bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behind the Skin: A Rare Case of Scurvy-Associated Megaloblastic Anemia
Authors: Alhatem Albert , Cai Donghong
Published: May 2019

Scurvy, caused by vitamin C deficiency, is very rare nowadays in the developed world. Scattered cases are found in people with unusual eating habits, alcoholism, intestinal malabsorption, mental disorders, or elderly living alone. Because of its rarity, clinical presentations of scurvy, especially anemia and bleeding, are no longer well appreciated, and consequently extensive evaluation is commonly launched to pursue scurvy mimics, such as deep vein thrombosis, vasculitis, systemic coagulation disorders, and myelodysplasia. Herein, we describe the clinical manifestations and lab findings in a scurvy patient to raise awareness of this uncommon disease.
Research on the oil film temperature field of hydrostatic bearing with variable viscosity dynamic simulation and experiment
Authors: Zhang Yan-Qin , Sun Ji-Chang , Kong Peng-Rui , Kong Xiang-Bin , Yu Xiao-Dong
Published: May 2019

In order to improve the lubrication performance of the double-rectangular cavity hydrostatic thrust bearing, this paper selects the temperature rise characteristics of hydrostatic bearing as the research object under the conditions of changing oil film thickness and different working conditions. Using the dynamic mesh method with variable viscosity dynamic simulation, the changing temperature rise curves under different inlet flow velocities and rotating speeds are obtained. This paper obtains the changing laws of oil film thickness and temperature under the hydrostatic bearing running in no-load, load 2.5 t, load 10 t and the rotating speeds of 40 r/min, 60 r/min and 80 r/min. Under the low rotating speed, the high temperature region in the oil cavity mainly concentrates on the counter flow side. With the increase of working speed, the high temperature region on the counter flow side expands to the oil seal side obviously. When the oil film thickness was in the range of 0.04 mm to 0.07 mm, the temperature of oil seal edge increased with the increase of the inlet flow velocity. Using the FLUENT software, the variable viscosity simulation of hydrostatic bearing is carried out under different oil film thickness, and the temperature distribution of oil cavity is obtained. Finally, the correctness of theoretical analysis and simulation are verified by conducting experiment.
The emergence of follow-on disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis
Authors: Moss Brandon P , Cohen Jeffrey A
Published: May 2019

Medication prices are a major contributor to the high cost of care for multiple sclerosis. Three generic glatiramer acetate products have regulatory approval in North America, Europe, or Latin America. The pending expiration of patents for other disease-modifying therapies for relapsing multiple sclerosis creates the opportunity for development and regulatory approval of additional follow-on alternatives (generics or biosimilars), potentially providing lower prices and cost savings to payors and patients. However, the complexities of development, regulatory approval, and marketing of follow-on products have some important differences compared to those of new drugs. This topical review provides background and a status update on the development of follow-on disease-modifying medications to treat multiple sclerosis.
Do populists support populism? An examination through an online survey following the 2017 Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election
Authors: Hieda Takeshi , Zenkyo Masahiro , Nishikawa Masaru
Published: May 2019

Based on an ideational approach, a burgeoning body of literature has directly measured populist attitudes among supporters of populist parties. However, few empirical works have examined whether these attitudes among voters also explain their preferences for politicians whom a political-strategic approach regards as populists. In addition, no research has verified the applicability of individual populist scales to non-Western countries. To overcome these shortcomings, this study assesses populist attitudes among Japanese citizens and explores whether a respondent with these attitudes tends to vote for populist politicians in Japan. We conducted an online survey after the 2017 Tokyo Metropolitan Assembly election. Survey results revealed that the supporters of the Tokyoites First Party – a typical populist party in a political-strategic sense – lack the quintessential elements of populism. Further, several subcomponents of populist attitudes led to support for the Japanese Communist Party – a radical leftist party.
The Conners 3–short forms: Evaluating the adequacy of brief versions to assess ADHD symptoms and related problems
Authors: Izzo Viola Angela , Donati Maria Anna , Novello Federica , Maschietto Dino , Primi Caterina
Published: May 2019

The Conners’ Rating Scales are widely used to assess attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related difficulties in children and adolescents. A short form of the scales is available, which, along with the several advantages of brief versions, also displays good psychometric properties. Nonetheless, no studies have confirmed them in cultural contexts different from the original one. The present study examined the psychometric properties of the Self-Report, Parent, and Teacher Conners 3–Short Forms in terms of reliability and validity in an Italian sample. Analyses were performed on 591 children and adolescents, 631 parents’ ratings, and 325 teachers’ ratings. To test for discriminative validity, ADHD clinical samples of 55 youth, 63 parents, and 15 teachers were compared to gender- and age-matched groups. Findings confirmed the original multidimensional structures and supported the Conners 3–Short Form scales as reliable and valid tools to assess ADHD and its main comorbid conditions.
Hand-crafted identities: Sartorial taste and belonging amongst elite women in urban India
Authors: Sharma Kaamya
Published: May 2019

