bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of enzymatic hydrolysis on developing support of polyamide woven fabric for enzyme immobilization
Authors: Song Ji Eun , Kim Hye Rim , Lee So Hee
Published: April 2018

Polyamide fiber has been considered as a suitable support for enzyme immobilization because of its low cost, chemical and mechanical properties and ready availability in a number of different forms. In particular, polyamide fabric has highly specific surface and good elasticity. The present study aims to develop an immobilization support from polyamide fabric and to establish the optimum immobilization conditions for laccase. For this, the enzymatic hydrolysis process was introduced to the hydrolysis of polyamide, creating amino groups that immobilize enzyme molecules. When polyamide fabric was hydrolyzed by bromelain during enzymatic hydrolysis, the highest immobilization yield (68 ± 0.7%) and relative activity (95 ± 0.52%) of immobilized laccase were obtained. For successful enzyme immobilization, the optimal glutaraldehyde crosslinking conditions were pH of 9.0 with 10% (v/v) of glutaraldehyde concentration for 240 min at 45℃. The most favorable immobilization conditions were as follows: pH of 6.0 with 35% (owf) of laccase concentration for 600 min at 4℃. Under the optimum treatment conditions, the pH and thermal stability of immobilized laccase were improved. After 20 days of storage, the immobilized laccase on enzymatic hydrolyzed polyamide fabric retained approximately 30% of its initial activity. Furthermore, the immobilized laccase indicated potential reuse over 10 use cycles. The structural changes of polyamide fabric according to treatment processes were demonstrated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The changes of surface morphology were measured by scanning electron microscopy according to the multi treatment steps.
Congenital pulmonary airway malformation mimicking as pulmonary tuberculosis in five paediatric patients: a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Singh Jasbir , Dalal Poonam , Rattan Kamal Nain
Published: April 2018

A series of five children with delayed presentation of congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM), all initially misdiagnosed as pulmonary tuberculosis, is described. All five children presented with recurrent respiratory infections and failure to thrive, having shown poor response to multiple antibiotics course, including anti-tubercular therapy for variable periods. Successful surgical intervention was belatedly instigated.
Refiguring the Subaltern
Authors: Thomas Peter D.
Published: April 2018

The subaltern has frequently been understood as a figure of exclusion ever since it was first highlighted by the early Subaltern Studies collective’s creative reading of Antonio Gramsci’s carceral writings. In this article, I argue that a contextualist and diachronic study of the development of the notion of subaltern classes throughout Gramsci’s full Prison Notebooks reveals new resources for “refiguring” the subaltern. I propose three alternative figures to comprehend specific dimensions of Gramsci’s theorizations: the “irrepressible subaltern,” the “hegemonic subaltern,” and the “citizen-subaltern.” Far from being exhausted by the eclipse of the conditions it was initially called upon to theorize in Subaltern Studies, such a refigured notion of the subaltern has the potential to cast light both on the contradictory development of political modernity and on contemporary political processes.
The Effects of Immigrant Status and Age at Migration on Changes in Older Europeans’ Health
Authors: Lanari Donatella , Bussini Odoardo , Minelli Liliana
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this study was to determine the differences between natives and immigrants in regard to transition probabilities among health states in self-rated health (SRH), depression, and activities of daily living for middle-aged and older adults in Europe. The Survey of Health, Aging, and Retirement allows us to investigate how successfully the immigrants have aged from 2004 to 2011 compared to natives, according to country of origin and age at migration. We showed that some groups, such as Eastern European immigrants, have higher probabilities of health deterioration in terms of SRH. Moreover, those immigrants who arrived in the host country during adulthood experienced relatively fast health decline.
Why Are the Elderly More Averse to Immigration When They Are More Likely to Benefit? Evidence across Countries
Authors: Schotte Simone , Winkler Hernan
Published: April 2018

Using household surveys for 25 countries over a 12-year period, this paper investigates why the elderly are more averse to open immigration policies than their younger peers. We find that the negative correlation between age and pro-immigration attitudes is mostly explained by a cohort or generational change. In fact, once we control for year of birth, the correlation between age and pro-immigration attitudes is either positive or zero in most of the countries of our sample. Under certain assumptions, our estimates suggest that aging societies will tend to become less averse to open immigration regimes over time.
Entering the third decade of experience with octreotide LAR in neuroendocrine tumors: A review of current knowledge
Authors: Pusceddu Sara , Prinzi Natalie , Raimondi Alessandra , Corti Francesca , Buzzoni Roberto , Di Bartolomeo Maria , Seregni Ettore , Maccauro Marco , Coppa Jorgelina , Milione Massimo , Mazzaferro Vincenzo , de Braud Filippo
Published: April 2018

Gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are a relatively rare group of heterogeneous neoplasms. The most significant advance in therapy of NETs has been the advent of the somatostatin analog octreotide, which represents a cornerstone in their management and dramatically changed the therapeutic landscape. Octreotide long-acting release (LAR) was developed to overcome some of the limitations of octreotide. Several clinical studies, including PROMID and RADIANT-2, have validated the clinical benefits of octreotide LAR in NETs, with tumor shrinkage in about 10% of patients and tumor stabilization in roughly half of cases. While the use of octreotide LAR is well-consolidated in NETs, some open questions remain. These include the use of high-dose octreotide LAR, as there is evidence that higher dose may provide longer disease control, and nonstandard treatment schedules, with administration every 21 days instead of 28 days, as well as their use in combination with targeted agents or peptide receptor radiotherapy in clinical practice. After 3 decades of clinical experience with octreotide LAR, the drug has a well-established safety profile. It is well-tolerated and treatment discontinuations due to adverse events are uncommon. One exception is cholelithiasis, which may increase with longer duration of treatment. According to the literature data, octreotide LAR is currently recommended in both functioning and nonfunctioning advanced NETs. This review summarizes the available clinical data with octreotide LAR and also provides future perspectives on its possible uses in patients with NETs.
On the diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma: A necropsy-based study of 171 cases (1997–2016)
Authors: Barbieri Pietro Gino , Mirabelli Dario , Magnani Corrado , Brollo Alessandro
Published: April 2018

Background:

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) diagnosis is known to be difficult. We report on the diagnostic elements available in life in an MPM necropsy case series and describe the frequency of non-neoplastic asbestos-related diseases as biological exposure indices.

Methods:

We reviewed pathologic and clinical records of an unselected series of autopsies (1977–2016) in patients with MPM employed in the Monfalcone shipyards or living with shipyard workers. We assessed the consistency with autopsy results of diagnoses based on, respectively, radiologic, cytologic, and histologic findings, with and without immunophenotyping.

Results:

Data on 171 cases were available: for 169, autopsy confirmed the MPM diagnosis. In life, 119 cases had histologic confirmation of diagnosis, whereas 7 were negative; all cases without immunophenotypization were autoptic MPMs. Cytology alone had been positive in 18 autoptic MPM cases, negative in 14. Radiologic imaging alone had been positive in another 16, negative in 11. In the 2 cases not confirmed at autopsy, MPM had been suspected by chest computed tomography only. Bilateral pleural plaques were found in 144 and histologic evidence of asbestosis in 62 cases.

Conclusions:

Autopsies confirmed 169/171 cases, including cases that would not be considered as certain based on diagnosis in life. Radiologic imaging, cytologic examination of pleural effusions, or both combined had low sensitivity but high positive predictive value: when they are positive, proceeding to thoracoscopy should be justified. MPM has been correctly diagnosed even without immunohistochemistry. The prevalence of pleural plaques and asbestosis was high due to severity of asbestos exposures in these cases.
Dual-task cost in people with multiple sclerosis: A case–control study
Authors: Lemmens Jolien , Ferdinand Sofie , Vandenbroucke Annick , Ilsbroukx Stephan , Kos Daphne
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Limitations in fine motor functioning and cognitive performance are frequently reported in multiple sclerosis. Studies about dual-task costs in multiple sclerosis generally explore walking and postural performance. This study aims at exploring dual-task costs when simultaneously performing fine motor and cognitive tasks.

Method

Eighty people with multiple sclerosis and 80 matched controls performed the nine-hole peg test and the months backward test under single and dual-task conditions. Differences in performance over time were analysed with the paired t-test; differences in dual-task costs between groups were analysed with independent t-tests.

Results

People with multiple sclerosis and controls showed a significant decrease in fine motor and cognitive performance in dual-task conditions compared to single-task conditions ( P < 0.01). People with multiple sclerosis with limited hand capacity showed larger dual-task costs for cognitive performance compared to other hand capacity groups ( P < 0.05). Individuals with multiple sclerosis with lower cognitive capacity showed larger dual-task costs for fine motor performance ( P < 0.01).

Conclusion

Both people with multiple sclerosis and controls experience dual-task costs. People with multiple sclerosis with limited hand function showed an increased dual-task cost of cognitive performance and individuals with limited cognitive capacity showed a higher dual-task cost for fine motor performance. Therefore, occupational therapists should focus on cognitive or fine motor aspects during dual-task training dependent on individuals' capacities.
How Autonomous Driving May Affect the Value of Travel Time Savings for Commuting
Authors: Steck Felix , Kolarova Viktoriya , Bahamonde-Birke Francisco , Trommer Stefan , Lenz Barbara
Published: April 2018

