bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Accuracy of Noun- and Verb-Naming Tasks in Detecting Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Aiello Edoardo Nicolò , Grosso Margherita , Caracciolo Claudia , Andriulo Adele , Buscone Simona , Ottobrini Monica , Luzzatti Claudio
Published: May 2022

Background: In Parkinson’s disease (PD), verb-naming tasks (VNTs) have been proposed as superior to noun-naming ones in detecting language deficits, although such a hypothesis is not supported at a statistical level. Objectives: The main aim of this study was to provide diagnostic accuracy evidence for a VNT and noun-naming task (NNT) in detecting cognitive impairment (CI) in PD patients. Method: Thirty-three consecutive PD patients were subdivided into participants with (PD-CI; N = 12) or without CI (cognitively unimpaired, PD-CU; N = 21), based on a raw score ≤25 or >25 on the Mini-Mental State Examination, respectively. The NNT and VNT by Neuropsychologia [2006 Jan;44(1):73–89] were administered. Diagnostic accuracy of the NNT and VNT was assessed through receiver-operating characteristics analyses by comparing PD-CU to PD-CI patients. At the optimal cut-off, sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV, NPV), and likelihood ratios (LR+, LR−) were separately tested for the NNT and VNT against PD-CU versus PD-CI classification. Results: Diagnostic accuracy was higher for the NNT (AUC = 0.85; p = 0.001) versus the VNT (AUC = 0.68; p = 0.092). Consistently, the NNT yielded higher sensitivity, specificity, and post-test features than the VNT (NNT: sensitivity = 0.75, specificity = 0.81, PPV = 0.69, NPV = 0.85, LR+ = 3.94, LR− = 0.31; VNT: sensitivity = 0.67, specificity = 0.67, PPV = 0.53, NPV = 0.78, LR+ = 2, LR− = 0.5). Conclusions: In accordance with the Movement Disorders Society guidelines, NNTs are diagnostically sound psychometric instruments to discriminate PD patients with versus without CI. However, these findings need replication by (1) employing a gold standard different from the Mini-Mental State Examination, which does not capture the full range of CI in this population and (2) subdividing PD patients into those with mild CI and dementia.
When Hillclimbers Beat Genetic Algorithms in Multimodal Optimization
Authors: Lobo Fernando G. , Bazargani Mosab
Published: May 2022

This article investigates the performance of multistart next ascent hillclimbing and well-known evolutionary algorithms incorporating diversity preservation techniques on instances of the multimodal problem generator. This generator induces a class of problems in the bitstring domain which is interesting to study from a theoretical perspective in the context of multimodal optimization, as it is a generalization of the classical OneMax and TwoMax functions for an arbitrary number of peaks. An average-case runtime analysis for multistart next ascent hillclimbing is presented for uniformly distributed equal-height instances of this class of problems. It is shown empirically that conventional niching and mating restriction techniques incorporated in an evolutionary algorithm are not sufficient to make them competitive with the hillclimbing strategy.

We conjecture the reason for this behavior is the lack of structure in the space of local optima on instances of this problem class, which makes an optimization algorithm unable to exploit information from one optimum to infer where another optimum might be. When no such structure exists, it seems that the best strategy for discovering all optima is a brute-force one.

Overall, our study gives insights with respect to the adequacy of hillclimbers and evolutionary algorithms for multimodal optimization, depending on properties of the fitness landscape.
Laparoscopic Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Imaging for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Piccolo Gaetano , Barabino Matteo , Lecchi Francesca , Santambrogio Roberto , Nava Claudia , Opocher Enrico , Bianchi Paolo Pietro
Published: May 2022

Background

Indocyanine green fluorescence (ICG) is one of the first fluorophore that found a clinical application in medicine. In the liver, ICG fluorescence is due to the preserved uptake but impaired washout of the dye from hepatocellular cells into the bile ducts. Therefore, some hepatobiliary surgeons proposed the technique of intravenous ICG injection before surgery for the detection of superficial hepatocarcinomas (HCCs) and colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs). Little evidence exists regarding the use of ICG to identify other hepatic tumors, such as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC). We report two patients affected by ICC who underwent laparoscopic liver resection with lymphadenectomy, the ICG staining was routinely performed not only to evaluate the site of the hepatic lesions but also to guide the extension of liver resection.

Methods

It was injected intravenously a single dose of ICG dye (0.5 mg/kg) during liver function tests 5 days before scheduled surgery. All patients underwent laparoscopic staging with both laparoscopic ultrasound and ICG fluorescence imaging.

Results

It was identified two different patter of ICG imaging: rim and segmental fluorescence for mass forming and mixed ICC subtype respectively.

