bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constituency Groups of Alternative Action Organizations During Hard Times: A Comparison at the Solidarity Orientation and Country Levels
Authors: Uba Katrin , Kousis Maria
Published: April 2018

Alternative action organizations (AAO) usually rise during economic crises to offer direct support and solidarity to their constituency groups. These groups may be less involved recipient beneficiary groups or more participative groups collaborating and creating networks of support to sustain the needs of their members. This article compensates for the lack of empirical knowledge about such groups by systematically describing AAOs’ constituency groups in nine different European countries. The analysis is based on detailed data from the websites of a random sample of more than 4,000 AAOs in France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom—countries representing different welfare regimes, as well as experience of the 2008 economic crisis. Results demonstrate that there are significant intracountry variations of groups reported as major beneficiaries and participants by the AAOs, but this variation is related to the solidarity orientation of the organization rather than the country’s welfare regime or experience of economic crises. Mutual support organizations, which focus on collaborating for common interests, tend to target active constituency such as less vulnerable local communities and alternative economy consumer-producer initiatives. Distribution-oriented organizations, however, are more likely to target more vulnerable recipient beneficiary groups such as children, families, the poor, and migrants. We also show some significant country differences, as different constituency groups are represented relatively equally as targets of AAOs in Sweden, while being more “biased” toward alternative consumers and small enterprises in France. Results encourage further comparative research about constituency beneficiary and participant groups and the voluntary sector.
Vibrational Spectroscopy as a Promising Toolbox for Analyzing Functionalized Ceramic Membranes
Authors: Kiefer Johannes , Bartels Julia , Kroll Stephen , Rezwan Kurosch
Published: April 2018

Ceramic materials find use in many fields including the life sciences and environmental engineering. For example, ceramic membranes have shown to be promising filters for water treatment and virus retention. The analysis of such materials, however, remains challenging. In the present study, the potential of three vibrational spectroscopic methods for characterizing functionalized ceramic membranes for water treatment is evaluated. For this purpose, Raman scattering, infrared (IR) absorption, and solvent infrared spectroscopy (SIRS) were employed. The data were analyzed with respect to spectral changes as well as using principal component analysis (PCA). The Raman spectra allow an unambiguous discrimination of the sample types. The IR spectra do not change systematically with functionalization state of the material. Solvent infrared spectroscopy allows a systematic distinction and enables studying the molecular interactions between the membrane surface and the solvent.
The Gains/Losses of Canadian Religious Groups from Immigration
Authors: Reimer Sam , Hiemstra Rick
Published: April 2018

Immigration is changing the religious landscape in Canada. It is estimated that 69% of the Canadian population growth is accounted for by immigration, and this is expected to increase to 90% in 2050. In addition, immigrants participate in institutional religion at higher rates than the Canadian-born. While the Muslim, Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist populations are growing rapidly due to immigration, nearly half of all immigrants claim some type of Christian affiliation. There are also many non-religious immigrants. In this article, we look at the growth and decline of immigration flows, service attendance, and switching/retention to show which religious groups in Canada are benefitting from immigration.
Child Life Services in an Epilepsy Monitoring Unit
Authors: Lowenstein Daniel B. , Cervenka Mackenzie C. , Mitchell Lauren , Stewart Noelle , Kossoff Eric H. , Kelley Sarah A.
Published: April 2018

The goal of this study was to determine the value of a certified child life specialist (CCLS) on the patient and staff experiences in an epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU). We integrated a CCLS into the EMU for all children as well as adults with intellectual disability. We surveyed families to determine the impact of child life services on their stay. EMU staff completed questionnaires to determine perceived impact to their job performance from the integration of the CCLS. All of the families (pediatric and adult patients) who responded to the survey reported the presence of the CCLS improved their hospital experience. Staff reported that the CCLS improved their daily work by allowing them to focus on their assigned medical duties. This preliminary pilot study suggests that CCLS can have a strong impact on the experience of patients and staff in an EMU.
The Effect of Pharmacy-Driven Education on the Amount of Appropriately Administered Tetanus Vaccines in the Emergency Department
Authors: Fletcher Meghan , Rankin Shannon , Sarangarm Preeyaporn
Published: April 2018

