bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
State of the Evidence: A Systematic Review of Approaches to Reduce Gender-Based Violence and Support the Empowerment of Adolescent Girls in Humanitarian Settings
Authors: Noble Eva , Ward Leora , French Shelby , Falb Kathryn
Published: March 2017

Adolescent girls are at an increased risk of sexual violence, abuse, exploitation, and forced or early marriage across humanitarian contexts. In the past few years, prominent initiatives, organizations, and working groups have started to highlight the targeted needs and issues facing adolescent girls and have developed programmatic responses such as safe spaces for adolescent girls to protect and empower girls and reduce their vulnerabilities to violence or exploitation. A systematic review of academic and grey literature was conducted in September 2015 to examine the evidence base for programming that seeks to reduce violence against adolescent girls in humanitarian contexts. The authors used a Boolean search procedure to find and review 5830 records from academic journal databases, resource-hosting websites and relevant organizational websites. The inclusion criteria left us with three adolescent girl program evaluations from humanitarian settings to examine, all of which were pre/post-test evaluations that looked at changes in indicators such as social assets, self-esteem, decision making, livelihood skills and financial assets, gender norms, and feelings of safety. While these three evaluations showed promising results, overall, this systematic review demonstrates a significant gap in currently available rigorous research. Evidence is urgently needed to guide programming decisions to ensure that the emerging programs provide the level and depth of protection that adolescent girls need in humanitarian settings.
Toward a Better Understanding of Psychological Symptoms in People Confronted With the Disappearance of a Loved One: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lenferink Lonneke I. M. , de Keijser Jos , Wessel Ineke , de Vries Doety , Boelen Paul A.
Published: March 2017

Objective:

The disappearance of a loved one is claimed to be the most stressful type of loss. The present review explores the empirical evidence relating to this claim. Specifically, it summarizes studies exploring the prevalence and correlates of psychological symptoms in relatives of missing persons as well as studies comparing levels of psychopathology in relatives of the disappeared and the deceased.

Method:

Two independent reviewers performed a systematic search in PsychINFO, Web of Science, and Medline, which resulted in 15 studies meeting predefined inclusion criteria. Eligible studies included quantitative peer-reviewed articles and dissertations that assessed psychopathology in relatives of missing person.

Results:

All reviewed studies were focused on disappearances due to war or state terrorism. Prevalence rates of psychopathology were mainly described in terms of post-traumatic stress disorder and depression and varied considerably among the studies. Number of experienced traumatic events and kinship to the missing person were identified as correlates of psychopathology. Comparative studies showed that psychopathology levels did not differ between relatives of missing and deceased persons.

Conclusions:

The small number of studies and the heterogeneity of the studies limit the understanding of psychopathology in those left behind. More knowledge about psychopathology postdisappearance could be gained by expanding the focus of research beyond disappearances due to war or state terrorism.
Liver Transplantation Using Graft From a Donor With Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Milani Soheila , Aliakbarian Mohsen , Khaleghi Ebrahim
Published: March 2017

Liver transplantation (LT) is a life-saving procedure in patients with end-stage liver disease. The number of patients in the waiting list for LT has steadily increased over time, so removing liver from deceased donors with unusual disorders could possibly be used for transplantation. We describe a case of LT from a donor with “aplastic anemia” to a patient with liver failure due to hepatitis C. Aplastic anemia is a syndrome of bone marrow failure. Aplastic anemia is one of the most common conditions linked to transfusion dependence, and long-term repeated transfusion inevitably results in iron overload. Also iron is a cofactor that influences the severity and progression of nonhemochromatic liver diseases, especially steatohepatitis and viral hepatitis. The aim of this report is to highlight the posttransplant findings of the recipient, with specific emphasis on the graft function. Our findings provide insights into the clinical implications of LT using graft with this rare disorder.
Seeing the Present, Remembering the Past: Terror’s Representation as an Exercise in Collective Memory
Authors: Zelizer Barbie
Published: March 2017

This article argues that media events can be fruitfully understood as an exercise in collective memory. It considers how coverage of the so-called war on terror draws from a deep memory of the Cold War. In drawing from that mnemonic scheme, terror’s current representation as an ideological war prosecuted patiently across time assures its seeming success even when its main media events underscore the war’s failure.
Quantifying Journalism? A Study on the Use of Data and Gamification to Motivate Journalists
Authors: Ferrer-Conill Raul
Published: March 2017