Conclusions

Identification of the ICC subtype before definitive histological examination may have an impact on the surgical plan.
Indigenous Peoples and Occupational Therapy in Canada: A scoping review
Authors: Bauer Hannah F. , Neal Ellen C. , Lizon Monique E. , Jacek Claire C. , Fritz Kassandra M.
Published: May 2022

Background. Calls to Action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) necessitate critical reflection and urgent action to improve occupational therapy with Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Purpose. This scoping review aims to synthesize the literature related to Indigenous Peoples and occupational therapy practice, research, and education in Canada, and appraise empirical research using adapted Indigenous Health Research criteria. Method. A scoping review was conducted across published academic and grey literature with additional appraisal of empirical studies. Findings. A total of 6 themes emerged from 47 articles spanning from 1970 to 2020: recognizing colonial history, responding to the TRC, participating in personal and professional reflection, identifying Western ideologies, engaging in partnership in practice, and recognizing social and systemic barriers. Empirical studies met appraisal criteria inconsistently. Implications. To meaningfully engage in reconciliation, the profession of occupational therapy must generate Indigenous-led and relevant research, critically transform curricula, and address tensions between themes in practice.
Model-based sensor fault detection, isolation and tolerant control for a mine hoist
Authors: Chen Xiao , Zhu Zhen-Cai , Ma Tian-Bing , Shen Gang
Published: May 2022

Encoder is essential for speed control and very valuable in condition monitoring for a mine hoist and the failure in sensor measurements can lead to serious accidents. In this paper, a novel encoder fault detection, isolation and tolerant control strategy based on finite time observers and constrained fault-tolerant controller is proposed for a mine hoist. The hybrid nonlinear observers which can converge to the origin in finite time are employed to detect and isolate faulty sensors, a residuals evaluation unit is then used to provide reconstructed signals. The constrained fault tolerant controller is presented to guarantee steady and safe running of the mine hoist when sensor fails. This approach is feasible and practical because it does not require a complicated update process, and the fault tolerance controller also makes the hoist run more reliably. Compared with traditional ways, the proposed method has superior performance and can be more effective, which are verified by experimental results.
Potential Contribution of African-American Migrants to Economic and Cultural Development in Africa
Authors: Elbert Chanda , Boadu Fred
Published: May 2022

This article discusses the potential contributions of African American migrants to the economic and cultural development of destination countries in Africa. The study explores the contributions of migrants to the gross domestic product (GDP), labor market, and fiscal impact—measures used by the International Labor Organization (ILO) to assess the impacts of migrants on the economy of a destination country. Migrants may share their own life experiences in community citizenship with traditional authorities when dealing with community issues. For example, land use-planning, allocation of urban-rural land, siting of sanitation facilities, health and safety of community, and community economic planning are within the competence of migrants given their education backgrounds and their decision to follow a traditional style of governance. African-American migrants present an opportunity to form backward linkages to sources of finance and investment capital in the country of origin. Our study found no existing institutional mechanism to grow these backward linkages, and there is no recognized privateprivate partnership between migrants and U.S. financial sources. The study recommends increased theoretical and empirical studies in support of the economic and cultural contributions of African American migrants in Africa.
Humane Intervention Points: Refining endpoint terminology to incorporate non-euthanasia intervention options to improve animal welfare and preserve experimental outcomes
Authors: Williams Wendy O , Baneux Philippe
Published: May 2022

Consideration of The Three R’s (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement) is essential when setting Humane Endpoints; however, a common interpretation assumes that Humane Endpoints are timepoints to perform euthanasia. This interpretation is not always consistent with the three Rs. There are many available intervention options that – when used to respond to pain, discomfort, or distress – facilitate application of the three Rs while achieving experimental goals. At our institution, the term ‘Humane Endpoints’ was replaced with ‘Humane Intervention Points’, to ensure responses beyond euthanasia are given priority by laboratory animal professionals and researchers. Identification of Humane Intervention Points in the research protocol provides us with a more accurate reflection of the measures used to alleviate pain and distress in animals used for research, testing, and teaching – an outcome easily envisioned elsewhere.

Points d’intervention humains (PIH): Affinage de la terminologie d’évaluation finale pour intégrer des options d’intervention sans recours à l’euthanasie afin d'améliorer le bien-être des animaux et de préserver les résultats expérimentaux Résumé
Impact of dietary vitamin A deficiency on body physiology and liver metabolism of Wistar rats
Authors: Spada Elaine Cristina de Lara , Cruz Guilherme Nunes da , Almeida Fhelipe Jolner Souza de , Dahmer Daniela de Souza Vial , Neto Edgar Willibaldo Allebrandt , Souza Anderson de Oliveira , Pereira Mayara Peron , França Lemes Suelem Aparecida de
Published: May 2022

