bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Routine Screening in a California Jail
Authors: Harmon Jennifer L. , Dhaliwal Satvinder K. , Burghardt Nicole O. , Koch-Kumar Stephanie , Walch Jennifer , Dockter Ashley , Kovaleski Laura , Bauer Heidi M.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

California is experiencing a syphilis and congenital syphilis epidemic, and many persons diagnosed with syphilis report a history of recent incarceration or sexual contact with a person who has recently been incarcerated. Fresno County’s local health department and jail collaborated to implement a routine syphilis screening policy for male adults aged 18-30 and female adults aged 18-35 booked into the facility. We evaluated syphilis screening, case finding, and treatment rates after implementation of the new policy.

Methods

We linked jail census and laboratory data to syphilis surveillance data to assess screening coverage, positivity, and treatment rates for age-eligible persons who were booked into Fresno County Jail from April 1, 2016, through December 31, 2017.

Results

Of 24 045 age-eligible persons who were booked into the jail during the study period, 5897 (24.5%) were female and 18 148 (75.5%) were male. Of 7144 (29.7%) persons who were screened for syphilis, 611 (8.6%) had a reactive rapid plasma reagin blood test result (16.4% [253 of 1546] of female adults; 6.4% [358 of 5598] of male adults) and 238 (3.3%) were newly diagnosed with syphilis, as confirmed by matching to the surveillance system (6.9% [106 of 1546] of female adults; 2.4% [132 of 5598] of male adults). Of persons identified with syphilis, 51.7% (n = 123 of 238) received adequate recommended treatment (59.4% [63 of 106] of female adults; 45.5% [60 of 132] of male adults).

Conclusions

The age-based syphilis screening policy adopted in this jail yielded high positivity, including newly identified syphilis infections among female adults of childbearing age. The targeted screening policy was formalized in the county-negotiated contract with the jail’s private correctional health care company in 2018—a strategy that can be replicated.
Opt-out Testing Pilot for Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Immigrant Detainees at 2 Immigration and Customs Enforcement Health Service Corps–Staffed Detention Facilities, 2018
Authors: Lederman Edith , Blackwell Andria , Tomkus Gina , Rios Misty , Stephen Brent , Rivera Ada , Farabaugh Philip
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Correctional settings (prisons, jails, detention facilities) provide a unique opportunity to screen for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among correctional populations with a high prevalence of infection. Immigrant detainees are a distinct and poorly described correctional population. The main objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of a national STI screening program for immigrant detainees.

Methods and Materials

We developed an opt-out STI testing program that included electronic health record integration, patient education, and staff member training. We piloted this program from June 22 through August 19, 2018, at 2 detention facilities with different operational requirements and detainee demographic characteristics. We assessed STI test positivity rates, treatment outcomes, estimated cost to conduct testing and counseling, and staff member perceptions of program value and challenges to implementation.

Results

Of 1041 immigrant detainees approached for testing, 526 (50.5%) declined. Of 494 detainees who were tested, 42 (8.5%) tested positive for at least 1 STI; the percentage positivity rates were 6.7% (n = 33) for chlamydia, 0.8% (n = 4) for syphilis, 0.8% (n = 4) for gonorrhea, 0.6% (n = 3) for hepatitis B, and 0.2% (n = 1) for HIV. The estimated cost to detect any STI ranged from $500 to $961; the estimated cost to identify 1 person infected with HIV ranged from $22 497 to $43 244. Forty of 42 persons who tested positive began treatment before release from custody. Medical staff members had positive views of the program but had concerns about workload.

Practice Implications

STIs are prevalent among immigrant detainees. A routine screening program is feasible if operational aspects are carefully considered and would provide counseling, education, and treatment for this vulnerable population.
Impact of Targeted Local Interventions on Tuberculosis Awareness and Screening Among Persons Experiencing Homelessness During a Large Tuberculosis Outbreak in Atlanta, Georgia, 2015-2016
Authors: Kerr Eleanor M. , Vonnahme Laura A. , Goswami Neela D.
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Tuberculosis (TB) outbreaks disproportionately affect persons experiencing homelessness (PEH) in the United States. During 2014-2016, a resurgent TB outbreak occurred among PEH in Atlanta, Georgia. To control the outbreak, citywide policies and educational interventions were implemented in January 2015. Policy changes standardized and enforced TB screening requirements for PEH in homeless shelters. Educational campaigns informed PEH of the outbreak and encouraged TB screening. We evaluated factors associated with, and the effect policy changes and educational interventions had on, TB screening and awareness among PEH in Atlanta.

Methods

Questions related to TB screening and awareness of the outbreak were added to an annual US Department of Housing and Urban Development survey of PEH in Atlanta in 2015 (n = 296 respondents) and 2016 (n = 1325 respondents). We analyzed the 2016 survey data to determine characteristics associated with outcomes.

