bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental teaching of light wave–particle duality for Optics course
Authors: Zhang Min , Liu Chao , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yaxun , Liu Zhihai , Zhang Jianzhong , Yang Jun , Yuan Libo
Published: October 2019

The paper presents an innovative experimental setup that can show the wave–particle duality of light. A new experimental class for teaching light wave–particle duality concept based on the presented setup is also designed for undergraduates who major in Optics. Based on optical radiation pressure theory, the three-dimensional space trapping, localization, and movement of the particles reveal the particle property of light. Based on the beam interferometry technology, the recording and detection of the dual beam interference signal verify the wave property of light. The presented setup employs fiber optical light path, enabling the setup to be resistant to external interference, easy to assemble and move, and low in cost. The presented experimental practice can give students more opportunities to broaden and deepen their understanding of the taught subject content, while using modern experimental instruments and working on problems. During the class, students can know how to use optical instruments in a proper way, understand light wave–particle duality and related concepts, and increase awareness and curiosity of related cutting-edge scientific research. According to the class questionnaire survey, students were satisfied with the practical experimental class.
Intra-generational and Intergenerational Social Mobility: Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Cuong Viet , Nguyen Lam Tran
Published: October 2019

This study examines intra-generational and intergenerational mobility of employment and income in Vietnam during the 2004–2014 period. It finds there was high mobility across occupations but less mobility across wage-job employment and economic sectors. Upward labour mobility increased over time because of the increase in skilled occupations. The intergenerational elasticity of earnings is estimated at around 0.36. Education plays an important role in increasing intra-generational as well as intergenerational mobility. The earning intergenerational elasticity for children with less than primary education is rather high, at 0.51, while this intergenerational elasticity for those with a college or university degree is much lower at 0.17.
Addressing Confusion about Brain Death in the Seminary
Authors: Farnan Theresa
Published: October 2019

Situations involving brain death or other end-of-life issues pose tremendous challenges for lay Catholics, seminarians, and priests, challenges that are even more confusing in light of recent controversial end-of-life cases. More interaction is needed between Catholic physicians, Catholic youth, and seminarians to help them understand these difficult issues.
Suspicion and prejudice: The role of ideology in the study of Christian revival among the Roma
Authors: Cantón-Delgado Manuela , Toyansk Marcos , Jiménez-Royo Javier
Published: October 2019

The state of affairs of some studies concerning Romani groups’ conversions throughout the world to the global evangelical movement, and the subtext that prevails in such studies, could reveal a persistence of ‘enlightened prejudice’ towards the nature of religions, namely, a kind of suspicion and authoritarianism that continues to tacitly fuel hostility against emerging religious phenomena, and the tendency of analysts to share, consciously or unconsciously, the language of the State, producing a negative vision of the Romani world. The creativity and autonomy exhibited by Romani Evangelism, which stays away from external financing and, generally speaking, policies of minority promotion, contribute to a vast trans-regional network of congregations, that aim towards an unprecedented global pan-Romanism with a strong social base. This is a response to a historic diaspora, and, in turn, a new form of the secular Romani diaspora.
North American missionaries developed a North American-style school to prepare their children for life back in North America
Authors: Buschman Lawrent L.
Published: October 2019

In her article “Sacred children and colonial subsidies” Anicka Fast suggests that the missionaries of the American Mennonite Brethren Mission developed a school for their children in order to separate the missionary children from the Congolese children. That is an unfortunate misinterpretation of the historical situation. The missionary children were always intimately associated with Congolese children on the mission stations. The missionary children’s school was developed to train the missionary children so they could return to North America, where they were legally expected to return and live. They were not immigrants in the Congo. They needed a “North American-style education” so they would have a reasonable chance of success when they returned to North America. The school itself eventually was moved to Kinshasa where it developed into the American School of Kinshasa, which serves a wide spectrum of black and white children from around the world. The matter of colonial subsidies was only tangentially related to the development of the school.
Perceptions of the past and schooling for missionary kids An introduction to the dialogue on sacred children and colonial subsidies
Authors: Starcher Richard L.
Published: October 2019

In this brief piece, I present an introduction to a conversation on decisions surrounding the education of missionary children in the Belgian Congo during the period 1946 to 1959. This conversation began in April 2018 with the publication of Anicka Fast’s article on “Sacred children and colonial subsidies,” to which Lawrent Buschman submitted a rebuttal. Fast then submitted a response to Buschman’s rebuttal. My introduction seeks to frame their conversation for the readers of Missiology: An International Review.
Treatment-Induced Changes in Undercontrolled and Overcontrolled Anger Subtypes of Perpetrators of Intimate Partner Violence and 5-Year Recidivism
Authors: Redondo Natalia , Cantos Arthur L. , Graña Jose Luis , Muñoz-Rivas Marina J. , O’Leary K. Daniel
Published: October 2019

