bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effectiveness of Transition Interventions to Support Older Patients From Hospital to Home: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: O’Donnell Renee , Savaglio Melissa , Skouteris Helen , Banaszak-Holl Jane , Moranl Chris , Morris Heather , Vicary Dave , Ayton Darshini
Published: November 2020

Background:

Interventions supporting older adults’ transition from hospital to home can address geriatric needs. Yet this evidence base is fragmented. This review describes transitional interventions that provide pre- and post-discharge support for older adults and evaluates their implementation and effectiveness in improving health and well-being.

Method:

Articles were included if they examined the extent to which transitional interventions were effective in improving health and well-being outcomes and reducing hospital readmission rates among older adults.

Results:

Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria. Four types of interventions were identified: education-based (10/20); goal-oriented (4/20); exercise (4/20); and social support interventions (2/20). Education and goal-oriented interventions were effective in improving health and well-being outcomes. The impact of interventions on mitigating hospital readmissions was inconclusive. Only five studies examined implementation.

Discussion:

Older adults transitioning from hospital to home would benefit from tailored education and goal-oriented interventions that promote their capacity for self-care.
Childhood Socioeconomic Status and Physical Activity in Later Life: The Role of Perceived Neighborhood Cohesion and Wealth in Adulthood
Authors: Hua Cassandra L. , Brown J. Scott
Published: November 2020

The literature indicates that perceived neighborhood social cohesion is related to later life physical activity. However, there is no research that examines the role of childhood socioeconomic status (SES) in shaping this relationship. We use data from the Health and Retirement Study (2006–2016; N = 8,754) and a structural equation modeling approach to examine whether perceived neighborhood social cohesion and adulthood wealth mediate the relationship between childhood SES and physical activity. Perceived neighborhood social cohesion and adulthood wealth have small but statistically significant mediational effects in the relationship between childhood SES and physical activity. Research on the relationship between health and place should consider the potential impact of childhood circumstances on the neighborhood one lives in during adulthood.
Rethinking Service Systems and Public Policy: A Transformative Refugee Service Experience Framework
Authors: Boenigk Silke , Fisk Raymond , Kabadayi Sertan , Alkire Linda , Cheung Lilliemay , Corus Canan , Finsterwalder Jörg , Kreimer Aaron A. , Luca Nadina , Omeira Mansour , Paul Pallab , Santos Marcos F. , Smidt Nina
Published: November 2020

The global refugee crisis is a complex humanitarian problem. Service researchers can assist in solving this crisis because refugees are immersed in complex human service systems. Drawing on marketing, sociology, transformative service, and consumer research literature, this study develops a Transformative Refugee Service Experience Framework to enable researchers, service actors, and public policy makers to navigate the challenges faced throughout a refugee’s service journey. The primary dimensions of this framework encompass the spectrum from hostile to hospitable refugee service systems and the resulting suffering or well-being in refugees’ experiences. The authors conceptualize this at three refugee service journey phases (entry, transition, and exit) and at three refugee service system levels (macro, meso, and micro) of analysis. The framework is supported by brief examples from a range of service-related refugee contexts as well as a Web Appendix with additional cases. Moreover, the authors derive a comprehensive research agenda from the framework, with detailed research questions for public policy and (service) marketing researchers. Managerial directions are provided to increase awareness of refugee service problems; stimulate productive interactions; and improve collaboration among public and nonprofit organizations, private service providers, and refugees. Finally, this work provides a vision for creating hospitable refugee service systems.
Clinical Presentation and Stroke Incidence Differ by Moyamoya Etiology
Authors: Gatti John R. , Torriente Adriana Gonzalez , Sun Lisa R.
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

Moyamoya arteriopathy, which can be idiopathic or associated with sickle cell disease, neurofibromatosis, Down syndrome, or cranial radiation therapy, is a progressive cerebral arteriopathy associated with high rates of incident and recurrent stroke. Little is known about how these subgroups differ with respect to clinical presentation, radiographic findings, stroke risk, and functional outcomes.

Methods:

Using ICD codes, we identified children ages 28 days to 18 years treated for moyamoya arteriopathy at our tertiary care center between 2003 and 2019. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic data were extracted from the medical record. The Pediatric Stroke Recurrence and Recovery Questionnaire was administered to consenting participants.

Results:

Sixty-nine patients met inclusion criteria (33 idiopathic, 18 sickle cell disease, 11 neurofibromatosis, 6 Down syndrome, 1 cranial radiation therapy). Median follow-up time was 7.7 years; 24 patients had at least 5 years of follow-up data. Frequency of stroke at presentation differed by subgroup ( P < .001). Of patients with at least 2 years of follow-up, 33 (55%) experienced stroke. The proportion of patients experiencing stroke differed by subgroup (50% of idiopathic cases, 72% of sickle cell disease, 11% of neurofibromatosis, and 100% of Down syndrome, P = .003). The frequency of bilateral versus unilateral disease ( P = .001) and stroke-free survival following presentation ( P = .01) also differed by subgroup.

