bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Patients with Persistent Dizziness after Vestibular Nerve Section
Authors: Thedinger Bradley S. , Thedinger Britt A.
Published: May 2019

Vestibular neurectomy can be an effective operation for the control of persistent dizziness refractory to medical treatment or even endolymphatic sac surgery. Past studies have reported favorable results, creating an almost deceptive impression of the procedure's success rate. However, not all patients will respond favorably. Some will continue to have significant postoperative disequilibrium and, worse yet, persistent vertigo. To analyze the reasons for continued problems, 142 patients undergoing various surgical approaches employed to divide the vestibular nerve (retrolabyrinthine, middle fossa, retrosigmoid and translabyrinthine) were retrospectively reviewed. Twenty-nine patients (20%) continued to have significant dizziness despite vestibular neurectomy. The reasons for failure were incomplete vestibular nerve section, poor central nervous system compensation, new vestibular disease in the opposite ear, obstructive anatomy, the presence of other central nervous system diseases, and unknown causes. This paper will detail the advantages and disadvantages of various vestibular neurectomy approaches and will present recommendations for further treatment of this difficult-to-manage group of patients.
Cochlear Implantation in Sudden Bilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Sargent Eric W. , Beck Douglas L.
Published: May 2019

Although 1–4% of all cases of sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) are bilateral, all such patients reported to date have experienced significant recovery of hearing in at least one ear. We report a case of profound, bilateral idiopathic SSHL without recovery which was treated with cochlear implantation; the first such report to our knowledge. The patient achieved open-set spondee recognition. Individuals with sudden bilateral hearing loss in whom treatable causes have been eliminated may benefit from cochlear implantation.
Thallium/Technetium Subtraction Scanning for Primary Hyperparathyroidism: Scan Sensitivity and Effect on Operative Time
Authors: Bergman Justin A. , Pallant Ronald
Published: May 2019

Over a ten-year period 26 patients were evaluated by the authors for elevated serum calcium and parathormone levels. All patients were clinically asymptomatic and were referred for parathyroid evaluation following a diagnosis of hypercalcemia made on routine SMA-12 studies. Twenty-four patients had positive thallium/technetium subtraction studies; two were suggestive of bilateral adenomata, one of which was confirmed at surgery. In two patients both thallium/technetium and technetium sestamibi scanning studies were negative. These patients were managed medically without surgical exploration. In all operative cases the patients remained normocalcemic during a six-month follow-up period. Operative times in all cases were less than one hour.
Facial Palsy from Masson's Vegetant Intravascular Hemangioendothelioma
Authors: Baylor Jeffrey E. , Antonelli Patrick J. , Rojiani Amyn , Mancuso Anthony A.
Published: May 2019

Masson's vegetant intravascular hemangioendothelioma (VIH) is a rare benign tumor that has a propensity for the head and neck but has been overlooked in the otolaryngology literature. Herein, we present the first report of facial palsy resulting from a small VIH growing in the fundus of the internal auditory canal and the labyrinthine segment of the fallopian canal.
The Role of Powered Instrumentation in the Surgical Treatment of Allergic Fungal Sinusitis
Authors: Mirante Joseph P. , Krouse John H. , Munier Michael A. , Christmas Dewey A.
Published: May 2019

Allergic fungal sinusitis is a chronic disorder that is being more frequently recognized by otolaryngologists. It is a recurrent illness characterized by frequent exacerbations, and requires aggressive medical and surgical treatment. When surgical therapy is employed, it is necessary to ensure adequate debridement and removal of edematous tissue. We have been using powered dissection as our primary method in sinus surgery over the past three years. We have treated 11 patients with allergic fungal sinusitis, and find powered instrumentation to be very effective in removing the polypoid tissue from the nose and sinuses, and in providing a clear surgical field. The procedure can be performed safely, with minimal trauma to normal tissue. We believe that the use of powered dissection greatly enhances the comprehensive treatment of allergic fungal sinusitis.
Importance of Eustachian Tube Function in Middle Ear Surgery
Authors: Tos Mirko
Published: May 2019

Poor eustachian tube function plays a major role in the pathogenesis of chronic secretory otitis media. This is illustrated by epidemiologic studies of secretory otitis media and long-term studies of treated secretory otitis. Evaluation of hearing results demonstrate that effective preoperative and postoperative tubal function is highly important for good surgical outcome in cases of chronic otitis and cholesteatoma.
Eustachian Tube Function and Otitis Media in Children
Authors: Bylander-Groth Anita , Stenström Cecilia
Published: May 2019

Recent findings from studies of populations of children with and without otitis media show that a poor ability to equalize negative pressure is a fundamental deficit of eustachian tube function. Not only was active function found to be poor in children with otitis media with effusion, it was also impaired in healthy children, as compared to adults. However, the deficit improved with age and time.

The active rather than the passive tubal function seems to be of critical importance with respect to proneness to recurrent acute otitis media and secretory otitis media. This suggests the involvement of primarily a eustachian tube opening dysfunction or muscular opening hypofunction in children, which is considered to be a primary endogenous etiologic factor.

