bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive Model for Mortality Risk Including the Wound, Ischemia, Foot Infection Classification in Patients Undergoing Revascularization for Critical Limb Ischemia
Authors: Azuma Nobuyoshi , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Kodama Akio , Soga Yoshimitsu , Terashi Hiroto , Tazaki Junichi , Yamaoka Terutoshi , Koya Atsuhiro , Iida Osamu ,   on behalf of the SPINACH Investigators
Published: November 2019

Background:

The aim of this study was to develop a predictive model for mortality risk based on preoperative risk factors, including the Wound, Ischemia, Foot Infection (WIfI) classification, in patients undergoing revascularization for critical limb ischemia.

Methods:

We analyzed a database of the Surgical reconstruction versus Peripheral Intervention in Patients With Critical Limb Ischemia registry, a multicenter, prospective, observational study that included 520 critical limb ischemia patients (192 surgical and 328 endovascular patients).

Results:

Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified old age, impaired mobility, low body mass index, renal failure, heart failure, and high WIfI grade as independent risk factors for all-cause mortality (all
P
<0.05). The risk score comprising these risk factors discriminated the mortality risk well; the 2-year survival rate was >90% in the first quantile of the risk score and ≈20% in the fifth quantile. The area under the time-dependent receiver operating characteristics curve was 0.829 for thirty-day mortality and 0.811 for 2-year mortality. Adding more detailed preoperative information to the predictive model revealed that cystatin C-based estimated glomerular filtration rate, left ventricular ejection fraction, and cholinesterase levels were additional independent risk factors, but the predictive accuracy of the model was not significantly improved, according to the time-dependent receiver operating characteristics curve and net reclassification improvement.

Conclusions:

The current study developed a risk score for mortality using preoperative risk factors, including the WIfI classification, in critical limb ischemia patients undergoing revascularization.
Systematic Review of Genotype‐Phenotype Correlations in Noncompaction Cardiomyopathy
Authors: van Waning Jaap I. , Moesker Joost , Heijsman Daphne , Boersma Eric , Majoor‐Krakauer Danielle
Published: November 2019

Background

A genetic cause can be identified in 30% of noncompaction cardiomyopathy patients (
NCCM
) with clinical features ranging from asymptomatic cardiomyopathy to heart failure with major adverse cardiac events (
MACE
).

Methods and Results

To investigate genotype‐phenotype correlations, the genotypes and clinical features of genetic
NCCM
patients were collected from the literature. We compared age at diagnosis, cardiac features and risk for
MACE
according to mode of inheritance and molecular effects for defects in the most common sarcomere genes and
NCCM
subtypes. Geno‐ and phenotypes of 561
NCCM
patients from 172 studies showed increased risk in children for congenital heart defects (
P
<0.001) and
MACE
(
P
<0.001). In adult
NCCM
patients the main causes were single missense mutations in sarcomere genes. Children more frequently had an X‐linked or mitochondrial inherited defect (
P
=0.001) or chromosomal anomalies (
P
<0.001).

MYH
7

was involved in 48% of the sarcomere gene mutations.

MYH
7

and

ACTC
1

mutations had lower risk for
MACE
than

MYBPC
3

and

TTN

(
P
=0.001). The
NCCM
/dilated cardiomyopathy cardiac phenotype was the most frequent subtype (56%;
P
=0.022) and was associated with an increased risk for
MACE
and high risk for left ventricular systolic dysfunction (<0.001). In multivariate binary logistic regression analysis

MYBPC
3

,

TTN
,

arrhythmia ‐, non‐sarcomere non‐arrhythmia cardiomyopathy—and X‐linked genes were genetic predictors for
MACE
.

Conclusions

Sarcomere gene mutations were the most common cause in adult patients with lower risk of
MACE
. Children had multi‐systemic disorders with severe outcome, suggesting that the diagnostic and clinical approaches should be adjusted to age at presentation. The observed genotype‐phenotype correlations endorsed that
DNA
diagnostics for
NCCM
is important for clinical management and counseling of patients.
Emergency Medicine Physicians Accurately Select Acute Stroke Patients for Tissue-Type Plasminogen Activator Treatment Using a Checklist
Authors: Berekashvili Ketevan , Zha Alicia M. , Abdel-Al Mohammed , Zhang Xu , Soomro Jazba H. , Prater Samuel J. , Grotta James C.
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose—

There is uncertainty among many emergency medicine physicians about the decision to give intravenous tPA (tissue-type plasminogen activator), which limits its use. A checklist approach has been suggested as a solution. We compared agreement on tPA treatment in suspected acute ischemic stroke patients between emergency medicine residents (EMRs) using a checklist and vascular neurology fellows (VNFs).

Methods—

Every suspected acute stroke patient brought to our comprehensive stroke center emergency room within 4.5 hours from symptom onset was prospectively evaluated simultaneously and independently by VNFs and EMRs. The latter used a tPA screening checklist, which included guideline exclusion criteria to help with their treatment decision. Agreement was determined using kappa (k) statistics.

