bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Youth in Foster Care and the Reasonable and Prudent Parenting Standard
Authors: McRell Amanda Stafford , Holmes Christian E. , Singh Akanksha , Levkoff Sue E. , Schooley Benjamin , Hikmet Neşet , Seay Kristen D.
Published: September 2020

Children in foster care face disproportionate rates of biopsychosocial challenges but social and extracurricular activities (SEAs) may support their healthy development. The Reasonable and Prudent Parenting Standard (RPPS), a 2014 federal policy, aims to increase access to these opportunities for children in foster care. Analyses of statutes from 50 US states and the District of Columbia (n = 51) revealed similarities and differences in state-level RPPS policy implementation. Building on these findings, researchers conducted semi-structured retrospective telephone interviews with foster parents across one southeastern state (n = 20) to identify local retrospective perspectives on RPPS implementation. Using thematic inductive coding two unique themes emerged about SEAs prior to RPPS: 1) negative social impacts and 2) complicated activity approval processes. Three unique themes emerged after RPPS: 1) empowerment, 2) implementation disparities and 3) resource recommendations. Policy implications include the need to support foster parents by increasing resources (funding, transportation, access), clarifying liability and clarifying motivation expectations.
Exploring Correlates of Paid Early Work Experiences for Youth With Autism Using NLTS2012 Data
Authors: Qian Xueqin , Johnson David , Papay Clare
Published: September 2020

Prior research has demonstrated that paid work experience while in school is a predictor of postschool employment outcomes for youth with disabilities. For youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), early paid work experience in high school can provide a place to learn occupational skills as well as develop communication, problem solving and interpersonal skills and behaviors that are essential for obtaining and maintaining employment. In the present study, we examined the extent to which youth with ASD have engaged in early paid work experiences while in school and factors associated with such experiences, using data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study 2012 . We found that approximately 24.4% of youth with ASD reported having been involved in a paid work experience during high school at some point within the past year. Further, age, social engagement, household income, and parent expectations were significant predictors of early paid work experience. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
The Nature, Role, and Measurement of Affect
Authors: Webb Robert C.
Published: September 2020

To define the appeal of museums, historic sites, and other informal learning settings, one must understand the feeling component of the experience, not just the informational one. This article seeks to clarify the nature of this affective factor, especially as it can be distinguished from the larger term emotion. The origin of affect in personal relevance and its more specific sources in identification, human interest, and stimulus characteristics are discussed. The role that affect plays in directing attention, aiding memory, and allowing decision making are explored relative to its use in exhibits and displays. Finally, a simple method of measurement is introduced to encourage its assessment for improvement of informal learning and its use in research.
Clicking the Icon: Exploring the Meanings Visitors Attach to Three National Capital Memorials
Authors: Goldman Theresa L. , Chen Wei-Li Jasmine , Larsen David L.
Published: September 2020

This study explored the meanings visitors attach to three National Park Service sites in Washington, D.C.: the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Researchers used focus-group interviews (21 interviews, 182 participants) to identify the meanings visitors attach to park resources, their interests relative to interpretive programming, and the extent to which connections between the meanings of the resource and the interests of the visitor occur as a result of exposure to interpretive programs. An analysis of focus-group interview data revealed four themes that reflect a sense of spiritual connection with the ideals of our nation; the role of Lincoln as the embodiment of our identity and aspirations; the elements of quality interpretation; and a sense of gratitude for those who served and of responsibility to maintain democratic traditions. Study results suggest several ways that an understanding of visitor meanings and place experience can improve interpretive programming.
Assessment of Communication Focused on Human-Black Bear Conflict at Yosemite National Park
Authors: Lackey Brenda K. , Ham Sam H.
Published: September 2020

This study assessed how Yosemite National Park (YNP) targets the continuing problem of human-black bear conflicts via interpretive communication. The research examines how YNP delivers information to visitors about human-black bear conflicts, and how visitors receive that information. Key variables include message recall by visitors, the effectiveness of message content and media in reaching visitors in various overnight lodging locations, the spatial relationship between message delivery and bear incidents, and the role of park employees in delivering bear information to visitors. Results indicate that park visitors receive messages about bears. Inconsistencies between messages delivered via personal interpretive services and YNP bear management policy were revealed. Implications for future research and improving YNP's human-bear communication program are offered.
Elements to Successful Interpretation: A Multiple Case Study of Five National Parks
Authors: Knapp Doug , Benton Gregory M.
Published: September 2020