Background: Tetanus vaccinations for wound prophylaxis are routinely administered in emergency departments (ED). Current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) regarding tetanus administration for wound prophylaxis differentiate between the tetanus and diphtheria (Td) and the tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap) formulations and when they should be administered. Lack of knowledge regarding these recommendations, different formulations, and techniques to locate patient immunization history can lend to increased duplicate and inappropriate vaccinations. Objective: The purpose of this prospective, interventional study with a historical control was to evaluate the impact of a pharmacy-driven education series on the proportion of duplicate and inappropriate tetanus vaccinations administered in a level I trauma center ED. Methods: Three months of tetanus vaccinations administered in the ED after this education were analyzed and compared with a historical control. The primary outcome is the percentage of vaccinations considered duplicates (previous vaccination within the past 5 years) when patients’ medical record was reviewed for immunization history. Secondary end points include the percentage of vaccinations considered nonadherent (according to current CDC-ACIP guidelines), the total cost of all duplicate vaccinations, and the percentage of vaccination orders that had the wrong formulation administered. Results: The percentage of duplicate vaccinations decreased from 9.9% (25 vaccinations) to 5.5% (14 vaccinations) (P = .067) from the preintervention group to the postintervention group. Nonadherent vaccinations compiled 3.6% versus 2.8% of the vaccinations (P = .611) and incorrect formulations given were 18.2% versus 11.4% (P = .176) in the preintervention and postintervention groups, respectively. Conclusion: The study suggests that multiple formulations of tetanus vaccinations and fragmented documentation of immunizations increase the prevalence of medication errors related to tetanus vaccinations. It also indicates that interventions more enduring than education are required to prevent these errors.
Two-Step Adaptive Augmented Unscented Kalman Filter for Roll Angles of Spinning Missiles Based on Magnetometer Measurements
Authors: Yan Xiaolong , Chen Guoguang , Tian Xiaoli
Published: April 2018

It is critical to measure the roll angle of a spinning missile quickly and accurately. Magnetometers are commonly used to implement these measurements. At present, the estimation of roll angle parameters is usually performed with the unscented Kalman filter algorithm. In this paper, the two-step adaptive augmented unscented Kalman filter algorithm is proposed to calibrate the biaxial magnetometer and circuit measurements quickly, which allows accurate estimates of the missile roll angle. Unlike the existing algorithms, the state vector of the algorithm is based on the missile roll angle parameters and the error factors caused by the magnetometer and the measurement circuit errors. Next, a two-step fast fitting algorithm is used to fit the initial value. After satisfying the stop rule, the state vector of the filter is configured to estimate the roll angle parameters and the calibration parameters. This method is evaluated by running numerous simulations. In the experiment, the algorithm completes the calibration of the magnetometer and the measurement circuit 1 s after the missile launches, with a sampling rate of 1 ms and an output roll attitude angle with a 0.0015 rad precision. The conventional unscented Kalman filter algorithm requires more time to achieve such a high accuracy. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed two-step augmented unscented Kalman filter outperforms the conventional unscented Kalman filter in its estimation accuracy and convergence characteristics.
Examining the Contributions of Disability to Suicidality in the Context of Depression Symptoms and Other Sociodemographic Factors
Authors: Lund Emily M. , Nadorff Michael R. , Thomas Katie B. , Galbraith Kate
Published: April 2018

We examined the contribution of disability status to suicidality when accounting for depression and sociodemographic risk factors in 438 American adults, 82 (18.7%) of whom identified as having disabilities. Participants with disabilities had significantly higher depression scores and were more likely to be unemployed and unpartnered, all of which were also associated with increased suicidality. However, disability remained a significant predictor of suicidality even when depression and sociodemographic risk factors were accounted for in a linear regression. Other significant predictors of suicidality in this regression were female gender, depression symptoms, and family and friend suicide history; identifying as a member of a religion was a significant protective factor against suicidality. Our findings suggest that the contribution of disability to suicidality goes beyond that which can be explained by increased depression symptoms and sociodemographic vulnerability.
Nintendo Wii™ Versus Xbox Kinect™ for Assisting People With Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Alves Melissa L. M. , Mesquita Beatriz S. , Morais Wenderson S. , Leal Josevan C. , Satler Corina E. , dos Santos Mendes Felipe A.
Published: April 2018

This study investigated changes in motor and cognitive skills, anxiety levels, and quality of life perception among patients with Parkinson's Disease (PD) following training with different commercial gaming devices—Nintendo Wii™ and Xbox Kinect™. We used a quasi-experimental, simple blinded clinical trial, dividing 27 patients with PD into three equal groups of nine members: (a) Nintendo Wii™, (b) Xbox Kinect™, and (c) control group. After pretests, experimental group participants spent 10 sessions playing four games of the selected gaming device, while control group participants received no intervention. Only those engaged with the Nintendo Wii™ significantly improved their performance on single and dual task gait tests, decreased anxiety levels, and improved memory, attention, and reversibility. The control group showed no changes on any measures.
Contralateral Hemisphere Activation by Unilateral Hand Contraction: ReExamining Global and Local Attention
Authors: Stanković Miloš , Nešić Milkica
Published: April 2018

