bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robust kinematics design of MacPherson suspension based on a double-loop multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Shi Qin , Peng Chengwang , Chen Yikai , He Jie , Li Peiqing , Chen Jiajia
Published: January 2019

In the traditional design of a vehicle suspension system, mechanical parameters, such as spring stiffness and tire radial stiffness, are determined before optimizing the coordinates of suspension hard-points based on handling and stability. However, the mechanical parameters of vehicle suspension systems vary with repeated changes in ambient temperature and loading conditions. Consequently, the original hard-point coordinates cannot guarantee satisfactory handling and stability after long-term vehicle use. To address this issue, an A0 class vehicle with a MacPherson suspension was modeled in ADAMS/Car and was validated against the results of field tests. The relationships between the maximum absolute values of front wheel alignment parameters during parallel wheel travel analysis and the coordinates of suspension hard-points, spring stiffness, and tire radial stiffness were determined using support vector regression. Next, a multi-objective optimization function was formulated based on the interval analysis method. Finally, a novel double-loop multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm was designed for global optimization of hard-point coordinates. The ADAMS simulation results indicated that, compared with the vehicle with the original hard-point coordinates, the double-loop multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm, the traditional multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm, and the genetic algorithm can effectively reduce the variation ranges of front wheel alignment parameters, regardless of the values of the mechanical parameters. It also showed that the double-loop multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm performs better than the traditional multi-objective particle swarm optimization and the genetic algorithm with both the original and changed mechanical parameters. Except for an increase in the variation range of the caster angle by 9.24–10.69%, the variation ranges of the toe angle, camber angle, and kingpin inclination angle under various mechanical parameters using the double-loop multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm were observed to be reduced by 50.45–79.39%, 1.84–4.24%, and 2.11–2.96%, respectively. Last but not least, the proposed double-loop multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm provided better handling, stability, and ride comfort values than the traditional multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm and the genetic algorithm.
A proportional–integral-based robust state-feedback control method for linear parameter-varying systems and its application to aircraft
Authors: Huang Bixuan , Lu Bei , Li Qifu
Published: January 2019

The integration of advanced linear parameter-varying and classical proportional–integral–derivative control methods has attracted great attention in control of nonlinear dynamic systems. However, linear parameter-varying proportional–integral–derivative control synthesis is a nonconvex bilinear matrix inequality problem. Although the synthesis conditions can be convexified in the case of proportional–integral control, a strong constraint on the structure of matrix variables usually leads to infeasible solutions. In this paper, a linear parameter-varying proportional–integral control design method is proposed to remove that constraint. The approach is based on the assumption of state-feedback proportional–integral control to guarantee the linear matrix inequality variables to be full matrices instead of block diagonal matrices, and extended linear matrix inequalities are proposed to synthesize the controller. This increases the likelihood of finding feasible linear matrix inequality solutions and reduces the conservatism. The proposed method is applied to control longitudinal and lateral dynamics of an F-16 aircraft and promising simulation results are obtained.
Nodulo-ulcerative and erythrodermic secondary syphilis in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals
Authors: Tambe Swagata , Zambare Uddhao , Nayak Chitra
Published: January 2019

Syphilis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infections are both transmitted sexually. Co-infection of HIV and syphilis alters the course of both diseases. Clinical presentation of syphilis in patients of HIV may be atypical. HIV-infected individuals are at risk of developing lues maligna, which is characterized by nodulo-ulcerative lesions associated with severe constitutional symptoms. Erythroderma secondary to generalized papulo-squamous lesions of secondary syphilis is also uncommon. Here we report two cases of atypical presentations of secondary syphilis in HIV-positive patients.
HIV-positive in the darkness of a correctional facility: more vulnerable and less treated
Authors: Huber Florence , Vandentorren Stephanie , Merceron Alice , Chaponnay Amandine , Gadio Gueda , About Vincent , Pastre Agathe , Nacher Mathieu
Published: January 2019

In French Guiana, 4.5–5.0% of HIV-infected persons experienced an incarceration between 2007 and 2013. A cross-sectional survey was performed to describe the epidemiology and treatment outcomes of a population of HIV-infected inmates in French Guiana. The study population was patients released between 1/2007 and 12/2013, after >30 days of incarceration (n = 147). A secondary objective aimed to identify its main specificities, relative to both the general inmate population and the nonincarcerated HIV population. The socioeconomic situation of HIV-infected inmates was particularly precarious, relative to other detainees: 58.1% had never attended school (versus 5.5%, p < 0.01), 31.0% were homeless (versus 8.5%, p < 0.01), 63.9% were repeat offenders (versus 46.6%, p < 0.01), 33.3% were crack cocaine users (versus 9.8–12%, p < 0.01). The frequency of hypertension and chronic B hepatitis was also higher. Only 50.3% of inmates were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) versus 92.6% in the hospital HIV population (p < 0.001). Among untreated patients, 15.1% refused ART. Among those treated, 81.3% were virologically suppressed. Although comparisons were biased, HIV-positive inmates had more psychosocial vulnerabilities than the general inmate population. Despite ART availability and excellent treatment outcomes, undertreatment was a fact not completely explained by patient refusal. HIV-infected inmates should benefit from increased attention by health care and social workers.
Efficacy and safety of abacavir/lamivudine with raltegravir in treatment-experienced and treatment-naïve patients with HIV-1 infection: an observational, retrospective, multi-centre study
Authors: Rizzardo Sebastiano , Lanzafame Massimiliano , Lattuada Emanuela , Bragantini Damiano , Nicolè Stefano , Calza Leonardo , Tacconelli Evelina
Published: January 2019

