bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influential characteristics of electromagnetic parameters on self-powered MR damper and its application in vehicle suspension system
Authors: Gao Xiang , Niu Junchuan , Jia Ruihao , Liu Zhihui
Published: August 2019

In order to reuse the energy dissipated by magneto-rheological (MR) damper, a self-powered MR damper is designed and analyzed theoretically. The main thrust of this work is establishing the mechanical-electromagnetic coupling model of quarter vehicle suspension based on self-powered MR damper, whilst the energy conversion efficiency of self-powered MR damper with electromagnetic parameters changing is investigated. The magnetic circuit model is formulated firstly. The influence of electromagnetic parameters on current in MR damper is analyzed systemically in frequency domain. A multi-objective optimization method is performed to determine the electromagnetic parameters. Subsequently a quarter vehicle suspension system with self-powered MR damper is introduced. The mechanical-electromagnetic coupling model is established. The frequency response function is derived under random road excitation. The vibration isolation capability of the proposed quarter vehicle suspension system is addressed in time and frequency domain respectively. Compared to passive control, the amplitude of sprung mass velocity, acceleration and transmissibility are reduced by 51%, 78% and about 10 dB in time and frequency domain respectively. Finally the energy conversion efficiency of self-powered MR damper with magnetic parameters changing under random road excitation is discussed. The vibration isolation performance of self-powered MR damper is more effective than passive control, especially in resonance range of the suspension system.
Through-and-Through Suture Technique to Stabilize a Sheath in Branched Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Panuccio Giuseppe , Rohlffs Fiona , Makaloski Vladimir , Eleshra Ahmed , Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Kölbel Tilo
Published: August 2019

Purpose: To describe a technique to catheterize antegrade branches of a branched thoracoabdominal endograft from a femoral access with the help of standard sheaths and a vascular suture. Technique: The technique is demonstrated in a patient who underwent successful complex thoracoabdominal branched endovascular aortic repair. After the deployment of an aortic endograft with two antegrade branches for the targeted renovisceral vessels, a standard braided sheath was preloaded with a 3/0 polypropylene suture and introduced inside an additional sheath from the groin to the thoracic aorta. Simultaneous gentle traction on the suture as the preloaded sheath was advanced achieved a very stable 180° curve of the proximal end of the sheath. It was possible to selectively catheterize the antegrade branches and respective target vessels sequentially, as well as deploy the planned bridging stents for each branch. Conclusion: The through-and-through suture technique is a helpful tool in branched endovascular aortic repair. It saves time, radiation, and materials; no snare is needed, and it can be preloaded into a sheath.
In Vitro Evaluation of Balloon-Expandable Chimney Grafts in the Renal Arteries Combined With the Endurant Endograft
Authors: Taneva Gergana T. , Donas Konstantinos P. , Torsello Giovanni B. , Seifarth Harald , de Azevedo Francisco Marques , Austermann Martin , Torsello Giovanni Federico
Published: August 2019

Purpose: To compare balloon-expandable covered stents (BECS) available for use as renal chimney grafts to the Advanta V12 approved for use with the Endurant endograft. Materials and Methods: A silicone model was manufactured based on preoperative computed tomography angiography (CTA) scans of a patient with a 7-cm juxtarenal aneurysm treated with an Endurant bifurcated endograft and an Advanta V12 covered stent for the 6-mm-diameter right renal artery. The model was placed in a flow box filled with a 37°C blood-mimicking solution equipped with a pulsatile pumping system (140/60 mm Hg). The tested BECS were the Advanta V12, the VBX, and the BeGraft+. A 36-mm-diameter Endurant II endograft with a 16-mm-diameter contralateral limb and a 6×59-mm BECS chimney graft were used in 9 consecutive tests (3 for each combination). After each implantation, the model was placed in the CT scanner, and 2 radiologists blinded to the test device independently measured the gutter areas and the patent chimney graft lumen at the level of the Endurant’s suprarenal stent, at the level of the chimney’s maximum curvature, and 10 mm inside the renal artery. The intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to assess interreader reliability. Results: The mean gutter areas were 19.3±7, 20.2±8, and 22.3±8 mm2 for the Advanta, VBX, and BeGraft+, respectively (all p>0.05). At the level of the aortic endograft’s suprarenal stent struts, the mean diameter of the Advanta V12, VBX, and BeGraft+ were 4.46±0.3, 4.12±0.4, and 4.12±0.3 mm, respectively (all p>0.05). At the level of the maximum chimney graft angulation, the mean diameters were 3.77±0.3, 4.16±0.1, and 3.74±0.3 mm, respectively (all p>0.05). In the right renal artery, the mean diameters were 3.91±0.2, 4.05±0.9, and 4.3±0.4 mm, respectively (all p>0.05). The ICCs varied between 0.7 and 0.9, indicating good agreement between readers. Conclusion: These in vitro findings showed comparable results between the Advanta V12 and the available BECS used in conjunction with the Endurant endograft according to the instructions for use. Further clinical evaluation is needed to confirm these results.
Impact of Insertion Technique and Iliac Artery Anatomy on Fenestrated Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Crawford Sean A. , Doyle Matthew G. , Amon Cristina H. , Forbes Thomas L.
Published: August 2019

