bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasters’ Cognitive Task Analysis and Mental Workload Analysis of Issuing Probabilistic Hazard Information (PHI) during FACETs PHI Prototype Experiment
Authors: James Joseph J. J. , Ling Chen , Karstens Christopher D. , Jr. James Correia , Calhoun Kristin , Meyer Tiffany , LaDue Daphne
Published: July 2020

During spring 2016 the Probabilistic Hazard Information (PHI) prototype experiment was run in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Hazardous Weather Testbed (HWT) as part of the Forecasting a Continuum of Environmental Threats (FACETS) program. Nine National Weather Service forecasters were trained to use the web-based PHI prototype tool to produce dynamic PHI for severe weather threats. Archived and real-time weather scenarios were used to test this new paradigm of issuing probabilistic information, rather than deterministic information. The forecasters’ mental workload was evaluated after each scenario using the NASA-Task Load Index (TLX) questionnaire. This study summarizes the analysis results of mental workload experienced by forecasters while using the PHI prototype. Six subdimensions of mental workload: mental demand, physical demand, temporal demand, performance, effort, and frustration were analyzed to derive top contributing factors to workload. Average mental workload was 46.6 (out of 100, standard deviation: 19, range 70.8). Top contributing factors to workload included using automated guidance, PHI object quantity, multiple displays, and formulating probabilities in the new paradigm. Automated guidance provided support to forecasters in maintaining situational awareness and managing increased quantities of threats. The results of this study provided understanding of forecasters’ mental workload and task strategies and developed insights to improve usability of the PHI prototype tool.
A closer look at how managerial support can help improve patient experience: Insights from the UK’s National Health Service
Authors: Ogbonnaya Chidiebere , Babalola Mayowa T
Published: July 2020

Recent debates in healthcare have emphasized the need for more respectful and responsive services that meet patients’ preferences. These debates centre on patient experience, one of the most critical factors for measuring healthcare performance. In exploring the relevance of patient experience key questions need answers: what can managers or supervisors do to help improve the quality of healthcare? What is the role of employees? Addressing these questions, this study examines whether perceived supervisor support (PSS) promotes patient experience through a serial mediation involving perceived organizational support (POS), and positive employee outcomes such as engagement, involvement and advocacy. Using two-wave data from the British National Health Service, we show that PSS is strongly associated with POS, which in turn improves engagement, involvement and advocacy among employees. PSS also has a positive indirect influence on patient experience through POS and advocacy; but the indirect paths involving engagement and involvement are not supported. We offer useful guidance on how healthcare employers can support employees towards improving the quality of services rendered to patients.
Simulation of a micro-milling single crystal copper process based on crystal plastic constitutive theory
Authors: Yihan Luan , Xiangyue Meng , Liang Xue , Liang Steven Y , Xiaohong Lu
Published: July 2020

The anisotropy of single crystal copper and crystal orientation have a significant effect on the micro-milling process. At present, there is no systematic and perfect theory to explain the influence of single crystal orientation on the micro-milling process. Therefore, it is urgent to conduct an in-depth study on the micro-milling process of single crystal copper. In this paper, based on the theory of crystal plasticity, considering the anisotropy of single crystal copper, the VUMAT material subroutine of single crystal copper is programmed by the Fortran language, and the crystal plastic constitution is introduced into the finite element simulation. The model of the micro-milling tool and work-piece is established and meshed. Considering the friction among the tool and the work-piece, material removal, etc., the three-dimensional finite element simulation model of single crystal copper micro-milling process is achieved by ABAQUS software. The validity of the simulation model of the micro-milling process of single crystal copper considering the single crystal plastic constitution is verified by experimental micro-milling forces. The research has explored a feasible way to predict the micro-milling force of single crystal copper, and has provided a reference for revealing the micro-milling mechanism of single crystal materials.
Self-Actualization of Elite Blind Athletes: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Sherrill C. , Gench B. , Hinson M. , Gilstrap T. , Richir K. , Mastro J.
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine the self-actualization of male and female elite blind athletes in comparison with test-manual norms and sighted athletes, thereby extending the limited knowledge base concerning the psychosocial functioning of the blind population. Data were collected by the Personal Orientation Inventory (Shostrom, 1974), and statistically significant differences were identified. Self-actualization profiles of blind athletes, except for lower scores on Existentiality and Self-Acceptance, were statistically identical to profiles of sighted athletes. Both athlete groups scored below test-manual norms in several areas, including the two major scales. However, athletes tended to be average or strong in Self-Actualizing Value, Feeling Reactivity, Spontaneity, Self-Regard, and Acceptance of Aggression.
Effect of Gaze Direction on Evaluation of Visually Impaired Children by Informed Respondents
Authors: Raver-Lampman S.A.
Published: July 2020