According to previous research, contemporary journalism is undergoing a quantitative turn. The uses of data and metrics have started to permeate digital news websites in various ways. However, there is a lack of research on how gamification is applied to journalism practice. This article examines how the quantification of news production, readers’ interactions, and use of game mechanics have started to permeate journalism practice in digital outlets. Methodologically, this article focuses on the sports news website Bleacher Report as case study, drawing data from an analysis of the gamified system in which journalists are quantified and rewarded with points and badges according to their writing metrics, and a set of interviews with journalists who work for Bleacher Report. The results show that while data and metrics become the main component to assess journalists’ capacities, the process of automated quantification and the competitive playfulness of leaderboards are perceived as motivating affordances.
Flows in Reflux: Video Brinquedo and the BRICS “Mockbuster” as a Glitch in Mediatic Hegemony
Authors: Pino Camilo Diaz
Published: March 2017

Amid a global cultural landscape defined both by the ambiguities of deterritorialization and the persistent impact of established geopolitical hierarchies, the idea of cultural reflux offers a potent tool to conceptualize and lend context to the study of nascent peripheral and semiperipheral media industries. Dialoguing with Thussu and Iwabuchi’s work on media flow as well as Curtin’s concept of media capitals, this article proposes to analyze “mockbusters”: derivative copies of established metropolitan media properties. I specifically look at the output of the Brazilian studio Video Brinquedo, infamous in the 2000s for its blatant, low-quality copies of established children’s media properties. In examining the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) mockbuster as a case study of opportunistic media counterflow, the idea of cultural reflux complicates debates over where we should situate our analytical objectives with respect to mediatic peripherality, and how we can more concretely examine the relationship of media flow to transnational imperial frameworks.
The Historical Development of Music Education in Brazil through the Lens of Colégio Pedro II in Rio de Janeiro (1837–2011)
Authors: Harte Colin
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study is to investigate the historical development of Brazilian music education legislation in relation to the Brazilian public school, Colégio Pedro II. Located in Rio de Janeiro, Colégio Pedro II has consistently offered music instruction since its inception in 1837. The historical narrative presented in this article details the shifting nature of educational legislation in Brazil and its subsequent implementation at Colégio Pedro II from 1837 to 2011. A unique perspective is provided, offering insights into the role and function of music instruction in both the state of Rio de Janeiro and in the nation of Brazil. The research seeks to explain the motivations and intentions behind the drafting of different educational laws and discusses the manner in which these laws are realized at Colégio Pedro II. Because of the dearth of English language sources regarding this topic, the results of this study contribute to the broader academic understanding of the historical development of music education in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Emergent Carotid Thromboendarterectomy for Acute Symptomatic Occlusion of the Extracranial Internal Carotid Artery
Authors: Gunka Igor , Krajickova Dagmar , Lesko Michal , Jiska Stanislav , Raupach Jan , Lojik Miroslav , Maly Radovan
Published: March 2017

Background:

Strokes secondary to acute internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion are associated with an extremely poor prognosis. The best treatment approach in this setting is still unknown. The aim of our study was to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and outcomes of emergent surgical revascularization of acute extracranial ICA occlusion in patients with minor to severe ischemic stroke.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed using prospectively collected data of consecutive patients who underwent carotid thromboendarterectomy for symptomatic acute ICA occlusion during the period from January 2013 to December 2015. Primary outcomes were disability at 90 days assessed by the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and neurological deficit at discharge assessed using the National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS). Secondary outcomes were the recanalization rate, 30-day overall mortality, and any intracerebral bleeding.

Results:

During the study period, a total of 6 patients (5 men and 1 woman) with a median age of 64 years (range: 58-84 years) underwent emergent reconstruction for acute symptomatic ICA occlusion within a median of 5.4 hours (range: 2.9-12.0 hours) after symptoms onset. The median presenting NIHSS score was 10.5 points (range: 4-21). Before surgery, 4 patients (66.7%) had been treated by systemic recombinant tissue plasminogen activator lysis. The median time interval between initiation of intravenous thrombolysis and carotid thromboendarterectomy was 117.5 minutes (range: 65-140 minutes). Patency of the ICA was achieved in all patients. On discharge, the median NIHSS score was 2 points (range: 0-11 points). There was no postoperative intracerebral hemorrhage and zero 30-day mortality rate. At 3 months, 5 patients (83.3%) had a good clinical outcome (mRS ≤ 2).