Purpose: To develop a mechanically realistic aortoiliac model to evaluate anatomic variables associated with stent-graft rotation and to assess common deployment techniques that may contribute to rotation. Materials and Methods: Idealized aortoiliac geometries were constructed either through direct 3-dimensional (3D) printing (rigid) or through casting with polyvinyl alcohol using 3D-printed molds (flexible). Flexible model bending rigidity was controlled by altering wall thickness. Three flexible patient-specific models were also created based on the preoperative computed tomography angiograms. Zenith infrarenal and fenestrated devices were used in this study. The models were pressurized to 100 mm Hg with normal saline. Deployments were performed under fluoroscopy at 37°C. Rotation was calculated by tracking the change in position of gold markers affixed to the devices. Results: In the rigid idealized models, stent-graft rotation increased with increasing torsion; torsion levels of 1.6, 2.6, and 3.6 mm−1 had mean rotations of 5.2°±0.03°, 11.2°±4.8°, and 27.6°±13.0°, respectively (p<0.001). In the flexible models, the highest rotation (58°±3.0°) was observed in models with high torsion and high rigidity (7.5 mm−1 net torsion and 254 N·m2 flexural rigidity). No rotation was observed in the absence of torsion. Applying torque to the device during insertion significantly increased stent-graft rotation by an average of 28° across all levels of torsion (p<0.01). Multiple device insertions prior to deployment did not change the observed device rotation. The patient-specific models accurately predicted the degree of rotation seen intraoperatively to within 5°. Conclusion: Insertion technique plays an important role in the degree of stent-graft rotation during deployment. Our model suggests that in vivo correction of device orientation can increase the observed rotation and supports the concept of fully removing the device, adjusting the orientation, and subsequently reinserting. Additionally, increasing iliac artery torsion in the presence of increased vessel rigidity results in stent-graft rotation.
Hybrid electrospun nanofibrous membranes: Influence of layer arrangement and composition ratio on moisture management behavior
Authors: Salmani Sangtabi Meisam , Kamali Dolatabadi Mehdi , Gorji Mohsen , Gharehaghaji Ali Akbar , Rashidi Abosaeed
Published: August 2019

This study aimed to examine the fabrication of bi-constituent nanofibrous membranes and investigation of their moisture management behavior in various environmental conditions. In doing so, polyurethane with a hydrophobic nature and superior mechanical behavior and poly(2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid) (PAMPS) with a hydrophilic nature were utilized. Different hybrid electrospun nanofibrous membranes were aligned based on different layer arrangements and composition ratios. Then, the impacts of the solid fraction of polymers, sequence of stacking, and environmental conditions on water vapor permeability, contact angle, and acidic water permeation were measured and discussed. Tracing the water vapor permeability behavior in samples was carried out through measuring the amount of permeation hourly and proposing some regression models. Bi-modal nanofibrous membranes were successfully fabricated using PAMPS and polyurethane with an average fiber diameter of 543.5 and 216.7 nm, respectively. As the volume fraction of PAMPS increased, the porosities of the samples remained unchanged, the number of pores increased, and the pore size decreased (the average pore diameter was 299.97 nm for the PAMPS sample and 492.35 nm for the polyurethane sample). Despite the better water vapor permeability of the polyurethane membranes than that of the PAMPS membranes, in the first 12 h of the water vapor permeability test, the trend was completely reverse. The results also revealed that in the relative humidity of 55%, the polyurethane layer had the highest water vapor permeability among all samples. The results of the acidic water permeation and contact angle tests showed that the hybrid electrospun nanofibrous membranes exhibit better wicking and wetting properties.
A Brief Boost of Positive Energy When Young Makes for a Healthy Adult Interneuron
Authors: Beenhakker Mark
Published: August 2019

[Box: see text]
Study on the Patency of the Contralateral Iliac Vein After Stenting Across the Iliocaval Confluence With an Experimental In Vivo Model
Authors: Zhang Xicheng , Huang Wennuo , Yu Huiming , Chen Yong , Liu Jiaxin , Gao Qihang , Zhao Dengqiu
Published: August 2019

Objective:

Stenting is the preferred treatment for iliac vein lesions. For the treatment of occlusions in the junction of the iliac vein and the inferior vena cava (IVC), the stent needs to be positioned in the IVC to cover the lesion. However, the pathological changes in the contralateral iliac vein due to stent coverage on its ostium remain unclear. We observed the patency of the contralateral iliac vein via animal experiments.

Methods:

The stents were placed in the left iliac vein and extended into the IVC in 8 beagle dogs. Doppler ultrasonography, angiography, and histopathological examination were used to assess the patency and histopathological changes in the contralateral iliac vein.

