bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microorganisms, Tryptophan Metabolism, and Kynurenine Pathway: A Complex Interconnected Loop Influencing Human Health Status
Authors: Dehhaghi Mona , Kazemi Shariat Panahi Hamed , Guillemin Gilles J
Published: June 2019

The kynurenine pathway is important in cellular energy generation and limiting cellular ageing as it degrades about 90% of dietary tryptophan into the essential co-factor NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide). Prior to the production of NAD+, various intermediate compounds with neuroactivity (kynurenic acid, quinolinic acid) or antioxidant activity (3-hydroxykynurenine, picolinic acid) are synthesized. The kynurenine metabolites can participate in numerous neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington disease, and Parkinson disease) or other diseases such as AIDS, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, inflammation, and irritable bowel syndrome. Recently, the role of gut in affecting the emotional and cognitive centres of the brain has attracted a great deal of attention. In this review, we focus on the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. The interaction of components of this axis, namely, the gut, its microbiota, and gut pathogens; tryptophan; the kynurenine pathway on tryptophan availability; the regulation of kynurenine metabolite concentration; and diversity and population of gut microbiota, has been considered.
Bilateral Transient Myopia with Sulfasalazine Treatment
Authors: Paz Tal , Rappoport Daniel , Hilely Assaf , Leiba Hana
Published: June 2019

Purpose:

Several case reports of transient drug-induced myopia have been reported, mainly due to sulfa drugs. We present a case of a sudden and significant increase in myopia associated with initiation of Sulfasalazine for long-standing ulcerative colitis in an adult Caucasian female.

Case report:

Our patient presented to the emergency room with acute bilateral visual loss. Ocular examination was normal, except for myopia of −4 Diopters (D) in both eyes (BE). The patient was advised to stop the medication, and her vision improved within 4 days to best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) of 6/7.5 with a refractive correction of −0.75 D in her right eye (RE) and BCVA of 6/6 with a refractive correction of −0.50 D in her left eye (LE).

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the second reported case of transient Sulfasalazine-induced myopia.
In the shadow of empire: Global Britain and the UK business school
Authors: Boussebaa Mehdi
Published: June 2019

In this essay, I scrutinize the ‘Global Britain’ project championed by the UK government since the Brexit vote and reflect on the role played by business schools in it. My argument is twofold. First, I contend the project is bound up with British imperialism, being at once the expression of a melancholic attachment to the colonial Empire of yesteryear and part of a long-standing effort to renew Britain’s imperial greatness in the so-called ‘postcolonial’ era. Second, I maintain that business schools, while notionally anti-Brexit, are complicit in the Global Britain project by virtue of propagating elements of its imperialist discourse. I conclude with some reflections on our role as scholars and educators in fostering debate on this project and challenging its imperialist underbelly.
Implementation factors are neglected in research investigating telehealth delivery of allied health services to rural children: A scoping review
Authors: Campbell Jessica , Theodoros Deborah , Hartley Nicole , Russell Trevor , Gillespie Nicole
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Rural children are likely to benefit from the telehealth delivery of multidisciplinary allied healthcare. This study aimed to (a) identify the scope of literature describing the telehealth delivery of allied health services to children living in rural areas and (b) understand the extent to which implementation – that is, specific activities designed to put telehealth into practice – has been investigated in such literature.

Methods

Systematic scoping review methodology was used to locate studies in which telehealth delivered allied health services to children aged 0–12 who lived rurally (January 1998–January 2018). Two reviewers screened the studies, extracted data and appraised quality with Critical Skills Appraisal Programme checklists. Databases searched were PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ERIC and Cochrane Library.

Results

Data were extracted from 23 papers (two randomised controlled trials, one pseudorandomised controlled trial, one non-randomised experimental trial, two interrupted time series without parallel control groups, 10 case series and seven studies of diagnostic yield). Most were level III ( n = 4) or IV ( n = 17) when classified according to National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines. One study met all Critical Skills Appraisal Programme quality criteria. Allied healthcare interventions were aimed at improving functioning in communication ( n = 10), behaviour and socio-emotional domains ( n = 8) and identifying hearing concerns ( n = 5). Many studies ( n = 12) identified implementation facilitators, largely training and equipment. Only one study referred to an explicit framework for telehealth implementation (user-centred design).