Conclusion:

Patients presenting with minor to severe ischemic stroke syndromes due to isolated extracranial ICA occlusion may benefit from emergent carotid revascularization. Thorough preoperative neuroimaging is essential to aid in selecting eligible candidates for acute surgical intervention.
A Contemplative Tool
Authors: Klatt Maryanna D.
Published: March 2017

Contemplative education courses and academic programs emerging in universities across the United States and internationally have a unique opportunity to help students gain both self-awareness and an awareness of how the self is situated in a larger context. Research utilizing meditation in higher education shows promise in strengthening stress resilience, interpersonal skills, and the cognitive capabilities of attentional control and the processing of information. Pragmatic, reflective pedagogical assignments that successfully cultivate personal and social awareness need to be shared. This article details an educative experience for students in a higher education contemplative education course. The course utilizes guided mindfulness meditation and reflective writing to help students reflect upon their “performance of self” to increase awareness and potentially help sculpt their personal and professional lives. This pedagogy demonstrates an innovative and creative application of the theory of contemplative practice in action.
Full Robotic Colorectal Resections for Cancer Combined With Other Major Surgical Procedures: Early Experience With the da Vinci Xi
Authors: Morelli Luca , Di Franco Gregorio , Guadagni Simone , Palmeri Matteo , Gianardi Desirée , Bianchini Matteo , Moglia Andrea , Ferrari Vincenzo , Caprili Giovanni , D’Isidoro Cristiano , Melfi Franca , Di Candio Giulio , Mosca Franco
Published: March 2017

Background. The da Vinci Xi has been developed to overcome some of the limitations of the previous platform, thereby increasing the acceptance of its use in robotic multiorgan surgery. Methods. Between January 2015 and October 2015, 10 patients with synchronous tumors of the colorectum and others abdominal organs underwent robotic combined resections with the da Vinci Xi. Trocar positions respected the Universal Port Placement Guidelines provided by Intuitive Surgical for “left lower quadrant,” with trocars centered on the umbilical area, or shifted 2 to 3 cm to the right or to the left, depending on the type of combined surgical procedure. Results. All procedures were completed with the full robotic technique. Simultaneous procedures in same quadrant or left quadrant and pelvis, or left/right and upper, were performed with a single docking/single targeting approach; in cases of left/right quadrant or right quadrant/pelvis, we performed a dual-targeting operation. No external collisions or problems related to trocar positions were noted. No patient experienced postoperative surgical complications and the mean hospital stay was 6 days. Conclusions. The high success rate of full robotic colorectal resection combined with other surgical interventions for synchronous tumors, suggest the efficacy of the da Vinci Xi in this setting.
How Formerly Incarcerated Women Confront the Limits of Caring and the Burdens of Control Amid California’s Carceral Realignment
Authors: Welsh Megan
Published: March 2017

The largest scale effort to reduce our reliance on incarceration is currently taking place in California. Drawing on in-depth interviews with formerly incarcerated women on two different forms of community supervision in one California county, this article makes two main contributions. First, I offer a conceptual framework for understanding how women experience the goals of community supervision. Because actual rehabilitation is often off-limits, I suggest that these institutional goals are organized around caring, control, and self-governance: Caring is exhibited by supervision officers in lieu of substantive assistance toward rehabilitation; control for the sake of public safety remains a key aim of community supervision; and self-governance is an unstated institutional goal through which women are forced to take on the invisible work of managing their own rehabilitation. Second, I assess how—if at all—California’s decarceration effort has shifted institutional goals, and what this means for women. I argue that decarceration’s continued emphasis on control for the sake of public safety impedes the transformative potential of efforts to restructure the crime-processing system.
Lifestyle Medicine
Authors: Guthrie George E.
Published: March 2017

Patients are often not aware of the reversibility of chronic lifestyle-related diseases and most physicians are not telling them. The present practice of communicating treatment effectiveness with relative risk reductions does not allow clinicians or patients to evaluate the relative effectiveness of our technotherapies or lifestyle interventions. Clinicians should use the clarity of “number needed to treat,” “number needed to harm,” and absolute risk in communicating with patients about all available therapies and then empower the patient to make the choices that fit their needs best.
Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Geyer Cynthia
Published: March 2017