This study examines different types of partner-violent males based on anger profiles. A cluster analysis of 483 self-reports completed by partner-violent men using the State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI-2) identified two clusters of Undercontrolled and Overcontrolled anger profiles. The Undercontrolled men presented with higher pre-intervention scores than Overcontrolled men on Borderline Personality Organization, psychopathic traits, impulsiveness, physical aggression, verbal aggression, alcohol use, and partner-abusive behavior. Following completion of a cognitive-behavioral therapy program, there was a significant reduction in intimate partner violence for both subtypes, although Undercontrolled individuals continued to present more frequent psychological aggression and dominant and jealous tactics. Recidivism was predicted by pretreatment levels of hostility and treatment completion. Men with greater pretreatment to posttreatment changes in anger control were less likely to recidivate at 1, 3, and 5 years after treatment. The results suggest that perpetrators with different profiles would benefit from different types of intervention.
Can MDCT Scan of the Temporal Bone Looking at Pneumatization Predict Surgical Vulnerability of the Facial Nerve?
Authors: Inal Mikail , Muluk Nuray Bayar , Şahan Mehmet Hamdi , Asal Neşe , Şimşek Gökçe , Arıkan Osman Kürşat
Published: October 2019

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to investigate the scutum–cochleariform process (CP) and scutum–promontorium distances according to the mastoid pneumatization condition.

Methods:

Two hundred temporal multidetector computed tomography scans (90 males and 110 females) were evaluated retrospectively. The scutum-CP and scutum–promontorium distances were measured. Facial canal dehiscence (FCD) in the tympanic segment and mastoid pneumatization were also evaluated.

Results:

The distances between scutum-CP and scutum–promontorium were not different between males and females and between right and left sides. Facial canal dehiscence in the tympanic segment was detected: 5.6% (right) and 7.8% (left) in males and 5.5% (right) and 10.0% (left) in females. Grade 4 (100%) pneumatization was detected mainly in 55.6% to 57.8% of the patients in both genders. Grade 0 (0%) pneumatization (sclerosis) was detected in 22.2% to 28.2% of both males and females. In more pneumatized mastoids, the scutum-CP and scutum–promontorium distances increased. In sclerotic mastoids, the scutum-CP and scutum–promontorium distances decreased. Facial canal dehiscence rates were not related to the mastoid pneumatization levels.

Conclusion:

Cochleariform process is an important landmark to localize the tympanic segment of the facial canal. In sclerosed mastoids, scutum-CP and scutum–promontorium distances decreased. There was no relationship between FCD rates and mastoid pneumatization levels. It may be due to the development of FCD that occurs during the intrauterine period. In endoscopic and classic ear surgeries, mastoid pneumatization must be evaluated preoperatively to avoid facial nerve injuries.
Resources, Time and Gender: Determinants of Women’s Housework in Bahir Dar and Nearby Rural Villages, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Desta Chalachew Getahun
Published: October 2019

Women’s disproportionate engagement in housework and its determinants has been relatively well studied for developed countries, but such research is absent for less developed countries. Unless barriers to women’s participation in development efforts are addressed, poverty reduction programs may not succeed. Using data from a household survey of 502 women and employing a multivariate linear regression model, this paper analyzed determinants of women’s hours of housework. Results show that, in line with theory and past research, time availability and resources or bargaining power have statistically significant negative associations with a woman’s housework time. Similarly, traditional gender perception/practice has the expected positive association with a woman’s housework time. National strategies aiming at poverty reduction may need to pay more attention to educate women, help them overcome shortage of working capital, and improve employment opportunities since these may increase resources available to women, empower them, and thereby minimize gendered housework.
Custodiol cardioplegia solution compared to cold blood cardioplegia in pediatric cardiac surgery: a single-institution experience
Authors: Bibevski Steven , Mendoza Laura , Ruzmetov Mark , Tayon Kevin , Alkon Jaime , Vandale Breanna , Scholl Frank
Published: October 2019

Objective:

Custodiol is an intracellular, crystalloid cardioplegia solution that is a single-dose alternative to multi-dose cold blood cardioplegia; however, there is scarce data regarding its use in infants and children. The objective of this study was to compare its impact on myocardial function in infants.

Methods:

Single-center retrospective review including 132 patients <12 months old undergoing biventricular repair. There were 106 patients who received single-dose Custodiol and 27 patients who received multi-dose blood cardioplegia. Demographic and echocardiographic data were compared between the two groups.

Results:

Patients receiving Custodiol were slightly younger (100 ± 62 days) and lower weight (4.7 ± 1.3 kg) compared to 152 ± 86 days and 5.2 ± 1.3 kg for blood cardioplegia (p < 0.05). The Society of Thoracic Surgeons/European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery Congenital Heart Surgery score was similar between both groups. Average cardiopulmonary bypass time was similar between both groups (Custodiol 93 ± 54 minutes vs. blood 81 ± 44 minutes, p = 0.46) as was aortic cross-clamp time (Custodiol 58 ± 33 minutes vs. cold blood 53 ± 33 minutes, p = 0.62). Pre-operative left ventricular ejection fraction was similar for blood 73 ± 8% versus Custodiol 70 ± 9%, p = 0.21. There was also no intergroup difference in left ventricular ejection fraction 24 hours post op (blood 64 ± 9% vs. Custodiol 65 ± 12%, p = 0.53) or at discharge (blood 66 ± 10% vs. Custodiol 66 ± 11%, p = 0.95). The pre-operative right ventricle function by fractional area change was also similar in blood cardioplegia (46 ± 13%) versus Custodiol (48 ± 9%, p = 0.38) and showed similar drops in parameters in the two groups 24 hours after surgery and at discharge.