Background: Studies suggest that vitamin A deficiency (VAD) can cause night blindness or xerophthalmia, hepatic and metabolic changes in the blood. Aim: Therefore, this work aimed to stablish a model of hypovitaminosis A in rats and to evaluate the effects of vitamin A deficiency on metabolic and oxidative parameters in the liver of rats. Methods: Male (n = 19), Wistar, rats (21-day-old) weighing 50g, divided into two experimental groups: Control Group (C), received AIN 93G diet and Vitamin A Deficiency Group (VAD), received AIN 93G vitamin A-free diet for 45 days. In this work, the parameters analyzed were: body mass, food and water intake, biochemical aspects in the blood, lipids and glycogen content, lipid peroxidation, carbonyl proteins and catalase activity in the liver. Results: In the VAD group, final body mass (9%), liver mass (28%), glycemia (14%), Total -cholesterol (17%), HDL -cholesterol (31%) and VLDL -cholesterol (30%) showed reduced ( p < 0.05). The liver lipid (64%) and glyceride-fatty acid (74%) contents were higher in the VAD group. The carbonyl proteins in liver were increased by 171% ( p < 0.05). Conclusion: In summary, these results suggest that the absence of vitamin A from the diet was effective in inducing characteristics of hypovitaminosis A in rats. This way, can be used for studies related to glucose and lipid metabolism.
The distinctiveness of state capitalism in Britain: Market-making, industrial policy and economic space
Authors: Silverwood James , Berry Craig
Published: May 2022

Britain is rarely considered an exemplar of ‘state capitalism’. In contrast, we argue that Britain should be treated as the prototype project of state capitalism in the world economic system, the primary contribution of our paper been to outline the parameters of state capitalism in Britain across two historical periods. Turning the conceptual lens of state capitalism towards Britain raises some challenging issues for the wider literature. Recent scholarship has started to consider greater diversity in regimes of state capitalism and moved beyond the typical nation-state geographical imaginary of state capitalism. Similarly, our paper seeks to introduce a new spatiality to state capitalism with deeper sensitivity to multi-scalar relations. State capitalism in Britain has rarely been bound to the geographical limitations of the nation-state; instead, it has been a transnational project, centred variably on empire, Europe, and the global market – with industrial policy tailored to enable the British economy to exploit and/or service these various spaces by ‘making markets’. We emphasize the often-financialized nature of this industrial policy intervention arguing it is constitutive of a ‘financial state capitalism’.
Reliability-Based Assessment of Concrete Decks Designed Using Approximate Method at the Strength I Limit State
Authors: Yang Chan , Lou Peng , Nassif Hani
Published: May 2022

The Approximate Method coupled with the AASHTO Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) Bridge Design Specifications (BDS) is applied for designing reinforced concrete bridge decks. Although the LRFD BDS has an intrinsic design return period of 75 years and a target reliability index of 3.5 at the Strength I Limit State, many concrete bridge decks exhibit much shorter service life. Besides the limitations of the crack control limit state at service, the inadequate nominal resistance at the Strength Limit State could contribute to the shortened service life. This paper presents a reliability-based assessment of the current concrete deck design provisions by utilizing actual truck load spectra collected from the national weigh-in-motion (WIM) data. Axle groups, including single axles, tandem axles, and tridem axles, were identified from the WIM data. The moment effects are obtained from influence surface analysis, formulating the live load statistics, particularly for the decks that are supported by girders. It was found that the current design load is not able to represent and envelop the actual traffic load. Additionally, the reliability indices are calculated for a series of reinforced concrete decks on account of both bending moment capacity and arching action moment capacity. The arching action was found to greatly enhance the reliability index for the positive moment region, providing satisfactory reliability indices. The negative moment region may or may not meet the target reliability index depending on the design criteria.
Performance Evaluation and Prediction of Preservation Asphalt Overlay in Louisiana
Authors: Xie Zhaoxing , Wu Zhong , Moon Farzana , Mahdi Moinul , Liu Yilong
Published: May 2022

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) has been using thin asphalt overlay (2 in.) as a preservation technique for asphalt-surface pavements. Although LaDOTD has specified the triggers for its application, it was not always applied on the recommended timing. It is unclear how the application timing affects the overlay performance. Additionally, no studies have been conducted to determine optimal application timing for the overlay and predict its performance using the available tools such as AASHTOWare Pavement Mechanistic-empirical design (Pavement ME) software. The objectives of the study are (1) to evaluate field performance of the preservation asphalt overlay and develop performance prediction models, (2) to determine optimal application timing for the overlay, and (3) to investigate if Pavement ME models are able to predict performance of the overlay by modifying model coefficients. To achieve the objectives, 33 preservation asphalt overlay projects were selected, and their performance was evaluated and predicted, then the optimal application timing was investigated based on the benefit and cost analysis. The results indicate that 58% of the preservation asphalt overlays had 10–20 years’ service life, and 42% had 7–10 years’ service life in relation to Pavement Condition Index threshold of 70. Additionally, good precondition or flexible base (asphalt concrete or unbounded base) can result in a longer service life in the overlay. It is also found that an average value of optimal timing of the next overlay application is the 9th year after construction. Finally, the rehabilitation models of asphalt overlay in Pavement ME software could be used for preservation asphalt overlay by modifying model coefficients.
Beach-Chair Versus Lateral Decubitus Positioning for Arthroscopic Posterior Shoulder Labral Repair: A Retrospective Comparison of Clinical and Patient-Reported Outcomes
Authors: Paul Ryan W. , Zareef Usman , Streicher Sydney , Osman Alim , Erickson Brandon J. , Freedman Kevin B. , Hammoud Sommer , Bishop Meghan E.
Published: May 2022