Raltegravir (RAL) is an HIV-1 integrase strand transfer inhibitor that is well established as a component of highly active antiretroviral therapy regimens for the treatment of adults living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), due to its high virological efficacy and good tolerability profile. To date, limited data are available on the use of RAL with abacavir/lamivudine (ABC/3TC). We investigated retrospectively 62 HIV-1 infected patients managed by three Italian Infectious Diseases Outpatient Departments, including 57 treatment-experienced patients and 5 treatment-naïve patients, treated with ABC/3TC plus RAL. In all five naïve patients (100%), virological suppression was achieved and maintained , while 55 experienced patients (96.5%) maintained viral suppression at the most recent review. In the treatment-experienced patients, we observed a significant decrease in triglyceride levels (p < 0.01), while liver transaminases, renal function and cholesterol levels remained substantially stable. In the 34 treatment-experienced patients who switched from a protease inhibitor (PI)-based regimen, we observed a significant improvement of total cholesterol (p=0.03) and triglyceride (p < 0.01) levels. No significant alterations were found on renal and liver function and serum lipid profile of treatment-naïve patients. Despite the small number of participants, results support the efficacy and safety of ABC/3TC plus RAL, either in treatment-naïve or treatment-experienced patients.
Factors influencing knowledge sharing among academics in Bowen University, Nigeria
Authors: Akosile Adedolapo , Olatokun Wole
Published: January 2019

This study was initiated to examine the factors that influence knowledge sharing among academics in Bowen University, Nigeria. Although previous research has identified several factors that affect knowledge sharing, further research needs to be carried out to ascertain factors that affect knowledge sharing, in particular among higher academic institutions, especially in Nigeria. Due to a paucity of knowledge sharing research among faculty in Nigeria higher institutions and the fact that there is no existing framework that provides all constructs needed to interrogate knowledge sharing among academics, the study examined the influence of organisational, individual and technological factors on knowledge sharing behaviour of academics and the influence of demographic variables on how they share knowledge. Survey design guided the study and a questionnaire was used to collect data from 151 respondents. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square analysis and Logistic regression. Findings showed that among the organisational factors, only university policy (β= .641, p= .023) significantly influences knowledge sharing while among individual factors only trust (β= .785, p= .05) significantly influences knowledge sharing. None of the technological factors was found to influence knowledge sharing. Gender has a significant influence on knowledge sharing while academic cadre and faculty do not. Personal satisfaction, personal belief, mentoring, being knowledgeable and availability of fund/sponsorships were the other factors identified to influence knowledge sharing behaviour. The findings have extended knowledge and theory building in knowledge sharing through the conceptual framework. The study recommended that there should be a university policy on knowledge sharing which should be accompanied by rewards to motivate academics to share their knowledge.
Metformin diminishes the unfavourable impact of Nrf2 in breast cancer patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Urpilainen Elina , Kangaskokko Jenni , Puistola Ulla , Karihtala Peeter
Published: January 2019

Nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) is a major regulator of the oxidative stress response and it is negatively regulated by Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1). The Keap1–Nrf2 axis has a fundamental role in carcinogenesis. In previous studies, the widely used diabetes drug metformin has appeared to have a critical role in the regulation of Nrf2 function. In this study, we assessed the expression of Nrf2 and Keap1 immunohistochemically in 157 patients with type 2 diabetes who underwent breast cancer surgery with curative intent. In total, 78 (49.7%) of these patients were taking metformin alone or combined with other oral anti-diabetic medication at the time of breast cancer diagnosis. We found that high-level cytoplasmic Nrf2 expression predicted dismal overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival, but only in the patients who were not taking metformin at the time of diagnosis. Similarly, low-level nuclear Keap1 expression had an adverse prognostic value in terms of overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival in patients without metformin. On the other hand, high-level nuclear Keap1 expression was associated with prolonged overall survival and breast cancer–specific survival. The results may be explained in terms of non-functioning or displaced Keap1, although more mechanistic pre-clinical and prospective clinical studies are warranted.
The Development of “Asian Academic Credits” as an Aligned Credit Transfer System in Asian Higher Education
Authors: Hotta Taiji
Published: January 2019