In a subgroup of children with recurrent acute otitis media or secretory otitis media, habitual sniffing in combination with closing failure and poor active function may be a possible mechanism for the development of otitis media.
The Effect of External Nasal Dilators as Measured by Acoustic Rhinometry
Authors: Ng Bernard A. , Mamikoglu Bulent , Ahmed Mohammed S. , Corey Jacquelynne P.
Published: May 2019

The effect of a commercially available external nasal dilator, Breathe Right® (CNS, Inc., Minneapolis, MN) was measured with acoustic rhinometry in 11 healthy subjects. The cross-sectional areas—1, 2 and 3—and nasal volume—from 0 to 6 cm2—were obtained in four situations: 1) pre-decongested with no dilator, 2) pre-decongested with dilator, 3) post-decongested without dilator, and 4) post-decongested with dilator. The device significantly increased cross-sectional area (CSA) 1, which corresponds to the nasal valve area in both the pre-decongestant and post-decongestant states (p = .0001 for both). The appliance also significantly increased the nasal volume in the pre-decongested state (p = .0002), but was not significant for the post-decongested state (p = .0707). The appliance caused a significantly greater increase in CSA 1 as compared to that achieved with decongestion alone. The results of this study indicate that the Breathe Right® nasal dilator may be used to increase the area of the nasal valve.
Evaluation of Intraocular Pressure and Cataract Formation following the Long-Term Use of Nasal Corticosteroids
Authors: Öztürk Faruk , Yücetürk Ali Vefa , Kurt Emin , Ünlü H. Halis , Ilker S. Sami
Published: May 2019

It is possible that corticosteroids administered via nasal spray might reach ocular structures in levels sufficient to provoke an ocular hypertensive response and cause posterior subcapsular cataracts (PSCs) in susceptible individuals. In the present study, 26 patients who had undergone endoscopic sinus surgery were evaluated prospectively with respect to intraocular pressure and PSC formation following the use of nasal steroids for at least three months. Eighteen patients (69%) self-administered 200 μg/day of budesonide nasal spray twice daily, and eight patients (31%) self-administered 200 μg/day of beclomethasone dipropionate nasal spray twice daily, for a period of three to 19 months (mean 8.8 ± 3.6 months). Ophthalmologic examination, tonometry, visual field testing and biomicroscopic studies revealed no evidence of ocular hypertension or PSCs during postoperative follow-up. We conclude that intranasal corticosteroids can be used safely for prolonged periods without increasing the risk of ocular hypertension or PSCs.
Rosai-Dorfman Disease (Extranodal Sinus Histiocytosis) in a Patient with HIV
Authors: Perry Brian P. , Gregg Cynthia M. , Myers Sarah , Lilly Scott , Mann Karen P. , Prieto Victor
Published: May 2019

Rosai-Dorfman disease, or sinus histiocytosis with massive lymphadenopathy (SHML), is a rare histiocytosis of unknown etiology that most commonly involves the cervical lymph nodes. Extranodal involvement occurs in 30-40% of cases, most often in the head and neck. Characteristic histologic findings include emperiopolesis (engulfment) of lymphocytes and S-100 protein positivity. Treatment of Rosai-Dorfman disease is unnecessary unless the disorder becomes life- or organ-threatening, since the disease will resolve spontaneously in most patients. We present what, to the best of our knowledge, is the first reported case of Rosai-Dorfman disease limited to the skin in a patient infected with human immunodeficiency virus. SHML is described and diagnostic and therapeutic measures are reviewed.
Hamartoma of the Larynx: A Case of Unusual Bleeding after Microlaryngoscopy
Authors: Hosal A. Sefik , Hosal I. Nazmi , Gungen Yucel , Onerci Metin
Published: May 2019

We report on a rare complication of surgery in a 36-year-old man who had undergone removal of a hamartoma of the larynx. The patient had developed a submucosal lesion in the left ventricular fold, which was removed by surgical microlaryngoscopy. Following the excision, the patient began to experience an excessive amount of bleeding at the surgical site. Before hemostasis was achieved, the patient had lost almost 1,000 ml of blood. Although the occurrence of hemorrhage during surgical laryngoscopy is rare, surgeons should be aware of and prepared for this possibility.
Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Larynx
Authors: Klussmann Jens Peter , Eckel Hans Edmund
Published: May 2019

Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma, also known as anaplastic small cell or oat cell carcinoma, is a frequently encountered bronchogenic neoplasm. Despite the fact that the embryologic origins of the larynx and the lung are the same, laryngeal manifestation of small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma is unusual, accounting for less than 0.5% of laryngeal carcinomas.1 We present the case of a 72-year-old man with small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the larynx, who was treated with full-course radiotherapy and achieved complete tumor remission. Subsequently, multiple liver metastases were confirmed and systemic chemotherapy was initiated. Unfortunately, the patient died 12 months after initiation of tumor-directed therapy.
Giant Lipoma of the Larynx: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Yoskovitch Adi , Cambronero Efrain , Said Sheriff , Whiteman Michelle , Goodwin W. Jarrard
Published: May 2019