Conclusion:

Single-dose Custodiol is as safe as blood cardioplegia for myocardial protection in congenital cardiac surgery for the cross-clamp times evaluated in this study. Evaluation at longer cross-clamp times would be helpful to determine if there is a greater benefit to single-dose Custodiol versus more repeated doses of blood cardioplegia for longer cross-clamp times.
Does inpatient palliative care consultation impact outcomes following hospital discharge? A narrative systematic review
Authors: Scott Mary , Shaver Nicole , Lapenskie Julie , Isenberg Sarina R , Saunders Stephanie , Hsu Amy T , Tanuseputro Peter
Published: October 2019

Background:

While most patients desire to die at home or in a community-based hospice, the transition from hospital to community settings often lacks streamlined coordination of care to ensure that adequate support is provided in the preferred care setting. The impact of hospital-based palliative care consultations on post-discharge care and outcomes has not been extensively studied.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to appraise available research on the impact of inpatient palliative care consultations on transitions from hospital to community settings.

Design:

We conducted a narrative systematic review and used the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool to appraise the quality of selected studies. Studies were included if they assessed the transition from hospital to community and examined outcomes after an inpatient palliative care consultation. A protocol for this study was registered and published in PROSPERO, Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (ID: CRD42018094924).

Data sources:

We searched for quantitative studies indexed in PubMED, CINAHL and Cochrane and published between 1 January 1 2000 and 11 March 2018.

Results:

Our search retrieved 2749 articles. From these, 123 articles were full-text screened and 15 studies met our inclusion criteria. Studies reported that inpatient palliative care consultations are associated with high rates of discharge to community settings, greater provision of services post-discharge, improved coordination and lower rates of rehospitalization.

Conclusion:

Existing evidence suggest that inpatient palliative care consultations have a positive impact on patient outcomes and transitions to the community, demonstrating the potential to improve patient quality of life and relieve overburdened acute care systems.
Application of a three-dimensional printed segmental scapula prosthesis in the treatment of scapula tumors
Authors: Deng Linglong , Zhao Xing , Wei Chi , Qu Wenqiang , Yu Li , Zhu Shaobo
Published: October 2019

Chondrosarcoma is characterized by the presence of histologically aggressive behavior, and commonly involves the scapula. Currently, limb salvage surgery is the recommended surgical treatment. Owing to the irregularity of the tumor, the suitability of an implant after tumor resection is a challenge for surgeons. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology has the potential to make personalized limb salvage surgery a reality. We report the case of a 53-year-old man who was diagnosed with chondrosarcoma of the scapula. Considering the low-grade malignancy and lack of invasion of the glenoid, we agreed upon segmental scapula replacement as the treatment protocol. Nevertheless, reconstruction of the irregular bony defect remaining after tumor resection can be complicated. Therefore, a personalized prosthesis and navigation template corresponding to tumor was designed with 3D printing technique, and tumor resection, prosthesis implantation, and rotator cuff reconstruction were completed. The affected shoulder achieved satisfactory function during a 32-month follow-up with no tumor recurrence. 3D printing technique can help implement the individualized design of the implant and accurate reconstruction after tumor resection, simplify complicated operations, improve operational efficiency, and allow early functional recovery.
A case report of rectal adenocarcinoma with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma of the liver
Authors: Guo Jing-qiang , Zou Jing-jing , Zhu Jin-de , Jiang Chuan , Shao Chu-xiao
Published: October 2019

Objective

In this case report, we describe our experience with a patient who was treated for rectal adenocarcinoma complicated with primary cholangiocarcinoma of the liver and highlight the problems in the diagnosis and treatment of these potentially fatal lesions.

Methods

In the clinical setting, we often use the concept of “monism” for diagnosis and treatment. In this report, we review the diagnosis and treatment of rectal adenocarcinoma complicated with primary cholangiocarcinoma of the liver.

Results

Four months after surgery, the patient’s carbohydrate antigen 19-9 level was elevated, and positron emission tomography/computed tomography showed multiple liver metastases. The patient underwent three rounds of transarterial chemoembolisation and two rounds of radiofrequency ablation at our hospital for recurrent hepatocellular carcinoma. The clinical response was poor and indicative of progression of intrahepatic lesions.

