bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of classification performance of functional near infrared spectroscopy signals during movement execution for developing a brain–computer interface application using optimal channels
Authors: Janani A , Sasikala M
Published: July 2018

The objective of brain–computer interface application is to give a new lease of life to motor-impaired people by enabling them to communicate with the external world purely based on thoughts. Functional near infrared spectroscopy technology uses light to detect brain activations related to the motor activity performed by the subjects and an emerging modality in the brain–computer interface field. The study aims at comparing haemodynamic responses during upper limb movement tasks and resting condition over 14 channels placed equally on right and left hemispheres. Channel selection based on statistical methodology has been introduced to optimally select those channels that give statistical differences between the motor tasks. Besides using commonly used features such as mean, variance and peak of oxygenated haemoglobin signal, two other features, namely difference between mean concentration changes of oxygenated haemoglobin and deoxygenated haemoglobin and difference between mean activation level of oxygenated haemoglobin during the task condition and mean activation level of oxygenated haemoglobin during the resting state, are investigated. Their effect on the artificial neural network classifier accuracy over the selected channels is analysed. The proposed channel selection strategy is compared with the channel-averaging approach, which is one of the conventional channel selection methods. Also, performance of these methods is compared when all 14 channels are considered for classification. Classification of functional near infrared spectroscopy signals corresponding to motor tasks and rest condition gave accuracy values of (87.25 ± 8.66)% over 14 channels, (83.81 ± 5.97)% over channels selected using channel-averaging method and (84.71 ± 4.97)% over the selected subset of four channels. Hence, the results in terms of classification accuracies are promising and demonstrate the prospect of developing functional near infrared spectroscopy-based brain–computer interface application. Also, the analysis carried out in the study showed that the upper limb motor tasks evoked different haemodynamic responses in the reduced set of channels located over centro-parietal regions of the brain.
A Study on the Prevalence and Nature of Ragging Practices in Selected Educational Institutions in India
Authors: Rao Mohan , Sonpar Shobna , Sen Amit , Seshadri Shekhar P. , Agarwal Harsh , Padalia Divya
Published: July 2018

Ragging has claimed hundreds of innocent lives and has ruined the careers of thousands of students. A total of 717 cases of ragging were reported in the English print media alone across the country from January 2007 to September 2013. However, the media reports tend to focus on extreme cases and do not reveal the true extent of ragging. Moreover, in the absence of empirical data, it is difficult to understand the processes involved in, and the ramifications of, ragging. This study examines the prevalence and types of ragging practices in educational institutions. The study covered 10,632 students from 37 educational institutions spread across 12 states in India. Findings show that almost 40 per cent students admitted to having experienced some kind of ragging. College-wise analysis of the results showed marked variations in the prevalence of ragging among colleges, thus pointing to the role of institutional factors in the occurrence of ragging. Variations in responses are also seen based on the kind of course pursued, gender, and place of residence of student, thus indicating that these are critical factors in influencing the prevalence, severity and kinds of ragging practices.
Regional Centres of Expertise (RCEs), Green Economies and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) as Dialogue: Who is Expert?
Authors: Kolenick Paul
Published: July 2018

As a central part of the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (DESD) from 2005 to 2014 Regional Centres of Expertise (RCE) serve as agents of education for sustainable development through multi-stakeholder networks with an interest in the advancement of sustainable societies. In this article, the question is raised about the nature of ‘expertise’ found among RCE programmes directed towards the development of local green economies; and further, the implications of expertise with respect to the practice among RCEs of education for sustainable development worldwide. Regional Centres of Expertise have put into practice a range of approaches to ESD, some based on a knowledge-transfer approach to learning, which positions post-secondary education as well as other authoritative technical and research institutions as the principal overseers of knowledge and expertise; however, social learning through the facilitation, or convening, of dialogue has also been adopted as an approach to learning that is inclusive of civil society and marginalized others, with implications for social and environmental justice.
Scaling and Subjectification in an ESD Educational Project
Authors: Mickelsson Martin , Danielsson Anna
Published: July 2018

The aim of the article is to investigate, in the light of the emphasis laid on scaling by UNESCO (UNESCO, 2014a), how subjectification of those involved in educational innovations both enables and constricts scaling understood as a learning process. This is carried out through a case study of the Alforja Educativa, an educational project in Ecuador on antibiotic resistance (ABR). The ABR has been described as a sustainability challenge comparable to climate change. The way in which subjectification enables and constricts scaling as a learning process is analysed by drawing on educational scaling research and the article illustrates how the subject positions of those involved in scaling emerge as scaling subjects in transactional relationships, both with the sites where the educational project is to be scaled, and in relation to that, which will be scaled.
Sustainability at Work: Careers that Make a Difference
Authors: Thakore Sarita
Published: July 2018

Sustainability at Work: Careers that Make a Difference.