Results:

Angiography showed patency of the contralateral iliac vein and no sign of thrombosis or stenosis. Twelve months after stenting, Doppler ultrasonography showed a stenotic change in the ostium of the contralateral iliac vein. The histopathological examination showed that the stent strut at the ostium of the contralateral iliac vein was mostly covered by the intima, and the cross-sectional stenosis rate was greater than 60%.

Conclusions:

The coverage of the iliac vein stent on the ostium of the contralateral iliac vein does not cause complete occlusion of the contralateral vein but can cause significant stenosis at the ostium of the contralateral iliac vein, which is considered to be a potential risk factor for thrombosis.
Overlying strata movement with ground penetrating radar detection in close-multiple coal seams mining
Authors: Li Yang , Wang Jiachen , Chen Yiding , Wang Zhipeng , Wang Jianpeng
Published: August 2019

Longwall mining is a productive mining method that has been widely used in China, the United States, Australia, and Europe. However, due to the subsidence caused by coal mining activities, the phenomenon is complex, longwall mining brings the overburden movement issues accompany with the coal recovery. In subsidence trough, the resulting strata and surface ground movements are regarded as largely contemporaneous with mining, producing more or less direct effects of natural ecology. Ground penetrating radar has been widely used in geological hazard detection due to its high precision, but it is rarely employed in underground measuring the overlying strata movement above the longwall panel. In this article, there are five close-multiple coal seams (5#, 7#, 8#, 9#, 12# seams) within 70 m distance to be monitored in Qian Jiaying coal mine of Kailuan Coal Company in Hebei province. The 7#, 8#, 9#, 12# coal seams were already excavated in sequence. So the 5# coal seam is overmining above the gobs of four coal seams at the top. The ZTR12-series ground penetrating radar equipment is used to detect the development of fractures under the floor of the 5# coal seam. The ZTR12-series ground penetrating radar system has the capability of large depth detection and explosion proof to adapt to the working environment of underground coal mines and can realize fine detection and accurate identification. The maximum detection distance of reflection method can reach 50 m. The measurement results show that the 5# coal seam is in the fracture zone above the gobs of four coal seams, and the caved zone of lower coal seam develops to fine sandstone of the 5# coal seam floor. The ground penetrating radar has shown much promise in the detection of overlying strata movement.
Behavioral and Physiological Health-Related Risk Factors in College Students
Authors: Vainshelboim Baruch , Bopp Christopher M. , Wilson Oliver W. A. , Papalia Zack , Bopp Melissa
Published: August 2019

The purpose of this study was to assess the behavioral and physiological health-related risk factors in college students. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 1620 college students (21.3 ± 1.7 years, 897 males, and 723 females). Physical activity (PA), sitting time, body composition, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), muscular endurance (ME), and blood test were assessed. In the total sample, 15.2% were not meeting PA guidelines, 33% were sedentary, 13.3% were obese, 10.7% had low CRF, 36.8% had poor ME, 33.7% had dyslipidemia and 5.9% presented with prediabetes. Obesity and poor CRF were more prevalent in male students, whereas inactivity was more prevalent in female students. Individuals with poor CRF were more likely to be obese (odds ratio = 5.2, 95% CI = 3.5-7.8, P = .007 for male students, and 9.4, 95% CI = 1.5-57.8, P = .021 for female students). Sitting time positively correlated with fat percentage (fat%) and inversely with lean body mass (LBM) in male students, whereas ME inversely correlated with fat% and positively with LBM in female students. Although most students were active, significant prevalence of health-related risk factors were observed. Sedentary behavior and poor fitness were associated with a compromised body composition in both sexes. Improving fitness and reducing sedentary behavior in college students could be a public health strategy for health promotion and chronic diseases prevention.
Spreadsheet-based method for predicting temperature dependence of fracture toughness in ductile-to-brittle temperature region
Authors: Meshii Toshiyuki
Published: August 2019

A spreadsheet-based simplified and direct toughness scaling method to predict the temperature dependence of fracture toughness Jc in the ductile-to-brittle transition temperature region is proposed. This method uses fracture toughness test data and the Ramberg–Osgood exponent and yield stress at the reference temperature, and yield stress at the temperature in interest to predict Jc. The physical basis of the simplified and direct toughness scaling method is the strong correlation between Jc and yield stress. The simplified and direct toughness scaling method was validated for Cr–Mo steel Japan Industrial Standard SCM440 and 0.55% carbon steel Japan Industrial Standard S55C by comparing the simplified and direct toughness scaling prediction results with the median results of an experiment performed at four temperatures ranging from −55°C to 100°C and at three temperatures ranging from −85°C to 20°C, respectively. The simplified and direct toughness scaling method can predict Jc from both low to high temperatures, and vice versa. Thus, 12 and 6 predictions were made for each material. The prediction discrepancy for these 18 cases ranged from −50.4% to +25.8% and the average absolute discrepancy was 22.1%. These results were acceptable considering the large scatter generally observed with Jc. In particular, in case of predicting Jc at temperatures higher than the lowest temperature of −55°C for SCM440, the simplified and direct toughness scaling method predicted Jc more realistically than the American Society for Testing and Materials E1921 master curve approach. Although the simplified and direct toughness scaling method requires additional tensile test data compared with the master curve approach, the acceptable prediction accuracy at high temperatures seems beneficial because the mass and time required for tensile tests are admissible.
The state of the science on trauma inquiry
Authors: Lewis-O’Connor Annie , Warren Abi , Lee Jeannie V , Levy-Carrick Nomi , Grossman Samara , Chadwick Mardi , Stoklosa Hanni , Rittenberg Eve
Published: August 2019