Conclusion

A preoperative multidisciplinary team, rapid intraoperative pathological examination, and active comprehensive postoperative treatment are necessary to improve the prognosis of multiple primary tumours.
Integrating Evidence-Supported Psychotherapy Principles in Mental Health Case Management: A Capacity-Building Pilot
Authors: Ravitz Paula , Berkhout Suze , Lawson Andrea , Kay Tatjana , Meikle Susan
Published: October 2019

Objectives:

Mental health case managers comprise a large workforce who help patients who struggle with complex mental illnesses and unmet needs with respect to the social determinants of health. This mixed-methods capacity-building pilot examined the feasibility, experiences, and outcomes of training community-based mental health case managers to integrate evidence-based psychotherapy principles into their case conceptualization and management practices.

Methods:

Case-based, once-weekly, group consultations and training in applied therapeutic principles from mentalizing, interpersonal psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other evidence-based psychotherapies were provided to case managers over 8 months. A trauma-informed and culturally sensitive approach was emphasized to improve therapeutic alliances and to foster adaptive expertise and an appreciation of individual patient differences.

Results:

Qualitative analyses of focus groups and individualized interviews identified a shift toward being more reflective rather than reactive, with improved empathy, patient engagement, morale, and confidence resulting from the training ( N = 16). Self-reported pre–post counseling self-efficacy changes revealed significant improvements overall, driven by improved microskills and an ability to deal with challenging client behaviors ( N = 10; P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

This pilot demonstrated that case-based consultations and training of mental health case managers within a community-of-practice in trauma-informed, culturally sensitive application of evidence-supported psychotherapy principles were feasible and acceptable with scalable potential to improve case managers’ counseling self-efficacy, reflective capacity, empathy, and morale. Further research in this area is needed with a larger sample, and patient and health systems outcomes.
Cooperative Extension Gets Moving, but How? Exploration of Extension Health Educators’ Sources and Channels for Information-Seeking Practices
Authors: Strayer Thomas E. , Kennedy Lauren E. , Balis Laura E. , Ramalingam NithyaPriya S. , Wilson Meghan L. , Harden Samantha M.
Published: October 2019

Purpose:

The Cooperative Extension System (Extension) has implemented concerted efforts toward health promotion in communities across the nation by acting as an intermediary between communities and universities. Little is known about how these intermediaries communicate and learn about existing evidence-based programming. This study serves to explore this gap by learning about information sources and channels used within Extension.

Design:

Sequential explanatory mixed methods approach.

Setting:

National Cooperative Extension System.

Participants:

Extension community-based health educators.

Methods:

A nationally distributed survey with follow-up semistructured interviews. Survey results were analyzed using a Kruskal-Wallis 1-way analysis of variance test paired with Bonferroni post hoc. Transcripts were analyzed by conventional content analysis.

Results:

One hundred twenty-one Extension educators from 33 states responded to the survey, and 18 of 20 invited participants completed the interviews. Educators’ information seeking existed in 2 forms: (1) information sources for learning about programming and (2) channels by which this information is communicated. Extension educators reported contacting health specialists and other educators. Extension educators also reported using technological means of communication such as e-mail and Internet to reach information sources such as peers, specialists, academic journals, and so on.

Conclusion:

Extension state specialists were preferred as primary sources for intervention information, and technology was acknowledged as an easy contact channel. This study identifies county-based health educators’ information structures and justifies the need for future research on the role of specialists in communication efforts for educators.
Streamwise vortex transportation and loss generation in an intermediate turbine duct
Authors: Fan Dong , Zhou Chao
Published: October 2019

Annular S-shaped intermediate turbine ducts are used in modern turbofan engines with large by-pass ratios. To reduce the weight of an engine, the intermediate turbine ducts should be as short as possible, while keeping the loss at an acceptable level. Understanding the flow physics within the intermediate turbine ducts is the key to improve the intermediate turbine duct design. This paper aims to understand the transportation of the inlet streamwise vortices and loss generation in intermediate turbine ducts. First, cases with isolate incoming streamwise vortices at different spanwise locations and different axial velocities are investigated. The transportation of isolated vortex and loss generation are highly related to the interaction between vortex and boundary layer, which are mainly determined by the streamwise pressure gradient. When the axial velocity of the streamwise vortex is different to the main flow, the radial pressure gradient also has an effect. Then, the inlet condition of the intermediate turbine ducts is setup based on the flow field at the exit of a cascade, which contains the flow structures such as the tip leakage vortex, hub secondary vortex and the wake. The flow physics and the loss mechanism are analysed in detail. The formation mechanism of counter-rotating vortices pair and the influence of inlet vortex on loss generation within the intermediate turbine ducts are also presented.
Dr Joseph Dudley ‘Benjy’ Benjafield: Microbiologist, soldier and Bentley Boy racing driver
Authors: McLoughlin Liam
Published: October 2019