Marilyn Waite, Routledge, 2017, 188 pages, USD 33. ISBN 978-1-138-20048-7.
Early Care and Education Teacher’s Role in Obesity Prevention and Healthy Development of Young American Indian Children
Authors: Kracht Chelsea L. , Sisson Susan B. , Walker Devon , Kerr Kelly , Stephens Lancer , Anderson Amber , Seward Julie , Weedn Ashley E. , Cheney Marshall , Copeland Kristen , Salvatore Alicia L. , Jacob Audrey , Key Michelle , Dennison Michelle , Tallbear Chris , Horm Diane
Published: July 2018

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of how stakeholders, specifically early care and education (ECE) teachers, perceive their role in the development of young American Indian children, and envision working with health care providers and parents in order to enhance children’s health. Methodology: Twenty tribally affiliated ECE teachers from Oklahoma participated in interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted, and three main themes, each with two to three subthemes, emerged. Results: Teachers felt that nutrition and physical activity were important to children’s health. Teachers had little professional interaction with health care providers but desired more. Parental empowerment was conveyed as essential to actualize positive changes in their child’s behavior. Discussion: Teachers of tribally affiliated ECE centers are important stakeholders in promoting the health and well-being of young American Indian children. Additional efforts are needed to more effectively integrate teachers and nurses in order to create effective interventions. We propose a stakeholder partnership to guide the development of future interventions.
Family Caregivers’ Confidence Caring for Relatives in Hospice Care at Home: An Exploratory Qualitative Study
Authors: Soroka Jacek T. , Froggatt Katherine , Morris Sara
Published: July 2018

Objectives:

Although the experiences of family caregivers have received attention, little research has specifically explored caregivers’ confidence. Evidence shows that caregivers of hospice patients do not feel confident or prepared to care for relatives or friends who die at home.

Aim:

We aimed to elicit the views, feelings, and experiences of primary caregivers who provide unpaid care to dying family members in the home setting to better understand what contributes to their confidence during end-of-life care.

Design:

The exploratory, cross-sectional design involved semistructured, in-depth interviews. A narrative analysis that focused on form and content was chosen to analyze the data.

Participants:

Sixteen bereaved caregivers (14 individuals and 1 brother/sister dyad) from the midwestern United States who received support from 1 hospice participated in the study.

Results:

Four storylines running longitudinally through the interviews were identified as shaping, giving meaning to, and contextualizing caregivers’ confidence: values/relationships, stories of terminal illness, needs, and support. Caregivers’ confidence is shaped by the terminal illness of the person for whom they care and caregivers’ values and relationships. It is also influenced by their needs and the sources and strength of support they receive.

Conclusions:

This research developed understanding about family provision of end-of-life care at home. Better comprehension of caregivers’ experiences can help professional hospice and palliative care staff to understand what aids caregivers to be more confident.
Strategies to Improve Information Transfer for Multitrauma Patients
Authors: Calleja Pauline , Aitken Leanne M. , Cooke Marie
Published: July 2018

The aim of this multiphase mixed-method study was to improve access, flow, and consistency of information transfer for multitrauma patients leaving the Emergency Department. Methods included literature review, focus group interviews, chart audits, staff surveys, and a review of international trauma forms to inform an intervention developed with a researcher-led, clinician stakeholder group. Analysis included descriptive and inferential statistics. Baseline data revealed variability existed in patient-care documentation, showing little standardization. Improvement strategies implemented included a gold standard for information embedded in handover tools, raising staff awareness of complexities for information transfer. Improvement was seen in communication between wards coordinating transfer, improved documentation, decreased information duplication, improved legibility, and increased ease and efficiency in navigating to key information. Improvement in communication at patient transition is essential to continuity of safe, effective care, and is impacted by complex interactions between multiple factors. Difficulty increases for patients with high acuity.
Reconstruction of Premaxilla With Alveolar Distraction Osteogenesis in a Patient With Complete Cleft Lip and Palate: A Case Report
Authors: Shahab Nor , Sar Cagla , Sarac Mesut , Erverdi Nejat
Published: July 2018

This case report presents an early clinical evaluation of a patient with bilateral cleft lip and palate (CLP) treated with ArchWise Distraction Osteogenesis Technique and Appliance. A 16-year-old patient with a bilateral CLP had a chief complaint of missing upper anterior teeth and poor aesthetics. The patient had class III skeletal and dental relationships, maxillary hypoplasia, maxillary posterior arch constriction, premaxillary deficiency, multiple missing teeth due to an alveolar cleft, and a concave profile. Treatment plan consisted of maxillary expansion with quad helix appliance, leveling and aligning of the arches with fixed orthodontic appliances, and archwise distraction osteogenesis. Osteotomies were performed to mobilize the posterior segments. Activation of the distractors was continued until the lateral segments had contacted each other, and then sagittal distraction was performed in order to correct the sagittal discrepancy. Patient was referred to the oral surgeon and prosthodontist for the final restorations. A very large gap was successfully repaired using this protocol while maintaining the ideal arch form and generating new bone behind the distracted segments.
Risk Factors Related to Binge Drinking
Authors: Chung Sung Suk , Joung Kyoung Hwa
Published: July 2018