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality. Medications can provide effective treatment but their use can be complicated by side effects. This case illustrates the role that diet, supplements, and specific exercises can play in preventing and treating bone loss and reducing fracture risk.
Medication Adherence, When Lifestyle Is the Medicine
Authors: Faries Mark D. , Abreu Alyssa
Published: March 2017

Giving patients insight, knowledge, and skills, although important, may not alone be enough for behavior change maintenance. Rather, the health care provider (HCP) has an important role in fostering behavior change and maintenance by asking, “Why do people change?” and “What can I do to help?” This review highlights 4 evidence-based factors related to medication adherence, when lifestyle is the medicine. (1) Autonomy is the belief that one is the origin of his or her own actions, and must be supported by the HCP (eg, “My HCP listens to how I would like to do things regarding my health”). (2) Competence and confidence ensure that patients believe they can succeed. These are gained through mastery experience, vicarious experience, and through positive and constructive feedback on past performance (eg, “My HCP conveys confidence in my ability to make changes regarding my health”). (3) Coping planning is being able to formulate a plan of intention, with the awareness of barriers and emotional regulation that can inhibit patient behavior (eg, “I feel able to share my feelings with my HCP”). (4) Personal values of the patients are used to understand how and why they cope when there is a threat to these values (eg, “My HCP tries to understand how I see my health before suggesting any changes”).
Produced water treatment by ceramic membrane: A numerical investigation by computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Magalhães Hortência Luma Fernandes , de Lima Antonio Gilson Barbosa , de Farias Neto Severino Rodrigues , Alves Helton Gomes , de Souza Josedite Saraiva
Published: March 2017

The disposal of industrial effluents into the environment is an issue that has attracted attention of researchers and engineers with particular reference for produced water originating from the petroleum industry. Separation process using ceramic membranes has been an alternative used to obey requirements of environmental agencies in Brazil related to disposal of oil and grease. Accordingly, we have studied numerically the fluid flow into a separation module with tubular membrane. The conservation equations for mass, linear momentum, and mass transport in conjunction with the re-normalization group k- ε turbulence model were resolved with aid of the ANSYS CFX 12 commercial package. Results of the streamlines, vector velocity, pressure, velocity, and concentration fields are presented and analyzed. It was concluded that the proposed mathematical model predicts the behavior of the flow within the separation module and that increasing the level of turbulence and putting an impermeable section into the inlet region of the membrane reduce the effect of the polarization layer.
Surrogate-model-based reliability method for structural systems with dependent truncated random variables
Authors: Xiao Ning-Cong , Duan Libin , Tang Zhangchun
Published: March 2017

Calculating probability of failure and reliability sensitivity for a structural system with dependent truncated random variables and multiple failure modes efficiently is a challenge mainly due to the complicated features and intersections for the multiple failure modes, as well as the correlated performance functions. In this article, a new surrogate-model-based reliability method is proposed for structural systems with dependent truncated random variables and multiple failure modes. Copula functions are used to model the correlation for truncated random variables. A small size of uniformly distribution samples in the supported intervals is generated to cover the entire uncertainty space fully and properly. An accurate surrogate model is constructed based on the proposed training points and support vector machines to approximate the relationships between the inputs and system responses accurately for almost the entire uncertainty space. The approaches to calculate probability of failure and reliability sensitivity for structural systems with truncated random variables and multiple failure modes based on the constructed surrogate model are derived. The accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method are demonstrated using two numerical examples.
A multicentre prospective evaluation of alcohol-related admissions to intensive care units in Wales
Authors: Lynch Ceri , Pugh Richard , Battle Ceri ,   on behalf of the Welsh Intensive Care Society Audit and Research Group (WICSARG)
Published: March 2017

Purpose

We conducted a prospective multicentre study in 13 Welsh intensive care units to assess what proportion of intensive care admissions relate to alcohol, and how outcomes among these patients compare with non-alcohol related admissions.

