bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2017 National Standards for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support
Authors: Beck Joni , Greenwood Deborah A. , Blanton Lori , Bollinger Sandra T. , Butcher Marcene K. , Condon Jo Ellen , Cypress Marjorie , Faulkner Priscilla , Fischl Amy Hess , Francis Theresa , Kolb Leslie E. , Lavin-Tompkins Jodi M. , MacLeod Janice , Maryniuk Melinda , Mensing Carolé , Orzeck Eric A. , Pope David D. , Pulizzi Jodi L. , Reed Ardis A. , Rhinehart Andrew S. , Siminerio Linda , Wang Jing
Published: December 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to review the literature for Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) to ensure the National Standards for DSMES (Standards) align with current evidence-based practices and utilization trends.

Methods

The 10 Standards were divided among 20 interdisciplinary workgroup members. Members searched the current research for diabetes education and support, behavioral health, clinical, health care environment, technical, reimbursement, and business practice for the strongest evidence that guided the Standards revision.

Results

Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support facilitates the knowledge, skills, and ability necessary for diabetes self-care as well as activities that assist a person in implementing and sustaining the behaviors needed to manage their condition on an ongoing basis. The evidence indicates that health care providers and people affected by diabetes are embracing technology, and this is having a positive impact of DSMES access, utilization, and outcomes.

Conclusion

Quality DSMES continues to be a critical element of care for all people with diabetes. The DSMES services must be individualized and guided by the concerns, preferences, and needs of the person affected by diabetes. Even with the abundance of evidence supporting the benefits of DSMES, it continues to be underutilized, but as with other health care services, technology is changing the way DSMES is delivered and utilized with positive outcomes.
Discrete Perineural Invasion Focus Number in Quantification for T1‐T2 Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wei Pei‐Yin , Li Wing‐Yin , Tai Shyh‐Kuan
Published: December 2018

Objective

Perineural invasion (PNI) has been an established poor prognostic feature for T1‐T2 oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Different presentations and amounts of PNI are commonly observed, but PNI is currently recorded as being present or absent. This study asked whether the quantification of PNI provides additional information for early OSCC.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary referral medical center.

Subjects and Methods

Pathologic reevaluations were performed for 314 patients with T1‐T2 OSCC who underwent curative surgery from June 2001 to August 2009. A novel parameter, PNI focus number, was defined for PNI quantification. With 5 PNI foci as the cutoff, patients were categorized into 3 groups: no PNI (0 PNI foci), low PNI (PNI foci, 1‐5), and high PNI (PNI foci >5). Rate of cervical lymph node metastasis (LN+), 5‐year disease‐specific survival (DSS), and 5‐year overall survival (OS) were analyzed among these groups.

Results

PNI focus number independently predicted for LN+, poor DSS, and poor OS in multivariate analysis after controlling for T classification, lymphovascular invasion, differentiation, margin, and tumor thickness. The 5‐year DSS demonstrated a dose‐dependent decrease among the 3 groups (no PNI, 88.6%; low PNI, 75.2%; high PNI, 33.8%; P <. 001). Moreover, the 5‐year DSS of the high PNI group was significantly worse than that of the low PNI group.

Conclusion

PNI focus number can be a novel parameter for PNI quantification in early OSCC. Although optimal quantification methods still require further investigation, this study offers clear clinical support for the nerve‐tumor interaction hypothesis and advocates further mechanistic research for the exploration of PNI‐related treatment concepts for OSCC.
Social Networks and Transnational Social Fields: A Review of Quantitative and Mixed-Methods Approaches
Authors: Lubbers Miranda Jessica , Verdery Ashton M. , Molina José Luis
Published: December 2018

Scholars of transnationalism have argued that migrants create transnational social fields or spaces that connect their place of origin to destination areas. Despite the centrality that social networks have in the definition of these concepts, quantitative and mixed-methods social network research is rare in research on transnationalism. This situation, however, has changed over the last decade, and the transnational social networks of migrants have been studied with multiple methodologies. So far, this literature has not been systematically evaluated. With the aim of taking stock of this research, we classify the literature into four types of approaches (individual, household, dyad/small set, and community) and review their distinct contributions regarding the functioning of immigrants’ transnational networks, as well as the relative strengths and limitations of each approach. On the basis of our analysis, we discuss pathways for future investigation.
Measuring the quality of dying and death in advanced cancer: Item characteristics and factor structure of the Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire
Authors: Mah Kenneth , Hales Sarah , Weerakkody Isuri , Liu Lucy , Fernandes Samantha , Rydall Anne , Vehling Sigrun , Zimmermann Camilla , Rodin Gary
Published: December 2018

Background:

Ensuring a good death in individuals with advanced disease is a fundamental goal of palliative care. However, the lack of a validated patient-centered measure of quality of dying and death in advanced cancer has limited quality assessments of palliative-care interventions and outcomes.

Aim:

To examine item characteristics and the factor structure of the Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire in advanced cancer.

Design:

Cross-sectional study with pooled samples.