Fifty subjects concerned and in continual interaction with visually impaired individuals were randomly assigned to view one of two videotapes. The tapes showed two visually impaired children without gaze direction and two with gaze direction, responding to a random set of questions from two adults sitting on either side of a child. Subjects viewed the same four children, although in different order and in opposite conditions. Analyses revealed that when a visually impaired child utilized gaze direction toward the questioner, the child was evaluated, by informed respondents, as being more intelligent and more socially competent than when the child did not use gaze direction.
Paid Summer Work Experience for Rural Blind Youth
Authors: Whitman D.
Published: July 2020

The Ohio Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired office provided a paid summer work experience program for high school students in a three-county area of Southern Ohio. The program consisted of two weeks of work evaluation/adjustment and eight weeks of paid work experience in which job coaches were used. Funding was through the Job Training and Partnership Act. The mean score on a pretest of the “knowledge of the world of work,” as devised by a certified vocational evaluator, was 76 percent correct; the mean score on the posttest was 93 percent correct.
Visually Impaired Infants Research Consortium (Viirc): First-Year Results
Authors: Ferrell K.A. , Trief E. , Dietz S.J. , Bonner M.A. , Cruz D. , Ford E. , Stratton J.M.
Published: July 2020

This article reports on a pilot study, conducted by the Visually Impaired Infants Research Consortium, of 21 developmental milestones achieved by 82 visually impaired children in New York City. Some delays in visual-motor activities were found, as well as differences in the sequence of acquiring skills. The subgroup of visually impaired children with multiple handicaps acquired milestones at a slower rate than did the subgroup of visually impaired children with no additional handicapping conditions.
Techniques for Teaching Young Children to Use Low Vision Devices
Authors: Cowan C. , Shepler R.
Published: July 2020

The traditional techniques for helping low vision children deal with print materials in school are time consuming and contribute to social isolation. Therefore, even preschool-age children should be trained to use low vision devices. Since low vision devices have typically been used with adults, there are few materials and techniques suitable for the young learners. This article presents a practical guide to help professionals develop techniques and materials that motivate children to learn to use low vision devices.
A Model for Distance Delivery in Personnel Preparation
Authors: Parsons A.S.
Published: July 2020

A model for delivery of a personnel-preparation program in education of visually handicapped people via distance-education formats is described. Critical shortages in personnel in the field of blindness and visual impairment are addressed through the description of the University of South Carolina's innovative distance-education program, delivered via telecommunications instruction, videocassettes, and alternative scheduling. Suggestions for transferring the content of traditional teacher-preparation curricula into instruction via distance-education formats are presented, as are future developments in distance education.
Illumination Characteristics of Mobility Lights
Authors: Wacker R.T. , Bullimore M.A. , Dornbusch H. , Pruett K. , Bailey I.L. , Hall A.
Published: July 2020

The authors measured the light-distribution patterns and the decay in light output of three mobility lights that visually impaired persons can use for night travel: the Wide-Angle Mobility Light (WAML), the Streamlight, and the Mag-Lite. The WAML had a wide beam with a medium-bright central region. The beam of the Streamlight had the brightest central region and a moderately wide surround of lower illumination. The Mag-Lite had the narrowest light distribution about a bright central spot. Both the Streamlight and the Mag-Lite maintained near-maximum brightness before undergoing rapid decay, while the WAML showed a gradual decay changing from near-maximum brightness to near extinction in almost a linear fashion 40 to 80 minutes after being turned on.
Videotape Simulations to Teach Staff of Long–Term Care Facilities about Residents’ Vision Loss
Authors: Griffin-Shirley N. , McNeely E.A. , Karwisch A.H.
Published: July 2020

Videotapes can be used for simulations of vision loss and demonstrations of adaptive techniques. The study reported here explored two methods of presenting a videotaped lesson on the care of residents with low vision to staff at long-term care facilities, both of which were equally effective.
The Use of Audible Traffic Signals in the United States
Authors: Peck A.F. , Uslan M.
Published: July 2020

Audible traffic signals (ATS) can be of considerable value to visually impaired pedestrians. This article describes these devices and their use in this and other countries and presents areas of concern regarding their widespread installation, including the types of intersections at which ATS should be installed, the locations of poles and buttons for activating the systems, and the specific type of device to be used. Because there is a dearth of applied research on ATS, it is recommended that 1) unusually complex intersections not be the sites for ATS installation; 2) particular attention should be paid to the locations of poles and buttons, and 3) the type of device to be installed at a new site should be consistent with those at sites in the same area.
Spatial Representation by Persons who are Blind: A Study of the Effects of Learning and Development
Authors: Ochaita E. , Huertas J.A.
Published: July 2020

Children and adolescents who are congenitally and adventitiously blind were divided into four age groups and introduced to two different unfamiliar environments (small and large) in a maximum of four trials. Spatial representation was assessed through the subjects’ construction of models and estimates of distance. It was found that age is the most important factor, while learning seems to play a subordinate role in the development of spatial representation of blind people.
Development of a Preschool “Kiddy Cane”
Authors: Pogrund R.L. , Fazzi D.L. , Schreier E.M.
Published: July 2020