Discussion

Future research should target occupational therapy, physiotherapy, dietetics and social work, and determine the implementation factors and models likely to create successful telehealth services for this population.
The misnomer of ‘high functioning autism’: Intelligence is an imprecise predictor of functional abilities at diagnosis
Authors: Alvares Gail A , Bebbington Keely , Cleary Dominique , Evans Kiah , Glasson Emma J , Maybery Murray T , Pillar Sarah , Uljarević Mirko , Varcin Kandice , Wray John , Whitehouse Andrew JO
Published: June 2019

‘High functioning autism’ is a term often used for individuals with autism spectrum disorder without an intellectual disability. Over time, this term has become synonymous with expectations of greater functional skills and better long-term outcomes, despite contradictory clinical observations. This study investigated the relationship between adaptive behaviour, cognitive estimates (intelligence quotient) and age at diagnosis in autism spectrum disorder. Participants ( n = 2225, 1–18 years of age) were notified at diagnosis to a prospective register and grouped by presence ( n = 1041) or absence ( n = 1184) of intellectual disability. Functional abilities were reported using the Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales. Regression models suggested that intelligence quotient was a weak predictor of Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales after controlling for sex. Whereas the intellectual disability group’s adaptive behaviour estimates were close to reported intelligence quotients, Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales scores fell significantly below intelligence quotients for children without intellectual disability. The gap between intelligence quotient and Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales scores remained large with increasing age at diagnosis for all children. These data indicate that estimates from intelligence quotient alone are an imprecise proxy for functional abilities when diagnosing autism spectrum disorder, particularly for those without intellectual disability. We argue that ‘high functioning autism’ is an inaccurate clinical descriptor when based solely on intelligence quotient demarcations and this term should be abandoned in research and clinical practice.
Influence of shape and heat release of thermal passenger manikins on the performance of displacement ventilation in a train compartment
Authors: Schmeling Daniel , Bosbach Johannes
Published: June 2019

The influence of sensible heat release on the performance of displacement ventilation was studied in a generic laboratory representing the lower cabin of the German Aerospace Center (DLR)’s Next Generation Train. Tests at variable mean cabin temperatures were conducted with human subjects, thermal manikins and heating mats at different but constant heat release rates. Moreover, tests with thermal manikins and an adaptive heat release rate were performed. Flow fields, surface temperature distributions as well as local temperatures and velocities were evaluated. The study revealed that the shape of the heat sources is negligible if only global quantities, such as the global enthalpy flux or the heat removal efficiency, are evaluated. The latter was found to be independent of the amount of released heat. However, it strongly reacts to the choice of probe positions used for the mean cabin temperature. Regarding the comfort-relevant flow parameters, both the shape and the heat release rate are highly relevant to temperature stratifications and flow fields in the passenger zone. The manikins with adaptive heat release proved to be a major improvement in terms of realistic simulation of the human metabolism for investigations regarding the performance of ventilation systems. However, the determination of the mean cabin temperature receives increased relevance as it is prone to limit the closeness to reality.
Acoustic characteristic analysis of power transformers in urban communities based on a combined finite and boundary element method
Authors: Ying Liming , Wang Donghui , Wang Guodong , Wang Wenyi
Published: June 2019

Power transformers in substations are common sources of noise in residential areas of neighbourhoods. A quantified and visualized analysis of the power transformer acoustic characteristics is a prerequisite for the suppression of audible noise from the corresponding substation. In this study, based on a combined finite and boundary element method, a full-sized 3D power transformer multiphysics coupling model, which is aimed at realizing high accuracy and improving the computational efficiency, was developed. After validation of the numerical method using comparative tests, profile analyses in the near-field and far-field in the extended planes and three-dimensional areas of a power transformer were conducted to characterize the external acoustic field. The calculation results included the distribution of the spatial sound pressure levels of the power transformer at multiple levels in the frequency domain. These spatial sound pressure levels can be used to guide the efficient measurement of the external acoustic field of a power transformer and the soundscape planning around a substation, and the differentiated design of the sound absorption structure inside a substation.
Investigation and optimization of valve train abnormal noise under idle condition
Authors: Zheng Xu , Luo Xuan , Zhou Quan , Qiu Yi , Hao Zhi-Yong
Published: June 2019

This paper investigated an abnormal noise under idle condition and analyzed the mechanism of the noise based on the results of experiments and dynamics simulations. It is confirmed that knocking inside variable valve timing phaser is the source of the abnormal noise. The results of experiments show that half-order rhythm of the vibration and noise components around 1000 and 2100 Hz are different from the other dominant components, which is possible to involve the abnormal noise. Numerical analyses are conducted to simulate the process of the abnormal noise. It is found that the thickness of the blades of the variable valve timing rotor has significant influence on the abnormal noise. The simulation implies that increasing the thickness of the rotor blades will decrease the abnormal noise. When the thickness increases to 3.0 mm, the acoustic frequencies within 1000–1200 Hz have an average drop of 3.7 dB(A), and the acoustic frequencies within 2000–2200 Hz have an average drop of 12.5 dB(A). The results of verification experiments show that the amplitudes of the abnormal noise have obvious reduction, and the abnormal noise is basically eliminated under subjective evaluation.
Teachers’ perceptions of sustainable integration of garden education into Head Start classrooms: A grounded theory approach
Authors: McMillen Jennifer D , Swick Shayna D , Frazier Lauren M , Bishop Matthew , Goodell L Suzanne
Published: June 2019

