bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lead Intoxication in Free-Ranging Bald Eagles (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)
Authors: Manning Leah K. , Wünschmann Arno , Armién Anibal G. , Willette Michelle , MacAulay Kathleen , Bender Jeff B. , Buchweitz John P. , Redig Patrick
Published: December 2018

Lead toxicity due to ingestion of spent ammunition is an ongoing cause of mortality in bald eagles. While gross and histologic lesions of lead intoxication have been described in a few individuals of this species, the prevalence of lesions is underreported. A retrospective study of 93 bald eagles with severe lead intoxication was performed to describe the associated lesions and their prevalence and to compare the lesions with blood, liver, kidney, and/or bone lead concentrations. Gross lesions associated with lead toxicity were most frequent within the heart (51/93 birds) and consisted of multifocal myocardial pallor and rounding of the apex. Within the brain, gross lesions included petechiae or hemorrhagic necrosis (13/93 birds). Histologic lesions compatible with lead toxicity occurred within the heart (76/93 birds), brain (59/93 birds), and eyes (24/87 birds). Lead toxicity in bald eagles is characterized by fibrinoid necrosis of small- to medium-caliber arteries, most commonly affecting the heart, brain, and eyes. Gross and histologic lesions are consistent with ischemia caused by a primary vascular injury. A blood lead concentration of greater than 4 ppm and markedly elevated liver lead concentrations were associated with a greater likelihood of lesions in the heart. Severe lead intoxication is frequently associated with lesions that are histologically detectable in bald eagles. The presence of fibrinoid arterial necrosis and parenchymal degeneration, necrosis, and/or hemorrhage within the heart, brain, and/or eyes is suggestive of lead toxicity in bald eagles and warrants evaluation of liver or bone lead concentrations.
Improvement in Functional Outcome Scores Despite Persistent Pain With 1 Year of Nonsurgical Management for Acetabular Labral Tears With or Without Femoroacetabular Impingement
Authors: Quinlan Noah J. , Alpaugh Kyle , Upadhyaya Shivam , Conaway William K. , Martin Scott D.
Published: December 2018

Background:

Acetabular labral tears are increasingly recognized as a source of hip pain in a younger active population. Given the significant focus on surgical intervention, there has been limited investigation on the nonsurgical management and natural history of such injuries.

Hypothesis:

Patients undergoing nonsurgical treatment for symptomatic acetabular labral tears experience functional improvement based on patient-reported outcome measures over the course of 1 year.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Seventy-one patients were identified who had acetabular labral injuries confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging or arthrography, received a minimum of 1 year of nonsurgical treatment, and completed baseline functional outcome questionnaires: modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Hip Outcome Score (HOS)–Activities of Daily Living, HOS-Sports, and iHOT-33 (International Hip Outcome Tool–33). Of these, 52 (73.2%) completed the minimum 1-year follow-up questionnaires. Chart review was conducted to obtain demographic information. Statistical significance ( P < .05) was determined by paired t test, independent samples t test, and chi-square test.

Results:

Twenty-two male and 30 female patients completed 1-year follow-up questionnaires. Mean ± SD follow-up time was 16.2 ± 3.1 months. The cohort had a mean age of 38.9 ± 9.3 years. Baseline radiographs demonstrated minimal arthritis (Tönnis grades 0-2). Mean alpha angle differed significantly between men and women at 52.9°± 8.6° and 46.3°± 8.5°, respectively. At 1-year follow-up, patients experienced a significant improvement in all 4 functional outcome measures (mHHS: 72.6 vs 81.8, HOS–Activities of Daily Living: 78.6 vs 86.4, HOS-Sports: 56.0 vs 71.1, iHOT-33: 47.5 vs 67.9). Patients with and without femoroacetabular impingement demonstrated a significant improvement in the mHHS. However, 48.1% reported no improvement in their pain; 69.2% were limited in their activities; and 40.4% were still considering surgery. Overall, 71.2% were satisfied with nonsurgical treatment.

Conclusion:

Patients with symptomatic labral tears can experience functional improvement after a minimum 1 year of nonsurgical treatment in the presence and absence of femoroacetabular impingement. However, many report residual pain, alteration of their activities, and interest in surgery. This information is important when patients are counseled in the treatment options for this injury. Identifying the population that responds best to nonsurgical management and comparing outcomes with those undergoing surgical management should be the focus of future research. Longer-term follow-up may be necessary to reevaluate pain, function, and return to activities.
Disaster waste management after the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake: A mini-review of earthquake waste management and the Kumamoto experience
Authors: Sakai Shinichi , Poudel Raju , Asari Misuzu , Kirikawa Takuya
Published: December 2018