The American Foundation for the Blind's (AFB's) National Technology Center and the Orientation and Mobility Training Program at California State University, Los Angeles, worked jointly to develop and evaluate a “kiddy cane” for use with young blind children aged 2–6. The prototype cane was designed at AFB and field tested by orientation and mobility specialists in southern California who worked with young children. Initial modifications were made on the basis of feedback from the specialists. Ongoing evaluation from the field is desired to make further improvements in the cane.
Transitional Services for Youths who are Visually Impaired
Authors: McBroom L.W. , Tedder N.E.
Published: July 2020

The problems of 12 young people aged 19–27 who were visually impaired and moving from school to work were examined to identify services provided by an educationally based and a rehabilitation-based transition program. Eighteen services were identified, and no major differences were found in the types of services which differed only according to the youths’ secondary disabilities.
Investigating Stress Associated with Mobility Training through Consumer Discussion Groups
Authors: Seybold D.
Published: July 2020

Anxieties that people who are visually impaired experience about orientation and mobility (O&M) training are universal and long-standing problems. Discussions with consumers were conducted by O&M instructors and participating welfare workers to identify how people perceived the stressful influences and what strategies could be developed to overcome them.
Cultural Diversity in Action
Authors: Stephens N.E. , Averitt E.L.
Published: July 2020

The Arizona Schools for the Deaf and the Blind have a multicultural population of students that has led to multiple opportunities to enrich the school programs and enhance each student's life. This article describes two such programs: multicultural diversity and vocational planning and work experience.
A Parent-Professional Collaboration Model of Transitional Planning
Authors: Wittenstein S.H.
Published: July 2020

The transitional planning model described in this article incorporates a broad conceptualization of transition that includes social skills, independent living skills, and overall competence in adjustment to the community with the specific needs of children who are blind, visually impaired, and have multiple disabilities, and their families.
Employment Status and Quality of Life of Graduates of a State Residential School
Authors: DeLaGarza D.V. , Erin J.N.
Published: July 2020

This study examined characteristics related to employment, life-style, and quality of life of 70 graduates of the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Although two-thirds of the graduates surveyed were unemployed, high levels of satisfaction, independence, and community integration were reported. Bringing forth issues related to the risk of unemployment for this group reveals the need for further research in effective programming and personal characteristics, which result in gainful employment for persons with visual impairment.
Prelanguage Communication of Students who are Deaf-Blind and Have Other Severe Impairments
Authors: Tedder N.E. , Warden K. , Sikka A.
Published: July 2020

Although instruments for assessing language have been useful for researchers and teachers of students with severe impairments, they have not provided a systematic way to observe or assess students who are deaf-blind, have other severe impairments, and function at the prelanguage level of communication or taken pragmatic competence into account. This article describes an instrument that is applicable to such students, provides many opportunities for recording interactions at the prelanguage level, and allows for the structured observation of pragmatic aspects of communication.
Special Problems of People with Diabetes and Visual Impairment
Authors: Rosenthal J.L.
Published: July 2020

The treatment of diabetes mellitus is extending the life expectancy and improving the lives of people with this condition. However, since complications are more common as the duration of diabetes increases, more people are experiencing severe complications of diabetes, including visual impairment. This article discusses the type of visual impairment caused by diabetes and the unique problems that people with diabetes and visual impairment face.
The Braille Readiness Skills Grid: A Guide to Building a Foundation for Literacy
Authors: McComiskey A.V.
Published: July 2020

The Braille Readiness Skills Grid is designed to help those who work with young children who are blind or visually impaired identify, in a systematic manner, activities and skills that will foster braille readiness in children who are potential braille readers. Three intended benefits of the grid are (1) to increase parents’ confidence in interventions that foster braille reading readiness, (2) to encourage adults to engage potential braille readers in systematic braille readiness activities from infancy, and (3) to renew the confidence of teachers, parents, and children who are potential braille readers and to foster the children's enthusiasm for reading.
Reading Proficiency of Elderly Visually Impaired Persons after Rehabilitation
Authors: Myrberg M. , Bäckman Ö. , Lennerstrand G.
Published: July 2020

This article reports on the results of a study of the reading proficiency of 3,200 visually impaired persons in Sweden (86 percent of whom were elderly) following training in the use of optical devices and a follow-up study of 5 percent of the sample three years later. After training, 95 percent of the original sample used optical aids as their preferred reading medium, 71 percent could read newsprint, and 50 percent read fluently. Three years later, there was a substantial drop in the number of patients using reading aids, although those who used them had become more proficient readers.
Evaluating Visual Information Provided by Audio Description
Authors: Peli E. , Fine E.M. , Labianca A.T.
Published: July 2020