Within the context of longitudinal medical care for adults, health care providers have a unique opportunity to inquire and respond to the traumatic life experiences affecting the health of their patients, as well as a responsibility to minimize retraumatizing these patients during medical encounters. While there is literature on screening women for intimate partner violence, and there is emerging data on pediatric screening for adverse life experiences, there is sparse literature on inquiry of broader trauma histories in adult medical settings. This lack of research on trauma inquiry results in an absence of guidelines for best practices, in turn making it challenging for policy makers, health care providers, and researchers to mitigate the adverse health outcomes caused by traumatic experiences and to provide equitable care to populations that experience a disproportionate burden of trauma. This state of the science summarizes current inquiry practices for patients who have experienced trauma, violence, and abuse. It places trauma inquiry within an anchoring framework of trauma-informed care principles, and emphasizes a focus on resilience. It then proposes best practices for trauma inquiry, which include tiered screening starting with broad trauma inquiry, proceeding to risk and safety assessment as indicated, and ending with connection to interventions.
Child and parent perceptions of participating in multimethod research in the acute aftermath of pediatric injury
Authors: Kindler Christine , Kassam-Adams Nancy , Borger Tia , Marsac Meghan L.
Published: August 2019

Background:

Despite growing evidence that participation in psychological trauma research is well tolerated by children and parents, ethics boards may voice concerns regarding research with families with recent acute trauma exposure. Factors impacting child and parent experiences of research participation are not well documented, particularly for methodologies including observational components.

Objectives:

This study describes child and parent perceptions of research participation involving an observational task following an acute traumatic event and explores potential relationships between research experience and selected demographic factors (race/ethnicity, sex, age, prior trauma exposure), and post-traumatic stress symptoms.

Methods:

As part of a larger study on the role of biopsychosocial factors in post-traumatic stress symptoms, 96 child–parent dyads (ages 8–12 years, M = 10.6) participated in a three–time point study following hospitalization for pediatric injury. At baseline, children and parents completed measures of reactions to research participation, post-traumatic stress symptoms, and trauma history. Measures of post-traumatic stress symptoms were repeated at 6- and 12-week follow-up assessments.

Results:

The majority of families reported they were glad they participated in the research study (61% children; 72% parents) and felt good about helping others (74% children; 93% parents). Negative feelings were uncommon (<10% of families). Perceptions of participation were not related to race, sex, or trauma history, but child age significantly factored into trust of the research team and informed consent (Spearman’s ρ = .289, p < .01). Reactions to research were not significantly related to child or parent post-traumatic stress symptoms at any time point.

Conclusion:

Current results extend past research to suggest that most children’s and parents’ research experience is positive, even when completing an observational task during hospitalization for an injury. Children under the age of 10 years may perceive their participation as less voluntary, supporting prior findings that additional steps be taken to ensure their understanding of their choice in participation.
Author Reply: An Appraisal Perspective on Neutral Affective States
Authors: Yih Jennifer , Uusberg Andero , Qian Weiqiang , Gross James J.
Published: August 2019

We applaud Gasper (2018) for reviewing five approaches to operationalizing neutral states. To supplement Gasper’s important contribution, we express the five neutral conditions at the appraisal level with the hope of clarifying their defining features and helping researchers to generate suitable neutral conditions.
Ecosystem Services of a Wetland in the Politically Unstable Southernmost Provinces of Thailand
Authors: Aedasong Ainee , Roongtawanreongsri Saowalak , Hajisamae Sukree , James David
Published: August 2019

This study aims to answer questions about the importance and utilization of wetland provisioning ecosystem services (ES) in the disturbed southernmost provinces of Thailand, calling for the need for sustainable wetland management. Generally, natural resources management in the unrest area has been neglected because security-related policies have usually received higher priority. The study surveyed a sample of 328 households to explore the types and importance of provisioning wetland ES that have value to the local people. The statistics used to analyze data are percentage, mean, standard deviation, and calculation of the value of provisioning ES. Quantitative data were presented to a participatory workshop of 22 stakeholders to explore guidelines for wetland management. The results indicate that wetland plays a vital role in the livelihood of the local community by providing a variety of provisioning ES. Nine of the 13 ES addressed in the study were perceived as important to very important by the local people. Based on the guidelines provided by the stakeholders, an initial strategy has been formulated in the study.
Maintenance and Acceleration of Pericellular Matrix Formation within 3D Cartilage Cell Culture Models
Authors: Owida Hamza A. , Kuiper Nicola L. , Yang Ying
Published: August 2019

Objective

In native articular cartilage, chondrocytes are surrounded by a thin pericellular matrix (PCM) forming chondrons. The PCM is exclusively rich in type VI collagen. The retention of the PCM has a significant influence on the metabolic activity of the chondrocytes.