Results

From 2015 to 2016, reported TB screening increased from 81% to 86%, and awareness of the TB outbreak increased from 68% to 75%. In 2016, sheltered PEH were significantly more likely than unsheltered PEH to report being evaluated for TB in the previous 6 months (prevalence odds ratio [pOR] = 3.18; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.28-4.47) and to report being aware of the TB outbreak (pOR = 4.00; 95% CI, 2.89-5.55).

Conclusions

Implementation of required TB screening and educational interventions may reduce the incidence and severity of TB outbreaks among PEH in other communities. Furthermore, the annual survey of PEH offers an opportunity to collect data to better inform practices and policies.
Lessons Learned From a Peer Writing Coach Program in a School of Public Health
Authors: Beard Jennifer , Monteiro Ryann , Price-Oreyomi Mahogany B. , Edouard Vanessa Boland , Murphy-Phillips Mary
Published: July 2020

Clear writing is a critical component of public health research and practice. The ability to convey information in a concise, engaging, and insightful manner influences stakeholder engagement and is the backbone of program and policy development, organization, and implementation. To help master of public health (MPH) students adapt their writing skills to these specialized demands, Boston University School of Public Health launched the Peer Writing Coach Program in 2010 staffed by MPH students. The service is open to all students enrolled in public health classes. They can schedule up to 2 appointments per assignment for both individual and team papers. Student use increased from 55 appointments in academic year 2010-2011 (the first year of the program) to 767 appointments in academic year 2017-2018. For the 2016-2017, 2017-2018, and 2018-2019 academic years, 1128 (74%) of 1530 appointment requests asked for assistance “writing clearly and concisely,” 886 (58%) for assistance “organizing and synthesizing main points of argument,” and 529 (35%) for assistance “tailoring writing for a specific audience.” This case study describes the rationale for creating the program, outlines the chronology of its development since 2010, and provides an overview of peer coach training, student use, and lessons learned as we addressed logistical challenges.
A case of primary syphilis characterised by lymphadenitis with abscess formation treated with only antibiotic without surgical excision of lymph node
Authors: Kaya Abdurrahman , Kaya Sibel Yıldız
Published: July 2020

Syphilis is an increasingly common infectious disease caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. Atypical clinical presentations occur that may delay its diagnosis and treatment. Regional enlargement of lymph nodes is seen in both primary and secondary stages. Such lymph nodes very rarely become abscesses. Antibiotics should be administered in this situation; however, if this fails, the lymph nodes should be surgically excised.
Corruption, Democracy, and Privately Financed Infrastructure
Authors: Bertelli Anthony M. , Mele Valentina , Woodhouse Eleanor Florence
Published: July 2020

Do political institutions moderate the influence of corruption on privately financed infrastructure projects? We argue that electoral competition incentivizes politicians to monitor bureaucratic corruption and focus on the public benefits of projects. Without such incentives, corruption is not monitored and the private benefits of bribes and favorable contract terms are responsible for increasing numbers of projects. Studying 116 countries between 1984 and 2012, we find that as public-sector corruption increases in democracies, no change in the number of projects is observed, while more projects emerge in non-democracies as corruption worsens.
Patients’ perspectives on radiation in health care
Authors: Hunt L.A.
Published: July 2020

As radiation therapy is needed by approximately 50% of patients with cancer there needs to be ongoing research to ensure that radiation therapy targets the tumour effectively and minimises potential side effects. Major advances in radiation therapy, due to improvements in engineering and computing, have made it more precise, reducing side effects and improving cancer control. Patients need to be informed of its risks, both short and long term, to enable them to be active participants in their cancer treatment path.
Miner studies and radiological protection against radon
Authors: Laurier D. , Marsh J.W. , Rage E. , Tomasek L.
Published: July 2020

Fundamental estimates of radon-associated health risk have been provided by epidemiological studies of miners. In total, approximately 15 studies have been conducted worldwide since the 1960s. These results have contributed directly to radiological protection against radon. The present article summarises the main results, with a focus on analyses of miners exposed more recently, estimates of radon lifetime attributable risk, and interaction between radon and smoking. The potential for the upcoming Pooled Uranium Miner Analysis project to further improve our knowledge is discussed.
Developing pre-service O&M specialists’ reflective practices to improve problem-solving opportunities during instruction
Authors: Zebehazy Kim T , Correa-Torres Silvia M , Botsford Kathryn D
Published: July 2020

The ability of instructors to promote problem-solving abilities is an important pedagogical skill. Providing well-planned problem-solving opportunities is especially vital in orientation and mobility (O&M) lessons. During personnel preparation programs, pre-service O&M specialists would benefit from developing a keen awareness of how well they encourage problem-solving in their instruction. This mixed-methods study reports on a process in which nine pre-service O&M specialists engaged during their blindfold techniques course. Each participant taught two lessons to a peer in their course, engaging in a retroactive think-aloud after each lesson. The process focused participants on the types of questions they asked to promote thinking and engaged them in reflection on how well the lesson met their intended objectives. Results indicated qualitative benefits noted by the participants of engaging in the process and also highlighted a need for further work with pre-service O&M specialists on question asking and allowing problem-solving and thinking opportunities during basic lessons.
Effectiveness of extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus standard care in the treatment of neck and upper back myofascial pain: a single blinded randomised clinical trial
Authors: Rahbar Mohammad , Samandarian Maryam , Salekzamani Yaghoub , Khamnian Zhila , Dolatkhah Neda
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

To compare the efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy versus standard care (ultrasound + hot pack + self-stretch-exercises) in treatment of neck and upper back myofascial pain syndrome.