Conclusions:

In this single-center cohort, moyamoya subgroups differed with respect to clinical and radiographic characteristics, with neurofibromatosis-associated moyamoya syndrome having a milder phenotype and Down syndrome–associated moyamoya portending a more aggressive course. These findings need confirmation in a larger, multi-center cohort with longer duration of follow-up.
Evaluation of Erythropoietin Stimulating Agents (ESA) and Their Effect on Blood Optimization for Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Gill Kristina S. , Antigua Abigail D. , Barnett A. Kacee , Hall Aubrey J. , Klodell Charles T.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Cardiovascular surgeries increase the risk of receiving blood transfusions. Erythropoietin stimulating agents (ESAs) have been used to decrease the transfusion rate. The objective of this study was to evaluate the administration of blood products post-cardiothoracic surgery after receiving ESAs.

Methods:

This is a single-center, retrospective cohort study.

Results:

Between May 2017 to May 2018, 52 adult patients underwent cardiac surgery and received ESAs pre-operatively and/or post-operatively. A total of 35 patients were included in the study and 21 (60%) patients did not require a blood transfusion while 14 (40%) patients required a blood transfusion ( p = 0.597). The change in hemoglobin (Hgb = 0.773 g/dL, 1.7 g/dL; p = 0.002) and hematocrit (Hct = 2.31%, 4.3%; p = 0.04) was significantly different in patients who received ESAs alone versus ESAs with blood transfusion. Adverse drug reactions showed no significant difference between groups.

Conclusions:

In patients undergoing cardiac surgery, ESAs did not significantly reduce the need for blood transfusion. Future and larger studies are necessary to evaluate the effect of ESAs on blood transfusion.
Impact of Pharmacist-Led Patient Education in an Ambulatory Cancer Center: A Pilot Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Park Daniel , Patel Sweta , Yum Kendra , Smith Cardinale B. , Tsao Che-Kai , Kim Sara
Published: November 2020

Introduction:

Although pharmacist-driven patient education has been shown to increase adherence, reduce medication errors, and lower 30-day readmission rates, the data in the ambulatory oncology setting is limited. This pilot quality initiative study was conducted from June 1, 2018, to November 15, 2018, in the ambulatory cancer center affiliated with The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, NY, to determine the impact of pharmacist counseling on chemotherapy regimens.

Methods and Materials:

English-speaking patients with gastrointestinal malignancies who were newly started on chemotherapy were selected for this study. They received a pharmacist-led education session regarding their medications, potential side effects, and how to manage them at home. After each session, they completed a 5-question survey on a 5-point Likert-scale about how they felt before and after speaking with a pharmacist. Survey results were analyzed by median scores and Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results:

Of the 96 patients who were counseled, 71 patients were included in this analysis. The median score increased from 3 to 5 for the understanding of their chemotherapy regimen and side effects (questions 1 and 2), 3 to 4.5 for knowledge about interactions with their oral chemotherapy (question 3), 4 to 5 for overall experience in the cancer center (question 5). The median score for anxiety level was unchanged at 3 (question 4).

Conclusion:

This survey-based study demonstrated the benefit of a pharmacist-led counseling session. An interdisciplinary approach involving the integration of oncology pharmacists in patient education can greatly impact the quality of care for oncology patients.
Psychological distress, burnout, job satisfaction and intention to quit among primary healthcare nurses
Authors: Stefanovska - Petkovska Miodraga , Stefanovska Vesna Velikj , Bojadjieva Sonja , Bojadjiev Marjan I
Published: November 2020

Addressing the worldwide challenge of shortage of nurses contributes to the national and international efforts to enhance the health and well-being of the global population. The main aim of this research is to investigate the level and the relationship between psychological distress, burnout, job satisfaction and intention to quit among primary healthcare nurses in public and private practices while accounting for their socio-demographic characteristics. This was a cross sectional study of 173 primary health care nurses. The Oldenburg Burnout Inventory and General Health Questionairre-12 were used to assess burnout and psychological distress among nursing staff. High psychological distress was present in 21.38% of all respondents and was significantly related to intention to quit. The results indicated a mean job satisfaction score of 3.54 with higher job satisfaction among private vs. public sector nurses. Furthermore, nurses with higher burnout levels and lower job satisfaction were more likely to consider leaving the profession compared with those with lower burnout and higher job satisfaction. The study provides valuable insight for managers of general healthcare practice and healthcare policy makers in effectively managing and retaining primary healthcare nurses.
Driver intention prediction using model-added Bayesian network
Authors: Song Ruitao
Published: November 2020