Setting/participants:

Caregivers of deceased advanced-cancer patients ( N = 602; mean ages = 56.39–62.23 years), pooled from three studies involving urban hospitals, a hospice, and a community care access center in Ontario, Canada, completed the Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire 8–10 months after patient death.

Results:

Psychosocial and practical item ratings demonstrated negative skewness, suggesting positive perceptions; ratings of symptoms and function were poorer. Of four models evaluated using confirmatory factor analyses, a 20-item, four-factor model, derived through exploratory factor analysis and comprising Symptoms and Functioning, Preparation for Death, Spiritual Activities, and Acceptance of Dying, demonstrated good fit and internally consistent factors (Cronbach’s α = 0.70–0.83). Multiple regression analyses indicated that quality of dying was most strongly associated with Symptoms and Functioning and that quality of death was most strongly associated with Preparation for Death ( p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

A new four-factor model best characterized quality of dying and death in advanced cancer as measured by the Quality of Dying and Death Questionnaire. Future research should examine the value of adding a connectedness factor and evaluate the sensitivity of the scale to detect intervention effects across factors.
Role of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography in the post biopsy management of B3 lesions: Preliminary results
Authors: Bicchierai Giulia , Nori Jacopo , De Benedetto Diego , Boeri Cecilia , Vanzi Ermanno , Bianchi Simonetta , Kaur Gill Maninderpal , Cirone Donatello , Miele Vittorio
Published: December 2018

Purpose

To evaluate the role of contrast-enhanced spectral mammography (CESM) in the post biopsy management of breast lesions classified as lesions of uncertain malignant potential (B3) by core needle biopsy and vacuum-assisted biopsy (VAB).

Methods

The local ethics committee approved this retrospective study and for this type of study formal consent is not required. A total of 42 B3 lesions in 40 women aged 41–77 years were included in our study. All patients underwent CESM 2–3 weeks after the biopsy procedure and surgical excision was subsequently performed within 60 days of the CESM procedure. Three radiologists reviewed the images independently. The results were then compared with histologic findings.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for confirmed demonstration of malignancy at CESM were 33.3%, 87.2%, 16.7%, and 94.4% for reader 1; 66.7%, 76.9%, 18.2%, and 96.7% for reader 2; 66.7%, 74.4%, 16.7%, and 96.7% for reader 3. Overall agreement on detection of malignant lesions using CESM among readers ranged from moderate to substantial (κ = .451–.696), for categorization of BPE from moderate to substantial (κ = .562–.711), and for evaluation of lesion intensity enhancement from fair to moderate (κ = .346–.459).

Conclusion

In cases of Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) 1, BI-RADS 2, or BI-RADS 3 results at CESM, follow-up or VAB rather than surgical biopsy might be performed.
The Warburg Dance Movement Library—The WADAMO Library: A Validation Study
Authors: Christensen Julia F. , Lambrechts Anna , Tsakiris Manos
Published: December 2018

The Warburg Dance Movement Library is a validated set of 234 video clips of dance movements for empirical research in the fields of cognitive science and neuroscience of action perception, affect perception and neuroaesthetics. The library contains two categories of video clips of dance movement sequences. Of each pair, one version of the movement sequence is emotionally expressive (Clip a), while the other version of the same sequence (Clip b) is not expressive but as technically correct as the expressive version (Clip a). We sought to complement previous dance video stimuli libraries. Facial information, colour and music have been removed, and each clip has been faded in and out. We equalised stimulus length (6 seconds, 8 counts in dance theory), the dancers’ clothing and video background and included both male and female dancers, and we controlled for technical correctness of movement execution. The Warburg Dance Movement Library contains both contemporary and ballet movements. Two online surveys ( N = 160) confirmed the classification into the two categories of expressivity. Four additional online surveys ( N = 80) provided beauty and liking ratings for each clip. A correlation matrix illustrates all variables of this norming study (technical correctness, expressivity, beauty, liking, luminance, motion energy).
Effects of active and passive smoking on salivary cytokines levels in rats: A pilot study
Authors: Ge Sheng , Ye Pei , Li Guo-Yang , Fu Yi-Fu , Zhou Qian , Huang Fan , Wang Xiang , Wang Wen-Mei
Published: December 2018

Cigarette smoking is an established risk factor for some oral diseases. As an essential fluid in the oral cavity, saliva is crucial to maintain oral health. Relative to active smoking, there are very few studies assessing the effect of passive smoking on salivary cytokines levels. In the present study, we established the rat models by the means of the intraoral cigarette smoking or whole body cigarette smoke exposure to simulate human active or passive smoking, respectively. The effects of active or passive smoking on salivary cytokines levels were assessed by using ProcartaPlex multiplex immunoassays. The results of the current study indicated that both active and passive smoking diminished the body weights of rats and increased the levels of some blood counts. Intriguingly, active smoking enhanced the salivary levels of IL-6 and IL-12 p70 and passive smoking elevated the salivary IL-6 level. Moreover, active smoking appeared to have a more prominent activation effect on the salivary IL-6 level. It was noted that active or passive smoking had no significant effect on the salivary IFN-γ level. Active or passive smoking could have potential effects on the salivary levels of some pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Collecting Survey and Smartphone Sensor Data With an App: Opportunities and Challenges Around Privacy and Informed Consent
Authors: Kreuter Frauke , Haas Georg-Christoph , Keusch Florian , Bähr Sebastian , Trappmann Mark
Published: December 2018