Autonomous driving is being discussed as a promising solution for transportation-related issues and might bring some improvement for users of the system. For instance, especially high mileage commuters might compensate for some of their time spent traveling as they will be able to undertake other activities while going to work. At the same time, there are still many uncertainties and little empirical data on the impact of autonomous driving on mode choices. This study addresses the impact of autonomous driving on value of travel time savings (VTTS) and mode choices for commuting trips using stated-choice experiments. Two use cases were addressed – a privately owned, and a shared autonomous vehicle – compared with other modes of transportation. The collected data were analyzed by performing a mixed logit model. The results show that mode-related factors such as time elements, especially in-vehicle time and cost, play a crucial role for mode choices that include autonomous vehicles. The study provides empirical evidence that autonomous driving may lead to a reduction in VTTS for commuting trips. It was found that driving autonomously in a privately owned vehicle might reduce the VTTS by 31% compared with driving manually, and is perceived similarly to in-vehicle time in public transportation. Furthermore, riding in a shared autonomous vehicle is perceived 10% less negatively than driving manually. The study provides important insights into VTTS by autonomous driving for commuting trips and could be a base for future research to build upon.
Improved Backcalculation Procedure for Continuously Reinforced Concrete Pavement
Authors: Zhang Yating , Roesler Jeffery
Published: April 2018

Falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing is effective in evaluating the structural response of in-situ concrete pavements through the backcalculated pavement layer parameters. Specifically, the FWD data can be used to backcalculate the foundation layer and concrete stiffness or the soil layer stiffness, effective slab thickness, and slab–base interface condition. Since continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) has closely spaced transverse cracks, the traditional backcalculation assumption of an infinite slab can lead to significant errors in the backcalculated results. In this paper, solutions for backcalculated modulus of subgrade reaction ( k-value), elastic modulus of concrete ( E), and effective thickness ( heff) for different crack spacing have been derived from 2-D finite element analysis. AASHTO sensor configuration (0, 12, 24, 36 in.) was recommended for CRCP with crack spacing ≥6 ft, and an alternative solution for crack spacing of 4 and 5 ft was proposed with AREA24. Crack load transfer efficiency (LTE) across transverse cracks had limited impact on backcalculated results if the LTE was >80%. As expected, the backcalulation values were sensitive to the load plate’s longitudinal position relative to the transverse crack especially for crack spacings smaller than 8 ft. The proposed backcalculation method was applied to a field CRCP test section with different crack spacing, reinforcement ratio, and base types.
Rough Roads Ahead 2: Economic Implications of Deteriorating Highway Conditions
Authors: Knudson Becky , Bettinardi Alex
Published: April 2018

This study presents a high-level, strategic assessment of the long-range implications of Oregon’s current forecast budget for highways. The current highway budget is insufficient to meet current state goals with respect to transportation system condition, requiring the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) to prepare for strategic investment decisions. ODOT must conceive new ways to develop the most efficient use and management of facilities while accepting lower performance standards, shifted use of deteriorating facilities, and the need to allocate resources to priority locations.The Oregon Statewide Integrated Model was used to evaluate three hypothetical scenarios over a 20-year period, representing investment strategies implemented with budget increases and compared with the current 20-year forecast budget. The purpose of the analysis was to evaluate the potential impact of highway disinvestment on Oregon’s economic competitiveness. The primary focus was on bridges, as over half of Oregon’s bridges are nearing the end of their life cycle. Weight-restricted bridges significantly impact the cost of moving freight in Oregon, where over 70% of freight moves by truck. In addition, registered passenger vehicle records were used to estimate the impacts of deteriorating pavement conditions on Oregon highway users.
Biomimetic porous high-density polyethylene/polyethylene-grafted-maleic anhydride scaffold with improved in vitro cytocompatibility
Authors: Sharma Swati , Bhaskar Nitu , Bose Surjasarathi , Basu Bikaramjit
Published: April 2018

A major challenge for tissue engineering is to design and to develop a porous biocompatible scaffold, which can mimic the properties of natural tissue. As a first step towards this endeavour, we here demonstrate a distinct methodology in biomimetically synthesized porous high-density polyethylene scaffolds. Co-extrusion approach was adopted, whereby high-density polyethylene was melt mixed with polyethylene oxide to form an immiscible binary blend. Selective dissolution of polyethylene oxide from the biphasic system revealed droplet–matrix-type morphology. An attempt to stabilize such morphology against thermal and shear effects was made by the addition of polyethylene- grafted-maleic anhydride as a compatibilizer. A maximum ultimate tensile strength of 7 MPa and elastic modulus of 370 MPa were displayed by the high-density polyethylene/polyethylene oxide binary blend with 5% maleated polyethylene during uniaxial tensile loading. The cell culture experiments with murine myoblast C2C12 cell line indicated that compared to neat high-density polyethylene and high-density polyethylene/polyethylene oxide, the high-density polyethylene/polyethylene oxide with 5% polyethylene- grafted-maleic anhydride scaffold significantly increased muscle cell attachment and proliferation with distinct elongated threadlike appearance and highly stained nuclei, in vitro. This has been partly attributed to the change in surface wettability property with a reduced contact angle (∼72°) for 5% PE- g-MA blends. These findings suggest that the high-density polyethylene/polyethylene oxide with 5% polyethylene- grafted-maleic anhydride can be treated as a cell growth substrate in bioengineering applications.
Beyond NTEE Codes: Opportunities to Understand Nonprofit Activity Through Mission Statement Content Coding
Authors: Fyall Rachel , Moore M. Kathleen , Gugerty Mary Kay
Published: April 2018

