bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Toxic Triad: Childhood Exposure to Parental Domestic Violence, Parental Addictions, and Parental Mental Illness as Factors Associated With Childhood Physical Abuse
Authors: Fuller-Thomson Esme , Sawyer Jami-Leigh , Agbeyaka Senyo
Published: June 2019

Childhood physical abuse can result in serious behavioral, mental health, and physical health conditions. There is a need for improved strategies to identify households in which childhood physical abuse occurs. This article explores three potential correlates of childhood physical abuse: childhood exposure to parental domestic violence, parental addictions, and parental mental illness. Secondary analyses were conducted using the regionally representative 2010 Brief Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS) of adults ( n = 9,241 men, n = 13,627 women) and the analyses were replicated in the 2012 BRFSS ( n = 11,656 men, n = 18,145 women). Bivariate and logistic regression analyses were conducted. Approximately one-quarter of the sample was Hispanic and/or Non-White. In 2010, 78.3% of men who had been exposed to all three of these early adversities reported that they had experienced childhood physical abuse compared with 7.5% of males who did not experience these adversities. Women reported similar levels of childhood physical abuse (66.9% for those reporting all three factors, 5.9% for those with zero risk factors). The 2012 BRFSS analyses resulted in comparable findings. Domestic violence, even in the absence of parental addictions and mental illness, was associated with a high prevalence of childhood physical abuse (between 34% and 38%). Currently, the World Health Organization cautions against routine screening for child abuse due to the high rate of false positives. We propose a two-step strategy to improve targeting: first, identifying households in which two or more adversities exist, and subsequently screening children in these households. Our findings will help improve the targeting of screening and outreach efforts to children most at risk, thereby minimizing the risk of false positives. Our data provide support for universal screening for childhood physical abuse in cases of domestic violence, particularly for those families where parental addictions and/or parental mental illness also exist.
An Integrated Analysis of Maternal-Infant Sleep, Breastfeeding, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Research Supporting a Balanced Discourse
Authors: Marinelli Kathleen A. , Ball Helen L. , McKenna James J. , Blair Peter S.
Published: June 2019

Breastfeeding and the place of sleep for the mother and the infant have been controversial internationally due to reported concerns regarding infant deaths despite the known benefits of exclusive and prolonged breastfeeding, which are increased by breastfeeding at night. The aims of this integrated analysis were to (a) review breastfeeding and maternal and infant sleep research literature via historical, epidemiological, anthropological, and methodological lenses; (b) use this information to determine where we are currently in safeguarding both infant lives and breastfeeding; and (c) postulate the direction that research might take from this point forward to improve our knowledge and inform our policy and practice. Despite well-meaning but unsuccessful campaigns in some countries to dissuade parents from sleeping with their babies, many breastfeeding mothers and caregivers do sleep with their infants whether intentionally or unintentionally. Taking cultural contexts and socio-ecological circumstances into consideration, data supports policies to counsel parents and caregivers on safe sleep practices, including bed-sharing in non-hazardous circumstances, particularly in the absence of parental smoking, recent parental alcohol consumption, or sleeping next to an adult on a sofa. Further research with appropriate methodology is needed to drill down on actual rates of infant deaths, paying close attention to the definitions of deaths, the circumstances of the deaths, and confounding factors, in order to ensure we have the best information with which to derive public health policy. Introduction and use of the concept of “breastsleeping” is a plausible way to remove the negative connotations of “co-sleeping” and redirect ongoing data-driven discussions and education of best practices of breastfeeding and sleep.
Experimental investigation into simulated aging effects of common-rail injector nozzles: Influences on injection rate, spray characteristics, and engine performance
Authors: Schuckert Sebastian , Hofmann Oliver , Wachtmeister Georg
Published: June 2019

Emission performance of combustion engines has gained outstanding importance with both legislators and customers over the past years. Injector aging, such as nozzle wear or coking, results in the deterioration of injection and emission parameters. In this study, the influences of aging effects on injection rate, fuel spray as well as engine performance and emissions were assessed. Nozzles, which had previously been operated in a vehicle engine and were likely to have suffered from aging, showed no aging-induced characteristics during injection rate and spray measurements and were not investigated further. Therefore, nozzles with different nozzle hole diameters were utilized to simulate the different aging effects. Injection rate measurements demonstrated, that for smaller energizing times, a nozzle with smaller nozzle holes can deliver a higher injected mass than a nozzle with bigger nozzle holes. The adaptation of energizing time or injection pressure demonstrated the potential to compensate the change in engine load due to smaller or bigger nozzle holes. For bigger nozzle holes, the adaptation of injection pressure in order to restore the target load returned lower NOx emissions, whereas the adaptation of the energizing time always yielded lower soot emissions compared to the reference nozzle. For small nozzle holes, the optimization of the start of energizing reduced specific NOx emissions without increasing specific soot emissions. The comparison of measured injection rate and fuel spray characteristics to the ones reported in literature confirms the possibility of simulating nozzle wear by increased nozzle holes and coking by smaller nozzle holes. The results of this study are of vital interest to the research of aging effects and add useful knowledge about compensation methods for nozzle aging.
Growing Inequality: What Can We Do?
Authors: Camdessus Michel
Published: June 2019