Dr Joseph Dudley ‘Benjy’ Benjafield qualified from University College Hospital Medical School, London in 1912. He joined the Royal Army Medical Corps during World War I and was in charge of the 37th Mobile Bacteriological Laboratory serving with the British Egyptian Expeditionary Force when the Spanish flu struck in late 1918. He observed the features and clinical course of the pandemic and published his findings in the British Medical Journal in 1919. On return to civilian life, he was appointed as Consultant physician to St George’s Hospital, Hyde Park Corner, London where he remained in practice for the rest of his career. He was a respected amateur gentleman racing driver frequently racing at the Brooklands circuit from 1924 after buying a Bentley 3-litre and entering the Le Mans 24 h race seven times between 1925 and 1935, winning in 1927. He was one of an elite club of young men known as The Bentley Boys and went on to become a founding member of the British Racing Drivers Club (BRDC) in 1927. He rejoined the Royal Army Medical Corps during World War II, serving briefly again in Egypt. He died in 1957.
Reciprocal Dynamics of Dignity in End-of-Life Care: A Multiperspective Systematic Review of Qualitative and Mixed Methods Research
Authors: Choo Ping Ying , Tan-Ho Geraldine , Dutta Oindrila , Patinadan Paul Victor , Ho Andy Hau Yan
Published: October 2019

Background:

Preserving terminally ill patients’ dignity and well-being through dignified and holistic care has become the overarching goal in palliative care services. However, dignity is a multifaceted concept with a wide range of interpretations under different cultural contexts.

Aim:

The aim of this review is to understand the variations in subjective interpretations and constitutions of dignity in palliative or end-of-life care via an integrative worldview.

Design:

This systematic review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline and used SPIDER tool to screen for appropriate and relevant articles for analysis.

Data Sources:

Four major databases were searched including CINAHL, ERIC, Medline, and PsycARTICLES between 2009 and 2018. Forty-eight qualitative studies that examined dignity from the perspectives of patients, family caregivers, and health-care professionals were selected for full text data analysis using thematic synthesis.

Results:

Analysis of the various concepts of dignity revealed 18 themes that were further categorized into 7 conceptual categories: (1) self-determination, (2) existential liberty, (3) relational connectedness, (4) caregiving revitalization, (5) mindful humanity, (6) patient–family care, and (7) sustainable culture. These 7 categories span across individual, familial, and institutional dimensions, forming a new Dynamic Reciprocity of Dignity model.

Conclusions:

The Dynamic Reciprocity of Dignity model highlights the importance of adopting a systemic lens to address dignity-related needs and concerns at the end of life, while providing insights on how compassionate care and self-compassion can serve as the foundation of dignified care, which in turn serve as a buffer against patients’ existential suffering as well as caregivers’ burnout and fatigue. Recommendations for clinical practice and future research directions are discussed.
Adaptive control for response attenuation of seismically excited cable-stayed bridges
Authors: W Soares Rachel , Barroso Luciana R , AS Al-Fahdawi Omar
Published: October 2019

Estimation of bridge’s parameters is bound to give rise to a certain amount of inaccuracy. Given the size of cable-stayed bridge structures, any percentage of error can lead to estimated stiffness, mass, and damping that differ greatly from the actual structural parameters. During their service life, bridge structures experience cracking, temperature variations, localized damage, and deterioration, which result in parametric variation. Adaptive control strategies can be a good alternative to control bridges subjected to seismic excitation, as they present robustness when in face of parametric variation. In this study, a semi-active adaptive control approach is proposed for mitigation of seismic responses of cable-stayed bridges. The approach is based on the simple adaptive control, which is a direct model reference adaptive control strategy for multiple-input–multiple-output systems, proven to guarantee perfect tracking asymptotically, and successfully avoid the use of observers. The proposed adaptive scheme adopts the nominal bridge controlled by the linear–quadratic regulator with full-feedback as a model reference. The adaptive technique is implemented to control semi-active magnetorheological damper devices, considering realistic implementation and design. The scheme’s ability in reducing seismic response of a cable-stayed bridge subjected to three earthquake records with different angles of incidence is evaluated and its performance is compared to classical control solutions. In order to evaluate robustness of the control scheme proposed, two different parametric changes are introduced. The proposed adaptive scheme gives the least average variation in performance for all the different parametric variations considered. The control solution presents increased robustness when compared to passive and semi-active resettable controllers; it requires a small number of nodes to be monitored and avoids complicated reconstruction of states.
Surface effects of network materials based on strain gradient homogenized media
Authors: Rahali Y , Eremeyev VA , Ganghoffer JF
Published: October 2019

The asymptotic homogenization of periodic network materials modeled as beam networks is pursued in this contribution, accounting for surface effects arising from the presence of a thin coating on the surface of the structural beam elements of the network. Cauchy and second gradient effective continua are considered and enhanced by the consideration of surface effects. The asymptotic homogenization technique is here extended to account for the additional surface properties, which emerge in the asymptotic expansion of the effective stress and hyperstress tensors versus the small scale parameters and the additional small parameters related to surface effects. Based on the elaboration of small dimensionless parameters of geometrical or mechanical nature reflecting the different length scales, we construct different models in which the importance of surface effects is dictated by specific choice of the scaling relations between the introduced small parameters. The effective moduli reflect the introduced surface properties. We show in particular that surface effects may become dominant for specific choices of the scaling laws of the introduced small parameters. Examples of networks are given for each class of the considered effective constitutive models to illustrate the proposed general framework.
Implications of indoor air temperature variation on the health and performance of Brazilian students
Authors: Silva Luiz Bueno da , de Souza Erivaldo Lopes , de Oliveira Paulo Antero Alves , Andrade Bruno José Martins
Published: October 2019

