bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of casing wear depth and residual strength in highly-deviated wells based on modeling and simulation
Authors: Ding Liangliang , Xian Miao , Zhang Qiang
Published: November 2020

Casing wear is a serious problem in highly-deviated wells because serious wear will lead to casing deformation, drilling tool sticking and failure of subsequent operations. The purpose of this paper is to predict casing wear depth and evaluate its effect on casing strength degradation in highly-deviated well drilling operation. Special attention has been given to the algorithm to achieve the prediction and evaluation. The effect of tool joint on contact force distribution is considered in contact force model. Then a wear depth prediction model and its solution method are proposed based on crescent-shaped wear morphology and wear-efficiency model. Besides, strength degradation of worn casing is analyzed in bipolar coordinate system and the model is verified by finite element method. Therefore, the technology of casing wear prediction and residual strength evaluation is completed systematically. Then, to apply casing wear prediction and residual strength evaluation technologies to an actual highly-deviated well, casing wear experiment and friction coefficient experiment are carried out to obtain wear coefficient and friction coefficient. Finally, based on the established models as well as experimental results, the distribution of casing wear is predicted and residual strength is evaluated. The method presented in this paper will contribute greatly to casing wear prediction and evaluation in highly-deviated wells.
Classification of cutaneous leishmaniasis patients based on its risk factors using latent class analysis
Authors: Salimi Mojtaba , Shakiba Ebrahim , Moradi-Asl Eslam , Abbasi-Ghahramanloo Abbas , Khassi Keyvan
Published: November 2020

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the main health-economic problems around the world. Data were collected from all patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis referred to the health centres of Kermanshah province between 2013 and 2019. Latent class analysis was conducted by PROC LCA in SAS 9.2 and a significant level was set at 0.05. Four latent classes were identified: low (33.8%), moderate (9.8%), high (22.4%) and very high risk (34.0%). The probability of having a travel history was high in the third class. Our study indicated that having history of an eschar has no role in the classification of patients. On the other hand, a positive smear test is important in classifying subjects. Our results indicate that more than half of all patients fell under high risk or very high-risk class. This emphasises the importance of planning preventive intervention by considering different risk factors of cutaneous leishmaniasis simultaneously.
Caudal duplication syndrome in an adolescent: Rare concoction of duplication anomalies
Authors: Aggarwal Parul , Nair Nikhil
Published: November 2020

Caudal duplication syndrome is a rare and interesting entity with a reported prevalence of <1/100,000 births. Caudal duplication syndrome encompasses a diverse spectrum of anomalies primarily involving partial or complete duplication of organs comprising the gastrointestinal, genitourinary and distal neural tube systems. The term ‘caudal duplication syndrome’ was coined by Dominguez et al. in 1993, in a case series of six patients presenting with findings pertaining to duplication anomalies of genitourinary system, hindgut, lumbosacral spine and cord. We here report a unique case of caudal duplication presenting in late adolescence and briefly review the available literature on this rare abnormality.
From teaching psychology in conqueror South Africa to teaching African swa moya in the psychology curriculum: critical reflections and experiences in a Masters Clinical Psychology programme
Authors: Baloyi Lesiba
Published: November 2020

The democratic transition in conqueror South Africa in 1994 from the colonial and apartheid education system to the current epoch did not transform and address the epistemological and ethical injustices embedded in the psychology curriculum. This is despite the Constitutional provision for the exercise and enjoyment of cultural rights by the multiple ethnic groups existing in the country. Despite the fact that most departments of psychology in conqueror South African are led by Blacks and the staff and students composed mainly of Black African bodies, the philosophies, methodologies, and theories which are taught in the psychology curriculum still reflect the dominance of the conqueror’s epistemological paradigm manifesting in the exclusion of African swa moya (life discerning power of the soul). From the viewpoint of the conquered, the epistemological and ethical justification on which African experiences are excluded from the psychology curriculum are questionable. In order to fully gain legitimacy, relevance, and reflect the multiplicity of the realities of the current student population, and to serve the local communities, psychology in Africa in general and conqueror South Africa in particular must be premised on swa moya curriculum. Swa moya (life discerning power of the soul) is the resolute reaffirmation of African humanness. It also recognises the humanisation of the colonial conqueror and its posterity. In this article, I present the epistemological and ethical basis for an authentic African swa moya, as well as the development and practical implementation of swa moya curriculum in the Master of Science in Clinical Psychology training programme that is currently being taught at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University.
Reducing nonfatal suicidal behaviour among university students: actuarial analysis of potential effects of treating common mental disorders
Authors: Bantjes Jason , Breet Elsie , Lochner Christine , Roos Janine , Kessler Ronald C , Stein Dan J
Published: November 2020