The characteristics of and risk factors associated with binge drinking among South Korean and American adolescents were identified in this study. Data on adolescents in the 9th to 12th grades were extracted from two nationwide data sets: the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey System and the U.S. Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System. Binge drinking was observed among 16% of American adolescents during the past month and among 11.6% of Korean adolescents during the past year. For adolescents from both countries, the following seven similar significant factors were associated with binge drinking: female gender, higher grade, fighting-related injury experience, current cigarette smoking, preteen smoking initiation, participation in team sports, and depression. Among Korean adolescents, higher or lower level of academic achievement and inadequate sleep were additional unique factors associated with binge drinking. These results could be useful for developing interventions for adolescents engaging in binge drinking in both countries.
Evaluating Implementation Fidelity of a School-Based Parenting Program for Low-Income Families
Authors: Bettencourt Amie F. , Gross Deborah , Breitenstein Susan
Published: July 2018

Young children first develop the social–behavioral skills needed to succeed in school from parents. However, most school-based interventions designed to bolster children’s social–behavioral skills have focused on strengthening teachers’ skills. This study examined the extent to which a 12-session group-based program for strengthening parenting skills, the Chicago Parent Program (CPP), could be implemented with fidelity in 12 urban schools serving a large population of young children (>95% African American or Latino) living in poverty. Parents of 380 prekindergarten students enrolled in the CPP. Data were collected on child behavior problems; parent satisfaction, attendance, and weekly practice completion; and implementation adherence and competence. Results indicated that CPP group leaders were highly adherent and competent; parents rated groups highly and attended an average of 8 sessions indicating CPP was implemented with high fidelity. Barriers and supports to implementation are reviewed, and implications for long-term sustainability of school-based interventions like CPP are discussed.
Angiopoietin 2 Levels in the Risk Stratification and Mortality Outcome Prediction of Sepsis-Associated Coagulopathy
Authors: Statz Stephen , Sabal Giselle , Walborn Amanda , Williams Mark , Hoppensteadt Debra , Mosier Michael , Rondina Matthew , Fareed Jawed
Published: July 2018

It has been well established that angiopoietin 2 (Ang-2), a glycoprotein involved in activation of the endothelium, plays an integral role in the pathophysiology of sepsis and many other inflammatory conditions. However, the role of Ang-2 in sepsis-associated coagulopathy (SAC) specifically has not been defined. The aim of this study was to measure Ang-2 plasma levels in patients with sepsis and suspected disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) in order to demonstrate its predictive value in SAC severity determination and 28-day mortality outcome. Plasma samples were collected from 102 patients with sepsis and suspected DIC at intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The Ang-2 plasma levels were quantified using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. The International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis DIC scoring system was used to compare the accuracy of Ang-2 levels versus clinical illness severity scores in predicting SAC severity. Mean Ang-2 levels in patients with sepsis and DIC were significantly higher in comparison to healthy controls ( P < 0.0001), and median Ang-2 levels showed a downward trend over time ( P = 0.0008). Baseline Ang-2 levels and clinical illness severity scores were higher with increasing severity of disease, and Ang-2 was a better predictor of DIC severity than clinical illness scores. This study demonstrates that Ang-2 levels are significantly upregulated in SAC, and this biomarker can be used to risk stratify patients with sepsis into non-overt DIC and overt DIC. Furthermore, the Ang-2 level at ICU admission in a patient with sepsis and suspected DIC may provide a predictive biomarker for mortality outcome.
Poetically Poking at Language and Power: Using Black Feminist Poetry to Conduct Rigorous Feminist Critical Discourse Analysis
Authors: Ohito Esther O. , Nyachae Tiffany M.
Published: July 2018

Entanglements of power, language, identities, and ideologies perturb Black feminist poets and Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) scholars alike. Here, we detail our use of Black feminist poetry to address concerns with rigor in CDA. We marry Black feminist theorizing about language to feminist CDA to illuminate how—for qualitative data analysis—poetry can foster rigor. Poetry also illuminates the suitability of feminist CDA for the Black feminist project of unveiling Black women’s discursive subjugation. Through poetry, we deconstruct and reconstruct initial analysis of data, then construct new analyses from emerging insights. Black feminist poetry provided a pathway for us to demonstrate rigor by (a) engendering precise identification, distilling, and conveying of evidence substantiating findings; (b) enriching researcher triangulation by prompting deepened dialogue—about and with data—to occur for coresearchers; and (c) stimulating reflexivity. We conclude with questions useful for leveraging Black feminist poetry for rigorous, expressly political critical qualitative inquiry.
Modes of Being: Mobilizing Narrative Inquiry
Authors: Macintyre Latta Margaret , Schnellert Leyton , Ondrik Kim , Sasges Murray
Published: July 2018