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between cognitive performance, health and environmental comfort as a function of indoor air temperature (Ta) variation. A total of 360 undergraduate students were subjected to the variation of the Ta at 20, 24 and 30 °C; their thermal responses were evaluated over three consecutive days. Performance variables measured in the study were cognitive performance, blood pressure, heart rate (HR) and comfort. The environmental variables measured were Ta, globe temperature (Tg), illumination, noise, airflow velocity and air quality. The variation in HR was influenced by the variables, relative air humidity and mean radiant temperature (Trm) during the three days of observation, where HR was higher than 100 bpm when Tg was greater than Ta. Trm increased proportionally to the increase in Tg, thus characterising heat exchange by radiation. The number of correct answers and test response time were also positively influenced by Trm when Ta was 20 °C. Teaching environments (TEs) with increased heat load due to the individual body heat of students, increased outdoor Ta and urban morphology associated with the building of the TEs result in increasing in Trm due to the Tg being higher than the air temperature, with possible impacts on health and performance variables.
A study of suspension plasma-sprayed insulated pistons evaluated in a heavy-duty diesel engine
Authors: Thibblin Anders , Olofsson Ulf
Published: October 2019

Thermal barrier coatings can be used to reduce the heat losses in heavy-duty diesel engines. A relatively new coating method for thermal barrier coatings is suspension plasma-spraying. Single-cylinder engine tests have been run to evaluate how heat losses to piston, cylinder head and exhausts as well as the specific fuel consumption are influenced by coating pistons with two different suspension plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coatings and one atmospheric plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coating, and comparing the results to those from an uncoated steel piston. The two suspension plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coatings showed reduced heat losses through the piston and less heat redirected to the cylinder head compared to conventional atmospheric plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coating, while one suspension plasma-sprayed coating with yttria-stabilized zirconia as top coat material showed increased exhaust temperature. However, the indicated specific fuel consumption was higher for all tested thermal barrier coatings than for an uncoated engine. The best performing thermal barrier coating with respect to indicated specific fuel consumption was a suspension plasma-sprayed coating with gadolinium zirconate as top coat material.
Belonging and boundaries in Little Guyana: Conflict, culture, and identity in Richmond Hill, New York
Authors: Bacchus Nazreen S
Published: October 2019

Research on the assimilation of contemporary second-generation Americans has shown that ethnic enclaves are saturated with several cultural, religious, and transnational amenities that facilitate the process of immigrant integration in the United States. Missing from this research is a discussion of how middle-class, second-generation Americans use urban enclaves as a means of remaining attached to their ethnic identities. One such group with members who has achieved middle-class status and remained culturally attached to their enclave is Indo-Guyanese Americans of Indian Caribbean descent. This ethnographic study examines the ways in which second-generation Indo-Guyanese Americans use familial, cultural, and religious interactions in Little Guyana to create a sense of belonging and community. As the descendants of re-migrants, their multiethnic identities are complicating their assimilation in American society. Their experiences with racialization and social exclusion from white, South Asian American, and non-co-ethnic circles have pushed them toward developing their multiethnic identity. I use the term ethnic restoration to discuss how second-generation Indo-Guyanese Americans are using transnational ethnic consumption, religious institutions, and co-ethnic interactions to validate their ethnic identities and resist racialization. Their engagement in ethno-religious institutions in Richmond Hill is central to this analysis, as they embrace their Indian Caribbean identities more intensely after experiencing racialization. The findings of this research point to the need to understand why middle-class second-generation Americans are ethnically attached to urban enclaves.
Connecting Public Health Students to Rural and Underserved Areas: Promoting Health Equity Through Field Placement Experiences
Authors: Fifolt Matthew , McCormick Lisa C. , Carvalho Michelle , Lloyd Laura , Alperin Melissa
Published: October 2019

There is an increasing demand for public health workers due to the unmet needs of the poor and underserved populations. However, through field placement experiences, students can actively engage in their own learning while also addressing critical needs of rural and medically underserved populations. In this mixed-methods evaluation, we explored experiences of emerging public health practitioners who participated in the Region IV Public Health Training Center’s Pathways to Practice Scholars program between 2014 and 2018. Based on student confidence level ratings and descriptions of field placement experiences, scholars participated in meaningful and enriching field placement experiences in rural areas or on behalf of medically underserved populations. Across all eight Council on Linkages Core Competency Domains, students recorded increased pre- to post-confidence scores, and for many, the field placement experience appeared to affirm their interest in addressing the needs of these communities in the future.
Synergistic effect of nano-ZrO2/graphene oxide hybrid system on the high-velocity impact behavior and interlaminar shear strength of basalt fiber/epoxy composite
Authors: Toorchi Davood , Khosravi Hamed , Tohidlou Esmaeil
Published: October 2019