Growing inequality in the world is disturbing. For example, on average, the top 10 percent of the households hold 50 percent of total wealth. Inequality is even higher in emerging and developing countries. Rising inequality in disposable income has adverse consequences on growth over the medium term and leads to growing frustrations and potentially social turmoil. It adversely affects people’s living conditions, societal cohesion, and social mobility. Governments need to tackle rising inequality urgently and create opportunities and advancement for all. They need to invest in human capital and provide the poor with better health services and stronger education. Means-tested transfers focused on young children have often achieved more equitable health and education outcomes. These efforts require increased fiscal space. Increased progressivity in taxation would (within reason) also help reduce inequality. Additionally, a global initiative on inequality, in which countries would commit to implement their own-designed measures to increase the income of the poorest 40 percent faster than the national median, is proposed. Countries would support each other by sharing experiences, while multilateral organizations would help them design their policies. Two global conferences, in 2023 and in 2028, would examine progress and identify the most effective policies.
Accounting in state-owned companies operated for the production and sale of alcohol in Russia in the fifteenth-seventeenth centuries
Authors: Sokolov Viatcheslav , Karelskaia Svetlana , Zuga Ekaterina
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study is to research the accounting method used in state-owned companies operated for alcohol production and sale in Russia in the fifteenth–seventeenth centuries. Such an accounting method was distinguished by a variety of registers and entries according to a single-entry bookkeeping system. By the seventeenth century, this method had provided a framework for the emergence of a complex accounting system based on the principles of cameral accounting. This study presents the history of an accounting method used in state-owned companies in Russia before the advent of double-entry bookkeeping.
Frequency of Escherichia coli virotypes in calf diarrhea and intestinal morphologic changes associated with these virotypes or other diarrheagenic pathogens
Authors: Ngeleka Musangu , Godson Dale , Vanier Ghyslaine , Desmarais Gabriel , Wojnarowicz Chris , Sayi Soraya , Huang Yanyun , Movasseghi Rambod , Fairbrother John M.
Published: June 2019

Calf diarrhea is a common cause of pre-weaning morbidity and mortality in cattle operations. We evaluated the role of Escherichia coli by assessing the frequency of genes encoding virulence factors (virotypes) in E. coli from feces or intestinal contents, and the association of these virotypes or other diarrheagenic pathogens with intestinal morphologic changes in calves with or without diarrhea. E. coli was isolated from 408 feces and 105 intestines of calves with diarrhea and compared to those isolated from 635 feces and 100 intestines of calves without diarrhea, from 2002 to 2016. Virotype EAST1:F17, in combination with minor virotypes, was the most commonly detected type, but without differences in frequency between the 2 groups of calves. No significant intestinal morphologic changes were observed with the different E. coli virotypes in either group of calves, except for bacterial attachment to enterocytes for virotype STa:F5, which was detected only in calves with diarrhea. These observations suggest that E. coli, excluding virotype STa:F5, is not a significant diarrhea-causing agent in calves. However, the intestinal lesions observed in ~82% of calves with diarrhea were attributed to other diarrheagenic pathogens that include bovine coronavirus, Clostridium perfringens, Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp., rotavirus, and Salmonella spp.
Self-Perceived Health Status and Sense of Coherence in Children With Type 1 Diabetes in the West Bank, Palestine
Authors: Elissa Kawther , Bratt Ewa-Lena , Axelsson Åsa B , Khatib Salam , Sparud-Lundin Carina
Published: June 2019

Introduction: Self-perceived health status and sense of coherence (SOC) are essential constructs for capturing health outcomes in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). This study measured self-perceived health status and SOC in children with T1D and compared them with a healthy reference group in West Bank, Palestine. Methodology: One hundred children with T1D aged 8 to 18 years and 300 healthy children completed PedsQL 4.0 Generic Core Scales and SOC-13 in a cross-sectional descriptive study. Results: All children reported acceptable self-perceived health status and low degree of SOC. In the diabetes group, high degree of SOC was associated with better self-perceived health status and more optimal metabolic control. Males in the diabetes group reported higher self-perceived health status than females. Discussion: The unstable political situation in Palestine may threaten SOC in children in general. Health professionals can monitor self-perceived health status and SOC to evaluate interventions aiming to improve glycemic control.
Modelling the Mediating Effect of Health Care Healing Environment on Core Health Care Delivery and Patient Satisfaction in Ghana
Authors: Amankwah Oti , Weng-Wai Choong , Mohammed Abdul Hakim
Published: June 2019

Objective:

The multifaceted nature of health care delivery has led to the need to incorporate strategies that will help to enhance performance and maintain the quality of the health care environment. However, even though dedicated health care staffs contribute to patients’ satisfaction of health care delivery, the health care environment must ensure the safety and well-being of patients. Like most developing countries, many public hospitals in Ghana are faced with challenges in the area of health care healing environment. Therefore, this article investigates the mediating effect of health care healing environment between health care core business and patients’ satisfaction.