Materials and methods

Data were prospectively collected for one month between June and July 2015. Every intensive care admission was screened for alcohol associations based on ICD-10 criteria, using a pre-designed pro-forma. Follow-up data were collected at 60 days using a pre-existing database (WardWatcher; Critical Care Audit Ltd, England). Outcomes included: lengths of mechanical ventilation, intensive care units and hospital stay; intensive care units and hospital mortality.

Results

Alcohol contributed directly to 10% of all ICU admissions and to 11% of unplanned admissions. These patients were younger (52 vs. 66, p = 0.0011), more likely to be male (68% vs. 52%, p = 0.014) and had more prolonged ventilation (p = 0.019) There was no significant difference between the groups with respect to length of stay or mortality.

Conclusions

Alcohol contributes to a significant proportion of ICU admissions in Wales, a Western European country with a relatively low number of ICU beds per capita. Strategies to address this impact should be explored.
Effect of low-energy nitrogen ion treatment of highly ordered pyrolytic graphite on oxygen reduction reaction activity
Authors: Hashimoto Yuichi , Katafuchi Shinya , Yoshimura Masamichi , Hara Tamio , Hara Yasuhiro , Hamagaki Manabu
Published: March 2017

We systematically investigated highly ordered pyrolytic graphite film doped by low-energy atomic nitrogen ion of 20 eV, addressing major issues that include the effect of treatment time on the oxygen reduction reaction activity of highly ordered pyrolytic graphite film, and the influence of treatment time on the chemical and physical structures of highly ordered pyrolytic graphite surface. From the experimental results, it was clarified that the treatment for 60 s or less in nitrogen plasma was effective to modify the highly ordered pyrolytic graphite surface with improved oxygen reduction reaction performance, where the oxygen reduction reaction current increases by about 2 times as compared to that of untreated specimen. Moreover, we discussed the content of various C–N bonds, the strain which derived from the substitution of carbon and nitrogen, and a modification of the highly ordered pyrolytic graphite surface due to treatment, on the basis of the results of Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy.
Unilateral Dislocation of the Posterior Tibialis Tendon (PTT) and Flexor Digitorum Longus Tendon With Contralateral PTT Subluxation in a Patient With Congenitally Shallow Flexor Groove
Authors: Waldron Jacob E. , Bernhardson Andrew S. , Fellars Todd A.
Published: March 2017

Introduction. Flexor tendon dislocation from the flexor tendon groove posterior of the medial malleolus has been previously described, and may be difficult to diagnose initially, but is amendable to surgical treatment with good outcomes. We present a unique case of unilateral dislocation of the posterior tibialis and flexor digitorum longus tendons with contralateral flexor digitorum longus subluxation that was treated surgically with a good outcome. Case Presentation. A 37-year-old active duty male sustained a dislocation and subluxation of the flexor tendons bilaterally after a forced dorsiflexion injury. Bilateral ankle magnetic resonance imaging revealed the injuries that this patient sustained and aided in surgical planning. Surgical Treatment. Bilateral flexor tendon groove deepening with periosteal flap elevation and retinacular repair. Discussion/Conclusion. This injury has not been previously described in the literature after a forced dorsiflexion mechanism. Advanced imaging is helpful as this injury may be initially misdiagnosed. This case shows that delayed bilateral reconstruction of the flexor tendon grooves and retinacula are reliable methods for pain relief to allow a patient to return to a physically demanding level of function.

Levels of Evidence: Level V
Evaluating Sustainable Development solutions quantitatively: Competence modelling for GCE and ESD
Authors: Böhm Marko , Eggert Sabina , Barkmann Jan , Bögeholz Susanne
Published: March 2017

To comprehensively address global environmental challenges such as biodiversity loss, citizens need an understanding of the socio-economic fundamentals of human behaviour in relation to natural resources. We argue that Global Citizenship Education and Education for Sustainable Development provide a core set of socio-economic competencies that can be applied to tackle such challenges. As a central concern of this article, we report on the development of a competence model and its use in an empirical study. The study analyses the ability of German students ( n = 268: 232 pupils in senior secondary school and 36 student teachers) to evaluate solutions for real-world Sustainable Development challenges quantitatively. In doing so, we investigate a theoretically described competence dimension, that is, ‘Evaluating and Reflecting Solutions Quantitatively-Economically’.