Craft in contemporary India is a loaded signifier of the handmade, the vernacular, the traditional, and the authentic. Handloom saris, as part of a pan-Indianized repertoire, index the virtues of traditional femininity, local patronage and craft-based aesthetics. However, a decline in their consumption has led to revival projects centred on addressing concerns of livelihoods, markets, and consumer identities. This article presents a historically contextualized study of elite women who are engaged in handloom sari revival. Through an analysis of their sartorial preferences and interventions in handloom revival, the author suggests that their involvement in the field of craft is a performative strategy that consolidates their elite status. These actors affirm belonging in elite spaces using the discourses of crafts difference, biomoral consumption, and aesthetic taste. Moreover, revival is always presented as on the verge of happening but never actually achieved, justifying the need for sustained elite intervention, in turn cementing elite status.
Landscapes of Loss: Responses to Altered Landscape in an Ex-Industrial Textile Community
Authors: Taylor Lisa
Published: May 2019

Geographically located at the heart of Carpetvillage in West Yorkshire, Carpetmakers had once been a thriving manufacturer of fine woven carpets since the late 1880s. From my own experience of growing up there in the 1970s, its inhabitants had held a sense of ‘communal being-ness’ through the shared experience of living there and of making carpets. After the factory was closed, Carpet Mill was demolished in 2002, leaving a void where there had once been a handsome Victorian building. Interested in responses to architectural, spatial, and sensuous change in an ex-industrial landscape, this article asks: what were the subjective consequences for the affective ties that hold together an ex-industrial community? Using sensuous ethnographic mobile methods, the study draws on ex-Carpetmakers employees and local residents. The research found nostalgic memories of Carpetmakers as a paternalistic employer operating in a thriving and largely self-sufficient community. Photographs were collected from respondents, which chart a vast number of social clubs and events that offered an important dimension to the ‘way of life’ offered to workers in this ‘company village’. It found that while the importance of works buildings is acknowledged by writers on de-industrialization, missing from their accounts is an embodied analysis of how people interact in situ with landscapes of demolition. Respondents told of the emotional trauma of the demolition process, the effects of spatial change through the erasure of the village’s architectural past and the almost total decline of a community which, for them, no longer holds a sense of place. The decline in the social structures of an industrial community meant that ageing ex-workers and residents found it difficult to generate communal ties with newcomers to the village.
Disengaging with the cancerous body
Authors: Merrild Camilla Hoffmann , Andersen Rikke Sand
Published: May 2019

In recent years, the organisation of healthcare in many welfare states is gradually moving towards an individualised and responsibility-driven self-care and use of healthcare services. Departing in this restructuring of care, this article explores how bodies are experienced and how care is sough, by socially disadvantaged cancer patients. Based on repeated ethnographic interviews with 10 socially deprived cancer patients in Denmark, the article illustrates that socially disadvantaged cancer patients often experience their bodies and move between feeling fine and feeling sick in a disjunctive manner engulfed by the practicality of getting through the day. From a critical phenomenological perspective, we argue that this way of being in the world appears counterfactual to welfare expectations of proactive attention to the body, and contemporary moves towards increased individual responsibility for preventing serious disease and monitoring the body.
Trends in socioeconomic differences in daily smoking among 15-year-old Danes 1991–2014
Authors: Holstein Bjørn E. , Andersen Anette , Damsgaard Mogens Trab , Due Pernille , Bast Lotus Sofie , Rasmussen Mette
Published: May 2019

Aim: To examine trends in socioeconomic differences in daily smoking among 15-year-old Danes between 1991–2014, using occupational social class as indicator of socioeconomic status. Methods: The study included 15-year-olds participating in seven Danish Health Behaviour in School-aged Children studies between 1991–2014, n = 8,641. The analyses focused on absolute socioeconomic differences (prevalence difference between low and high occupational social class) and relative socioeconomic differences communicated by odds ratio for daily smoking. Results: The prevalence of daily smoking declined from 18.6% in 1991 to 4.5% in 2014. Across all surveys, the prevalence was 8.9% in high, 12.8% in middle and 16.5% in low occupational social classes ( p < 0.0001). The absolute socioeconomic differences increased from 1991 to 2006 and declined thereafter. Across all survey years, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for daily smoking was 1.40 (1.19–1.65) in middle and 1.90 (1.56-2.32) in low versus high occupational social classes. The statistical interaction between occupational social class and survey year was significant ( p = 0.0404), suggesting increasing relative socioeconomic differences from 1991 to 2014. Conclusions: There was a substantial decline in daily smoking among 15-year-olds between 1991–2014 in all occupational social class groups. The prevalence of daily smoking was highest in the low occupational social class during the entire period. The absolute socioeconomic differences in daily smoking increased between 1991–2006 and declined thereafter. The relative socioeconomic differences increased over 1991–2014. Studies of change in socioeconomic differences over time should address both absolute and relative socioeconomic differences as they may result in different conclusions and because important improvement in prevalence patterns may be disguised by exclusive focus on changes in relative socioeconomic differences.
The Belle Gibson scandal: The rise of lifestyle gurus as micro-celebrities in low-trust societies
Authors: Baker Stephanie Alice , Rojek Chris
Published: May 2019

