bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the carer support needs assessment tool cover the established support needs of carers of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease? A systematic literature search and narrative review
Authors: Micklewright Kerry , Farquhar Morag
Published: July 2020

Background:

Informal carers play a key supportive role for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, caring can have a considerable impact on health and wellbeing. Carers may have unidentified support needs that could be a target for intervention. Literature on the support needs of informal carers has not been fully synthesised, and our knowledge of the comprehensiveness of the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool for these individuals is limited.

Aim:

To explore whether the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool covers the support needs of carers of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease identified in published literature.

Design:

English language studies were identified against predetermined inclusion/exclusion criteria through database searching. Further studies were identified through searching reference lists and citations of included papers. Papers were critically appraised and data extracted and synthesised by two reviewers. Identified needs were mapped to Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool questions.

Data sources:

MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, CDSR, ASSIA, PsycINFO and Scopus databases (Jan 1997–Dec 2017).

Results:

Twenty-four studies were included. Results suggest that carers have support needs in a range of domains including physical, social, psychological and spiritual. Many of these needs are unmet. Particular areas of concern relate to prolonged social isolation, accessing services, emotional support and information needs. Findings also suggest amendment of the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool may be required relating to difficulties within relationship management.

Conclusion:

Evidence suggests that carers of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease would benefit from identification and response to their support needs by healthcare professionals but to enable this, the Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool requires an additional question. Future planned work will explore this with carers of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Differential contribution of excitatory and inhibitory neurons in shaping neurovascular coupling in different epileptic neural states
Authors: Lim Hyun-Kyoung , You Nayeon , Bae Sungjun , Kang Bok-Man , Shon Young-Min , Kim Seong-Gi , Suh Minah
Published: July 2020

Understanding the neurovascular coupling (NVC) underlying hemodynamic changes in epilepsy is crucial to properly interpreting functional brain imaging signals associated with epileptic events. However, how excitatory and inhibitory neurons affect vascular responses in different epileptic states remains unknown. We conducted real-time in vivo measurements of cerebral blood flow (CBF), vessel diameter, and excitatory and inhibitory neuronal calcium signals during recurrent focal seizures. During preictal states, decreases in CBF and arteriole diameter were closely related to decreased γ-band local field potential (LFP) power, which was linked to relatively elevated excitatory and reduced inhibitory neuronal activity levels. Notably, this preictal condition was followed by a strengthened ictal event. In particular, the preictal inhibitory activity level was positively correlated with coherent oscillating activity specific to inhibitory neurons. In contrast, ictal states were characterized by elevated synchrony in excitatory neurons. Given these findings, we suggest that excitatory and inhibitory neurons differentially contribute to shaping the ictal and preictal neural states, respectively. Moreover, the preictal vascular activity, alongside with the γ-band, may reflect the relative levels of excitatory and inhibitory neuronal activity, and upcoming ictal activity. Our findings provide useful insights into how perfusion signals of different epileptic states are related in terms of NVC.
Chemical structure analysis and fast micro-pyrolysis study of hydrochar derived from hydrothermal treatment of municipal solid waste
Authors: Lin Yousheng , Ge Ya , He Qing , Chen Baiman , Xiao Hanmin
Published: July 2020

Hydrothermal treatment (HTT) experiments were conducted at 210○C and 230○C with 30, 60 and 90 min residence times. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and 13C solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) were employed to elucidate the effect of HTT on the chemical structure of municipal solid waste. FT-IR results clearly demonstrate that decarboxylation and aromatization reactions occurred during HTT. Fewer types of carbon skeleton structures were observed in the 13C solid-state NMR of hydrochars. The aliphaticity yield increased from 74.84% to 91.57% with increasing experiment parameters. In addition, the aromatization reaction was more dramatic in the early stage time, while carbonyl compounds decomposed during the HTT process. Pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis showed that HTT had positive effects on the simplification of the pyrolytic gas component. In addition, all hydrochars were significantly inhibited to the formation of aromatic compounds with a minor relative peak area of 19.89%. Moreover, hydrochars obtained at a relatively low temperature could achieve a higher yield of hydrocarbons, and hydrocarbons could be partly purified after the HTT process. Overall, the available values of fast pyrolysis products were upgraded by the HTT process.
A novel evaluation on rolling resistance characteristics of truck tire through the simplified experimental modal analysis
Authors: Zhu Chengwei , Yan Jingjing , Zhuang Ye , Gao Xueliang , Chen Qiang , Wei Jiannan , Ding Haitao
Published: July 2020