Campus-based suicide prevention is an important priority for universities. One approach could be to identify and treat common mental disorders, but it is unclear what potential reduction in suicide might be achieved by such an approach. Our aim was to quantify this potential effect on prevalence of nonfatal suicidal behaviour among first-year students. Data were collected from students at two South African universities ( N = 633) via an online survey. We assessed prevalence of nonfatal suicidal behaviour and six common mental disorders and used logistic regression models to identify all main and interaction associations of sociodemographic variables and common mental disorders as predictors of nonfatal suicidal behaviour. Population attributable risk analysis was used to quantify the potential reduction in nonfatal suicidal behaviour achieved by effectively treating common mental disorders, based on the simplifying assumption that the logistic regression coefficients of the common mental disorders represented causal effects on nonfatal suicidal behaviour. Twelve-month prevalence of suicidal ideation, plan, and attempt were 40.9%, 22.3%, and 3.9%, respectively. Increased risk was associated with identifying as Black, female and reporting an atypical sexual orientation. Of the six common mental disorders, major depressive disorder and generalised anxiety disorder were associated with all dimensions of nonfatal suicidal behaviour, bipolar spectrum disorder with increased risk of ideation and plan, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with ideation, and alcohol use disorder with suicide plan. Population attributable risk analysis suggests that treating common mental disorders could yield absolute reductions in suicide ideation, plan, and attempt of 17.0%, 55.0% and 73.8%, respectively. Pragmatic trials are needed to evaluate the effects on nonfatal suicidal behaviour of identifying and treating students with a prior history of common mental disorder early in their university careers.
Are Civilly Detained and Committed Sexually Violent Persons Released After Age 60 Low Risk?
Authors: Ambroziak Gina , Kahn Rachel E. , Mundt James C. , Keiser Kerry L. , Thornton David
Published: November 2020

Older age is a well-established protective factor against sexual recidivism. However, research on the effects of aging in individuals considered for civil commitment as sexually violent persons (SVPs) is limited. The current study investigated 53 such individuals released after age 60: 15 were released following dismissal of the civil commitment petition, and 38 were discharged following civil commitment. Recidivism outcomes, including details of the release environment, were examined and the groups were compared on recidivism risk and age-related factors. The sexual recidivism rate across both groups was 7.5% over an average follow-up of about 9 years. The rate of sexually violent offenses was 3.8%. Results suggest that age-related protective effects apply to older SVPs. However, the groups differed in total time institutionalized and release environments. Findings highlight the potential impact of release type and environments on observed recidivism rates. Risk management implications for older individuals released from SVP programs are considered.
Extended state observer-based robust control of an omnidirectional quadrotor with tiltable rotors
Authors: Lu Kaiwen , Yang Zhong , Liao Luwei , Jiang Yuhong , Xu Changliang , Xu Hao , Zhang Qiuyan
Published: November 2020

A quadrotor with tiltable rotors is a kind of omnidirectional multirotor aerial vehicle (MAV) that has demonstrated advantages of decoupling control of position from the control of orientation. However, quadrotors with tiltable rotors usually suffer from Coriolis term, modeling error and external disturbance. To this end, the extended state observer (ESO)-based controller is designed to estimate and compensate for the above adverse effects. Especially, the controller involves position and attitude controller in parallel. The attitude controller is made up of cascade control-loops: an outer quaternion-based attitude control-loop and an inner ESO-based Proportional derivative angular velocity control-loop. Similarly, the position controller consists of an outer proportional position control-loop and an inner ESO-based PD velocity control-loop. Besides, a linear control allocation strategy, which allocates the controller outputs to tilting angles and motor speed directly, is proposed to avoid the nonlinear allocation matrix. Extensive simulations and flight tests are carried out to illustrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed ESO-based controller.
Techno-emotional mediations of transnational intimacy: social media and care relations in long-distance Romanian families
Authors: Alinejad Donya
Published: November 2020

The transnational circulation of intimate care is increasingly mediated by digital communications. Research conceptualizing long-distance emotional intimacy in terms of ‘care chains’ has been influential in understanding international care economies. Yet, this framework has limitations for theorizing the role of media in communications of care. With a focus on the ‘left-behind’ family members of Romanian economic migrants, this paper investigates how the use of social media apps and mobile devices within the context of a major intra-EU labor migration phenomenon helps people stay in touch with their transnationally mobile loved ones. It draws on interview material elicited among the close family members of Romanian labor migrants living in Bucharest and surrounding areas. The analysis focuses on the sensory role of social media platforms and the materiality of smartphones in shaping relations of long-distance emotional care. Showing how video calling and photo sharing practices produce emotional experiences that are specific to contemporary combinations of platform-device technicity and social sensitization, the paper argues for conceptualizing transnational care as a mediated emotional experience. By theorizing the role of media in how care is not merely transferred but felt through mediation, the paper demonstrates how media practices produce a techno-emotional mediation of transnational care.
Writing between the ‘red lines’: Morocco’s digital media landscape
Authors: Benchenna Abdelfettah , Marchetti Dominique
Published: November 2020