The Belle Gibson scandal that broke in 2015 is a testament to the growing phenomenon of lifestyle gurus in the 21st century. In this article, our aim is not to explain the psychology behind Gibson’s lies. Rather, we focus on the social, cultural and technological conditions that enabled Gibson’s persona to flourish and their impact on contemporary understandings of the self. Lifestyle gurus embody the para-social, trading off the appeal of intimacy, authenticity and integrity. We demonstrate how social media have increased the levels of emotional investment, trust and attention capital in para-social relationships by providing ubiquitous access to native experts and creating the platform to achieve influence and micro-celebrity status. Finally, we contend that the growing number of lifestyle gurus providing the public with health advice and scientific knowledge points to the need to examine critically the social and cultural landscape that enables micro-celebrities to emerge.
Experimental studies on the vibro-acoustic behavior of a stiffened submerged conical-cylindrical shell subjected to force and acoustic excitation
Authors: Wang Xian-Zhong , Jiang Quan-Zhou , Xiong Ye-Ping , Gu Xin
Published: May 2019

An experimental model was made to investigate the influence of force and acoustic excitation on the vibration and underwater sound radiation of the stiffened conical-cylindrical shell. Meanwhile, a coupled precise transfer matrix method and wave superposition method was also proposed to analyze vibro-acoustic responses of combined shells. To test accuracy of the present method, vibration and acoustic results of combined shells are firstly examined. As expected, results of present method are in excellent agreement with the ones in literature and model test. The experimental results show that free vibrations of the experimental test are consistent with the literature data and the present method’s results. Forced vibration and acoustic test results are also well agreed with the numerical results from the coupled precise transfer matrix method/wave superposition method. The comparisons show that the coupled precise transfer matrix method/wave superposition method is reliable and credible to solve the vibro-acoustic response of combined shells. The analysis shows that the acoustic excitation is the key factor for radiated noise in low-frequency range. However, the radiated noise resulted from force excitation is dominant in mid-high frequency band.
Attribute substitution and stereotypes about the online Arab public sphere: Predictors of concerns about Internet surveillance in five Arab countries
Authors: Martin Justin D , Naqvi S Shageaa , Schoenbach Klaus
Published: May 2019

This study examined concerns about Internet surveillance among Internet users in Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, Lebanon, Qatar, and the UAE ( N = 4160). Despite common stereotypes about how variables like gender, youth, income, nationality, and liberal or conservative ideology affect political and cultural attitudes in Arab countries, these indicators were not significant predictors of concerns about online surveillance by governments and companies. Arab nationals reported greater concern about companies monitoring their online activity, while expatriates were more worried about government surveillance. The study uses literature on the attribute substitution heuristic to discuss how people might form stereotypes about large groups.
Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography Predicts and Detects Complications After Endovascular Repair of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Courtois Audrey , Makrygiannis Georgios , El Hachemi Mounia , Hultgren Rebecka , Allaire Eric , Namur Gauthier , Hustinx Roland , Defraigne Jean-Olivier , Sakalihasan Natzi
Published: May 2019

Purpose: To assess if aortic 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) could play a role in predicting complications after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Materials and Methods: This study involved 2 cohorts of men with abdominal aortic aneurysm treated by EVAR: those who underwent a PET/CT scan before EVAR (n=17) and those who had a PET/CT during follow-up (n=34). Uptake of FDG was measured as the standardized uptake value (SUV). D-dimer, a marker of fibrinolysis, was measured in blood drawn concomitantly with the PET/CT. Results: A significant uptake of FDG in the aneurysm wall was detected by PET/CT before EVAR in 6 of 17 patients. During the first year after EVAR, type II endoleaks developed in 5 of these FDG+ patients vs 3 of 11 FDG– patients (p=0.04). Two of the FDG+ patients had continued sac growth and required conversion to open repair. A significant association between sac growth rate, SUV, and the presence of endoleak was found in the 34 patients who underwent PET/CT after EVAR. Finally, D-dimer was significantly increased in patients with both endoleak and positive PET/CT in the post-EVAR group. Conclusion: This study suggests that the presence of FDG uptake in the aortic wall might be a useful tool to predict patients at high risk of developing post-EVAR complications.
Angiogenin Upregulation Independently Predicts Unfavorable Overall Survival in Proneural Subtype of Glioblastoma
Authors: Hu Ji-liang , Luo Wei-Jian , Wang Hao
Published: May 2019

Objective:

Angiogenin is a small protein that exerts potent stimulating effects on angiogenesis. In this study, we aimed to examine the expression of angiogenin in different subtypes of glioblastoma and estimated its independent prognostic value.