The multiple case study described further investigates and identifies elements associated with successful interpretive programs through assessing what is perceived as important elements by interpreters in five U. S. National Park units. Data sources included semi-structured interviews with interpretive personnel, analysis of documentation related to interpretive programs in the units, and participant observation of interpretive programs conducted at each site. Four themes surfaced from this data: (a) an interpretive program must relate to the visitor, (b) it must attempt to achieve its goals through innovative techniques, (c) attain basic program needs and, (d) promote community outreach. One discrepancy found, based on the researchers’ analysis of program observations, was no attempt at receiving responses from the program participants. This “one-way” form of communication differs from the profession's interest in connecting with the visitor. One recommendation from this study is to explore constructivist learning strategies that could help bring about “two-way” communication between the interpreter and visitor.
Geointerpretation: The Interpretive Potential of Maps
Authors: Bailey Heidi , Smaldone David , Elmes Gregory , Burns Robert
Published: September 2020

Interpretive centers are well-known sources of geographic information—providing visitors with maps and facts about noteworthy places. Yet research on the effectiveness of interpretation in conveying geographic information is limited. Managing natural and cultural resources creates a need to communicate to the public about these places at both small and large scales. This raises the question of how people perceive different types of spaces and how they learn geographic and spatial information.

This paper reviews the literature on spatial cognition, providing a theoretical and empirical basis to suggest strategies for interpretation. The recommendations of this paper are to: 1) design geographic interpretation around the three components of spatial knowledge; 2) create interpretive maps by blending the principles of map and exhibit design; and 3) provide visitors with multiple opportunities to learn about a geographic setting. Maps have considerable potential as tools for connecting visitors to the meaning of places.
Characteristics of Animals Used in Zoo Interpretation: A Synthesis of Research
Authors: Fuhrman Nicholas E. , Ladewig Howard
Published: September 2020

Most research on the use of animals in zoo interpretation focuses on visitor knowledge and attitude change, with little emphasis on the characteristics of the animals used as interpretive tools. A synthesis of research was conducted to: (a) identify the characteristics of animals used as teaching tools in zoo interpretation and (b) determine the usefulness of such information to zoo and other non-formal interpreters. Most research on the use of animals in zoo interpretation involved large, active, exotic animals. Few studies have evaluated the effectiveness of native, locally relevant species as interpretive tools. When used in zoo interpretation, native species have the potential to help educators address locally relevant conservation issues. However, more research is needed on the use of locally relevant species in interpretation. Information on the effectiveness of native, readily available species would be useful to interpreters lacking the resources of larger zoos and using injured or imprinted local wildlife in education.
An Evaluation of a Headwaters Institute Watershed Seminar
Authors: Harrison Marion B. , Banks Sarah
Published: September 2020

This research is an evaluation of a Headwaters Institute seminar. The Headwaters Institute is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide education to professional river guides in order to encourage and empower guides to act as environmental interpreters. The ultimate goal of the institute is to inspire the clients of these river guides to care for and connect with the river environments. Using perceived specific teaching and motivation efficacy as outcome measures, pre- and post-tests indicate a significant increase in self-efficacy regardless of age, gender, or length of time in the profession. This research indicates that the seminars empower professional river guides to act as environmental interpreters.
A Descriptive Study of Guided Tours at Mammoth Cave National Park
Authors: Morgan Mark , Walker Cara
Published: September 2020

For most visitors, guided tours are the only way to experience a cave. Since few studies have been conducted in these settings, there is no explanation for a recent decline in attendance at many well-known caves and caverns across the United States. A mail-back survey was administered to 660 visitors at Mammoth Cave National Park to learn more about the social aspects of visitation, focusing on those who took at least one guided tour. Results showed a low level of crowding, along with high approvals and value for the fee paid. Some possible strategies were mentioned to reverse the decline in cave tour attendance.
Interpretive effectiveness at Kanha Tiger Reserve, India
Authors: Benton Gregory M. , Sinha Bitapi C.
Published: September 2020

The first study of interpretation in India examined the effectiveness of interpretive facilities and exhibits to convey interpretive conservation messages. Kanha Tiger Reserve features a large budget, advanced technology, and international visitation. The single-case, multiple-methods approach examined visitor knowledge and behavior regarding exhibits. Pre- and post-program surveys, video observation of visitor flow through the interpretive center, and the readability of text were analyzed. Results from the survey indicate that visitor knowledge increased in spite of noise in the center. Video observation data suggests that visitor interest measured by attention index and holding power were greatest for the management related exhibits and decreased as participants moved further into the interpretive center. Images of tigers were found to be more important for attraction and holding power than the center's advanced floor light panels and other interpretive techniques. Dioramas, maps, and models were favored over text by visitors for readability.
Early Childhood Nature Play: A Needs Assessment of Minnesota Licensed Childcare Providers
Authors: Ernst Julie Athman
Published: September 2020