Short segments of two TV programs without audio description (AD) were presented to 25 subjects with low vision and 24 subjects with normal vision, and 29 additional subjects heard only the standard audio portions. The subjects then answered questions based on the visual information contained in the AD of the programs. The subjects with normal vision performed the best, followed by those with low vision and those who heard only the audio portion; all performed at better than chance levels. The results indicate that although AD may provide information on visual details to visually impaired audiences, some of the information in the AD may be obtained from the standard audio portion.
Meaningful Participation in Early Childhood General Education Using Natural Supports
Authors: Erwin E.J.
Published: July 2020

This qualitative study used participant observation and semistructured interviews to examine the types of natural support that were provided and the adaptive strategies used to promote the inclusion of Ryan, a 3 year old with a visual impairment, in a community-based preschool. It found that the adults and classmates gave Ryan natural support in a variety of ways and that Ryan used distinctive adaptive strategies to carry out tasks independently.
Moving Vision-Related Rehabilitation into the U.S. Health Care Mainstream
Authors: Lidoff L.
Published: July 2020

Little public funding is available in the United States for vision-related rehabilitation services to restore the independent functioning of people who do not have an explicit vocational goal. This problem especially affects older adults, who constitute a large majority of the population experiencing severe vision loss. Some service providers have begun to find ways to have Medicare and other health insurance plans, which pay for rehabilitation for many other functional impairments, cover vision-related rehabilitation in some cases. This article discusses the history of coverage of vision-related rehabilitation by health insurance and identifies opportunities for expanded coverage within the rapidly changing health care environment.
Body Experiences of Persons who are Congenitally Blind: A Phenomenological-Psychological Study
Authors: Bullington J. , Karlsson G.
Published: July 2020

The aim of this qualitative-interpretive, phenomenological-psychological study was to discover the essential dimensions (distinctive features) of the body experiences of congenitally blind people. The information was obtained through semi structured interviews, consisting of open-ended questions, to which the subjects could reply freely and at length. Of the various forms of body experiences mentioned in the interviews, three are discussed in this article: the functional body, the objectified body, and the identity-creating body.
The Value of Physical Fitness for a Young Man who is Visually Impaired with Multiple Medical Disorders
Authors: Marley W.P. , Beverly–Mullins J.M.
Published: July 2020

This article presents a case study of a 25-year-old man who is legally blind with retinitis pigmentosa, Type I diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and a lipid disorder. He was placed in a one-year, supervised, multifactorial fitness program that included exercise training, nutritional counseling, and diabetes education. Improvements in physical fitness, body composition, glucose control, hypertension, and normal lipid maintenance were observed as a result. Thus, this study provided an opportunity to observe the value of structured exercise and related proactive strategies for a motivated blind person with multiple medical disorders.
Progression of Eye Disorders in a Nursing Home
Authors: Marx M.S. , Werner P. , Feldman R.C. , Cohen-Mansfield J.
Published: July 2020

This study of the progression of eye pathology in 100 nursing home residents found that the amount of eye pathology (cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma) was high and increased from Time 1 to Time 2 (mean interval = 315 days) and that the increases in cataracts and macular degeneration were statistically significant. Also, the residents’ best-corrected visual acuity dropped significantly from Time 1 to Time 2. These longitudinal data indicate the importance of routine assessments to detect changes in the vision of elderly residents.
In search of enemies: Donald Trump’s populist foreign policy rhetoric
Authors: Hall Jonny
Published: July 2020

This article asks how Donald Trump’s foreign policy rhetoric during his presidential campaign and presidency has affected US foreign policy in the area of overseas counterterrorism campaigns. Looking at two case studies – the May 2017 Arab Islamic American Summit and the US role in the counter Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) campaign, it is argued that Trump’s foreign policy rhetoric has failed to accurately describe or legitimate his administration’s counterterrorism strategy, as per the conventional wisdom. Instead, Trump’s foreign policy rhetoric has largely been aimed at creating a sense of crisis (as populism requires) to mobilise his domestic base. In making this argument about the purpose of Trump’s foreign policy rhetoric, not only does the article contribute a new perspective to the extant literature on elections, rhetoric, and US foreign policy, but also to the burgeoning scholarship on governing populists and their foreign policies. Although these findings could be unique to Trump, the article’s novel framework – combining International Relations and populism scholarship to elaborate on how the foreign arena can be used to generate a state of perpetual crisis – can hopefully be applied in other contexts.
Association between CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms and lipid metabolism in Chinese patients with ischemic stroke
Authors: Bai Yunxue , Huang Ruicheng , Wan Lagen , Zhao Rui
Published: July 2020

Objective

The CYP2C19 genetic variation may be involved in the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Serum lipid levels are important risk factors for ASCVD, but the effect of the CYP2C19 gene on serum lipid metabolism remains unclear. This retrospective cohort study investigated the relationship between the CYP2C19 gene polymorphism and serum lipid levels in patients with ischemic stroke (IS).