There are profound differences within the nonprofit sector, and research benefits from the ability to group nonprofits by substantive focus. Researchers typically rely on the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) codes to categorize nonprofits, but we argue that mission statement text offers a better information source for nonprofit researchers to create categories of organizations. Harnessing advances in data availability and machine-reading technology, this article introduces a new method whereby mission statement analysis drives research and analysis of “like” organizations. Using an automated dictionary method to analyze mission statements, we draw a sample of housing and shelter nonprofits in Washington State. Compared with the corresponding sample based on NTEE classification, our results find roughly double the number of housing and shelter nonprofits based on their mission statements. Our method also proves more accurate than NTEE codes when applied to a sub-sample of nonprofits known to provide shelter for the homeless.
Patient-level outcomes and virologic suppression rates in HIV-infected patients receiving antiretroviral therapy in Rwanda
Authors: Riedel David J , Stafford Kristen A , Memiah Peter , Coker Modupe , Baribwira Cyprien , Sebeza Jackson , Karorero Eva , Nsanzimana Sabin , Morales Fernando , Redfield Robert R
Published: April 2018

The Rwanda national HIV program has been successful at scaling up antiretroviral therapy (ART) to achieve universal access. The AIDSRelief Model of Care focuses on four key principles: (1) earlier initiation of ART; (2) use of durable, highly-potent, and sequence-friendly first-line ART regimens; (3) early detection of treatment failure; and (4) provision of community-based care and support to ensure optimal adherence and follow up/engagement in care. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of randomly-selected HIV-infected patients at AIDSRelief-supported sites using a stratified, random sample of 583 adults (>15 years) who initiated ART from 30 June 2008 to 1 February 2010. At ART initiation, the median patient age was 38 years, and 67% were female. The baseline median CD4+ cell count was 309 cells/mm3. Overall virologic suppression was 91%. Married/ever married status (adjusted prevalence odds ratio [aPOR] 3.75, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30–10.78) and self-reported adherence ≥95% in the past month (aPOR 2.76, 95% CI 1.00–7.62) were significantly associated with viral suppression in the multivariable model. Excellent virologic outcomes were achieved in Rwandan AIDSRelief sites utilizing the AIDSRelief Model of Care during the scale-up of ART in the country.
Sinecatechins 10% ointment for genital warts: Case report of a beneficial reaction in an HIV-positive woman
Authors: Bilenchi Roberta , Campoli Marco , Trovato Emanuele , Cinotti Elisa , Rubegni Pietro , Fimiani Michele
Published: April 2018

Patients with HIV infection are more likely to develop anogenital warts compared to HIV-negative people and are susceptible to treatment failures and recurrences. We report a case of extensive vulvar warts in an HIV-positive woman successfully treated with sinecatechins ointment. After the failure of a combination of cryotherapy and imiquimod 5% cream, we started therapy with sinecatechins 10% ointment. The patient developed an intense local inflammatory reaction after three weeks that induced the discontinuation of the therapy. After two weeks, we observed a complete regression of inflammation and a reduction of genital warts. The lesions completely regressed within a few weeks, with no relapse after eight months. Sinecatechins is a standardized extract of green tea leaves, effective in the treatment of external genital and perianal warts in immunocompetent patients, but their role has not been yet studied for immunocompromised people. Our case may represent a starting point for further studies, in order to evaluate the relation between treatment dosage, side effects, and drug response in immunocompromised patients.
Dolutegravir as a trigger for DRESS syndrome?
Authors: Martin Charlotte , Payen Marie-Christine , De Wit Stephane
Published: April 2018

Dolutegravir is an increasingly-used second-generation human immunodeficiency virus integrase strand transfer inhibitor. Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) syndrome has been described in several patients treated with raltegravir but to our knowledge, there is no previous report of DRESS syndrome associated with dolutegravir.
High copy number of ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 DNA associated with malignant catarrhal fever–like syndrome in a lamb
Authors: Phillips Ida L. , Cunha Cristina W. , Galbraith Dustin , Highland Margaret A. , Bildfell Robert J. , Li Hong
Published: April 2018

Domestic and wild sheep are the natural reservoirs for ovine gammaherpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2), the causative agent of sheep-associated malignant catarrhal fever (SA-MCF). Virtually all adult sheep are infected with OvHV-2 under natural flock conditions, and infection is normally subclinical. MCF-like clinical signs and typical histologic lesions in sheep have been linked during case investigations at veterinary diagnostic laboratories; however, the confirmation of naturally occurring MCF in sheep is problematic. To date, the assays for detection of OvHV-2–specific antibodies or DNA are usually positive in sheep, regardless of health status, so mere detection of antibodies or the agent is of minimal diagnostic significance in this species. We document herein a naturally occurring MCF case in a 4-mo-old domestic lamb and demonstrate that the affected animal had 100–1,000 times more OvHV-2 copy numbers in tissues than in healthy adult and age-matched sheep. These results indicate that high copy numbers of viral DNA in tissues associated with characteristic lesions can be used to confirm the diagnosis of MCF in sheep.
Understanding Prostate Cancer Patients’ Support Needs: How Do They Manage Living With Cancer?
Authors: Maharaj Nandini , Soheilipour Shimae , Bender Jacqueline L. , Kazanjian Arminée
Published: April 2018