This article presents an overview of the emergence of online news sites, which has radically altered news provision and media consumption patterns in Morocco. This sector has rapidly become a strategic site. Firstly, its precedence over print media and national television networks does not only stem from the high traffic figures of news websites. Along with certain social platforms, these websites are the only vehicules for 24/7 news in a country which currently has just one such news channel and where, in spite of the ‘liberalisation’ of media, national networks provide very institutionalised news programs based on the activities of the state official institutions and of the monarchy. Secondly, certain domestic Arabic-language news websites have become the main platform for the voicing of political dissent. Based on 31 interviews, the article briefly describes the historical development of the online press, since the ‘February 20th Movement’ of 2011. This case study provides a good example of the new challenges surrounding the control of information: an issue long shaped by the limitation of news provision to duly authorised political and journalistic organisations and by limited ‘demand’ resulting from widespread illiteracy. This article describes how the Moroccan establishment react to the explosive growth of online news media by creating new mechanisms to control it.
Dynamical entropic analysis of scientific concepts
Authors: Chumachenko Artem , Kreminskyi Boris , Mosenkis Iurii , Yakimenko Alexander
Published: November 2020

In the present era of information, the problem of effective knowledge retrieval from a collection of scientific documents becomes especially important for continuous scientific progress. The information available in scientific publications traditionally consists of bibliometric metadata and its semantic component such as title, abstract and text. While the former having a machine-readable format usually used for knowledge mapping and pattern recognition, the latter designed for human interpretation and analysis. Only a few studies use full-text analysis, based on carefully selected scientific ontology, to map the actual structure of the scientific knowledge or uncover similarities between documents. Unfortunately, the presence of common (basic) concepts across semantically unrelated documents creates spurious connections between different topics. We revise the known method based on the entropic information-theoretic measure used for selecting basic concepts and propose to analyse the dynamics of Shannon entropy for more rigorous sorting of concepts by their generality.
Nursing Handover: A Content Analysis of Nurses’ Handwritten Notes
Authors: Timmerman Julianna , Sitzer Verna , Eusebio Rhea , Reavis Karen , Marder Lynn
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to describe characteristics and content of nurses’ handover tools used for handover report and congruence of content shift-to-shift. Nurses use handwritten notes to record information despite recommendations for standardizing content of handover to improve patient safety. A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted in a non-profit hospital in Southern California where a convenience sample of 105 registered nurses voluntarily submitted their paper handover tools. Twenty-seven types of handover tools were collected. Participants customized handover tools with color, writing implement, emphasis markings, and symbols. Content analysis revealed that most handover tools contained the patient’s name, birthdate, account number, room number, medical history, allergies, code status, systems review, vital signs, medications, vascular access, test results, plan of care, and tasks. Safety/risk-related information was rarely present. Handover tools were context-specific and individualized with handwritten information that was incongruent shift-to-shift. Safety/risk-related information was rare.
Perceptions of Physical Activity in Middle-aged Women with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Vanden Bosch Melodee , Wesley Elizabeth , Strouse Susan
Published: November 2020

Physical activity is recommended for middle-aged women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) to improve health and prevent disease complications. However, most middle-aged women with T2D have low physical activity levels and therefore are at higher risk for T2D-associated cardiovascular complications. To explore their perceptions of physical activity and strategies for increasing participation, the investigators conducted a phenomenological study with a sample of middle-aged women with T2D using voice-recorded focus group discussions. Using a modified Giorgi data analysis method, the investigators uncovered the following themes: types of physical activity; benefits; barriers and limitations; stage of life; motivators; regret; living with diabetes; and strategies. Participants perceived walking as an activity accessible to most women. The significance of physical activity is highlighted by the participant-recommended strategy to “just keep moving.”
Precarious familismo among Latinas/os/xs: Toward a critical theoretical framework centering queer communities
Authors: Patrón Oscar E.
Published: November 2020

Among the Latina/o/x community, familismo is often deemed as one of the most important institutions of support. Research has consistently demonstrated the various and affirming ways in which the cultural value of familismo is manifested across Latina/o/x familial structures (e.g., unconditional support, acceptance, reciprocity, collectivism, protection, loyalty). Despite such assertions, familismo is not necessarily expressed in the same positive manners toward queer members of the family. After surveying the literature on familial structures and relationships among Latinas/os/xs, including queer individuals, and familismo dimensions, I noted limitations in the ways familismo scholarship is discussed. Consequently, I build on previous conceptions of precarious familismo as a more critical and inclusive theoretical framework of queer Latina/o/x experiences and broader familial relationships.
A study of mapping usual care and unmet need for vocational rehabilitation and psychological support following major trauma in five health districts in the UK
Authors: Kettlewell Jade , Timmons Stephen , Bridger Kay , Kendrick Denise , Kellezi Blerina , Holmes Jain , Patel Priya , Radford Kate
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To identify where and how trauma survivors’ rehabilitation needs are met after trauma, to map rehabilitation across five UK major trauma networks, and to compare with recommended pathways.