Background:

Both beach-chair and lateral decubitus patient positioning are often utilized for shoulder arthroscopy, with each offering its unique advantages and disadvantages. The surgical position is often selected according to each surgeon's preference, with no clear superiority of one position over the other.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose was to compare clinical and patient-reported outcomes between patients who underwent arthroscopic posterior labral repair in the beach-chair versus the lateral decubitus position. We hypothesized that patient positioning would not affect clinical and patient-reported outcomes.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A list of all patients diagnosed with the Current Procedural Terminology codes 29806 and 29807 between 2015 and 2019 was obtained from the medical records. Patients were only included if arthroscopic posterior labral repair with or without concomitant superior labral anterior to posterior repair was confirmed. Data collected for eligible patients included the number of anchors used, perioperative and postoperative complications, redislocations, subjective instability, reoperation, and revision. Patients were also contacted to complete several patient-reported outcome surveys. Preoperative data, perioperative data, and postoperative outcomes were compared between patients who underwent surgery in the beach-chair versus lateral decubitus position.

Results:

Overall, 126 patients were included—69 patients underwent surgery in the lateral decubitus position and 57 in the beach-chair position—with a mean follow-up of 2.6 ± 1.7 years. There were no significant pre- or perioperative differences between groups. Rates of postoperative dislocations, subjective instability, reoperations, revisions, all complications, and return to sports rates also did not differ between groups (all, P > .05). Finally, there was no difference between groups regarding postoperative pain, function, and subjective instability scores (all, P > .05). Results of the multivariate regression analysis showed that increased age was a weak independent risk factor for subjective recurrent posterior shoulder instability (odds ratio, 1.04; P = .036).

Conclusion:

Surgical positioning for arthroscopic posterior shoulder labral repair did not affect postoperative clinical and patient-reported outcomes. Both beach-chair and lateral decubitus position provided good outcomes for posterior shoulder labral repair, with an overall recurrence rate of 8.7%. Increased age was a weak independent risk factor for subjective recurrent instability.
Impact of the Updated Guideline for Pediatric Brain Death Determination on Current Practice
Authors: Krawiec Conrad , Mysore Mohan R. , Mathur Mudit , Fang Xinying , Zhou Shouhao , Thomas Neal J. , Nakagawa Thomas A.
Published: May 2022

Background: A guideline to determine pediatric brain death was updated in 2011. It is unknown how pediatric intensivists have accepted and adopted the revised guideline into clinical practice. Methods: We surveyed US pediatric critical care attending physicians July 2013 to September 2013 and February 2020 to May 2020. Brain death testing practices and utilization of the 2011 pediatric and neonatal brain death guideline were assessed. Results: The 2020 respondents found that the revised pediatric brain death guideline were useful in clinical practice (93.7% vs 83.3%, P = .0484) and provided more consistency and clarity (73.2% vs 63.1%, P = .0462) when compared to 2013 respondents. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that with defined criteria, survey participants reported increased clarity and consistency. Findings from our study indicate that in clinical practice there is no significant deviation from the minimum requirements to determine brain death in children as outlined in the 2011 guideline.
Rural-Urban Differences in Cognition: Findings From the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly Trial
Authors: Steinberg Nessa , Parisi Jeanine M. , Feger Danielle M. , Clay Olivio J. , Willis Sherry L. , Ball Karlene K. , Marsiske Michael , Harrell Erin R. , Sisco Shannon M. , Rebok George W.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

We examined associations between three geographic areas (urban, suburban, rural) and cognition (memory, reasoning, processing speed) over a 10-year period. Methods: Data were obtained from 2539 participants in the Advanced Cognitive Training for Independent and Vital Elderly (ACTIVE) trial. Multilevel, mixed-effects linear regression was used to estimate cognitive trajectories by geographical areas over 10 years, after adjusting for social determinants of health. Results: Compared to urban and suburban participants, rural participants fared worse on all cognitive measures—memory ( B = −1.17 (0.17)), reasoning ( B = −1.55 (0.19)), and processing speed ( B = 0.76 (0.19)) across the 10-year trajectory. Across geographic areas, greater economic stability, health care access and quality, and neighborhood resources were associated with better cognition over time. Discussion: Findings highlight the importance of geographical location when examining cognition later in life. More research examining place-based life experiences is needed to make the greatest impact on geographically diverse communities.
Remittances and Economic Growth: Empirical Analysis from a Panel of Selected Asian Nations
Authors: Dutta Ujjal Protim , Saikia Brajendra
Published: May 2022