Survivorship concerns are common after prostate cancer with many survivors experiencing long-term and late effects of treatment. Patient navigation has been promoted to improve continuity of care. While many studies have examined the potential benefits of patient navigation by health-care professionals for the screening and diagnostic phase, few are focused on peer navigation for prostate cancer patients in the treatment and posttreatment survivorship phase. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore the perceptions of men with prostate cancer and the partners of such men regarding their support needs and experiences. In depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 20 men who were prostate cancer survivors and 4 partners. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to identify themes and patterns across the interviews. According to the results, participants had experienced uncertainty regarding their test results and treatment options. Many participants had dealt with these challenges by researching information and seeking support from health-care professionals, family members, and fellow prostate cancer patients. Four themes are highlighted: (a) dealing with the unknown, (b) everyone is different, (c) keep looking forward, and (d) getting on with it. Overall participants held favorable views of peer support. Sharing one’s experiences with an empathic peer who has completed treatment can reassure the patient that he is not alone. Knowing what to expect empowers men and their partners to manage the illness and effects of treatment. This research provides insights into the scope of patients’ and partners’ informational and psychosocial needs and preferred coping strategies.
Amniotic Band Syndrome: A Multidisciplinary Care Approach to the Treatment of a Rare Case
Authors: Mukherjee Padma M. , Natera Marianella , Drew Howard , Creanga Adriana
Published: April 2018

Amniotic band syndrome (ABS) is a rare developmental disorder associated with defects such as syndactyly, facial and/or palatal clefts, and dental anomalies like malformed or impacted teeth. In this report, a patient with ABS was successfully treated with orthodontic, endodontic, and periodontal therapies. Cone beam computed tomography revealed a unique eruptive path of the impacted central incisor through the incisive canal and cleft area. The tooth was occlusally and functionally stable after 1 year of treatment. Multidisciplinary care was critical to the success of this case. Available literature on ABS is also briefly reviewed.
Myxoid Emboli
Authors: AbdullGaffar Badr , Waslewski Krysztof
Published: April 2018

Emboli are common clinicopathologic findings. Recognition of the type of arterial emboli could be the first clue to the original source. Emboli with myxomatous changes are rare. Myxoma-like features in mural organizing thrombi have been reported. The most challenging differential diagnosis is between embolic cardiac myxomas and myxomatous thromboemboli. Emboli from sarcomas and arteriosclerotic plaques with myxoid features are also potential pitfalls. There is scarcity of studies focusing on myxoid emboli and their clinical and pathologic importance. We performed a retrospective study over 12 years. We retrieved all of the embolectomy specimens. We histologically screened the emboli for myxoid stroma, myxomatous changes, and mucinous degeneration. We retrieved 12 cases (3%) of myxoid emboli out of 391 embolectomy specimens. We found 4 cases of thromboemboli, 5 cases of atrial myxomas, 2 cases of atheromatous plaques, and a myxoid liposarcoma. The age range was between 35 and 71 years, with a mean age of 51 years. The male-to-female ratio was 3:2. Myxoid thromboemboli and myxomas were large, while atheromatous plaque emboli were small. Myxoid emboli arising from organizing mural thrombi can be histologically confused with cardiac myxomas and vice versa. Myxoid emboli from atheromatous plaque and myxoid sarcomas can mimic embolizing myxomas. Certain histologic features are helpful hints to differentiate between myxoid emboli. In doubtful cases, immunohistochemistry is helpful. Correct histologic recognition of the different types of myxoid emboli helps guide the clinicians to the most likely etiology and appropriate management in occlusive peripheral vascular diseases with clinically unrecognized lesions.
Poorly Differentiated Chordomas Showing Loss of INI1/SMARCB1: A Report of 2 Rare Cases With Diagnostic Implications
Authors: Rekhi Bharat , Kosemehmetoglu Kemal , Rane Swapnil , Soylemezoglu Figen , Bulut Elif
Published: April 2018

Poorly differentiated chordomas are rare musculoskeletal tumors. Case 1. A 42-year-old lady presented with quadriparesis of 2 months’ duration. Radiologic imaging disclosed a soft tissue mass in her left prevertebral- and paravertebral cervical region. Case 2. A 4-year-old male child presented with neck pain and restricted head movements of 1-year duration. Radiologic imaging revealed a contrast enhancing, paraspinal soft tissue mass in his cervical region. Microscopic examination in both the cases revealed a cellular malignant tumor composed of moderate to markedly pleomorphic cells with interspersed mitotic figures, along with focal myxoid change and necrosis. By immunohistochemistry, tumor cells in both cases were diffusely positive for pan cytokeratin (AE1/AE3) and brachyury, whereas these were negative for INI1/SMARCB1. Tumor cells in the second case were also positive for glypican3. The first case developed pulmonary metastasis, while the second case developed recurrence. Poorly differentiated chordomas are uncommon tumors, invariably characterized by loss of INI1. These tumors can be rarely seen in adults and need to be differentiated from their diagnostic mimics, in view of treatment implications and their relatively aggressive clinical outcomes.
The JMC Innovation Project: A Pivotal Moment for Journalism, Media and Communication Education: Assessing the State of Innovation
Authors: Richards Allan , Fitzpatrick Kathy R.
Published: April 2018