Design

This study investigated the influence of 2 hydrogels (hyaluronic acid [HA] and agarose) and 2 media compositions (basal and chondrogenic) on the preservation/maintenance and acceleration of PCM formation over a 21-day time course. Different combinations of chondrocytes, chondrons, and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) were studied.

Results

Both hydrogels preserved chondrons PCM from day 1 up to 21-day culture regardless of media composition. Type VI collagen immunostaining of the cultured chondrons appeared both dense and homogenous. The presence of MSCs did not influence this outcome. At day 1, type VI collagen was not present around chondrocytes alone or their co-culture with MSCs. In the HA hydrogel, type VI collagen was located within the PCM after 7 days in both mono- and co-cultures. In the agarose hydrogel, collagen VI was located within the PCM at 7 days (co-cultures) and 14 days (monocultures). In both hydrogel systems, chondrogenic media enhanced the production of key extracellular matrix components in both mono- and co-cultures in comparison to basal media (11.5% and 14% more in glycosaminoglycans and type II collagen for chondrocytes samples at day 21 culture samples, respectively). However, the media types did not enhance type VI collagen synthesis.

Conclusion

Altogether, a 3D chondrogenic hydrogel environment is the primary condition for maintenance and acceleration of PCM formation.
A New Method for Cartilage Evaluation in Femoroacetabular Impingement Using Quantitative T2 Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Preliminary Validation against Arthroscopic Findings
Authors: Ben-Eliezer Noam , Raya José G. , Babb James S. , Youm Thomas , Sodickson Daniel K. , Lattanzi Riccardo
Published: August 2019

Objective

The outcome of arthroscopic treatment for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) depends on the preoperative status of the hip cartilage. Quantitative T2 can detect early biochemical cartilage changes, but its routine implementation is challenging. Furthermore, intrinsic T2 variability between patients makes it difficult to define a threshold to identify cartilage lesions. To address this, we propose a normalized T2-index as a new method to evaluate cartilage in FAI.

Design

We retrospectively analyzed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data of 18 FAI patients with arthroscopically confirmed cartilage defects. Cartilage T2 maps were reconstructed from multi-spin-echo 3-T data using the echo-modulation-curve (EMC) model-based technique. The central femoral cartilage, assumed healthy in early-stage FAI, was used as the normalization reference to define a T2-index. We investigated the ability of the T2-index to detect surgically confirmed cartilage lesions.

Results

The average T2-index was 1.14 ± 0.1 and 1.13 ± 0.1 for 2 separated segmentations. Using T2-index >1 as the threshold for damaged cartilage, accuracy was 88% and 100% for the 2 segmentations. We found moderate intraobserver repeatability, although separate segmentations yielded comparable accuracy. Damaged cartilage could not be identified using nonnormalized average T2 values.

Conclusions

This preliminary study confirms the importance of normalizing T2 values to account for interpatient variability and suggests that the T2-index is a promising biomarker for the detection of cartilage lesions in FAI. Future work is needed to confirm that combining T2-index with morphologic MRI and other quantitative biomarkers could improve cartilage assessment in FAI.
Dual-release hydrocortisone improves hepatic steatosis in patients with secondary adrenal insufficiency: a real-life study
Authors: Guarnotta Valentina , Mineo Mariagrazia Irene , Radellini Stefano , Pizzolanti Giuseppe , Giordano Carla
Published: August 2019

Background:

Conventional glucocorticoid treatment has a significant impact on liver in patients with adrenal insufficiency. Dual-release hydrocortisone (DR-HC) provides physiological cortisol exposure, leading to an improvement in anthropometric and metabolic parameters. We aimed to evaluate the effects of 12-month DR-HC treatment on the hepatic steatosis index (HSI), a validated surrogate index of hepatic steatosis, in patients with secondary adrenal insufficiency (SAI).

Methods:

A total of 45 patients with hypopituitarism, 22 with hypogonadism, hypothyroidism, ACTH, and GH deficiencies, and 23 with hypogonadism, hypothyroidism, and ACTH deficiency, on replacement therapy for all the pituitary deficiencies, were switched from conventional hydrocortisone to DR-HC. At baseline and after 12 months, glucose and insulin levels, surrogate estimates of insulin sensitivity, and hepatic steatosis were evaluated through ultrasonography and HSI.