Millions of tons of debris can be generated by natural disasters, impacting the surrounding environment and posing health risks to the public. Proper handling and treatment of such waste is essential to overcome potential hazards as well as to reduce the burden on natural resources during the reconstruction phase. Disaster waste management can have social, economic, and environmental benefits if planned effectively. This mini-review focuses on the destruction caused and debris generated by the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake in Japan. In addition, it elaborates upon the treatment of debris in Kumamoto at temporary and secondary storage sites by segregation and the adoption of a full-scale recycling system. It also shows that cooperative networks involving numerous organizations are important in managing a large amount of disaster waste. Finally, it presents comparative discussions of different aspects of disaster waste management in the Kumamoto Earthquake event and other disasters. The experience gained from the Kumamoto Earthquake is important for future disaster waste management planning.
Bullying Victimization Among Peruvian Children: The Predictive Role of Parental Maltreatment
Authors: Benavides Abanto Carlos Martin , Jara-Almonte Juan Leon , Stuart Jimena , La Riva Diana
Published: December 2018

Bullying among schoolchildren is increasingly being recognized as a major problem. Although previous studies have examined parental maltreatment as a risk factor for bullying, the evidence on this topic remains limited in Latin America. The aim of this study was then to measure the prevalence of bullying victimization among a nationally representative sample of Peruvian children and to test the association between bullying victimization and parental maltreatment in Peru. This study used a pooled data set from the 2013 and 2015 Peru National Surveys on social relations. Participants were Peruvian children aged from 9 years to 11 years in the fourth, fifth, and sixth grade of primary in both public and private schools nationwide. The results indicated that almost one third of Peruvian children have experienced physical bullying and nearly half of them psychological bullying. However, only a small percentage reported experiencing bullying very frequently. Furthermore, it was found that parental maltreatment in any form—physical or psychological—was strongly and positively associated with physical and psychological bullying victimization. The results also showed that the probabilities of being physically or psychologically bullied were higher among children who experienced physical or psychological parental maltreatment than among children who have not experienced such violence. The probabilities of being bullied were even higher among children who experienced both types of parental maltreatment. Consistent with previous research, these findings suggest that the relationship that children establish with their parents will largely determine how they interact with their peers.
Differences by Victim Race and Ethnicity in Race- and Ethnicity-Motivated Violent Bias Crimes: A National Study
Authors: Tessler Robert A. , Langton Lynn , Rivara Frederick P. , Vavilala Monica S. , Rowhani-Rahbar Ali
Published: December 2018

Over 80% of bias-motivated violent victimization is motivated by race or ethnicity and over 50% of bias victimization occurs in non-Hispanic Whites (NHW). Our aim was to determine the risk and health impacts of race/ethnicity-motivated violent victimization by victim race/ethnicity. We examined data from the National Crime Victimization Survey (2003-2015) to estimate violent victimization risk by victim race/ethnicity across race/ethnicity bias victimization, other types of bias victimizations, and non-bias violent victimizations. We examined incident and offender characteristics for race/ethnicity-motivated victimization by victim race/ethnicity. The risk of race/ethnicity-motivated violent victimization was greater for non-Hispanic Blacks (NHB) and Hispanics than for NHWs (incidence rate ratios [IRR] = 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.0, 2.0], and IRR = 1.6; 95% CI = [1.2, 2.1]). This translates into an additional 46.7 incidents per 100,000 person-years (95% CI = [1.4, 92.1]) for the NHB population and an additional 60.3 incidents per 100,000 person-years (95% CI = [20.3, 100.4]) for the Hispanic population. Violent incidents for NHB victims more frequently resulted in injury or medical care. Nearly 40% of NHB victims reported difficulties at school or work related to the incident where only 21.5% of NHWs and 11.7% of Hispanic victims reported similar problems. Roughly 37% of NHB victims identified a NHW offender and 45% of NHW victims identified a NHB offender. Hispanic victims identified NHB or NHW offenders in over 70% of incidents. Although literature suggests that NHWs account for the majority of bias victimizations, the risk of non-fatal violent victimization motivated by race/ethnicity is greater for NHBs and Hispanics. Crimes perpetrated against NHBs are likely more severe and victim/offender racial incongruity is common. Findings provide empiric evidence on race/ethnicity-related structural disadvantage with adverse health consequences.
Repair of Bilateral Comminuted Mandibular Fractures in a 12-Week-Old Puppy Using Locking and Nonlocking Maxillofacial Reconstruction Plates
Authors: Basuki Williana , Rawlinson Jennifer E. , Palmer Ross H.
Published: December 2018

A 12-week-old male intact French bulldog presented to a university teaching hospital for bilateral comminuted caudal mandibular fractures following an altercation with another dog. The fractures were stabilized using locking and standard maxillofacial miniplates. The 8-week and 14-week postoperative reexaminations and radiographs revealed eventual bony healing and remodeling of both mandibular rami, but multiple complications associated with the miniplates were encountered. These included intraoral wound dehiscence, implant fracture, implant loosening, sequestrum formation, and an impacted right mandibular fourth premolar. Implant failure on the alveolar border in this case report was associated with the resorption and new bone deposition of the rostral/caudal ramus, respectively, associated with mandibular growth. An alternate surgical option would have been use of a longer, larger bridging plate placed on the ventral border without use of a dorsal plate to minimize these complications.
Preparation and characterization of high-performance polyamic acid salt hydrogel in aqueous solution
Authors: Zhou Haoran , Zheng Shuai , Liu Changwei , Qu Chunyan , Wang Yiying , Xiao Wanbao , Li Hongfeng , Zhao Daoxiang , Chang Jiaying
Published: December 2018