During the last two decades, Asian countries have attempted to establish several aligned academic credit systems as part of the harmonization process of their higher education systems. However, these systems have not been widely used among universities in the Asian region. This article analyzes the current trends in credit-related governmental regulations and university systems in 24 Asian countries and territories. Moreover, it asserts the concept of “Asian Academic Credits,” (hereafter, AACs) as a new widely effective aligned system of academic credit transfer within Asia and also with other regionally aligned credit systems in the world. AACs can serve as one of the vital components for a new era of Asian higher education that provides a regionally aligned, flexible, and innovative learning environment for students throughout the entire Asian region.
Risk Factors for Polypharmacy in Elderly Patients With Cancer Pain
Authors: Morio Kayoko , Maeda Isseki , Yokota Isao , Niki Kazuyuki , Murata Taizo , Matsumura Yasushi , Uejima Etsuko
Published: January 2019

Objective:

Polypharmacy (PP) is a burden in elderly patients with cancer pain; however, risk factors for PP remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the risk factors for PP in this patient population.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of patients aged ≥65 years with cancer pain who were treated at Osaka University Hospital between February 2014 and June 2016 according to the World Health Organization 3-step ladder for cancer pain relief. We defined PP as ≥5 medications and conducted exploratory research to examine the association between PP and patient characteristics. Performance status (PS) was estimated according to the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group system and is categorized as good PS (0-1) and poor PS (2-4).

Results:

We reviewed 206 patients (122 men and 84 women) with a median age of 71 years (range, 65-89 years) and found that 174 patients (84.5%) had PP. In multivariate logistic analysis, PP was significantly associated with an increased number of comorbidities (odds ratio [OR]: 4.93, 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.57-11.42, P < .001), poor PS (OR: 4.50, 95% CI, 1.06-31.68, P = .039), and administration of an anticancer or molecular targeted drug (OR: 2.78, 95% CI, 1.13-7.16, P = .025).

Conclusions:

An increased number of comorbidities, poor PS, and administration of an anticancer or molecular targeted drug were considered risk factors for PP in elderly patients with cancer pain. Sharing these risk factors with medical staff will help reduce the occurrence of problems associated with PP.
Comparing Holland and Self-Determination Theory Measures of Career Preference as Predictors of Career Choice
Authors: Sheldon Kennon M. , Holliday Greyson , Titova Liudmila , Benson Craig
Published: January 2019

John Holland’s theory of career orientations advises people to select careers that are congruent with their personalities. Similarly, self-concordance theory, based in self-determination theory, advises people to select personal goals that match their autonomous interests and identifications. We compared the predictive efficacy of the two theories in two studies of undergraduates, using the six career areas of Holland theory (RIASEC: realistic, investigative, artistic, social, enterprising, and conventional) as a common base. Multilevel logit modeling in Study 1 showed that both the Holland score and an aggregate self-concordance score predicted independent variance in the outcome variable, current career choices. These effects were replicated in Study 2. Supplementary analyses showed that the identified motivation subscale was the primary source of these effects. Thus, career counselors may want to consider assessing students’ self-concordance for the six RIASEC domains, in particular their levels of identified motivation for those domains, in addition to assessing their Holland codes.
The Future of Health Equity in America: Addressing the Legal and Political Determinants of Health
Authors: Dawes Daniel E.
Published: January 2019

There is much discourse and focus on the social determinants of health, but undergirding these multiple intersecting and interacting determinants are legal and political determinants that have operated at every level and impact the entire life continuum. The United States has long grappled with advancing health equity via public law and policy. Seventy years after the country was founded, lawmakers finally succeeded in passing the first comprehensive and inclusive law aimed at tackling the social determinants of health, but that effort was short-lived. Today the United States is faced with another fork in the road relative to the advancement of health equity. This article draws on lessons from history and law to argue that researchers, providers, payers, lawmakers and the legal community have a moral, economic and national security imperative to address not only the negative outcomes of health disparities, but also the imbalance of inputs resulting from laws and policies which fail to employ an equity lens.
The Tortuous Journey of the Health Insurance Marketplace
Authors: Lambrew Jeanne M.
Published: January 2019

This article examines the past, present, and future of individual market policies in the Affordable Care Act (ACA). It does so, first, by reviewing the law's goals, scope, and set of individual market policies, collectively called the Health Insurance Marketplace. The Marketplace, along with the ACA's Medicaid expansion, was designed to fill in gaps to provide all Americans with accessible, affordable coverage. Second, it reviews evidence on the law's impact to date, including changes under a new administration. Third, it discusses the three main policy options for the Marketplace: do nothing, build on it, or replace it. Lastly, it discusses the factors which could determine which pathway policy makers follow.
Regulatory Pathways to Promote Treatment for Substance Use Disorder or Other Under-Treated Conditions Using Risk Adjustment
Authors: Lawrence Matthew J.B.
Published: January 2019