Results—

Over 6 months, 60 patients were enrolled; 10% large vessel atherosclerosis, 18% cardioembolism, 12% small vessel, 12% cryptogenic, and 47% mimic. Forty-two percent were deemed tPA eligible by the EMR, 30% by the VNF, and 37% by the vascular neurology faculty. There were no complications in any tPA-treated patients. Agreement was substantial between EMR and VNF (κ=0.68 [95% CI, 0.49–0.87]) and between EMR and vascular neurology faculty (κ=0.69 [95% CI, 0.50–0.87]). Stroke mimics were the main cause of disagreement between EMR and VNF (κ=0.24 [95% CI, −0.15 to 0.63]) and between EMR and vascular neurology faculty (κ=0.35 [95% CI, −0.08 to 0.78]).

Conclusions—

Our data suggest that with the aid of a checklist, EMRs can accurately treat stroke patients with tPA. Areas for improvement include recognition of stroke mimics. Further studies are warranted to evaluate checklist-enhanced tPA treatment to allay emergency medicine physician uncertainty and expand the use of tPA.
The Ancient Mode of Production, the City-State and Politics
Authors: García Mac Gaw Carlos
Published: November 2019

This paper briefly examines the concept of the ancient mode of production as expressed in Karl Marx’sFormations. It looks at how twentieth-century Marxist historiography picks up this concept in its characterisation of the Greco-Roman city-state. It explores the feasibility of the use of the concept in relation to the advancement of knowledge of the city-state, especially through the development of archaeology. It examines how social classes are structured and relations of exploitation are presented. And it analyses the need for politics in the organisation of this socio-economic form in terms of how it is joined up with the social relations of production.
Design of High Power Supply Rejection Ratio Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Bandgap Voltage Reference Using Single Node Approach
Authors: Pal Shishu , Nandi Ashutosh
Published: November 2019

This paper describes a compact, low voltage and high power supply rejection ratio (PSRR) Bandgap voltage reference circuit by using subthreshold MOSFETs. The proposed reference circuit is implemented using 0.18 μm CMOS technology. The circuit simulation is performed using
the Cadence Spectre and Synopsys Hspice. The circuit generates the mean output reference voltage of 164 mV and temperature coefficient of 15.5 ppm/°C when temperature is swept from –40 °C to 120 °C at power supply of 1.2 V. For better PSRR, a feed forward mechanism is used.
The proposed design has only single transistor for start-up circuit. The measured settling time for output reference voltage is observed to be less than 4 μs. No filtering capacitor is used to improve the PSRR, which is –97 dB up to 1 MHz and subsequently reduces to –47.5
dB at 158 MHz.
Experience with Minimally Invasive Ponto Surgery and Linear Incision Approach for Pediatric and Adult Bone Anchored Hearing Implants
Authors: Bezdjian Aren , Smith Rachel Ann , Gabra Nathalie , Yang Luhe , Bianchi Marco , Daniel Sam J.
Published: November 2019

Purpose:

To compare intra- and postoperative outcomes between the standard linear incision with tissue preservation and the Minimally Invasive Ponto Surgery (MIPS).

Study Design:

A non-randomized retrospective cohort series.

Methods:

Medical files were reviewed of adult and pediatric bone anchored hearing implant recipients. Extracted outcomes included patient characteristics, implant survival, operative time, anesthesia use, intra and postoperative complications, soft tissue tolerability assessed by the Holger’s classification, and implant stability assessed by the Resonance Frequency Analysis (RFA). Outcomes were compared between two surgeries.

Results:

A total of 59 implants were placed (21 MIPS; 38 linear). Conductive hearing loss was the most common etiology for implantation. Surgery was conducted under local anesthesia in 67% of MIPS patients and 16% of linear patients. No intraoperative complications were reported for both surgical approaches and no implants were lost. Patients undergoing implantation via the MIPS approach displayed less skin reaction postoperatively, however this was not significant ( P = .2848). The most common Holgers score for both groups was grade 1. The median and mean surgical duration for the MIPS group was statistically lower than the linear group ( P = .0001). Implant stability measured by the RFA implant stability quotient was greater in the MIPS cohort.

Conclusion:

The MIPS approach seems either similar or superior to the linear approach in all perioperative outcomes evaluated. Outcomes such as surgical duration, anesthesia choice and implant stability measurements support implantation through the MIPS approach for patients meeting eligibility criteria.
Identifying the Factors of the Successful Implementation of Belt and Road Initiative on Small–Medium Enterprises in Malaysia
Authors: Khin Aye Aye , Chiun Fong Yi , Seong Lim Chee
Published: November 2019