Narrative inquiry’s capacities to reveal relational complexities and nuances of individuals and settings in varied contexts purposefully shape the lived curriculum within a community middle school setting. The experiential narratives of students, teachers, administrators, parents, and mentors contributing to the curricular documentation of the makings of this community have not only provided a medium to access these relations but also become an educative catalyst, opening into ongoing deliberations concerning the nature of education, knowledge, and what it means to be a community, by all involved. Grounded in Dewey’s primary notion of experience, participatory practices position each community member to bring their narratives of experience into the makings and remakings of community, elucidating modes of being and associated habits. Representative voices illuminate the mobilizing potential of narrative inquiry as a vital medium for reframing education within all institutions, communities, and beyond.
Interpretive Poetry and the Family Coming Out Crisis
Authors: Machado Silvio
Published: July 2018

This article utilizes interpretive poetry to explore the lived experience of the family coming–out crisis from the perspective of seven self-identified gay men who faced negative parental reactions to their disclosure of gay identity. The interpretive poems, each of which explores a theme from participants’ narratives, were written by the author in response to poetic transcriptions derived from analysis of semistructured interviews. In the spirit of poetic inquiry, the interpretive poems are meant to be evocative, so as to elicit embodied, empathic understanding in the reader. Following the interpretive poems, the author reflects on the use of interpretive poetry as a framework in which to understand the poems and their intent.
Are Millennials Coming to Town? Residential Location Choice of Young Adults
Authors: Lee Hyojung
Published: July 2018

How widespread is the downtown resurgence among the current generation of young adults 25 to 34 years old, often referred to as the Millennials? Answering the question, this article provides a detailed analysis of the past, current, and future geographic population distribution, focusing on the young adults. It first documents the demographic shifts from 1990 to 2015 by distance from the central business districts (CBDs) of the 50 largest U.S. metros. The results of the intrametropolitan analysis reconcile the back-to-the-city thesis with sustained suburban growth, explaining how the two sides have reached different conclusions. Then this article empirically examines the generational residential patterns using a multinomial logistic regression, suggesting the generational characteristics of the Millennials, at least partially, explain their inclination to choose city center over suburbs. The simulations based on the model estimates indicate that ongoing demographic shifts might contribute to more population growth in urban centers over the next two decades.
Influence analysis of phase transformation anisotropy of shape memory alloy wires embedded in sandwich plates with flexible cores by a third-order zigzag theory with dynamic three-dimensional elasticity corrections
Authors: Shariyat M , Ghaznavi A
Published: July 2018

This paper is devoted to the investigation of the effects of the realistic tension–compression asymmetry and anisotropy of phase transformations of shape memory alloy wires embedded in composite sandwich plates with auxetic cores on the resulting nonlinear vibrations. A third-order zigzag description of the displacement field that takes into account the thickness variations of the flexible core and a novel three-dimensional dynamic elasticity stress and displacement correction is proposed and employed. The governing equations are extracted based on Hamilton’s principle and solved using an iterative finite element procedure. A comprehensive phase transformation algorithm and a constitutive model that are capable of accurately tracking the nested hysteresis loops and sub-loops and reverse loading of the shape memory alloy are proposed, considering the tension–compression anisotropy. Interactions of the core compliance, auxeticity, and especially, the transformations anisotropy on the dynamic responses are studied numerically and three-dimensional plots are presented for distributions of the martensite volume fraction. Results show that the realistic tension–compression anisotropy of the shape memory alloy material leads to results that are quite different from those based on the assumption of the symmetry of the material properties and significantly increases the differences between the damping roles of the shape memory alloy wires of the upper and lower layers of the sandwich plate.
The RELIEF study: Tolerability and efficacy of preservative-free latanoprost in the treatment of glaucoma or ocular hypertension
Authors: Misiuk-Hojlo Marta , Pomorska Maria , Mulak Malgorzata , Rekas Marek , Wierzbowska Joanna , Prost Marek , Wasyluk Jaromir , Lubinski Wojciech , Podboraczynska-Jodko Karolina , Romaniuk Wanda , Kinasz Renata , Ortyl-Markiewicz Renata , Mocko Lucyna , Zaleska-Zmijewska Anna , Rokicki Dariusz , Baudouin Christophe
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To assess tolerability and efficacy following a switch from benzalkonium chloride–latanoprost to preservative-free latanoprost in patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Methods:

A total of 140 patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension controlled with benzalkonium chloride-latanoprost for at least 3 months were switched to treatment with preservative-free latanoprost. Assessments were made on days 15, 45, and 90 (D15, D45, and D90) and included best-corrected visual acuity, intraocular pressure, slit lamp examination, fluorescein staining, tear film break-up time, patient symptom evaluation, and subjective estimation of tolerability.