Design:

Single-blind randomised clinical trial

Setting:

Outpatients setting.

Subjects:

Patients with neck and upper back myofascial pain

Intervention:

Participants were randomly allocated into shock wave group ( n = 24), standard care (ultrasound + hot pack + self-stretch-exercises) group ( n = 24) and control (self-stretch-exercises) group ( n = 24) for four weeks.

Main Measures:

The primary outcomes were pain intensity (visual analogue scale), pain pressure threshold (algometer) and disability (neck disability index). Measures were performed at baseline (week 0), week 1 and post-intervention (week 4).

Results:

Shock wave and ultrasound improved visual analogue scale (7.50 ± 1.71 to 5.72 ± 2.20 and 6.22 ± 2.54 to 4.95 ± 2.86, respectively, P = 0.083) and disability index (54.24 ± 15.53 to 39.04 ± 19.58 50.23 ± 19.57 to 32.10 ± 18.34, respectively, P = 0.495) similarly at first week examinations that were significantly higher than control ( P < 0.05). In week 4 measurements, additional improvements were achieved concerning visual analogue scale and disability index in the shock wave (–4.00 ± 2.22 and –20.24 ± 16.56, respectively) and ultrasound (–2.18 ± 2.71 and –21.79 ± 10.56, respectively) groups. However, visual analogue scale improved more significantly in shock wave group than ultrasound group in fourth week measurements ( P = 0.012).

Conclusion:

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy was more effective in controlling of the pain intensity compared to ultrasound one month after treatment. However it had no superiority over ultrasound in improving neck disability index at this time point. Trial registration www.irct.ir , IRCT201608154104N5, registered 2016-09-25
Clinical significance of circPVT1 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer who received cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy
Authors: Lu Huasong , Xie Xun , Chen Quanfang , Cai Shuangqi , Liu Si , Bao Chongxi , Luo Jin , Kong Jinliang
Published: July 2020

Objective:

CircPVT1 was identified as a tumor-promoted circRNA that is upregulated in several cancers. We researched clinical significance of circPVT1 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy.

Methods:

Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assays were performed to detect circPVT1 expression in 96 patients with NSCLC. In addition, Kaplan-Meier methods were performed to analyze survival of patients with NSCLC.

Results:

There is no significant difference between circPVT1 and age, sex, histologic type, lymphatic invasion, or vascular invasion in patients with NSCLC and there is significant difference between circPVT1 and differentiation or p-TNM stage in patients with NSCLC. In addition, after cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy, circPVT1 expression was decreased, and circPVT1 expression in the chemotherapy-resistant group was higher than in the chemotherapy-sensitive group. Survival of patients with NSCLC was associated with high circPVT1 expression.

Conclusions:

Our study revealed the clinical significance of circPVT1 in NSCLC after cisplatin combined with gemcitabine chemotherapy. After treatment, circPVT1 expression was decreased and circPVT1 expression in chemotherapy-resistant patients was higher than in chemotherapy-sensitive patients. Decreased circPVT1 expression in chemotherapy-sensitive patients is more notable than in chemotherapy-resistant patients. Therefore, it is possible to determine the effect of therapy after receiving chemotherapy by detecting the expression of circRNA in serum.
Evaluation Of Dentoalveolar, Skeletal and Soft-Tissue Changes With FFA Including The Multibracket System: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Premsagar Shruti , Kumar Mukesh , Sharma Hemant , Goyal Manish , Kushwah Ashish , Sharma Sonika
Published: July 2020

Objective: To assess skeletal, dentoalveolar, and soft-tissue effects of fixed functional appliances (FFAs), alone or in combination with multibracket appliances (comprehensive treatment), on Class II malocclusion in postpubertal patients.

Data Sources: Literature survey was conducted using the Medline, SCOPUS, Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences, and Scientific Electronic Library Online databases and the Cochrane Library, and through a manual search. No restrictions were set regarding the type of fixed appliance, treatment length, or to the cephalometric analysis used. Data extraction was mostly predefined at the protocol stage by 2 authors.

Study Selection: Only double-blind randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Class II skeletal cases treated by any FFA that had assessed specific skeletal, dental, or soft-tissue parameters were included.