This article is a conceptual review of identifying the factors of the successful implementation of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on small-medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. China’s president Xi Jin Ping has launched the China’s ‘One Belt One Road’ (OBOR) initiative or BRI in 2013. BRI focusses on the connectivity and cooperation between Asian, European and African continents economically and strategically through massive infrastructure developments, trades and investments. BRI is specified to two international trade connections: land-based ‘Silk Road Economic Belt’ and sea-based ‘21st Century Maritime Silk Road’. Malaysia is one of the Southeast Asia countries that actively participated in BRI. According to the World Bank, SMEs are almost 98.5 per cent of business establishments in Malaysia, which undoubtedly indicates how important SMEs are in Malaysia. As such, that is the question to ponder of how BRI could connect and associate with the enhancement and development of Malaysia’s SMEs. Therefore, the objective of the study is to identify the factors of the successful implementation of BRI on SMEs in Malaysia. Based on this study’s literature reviews, it would be suggested that new business and investment opportunity creations, connectivity and cooperation enhancement, trade and export boosting, geographic location and enhancement of e-commerce were the most critical factors in the successful implementation of BRI on SMEs in Malaysia.
Sri Lanka–China Economic Relations in Comparative Perspective: Ample Room to Grow
Authors: Deyshappriya N. P. Ravindra
Published: November 2019

The article examines recent trends in the economic relations between Sri Lanka and China focussing on trade, investment and tourism dimensions. Although bilateral economic ties between Sri Lanka and China have strengthened over time, the article demonstrates Sri Lanka’s low rank among China’s economic partners. For example, while China is the second-largest tourism partner of Sri Lanka in terms of tourist arrivals, Sri Lanka does not rank among even China’s top 25 tourist destinations.

Consequently, the article recommends certain policy priorities to ensure mutually beneficial economic relations. With regards to tourism, it recommends promoting Sri Lanka’s brand on Chinese e-tourism websites and social media, introducing user-friendly tourist apps in Chinese, strengthening air connectivity and celebrating Chinese festivals. Similarly, trade and investment could be facilitated by stronger links with Chinese cities and connecting Sri Lankan students in China to the Chinese industry via internships and building commercial networks from the ground up.
Extending Research on the “War on Cops”: The Effects of Ferguson on Nonfatal Assaults Against U.S. Police Officers
Authors: Shjarback John A. , Maguire Edward R.
Published: November 2019

This study tests whether violence directed toward American law enforcement has increased in the wake of events in Ferguson, Missouri, in summer 2014. Using monthly data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) reports (2010–2016), we carried out time-series analyses to examine trends in nonfatal assaults on police officers in a sample of 4,921 agencies. Neither injurious nor noninjurious assaults on officers increased following Michael Brown’s death in August 2014. The findings are robust across a variety of model specifications and estimation techniques, providing little evidence of a “War on Cops” through 2016. The study adds empirical rigor to an ongoing national debate based largely on speculation/anecdotes. The impact and potential consequences of the current climate for officers’ perceptions of safety/risk are discussed.
Monetary Policy Contagion in the West African Monetary Zone
Authors: Tule Moses K. , Ajilore Taiwo , Ujunwa Augustine
Published: November 2019

The study utilized quarterly time series data for Nigeria and three selected West African Monetary Zone (WAMZ) countries for the period 1980–2016 to verify whether monetary policy shocks emanating from Nigeria are an important source of macroeconomic fluctuations in WAMZ economies. The study complemented the Global vector autoregressive method with the Diebold–Yilmaz (2009) connectedness weights computation for the analysis. Inferences from generalized impulse response function (GIRF) analysis indicated that an unanticipated Nigerian monetary policy shock depreciates the Nigeria–USA exchange rate, stimulates growth, decelerates inflation and expands the money stock in the short run for Nigeria. In Ghana, Nigeria’s monetary policy shocks similarly depreciates the exchange rate, slows growth with high inflationary impact in the short run. In the Gambia, unanticipated shocks emanating from Nigeria strengthens the Gambia–USA exchange rate, depresses growth and inflationary pressures. Sierra Leone shares the appreciation of its currency with the Gambia, in addition to an economic expansion and rising inflation. Money supply also increases to accommodate the expanding demand. These results validated the thesis that there exist considerable geographical linkages within the WAMZ regions through which macroeconomic fluctuations are transmitted. For policy, monetary authorities in the region should collectively address the question of how to stabilize the economy in response to monetary policy shocks emanating from Nigeria.

JEL Codes: E52, E32, E65, F02
Health professions students demonstrate limited knowledge of health risks associated with early menarche
Authors: Henderson Chelsea N , Lawrence Jeannine Clunk , Douglas Crystal Clark
Published: November 2019

Objective:

The documented decline in age at menarche is concerning as early pubertal development presents immediate and long-term health risks. Menarcheal timing is influenced by environmental factors, necessitating the importance of increased education within the health sciences curricula. This study examined health professions students’ awareness and knowledge of menarche, including factors that influence age at menarche and the health risks associated with early menarche (⩽11 years).

Design:

A mixed retrospective/prospective analysis using an on-line survey was employed to explore student knowledge.

Setting:

A public university in USA.

Methods:

Students enrolled in a general nutrition course at a US university were invited to complete a survey during class time. Pearson correlations were used to assess relationships among variables. Independent-samples t-tests compared knowledge to identify differences by gender and race, and χ2 tests compared frequency of correct knowledge answers according to race.

Results:

Participants included 126 students (88% female, 50% Caucasian), the majority (90%) of whom were enrolled in health sciences programmes. Nearly 25% of female participants reported early menarche; yet, reported age at menarche was not related to knowledge ( r = –.056, n = 110, p > .05). Future health risks of early menarche were correctly identified by 16.7% of participants, all women. Knowledge of menarche differed according to race ( p < .05).