This commentary provides a legal analysis of the extent to which changes proposed by scholars to promote care for substance use disorder or other under-treated illnesses through risk adjustment could be implemented administratively, without legislation, in federal risk adjustment systems: Medicare's privatized component, Medicare's pharmaceutical component, and the individual and small group market. As the article explains, federal laws governing risk adjustment provide broad discretion to regulators and can reasonably be interpreted to permit (or in the case of Part C even compel) full and final implementation through the administrative process of almost all of the changes that scholars have proposed.
Public Health and Health Care: Integration, Disintegration, or Eclipse
Authors: Jacobson Peter D. , Parmet Wendy E.
Published: January 2019

Many observers have argued that the US health care system could be more efficient, and achieve better outcomes if providers focused more on improving the community's health, not just the welfare of individual patients. The passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 2010 seemed to herald the promise of such reforms, and greater integration of the health care and public systems. In this article, we reassess the quest for integration, a quest we call the “integration project.” After examining the modest steps taken so far toward integration, we consider some conceptual barriers to integration as well as some of the risks it might portend for the public health system. Our assessment contributes to wide-ranging debates among public health advocates, practitioners, and policymakers as to the health care system's role in protecting public health, and how the public health system can best be organized to meet expected population health challenges.
Can Outcomes-Based Pharmaceutical Contracts Reduce Drug Prices in the US? A Mixed Methods Assessment
Authors: Seeley Elizabeth , Chimonas Susan , Kesselheim Aaron S.
Published: January 2019

To improve the value of pharmaceutical spending, some manufacturers and payers have introduced outcomes-based contracts, where rebates are tied to specified outcomes. We reviewed the literature and interviewed key experts to assess these contracts' potential to slow pharmaceutical spending. We found that while outcomes-based contracts are increasingly common in the US, they are still limited by multiple factors — including the lack of meaningful outcomes data. Moreover, there is no evidence to date that they slow pharmaceutical spending or increase access. Experts favored having CMS test and rigorously evaluate this model to achieve a better understanding of the implications.
A Decision Aid May Offer Liability Protection for a Bad Obstetrical Outcome: Results of Mock Trials
Authors: Brodney Suzanne , Wescott Pamela H. , Moulton Benjamin W. , Hartmann Katherine , Chang Yuchiao , Barry Michael J.
Published: January 2019

The objective of this study is to evaluate if use of a patient decision aid (PDA), when choosing between a repeat cesarean or a trial of labor after a cesarean (TOLAC), reduces medical liability exposure. The authors conclude that use of a PDA conferred liability protection when potential jurors were presented with a hypothetical malpractice claim against an obstetrician following a TOLAC.
A Multidimensional Exercise Program in the Home for Older Adults Designed to Improve Function
Authors: Whitney Susan L. , Ellis Jennifer , Otis Laurie , Marchetti Gregory
Published: January 2019

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was difference in the OASIS (Outcome and Assessment Information Set) activities of daily living (ADL) items scores between the Safe Strides program and Safe Strides plus Zōntago program. Eight home care offices were selected for this prospective randomized quality improvement study where Safe Strides versus Safe Strides plus Zōntago were compared. Rehabilitation outcome OASIS ADL change scores were analyzed for 112 total patient care episodes. The Safe Strides + Zōntago mean total ADL score change and ADL change per visit were higher than the Safe Strides group. Differences in ADL outcomes in older adults undergoing home care provided by physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in the Safe Strides exercise program versus the Safe Strides plus Zōntago program were noted. The Safe Strides + Zōntago compared with Safe Strides alone improved patient functional outcomes as measured by the OASIS.
Self-measurement with Icare HOME tonometer, patients’ feasibility and acceptability
Authors: Cvenkel Barbara , Velkovska Makedonka Atanasovska , Jordanova Vesna Dimovska
Published: January 2019

Purpose:

To evaluate and compare the accuracy of self-measurement of intraocular pressure using Icare Home rebound tonometer with Goldmann applanation tonometer and assess acceptability of self-tonometry in patients with glaucoma and ocular hypertension.

Methods:

In the study, 117 subjects were trained to use Icare Home for self-measurement. Icare Home tonometer readings were compared with Goldmann applanation tonometer, including one eye per patient. Agreement between the two methods of measurement was evaluated by Bland and Altmann analysis. Questionnaire was used to evaluate patients’ perception of self-tonometry.

Results:

One hundred and three out of 117 patients (88%) were able to measure their own intraocular pressure and 96 (82%) fulfilled the requirements for certification. The mean (SD) difference Goldmann applanation tonometer minus Icare Home was 1.2 (2.4) mmHg (95% limits of agreement, –3.4 to 5.9 mmHg). The magnitude of bias between the two methods depended on central corneal thickness, with greater bias at central corneal thickness <500 µm. In 65 out of 96 subjects (67.7%), Icare Home results were within 2 mmHg of the Goldmann applanation tonometer. Seventy-three out of 93 (78.5%) felt that self-tonometry was easy to use and 75 patients (80.6%) responded that they would use the device at home.