Fewer than 15% of lipomas occur in the head and neck. To date, fewer than 100 cases of laryngeal lipoma have been reported in the literature. Typical clinical manifestations include dysphagia, dyspnea and hoarseness, as well as the presence of a smooth or pedunculated mass seen endoscopically and a low attenuation mass on computed tomography scan. Pathologic sections commonly reveal a tumor consisting of mature adipocytes, which is often encapsulated. Treatment of laryngeal lipoma varies from conservative total endoscopic removal to external surgical approaches. The following is a report of a single case of laryngeal lipoma, including pathologic and radiologic findings, as well as a review of the literature.
Palatal Myoclonus as a Cause of Objective Tinnitus: A Report of Six Cases and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Seidman Michael D. , Arenberg Julie G. , Shirwany Najeeb A.
Published: May 2019

We describe 6 new cases of palatal myoclonus (PM), a rare disorder that is characterized by involuntary rhythmic contraction of the palatal musculature. Although it has been reported that PM is a lifelong condition, one of our patients experienced a complete resolution of PM, which casts doubt on the accepted beliefs about the persistence of PM. Included in this report is the first published case of voluntary PM with objective tinnitus.
Head and Neck Mucosal Melanoma: A 32-year Review
Authors: Loree Thorn R. , Mullins Alan P. , Spellman James , North James H. , Hicks Wesley L.
Published: May 2019

Because mucosal melanoma of the head or neck is uncommon, retrospective data are of value in defining its natural history, response to treatment, and patterns of recurrence. We analyzed the medical records of 28 patients who had been treated for a mucosal melanoma of the head or neck between 1961 and 1993. We found that their cumulative 5-year survival rate was 20%. Patients who had primary tumors of the nasal cavity had significantly better 5-year survival than other patients. Early stage at presentation was another predictor of a more favorable outcome.

Only 2 of the 17 patients (12%) who underwent surgery died with local disease. However, 13 of these 17 surgical patients (76%) eventually died of distant metastases. There were 3 long-term (>5 yr) survivors: 2 who were treated by surgery alone, and 1 who was treated with surgery and radiation therapy.

We found that aggressive resection of the primary tumor and of any local recurrence can achieve local control in most patients with mucosal melanoma of the head or neck. Distant metastasis is the limiting factor for long-term survival
Tracheostomy for Ventilator Dependence in the Elderly Patient: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Kantu Manoj , Judkins Jennifer , Shulman Abraham
Published: May 2019

With advances in medical technology and increasing numbers of elderly patients surviving acute intensive care unit admissions, otolaryngologic consultation regarding tracheostomy for ventilator-dependent patients is expected to continue increasing. However, established treatment guidelines and defined outcomes in terms of health status, quality of life, and medical costs are lacking in this emotionally delicate setting.

A retrospective case review of the outcomes of 19 elderly patients who underwent tracheostomy for ventilator dependence revealed that 14 had died within 40 days of surgery. The high number of deaths—which were caused by multiple organ failure, sepsis, and/or cardiopulmonary arrest—so soon after tracheostomy demands the implementation of outcomes research.

In this article, we introduce outcomes analysis as a means of assessing the utility of tracheostomy for ventilator dependence in the elderly and to advocate the establishment of a multidisciplinary palliative-care unit for this group of patients.
Complications of Head and Neck Surgery in the Elderly
Authors: Shaari Christopher M. , Urken Mark L.
Published: May 2019

Many recent studies have documented that complications of head and neck surgery are no more common in the elderly than in younger patients. But few studies have addressed complication rates in a population undergoing reconstruction with microvascular free tissue transfer (MFTT).

We compared outcomes of patients older and younger than 70 who underwent MFTT and found no significant difference in the incidence of surgical complications. However, older patients did experience more medical morbidity and more surgical mortality. Nonetheless, we conclude that MFTT should not be withheld from patients 70 years and older solely on the basis of their advanced age.
Use of a New Device, the MicroWick™, to Deliver Medication to the Inner Ear
Authors: Silverstein Herbert
Published: May 2019

A new procedure for delivering medication directly to the inner ear has been developed. This delivery system, called the MicroWick™, involves the use of a small wick that is inserted through a tympanic membrane vent tube into the round window niche. Once the wick has been inserted, the patient can self-administer eardrops into the ear canal, where they are absorbed by the wick and transported to the round window membrane and to the inner ear fluids. Inserting the wick is a minor procedure that is performed in the office. This paper describes the indications for and use of the MicroWick.
Tonsil and Adenoid Surgery for Upper Airway Obstruction in Children
Authors: Elsherif Ibrahim , Kareemullah Chillem
Published: May 2019