Conclusion:

Discovery of knowledge gaps in this population may improve curriculum design and, ultimately, better prepare students for a future in health care. Future clinicians may benefit from training that addresses factors that influence pubertal timing and familiarises them with the health risks associated with earlier menarche. There is a need for knowledgeable and skilled health workers, which is why the inclusion of this subject in the preservice training curriculum is important.
Attachment representations in international adolescent adoptees in Spain, over 8 to 17 years of placement
Authors: Ballús Elisabeth , Casas Mar , Urrutia Edurne , Pérez-Testor Carles
Published: November 2019

Adverse early experiences of adopted children tend to entail emotional deprivation, which may have impaired their attachment relationships. Using an adaptation of a projective test specifically devised to assess attachment in teenagers, the relational histories of 70 Spanish adolescent international adoptees were explored and compared to non-adopted peers. A significant association between insecure attachment and difficulties with internal representation of parental figures (birth and adoptive) appeared in young adoptees with adverse pre-placement care and late adoption. With knowledge of internal attachment’s working models, professionals can improve their understanding of the adopted adolescent and go beyond mere classification of attachment patterns.
Effect of ceramic preform freeze-casting temperature and melt infiltration technique on the mechanical properties of a lamellar metal/ceramic composite
Authors: Roy Siddhartha , Frohnheiser Jan , Wanner Alexander
Published: November 2019

Elastic properties, compressive stress–strain behaviour and progressive damage evolution of poly-domain metal/ceramic composite samples fabricated by infiltration of Al12Si melt in freeze-cast alumina preforms are studied. Two different preform freezing temperatures were employed to vary the lamellae size while infiltration was carried out using two different techniques – squeeze-casting and die-casting. Due to the faster cooling kinetics at the lower freezing temperature, the lamellae size in the composites based on these preforms are finer and this results into higher compressive strength and stiffness of this composite along the freezing direction. Among the two techniques employed for melt infiltration, the very fast rate of pressure application in die-casting distorts the lamellar structure of the ceramic along the freezing direction. As a result, in die-cast composite samples, the strength and stiffness along the freezing direction are reduced significantly in comparison to the samples infiltrated by squeeze-casting. In-situ scanning electron microscopy under external compression was used to study the progressive damage mechanism in one poly-domain composite sample infiltrated by squeeze-casting. Transverse cracking of the high-angle ceramic lamellae is identified as the predominant damage mechanism.
The Relationships Among Interval Identification, Pitch Error Detection, and Stimulus Timbre by Preservice Teachers
Authors: Stambaugh Laura A. , Nichols Bryan E.
Published: November 2019

We examined the relationship between interval identification skill and error detection skill in preservice teachers, accounting for timbral differences by including piano and vocal stimuli. The interval identification test was comprised of 33 items spanning from C2 to B5. Fifteen error detection items were monophonic melodies, two measures long, in 4/4 meter, and included one pitch error. Music education majors ( N = 50) completed both tests in vocal and piano timbres during one individual study session. Interval identification performance was significantly correlated with error detection performance, r = .75. Additionally, interval identification score was a significant predictor for error detection when also accounting for variance from numbers of semesters of enrollment and theory/aural skills courses. Response times for correct responses of interval identification were faster than for incorrect responses. We found no main effects or interactions between primary performance area and timbre of test item. The results suggest interval identification skill generally can be used to predict error detection, reinforcing the importance of developing interval identification as a basic musical skill.
Coup with Adjectives: Conceptual Stretching or Innovation in Comparative Research?
Authors: Marsteintredet Leiv , Malamud Andrés
Published: November 2019

Was Brazil’s President Dilma Rousseff victim of a coup or removed through a legal process of impeachment? The heated debate on the 2016 ousting of Brazil’s president testifies to the growing controversy around the definition of coups. Focusing on Latin America, we show that the use of coups with adjectives have become more frequent in public and scholarly debates. Occurring at a time when coups are becoming rarer, we argue that this development is linked to prevalence-induced concept change, meaning that when instances of a concept become less prevalent, the understanding of the concept expands. The meaning of coups has expanded through a proliferation of adjectives. Coups with adjectives are not new, but recent usage changes the concept from a classic to a family resemblance structure. Although this strategy can avoid stretching and increase differentiation, we urge caution and warn against harmful consequences, whether conceptual, theoretical, or practical.
Producing light-weight bast fibers from canola biomass for technical textiles
Authors: Shuvo Ikra Iftekhar , Rahman Mashiur , Vahora Tasneem , Morrison Jason , DuCharme Shawna , Choo-Smith Lin-P’ing
Published: November 2019