Design:

Qualitative study (interviews, focus groups, workshops) using soft-systems methodology to map usual care across trauma networks and explore service gaps. Publicly available documents were consulted. CATWOE (Customers, Actors, Transformation, Worldview, Owners, Environment) was used as an analytic framework to explore the relationship between stakeholders in the pathway.

Setting:

Five major trauma networks across the UK.

Subjects:

106 key rehabilitation stakeholders (service providers, trauma survivors) were recruited to interviews ( n = 46), focus groups ( n = 4 groups, 17 participants) and workshops ( n = 5 workshops, 43 participants).

Interventions:

None.

Results:

Mapping of rehabilitation pathways identified several issues: (1) lack of vocational/psychological support particularly for musculoskeletal injuries; (2) inconsistent service provision in areas located further from major trauma centres; (3) lack of communication between acute and community care; (4) long waiting lists (up to 12 months) for community rehabilitation; (5) most well-established pathways were neurologically focused.

Conclusions:

The trauma rehabilitation pathway is complex and varies across the UK with few, if any patients following the recommended pathway. Services have developed piecemeal to address specific issues, but rarely meet the needs of individuals with multiple impairments post-trauma, with a lack of vocational rehabilitation and psychological support for this population.
Effects of rehabilitation methods on lower-limb muscle function and functional performance in patients with cystic fibrosis: A systematic review
Authors: Poncin William , Evrard Sarah , Mareschal Alice , Gohy Sophie , Reychler Gregory
Published: November 2020

Objective:

To investigate the effects of rehabilitation methods on leg muscle function and functional performance in cystic fibrosis.

Data sources:

A literature search was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus and the Cochrane Library from inception to October 12, 2020. A secondary hand search through reference lists from identified articles was conducted.

Review methods:

Three authors independently checked the full-text copies for eligibility of relevant articles. Randomized controlled trials were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. Results suggestive of leg muscle function (e.g. strength, power, endurance, and fatigue) and functional performance were reported.

Results:

The search identified 8 studies (233 patients). The overall quality of these articles was good. Rehabilitation modalities investigated were physical exercises (aerobic, anaerobic and resistance training) ( n = 7) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation ( n = 1). Most studies ( n = 4) reported on the effects of combined aerobic and resistance training and showed improvement on leg strength when exercises were supervised. Aerobic training alone or the use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation also enhanced leg strength, whereas anaerobic training did not. Two studies evaluated leg fatigue and found no improvement compared to standard care. One study assessed the effect of exercises on functional performance and found no improvement when compared to standard care. No studies emphasized the impact of rehabilitation methods on leg muscle endurance or power.

Conclusion:

Combined aerobic and resistance training enhances leg muscle strength in cystic fibrosis. There is insufficient data on other leg muscle outcomes, nor on alternative rehabilitation strategies.
ZMILE, a multicomponent self-management intervention for adults with epilepsy: Rationale and description of the intervention
Authors: Chan Hoi Yau , Leenen Loes AM , Wijnen Ben FM , van der Putten Ingeborg M , Evers Silvia MAA , HJM Majoie Marian , van Heugten Caroline M
Published: November 2020

Objective:

In this paper, we aim to provide a comprehensive description of the multicomponent self-management intervention for adults with epilepsy, ZMILE.

Rationale or theory:

Acquiring self-management skills has been shown to play a vital role in enabling patients with epilepsy overcoming (health-related) struggles in daily life and coping with limitations their condition poses on them. ZMILE is a course consisting of education (to increase concordance to treatment), goal-setting (proactive coping), and self-monitoring.

Resources needed:

The course is guided by two nurse practitioners and each patient is allowed to bring one family member or friend. Self-monitoring plays an important role and can be done through e-Health tools or written diaries.

Processes involved:

During and after the course, patients are required to work toward a personally defined goal using a five-step approach by means of pro-active coping. Moreover, patients are expected to use self-monitoring tools to reflect on their own behavior and identify ways to optimize medication intake when required.

Quantification:

ZMILE is provided in an outpatient setting over five weekly group sessions and one booster session. From the start, patients are encouraged to set individual goals. Each group session will have a different theme but part of every session is reflecting on personal goals and to learn from eachother.