We studied the outcomes of 76 children, aged 3 to 12 years, with large tonsils and/or large adenoids who underwent surgery to relieve upper airway obstruction over a 1-year period. Following surgery, nearly all patients experienced an alleviation of all symptoms, except for enuresis. We suggest that children who have large tonsils and/or adenoids will gain substantial benefit if they are removed, even children who do not have a history of severe sleep apnea or objective evidence from polysomnography.
Insurance Coding for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Disorders
Authors: Eisenberg Lee D.
Published: May 2019

In order to assist the physician in obtaining reimbursement for the treatment of patients with sleep disordered breathing, this article presents a few simple guidelines on insurance coding for various procedures.
Surgical Complications of Cochlear Implantation: A Report of Three Cases and Their Clinical Features
Authors: Kumar Arvind , Mugge Richard , Lipner Marci
Published: May 2019

The most common complications of cochlear implantation are flap necrosis, compressed or improperly placed electrodes, and facial nerve injury, paresis, or stimulation. We report on three recent complications experienced at our institution: 1) a flap ischemia and partial-thickness necrosis without infection or device exposure, 2) facial nerve stimulation, which was managed with a new programming technique, and 3) a postimplant cholesteatoma in a patient with chronic eustachian tube dysfunction that required reoperation and explantation. We discuss the pathophysiology, likely etiology, and recommendations for management of these complications.
When Shame Meets Love: Affective pathways to freedom from injurious bodily norms in the workplace
Authors: Pouthier Vanessa , Sondak Harris
Published: May 2019

We explore organizational members’ affective experiences to elucidate how and when the reproduction of oppressive bodily norms can be interrupted. We leverage the exceptional access to hitherto overlooked affective dynamics in one organizational context made possible by the introduction of a video art installation in a commercial art gallery. The artwork enabled both the all-female staff and the researchers to observe, feel and reflect on both the invisible force of body shame and the empowering forces of communal laughter and reciprocal generosity. Our analysis reveals how the repetition of loving encounters around the artwork moved the staff away from crippling individualized anxiety and shame and towards more joyful and carefree possibilities. It further suggests that the organization’s feminist culture and climate of psychological safety facilitated the trajectory from shame to joy through love. By surfacing and explaining such affective pathways to freedom as an important form of emancipatory politics in the context of injurious, discriminatory bodily norms, we contribute to both scholarship on bodily discipline in the workplace and recent work on the critical potential of affect.
Preventative, but not post-stroke, inhibition of CD36 attenuates brain swelling in hyperlipidemic stroke
Authors: Kim Eunhee , Yang Jiwon , Woo Park Keun , Cho Sunghee
Published: May 2019

The lack of inclusion of comorbidities in animal models of stroke may underlie the limited development of therapy in stroke. Previous studies in mice deficient of CD36, an immune receptor, indicated its contribution to stroke-induced inflammation and injury in hyperlipidemic conditions. The current study, therefore, tested whether pharmacological inhibition of CD36 provides neuroprotection in hyperlipidemic stroke. The hyperlipidemic mice subjected to stroke showed an exacerbation of infarct size and profound brain swelling. However, post-stroke treatment with CD36 inhibitors did not reduce, and in some cases worsened, acute stroke outcome, suggesting potential benefits of elevated CD36 in the post-stroke brain in a hyperlipidemic condition. On the other hand, chronic treatment of a CD36 inhibitor prior to stroke significantly reduced stroke-induced brain swelling. There was a trend toward infarct reduction, although it did not reach statistical significance. The observed benefit of preventative CD36 inhibition is in line with previously reported smaller infarct volume and swelling in CD36 KO mice. Thus, the current findings suggest that insights gained from the genetic models should be carefully considered before the implementation of pharmacological interventions, as a potential therapeutic strategy may depend on preventative treatment or a post-stroke acute treatment paradigm.
Decolonising cosmopolitanism: An anthropological reading of Immanuel Kant and Kwame Nkrumah on the world as one
Authors: Uimonen Paula
Published: May 2019

This article offers an anthropological reading of the works of Immanuel Kant and Kwame Nkrumah. By doing so it seeks to expose the Eurocentric and racist ontology that lies behind dominant contemporary forms of cosmopolitanism. The article draws attention to the possibility of a more egalitarian vision of the “world as one” that can be derived from the perspective of an African philosophical viewpoint. Rather than regarding African social theory as a subordinate or subaltern mode of apprehending the world, it places African philosophy on a par with European traditions of philosophical thought. By focusing on some of the central tenets of cosmopolitanism, it argues that Nkrumah, by insisting on freedom and equality for all of humanity, had articulated a more genuinely cosmopolitan ontology than any that can be derived from the philosophy of Kant. The article argues that an engagement with critical anthropology enables us to imagine forms of decolonised cosmopolitanism which are genuinely both inclusive and egalitarian.
Familiar versus Unfamiliar Drivers on Curves: Naturalistic Data Study
Authors: Pratt Michael P. , Geedipally Srinivas R. , Dadashova Bahar , Wu Lingtao , Shirazi Mohammadali
Published: May 2019