Method:

This is a cross-sectional study involving adult patients of Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, and Cape Coast Teaching Hospital in Ghana. A questionnaire survey based on the ‘A Staff and Patient Environment Calibration Toolkit (ASPECT)’ dimensions and health care core service dimensions was used to collect data from 622 patients. SmartPLS was used to analyse the data collected.

Results:

The findings of the study show that the quality of health care healing environment mediates the relationship between patients’ satisfaction and all of the constructs under the core health care delivery.

Conclusion:

Stakeholders of the Ghanaian health care sector should take initiatives to constantly improve the quality of health care healing environment as it has an influence on patient satisfaction of the overall core health care delivery.
Some Scars Do Not Run Deep: The Qualitative and Quantitative Nature of Neonatal Seldinger Pigtail Chest Drain Scars
Authors: Gundle Leo BH , Dowek Aimee , Heer Priya , Jones Steven , Bartle David
Published: June 2019

Pneumothorax is a complication of respiratory distress syndrome, of which many preterm babies suffer. If significant, these pneumothoraces can be treated by the insertion of a chest drain. There are a number of different types of chest drain, and techniques of insertion. This study aims to establish both the quantitative nature, and emotional significance of neonatal pigtail chest drain scarring, as inserted via the Seldinger technique. Parents were interviewed by telephone and asked to send photographs of their child’s scar to be graded. Researchers found that, on the whole, the scar size and severity was not significant, and that those interviewed generally agreed that while the scar served as a reminder of a traumatic time, its size was unimportant. These results may inform future practice on a basis of chest drain comparison; results imply that chest drains with the greatest efficacy should be used.
Watch to win? E-sport, broadcast expertise and technicity in Dota 2
Authors: Egliston Ben
Published: June 2019

This article analyses how broadcasts of electronic sport (e-sport) condition the gameplay practices of those who watch. Extending and deepening a limited body of past work, I conduct this analysis through a post-phenomenological perspective, adopting Bernard Stiegler’s theory of technicity. Stiegler provides a useful theorisation of how technical forms carry significant implications for the human, whose status is always already technical. As Stiegler sees it, adopting new advancements or changes in technical forms conditions human experience and behaviour profoundly. Mobilising this post-phenomenological view, I examine how players, through the prism of broadcast e-sport, negotiate the temporal, corporeal and technical aspects of their own gameplay. To do this, I draw upon findings from a wider research project about e-sports broadcasts in Valve Corporation’s popular game Dota 2, showing how various complicated and sometimes antagonistic entanglements emerge from the assemblage of e-sports broadcasts and the gameplay of its viewers.
Studies of anaerobic internal combustion engine using direct injection of liquid monopropellant
Authors: Vézina Gabriel , Brouillette Martin
Published: June 2019

This article describes the design and experimentation of a new anaerobic internal combustion engine using direct injection of liquid monopropellant. Specifically, the use of monopropellant post-injection allows the control of the profile P - V of the cycle, which significantly increases the mean effective pressure (indicated mean effective pressure) and the power density of the engine. The monopropellant used was isopropyl nitrate, which is the first known demonstration of a piston engine using this monopropellant for anaerobic operation. The engine power has been modulated with post-injection strategy to modify the P - V cycle profile to obtain a constant-pressure combustion in anaerobic mode. Experiments were performed using an engine with a single piston with a effective swept volume of 45 cm3, at an operating frequency of 2 Hz. The prototype engine has achieved an indicated mean effective pressure of up to 4.4 MPa and an indicated power up to 400 W. The indicated thermodynamic efficiency of the engine is found to be about 13% based on the isopropyl nitrate heat of explosion. The indicated specific fuel consumption of the engine is 2.5 mg/J, which represents a conversion efficiency of 49% based on the isopropyl nitrate specific energy.
Can non-Persians speak? The sovereign’s narration of “Iranian identity”
Authors: Soleimani Kamal , Mohammadpour Ahmad
Published: June 2019