The perceived benefits of outdoor learning have influenced recommendations and policies alike in early childhood education, yet one component (garden education) in Head Start preschools is inconsistent and researchers do not yet know why. The purposes of this qualitative interview study were to explore preschool teachers’ experiences and perceptions of incorporating garden education into a preschool curriculum for children from low-income families and to develop a grounded theory-based conceptual model to explain the findings. Causal conditions included being comfortable in nature, having administrative support, focusing on safety, and reacting to weather. The intervening conditions were teacher knowledge and skills, program structure, resources and physical supplies, and human resources. The strategies for implementing sustainable use of preschool gardens were employing child-directed practices, applying multi-curricular techniques, incorporating health education, and engaging the community. The consequences identified for using preschool gardens were impacting whole child learning, influencing health, and exposing children to nature. Holistic integration of the results into the current literature suggested several opportunities for pre-service teacher education, professional development, and assessment tool development and validation.
“Life Can Be a Little Bit Fluffy”: Survival Television, Neoliberalism, and the Ambiguous Utopia of Self-preservation
Authors: Davidson Joe P. L.
Published: June 2019

This article examines the utopian imaginary of two survival television shows: Born Survivor and Extreme Survival. These programs focus on the attempts by survival experts Bear Grylls and Ray Mears to remain alive in the wilderness. After considering the place of survival television in the history of nature documentaries and its articulation of a “primitive” form of masculinity, it is argued that the genre elaborates a neoliberal form of utopia. Survival television dovetails with the shadowy side of neoliberalism, ennobling a precarious, self-punishing mode of existence in which one struggles to maintain one’s present position rather than improve it. Yet, drawing on a widely shared meme featuring Grylls, I conclude by suggesting that the conservative effect of survival television is tempered by the exaggerated nature of Grylls’s performance, which offers a glimpse into how survival might be perceived from a genuinely utopian future.
What Is a Resource: Toward a Taxonomy of Resources for Employee Engagement
Authors: Lee Jae Young , Rocco Tonette S. , Shuck Brad
Published: June 2019

Research detailing employee engagement has reliably stated that resources are significant to fostering engagement. Notwithstanding, no previous work has attempted to make meaning of those resources through a review of the existing literature. To better understand how the engagement literature positions and defines resources, we reviewed the resources term across 137 articles. The results of our structured literature review revealed that 216 distinct resources were mentioned across literature streams, and five distinct categories from macro to micro levels could be identified. The categories include (a) organizational resources, (b) social resources, (c) job resources, (d) home resources, and (e) personal resources. In addition to detailing our method and each category of resources, we explore implications for human resource development theory and practice.
Splenectomy fails to attenuate immuno-hematologic changes after rodent vertical sleeve gastrectomy
Authors: Himel Alexandra R , Taylor Erin B , Phillips Charles L , Welch Bradley A , Spann Redin A , Bandyopadhyay Sibali , Grayson Bernadette E
Published: June 2019

Bariatric surgery is on the rise for long-term weight loss and produces various positive metabolic health benefits. The mechanisms that produce surgical weight loss are not yet fully understood. Previous studies showed vertical sleeve gastrectomy prior to gestation resulted in reduced peripheral blood lymphocytes measured during pregnancy due to an undetermined etiology. Further, elevated splenic weight has been associated with vertical sleeve gastrectomy surgery. We hypothesized that perhaps altered splenic filtration was trapping circulating lymphocytes and thus reducing peripheral blood lymphocytes in circulation and contributing to increased spleen weight. We posited whether removal of the spleen concomitant with the stomach surgery may result in an improved immune phenotype. We evaluated female long Evans rats having received Sham surgery or vertical sleeve gastrectomy, with or without splenectomy to determine the contribution of the spleen on metabolic and immune factors after vertical sleeve gastrectomy. Vertical sleeve gastrectomy animals lost significant amounts of body mass and fat mass and ate less in comparison to Sham females during the first five post-operative weeks, but there was no specific effect of the loss of spleen on body mass, fat mass, or food intake. During the post-operative week 6, animals were euthanized and blood recovered for cell sorting of immune cells. There was a reduction in CD3+ total T cells, CD3/CD4+ helper T cells, and CD3/CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, main effect of both bariatric surgery ( P < 0.0001) and splenectomy ( P < 0.01). Furthermore, there was a significant increase in CD45RA+ B cells as a result of splenectomy ( P < 0.001), but a significant reduction in B cells as a result of VSG surgery ( P < 0.05). The changes in total T cells but not B cells were strongly correlated with fat mass. Further studies are needed to understand the cause of the immune changes after surgical weight loss.