Conclusion:

Icare Home tonometry tends to slightly underestimate intraocular pressure compared to Goldmann applanation tonometer. Most patients were able to perform self-tonometry and found it acceptable for home use. Measurements using rebound self-tonometry could improve the quality of intraocular pressure data and optimize treatment regimen.
Early to mid-term outcome of Oxinium on Verilast highly cross-linked polyethylene bearing surface in uncemented total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Sobti Anshul S , Busch Constant A , Afolayan John O , Michael Dean , Chana Rishi
Published: January 2019

Introduction:

We report 5- to 10-year clinical and radiological outcomes of a series of uncemented Oxinium on Verilast (highly cross-linked polyethylene liners) total hip replacements (THAs) using the Anthology stem and R3/Reflection cup system.

Methods:

116 THAs were performed by 2 senior authors in 104 patients from 2005 to 2009. The mean age at time of operation was 63.8 (45–80) years. The average length of follow-up was 8.8 years. At final data collection 12 patients had died (13 THAs) and 3 patients (3 THAs) were lost to follow-up.

Results:

In the remaining 100 THAs, the preoperative Harris Hip Score of 39 improved to 91 and Oxford Hip Score improved from 16 to 44 (mean at 5 to 10 years). 100 THAs were available for radiographic analysis: all had stable bony ingrowth of both the stem and cup. Dorr’s methods for wear in the 100 THAs showed an average wear <0.01 mm/year and no osteolysis; only 1 case showed 0.22 mm/year with some proximal femoral osteolysis but no cup lesions. There were no dislocations or revisions, survivorship in this series for both components for any cause as an endpoint was 100%. 1 intraoperative calcar fracture was sustained and treated with a cerclage wires, 2 peri-prosthetic fractures occurred and were treated with open reduction and fixation, both healed well with excellent outcomes.

Discussion:

The study has shown good clinical and radiological outcomes at 5–10 years and supports existing data on the potential benefits of this bearing performance in literature.
It’s the fear of the unknown: Transition from higher education for young autistic adults
Authors: Vincent Jonathan
Published: January 2019

More young people with a diagnosis of autism are enrolling and successfully completing higher education courses than ever before and this is set to increase; however, while there is a burgeoning body of literature surrounding the transition into this stage of education, there is a paucity of research that investigates the transition as this population exit higher education. This exploratory qualitative study is one of the first to identify the specific experiences of young autistic adults making this transition, drawing on semi-structured interviews with 21 students and recent graduates. Findings indicate that transition out of higher education is challenging on both practical and psychological levels, manifested by feelings of anxiety and loss. However, there is also evidence that the same phenomenon can also be understood as a positive departure with important implications for identity development. Findings are discussed in relation to future research and implications for practice in higher education institutions.
Differing perspectives: Evaluation of a new IV pole by children and adults
Authors: Parbhu Neerali , Reay Stephen , Landhuis Erik , Water Tineke
Published: January 2019

Involving children in the evaluation of hospital environments has been recognized as important. It is argued that this should extend to engaging children in the evaluation of medical products. A study was undertaken to evaluate how children, parents/caregivers and nurses viewed the design of a new intravenous (IV) pole compared to the existing IV pole currently used. Children and adults were asked to give their perspectives on mobility, safety, aesthetics and functionality of the new and existing IV poles. The findings suggest that children value different aspects of medical product design than adults. We conclude that designers, manufacturers and healthcare organizations should recognize the importance and benefit of involving children in the design of medical products that will ultimately be used by them.
A follow-up of the introduction of a maximum entitlement period for receiving sickness benefits in Sweden: A nationwide register-based study
Authors: Vaez Marjan , Leijon Ola , Wikman Anders , Nord Tora , Lidwall Ulrik , Wiberg Michael , Alexanderson Kristina , Gonäs Lena
Published: January 2019

In 2008, Sweden introduced a policy change to limit the number of days for sickness benefits (SB). This study aimed to elucidate the characteristics of those who reached the maximum entitlement period for receiving sickness benefits (MEPSB) and their future main source of income. Methods: All 5,309,759 individuals, aged 20–63 and residents of Sweden in 2009 were followed from July 2008 to July 2010 regarding SB-days and date of MEPSB and then categorised into three groups: I) no SB-days, II) ongoing SB-days, and III) MEPSB. Mean numbers of SB-days 2.5 years before and 2 years after the policy change and main source of income in 2011 were assessed. Associations between sociodemographic factors, occupation and paid work as main source of income were estimated by odds ratio (OR). Results: A total of 0.7% reached MEPSB in 2010. The mean numbers of SB-days before and after the policy change were higher in the MEPSB group than in the other two groups. In the MEPSB group, 14% had their main source of income from paid work in 2011; this was more common among women born in Sweden (OR = 1.29), people living with a partner and children (women OR = 1.29; men OR = 1.48), and those with occupations representing high educational levels. Conclusions: One out of seven individuals with MEPSB in 2010 had their main source of income from paid work in 2011, although they had a long-term SB before and after the policy change. Further research is warranted to address the long-term effects of this policy change.
Autopsy rates in Iceland
Authors: Kunz SN , Bergsdóttir Þ , Jónasson JG
Published: January 2019