Since the late 19th century, despite multi-cultural and multilingual composition of Iranian population, Persian nationalism has functioned as the ideology of the state. Persian intelligentsia have formulated a set of historical and cultural referents that enabled them to present the Persian language and identity as primordial and all-inclusive of all Iranians. By the advent of the modern nation-state, during Pahlavi dynasty, the non-Persian identities were brutally repressed in favor of the “One Country, One Nation, and One Language” policy. Through the adoption of such a policy and with the help of Persian intellectual and literati classes, the state was able to impose Persian identity as the singular “Iranian identity” and systematically marginalize and criminalize the non-Persian identities, treating them as “manufactured ethnic identities.” Being declared as “manufactured,” non-Persian identities are consequently perceived as constant threats to the territorial integrity and ideological monologue of the sovereign. This paper, therefore, aims to critically reassess “Iranian identity” and its production of “internal colonized Other.” It argues that through such an “internal othering” that Persian nationalism, backed by the combined force of a military and “privileged epistemology” has generated and sustained “the process of internal colonization.”
Predicting the noise of an open rotor in a wind tunnel
Authors: Sureshkumar Prathiban , Kingan Michael J , Parry Anthony B
Published: June 2019

A study of the impact of reverberation on cruise regime acoustic testing of contra-rotating open rotors in a wind tunnel is presented. Models for the rotor tone noise generated in closed cross-section wind tunnels are derived and used in the analysis. The models account for rectangular and circular cross-sections, rigid or impedance boundaries and, for the rectangular wind tunnel case, the rotor axis may be arbitrarily located within the tunnel (but aligned with the flow direction). These models are used to generate simple simulations of model-scale open rotor testing in two real wind tunnels suited to high-speed rotor testing – the Transonic Wind Tunnel in Bedford, UK and the S1MA wind tunnel in Modane, France. In the analysis, the effect of various modelling parameters on the reverberant noise field is investigated. It is shown that open rotor interaction tone noise may be particularly susceptible to the impact of reverberation and that for many tones the reverberant field may persist and contribute to a contaminated noise field, even for wind tunnels with acoustic treatments on the walls of the working section.
Towards a user preference model for interior lighting, Part 3: An alternative model
Authors: Khanh TQ , Bodrogi P , Guo X
Published: June 2019

In Parts 1 and 2 of this work, an experiment was described in which subjects assessed their visual impressions of scene brightness (B), visual clarity (VC), colour preference (CP) and scene preference (SP) in a real room. In this room, the horizontal illuminance ( Ev), the correlated colour temperature (CCT) and the level of chroma enhancement caused by the spectrum of the light source (Δ C*) were changed systematically. In the present Part 3, these mean subjective B, VC, CP and SP scale values are re-analysed in terms of an alternative model based on a different set of independent variables: CCT, Δ C* and the circadian stimulus (CS). Contour map diagrams resulting from the new modelling equations are shown and compared with the conventional Kruithof-type representation.
Preparation and characterization studies of modified cellulosic textile fabric composite with in situ-generated AgNPs coating
Authors: Sivaranjana P , Nagarajan ER , Rajini N , Ayrilmis Nadir , Rajulu A Varada , Siengchin Suchart
Published: June 2019

The growing interest of green technology concept in the field of biomedical application provides the thrust for the development of eco-friendly materials. Accordingly, the eco-friendly nanocomposites were prepared using in situ-generated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) in cotton fabrics with various concentrations of aq. AgNO3 solutions (1–5 mM). All these nanocomposites were developed using Cassia alata leaf extract as a reducing agent through simple immersion process. The resulting nanocomposite cotton fabrics (NCFs) were characterized by SEM, EDX, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD and antibacterial activity tests. During and after the generation of AgNPs, the colour of the matrix changed from light brown to dark brown visually indicating the formation of NCFs. The SEM images and EDX spectra revealed the generation of spherical AgNPs in the size range of 20 nm to 119 nm. The X-ray analysis further confirmed the presence of AgNPs in the NCFs under study. These NCFs exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli bacteria. Further, the NCFs under study also inhibited the growth of bacteria in sewerage water. Based on the antimicrobial activity results, these NCFs can be considered for wound dressing and for biomedical applications.
An efficient cooperative message authentication based on reputation mechanism in vehicular ad hoc networks
Authors: Xie Yong , Zhang Songsong , Li Xiang , Li Yanggui
Published: June 2019

Vehicular ad hoc networks have emerged as a promising approach to increasing road safety and efficiency. Vehicles periodically broadcast traffic-related status messages. Message authentication is a common way for ensuring information reliability, but it is an unaffordable computational cost for single vehicle. In this article, we propose an efficient cooperative message authentication based on reputation mechanism. In the proposed scheme, reputation model is used to assess authentication efforts of vehicles, which enhances initiative for cooperative message authentication and inhabits selfish behavior; sequence optimization algorithm solves messages overflowing on condition limited computation of onboard unit and improves the speed of message authentication at the premise of ensuring the reliability of message authentication. Simulation results show that our scheme presents a nice performance of authentication efficiency, packet loss ratio, and missing detection ratio.
Improving Mental Health Service Utilization Among Men: A Systematic Review and Synthesis of Behavior Change Techniques Within Interventions Targeting Help-Seeking
Authors: Sagar-Ouriaghli Ilyas , Godfrey Emma , Bridge Livia , Meade Laura , Brown June S.L.
Published: June 2019

Compared to women, men are less likely to seek help for mental health difficulties. Despite considerable interest, a paucity in evidence-based solutions remains to solve this problem.