The JMC Innovation Project recently released its first report, “The New JMC: Creating Cultures of Innovation in Schools of Journalism, Media and Communication,” which assessed the scope and status of innovation in schools and colleges of journalism, media and communication (JMC), based on personal interviews with 70 deans and directors from public and private universities across the country. A synopsis of the report was published in MediaShift. Here, we highlight key findings and offer our observations and takeaways from the interviews on the state of innovation in JMC schools and colleges. We encourage readers to visit the JMC Innovation Project website ( jmcinnovationproject.com ), which reports on how JMC deans and directors view and approach innovation—in their own words.
Total factor productivity growth and regional competitive analysis of China’s star-rated hotels
Authors: Liu Hongwei , Tsai Henry
Published: April 2018

This study investigates the total factor productivity (TFP) growth, technological progress, pure technical efficiency change, scale efficiency change, and mix efficiency change of star-rated hotels in China by employing a Hicks–Moorsteen index approach. The results show that the TFP of star-rated hotels in China had an annual average growth rate of 13.11%, mainly attributed to an annual average growth rate of operational efficiency of 21.85% and a mix efficiency growth rate of 13.52%. The growth rate of optimal production technology in the Western region markedly outperformed those in other regions and yet its growth rate of operational efficiency significantly underperformed. We also found that catch-up effects in the Central and Western regions were progressing in terms of operational efficiency and optimal production technology, respectively. The findings suggest that policy makers and practitioners should focus on TFP growth and its components, drawing the attention of star-rated hotels to upgrade their optimal production technology and enhance their operational efficiency as a means of improving TFP and competitiveness. Lastly, this study advances a new research perspective in efficiency assessment in the hotel industry by considering both financial and service production outputs.
Does acute myocardial infarction kill more people on weekends? Analysis of in-hospital mortality rates for weekend admissions in Portugal
Authors: Fiorentino Francesca , Ascenção Raquel , Rosati Nicoletta
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To investigate a possible weekend effect in the in-hospital mortality rate for acute myocardial infarction in Portugal, and whether the delay in invasive intervention contributes to this effect.

Methods

Data from the National 2011–2015 Diagnostic-Related-Group databases were analysed. The focus was on adult patients admitted via the emergency department and with the primary diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. Patients were grouped according to ST-elevation myocardial infarction and non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction episodes. We employed multivariable logistic regressions to determine the association between weekend admission and in-hospital mortality, controlling for episode complexity (through a severity index and acute comorbidities), demographic characteristics and hospital identifications. The association between the probability of a prompt surgery (within one day) and the day of admission was investigated to explore the possible delay of care delivery for patients admitted during weekends.

Results

Our results indicate that in-hospital mortality rates were not significantly higher for weekend admissions than for weekday admissions in both ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI episodes. This result is robust to the inclusion of a number of potential confounding mechanisms. Patients admitted on weekends had lower probabilities of undergoing invasive cardiac surgery within the day after admission, but delay in care delivery during the weekend was not associated with worse outcomes in terms of in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions

There is no evidence for the existence of a weekend effect due to admission for acute myocardial infarction in Portugal, in both STEMI and non-STEMI episodes.
Cost-utility analysis on telemonitoring of users with pacemakers: The PONIENTE study
Authors: Lopez-Villegas Antonio , Catalan-Matamoros Daniel , Robles-Musso Emilio , Bautista-Mesa Rafael , Peiro Salvador
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Few studies have confirmed the cost-saving of telemonitoring of users with pacemakers (PMs). The purpose of this controlled, non-randomised, non-masked clinical trial was to perform an economic assessment of telemonitoring (TM) of users with PMs and check whether TM offers a cost-utility alternative to conventional follow-up in hospital.

Methods

Eighty-two patients implanted with an internet-based transmission PM were selected to receive either conventional follow-up in hospital ( n = 52) or TM ( n = 30) from their homes. The data were collected during 12 months while patients were being monitored. The economic assessment of the PONIENTE study was performed as per the perspectives of National Health Service (NHS) and patients. A cost-utility analysis was conducted to measure whether the TM of patients with PMs is cost-effective in terms of costs per gained quality-adjusted life years (QALYs).