The aim of this work was to study the influence of nano-zirconium oxide, graphene oxide, and nano-zirconium oxide + graphene oxide hybrid system on the high-velocity impact behavior and interlaminar shear strength of basalt fiber/epoxy composite. Initially, the nano-zirconium oxide and graphene oxide were functionalized by using a silane-coupling agent namely 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane. In order to confirm the surface functionalization of nano-zirconium oxide and graphene oxide, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were carried out on both untreated and silanized fillers. Then, 15 types of specimens containing various amounts of nano-zirconium oxide (1, 2, and 3 wt.%), graphene oxide (0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 wt.%), or nano-zirconium oxide + graphene oxide hybrid in the matrix were prepared. The comparative results of the experiments showed that the specimen with 2 wt.% nano-zirconium oxide + 0.1 wt.% graphene oxide had the highest values of energy absorption, impact limit velocity, and interlaminar shear strength. The energy absorption and limit velocity of this specimen enhanced by 67 and 30%, respectively, as compared to the neat basalt fiber/epoxy composite, while its interlaminar shear strength increased by 77%. The fracture surfaces of the specimens demonstrated that the introduction of nanofillers in the matrix improved the adhesion between the basalt fibers and polymeric matrix. The findings of this work clearly showed that the simultaneous addition of graphene oxide and nano-zirconium oxide is a promising method for improving the high-velocity impact properties and interlaminar shear strength of fibrous composites.
Diffracting the “Quantum” and the “Social”: Meeting the Universe Halfway in Social Science
Authors: Dunk Richard A.
Published: October 2019

The “quantum” label has become a desirable brand in social studies, with notable prominence being given to Karen Barad’s agential realism, as presented in her book Meeting the Universe Halfway. This article provides an overview of the key ideas in the book, exemplifying the ways these ideas may help us “do inquiry” in the social sciences. By drawing from Barad’s writing and making comparisons with other social thinking with quantum elements, we can demonstrate the potential for productive and insightful avenues of investigation across interdisciplinary areas, particularly through a consideration of diffractive approaches to inquiry.
The functional importance of lamins, actin, myosin, spectrin and the LINC complex in DNA repair
Authors: Lambert Muriel W
Published: October 2019

Three major proteins in the nucleoskeleton, lamins, actin, and spectrin, play essential roles in maintenance of nuclear architecture and the integrity of the nuclear envelope, in mechanotransduction and mechanical coupling between the nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton, and in nuclear functions such as regulation of gene expression, transcription and DNA replication. Less well known, but critically important, are the role these proteins play in DNA repair. The A-type and B-type lamins, nuclear actin and myosin, spectrin and the LINC (linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton) complex each function in repair of DNA damage utilizing various repair pathways. The lamins play a role in repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) by nonhomologous end joining (NHEJ) or homologous recombination (HR). Actin is involved in repair of DNA DSBs and interacts with myosin in facilitating relocalization of these DSBs in heterochromatin for HR repair. Nonerythroid alpha spectrin (αSpII) plays a critical role in repair of DNA interstrand cross-links (ICLs) where it acts as a scaffold in recruitment of repair proteins to sites of damage and is important in the initial damage recognition and incision steps of the repair process. The LINC complex contributes to the repair of DNA DSBs and ICLs. This review will address the important functions of these proteins in the DNA repair process, their mechanism of action, and the profound impact a defect or deficiency in these proteins has on cellular function. The critical roles of these proteins in DNA repair will be further emphasized by discussing the human disorders and the pathophysiological changes that result from or are related to deficiencies in these proteins. The demonstrated function for each of these proteins in the DNA repair process clearly indicates that there is another level of complexity that must be considered when mechanistically examining factors crucial for DNA repair.

Impact statement

Proteins in the nucleoskeleton, lamins, actin, myosin, and spectrin, have been shown to play critical roles in DNA repair. Deficiencies in these proteins are associated with a number of disorders. This review highlights the role these proteins and their association with the LINC complex play in DNA repair processes, their mechanism of action and the impacts deficiencies in these proteins have on DNA repair and on disorders associated with a deficiency in these proteins. It will clarify how these proteins, which interact with “classic DNA repair proteins” (e.g., RAD51, XPF), represent another level of complexity in the DNA repair process, which must be taken into consideration when carrying out mechanistic studies on proteins involved in DNA repair and in developing models for DNA repair pathways. This knowledge is essential for determining how deficiencies in these proteins relate to disorders resulting from loss of functional activity of these proteins.
Do Common Carotid Artery Velocities Consistently Decrease With Proximity to the Bifurcation?
Authors: Alessi-Chinetti Jean M. , Perez Julio , Iafrati Mark D. , Polak Joseph F.
Published: October 2019