Methods

IS patients (n = 230) and control subjects (n = 100) were enrolled. All patients were diagnosed with IS via clinical manifestations and brain magnetic resonance imaging. All patients were genotyped.

Results

Triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c), and apolipoprotein B (ApoB) levels were significantly higher and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) and apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) levels were significantly lower in the IS group compared with the control group. Lower ApoA1 levels and higher ApoB levels were significant predictive factors for IS. Patients with higher ApoB levels had a higher risk of IS recurrence. Compared with extensive metabolizers, intermediate and poor CYP2C19 metabolizers had a higher risk of IS recurrence.

Conclusions

Our study indicates CYP2C19 gene polymorphisms are related to lipid metabolism in patients with IS. IS patients who are poor CYP2C19 metabolizers may have a higher risk of disease recurrence.
Chidamide combined with ibrutinib improved the prognosis of primary bone marrow diffuse large B cell lymphoma
Authors: Tian Chen , Chen Zehui , Li Yueyang
Published: July 2020

Primary bone marrow diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an independent pathologic type with a poor prognosis when treated with standard chemoimmunotherapy. Generally, rituximab-based high-dose chemotherapy regimens such as dose-adjusted etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin (DA-EPOCH) can be administered to young patients, followed by autologous stem cell transplantation. For elderly patients, the rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone (R-CHOP) regimen is well tolerated, but it is an insufficient induction therapy for this group. Herein, we reported an elderly patient diagnosed with primary bone marrow DLBCL, germinal center B-cell-like subtype. Considering tolerance, the R-CHOP regimen was administered. However, his disease progressed after two treatment cycles. Then, the rituximab, gemcitabine, dexamethasone, cisplatin, lenalidomide regimen was administered, but the patient still experienced disease progression. Subsequently, the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor chidamide and Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor ibrutinib were concurrently administered, and the patient achieved complete remission. We found that the response of primary bone marrow DLBCL to chemotherapy was poorer than that of de novo DLBCL. High-dose chemotherapy regimens such as DA-EPOCH should be administered to young patients in combination with rituximab. For elderly patients, new targeted drugs such as HDAC and BTK inhibitors appear to produce favorable outcomes.
Dl-3-n-butylphthalide regulates cholinergic dysfunction in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rats
Authors: Sun Yanan , Zhao Zilong , Li Qi , Wang Chunyang , Ge Xintong , Wang Xing , Wang Gang , Qin Yu
Published: July 2020

Objectives

To investigate whether dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) affects cholinergic system function and ameliorates cognitive decline in a rat model of vascular dementia (VaD).

Methods

The VaD rat model was established by bilateral common carotid artery ligation (two-vessel occlusion, 2VO). Rats were divided into five groups: control, sham, 2VO, 2VO+NBP (80 mg/kg; intragastric), and 2VO+donepezil (1 mg/kg; intragastric). Treatments were administered once daily for 2 weeks from day 21 post-surgery. Spatial learning and memory were evaluated by Morris water maze performance. Hippocampal choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expressions were detected using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and real-time polymerase chain reaction methods.

Results

The daily escape latency was significantly longer in 2VO rats than in the sham or control groups, while the time spent in the target quadrant was significantly shorter. The daily escape latency of the 2VO+NBP group was significantly shorter compared with the 2VO group. Following NBP treatment, ChAT, AChE, VAChT, and BDNF expressions were significantly upregulated in the hippocampus.

Conclusions

Central cholinergic dysfunction may be involved in VaD pathogenesis. NBP treatment significantly improved spatial learning and memory in VaD rats, and may enhance cholinergic system function via BDNF-mediated neuroprotection.
Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of bacteremic brucellosis
Authors: Qie Chunhua , Cui Junwen , Liu Yamin , Li Ying , Wu Hongzhang , Mi Yuqiang
Published: July 2020

Objective

To retrospectively investigate the epidemiological features, clinical manifestations and laboratory characteristics of bacteremic brucellosis.

Methods

Brucellosis patients admitted to our clinic from January 2015 to December 2017 were included in the study. Patient electronic medical records were reviewed for epidemiological features, clinical manifestations, and laboratory findings.

Results

A total of 132 brucellosis patients were analyzed (64 cases with bacteremic brucellosis and 68 cases with nonbacteremic brucellosis). The median duration from exposure to onset of symptoms was 6.9 weeks (range: 1 day to 32 weeks) and 21.9 weeks (range: 1–76 weeks) in patients with bacteremic and nonbacteremic brucellosis, respectively. More bacteremic than nonbacteremic patients presented with fever and chills. Arthritis was observed in 34 (25.8%) patients, and was more commonly observed in nonbacteremic patients. Using C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin (PCT) as serological markers, the areas under the receiving operating characteristic curves were 0.64 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.54–0.73] and 0.61 (95% CI: 0.51–0.70), respectively, for distinguishing bacteremic from non-bacteremic brucellosis.