Herein, we report an easy-to-prepare polyamic acid salt (PAAS) hydrogel with multiple functionalities including rapid self-healing, stimuli-responsive properties, and conductivity. This study describes a method for synthesizing PAAS hydrogel in aqueous solution. Phenylenediamine and 3,3′,4,4′-biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride were used to prepare a hydrogel with a fully aromatic backbone via gradual polymerization. It is possible to use the gel in the field of biomaterials in the absence of organic solvents. The prepared hydrogel was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and dynamic rheometry. The gel has good toughness and the storage modulus and tensile stress are, respectively, about 0.25 and 0.45 MPa. Our study may pave the way for the manufacture of PAAS hydrogel, which may promote the development of hydrogel materials.
Guidance law for mimicking short-range ballistic trajectories
Authors: Sharma Yash Raj , Ratnoo Ashwini
Published: December 2018

This paper considers the problem of mimicking short-range ballistic trajectories and presents a feedback guidance law addressing that. Analysis of the ideal ballistic trajectory is carried out and closed-form expressions are derived for the heading error and its derivative. Satisfying the launch angle, the impact angle, and the initial heading error rate of the ballistic trajectory, a guidance law is proposed using bearings-only information of the impact point. Analysis of the proposed guidance law is carried out evaluating the variation in guidance gains, the maximum look-angle, and the capturability. Analyzing the time-varying effective navigation gain, boundedness of the lateral acceleration is also ascertained. Simulations are carried out mimicking the ideal and realistic ballistic trajectories. Robustness of the proposed guidance method is verified against wind disturbances and error in modeling drag coefficient.
Joshua Harold Burn (1892–1981): A visionary during the evolution of pharmacology as a biomedical discipline
Authors: Rubin Ronald P
Published: December 2018

This article encapsulates the career of Joshua Burn, whose work encouraged new lines of experimentation and paved the way for fundamental advances in our knowledge of the autonomic nervous system. His legacy also endures in his efforts as Department Chairman to oversee a very supportive environment which led to the development of many successful scientists. By producing a body of work that enabled the discipline of pharmacology to contribute in a major way to the advancement of clinical medicine, Joshua Burn stands out as a unique figure in the annals of true scientific pioneers.
Addressing the Gender Continuum: A Concept Analysis
Authors: Castleberry Jennifer
Published: December 2018

Introduction: The purpose of this concept analysis aims to bring awareness of the gender continuum to nurse educators and students and break down gender stereotypes. Method: Using the Walker and Avant concept analysis approach, this analysis is based on a transcultural nursing theory framework. Results: Gender continuum is an umbrella concept, accounting for components beyond how a person identifies. These components include how one conforms to gender roles, expresses gender outwardly, and anatomical or biological characteristics one possesses. Discussion: Nursing students must recognize gender alternatives beyond male and female to provide culturally competent care for transgender and gender nonconforming patients. The impact of this analysis can result in a better understanding of the gender continuum among nurse educators and the dissemination of knowledge to nursing students. Broader knowledge of this concept can lead to dissolution of gender binaries in health care and more culturally competent care provision for all patients.
Moving Toward Openness: Blackfeet Indians’ Perception Changes Regarding Talking About End of Life
Authors: Colclough Yoshiko Yamashita , Brown Gary M.
Published: December 2018

This study was conducted to examine cultural appropriateness and readiness for the Blackfeet people in the United States talking about end of life. In the past, a taboo perception of Blackfeet traditional belief in end-of-life discussion was identified as a core barrier for hospice use. However, a recent anecdotal increase in hospice interest triggered the research team to investigate community-wide interest as well as traditional appropriateness of hospice introduction. The community-based participatory research approach was used to conduct the study. Using convenience sampling, we interviewed 10 tribally recognized Elders and surveyed 102 tribal members who were over 18 years old using a modified Duke End-of-Life Care Survey. Here, our report focused on the perception changes on end-of-life discussion. The elders’ statements were divided into two, saying that an end-of-life discussion was not against tradition and that sickness and death would break the living spirit, thus no such discussion. Despite, the importance of a family gathering and the need for knowledge about end-of-life care were confirmed. The survey (response rate 100%; n = 92) showed that 90% of the respondents thought dying was a normal part of life and 76% felt comfortable talking about death. In conclusion, there was a shift in the Blackfeet Indians’ attitude toward end-of-life discussion from reluctance to at ease. Recommendations specific to the Blackfeet-related entities are presented.
Self-Censorship Among Student Journalists Based on Perceived Threats and Risks
Authors: Farquhar Lee K. , Carey Michael Clay
Published: December 2018