This article’s endeavour is to explore the consequences of remittances on the growth of an economy by employing a panel of 17 selected remittance-receiving Asian nations over the years, stretching from 1993 to 2017. Initially, the study used the panel unit root test to identify whether the variables are stationary or not. Subsequently, by using cointegration test, a long-run association among the variables was seen. Finding a long-run relationship, ‘fully modified ordinary least square’ method has been applied to examine the impact of remittances and other explanatory variables on the output per capita of Asian nations. The coefficient of remittances being positive and statistically significant implies that remittances enhance growth in these countries. Inflows of remittances to the Asian region are abundant and, considering the present trend of migration, it is likely to grow. To maximize the developmental effects of these inflows, developing pro-remittances in formal public and private infrastructure are a crucial policy target for governments in the region. Moreover, in addition to conventional determinants of growth like investment in human and physical capital, trade and foreign direct investment (FDI), Asian countries can increase their growth by mobilizing the remittances.
Exploring the Taiwanese Anticipatory Experience of Grief Among Primary Caregivers in Palliative Home Care
Authors: Chen Nai-Ching , Yang Yung-Mei , Wu Li-Min
Published: May 2022

Aims and Objectives: The goal of the present study was to explore anticipatory grief experiences among primary caregivers in home-based palliative care. We placed a special emphasis on coping methods adopted by individuals from Eastern cultures when facing death. Background: Most patients prefer spending their last days at home, which often exerts considerable physical and mental stress on their primary caregivers. Design: This study adopted a qualitative exploratory research design and used open-ended in-depth interviews to explore anticipatory grief experiences among primary caregivers of patients receiving palliative home care. Methods: In the study of the factors that Anticipatory Experience of Grief among Primary Caregivers in Palliative Home Care, we used the phenomenological approach and methods to glean answers. Posters and snowball sampling were used to individually recruit participants. In total, 16 primary hospice home caregivers participated. We used semi-structured interviews to collect data. The interviews were audio-recorded in a quiet location. Each interview was divided into two to three sessions, and each session lasted 60-90 minutes. For data analysis, field notes and audio recordings are transcribed into protocols. A thematic analysis method was used to analyze the context of the interviews. Sampling and analysis processes were repeated until theoretical saturation was achieved. Results: Four major themes emerged from the categorized interview data: meaning and manifestation as to the essence of life, the art of coping with death, realization and the gift of death, and adapting, coping with, and controlling emotions. Additionally, we observed, as with many Eastern cultures, a lunar calendar death in July and crying at the death of a relative is considered taboo. Conclusions: The coping methods adopted by individuals in Eastern cultures when facing death were summarized accordingly. These findings could serve as a reference to better understand the coping mechanisms these individuals use to address anticipatory grief when facing a family member’s impending death. Relevance to Clinical Practice: Potential relevance for the present findings include acceptance of Eastern cultural grief customs, early hospice and palliative care interventions for helping individuals adjust to their grief, case management and resource consolidation, providing 24-hour telephone consultation services, regular assessment visits, and developing localized teaching materials for life-and-death education.
“Trajectories Matter”: Affect, Neuroqueerness, and Music Research-Creation in an Early Childhood Classroom
Authors: Shannon David Ben
Published: May 2022

In this article, the author considers his ongoing experience as a PhD student to argue for the significance of “trajectory” toward doctoral and early career research. He suggests that his background in special education shapes his methodology (critical disability studies), his research-creation praxis, and his approach to theory. He exemplifies this through two research-creation projects: Neuroqueer(ing) Noise, which was an in-school project in an early childhood classroom, and Oblique Curiosities, which is an ongoing composition project. The author then offers four propositions for doctoral students interested in drawing from “post philosophies.” This article is of relevance to postgraduate students interested in post philosophies, research-creation, or arts-based early childhood educational research.
Agenda Setting for the 20% Mandatory Subcontracting Policy in Zambia’s Construction Sector: The Multiple-Streams Framework
Authors: Tembo Sydney , Lim Seunghoo
Published: May 2022

Agenda setting is critical to public policy due to impacts on subsequent policy processes. On July 25, 2012, the Zambian Government issued a policy pronouncement directing the Road Development Agency to apply a 20% mandatory subcontracting to all road contracts valued above ZMW30 million. The policy directive aimed to improve the capacity of local contractors, create jobs and address concerns of declining local participation due to the dominance of foreign contractors. This pronouncement triggered the implementation of a policy initiative based on road subsector guidelines, but several studies have reported implementation challenges. Applying the multiple-streams framework, this study identifies both the failure of agenda setting to lead to policy formulation and the fragmentation of the construction sector policy community as initial sources of implementation challenges. The study recommends revisiting agenda setting and conducting research on defragmenting the construction policy community.
Prospective clinical study on the incidence of catheter-related complications in a neurological intensive care unit: 4 years of experience
Authors: Bolis Denise , D’Arrigo Sonia , Bartesaghi Alessandro , Panzeri Cristina , Pelegalli Paola , Steffanoni Alberto , Scoppettuolo Giancarlo , Pittiruti Mauro
Published: May 2022

Introduction:

Over the past decades, significant efforts have been made to reduce early and late catheter-related complications in critically ill patients, using approaches based on bundles of evidence-based interventions.