Human factors studies have shown that route familiarity affects driver behavior in various ways. Specifically, when drivers become more familiar with a roadway, they pay less attention to signs, adopt higher speeds, cut curves more noticeably, and exhibit slower reaction times to stimuli in their peripheral vision. Numerous curve speed models have been developed for purposes such as predicting driver behavior, evaluating roadway design consistency, and setting curve advisory speeds. These models are typically calibrated using field data, which gives information about driver behavior in relation to speed and sometimes lane placement, but does not provide insights into the drivers themselves. The objective of this paper is to examine the differences between the speeds of familiar and unfamiliar drivers as they traverse curves. The authors identified four two-lane rural highway sections in the State of Indiana which include multiple horizontal curves, and queried the Second Strategic Highway Research Program (SHRP2) database to obtain roadway inventory and naturalistic driving data for traversals through these curves. The authors applied a curve speed prediction model from the literature to predict the speed at the curve midpoints and compared the predicted speeds with observed speeds. The results of the analysis confirm earlier findings that familiar drivers choose higher speeds through curves. The successful use of the SHRP2 database for this analysis of route familiarity shows that the database can facilitate similar efforts for a wider range of driver behavior and human factors issues.
Analytical Study of Fatigue Cracking in Coped Stringers of Steel Bridges
Authors: Mohammadi Alireza , Najjar Walid S.
Published: May 2019

Typical coped stringers of streel bridges are prone to fatigue cracking as a result of the high concentration of tensile stress in the cope zone. This stress concentration is caused by a combination of geometric discontinuity at the cope radius and end-connection rigidity. Few retrofit methods are available for mitigating this cracking; they include hole drilling at a crack tip, and top-rivet removal from a stringer-floorbeam connection. Three-dimensional finite element models of a typical stringer with coped web were developed and analyzed to evaluate (i) cope geometry and load configuration parameters and (ii) the effectiveness of these two retrofit methods. The studied geometry parameters were cope radius and cope length. Variations in the cope-zone stress distribution for each parameter and between an original and a retrofitted condition are presented in this paper. Tensile stress reduction was associated with increased cope radius. Although hole drilling resulted in significant stress reduction along the cope edge, this method was associated with increased tensile stress at the bottom of the drilled hole, which could result in further crack propagation. This finding is consistent with existing studies. Removal of a top rivet resulted in significant reduction of tensile stress.
Activity Modification and Load Management of Adolescents With Patellofemoral Pain: A Prospective Intervention Study Including 151 Adolescents
Authors: Rathleff Michael Skovdal , Graven-Nielsen Thomas , Hölmich Per , Winiarski Lukasz , Krommes Kasper , Holden Sinéad , Thorborg Kristian
Published: May 2019

Background:

Patellofemoral pain (PFP) affects 7% of adolescents, especially those who are highly active. Exercise-focused treatments show limited effect and overlook activity modification and load management. As many adolescents continue at high levels of sports despite pain, a new strategy addressing this problem is warranted.

Purpose:

To investigate the effects of a treatment strategy for adolescents that focuses on activity modification and load management.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Adolescents aged 10 to 14 years with PFP were included (N = 151). The 12-week intervention included 4 supervised sessions with a physical therapist, which adolescents and parents were required to attend. The intervention included activity modification (weeks 1-4) to reduce loading of the patellofemoral joint via an activity ladder and pain monitoring, home-based exercises (weeks 5-8), and return-to-sport guidance (weeks 9-12). Primary outcome was a 7-point global rating of change, ranging from “much improved” to “much worse.” Adolescents were considered to have a successful outcome if they reported “much improved” or “improved.” The primary endpoint was at 12 weeks, with additional follow-up at 4, 24, and 52 weeks. Secondary outcomes included the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), hip and knee torque, sports participation, satisfaction with treatment, and use of painkillers.

Results:

At 12 weeks, 87% completed the full questionnaire, of which 86% reported a successful outcome, as compared with 77% (95% CI, 68%-83%) at 6 months and 81% (95% CI, 73%-88%) at 12 months. There were large clinically relevant improvements in 3 KOOS subscales: Pain, Sport/Recreation, and Quality of Life (13-24 points). Hip and knee torque increased by 20% to 33%. In total, 68% were back playing sport after 3 months, which increased to 79% at 6 months and 81% at 12 months. The majority were satisfied with the treatment (90%) and would recommend it to a friend (95%). No specific patient characteristics were associated with prognosis.

Conclusion:

A treatment strategy focusing on activity modification and load management was associated with high rates of successful outcome among adolescents with PFP at 12 and 52 weeks. These short- and longer-term outcomes were supported by improvements in symptoms and objective measures of hip and knee torque.