A Rasch partial credit model indicates that ‘Evaluating and Reflecting Solutions Quantitatively-Economically’ can be modelled as a one-dimensional competence. Grade level, general educational performance and high performance in subjects addressing Education for Sustainable Development positively affect ‘Evaluating and Reflecting Solutions Quantitatively-Economically’ scores. Although applying basic economic insights in a quantitative manner to Sustainable Development challenges is within the mathematical skill set of most students, even older or better-performing students find it difficult to do so. Thus, these findings underscore the need for economic competencies to be incorporated in Education for Sustainable Development and Global Citizenship Education.
Economic competencies and situation-specific commercial competencies: Reflections on conceptualization and measurement
Authors: Seeber Susan
Published: March 2017

From a societal perspective, vocational education and training must enable young adults to meet the challenges of the labour market in a globalized world, reduce the mismatch of supply and demand of qualifications (e.g. youth unemployment leading to disadvantages for individuals, society and national economies) and improve social cohesion. From an individual perspective, vocational education and training should develop young adults’ vocational competencies, support their individual personality development and their integration into the labour market and society, help secure their livelihood and enable them to lead self-determined lives as citizens. Therefore, the assessment of competencies obtained in vocational education and training programmes has emerged as a critical issue to develop workforces and the capacity for life-long learning and to foster civic participation as a responsible citizen. This article provides some insights into the modelling and measurement of competencies in vocational education and training, where occupational and cross-occupational competencies are necessary to cope with the requirements of workplaces, as a responsible citizen and in private life. In this article, cross-occupational economic competencies and occupation-specific commercial competencies in the area of business and administration are discussed. Both constructs are based on economic theories, concepts and central terms; nevertheless, the situation-specific context and requirements may vary substantially. Thus, different approaches to define and measure both constructs seem to be necessary.
Dilemma over the issue of inequality: A strategy against political apathy (Politikverdrossenheit)
Authors: Schnebel Karin
Published: March 2017

Politics is inseparable from conflict. But we often have the idea that the political process has to simply “solve” conflicts and in so doing make the conflict disappear. And because the politicians are not able to do this and instead simply continue arguing, we get the impression that we have incompetent politicians, whom we cannot trust. This is not new: in political education, it is important to see the aims and identify the meaning of conflicts. This allows us to have a constructive debate about the conflicts themselves. It is important to analyze conflicts as well as to develop the competence to deal with political controversies and conflicts constructively. This presentation will broach the issue of inequality without dramatizing it. Inequality can indeed threaten a democratic society, but for a free democratic society, inequality has to also be constitutive. The central thesis is that reflection on dilemmas stemming from inequality could be a strategy against political apathy and can help reinforce a sense of solidarity and cohesion in our society. This will be shown using an instrument borrowed from the psychology of communication, the “quadrate of value and development,” whose potentials for political education are currently being exploited for various projects.
A review of the world’s published face transplant cases: ethical perspectives
Authors: Theodorakopoulou Evgenia , Meghji Sheneen , Pafitanis Georgios , Mason Katrina A.
Published: March 2017

[Formula: see text]

The highly publicised case of the first ever partial facial transplant in 2005 sparked fierce ethical debates, moral arguments and strong opinions, both within the medical community as well as the general public and mass media. As more patients have undergone facial transplantation over the last decade, some of this initial scepticism has given way to a wider acceptance of this significant reconstructive development. However, despite an improved understanding of the perioperative technicalities and postoperative perils, the risks remain significant and the long-term outcomes are still largely unknown. This article examines the major ethical challenges that have accompanied facial allo-transplantation since its inception. We discuss these ethical dilemmas in the context of the patients, donor families, healthcare professionals and society as a whole, while evaluating some of the emerging evidence and outcomes associated with the physical and psycho-emotional risks linked to this procedure.
Silymarin, Olibanum, and Nettle, A Mixed Herbal Formulation in the Treatment of Type II Diabetes: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Clinical Trial
Authors: Khalili Nahid , Fereydoonzadeh Reza , Mohtashami Reza , Mehrzadi Saeed , Heydari Mojtaba , Huseini Hasan Fallah
Published: March 2017

