauna bathing habits were assessed in 2,138 men aged 42–61 years who had no history of psychotic disorders. Participants were classified into three groups based on the frequency of sauna bathing (once, 2–3, and 4–7 times per week). Results: During a median follow-up of 24.9 years, 203 psychotic disorders were recorded. A total of 537, 1,417, and 184 participants reported having a sauna bath once a week, 2–3 times, and 4–7 times per week, respectively. In Cox regression analysis adjusted for age, compared to men who had 1 sauna session per week, the hazard ratio (95% confidence intervals) of psychosis for 4–7 sauna sessions per week was 0.23 (0.09–0.58). In a multivariable model adjusted for several risk factors and other potential confounders, the corresponding hazard ratio was 0.21 (0.08–0.52). The association was similar after further adjustment for total energy intake, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and C-reactive protein (0.22 [0.09–0.54]) and was unchanged on additional adjustment for duration of a sauna session and temperature of the sauna bath (0.23 [0.09–0.57]). Conclusion: Our study suggests a strong inverse and independent association between frequent sauna bathing and the future risk of psychotic disorders in a general male population.
Neurociências e psicanálise
Authors: Da Rosa Vilani Marina , Port Ilvo Fernando
Published: September 2018

A partir de um entendimento integrativo entre psicanálise e neurociências, busca-se compreender a etiologia do autismo. Trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica narrativa que abarcou dados da história e do conceito de autismo por meio de uma pesquisa qualitativa de caráter exploratório em bases de dados, periódicos e livros. Apesar das divergências acerca da etiologia e tratamento entre as áreas, algumas investigações desenvolvidas concluem que, quando uma criança nasce com vulnerabilidades orgânicas, estas podem afetar o exercício das funções parentais. Assim, poderá ocorrer a potencialização ou o surgimento de traços autísticos no âmbito psíquico e, também, neurobiológico, dado que o desenvolvimento orgânico ocorre concomitantemente à subjetivação.
Child Life Reduces Distress and Pain and Improves Family Satisfaction in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Sanchez Cristal Natasha , Staab Jennifer , Chatham Rachel , Ryan Sarah , Mcnair Brian , Grubenhoff Joseph A.
Published: September 2018

This study evaluated the effects of Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) intervention on pediatric distress and pain and family satisfaction during routine peripheral intravenous (PIV) line placement in the emergency department (ED). A convenience sample of 78 children (3-13 years) requiring PIV placement for their treatment at a regional level 1 pediatric trauma center ED with 70 000 annual visits were selected to receive either standard nursing care or CCLS intervention for PIV placement. CCLS involvement was associated with fewer negative emotional behaviors as indicated by a lower score on the Children’s Emotional Manifestation Scale (−3.37 ± 1.49, P = .027), a reduction in self-reported pain on the Wong-Baker Faces pain rating scale (−1.107 ± 0.445, P = .017), an increase in parent-reported patient cooperation during PIV placement, and greater satisfaction with the ED visit. This study demonstrates that Child Life can have an impact on important outcomes in the pediatric ED such as distress, pain, and visit satisfaction.
A Situated Comparison of Suicide and Non-Suicide Terrorist Plots and Homicides in the United States, 1990-2014
Authors: Gruenewald Jeff , Klein Brent R. , Parkin William S. , Freilich Joshua D. , Chermak Steven
Published: September 2018

This study compares suicide and non-suicide incidents in the United States by analyzing data from the U.S. Extremist Crime Database (ECDB) on terrorist incidents committed by extreme far-right (FR) and radical Islamic terrorists between 1990 and 2014. Drawing from Situational Crime Prevention (SCP), we investigate whether suicide incidents are more likely than non-suicide incidents to be directed at secure targets and to utilize firearms. Findings reveal that suicide terrorism is significantly more likely to be committed against secure targets and similarly likely to involve the use of firearms in comparison with non-suicide terrorism. In addition, suicide terrorism is more likely to be committed by lone actors, radical Islamic terrorists, and result in fatalities. Implications for terrorism prevention are discussed.
Are Today’s Students With Disabilities More Likely to Attend Full-Day Kindergarten or Part-Day Kindergarten? Analysis of Two Cohorts of Students and Their Teachers
Authors: Gottfried Michael
Published: September 2018

Some education policy analysts have called for increased participation of young children in full-day kindergarten programs as opposed to part-day kindergarten. However, little is known about whether students with disabilities are increasingly attending these programs and what their teachers are like. This study addresses this gap by examining whether the full-day kindergarten-going patterns have changed within two nationally representative cohorts of kindergartners (Early Childhood Longitudinal Study–Kindergarten classes of 1998 and 2010). The findings suggest that a greater percentage of students with disabilities are enrolled in full-day kindergarten programs in 2010 (approximately 80%) than in 1998 (approximately 55%). Comparing full-day kindergarten enrollees between the two cohorts, there were no differences in teachers’ years of experience or degrees, though full-day kindergarten enrollees in 2010 had teachers with less early education and special education coursework. However, full-day kindergarten enrollees in 2010 were more likely to be in classrooms with a special education teacher’s aide. Implications are discussed.
Dialogic Organization Development and Subject–Object Dualism: A Social Constructionist Perspective on Dialogic Methods in an Organizational Context
Authors: Aguiar Ana Carolina , Tonelli Maria José
Published: September 2018