Results:

Mean best-corrected visual acuity remained unchanged during the study. Mean intraocular pressure compared with baseline (D0) remained stable throughout the study (D0, 15.9 mmHg (standard deviation = 2.6); D90, 15.3 mmHg (standard deviation = 2.4); p < 0.006). Tear film break-up time improved or remained unchanged relative to baseline in 92% of patients at D45 and in 93% at D90. Moderate-to-severe conjunctival hyperemia was seen in 56.8% of patients at D0, but this figure decreased to 13.7%, 2.2%, and 1.6% at D15, D45, and D90, respectively. Subjective assessment of tolerability (0–10 scale) indicated improvement with change of therapy (mean score: 5.3 (standard deviation = 2.2) at D0 versus 1.9 (standard deviation = 1.7) at D90; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Preservative-free latanoprost has at least the same intraocular pressure-lowering efficacy as benzalkonium chloride–latanoprost, with a better tolerability profile. This may translate into greater control of treatment and improved quality of life.
Cautery selection for oculofacial plastic surgery in patients with implantable electronic devices
Authors: Blandford Alexander D , Wiggins Newton B , Ansari Waseem , Hwang Catherine J , Wilkoff Bruce L , Perry Julian D
Published: July 2018

Purpose:

To discover oculofacial plastic surgeon practice patterns for cautery selection in the setting of implantable electronic devices and present guidelines based on a review of current literature.

Methods:

A 10-Question web-based survey was sent to the email list serve of the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to determine surgeon cautery preference in the setting of various implantable electronic devices and comfort level with the guidelines for cautery selection in their practice or institution. The relationship between survey questions was assessed for statistical significance using Pearson’s Chi-square tests.

Results:

Two hundred ninety-three (41% response rate) surveys were completed and included for analysis. Greater than half of respondents either had no policy (36%) or were unaware of a policy (19%) in their practice or institution regarding cautery selection in patients with a cardiac implantable electronic device. Bipolar cautery was favored for use in patients with a cardiac implantable electronic device (79%–80%) and this number dropped in patients with implantable neurostimulators (30%). Overall, one-third of respondents did not feel comfortable with their practice/institution policy.

Conclusion:

Choices and comfort level among oculofacial plastic surgeons for cautery selection in patients with implantable electronic devices vary considerably, and some choices may increase the risk for interference-related complications. Practice patterns vary significantly in the setting of a neurostimulator or cochlear implant, where interference can cause thermal injury to the brain and implant damage, respectively. Guidelines are proposed for cautery selection in patients with implantable electronic devices undergoing oculofacial plastic surgery.
Manufacturing, oxidation, mechanical properties and clinical performance of highly cross-linked polyethylene in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Singh Gurpreet , Klassen Robert , Howard James , Naudie Douglas , Teeter Matthew , Lanting Brent
Published: July 2018

Ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) continues to be the gold standard bearing surface in total hip arthroplasty (THA) for nearly 5 decades. Highly cross-linked UHMWPE (HXLPE) was adapted for routine use in the early 2000s to reduce the revision rates related to wear, osteolysis, and aseptic loosening resulting from conventional UHMWPE wear. Since its inception, consistent evidence showing reduced wear rates and osteolysis supports the use of HXLPE in THA. High quality studies demonstrating the advantage in long term survivorship of HXLPE over conventional UHMWPE are emerging. Though retrieval studies have demonstrated evidence of in vivo oxidation and fatigue related damage at the rim of the first generation HXLPE liners, clinical significance of this remains to be seen. Second-generation sequentially annealed and vitamin E containing HXLPE liners demonstrate improved mechanical properties, resistance to oxidation, and equivalent wear rates in comparison to their first-generation counterparts, but long term success remains to be seen.
Do individual versus illness belief schema differ in the prediction of post-stroke recovery?
Authors: Aujla Navneet , Walker Marion , Sprigg Nikola , Vedhara Kavita
Published: July 2018

This longitudinal observational study examined how individual versus illness belief schema compare as predictors of post-stroke recovery. A total of 42 stroke survivors (mean age = 66.9 years/range = 29–96 years; 68% male) were involved. The primary outcome, Health-Related Quality of Life was measured using EQ-5D-5L, mood using Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and disability using Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living Scale. Stroke Illness Perception Questionnaire-Revised measured illness beliefs. Linear regressions showed that individual illness beliefs significantly explained more of the variance in 3-month post-stroke recovery than schema (7.4%–22.5% versus 1.9%–9.9%). Individual versus illness belief schema predict outcomes differently, but which approach predicts outcomes better remains unclear.
Large-eddy simulation of direct injection natural gas combustion in a heavy-duty truck engine using modified conditional moment closure model with low-dimensional manifold method
Authors: Huang Jian , McTaggart-Cowan Gordon , Munshi Sandeep
Published: July 2018