The current review sought to synthesize the specific techniques within male-specific interventions that may contribute to an improvement in psychological help-seeking (attitudes, intentions, or behaviors). A systematic review identified 6,598 potential articles from three databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO). Nine studies were eligible. A meta-analysis was problematic due to disparate interventions, outcomes, and populations. The decision to use an innovative approach that adopted the Behavior Change Technique (BCT) taxonomy to synthesize each intervention’s key features likely to be responsible for improving help-seeking was made. Of the nine studies, four were engagement strategies (i.e., brochures/documentaries), two randomized controlled trials (RCTs), two pilot RCTs, and one retrospective review. Regarding quality assessment, three were scored as “strong,” five as “moderate,” and one as “weak.” Key processes that improved help-seeking attitudes, intentions, or behaviors for men included using role models to convey information, psychoeducational material to improve mental health knowledge, assistance with recognizing and managing symptoms, active problem-solving tasks, motivating behavior change, signposting services, and, finally, content that built on positive male traits (e.g., responsibility and strength). This is the first review to use this novel approach of using BCTs to summarize and identify specific techniques that may contribute to an improvement in male help-seeking interventions, whether engagement with treatment or the intervention itself. Overall, this review summarizes previous male help-seeking interventions, informing future research/clinical developments.
A constructive critique of thedraftICH E9 Addendum
Authors: Scharfstein Daniel O
Published: June 2019

In this article, I review the key elements of the proposed International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use E9 Addendum, present a constructive critique, and provide recommendations of how it can be improved. To highlight ideas, I present a case study involving a confirmatory trial for a chronic pain medication.
A novel, hybrid, single- and multi-site clinical trial design for CLN3 disease, an ultra-rare lysosomal storage disorder
Authors: Adams Heather R , Defendorf Sara , Vierhile Amy , Mink Jonathan W , Marshall Frederick J , Augustine Erika F
Published: June 2019

Background

Travel burden often substantially limits the ability of individuals to participate in clinical trials. Wide geographic dispersion of individuals with rare diseases poses an additional key challenge in the conduct of clinical trials for rare diseases. Novel technologies and methods can improve access to research by connecting participants in their homes and local communities to a distant research site. For clinical trials, however, understanding of factors important for transition from traditional multi-center trial models to local participation models is limited. We sought to test a novel, hybrid, single- and multi-site clinical trial design in the context of a trial for Juvenile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis (CLN3 disease), a very rare pediatric neurodegenerative disorder.

Methods

We created a “hub and spoke” model for implementing a 22-week crossover clinical trial of mycophenolate compared with placebo, with two 8-week study arms. A single central site, the “hub,” conducted screening, consent, drug dispensing, and tolerability and efficacy assessments. Each participant identified a clinician to serve as a collaborating “spoke” site to perform local safety monitoring. Study participants traveled to the hub at the beginning and end of each study arm, and to their individual spoke site in the intervening weeks.

Results

A total of 18 spoke sites were established for 19 enrolled study participants. One potential participant was unable to identify a collaborating local site and was thus unable to participate. Study start-up required a median 6.7 months (interquartile range = 4.6–9.2 months). Only 33.3% (n = 6 of 18) of spoke site investigators had prior clinical trial experience, thus close collaboration with respect to study startup, training, and oversight was an important requirement. All but one participant completed all study visits; no study visits were missed due to travel requirements.

Conclusions

This study represents a step toward local trial participation for patients with rare diseases. Even in the context of close oversight, local participation models may be best suited for studies of compounds with well-understood side-effect profiles, for those with straightforward modes of administration, or for studies requiring extended follow-up periods.
Non-equilibrium modeling hysteresis of water freezing: Ice thawing in partially saturated porous building materials
Authors: Gawin Dariusz , Pesavento Francesco , Koniorczyk Marcin , Schrefler Bernhard A
Published: June 2019

This article presents a novel mathematical model of hygro-thermal processes in a porous material, partially saturated with liquid water, exposed to temperatures below the freezing point of pore water. Water–ice phase transition is modeled by means of a kinetic approach considering water supercooling and thermodynamic non-equilibrium of the phases, what allows taking into account a hysteresis of ice content during freezing–thawing of moist porous materials. The model equations are solved for two numerical examples. The first one deals with laboratory differential scanning calorimetry test of a cement mortar saturated with water and exposed to temperatures below the freezing point of water (down to −40°C). The results are used for experimental validation of the proposed model, confirming its accuracy and practical usefulness. In the second example, the mesh refinement test is performed and the influence of the solid–liquid water phase change model parameters on the simulation results for a 1D model problem concerning water freezing–thawing are analyzed and discussed.
Causes of stress and strategies for managing stress among German and US principals
Authors: Hancock Dawson R , Müller Ulrich , Stricker Tobias , Wang Chuang , Lee Sherry , Hachen Jeremy
Published: June 2019