This research explores the meanings that facilitators and sponsors working with Dialogic Organization Development (Dialogic OD) in the Brazilian context assign to their practices, using a social constructionist approach. Findings support the premise that Dialogic OD means more than just the application of methods and includes central metaphors used by participants to describe their practices. These metaphors suggest that “taken for granted” assumptions associated with a subject–object dualism may lead practitioners to reproduce nondialogical relations; however, when such assumptions are cast into doubt, Dialogic OD can stimulate the creation of new realities. The contrasts revealed by subject–object dualism suggest that the emergent field of Dialogic OD has been developing in tensional ways. Recommendations to practitioners include the acknowledgment of these tensions and “taken for granted” assumptions in a way that enables them to engage in more reflexive practices. Otherwise, Dialogic OD could become a new management fad.
Repression, Cooptation, and Movement Fragmentation in Authoritarian Regimes: Evidence from the Youth Movement in Egypt
Authors: Sika Nadine
Published: September 2018

How do authoritarian regimes fragment protest movements in the aftermath of mass protests? How do protest movements deal with these authoritarian measures in return? Based on qualitative fieldwork with 70 young people in Egypt from April until November 2015, I demonstrate that regimes which face major contentious events and transition back to authoritarian rule, utilize two main strategies for fragmenting protest movements: repression and cooptation. The main literature on protest movements contends that regimes respond to protest movements through a combination of repression and concession to offset movement gains and eliminate their motivations for further protests. More concessions are believed to be effective in democratic regimes, while more repression is effective in authoritarian regimes. However, the results of this fieldwork demonstrate the importance of repression in addition to cooptation in authoritarian regimes, which is largely ignored in the literature on protest movements. Cooptation is an instrumental tactic for the regime in two manners: first it creates internal struggles within the movements themselves, which adds to their fragmentation. Second, it facilitates a regime’s repression against protest movement actors. This creates more fragmentation in addition to deterrence to the development of new protest movements and protest activities.
Preferred Provider Relationships Between Medicare Advantage Plans and Skilled Nursing Facilities Reduce Switching Out of Plans: An Observational Analysis
Authors: Goldberg Elizabeth M. , Keohane Laura M. , Mor Vincent , Trivedi Amal N. , Jung Hye-Young , Rahman Momotazur
Published: September 2018

Unlike traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage (MA) plans contract with specific skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). Patients treated in an MA plan’s preferred SNF may benefit from enhanced coordination and have a lower likelihood of switching out of their plan. Using 2011-2014 Medicare enrollment data, the Medicare Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set, and the Minimum Data Set, we examined Medicare enrollees who were newly admitted to SNFs in 2012-2013. We used the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services star rating to distinguish between MA plans and show how SNF concentration experienced by patients varies between patients in plans with different star ratings. We found that highly rated MA plans steer their patients to a smaller number of SNFs, and these patients are less likely to switch out of their plans. Strengthening the MA plan–SNF relationship may lower disenrollment rates for SNF beneficiaries, imparting benefits to both patients and payers.
Class Strategies in Chavista Venezuela: Pragmatic and Populist Policies in a Broader Context
Authors: Ellner Steve
Published: September 2018

The governments of Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro responded to the opposition’s attempts at regime change by implementing pragmatic policies favoring businesspeople who refused to participate in destabilization actions, as well as populist social measures benefiting the nonprivileged. Both sets of policies have to be placed in political context. The characterization of allegedly pro-government businesspeople as a new ruling elite referred to as the boliburguesía fails to take into account the sharp tensions between them and the Chavista leadership. The primary importance of social programs in the Chavista political triumphs over an extended period of time and of the periodic initiatives that sparked life into individual programs implicitly rules out claims regarding the government’s failure to alleviate poverty or achieve other social objectives. The Chavista governments failed to take full advantage of favorable periods and junctures when the opposition was demoralized following defeats in order to correct the negative side effects of pragmatic and populist class policies, such as bureaucratization and crony capitalism.

Los gobiernos de Hugo Chávez y Nicolás Maduro respondieron a los intentos de la oposición por el cambio de régimen implementando políticas pragmáticas que favorecían a los empresarios que se negaban a participar en acciones de desestabilización, así como medidas sociales populistas que beneficiaban a los no privilegiados. Ambos conjuntos de políticas deben situarse en un contexto político. La caracterización de empresarios supuestamente progubernamentales como una nueva elite gobernante conocida como la boliburguesía no toma en cuenta las fuertes tensiones entre ellos y la dirigencia chavista. La importancia primordial de los programas sociales en los triunfos políticos chavistas a lo largo de un período prolongado y de las iniciativas periódicas que avivaron los programas individuales contrarresta la afirmación sobre la incapacidad del gobierno para aliviar la pobreza o alcanzar otros objetivos sociales. Los gobiernos chavistas no aprovecharon al máximo los períodos y coyunturas favorables cuando la oposición se desmoralizó tras las derrotas con el fin de corregir los efectos negativos de las políticas pragmáticas y populistas, como la burocratización y el capitalismo amiguista.
Integrated Learning Systems
Authors: Nevid Jeffrey S. , Gordon Alexander J.
Published: September 2018