Methods:

In this prospective clinical study, the authors evaluated the incidence of catheter-related complications in their neuro-intensive care unit during a 4-year period, adopting systematically the GAVeCeLT bundles for the insertion and management of all central venous access devices: centrally inserted central catheters (CICCs), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and femorally inserted central catheters (FICCs). All early/immediate and late complications were recorded.

Results:

On 486 central lines (328 CICCs, 149 PICCs and 9 FICCs), the only clinically relevant early/immediate complication was primary tip malposition (1%). In regards late infective complications, the authors did not record any case of catheter-related bloodstream infection; though, they observed one case of central line associated blood stream infection (one CICC; 0.14/1000 catheter days), and 15 cases of catheter colonization (12 CICCs and 3 PICCs; 2.09 episodes/1000 catheter days). Late non-infective complications were few: 14 accidental dislodgments (2.9%), 18 irreversible lumen occlusions (3.7%), and no episodes of symptomatic catheter-related thrombosis or tip migration.

Conclusion:

The systematic adoption of the GAVeCeLT bundles for CVAD insertion and maintenance was associated with a minimization of catheter-related complications. The strict adherence to the recommendations included in these bundles was the major determinant for clinical success.
Do (strong) gender quotas make a difference? Multiple candidacies as a party gatekeeping strategy in Italy
Authors: Pansardi Pamela , Pedrazzani Andrea
Published: May 2022

Gender quotas are generally regarded as the foremost measure for the promotion of gender equality in politics. While quotas and their impact vary across countries, a strong quota system is defined as including blocked electoral lists, large district magnitude, strong non-compliance sanctions, and rank-order rules like gender alternation in the candidate lists. Yet, also in the presence of strong quota rules, parties might attempt strategies aimed at mitigating their gender-balancing effect. By taking Italy as a case study, in this article we investigate whether and how parties competing in the 2018 elections were able to adapt their gender gatekeeping strategy to the new quota law. Our finding suggests that Italian parties relied on another characteristic of the electoral system—namely, the possibility of multiple candidacies—to successfully hinder women candidates' chances of election. Accordingly, we highlight that a wider set of electoral system characteristics should be taken into account in the design of a (strong) quota law.
Vicarious expertise: Locating skilled knowing in craft reality competition television
Authors: Luckman Susan , Tower Ash
Published: May 2022

This article examines how qualities of expertise are constructed and sustained within the televisual world of craft reality competition television. We suggest that part of the appeal of this relatively recent media typology beyond any didactic or instructional interest, is a desire to observe expertise and thus gain perceived but highly circumscribed access to the community of practice that is presented by these television shows. We identify three principal expertise positions as common to the contemporary mediation of expertise presented by craft reality competition television: ‘keystone’, ‘relative’ and ‘vicarious’ expertise. It is argued that these different forms of expertise are mobilized as roles across a variety of craft reality competition television programs to enable entertaining access to craft practice-specific expertise which enables the audience to become experts of spectating expertise, masking the real time, effort, and access to hands-on training involved in becoming proficient in crafts practice.
Using Behavior-Analytic Treatment to Teach Tongue Lateralization Skills to Children With Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder
Authors: Phipps Laura E. , Haney Sarah D. , Zeleny Jason , Andersen Ashley S. , Peterson Kathryn M. , Orloski Stephanie
Published: May 2022

Oral-motor skills needed for efficient consumption of table-textured foods (e.g., tongue lateralization) often develop as children are exposed to food at increasingly higher textures (e.g., soft meltable, crunchy, and chewy; Volkert et al., 2014). For children with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID; American Psychiatric Association, 2013; World Health Organization, 2019), these oral-motor skills may not develop without intervention. We review case studies of three children diagnosed with ARFID who did not display the skills necessary for efficient consumption of regular table-textured food. We collaborated with a speech-language pathologist to identify oral-motor targets and used a behavior-analytic treatment to teach tongue lateralization skills necessary for safe and effective chewing. We used a treatment package consisting of nonremoval of the utensil with prompting and differential reinforcement to shape functional tongue movements. We discuss considerations for practitioners and the importance of individualized treatment and collaboration with other disciplines while teaching oral-motor skills necessary for chewing and consuming table-textured food.
Importance of allergen–environment interactions in epidemic thunderstorm asthma
Authors: Hughes Kira Morgan , Price Dwan , Suphioglu Cenk
Published: May 2022

Australia is home to one of the highest rates of allergic rhinitis worldwide. Commonly known as ‘hay fever’, this chronic condition affects up to 30% of the population and is characterised by sensitisation to pollen and fungal spores. Exposure to these aeroallergens has been strongly associated with causing allergic reactions and worsening asthma symptoms. Over the last few decades, incidences of respiratory admissions have risen due to the increased atmospheric concentration of airborne allergens. The fragmentation and dispersion of these allergens is aided by environmental factors like rainfall, temperature and interactions with atmospheric aerosols. Extreme weather parameters, which continue to become more frequent due to the impacts of climate change, have greatly fluctuated allergen concentrations and led to epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) events that have left hundreds, if not thousands, struggling to breathe. While a link exists between airborne allergens, weather and respiratory admissions, the underlying factors that influence these epidemics remain unknown. It is important we understand the potential threat these events pose on our susceptible populations and ensure our health infrastructure is prepared for the next epidemic.
Waves of regulatory reforms and winds of uncertainties in the Brazilian natural gas industry
Authors: Lisbona Romeiro Diogo , Amorim Livia
Published: May 2022