While previous studies have shown that left- (vs. right-) hand contractions can improve the performance of global (vs. local) attention, these results were inconsistent in certain behavioral studies in which the left cerebral hemisphere was found to be specialized for local attention, while the right hemisphere was not specialized for global attention. Thus, we reexamined whether different global (vs. local) attention performances follow left- (vs. right-) hand contractions due to right (vs. left) hemisphere activation. We recruited 100 right-handed healthy female, university student (aged 19–26 years) participants. We used the Navon task to present 80 letter-stimuli (40 in the global task; 40 in the local task) to either the participants’ left or right visual fields. Half of the participants (randomly selected) were instructed to squeeze a dynamometer with the left hand, while the other half squeezed with the right hand, prior to completing the Navon task. In line with previous research, we observed a perceptual advantage of global (large letters) over local (small letters) stimuli. Participants who contracted the right hand showed an enhanced local attention performance (from left hemisphere activation), whereas those who contracted the left hand did not improve global attention performance (from right hemisphere activation). Thus, we supported prior behavioral research suggesting that hemispheric asymmetry for attention processing is evident for left but not right cortical hemisphere processing.
Improved visible-light photocatalytic activity of sodium tantalum oxide via biomass-derived silk fibroin doping
Authors: Sun Yehua , Luo Yuzhuo , Zhu Yaofeng , Fu Yaqin
Published: April 2018

Biomass-derived silk fibroin (SF)-doped NaTaO3 catalysts were successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal process using SF as the dopant. The as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-vis DRS) analyses. The samples were tested as photocatalysts in the degradation of methylene blue under UV and visible light. XRD results showed the monoclinic structure of NaTaO3 lacking significant structural changes after anion doping. SEM and TEM images revealed the nanocubic morphology of the samples, the crystal particle sizes of which were about 100–300 nm. The XPS spectrum showed the peak of Ta4p3&N1s, indicating the combination of N and Ta. The UV-vis DRS results of the samples revealed a cut-off edge that red shifted from 315 nm of the pure NaTaO3 to 324 nm of the SF-doped counterpart. SF doping helped narrow the band gap and rendered the prepared sample sensitive to visible light. Under UV and visible-light irradiation, SF-doped NaTaO3 exhibited higher photocatalytic activity than that the undoped compound. SF-doped NaTaO3 samples also exhibited excellent stability during the recycling photocatalytic process.
Rail station access and housing market resilience: Case studies of Atlanta, Baltimore and Portland
Authors: Welch Timothy F , Gehrke Steven R , Farber Steven
Published: April 2018

The recent United States housing market crisis resulted in a significant decline in housing market values. Yet, the extent to which urban amenities such as rail stations moderated the market impacts has not been entirely recognised. This study undertakes a repeat sales analysis to understand the impact of station proximity on housing values before, during and after the market crisis. Specifically, a housing price resilience index assesses market changes from 2002 to 2013 for single-family and multifamily homes within a quarter of a mile, half a mile, one mile and greater distances from the nearest rail station. The analysis is replicated in three cities: Atlanta, Georgia; Baltimore, Maryland; and Portland, Oregon. Although the recession had significant negative impacts on properties in each city, our study finds that access played a critical role in helping transit-orientated submarkets retain their value throughout the recession and recover value at a faster rate than homes without convenient fixed transit access.
Compassionate revanchism: The blurry geography of homelessness in the USA
Authors: Hennigan Brian , Speer Jessie
Published: April 2018

In this article we move beyond the binary division between care and punishment in urban studies of homelessness to examine how caring institutions are themselves crucial to the punitive and exclusionary project of capitalist urbanisation. Based on ethnographic and archival analysis of homelessness management in Fresno, California, and Phoenix, Arizona, we show how punitive measures and institutions of care often emerge simultaneously and operate in tandem as part of a broader scheme for urban revitalisation. Further, we show how caring institutions themselves often perform the function of controlling homeless people’s movements in the city, while punitive institutions adopt more caring tactics. Thus, we argue for a focus on how compassion and criminalisation are regularly blurred.
Improving and Validating Survey Estimates of Religious Demography Using Bayesian Multilevel Models and Poststratification
Authors: Claassen Christopher , Traunmüller Richard
Published: April 2018

Religious group size, demographic composition, and the dynamics thereof are of interest in many areas of social science including migration, social cohesion, parties and voting, and violent conflict. Existing estimates however are of varying and perhaps poor quality because many countries do not collect official data on religious identity. We propose a method for accurately measuring religious group demographics using existing survey data: Bayesian multilevel regression models with poststratification. We illustrate this method by estimating the demography of Muslims, Hindus, and Jews in Great Britain over a 20-year period and validate it by comparing our estimates to UK census data on religious demography. Our estimates are very accurate, differing from true population proportions by as little as 0.29 (Muslim) to 0.04 (Jewish) percentage points. These findings have implications for the measurement of religious demography as well as small group attributes more generally.
The God of Anxiety
Authors: Lara Jessica A.
Published: April 2018

Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) this article discusses clinical work with a 58-year-old Caucasian female Army veteran seeking treatment for anxiety and depression. Important to our work together was her Christian faith and how we discussed this in our relationship and within the framework of ACT. Mindful attention to both the patient’s and therapist’s faith traditions was critical in achieving a successful treatment outcome.
Optimal guaranteed cost control of uncertain 2-D discrete state-delayed systems described by the Roesser model via memory state feedback
Authors: Tandon Akshata , Dhawan Amit , Tiwari Manish
Published: April 2018

This paper is concerned with the problem of optimal guaranteed cost control via memory state feedback for a class of uncertain two-dimensional (2-D) discrete state-delayed systems described by the Roesser model with norm-bounded uncertainties. A linear matrix inequality (LMI)-based sufficient condition for the existence of memory state feedback guaranteed cost controllers is established and a parameterized representation of such controllers (if they exist) is given in terms of feasible solutions to a certain LMI. Furthermore, a convex optimization problem with LMI constraints is formulated to select the optimal guaranteed cost controllers that minimize the upper bound of the closed-loop cost function. The proposed method yields better results in terms of least upper bound of the closed-loop cost function as compared with a previously reported result.
A new simplified method for decreasing contaminants in underground enclosed parking lots
Authors: Aminian Javad , Maerefat Mehdi , Heidarinejad Ghassem
Published: April 2018

One of the main concerns in large enclosed vehicular spaces such as parking lots is air contaminant management. Mechanical ventilation systems are typically used to decrease the contaminants and enhance indoor air quality in such spaces. International standards have suggested the amount of ventilation air and have emphasized that the ventilation system should be able to effectively reduce the contaminants, but the reduction in contaminants has not been quantitatively described. This study develops a simplified method for the quantification of contaminant removal and its effect on the enhancement of indoor air quality. This method is based on the numerical calculation of contaminant removal effectiveness in parking lots and changing the location of outlet vents. The results of this work indicate that using a constant ventilation rate, outlet vents are installed at an appropriate height, the flow pattern is improved and contaminant removal effectiveness is enhanced significantly. The numerical results show that the outlet vents should be installed between 50 and 70% of the parking lot ceiling height. By adopting this criterion, a displacement flow pattern is developed in the parking lot, and improvement in both contaminant removal effectiveness and indoor air quality is achieved.

Practical application: This paper helps ventilation designers to enhance the air quality of enclosed parking lots by a simple practical method. The designer should only install the outlet vents at the range of heights proposed in this paper to develop displacement flow in the parking lot, which leads to an effective decrease in contaminants and reduce energy consumption. So, the aim of this research is to maximize the contaminant removal capacity and minimize the energy consumption of the ventilation system.
Age, work and pensions in the United Kingdom and Hong Kong: An institutional perspective
Authors: Flynn Matt , Schröder Heike
Published: April 2018

This article explores whether comparative institutionalism can be used to identify path-dependent approaches to the management of ageing workforces in the United Kingdom (UK) and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), and considers whether and how the global phenomenon of population ageing is leading to a convergence of approaches between Western and Eastern economies. Using semi-structured expert interviews, the article discusses these countries’ approaches to employment regulation, welfare provision and public sector employment. The findings show that the two economies exhibit a converging trend: namely shifting responsibilities for extended longevity from the state and employer towards the individual worker. However, stakeholder pressure (especially from trade unions) has tempered this trend in the UK more than in HKSAR. This indicates that stakeholders’ relative ability to use their agency in setting and pursuing agendas that diverge from public policy paths influences not only national-level policy-making but also organisational-level HRM.
Geochemistry of severely biodegraded oils in the Carboniferous volcanic reservoir of the Chepaizi Uplift, Junggar Basin, NW China
Authors: Xu Youde , Chang Xiangchun , Shi Bingbing , Wang Yue , Li Yang
Published: April 2018

A substantial amount of petroleum was recently discovered in the Carboniferous volcanic reservoir of the Chepaizi Uplift in the western Junggar Basin, yet the source is still indefinitive. Geochemical investigation indicates that the Carboniferous oils from the eastern and western Chepaizi Uplift are characterized by different source facies, although they are all typically of lacustrine origin. The eastern oils exhibit a restricted, clastic starved, highly reducing hypersaline condition during source rock deposition, which is distinct from the western oils. The Carboniferous oils were subjected to biodegradation ranging from rank 6 to rank 9, as indicated by the presence of 25-norhopane, evident depletion of hopanes and regular steranes, and even selective reduction of tricyclic terpanes. The maturities for the Carboniferous oils correspond to the onset of oil generation. The eastern oils contain lower (C19 + C20)TT/(C23 + C24)TT and C19TT/C21TT, and lighter stable carbon isotopes than the western ones, correlating well with the Middle Permian Wuerhe (P2w) source rocks and the Jurassic source rocks, respectively. The good correlation of tricyclic terpanes source-related parameters further implies less contribution to the eastern oils by the Carboniferous source rocks.
Can Short Sellers Detect Internal Control Material Weaknesses? Evidence From Section 404 of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act
Authors: Singer Zvi , Wang Yan , Zhang Jing
Published: April 2018