Due to a growing body of evidence suggesting nature play experiences support the healthy development of young children, a needs assessment of licensed childcare providers in Minnesota was conducted. The purpose was to inform efforts toward ensuring all young children in Minnesota have the opportunities to gain the benefits nature play offers. Based on the results of a cross-sectional survey of 81 licensed childcare providers, results indicate there is a need to increase the amount of time preschool-aged children are playing outdoors, and specifically playing outdoors in natural areas. Results also suggest a need to increase access (or perceived access) to natural areas, and in particular among those providers who report serving primarily children of a lower socio-economic status (SES). Results suggest respondents recognize the benefits of outdoor play, but there may be a need to raise awareness of the benefits of outdoor play in nature. Key obstacles to be addressed in future efforts to encourage nature play for preschool-aged children include lack of access (perceived access) to natural areas, lack of appropriate clothing, safety/liability concerns, and lack of time. Efforts to reduce obstacles may be of particular importance for providers serving children of lower SES. These results may be used to guide future discussions and actions regarding strategies, policies, and programs for incorporating nature play into childcare programs for preschool-aged children.
Free-Choice Family Learning: A Literature Review for the National Park Service
Authors: Bourque Colleen M. , Houseal Ana K. , Welsh Kate M. , Wenger Matthew
Published: September 2020

Grand Valley State University

Learning in national parks often occurs in the context of family groups. Understanding the motivations, needs, and outcomes of family groups is critical to engaging a substantial portion of the National Park Service (NPS) audience. This literature review was prompted by an NPS initiative to improve lifelong learning. It explores research about the nature of family learning, factors that influence it, and recommendations for enhancing it.

This review uses Falk and Dierking's (2000) Contextual Model of Learning as a framework for understanding personal, sociocultural, and physical factors that contribute to family learning outcomes in free-choice settings. Recommendations for improving family learning include: tapping into the motivations of family visits, helping families converse to construct meaning, and creating physical spaces for visitors of many ages to interact. The NPS can enhance visitors’ connections to parks if park programs, exhibits, and interpretive media are effectively and deliberately designed to engage families. National parks and similar sites need to thoughtfully design education programs and exhibits to engage learners of all ages in meaningful, relevant, and memorable ways.
Evaluating the West Virginia Interpretive Guide Heritage Steward Program
Authors: Arbogast Doug , Smaldone Dave , Balcarczyk Kelly
Published: September 2020

West Virginia University's Extension Service partnered with the Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Resources Program to offer an entry level certification opportunity to interpretive guides in West Virginia. The result of this partnership is the West Virginia Interpretive Guide Heritage Steward Program aimed at providing low-cost, widely available training course to guides throughout the state. The course is divided into two components—a set of online modules and an in-person skill assessment workshop. This exploratory study used a retrospective post-then-pre survey design to assess the course impact on participants’ beliefs related to the effectiveness of the course, as well as self-reported changes in interpretive competency. Results indicated the course was successful in increasing participant competence related to developing and delivering interpretive talks. This effective regionally based certification course is potentially a model that could be used to expand personal interpretive certification opportunities for guides.
Sharing Experiences, Constructing Memories: An Ethnographic Report of Naturalists in the Field
Authors: Hunter Joshua E.
Published: September 2020

Within this short research report, the author provides a succinct introduction to ethnographic fieldwork in a Midwestern U.S. state park and exhibits a small sample of data gathered from park interpretive naturalists that highlights ways that a group of naturalists perceive the construction of memories. Subsequently, the author explores a salient interpretation from the data, in which memories are dependent upon shared experiences and interactions. By highlighting one specific group of naturalists, this research sheds light on how they conceive their role in the memory construction of others.
Predicting Intentions to Return to a Nature Center after an Interpretive Special Event
Authors: Barrett Austin G. , Mowen Andrew J. , Graefe Alan R.
Published: September 2020

With the continued rise in screen media use and growing disconnect between youth and nature, the importance of community nature centers in providing natural experiences is increasingly recognized. Even so, many nature centers struggle to maintain public support and funds necessary for continued operations. One way for nature centers to engender public support and further their fundraising potential is through interpretive special events. This study seeks to understand whether (and how) interpretive outcomes of an interpretive special event relate to visitors’ intentions to return to a nature center in the future. The relationship between place attachment and intentions to return was also tested. Results show that affective interpretive outcomes, more than the program-specific outcomes or place attachment, had the strongest effects on intentions to return to the center. This finding was particularly true among new visitors to the nature center. Based on our findings, in addition to providing interpretive messages focused on specific resources, interpretive managers who are interested in increasing repeat visitation to their nature centers should consider placing an even higher priority on programs that create enjoyable and meaningful experiences for visitors.
Digital Heritage Interpretation: Learning from the Realm of Real-World
Authors: Rahaman Hafizur , Kiang Tan Beng
Published: September 2020