Due to the excessive use of water required for cotton cultivation, scientists in this field have been looking at waste biomass as an alternative source of fiber supply. Canola waste biomass is a source of textile fibers which effectively costs nothing, as the biomass can be collected from the waste plant stems of canola plants after harvesting. Therefore, an investigation has been conducted to identify the characteristics of canola fiber and of the canola cultivar ( Brassica napus L.) suitable for textile applications. In this research, a bio-inspired approach was applied to produce fiber from canola biomass by water retting of four different cultivars (HYHEAR 1, Topas, 5440, and 45H29) cultivated in a greenhouse under controlled atmospheric conditions. It was found that the structural hierarchy of fiber density, mechanical properties and other textile fiber properties of canola fiber differ from cultivar to cultivar, which can be carefully harnessed for different applications. Further, it was found that the density of canola fiber is much lower than that of cotton and other competitive bast fibers, owing to its hollow structure, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy. The results suggest that canola may be an excellent choice for manufacturing of non-woven fabrics, eco-composites, apparel or other technical textiles.
A novel use of pneumococcal urinary antigen detection kits to identify Streptococcus pneumoniae cultures misidentified by the VITEK-2 system
Authors: Khan Sadia , Hydrose Sona P , Chandran Sabthami , Dinesh Kavitha , Kumar Anil
Published: November 2019

Streptococcus pneumoniae infections continue to be an important cause of morbidity and mortality in low-and middle-income countries. Differentiating S. pneumoniae from viridans group streptococci is essential to ensure appropriate antibiotic therapy. Conventional microbial identification tests can often misidentify the two groups. We used a common pneumococcal urinary antigen test to identify S. pneumoniae that were misidentified by the VITEK 2. The performance of the test was similar to the pneumococcal latex agglutination test.
Reliable data transmission method based on 6LoWPAN for building energy systems
Authors: Li Cui-Min , Li Chun-Ying , Wang Lei
Published: November 2019

The building energy internet of things is based on radio frequency technology and a wireless sensor network that can collect building energy consumption data in real time. However, with the increasing complexity of wireless sensor network topology, there is a problem of insufficient IP address space relying on IPv4 protocol. In this paper, a design scheme of a building energy system based on 6LoWPAN network is proposed. IPv4/IPv6 address conversion is used to realise the access of IP addresses to each other, so as to monitor building energy consumption information anytime and anywhere. In view of the shortcomings of existing wireless network data transmission methods in low energy consumption and high reliability in building energy monitoring applications, a reliable data transmission method based on multipath routing coding algorithm is proposed. This strategy improves the transmission reliability of the network by increasing the number of redundant packets, and reduces the energy consumption of the network by reducing the number of transmission paths. The simulation results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the success rate of data packet transmission, reduce the standard energy consumption of sensor networks, and provide an effective method for the application of wireless sensor networks in building energy monitoring systems.

Practical application: This paper studies how to improve transmission reliability and energy efficiency in cluster-based WSN and proposes a multi-path transmission strategy for selective coding of intermediate cluster head nodes. The strategy improves the transmission reliability of the network by increasing the number of transmissions of redundant packets and reduces the network energy consumption by reducing the number of transmission paths. It has good use value for the actual development and application of the building energy consumption monitoring system.
Sustainable Development Goals and progressive business models for economic transformation
Authors: Rendtorff Jacob D
Published: November 2019

This paper analyses the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations in the 2030 ‘Transforming the World’ Agenda, from 2015, as a contribution to business ethics and ethical economy. The Sustainable Development Goals combine political aims with visions of economic development and social justice and are therefore important for business ethics and corporate social responsibility. Thus, the Sustainable Development Goals constitute a driver for ethical economic development and social change. However, there is a need for critical analysis of the possibilities of Sustainable Development Goals of functioning as a vision and a strategic tool for management and governance. The aim of the paper is to investigate these possibilities of the Sustainable Development Goals of contributing to business ethics and ethical economy with mobilization of business, public institutions and organizations, and non-governmental organizations. After presenting the Sustainable Development Goals, the paper critically discusses their scope and potential for corporate social responsibility, business ethics and corporate sustainability. This involves the problem of how the Sustainable Development Goals can contribute to a transformation towards another economy. As a contribution to business ethics, the paper elaborates on partnerships for Sustainable Development Goals, sustainable performance management systems and the Sustainable Development Goal Compass with the aim of interpreting Sustainable Development Goals as a basis for progressive business ethics models.
Rethinking public value through the lens of sustainability
Authors: Amhøj Christa Breum , Diamond John , Olsen Flemming
Published: November 2019

This Viewpoint outlines the context within which papers published in this and recent issues of Local Economy were initially presented, developed and then submitted. We suggest in the commentary below that from the outset (at an initial workshop), we were seeking to model an iterative and collaborative process. The policy context is described in more detail but the impetus came from looking at ways in which a policy and practice alliance focussed on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals could be mobilized to promote original thinking in the way in which municipal authorities could work with and learn from NGOs in the development of an alternative approach to sustainable development from that which currently shaped local social and economic policy in Copenhagen. This Viewpoint provides a summary of the papers published in Local Economy over two issues. It concludes by proposing that the approach adopted is in line with current initiatives in the USA and the UK.
What’s law got to do with it? Comparing the failure to deter or convict rapists in the United Kingdom and South Africa
Authors: Wykes Maggie , Artz Lillian
Published: November 2019