The school principal impacts student achievement at a level second only to that of the classroom teacher. The USA and Germany are experiencing challenges in recruiting and retaining individuals for the principalship and the shortage is expected to intensify. Previous research has shown that increasing paperwork and responsibilities serve as inhibitors to entering the profession and that school principals are increasingly stressed by a wide range of responsibilities and a shrinking pool of resources. This stress causes physiological and professional difficulties that have a detrimental impact on school function and culture. The present study seeks to identify the major causes of stress, strategies for mitigating stress, and limitations of stress management among principals in the USA and Germany.
Effects of semantic neighbourhood density on spoken word production
Authors: Hameau Solène , Nickels Lyndsey , Biedermann Britta
Published: June 2019

When producing words, it is generally agreed that semantically related words are activated along with the target. However, relatively little is known about the extent to which the number of such semantically related words affects the production of spoken words. The research presented here explores, in detail, the influence of semantic neighbourhood density—the number of words of similar meaning in the lexicon—on picture naming performance in both unimpaired speakers and a large group of individuals with aphasia. In Experiment 1, six different semantic neighbourhood density measures were compared using principal component analysis. Four different semantic neighbourhood density components were identified: feature-based, context-based, association-based, and distant. In Experiment 2, these new measures were used as predictors in an analysis of picture naming data from unimpaired English speakers: no significant effects of semantic neighbourhood factors were observed on either latency or accuracy. Finally, Experiment 3 reports an analysis of picture naming responses of a large group of individuals with aphasia ( n = 193), examining the influence of the semantic neighbourhood density measures. Effects of the feature-based semantic neighbourhood measure on accuracy varied across participants with no overall main effect. This same measure increased the probability of a coordinate error compared with a correct response but also compared with an omission. Results are best accommodated by theories of word production that incorporate mechanisms by which semantically related concepts can both facilitate and inhibit target production.
To switch or not to switch? A real-life experience using dexamethasone in combination with abiraterone
Authors: Zanardi Elisa , Soldato Davide , Latocca Maria Maddalena , Cattrini Carlo , Boccardo Francesco
Published: June 2019

The recently published phase II prospective SWITCH trial evaluated whether patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) treated with abiraterone acetate could benefit from a ‘steroid switch’ from prednisone to dexamethasone. A total of 26 patients, both chemonaïve (14 patients) or pretreated with docetaxel (12 patients), with biochemical and/or limited radiological progression, were enrolled in this trial. Primary endpoint was prostate specific antigen (PSA) 30 defined as the proportion of patients with a PSA level decline 30% or more after 6 weeks of treatment with abiraterone acetate + dexamethasone. Secondary endpoints were: a PSA50 rate (defined as the proportion of patients with PSA decline of 50% or more after 12 weeks on abiraterone acetate + dexamethasone), biochemical and radiological progression-free survival (bPFS and rPFS, respectively), benefit from subsequent treatment and identification of biomarkers of response. Primary endpoint was reached in 46.2% of patients (12 patients), and two patients had an objective partial response on computed tomography scan. Median bPFS and rPFS were 5.3 months and 11.8 months. We present a case series of 11 patients who were consecutively treated with a steroid switch at our institution from January 2016 to August 2018 to investigate if this strategy could be used in a ‘real-life’ setting. We observed a PSA30 response in two patients (18%), median bPFS was 4.77 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.5–14.6) and median rPFS was 7.2 months (95% CI 3.8–15.5). Seven patients had a radiological stable disease as best response to steroid switch. Three patients were being still treated with abiraterone acetate + dexamethasone at data cut-off time. Our case series confirms that switching from prednisone to dexamethasone during abiraterone acetate treatment produces biochemical and radiological responses in both a predocetaxel and a postdocetaxel setting, providing a clinical benefit in mCRPC patients. However, to date, there is no clear indication as to which patient could benefit most from this kind of strategy.
Potential drug–drug interactions and associated factors among hospitalized cardiac patients at Jimma University Medical Center, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Diksis Netsanet , Melaku Tsegaye , Assefa Desta , Tesfaye Andualem
Published: June 2019

Background:

Concomitant use of several drugs for a patient is often imposing increased risk of drug–drug interactions. Drug–drug interactions are a major cause for concern in patients with cardiovascular disorders due to multiple co-existing conditions and the wide class of drugs they receive. This study is aimed to assess the prevalence of potential drug–drug interactions and associated factors among hospitalized cardiac patients at medical wards of Jimma University Medical Center, Southwest Ethiopia.

Methods:

A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted among hospitalized cardiac adult patients based on the inclusion criteria. Patient-specific data were collected using structured data collection tool. Potential drug–drug interaction was analyzed using Micromedex 3.0 DRUG-REAX® System. Data were analyzed using statistical software package, version 20.0. To identify the independent predictors of potential drug–drug interaction, multiple stepwise backward logistic regression analysis was done. Statistical significance was considered at a p-value < 0.05. Written informed consent from patients was obtained and the patients were informed about confidentiality of the information obtained.