Data Synthesis: A total of 8 articles qualified for the final analysis. The studies were composed of late-adolescent or adult patients who were at the end of their postpubertal growth period. This meta-analysis included data from 271 subjects (142 Class II patients and 129 untreated individuals) and 8 RCTs, which assessed linear as well as angular cephalometric changes induced by Class II treatment with FFAs.

Conclusions: Based on the data available on postpubertal patients, it was concluded that the fixed functional treatment is effective in Class II malocclusion and shows changes in skeletal, dental, as well as soft tissue.
Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Patients Undergoing Orthodontic Treatment: A Questionnaire Study
Authors: Shenoi Susmita Bala , Deshpande Sumedh , Jatti Roopa
Published: July 2020

With COVID-19 declared as a worldwide pandemic, a nationwide lockdown was implemented overnight in India on March 24, 2020. With no prior warning or anticipation, patient appointments were temporarily ceased as institutions and clinics were indefinitely closed. To our knowledge, no study addresses the orthodontic patient perspective in such testing times, where they are entirely restricted to the confines of their homes.

Aim: To assess the impact of the COVID-19-related lockdown on the treatment and psychology of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment.

Material and methods: A self-designed online exploratory questionnaire of 15 questions was distributed to 500 potential responders selected from obtained lists through messages and emails. It was mandatory to answer all questions and the survey was anonymized and did not contain any identifying information. Online consent was taken before participation in the study. The obtained data were evaluated using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: The response rate was 81.6%. The study revealed that the majority of patients were affected by the lack of access to orthodontic visits. The reasons for the same were attributed to fear of increased treatment duration, inconveniences caused by poking wires, broken brackets, etc., and lack of communication between the orthodontists and patients, among the various other reasons. The importance of orthodontic appointments was also understood by patients.

Conclusion: The study threw light on the essential need for understanding the psychology of patients undergoing orthodontic treatment. In any situation where patients do not have access to seek help, all the factors discussed in the study should be considered and it is of utmost importance that orthodontic professionals see to it that their patients are being looked after mentally, if not physically, in whatever way possible.
Management of a Skeletal Class II Malocclusion Using 2-Phase Treatment: An Indian Board of Orthodontics Case Report
Authors: Pattanaik Snigdha
Published: July 2020

PK, a 12-year-old female patient, was diagnosed with skeletal Class II due to retrognathic mandible, average growth pattern, Angle’s Class II, Division I malocclusion with Class II canine relation, mild upper anterior spacing, upper anterior proclination, uprighted lower anterior, lingually tipped 35, increased overjet and overbite, scissor bite Irt 24, 25, acute nasolabial angle, tongue thrust habit, incompetent lips, and lower lip trap. The nonextraction approach to orthodontic treatment was involved. The skeletal malocclusion was corrected using the twin-block appliance, followed by upper and lower pre-adjusted edgewise appliances (0.022 × 0.028 slot) with the MBT prescription.
Parole, Neighborhood and Reentry Outcomes: A Contextualized Analysis
Authors: Liu Lin
Published: July 2020

Compared to a large body of literature on the location-sensitivity of policing, relatively less effort has been made to examine whether parole practice is intertwined with the context of neighborhood. Based on longitudinal data of released prisoners, the current study examines the location contingency of parole efficacy in the context of reentry, focusing on the outcomes of recidivism and illicit drug use. Findings suggest that net of the effects of risk factors such as financial difficulty and insufficient family support, respondents who returned to less cohesive communities reported receiving a significantly lower level of support from parole officers. Moreover, parole officers’ support exhibited a significant protective effect against recidivism, and this protective effect was not universal but contextual: Parole officers’ support demonstrated a diminished protective effect for released prisoners who returned to disordered communities. Implications for correction practice and policymaking are presented.
Record Linkage of Crashes with Injuries and Medical Cost in Puerto Rico
Authors: Bianchi Santiago Josie D. , Colón Jordán Héctor , Valdés Didier
Published: July 2020

Cost considerations are critical in the analysis and prevention of traffic crashes. Integration of cost data into crash datasets facilitates the crash-cost analyses with all their related attributes. It is, however, a challenging task because of the lack of availability of unique identifiers across the databases and because of privacy and confidentiality regulations. This study performed a record linkage comparison between the deterministic and probabilistic approaches using attributes matching techniques with numerical distance and weight patterns under the Fellegi–Sunter approach. As a result, the deterministic algorithm developed using the exact match of the 14-digit police accident record number had an overall matching performance of 52.38% of real matched records, while the probabilistic algorithm had an overall matching performance of 70.41% with a quality measurement of the sensitivity of 99.99%. The deterministic approach was thus outperformed by the probabilistic approach by approximately 20% of records matched. The probabilistic matching with numerical variables seems to be a good matching strategy supported by quality variables. On record matching, a multivariable regression model was developed to model medical costs and identify factors that increase the costs of treating injured claimants in Puerto Rico.
Optimal Energy Speed Profile of Medium-Speed Maglev Trains Integrating the Power Supply System and Train Control System
Authors: Lai Qingying , Liu Jun , Haghani Ali , Meng Lingyun , Wang Yihui
Published: July 2020