Silybum marianum (L) Gaertn (milk thistle) seeds, Urtica dioica L (nettle) leaves, and Boswellia serrata (olibanum gum) resin are used traditionally by Iranian diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antihyperglycemic effects of these herbs in an herbal formulation in patients with type II diabetes mellitus. Sixty patients diagnosed as type II diabetes mellitus with fasting blood glucose level from 150 to 180 mg/dL, glycosylated hemoglobin level from 7.5% to 8.5%, and on oral antihyperglycemic drugs, were allocated to receive the mix herbal formulation or placebo for 90 days in a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. The mean serum fasting blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, and triglyceride in the herbal drug group were significantly less than placebo group’s values after 3 months of the intervention. The study showed a potential antihyperglycemic and triglyceride lowering effect of the herbal formulation, while it did not have any significant cholesterol or blood pressure lowering effect.
Assessing Women Caregiving Role to People Living With HIV/AIDS in Nigeria, West Africa
Authors: Asuquo Ekaete Francis , Etowa Josephine B. , Akpan Margaret I.
Published: March 2017

HIV/AIDS scourge remains high in most countries of sub-Saharan Africa such as Nigeria, which is home to about 3.3 million HIV positive individuals and represents the second largest burden of HIV/AIDS care, treatment and demand worldwide after South Africa. Anti-retroviral treatment options though a welcome development, has increased the number of people living with this chronic illness, and most of them depend on family members for physical and emotional support. Traditional gender norms in Nigeria ensure that legitimately, women and girls are the first options for caregiving roles. This mandatory role has in turn imposed psychosocial disruption in the lives of female family members in Calabar, Nigeria. This descriptive study utilized convenient sampling technique, Zarit Burden Interview scale and semistructured questionnaires for data collection (260 respondents), and data analyses were achieved using SPSS16.0. The study showed that a significant ( p < .05) proportion of women (91%) were involved in providing care, including children from 10 years and above. Caregivers had minimal social support which increased the burden they experienced. The need for policy that recognizes and supports female caregivers (“silent cornerstone”) to reduce burden and ensure high quality care of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in Nigeria is advocated.
Public Attitudes Toward Abortion and LGBTQ Issues
Authors: Jelen Ted G.
Published: March 2017

Trends in public attitudes toward abortion, general acceptance of same-sex relationships, and same-sex marriage are examined across regions and parties in the United States. Relative to Americans living outside the South, Southerners are less accepting of same-sex relationships, and these regional differences appear to be increasing over time. On these issues, multivariate analysis suggests that Democrats and Republicans are moving in opposite directions, with Democrats becoming more accepting of same-sex relationships, and Republicans (relatively) less so. With respect to abortion, regional differences do not appear to be increasing or decreasing over time. Both Republicans and Democrats are becoming more accepting of legal abortion, once the effects of other variables have been controlled, but the rate of change is substantially more rapid among Democrats. Thus, party and regional polarization on issues involving sexual morality seems likely to continue.
Perceived Impact on Client Outcomes
Authors: Rast Katrina A. , Herman Daniel J. , Rousmaniere Tony G. , Whipple Jason L. , Swift Joshua K.
Published: March 2017

Clinical supervision is considered to be an essential component of psychotherapy training. However, research on supervisors’ ability to affect client outcome has been mixed. This investigation aims to answer two questions: (a) What is the perceived impact of supervision on client outcome, and (b) how important is it to supervisors and supervisees that supervision affects client outcome? A mixed-methods approach was used to examine the perspectives of both supervisors and supervisees. The survey consisted of survey questions and one open-ended qualitative question. Findings suggest that both supervisors and supervisees perceive supervision as beneficial and important for impacting client outcome. Supervisees perceive supervision as more important in impacting outcome than supervisors. Existing literature suggests that supervision may not have as significant an impact on client outcome as previously believed; however, supervisors and supervisees perceive the supervision process as essential for psychotherapy training. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Acceptability of Convenience Food Among Older People
Authors: Peura-Kapanen Liisa , Jallinoja Piia , Kaarakainen Minna
Published: March 2017