This research analyzes news-making decisions and self-censorship among student journalists through the lens of gatekeeping theory. Using Q methodology, the study examines responses of 45 student journalists who were asked about variables that would influence their decisions not to pursue a controversial story. Four factors emerged based on analysis of three principal variables: the source of perceived threats, the nature of those threats, and the parties most likely to suffer if the threats come to fruition.
Life/ography as Storytelling: Using Letters, Diaries, Journals, and Poetry to Understand the Work of Female Leaders
Authors: Janesick Valerie J.
Published: December 2018

This article reflexively engages and discusses a Life/ography project involving two female superintendents of schools in two U.S. North Central states who are dedicated to making their respective districts a better learning community. Life/ography is used to refer to life history, oral history, and biography as valued qualitative research approaches for understanding the social world of individuals—in this case, of female leaders. Originally, the study began with curiosity about gender issues; however, it became a study of shifting patterns in the workplace and the structure of work. The values of stories about real-life individuals lead us to understanding a person’s life in context in all of its raw truth, beauty, and suffering. By using letters, diaries, reflective journals, and poetry to augment the interviews in the study, Life/ography offers many paths to access imagination, curiosity, and critical reflexive practice and thought.
Envisioning Future Directions: Conversations With Leaders in Domestic and Sexual Assault Advocacy, Policy, Service, and Research
Authors: White Jacquelyn W. , Sienkiewicz Holly C. , Smith Paige Hall
Published: December 2018

This article delves into the views of 72 leaders in domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy, policy, service, and research to determine their vision for the future direction of the field. Through discussions with experts, we identified numerous strategies necessary to best meet the needs of domestic violence and sexual assault victims. Common themes focused on the need to (a) examine the context of victims’ and offenders’ experiences; (b) increase cultural competence to adequately provide appropriate victim services and criminal justice responses for underserved, marginalized, and culturally specific populations; (c) increase reliance on victims’ voices; (d) continue to develop partnerships at both the community and the state levels and ensure the role of local communities; (e) expand the concept of successful outcomes that can be reliably and validly assessed; (f) emphasize mixed-methods approaches to address these questions, in recognition that various methods complement each other; and (g) be open to novel or emerging approaches to intervention.
Coercive Control: Update and Review
Authors: Stark Evan , Hester Marianne
Published: December 2018

This article reviews the background, introduction, and critical response to new criminal offenses of coercive control in England/Wales and Scotland. How the new Scottish offense is implemented will determine whether it can overcome the shortcomings of the English law. We then review new evidence on four dimensions of coercive control: the relationship between “control” and “violence,” coercive control in same-sex couples, measuring coercive control, and children’s experience of coercive control. Coercive control is not a type of violence. Indeed, level of control predicts a range of negative outcomes heretofore associated with physical abuse, including post-separation violence and sexual assault; important differences in coercive control dynamics distinguish male homosexual from lesbian couples; measuring coercive control requires innovative ways of aggregating and categorizing data; and how children experience coercive control is a problem area that offers enormous promise for the years ahead.
Long-term results of a diffractive trifocal intraocular lens: Visual, aberrometric and patient satisfaction results
Authors: Oliveira Renan F , Vargas Veronica , Plaza-Puche Ana Belén , Alió Jorge L
Published: December 2018

Purpose:

To evaluate the long-term objective and subjective results of a trifocal intraocular lens.

Methods:

Prospective observational study enrolling 24 eyes that underwent uneventful microincisional cataract surgery with bilateral implantation of a diffractive trifocal intraocular lens (FineVision Micro F, PhysIOL, Belgium). After a mean follow-up period of 60 ± 2 months, patients answered the 10-item Near Activity Vision Questionnaire (NAVQ-10) and were assessed for uncorrected and corrected distance, intermediate and near visual acuity, defocus curve, light-distortion analysis, and total ocular aberrometry with a pyramidal wavefront sensor (Osiris, CSO, Italy).

Results:

There was significant improvement of uncorrected visual acuity at all distances in all eyes (p < 0.01). The distorsion index and best-fit circle radius were significantly lower in binocular conditions (p = 0.02). Mean Rasch score at NAVQ-10 was 16.29 ± 11.57. Patients reported to be completely, very, and moderately satisfied with their uncorrected near vision in 67%, 25%, and 8% of cases, respectively. We found no significant correlation between patient satisfaction scores at near vision satisfaction questionnaire and other variables such as light-distortion analysis or wavefront aberrometry parameters.

Conclusion:

The studied diffractive trifocal intraocular lens provides good and stable long-term results for distance, intermediate, and near vision, with high levels of patient satisfaction at long-term follow-up. The intraocular lens’ light-distortion effect is less disturbing in binocular conditions and may have its perception down-modulated by neuroadaptation over time.
Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography foveal morphology as a prognostic factor for vision performance in congenital aniridia
Authors: Casas-Llera Pilar , Siverio Ana , Esquivel Gemma , Bautista Cristina , Alió Jorge L
Published: December 2018

Background:

Patients with congenital aniridia usually have some degree of foveal hypoplasia, thus representing a limiting factor in the final visual acuity achieved by these patients. The purpose of this study was to analyze whether the foveal morphology assessed by spectral-domain optical coherence tomography may serve as a prognostic indicator for best-corrected visual acuity in congenital aniridia patients.