The autonomous driving technology requires reliable detection and prediction of the surrounding environment. Predicting the lane change intention of the surrounding traffic is critical to evaluate the potential threat around the host vehicle. This paper develops a lane change maneuver prediction algorithm based on a newly proposed driver model combined with a Bayesian network. The innovation of the proposed algorithm is the utilization of the driver model while calibrating and executing the Bayesian network. The prediction algorithm can provide not only the driver’s intention but also the probability associated with the intention. The Next-Generation Simulation data sets are used to develop and validate the prediction model. In total, there are more than 2000 lane change events used in this paper. The result shows that the proposed prediction algorithm can provide an accurate prediction of the surrounding vehicle’s lane change maneuver.
External high-pressure forming of metal spiral tube of equal wall thickness
Authors: Shi Changshuai , Li Jinping , Deng Juan , Zhu Xiaohua
Published: November 2020

Positive displacement motors are widely used underground power tools in oil and gas extraction. In order to solve the problems of the short life of the conventional positive displacement motor and the difficulty of machining the constant wall positive displacement motor, this paper proposes a metal bush stator. Based on theoretical analysis and tensile experiment of 304 stainless steel, a finite element model of an external high-pressure forming equal-wall-thickness metal spiral tube was established. The finite element method is used to study the external high pressure forming spiral tube with equal wall thickness. According to the results of the numerical simulation, we choose the tube blank with the inner diameter of 88 mm×the wall thickness of 3 mm for the experiment of external high pressure forming spiral tube. The result of the experiment is that the inner and outer surfaces of the metal spiral tube are smooth, and the spiral tube has no wrinkles or cracks. The maximum gap between the spiral tube and the mold is 0.12 mm, and the inner surface of the spiral tube is close to the mold. The maximum gap are at the transition of convex arc and concave arc. The minimum wall thickness and the maximum wall thickness of the spiral tube are 2.6 mm and 3.205 mm, respectively. The quality of the spiral tube is better when the inner circumference length of the tube (D2)/the contour line circumference (D1) of the mold is 0.974. The experimental results are in good agreement with the numerical simulation results. We have designed an assembled mold, which can be removed smoothly after the experiment. The research results of this paper have important engineering significance for improving the working performance of positive displacement motors.
Fault diagnosis of various rotating equipment using machine learning approaches – A review
Authors: Manikandan S , Duraivelu K
Published: November 2020

Fault diagnosis of various rotating equipment plays a significant role in industries as it guarantees safety, reliability and prevents breakdown and loss of any source of energy. Early identification is a fundamental aspect for diagnosing the faults which saves both time and costs and in fact it avoids perilous conditions. Investigations are being carried out for intelligent fault diagnosis using machine learning approaches. This article analyses various machine learning approaches used for fault diagnosis of rotating equipment. In addition to this, a detailed study of different machine learning strategies which are incorporated on various rotating equipment in the context of fault diagnosis is also carried out. Mainly, the benefits and advance patterns of deep neural network which are applied to multiple components for fault diagnosis are inspected in this study. Finally, different algorithms are proposed to propagate the quality of fault diagnosis and the conceivable research ideas of applying machine learning approaches on various rotating equipment are condensed in this article.
Investigation of the generation mechanism of squeal noise under non-negative damping conditions
Authors: Liu Xiaogang , Xiao Changbin
Published: November 2020

The traditionally known generation mechanism of squeal noise is generally agreed to be the negative damping theory, which is represented by the negative slope of friction creepage curve. Recently, however, it was found that squeal noise still can be generated when the negative slope is eliminated. To investigate this phenomenon, water-based and oil-based friction modifiers are applied on a test rig to create non-negative damping conditions. The adhesion ratios at various rolling speeds are measured, and it is found that the negative slopes of friction curves can be eliminated when using friction modifiers, but squeal noise still exists. To investigate this phenomenon, a model involving the effect of vertical dynamics on squeal noise is developed in this research. The results show that the involvement of vertical dynamics has negligible effect on wheel vibration velocity when the friction creepage curve has a negative slope. When the friction creepage curve has a zero or positive slope, however, the results show that a stable lateral vibration still can be generated when vertical dynamics is involved. The generation mechanism of wheel squeal involving vertical dynamics is illustrated from the perspective of power input. Furthermore, the sound pressure levels of squeal noise are simulated using this model and the results correlate well with experimental measurements. Therefore, the results indicate that the vertical dynamics may be the reason why squeal noise still exists under non-negative damping conditions.
In the name of democracy: UNSC reform at the intersection of discourse and governmentality
Authors: Winther Bjarke Zinck , Lindegaard Laura Bang
Published: November 2020

Both scholars and practitioners are frustrated by the complexity of United Nations Security Council reform. Most research on the reform process is situated within international relations, and almost no attention is granted to the discursive dimensions of the reform. This article approaches democracy promotion as a governmental rationality within the United Nations, and it traces how this governmentality is co-constituted and negotiated discursively in the reform debate. The analysis focuses on argumentation and topoi in statements from debates about reform during 2015 to 2016 by two groups: The Group of Four and The Uniting for Consensus. The analysis demonstrates how the two groups utilise a topos of majority and a topos of equality, respectively, and how the groups thereby in different ways co-constitute and negotiate the governmental rationality of democracy. Through this, the article unravels the subtle ways in which the rigidity of the reform process is co-constituted through discourse.
Considering change with archaeological data: Reevaluating local variation in the role of the ~4.2k BP event in Northwest China
Authors: Jaffe Yitzchak Y , Hein Anke
Published: November 2020