The natural gas industry in Brazil has undergone three waves of reforms since the late 1990s regarding liberalization and market opening. The gas law approved in 2021 reinforces the unbundling between transport and commercialization of natural gas and guarantees third-party access to essential infrastructure. The new legal framework achieves the vertical separation of upstream and midstream segments but does not reach the downstream segment subject to state regulations. The exit of the incumbent (Petrobras) from the network segments opens space for new entrants, but may remain with a high commercialization share. Vertical and horizontal integration in the distribution segment can compromise this industry’s restructuring. This article identifies three possible scenarios for the evolution of liberalization after the last reform. A successful path will depend on the implementation and enforcement of the new gas law, on adequate economic signals for network and consumption expansion, on harmonization of state regulations, and on the effective opening for the construction of a national gas market. The role of natural gas in Brazil’s energy transition is still an open issue that will affect the industry’s evolution in the coming years.
Impacts of Dams on Freshwater Turtles: A Global Review to Identify Conservation Solutions
Authors: Bárcenas-García Andrea , Michalski Fernanda , Morgan William H. , Smith Rebecca K. , Sutherland William J. , Gibbs James P. , Norris Darren
Published: May 2022

Background and Research Aims

Dams impact freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity. Freshwater turtles are at direct and indirect risk due to changes caused by damming including the loss of terrestrial and aquatic nesting habitats, changes to food availability, and blocking movement. Effective management of these impacts requires robust evidence in order to gain an understanding of conservation solutions that work.

Methods

We reviewed the global scientific literature that evaluated the impact of dams on freshwater turtles, and carried out additional searches of literature published in seventeen languages for studies evaluating actions to mitigate dam impacts.

Results

The search produced 47 published articles documenting dam impacts on 30 freshwater turtle species from seven families (Chelidae, Chelydridae, Emydidae, Geoemydidae, Kinosternidae, Podocnemididae, and Trionychidae) in 13 countries. Few studies were found from Europe and Asia and none from Africa. Most studies were from temperate latitudes, where studies focused more on adults and less threatened species compared with tropical latitudes. More than half of the studies (57%, n = 27) suggested actions to help mitigate dam impacts. Yet, only five studies (three temperate and two tropical) documented the effect of interventions (dam removal, flow management, artificial pond maintenance and community-based action).

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate a serious lack of documented evidence evaluating mitigation actions for dam impacts on freshwater turtles.

Implications for Conservation

This lack of evidence reinforces the importance of strengthening and maintaining robust long-term studies needed to develop effective and adaptive conservation actions for this group of threatened vertebrates particularly in tropical regions.
Distract and Divert: How World Leaders Use Social Media During Contentious Politics
Authors: Barberá Pablo , Gohdes Anita R. , Iakhnis Evgeniia , Zeitzoff Thomas
Published: May 2022

How do leaders communicate during domestic crises? We provide the first global analysis of world leader communication on social media during social unrest. We develop a theory of leaders’ digital communication strategies, building on the diversionary theory of foreign policy, as well as research on the role of democratic institutions in explaining elite responsiveness. To test our theory, we construct a new dataset that characterizes leader communication through social media posts published by any head of state or government on Twitter or Facebook, employing a combination of automated translation and supervised machine learning methods. Our findings show that leaders increase their social media activity and shift the topic from domestic to foreign policy issues during moments of social unrest, which is consistent with a conscious strategy to divert public attention when their position could be at risk. These effects are larger in democracies and in particular in the run-up to elections, which we attribute to incentives created by democratic institutions. Our results demonstrate how social media provide meaningful comparative insight into leaders’ political behavior in the digital age.
Development and refinement of Rel@x:A training in hypnosis-derived communication for pediatric nurses to prevent procedural pain
Authors: Aramideh Jennifer , Ogez David , Rondeau Émélie , Duval Michel , Sultan Serge
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Studies in pediatric oncology have shown that hypnosis effectively reduces patients’ pain and distress during painful procedures. This remains underutilized in the healthcare system due to the staff cost and availability of hypnotherapists. To develop the use of hypnosis-derived communication, we aimed to train nurses to use hypnosis-derived communication while they perform painful procedures.

Objectives

This study aimed to (1) develop a brief training in hypnosis-derived communication for pediatric nurses named Rel@x, (2) pretest the training with experienced pediatric oncology nurses, and (3) refine the training based on nurses’ suggestions.