Registration:

NCT02402673 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier)
Quantifying Severity of Maltreatment, Adversity, and Trauma From Child Protective Services Case Record Files
Authors: Grasso Damion J. , DiVietro Susan , Beebe Rebecca , Clough Meghan , Lapidus Garry
Published: May 2019

Children referred to child protective services (CPS) for allegations of abuse or neglect often have diverse experiences of maltreatment, adversity, and trauma. Severity of these experiences is associated with greater mental health impairment and increased risk of revictimization and other adversities. Although aspects of these experiences are often captured during CPS investigations and stored in case records as narrative documents, much of this information is underutilized in estimating risk and service planning. The current study extracted case record information from a randomly selected sample of 100 families, with 150 children referred to CPS during a 12-month period. The Yale-Vermont Adversity in Childhood Scale (Y-VACS) was applied to extracted information for quantifying severity of various forms of childhood maltreatment, adversity, and trauma. Study aims were to examine (a) the scope and severity of maltreatment, adversity, and trauma types and their associations; (b) linkages between severity and CPS allegation types and outcomes; and (c) the utility of severity in predicting new allegations of abuse or neglect within 12 months of referral. Results indicated feasibility in quantifying severity of maltreatment and other adversities from case record information and revealed associations between adversity severity and CPS allegation types and outcomes. Severity of psychological intimate partner violence and neglect were predictive of new allegations of abuse or neglect within 12 months of referral. Findings support moving beyond an incident-based CPS strategy to one that better incorporates case record information to assess risk.
The Hype Cycle of Working Memory Training
Authors: Redick Thomas S.
Published: May 2019

Seventeen years and hundreds of studies after the first journal article on working memory training was published, evidence for the efficacy of working memory training is still wanting. Numerous studies show that individuals who repeatedly practice computerized working memory tasks improve on those tasks and closely related variants. Critically, although individual studies have shown improvements in untrained abilities and behaviors, systematic reviews of the broader literature show that studies producing large, positive findings are often those with the most methodological shortcomings. The current review discusses the past, present, and future status of working memory training, including consideration of factors that might influence working memory training and transfer efficacy.
Prison Riots in Nicaragua: Negotiating Co-Governance Amid Creative Violence and Public Secrecy
Authors: Weegels Julienne
Published: May 2019

In this article, I explore how prison riots, large critical incidents of a collective order, emerge, take place, and alter governance relations in place in the Nicaraguan prison system. Drawing on ethnographic research conducted with prisoners and former prisoners of two Nicaraguan prison facilities, I provide a prisoners’ point of view on the political use of violence in prison, particularly during two large prison riots. While authorities often held that prison conditions combined with the “violent attitudes” of prisoners turned prisons into “powder kegs,” such an interpretation does not allow for an understanding of riots as embedded in prison governance structures and conveniently draws the attention away from underlying issues pertaining to the de facto sharing of power in prison in Nicaragua. I argue that by using what has been termed “creative violence,” prisoners attempt to break through the authorities’ imposed regime of public secrecy and draw attention to these issues, forcing authorities to negotiate. Yet, even if riots then function as a catalyst for changes in co-governance arrangements, they do not appear to be geared at permanently damaging or annihilating the existing arrangements but rather at pressuring the authorities hard enough to make compromises and concessions as to the distribution of power in prison.
What Influences Sustainment and Nonsustainment of Facilitation Activities in Implementation? Analysis of Organizational Factors in Hospitals Implementing TeamSTEPPS
Authors: Baloh Jure , Zhu Xi , Ward Marcia M.
Published: May 2019

Implementation processes are often long and complex, requiring sustained facilitation efforts. Drawing on organizational and implementation literature, we examined the influence of senior management support (SMS), middle management support (MMS), facilitator team time availability (TIME) and team continuity (CONTINUITY) on sustainment of internal facilitation activities. For 2 years, we followed 10 small rural hospitals implementing TeamSTEPPS, a patient safety program, and conducted quarterly interviews with key informants. We coded, calibrated, and analyzed the data using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis. We found that five hospitals sustained facilitation activities and the combination of SMS, MMS, and CONTINUITY (i.e., presence of all three factors) was a sufficient condition for sustainment. Five other hospitals did not sustain facilitation activities and they either lacked MMS or lacked both TIME and CONTINUITY. In follow-up analyses, we found that team leadership continuity also influenced sustainment patterns. We discussed the implications for research and practice.
On the in-plane failure and post-failure behaviour of pristine and perforated single-layer graphene sheets
Authors: Genoese Alessandra , Genoese Andrea , Rizzi Nicola Luigi , Salerno Ginevra
Published: May 2019

The tensile behaviour and the pure shear behaviour of pristine and perforated single-layer graphene sheets are numerically investigated through a stick-and-spring model including both material and geometric non-linearities. The model is formulated in finite kinematics and the atomic interactions are modelled through the modified Morse potential, tuned with an improved set of parameters. The progression of the failure process of the sheets is numerically reconstructed using the arc-length strategy. The failure profiles are displayed and discussed. A continualization of the obtained results is made. The engineering strains and stresses and the second Piola and Green–Lagrange tensors are computed and compared with results given in the literature.
‘I don’t think you will understand me because really, I believe’ – Unaccompanied female minors re-negotiating religion
Authors: Ekström Elin , H Bülow Pia , Wilinska Monika
Published: May 2019