Impact statement

Bariatric surgery and in particular vertical sleeve gastrectomy are the fastest growing means for robust amelioration of the comorbidities of obesity. The ramifications of the surgeries on immune health are of important consequence because of the connectivity of immunity with every organ system. The current work reports on the impact of the surgery on the spleen, thymus, and peripheral blood in a rodent model that mimics human surgical outcomes. We demonstrate altered immune health in the VSG rat.
Comparison of Qualitative and Quantitative Assessments of Iliac Artery Tortuosity and Calcification
Authors: Doyle Matthew G. , Crawford Sean A. , Osman Elrasheed , Hatch Jessica , Tse Leonard W. , Amon Cristina H. , Forbes Thomas L.
Published: June 2019

Introduction:

During endovascular aneurysm repair, the iliac artery typically serves as a conduit for device delivery. The degree of tortuosity and calcification in the iliac artery ultimately determines whether the device can successfully traverse the vessel. These 2 parameters can be assessed using qualitative approaches or calculated using quantitative methods based on the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) reporting standards. The objective of this study was to determine whether qualitative methods are sufficient to accurately assess iliac artery tortuosity and calcification by calculating interobserver variability and comparing them to the SVS Reporting Standards.

Methods:

Three vascular surgeons reviewed preoperative computed tomography scans for 50 patients who underwent fenestrated endovascular aneurysm repair and qualitatively assessed left and right iliac artery tortuosity and calcification. Iliac artery geometries were segmented from these image sets. Tortuosity index and calcification length ratio were calculated and categorized based on the SVS Reporting Standards.

Results:

Interobserver variability was calculated for the qualitative assessments using interclass correlation coefficients. For tortuosity index, among the 3 observers, good agreement was found for the left iliac artery and fair agreement was found for the right. For calcification length ratio, excellent agreement was found for both iliac arteries. When compared to the quantitative assessment, the qualitative assessments underpredicted tortuosity in 2.3% of cases, matched the quantitative values in 16.7% of cases, and overpredicted tortuosity in 81.0% of cases. The qualitative assessments underpredicted calcification in 46.3% of cases, matched the quantitative values in 49.3% of cases, and overpredicted calcification in 4.3% of cases.

Conclusion:

Qualitative assessment of iliac artery tortuosity showed fair-to-good interobserver agreement and poor agreement to SVS Reporting Standards. Qualitative assessment of iliac artery calcification showed excellent interobserver agreement and fair agreement to SVS Reporting Standards. These trends should be considered when qualitative reporting methodologies are used.
Unmanned aerial system–assisted wilderness search and rescue mission
Authors: Dinh Truong Duy , Pirmagomedov Rustam , Pham Van Dai , Ahmed Aram A , Kirichek Ruslan , Glushakov Ruslan , Vladyko Andrei
Published: June 2019

The success of the wilderness search and rescue missions is highly dependent on the time required to search for the lost person. The use of unmanned aerial systems may enhance search and rescue missions by supplying aerial support of the search process. There are unmanned aerial system–based solutions, which are capable of detecting the lost person using computer vision, infrared sensors, and detection of a mobile phone signal. The most pressing issue is reducing the cost of a search and rescue mission. Thus, to improve the efficiency of the resource utilization in wilderness search scenario, we consider the use of unmanned aerial system for both mobile phone detection and enabling Wi-Fi communication for the ground portion of the search and rescue team. Such an approach does not require specific additional tools (e.g. access point, specific user equipment) for communication, which reduces the cost and improves the scalability and coordination of the search and rescue mission. As a result, the article provides methods of searching the wilderness for a person using beacon signals from a mobile phone for two situations: when the distance to the source of emergency signals is unknown and when the distance is known. In addition, the voice transmission delay and the number of unmanned aircrafts are found to guaranty the quality of a call.
Process monitoring based on distributed principal component analysis with angle-relevant variable selection
Authors: Xu Chen , Liu Fei
Published: June 2019

Multivariate statistics process monitoring can achieve dimensionality reduction and latent feature extraction on process variables. However, process variables without beneficial information may affect the monitoring performance. This article proposes a distributed principal component analysis method based on the angle-relevant variable selection for plant-wide process monitoring. The directions of principal components are utilized to construct the sub-blocks, where the variables in each sub-block are determined by angle. After establishing the principal component analysis model in each sub-block, the monitoring results are fused by Bayesian inference. The simulation results show that the proposed method can select the responsible variables effectively and enhance the monitoring performance.
Isolated Distal Ulna Fracture With Distal Radioulnar Joint Dislocation: A Novel Fracture Pattern
Authors: Ciminero Matthew , Yohe Nick , Garofolo-Gonzalez Garret , Choueka Jack
Published: June 2019