Results:

At diagnosis, ultrasonography documented steatosis in 31 patients (68.8%) while 33 (73.3%) showed high HSI. Hydrocortisone (HC) dose (β = 1.231, p  = 0.010), insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) (β = 1.431, p = 0.002), and insulin sensitivity index (ISI)-Matsuda (β = −1.389, p = 0.034) were predictors of HSI at baseline. After 12 months of DR-HC, a significant decrease in body mass index (BMI) ( p = 0.008), waist circumference (WC) ( p = 0.010), fasting insulin ( p  = 0.041), HOMA-IR ( p = 0.047), HSI ( p < 0.001) and number of patients with HSI ⩾36 ( p = 0.003), and a significant increase in sodium ( p < 0.001) and ISI-Matsuda ( p = 0.031) were observed. HOMA-IR (β = 1.431, p  = 0.002) and ISI-Matsuda (β = −9.489, p < 0.001) were identified as independent predictors of HSI at 12 months.

Conclusions:

In adults with SAI, DR-HC is associated with an improvement in HSI, regardless of the dose used, mainly related to an improvement in insulin sensitivity.
‘A child on drugs’: Conceptualising childhood experiences of agency and vulnerability
Authors: Sultan Aysel , Andresen Sabine
Published: August 2019

Andresen discussed vulnerability as an analytical category in childhood studies and reflected on how the concept could be linked to structural, systemic and individual factors. This article starts by asking what vulnerability is and by examining its relation to agency. It suggests conceptualising agency as a dynamic experience rather than as a static condition, based on the exploration of narrative interviews with adolescent drug users (aged 16–21) in treatment. These narratives retrospectively follow the trajectories of attention-deficit/hyperactivity diagnosis and subsequent drug treatment that later developed into habitual drug use in adolescence. Our data show how drug use can shape vulnerable conditions yet also create new connections with given environments, becoming a source of agency for child and adolescent drug users. Along with the empirical findings, we reflect on the analytical potentials of Actor-Network-Theory.
The principle of child autonomy: A rationale for the normative agenda of childhood studies
Authors: Mühlbacher Sarah , Sutterlüty Ferdinand
Published: August 2019

The normative aim of childhood studies is to show that children are and should be recognized as active shapers of their lifeworlds. In this article, we discuss which concept can best be used to accomplish this. Our thesis is that the agency concept ubiquitous in childhood studies only inadequately advances the field’s normative agenda. Mostly containing some hidden normativity, its meaning remains primarily descriptive. Indeed, children always have some kind of agency, regardless of the conditions they live in. They may exercise agency while still being manipulated or otherwise rendered incapable of acting as autonomous human beings. Against this backdrop, we first delineate the deficiencies of the notion of child agency and try to show why it should be replaced by that of autonomy in order to preserve and make explicit its hidden normative impetus. Second, we seek to clarify which understanding of autonomy is able to fulfill our aspirations. We oppose individualistic notions of autonomy and, by the same token, draw on criticism of the insufficient attention often paid to structural social factors. Eventually, we aim to develop a social concept of child autonomy that takes into account the relationality of human existence and replaces the asymmetrical relationship between children and adults with an equal appreciation of differences.
A case of heterotopic pregnancy after clomiphene-induced ovulation
Authors: Alqahtani Hanoof Ali
Published: August 2019

Heterotopic pregnancy is a rare condition in which both intrauterine and extrauterine pregnancies occur simultaneously. It was reported to be very rare in normal conceived pregnancy. However, with the considerable progress of the assisted reproductive techniques, the incidence of heterotopic pregnancy increased. Furthermore, the incidence also increases in previous abortions. In this case report, we will present and discuss a patient who had heterotopic pregnancy after clomiphene-induced ovulation as well as a history of previous abortion where the extrauterine fallopian tube ruptured and was managed surgically while the intrauterine pregnancy was preserved.
Toluene Toxicity: A Case Report of Transdermal Exposure Causing Hypokalemic Paralysis
Authors: Tran Kelvin MH. , Hinther Kelsey , Bueti Joe , Karpinski Martin , Hingwala Jay
Published: August 2019

Rationale:

Hypokalemia is a common finding. Typically asymptomatic presentations of neuromuscular weakness emerge at levels below 2.5 mmol/L. Causes include gastrointestinal losses, renal losses, or intracellular shift, with gastrointestinal losses and diuretics accounting for the majority. Although the cause is often apparent on clinical assessment, a systematic approach incorporating urine biochemistry can aid in narrowing the differential in obscure cases.

Presentation:

We describe a case of a previously healthy 27-year-old man who presented with acute ascending paralysis, with an associated severe hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis. There were no apparent causes on clinical assessment.

Diagnosis:

Based on analysis of urine biochemistry, we concluded that a pathologic kaluresis was present, and given his acidemia and transient pathology, we diagnosed the patient with hypokalemic paralysis secondary to toluene toxicity.

Interventions:

We provided supportive care and electrolyte repletion for our patient; no specific therapies for toluene were required. Our patient was counseled regarding appropriate protective measures when handling toluene.