As a new type of transportation serving the suburban passengers, the medium-speed maglev (MSM) is gradually becoming the focus of scholars. This paper addressess the speed profile optimization problem for MSM train operations by integrating the power supply system and train control system under various constraints. Unlike the model for optimizing the mechanical energy of the train, this approach aims at the lowest energy consumption of the substation for the MSM system. First, a speed profile optimization model for the MSM train is built by combining the mathematical control model of the long stator synchronous linear motor and dynamic equation of train, in which the stator current is the control variable. Next, a dedicated dynamic programming approach is proposed to solve the optimization model. The results of the numerical experiments show that the proposed model outperforms the model that only considers the train mechanical energy, and the energy consumption is reduced by 10.3% and 6.5% in the two case studies, respectively. Furthermore, the relationship between energy consumption and travel time is analyzed to reflect the optimal results of the proposed model limited to different fixed travel time.
Investigation of the Contract Time Determination Systems Used for Highway Projects in the U.S.A.
Authors: Abdel-Raheem Mohamed , Reyes Jennifer
Published: July 2020

In highway projects, major losses can occur when the estimated contract time is unrealistically longer or shorter than the actual time needed. This study presents a comprehensive review of the different contract time determination systems developed for various Departments of Transportation (DOTs) in the U.S.A. Also, the study addresses some of the main factors that can affect the activities’ production rates. The study contributes to the body of knowledge by updating the literature about the contract time determination systems used by different DOTs. A survey was designed and sent to the 52 DOTs in the U.S.A. to verify and collect additional information. The results provide further insights into the contract time determination methods used by DOTs and other factors that might affect the production rates in highway construction. This paper should prove useful for future studies focusing on the contract time determination for highway projects.
Carsickness-based design and development of a controller for autonomous vehicles to improve the comfort of occupants
Authors: Sever Mert , Zengin Namik , Kirli Ahmet , Arslan M Selçuk
Published: July 2020

It is anticipated that passengers in autonomous vehicles will be more occupied with in-vehicle activities. Loss of the authority on driving and engaging in non-driving tasks could cause lower predictability of car motions. This decrease in predictability is expected to increase the sensitivity to carsickness. It appears that it is crucial to develop controllers for autonomous driving with the capability of improving passenger comfort by reducing carsickness. In this regard, it can be asked how the motion variables can be used for the minimization of a carsickness-related measure, while the vehicle is required to follow a given path. In this study, an optimal control approach is being proposed to minimize a quantitative measure of carsickness. In order to address carsickness during autonomous maneuvers, the well-known motion sickness dose value formulation in ISO 2631-1 is augmented with horizontal direction motion components to define a performance measure. The performance measure includes the motion sensed in vestibular system rather than the motion occurring in the vehicle itself. Therefore, mathematical model of the vestibular system is included in the design of controller. Effects of acceleration and jerk are included in performance measure simultaneously. Control oriented linear parameter varying vehicle model is developed to design the path following controller. By means of simulation studies in which path following control is implemented, motion sickness dose values of the controlled vehicle are examined. It is shown by a regular lane change test at various speeds that the proposed controller, which seeks the minimization of the motion sickness dose value, achieves a reduction of the acceleration and jerk felt by a passenger, while the vehicle follows the given path.
Understanding shelter from a gender perspective: the case of Hawassa, Ethiopia
Authors: Hassan Faraz , Grant Emma , Stevens Sophie
Published: July 2020

The city of Hawassa is growing fast, driven by construction of a flagship industrial park that is expected to attract up to 60,000 workers by 2021, mostly young women, arriving without families or dependents, and living off very low wages. Along with these young women, female-headed households; divorced, separated and widowed women; elderly women; and women with disabilities all face severe/acute shelter vulnerabilities. These groups are most likely to struggle to access both formal and informal shelter, related to their below-average income levels but also to other forms of bias and discrimination. This paper draws out key findings on gender and housing from a collaborative study investigating shelter provision in Hawassa, part of a wider research study on inclusive cities in East Africa led by the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED). It aims to highlight specific constraints faced by women in accessing shelter, and around such issues as informality, safety and security, and infrastructure provision.
Three new hybrid quasi-3D and 2D higher-order shear deformation theories for free vibration analysis of functionally graded material monolayer and sandwich plates with stretching effect
Authors: Belkhodja Y , Ouinas D , Fekirini H , Olay JA Viña , Touahmia M
Published: July 2020