The new European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) imposes enhanced requirements on digital data collection. This article reports from a 2018 German nationwide population-based probability app study in which participants were asked through a GDPR compliant consent process to share a series of digital trace data, including geolocation, accelerometer data, phone and text messaging logs, app usage, and access to their address books. With about 4,300 invitees and about 650 participants, we demonstrate (1) people were just as willing to share such extensive digital trace data as they were in studies with far more limited requests; (2) despite being provided more decision-related information, participants hardly differentiated between the different data requests made; and (3) once participants gave consent, they did not tend to revoke it. We also show (4) evidence for a widely-held belief that explanations regarding data collection and data usage are often not read carefully, at least not within the app itself, indicating the need for research and user experience improvement to adequately inform and protect participants. We close with suggestions to the field for creating a seal of approval from professional organizations to help the research community promote the safe use of data.
A novel configuration for improving the aerodynamic performance of Savonius rotors
Authors: Etemadeasl Vahid , Esmaelnajad Rasool , Dizaji Farzad F , Farzaneh Babak
Published: December 2018

In this paper, a new configuration is proposed for Savonius rotors by installing two Counter-Rotating Savonius Rotors together and adding a V-shaped shield. For evaluating the performance of this type of turbine, turbulent unsteady flow around the rotor is simulated using ANSYS-Fluent 16.0 software. Numerical results of the torque and power coefficients of the turbine show a significant improvement in the aerodynamic performance compared to a single Savonius rotor. Effects of the V-shaped shield angle and distance from the rotors on the aerodynamic performance of the turbine are studied numerically. Analyzing the results show that in a design with a shield angle of 90° and with a shield distance of L = 1 D power coefficient increases by 80%.
Toxicity study of DE-EDCP as a potential drug for cancer therapy: Toxicity profile of DE-EDCP
Authors: Stanković DT , Ristić SM , Vukadinović AA , Mirković MD , Vladimirov SS , Milanović Z , Radović M , Mijović M , Stanković DM , Sabo TJ , Vranješ-Đurić SD , Janković D
Published: December 2018

It was reported that novel O, O′-diethyl-(S, S)-ethylenediamine- N, N′-di-2-(3-cyclohexyl) propanoate dihydrochloride (DE-EDCP) displayed in vitro antiproliferative activity on several human and mouse cancer cell lines, which was comparable to that of the prototypical anticancer drug cisplatin. In order to reveal its toxicity profile, acute and repeated-dose toxicity studies were performed in Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) Han mice. The intravenous LD50 values of DE-EDCP were found to be 95.3 and 101.3 mg/kg body weight in female and male mice, respectively. In the subacute toxicity study, DE-EDCP was administered intravenously at the doses of 15, 25, and 40 mg/kg/day for a period of 28 days. There were no adverse effects on general condition, growth, feed and water consumption, and hematological parameters. There was a significant increase in urea and alanine aminotransferase in female mice and aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase in both genders in 40 mg/kg/day dose-treated group. The histopathological changes confined to the liver and kidney, but in other organs were not found. Satellite group revealed that changes in the kidney and liver were less pronounced, suggesting their reversibility. Interactions with DNA could also be of importance for understanding DE-EDCP toxic side effects. Hyperchromic effect obtained with ultraviolet–visible, suggested electrostatic interactions between DE-EDCP and calf thymus DNA. The toxicity testing of DE-EDCP was conducted to predict human outcomes.
The effect of a rhythmic pulse on the heart rate: Little evidence for rhythmical ‘entrainment’ and ‘synchronization’
Authors: Mütze Hanna , Kopiez Reinhard , Wolf Anna
Published: December 2018

In this study, we investigate the influence of musical tempo on the heart rate. Previous studies showed ambiguous results. Two effects are considered: first, an adaption of the heart rate frequency to the tempo of a musical stimulus (‘entrainment’) and second, the phase synchronization between the stimulus-onset and the R-waves in the ECG (‘synchronization’). A regulatory feedback loop was programmed, which constantly measured the actual heart rate. A simple Djembé-beat was used as a musical stimulus and coupled to the actual heart rate in real-time. To test for ‘entrainment’ effects, we adapted the tempo of the stimulus in real-time to the actual heart rate by increasing the rate 25%, 40% or 55% over the baseline tempo. To test for ‘synchronization’ effects, we presented the stimulus in a constant tempo, tracking the actual heart rate of the test person. Based on circular statistics, results showed no evidence for ‘entrainment’ or ‘synchronization’ effects of the stimulus on the heart rate. Overall, reactions to the trigger pulse were characterized by a high degree of interindividual differences. Thus, we conclude that there is no direct and simple correlation between the musical tempo and the HR contrary to what is often suggested in everyday psychology.
I Want to Read About Me: Engaging and Empowering Gifted Black Girls Using Multicultural Literature and Bibliotherapy
Authors: Ford Donna Y. , Walters Nicole McZeal , Byrd Janice A. , Harris Breshawn N.
Published: December 2018