Heritage interpretation is often used to indicate the storylines adapted to help visitors to engage with and understand historical sites or artefacts. However, until now we hardly find any noteworthy scholarly works, charter, and critical discourse on the theory and methodology of interpretation in the field of Digital Heritage. Praxis limited by such theoretical underpinning, and at the same time the unwitting obsession with technology as a way out for better interpretation is leading most of the digital heritage projects to become descriptive and ocular-centric. Although technologies and tools like game-engines, multi-player virtual environments, haptic devices, augmented visualizations and immersive displays are being used to accentuate experience and visual fidelity, nevertheless, many scholars argue that technology alone can only provide partial interpretation. This paper raises the demands for an interpretive method for digital heritage and proposes some guidelines based on interpretation theories and scholarly materials from the real-world heritage domain.
Mind the Gap: Academics, Interpreters, and Historical Interpretation
Authors: Tesdahl Eugene R.H.
Published: September 2020

This call to arms reminds interpreters and academics to cooperate and collaborate. Historic interpreters and historians often misunderstand and resent each other. Tesdahl suggests that each group aims to inform and inspire the public and misses out if they do not work together to accomplish this. The author harkens back to an earlier definition of the term amateur suggesting that professional interpreters and historians should meet their standards but should do history passionately because they love it. If they do, a more informative, engaging, and collaborative history that includes all audiences will emerge.
Can interpretive graphics influence visitor behavior in an exhibit space?
Authors: Price Allison M. , Monahan Jessica C. , Bergren Rachel
Published: September 2020

Exhibit signage and graphics projects are most successful when they involve collaborative planning and formative evaluation throughout the process. Lincoln Park Zoo set out to combine interpretive best practices and visitor evaluation methods for the newly renovated eastern black rhinoceros yard in 2010. Evaluation methods included prototyping, visitor tracking, and informal interviews. After installation of the new graphics, visitor time spent looking at both the signs and the exhibit increased. Results were most significant among male visitors. The study indicates that hands-on non-personal media of this nature can have a significant effect on visitor behavior in an exhibit space. It also provides a model for making data-informed decisions regardless of limited budgets or resources.
Are We Preaching to the Same Choir? A Mixed-Methods Comparison of Audiences at Animal-Themed Interpretive Facilities
Authors: Caplow Susan
Published: September 2020

Interpretive programs can encourage the development of pro-environmental behavior, but visitors do not arrive as blank slates. Instead, their previous experiences interact with new programs to produce iterative change over time. Animal ambassadors can help facilitate these changes, but animal specialty organizations have largely been excluded from research exploring audiences and programs in free-choice learning settings. This study fills that gap by exploring differences between audiences at organizations with different types of missions. Using survey and interview data and value-belief-norm theory as a framework, I compare learners across three animal-themed interpretive facilities. Visitors were similar on some sociodemographic/social-psychological metrics, but they also differed in ways that reflect the institutional mission at each organization. Most notably, specialty organizations reach audiences who are sensitive to animal/ environmental welfare but are uncomfortable with zoos. Interpreters can replicate these methods at their own organizations or consider how the visitors in this study can help them better understand their own context. More knowledge about their visitors helps interpreters better design programs to achieve desired program outcomes and facilitate pro-environmental behavior.
How Do we Know what the Visitor Knows?: Learning from Interpretation
Authors: Loomis Ross J.
Published: September 2020

This paper presents a number of ideas for readers interested in finding what visitors learn from interpretation. First, some ideas from basic research in different fields of psychology promise applications of interest to interpreters. These ideas range from need for cognition to the newer definition of learning that emphasizes cognitive processes. I have termed these ideas a “top-down” application of knowledge from other fields to visitor studies. A second source of information about visitor learning comes from “bottom-up” efforts that are bringing forth ideas directly out of empirical research in visitor studies. Data-based studies are being used to suggest learning concepts specifically developed for visitor studies and thereby relevant to interpretation. A third source of information is the development of a process model of evaluation for exhibits and visitor-based programs. While this model is currently used to acquire information for decision making, it could hold promise for more intensive studies of visitor learning.
Personalizing the Past: A Review of Literature with Implications for Historical Interpretation
Authors: Silverman Lois H.
Published: September 2020

The recent perspective known as meaning-making has advanced the belief that understanding interpretive site visitors’ frameworks and past experiences is critical to successful interpretation. How, then, do visitors make meaning of heritage site experiences and of the past in general? This review examines and synthesizes recent studies and considers their contribution to the theory and practice of historical interpretation. In sum, research suggests three major realms of experience from which visitors draw schemata that inform meaning–making at heritage sites: (a) associations with and knowledge of history, (b) experiences and behavior regarding the past in everyday life, and (c) expectations of and behavior at heritage sites. Using this literature as groundwork, three strategies for empirically driven historical interpretation are presented: (a) addressing the nature of history and visitors’ associations, (b) incorporating everyday life behaviors, and (c) interpreting for the social nature of the heritage site visit.
International Trends in Heritage and Environmental Interpretation: Future Directions for Australian Research and Practice
Authors: Ballantyne Roy , Uzzell David
Published: September 2020