Methods:

Observational two-center study performed between January 2012 and March 2017 in the pediatric ophthalmology department at Vissum Alicante and Vissum Madrid, Spain. A total of 31 eyes from 19 patients with congenital aniridia were included. After a complete ophthalmological examination, a high-resolution spectral-domain optical coherence tomography with a three-dimensional scan program macular protocol was used. A morphological grading system of foveal hypoplasia was used varying from grade 1 in which there is a presence of a shallow foveal pit, extrusion of inner retinal layers, outer nuclear layer widening, and a presence of outer segment lengthening to grade 4 in which none of these processes occur.

Results:

No correlation between central, mid-peripheral, and peripheral macular thickness and logMAR best-corrected visual acuity was found. The presence of outer segment lengthening was associated with better best-corrected visual acuity with a median best-corrected visual acuity, 0.30 logMAR, whereas the absence of this morphologic feature was associated with poorer VA with a median best-corrected visual acuity of 0.61 logMAR (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Foveal hypoplasia morphology can predict the best-corrected visual acuity. Specifically, the morphologic optical coherence tomography feature that is related to a better best-corrected visual acuity in congenital aniridia patients is the presence of outer segment lengthening.
Deadly detectives: how Aboriginal Australian writers are re-creating crime fiction
Authors: Watson Nicole
Published: December 2018

The depiction of Aboriginal people in Australian detective novels has always been problematic. In colonial crime stories, Aboriginal people were typically represented as dangerous brutes and noble savages. Today, overtly demeaning stereotypes are less common, but Aboriginal characters still tend to lack complexity and perform subservient roles. In recent decades, Aboriginal writers have chosen to reclaim the genre and transform it into a space of empowerment. Their primary tool is the trope of characters that bring Aboriginal voices to the centre of the narrative. This trope is evident in protagonists that are engaged with political issues that affect their communities, and who experience racism as pervasive. Aboriginal detectives often suffer from the legacies of the former child removal policy. The reconciliation of such individuals with their kin and ancestral homelands will often occur in tandem with the resolution of the crime.
Cryptogenic Stroke: To Close a Patent Foramen Ovale or Not to Close?
Authors: Kottoor Santhosh J , Arora Rohit R
Published: December 2018

A patent foramen ovale (PFO) has been shown to be highly prevalent in patients diagnosed with strokes of unknown cause, which are also called cryptogenic strokes (CSs). It has been a long-running controversy as to whether a PFO should be closed or not to prevent recurrent strokes in patients diagnosed with CS. A paradoxical embolism that is produced through a PFO is hypothesized to be a leading cause of CS, especially in younger patients with low risk factors for stroke. It remains controversial as to which anticoagulation therapy, defined as antithrombin or antiplatelet therapy, is better for patients with CS and a PFO. In addition, surgical and transcutaneous closure of a PFO has been proposed for the secondary prevention of stroke in patients with CS with PFO. Several randomized controlled trials have been conducted in recent years to test whether a PFO closure gives a significant benefit in the management of CS. Three earlier randomized controlled trials failed to show a statistically significant benefit for a PFO closure; thus, many investigators believed that a PFO was an incidental bystander in patients with CS. However, meta-analyses and more recent specific trials have eliminated several confounding factors and possible biases and have also emphasized the use of a shunt closure over medical therapy in patients with CS. Therefore, these latest studies (the CLOSE and REDUCE trials) can possibly change the treatment paradigm in the near future.
Psoriasis and Atopic Dermatitis “Resistant” to Topical Treatment Responds Rapidly to Topical Desoximetasone Spray
Authors: Hogue Latrice , Cardwell Leah A. , Roach Catherine , Felix Kayla H. , Oussedik Elias , Richardson Irma , Feldman Steven R.
Published: December 2018

Purpose:

Topical corticosteroids (TS) are a treatment for atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis (Ps). We assessed whether use of a TS under conditions designed to enhance adherence would be effective in patients who “failed” TS in the outpatient setting.

Methods:

Individuals with treatment-resistant Ps or AD were recruited (AD, n = 12; Ps, n = 12). Six participants were randomized to each of 2 groups of desoximetasone 0.25% spray alone (n = 6) or desoximetasone spray plus twice-daily phone call reminders to use the medication. Disease severity was assessed.

Results:

In treatment-resistant Ps patients, desoximetasone spray, with reminders, resulted in statistically significant improvement in all outcome measures. In treatment-resistant AD patients, there was statistically significant improvement in some assessments. Despite the very small sample size and short evaluation time, statistically significant changes were detected in this cohort. This is evidence of the large effect size of TS for Ps and AD when the treatment is used.