We examine whether short sellers are interested in, and capable of, identifying firms with an upcoming revelation of internal control material weaknesses (ICMW). We show that short sellers accumulate positions in firms that are about to disclose ICMW under Section 404 of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act for the first time when internal control problems are severe. We find that the short-interest buildup is mainly due to the use of private rather than public information, which suggests that their trades contain incremental prediction power of the upcoming internal control failure. Furthermore, the ability of short sellers to predict ICMW is more pronounced in firms operating in poor information environment. Finally, we find no evidence that trades by short sellers prior to the ICMW disclosure create a cascade of selling that leads to an overreaction of ICMW. Overall, we present evidence that corporate governance information in the form of ICMW is part of the short sellers’ information set, and we establish a path through which ICMW impacts equity investors.
Pay, Power, and Health: HRI and the Agricultural Conundrum
Authors: Wadsworth Gail , Courville Michael , Schenker Marc
Published: April 2018

As part of a five-year integrated study on heat-related illness (HRI) among farmworkers in California, the California Institute for Rural Studies (CIRS) convened focus groups with farmworkers in regions of the state where HRI was prevalent. CIRS also interviewed employers and other stakeholders in the state. While this study was not designed to identify causal relationships, we were able to identify patterns of interaction that point to the intersection of agricultural system structures and worker agency in making self-care decisions. Structural categories, such as productivity losses/gains, cut across all self-care choices, often overriding other factors for decision making.
The involvement of cancer patients in the four stages of decision-making preceding continuous sedation until death: A qualitative study
Authors: Robijn Lenzo , Seymour Jane , Deliens Luc , Korfage Ida , Brown Jayne , Pype Peter , Van Der Heide Agnes , Chambaere Kenneth , Rietjens Judith
Published: April 2018

Background:

Involving patients in decision-making is considered to be particularly appropriate towards the end of life. Professional guidelines emphasize that the decision to initiate continuous sedation should be made in accordance with the wishes of the dying person and be preceded by their consent.

Aim:

To describe the decision-making process preceding continuous sedation until death with particular attention to the involvement of the person who is dying.

Design:

Qualitative case studies using interviews.

Setting/participants:

Interviews with 26 physicians, 30 nurses and 24 relatives caring for 24 patients with cancer who received continuous sedation until death in Belgium, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands.

Results:

We distinguished four stages of decision-making: initiation, information exchange, deliberation and the decision to start continuous sedation until death. There was wide variation in the role the patient had in the decision-making process. At one end of the spectrum (mostly in the United Kingdom), the physician discussed the possible use of sedation with the patient, but took the decision themselves. At the other end (mostly in Belgium and the Netherlands), the patient initiated the conversation and the physician’s role was largely limited to evaluating if and when the medical criteria were met.

Conclusion:

Decision-making about continuous sedation until death goes through four stages and the involvement of the patient in the decision-making varies. Acknowledging the potential sensitivity of raising the issue of end-of-life sedation, we recommend building into clinical practice regular opportunities to discuss the goals and preferences of the person who is dying for their future medical treatment and care.
Transarterial embolization for postpartum hemorrhage: lessons learned
Authors: Fu Chen-Ju , Irama Wiwan , Wong Yon-Cheong , Tseng Hsiao-Jung , Wang Li-Jen , Yeow Kee-Min , Wu Cheng-Hsien
Published: April 2018

Background

Although transarterial embolization (TAE) can powerfully control postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), clinical failure of TAE is not uncommon.

Purpose

To discover whether any parameters could predict timely clinical failure of TAE, then whether a supplementary intervention could be promptly initiated.

Material and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 118 TAE procedures in 113 patients with PPH performed at our institution between January 2012 and May 2015. The patients were divided into the following groups: clinically successful TAE and failed TAE. Successful TAE was defined as obviation of supplementary embolization or surgical intervention for hemostasis. Gestational conditions, angiographic factors, maternal vital signs, and laboratory data were compared between the two groups.

Results

In total, 100 (84.8%) TAEs were clinically successful. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed independent risk factors of TAE clinical failure, including the requirement for augmented embolic agents, placental retention, and international normalized ratio > 1.3 ( P = 0.009, 0.001, and 0.005, respectively). The post-TAE shock index was significantly associated with TAE failure, using a cut-off value of 0.8.

Conclusion

The discovered independent risk factors of TAE clinical failure existed before or during the TAE procedure and could not reflect the post-TAE conditions. Although the post-TAE shock index was not an independent factor, it reflected the conditions after TAE and could indicate TAE clinical failure timely.
Potential occupational exposures in diagnostic and interventional radiology: statistical modeling based on Finnish national dose registry data
Authors: Pekkarinen Antti , Siiskonen Teemu , Lehtinen Maaret , Savolainen Sauli , Kortesniemi Mika
Published: April 2018

Background

Radiation worker categorization and exposure monitoring practices must be proportional to the current working environment.