The past decade has witnessed enormous social, political, and economic change in places such as Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia, and the USSR. These changes have played an important role in focusing attention on the “why” and “what” rather than the “how” of interpretive practice. This shift in emphasis has been expressed in at least five international trends in interpretation: (a) a growing concern with theory in interpretive practice, (b) the rise of ecotourism and consequent changes in the interpretation of environmental issues, (c) reactions to globalization and the tension between homogeneity and uniqueness, (d) the need to interpret emotive issues and contested heritage, and (e) adopting a grassroots approach to interpretive planning. This paper discusses these international trends and focuses on three important areas in which future Australian interpretation research and practice could fruitfully contribute to the development of international “best practice.”
Treatment of feline gastrointestinal intermediate- or large-cell lymphoma with lomustine chemotherapy and 8 Gy abdominal cavity radiation therapy
Authors: Gieger Tracy L , Seiler Gabriela S , Nolan Michael W
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The goal of this study was to document the outcomes and toxicity of a novel multimodality treatment protocol for feline gastrointestinal intermediate- or large-cell lymphoma (FGL) in which cats were treated at 21-day intervals.

Methods

This was a prospective, single-arm study. Twelve client-owned cats with cytologically diagnosed FGL were treated with a combination of abdominal cavity radiation therapy (RT; 8 Gy total dose administered in two 4 Gy fractions, 21 days apart), lomustine chemotherapy (approximately 40 mg/m2, administered orally at 21-day intervals for four treatments), prednisolone (5 mg PO q24h) and cobalamin (250 µg/week SC).

Results

Three cats were euthanized prior to the second treatment and it was difficult to discern treatment-associated toxicity from progressive disease. Four of the remaining cats developed cytopenias, resulting in 7–14-day lomustine treatment delays and/or dose reductions. Six cats had a partial response to treatment and three had stable disease based on ultrasound at day 21 (50% overall response rate). Three of these six cats completed the study and lived >240 days; one died of refractory diabetes mellitus with no clinical evidence of FGL, and the other two died as a result of FGL. The median overall survival time was 101 days (95% confidence interval [CI] 9–240). The median progression-free survival time was 77 days (95% CI 8–212). Necropsies were performed in eight cats, which revealed multifocal lymphoma throughout the gastrointestinal tract and other organs.

Conclusions and relevance

Oncological outcomes reported herein are comparable to those achieved with multiagent injectable chemotherapy (eg, CHOP). Treatment was seemingly well tolerated in most cats and was relatively cost-effective. It is therefore plausible that improved disease control may be achievable through continued optimization and intensification of the combinatorial chemoradiotherapy protocol.
Needling revision with marking maneuver to locate the scleral flap
Authors: Gutiérrez-Ortiz Consuelo , Rodrigo-Rey Sara
Published: September 2020

Purpose:

To report a variation of the classical needle revision maneuver with an external marking of the scleral flap, augmented with mitomycin C (MMC) in failed non penetrating deep sclerectomy (NPDS).

Method:

This observational prospective pilot study included five consecutive patients who underwent an MMC needling revision of failed NPDS with the external marking of the scleral flap. All participants underwent a complete ophthalmologic examination and data were collected preoperatively as well as 1 day, 1 week and 1 month after the surgery. The surgical site was also evaluated during the procedure.

Results:

A significant reduction of IOP and antiglaucomatous medication from preoperative levels was detected at the end of the follow-up period. Regarding the surgical site, we succeed in locating the scleral flap and observing the bleb formation in all cases. No significant subconjunctival bleeding was detected.

Conclusion:

This variation of the classical needling technique seems to improve intrasurgical visualization and reduces complications, which might lead to an improvement in surgical success.
Paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) associated with ulcerative colitis and coexisting hyperhomocysteinemia: A case report
Authors: Alkabes Micol , Vujosevic Stela , Muraca Andrea , De Cillà Stefano
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

Paracentral acute middle maculopathy (PAMM) is a tomographic finding of a retinal occlusive vascular disorders with different aetiologies. Despite the well documented triple association among hyper-homocysteine, retinal vein occlusion and PAMM, up to date no reports exist on the development of PAMM in young patients affected by ulcerative colitis (UC).

Case description:

A multimodal imaging study, including fundus photographs, optical coherence tomography (OCT) B-scans, OCT angiography (OCT-A) and fluorescein and indocyanine green angiography, was performed in a 32-years-old male complaining of acute-onset paracentral scotoma in the right eye. Fundus images demonstrated the typical dark gray area of retinal capillary ischemia, corresponding on OCT B-scans to the hyper-reflective plaques in the INL, and consistent with PAMM lesions.The deep capillary plexus (DCP) was normal on OCT-A. Fluorescein angiography revealed a concurrent branch retinal vein preocclusion and showed capillary drop out parafoveally. Patient’s anamnesis was negative except for a 15-years history of UC and use of acetylsalicylic acid (ASS). At the time of presentation, UC was quiescent, but new blood tests revealed concomitant high values of homocysteinemia requiring oral vitamin B12 and folate supplementation. Two months later PAMM lesions had disappeared on OCT B-scans and a retinal thinning at the level of the inner nuclear layer (INL) was visible. The DCP on OCT-A remained unchanged without any sign of capillary ischemia.