Methods:

The genomic and survival data from The Cancer Genome Atlas-glioblastoma were extracted for a secondary study. Results The expression of angiogenin was upregulated in glioblastoma tissues and varied significantly in different subtypes. Although the proneural subtype had the lowest angiogenin expression, high angiogenin expression was associated with significantly worse overall survival. However, this association was not observed in other subtypes. By performing univariate and multivariate analysis using Cox regression model, we observed that high angiogenin expression was an independent indicator of shorter overall survival in proneural glioblastoma (hazard ratio: 1.669, 95% confidence interval: 1.033-2.696, P = .036), after adjustment of age, gender, isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 mutation, temozolomide chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In addition, we also observed a correlation between elevated angiogenin expression and the hypomethylated status of its DNA. The hypermethylation group had significantly better overall survival.

Conclusions:

Angiogenin upregulation might serve as a biomarker for unfavorable overall survival in the proneural subtype of glioblastoma.
Mirror Neuron System Activation in Children With Unilateral Cerebral Palsy During Observation of Actions Performed by a Pathological Model
Authors: Errante Antonino , Di Cesare Giuseppe , Pinardi Chiara , Fasano Fabrizio , Sghedoni Silvia , Costi Stefania , Ferrari Adriano , Fogassi Leonardo
Published: May 2019

Background. Recent evidence suggested that Action Observation Therapy (AOT), based on observation of actions followed by immediate reproduction, could be a useful rehabilitative strategy for promoting functional recovery of children affected by unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP). AOT most likely exploits properties of the parieto-premotor mirror neuron system (MNS). This is more intensely activated when participants observe actions belonging to their own motor repertoire. Objective. The aim of the present study was to investigate the issue of whether MNS of UCP children is better activated by actions performed by a paretic hand rather than a healthy one. Methods. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we assessed brain activation in a homogeneous group of 10 right UCP children compared with that of 10 right-handed typically developing (TD) children, during observation of grasping actions performed by a healthy or a paretic hand. Results. The results revealed a significant activation within the MNS in both UCP and TD children, more lateralized to the left hemisphere in the TD group. Most important, region of interest (ROI) analysis on parietal and premotor regions showed that, in UCP, the MNS was more strongly activated by observation of actions performed by the paretic hand, a motor model more similar to the observer’s motor repertoire. Conclusions. This study shows that children affected by spastic UCP exhibit enhanced activation of the MNS during observation of goal-directed actions performed by a pathological model with respect to a healthy one.
Relationship Between Clinical Measures of Upper Limb Movement Quality and Activity Poststroke
Authors: Levin Mindy F. , Hiengkaew Vimonwan , Nilanont Yongchai , Cheung Donna , Dai David , Shaw Jennifer , Bayley Mark , Saposnik Gustavo
Published: May 2019

Background. Understanding the relationship between movement quality (impairment) and performance (activity) in poststroke patients is important for rehabilitation intervention studies. This has led to an interest in kinematic characterization of upper limb motor impairment. Since instrumented motion analysis is not readily clinically available, observational kinematics may be a viable alternative. Objective. To determine if upper limb movement quality during a reach-to-grasp task identified by observation could be used to describe the relationship between motor impairments and the time to perform functional tasks. Methods. Cross-sectional, secondary analysis of baseline data from 141 participants with stroke, age 18 to 85 years, who participated in a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Clinical assessment of movement quality using the Reaching Performance Scale for Stroke (RPSS–Close and Far targets) and of performance (activity) from the Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT–7 items) was assessed. The degree to which RPSS component scores explained scores on WMFT items was determined by multivariable regression. Results. Clinically significant decreases (>2 seconds) in performance time for some of the more complex WMFT tasks involving prehension were predicted from RPSS–Close and Far target components. Trunk compensatory movements did not predict either increases or decreases in performance time for the WMFT tasks evaluated. Overall, the strength of the regression models was low. Conclusions. In lieu of kinematic analysis, observational clinical movement analysis may be a valid and accessible method to determine relationships between motor impairment, compensations and upper limb function in poststroke patients. Specific relationships are unlikely to generalize to all tasks due to kinematic redundancy and task specificity.
The Stanley Collection
Authors: Clunis Sarah Anita
Published: May 2019

The University of Iowa Museum of Art and the University's graduate Art History program have developed into a unique and innovative collaborative research institution over the last thirty years. This article will focus on the history of the African art program at the University of Iowa, the collection of African art endowed to the university by the collectors Max and Elizabeth Stanley, and the various relationships and support mechanisms that put into place a structured program to ensure the collection's future and the future of African art scholarship. This article will also use the University of Iowa's academic program and art collection as a case study for future possibilities for collectors and their endowments.
Collection at the Crossroads New Directions for the Harn Museum of Art's African Collection
Authors: Cooksey Susan
Published: May 2019