Conclusions:

The ZMILE-intervention has been evaluated and may be a promising intervention in terms of effectiveness and feasibility for adults with epilepsy, relatives, and professionals. We present the adapted version which can be implemented in clinical practice.
Intravenously delivered multilineage-differentiating stress enduring cells dampen excessive glutamate metabolism and microglial activation in experimental perinatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy
Authors: Suzuki Toshihiko , Sato Yoshiaki , Kushida Yoshihiro , Tsuji Masahiro , Wakao Shohei , Ueda Kazuto , Imai Kenji , Iitani Yukako , Shimizu Shinobu , Hida Hideki , Temma Takashi , Saito Shigeyoshi , Iida Hidehiro , Mizuno Masaaki , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Dezawa Mari , Borlongan Cesar V , Hayakawa Masahiro
Published: November 2020

Perinatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) results in serious neurological dysfunction and mortality. Clinical trials of multilineage-differentiating stress enduring cells (Muse cells) have commenced in stroke using intravenous delivery of donor-derived Muse cells. Here, we investigated the therapeutic effects of human Muse cells in an HIE model. Seven-day-old rats underwent ligation of the left carotid artery then were exposed to 8% oxygen for 60 min, and 72 hours later intravenously transplanted with 1 × 104 of human-Muse and -non-Muse cells, collected from bone marrow-mesenchymal stem cells as stage-specific embryonic antigen-3 (SSEA-3)+ and −, respectively, or saline (vehicle) without immunosuppression. Human-specific probe revealed Muse cells distributed mainly to the injured brain at 2 and 4 weeks, and expressed neuronal and glial markers until 6 months. In contrast, non-Muse cells lodged in the lung at 2 weeks, but undetectable by 4 weeks. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy and positron emission tomography demonstrated that Muse cells dampened excitotoxic brain glutamatergic metabolites and suppressed microglial activation. Muse cell-treated group exhibited significant improvements in motor and cognitive functions at 4 weeks and 5 months. Intravenously transplanted Muse cells afforded functional benefits in experimental HIE possibly via regulation of glutamate metabolism and reduction of microglial activation.
Predicting 1p/19q codeletion status using diffusion-, susceptibility-, perfusion-weighted, and conventional MRI in IDH-mutant lower-grade gliomas
Authors: Yang Xiefeng , Lin Yu , Xing Zhen , She Dejun , Su Yan , Cao Dairong
Published: November 2020

Background

Isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant lower-grade gliomas (LGGs) are further classified into two classes: with and without 1p/19q codeletion. IDH-mutant and 1p/19q codeleted LGGs have better prognosis compared with IDH-mutant and 1p/19q non-codeleted LGGs.

Purpose

To evaluate conventional magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI), and dynamic susceptibility contrast perfusion-weighted imaging (DSC-PWI) for predicting 1p/19q codeletion status of IDH-mutant LGGs.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed cMRI, DWI, SWI, and DSC-PWI in 142 cases of IDH mutant LGGs with known 1p/19q codeletion status. Features of cMRI, relative ADC (rADC), intratumoral susceptibility signals (ITSSs), and the value of relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) were compared between IDH-mutant LGGs with and without 1p/19q codeletion. Receiver operating characteristic curve and logistic regression were used to determine diagnostic performances.

Results

IDH-mutant and 1p/19q non-codeleted LGGs tended to present with the T2/FLAIR mismatch sign and distinct borders ( P < 0.001 and P = 0.038, respectively). Parameters of rADC, ITSSs, and rCBVmax were significantly different between the 1p/19q codeleted and 1p/19q non-codeleted groups ( P < 0.001, P = 0.017, and P < 0.001, respectively). A combination of cMRI, SWI, DWI, and DSC-PWI for predicting 1p/19q codeletion status in IDH-mutant LGGs resulted in a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and an AUC of 80.36%, 78.57%, 83.30%, 75.00%, and 0.88, respectively.

Conclusion

1p/19q codeletion status of IDH-mutant LGGs can be stratified using cMRI and advanced MRI techniques, including DWI, SWI, and DSC-PWI. A combination of cMRI, rADC, ITSSs, and rCBVmax may improve the diagnostic performance for predicting 1p/19q codeletion status.
Lower lobe origin is related to unfavorable outcomes in patients with stage I–III lung cancer treated with radical chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Liu Fangfang , Yuan Xun , Jiang Jizong , Zhang Peng , Chen Yuan , Chu Qian
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

The influence of tumor location on survival was investigated in patients with lung cancer who received radical chemoradiotherapy.

Methods:

We examined the relationships between radiation site and survival outcome in patients with lung cancer. A total of 14,640 patients with lung cancer who received radical chemoradiotherapy for stage I–III disease were reviewed from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program (SEER) datasets. We further retrospectively collected cases from a cohort of 148 eligible patients diagnosed between December 2013 and December 2019.

Results:

Female sex, adenocarcinoma, and stage III disease were significantly correlated with right lung lobe tumor. Advanced age at diagnosis was associated with lower lung tumor origin. For the patients who received radical chemoradiotherapy, 1- and 3-year survival rates were 56.5% and 22.9%. Lower lobe origin was closely related to a shorter overall survival compared to non-right lower lobe tumors ( p < 0.001). We also validated the difference in our cohort ( p = 0.004).