The present study hypothesized that requiring use of an integrated learning system (ILS) would yield a learning benefit in a classroom situation. Two sections of an introductory psychology course taught by the same instructor and using the same text and exams differed with respect to whether online quizzing and concept mastery exercises in an ILS were required or optional. Students in the ILS-required section received substantial course credit for achieving a criterion of 100% correct on each online quiz, with unlimited retakes, and mastery of 25 key concepts per chapter. Results showed better exam performance for the ILS-required class across items keyed to different levels in Bloom’s taxonomy. Students in the ILS-optional class failed to use these online resources consistently, suggesting that graded incentives may be needed to justify their use in classroom situations.
Providers’ Reports of Environmental Conditions and Resources at Births in the United States
Authors: Minnick Ann F. , Schorn Mavis N. , Dietrich Mary S. , Donaghey Beth
Published: September 2018

Environmental conditions and resources that may influence provider’s behaviors have been investigated in birth environments focusing on location rather than conditions and available resources. Using a descriptive, cross sectional design, we surveyed a random sample of certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), obstetricians, family practice physicians, and certified professional midwives (CPMs) to describe conditions, resources, and workforce present during U.S. births. In all, 1,243 midwives and physicians reported most environmental resources were present at almost 100% of births they attended. Conditions varied: room noise acceptability restriction of phone calls/texts from any source and lighting kept to a minimum. Trainees were present at most births regardless of setting and provider type. The impact of room noise, phone calls/texting, and lighting on outcomes should be determined. The roles and impact of personnel, including trainees, should be described. The extent to which clusters of resources are associated with outcomes might provide new directions for interventions that improve care.
Disengaged, exhaustive, benevolent: Three distinct strategies of mate retention
Authors: Lopes Guilherme S. , Shackelford Todd K.
Published: September 2018

Mate retention behaviors are designed to reduce the risk of partner infidelity or relationship defection. In the current research, we used k-means cluster analysis to identify distinct strategies of mate retention behaviors. Participants were 637 individuals (56.3% male) in a romantic relationship with an opposite-sex individual for at least 3 months ( M = 78.7; SD = 95.8) and aged between 18 and 70 years ( M = 29.3, SD = 10.5). Participants completed the Mate Retention Inventory–Short Form. The results suggested three distinct mate retention clusters or strategies: (1) Disengaged (infrequent use of both benefit-provisioning and cost-inflicting behaviors), (2) Exhaustive (frequent use of both benefit-provisioning and cost-inflicting behaviors), and (3) Benevolent (frequent use of benefit-provisioning and infrequent use of cost-inflicting behaviors). The results also indicated, for example, that men more than women use a benevolent strategy, women more than men use a disengaged strategy, and men using an exhaustive strategy report being less physically intimate with their partners than men using a benevolent strategy. We discuss the results with reference to evolutionary hypotheses of mate retention, and we highlight limitations of the current research and important directions for future research.
Comparative study of psychometric properties of three assessment tools for degenerative rotator cuff disease
Authors: James-Belin Etienne , Roy Anne Laure , Lasbleiz Sandra , Ostertag Agnès , Yelnik Alain , Orcel Philippe , Beaudreuil Johann
Published: September 2018

Objective:

To compare psychometric properties of Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) and Constant–Murley scale, in patients with degenerative rotator cuff disease (DRCD).

Design:

Longitudinal cohort.

Setting:

One French university hospital.

Methods:

The scales were applied twice at one-week interval before physiotherapy and once after physiotherapy two months later. The perceived improvement after treatment was self-assessed on a numerical scale (0–4). The test–retest reliability of the DASH, SPADI and Constant–Murley scales was assessed before treatment by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The responsiveness was assessed by the paired t-test ( P < 0.05) and standardized mean difference (SMD). The correlation between the percentage of variation in scale scores and the self-assessed improvement score after treatment was measured by the Spearman coefficient.

Results:

Fifty-three patients were included. Twenty-six only were available for reliability. The test–retest reliability was very good for the DASH (ICC = 0.97), SPADI (0.95) and Constant–Murley (0.92). The scale score was improved after treatment for each scale ( P < 0.05). The SMD was moderate for the DASH (0.56) and SPADI (0.56) scales, and small for the Constant–Murley (0.44). The correlation between the percentage of variation in scores and self-assessed improvement score after treatment was high, moderate and not significant for the SPADI (0.59, P < 0.0001), DASH (0.42, P < 0.01) and Constant–Murley scales, respectively.

Conclusion:

The test–retest reliability of the DASH, SPADI and Constant–Murley scales is very good for patients with DRCD. The highest responsiveness was achieved with the SPADI.