The role of religion in migration has been a contested subject in previous research and social work practice, with religion being considered both a bridge and a barrier to integration. When considering unaccompanied female minors, struggling to be recognised beyond the prevailing image of the victimised refugee girl, religion is sometimes seen as a force of oppression rather than a tool for integration. In this article, we focus on the embodied practices of young women’s lived religion in a context where such practices are constructed as otherness. Based on an interview study with 11 unaccompanied female minors, this article explores the identity negotiations that emerged when migrating from societies where religion plays an integral part in everyday life to a society with highly secular values. By using the concept of (oppositional) gaze, we explore how these young women negotiate their identities at a point where the normative, invisible gaze meets the embodied practices of lived religion. We demonstrate how these young women are themselves agents of their own faith, and we confirm previous research that points to religion as a support structure for unaccompanied minors; however, not without causing friction in their new society. The study shows how lived practices of religion and the development of an oppositional gaze can function as mutually reinforcing processes in identity negotiation. In social work, understanding the role of religion through lived practices might contribute to a more holistic approach when creating solutions for young people experiencing turbulent circumstances of arriving in a new country.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of mHealth Mindfulness Intervention for Cancer Patients and Informal Cancer Caregivers: A Feasibility Study Within an Integrated Health Care Delivery System
Authors: Kubo Ai , Kurtovich Elaine , McGinnis MegAnn , Aghaee Sara , Altschuler Andrea , Quesenberry Charles , Kolevska Tatjana , Avins Andrew L.
Published: May 2019

Purpose: To assess feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a mobile/online-based (mHealth) mindfulness intervention for cancer patients and their caregivers to reduce distress and improve quality of life (QoL). Material and Methods: Two-arm randomized controlled trial within Kaiser Permanente Northern California targeting cancer patients who received chemotherapy and their informal caregivers. The intervention group received a commercially available mindfulness program for 8 weeks. The wait-list control group received usual care. We assessed feasibility using retention and adherence rates and obtained participant-reported data on distress, QoL, sleep, mindfulness, and posttraumatic growth before and immediately after the intervention. Results: Ninety-seven patients (median age 59 years; female 69%; 65% whites) and 31 caregivers (median age 63 years; female 58%; 77% whites) were randomized. Among randomized participants, 74% of the patients and 84% of the caregivers completed the study. Among those in the intervention arm who initiated the mindfulness program, 65% practiced at least 50% of the days during the intervention period. We observed significantly greater improvement in QoL among patients in the intervention arm compared with controls. Caregivers in the intervention group experienced increased mindfulness compared with controls. Participants appreciated the convenience of the intervention and the mindfulness skills they obtained from the program. Conclusion: We demonstrated the feasibility of conducting a randomized trial of an mHealth mindfulness intervention for cancer patients and their informal caregivers. Results from fully powered efficacy trials would inform the potential for clinicians to use this scalable intervention to help improve QoL of those affected by cancer and their caregivers.
Invisibility Is Not Invincibility: The Impact of Intimate Partner Violence on Gay, Bisexual, and Straight Men’s Mental Health
Authors: Dickerson-Amaya Natasha , Coston Bethany M.
Published: May 2019

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a critical public health problem. However, there is limited research conducted on and about men who are survivors. This project extends previous research by examining the post-traumatic impact of diverse forms of IPV (sexual, physical, emotional, control, and stalking) on the internalized and externalized mental health of gay, bisexual, and straight men. Using data from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey (2011; N = 18,957), we find that all men are equally likely to report emotional victimization and controlling tactics (with between 50% and 70% doing so), while bisexual men are significantly more likely to report physical and sexual violence and gay men are significantly more likely to report intimate stalking. Due to these experiences, gay men are significantly more likely to report missing school or work, but bisexual men are significantly more likely to rate their current overall mental health as poor. Around 10% of all men, regardless of sexual orientation, report post-traumatic stress disorder symptomology and 30% of all men report difficulty sleeping. This research suggests that sexual orientation is a critical area of focus in the study of violence and mental health for men and that we can no longer ignore the voices and needs of men survivors: Invisibility is not invincibility.
Design and experimental study on full-metal sealing structure of mandrel-type casing hanger
Authors: Liu Yang , Lian Zhanghua , Deng Changsong , Zhang Qiang , Mu Yisheng
Published: May 2019

To avoid the failure of mandrel-type casing hanger, this article provides a new type of metal sealing structure, and the sealing is achieved through plastic flow of soft metal and elastic deformation of matrix. A finite element analysis model for sealing performance of mandrel-type hanger is established to study the deformation and contact pressure of sealing cone. Among the four sealing structures studied in this article, the elliptic surface is the optimal. It is suggested to design smaller equal cone angle of inner cone angle ( β) and outer cone angle ( α) in the limited space as far as possible so as to obtain larger average contact pressure. These findings can provide references for the structural design of the seal area of the mandrel-type hanger. The sealing test results show that the sealing curve turns to be a straight line under water pressure and air pressure of 140 MPa. The results of theoretical study and laboratory experiment show that the sealing structure of full-metal multilevel conical elliptical surface is reliable and can meet the sealing requirements of the oil field wellhead device under limit working condition of 140 MPa.
Differential quadrature discrete time transfer matrix method for vibration mechanics
Authors: Rui Xue , Wang Guoping , He Bin
Published: May 2019