A clinical as well as forensic autopsy is a uniform medical investigation of the deceased, which mainly serves to verify the plausibility of information on the cause, mode and mechanism of death provided by the police and/or medical personnel. Despite its importance in the context of a conclusive assessment of a person’s medical history and in detecting any criminal correlation or malpractice, a significant decline in autopsies is evident in Iceland. This article gives an overview on autopsy rates in Iceland and compares the situation with European countries.
Socioeconomic differences in swimming ability among children in Malmö, southern Sweden: Initial results from a community-level intervention
Authors: Pilgaard Frida I. H. , Östergren Per-Olof , Olin Anna , Kling Stefan , Albin Maria , Björk Jonas
Published: January 2019

Aims: To investigate to what extent socioeconomic differences in swimming abilities persist among children in the city of Malmö, Sweden, after a community-level swimming intervention programme in public primary schools. Methods: A compulsory swimming education programme was launched in 2014 in second grade (at age 8) in all public primary schools in Malmö, Sweden. Data for the present study on sociodemographic conditions and self-reported swimming ability in fourth grade (age 10) were used for the last birth cohort unexposed ( n = 1695) and the first birth cohort exposed ( n = 1773) to the intervention. Results: The swimming ability was 78 and 77%, respectively, in the pre- and post-intervention cohorts. Significantly lower self-reported swimming ability was found both pre- and post-intervention among children with support activities in school, with parents born outside Europe, North America and Australia, with manual working, unemployed or studying parents and in children enrolled in schools with socioeconomic index below median. Conclusions: The findings do not suggest that sociodemographic differences in swimming ability have decreased in the first birth cohort exposed to the community-level intervention in Malmö. Striking differences in self-reported swimming ability were noted when the children reached the fourth grade both pre- and post-intervention with marked lower abilities in socially disadvantaged groups. Monitoring of swimming abilities should continue for the present, and similar interventions aimed at reducing inequalities among children. Efforts to increase water comfort at preschool age ought to be considered.
‘Days of Mourning are Days of Reconciliation’: An analysis of the coverage of the death of controversial Israeli public figures
Authors: Avital Moran
Published: January 2019

This article examines the role journalists play in covering the death of controversial public figures and focuses on the tension between professional-journalistic practice and cultural norms. The death of controversial public figures provides the news media with an opportunity to readdress an unresolved social drama as part of a mediatized ritual of public grief. The rupture created in society as a result of the death of a prominent public figure is intensified by the rekindled public debate over society’s core values and norms. Based on an analysis of the coverage of the death of 12 Israeli public figures who died between 1972 and 2014, I suggest that journalists utilize various discursive means in channeling social dramas toward a closure. I further discuss the implications of this study for understanding the role played by journalists as both agents of collective memory and restorers of social harmony.
A tale of two reforms: Institutional change in vocational education and training in Norway and Sweden in the 1990s
Authors: Persson Thunqvist Daniel , Hagen Tønder Anna , Reegård Kaja
Published: January 2019

Political reforms of the 1990s ushered in sweeping socio-economic changes in the Nordic countries, including radical changes in their vocational education and training systems. However, the reforms led to a school-based vocational education and training system with a strong orientation towards higher education in Sweden, and a hybrid system with a stronger apprenticeship component in Norway. Drawing on comparative literature about institutional change in education systems, the aim of this article is to consider why such different vocational education and training systems emerged in countries that shared numerous commonalities following political reforms with similar neoliberal agendas. Our findings, based on secondary data analyses, show that national education reforms played a key role in transforming vocational education and training systems to promote greater flexibility and lifelong learning in line with societal changes. They also show that differences in the roles played by the social partners in Sweden and Norway in the reform processes, in conjunction with differences in political priorities, have led to major differences despite the similarities of national histories and attitudes.
Major League Baseball and Crime: Opportunity, Spatial Patterns, and Team Rivalry at St. Louis Cardinal Games
Authors: Mares Dennis , Blackburn Emily
Published: January 2019

Hosting professional sports teams is often seen as a financial benefit for cities. In the following analysis, we provide evidence that sports teams also carry costs. The analysis, the first examining a Major League Baseball team, finds significant increases in a variety of crimes during home game days of the St. Louis Cardinals. Adjusting for attendance and game length, this study finds that larcenies, motor vehicle thefts, minor assaults, disorderly conduct, and destruction of property increase in volume during game days. Increases concentrate especially around the immediate stadium area, but some are also observable in citywide levels of crime. Additionally, this study examines differences between the time of day a game is played and games played against its historic rival, the Chicago Cubs.
False Aneurysms Complicating Internal Carotid Artery Dissection
Authors: Kasprzak Dominika , Bojakowski Krzysztof , Nowicki Mirosław , Zawadzki Michał , Andziak Piotr
Published: January 2019