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that lower lobe tumor increases mortality risk in patients with lung cancer treated with radical chemoradiotherapy.
Factors Predicting Frequency and Severity of Postoperative Pain After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair Surgery
Authors: Rizvi Syed Mohammed Taif , Bishop Mitchell , Lam Patrick H. , Murrell George A.C.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Postoperative pain after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (RCR) is difficult to predict and manage. The experience of pain is thought to be influenced by a range of different factors. Determining which patient factors contribute to the pain may help us to better understand and manage it.

Purpose:

To evaluate the preoperative patient characteristics that may be predictive of, and correlated with, postoperative pain after arthroscopic RCR.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

The study evaluated 2172 patients who underwent an arthroscopic RCR between February 2004 and December 2015. Pain frequency and severity were measured preoperatively and at 6 weeks after surgery using a modified L’Insalata questionnaire with Likert scales. This 6-week time point was chosen as previous studies have shown patients rank this time point as high in terms of pain after RCR. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between postoperative pain scores and preoperative pain scores, age, sex, tear size, strength, level of sporting and work activity, and work-related injury status.

Results:

The severity of preoperative pain at night ( r = 0.33; P < .001), preoperative pain at rest ( r = 0.32; P < .001), and frequency of extreme pain ( r = 0.31; P < .001) were the strongest independent associations with the frequency of pain at 6 weeks postoperatively. Other associations with postoperative pain frequency included reduced liftoff strength ( r = −0.21; P < .001), work-related injury status ( P < .001), younger age ( P = .001), and female sex ( P = .04). Tear size was inversely related with pain severity ( R2 = 0.85). The severity of preoperative pain had the strongest independent association with the severity of postoperative pain at 6 weeks after surgery ( r = 0.35; P < .001). Other associations with postoperative pain severity included increased patient-ranked preoperative stiffness ( P < .001), a poorer impression of one’s shoulder ( P < .001), reduced level of sporting activity ( P < .001), and work-related injury status ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Multiple risk factors have been identified for postoperative pain after RCR, the strongest of which is preoperative pain. However, of note, the magnitude of the correlations between preoperative severity and frequency of pain and postoperative severity and frequency of pain were found to be weak to moderate ( r = 0.30-0.35). This suggests that while preoperative pain and its severity are associated with postoperative pain, other factors are likely involved in predicting pain. Smaller tear size, younger age, female sex, and work-related injuries were also associated with postoperative pain at 6 weeks after surgery.
Changes in Retinol Binding Protein 4 Level in Undernourished Children After a Nutrition Intervention Are Positively Associated With Mother’s Weight but Negatively With Mother’s Height, Intake of Whole Milk, and Markers of Systemic Inflammation: Results From a Community-Based Intervention Study
Authors: Das Subhasish , Gazi Md Amran , Hasan Md Mehedi , Fahim Shah Mohammad , Alam Md Ashraful , Hossain Md Shabab , Mahfuz Mustafa , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: November 2020

Background:

The changes of plasma retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) level after a nutrition intervention can indicate the metabolic changes associated with the delivered intervention.

Objective:

We investigated the changes in plasma RBP4 level among 12- to 18-month-old children after a nutrition intervention and measured its association with subcutaneous adiposity, maternal characteristics, and inflammation.

Methods:

Data of 520 undernourished children (250 of them had length-for-age Z score [LAZ] <−1 to −2 and 270 had LAZ score <−2) were collected from the Bangladesh Environmental Enteric Dysfunction study conducted in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Multivariable linear regression and generalized estimation equations (GEE) modeling techniques were used to measure the association.

Results:

At baseline, median RBP4 level was 19.9 mg/L (interquartile range [IQR]: 7.96), and at the end of the intervention, it was 20.6 mg/L (IQR: 9.06). Percentage changes in plasma RBP4 level were not significantly associated ( P > .05) with the percentage changes in child’s height, weight, and subcutaneous adiposity. But maternal height (regression coefficient, β = −1.62, P = .002) and milk intake (β = −0.05, P = .01) were negatively and maternal weight was positively associated (β = 0.56, P = .03) with the changes in RBP4 levels. The GEE models revealed negative association of RBP4 levels with C-reactive protein (CRP; β = −0.14, P < .05) and α-1-acid glycoprotein (AGP; β = −0.03, P < .05).