Results:

Of the total 200 patients, majority were male (52.50%) and with a mean(±standard deviation) age of 42.54(±7.89) years. Out of 673 patients’ prescriptions analyzed, 521 prescriptions comprised potential drug interactions and it was found that 967 drug interactions were present. The prevalence rate of potential drug–drug interactions among the study unit was 4.83 per patient and 1.44 per prescription regardless of the severity during their hospital stay. Overall the prevalence rate of potential drug interactions was 74.41%. Older age (adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.067 (2.33–27.12), p = 0.049), long hospital stay (⩾7 days) (adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 2.80 (1.71–4.61), p = 0.024), and polypharmacy (adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.64 (0.66–4.11), p = 0.041) were independent predictors for the occurrence of potential drug–drug interactions.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated a high prevalence of potential DIs among hospitalized cardiac patients in medical wards due to the complexity of pharmacotherapy. The prevalence rate is directly related to age, number of prescribed drugs, and length of hospital stay. Pharmacodynamic drug–drug interaction was the common mechanism of drug–drug interactions. Therefore, close monitoring of hospitalized patients is highly recommended.
Facebook support for breastfeeding mothers: A comparison to offline support and associations with breastfeeding outcomes
Authors: Robinson Ayanna , Lauckner Carolyn , Davis Marsha , Hall Jori , Anderson Alex Kojo
Published: June 2019

Objectives

For breastfeeding mothers, online support groups through Facebook may be a more convenient and preferred source for accessing breastfeeding information and support, but few studies exist that examine the use of Facebook groups specifically for breastfeeding support. This study explores the sources of support among users of Facebook breastfeeding support groups and a possible mechanism by which support received on Facebook may translate to behavioral outcomes among breastfeeding mothers.

Methods

From July–September 2017 a survey was distributed online to African American mothers ( N = 277) who participate in breastfeeding support groups on Facebook. The survey assessed network support from Facebook and other sources of breastfeeding support, perceived breastfeeding norms, breastfeeding self-efficacy and breastfeeding attitudes. Correlations and linear regression analysis were used to examine the relationship between covariates and outcome variables.

Results

The average intended breastfeeding duration among participants in this study was 19 months. Participants reported the highest amount of breastfeeding support received from their Facebook support group, in comparison to other sources of support, and Facebook support was significantly correlated with intended breastfeeding duration ( p < 0.05). Self-efficacy and breastfeeding attitudes remained significant predictors of intended breastfeeding duration within the final regression model.

Conclusions

Breastfeeding support received within Facebook groups may compensate for inadequate support received within mothers’ networks. More research is needed to understand the mechanism through which Facebook support may contribute to prolonged breastfeeding durations.
Intra- and inter-rater reliability in a comparative study of cross-sectional and spiral computed tomography pelvimetry methods
Authors: Phexell Erika , Åkesson Anna , Söderberg Marcus , Bolejko Anetta
Published: June 2019

Background

Different low-dose computed tomography (CT) pelvimetry methods can be used to evaluate the size of birth canal before delivery. CT pelvimetry might generate an acceptable low fetal radiation dose but its measurement accuracy is unknown.

Purpose

To investigate intra- and inter-rater measurement reliability of cross-sectional and two spiral CT pelvimetry methods: standard spiral and short spiral.

Material and Methods

Ten individuals (age ≥60 years, body mass index ≥30 kg/m2) having a CT scan of the abdomen also had CT pelvimetry scans. Three radiologists made independent measurements of each pelvimetry method on two occasions and also in consensus for a reference pelvimetry computed from the standard-dose CT scan of the abdomen. Inter- and intra-rater reliability was analyzed by intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results

Measurements in the short spiral pelvimetry demonstrated excellent intra- and inter-rater reliability, intraclass correlation coefficient ≥0.93, and good to excellent 95% confidence interval 0.87–0.99. Corresponding results of the standard spiral and cross-sectional pelvimetry showed good to excellent intraclass correlation coefficient ≥0.85 and ≥0.76, and 95% confidence interval was least good and moderate 0.73–0.98 and 0.59–0.97, respectively. Intraclass correlation coefficient between reference pelvimetry and other CT methods showed analogous results.