It is commonly accepted and expected that gifted students enjoy reading and other forms of creative modes of storytelling. A core principle from bibliotherapy is that students engage in reading when they identify with one or more characters, and challenges and interests like their own. The same principle applies to multicultural literature—when students of color see themselves mirrored in the book, they become more eager to read. This column focuses on the vital need for educators to use multicultural literature with gifted Black girls. Strategies and resources are provided for educators’ expansion of their pedagogical toolkit.
Bullying and the Unique Experiences of Twice Exceptional Learners: Student Perspective Narratives
Authors: Ronksley-Pavia Michelle , Grootenboer Peter , Pendergast Donna
Published: December 2018

Bullying is known to be prevalent across social settings for children, particularly, for those who have disability and intermittently gifted students. What remains relatively underresearched is the phenomenon of bullying in the lives of twice-exceptional children. This article presents findings about the bullying experiences of eight twice-exceptional children aged 9 to 16 years from a study that explored the lived experiences of these children. Their narratives describe the pervasiveness of bullying. The six themes which emerged from the data about bullying experiences were (a) bullying by peers, (b) bullying by teachers, (c) teachers’ and adults’ responses to bullying, (d) social isolation and bullying, (e) the emotional effects of being bullied, and (f) protective factors. The contribution to the field of twice-exceptionality along with the children’s experiences and consequences of being bullied are discussed. This article concludes with recommendations for practice and further research.
Dynamic stability enhancement of laminated composite sandwich plates using smart elastomer layer
Authors: Hoseinzadeh Mohammad , Rezaeepazhand Jalil
Published: December 2018

The dynamic stability of composite sandwich plates with a smart elastomer layer subjected to an axial periodic load is investigated. A finite element model of the composite sandwich plate with Magnetorheological elastomer (MRE) core is developed. A MRE layer, which its mechanical properties change with the applied magnetic field, is used as a damping layer to improve the stability of the structure. Due to the intrinsic characteristics of the MREs, these materials commonly operate in their pre-yield region. In this region, complex shear modulus is used for these materials. The effect of different parameters such as stacking sequences, boundary conditions, geometry of the sandwich plate, thickness and partial activation of the MRE layer on the damping treatment and stability boundaries is investigated. The presented results show that the application of an MRE layer as a core in the composite sandwich plate changes the stability region of the structure. Therefore, the instability boundaries can be manipulated to achieve the desired dynamic response of the structure.
Development and Testing of the interRAI Acute Care: A Standardized Assessment Administered by Nurses for Patients Admitted to Acute Care
Authors: Gray Leonard C , Beattie Elizabeth , Boscart Veronique M , Henderson Amanda , Hornby-Turner Yvonne C , Hubbard Ruth E , Wood Susan , Peel Nancye M
Published: December 2018

Background:

Underpinning standards for developing comprehensive care in hospital is the need to identify, early in the admission process, functional and psychosocial issues which affect patient outcomes. Despite the value of comprehensive assessment of patients on admission, the process is often sub-optimal due to a lack of standardized assessment practices. This project aimed to develop a concise, integrated assessment for patients admitted to acute care and test its psychometric properties.

Methods:

Two international expert panels of clinicians and health scientists collaborated to establish design parameters. Using clinical observations and a variety of derivative applications sourced from the interRAI research collaborative repository, the panels constructed a draft instrument to examine feasibility, resource requirements, and inter-rater reliability. Field testing was conducted in Australia and Canada. Next, the system was revised to its final form, the interRAI Acute Care, after feedback and review from international interRAI members.

Results:

Constructed using 56 items, the interRAI Acute Care required a median of 15 minutes to complete. Inter-rater reliability tested on 130 paired assessments was substantial to almost perfect for 78% of the clinical items and moderate for the remaining 22% of items. A subset of 30 items from the admission assessment comprised the discharge assessment.

Discussion:

The interRAI Acute Care has been shown to be an efficient nursing assessment instrument with good psychometric properties. Implementation in a digital environment will enable documentation and care planning to comply with standards for quality of care in the general adult hospital population.
GC-MS fragmentation patterns of sprayed endosulfan and its sulphate metabolite in samples of Theobroma cacao L from a field kinetic study
Authors: Vaikosen Edebi N , Gibson Lorraine T , Davidson Christine M , Olu-Owolabi Bamidele I , Adebowale Kayode , Ebeshi Benjamin U , Diagboya Paul NE
Published: December 2018