Methods

The Rel@x training consists of two 4-h sessions: one related to relational aspects and another one presenting one of two selected hypnotic communication techniques (“pleasant place” or “magic glove”). Rel@x makes use of manuals, cue card reminders, visual aids, videos, and an e-learning platform. To refine Rel@x, a complete training cycle was conducted with seven female pediatric oncology nurses. A mixed method study with an evaluation questionnaire and a post-training focus group interview was conducted.

Results

Quantitative data showed that nurses overall positively rated the training program: relevance and acceptability (median average of 5.4/6); use of hypnotic communication (median average of 5.2/6); expected effects (median average of 5.4/6); program implementation (5.6/6). Two general themes emerged from the qualitative data: perceptions of hypnotic communication and the evaluation of the Rel@x training program. Based on nurses’ suggestions, Rel@x was refined by adding more practical components, more time for practice, more time between the two sessions and additional tools (cue card reminders, keywords, virtual e-learning recap module).

Conclusion and clinical implications

The use of hypnosis-derived communication during painful procedures and the Rel@x training were viewed favorably amongst pediatric nurses. Rel@x offers a complete training in hypnosis-derived communication for pediatric nurses. This training fosters the optimal use of hypnosis-derived communication during care and may significantly reduce children’s procedural pain and distress.
Effect of health extension service on under-five child mortality and determinants of under-five child mortality in Derra district, Oromia regional state, Ethiopia: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tadesse Zeleke Abate
Published: May 2022

Objectives:

Under-five child mortality is the highest in Ethiopia even though it decreased steadily in the last two decades. Hence, this study aimed to identify the risk factors and effects of Health Extension Service on under-five child mortality per mother in Derra district, Ethiopia.

Methods:

The study used a three-stage sampling technique and a random sample of 446 mothers. Cross-sectional data were collected using a structured interview and analyzed using descriptive and inferential (propensity score and Poisson regression) analysis.

Results:

One-fourth (23.5%) of mothers experienced at least one under-five child mortality in the last 13 years and the propensity score analysis also indicated that utilizing and model in the Health Extension program reduced under-five child mortality per mother by 29.84% and 15.71%, respectively. The Poisson regression model identified that kebeles, not utilized health extension program (incidence rate ratio 2.25, 95% confidence interval (1.33, 3.85)), not model in health extension program (incidence rate ratio 1.79, 95% confidence interval (1.07, 3.18)), primary educational level (incidence rate ratio 0.14, 95% confidence interval (0.18, 0.91)), mother aged at first birth less than 20 years (incidence rate ratio 1.82, 95% confidence interval (1.90, 3.05)), source of drinking water not pipped (incidence rate ratio 2.36, 95% confidence interval (1.20, 3.18)), and child delivered at home (incidence rate ratio 2.48, 95% confidence interval (1.26, 4.8)) significantly influence under-five child mortality per mother at 5% level of significance.

Conclusion:

Health extension service utilization reduced under-five child mortality per mother, and education level, source of drinking water, place of child delivery, and place of residence (kebele) were significant risk factors for under-five child mortality per mother. The health sectors and district health offices should work on health extension program to increase the community awareness of basic preventive and promotive health services and minimize risk factors of under-five child mortality.
A community-based approach to cervical cancer prevention in western Kenya: An AMPATH feasibility project
Authors: Orang’o Omenge , Tonui Philip , Muthoka Kapten , Kiptoo Stephen , Maina Titus , Agosa Mercy , Ermel Aaron , Tong Yan , Brown Darron
Published: May 2022

Objectives:

Centralized programs have been ineffective in reducing the burden of cervical cancer among Kenyan women. A community-based pilot study was initiated to screen Kenyan women for cervical cancer and to vaccinate their children against human papillomavirus (HPV).

Methods:

Women were educated about cervical cancer prevention at community meetings. Women then provided self-collected vaginal swabs for oncogenic HPV testing using the Roche Cobas Assay. All women were then referred to the local clinic for Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA). Women were offered the quadrivalent HPV vaccine for their children if and when it became available for the study.

Results:

Women in western Kenya were invited to participate in community meetings. A total of 200 women were enrolled: 151 (75.5%) were HIV-uninfected and 49 (24.5%) were HIV-infected; the median age for all women was 42 years. High-risk (HR)-HPV types were detected in 49 of swabs from all 200 participants (24.5%) including 20.5% of HIV-uninfected women and 36.7% of HIV-infected women (P = .022). VIA was performed on 198 women: 192 had normal examinations and six had abnormal examinations. Five cervical biopsies revealed two cases of CIN 2 and one CIN 3. Although all mothers were willing to have their children (N = 432) vaccinated, the HPV vaccine could not be delivered to Kenya during the study period.

Conclusions:

Kenyan women were willing to attend community meetings to learn about prevention of cervical cancer, to provide self-collected vaginal swabs for HPV testing, to travel to the Webuye Clinic for VIA following the collection of swabs, and to have their children vaccinated against HPV. HR-HPV was prevalent, especially in HIV-infected women. As a result of this pilot study, this community-based strategy to prevent cervical cancer will be continued in western Kenya.