Background: Galeazzi fractures composed of a middle to distal third radius fracture with dislocation and/or instability at the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) have been well described for decades. However, the inverse scenario has seldom if ever been described in the literature. Methods: We explore the case of a 25-year-old active patient who experienced a traumatic distal ulna fracture with dislocation of the DRUJ without a distal radius fracture. Results: It was successfully treated with open reduction and Kirschner wire fixation. The patient regained equivalent strength and range of motion compared with the contralateral uninjured extremity. Conclusion: We feel this patient’s successful postoperative course can guide future treatment plans for orthopedic surgeons who encounter similar fractures.
Design and implementation of an unmanned aerial vehicle with self-propulsive wing
Authors: Kasem Abdelrahman , Gamal Ahmad , Hany Amr , Gaballa Hesham , Ahmed Karim , Romany Mina , Abdelkawy Mohamed , Abdelrahman Mohamed M
Published: June 2019

The article aims to prove the effectiveness of the proposed unmanned air vehicle design (The Propulsive Wing) through numerical and experimental means. The propulsive wing unmanned air vehicle is a completely new class of unmanned air vehicle, making disruptive changes in the aircraft industry. It is based on a distributed cross-flow electric fan propulsion system. When the fan starts to operate, the flow is drawn from the suction surface, provided by energy through the fan and expelled out of the airfoil trailing edge (TE). This causes a significant lift increase and drag reduction with respect to ordinary aircrafts, making it perfect for applications requiring low cruise speed such as firefighting, agriculture, and aerial photography. In this early stage of the investigation, our main aim is to prove that this design is applicable and the expected aerodynamic and propulsion improvements are achievable. This is done through a two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics investigation of the flow around an airfoil with an embedded cross-flow fan near its TE. A scaled wind tunnel model of the same geometry used in the computational fluid dynamics investigation was manufactured and used to perform wind tunnel testing. The computational fluid dynamics and wind tunnel results are compared for validation. Furthermore, an unmanned air vehicle model was designed and manufactured to prove that the propulsive wing concept is flyable. The article shows that the aerodynamic forces developed on the cross-flow fan airfoil are not only functions of Reynolds number and angle of attack as for standard airfoils but also function of the fan rotational speed. The results show the great effect of the rotational speed of fan on lift augmentation and thrust generation through the high momentum flow getting out of the fan nozzle. Wind tunnel tests show that the suction effect of the fan provides stall free operation up to very high angles of attack (40 degrees) leading to unprecedented values of lift coefficient up to 5.8. The flight test conducted showed the great potential of the new aircraft to perform the expected low cruise speed and high angles of attack flight.
Circulating tumor cell-related transcripts in blood as prognostic biomarkers of early recurrence after liver resection for colorectal metastases
Authors: Giuliante Felice , Panettieri Elena , Ardito Francesco , De Rose Agostino , Pocino Krizia , Autilio Chiara , Paolillo Carmela , Capoluongo Ettore Domenico
Published: June 2019

Background:

Several prognostic factors were proposed to improve early detection of recurrence after liver resection of metastases of colorectal cancer. Circulating tumor cell-related transcripts were evaluated in colorectal cancer patients with conflicting results. The aim of this study was to investigate usefulness of carcinoembryonic antigen CAM5, epidermal growth factor receptor, and ERCC1 transcripts in the bloodstream as predictive factors of recurrence in patients who underwent liver resection for metastases of colorectal cancer.

Methods:

Peripheral blood was collected from 29 patients at the time of the colorectal cancer liver metastasis resection, and from 25 normal controls. Follow-up draws (FUDs) were also performed at 30 days, and 3 and 12 months since surgery. On each sample, carcinoembryonic antigen CAM5, ERCC1, and GAPDH mRNAs were examined by quantitative reverse transcription (qRT).

Results:

Carcinoembryonic antigen transcript levels were linearly correlated to the number of spiked cells (qRT analytical limit = five cells). Among 29 patients (20 M/9 F; mean age 63 years (range 32–79), highly significant levels of carcinoembryonic antigen, if compared to the baseline, were detected in those relapsing after surgery ( P <0.05). The main differences were between the 1st- and 12th-month FUDs. Significantly higher levels of carcinoembryonic antigen were also detected in patients who died from disease progression during the follow-up (as evaluated at 30 days and 90 days FUDs).

Conclusions:

Blood carcinoembryonic antigen-mRNA absolute copy number overtime variation can represent a valid early predictor of relapse after liver resection in colorectal liver metastases patients. Prospective studies, in the context of large clinical trials, will provide further data to also qualify ERCC1 as a predictive biomarker for decisions on therapeutic strategies.
The upregulation of EGFR in the dorsal root ganglion contributes to chronic compression of dorsal root ganglions-induced neuropathic pain in rats
Authors: Wang Shuo , Liu Siyi , Xu Linping , Zhu Xuan , Liu Wanyuan , Tian Lixia , Chen Yu , Wang Yuying , Nagendra Borra V Padma , Jia Shushan , Liang Lingli , Huo Fu-Quan
Published: June 2019