A novel evaluation method for the rolling resistance characteristics of truck tire is proposed, in which a simplified modal experiment is suggested through a single-point vibration sampling from the tire surface with a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) piezoelectric film. Three truck tires are utilized in the modal experiments, and the half-power bandwidth method is employed to identify the damping characteristics of the three tires. The damping characteristics of the tires are ranked by their values. These values are compared with their corresponding rolling resistance coefficients to manifest their correlative relationship. The experimental results, which are obtained from the modal experiment and the rolling resistance test, indicate that the modal parameters and the half-power bandwidth of the tire are exactly correlated to the rolling resistance coefficients. Furthermore, the damping ratios of the tires are correlated well with the rolling resistance coefficients among the tires. Overall, the proposed evaluation method could effectively evaluate the rolling resistance characteristics of the tire, which enable it to be a simple and economical alternative over the conventional tire rolling resistance experiments.
Inner Asian agro-pastoralism as optimal adaptation strategy of Wupu inhabitants (3000–2400 cal BP) in Xinjiang, China
Authors: Wang Lijing , Wang Yongqiang , Li Wenying , Spate Michael , Reheman Kuerban , Sun Qingli , Wang Binghua , Xu Hai , Zhang Zhiyong , Zhang Guilin , Jiang Hongen
Published: July 2020

Exploring ancient socio-economic adaptation is a basic issue of human-environment interaction. Xinjiang in northwest China is a region of high geographic diversity. Past human adaptations to this arid marginal area is a current focus of research interest but still lacks in-depth study. This article presents data from the Wupu Cemetery, located in the extremely arid Hami Basin in the eastern Tianshan Mountains. Archaeobotanical analysis is used to reconstruct the local environment niche and the subsistence economy of inhabitants. Radiocarbon dating results indicate the cemetery was occupied between 3000 and 2400 cal BP, during the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. In total 16 species of the plant remains are identified, including four cereal crops, foxtail millet ( Setaria italica), broomcorn millet ( Panicum miliaceum), naked barley ( Hordeum vulgare var. coeleste), wheat ( Triticum aestivum) and 12 wild types. The riparian plant Populus euphratica and aquatic plant Typha sp. indicate inhabitants lived in an oasis near the cemetery. Environmental interpretation of this data compares well with other seven sites in arid southern Xinjiang. In addition to faunal remains from the site, it is assumed that a flexible system of multi-crop farming and herding was the subsistence pattern around Wupu. This system was widespread across Inner Asia and appears to have played a central role in adapting to different marginal environments during the Bronze Age and Iron Age.
Reusable piezoelectric transducer for structural health monitoring using both Lamb wave and electromechanical impedance modes
Authors: Liu Qijian , Chai Yuan , Qing Xinlin
Published: July 2020

A variety of structural health monitoring techniques have been developed to support the efficient online monitoring of structural integrity. Moreover, Lamb wave and electromechanical impedance methods are increasingly used for structural health monitoring applications due to their high sensitivity and effectiveness in detecting damage. However, these techniques require transducers to be permanently attached to structures because of the usage of baselines recorded under the condition without damage. In this study, a reusable piezoelectric lead zirconate titanate transducer for monitoring corrosion damage on the aluminum plate is introduced, which can be removed from the test specimen and reused with the repeatability of signals. The reusable piezoelectric lead zirconate titanate transducer is bonded on the aluminum plate using the ethylene-acrylic acid copolymer with an aluminum enclosure. A series of experiments are conducted on an aluminum plate, including the investigation for repeatability of signals and the capability of corrosion detection of the designed piezoelectric lead zirconate titanate transducer through the Lamb wave and electromechanical impedance methods. The simulated corrosion defect with the area of 15 × 15 mm2 is detected during experiments. The experimental results confirm that the reusable piezoelectric lead zirconate titanate transducer can effectively evaluate the corrosion damage to plate structure and can be reused many times.
The Relationship Between Hormone Replacement Therapy and Risk of Kidney Cancer in Women: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaojun , Du Yuelin , Tan Xiaojun , Wang Hui , Li Yunxiang , Zhang Zongping , Wang Anguo
Published: July 2020

Results from the epidemiologic studies on the relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the risk of kidney cancer in women were not completely consistent. This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the relationship between HRT and risk of kidney cancer in women. We performed a meta-analysis of observational studies to assess this association. The PubMed and Embase databases were searched from their inception to January 29, 2020, to identify relevant studies that fit the pre-stated inclusion criteria; reference lists from the retrieved articles were also been reviewed. Relative risks (RRs) with corresponding 95% CIs were extracted and combined using random effects models. Furthermore, dose–response, sensitivity analyses, publication bias, and subgroup analysis by study design, regional location, and exposure assessment method were conducted. Thirteen articles involving 6 cohort studies and 8 case–control studies were included in our meta-analysis. Overall, 4194 women were diagnosed with kidney cancer among 648 107 participants. The pooled RR for kidney cancer was 1.08 (95% CI: 0.96-1.22) in those who were administered HRT compared to those who had not. Subgroup analysis indicated the overall result was not influenced by study type, regional location, or adjusted variables. Dose–response analysis showed a nonlinear relationship between HRT and kidney cancer ( P = .0021) and the risk of kidney cancer decreased by 15% to 28% with 12 to 18 years of HRT use. No evidence of publication bias was found ( P for Egger =.111). Our meta-analysis showed that HRT use is inversely associated with kidney cancer risk in a dose–dependent fashion.
An Ex Vivo Study to Evaluate the Effect of Tegaserod on Platelet Activation and Aggregation
Authors: Gurbel Paul A. , Bliden Kevin , Barnett Scott D. , Witt Casey , Zou Heng , Tantry Udaya
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

Tegaserod, an orally active, potent 5-hydroxytryptamine-4 serotonin receptor agonist, was previously indicated for irritable bowel syndrome but was voluntarily withdrawn due to potential cardiovascular side effects. In vitro studies suggested that tegaserod increased platelet aggregation, but these results were not reproduced or were inconclusive. We sought to assess ex vivo effects of tegaserod on platelet aggregation.