Conclusion

Fever and chills were frequently observed in bacteremic brucellosis patients, whereas arthritis was more common in nonbacteremic brucellosis patients. Serum CRP and PCT can be used as potential serological markers for diagnosing bacteremic brucellosis.
Production and characterization of poly lactic-co-glycolic acid particles containing anti-inflammatory substances for skin lesion recovery
Authors: Choi Hong Jin , Lee Junseok , Kim Jeong Koo
Published: July 2020

Poly lactic-co-glycolic acid particles are biodegradable and biocompatible drug delivery systems that provide a controlled release of drugs in specific sites. These characteristics minimize the occurrence of side effects related to overdosing. To overcome the issues associated with the conservative treatment for wound healing, the objective of this work was to develop a poly lactic-co-glycolic acid particles system to deliver anti-inflammatory compounds (epigallocatechin gallate and asiaticoside) to fibroblasts. Nanoscale (~200 nm) and microscale (~10 µm) poly lactic-co-glycolic acid particles were produced using two different protocols. Nanoscale particles reduced cell proliferation by 46% compared with untreated human skin fibroblasts, whereas microscale particles did not affect fibroblast viability significantly. The toxicity of nanoparticles and the nontoxic nature of microparticles were confirmed in live and dead cell staining experiments. In vitro drug release assays showed that particles containing epigallocatechin gallate and asiaticoside were able to release most of their payload during the first 8 h of incubation. The treatment of lipopolysaccharide-stimulated fibroblasts with epigallocatechin gallate- and asiaticoside-loaded microparticles effectively suppressed the expression of inflammatory factors: tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, and interleukin-6. In this study, we found that the optimal size of biodegradable poly lactic-co-glycolic acid particles for the delivery of physiologically active substances to fibroblasts is about 10 μm. Moreover, our findings indicate that poly lactic-co-glycolic acid particles of this size can be effectively applied to ameliorate tissue regeneration by delivering physiologically active substances to improve skin lesion recovery.
Chiral poly(amide-imide)/ZnS nanocomposite as a new adsorbent for simultaneous removal of cationic dyes from aqueous solution
Authors: Sadeghi Maryam , Rafiee Zahra
Published: July 2020

A new adsorbent, poly(amide-imide)/zinc sulfide nanocomposite (PAI/ZnS NC), was fabricated and identified by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, field emission-scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. Then, the obtained NC was applied for the simultaneous removal of auramine O (AO) and rhodamine B (RB) dyes from aqueous solution via the interactions of hydrogen bonding, π– π stacking, and Lewis acid–base interaction. The effects of operational variables including pH, PAI/ZnS NC mass, AO and RB concentration, and sonication time on removal efficiency were examined and optimized values were found to be 8.0, 16 mg, 11 mg L−1, and 6 min, respectively. The adsorption capacities of PAI/ZnS NC for the removal of AO and RB dyes were found to be 70.92 and 91.74 mg g−1, respectively. Ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometer was used to determine the amount of residual dye in solution. Fitting the experimental equilibrium data to isotherm models such as Langmuir, Freundlich, Temkin, and Dubinin–Radushkevich reveals the suitability of the Langmuir model with high correlation coefficients ( R2 = 0.998 for AO and R2 = 0.999 for RB). Pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, intraparticle diffusion, and Elovich kinetic models applicability was tested and the pseudo-second-order equation controls the kinetics of the adsorption process. Furthermore, this study establishes that PAI/ZnS NC can be successfully applied as a low-cost adsorbent and conserve its high efficiency after nine cycles for the removal of AO and RB dyes.
Comparing the capabilities of transfer learning models to detect skin lesion in humans
Authors: Singhal Aditi , Shukla Ramesht , Kankar Pavan Kumar , Dubey Saurabh , Singh Sukhjeet , Pachori Ram Bilas
Published: July 2020

Effective diagnosis of skin tumours mainly relies on the analysis of the characteristics of the lesion. Automatic detection of malignant skin lesion has become a mandatory task to reduce the risk of human deaths and increase their survival. This article proposes a study of skin lesion classification using transfer learning approach. The transfer learning model uses four different state-of-the-art architectures, namely Inception v3, Residual Networks (ResNet 50), Dense Convolutional Networks (DenseNet 201) and Inception Residual Networks (Inception ResNet v2). These models are trained under the dataset comprising seven different classes of skin lesions. The skin lesion images are pre-processed using image quantization, grayscaling and the Wiener filter before final training step. These models are compared for performance evaluation on different metrics. The present study shows the efficacy of the methodology for automated classification of lesion images.
Control and energy management of hybrid system based on a fuel cell/photovoltaic/super capacitor using an AC-link inverter connected to the grid
Authors: Aouiti Abdelkarim , Marzougui Hajer , Kadri Ameni , Bacha Faouzi
Published: July 2020