The Harn Museum of Art at the University of Florida has acquired recently an unprecedented number of both historical and contemporary African art works. The collection plan's goals include expanding the traditional and historical collection by reinforcing its holdings of West African art (the strongest portion of the collection); providing better representation of Central, South, and East African arts; and collecting African contemporary works to show the continuity of African art production. Most contemporary acquisitions involved a partnership among the director, African curator, contemporary art curator, as well as other curators. This collaboration established a precedent for the Museum, invigorating the acquisition process. During the last six years, the museum originated seven successful exhibitions of African art, from traditional to contemporary works. The new strategy of installing contemporary African works in both African and Contemporary exhibitions has engaged both staff and audiences in a new and stimulating dialogue about representation of African art in the Harn, as well as in museum contexts in general.
Collecting and Projecting Identity Barotseland's Arts in International Arenas
Authors: Milbourne Karen E.
Published: May 2019

On September 21, 1906, Lozi king Lewanika of Barotseland (western Zambia) signed a contract with New Jersey trader Richard Douglas. With this document, he bequeathed the rights to cattle, wild game, ivory, and more than 2,000 objects that would come to reside in the collection of the American Museum of Natural History in New York. The works in question ranged from a few lumps of tobacco to a feather-crested wooden mask. On their own, each object serves as an ambassador of Barotseland and the Lozi culture from which it came. As a group, these art works and cultural artifacts illustrate one African king's ability to discern the power of collections and collecting. King Lewanika understood that by sending the material evidence of his kingdom abroad, Barotseland would be represented and known to audiences far from Africa's shores. By examining the extraordinary journeys through which Lozi objects arrived in such prominent collections as that of the American Museum of Natural History and Oxford University's Pitt-Rivers Museum, this paper chronicles the visionary leadership of King Lewanika and the power of collections in shaping cultural identity.
The Current Status of Lithoplasty in Vascular Calcifications: A Systematic Review
Authors: Khan Shawn , Li Ben , Salata Konrad , Aljabri Badr A. , Hussain Mohamad A. , Khan Monis , de Mestral Charles , Verma Subodh , Al-Omran Mohammed
Published: May 2019

Background. Lithoplasty is a method of alleviating vessel stenosis by using localized high-speed pressure waves to disrupt calcium deposits. A systematic review of the literature was performed to summarize the early outcomes of lithoplasty in peripheral and coronary artery disease. Methods. We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from database inception to July 2018 for original studies describing the use of lithoplasty. Study selection and data extraction were performed in duplicate, with a third author resolving discrepancies. Results. A total of 9 records were included from the 201 studies eligible for screening. In total, 211 patients with vascular calcification lesions underwent lithoplasty. The patients on average had an age of 73.2 years and had a maximum follow-up period of 5.5 months. Most lesions (72%, 152/212) were in peripheral artery beds, with the remainder occurring in coronary vessels. Lesioned vessels typically had severe calcium burden 62.6% (131/210), with an average initial stenosis of 76.6% (range, 68.1%-77.8%). After treatment, the average residual stenosis was 21.0% (range, 13.3%-26.2%), with a mean acute gain of vessel diameter of 2.5 mm. A limited number of type D dissections occurred, with a total of 2.4% (5/211) of patients requiring stent implantation. Conclusions. Recent studies suggest that lithoplasty is a promising intervention to decrease vessel stenosis in both peripheral artery disease and coronary artery disease, with minimal occurrence of major adverse events. Further research studies, with more rigorous study designs, are needed to determine the effectiveness of lithoplasty in vascular calcifications.
Psychosocial Determinants of Chronic Disease: Implications for Lifestyle Medicine
Authors: Egger Garry , Stevens John , Binns Andrew , Morgan Bob
Published: May 2019

We have previously identified a number of “determinants” of chronic disease, using the acronym NASTIE ODOURS. These have been given the collective term “anthropogens,” in this journal and other publications, to help direct the management of modern chronic ailments to a monocausal focus, akin to that afforded infectious diseases by the “germ theory.” We suggested the acronym NASTIE ODOURS as a starting point for a taxonomy of lifestyle medicine determinants. In the current article, we add 3, less quantifiable, but currently increasingly more important psychosocial experiences to these: Lack of Meaning, Alienation, and Loss of culture, changing the previous acronym to NASTIE MAL ODOURS. As with other determinants, all have accumulating evidence of an underlying low-grade, systemic, inflammatory physiological base (“metaflammation”), but with the need for further research to solidify these findings.
Reconstructive endovascular treatment of the V4 segment of a vertebral artery dissecting aneurysm with the Willis covered stent: A retrospective study
Authors: Xiang Sishi , Li Guilin , He Chuan , Ren Jian , Zhang Hongqi
Published: May 2019

Objective

Preliminary studies suggest that Willis covered stents may be suitable for the treatment of aneurysms of the internal carotid artery (ICA), but their efficacy and safety in vertebral artery (VA) dissecting aneurysms need further investigation.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent placement of a Willis covered stent for treatment of an aneurysm of the V4 segment of the VA between September 2015 and December 2017 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. The efficacy, complications, angiographic and clinical follow-up results were collected and analyzed.