Methods:

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study, we randomized a majority of healthy patients with no history of cardiovascular risk factors (n = 21) to receive tegaserod or matching placebo for 7 + 2 days followed by a 7- to 10-day washout period, and then patients were crossed over to the other study drug for the next 7 + 2 days. Unstimulated and agonist-stimulated platelet aggregation; P-selectin expression; serum thromboxane (Tx)B2 and urinary 11-dehydro (11-dh) TxB2; and tegaserod and M29.0 concentrations were serially assessed.

Results:

There was no significant difference in percentage change in unstimulated or adenosine diphosphate (ADP)- and ADP + serotonin-, collagen- and thrombin receptor activating peptide–induced maximum platelet aggregation and in platelet P-selectin expression in the presence of tegaserod at any time point when compared to placebo. Similarly, there was no significant difference in percentage change in serum TxB2 or urinary 11-dhTxB2 levels between placebo and tegaserod. No new or unexpected findings were observed in evaluations of safety or pharmacokinetic parameters.

Conclusion:

This comprehensive pharmacodynamic study, by employing established markers used in prior investigations, which have been considered by the Food and Drug Administration to indicate drug-related platelet effects, does not demonstrate any influence of tegaserod treatment on platelet function.
A novel approach of active control of structures based on the critically damped condition
Authors: Rashidi Hadi , Khanlari Karen , Zarfam Panam , Ghafory-Ashtiany Mohsen
Published: July 2020

In this research, the active control of structures based on the critically damped condition was proposed for reducing displacements and drifts of structures under seismic loading. In this approach, the second-order dynamic equation is converted into a first-order dynamic equation and a first-order derivative operator with the same constants, which satisfy critically damped conditions of the system. Based on this concept and using the defined performance index, the feedback gain matrix of the structural velocity is obtained. In the method of active control of structures based on the critically damped condition, the control force, which is the linear definition of the feedback gain matrix and the structural velocity, is exerted on the structure in each time step. Four types of numerical examples are examined to the comparison verification of active control of structures based on the critically damped condition with the classical linear optimal control, standard model predictive control, and other methods proposed in several references. Programming and calculations are done by Mathcad prime mathematical software.
Two Studies Investigating Associations Between Sexual Assault Victimization History and Bystander Appraisals of Risk
Authors: Bridges Ana J. , Dueweke Aubrey R. , Marcantonio Tiffany L. , Ham Lindsay S. , Wiersma-Mosley Jacquelyn D. , Jozkowski Kristen N.
Published: July 2020

Across two studies, we examined sexual assault history and bystander appraisals of risk and the moderating roles of danger cue salience (Study 1) and alcohol intoxication (Study 2) in women. Participants (Study 1 = 148, Study 2 = 64) read vignettes ending with cues of nonconsensual sexual activity and an opportunity to intervene. Participants also completed self-report measures of vignette appraisals and history of sexual assault victimization. Across both studies, sexual assault victimization was unassociated with bystander risk appraisals. Alcohol intoxication and subtlety of nonconsent cues did not interact with sexual assault victimization history to influence appraisals of dangerousness.
Sanitary Crisis, Civilizational Crisis
Authors: Maffesoli Michel
Published: July 2020

Sanitary Crisis, Civilizational Crisis is the translation of Michel Maffesoli’s Crise sanitaire, crise civilisationnelle. This paper can be taken as his pronouncement on the civilizational crisis that the COVID-19 pandemic acutely reveals. Maffesoli’s text urges one to see beyond secondary causes or dramatic representations of the pandemic as a sanitary crisis, and to consider the primary, and tragic, causes of this event, understood as a crisis that marks the exhaustion of the logic of modernity. Following from a longstanding critique of the decadence of modernity and, by extension, of an “official society” ordered and controlled by an out-of-touch and morbid elite, Maffesoli makes unequivocally clear that this global pandemic is a direct consequence of a globalized progressivist, economicist, and utilitarian civilizational paradigm. The paper takes up the task of reflecting on how relationality, being-together, and being-with, can be thought in our current moment of civilizational crisis.
Taking Care of Us from the Neighborhoods in Times of Quarantine. Citizen Solidarity Practices in Vallcarca, Barcelona (Spain)
Authors: Cano-Hila Ana Belén , Argemí-Baldich Rafel
Published: July 2020