Conclusion:

Children whose mothers were taller experienced less increase in plasma RBP4 level, and children whose mothers had a higher weight experienced more increase in the RBP4 level from baseline. We have also found that CRP and AGP levels and intake of whole milk were negatively associated with the plasma RBP4 level.
Pharmacogenomic Studies in Intellectual Disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
Authors: Yoshida Kazunari , Koyama Emiko , Zai Clement C. , Beitchman Joseph H. , Kennedy James L. , Lunsky Yona , Desarkar Pushpal , Müller Daniel J.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often receive psychotropic medications such as antipsychotics and antidepressants to treat aberrant behaviors and mood symptoms, frequently resulting in polypharmacy and drug-related adverse effects. Pharmacogenomic (PGx) studies with ASD and/or ID (ASD/ID) have been scarce despite the promise of optimizing treatment outcomes. We reviewed the literature on PGx studies with antipsychotics and antidepressants (e.g., treatment response and adverse effects) in ASD/ID.

Methods:

We performed a systematic review using MEDLINE, Embase, and PsycINFO, including peer-reviewed original articles in English referring to PGx in the treatment of ASD/ID in any age groups (e.g., treatment response and adverse effects).

Results:

A total of 28 PGx studies using mostly candidate gene approaches were identified across age groups. Notably, only 3 studies included adults with ASD/ID while the other 25 studies focused specifically on children/adolescents with ASD/ID. Twelve studies primarily investigated treatment response, of which 5 and 6 studies included patients treated with antipsychotics and antidepressants, respectively. Most interesting results for response were reported for 2 sets of candidate gene studies, namely: (1) The DRD3 Ser9Gly (rs6280) polymorphism was examined in patients treated with risperidone in 3 studies, 2 of which reported an association with risperidone treatment response and (2) the SLC6A4 5-HTTLPR polymorphism and treatment response to antidepressants which was investigated in 4 studies, 3 of which reported significant associations. In regard to side effects, 9 of 15 studies focused on hyperprolactinemia in patients treated with risperidone. Among them, 7 and 5 studies examined the impact of CYP2D6 and DRD2 Taq1A polymorphisms, respectively, yielding mostly negative study findings.

Conclusions:

There is limited data available on PGx in individuals with ASD/ID and in particular in adults. Given the potential for PGx testing in improving treatment outcomes, additional PGx studies for psychotropic treatment in ASD/ID across age groups are warranted.
Factors Related to Extended Time Use by College Students With Disabilities
Authors: Gelbar Nicholas , Madaus Joseph
Published: November 2020

Extended time to complete course examinations is the most commonly provided accommodation to students with disabilities in postsecondary institutions. However, there is a paucity of studies that examine the use and influence of extended time in true testing situations. The present study examined test accommodation used by 596 students with disabilities at a large research university. These students completed a total of 3,726 exams in 1,517 unique courses. Results indicated that extended time was used in approximately half of the tests, and of these, a nearly there was an even split between the use of less than and more than 50% additional time. In a statistical model predicting whether a participant used extended time at least once in a course, having a learning disability, having attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and taking a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) course were statistically significant predictors of whether a participant used extended time in a course. Implications and areas for future research are presented.
De-Implementing Inappropriate Accommodations Practices
Authors: Lovett Benjamin J. , Harrison Allyson G.
Published: November 2020

Educational accommodations, which alter the manner in which instruction or assessments are administered, are often an appropriate part of a student’s academic program. However, accommodations are frequently overused and have significant limitations. De-implementing inappropriate accommodations is a complex task, but one made easier through a clear understanding of the factors that cause and maintain those accommodations practices. In the present paper, we use the logic of functional behavioral assessment to better understand why evaluators and school staff recommend and provide inappropriate accommodations. We identify problematic background beliefs, specific antecedents, and reinforcing consequences for inappropriate accommodations, before describing several effective strategies for de-implementing those accommodations.
Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in Holoprosencephaly and Associations With Clinical Outcome: Implications for Fetal Counseling
Authors: Riddle Artur , Nagaraj Usha , Hopkin Robert J. , Kline-Fath Beth , Venkatesan Charu
Published: November 2020

Holoprosencephaly is the most common malformation of forebrain development and includes a wide spectrum of severity. The objective of this retrospective study was to evaluate fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) associations with outcome. Of the 63 cases identified on antenatal ultrasonography, 28 cases were confirmed on fetal MRI. There were 17 live births; 9 patients died within the first month of life. There were 7 survivors. The vast majority were nonambulatory and required feeding support; none required respiratory support. We found that presence and number of non–holoprosencephaly-associated malformations was also associated with survival. Of 5 patients with 3 or more systemic anomalies, 4 died regardless of holoprosencephaly subtype and 1 was lost to follow-up. Patients with suspected holoprosencephaly on ultrasonography should have full body fetal MRI and echocardiogram to better evaluate systemic anomalies. Counseling should involve pediatric palliative care services to prepare families in caring for babies with limited life span.
State and Local Taxes and Employment by Wage Level
Authors: Fatehin Sohani , Sjoquist David L.
Published: November 2020