Over the past two decades, environmental studies in research on prehistoric China have been gaining popularity and importance. For Northwest China in particular, climate change, especially the so-called ~4.2k BP event has been seen as the main reason for an alleged collapse of Late Neolithic societies and a transition to pastoral-heavy economies and mobile lifeways. Yet, these explanatory models tend to rely on limited archaeological and environmental data and non-contemporaneous historical data, resulting in simplistic causal relationships between environmental changes and social response. This paper re-evaluates the Incipient Bronze Age in China’s Northwestern region, discussing evidence for climate change and its exact dates, as well as textual and archaeological evidence. We argue that the old narratives perpetuating the image of a dichotomy between Steppe and Sown are inaccurate, while large-scale models of region-wide subsistence change in response to climate cooling tend to disregard local developments and group-specific responses as well as chronological issues. Focusing on the Xindian and Siwa archaeological phenomena, this paper provides a view into sub-regional responses to this climate event, warning against simplistic broad-brush reconstructions and calling for both a return to archaeological fundamentals and large-scale intensive fieldwork and interdisciplinary studies involving archaeologists, paleobotanists, zooarchaeologists, isotope specialists, and climate scientists.
Combination of Cardiac Progenitor Cells From the Right Atrium and Left Ventricle Exhibits Synergistic Paracrine Effects In Vitro
Authors: McQuaig Ryan , Dixit Parul , Yamauchi Atsushi , Van Hout Isabelle , Papannarao Jayanthi Bellae , Bunton Richard , Parry Dominic , Davis Philip , Katare Rajesh
Published: November 2020

Cardiovascular diseases, such as ischemic heart disease, remain the most common cause of death worldwide. Regenerative medicine with stem cell therapy is a promising tool for cardiac repair. Combination of different cell types has been shown to improve the therapeutic potential, which is thought to be due to synergistic or complimentary reparative effects. We investigated if the combination of cardiac progenitor cells (CPCs) of right atrial appendage (RAA) and left ventricle (LV) that are isolated from the same patient exert synergistic or complimentary paracrine effects for apoptotic cell death and angiogenesis in an in vitro model. Flow cytometry analysis showed that both RAA and LV CPCs expressed the mesenchymal cell markers CD90 and CD105, and were predominantly negative for the hematopoietic cell marker, CD34. Analysis of conditioned media (CM) collected from the CPCs cultured either alone or in combination in serum-deprived hypoxic conditions to simulate ischemia showed marked increase in the level of pro-survival hepatocyte growth factor and pro-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factor-A in the combined RAA and LV CPC group. Next, to determine the therapeutic potential of CM, AC16 human ventricular cardiomyocytes and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with CM. Results showed a significant reduction in hypoxia-induced apoptosis of human cardiomyocytes treated with CM collected from combined RAA and LV CPC group. Similarly, matrigel assay showed a significantly increased tube length formed by HUVECs when treated with CM from combined RAA and LV CPC group. Our study provided evidence that the combination of RAA CPCs and LV CPCs may have superior therapeutic effects due to synergistic paracrine effects for cardiac repair. Therefore, in vivo studies are warranted to determine if a combination of different stem cell types have greater therapeutic potential than single-cell therapies.
Quantifying dielectric and microwave absorption properties of barium titanate and strontium ferrite filled polymer composites
Authors: Kasgoz Alper
Published: November 2020

In the present study, dielectric and microwave absorbing properties of barium titanate (BaTiO3) and strontium ferrite (SrFe12O19) filled thermoplastic polyurethane composites were investigated. The variations of the dielectric parameters of the BaTiO3 filled composite samples with filler concentration were also modeled and simulated by the power-law model to predict dielectric coefficients of the samples for higher filler concentrations. Comparing the prediction of the Power-law model and experimental measured dielectric values indicate that the Power-law model predicts dielectric parameters of the composite with acceptable accuracy. Microwave absorption analyses of the composite samples showed that SrFe12O19 is more effective than BaTiO3 on the enhancement of microwave absorption capability of TPU. The hybrid composite samples that contained both SrFe12O19 and BaTiO3 were also prepared, and their microwave absorption performance was evaluated. It was observed that much lower RL values than that of the composite samples, which were filled SrFe12O19 or BaTiO3 could be obtained by the hybrid composites. However, absorption bandwidth of them was narrower than counterparts that contained the same amount of SrFe12O19.
A numerical study of the influence of Z-pin parameters on the elastic properties of laminates
Authors: Li Mengjia , Chen Puhui
Published: November 2020