The journey from reporting rape to convicting rapists is complex, leading to high attrition and non-conviction rates. After wide consultation, the law in England and Wales was revised in 2003 to try to secure more convictions. In South Africa, a similar process occurred to produce a new law in 2007. Nonetheless, reported rapes have risen and conviction rates have fallen in both jurisdictions and it has been suggested that the failure of the criminal justice system to deal with ‘rape…encapsulates the sheer inadequacy of the law’ (Wykes and Welsh, 2009: 111) and offers little hope of justice to victims and little deterrence to perpetrators. In South Africa little has changed, except more is known about ‘the lived experiences of sexual violence’ (Artz and Smythe, 2007: 17) and more support is offered to victims after the event. This article explores the part played by law in dealing with rape, through a comparison of the UK and South Africa. Critical gendered analysis of their respective rape laws leads to the conclusion that that law cannot work effectively to deter or convict rapists: only men’s willingness to change can stop rape.
Accurate location and minimally invasive treatment of lumbar lateral recess stenosis with combined SNRB and PTED
Authors: Yue Bing , Shen Fang , Ye Zhi-Fang , Wang Ze-Hao , Yang Hui-Lin , Jiang Guo-Qiang
Published: November 2019

Objective

To establish a management strategy for multi-segment lumbar lateral recess stenosis.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed in patients in whom suspected responsible nerve roots underwent sequential selective nerve root block (SNRB). Based on pain remission rate after blocking, the contribution of nerve root compression to symptoms was classified as absolutely (≥70%) or relatively (30–70%) responsible or non-responsible (<30%). Conservative treatment was continued if visual analogue scale (VAS) at 3 days after blocking a single nerve root or VAS at 3 days after blocking multiple nerve roots was ≥50%; otherwise, percutaneous transforaminal endoscopic discectomy (PTED) was performed. Pain and functional scores were evaluated on day 3, 6 months and 1 year after SNRB or PTED.

Results

Fifty-seven of 80 patients had a single absolutely responsible root, 20 had 2 responsible roots, and 3 had 3 responsible roots. Among them, 41, 10, and 1 patient underwent PTED, respectively. Both the PTED and conservative groups improved significantly in VAS remission rate and functional scores compared with admission. Moreover, the PTED group had a better VAS remission rate compared with the conservative group.

Conclusion

A combination of SNRB with PTED was effective for diagnosing and treating multi-segment lumbar lateral recess stenosis.
Knowledge of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease among otolaryngologists in 3A hospitals in Beijing
Authors: Zhang Junbo , Xiao Shuifang , Du Xiaowan , Zhao Xin , Jia Junxiao
Published: November 2019

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate knowledge of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) among otolaryngologists in 3A hospitals in Beijing.

Methods

A cross-sectional questionnaire survey of LPRD knowledge was conducted with otolaryngologists in 40 3A hospitals in Beijing. A response rate of <80% was obtained from one hospital, so data from 331 valid questionnaires from the other 39 hospitals were analysed.

Results

The most common source of LPRD knowledge was academic lectures (80.1%). The most commonly known risk factors, symptoms, clinical signs and associated diseases were unhealthy eating habits (49.2%), foreign body sensation in the pharynx (71.0%), hyperaemia (42.3%) and pharyngolaryngitis (63.7%), respectively. Only 57.7% of otolaryngologists knew about 24-hour pH monitoring as a gold standard diagnostic test for LPRD. The most commonly known treatment option was medication (93.1%). Most physicians (86.7%) had made a clinical diagnosis of LPRD; however, only 59.9% of them had followed up the treatment outcomes. The most common treatment provided was medication (82.6%).

Conclusions

Knowledge of LPRD among otolaryngologists in 3A hospitals in Beijing was insufficient. Educational programs are needed to increase the knowledge of LPRD among otolaryngologists.
In vitro application of sodium arsenite to mice testicular and epididymal organ cultures induces oxidative, biochemical, hormonal, and genotoxic stress
Authors: Anwar Naureen , Qureshi Irfan Zia
Published: November 2019

Arsenic poisoning is well-known for its innumerable toxic and carcinogenic effects. In vivo data on reproductive toxicity are also known but in vitro data are scant. Presently, we evaluated the in vitro toxic effects of sodium arsenite (NaAsO2) on adult mice testes and epididymal tissues using organ cultures. Testicular and epididymal fragments were incubated at 37°C and 33°C, respectively, with 1, 10, 50, and 100 µM concentrations of NaAsO2. Cultures were allowed to incubate for 2 and 24 h. Levels of oxidative stress markers, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance assay (TBARS), antioxidant enzymes, testosterone concentrations, and the extent of sperm DNA damage, were estimated. Results were analyzed statistically at p < 0.05. Results demonstrated both time- and dose-dependent alterations whereby, following 24-h incubation with NaAsO2, substantial increases were noticeable in ROS and TBARS levels and sperm DNA damage ( p < 0.001), while decreases ( p < 0.001) occurred in catalase, peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase levels at 10, 50, and 100 µM concentrations. Incubations for 2 h revealed similar but relatively less toxic effects. Testosterone concentrations decreased significantly only after 24 h of incubation with 50 (1.95 vs. 2.93 ng g−1; p < 0.01) and 100 µM (1.32 vs. 2.93 ng g−1; p < 0.001) NaAsO2 concentrations. The study concluded that exposure of testicular and epididymal tissue fragments to arsenic under in vitro conditions induces rapid and immediate metabolic and genotoxic damage at higher concentrations.
Victimization and Adversity in Child Welfare Involved Youth: The Cumulative Influence on Child and Caregiver Reported Behavioral Health Symptoms
Authors: Lombardi Brianna M. , Bledsoe Sarah E. , Killian-Farrell Candace , Lanier Paul , Skinner Asheley
Published: November 2019