This article deals with the power flow control in a hybrid power system, which is composed of a fuel cell, photovoltaic system and a super capacitor. The super capacitor has been employed with an aim to ameliorate the performance of the hybrid power system. In addition, it takes into account the energy fluctuations of photovoltaic energy sources and the slow dynamic of the fuel cell. Each source is connected to a DC/DC converter and their outputs are connected to a common DC-link and they supply a DC load. Furthermore, an energy management algorithm has been carried out in order to commonly share the power between the sources and the load. The proposed energy management method shows its flexibility, and an efficient energy conditioning between different sources is guaranteed in case of multi-source system. The main originality of this work lies in the use of AC-link partial resonant DC–AC converter topology to interface hybrid system and to inject the excess of energy to the grid. In this article, the system description, the control and the modeling of DC/DC converters and the AC-link converter are provided. Finally, simulations under Matlab/Simulink are shown in order to validate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy and the energy management algorithm. An implementation on real-time using dSpace 1104 is presented to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed control strategy.
Exploring the Experiences of Adults With Microtia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Hamlet Claire , Harcourt Diana
Published: July 2020

Objective:

Microtia is a medically complex condition, with the option of surgery to address hearing and reconstruct the ear. The current study explored adults’ experiences of microtia, with a particular focus on the psychosocial impact and experiences of ear reconstruction. The ultimate aim was to identify areas for support and future research that could improve patient care.

Design:

Fifteen adults (12 females) aged between 20 and 62 years took part in semi-structured interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results:

Three main themes were identified in the data: microtia as an invisible difference, surgery as a welcome opportunity, and living well with microtia. Participants had incorporated microtia into their self-concept and did not report a lasting negative impact on their lives. However, some psychosocial challenges were reported, including anxiety about showing their ears (even after reconstruction), disclosing their diagnosis to romantic partners, surgical decision-making, and feeling unsupported in the work environment.

Conclusion:

Individuals with microtia may benefit from psychosocial interventions to increase confidence, access to support for treatment decision-making, and guidance around disclosing microtia to employers.
Feedback control of linear systems with optimal sensor and actuator selection
Authors: Singh Taranjitsingh , De Mauri Massimo , Decré Wilm , Swevers Jan , Pipeleers Goele
Published: July 2020

This article demonstrates a combined [Formula: see text] feedback control design for linear time-invariant and linear parameter-varying systems and optimal sensors and actuator selection. The combined design problem is systematically constructed as a mixed Boolean semidefinite programming optimization problem. We impose Big-M reformulations to the non-deterministic polynomial-time-hard coupled problem to be solved as a convex optimization problem using the branch and bound algorithm. The combined design of dynamic output feedback control along with optimal actuator selection for a linear time-invariant seismic rejection controller design serves as an application for validation by simulation. In addition, active vibration control of a smart composite plate along with optimal sensor and actuator selection validates the developed approach for linear parameter-varying controller synthesis. On comparing this approach with exhaustive search, it is observed that mixed Boolean semidefinite programming approaches have faster computation time, and comparing with the iterative reweighted ℓ1 norm algorithm and mixed Boolean semidefinite programming using outer approximations, mixed Boolean semidefinite programming yields a global solution.
Case Report of Central Precocious Puberty in a Female: Role of Environmental Pollutants?
Authors: Helyaich Asma , Elqadiry Rabiy , El Fakiri Karima , Rada Nourreddine , Draiss Ghizlane , Bouskraoui Mohammed
Published: July 2020

A 5-year-old girl was brought to Department of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes for premature breast development since 4 months. Her medical antecedents and family history were uneventful. From investigations she was diagnosed as a case of central precocious puberty. Identification of pesticides in farms surrounding their house indicates that this early stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis was linked to the estrogen-like activity of endocrine-disrupting compounds.
Practices of freedom and the disruption of binary genders: Thinking with trans
Authors: Moulin de Souza Eloisio , Parker Martin
Published: July 2020

This article, inspired by a reading of O’Shea’s piece in this journal in 2018 which problematized the production of ‘normal’ identities, considers the ‘practices of freedom’ performed by non-binary trans people and their capacity to embody resistance against binary heteronormative gender intelligibility. We want to think with trans in order to challenge gender binaries and argue that their practices of freedom not only transform themselves, but also others. We suggest that this could be understood as a form of Foucault’s ‘care of the self’, producing new ways of doing gender which are not reducible to ‘man’ or ‘woman’ but that produce new histories and subjectivities. Given the complicated ways in which non-binary trans people engage in care of the self, we propose that it is possible to understand this as a form of organizing that embodies an ethics which disturbs and recodes the dominant way that gender is organized. They prefigure an idea and practice of trans organizing, attempting to move beyond dualisms, opening new possibilities for liveable lives.
Cumulative lifetime stress exposure predicts greater impulsivity and addictive behaviors
Authors: McMullin Sara D , Shields Grant S , Slavich George M , Buchanan Tony W
Published: July 2020