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) located in dorsal root ganglion has been found as a new target for chronic pain treatment. However, it is not clear whether the change of EGFR expression in the dorsal root ganglion contributes to neuropathic pain development. In this study, we used a chronic compression of unilateral lumbar dorsal root ganglions (CCD)-induced rat neuropathic pain model and found that CCD caused the upregulation of both phosphorylated EGFR and total EGFR expression in compressed lumbar 4/5 (L4/L5) dorsal root ganglions by western blotting and immunohistochemistry methods. Either inhibition of EGFR activation by EGFR inhibitor or knockdown of EGFR expression by EGFR small interference RNA (siRNA) relieved CCD-induced pain hypersensitivities to mechanical, thermal, and cold stimuli in rats. Moreover, EGFR knockdown reversed CCD-induced the increase of intracellular mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) expression as well as the activation of the satellite glial cells in the ipsilateral compressed L4/L5 dorsal root ganglions. These findings suggest that not only activated EGFR but also total EGFR contribute to CCD-induced neuropathic pain by enhancing intracellular mTOR signaling.
Development and preliminary validation of the Coach Interpersonal Style Observational System
Authors: Pulido Juan J , Sánchez-Oliva David , Silva Marlene N , Palmeira Antonio L , García-Calvo Tomás
Published: June 2019

Objectives

The aim of this study was to design and develop a multidimensional observational coding system (Coach Interpersonal Style Observational System) to assess coaches' interpersonal style adopted during training sessions and matches.

Equipment and methods

Content validity was established by 11 experts (with proven knowledge and experience in sport science, motivational psychology, and coaching) using qualitative (e.g. ease of comprehension, utility, and adequacy of examples) and quantitative (category scores) approaches. Coders were trained to test inter- and intra-rater reliability.

Results

Qualitative analyses revealed global positive assessment. Experts' category scores were very high. After coder training, inter- and intra-rater reliability scores were acceptable. Discriminant validity was tested through the pilot application to eight soccer coaches. Overall, the results support the preliminary reliability and validity of an instrument to analyze interpersonal coach behavior.
Visual metaphor and authoritarianism in Serbian political cartoons
Authors: Krstić Aleksandra , Aiello Giorgia , Vladisavljević Nebojša
Published: June 2019

This article examines how political cartoons reflected and mobilized resistance to growing authoritarianism and the personalization of power in contemporary Serbia. The focus is on the work of Dušan Petričić, the most influential political cartoonist in Serbia, which was published in daily Politika and weekly NIN between 2012 and 2017. Petričić’s cartoons offer interesting insights into a dramatic decline of press freedom and the rise of authoritarian personalist rule in terms of both their content and political impact. The authors draw on quantitative content analysis and qualitative multimodal analysis to examine the key representational and stylistic features of Petričić’s cartoons, both as a way to understand the relationship between his aesthetics and his political statements, and in order to critically assess some of the ways in which democratization conflicts may be expressed visually. Their analysis also draws on evidence from an in-depth interview with the author. In combining a systematic analysis of key visual patterns across a sample of cartoons with a comprehensive evaluation of how both visual and linguistic features work together to promote anti-authoritarian ideals and resistance, the article offers a framework to understand the political import of aesthetics in Serbia’s democratization process.
Utility of surgeon-performed pre-operative ultrasound in the localisation of parathyroid adenomas
Authors: Thomas Paul RS , Beggs Andrew D , Han Thang S
Published: June 2019

Background

Primary hyperparathyroidism arising from parathyroid adenoma is one of the most common endocrine disorders treated by endocrine surgeons. The adenoma is commonly identified by imaging techniques. The present study evaluated the performance of a portable ultrasound machine (Sonosite MicroMaxx) operated by a surgeon, departmental ultrasound and 99mTc-sestamibi-SPECT/CT by a radiologist in the identification of parathyroid adenomas.

Methods

Patient case notes were retrieved from medical records and imaging from picture archiving and communication system over the period from 2006 to 2012. 99mTc-sestamibi-SPECT/CT and departmental ultrasound images were reported by a nuclear radiologist. The ability of each imaging technique in localising parathyroid adenomas was referenced against the actual adenomas identified from parathyroidectomy.

Results

With reference to the actual site of the lesion, surgeon-performed ultrasound accurately localised the site of the lesion in 30/33 (90.1%) of cases with a sensitivity of 86.7%, departmental ultrasound accurately localised the site of the lesion in 21/26 (80.1%) of cases with a sensitivity of 79.2%. In 6/75 patients where 99mTc-sestamibi-SPECT/CT did not localise the lesion, departmental ultrasound did not localise any lesions correctly, while surgeon-performed ultrasound successfully located the adenoma in three (50%) of these six patients. Patients whose parathyroid adenomas identified by the surgeon were more likely to have shorter length of stay in hospital: odds ratio = 0.53 (95% confidence interval = 0.30–0.92, p = 0.025).