Purpose

To analyze exposure data of Finnish radiological workers and to estimate the magnitude and frequency of their potential occupational radiation exposure, and to propose appropriate radiation worker categorization.

Material and Methods

Estimates of the probabilities of annual effective doses exceeding certain levels were obtained by calculating the survival function of a lognormal probability density function (PDF) fitted in the measured occupational exposure data.

Results

The estimated probabilities of exceeding annual effective dose limits of 1 mSv, 6 mSv, and 20 mSv were in the order of 1:200, 1:10,000, and 1:500,000 per person, respectively.

Conclusion

It is very unlikely that the Category B annual effective dose limit of 6 mSv could even potentially be exceeded using modern equipment and appropriate working methods. Therefore, in terms of estimated effective dose, workers in diagnostic and interventional radiology could be placed into Category B in Finland. Current national personal monitoring practice could be replaced or supplemented using active personal dosimeters, which offer more effective means for optimizing working methods.
The efficacy of using computer-aided detection (CAD) for detection of breast cancer in mammography screening: a systematic review
Authors: Henriksen Emilie L , Carlsen Jonathan F , Vejborg Ilse MM , Nielsen Michael B , Lauridsen Carsten A
Published: April 2018

Background

Early detection of breast cancer (BC) is crucial in lowering the mortality.

Purpose

To present an overview of studies concerning computer-aided detection (CAD) in screening mammography for early detection of BC and compare diagnostic accuracy and recall rates (RR) of single reading (SR) with SR + CAD and double reading (DR) with SR + CAD.

Material and Methods

PRISMA guidelines were used as a review protocol. Articles on clinical trials concerning CAD for detection of BC in a screening population were included. The literature search resulted in 1522 records. A total of 1491 records were excluded by abstract and 18 were excluded by full text reading. A total of 13 articles were included.

Results

All but two studies from the SR vs. SR + CAD group showed an increased sensitivity and/or cancer detection rate (CDR) when adding CAD. The DR vs. SR + CAD group showed no significant differences in sensitivity and CDR. Adding CAD to SR increased the RR and decreased the specificity in all but one study. For the DR vs. SR + CAD group only one study reported a significant difference in RR.

Conclusion

All but two studies showed an increase in RR, sensitivity and CDR when adding CAD to SR. Compared to DR no statistically significant differences in sensitivity or CDR were reported. Additional studies based on organized population-based screening programs, with longer follow-up time, high-volume readers, and digital mammography are needed to evaluate the efficacy of CAD.
Motion artifacts, lesion type, and parenchymal enhancement in breast MRI: what does really influence diagnostic accuracy?
Authors: Clauser Paola , Dietzel Matthias , Weber Michael , Kaiser Clemens G , Baltzer Pascal AT
Published: April 2018

Background

Motion artifacts can reduce image quality of breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). There is a lack of data regarding their effect on diagnostic estimates.

Purpose

To evaluate factors that potentially influence readers’ diagnostic estimates in breast MRI: motion artifacts; amount of fibroglandular tissue; background parenchymal enhancement; lesion size; and lesion type.

Material and Methods

This Institutional Review Board-approved, retrospective, cross-sectional, single-center study included 320 patients (mean age = 55.1 years) with 334 histologically verified breast lesions (139 benign, 195 malignant) who underwent breast MRI. Two expert breast radiologists evaluated the images considering: motion artifacts (1 = minimal to 4 = marked); fibroglandular tissue (BI-RADS FGT); background parenchymal enhancement (BI-RADS BPE); lesion size; lesion type; and BI-RADS score. Univariate (Chi-square) and multivariate (Generalized Estimation Equations [GEE]) statistics were used to identify factors influencing sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Results

Lesions were: 230 mass (68.9%) and 59 non-mass (17.7%), no foci. Forty-five lesions (13.5%) did not enhance in MRI but were suspicious or unclear in conventional imaging. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 93.8%, 83.4%, and 89.8% for Reader 1 and 95.4%, 87.8%, and 91.9% for Reader 2. Lower sensitivity was observed in case of increased motion artifacts ( P = 0.007), non-mass lesions ( P < 0.001), and small lesions ≤ 10 mm ( P < 0.021). No further factors (e.g. BPE, FGT) significantly influenced diagnostic estimates. At multivariate analysis, lesion type and size were retained as independent factors influencing the diagnostic performance ( P < 0.033).