Transfer matrix method is a practical technology for vibration analysis of engineering mechanics. In this article, a new version of mixed differential quadrature discrete time transfer matrix method is presented for simulating vibrations. First, ordinary differential equations of the substructure or the element of a mechanical system are determined by classical mechanics rules or the finite element method. These ordinary differential equations can be transformed to a set of algebraic equations at some discrete time points by the application of a differential quadrature method. After extending the state vector of the transfer matrix method, new transfer equations and transfer matrices of the substructures (or elements) of a mechanical system are developed finally. Riccati transformation is used to improve the computational convergence of the method. Several numerical examples show that the proposed method can be regarded as an efficient tool for transient response analysis of vibration systems.
High prevalence of stroke and uncontrolled associated risk factors are major public health challenges in rural northeast China: A population-based study
Authors: Xing Liying , Jing Li , Tian Yuanmeng , Liu Shiwei , Lin Min , Du Zhi , Ren Guocheng , Sun Qun , Shi Lei , Dai Dong , Liu Shuang
Published: May 2019

Background

Stroke has become a major burden and public health problem in rural China. We aimed to comprehensively assess the current status of stroke burden as well as the associated risk factors in rural northeast China.

Methods

This population-based, cross-sectional study was conducted in 10,926 adults (response rate 85.3%) aged ≥40 years residing in rural northeast China. A multistage cluster sampling method was used to select the representative sample. The prevalent stroke cases were considered as stroke survivors on 31 August 2017. Stroke was diagnosed according to the World Health Organization’s recommendations and was classified as ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke based on the results of computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. The status of related risk factors was also evaluated.

Results

Of the 10,926 participants, 731 were diagnosed with stroke (602 patients with ischemic stroke, 151 with hemorrhage stroke, and 22 with both ischemic stroke and hemorrhage stroke). The crude prevalence of overall stroke, ischemic stroke, and hemorrhage stroke was 6690.5, 5509.8, and 1382.0 per 100,000 people, respectively, and the age-standardized rate was 4903.8, 4041.7, and 990.9 per 100,000 people. Among the overall stroke population, 13.4% were living with consequences of stroke. Hypertension (86.7%), dyslipidemia (37.2%), and diabetes (24.5%) were highly prevalent in stroke participants. However, most of those comorbidities remained uncontrolled (93.7, 44.7, and 88.9%, respectively).

Conclusion

The burden of stroke in rural northeast China was substantial, with a high prevalence of stroke, recurrence, and disabilities. Uncontrolled comorbidities will likely contribute to recurrence and worsening disabilities in the coming decades. Strategies of long-term management of stroke and related risk factors are urgently required in rural northeast China.
Does Medial-Row Fixation Technique Affect the Retear Rate and Functional Outcomes After Double-Row Transosseous-Equivalent Rotator Cuff Repair?
Authors: Elbuluk Ameer M. , Coxe Francesca R. , Fabricant Peter D. , Ramos Nicholas L. , Alaia Michael J. , Jones Kristofer J.
Published: May 2019

Background:

Double-row transosseous-equivalent (TOE) rotator cuff repair techniques have been widely accepted because of their superior biomechanical properties when compared with arthroscopic single-row repair. Concerns regarding repair overtensioning with medial-row knot tying have led to increased interest in knotless repair techniques; however, there is a paucity of clinical data to guide the choice of technique.

Hypothesis:

Arthroscopic TOE repair techniques using knotless medial-row fixation will demonstrate lower retear rates and greater improvements in the Constant score relative to conventional knot-tying TOE techniques.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review of 3 databases (PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase) was performed using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Inclusion criteria were English-language studies that examined repair integrity or Constant scores after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with TOE techniques. Two investigators independently screened results for relevant articles. Data regarding the study design, surgical technique, retear rate, and Constant shoulder score were extracted from eligible studies. A quality assessment of all articles was performed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) criteria.

Results:

The systematic review identified a total of 32 studies (level of evidence, 1-4) that met inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the 32 studies, 5 reported on knotless TOE techniques, 25 reported on knot-tying TOE techniques, and 2 reported on both. In the knotless group, retear rates ranged from 6% to 36%, and Constant scores ranged from 38-65 (preoperative) to 73-83 (postoperative). In the knot-tying group, retear rates ranged from 0% to 48%, and Constant scores ranged from 42-64 (preoperative) to 55-96 (postoperative).

Conclusion:

Despite several theoretical advantages of knotless TOE repair, both knotless and knot-tying techniques reported considerable improvement in functional outcomes after rotator cuff repair. Although tendon failure rates showed a downward trend in knotless studies, additional prospective studies are warranted to better understand the role of medial-row fixation on tendon repair integrity and postoperative clinical outcomes.