In the last weeks and months, COVID-19 has challenged and changed societies and social life around the world. In the case of Spain, the health crisis generated by the COVID-19 pandemic led to the declaration of a state of alert by the central government, which involved partial home confinement. Given this exceptional situation, neighborhood activation through mutual support networks has been very important in the city of Barcelona. This article describes and analyses, based on the method of autobiographical imagination, the example of a citizen solidarity practice Xarxa de Suport Mutu Vallcarca [Vallcarca mutual support network] in the Vallcarca neighborhood. Its main objective is to carry out actions of social support to palliate the effects of the confinement, fundamentally in the areas of care and support, as well as childhood and education. From 2008, the creativity of the neighborhoods and citizens has been a relevant motor and multiplier for social protection and change.
COVID-19 as Atmospheric Dis-ease: Attuning into Ordinary Effects of Collective Quarantine and Isolation
Authors: Vannini Phillip
Published: July 2020

This 40-day diary tracks the ordinary effects of self-isolation and quarantine on a small island off the British Columbia coast. Drawing on reflections on the emotional and embodied dimensions of self-isolation, and on observations of the effects of physical distancing in public spaces, the writing paints a picture of COVID-19 as atmospheric dis-ease. Whereas disease is sickness and disorder, dis-ease is a social malaise infecting the body public via atmospheric contagion. Atmospheric disease, it is argued, is a shared mode of attention and a mix of effects permeating a place with the diffused rhythms, shared sensations, contagious moods, and common orientations typical of self-isolation.
Alone Together: Finding Solidarity in a Time of Social Distance
Authors: Morrow JA
Published: July 2020

This is an article about quarantine and the paradox of propinquity. There is a common assumption in sociology that people who interact and are in close physical contact develop social relationships. It is also believed that proximity and the socius of being with others allows for the coordination of activities and construction of society. During the COVID-19 lockdown, social distance measures made physical interactions near impossible. And the onset of these changes to everyday behaviors prove that society is not limited to propinquity. In order to better understand alternative forms of sociability, this article will introduce two concepts: banality and neighborship. The analysis of these ideas will confirm that interactions are preceded by social feelings, such as conviviality and togetherness. There will also be two short case studies of everyday life that show how, in the time of COVID-19, social feelings existed without physical contact.
Quarantine: Alienated Space by Expert Knowledge
Authors: Viderman Tihomir
Published: July 2020

Based on an ethnographic account of a transitory space of an aircraft under lockdown, this article reflects on quarantine as the product of expert technocratic knowledge, which blurs fine-grained social moments and relationships to create a homogenous functional space. It argues that space under lockdown is a form of a functional alienated space produced and conditioned by non-transparent management mechanisms that are legitimized by seemingly routinized protocols and abstract representations. While this argument is not optimistic as regards capacity building for political or social change, it identifies current spatial configurations as a unique opportunity for experiencing how representations of space prevail over (struggles in) everyday life.
The generation game: Governing through bio-politics
Authors: Reed Cara , Thomas Robyn
Published: July 2020

An increasingly popular management tool is to stratify a workforce along generational lines, to distinguish its qualities and differentiate orientations to work. From this, a range of organisational practices, ranging from leadership styles to reward systems are tailored to fit specific generational characteristics. We term this practice ‘management-by-generation’ and examine how it has the potential to govern as a bio-political technology. The article develops nascent work within organisation studies on governmentality and bio-politics to demonstrate the powerful potential of management-by-generation to govern in contemporary organisations. In line with other Foucauldian studies on ageing, it also contributes to the research on generations in demonstrating how a bio-political construction of generation allows management-by-generation to govern effectively, while more sociologically informed conceptualisations of generation could be a source of contestation to this emerging technology.
Drawing on students’ diverse language resources to facilitate learning in a Japanese–English bilingual program in Australia
Authors: Turner Marianne
Published: July 2020

Recently, the incorporation of students’ home languages into monolingual classrooms has been reinvigorated by a scholarly focus on extended linguistic repertoire. In bilingual programs, ideas of language separation have traditionally influenced teaching and learning as a way to protect the minority language, but there is a growing call to engage with the complexity of students’ language practices. In this article, it is suggested that the English-medium (dominant language) classroom can be an effective site for exploring how to leverage and affirm students’ home language practices in bilingual education, and also to support the minority language in the program. Data are drawn from a design-based study that investigated the transition of a Japanese–English primary bilingual program from 30% of instruction in Japanese to a 50:50 program. As part of the study, a Foundation teacher and a Year 5/6 teacher worked towards English curriculum objectives by incorporating languages their students spoke at home, including Japanese, into the English-medium classes. Findings revealed that some Foundation students did not immediately draw on home language practices, instead choosing to use Japanese, whereas the Year 5/6 students demonstrated ambivalence towards Japanese but not towards other language practices.
The effect of school exposure and personal contact on attitudes towards bullying and autism in schools: A cohort study with a control group
Authors: Cook Anna , Ogden Jane , Winstone Naomi
Published: July 2020