A finite element model with periodic boundary conditions was developed to investigate the influence of different Z-pin parameters including diameter, spacing, and insertion angle of Z-pin on the elastic properties of composite laminates. Benchmark tests were carried out to verify the FE model and a series of parametric analyses were subsequently performed. In general, all the elastic moduli, excluding the through-thickness modulus ( Ez), decreased while Ez increased nonlinearly with increasing Z-pin diameter and decreasing spacing. The reduction of Ey (transverse modulus) was approximately 40% of that of Ex (longitudinal modulus), while the reduction of Gxy is similar to that of Ex. Besides, Gxz and Gyz were reduced by approximately half of the reduction of Gxy. Although the impact of insertion angle was obvious on Ez, it was negligible on the other five moduli.
Morbidity and mortality after major large bowel resection of non-malignant polyp among participants in a population-based screening program
Authors: Paszat Lawrence F , Sutradhar Rinku , Luo Jin , Baxter Nancy N , Tinmouth Jill , Rabeneck Linda
Published: November 2020

Background and aims

Colonoscopy following positive fecal occult blood screening may detect non-malignant polyps deemed to require major large bowel resection. We aimed to estimate the major inpatient morbidity and mortality associated with major resection of non-malignant polyps detected at colonoscopy following positive guaiac fecal occult blood screening in Ontario's population-based colorectal screening program.

Methods

We identified those without a diagnosis of colorectal cancer in the Ontario Cancer Registry ≤24 months following the date of colonoscopy prompted by positive fecal occult blood screening between 2008 and 2017, who underwent a major large bowel resection ≤24 months after the colonoscopy, with a diagnosis code for non-malignant polyp, in the absence of a code for any other large bowel diagnosis. We extracted records of major inpatient complications and readmissions ≤30 days following resection. We computed mortality within 90 days following resection.

Results

For those undergoing colonoscopy ≤6 months following positive guaiac fecal occult blood screening, 420/127,872 (0.03%) underwent major large bowel resection for a non-malignant polyp. In 50/420 (11.9%), the resection included one or more rectosigmoid or rectal polyps, with or without a colonic polyp. There were one or more major inpatient complications or readmissions within 30 days in 117/420 (27.9%). Death occurred within 90 days in 6/420 (1.4%).

Conclusions

Serious inpatient complications and readmissions following major large bowel resection for non-malignant colorectal polyps are common, but mortality ≤90 days following resection is low. These outcomes should be considered as unintended adverse consequences of population-based colorectal screening programs.
Modeling costs and benefits of the organized colorectal cancer screening programme and its potential future improvements in Hungary
Authors: Csanádi Marcell , Gini Andrea , Koning Harry de , Széles György , Pitter János G , Oroszi Beatrix , Pataki Piroska , Fadgyas-Freyler Petra , Korponai Gyula , Vokó Zoltán , Lansdorp-Vogelaar Iris
Published: November 2020

Objective

The national population-based colorectal cancer screening programme in Hungary was initiated in December 2018. We aimed to evaluate the current programme and investigate the costs and benefits of potential future changes to overcome the low coverage of the target population.

Methods

We performed an economic evaluation from a healthcare payer perspective using an established micro-simulation model (Microsimulation Screening Analysis-Colon). We simulated costs and benefits of screening with fecal immunochemical test in the Hungarian population aged 50–100, investigating also the impact of potential future scenarios which were assumed to increase invitation coverage: improvement of the IT platform currently used by GPs or distributing the tests through pharmacies instead of GPs.

Results

The model predicted that the current screening programme could lead to 6.2% colorectal cancer mortality reduction between 2018 and 2050 compared to no screening. Even higher reductions, up to 16.6%, were estimated when tests were distributed through pharmacies and higher coverage was assumed. This change in the programme was estimated to require up to 26 million performed fecal immunochemical tests and 1 million colonoscopies for the simulated period. These future scenarios have acceptable cost-benefit ratios of €8000–€8700 per life-years gained depending on the assumed adherence of invited individuals.

Conclusions

With its limitations, the current colorectal cancer screening programme in Hungary will have a modest impact on colorectal cancer mortality. Significant improvements in mortality reduction could be made at acceptable costs, if the tests were to be distributed by pharmacies allowing the entire target population to be invited.
Study of Neurocognitive Function in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients Using P300 Event-Related Potential
Authors: Anandhalakshmi Swaminathan , Rajkumar Ramanathan , Arulmurugan Karuppannan , Kumar Janardanan , Thirunavukarasu Manickam
Published: November 2020

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is the most prevailing metabolic disease. It causes structural and functional alterations in several organs, including the central nervous system. Altered glucose metabolism, atherosclerosis, and inflammation of blood vessels are seen in diabetes. This may lead to neuronal degeneration and decline in cognition. Event-related potential P300 can detect cognitive decline before the emergence of obvious neurological manifestations.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to assess and compare the P300 latencies in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus and in nondiabetic subjects and to determine the influence of type 2 diabetes mellitus on cognitive functions.