Most environmental analytical methods for the determination of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are multi-residual with other organic compounds co-extracted and co-eluted. This has been observed in GC spectra using classical detectors like electron-capture detector (ECD) even after appropriate clean-up. This limitation could be resolved by using GC-MS methods which are more specific and selective. Thus, a commercial-grade endosulfan treated Theobroma cacao plantation was sampled. Representative samples comprising leaves, stem bark and pulp were obtained between 0.5 h and 60 days after treatment. Samples were analyzed for residual parent endosulfan ( α- and β-isomers) as well as the metabolite endosulfan sulphate using an ion trap GC-MS. The retention times and chromatogram peaks obtained for various endosulfan were identified and compared with reference standards, and confirmed with National Institute of Standards and Technology library. Results showed that the molecular ion at m/z 407 was exhibited by α- and β-endosulfan, representing the parent molecular ion M+• ([C9H6Cl6SO3]+•). The α-isomer was more thermally stable, hence exhibited more relative abundance. Other predominant peaks were 339, 307, 277, 265, 243, 241, 207, 195, 160, 159, 99 and 75 m/z. The peak at m/z 159 was the base molecular ion. For endosulfan sulphate, the peak at m/z 422 corresponded to parent molecular ion (M+•), while m/z 424 was due to isotopic pattern characteristic of the chlorine atom. The peaks at 387, 357, 289, 272, 229, 206, 170, and 120 m/z were characteristic for the sulphate metabolite. The m/z peak at 272 was the base molecular ion, while m/z 143 may be due to metabolite diol and lactone. These results showed that the various endosulfan species can be identified and confirmed simultaneously using a GC-MS.
Clinical outcomes of theophylline use as add-on therapy in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Wilairat Preyanate , Kengkla Kirati , Thayawiwat Chaiyawat , Phlaisaithong Phongsathorn , Somboonmee Supakorn , Saokaew Surasak
Published: December 2018

To examine clinical outcomes of theophylline use in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) receiving inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting beta-2 agonists (LABA). Electronic data from five hospitals located in Northern Thailand between January 2011 and December 2015 were retrospectively collected. Propensity score (PS) matching (2:1 ratio) technique was used to minimize confounding factors. The primary outcome was overall exacerbations. Secondary outcomes were exacerbation not leading to hospital admission, hospitalization for exacerbation, hospitalization for pneumonia, and all-cause hospitalizations. Cox’s proportional hazards models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). After PS matching, of 711 patients with COPD (mean age: 70.1 years; 74.4% male; 60.8% severe airflow obstruction), 474 theophylline users and 237 non-theophylline users were included. Mean follow-up time was 2.26 years. Theophylline significantly increased the risk of overall exacerbation (aHR: 1.48, 95% CI: 1.11–1.96; p = 0.008) and exacerbation not leading to hospital admission (aHR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.06–2.03; p = 0.020). Theophylline use did not significantly increase the risk of hospitalization for exacerbation (aHR: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.79–1.58; p = 0.548), hospitalization for pneumonia (aHR: 1.28, 95% CI: 0.89–1.84; p = 0.185), and all-cause hospitalizations (aHR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.80–1.33; p = 0.795). Theophylline use as add-on therapy to ICS and LABA might be associated with an increased risk for overall exacerbation in patients with COPD. A large-scale prospective study of theophylline use investigating both safety and efficacy is warranted.
The Presence of a Paretic Propulsion Reserve During Gait in Individuals Following Stroke
Authors: Lewek Michael D. , Raiti Cristina , Doty Amanda
Published: December 2018

Background. The residual hemiparesis after stroke results in a unilateral reduction in propulsive force during gait. Prior work has suggested the presence of a propulsive reserve in the paretic limb. Objective. The purpose of this study was to quantify the paretic propulsive reserve in individuals poststroke and to determine the biomechanical mechanism underlying the generation of additional paretic propulsive limb force. Methods. Ten individuals with chronic hemiparesis poststroke walked on a treadmill against an impeding force (ascending 0% to 10% body weight [BW], in 2.5% BW increments, followed by descending 10% to 0% BW, also in 2.5% BW increments) applied to the body’s center of mass. The resulting propulsive forces were measured bilaterally and compared between impeding force levels. We then assessed potential mechanisms (trailing limb angle and plantarflexion moment) underlying the changes in propulsion. Results. Overall, peak paretic propulsive force increased by 92% and the paretic propulsive impulse increased by 225%, resulting in a significant increase in the paretic limb’s contribution to propulsion. Participants continued to produce increased paretic propulsion on removal of the impeding force. The trailing limb angle contributed significantly to the increase in paretic propulsion, whereas the plantarflexion moment did not. Conclusions. Participants exhibited a robust propulsive reserve on the paretic limb, suggesting that there is untapped potential that can be exploited through rehabilitation to improve gait recovery. The increase in propulsive symmetry indicates that a greater response was observed by the paretic limb rather than increased compensation by the nonparetic limb.
Analysis on vibration for a high-frequency electro-hydraulic cleaning system controlled by improved two-dimensional rotary valve
Authors: Ji Xiancheng , Ren Yan , Tang Hesheng
Published: December 2018