Conclusions:

Patients with “treatment-resistant” Ps and AD generally responded well to the use of desoximetasone spray in the trial setting. This may be due to better adherence in the study environment or patients’ preference for the spray vehicle. Patient reminders contributed to improved clinical outcomes in Ps and AD patients with “treatment-resistant” disease.
Shared illness appraisal and self-efficacy among adults with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Zajdel Melissa , Helgeson Vicki S , Kelly Caitlin S , Berg Cynthia A
Published: December 2018

We examined the interaction between shared illness appraisal and self-efficacy among couples in which one partner was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes ( n = 199). We hypothesized that the relation between self-efficacy and health would be weakened under conditions of shared rather than individual appraisal. Multiple regression analyses demonstrated that partner shared illness appraisal interacted with the self-efficacy of the person with type 1 diabetes to predict overall psychological distress and daily diabetes stressors in the predicted direction. Plots of the interactions suggest that partner appraisal of diabetes as shared buffers individuals with lower levels of self-efficacy from poorer health.
High-pressure versus low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation in a Euro 6 diesel engine with lean-NOx trap: Effectiveness to reduce NOx emissions
Authors: Lapuerta Magín , Ramos Ángel , Fernández-Rodríguez David , González-García Inmaculada
Published: December 2018

Exhaust gas recirculation can be achieved by means of two different routes: the high-pressure route (high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation), where exhaust gas is conducted from upstream of the turbine to downstream of the compressor, and the low-pressure one (low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation), where exhaust gas is recirculated from downstream of the turbine and of the aftertreatment system to upstream of the compressor. In this study, the effectiveness of both exhaust gas recirculation systems on the improvement of the NOx-particulate matter emission trade-off has been compared on a Euro 6 turbocharged diesel engine equipped with a diesel oxidation catalyst, a lean-NOx trap, and a diesel particulate filter. Emissions were measured both upstream and downstream of the aftertreatment system, at different combinations of engine speed and torque (corresponding to different vehicle speeds), at transient and steady conditions, and at different coolant temperatures as switch points to change from high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation to low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation. It was shown that low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation was more efficient than high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation to reduce NOx emissions, mainly due to the higher recirculation potential and the lower temperature of the recirculated gas. However, such a differential benefit decreased as the coolant temperature decreased, which suggests the use of high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation during the engine warm-up. It was also shown that the lean-NOx trap storage efficiency decreased more rapidly at high engine load than at medium load and that such reduction in efficiency was much faster when high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation was used than when low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation was used.
Experimental assessment of the sources of regulated and unregulated nanoparticles in gasoline direct-injection engines
Authors: Bardi Michele , Pilla Guillaume , Gautrot Xavier
Published: December 2018

This work investigates nanoparticles formation process in light-duty gasoline direct-injection engines operated in homogeneous combustion. The analysis specifically focuses on the contribution of particles in the range of 10–23 nm, which are expected to be taken into account in future emission regulations. Experiments were carried out on a single-cylinder 0.4-L displacement gasoline direct-injection optical engine. Exhaust gases were analyzed by means of a commercial device (DMS500) to obtain a quantitative measurement of the particulates number and size. Optical diagnostics (broadband color imaging and liquid phase laser-induced fluorescence) were employed to correlate the exhaust measurements to the in-cylinder physical phenomena. The main leverages to control soot particulates formation were investigated. The engine temperature was found to have a significant impact during the entire warm-up phase on the global particulates number and also on the relative contribution of the 10–23 nm range to the total particulates number. Injection phasing has also a primary role in the formation of particulates in the small range of the spectrum when operating in mild stratified combustion mode. On the other hand, an increased in-cylinder aerodynamic (e.g. combined swirl-tumble motion) has a positive impact in reducing global particulates number but also causes an increase of the 10–23 nm relative contribution. Optical diagnostics helped establishing a relationship between the detection of liquid film, the consequent pool fires and the exhaust gas measurements. The evaporation of the liquid film detected on the injector nozzle and the intake valve right after the injection appears to be decisive for the formation of nanoparticles in pool-fire mode. The experimental results indicate that when pool fires were detected, the particulates number increased drastically in the whole range of the spectrum including the 10–23 nm range. Authors relate this effect to in-homogeneities in the fuel-mixing field induced by the evaporation of the liquid film.
Thermal efficiency improvement with super-charging and cooled exhaust gas recirculation in semi-premixed diesel combustion with a twin peak shaped heat release
Authors: Inaba Kazuki , Ojima Yuto , Masuko Yosuke , Kobashi Yoshimitsu , Shibata Gen , Ogawa Hideyuki
Published: December 2018