Pseudoaneurysm formation is a rare but dangerous complication of carotid artery dissection. It can result from trauma, spontaneous artery dissection, or iatrogenic causes. Presence of symptoms and ineffective medical therapy are one of the indications for invasive treatment. We present the case of 3 symptomatic patients with dissecting pseudoaneurysms—2 traumatic and 1 spontaneous. They were treated with 3 different endovascular procedures: the use of covered stentgraft, trans-stent coil embolization, and carotid stenting. After invasive and dual antiplatelet therapy, complete resolution of symptoms was achieved in all patients.
Effects of 60Co γ Irradiation on the Reproductive Function of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Cui Fengmei , Ma Nan , Han Xiaojing , chen Na , Xi Yue , Yuan Weiye , Xu Yufan , Han Jianfang , Xu Xiaoyan , Tu Yu
Published: January 2019

The effects of ionizing radiation on the reproductive system have always been a matter of great interest. Both artificial and naturally occurring ionizing radiation can directly or indirectly affect the reproductive system via the introduction of DNA single-strand and double-strand breaks, the excitation of water molecules, and the generation of free radicals. In order to quantitatively investigate the effects of ionizing radiation on reproductive function, 60Co γ irradiation was applied on a model organism, Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). The egg-laying and embryo-hatching activities were observed for the parent (F0) and the first 2 progeny (F1 and F2) generations. The incidence rate of ovipositor malformation was also recorded. Acridine orange was used to detect the number of apoptotic germ cells. With the above metrics, the effects of 60Co γ irradiation on the reproductive function of C. elegans were systematically evaluated. The results showed that the postirradiation egg-laying and embryo-hatching activities of the F0 generation were increasingly suppressed by increasing doses of 60Co γ irradiation. Those of the F1 generation showed a trend toward recovery although also suppressed by the radiation to the F0 generation compared with the control. Those activities were restored to normal or near-normal levels for the F2 generation. The incidence rate of ovipositor malformation was greatly increased by 60Co γ irradiation according to radiation doses. Gamma irradiation by 60Co also substantially induced germ cell apoptosis, and the apoptosis rate increased with increasing radiation doses. Therefore, 60Co γ irradiation affects the reproductive function of C. elegans. The suppression on its reproductive function increases with increasing radiation doses. The reproductive functions of progeny generations are also affected and weakened.
We are people and so are they: Shared intimacies and the ethics of digital ethnography in autism communities
Authors: Antunes Débora , Dhoest Alexander
Published: January 2019

This paper reflects on the three main ethical challenges we faced when conducting digital ethnography in three autism Brazilian communities on Facebook: how to position oneself as a researcher, how to deal with the identity of participants, and how to manage data when anonymity is not enforced. After careful consideration of these issues and taking into consideration questions of authorship and vulnerability, we concluded that, firstly, as researchers, we wanted to be more than mere observers of our participants so we aimed for a mutual sharing and involvement between participants and researchers. Secondly, we believe that voice and authorship matter, so we gave our interviewees the choice of being anonymised or not. Finally, we had in mind that our participants may not be fully aware of the consequences of academic publishing, therefore sensitive topics as well as data gathered in the communities were always anonymised.
The problem of different post-colonial spatial contexts in television news about distant wartime suffering
Authors: Doboš Pavel
Published: January 2019

The point of departure of the article is distant suffering studies. The article tries to supplement them by theses from post-colonial and critical spatial theories that were elaborated in post-colonial geography. Through post-colonial imaginative geographies, the spatial context shapes Western television performances of wartime suffering. This is demonstrated by empirical examples of mediation of wars in Mali, Palestine and Syria, from the news of Czech Television. In the Malian case, the space is homogenized as a violent African space, where suffering is moral. In the Palestinian case, the space is divided into rational Israeli and barbaric Palestinian space, where Palestinians’ suffering is neglected, if Israel stays evidently rational. In the Syrian case, the suffering is accented, however, only if Syrians seem to want to de-Orientalize themselves. These cases demonstrate that there is always a need to be spatially sensitive in respect to mediated distant suffering from post-colonial regions.
Beyond Syria’s war economy: Trade, migration and state formation across Eurasia
Authors: Anderson Paul
Published: January 2019

This article aims to challenge the methodological nationalism implicit in some writing on the Syrian conflict, by putting post-2011 transformations of Syrian commerce and mobilities in the context of wider Eurasian networks, histories, and geographies. The transformations of Syrian commerce and mobility which have occurred since 2011 are often studied under the rubrics of the war economy and forced migration. But the effect of these frames, which focus on the spectacular and immediate, is often to isolate these phenomena from the wider geographical contexts and histories of circulation which have also shaped them. This article seeks to bring these contexts into focus by exploring the activities, mobilities and networks of transnational Syrian traders who have traveled to and resided in the Chinese city of Yiwu over the past two decades. While these individuals are relatively few in number, they are significant because they enable us to see how Eurasian connections continue to shape border and mobility regimes and projects of state formation in the region.
Muslim circulations and networks in West Asia: Ethnographic perspectives on transregional connectivity
Authors: Marsden Magnus , Henig David
Published: January 2019