This article describes the application of a modified first-order conditional moment closure model used in conjunction with the trajectory-generated low-dimensional manifold method in large-eddy simulation of pilot ignited high-pressure direct injection natural gas combustion in a heavy-duty diesel engine. The article starts with a review of the intrinsic low-dimensional manifold method for reducing detailed chemistry and various formulations for the construction of such manifolds. It is followed by a brief review of the conditional moment closure method for modelling the interaction between turbulence and combustion chemistry. The high computational cost associated with the direct implementation of the basic conditional moment closure model was discussed. The article then describes the formulation of a modified approach to solve the conditional moment closure equation, whose reaction source terms for the conditional mass fractions for species were obtained by projecting the turbulent perturbation onto the reaction manifold. The main model assumptions were explained and the resulting limitations were discussed. A numerical experiment was conducted to examine the validity the model assumptions. The model was then implemented in a combustion computational fluid dynamics solver developed on an open-source computational fluid dynamics platform. Non-reactive jet simulations were first conducted and the results were compared to the experimental measurement from a high-pressure visualization chamber to verify that the jet penetration under engine relevant conditions was correctly predicted. The model was then used to simulate natural gas combustion in a heavy-duty diesel engine equipped with a high-pressure direct injection system. The simulation results were compared with the experimental measurement from a research engine to verify the accuracy of the model for both the combustion rate and engine-out emissions.
The social construction of ‘many Kurdishnesses’: Mapping sub-identities of ‘EU-ising’ Kurdish politics
Authors: Tekdemir Omer
Published: July 2018

Political identity is a central issue in Kurdish rights’ demands in Turkey. However, Kurdish political identity is not formed in a homogeneous context and has become a ground for a hegemonic struggle between internal groups such as Kurdish leftist/secularists, Kurdish Islamist/conservatives and Kurdish pragmatist/opportunists (‘white Kurds’). The study critically analyses the scope of mainstream Kurdishness and its different sub-identities as the representatives of these subaltern groups seek to deepen Kurdish democratisation and widen public space in a new agonistic articulation. This paper addresses the emergence of a new political identity in the restoration of Kurdishness and radical pluralism by employing a poststructuralist methodology. Moreover, it suggests a new collective will, the ‘EU-ising of Kurdishness’, socially constructed by ‘many Kurds’ through the development of a new political grammar and discursive practice. The new superstructure as a nodal point entails the radical plural democratisation of contemporary Kurdish society relative to the principles of liberty and equality.
Seeking relational information sources in the digital age: A study into information source preferences amongst family and friends of those with dementia
Authors: Allen Frances , Cain Rebecca , Meyer Caroline
Published: July 2018

Despite an increasing number of sources providing information and advice about dementia, those living with the condition feel inadequately informed. The reasons for this remain unclear. This study has three aims: to identify where people with dementia and their carers currently access dementia-related information from; to determine how accessible, credible and comprehensible people with dementia and their carers consider the available sources of information; and to determine how people with dementia and their carers would like to receive information. An online or postal survey was completed by 171 female and 41 male participants with a close family member or friend with dementia. Accessibility above quality held the greatest influence over an individual’s use of an information source. Participants preferred relational sources such as healthcare professionals as these were able to give individualised information, yet these were poorly accessible and lacked dementia specific knowledge. Therefore, individuals used non-relational sources such as the internet. However, increased use of the internet was linked to feeling overwhelmed by information. It was not the end result of the information search but the effort taken to reach the information that influenced participant’s perception of information gathering. Future research should look at ways of designing and providing accessible information sources that act and feel like relational contact.
A visual and creative approach to exploring people with dementia’s experiences of being students at a school in Denmark
Authors: Ward Alison , Schack Thoft Diana , Lomax Helen , Parkes Jacqueline
Published: July 2018

In dementia research, there is limited knowledge about how people with dementia experience their daily life including how they experience the services they attend. This means a lack of knowledge about how people with dementia judge the quality of services provided for them. In this study visual and creative methods were used to understand the experience of people with early stage dementia who attend an adult school, Voksenskolen for Undervisning og Kommunikation (VUK) in Denmark. The study explored the students’ experience of being a student at VUK and what it means to engage in life-long learning. Alongside the aim to evaluate the service provided for them, seen from their perspective. Photo-elicitation was used, with cameras provided to each student, who took photographs of their school and home life. Students’ photographs were used to support focus group discussions, with the images integral to the process of talking about and recalling stories. Ten students were recruited to participate in four weekly sessions. Two groups were run with five students in each group. Each session was video recorded, these sessions were then transcribed and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Visual images were found to support the students’ memory of current experiences and prompted reminiscences about the past, leading to rich descriptions about being a student at VUK and their experiences of living with dementia. Being able to attend VUK was found to be important for these students with dementia, providing them with a sense of purpose, a way to support their cognitive function and also to develop new friendships. The method provided a way for people with dementia to be active in the research process and provide their perspective about a novel service, which promotes an ethos of learning and development.
Researchers and research ethics: Between fears of the expansion of controversial practices and the strengthening of ethical awareness
Authors: Zgaga Pavel
Published: July 2018