Research shows that the attitudes of children and adolescents towards bullying are influenced by the school environment and their peer groups. Given the increased vulnerability to bullying for autistic children, this study explored whether neurotypical children’s attitudes towards bullying and autism varied according to school exposure and personal contact with autistic people. Survey data were collected at the beginning and end of the school year from 775 children aged 11–12 years, from six schools: three with specialist centres for autism and three without. Participants read vignettes depicting bullying scenarios then completed measures of their attitudes in relation to the vignette and towards autism. Children from centre schools showed a greater increase in prosocial emotions towards bullying. For children from non-centre schools, an interaction showed a decrease in prosocial emotions except in response to social exclusion of an autistic child. Increases in personal contact showed a greater increase in positive attitudes towards autistic people. Explanations draw on theories of inter-group contact and social-moral reasoning. Results highlight the need for contact both at a personal level and through attending a school with an inclusive autism provision to increase understanding, improve attitudes towards autism and reduce tolerance for bullying.

Lay abstract

Autistic children are more likely than non-autistic children to be bullied at school. This study therefore explored whether the kind of school setting and the level of personal contact with autistic people can affect children’s attitudes towards bullying and autism. Surveys were completed at the beginning and end of the school year by 775 children aged 11–12 years, from six schools: three with specialist centres for autistic children and three without. Participants read stories describing bullying situations, then provided their views in relation to the story and in relation to autism. Children in schools with centres increased their feelings of anger, pity, sadness and shame in response to the bullying situations. In contrast, children in schools with no centre showed less sociable responses to bullying, except in response to a story describing an autistic child, being excluded by classmates. Furthermore, children who increased the time they spent with autistic individuals over the course of the year showed a greater rise in positive attitudes towards autistic people. This highlights the need for both personal contact and an inclusive school environment, to improve attitudes towards autism and reduce tolerance for bullying.
Simulated authenticity: Storytelling and mythic space on the hyper-frontier in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West and Westworld
Authors: Lovell Jane , Hitchmough Sam
Published: July 2020

This article explores how the mythic, nineteenth-century American frontier is authenticated by postmodern forms of storytelling. The study examines accounts of William Cody’s extensive 1902–1903 Buffalo Bill’ s Wild West tours in the United Kingdom and the futuristic television series, HBO’s Westworld (2016–), which is set in an android-hosted theme park. Comparing the semiotics of the two examples indicates how over a century apart, the authentication of the myth involves repeating motifs of setting, action and character central to tourist fantasies. The research illustrates how some elements of the myth seem to remain fixed but are negotiable. It is suggested that both examples are versions of a ‘hyper-frontier’, a nostalgic yet progressive, intertextual retelling of the American West and its archetypal characters, characterised by advanced technology. The implications for tourism are that simulating the authenticity of the frontier myth creates doubts in its veracity paradoxically due to its lifelikeness.
Aqueous solution of ammonia as marine fuel
Authors: Schönborn Alessandro
Published: July 2020

The ignition of ammonia in aqueous solution was simulated in a two-stroke compression ignition engine model. Zero-dimensional chemical kinetic calculations were used to estimate the ignition timing of fuel air mixtures in homogeneous charge compression ignition and diesel combustion modes. The fuel consisted of a 25% m/m aqueous solution of ammonia and pure ammonia for comparison. Ignition was studied by varying the geometric compression ratio of the engine. To ignite ammonia in aqueous solution a minimum compression ratio of 25 was necessary under homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion conditions, whereas under diesel combustion conditions a minimum compression ratio of 27 was required. Ammonia containing ammonium nitrite or hydrogen were two potential ammonia derivatives that were shown to enhance aqueous ammonia ignition in the simulations, and allowed ignition to take place at a compression ratio of 24 for diesel combustion. When comparing the ignition of aqueous ammonia solution to pure ammonia, the minimum compression ratio necessary to ignite pure ammonia was approximately 24.8 and that for aqueous ammonia 26.7 in diesel combustion. This led to the conclusion that aqueous ammonia is not prohibitively more difficult to ignite than pure ammonia. Ammonia containing ammonium nitrite or hydrogen were found to be potential pilot fuels.
Utilization of risk priority number to systems-theoretic process analysis: A practical solution to manage a large number of unsafe control actions and loss scenarios
Authors: Kim Hyungju , Lundteigen Mary Ann , Hafver Andreas , Pedersen Frank Børre
Published: July 2020