Conclusion

The short spiral pelvimetry demonstrated high and best reliability in comparison to other methods. Standard spiral method showed also good measurement reliability but the short spiral pelvimetry generates lower fetal radiation dose. This method might be suitable for measurements at narrow pelvis. Patient acceptance and attitude to CT pelvimetry should be investigated.
Promoting Adherence to Influenza Vaccination Recommendations in Pediatric Practice
Authors: Werk Lloyd N. , Diaz Maria Carmen , Cadilla Adriana , Franciosi James P. , Hossain Md Jobayer
Published: June 2019

Objectives: In the United States, nonadherence to seasonal influenza vaccination guidelines for children and adolescents is common and results in unnecessary morbidity and mortality. We conducted a quality improvement project to improve vaccination rates and test effects of 2 interventions on vaccination guidelines adherence. Methods: We conducted a cluster randomized control trial with 11 primary care practices (PRACTICE) that provided care for 11 293 individual children and adolescents in a children’s health care system from September 2015 through April 2016. Practice sites (with their clinicians) were randomly assigned to 4 arms (no intervention [Control], computerized clinical decision support system [CCDSS], web-based training [WBT], or CCDSS and WBT [BOTH]). Results: During the study, 55.8% of children and adolescents received influenza vaccination, which improved modestly during the study period compared with the prior influenza season ( P = .009). Actual adherence to recommendations, including dosing, timeliness, and avoidance of missed opportunities, was 46.4% of patients cared for by the PRACTICE. The WBT was most effective in promoting adherence with vaccination recommendations with an estimated average odds ratio = 1.26, P < .05, to compare between preintervention and intervention periods. Over the influenza season, there was a significantly increasing trend in odds ratio in the WBT arm ( P < .05). Encouraging process improvements and providing longitudinal feedback on monthly rate of vaccination sparked some practice changes but limited impact on outcomes. Conclusions: Web-based training at the start of influenza season with monthly reports of adherence can improve correct dose and timing of influenza vaccination with modest impact on overall vaccination rate.
Advancing STEM-Based Business Sustainability: Mending the Curricular Gap
Authors: Petrun Sayers Elizabeth L. , Craig Christopher A. , Gilbertz Susan , Feng Song , Karam Rita T. , Bohman Angelena
Published: June 2019

Businesses are increasingly facing economic, social, and environmental sustainability challenges. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) are needed to address business sustainability needs, yet such competencies are noticeably absent from academic literature and business curricula. To mend the curricular gap, we make the case for developing cross-disciplinary STEM-based business sustainability curricula that enhance students’ sustainability literacy and cognitive abilities related to STEM and sustainability. A literature review is provided that documents curricular gaps specific to STEM and sustainability in the academic literature and in business sustainability program offerings. We then present a framework that can be used to integrate STEM and sustainability across the curricula and to evaluate curricular implementation. This review provides timely and relevant information that can help business management educators, instructors, and administrators justify, design, develop, implement, and evaluate STEM-based business sustainability curricula.
Planning by (mis)rule of laws: The idiom and dilemma of planning within Ghana’s dual legal land systems
Authors: Boamah Emmanuel Frimpong , Amoako Clifford
Published: June 2019

This paper contributes to our understanding of urban planning challenges within dual legal land systems in sub-Sahara Africa. It draws ideas from Ananya Roy’s “idioms of urbanization and planning” to make two arguments regarding the prevailing idiom of planning urban and peri-urban areas in Ghana. First, there is (mis)rule of statutory planning and land laws: the state places itself both within and outside statutory planning laws to enforce eminent domain powers, lease publicly acquired land to private developers, (un)map people, places, and informal economic activities, and pay or refuse to pay compensation for publicly acquired land. Second, this (mis)rule co-exists with (mis)rule of customary land laws: customary authorities place themselves within and outside customary laws to negotiate with state and prospective land buyers, (re)lease publicly acquired lands to private developers, and engage in double dipping within Ghana’s deregulated land market (i.e. leasing the same land parcel to multiple developers). Thus, both state and customary authorities, as sovereign keepers of statutory and customary land and planning laws, are able to place themselves within and outside Ghana’s dual legal land rules to declare property ownership, enclaves of value, and zones of exception. Herein lies the idiom and dilemma of planning within Ghana’s dual legal land systems: (mis)rule of statutory and customary planning and land laws.
Patient safety professionals as the third victims of adverse events
Authors: Holden Julie , Card Alan J
Published: June 2019

Harm from adverse events does not always stop with patients and their families. In recent years, attention has been drawn to the plight of second victims, the healthcare workers involved in an incident, who can also experience significant harm. But even that does not tell the whole story. This article describes how those with indirect exposure to an adverse event can become the third victims of an adverse event, and focuses on the example of patient safety professionals responsible for incident investigation and improvement activities.

We outline potential sources of harm, including critical incident stress, emotional labor, abusive supervision, and competing loyalties/duties. These stressors may cause symptoms of acute stress disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder, loss of confidence, and economic harm, and may even lead patient safety professionals to leave the profession.

We also propose a number of actions to prevent or reduce harm to third victims, which include extending second victim support services to patient safety professionals, redesigning the patient safety role, providing board-level and senior management leadership, creating a culture of psychological safety, and tracking metrics related to third victims.

Having drawn attention to this problem, we hope the research community will move forward with an agenda to more robustly characterize the sources and types of harm third victims experience, and to test interventions aimed at preventing and mitigating that harm.