Results

Sixteen covered stents were successfully implanted into the VA in 12 patients with 12 dissecting aneurysms. The technical success rate of stenting placement was 100%. Complete occlusion was achieved in 11 patients immediately after stent placement, with transient endoleak in one aneurysm. Angiographic follow-up (9.9 ± 4.0 months, mean±SD) was performed in nine patients and demonstrated complete stabilization of the obliterated aneurysm. Clinical follow-up (20.1 ± 9.6 months, mean±SD) demonstrated full recovery in 11 patients, and one patient suffered from acute myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

Reconstruction using a Willis covered stent is an efficient, safe and attractive alternative for the definitive treatment of intracranial VA dissecting aneurysms; longer follow-up and expanded clinical trials are needed for further validation of this technique.
Spinal dural fistula and anterior spinal artery supply from the same segmental artery: Case report of volumetric T2 MRI diagnosis and rational endovascular treatment
Authors: Shapiro Maksim , Kister Ilya , Raz Eytan , Loh John , Young Matthew , Goldman-Yassen Adam , Chancellor Breehan , Nelson Peter Kim
Published: May 2019

Spinal dural fistulas (SDAVFs) occasionally arise from the same segmental artery as the radiculomedullary branch to the anterior spinal artery. In such cases, selective fistula embolization that does not endanger the anterior spinal artery is not possible, and surgical fistula disconnection is recommended. We present an exceptional case in which rational embolization strategy of SDAVF was feasible because of separate origins from a common segmental artery pedicle of the ventral radiculomedullary artery and the dorsal radicular artery branch supplying the fistula.
Endovascular treatment of stroke in children under 2 years with heart failure and ventricular assist device
Authors: Jiménez Gómez Elvira , Bravo Rey Isabel , Oteros Fernández Rafael , Delgado Acosta Fernando
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Strokes in children are characterised by a high mortality rate while, at the same time, the low number of cases makes it difficult to gain practical experience. As heart disease is the most common risk factor, and as more and more cardiological interventions are being carried out, an increase in the incidence of paediatric stroke is expected. In some cases a transplant is required. While waiting for a donor, the use of ventricular assist devices may be necessary. These present with a high rate of neurological complications. We present two cases of children under 2 years of age awaiting heart transplantation supported by ventricular assist devices who had a stroke which was treated by endovascular techniques. Case 1: A 16-month-old boy with restrictive cardiomyopathy who was listed for a cardiac transplant. At 20 months he required an implantation of an external biventricular support device (Berlin Heart) and had a left hemisphere stroke at 23 months. An intra-arterial approach was used and produced good clinical results. One month later, a heart transplant was performed successfully. Case 2: An 18-month-old girl with non-compacted dilated cardiomyopathy included in the cardiac transplant programme and in need of a Levitronix Centrimag ventricular assist device presented with an acute left hemisphere stroke at 23 months. An intra-arterial procedure was carried out leading to positive clinical results except for residual right hypertonia. Seven months later she received her transplant.

Conclusion

As a result of the difficulty in performing arterial puncture, the small vessel calibre and the limitation in the use of iodated contrast, there are certain limitations to endovascular treatment of strokes in children that can lead to complications. A multidisciplinary approach to managing such cases would be helpful.
The Image of Ethnography—Making Sense of the Social Through Images: A Structured Method
Authors: Ayala Ricardo A. , Koch Tomas F.
Published: May 2019

Although systematic observation and interviews are the most common techniques in ethnography, a deep understanding requires research tools adapted to exploring beyond the observational scope. Nonconventional methods can support ethnography and complement observations and thus refine the construction of meaning. Qualitative research literature deals disproportionately more with some forms of data, typically text, lacking a structured method for visuals. This article arises from a case study using nonconventional methods, such as sociograms and participant-made drawings, and presents a structured method to attain enriched ethnographic analysis. Using this structured method, the research then draws on representation, visualization, and interaction as ports of entry into group dynamics. The aim being to open a way to discovery when visual and interactional representations do not easily translate into words. Spoken language presupposes an ability to capture and convey thought with precision and clarity and to know how the interlocutor may interpret words. A structured method to analyze images can fruitfully assist in the process. Since every research participant has a view on or a way of making sense of the research subject, the method is universal in application.
Computational fluid dynamics simulation of breathing zone of the human for air quality with a personalized air curtain
Authors: Alshitawi Mohammed Saleh , Suyambazhahan S , Alaboodi Abdulaziz S
Published: May 2019