Outcomes:

Complete neurologic recovery and biochemical normalization occurred within 48 hours of presentation with supportive care. He continued to use proper precautions when handling toluene, and experienced no symptom relapse, or further abnormalities on both blood and urine chemistry.

Lessons learned:

Using this case, we review an algorithmic approach incorporating urine biochemistries to aid in the workup of hypokalemia. We review toluene as a toxicologic entity and highlight its role as a cause of hypokalemia.
Usability evaluation of an eHealth intervention for family carers of individuals affected by psychosis: A mixed-method study
Authors: Sin Jacqueline , Woodham Luke A. , Henderson , Claire , Williams Elen , Sesé Hernández Aurora , Gillard Steve
Published: August 2019

Background

Existing research suggests that eHealth interventions targeting family carers of individuals with long-term illness offer a promising approach to care delivery. In particular, digital psychoeducational interventions with interactive psychosocial support are well-received with high rates of satisfaction and acceptability. However, development of such interventions for psychosis carers is lacking. We developed a multi-component eHealth intervention specifically for carers of individuals affected by psychosis, called COPe-support (Carers fOr People with Psychosis e-support).

Objective

Using mixed methods to evaluate usability, system heuristics and perceived acceptability, we conducted a usability study to establish the suitability of the intervention prototype for the target user group.

Methods

Twenty-three carers were recruited to the study and participated in a think-aloud test or a remote online trial of the intervention. Qualitative feedback, post-use System Usability Scale (SUS) scores, and real-world usage data collected from the tests were analysed. These were also supplemented with heuristic evaluation data provided by an independent eLearning technology expert.

Results

Participants evaluated the intervention content as useful and helpful, and indicated that the system had satisfactory usability with a mean SUS score of 73%, above the usability quality benchmark threshold. Study results identified some minor usability issues, which were corroborated with the eLearning expert’s heuristic evaluation findings. We used these results to refine the COPe-support intervention.

Conclusions

The usability study with end-users and service providers identified real-life usage and usability issues. The study results helped us refine COPe-support and its delivery strategy before its launch as part of a large-scale clinical trial.
Partners in progress? An impact study of the 2016 Religious Education reforms in England
Authors: McGrail Peter , Towey Anthony
Published: August 2019

Recent educational reform in England occasioned new interactions between the state, universities, faith communities and schools. In 2016, a suite of new public examinations testing the academic ability of English students matriculating at 16 and 18 years of age was introduced. In Religious Education, these state-driven changes deliberately involved religious stakeholders, universities and the ‘faith school’ sector. The curricula generated by this fourfold interaction have received a mixed reception. Themselves part of the agency for change, the authors outline the context of the reform and their investigation into its impact upon the strategies of school leaders and heads of department.
Inflation Dynamics and Monetary Policy in India: A New Keynesian Phillips Curve Perspective
Authors: Salunkhe Bhavesh , Patnaik Anuradha
Published: August 2019

The present study estimates various specifications of the New Keynesian Phillips Curve (NKPC) models for India over 1996Q2 to 2017Q2 using Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Wholesale Price Index (WPI) inflation, separately. The empirical results suggest that the data support all the specifications of the Phillips curve models based on both the CPI and WPI inflations. However, the backward looking and hybrid models provide robust results for both the inflation indices. While the forward-looking behaviour dominates the CPI inflation trajectory, the backward-looking behaviour greatly influences the trajectory of WPI inflation. Also, a small-to-moderate degree of persistence is evident in both the CPI and WPI inflation. The output gap, which mainly represents the demand side pressures, turns up the major force determining both the CPI and WPI inflations. Besides the output gap, real effective exchange rate (reer), international crude oil price inflation, global non-fuel commodity price inflation and rainfall have a modest impact on the CPI and WPI inflations.

JEL Classification: E12, E52, C36, C14
Exploring Gamification for Recruitment through Actor Network Theory
Authors: Shree Sonal , Singh Ardhendu Shekhar
Published: August 2019

This article examines the benefits of applying gamification in the recruitment process. It highlights how it can be effectively leveraged with the right design by involving various stakeholders at varied stages. The Actor Network Theory (ANT) as a theoretical ground has been used as a reference point to take a more detailed look at the ways in which gamification can be effectively deployed for recruitment by organizations. We refer to ANT and the interaction between the human and non-human elements, here, the applicants, the other stakeholders, and the gamification tools, to serve the greater organizational purpose. Questions that interrogate between rules and practices arise, viz. can the game be effectively customized to achieve sophisticated and enhanced selection outcomes. By applying gamification as the reference point within the Actor Network Theory, their associated potential for further research and applications is achieved. A valuable perspective in gaining insights for further understanding of this theory in today’s technologically progressive environment has also been discussed for further reflection.
Under the Radar: Simplifying the Representation of Latent Class Characteristics
Authors: adams jimi , Lippert Adam M.
Published: August 2019