System-theoretic process analysis is a hazard identification method whose main assumption is that accidents can be caused by unsafe interactions of system components, as well as component failures. System-theoretic process analysis can cover a wider range of hazards compared with traditional hazard analysis methods, such as software flaws, human errors, component failures, and complex interactions of system components. Identifying more hazards is of course an important advantage of system-theoretic process analysis, but generating too many hazards may pose a practical challenge to stakeholders to utilize the results of system-theoretic process analysis. Some hazards or scenarios may be more critical with higher consequence, while others can be less critical with lower consequence. We therefore need to evaluate the analysis results to focus on more critical and important problems first, when we do not have enough time and resources. The main objective of this study has been to suggest an additional procedure to system-theoretic process analysis to ensure a systematic evaluation, screening, and prioritization of analysis results. The risk priority number approach was adopted to evaluate the criticality of the results of analyses. After investigating the strengths and limitations of traditional risk priority number approaches, three new risk priority number criteria along with four additional procedure steps were added to the system-theoretic process analysis for evaluation, screening, and prioritization of system-theoretic process analysis results. The proposed criteria and procedure have been demonstrated with a case study of a subsea gas compression system, and for this particular analysis, it was suggested that 38 of 130 unsafe control actions and 258 of 976 loss scenarios were significantly less critical and screened out, so that the resources could be prioritized to solve the remaining findings. Meanwhile, prioritization is still a rather new topic with system-theoretic process analysis, and in the end of the article, we have identified some ideas for further research in this area.
Decision model analyses of upper endoscopy for gastric cancer screening and preneoplasia surveillance: a systematic review
Authors: Canakis Andrew , Pani Ethan , Saumoy Monica , Shah Shailja C.
Published: July 2020

Aims:

Gastric cancer (GC) is the third leading cause of cancer death worldwide, but the burden of disease is not distributed evenly. GC screening routinely occurs in some high-incidence regions/countries and is generally cost-effective, which is attributed largely to the associated GC mortality reduction. In regions of low–intermediate incidence, less is known about the outcomes of GC screening and gastric precancer surveillance, including cost-effectiveness, since there are no comparative clinical studies. Decision analytic studies are informative in such instances where logistical limitations preclude “gold standard” study designs. We therefore aimed to conduct a systematic review of decision model analyses focused on endoscopic GC screening or precancer surveillance.

Methods:

We identified decision model analyses, including cost effectiveness and cost utility studies, of GC screening or preneoplasia surveillance. At minimum, articles were evaluated for: study country; analytic design; population and health states; time horizon; model assumptions; outcomes; threshold value(s) for “cost-effective” determination; and sensitivity analyses. Quality appraisal was performed using a modified Drummond’s analytic scoring system. Data sources were PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and the Cochrane Library

Results:

We identified 17 studies (8 screening, 4 surveillance, and 5 screening and surveillance) that met full inclusion criteria. Endoscopic screening in countries of high GC incidence was cost-effective across all studies; targeted screening of high-risk populations within otherwise low-intermediate incidence countries was also generally cost-effective. Surveillance of gastric precancer, including atrophic gastritis or gastric intestinal metaplasia, was generally cost-effective. Most studies had high appraisal scores, with 4 (24%) studies achieving perfect scores on the Drummond scale.

Conclusion:

Decision model analyses offer a unique mechanism with which to efficiently explore the cost benefit of various prevention and early detection strategies. Based on this comprehensive systematic review, upper endoscopy for GC screening and gastric precancer surveillance might be cost-effective depending on the population and protocol. Focused efforts are especially needed not only to define the optimal approach, but also to define the populations within otherwise low-intermediate regions/countries who might benefit most.
Airport competition from airports’ perspective: Evidence from a survey of European airports
Authors: Bilotkach Volodymyr , Bush Harry
Published: July 2020

In this study, we describe the results of a questionnaire distributed among European airports in the autumn of 2019. The questionnaire was designed to elicit airports’ views on the practicalities of competition between airports. We received 49 responses from airports in 24 countries; the respondents represent airports of different sizes. The survey results evidence behaviours consistent with significant competition between airports. Airports are taking active steps through their resourcing and staffing, incentives and marketing to attract airline services, and clearly see themselves taking the initiative in doing so. No airport, no matter how large, appears to be able to escape competition. The main policy message of our study, consistent with other recent reviews of airport competition, is that European regulators should re-evaluate their approach to the economic regulation of airports, especially as far as regional airports are concerned.
Making a Difference: Participatory Health Research With Unemployed Citizens and Policymakers
Authors: Groot Barbara C. , Weerman Alie , Overbeek Frederiek , Abma Tineke A.
Published: July 2020

Qualitative researchers are more and more keen to have social impact and make their research actionable. Participatory health research (PHR) involves people who live in vulnerable situations and fosters collaboration with other stakeholders, including policymakers, to improve the health and well-being of those whose lives are at stake. People who it concerns are engaged in every step of the research process of PHR to make a difference and strive for social change. Qualitative and elicitation methods are often the primary source of data gathering in PHR, and an arts-based approach is a powerful way to engage a salient audience, such as policymakers. This article provides a thick description of a PHR study aiming to create a learning platform for change in service delivery for unemployed people in order to better meet their needs.
Study of the modulatory mechanism of the miR-182-Clock axis in circadian rhythm disturbance after hypoxic–ischemic brain damage
Authors: Li Dezhan , Huang Wei , Yang Fang , Li Bin , Cai Shanshan
Published: July 2020

Hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) in neonates can lead to severe chronic neurological deficit, including mental retardation, epilepsy, and sleep–wake cycle (SWC) disorder. Among these defects, little is known about the molecular mechanism of circadian rhythm disorder after HIE. Therefore, further study of sleep problems and its mechanism in HIE children will provide new ideas for clinical treatment of HIE children. For pediatric patients with cerebral ischemia, somnipathy often occurs due to visual and airway abnormalities. From May 2010 to August 2013, 128 newborns with history of HIE were followed up. Meanwhile, 88 normal full-term newborns in the same period were taken as the control group. The clinical data of the patients were collected and the sleep status was assessed by questionnaire. To establish the hypoxic–ischemic brain injury model of neonatal rats and analyze the mechanism of mir-182 in the circadian rhythm disorder caused by pineal function injury. The core clock genes during the regulation of the circadian clock were explored by bioinformatics methods. Patients’ sleep quality was affected by the circadian rhythm and respiratory problems; the pineal gland can regulate the core clock genes in the circadian clock during regulation. miR-182 was highly expressed in the pineal gland after hypoxic–ischemic brain damage (HIBD). Children with mild and moderate HIE showed significant sleep disorders in varying degrees, which provided a clinical basis for improving the long-term prognosis of children with HIE through targeted treatment of sleep disorders. MiR-182 is highly expressed in the pineal gland and is related to the expression of CLOCK protein. CLOCK gene is the target gene of miR-182, which provides a new target for the treatment of rhythm disorder related to the damage of pineal function caused by HIBD.
Perceived Emotions of Harmonic Cadences
Authors: Smit Eline A. , Dobrowohl Felix A. , Schaal Nora K. , Milne Andrew J. , Herff Steffen A.
Published: July 2020

Harmonic cadences are chord progressions that play an important structural role in Western classical music – they demarcate musical phrases and contribute to the tonality. This study examines participants’ ratings of the perceived arousal and valence of a variety of harmonic cadences. Manipulations included the type of cadence (authentic, plagal, half, and deceptive), its mode (major or minor), its average pitch height (the transposition of the cadence), the presence of a single tetrad (a dissonant four-tone chord), and the mode (major or minor) of the cadence’s final chord. With the exception of average pitch height, the manipulations had only small effects on arousal. However, the perceived valence of major cadences was substantially higher than for minor cadences, and average pitch had a medium-sized positive effect. Plagal cadences, the inclusion of a tetrad, and ending on a minor chord all had weak negative effects for valence. The present findings are discussed in light of contemporary music theory and music psychology, as knowledge of how specific acoustic components and musical structures impact emotion perception in music is important for performance practice, and music-based therapies.
Energy Intensity, Productivity and Pollution Loads: Empirical Evidence from Manufacturing Sector of India
Authors: Bagchi Prantik , Sahu Santosh Kumar
Published: July 2020

We explain the relationship between energy intensity and productivity for the organized manufacturing sector of India. Using data from the secondary sources, we explain the relationships at aggregate, state and industry levels. The novelty of this paper lies in bringing in pollution loads in explaining inter-industry variations in energy intensity. Results of this study indicate that the organized manufacturing sector of India has gained energy efficiency and productivity. We found heterogeneity among Indian states in productivity growth and energy intensity. The results indicate that small states performed well whereas large states fall in the productivity paradox. The productivity dilemma hypothesis is validated at industry level analysis however, results are inconsistent to validate the decoupling growth hypothesis. Pollution loads as classified by Government of India, plays a vital role in explaining energy intensity variations across industries, which calls for better policies aiming at pollutive industries specifically to achieve sustainable growth for the manufacturing sector of the Indian economy.
Radial Meniscal Tears Are Best Repaired by a Modified “Cross” Tie-Grip Suture Based on a Biomechanical Comparison of 4 Repair Techniques in a Porcine Model
Authors: Nakanishi Yuta , Hoshino Yuichi , Nagamune Kouki , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Nagai Kanto , Araki Daisuke , Kanzaki Noriyuki , Matsushita Takehiko , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: July 2020

Background:

The tie-grip suture can fix radial tears more rigidly than simple conventional sutures. However, one shortcoming is the residual gap at the central margin of the tear. The tie-grip suture was modified to address this issue and named the “cross tie-grip suture.”

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to compare the suture stability and strength among 4 suturing techniques: the original tie-grip, cross tie-grip, and 2 conventional sutures (double horizontal and cross). It was hypothesized that the cross tie-grip suture would show the least displacement and resist the greatest maximum load.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

A total of 40 fresh-frozen porcine knees were dissected to acquire 80 menisci; 20 menisci were tested in each suture group. A radial tear was created at the middle third of the meniscal body. Repair was performed with the following: original tie-grip, cross tie-grip, double horizontal, and cross sutures. The mechanical strength of sutured menisci was evaluated using a tensile testing machine. All menisci underwent submaximal loading and load to failure. The gap distance and ultimate failure load were compared using analysis of variance. The failure mode was recorded after load-to-failure testing.