Materials and Methods:

In this study our sample size was 248 subjects, with type 2 diabetes mellitus patients ( n = 124) and healthy controls ( n = 124) between the age group of 31 and 60 years. This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted at SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre. The subjects were evaluated by a structured interview and they were assessed with a general health questionnaire to rule out any subpsychiatric illness. Fasting and postprandial blood glucose, HbA1c level, lipid profile, and creatinine were estimated. P300 amplitude and peak latencies were recorded using the standard auditory oddball paradigm.

Results:

The latencies of P300 were significantly increased and the amplitude of P300 was significantly reduced in the diabetic group when compared to the control group ( P < .001). P300 latency has a positive correlation with the HbA1c levels ( r = 0.136) and the duration of diabetes ( r = 0.231).

Conclusion:

Prolongation of P300 latencies and the decreased amplitude in diabetic subjects may suggest the existence of a cognitive decline in individuals with type 2 diabetes compared to healthy individuals.
Effect of the Migration Option on Rural Microenterprise Establishment Decisions in the Mfantsiman Municipality of Ghana
Authors: Kodwiw William Yaw Amuesi , Mensah John Victor
Published: November 2020

The role of microenterprise in providing economic opportunities and employment options to the poor due to their ease of entry is recognised across the world. To enhance rural job creation through microenterprise development interventions, it is essential to understand how microenterprise establishment decisions are made among rural dwellers. The study examined how the option to migrate to other localities affects microenterprise establishment decisions among rural dwellers in the Mfantsiman Municipality of Ghana.

A mixed method design was used in the study. This involved a cross-sectional survey of 20 rural communities, during which data was collected from 800 respondents. Data were also collected from one focus group in each of the 20 communities. A conjoint decision analysis was carried out from interactions of the attributes of each respondent with the migration factor and other socio-economic factors. The migration option reduced the probability of local microenterprise establishment, with the most significant effect among people aged between 15 and 30 years. Furthermore, rural microenterprise establishment decisions are least influenced by the interactive effect of personal attributes and the migration factor as compared to interaction with other factors including access to electricity, institutional support services, market for outputs and returns on investment.
The COVID-19 Pandemic and Herding Behaviour: Evidence from India’s Stock Market
Authors: Dhall Rosy , Singh Bhanwar
Published: November 2020

This article examines the herding behaviour at the industry level from national stock exchange (NSE). The novel contribution of this article is to examine the herding behaviour during the whole, pre- and post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic outbreak period. We deployed the popular model proposed by Chang et al. (2000) to examine herd formation. Using daily stock closing prices of 191 firms, which constitute the 12 industry indices for the period from 1 January 2015 to 1 June 2020, the results for the full sample period (1 January 2015 to 1 June 2020) and before COVID-19 outbreak period (1 January 2015 to 29 January 2020) indicate the non-existence of herding formation at the industry level, but they do suggest a strong evidence of anti-herding behaviour. In addition, during the bull and bear market conditions, we found evidence of herding behaviour during the post-COVID-19 outbreak period (1 January 2020 to 1 June 2020). Further, the findings suggest that COVID-19 pandemic caused the formation of herding behaviour at the industry level. The study facilitates investors to devise their trading strategies in the regime of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Effect of rest temperature on rotational thromboelastometry in New Zealand White rabbits
Authors: Studer Kelsea A. , Hanzlicek Andrew , Di Girolamo Nicola , Womble William , Pathak Debosree , Maranville Rachel , Kanda Ian , Brandão João
Published: November 2020

With the increasing popularity of viscoelastic coagulation analyzers, such as rotational thromboelastometry [ROTEM] and thromboelastography, the need for standardized methodology for appropriate interpretation has become increasingly important. Viscoelastic analysis is heavily influenced by a multitude of pre-analytic factors, both in vivo and in vitro, leading to a large amount of variation between institutions. We investigated the effect of room temperature during a 30-min sample rest time on ROTEM, which analyzed both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. We also evaluated the feasibility of using ROTEM to assess coagulation in non-anesthetized domestic rabbits. Rabbits were selected because they are a common companion animal that could benefit from the use of viscoelastic analysis for various disease processes that could lead to coagulopathies. Citrated whole blood was collected from 10 rabbits and allowed to rest upright for 30 min either at room temperature (~ 21°C) or in a tube warmer (37°C) before analysis. There was no significant difference in results between room temperature and warmed samples, which suggests that allowing samples to rest at room temperature is acceptable clinically. Additionally, blood collection and analysis were feasible in all rabbits.
Diseases caused by Pythium insidiosum in sheep and goats: a review
Authors: do Carmo Priscila M. S. , Uzal Francisco A. , Riet-Correa Franklin
Published: November 2020