Conclusions:

Although no definitive evidence directly links UC with PAMM, the latter should be suspected in young patients affected by IBD with coexisting hyper-homocysteinemia and unexplained visual symptoms.
Efficacy of a WeChat-based intervention for adherence to secondary prevention therapies in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft in China: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Jinwen , Zeng Zhechun , Dong Ran , Sheng Juanjuan , Lai Yongqiang , Yu Jianbo , Zuo Huijuan
Published: September 2020

Introduction

We assessed whether the social media-based (WeChat) intervention integrated with follow-up care could improve adherence to drugs, lifestyle changes and clinical risk markers in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in China.

Methods

We randomized patients at hospital discharge following CABG to intervention group or control care in China. The intervention is a structured programme of cardiac health education, medication reminders and cardiologist-based follow-up service using WeChat platform. The control group maintains a routine practice pattern. The primary outcome is adherence to cardioprotective medications measured for 12 months after discharge. We also evaluated the lifestyle modifications and clinical risk markers at 12 months.

Results

A total of 164 participants completed the trial for analysis. The intervention group had significantly greater adherence to statins use 98.6% vs. 75.0% ( p < 0.01), beta-blockers 93.4% vs. 69.3% ( p < 0.01) and aspirin 98.8% vs. 87.8% ( p < 0.001). The intervention group had significantly greater adherence to regular physical activity (64.2% vs. 48.2%; p < 0.039). Furthermore, intervention versus standard group at 12 months had significantly lower mean systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol ( p < 0.05).

Discussion

A WeChat-based intervention strategy in post-CABG patients improved adherence to medications, including statin, aspirin and beta-blockers, and regular physical activity and resulted in an improvement in systolic blood pressure and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level.
Optimising leadership: Conceptualising cognitive constraints of sociality and collaboration in Australian secondary schools
Authors: Casey Joanne , Simon Susan , Graham Wayne
Published: September 2020

School improvement frameworks and their associated reform efforts often have limited durability and are frequently not fully implemented. Improving their viability, requires a more realistic understanding of contextual organisational structures and the school culture in which the reform is to be implemented. Internationally, and in Australia specifically, education research has informed policy heavily promoting collaboration as a school improvement strategy, with the aim of building teacher capability and student achievement. Consequently, secondary school leaders are charged with promoting the need for teachers to collaborate meaningfully with hundreds of students, carers, parents and colleagues each week across the ‘silos’ of subject departments and grade levels in their school. Social Brain Theory suggests that there are cognitive limits on the number of natural face-to-face social interactions that one can have and maintain. Relationships require significant investment in time and frequency. Additionally, sociality is much more cognitively demanding than at first thought, having unforeseen influence on improvement efforts. The number of interactions required in a collaborative environment, an individual’s likely cognitive overload and the ‘silo’ nature of the school’s organisational structure must all be considered. This paper offers an alternative theoretical framework to support policy makers and leaders in optimising school improvement efforts.
Comparison of dual and single spark ignition in operation of a large piston aircraft engine
Authors: Czarnigowski Jacek , Jakliński Piotr , Karpiński Paweł
Published: September 2020

The paper presents the results of the experimental research on the combustion process inside the cylinder of a large piston radial aircraft engine with dual or single spark plug ignition. The tests were carried out on the ASz-62IR-16X radial engine equipped with a double, electronically controlled ignition system with two spark plugs in each cylinder. The constant engine speed tests allowed for comparing the combustion processes with ignition carried out by both spark plugs, the rear plug only, and the front plug only. The analyses were based on the recorded pressure signal from one of the engine cylinders. It has been shown that the type of ignition significantly affects the combustion process and its non-repeatability. The obtained results indicate the leading role of the rear spark plug in initiating the combustion process. When the ignition is carried out with the rear spark plug, the induction period is identical to that for dual ignition, but the combustion process is much less intensive. Ignition carried out with the front spark plug only has a longer induction period but a similar intensity of combustion as with dual ignition. Deactivating one of the plugs also improves the non-repeatability of the combustion process.
The Munich Valsalva Implantation Technique (MuVIT) for Cardiac Output Reduction During TEVAR: Vena Cava Occlusion With the Valsalva Maneuver
Authors: Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Abicht Jan-Michel , Stana Jan , Konstantinou Nikolaos , Rantner Barbara , Banafsche Ramin , Fernandez Prendes Carlota
Published: September 2020

Purpose

To demonstrate a physiologically induced alternative to the typical methods of reducing cardiac output during deployment of stent-grafts in the aortic arch and proximal aorta.