Conclusion

Motion artifacts can impair lesion characterization with breast MRI, but lesion type and small size have the strongest influence on diagnostic estimates.
Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton accelerates cutaneous wound healing by enhancing macrophage activation and angiogenesis
Authors: Wang Yi , Hu Ying , Ma Ben , Wang Fei , Liu Sheng , Xu Jing , Chen Xu-Lin , Lü Xiong-Wen
Published: April 2018

Objective

This study was performed to investigate the effect of Nocardia rubra cell wall skeleton (N-CWS) on wound healing of full-thickness skin defects.

Methods

Two 2- × 2-cm full-thickness wounds, one on each side of the midline, were made on the back of 12 rats. One wound was covered with Vaseline gauze soaked in normal saline, whereas the other was covered with Vaseline gauze and N-CWS. Wound dressings were changed every other day from day 0 (wound creation) to day 11. Four of the 12 rats were killed on day 7, and biopsy samples were obtained for biochemical and histopathological analyses. The expression levels of CD31, CD68, and F4/80 in the tissues were examined immunohistologically. The expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 in the wound was determined by western blot.

Results

N-CWS increased the wound healing rate, reduced the complete wound healing time, and increased the expression levels of CD31, CD68, and F4/80 on day 7. The TGF-β1 expression level in the wound was significantly higher in the N-CWS group than in the control group on day 7.

Conclusions

N-CWS can activate macrophages, increase TGF-β1 expression, and enhance angiogenesis and thus accelerate cutaneous wound healing.
Prognostic role of PIK3CA and TP53 in human papillomavirus–negative oropharyngeal cancers
Authors: Resteghini Carlo , Perrone Federica , Miceli Rosalba , Bergamini Cristiana , Alfieri Salvatore , Orlandi Ester , Guzzo Marco , Granata Roberta , Galbiati Donata , Cavalieri Stefano , Locati Laura , Licitra Lisa , Bossi Paolo
Published: April 2018

Background:

Human papilloma virus (HPV)–negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas (OPCs) have a poorer prognosis and best management is an unmet need. We studied the prognostic role of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and PIK3CA amplifications and TP53 functional status.

Methods:

Between 1992 and 2000, 90 consecutive patients with OPCs were treated with surgery, followed by radiotherapy in case of high-risk pathologic features. Of those, 73 cases were HPV-negative and therefore were selected for molecular analysis ( PIK3CA and EGFR fluorescent in situ hybridization [FISH] analysis and TP53 mutation analysis).

Results:

FISH analyses of EGFR and PIK3CA were successfully conducted on 69 and 63 of 73 tumor samples, respectively. EGFR alterations were detected in 43% of patients but just 7% showed amplification. Seven cases (11%) carried PIK3CA amplification and 18 (29%) gene gain or high polysomy. TP53 was detected as nonfunctional in 24 of 67 (36%) successfully analyzed cases. Both univariable and multivariable analysis showed statistically significantly worse disease-free survival (DFS) for patients with PIK3CA disomy compared to those with gene gain or high polysomy. No differences in overall survival or DFS for EGFR and TP53 alteration were evident. The combined evaluation of PIK3CA and TP53 showed that PIK3CA gene copy number gain separated a population with better outcome, defining an overall worse prognosis population (disomy) now clearly further divided according to TP53 functional status.

Conclusion:

PIK3CA gene copy number increase is associated with a favorable clinical outcome in HPV-negative OPCs treated with surgery ± postoperative radiotherapy. In patients without PIK3CA alteration, TP53 nonfunctional mutations are associated with poor prognosis.
Apical Elongation of Molar Teeth in Captive Microtus Voles
Authors: Imai Denise M. , Pesapane Risa , Conroy Christopher J. , Alarcón Christina N. , Allan Nora , Okino Russell A. , Fung Jennifer , Murphy Brian G. , Verstraete Frank J. M. , Foley Janet E.
Published: April 2018

Molar apical elongation (MAE) was the leading cause for euthanasia or death in a captive breeding colony of endangered Amargosa voles ( Microtus californicus scirpensis). Clinical signs included ocular discharge, abnormal mastication, dyspnea, abnormal mentation, weight loss, and death. Although the severity varied, all molars in all quadrants were affected. When severe, the overgrown molar reserve crown and apex protruded into the nasal meatuses, the orbit, the calvarial vault and through the ventral margin of the mandible. Overall prevalence in the colony was 63% (92/146 voles) and increased to 77% in aged voles (>1 year). Mean age of onset was 5.3 months (1.7–11.2 months). Progression to extreme severity occurred over 1 to 3 months. Mean survival was 10.9 months (7.1–21.7 months). Histologically, the lesion was characterized by odontogenic hyperplasia and dysplasia. MAE was also documented in museum specimens of 2 other M. californicus subspecies ( M. californicus californicus, M. californicus vallicola) and 3 other Microtus species ( M. montanus, M. pennsylvanicus, M. socialis). In the M. californicus californicus collection, overall prevalence was 35.1% (129/368 skulls) and increased to 77.3% in aged voles (>1 year). A probable genetic influence was identified in the museum collection of M. californicus californicus. The etiopathogenesis of MAE is likely multifactorial, due to (1) inherent continuous odontogenic proliferation, (2) inadequate occlusal attrition, and (3) possible heritable disease susceptibility. In captivity, dietary or other management of occlusal attrition to prevent or delay MAE is a fundamental concern.
It’s Not All About the Face: Variability Reveals Asymmetric Obligatory Processing of Faces and Bodies in Whole-Body Contexts
Authors: Reed Catherine L. , Bukach Cindy M. , Garber Matthew , McIntosh Daniel N.
Published: April 2018