In this visualization, we demonstrate how to use radar plots to represent the class-specific posterior response probabilities from latent class analysis results. These plots allow for a simple representation of the class differences in the distributions across the modeled indicators. We demonstrate the utility of this approach with results from a published model of women’s employment and family life circumstances. In doing so, we demonstrate how to avoid some of the pitfalls common to radar plots and provide example code to allow other researchers to readily adapt this approach to present their own results.
A Web-Based Simulation Game for Teaching Supply Chain Management
Authors: Chuang Ming-Ling
Published: August 2019

Supply chain management (SCM) is a complex business discipline because it combines the concepts of forecasting, inventory management, logistics and distribution, vertical and horizontal integration, and global issues. This complexity creates a challenge when teaching the concepts to both undergraduate and graduate students. A web-based computer simulation can be very useful in helping students to grasp the difficult concepts. It helps students to think systematically and logically as they progress through scenarios with uncertainties and complexity. This article provides detailed implementation protocols for using a web-based SCM game including game descriptions, classroom pedagogy, and simulation assessment. Recommendations are also provided based on the instructor’s experience.
Brain Responses in CFS and TMD to Autonomic Challenges: An Exploratory fMRI Study
Authors: Vuong Q.C. , Allison J.R. , Finkelmeyer A. , Newton J. , Durham J.
Published: August 2019

Introduction:

Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is seen in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). Both conditions have poorly understood pathophysiology. Several brain structures that play a role in pain and fatigue, such as the insular cortex and basal ganglia, are also implicated in autonomic function.

Objectives:

ANS dysfunction may point to common neurophysiologic mechanisms underlying the predominant symptoms for CFS and TMD. No studies to date have investigated the combination of both conditions. Thus, our aim was to test whether patients with CFS with or without TMD show differences in brain responses to autonomic challenges.

Methods:

In this exploratory functional imaging study, patients with CFS who screened positive for TMD (n = 26), patients who screened negative for TMD (n = 16), and age-matched control participants (n = 10) performed the Valsalva maneuver while in a 3-T magnetic resonance imaging scanner. This maneuver is known to activate the ANS.

Results:

For all 3 groups, whole-brain F test showed increased brain activation during the maneuver in the superior and inferior frontal gyri, the left and right putamen and thalamus, and the insular cortex. Furthermore, group contrasts with small-volume correction showed that patients with CFS who screened positive for TMD showed greater activity in the left insular cortex as compared with patients who screened negative and in the left caudate nucleus as compared with controls.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that increased activity in the cortical and subcortical regions observed during autonomic challenges may be modulated by fatigue and pain. ANS dysfunction may be a contributing factor to these findings, and further work is required to tease apart the complex relationship among CFS, TMD, and autonomic functions.

Knowledge Transfer Statement:

Brain activity related to activation of the autonomic nervous system in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome who screened positive for painful temporomandibular disorder was greater than in patients who screened negative; activity was seen in brain regions associated with autonomic functions and pain. These findings suggest that autonomic dysfunction may play a role in the pathophysiology of both conditions, explain some of the apparent comorbidity between them, and offer avenues to help with treatment.
The effectiveness of semantic intervention for word-finding difficulties in college-aged students (16–19 years) with persistent Language Disorder
Authors: Campbell Lisa , Nicoll Hilary , Ebbels Susan H
Published: August 2019

Background and aims

Little evidence exists for the effectiveness of intervention for older adolescents and young adults with language disorders, particularly for those over 16 years. This study involves college-aged students aged 16–19 years with Language Disorder and Word-Finding Difficulties and investigates whether progress in word finding following 1:1 semantic intervention is greater than progress during a baseline period as measured by a standardised test.

Methods

Twenty-five college-aged students (20 males and 5 females) with Language Disorder and Word-Finding Difficulties (aged 16;4–18;4 years) participated in a single baseline design study comparing progress on the Test of Adolescent and Adult Word Finding during an intervention period with progress during a baseline period of equal length. Intervention was focused on semantics of different words from those in the Test of Adolescent and Adult Word Finding and was delivered 1:1 by the participants’ usual Speech and Language Therapist, 30 minutes per week, for eight weeks.

Results

The participants made significant progress in raw score on the Test of Adolescent and Adult Word Finding during both the baseline ( d = 1.4) and intervention ( d = 2.5) periods, but progress during the intervention period was significantly greater than during the baseline period ( d = 1.16). Individual data showed reliable change for five participants during the baseline period and for 20 participants during the intervention period. At the start of the study, all participants had standard scores below 85, but after intervention, 10/25 participants scored above 85.

Conclusions

Four hours of semantic intervention led to significantly greater gains on a standardised test of word finding than during a baseline period of equal length in 16–19 year olds with Language Disorder and Word-Finding Difficulties. The words in the standardised test had not been included in the intervention, indicating generalised gains.

Implications

This study shows that intervention (at least for Word-Finding Difficulties) can be effective for this older age group of college-aged students with Language Disorder and therefore the effectiveness of Speech and Language Therapy services for this age group in a wider range of areas of language should also be investigated.