Thermal efficiency–related parameters in semi-premixed diesel combustion with a twin peak shaped heat release were experimentally investigated in a 0.55-L single-cylinder diesel engine. Here, the first heat release peak is realized with the premixed combustion at top dead center after the end of the first fuel injection with a sufficient ignition delay. The fuel injection quantity for the first combustion was maximized in a range to limit the rate of pressure rise below 0.6 MPa/°CA at 0.4 MPa IMEP, 0.8 MPa/°CA at 0.8 MPa IMEP, and 1.0 MPa/°CA at 1.3 MPa IMEP to ensure the large degree of constant volume heat release and to suppress smoke emissions. The second heat release peak is formed from the rate-controlled combustion with the second fuel injection immediately after the end of the first combustion. The influence of the intake oxygen concentration and the intake gas pressure on the thermal efficiency and the exhaust gas emissions was systematically examined at three load conditions (indicated mean effective pressure ≈0.4, 0.8, and 1.3 MPa). The results with two types of combustion chambers, a toroidal chamber expecting smaller cooling losses with weaker in-cylinder gas motion, and with a re-entrant chamber expecting better air utilization with stronger in-cylinder gas motion are compared. At the medium load, a significantly high indicated thermal efficiency exceeding 50% is established with a reduction in the intake oxygen concentration due to the smaller cooling loss. The indicated thermal efficiency improves with a decrease in the intake oxygen concentration as the reduction in the cooling loss is more significant than the increase in the exhaust loss. However, an excessive reduction in the intake oxygen concentration results in a deterioration in the indicated thermal efficiency due to a reduction in the combustion efficiency. At low load conditions, the indicated thermal efficiency is lower than at the medium load due to lower combustion efficiency and the improvement in the indicated thermal efficiency with reductions in the intake oxygen concentration is not significant as the combustion efficiency decreases with the decrease in the intake oxygen concentration. At the high load condition, the indicated thermal efficiency is lower due to a larger exhaust loss than at the low and medium load conditions and the indicated thermal efficiency decreases with the decrease in the intake oxygen concentration. With an increase in the intake gas pressure, the indicated thermal efficiency increases consistently mainly due to the reducing cooling loss. In comparison with the re-entrant combustion chamber, the indicated thermal efficiency with the toroidal combustion chamber is 1% higher due to a smaller cooling loss at the low load, almost comparable at the medium load and 1.2% lower at the high load due to the larger exhaust loss.
Brandishing Guns: Performing Race and Belonging in the American West
Authors: Livingston Lindsay
Published: December 2018

This article examines the racial dynamics and performative nature of US gun culture by analyzing the 2014 standoff between Cliven Bundy and the Bureau of Land Management. The standoff followed discernible scripts of white masculine privilege and drew on scenarios of conquest in the US American West, as Bundy’s supporters gathered at his ranch and brandished their weapons in open defiance of the federal government. The act of brandishing their guns was a ‘performance of belonging’, a public, theatrical gesture that marks the bearer as a full participant in civic life and all its attendant rights and privileges. This belonging, however, is predicated on histories of white supremacist laws and settler colonialist violence. By reading gun culture in the United States through the lens of performance, this article traces the profound discrepancies between legal and practical gun rights and illuminates one of the most intractable debates at the center of US American life.
Gender difference of symptoms of acute coronary syndrome among Chinese patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: An Libin , Li Wentao , Shi Hongling , Zhou Xiaohua , Liu Xin , Wang Huina , Liu Ju , Fan Shuqin
Published: December 2018

Background:

The incidence of acute coronary syndrome is increasing in China.

Objective:

To investigate gender differences in Chinese patients’ acute coronary syndrome symptoms, attribution of symptoms and reasons for seeking medical service.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, multicentre study. Acute coronary syndrome patients were recruited from five university hospitals located in four cities, between June 2013 and February 2014. Data were collected using the McSweeney acute and prodromal myocardial infarction symptom survey.

Results:

A total of 806 patients with acute coronary syndrome (323 men, 483 women) participated in the study. Adjusted (diabetes, smoking, age) logistic regression models revealed that women were significantly more likely to have pain or discomfort in the: central high chest; back, between, or under the shoulder blades; neck or throat; or arms relative to men. Women were also more likely to have unusual fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, or dizziness relative to men. Conversely, women were significantly less likely to have generalised chest pain relative to men. Gender difference in the attribution of symptoms was largely driven by women’s attribution to having a heart attack more frequently than men. Finally, women were more often told by a friend to seek medical help or they knew their symptoms were different, while men more frequently sought medical help because their symptoms did not go away.

Conclusions:

There were gender differences in pain, discomfort and other symptoms. Both potential patients and healthcare providers need to be more aware of potential gender differences in acute coronary syndrome symptoms and decisions to seek care to ensure quick access.
Macro role transition after subtractive status degradation: A case study of Turkish principals
Authors: Göktürk Şöheyda , Tülübaş Tijen , Keklik Yasin
Published: December 2018

This qualitative case study examines the macro role transition experiences of the ex-school principals who were returned to teaching following an abrupt policy change in 2014. Based on an existing model of macro role transition and role identification by Ashforth, the present study aims to understand the challenging consequences of this subtractive status degradation for these ex-principals as well as their identity remaking processes. The data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 15 ex-principals who underwent this experience. The thematic analysis of the data revealed that the high-magnitude and socially undesirable nature of their macro role transition fostered negative valence and increased the difficulty of transferring into the teaching role. The analysis also demonstrated that this troublesome role transition experience had some detrimental effects on their identity remaking. A well-planned and clearly articulated policy change could provide principals with the necessary psychological and academic support, and lessen the speculations that could have impaired the role transition process.
Framing internal politics in a conflict situation: A study of the 2014 election campaign news in the local newspapers in the Indian-administered Kashmir region
Authors: Nadaf Arif Hussain
Published: December 2018