The study investigated whether lifetime stress exposure is associated with greater impulsivity and addictive behavior. We also examined whether stress and impulsivity interactively predicted food addiction and alcohol-related behavior. Greater lifetime stress exposure was related to more impulsivity and food addictive behaviors, but not alcohol-related consequences. There were no interactions between lifetime stress exposure and impulsivity in predicting addictive behaviors. Exploratory analyses revealed that early and adulthood stress exposure predicted food addiction, whereas only adulthood stress predicted alcohol-related consequences. Therefore, lifetime stress exposure is related to impulsivity and addiction, but these effects differ by addiction outcome and specific timing of stress exposure.
Shear behavior of large stud shear connectors embedded in ultra-high-performance concrete
Authors: Hu Yuqing , Yin Huiguang , Ding Xiaomeng , Li Shuai , Wang JQ
Published: July 2020

In this article, the static shear behavior of large-headed studs embedded in ultra-high-performance concrete was investigated by push-out test and numerical analysis. A total of nine push-out specimens with single and grouped studs embedded in ultra-high-performance concrete and normal strength concrete slabs were tested. In the testing process, only shank failure appeared without cracks occurring on the surface of ultra-high-performance concrete slab when the steel–ultra-high-performance concrete specimens reached ultimate shear capacity. The shear capacity of specimens with large studs embedded in ultra-high-performance concrete slab increased by 10.6% compared those in normal concrete, and the current design codes such as Eurocode4, AASHTO LFRD 2014, and GB50017-2003 all underestimate the shear capacity of such kind of steel–ultra-high-performance concrete composite structures according to experimental results. Numerical models were established using ABAQUS with introducing damage plasticity material model. The influence of stud diameter, concrete strength, thickness of clear cover, and spacing of studs on the static shear behavior was thoroughly investigated via parametric analysis. Based on the experimental and numerical analysis, the existence of wedge block and the decrease of axis force are beneficial for improving the shear capacity of stud shear connectors.
Strengthening of steel decks for cable-stayed bridge using ultra-high performance concrete: A case study
Authors: Wang Lei , Su Xiaochao , Ma Yafei , Deng Ming , Zhang Jianren , Cai CS
Published: July 2020

Fatigue cracking induced by vehicle load is a prevalent problem in orthotropic steel decks. In addition, pavement debonding in steel bridge decks is another familiar issue resulting from low slip resistance in the faying surface between the steel and asphalt concrete. The present study proposed a strengthening method that uses ultra-high performance concrete to stiffen a repeatedly maintained cable-stayed bridge in order to help address these two problems. The existing issues of the real bridge and the corresponding causes were investigated. Following this, an ultra-high performance concrete paving system was designed to improve the stiffness of the orthotropic steel decks. For this paving system, a 45-mm ultra-high performance concrete layer was connected to the deck by welded shear studs. The local stresses at the typical vulnerable fatigue cracking points were determined by means of a finite element model and of a field loading test to evaluate the strengthening effect. The results showed that this strengthening method can prevent the propagation of fatigue cracks. The local stresses of the U-ribs and diaphragms were reduced by 45.4% and 40.0%, respectively. The repaired bridge has sufficient resistance against fatigue cracking based on the in situ observations.
Perceptions of teachers on the instructional leadership behaviours of secondary school principals in Rwanda
Authors: Sibomana Innocent
Published: July 2020

This article draws on data collected from a wider PhD study conducted in the Nyamagabe district of Rwanda in 2017. The main purpose of that study was to identify instructional leadership behaviours enacted by secondary school principals, and investigate the extent to which these behaviours influence professional practices of teachers. This article focuses only on identifying instructional leadership behaviours of school principals from the perceptions of the teachers in the district using the survey questionnaires. Data collected were analysed using SPSS software and means and standard deviations were computed to determine the extent to which school principals enacted instructional leadership behaviours. The findings suggest that, as perceived by the teachers, principals to a large extent do engage in instructional leadership behaviours in their schools. These behaviours included supervising instruction, providing feedback and discussing this feedback with teachers. It was observed that defining and communicating shared goals, promoting teacher professional development, providing teaching and learning resources and reviewing curricula were also enacted. Teachers ranked their principals as moderately enacting instructional leadership behaviours. Although these findings are not generalisable across the country, they can serve as a roadmap for school principals and policy makers to improve instructional leadership in Rwandan secondary schools.
The truths and falsehoods of post-truth leaders
Authors: Spoelstra Sverre
Published: July 2020

Over the last three years, the idea of a ‘post-truth society’ has become a common talking point. Politicians from around the world, from Europe to South America to the United States, have been labelled as ‘post-truth leaders’, with Donald Trump being portrayed as the standard bearer for this new kind of political discourse. This article suggests that post-truth leadership is nothing new. Ever since Max Weber developed his notion of charismatic leadership in the early 20th century, Western societies have been infatuated with the idea that leaders ought not concern themselves too much with factual reality. In a sense, leadership has been post-truth all along.