Technique

A modified Valsalva maneuver, the Munich Valsalva implantation technique (MuVIT), to raise the intrathoracic pressure, minimize backflow, and reduce the cardiac output is illustrated in a patient undergoing a triple-branch thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). During manual mechanical ventilation, the adjustable pressure-limiting valve is carefully closed to 25 mm Hg, creating “manual bloating” of the lungs and sustained apnea. The increased intrathoracic pressure causes compression of the vena cava and pulmonary veins, reducing the venous backflow and gradually decreasing the arterial pressure. Once the desired pressure is obtained, the stent-graft is accurately deployed. The airway pressure is thereupon slowly reduced, and the patient is taken back to normal ventilation. The procedure is then finished following standard practice.

Conclusion

The MuVIT is a simple, noninvasive technique for cardiac output reduction during aortic arch TEVAR, eliminating the need for other invasive techniques.
Lost in the Crowd: The Effect of Volatile Fields on Presidential Primaries
Authors: Scott Zachary
Published: September 2020

All candidates attempt to convey agendas through the media, but presidential primary contenders face distinctive conditions. Do these conditions affect candidates’ ability to transmit their agendas through the media? Drawing on theories of journalism norms, I argue that media responsiveness to a candidate’s agenda will, on average, decrease as the primary campaign goes on and candidates’ messages become less timely. Expansions in the size of the field should create more complicated electoral races, leading to declining contextual simplicity and less overlap between candidate and media agendas. I test these hypotheses using a novel dataset of primary candidates’ speeches and news articles about those candidates. I show that the entrance of new candidates is correlated with a decline in convergence. Contrary to expectations, there is no decline in convergence over time. The results have implications for how nomination contests should be structured in the era of media-oriented campaigns.
Whole exome sequencing identifies rare coding variants in novel human-mouse ortholog genes in African individuals diagnosed with non-syndromic hearing impairment
Authors: Oluwole Oluwafemi G , Esoh Kevin K , Wonkam-Tingang Edmond , Manyisa Noluthando , Noubiap Jean Jacques , Chimusa Emile R , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: September 2020

Physiologically, the human and murine hearing systems are very similar, justifying the extensive use of mice in experimental models for hearing impairment (HI). About 340 murine HI genes have been reported; however, whether variants in all human-mouse ortholog genes contribute to HI has been rarely investigated. In humans, nearly 120 HI genes have been identified to date, with GJB2 and GJB6 variants accounting for half of congenital HI cases, of genetic origin, in populations of European and Asian ancestries, but not in most African populations. The contribution of variants in other known genes of HI among the populations of African ancestry is poorly studied and displays the lowest pick-up rate. We used whole exome sequencing (WES) to investigate pathogenic and likely pathogenic (PLP) variants in 34 novel human-mouse orthologs HI genes, in 40 individuals from Cameroon and South Africa diagnosed with non-syndromic hearing impairment (NSHI), and compared the data to WES data of 129 ethnically matched controls. In addition, protein modeling for selected PLP gene variants, gene enrichment, and network analyses were performed. A total of 4/38 murine genes, d6wsu163e, zfp719, grp152 and minar2, had no human orthologs. WES identified three rare PLP variants in 3/34 human-mouse orthologs genes in three unrelated Cameroonian patients, namely: OCM2, c.227G>C p.(Arg76Thr) and LRGI1, c.1657G>A p.(Gly533Arg) in a heterozygous state, and a PLP variant MCPH1, c.2311C>G p.(Pro771Ala) in a homozygous state. In silico functional analyses suggest that these human-mouse ortholog genes functionally co-expressed interactions with well-established HI genes: GJB2 and GJB6. The study found one homozygous variant in MCPH1, likely to explain HI in one patient, and suggests that human-mouse ortholog variants could contribute to the understanding of the physiology of hearing in humans.
LncRNA growth arrest-special 5 polymorphisms and predisposition to cancer: A meta-analysis
Authors: Cai Hairong , Xu Wenyan , Zhang Xian
Published: September 2020

Aim:

The lncRNA growth arrest-special 5 ( GAS5) is a critical tumor suppressor lncRNA, and its expression level has been found to be decreased in many types of cancers. So GAS5 polymorphisms are also likely to influence predisposition to many types of malignant diseases. Nevertheless, the relationships between GAS5 polymorphisms and cancer are still controversial. Thus, the authors designed this meta-analysis to get a more statistically reliable conclusion.

Methods:

The authors searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for eligible studies. A total of 12 eligible studies involving 8693 cancer cases and 10,805 controls were pooled and analyzed in this meta-analysis.