International conflict reporting and national media discourse of warring nations continue to dominate existing scholarship on media–conflict relationships. The literature on the subject lacks significant consideration towards understanding the relevance of local and sub-national media narratives in conflict situations. The existing literature on the media–conflict relationship in the conflict territory of Kashmir shows that the issue has been largely studied from the perspective of national news media in India and Pakistan. This study while engaging with the local news media in the Kashmir region, draws empirical evidence from the local newspapers in the context of the 2014 State Assembly election campaigns which took place amid unprecedented political polarization in the region. The findings from the content analysis revealed that the contested political issues between the political parties found higher resonance in the campaign news while the deliberation regarding the conflict in the region and its resolution had the least prevalence in the news discourse. This not only confirms the significant relevance of local news media and internal political dynamics in redefining the media–conflict relationship in the Kashmir conflict but also suggests the further need to engage with local and regional news narratives in conflict situations.
Functional results of wrist arthrodesis versus arthroplasty with proximal fibula following giant cell tumour excision of the distal radius
Authors: Qu Huayi , Guo Wei , Li Dasen , Yang Yi , Wei Ran , Xu Jie
Published: December 2018

Twenty-one patients underwent excision of a Campanacci grade III giant cell tumour of the distal radius and had reconstruction using a proximal fibula autograft. We compared the functional results of wrist arthrodesis versus arthroplasty. All 21 patients healed in an average of 8 months, and all have remained disease free. The Musculoskeletal Tumor Society 93, the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand scores and the grip strength of the operated wrist compared with the contralateral wrist were 93%, 7, and 71% for the arthrodesis group and 83%, 17, and 40% for the arthroplasty group. Arthrodesis of the reconstructed radiocarpal joint provided better grip strength and functional outcomes than arthroplasty.

Level of evidence: III
Gene code CD274/PD-L1: from molecular basis toward cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Fabrizio Federico Pio , Trombetta Domenico , Rossi Antonio , Sparaneo Angelo , Castellana Stefano , Muscarella Lucia Anna
Published: December 2018

The programmed death 1 receptor (PD-1) and its ligand (PD-L1) are key molecules of immune checkpoint mechanisms in cancer and actually represent one of the main targets of immunotherapy. The predictive and prognostic values of PD-L1 expression alone in cancer patients is currently under debate due to the methodological assessment of PD-L1 expression and its temporal variations. Better detailed studies about the molecular basis of immunotherapy biomarkers are necessary. Here we summarize the current knowledge of PD-L1 gene modifications at genetic and epigenetic levels in different tumors, thus highlighting their reported correlation with cellular processes and potential impact on patient outcomes.
CDK4/6 inhibitors in breast cancer: beyond hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative disease
Authors: Matutino Adriana , Amaro Carla , Verma Sunil
Published: December 2018

The development of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhibitors has been more prominent in hormone receptor (HR)-positive human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative breast cancers, with a significant improvement in progression-free survival (PFS) in first and later lines of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) therapy. Preclinical evidence suggests that there is activity of CDK4/6 inhibitors in nonluminal cell lines. Here, we present a review of the current preclinical and clinical data on the use of CDK inhibitors in HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Secondary use of electronic health records: Availability aspects in two Nordic countries
Authors: Vikström Antti , Moen Hans , Moosavi Sanaz Rahimi , Salakoski Tapio , Salanterä Sanna
Published: December 2018

Background:

The potential for the secondary use of electronic health records (EHRs) is underused due to restrictions in national legislation. For privacy purposes, legislative restrictions limit the availability and content of EHR data provided to secondary users. These limitations do not encourage healthcare organisations to develop procedures to promote the secondary use of EHRs.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to identify factors that restrict the secondary use of unstructured EHRs in academic research in Finland and Sweden.

Method:

A study was conducted to identify these availability-restricting issues that pertain to the academic secondary use of unstructured EHRs. Using semi-structured interviews, 14 domain experts in science, hospital management and business were interviewed to evaluate the efficiency of procedures and technologies that are implemented in secondary use processes.

Results:

The results demonstrate three aspects that restrict the availability of unstructured EHRs for secondary purposes: (i) the management and (ii) privacy preservation of such data as well as (iii) potential secondary users.

Conclusion:

Based on these categories, two approaches for the secondary use of unstructured EHRs are identified: the protected processing environment and altered data.

Implications:

The protected processing environment ensures patient privacy by providing unstructured EHRs for exclusive user groups that have preferred use intentions. Compared to the use of such processing environments, data alteration enables the secondary use of unstructured EHRs for a larger user group with various use intentions but that yield less valuable content.