Distal (near bifurcation) common carotid artery (CCA) peak systolic velocity (PSV) values are lower than near the origin (proximal). We investigate whether this applies to patients with internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis ≥ 50% (PSV ≥ 125 cm/s). We studied 328 patients. We excluded carotid arteries with CCA stenosis and carotid endarterectomy. We evaluated degree of stenosis as absent, mild (1%-15%), moderate (16%-49%), and significant (≥50%; PSV ≥ 125 cm/s). We used paired t tests to compare the proximal with distal PSV values as a function of stenosis severity and analysis of variance for between stenosis differences. We studied 640 out of 656 bifurcations. Mean age was 68.9 (SD = 11.8) years, and 70% (228) men. Mean distal CCA PSV was 80.3 cm/s (SD = 23.1 cm/s) and proximal, 93.7 cm/s (SD = 26.6 cm/s). The difference between proximal and distal CCA PSV for ICA lesions < 50% (n = 553; 14.8 ± 22.6 cm/s) was higher ( P = .004) than with an ICA stenosis ≥ 50% (n = 87; 4.6 ± 24.1 cm/s). While distal CCA PSV decreases in patients with absent/mild/moderate plaque, PSV velocities are more consistent along the length of the CCA with higher degrees of ICA stenosis. This might in part explain the reliability of the ICA/CCA velocity ratio for grading stenosis severity ≥50%.
Remote ischemic conditioning for acute moderate ischemic stroke (RICAMIS): Rationale and design
Authors: Li Xiao-Qiu , Tao Lin , Zhou Zhong-He , Cui Yu , Chen Hui-Sheng ,   on behalf of the RICAMIS Protocol Steering Group
Published: October 2019

Rationale

A large number of basic and clinical studies have proved that remote ischemic conditioning has neuroprotective effect. For example, remote ischemic conditioning showed a neuroprotective role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury model. Recent clinical studies suggested that remote ischemic conditioning may improve neurological function and reduce the risk of recurrence in ischemic stroke patients. However, there is a lack of convincing evidence for the neuroprotective effect of remote ischemic conditioning on ischemic stroke, which deserves further study.

Aim

To explore the efficacy and safety of remote ischemic conditioning for acute moderate ischemic stroke.

Sample size estimates

A maximum of 1800 subjects are required to test the superiority hypothesis with 80% power according to a one-sided 0.025 level of significance, stratified by gender, age, time from onset to treatment, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (6–10 vs. 11–16), degree of responsible vessel stenosis, location of stenosis, and stroke etiology.

Methods and design

Remote Ischemic Conditioning for Acute Moderate Ischemic Stroke is a prospective, random, open label, blinded endpoint and multi-center study. The subjects are divided into experimental group and control group randomly. The experimental group was treated with remote ischemic conditioning twice daily with 200 mmHg pressure for 10–14 days besides guideline-based therapy. The control group was treated according to the guidelines.

Study outcome

The primary efficacy endpoint is favorable functional outcome, defined as modified Rankin Scale 0–1 at 90 days post-randomization.
Emotions after stroke: A narrative update
Authors: Ferro José M , Santos Ana C
Published: October 2019

Aim

In this narrative review we aimed to describe how stroke affects emotions and update the readers on the emotional disturbances that occur after stroke.

Methods

We searched Medline from 1.1.2013 to 1.7.2019, personal files and references of selected publications. All retrieved systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials were included. Other references were selected by relevance.

Summary of review

The emotional response includes a reactive behavior with arousal, somatic, motivational and motor components, and a distinctive cognitive and subjective affective experience. Emotional category responses and experiences after stroke can show dissociations between the behavioral response and the cognitive and affective experiences. Emotional disturbances that often occur after stroke include fear, anger, emotional indifference, lack of understanding of other emotions, and lack of control of emotional expression. Emotional disturbances limit social reintegration of the persons with stroke and are a source of caregiver burnout. The evidence to support the management of the majority of emotional disorders in stroke survivors is currently weak and of low or very low methodologic quality. An exception are the disorders of emotional expression control where antidepressants can have a strong beneficial effect, by reducing the number and duration of the uncontrollable episodes of crying or laughing.

Conclusion

Our current knowledge of the emotional disorders that occurs in acute stroke patients and in stroke survivors is heterogeneous and limited. Joint efforts of different research approaches, methodologies and disciplines will improve our current understanding on emotional disorder after stroke and indicate rational pathways to manage them.
The RCGP Curriculum 2019
Authors: Walter Steve
Published: October 2019

We are very excited to publish the new RCGP curriculum, which incorporates the recommendations of the General Medical Council (GMC) to align with the Generic Professional Capabilities framework (Box 1). It articulates the special qualities and capabilities of being a generalist in an increasingly complex and specialised health care system. It is also a representation of the challenges and rewards of employing the full scope of these capabilities as part of a lifelong career as a GP.