The present investigation brings to the readers three new hybrid higher-order shear deformation theory (HSDT) models and analyses the functionally graded material (FGM) plates. The major objective of this work is to develop three HSDTs in a unique formulation by polynomial–hyperbolic–exponential and polynomial–trigonometric forms, propose the three new HSDT models, investigate the effect of thickness stretching by considering a quasi-three-dimensional theory and analyse the free vibration of isotropic and FGM monolayer and sandwich (symmetric as well as non-symmetric, with hardcore as well as softcore) plates to demonstrate the models ability. Therefore, the Hamilton’s principle is exploited to develop equations of motion based on a displacement field of only five unknowns, of which three of them distinguished the transverse displacement membranes through the plate thickness (bending, shear and stretching displacements). In addition, the analytical solutions are found by applying the Navier approach for a simply supported boundary conditions type. The theory also considered that transverse shear deformation effect satisfied the stress-free boundary conditions on the plate-free surfaces without any requirement of shear correction factors. The used mechanical properties followed the power law and the Mori–Tanaka scheme distributions through the plate thickness. The determined results explained the effects of different non-dimensional parameters, and the proposed HSDTs predict the proper responses for monolayer and sandwich (symmetric as well as non-symmetric, with hardcore as well as softcore) FGM plates in comparison with other different plates’ theories solutions found in the literature references, thus the reliability and accuracy of the present approach are ascertained. It is obtained that the present formulations of polynomial–hyperbolic–exponential and polynomial–trigonometric forms can be further extended to all existing HSDTs models, for numerous problems related to the shear deformable effect.
School-readiness Among the Underprivileged: The Neglected Dimension
Authors: Pal G. C.
Published: July 2020

In the Indian context, the problem of the high proportion of out-of-school underprivileged children as well as the learning deficits in many such children in primary schools have raised concerns. Preparing these children for their journey through schooling has therefore been under the spotlight. The national Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) policy recognises pre-school education (PSE) of these children as one priority area. Given that the increased privatisation of pre-schooling marginalises a large section of underprivileged children in rural India, the role of public pre-schools always remains significant. Although many pre-primaries in government and aided schools contribute to the PSE of these children, the public pre-school system at community level in the form of anganwadi centres (AWCs) under the national Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) programme remains the most viable and cost-effective opportunity for a high proportion of these children. This article examines the state of the PSE at AWCs through the lens of coverage, mechanisms of service delivery, quality of learning opportunities and inclusiveness. The paper draws evidence largely from a sample survey covering 4,800 households and over 200 AWCs spread across 192 villages in three sample states, besides other macro-level data and relevant literature on PSE. The findings show that the implementation of PSE through AWCs does not comply with many ECCE norms. There is a lack of targeted PSE interventions for learning opportunities and developing socio-emotional skills. Among other factors, functioning of AWCs for less than the stipulated duration in a day, inadequate earnestness among AWC workers and unequal opportunities even in scarce PSE services adversely affect the PSE of underprivileged children. The article calls for increasing the efficiency of this largest public pre-school system through professional development of service providers and setting up monitoring mechanisms to ensure school-readiness of underprivileged children.
Is the Relationship Between Government Spending and Private Consumption in Egypt Symmetric?
Authors: Almosabbeh Imadeddin Ahmed
Published: July 2020

The aim of this study, using Egyptian data from 1970 to 2016, is to explore the relationship between government spending and private consumption spending and to understand whether the relationship between the two is symmetric. The study uses the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to explore a cointegration relationship between the two variables, and the nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) approach to test the hypothesis of a symmetric relationship between the two variables. By applying the ARDL approach, the study concludes that the effect of government spending on consumption spending is not significant in the long term. By applying the NARDL approach, the study concludes that: the hypothesis of the presence of a symmetric relationship is not accepted, there is a crowding-out relationship from the positive shocks of government spending and the substitutability coefficient between the two types of spending is 0.8699.

JEL Classification: E12, E21, F62, H50
Collaborative Filmmaking: A Participatory, Visual Research Method
Authors: Baumann Sara E. , Lhaki Pema , Burke Jessica G.
Published: July 2020

Filmmaking is a visual method that provides a unique opportunity for generating knowledge, but few studies have applied filmmaking in public health research. In this article, we introduce Collaborative Filmmaking as a public health research method, including a description of the six steps for implementation and an illustrative example from Nepal. Collaborative Filmmaking is an embodied, participatory, and visual research method in which participants are trained to create, analyze, and screen films to answer a research question. The method is useful for exploring sensitive health topics and providing nuanced insight into practices, relationships, and spaces that are difficult to capture using existing methods; however, its use requires close attention to ethical considerations. Building upon the trajectory of other visual and community-based research methods, Collaborative Filmmaking is valuable for gathering granular details and sensory data, co-analyzing data in partnership with participants, and producing participant-generated films that serve as powerful and authentic advocacy tools.
Physical Health in Adults Born With Cleft Lip and/or Palate: A Whole of Life Survey in the United Kingdom
Authors: Ardouin Kenny , Davis Sinéad , Stock Nicola Marie
Published: July 2020

Objectives:

Previous research in the field of cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) has indicated a high prevalence of common health concerns, functional difficulties, and additional conditions known to affect long-term physical health, cognitive development, and psychological well-being. The aim of the present study was to examine the self-reported physical health of a national sample of adults born with CL/P.