Pythiosis is characterized most commonly by ulcerative dermatitis, mainly in the limbs of sheep and occasionally of goats. In sheep, Pythium insidiosum is also responsible for necrotizing rhinitis characterized by marked enlargement and deformity of the nasal region, severe respiratory difficulty, and bloody nasal discharge. A third form of pythiosis in sheep affects the digestive tract, involving ulceration of the esophagus, forestomachs, and abomasum. Pythiosis in sheep and goats has been reported only in Brazil where it occurs mainly in the semiarid region of the country, when animals congregate and stay for longer periods of time within or around water reservoirs. However, it has been reported as well in areas of humid environments, such as the Pantanal of Mato Grosso and in the Brazilian Cerrado. The diagnosis of the different presentations of pythiosis is based on gross and microscopic findings, coupled with detection of the agent by immunohistochemical, molecular, and/or culture-based methods.
Motivations of Refugee-Background Adults in Enrolling in English Language Classes in the United States
Authors: Kisiara Otieno
Published: November 2020

This study examines the motivations of refugee-background adults in participating in English language classes in the United States. Five focus group discussions were held with refugee-background adults with no or very limited English proficiency who were enrolled in an English language program in an urban area in the Northeastern region of the United States. The study participants had been resettled in the United States for between 10 months and 4 years at the time of study and were of different nationalities, including Somalia, Yemen, Myanmar, Cuba, and Sudan. While agencies and organizations funding and running these English programs have generally focused on job readiness English language skills in their curriculums, this study found that refugees had a wide range of motivations for learning English. In addition to better paying jobs, refugees were also interested in learning English to better navigate the health care system and safeguard their privacy, become self-reliant and avoid the humiliation of public assistance, enable self-advocacy in various settings, pass the United States citizenship test, and to provide English language support for family and neighbors. Based on these findings, the study recommends that these language programs intensify collaborative learning activities that invite and incorporate the experiences, perspectives, and expectations of refugee participants in the design, execution, and assessment of these programs.
Simulating Peace Operations: New Digital Possibilities for Training and Public Education
Authors: Dorn A. Walter , Dawson Peter F.
Published: November 2020

Background and Motivation.

A plethora of warfighting games exist commercially, but there is a lack of digital games that deal with peace processes. Furthermore, none simulate actual peacekeeping. The United Nations currently deploys about 100,000 peacekeepers to some of the world’s most dangerous zones, where peacekeepers save lives, alleviate suffering, and help create conditions for peace. The United Nations and national militaries lack peacekeeping simulations to help train their soldiers. Additionally, the public needs to learn more about the way peacekeeping works. Thus, peacekeeping simulation and gaming are worth exploring, especially in the rapidly evolving digital space, which offers new avenues and benefits.

Methods.

We review the meager literature on the subject and observe that there are few digital games to directly draw from. We build on previous work that argued the need for such development, but we now assess important design principles and parameters. We draw upon peacekeeping tabletop exercises that are already well developed.

Results.

We conclude that excellent scenarios and simulation technologies exist that could be combined quite easily for effective peacekeeping training and public education. We find key materials and scenarios in exercises of the United Nations and of the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre. Highlighted areas for future digital design are the inclusion of non-military avatars, emphasis on soft skills development (especially empathy), and realistically complex links between actions and consequences.

Conclusion.

While describing some UN exploration at a proof-of-concept stage, we suggest that both the United Nations and the gaming industry should explore the idea further to achieve synergies between institutional and entertainment applications. The growing capacity of digital technology allows significant innovation, yielding results that could be useful, ethical, enjoyable, and potentially profitable.
Preventing Maltreatment at Home: A Meta-Analysis Examining Outcomes From Online Programs
Authors: Spencer Chelsea M. , Stith Sandra M. , King Erika L.
Published: November 2020

Purpose:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in cases of intimate partner violence (IPV) related to stay-at-home orders, as well as the financial and emotional stress many individuals are experiencing. With limitations on group gatherings, typical in-person prevention and intervention resources, such as anger management groups or batterer intervention programs, may be inaccessible to people in need of resources.

Method:

In order to understand effective options for reducing risk when face-to-face interventions are not feasible, we conducted a meta-analysis to examine the effects of online programs aimed at improving participants’ well-being and reducing IPV risk. Six studies were identified in databases using key search terms.

Results:

Change score comparisons revealed that online programs reduced participants’ anger, depression, emotional IPV perpetration, and physical IPV perpetration significantly more than control groups.

Discussion:

Findings suggest that online resources can help motivated individuals struggling with anger and/or at risk for IPV perpetration.
We Need to Talk About Complexity in Health Research: Findings From a Focused Ethnography
Authors: Papoutsi Chrysanthi , Shaw James , Paparini Sara , Shaw Sara
Published: November 2020

There is increasing focus on complexity-informed approaches across health disciplines. This attention takes several forms, but commonly involves framing research topics as “complex” to justify use of particular methods (e.g., qualitative). Little emphasis is placed on how divergent and convergent ways of knowing complexity become negotiated within academic communities. Drawing on findings from a focused ethnography of an international workshop, we illustrate how health researchers employ “boundary-ordering devices” to navigate different meanings ascribed to complexity while they attempt to sustain interdisciplinary communication and collaboration. These include (a) surfacing (but not resolving) tensions between philosophical grounding of knowledge claims and need for practical purchase, (b) employing techniques of representation and abstraction, and (c) drawing on the fluid, ongoing accomplishment of complexity for different audiences and purposes. Our findings have implications for progressing complexity-informed health research, particularly with respect to qualitative approaches.
Financial Hardship and Health Related Quality of Life Among Older Latinos With Chronic Diseases
Authors: Nedjat-Haiem Frances R. , Cadet Tamara , Parada Humberto , Jones Tessa , Jimenez Elvira E. , Thompson Beti , Wells Kristen J. , Mishra Shiraz I.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Financial hardship influences health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of older adults. However, little is known about the relationship between financial hardship and HRQoL among vulnerable populations.