Results

There was a significant cost-saving for participants in the TM group in comparison with the participants in the conventional follow-up group. From the NHS’s perspective, the patients in the TM group gained 0.09 QALYs more than the patients in the conventional follow-up group over 12 months, with a cost saving of 57.64% (€46.51 versus €109.79, respectively; p < 0.001) per participant per year. In-office visits were reduced by 52.49% in the TM group. The costs related to the patient perspective were lower in the TM group than in the conventional follow-up group (€31.82 versus €73.48, respectively; p < 0.005). The costs per QALY were 61.68% higher in the in-office monitoring group.

Discussion

The cost-utility analysis performed in the PONIENTE study showed that the TM of users with PMs appears to be a significant cost-effective alternative to conventional follow-up in hospital.
What keeps Maya from eating? A case study of disordered eating from North India
Authors: Ahlin Tanja
Published: April 2018

Anthropologists have paid much attention to food and eating practices in India, but surprisingly few scholars in any discipline have examined eating disorders. This article presents an ethnographic case study of disordered eating, based on a story of a young female pharmacist from one of the Northern Indian states. Advocating ethnography as an essential method to uncovering the multiple facets of “not eating,” I first show how this phenomenon may reflect resistance to Brahmanical patriarchy, especially the institution of arranged marriage. Secondly, I illustrate how “not eating” may be an embodied expression of distress, in this case related to the inability to fulfil filial obligations of reciprocity. Finally, I argue that “not eating” in India may be associated with the ways in which personhood, as locally understood, is influenced by regional socioeconomic development. Thus, while young, unmarried, and highly educated women have increasingly better opportunities for formal employment, they may find themselves at the crossroads of conflicting social expectations, and “not eating” may arise as an after-effect. While making large-scale generalizations of these findings across India would be inappropriate, this case study sheds light on the complexity of disordered eating in this country and calls for further ethnographic studies, sensitive to local meanings of (not) eating.
Some comparative psychiatric studies in the 19th century
Authors: Engmann Birk , Steinberg Holger
Published: April 2018

This article analyses 19th-century publications which dealt with the social and cultural aspects of psychiatric disorders in different parts of the world. Systematic reviews were conducted of three German medical journals, one Russian medical journal, and a relevant monograph. All these archives were published in the 19th century. Our work highlights the fact that long before Kraepelin, several, mostly forgotten, publications had already discussed cultural aspects, social conditions, the influence of religion, the influence of climate, and also “race” as a trigger or amplifier of psychiatric diseases. These publications also reflect racist notions of the colonial period.
Interlaminar adhesion assessment of carbon-epoxy laminates under salt water ageing using peel tests
Authors: Arouche Marcio M , Budhe Sandip , Banea Mariana D , Teixeira de Freitas Sofia , de Barros Silvio
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study is to assess the interlaminar adhesion of carbon-epoxy laminates under salt water condition. Carbon-epoxy laminate specimens were immersed in a salt water tank for 60 days. Some specimens were then dried at room temperature for 280 days, until recovering their initial weight. Specimens were tested using the composite peel test, an adaptation of the floating roller peel tests for composite materials. The results showed a degradation of peel strength in some areas due to the ageing process. The drying process did not affect the test results. A scanning electron microscopic analysis carried out on the fracture surface of the specimens revealed a typical mode I failure microstructure. A mixture of matrix failure and fibre/matrix interfacial failure was observed in non-aged specimens. Finally, a chemical characterization of the fracture surfaces with energy-dispersive spectroscopy confirmed the penetration of salt water in regions near the edge of the specimens. A degradation of the fibre/matrix interface adhesion was observed in affected areas. Floating roller peel tests proved to be a fast and effective method to access the interlaminar adhesion performance of composite laminates.
Development of polyester needle-punched nonwoven fabrics for filter press applications
Authors: Thilagavathi G , Muthukumar N , Neelakrishnan S , Egappan R Santhosh
Published: April 2018

This paper reports the development of nonwoven fabric by needle-punching technique for filter press application in textile effluent treatment plant. For filter press development, the nonwoven fabric was reinforced with the nylon scrim as the central layer in order to withstand the filtration pressure. The nonwoven fabrics were developed using different denier polyester fibres and changing punch density. The influence of fibre fineness and punch density on the properties of nonwovens was investigated. The filtration parameters such as filtration efficiency, dewatering efficiency, blinding tendency and cake discharge properties of the developed nonwoven filter fabrics filter fabrics were evaluated and compared with existing woven fabric filter media. The influence of calendering on the filtration properties of the nonwovens was also studied. The results showed that bursting strength of the developed nonwovens increased with increase in fibre fineness and decrease in punch density. It was also found that the air permeability of the developed nonwovens varied inversely in relation to punch density and the proportion of fine fibres. It was observed that developed nonwovens had 8% higher filtration efficiency and 6% higher dewatering efficiency compared to the existing woven fabric filter media. The blinding resistance and cake discharge properties were slightly lower than that of woven fabric filter. It was found that calendering improves filtration properties of the developed nonwoven fabrics.
Examination of Spiritual Needs in Hurricane Sandy Disaster Recovery Through Clinical Pastoral Education Verbatims
Authors: Kestenbaum Allison , Fleischman Catherine Anne , Dabis Marta , Birnbaum Bette , Dunn Laura B.
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Spiritual support is an essential component to disaster response and recovery. The goals of this study were to (a) provide a qualitative examination of spiritual needs of recipients of disaster relief after Hurricane Sandy, as observed by spiritual care interns in “verbatims”; (b) demonstrate the feasibility of conducting research with providers of disaster spiritual care.