This article explores the concept of West Asia in relationship to recent work in the global history of Islam that points toward the existence of transregional arenas of historic significance that incorporate many of Asia’s Muslim societies. Recent anthropological work has also brought attention to the dynamic nature of the relations and cultural connections between peoples living in regions that once formed part of expansive arenas of interaction yet were divided by imperial and national boundaries, as well as the ideological conflicts of the Cold War. Against this political and historical context, we deploy West Asia as a geographical scale that brings to light interconnected forms of life that have been silenced by traditional area studies scholarship. We compare our field work experiences with two different networks made-up of Muslims that span different axis of Muslim Asia. We argue that “West Asia” brings attention to influential connections, communities, and circulations that both bear the imprint of deeper pasts as well as the influence of emergent and shifting transregional dynamics in the present. Furthermore, by emphasizing connective dynamics that move beyond the rather conventional focus on east–west relationships, the category West Asia also encourages scholarship to highlight multiple yet hitherto little explored inter-Asian north–south connections.
Azeri networks through thick and thin: West Asian politics from a diasporic eye
Authors: Yolaçan Serkan
Published: January 2019

This article makes a case for the geographical concept of West Asia and develops a specific proposal for its usage: an intervention to open up the closed box of the Middle East to post-Soviet Eurasia in the north and to the rest of Asia in the east. It advances this transregional perspective from the viewpoint of an old imperial frontier, Transcaucasia, and its erstwhile Azeri diaspora. By drawing on archival material, oral histories, contemporaneous print media, and secondary literature, this article traces the movement of Azeris from the Transcaucasian frontier into the political domains of Iranians, Russians/Soviets, and Turks/Ottomans, and show how their movements became avenues for political subversion, territorial expansion, and informal diplomacy over the course of the 20th century and until today.
Palliative Design Meets Palliative Medicine: A Strategic Approach to the Design, Construction, and Operation of Healthcare Facilities to Improve Quality of Life and Reduce Suffering for Patients, Families, and Caregivers
Authors: Zadeh Rana Sagha , Eshelman Paul
Published: January 2019

A built environment designed to be appropriate for palliative care can make a profound difference for people with life-limiting illnesses. The built environment affects a patient’s quality of life, the management of physical and psychological symptoms, and the quality of social interactions with loved ones and caregivers. This article is informed by the emerging trends in the research and practice in the disciplines of architecture, design, medicine, and nursing. The article is intended to provide a definition of palliative design and invite discussion of its potential impact on patients, families, and caregivers. Our goal is to initiate conversation about palliative design, foster sharing of experiences and feedback among building professionals, and discuss future paths for formal adoption into practice.
Evaluation of culture-specific popular music as a mental metronome for cardiopulmonary resuscitation: a randomised crossover trial
Authors: Ho Andrew Fu Wah , Liu Zhenghong , Wah Win , Fook-Chong Stephanie , Pek Pin Pin , Lo Hong Yee , Teo Rui Ming , Poon Beng Hoong , Ng Yih Yng , Ong Marcus Eng Hock
Published: January 2019

Introduction:

Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) improves survival in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. The use of certain songs as mental metronomes for CPR have been validated and recognised by contemporary guidelines. We hypothesise that the National Day song, Count on me Singapore (COMS CPR), is not inferior to standard ‘one-and-two-and-three-and-four’ counting (standard CPR) for timing CPR, in terms of the proportion of participants achieving the guideline compression rate of 100–120/minute.

Methods:

This was a prospective randomised crossover trial powered to demonstrate non-inferiority in the CPR rate. After a familiarisation session, volunteers were randomly assigned to two groups. Group A performed one cycle of standard CPR while group B performed one cycle of COMS CPR. Participants then crossed over to perform the other method. The Laerdal SkillReporter measured CPR quality. Four weeks later, participants attended a test scenario, using standard CPR or COMS CPR (randomly allocated).

Results:

Ninety subjects were recruited; 46 were randomly assigned to group A and 44 to group B. Baseline characteristics were similar; 41.1% of COMS CPR achieved 100–120/minute, versus 28.9% of standard CPR ( P=0.028). In mixed effects logistical regression, significantly more COMS CPR was performed at 100–120/minute compared to standard CPR (odds ratio 2.44, 95% confidence interval 1.01–5.9, P=0.047). The proportion of insufficient depth was higher in COMS CPR (80.59% vs. 68.01%, P<0.001). There were no differences in other aspects of CPR quality. There were no differences in CPR quality between standard CPR and COMS CPR during the follow-up.

Conclusion:

COMS CPR was not inferior in terms of the proportion of participants delivering a guideline-compliant rate of chest compression. COMS CPR may have applications to layman CPR education, such as in mass education events.