In this article, the air quality is maintained in the breathing zone of a human using personalized air curtain. The breathing zone is modeled and simulated with ANSYS-Fluent 18.1 software and predicted the thermo-fluids flow characteristics in the breathing zone. The clean air is supplied from the air curtain device to distribute in the breathing zone of a human. There are 11 nozzles created in the front portion of the air curtain device to supply clean air in front of the face of the human. The air curtain provides a sealed cover between the pollutant and face, which protects the inward flow of pollutants. The flow becomes turbulent even at low Reynolds numbers 136–686 due to the mixing of air jets from multi-nozzles in the air curtain device and entrainment of ambient air into the breathing zone. The thermal balance (comfort) between breathing zone and atmosphere was maintained using isothermal air jets. The standard k-ε model is used for predicting the turbulent characteristics of air flow. The results obtained from the simulation was analyzed for optimum airflow velocity to occupy the breathing zone with clean air completely. The best flow pattern is achieved for the optimum nozzle exit velocity of 3 m/s, height y = 70 mm from the bottom of breathing zone for nozzle width of 2 mm. These conditions ensured the air quality and the comfort velocity (0.5 to 0.8 m/s) and pressure about 1 bar in the breathing zone.
The application of computational fluid dynamics simulation technique to ocean boat anti-disturbance tracking controller
Authors: Yu Zhenning , Wong Seng Fat
Published: May 2019

This article presents the verification problem of estimating boat hull damping parameters using the computational fluid dynamics technique. In addition, a Lyapunov-based path control system will be introduced to centify the estimation result. The controller should satisfy the following features: firstly, maintaining that the boat dynamic model which includes path, velocity, and orientation errors are asymptotically stable; secondly, ensuring the actuation is operating normally under the nonlinear hydrodynamic system and actual environment limitation; thirdly, working with the anti-disturbance algorithm which includes a projection update law. The final part of the article introduces the procedure proving that the computational fluid dynamics simulation result and Lyapunov direct method controller are acceptable for the ocean boat nonlinear dynamic system. It is confirmed that the control system simulation can improve computational fluid dynamics technology instead of an actual experiment. It can solve the estimation problem caused by limitations in equipment or funds.
A sampling-based optimized algorithm for task-constrained motion planning
Authors: Mi Kai , Zhang Haojian , Zheng Jun , Hu Jianhua , Zhuang Dengxiang , Wang Yunkuan
Published: May 2019

We consider a motion planning problem with task space constraints in a complex environment for redundant manipulators. For this problem, we propose a motion planning algorithm that combines kinematics control with rapidly exploring random sampling methods. Meanwhile, we introduce an optimization structure similar to dynamic programming into the algorithm. The proposed algorithm can generate an asymptotically optimized smooth path in joint space, which continuously satisfies task space constraints and avoids obstacles. We have confirmed that the proposed algorithm is probabilistically complete and asymptotically optimized. Finally, we conduct multiple experiments with path length and tracking error as optimization targets and the planning results reflect the optimization effect of the algorithm.
Goals aligned: Predictors of common goal identification in educational cross-sectoral collaboration initiatives
Authors: Kolleck Nina , Rieck Angelika , Yemini Miri
Published: May 2019

The rise of cross-sectoral collaboration initiatives has been widely documented. While schools and third-sector organizations share important educational goals in these initiatives, the predictors of their identification with common goals have not been examined systemically to date. This article analyses predictors of common goal identification within educational collaborative initiatives through a case study of a German initiative aimed at tackling inequality in education. By implementing a mixed-methods design – including surveys, semi-structured interviews and social network analysis, combined with logistic regression and qualitative content analysis – we demonstrate that an actor’s identification with the common goal is shaped not only by individual characteristics, but also by his/her relative position within the collaboration. Findings of this study have practical implications for networked leadership and school principals’ work and training, since they inform regarding the particular settings, skills and knowledge needed for managing cross-sectoral collaboration to the benefit of schools.
Trustful communication in the medical encounter: Perspectives of immigrated people with epilepsy
Authors: Andersson Klara , Shadman Alieh , Strang Susann
Published: May 2019

Background

Foreign-born people with epilepsy carry two mutually independent risk factors for poor health. While epilepsy increases the need for trust and clear communication, minority status presents additional barriers in communication, causing misconceptions, inadequate treatment and increased suffering.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore experiences of communication in the medical encounter from the perspectives of foreign-born people with epilepsy.

Methods

A qualitative approach was applied. Twenty semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using manifest and latent content analysis.

Results

Within the main theme, “Trustful communication in unpredictable terms of life,” three subthemes appeared: “Social struggle overshadowing the epilepsy condition”; “Reliable health consultations as a key to feeling safe” and “Addressing ‘the real problem’ in the medical encounter.” A reduced social network due to migration, together with fears related to epilepsy, seems to increase the need for immediate access to health consultations and the need to be listened to. Patients’ narratives shed light on multiple social, medical and psychological events that may present reasons for the lack of medical adherence or missed booked appointments.