Design:

Drawing upon previous literature, an online, mixed-methods survey was designed by the Cleft Lip and Palate Association in collaboration with the Centre for Appearance Research at the University of the West of England. A total of 207 eligible responses were received between July and October 2018. Qualitative data were analyzed using inductive content analysis, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results:

A considerable proportion of participants reported one or more comorbid conditions, including common health concerns, difficulties related to language and/or learning, unresolved speech and/or hearing issues, problems with vision, breathing difficulties, and concerns related to eating and drinking. Many participants were unaware of their entitlement to specialist treatment, and some had experienced difficulties accessing specialist services through their general practitioner (GP).

Conclusions:

Individuals with CL/P may be at risk of physical health issues persisting into adulthood. The monitoring of physical symptoms from an early age is recommended, as is a routine physical assessment for adults returning to the CL/P service later in life. Education for both GPs and adults is warranted. Future studies could investigate the wider prevalence of comorbid conditions in CL/P, in order to better understand the longer-term health burden.
Understanding American Indian Perceptions Toward Radiation Therapy
Authors: Patel Samir H. , Ebrahimi Sasha , Northfelt Donald W. , Mathews Timothy E. , Omar Farhia M. , Martinez Erika D. , DeWees Todd A. , Okamoto Janet M.
Published: July 2020

Many American Indian (AI) and Alaska native (AN) patients do not complete guideline-concordant cancer care for the 4 most common cancers. Our aim was to better understand AI/AN attitudes toward radiation therapy (RT). Patients eligible for this survey study were AI/AN patients with cancer at the Phoenix Indian Medical Center who either received previous RT or were recommended to receive RT. An 18-item questionnaire was administered to each of the 50 participants from October 1, 2018, through February 15, 2019. Willingness to travel for RT was compared to respondent characteristics, concerns regarding RT, and obstacles to obtain RT. Duration of RT was important to 78% of patients: 24% would consider traveling 25 miles or more for a standard course, and 48% would travel that distance for a shorter course ( P < .001). The top-ranked barriers to RT were transportation, cost of treatment, and insurance compatibility. The top-ranked concerns about RT were adverse effects, cost of treatment, and fear of RT. Concerns about adverse effects were associated with the radiation team’s inability to explain the treatment ( P = .05). Transportation concerns were significantly associated with accessibility ( P = .02), communication with the RT team ( P = .02), and fear of RT ( P = .04). AI/AN patients are concerned about the adverse effects of RT and the logistics of treatment, particularly costs, transportation, and insurance compatibility. Use of culturally specific education and hypofractionation regimens may increase acceptance of RT for AI/AN patients with cancer, and this hypothesis will be tested in a future educational intervention-based study.
The effectiveness of ocriplasmin versus surgery for the treatment of macular holes: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Brian Edward , Sheidow Tom , Sambhi Raman-Deep Singh , Hooper Phil , Malvankar-Mehta Monali S.
Published: July 2020

Objective:

To conduct a systematic review looking at the effects of ocriplasmin compared to pars plana vitrectomy on macular holes to assess the effectiveness of the treatment options.

Methods:

Literature was searched through MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Clinical Trials.gov, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses until June 12, 2018. Conferences held through Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Canadian Society of Ophthalmology, and American Academy of Ophthalmology were searched until June 18, 2018. A total of 208 records were screened leaving 26. One author independently reviewed them for quality and extracted data. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines were followed. The adverse events, MH closure rate, change in MH size, and the extent to which the patients’ visual acuity is restored by each treatment option; ocriplasmin and vitrectomy.

Results:

Twenty-six articles were included for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Meta-analysis results showed a 34% closure of macular holes after ocriplasmin treatment compared to 92% after vitrectomy. A significant improvement in visual acuity was seen after vitrectomy (SMD = −1.42; CI: [−1.98, −0.86]) as well as the ocriplasmin treatment (SMD = −0.73; CI: [−0.98, −0.48]).

Conclusions:

Results suggested 92% macular hole closure after vitrectomy compared to 34% after ocriplasmin. A significant improvement in visual acuity of patients was seen after both treatments. More good quality randomized controlled trials are required to make strong conclusions.
Bilinguals’ and monolinguals’ performance on a non-verbal cognitive control task: How bilingual language experience contributes to cognitive performance by reducing mixing and switching costs
Authors: Khodos Iryna , Moskovsky Christo , Paolini Stefania
Published: July 2020

Aims and objectives/purpose/research questions:

The study investigated whether language experience predicts cognitive performance in bilingual and monolingual adults. As indicators of language experience, we focused on language context, typological proximity/distance between two languages and onset age of active bilingualism. As indicators of cognitive performance, we measured mixing costs and switching costs to gauge proactive and reactive control processes during a computerized non-verbal cognitive control task.