Results:

Among GAS5 polymorphisms, only GAS5 rs145204276 insertion/deletion polymorphism could be analyzed in a meta-analysis with regard to predisposition to cancer since no any other GAS5 polymorphisms were explored by at least two individual genetic association studies. All eligible studies were found to be of Asian origin. Although the overall pooled meta-analysis results did not show any significant associations between rs145204276 insertion/deletion polymorphism and a predisposition to cancer, rs145204276 insertion/deletion polymorphism was demonstrated to be significantly associated with a predisposition to gastric cancer (dominant comparison: P<0.0001; recessive comparison: P=0.005; over-dominant comparison: P=0.0003; over-dominant comparison: P<0.0001) in Asians in further subgroup analyses.

Conclusions:

This meta-analysis demonstrated that GAS5 rs145204276 insertion/deletion polymorphism was associated with a predisposition to gastric cancer in Asians. Nevertheless, considering that this positive finding was only based on three eligible studies from the same area, future studies with larger sample sizes in other populations are still warranted to test the robustness of our findings.
Sex differences in risk factors, treatment, and prognosis in acute stroke
Authors: Dahl Solveig , Hjalmarsson Clara , Andersson Björn
Published: September 2020

Objectives:

Stroke is a major cause of long-term disability and death worldwide. Several studies have shown that women in general have more severe symptoms at arrival to hospital and are less likely to return home and independent living. Our aim with the present study was to update previous results concerning sex differences in baseline characteristics, stroke management, and outcome in a population study from Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden.

Methods:

This study included patients with acute ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in 2014 at Sahlgrenska University Hospital. All data were collected from The Swedish National Stroke Registry (Riksstroke).

Results:

The study population consisted of 1453 patients, with 46.7% females. Women were 5 years older than men. There was no sex difference in acute stroke severity. Frequency of revascularization was equal between men and women. The stroke mortality rate was the same between the sexes. At 3-months follow-up, women had a worse functional outcome and a higher frequency of depression and post-stroke fatigue.

Conclusion:

Our results show that there are no sex differences in management of acute stroke. However, the cause of worse functional outcome in women at 3-months follow-up, independent of other risk factors, is not clear and warrants further investigations.
Concussion knowledge, attitude and reporting intention in rugby coaches and high school rugby players
Authors: Salmon Danielle M , Romanchuk Janelle , Sullivan S John , Walters Simon , Clacy Amanda , Register-Mihalik Johna K , Kerr Zachary Y , Whatman Chris , Keung Sierra
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate New Zealand high school rugby union players’ and community coaches’ concussion knowledge (CK), concussion attitude (CA) and concussion reporting intentions (CRI) and to explore the impact gender, age, ethnicity, socio-economic status, experience, and concussion history had on these outcome measures. This cross-sectional study utilised the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes survey to evaluate CK, CA and CRI. The survey and demographic information were completed by 533 high school players (61.5% male, M = 16.2 yrs) and 733 community rugby coaches (93.0% male, M = 42.2 yrs). Coaches displayed greater awareness, safer attitudes, and stronger reporting intentions towards concussion than players. Among players, differences in CK, CA and CRI were observed by gender, ethnicity, and socio-economic status. Among coaches, differences in CRI were found by age and coaching experience. No differences were observed for age or concussion history in players. Gender, ethnicity, and grade coached were not significant for coaches. Players who identified as Māori or Pasifika and those from schools in low socio-economic areas displayed poorer CK and CA. Years of experience for both players and coaches played a critical role in improving CA and is a factor that should be considered when welcoming new participants to either role. Concussion non-disclosure is a systemic issue and is common across gender, ethnicity and socio-economic status and appears to worsen as the playing season progresses. More work is needed to develop educational strategies that are both culturally responsive, sustainable, and address reporting behaviours.
Memorials as discursive spheres: Holocaust and Second World War iconography in public commemoration of extremist-right violence
Authors: Ben-Aroia Barak , Ebbrecht-Hartmann Tobias
Published: September 2020

In recent decades, the experience of non-governmental politically motivated violence became a central element of global memory culture. Motivated by several shocking attacks at the beginning of the new millennium, this commemorative culture evolved in a memory ecology, which was significantly shaped by the prosperity of global Holocaust memory. Therefore, public commemoration of politically motivated violence intersects different discursive elements, leading to multidirectional forms of memory. Based on interdisciplinary theoretical approaches, this article examines public memorials commemorating two notable cases of neo-Nazi xenophobic attacks in Germany as discursive spheres referring to the confrontation with the country’s unique past and its impact on Germany’s contemporary self-image challenged by right-wing extremism. We argue that various commemorative actors in the field adopted and appropriated Second World War and Holocaust-related iconography and terminology to shape these memory sites as instruments linking current Germany to the period of National Socialism.