Economists have devoted much attention to understanding the effects of state–local fiscal policies, particularly taxes, on the growth of state-level employment. However, no one has investigated whether the effects differ by wage level. Using a state-level panel data set, the authors investigate the link between state–local taxes and the growth of employment for three wage-level categories. The authors find relatively consistent evidence supporting the proposition that the response of employment growth to changes in taxes differs by wage level.
Looking at Our STEM Teacher Workforce: How to Model Self-Efficacy
Authors: Ofem Brandon , Polizzi Samuel J. , Rushton Gregory T. , Beeth Michael , Couch Brock , Doering Jessica , Konz Rebecca , Mohr-Schroeder Margaret , Roehrig Gillian , Sheppard Keith
Published: November 2020

There is currently a severe shortage of teachers in the U.S. workforce. The problem is especially acute among science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) teachers and exacerbated by high turnover among new teachers—those with less than 5 years of teaching experience. In this article, the authors investigate one piece of the puzzle. The authors model a social cognitive approach to understanding self-efficacy, a key precursor to job performance and retention. Their interactionist approach accounts for both demographic (i.e., gender and age) and relational variables (i.e., social networks). The authors test their ideas on a sample of 159 STEM teachers across five geographic regions in the United States. Their analysis reveals patterned differences in self-efficacy across gender that are contingent on the communities of practice in which the teachers are embedded. Together, their theory and findings highlight the value of taking a holistic, interactionist view in explaining STEM teacher self-efficacy.
A Critical Exploration of Assumptions Underlying STEM Career Development
Authors: Blustein David L. , Erby Whitney , Meerkins Tera , Soldz Isaac , Ezema Gabriel Nnamdi
Published: November 2020

Significant resources have been invested by multiple entities and institutions into exposing more students and adults to science, technology, education, and mathematics (STEM) education and careers. These efforts have coalesced into a major educational and career development movement within the past few decades. In this article, we present a critical analysis of the STEM movement that seeks to inform dialogue and debate regarding the nature and potential impacts of STEM career development. The article identifies the inherent assumptions about equity, self-determination, meaning, and purpose that underlie the STEM movement, while also acknowledging its many important positive contributions. The potential unintended consequences of STEM interventions and programs as well as the social messaging that accompanies these efforts are reviewed. Future directions for research, practice, and public policy that are informed by this critical analysis conclude this article.
Career Advancement for Women in the British Hospitality Industry: The Enabling Factors
Authors: Calinaud Valentine , Kokkranikal Jithendran , Gebbels Maria
Published: November 2020

Women are historically under-represented in senior management positions in almost all industries. Despite the UK hospitality industry being a major employer of women, there is a clear lack of women in management positions. This research aims to gain insight into the factors enabling women to access senior positions in the UK hospitality industry. Using the gendered organizations perspective, the study analyses female managers’ perceptions about their career advancement within this sector. It identifies key enablers and strategies to facilitate women’s career advancement. The findings reveal that despite improvements in career opportunities for women within the UK hospitality organizations, there is still a long way to go in terms of employment policies and practices that enable women’s career progression, which includes family-friendly practices; proactive and transparent gender equality measures; support networks and mentors; and personal development plan.
Study on the improvement of the surface integrity and efficiency of electrical-discharge-machined TC4 titanium alloy via abrasive flow machining
Authors: Yu Ze , Zuo Dunwen , Sun Yuli , Li Guohua , Chen Xuemei , Zhao Jianshe , Shi Kaibo
Published: November 2020

To simultaneously optimize the surface quality and machining efficiency of the electrical discharge machining (EDM) processes used to produce titanium alloy quadrilateral group small hole parts, a combined “EDM + AFM” machining technology is proposed in this paper as an efficient and high-quality machining approach. In the proposed method, TC4 titanium alloy is first machined using the EDM process with graphite electrodes and the abrasive flow machining (AFM) process is then used to finish the machined surface. The effects of various electrical parameters on EDM-derived surface quality and improvements in EDM-derived quality under the application of AFM were assessed and, using the final surface roughness as a constraint condition, the effects of various combinations of EDM and “EDM + AFM” on efficiency were studied. The results revealed that the thickness and surface roughness of the superficial recast layer of the TC4 titanium alloy increase with both current and pulse width; in particular, increasing these parameters can increase the surface roughness by two to three grades. Following AFM, the alloy has a more uniform hardness distribution and the surface stress state changes from tensile to compressive stress, indicating that the combined “EDM + AFM” machining scheme can significantly enhance the surface quality of EDM-produced titanium alloy quadrilateral small group holes. The combined scheme achieves a balancing point beyond which increasing the roughness or the number of machining holes enhances either the machining efficiency or the machining surface quality. In the case of typical titanium alloy quadrilateral group small hole parts, the combined machining process can improve the finishing efficiency and total machining efficiency by 71.2% and 25.36%, respectively.