Methods

The study was accomplished through analysis (including codebook development and transcript coding) of written pastoral reports—aka “verbatims” ( n = 18)—as well as audio-recorded, transcribed seminars ( n = 23). Clinical Pastoral Education verbatims offer qualitative data in the form of confidential, anonymous reports of what the students do in the field.

Results

Analysis of coded transcripts yielded several themes and subthemes as results.

Significance of Results

Major themes include: (a) the feasibility of research for CPE students as subject; (b) the discussion of magnitude of the storm and aftermath, as a spiritual need in disaster; (c) the relationship between “normative crisis” and disaster; (d) the use of metaphors and images to describe disaster experiences.
Chance Encounters: Rap Music as a Relational and Pedagogical Resource in Clinical Pastoral Education
Authors: Gilmore Jeremy
Published: April 2018

Music has long been regarded as a valuable tool for educators. Over the last three decades, rap music has grown to become a global phenomenon. However, due to historical and cultural factors, rap music is often underutilized in Clinical Pastoral Education. This article discusses the social significance of rap music, highlights how rap music informed my supervision of a clinical pastoral education student, and examines Chance the Rapper’s mixtape Coloring Book as a case study on the utilization of rap music as a relational and pedagogical resource in spiritual education.
Spiritual Counseling Program For Children with Anxiety Disorders: A multi-city experiment
Authors: Pandya Samta P.
Published: April 2018

This article reports on a multi-city two-year long experiment on the effect of a spiritual counseling program (SCP) on children diagnosed with anxiety disorders. The two-year customized SCP was conducted with 1238 children from 20 private schools in five cities across five countries, with an equal number in a control group. Results showed that post-treatment self-reported and counselor-tested anxiety outcome measure scores were lower for the treatment group. Girls, children from more affluent cities, middle-class children, and those who had one stay-at-home parent and no siblings showed reduced anxiety disorders post-treatment. Children who voluntarily attended more SCP rounds than those prescribed and those who regularly self-practiced also showed lower anxiety symptoms post-treatment. Child-focused spiritual counseling intervention comprising components of connection with God within, recognizing and annihilating fear through introspection and breath control, stilling, centering, and consciousness seemed effective. Socio-cultural factors, parental involvement, and child’s own engagement with the treatment were significant determinants of effectiveness.
B-Flow imaging of the placenta: A feasibility study
Authors: Dighe Manjiri K , Moshiri Mariam , Jolley Jennifer , Thiel Jeff , Hippe Dan
Published: April 2018

B-Flow imaging directly displays the flowing intravascular echoes during real-time gray-scale ultrasound without using Doppler techniques. The objective of our study was to evaluate the feasibility of B-Flow imaging in the placenta and to evaluate the artifacts seen on B-Flow imaging. After IRB approval, 36 women (17 normal and 19 high risk women) were enrolled in our study. B-Flow images were acquired on GE LOGIC E9 machine. Retrospective analysis of the B-Flow and cine capture images was performed for artifacts and for vessels visualized. Pregnant women enrolled in the study ranged from 19 to 43 years of age with an average age of 31.7 years. Gestational age varied from 17 weeks and five days to 36 weeks and three days with an average of 26 weeks and three days. From a total of 161 B-Flow images reviewed by one researcher, 15 images were acceptable with no evidence of artifact. The remainder of the images had some artifact in them. For the 36 women with color Doppler and B-Flow images reviewed by the two independent blinded reviewers, a total of 144 reads were obtained. More small horizontal (p = 0.046) and small vertical running vessels (p < 0.001) were identified with B-Flow than color Doppler images. B-Flow is capable of showing perfusion in a human placenta; however, recognizing artifacts and modifying the image acquisition to reduce artifacts is necessary with this new technique to acquire the best images for interpretation.
On intellectual and developmental disabilities in the United States: A historical perspective
Authors: Conrad Jordan A
Published: April 2018

The history of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the United States is, in many ways, a triumphant story reflecting an increasingly progressive attitude acknowledging the equality of all persons. The law now recognizes people with IDD as citizens, possessing an equal right to education, health care, and employment—each of which represents milestone victories. However, this progression was not a linear development but rather a product of periods of growth and decline, backsliding, and hard-won battles across political, cultural, and legal domains. This article explores the vacillating historical trajectory for people with IDD in the United States from the colonial period to the present. Particular attention is paid to the conceptual understanding of disability itself across time periods as that which informs particular developments in treatment, law, and social status. The capabilities approach, as outlined by Martha Nussbaum, is then brought to bear as a heuristic framework, consonant with current developments in disability studies, and which may guide future social and legislative action.