Discussion

A respectful approach, listening and confirming the normalcy of epilepsy events seem fundamental for trustful communication in the context of epilepsy, regardless of a patient’s culture or country of origin.
Managing respiratory symptoms in palliative care
Authors: Palit Dr Tanuka
Published: May 2019

With an ageing population, the NHS is now frequently managing patients with at least one long-term health condition. There is also an increasing need for palliative care as these individuals approach their end of life. Management of respiratory symptoms in such patients can be a challenging task. Palliative care encompasses non-malignant conditions as well as cancer, and multiple interventions have been developed to ease respiratory symptoms. This article reviews how to assess and treat these symptoms in patients with a palliative diagnosis, and outlines the progress made in managing such symptoms.
The new face of HIV
Authors: Meader Emma J , Williams Claire A , Dawson Stacey , Milligan Tracey , Rice Philip S. , David Nelson
Published: May 2019

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection causes a treatable chronic condition that has no discernible impact on life expectancy when diagnosed and treated early. Screening and antiretroviral use in men who have sex with men has caused a decline in prevalence for this group in Western countries whereas the frequency of late diagnoses in white heterosexual adults has remained stable. These days no one should die from HIV, but late diagnoses are costing hundreds of lives in the UK every year – these are often people who do not consider themselves to be at risk of HIV. This article provides an update on our current understanding of HIV, to help GPs know when to offer HIV testing and support the thousands of patients living with HIV.
Neurochemical markers in CSF of adolescent and adult SMA patients undergoing nusinersen treatment
Authors: Wurster Claudia D. , Günther René , Steinacker Petra , Dreyhaupt Jens , Wollinsky Kurt , Uzelac Zeljko , Witzel Simon , Kocak Tugrul , Winter Benedikt , Koch Jan C. , Lingor Paul , Petri Susanne , Ludolph Albert C. , Hermann Andreas , Otto Markus
Published: May 2019

Background:

There is limited information on neurochemical markers being used to support and monitor the affection of motoneurons in patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The objective of this study was to examine neurochemical markers in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) under treatment with the antisense-oligonucleotide (ASO), nusinersen.

Methods:

We measured markers of axonal degeneration [neurofilament light chain (NfL) and phosphorylated neurofilament heavy chain (pNfH)] along with basic CSF parameters in 25 adolescent and adult SMA type 2 and 3 patients at baseline and after four intrathecal injections of nusinersen. Neurochemical markers were compared with controls. In addition, neurochemical markers in SMA patients were related to the Hammersmith Functional Rating Scale Expanded (HFMSE).

Results:

No significant difference in neurofilament (Nf) values was observed between SMA and control group, neither at baseline nor after four injections of nusinersen. NfL, protein and quotients of albumin (Qalb) increased slightly in SMA patients after the fourth injection. The slight increase of NfL could be related to the development of mild CSF flow change. No relations were observed between changes in Nf and HFMSE.

Conclusion:

We assume that Nf levels in CSF in these patients may result from slow disease progression in this stage of disease, pre-existing loss of motoneurons due to long disease duration besides affection of the LMN only. Therefore, we conclude that Nf levels in CSF do not seem useful as diagnostic and monitoring markers in adolescent and adult SMA type 2 and 3 patients.
Autoimmune encephalitis associated with antibodies against the metabotropic glutamate receptor type 1: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Christ Monika , Müller Torsten , Bien Corinna , Hagen Thomas , Naumann Markus , Bayas Antonios
Published: May 2019

Autoimmune encephalitis associated with antibodies against the metabotropic glutamate receptor type 1 is a rare autoimmune disease with only 18 cases being described in the literature so far. Most patients present with subacute cerebellar ataxia. In more than one third of cases a paraneoplastic aetiology has been suspected. Here we report a case of a 45-year-old man without known malignancy, who presented with progressive dysarthria and subsequently developed subacute cerebellar ataxia. Immunotherapy with glucocorticoids, i.v. immunoglobulins and rituximab improved clinical symptoms and resulted in a stable disease course up to the present. The article describes the clinical course of the patient with a follow-up-period of approximately 24 months and reviews the cases reported in the literature so far.
Contemporary best practice in the management of staghorn calculi
Authors: Sharbaugh Adam , Morgan Nikonow Tara , Kunkel Gregory , Semins Michelle Jo
Published: May 2019

Staghorn calculi are complex renal stones that occupy the majority of the renal collecting system. These stones are associated with high morbidity and can lead to recurrent urinary tract infections, urosepsis, renal deterioration, and death if left untreated. Managing patients with staghorn calculi can be challenging. Fortunately, advances in technology and endourology techniques have enabled urologists to effectively treat these stones with minimal morbidity to the patient. This article describes the contemporary best practices in the initial evaluation, management, and follow up of patients with staghorn calculi to help the practicing urologist navigate this complex condition.