Conclusions

Surgeon-performed ultrasound for immediately pre-operative localisation improves identification of parathyroid adenomas and reduces length of stay in hospital, lending support for the use of this technique by endocrine surgeons.
Tattoos and human papilloma virus: A case report of tattoo-associated flat warts (verrucae planae)
Authors: Kirchhof Mark G , Wong Se Mang
Published: June 2019

The prevalence of tattoos is increasing and as such every physician must be aware of the potential adverse events associated with tattooing. Here we present a 36-year-old man with a recent history of skin-coloured papules appearing suddenly in a 20-year-old tattoo on the right forearm. Biopsy and histologic examination confirmed a diagnosis of verrucae planae or flat warts. Tattoo-associated human papilloma virus infections develop clinical manifestations after long latency periods and are often difficult to treat. The risk of tattoo-related human papilloma virus infection should be discussed when considering acquiring a tattoo.
Cancer care continuity: A qualitative study on the experiences of French healthcare professionals, patients and family caregivers
Authors: Lelorain Sophie , Moreaux Clémence , Christophe Véronique , Weingertner Françoise , Bricout Hélène
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Continuity of care has many positive outcomes. Yet, in oncology, it may rapidly be disrupted. It is therefore essential to investigate the perceptions of users. Our aim was thus to describe and compare the perceptions of cancer care continuity of patients, family caregivers and various healthcare professionals involved in cancer care in France, one of the countries most affected by cancer.

Methods

The urology and senology cancer departments of two hospitals, as well as community physicians, were involved: 54 hospital healthcare professionals including mainly physicians, nurses and medical secretaries; 12 city physicians; 41 patients and their family caregivers. We carried out a qualitative study using N-Vivo® and a deductive approach to code the interviews into the following dimensions of continuity: informational, organisational and relational.

Results

Three different perspectives were highlighted: hospital healthcare professionals primarily focused on organisational aspects (71% of their discourse), city physicians on their need for information from hospitals (40% of their discourse) and patients/caregivers on relational aspects with professionals (51% of their discourse). However, the three dimensions of continuity were intertwined, as the major focus of each type of participant impacted their perspective of the other spheres of coordination.

Discussion

Working on the main perspective of each category of person involved in cancer care could improve, in turn, the other spheres of continuity for these people. For example, dealing with organisational issues with hospital physicians could be an indirect and original way to enhance their relationships with patients, which are so important to the latter.
Tumefactive demyelination: Clinical outcomes, lesion evolution and treatments
Authors: Brod Staley A , Lindsey J William , Nelson Flavia
Published: June 2019

Objective

Large demyelinating lesions with possible mass effect (tumefactive multiple sclerosis or tumefactive demyelination) can be mistaken for tumour-like space-occupying lesions suggesting a malignant outcome.

Methods

We reviewed our own experience of multiple sclerosis subjects ( n = 28) with tumefactive demyelination to determine the relationship between clinical outcomes and lesion evolution, clinical outcomes and their relationship to different therapies. Patients with central nervous system demyelinating disease were identified from our database over the last 10 years.

Results

No patient increased in extended disability status scale (EDSS). Overall, lesion regression was associated with improved EDSS. Lesion regression was also associated with therapy versus no therapy. No specific therapy or corticosteroid infusions improved EDSS over the long term. The absence of enhancement on follow up on magnetic resonance imaging portended lesion regression.

Conclusion

Tumefactive demyelination may predict a more benign overall course and is susceptible to traditional immunomodulatory treatments.
We’re just data: Exploring China’s social credit system in relation to digital platform ratings cultures in Westernised democracies
Authors: Wong Karen Li Xan , Dobson Amy Shields
Published: June 2019

Social media platforms and apps have become increasingly important tools for governance and the centralisation of information in many nation states around the globe. In China, the government is currently piloting a social credit system in several cities in an ambitious attempt to merge a financial credit score system with a broader quantification of social and civic integrity for all citizens and corporations. China has already begun to experiment with metrics and quantification of the value and virtue of its citizens, going beyond the function of measuring workplace performance and health-related self-tracking to measuring one’s purchasing and consumption history, interpersonal relationships, political activities, as well as the tracking of one’s location history. China has also already begun to apply a reward and punishment system that rewards those who comply with the Chinese government’s ideals and punishes those who deviate from them. Although there are no such ambitiously unified systems currently proposed in Western liberal democratic countries, some aligned structures and cultures of social media use are already well in place. This article seeks to offer a comparative examination of the structures and cultures of China’s social credit system with those which are already present and in place in Western liberal democratic countries. While it may be convenient to digitise everyday social, political and economic life, China’s social credit system brings about a vision of what may be to come, should democratic countries continue to do so without stricter data use policies in place.
Integrating Yoga into a Comprehensive School Counseling Program: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Taylor Julia V. , Gibson Donna M. , Conley Abigail H.
Published: June 2019