Results:

Displacement after 500 cycles was significantly smaller in the cross tie-grip group (0.4 ± 0.3 mm) compared with the tie-grip (0.9 ± 0.6 mm), double horizontal (1.2 ± 0.7 mm), and cross suture groups (1.4 ± 0.6 mm) ( P < .05). The ultimate failure load was significantly greater in the cross tie-grip (154.9 ± 29.0 N) and tie-grip (145.2 ± 39.1 N) groups compared with the double horizontal (81.2 ± 19.9 N) and cross suture groups (87.3 ± 17.7 N) ( P < .05). Tissue failure was the most common mode of failure in all groups.

Conclusion:

Upon repair of radial meniscal tears, the cross tie-grip suture showed less displacement compared with that of the tie-grip, double horizontal, and cross sutures and demonstrated equivalent load to failure to that of the tie-grip suture at time zero.

Clinical Relevance:

The cross tie-grip suture provided high resistance to displacement after repair of radial tears and may be advantageous in healing for radial meniscal tears.
Bitchifying Hillary: Trump Supporters’ Vilification of Clinton during the 2016 Presidential Election
Authors: Erichsen Kristen , Schrock Douglas , Dowd-Arrow Benjamin , Dignam Pierce
Published: July 2020

Based on fieldwork and interviews during the run-up to the 2016 election, we examine how Trump supporters vilified Hillary Clinton as a bitch. We first analyze how Trump rally attendees collaborated to bitchify Clinton (e.g., through displays, chants, speaker–audience exchanges) in ways that fostered emotional bonding, a politically incorrect situational definition, and shared identities as Trump supporters. We then examine how interviewees constructed narratives that more subtly rooted her alleged posturing for power, profiteering, and evading justice in her bitch-like personality. To distinguish between explicit bitchifying—which was common at the rallies—and implicit characterization—which was common during the formal interviews—we develop the concept of “bitch-whistling,” which frames but not names women as bitches. We conclude by exploring how this study contributes to understanding Trump’s 2016 victory, research on gender and politics, and political narratives more generally.
Prospective validation of the RAPID clinical risk prediction score in adult patients with pleural infection: the PILOT study
Authors: Corcoran John P. , Psallidas Ioannis , Gerry Stephen , Piccolo Francesco , Koegelenberg Coenraad F. , Saba Tarek , Daneshvar Cyrus , Fairbairn Ian , Heinink Richard , West Alex , Stanton Andrew E. , Holme Jayne , Kastelik Jack A. , Steer Henry , Downer Nicola J. , Haris Mohammed , Baker Emma H. , Everett Caroline F. , Pepperell Justin , Bewick Thomas , Yarmus Lonny , Maldonado Fabien , Khan Burhan , Hart-Thomas Alan , Hands Georgina , Warwick Geoffrey , De Fonseka Duneesha , Hassan Maged , Munavvar Mohammed , Guhan Anur , Shahidi Mitra , Pogson Zara , Dowson Lee , Popowicz Natalia D. , Saba Judith , Ward Neil R. , Hallifax Rob J. , Dobson Melissa , Shaw Rachel , Hedley Emma L. , Sabia Assunta , Robinson Barbara , Collins Gary S. , Davies Helen E. , Yu Ly-Mee , Miller Robert F. , Maskell Nick A. , Rahman Najib M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Over 30% of adult patients with pleural infection either die and/or require surgery. There is no robust means of predicting at baseline presentation which patients will suffer a poor clinical outcome. A validated risk prediction score would allow early identification of high-risk patients, potentially directing more aggressive treatment thereafter.

Objectives

To prospectively assess a previously described risk score (the RAPID (Renal (urea), Age, fluid Purulence, Infection source, Dietary (albumin)) score) in adults with pleural infection.

Methods

Prospective observational cohort study that recruited patients undergoing treatment for pleural infection. RAPID score and risk category were calculated at baseline presentation. The primary outcome was mortality at 3 months; secondary outcomes were mortality at 12 months, length of hospital stay, need for thoracic surgery, failure of medical treatment and lung function at 3 months.

Results

Mortality data were available in 542 out of 546 patients recruited (99.3%). Overall mortality was 10% at 3 months (54 out of 542) and 19% at 12 months (102 out of 542). The RAPID risk category predicted mortality at 3 months. Low-risk mortality (RAPID score 0–2): five out of 222 (2.3%, 95% CI 0.9 to 5.7%); medium-risk mortality (RAPID score 3–4): 21 out of 228 (9.2%, 95% CI 6.0 to 13.7%); and high-risk mortality (RAPID score 5–7): 27 out of 92 (29.3%, 95% CI 21.0 to 39.2%). C-statistics for the scores at 3 months and 12 months were 0.78 (95% CI 0.71–0.83) and 0.77 (95% CI 0.72–0.82), respectively.

Conclusions

The RAPID score stratifies adults with pleural infection according to increasing risk of mortality and should inform future research directed at improving outcomes in this patient population.