Objective:

We examined the associations between financial hardship and HRQoL among older Latinos living with chronic disease, including cancer.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study included 68 Latinos (age range 50-87) with one or more chronic health conditions who participated in a pilot randomized clinical trial. Participants responded to 11 financial hardship questions. We used factor analysis to explore constructs of financial hardship. HRQoL was assessed using the 27-item Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G). Multiple linear regression examined the associations between financial hardship and HRQoL subscales (physical, social/family, emotional, functional well-being).

Results:

The factor analysis revealed 3 constructs of financial hardship: medical cost concerns, financial hardship treatment adherence, and financial worry. A 1-point increase in the factor score for financial hardship treatment adherence was associated with a 2.1-point (SE = 0.771) decrease in physical well-being and with a 1.71-point (SE = 0.761) decrease in functional well-being. A 1-point increase in the financial stress factor score was associated with a 2.0-point (SE = 0.833) decrease in social/family well-being, and with a 2.1-point (SE = 0.822) decrease in functional well-being.

Conclusion:

In this study of older Latinos with chronic diseases, financial hardship was associated with worse HRQoL across several domains. Healthcare providers should refer older Latinos living with chronic disease to appropriate support providers, such as care coordinators, social workers, or patient navigators, who can assist them with obtaining financial assistance and other resources.
The Cultural Competence of Educational Leaders: Developing a Conceptual Framework and Assessment Tool for Leadership Development
Authors: Barakat Maysaa , Lakin Joni M. , Reames Ellen , Kochan Fran
Published: November 2020

The purpose of this article was to describe the foundational development of a conceptual framework for cultural competence of educational leaders based on an extensive literature review and to develop the CCEL instrument. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) procedures were used on the data ( n = 252) to determine the psychometric properties of the CCEL and its validity and reliability. The purposefully selected participants were Master’s degree students in educational leadership programs with University Council for Educational Administration institutional membership. EFA of the data revealed three factors of cultural competence: cultural beliefs and motivation, cultural skills, and cultural knowledge.
Leading Through the “Influx:” Leadership Responses and the Influence of a Political Spectacle
Authors: Virella Patricia M.
Published: November 2020

Principals encounter numerous crises, such as migration influxes. Relevant literature explains principals respond to these crises in a variety of ways. However, there is a dearth in the literature that examines what influences principals’ responses through a crisis. The purpose of this phenomenological qualitative case study broadly asks, how, if at all, did principals respond to the “influx” of Puerto Rican students, and what factors influenced how the principals’ responded? By applying political spectacle theory, the findings of this study revealed two categories of response: preparing for the influx and recalibration after the influx did not occur. The insights gained from this study extend the knowledge base about principals and how political spectacles influence their responses during a crisis.
Lateral and Frontal Cephalometric Measurements in a Cohort With Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome
Authors: Rizell Sara , Karlsson Peter , Ransjö Maria , Westerlund Anna , Yehia Zakaria , Kölby Lars
Published: November 2020

Objective:

Descriptions of the craniofacial morphology in Saethre-Chotzen syndrome (SCS) are primarily based on case reports or visual assessments of affected families. The aim of this study was to compare cephalometric measurements of the craniofacial skeleton in a cohort of individuals with SCS and age- and sex-matched individuals without craniofacial anomalies.

Design:

Retrospective case series.

Patients:

Eight girls and 4 boys with SCS (age range, 7.0-19.2 years).

Methods:

Cephalometric measurements were performed using lateral and frontal cephalograms.

Results:

Most of the individuals with Saethre-Chotzen syndrome exhibited lower values for SNA, SNB, s-n and s-ar, while their NSL/NL, NSL/ML, NL/ML, and n-s-ba values were higher than the respective mean reference values for healthy individuals. In comparison with age- and sex-matched individuals without craniofacial anomalies, the individuals with SCS showed higher values for the maxillary and mandibular angular measurements, as well as for the menton midline angle.

Conclusions:

This sample of 12 unrelated individuals with SCS is the largest collected to date for cephalometric measurements. We found that the syndrome is associated with bimaxillary retrognathism, posterior maxillary and mandibular inclination, neutral sagittal relation as well as a tendency toward an open vertical skeletal relation, a short and flattened skull base, and facial asymmetry, as compared to individuals without the syndrome.