Conventional high-frequency cleaners utilize functional materials (e.g. piezoelectric ceramics, magnetostrictive materials) excited by electrical signals to realize high-frequency vibration, even ultrasonic vibration. However, it is difficult to produce a large force without sacrificing bandwidth because of the physical characteristics of materials themselves. Therefore, a high-frequency high-power cleaner driven by electro-hydraulic excitation is proposed. Only a few studies are performed on electro-hydraulic cleaners, owing to the limitation of frequency bandwidth of the electro-hydraulic system. Thus, a rotary valve named two-dimensional valve is improved and adopted to improve high-frequency performances of the electro-hydraulic cleaner. In this article, a two-dimensional rotary valve with a linear variable differential transformer is designed, and the vibration characteristics of the electro-hydraulic cleaner controlled by this valve are discussed in detail, especially vibration acceleration, vibration frequency, and pressure amplitude. A prototype of the electro-hydraulic cleaner is modeled and both a theoretical analysis and experimental investigation are carried out. Theoretical and experimental results indicate that the electro-hydraulic cleaning system outputs sinusoidal vibration waveforms, especially in a high-frequency domain, which could realize the vibration frequency of 2669 Hz. The measured waves at different frequencies (below the resonant frequency) demonstrate different distortions compared with the sinusoidal waveform. These distortions can be associated with the hydraulic resonance. At hydraulic resonance (1903 Hz), the amplitude is increased significantly and the vibration waveform becomes more pronounced. Nevertheless, the study does provide an access to the electro-hydraulic high-frequency vibration applied in cleaning or other engineering cases.
Free vibration characteristics of functionally graded Mindlin nanoplates resting on variable elastic foundations using the nonlocal elasticity theory
Authors: Sari Ma’en S , Al-Rbai Mohammad , Qawasmeh Bashar R
Published: December 2018

In this research, free vibration behavior of thick functionally graded nanoplates is carried out using the Chebyshev spectral collocation method. It is assumed that the plates are resting on variable elastic foundations. Eringen’s nonlocal elasticity theory is used to capture the size effect, and Mindlin’s first-order shear deformation plate theory is employed to model the thick nanoplates. Hamilton’s principle along with the differential form of Eringen’s constitutive relations are utilized to obtain the governing partial differential equations of motion for the functionally graded nanoplates under consideration. A numerical solution is presented by applying the spectral collocation method and the natural frequencies are obtained. A parametric study is conducted to study the effects of several factors on the natural frequencies of the functionally graded nanoplates. It is found that the parameters of the variable elastic foundation (Winkler and shear moduli), thickness to length ratio, length to width ratio (aspect ratio), the nonlocal scale coefficient, the gradient index, the foundation type, and the boundary conditions have a remarkable influence on the free vibration characteristics of the functionally graded nanoplates.
Design analysis and experimental verification of vibration reduction of spatial composite damping truss structure
Authors: Luo Haitao , Fu Jia , Wang Peng , Wang Haonan
Published: December 2018

In order to solve the problem that the photoelectric instrument may fail when the vibration response of the truss composite structure is too large, the method of applying the viscoelastic-constrained damping layer on the truss wall and the box panel is used to reduce the vibration of the whole structure. In this article, a broken long tube with viscoelastic-constrained damping layer is introduced. The long tube of the original structure is broken into two identical short tubes, and a tube with free damping layer is added to the junction of the two short pipes, which is connected by adhesive and broken long pipe. By analyzing the frequency response of the traditional space truss and spaceflight load structure, and a broken long tube structure, the acceleration response cloud diagram and the acceleration response curve of the fixed measuring node are obtained. Experiments were carried out to verify the feasibility of the structure. The test results show that the method of broken long pipe with viscoelastic-constrained damping layer can achieve better damping effect than the traditional truss structure, and it can effectively reduce the vibration level of the space load at the end of the truss, and has important reference significant for the vibration reduction design of other space structures.
Policy as praxis: Senior educators’ enactment of assessment policy reform
Authors: Hardy Ian , Melville Wayne
Published: December 2018

This article reveals the multifaceted ways in which policy enactment was expressed as praxis in the context of assessment reform in Ontario, Canada. The research explores the way in which the Growing Success assessment policy was interpreted variously by different educators occupying senior roles within the district office in a single school district in northern Ontario. Drawing on neo-Aristotelian theorising, the research reveals how ‘policy in practice’ was expressed as a form of praxis, where such praxis is understood as morally committed and informed action oriented towards excellence in a field (in this case, education). While recognising the complexity of policy enactment, and how policy enactment can result in unforeseen and sometimes problematic outcomes, the research also reveals how policy enactment can have productive outcomes in relation to what are construed as the ‘internal goods’ of education. In the research presented, these productive outcomes included the capacity to facilitate teachers’ learning within and across elementary and secondary school sites; a critical, constructive focus on standardised measures of student learning in relation to academic outcomes; and the enhancement of student learning opportunities via cultural inclusion, particularly in relation to First Nations, Métis and Inuit students. In this way, the research validates a conception of policy as praxis and foregrounds how policy enactment can be understood in ways that promote the intrinsic integrity of educational practice, and the need to draw on these ‘internal goods’ in such enactment.
Alveolar soft-part sarcoma of the oral cavity: A review of literature
Authors: Shelke Pankaj , Sarode Gargi Sachin , Sarode Sachin Chakradhar , Anand Rahul , Prajapati Ghevaram , Patil Shankargouda
Published: December 2018