Exposure to childhood victimization and adversity (CVA) is pervasive for child welfare (CW) involved youth. However, most research with CW samples has focused on types of maltreatment and fails to recognize the additive influence of exposure to CVA beyond maltreatment. A subsample aged 8 to 17 ( n = 1,887) was drawn from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW) II. CVA included six domains. Behavioral health was assessed using the Child Depression Inventory, Trauma Symptom Checklist, and the internalizing and externalizing subscales of the Child Behavior Checklist. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between the number of CVA reported and the risk of clinical-range behavioral health symptoms. Analyses were adjusted for the cluster-based sampling design and sampling weights were applied to provide nationally representative estimates. More than 60% of the sample experienced three or more CVA domains. The number of CVAs reported was associated with all four behavioral health outcomes ( p < .001). Children exposed to five or more domains were more likely to report high depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 5.0), high trauma symptoms (OR = 7.0), and to have internalizing or externalizing symptoms reported by caregivers (OR = 18.0), as compared with children reporting one or less CVAs. Youth involved with CW are exposed to staggeringly high rates of CVA beyond maltreatment. For children who are already at great risk for behavioral health challenges, research to understand screening and interventions for CVA is needed to inform policy and practice initiatives to prevent and mitigate harm.
Big Data and Digital Aesthetic, Arts, and Cultural Education: Hot Spots of Current Quantitative Research
Authors: Christ Alexander , Penthin Marcus , Kröner Stephan
Published: November 2019

Systematic reviews are the method of choice to synthesize research evidence. To identify main topics (so-called hot spots) relevant to large corpora of original publications in need of a synthesis, one must address the “three Vs” of big data (volume, velocity, and variety), especially in loosely defined or fragmented disciplines. For this purpose, text mining and predictive modeling are very helpful. Thus, we applied these methods to a compilation of documents related to digitalization in aesthetic, arts, and cultural education, as a prototypical, loosely defined, fragmented discipline, and particularly to quantitative research within it (QRD-ACE). By broadly querying the abstract and citation database Scopus with terms indicative of QRD-ACE, we identified a corpus of N = 55,553 publications for the years 2013–2017. As the result of an iterative approach of text mining, priority screening, and predictive modeling, we identified n = 8,304 potentially relevant publications of which n = 1,666 were included after priority screening. Analysis of the subject distribution of the included publications revealed video games as a first hot spot of QRD-ACE. Topic modeling resulted in aesthetics and cultural activities on social media as a second hot spot, related to 4 of k = 8 identified topics. This way, we were able to identify current hot spots of QRD-ACE by screening less than 15% of the corpus. We discuss implications for harnessing text mining, predictive modeling, and priority screening in future research syntheses and avenues for future original research on QRD-ACE.
Life-Course Influences on Extended Working: Experiences of Women in a UK Baby-Boom Birth Cohort
Authors: Wildman Josephine M
Published: November 2019

Combining feminist political economy and life-course perspectives, this mixed-methods study critically examines the extent to which extended working life policies take account of women’s experiences of paid and unpaid work. I explore how decisions to extend working life are shaped by gendered social structures and norms across the life course among women in the Newcastle Thousand Families Study, a UK early baby-boom birth cohort. Among this cohort of women currently transitioning into retirement, analysis of longitudinal survey data identifies a range of mid- and later-life factors that impact on the likelihood of women working beyond state-pension age. In-depth life-course interviews identify further complex and interacting gendered life-course experiences, not captured in the survey data, which act to necessitate, encourage, enable or constrain extended working. I conclude that, if women are to extend their working lives, ‘joined-up’ policies are required, addressing gendered inequalities across the life course.
Applying M-Health to Palliative Care: A Systematic Review on the Use of M-Health in Monitoring Patients With Chronic Diseases and its Transposition in Palliative Care
Authors: Bienfait Florent , Petit Marie , Pardenaud Romain , Guineberteau Clément , Pignon Aude
Published: November 2019

Background:

The major growth of mobile technologies in the recent years has led to the development of medical-monitoring applications, particularly on smartphones.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to review the use of m-health in the monitoring of patients with chronic pathologies in order to consider what could be adapted for palliative care patients at home.

Design:

A systematic review of the English and French literature was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria.

Date Sources:

The review screened the following databases: PUBMED, SCOPUS, COCHRANE, SCIENCE DIRECT, SUDOC, and EM-Premium, screening studies published between 2008 and 2018. The selection of articles was done by the main investigator. All studies concerning the use of m-Health apps for patients with chronic diseases were included.