Design/methodology/approach:

Demographic and language data were collected with the Language and Social Background Questionnaire. Mixing and switching costs were subsequently obtained using a cued non-verbal switching task.

Data and analysis:

The background and switching-task data obtained from 60 bilinguals from non-English-speaking backgrounds and 24 English monolinguals residing in Australia were analysed using linear fixed-effects regression analyses.

Findings/conclusions:

The results showed that the use of two languages in a dual-language context was associated with reduced switching costs relative to monolingual and bilingual separated-language contexts and with reduced mixing costs only relative to a bilingual separated-language context. Among the bilinguals, lower mixing costs were also associated with an earlier onset age of active bilingualism and smaller typological distance between two languages.

Originality:

This study’s design included bilinguals as a target group and monolinguals as a control group, thus enabling the identification of possible mixing and/or switching cost advantages in bilinguals. By targeting young/middle-aged adults and considering a set of potentially relevant language experiences, this work was, therefore, well placed to provide clarity on findings for an age group that previously returned mixed and inconclusive results regarding a bilingual advantage.

Significance/implications:

Our findings reinforce the idea that particular dimensions of bilingual experience rather than bilingualism per se are linked to enhanced cognitive performance.
Civic death as a mechanism of retributive punishment: Academic purges in Turkey
Authors: Özdemir Seçkin Sertdemir
Published: July 2020

In an era when authoritarian governments increasingly target academics, Turkey’s 2016 purge of more than 6,000 academics and their diminution to civic death is conspicuous in its cruelty. Although unprecedented, this is not the first time that Turkish academics have been punished en masse. By looking at the tools with which academics have been expelled from educational institutions, the public sphere, and the political body, I attempt to develop a nuanced understanding of the interconnected forms of punishment directed towards academic citizens as knowledge producers. I suggest that the 1980 coup accomplished three things: it introduced new mechanisms of punishment based on a logic of retribution instead of compensation; it changed the legal system into a regime of exception; it transformed academics into patriotic worker-citizens. The latest purges have brought an additional change in the status of academics’ citizenship, rendering them as disposable citizens forever at risk of being targeted as the ‘civic dead’.
Resuscitation during the pandemic: Optional obligation? or supererogation?
Authors: Perkins Jonathan , Hamilton Mark , Canniff Charlotte , Gannon Craig , Illsley Marianne , Murray Paul , Scribbins Kate , Stockwell Martin , Wilson Justin , Gallagher Ann
Published: July 2020

This paper is a response to a recent BMJ Blog: ‘The duty to treat: where do the limits lie?’ Members of the Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care Service Clinical Ethics Group (CEG) reflected on arguments in the Blog in relation to resuscitation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clinicians have had to contend with ever-changing and conflicting guidance from the Resuscitation Council UK and Public Health England regarding personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements in resuscitation situations. St John Ambulance had different guidance for first responders.

The situation regarding resuscitation led the CEG to consider ethical aspects of health care professionals’ responses to the need for resuscitation during COVID-19. Members agreed that professionals should, ideally, have the level of PPE required for an aerosol generating procedure. However, there was no consensus regarding professionals’ duty to care when this is not available. On the one hand, it was agreed that the casualty/patient’s interests regarding resuscitation should be prioritised due to professionals’ contract with the public and professional privilege. On the other hand, risk thresholds were considered relevant to individual decision-making and professionals’ duty to care. All agreed that decision-making should not be influenced by rewards or reprimands. It was agreed also that decisions to resuscitate should not be considered as moral heroism or supererogatory - regardless of PPE availability - but rather as ‘minimally decent’. We agreed that it may be acceptable for professionals, with good reasons, to opt out of resuscitation attempts and these should be reflected on and discussed before the event.
The Real-Life Outcome of VACOped Boot in the Management of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Lim Wee Teck , Robinson Helen , Jude Edward , Rajbhandari Satyan
Published: July 2020

The total contact cast (TCC) is considered the gold standard treatment to off-load diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs); however, the use of TCC can be limited due to various reasons such as underlying infections, ischemia, and patient’s reluctance. Removable cast walkers are used in such cases, and the VACOped boot is one such device. The aim of this study was to analyze the results of the VACOped boot in the treatment of DFUs in real life. Case records of all patients with DFUs treated with a VACOped from 2011 to 2017 were reviewed retrospectively. Eighty-three episodes of ulcerations in 42 subjects were identified, of which 48 (57.8%) healed in a median duration of 17.5 (95% confidence interval = 15-33) weeks with the use of the VACOped and 35 (42.2%) discontinued its use. The median duration of healing with the VACOped of 17.5 weeks appears to be longer, but this cohort included patients with underlying infection and ischemia, which are often excluded in the clinical trials of off-loading. Our data show that the VACOped application is preferred by many patients and seems to be equally effective to other removable cast walkers.