An alveolar soft-part sarcoma is a malignant neoplasm primarily affecting the soft tissues of head and neck. The aim of the present review is to systematically present the demographic and clinico-pathological data of articles published in the English medical literature. A comprehensive search of the databases (PubMed, Medline, SCOPUS, Web of Science, and Google Scholar) along with cross references to the published articles on alveolar soft-part sarcoma for eligible studies/case reports published since 1957 till date was done to retrieve the data. A total of 74 cases were identified and analyzed from 42 papers published in the English medical literature. All the clinical, radiographic, and prognostic features were analyzed and presented along with the treatment strategies. Alveolar soft-part sarcoma is a rare and aggressive malignancy of uncertain histologic origin with a propensity for vascular invasion and distant metastasis. This neoplasm requires careful clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic evaluation to reach to the correct diagnosis.
Assessment of quality of life in pediatric patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Handler Stephanie S. , Hallis Brian J. , Tillman Kathryn A. , Krolikowski Mary , Kuhn Evelyn M. , Kirkpatrick Edward C. , Brosig Cheryl L.
Published: December 2018

The aim of this study is to evaluate quality of life in four domains (physical, emotional, social, and school) in pediatric patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) using a validated survey (PedsQL). This is a prospective cohort study of pediatric patients aged 2–18 years with PH. Parents of all children and patients aged 8–18 years with appropriate developmental capacity completed the PedsQL survey in the clinic. Results were compared with published norms for pediatric patients, those with congenital heart disease (CHD) and cancer. Thirty‐three children were enrolled yielding 32 parent and 18 patient self‐reports: seven patients were aged 2–4 years; three were aged 5–7 years; 11 were aged 8–12 years, and 12 were aged 13–18 years. Twenty‐one patients were classified as World Health Organization (WHO) Group I pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), 11 WHO Group III PH due to lung disease, and one WHO Group V with segmental PH. Thirteen patients were NYHA functional class (FC) 1, 12 were FC 2, eight were FC 3, and none were FC 4. The PH cohort had significantly lower scores than healthy children in all domains on both parent and self‐report. The PH cohort also had significantly lower scores than patients with CHD (parent report: total, physical, social, school; patient self‐report: total, physical, school) and cancer (parent report: school; patient self‐report: physical, school). Close to 50% of participants reported at risk scores in each domain. The quality of life in pediatric PH patients assessed by PedsQL revealed functional impairment in multiple domains. Administration of the PedsQL during outpatient encounters may provide an easy, reproducible method to assess quality of life and direct referral for interventional services.
Promoting College and Career Readiness With Middle School Youth With Disabilities: Lessons Learned From a Curriculum Development Project
Authors: Grigal Meg , Cooney Lori , Hart Debra
Published: December 2018

Engagement and academic success in middle school is critically important to ensure students with disabilities complete high school and have a viable path to and through postsecondary education. Although most middle school students say they want to pursue postsecondary education or training, a significant proportion are not actively engaged in college and career readiness (CCR) activities in middle school. This transition in practice article highlights the importance of early CCR instruction for middle school youth with and without disabilities. Lessons learned from developing an online CCR curriculum and implementing it with middle school youth in inclusive middle school settings will be shared. Access to and comfort with technology, the need for age-appropriate content, and strategies for universally designed curriculum will be addressed. Recommended practices and available resources will be offered to expand educator focus on CCR with middle school youth with a wide range of disabilities.
Long-Term Memory in Adults Exposed to Childhood Violence: Remembering Genital Contact Nearly 20 Years Later
Authors: Goldfarb Deborah , Goodman Gail S. , Larson Rakel P. , Eisen Mitchell L. , Qin Jianjian
Published: December 2018

Recent changes in statutes of limitations for crimes against children permit accusations of decades-old child sexual abuse to be considered in court. These laws challenge scientists to address the accuracy of long-term memory of genital contact. To examine theoretical, clinical, and legal concerns about long-term memory accuracy, children who in the 1990s (Time 1) were 3 to 17 years old and experienced a documented child maltreatment medical examination that included genital touch were interviewed between 2012 and 2014 (Time 2), as adults, about the medical experience. Almost half of the adults reported the childhood genital contact. Child sexual abuse and greater depression in adulthood predicted greater memory accuracy. No participant falsely reported chargeable offenses that did not occur, even when such offenses had been falsely suggested in a childhood interview. Some participants erred with regard to specific and misleading questions implying less egregious acts. Ramifications for theory and application are discussed.
Midostaurin added to chemotherapy and continued single-agent maintenance therapy in acute myeloid leukemia with FLT3-ITD
Authors: Schlenk Richard F. , Weber Daniela , Fiedler Walter , Salih Helmut R. , Wulf Gerald , Salwender Hans , Schroeder Thomas , Kindler Thomas , Lübbert Michael , Wolf Dominik , Westermann Jörg , Kraemer Doris , Götze Katharina S. , Horst Heinz-August , Krauter Jürgen , Girschikofsky Michael , Ringhoffer Mark , Südhoff Thomas , Held Gerhard , Derigs Hans-Günter , Schroers Roland , Greil Richard , Grießhammer Martin , Lange Elisabeth , Burchardt Alexander , Martens Uwe , Hertenstein Bernd , Marretta Lore , Heuser Michael , Thol Felicitas , Gaidzik Verena I. , Herr Wolfgang , Krzykalla Julia , Benner Axel , Döhner Konstanze , Ganser Arnold , Paschka Peter , Döhner Hartmut
Published: December 2018

Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and a FLT3 internal tandem duplication (ITD) have poor outcomes to current treatment. A phase 2 hypothesis-generating trial was conducted to determine whether the addition of the multitargeted kinase inhibitor midostaurin to intensive chemotherapy followed by allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (alloHCT) and single-agent maintenance therapy of 12 months is feasible and favorably influences event-free survival (EFS) compared with historical controls. Patients 18 to 70 years of age with newly diagnosed AML and centrally confirmed FLT3-ITD were eligible: 284 patients were treated, including 198 younger (18-60 years) and 86 older (61-70 years) patients. Complete remission (CR) rate, including CR with incomplete hematological recovery (CRi) after induction therapy, was 76.4% (younger, 75.8%; older, 77.9%). The majority of patients in CR/CRi proceeded to alloHCT (72.4%). Maintenance therapy was started in 97 patients (34%): 75 after alloHCT and 22 after consolidation with high-dose cytarabine (HiDAC). Median time receiving maintenance therapy was 9 months after alloHCT and 10.5 months after HiDAC; premature termination was mainly a result of nonrelapse causes (gastrointestinal toxicity and infections). EFS and overall survival at 2 years were 39% (95% confidence interval [CI], 33%-47%) and 34% (95% CI, 24%-47%) and 53% (95% CI, 46%-61%) and 46% (95% CI, 35%-59%) in younger and older patients, respectively. EFS was evaluated in comparison with 415 historical controls treated within 5 prospective trials. Propensity score-weighted analysis revealed a significant improvement of EFS by midostaurin (hazard ratio [HR], 0.58; 95% CI, 0.48-0.70; P < .001) overall and in older patients (HR, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.29-0.61). The study was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT01477606.
Serum periostin levels in adults of Chinese descent: an observational study
Authors: Tan Evan , Varughese Rachel , Semprini Ruth , Montgomery Barney , Holweg Cecile , Olsson Julie , Caswell-Smith Rachel , Fingleton James , Weatherall Mark , Beasley Richard , Braithwaite Irene
Published: December 2018

Background

Periostin has been shown to be a marker of Type 2 airway inflammation, associated with airway eosinophilia. It has a potential role in identifying asthmatics who may be responsive to treatment with monoclonal antibody therapy directed against Type 2 cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-13, IL-4 receptor subunit-α and immunoglobulin E. The clinical utility of periostin measurements depends on better understanding of factors that may affect serum periostin levels, such as race. We aimed to identify the ranges of serum periostin in Chinese adults both with and without asthma, and compare them with those previously identified in Caucasian adults.

Methods

A two-centred cross-sectional study, recruiting 188 Chinese adults, aged 18 to 75 years. 120 participants had no history of asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. 68 participants had a doctor’s diagnosis of asthma and were on current treatment. Univariate comparisons of periostin by dichotomous variables were made using t-tests with logarithmic transformation as the distribution of periostin was skewed.

Results

In the Chinese non-asthma group, periostin levels were sex-, but not age-dependent, with females having higher periostin levels. The individual predicted (90% CI) reference range for periostin in females was 61.1 ng/ml (41.6 to 89.8) ng/ml and in males was 53.2 ng/ml (36.1 to 78.3) ng/ml. There was no difference in median serum periostin levels between Chinese non-asthmatics and Chinese asthmatics, 57.0 versus 56.8 ng/ml, difference (95% CI) 0.1 (− 4.2 to 4.2) ng/ml, P = 0.94. The median serum periostin levels were higher in Chinese non-asthmatics than Caucasian non-asthmatics, 57.0 versus 49.7 ng/ml, difference (95% CI) 8.2 (5.8–10.6) ng/ml, P < 0.001.

Conclusions

Serum periostin does not discriminate between asthmatics and non-asthmatics and is therefore not a good biomarker to diagnose asthma. Serum periostin levels were higher in the Chinese compared to the Caucasian non-asthma group, and also sex dependent in the Chinese participants. There was no difference in serum periostin levels between Chinese non-asthma and asthma groups. This suggests that ethnicity should be considered in the interpretation of periostin levels in asthma patients and sex is an additional consideration in Chinese patients.

Trial registration This trial was prospectively registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12614000122651)