In 2015, the European Educational Research Association (EERA) initiated a study to examine education researchers’ experiences with and attitudes towards research ethics reviews. This paper is not a result of this study; nevertheless, it is related to it while critically reflecting upon the issue of research ethics reviews. It starts with an analysis of observations and comments provided by the interviewees in their questionnaire replies. In them, some key dilemmas can be identified, which have been discussed in various academic circles in recent decades. The main part of the paper is intended to review these discussions and to determine their relevance for the debate in the specific field of education research. In the conclusion, attention is drawn to a gradual shift from the sphere of legitimacy to the sphere of legality, resulting from the current attempts of regulating research ethics, while pointing to a potential conflict between the two key research principles, which are also key academic values: ethical conduct in research and academic freedom.
Employees with Autism Spectrum Disorder Achieving Long-Term Employment Success: A Retrospective Review of Employment Retention and Intervention
Authors: Brooke Valerie , Brooke Alissa Molinelli , Schall Carol , Wehman Paul , McDonough Jennifer , Thompson Katherine , Smith Jan
Published: July 2018

Policymakers, researchers, and state vocational rehabilitation administrators share an interest in the long-term outcomes of individuals participating in the public state vocational rehabilitation program. Yet, there is limited research in the area of job retention or the service delivery practices used to support individuals with disabilities to achieve long-term success in competitive integrated employment (CIE). This article begins to address this research gap by conducting a retrospective review of 139 records of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that were referred to an employment support organization for CIE between October 1, 2009 and December 31, 2017. In comparison to the high national unemployment rate experienced by individuals with ASD, 104 individuals that were referred for CIE secured employment in 126 different jobs. Findings indicate that most study participants were able to move from moderate and intensive levels of support to minimal levels of support by 18 months of employment. It appears that employees with ASD benefit from the continual assessment and subsequent support that occurs during the extended service component of ongoing support services for supported and customized employment. Services that were offered during this phase included ongoing customization of the initial job, lateral job moves, and career advancement.
Individual Differences in Locomotor Function Predict the Capacity to Reduce Asymmetry and Modify the Energetic Cost of Walking Poststroke
Authors: Sánchez Natalia , Finley James M.
Published: July 2018

Changes in the control of the lower extremities poststroke lead to persistent biomechanical asymmetries during walking. These asymmetries are associated with an increase in energetic cost, leading to the possibility that reducing asymmetry can improve walking economy. However, the influence of asymmetry on economy may depend on the direction and cause of asymmetry. For example, impairments with paretic limb advancement may result in shorter paretic steps, whereas deficits in paretic support or propulsion result in shorter nonparetic steps. Given differences in the underlying impairments responsible for step length asymmetry, the capacity to reduce asymmetry and the associated changes in energetic cost may not be consistent across this population. Here, we identified factors explaining individual differences in the capacity to voluntarily reduce step length asymmetry and modify energetic cost during walking. A total of 24 individuals poststroke walked on a treadmill, with visual feedback of their step lengths to aid explicit modification of asymmetry. We found that individuals who took longer paretic steps had a greater capacity to reduce asymmetry and were better able to transfer the effects of practice to overground walking than individuals who took shorter paretic steps. In addition, changes in metabolic cost depended on the direction of asymmetry, baseline cost of transport, and reductions in specific features of spatiotemporal asymmetry. These results demonstrate that many stroke survivors retain the residual capacity to voluntarily walk more symmetrically on a treadmill and overground. However, whether reductions in asymmetry reduce metabolic cost depends on individual differences in impairments affecting locomotor function.
Endoscopic Hematoma Evacuation for Acute Subdural Hematoma in the Elderly: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Matsumoto Hiroaki , Minami Hiroaki , Hanayama Hiroaki , Yoshida Yasuhisa
Published: July 2018