Researchers have sought to understand the specialized processing of faces and bodies in isolation, but recently they have considered how face and body information interact within the context of the whole body. Although studies suggest that face and body information can be integrated, it remains an open question whether this integration is obligatory and whether contributions of face and body information are symmetrical. In a selective attention task with whole-body stimuli, we focused attention on either the face or body and tested whether variation in the irrelevant part could be ignored. We manipulated orientation to determine the extent to which inversion disrupted obligatory face and body processing. Obligatory processing was evidenced as performance changes in discrimination that depended on stimulus orientation when the irrelevant region varied. For upright but not inverted face discrimination, participants could not ignore body posture variation, even when it was not diagnostic to the task. However, participants could ignore face variation for upright body posture discrimination but not for inverted posture discrimination. The extent to which face and body information necessarily influence each other in whole-body contexts appears to depend on both domain-general attentional and face- or body-specific holistic processing mechanisms.
Resource geography II: What makes resources political?
Authors: Huber Matt
Published: April 2018

What makes resources political? We often imagine that politics is something done to resources (i.e. larger contestations over access to and control over resources). In this second “progress report”, I question whether resource politics is simply about fighting over stuff. How does the materiality of resources themselves shape broader conceptions of “the political” in general? I highlight the role of resources in shaping three central meanings of the political or politics. First, the commonsense ideology of politics as electoral contests over political power. Second, the state – as the sphere of “the political” – is constructed as a geographical entity based on a specific form of territoriality. Third, the nation-state reflects a complex political duality: both an institutional state apparatus and a cultural imaginary of shared nationhood. I conclude with some thoughts on the need to expand the terrain of the political in resource geography.
Nosographic analysis of osmophobia and field testing of diagnostic criteria including osmophobia
Authors: Chalmer Mona Ameri , Hansen Thomas Folkmann , Olesen Jes
Published: April 2018

Introduction

Osmophobia has been suggested as an additional symptom of migraine without aura, and a high prevalence of osmophobia of up to 50% has been reported in the literature. We conducted a nosographic study of osmophobia in all migraineurs and tension-type headache patients and a field testing of suggested diagnostic criteria of osmophobia, presented in the appendix of the second edition of The International Classification of Headache Disorders and suggested by Silva-Néto et al. and Wang et al ., in migraine without aura and tension-type headache patients (n = 1934).

Materials and methods

Each patient received a validated semi-structured interview. All subjects fulfilled the diagnostic criteria of the second edition of The International Classification of Headache Disorders for migraine or tension-type headache. Statistical analyses were performed using statistical software R. The statistical R package “Caret” was used to construct a confusion matrix and retrieve sensitivity, which is defined as the suggested criteria’s ability to correctly diagnose migraine without aura patients, and specificity, defined as the suggested criteria’s ability to not wrongly diagnose tension-type headache patients.

Results

Osmophobia was present in 33.5% of patients with migraine with aura, in 36.0% of patients with migraine without aura, and in 1.2% of patients with tension-type headache. All migraineurs with osmophobia also fulfilled the current criteria for migraine by having nausea or photophobia and phonophobia. The appendix criteria had a sensitivity of 0.96 and a specificity of 0.99 for migraine without aura, and a sensitivity of 0.65 and a specificity of 0.99 for probable migraine without aura. Both the criteria by Silva-Néto et al. and Wang et al. had a sensitivity of 0.98 and a specificity of 0.99 for migraine without aura, and a sensitivity of 0.66 and a specificity of 0.99 for probable migraine without aura.

Discussion

This study demonstrates the remarkable specificity of osmophobia. The criteria by Silva-Néto et al. and Wang et al. both had a higher sensitivity than the appendix criteria for migraine without aura; all three criteria had a low sensitivity for probable migraine without aura. However, neither the appendix criteria nor the criteria by Silva-Néto et al. or Wang et al. added any extra patients that would not have been diagnosed by the current diagnostic criteria for migraine. Osmophobia is a valuable symptom that may be useful to differentiate between migraine without aura and tension-type headache in difficult clinical cases.

Conclusion

Our results do not suggest that alterations of the current diagnostic criteria for migraine without aura are needed.