Using an exploratory phenomenological qualitative research design, this study investigated the lived experiences of 10 school counselors who integrate yoga into their comprehensive school counseling programs. Analysis of data revealed five significant themes and subsequent subthemes describing the participants’ lived experiences of yoga integration within their school counseling programs. We include implications for research and practice.
Predictors of Outcomes After Hip Arthroscopic Surgery for Femoroacetabular Impingement: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sogbein Olawale A. , Shah Ajay , Kay Jeffrey , Memon Muzammil , Simunovic Nicole , Belzile Etienne L. , Ayeni Olufemi R.
Published: June 2019

Background:

The benefits of hip arthroscopic surgery in the setting of femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) have been well established; however, some patients may experience a greater degree of improvement than others. Identifying positive and negative predictors of outcomes would assist the orthopaedic surgeon’s management algorithm for patients with FAI.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The objective of this systematic review was to identify demographic, radiographic, and other operative predictors of positive and negative outcomes after hip arthroscopic surgery for patients with FAI. It was hypothesized that factors including FAI morphology, age, body mass index (BMI), sex, dysplasia, articular cartilage damage, radiographic joint space, and labral treatment would predict outcomes after hip arthroscopic surgery.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This systematic review was performed in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Three databases (Embase, PubMed, and Ovid [MEDLINE]) were searched on May 19, 2018, using terms including “hip,” “arthroscopy,” and “FAI.” Studies were screened and data extracted in duplicate.

Results:

A total of 39 studies were included in this systematic review, comprising 9272 hips with a mean age of 36.5 years (47.2% female). Younger age, male sex, lower BMI (<24.5 kg/m2), Tönnis grade 0, and preoperative pain relief from diagnostic intra-articular hip injections predicted positive outcomes. Female sex, older age (>45 years), longer duration of preoperative symptoms (>8 months), elevated BMI, increased Tönnis grade (≥1), chondral defects, decreased joint space (≤2 mm), increased Kellgren-Lawrence grade (>3), increased lateral center-edge angle (LCEA), and undergoing labral debridement alone were predictors of negative outcomes.

Conclusion:

In patients with FAI, younger age, male sex, lower BMI (<24.5 kg/m2), Tönnis grade 0, and pain relief from preoperative intra-articular hip injections are significantly more likely to achieve positive outcomes after hip arthroscopic surgery. On the other hand, older age (>45 years), female sex, elevated BMI, osteoarthritic changes, decreased joint space (≤2 mm), chondral defects, increased LCEA, and undergoing labral debridement compared with labral repair are associated with negative outcomes.
Effects of Duration and Midpoint of Sleep on Corticolimbic Circuitry in Youth
Authors: Hehr Aneesh , Marusak Hilary A. , Huntley Edward D. , Rabinak Christine A.
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Adequate sleep is essential for cognitive and emotion-related functioning, and 9 to 12 hr of sleep is recommended for children ages 6 to 12 years and 8 to 10 hr for children ages 13 to 18 years. However, national survey data indicate that older youth sleep for fewer hours and fall asleep later than younger youth. This shift in sleep duration and timing corresponds with a sharp increase in onset of emotion-related problems (e.g., anxiety, depression) during adolescence. Given that both sleep duration and timing have been linked to emotion-related outcomes, the present study tests the effects of sleep duration and timing, and their interaction, on resting-state functional connectivity (RS-FC) of corticolimbic emotion-related neural circuitry in children and adolescents.

Methods

A total of 63 children and adolescents (6–17 years, 34 females) completed a weekend overnight sleep journal and a 10-min resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging scan the next day (Sunday). Whole-brain RS-FC of the amygdala was computed, and the effects of sleep duration, timing (i.e., midpoint of sleep), and their interaction were explored using regression analyses.

Results

Overall, we found that older youth tended to sleep later and for fewer hours than younger youth. Controlling for age, shorter sleep duration was associated with lower RS-FC between the amygdala and regions implicated in emotion regulation, including ventral anterior cingulate cortex, precentral gyrus, and superior temporal gyrus. Interestingly, midpoint of sleep was associated with altered connectivity in a distinct set of brain regions involved in interoception and sensory processing, including insula, supramarginal gyrus, and postcentral gyrus. Our data also indicate widespread interactive effects of sleep duration and midpoint on brain regions implicated in emotion regulation, sensory processing, and motor control.

Conclusion

These results suggest that both sleep duration and midpoint of sleep are associated with next-day RS-FC within corticolimbic emotion-related neural circuitry in children and adolescents. The observed interactive effects of sleep duration and timing on RS-FC may reflect how homeostatic and circadian process interact in the brain and explain the complex patterns observed with respect to emotional health when considering sleep duration and timing. Sleep-related changes in corticolimbic circuitry may contribute to the onset of emotion-related problems during adolescence.