Aim. Endoscopic surgery for acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) has recently been performed in elderly patients. Unlike other reported procedures, we used the endoscope’s fixation device to ensure hemostasis because the surgeon can then use a surgical instrument with each hand. To date, there have no reports that prove lesser invasiveness or noninferiority of endoscopic surgery based on direct comparison with a large craniotomy. In this study, we investigated whether our endoscopic procedure was effective and safe. Materials and Methods. We performed 6 cases of endoscopic surgical procedures in elderly patients over the past year. First, our surgical outcomes were evaluated. Second, the outcomes were compared between our endoscopic surgery and our large craniotomy procedures. Third, the outcomes were compared between our endoscopic surgery and other reported endoscopic surgeries. Results. The outcomes of our endoscopic surgery were generally satisfactory without complications or rebleeding. Mean hematoma evacuation percentage was 91.6 ± 4%. Compared with a large craniotomy, operative time was significantly shorter ( P = .01), and the hospital costs were significantly less for endoscopic surgery ( P = .008). There was no inferiority of outcomes when compared with other reported endoscopic surgeries. Conclusion. Our surgical procedure is safe and effective when performed with strict operative indications. Endoscopic surgery for ASDH in elderly adults may be an alternative to a large craniotomy in simple-type hematomas.
Results of 5-year follow-up study in patients with peripheral artery disease treated with PL-VEGF165 for intermittent claudication
Authors: Deev Roman , Plaksa Igor , Bozo Ilia , Mzhavanadze Nina , Suchkov Igor , Chervyakov Yuriy , Staroverov Ilia , Kalinin Roman , Isaev Artur
Published: July 2018

Background:

The effective treatment of chronic lower limb ischemia is one of the most challenging issues confronting vascular surgeons. Current pharmacological therapies play an auxiliary role and cannot prevent disease progression, and new treatment methods are needed. In 2011, a plasmid VEGF65-gene therapy drug was approved in Russia for the treatment of chronic lower limb ischemia ( ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03068585). The objective of this follow-up study was to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of gene therapy in patients with limb ischemia of atherosclerotic genesis.

Aims:

To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of the therapeutic angiogenesis, 36 patients in the treatment group (pl- VEGF165) and 12 patients in the control group participated in a 5-year follow-up study. Planned examinations were carried out annually for 5 years after pl- VEGF165 administration.

Results:

Differences in the frequency of major cardiovascular events (pl- VEGF165 5/36 versus control 2/12; p = 0.85), malignancies (pl- VEGF165 1/36 versus control 0/12; p = 0.38) and impaired vision (there was none in either group) over the 5-year follow-up period did not achieve statistical significance. The target limb salvage was 95% ( n = 36) and 67% ( n = 12) in the pl- VEGF165 and control groups, respectively. The pain-free walking distance value increased by 288% from 105.7 ± 16.5 m to 384 ± 39 m in the treatment group by the end of the fifth year, with a peak of 410.6 ± 86.1 m achieved by the end of the third year. The ankle-brachial index (ABI) increased from 0.47 ± 0.01 to 0.56 ± 0.02 by the end of the first year, with a subsequent slight decrease to 0.51 ± 0.02 by the fifth year. The maximum increment of transcutaneous oximetry test (tcoO2) by 36%, from 66.6 ± 3.7 mm Hg to 90.7 ± 4.9 mm Hg, was observed by the end of the second year.

Conclusion:

The therapeutic effect of angiogenesis induction by gene therapy persists for 5 years.
Osteochondritis Dissecans in the Knee of Skeletally Immature Patients: Rates of Persistent Pain, Osteoarthritis, and Arthroplasty at Mean 14-Years’ Follow-Up
Authors: Hevesi Mario , Sanders Thomas L. , Pareek Ayoosh , Milbrandt Todd A. , Levy Bruce A. , Stuart Michael J. , Saris Daniel B. F. , Krych Aaron J.
Published: July 2018

Objective

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a knee disorder of predominately pediatric populations. Because of low incidence, it has traditionally been difficult to study OCD. The purpose of this study was to report long-term outcomes of skeletally immature OCD lesions and determine risk factors for persistent knee pain at final follow-up.

Design

A geographic database of more than 500,000 patients was reviewed to identify patients with knee OCD. Clinical course including operative management, persistent knee pain, and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were analyzed through review of radiographs, magnetic resonance images, and physician notes.

Results

A total of 95 skeletally immature patients (70 male, 25 female, mean age 12.5 ± 2.0 years) were followed for a mean of 14 years (range, 2-40 years). Fifty-three patients were treated operatively and 42 were treated nonoperatively. At final follow-up, 13 patients noted persistent knee pain, 8 treated operatively versus 5 treated nonoperatively. Risk factors for knee pain were female gender, patellar lesions, and unstable lesions. Four patients (8%) treated operatively and 2 patients (5%) treated nonoperatively developed symptomatic osteoarthritis at a mean of 28.6 years following diagnosis. Three patients underwent TKA at a mean age of 52 years, significantly younger than that observed for primary TKA at our institution ( P = 0.004).

Conclusions

Skeletally immature OCD patients have promising histories, with an estimated 14% risk of persistent knee pain, 6% symptomatic osteoarthritis, and 3% conversion to TKA at 14 years’ mean follow-up. Females, patellar lesions, and unstable lesions demonstrated increased persistent knee pain risk. Patients with OCD undergo TKA at a significantly younger age than the general population.