Results:

From the 337 selected publications, 8 systematic reviews and 14 original studies were included. The main uses of m-Health apps were biological and clinical monitoring (particularly concerning the symptoms) in 75% of the applications, disease self-management in 64% of the applications, and therapeutic patient education in 50% of the applications, with remote monitoring.

Conclusions:

The development of an m-Health application could become a complementary monitoring tool during palliative care. However, it seems important to question the impact of technique in the professional–patient relationship and avoid the pitfalls of standardizing palliative care and reducing the patient to a “sick” health technician. A future step would then be to define which health-care professional would be in charge of this “m-monitoring.”
Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor, Localized Type With Extensive Chondroid Metaplasia: A Case Report With Immunohistochemical and Molecular Genetic Analysis
Authors: Nagase Mamiko , Araki Asuka , Ishikawa Noriyoshi , Nagano Nahoko , Fujimoto Makiko , Biyajima Kyoko , Yamagami Nobuo , Yamamoto Soichiro , Maruyama Riruke
Published: November 2019

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TSGCT) of localized type is a common disease occurring mostly in the hands. Diagnosis of this tumor is relatively easy to render with hematoxylin-eosin–stained sections as compared with that of TSGCT of diffuse type. However, very rare cases with chondroid metaplasia that have recently been reported mainly in diffuse type can make pathological differentiation from soft tissue cartilaginous tumors extremely difficult. In this article, the authors present the second reported case of TSGCT of localized type showing extensive chondroid metaplasia. Pathological interpretation was difficult without utilizing immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization. One must be careful not to misdiagnose this lesion as cartilaginous tumors of soft tissue, and we suspect at least some chondroblastoma-like chondroma could be reclassified as TSGCT of localized type with extensive chondroid metaplasia. Morphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular genetic characteristics are presented and discussed.
Psychometric Equivalence of the Computerized and Original Halstead Category Test Using a Matched Archival Sample
Authors: Goette William F. , Schmitt Andrew L. , Nici Janice
Published: November 2019

Objective: Investigate the equivalence of several psychometric measures between the traditional Halstead Category Test (HCT–Original Version [OV]) and the computer-based Halstead Category Test (HCT–Computerized Version [CV]). Method: Data were from a diagnostically heterogeneous, archival sample of 211 adults administered either the HCT by computer ( n = 105) or cabinet ( n = 106) as part of a neuropsychological evaluation. Groups were matched on gender, race, education, Full Scale Intelligence Quotient, and Global Neuropsychological Deficit Score. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to examine structural equivalence. Score, variability, and reliability equivalency were also examined. Differential item and test functioning under a Rasch model were examined. Results: An identified factor structure from research of the HCT-OV fit the HCT-CV scores adequately: χ2(4) = 8.83, p = .07; root mean square error of approximation = 0.10 [0.00, 0.20]; standardized root mean residual = 0.03; comparative fit index = 0.99. Total scores and variability of subtest scores were not consistently equivalent between the two administration groups. Reliability estimates were, however, similar and adequate for clinical practice: 0.96 for HCT-OV and 0.97 for HCT-CV. About 17% of items showed possible differential item functioning, though just three of these items were statistically significant. Differential test functioning revealed expected total score differences of <1% between versions. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that the HCT-CV functions similar to the HCT-OV with there being negligible differences in expected total scores between these versions. The HCT-CV demonstrated good psychometric properties, particularly reliability and construct validity consistent with previous literature. Further study is needed to generalize these findings and to further examine the equivalency of validity evidence between versions.
Bevacizumab-induced dysphonia: A case report with brief review of literature
Authors: Lam So Yi , Lee Chung-Shien , Sharma Sandhya , Cheng Kit
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Anti-angiogenic treatment in adjunct with chemotherapy is widely used for the treatment of various cancers. These agents inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling thereby inhibiting tumor proliferation and invasion. Dysphonia, or voice changes, has been documented, but is an underreported side effect of anti-angiogenic agents. We report a case of intermittent dysphonia in a patient with metastatic, platinum-refractory ovarian cancer treated with bevacizumab.

Case report

A 48-year-old female with high grade mixed type ovarian adenocarcinoma and concurrent left sided breast cancer was transitioned to palliative therapy with gemcitabine-bevacizumab for her ovarian cancer. At a follow-up visit after three cycles of the new therapy, the patient complained of intermittent changes in her voice, describing periods of hoarseness or softness in her voice after the chemotherapy—sometimes to the point that her voice was inaudible. Management and outcome: A new pelvic thrombus was discovered upon assessment of the patient’s disease. Bevacizumab was held and she was referred to ear, nose, and throat evaluation for dysphonia. Laryngoscopic examination showed normal vocal cord, with normal movements and no lesion or necrosis. During subsequent follow-up, the patient reported improvement in her voice with no additional dysphonia.

Discussion

Vocal adverse effects of anti-VEGF agents have been documented in landmark trials and case reports; however, clinicians are often unaware of this rare side effect. Although VEGF-induced dysphonia may be rare and may not impede the patient’s quality of life in some cases, it is critical to acknowledge and not underestimate this adverse effect.