Independent living in their own home is currently an ideal shared by many older people. However, weakening physical strength and illness are often associated with nutritional risks. Convenience food is one option to ensure that nutritional needs are met, but convenience food itself and its packaging face negative attitudes. This article analyzes the factors connected to acceptability of and obstacles to using convenience food among older people in Finland. The analysis was done by using three sets of data gathered using a qualitative research method for examining how older people relate to convenience food and food packaging. The methods used were empathy-based stories (2011 n = 114) and two rounds of focus group discussions (2012 n = 22, 2014 n = 32). By and large, the study participants associated negative meanings with convenience food. Some saw convenience food as an easy solution in certain situations. Our study showed that elderly individuals valued healthiness of food, freedom of choice, and right of self-determination in eating. Acceptability of convenience food requires an availability of meals matching taste preferences and sensory capabilities. Moreover, healthiness of food and easy-to-use and environmentally friendly packaging were valued by many interviewees.
Reducing Avoidable Hospital Transfers From Nursing Homes in Austria
Authors: Kada Olivia , Janig Herbert , Likar Rudolf , Cernic Karl , Pinter Georg
Published: March 2017

Hospital transfers from nursing homes (NHs) are frequent, burdensome for residents, and often avoidable. The evidence regarding the effectiveness of interventions to reduce avoidable transfers is limited, and most projects focus on nurses’ knowledge and skills. In the present project, interventions focusing on nurses and physicians are integrated, elaborated, and implemented in 17 NHs. Results of the 6 months preintervention period are reported. Hospital transfer rates ( N = 1,520) and basic data on all residents ( N = 1,238) were collected prospectively. Nurses’ preintervention knowledge and self-efficacy were assessed using standardized questionnaires ( N = 330). Many hospital transfers were initiated by nurses without physician involvement, polypharmacy was common, and a high potential for reducing transfers by increasing physician presence was observed. Nurses showed rather low knowledge but high self-efficacy. The results are discussed against the background of the interventions including enhancement of physician presence and geriatric quality circles.
Differential Diagnosis of an Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis/Hepatic Cyst Using an Abdominal Sonogram, Echocardiogram, Venography, and Computed Tomography Angiogram
Authors: Kallstrom Eric , Rampoldi Michael
Published: March 2017

The role of cardiac sonographers, as health care professionals, comprises facilitating a cardiologist’s diagnosis of valvular lesions, coronary artery disease, and congenital defects and assessing right-side pulmonary complications and so on. Occasionally, communication of differential diagnoses across several modalities, specialties, and healthcare providers is compulsory, in order to accurately confirm or deny an appropriate diagnosis for patients with unique presentations. This case study highlights the vital role of abdominal sonography, echocardiography, venography, and computed tomography in the diagnosis of a hepatic cyst. In addition, it demonstrates the appropriate measures that cardiac sonographers can take to fully investigate these lesions, especially when they are presumed to be a thrombosed inferior vena cava.
High-throughput sequencing of the B-cell receptor in African Burkitt lymphoma reveals clues to pathogenesis
Authors: Lombardo Katharine A. , Coffey David G. , Morales Alicia J. , Carlson Christopher S. , Towlerton Andrea M. H. , Gerdts Sarah E. , Nkrumah Francis K. , Neequaye Janet , Biggar Robert J. , Orem Jackson , Casper Corey , Mbulaiteye Sam M. , Bhatia Kishor G. , Warren Edus H.
Published: March 2017

Key Points

High-throughput sequencing of primary African Burkitt lymphoma tumors suggests disrupted immunoglobulin rearrangements in BL progenitors. Extensive mutation of expressed and nonexpressed IGH rearrangements suggests multiple active mutational processes in BL tumors.
The effects of exogenous lipid on THP-1 cells: anin vitromodel of airway aspiration?
Authors: Hayman Yvette A. , Sadofsky Laura R. , Williamson James D. , Hart Simon P. , Morice Alyn H.
Published: March 2017

Chronic inflammatory diseases of the airways are associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) and aspiration events. The observation of lipid-laden macrophages (LLMs) within the airway may indicate aspiration secondary to GOR. The proposed mechanism, that lipid droplets from undigested or partially digested food are aspirated leading to accumulation in scavenging macrophages, led us to hypothesise that an activated population of LLMs could interact with other immune cells to induce bronchial inflammation.

To test this, we generated anin vitromodel using differentiated THP-1 cells, which were treated with a high-fat liquid feed.

Here, we show that THP-1 cells can take up lipid from the high-fat feed independent of actin polymerisation or CD36-dependent phagocytosis. These cells did not exhibit M1 or M2 polarisation. Gene array analysis confirmed over 8000 genes were upregulated by at least twofold following high fat exposure, and IL-8 was the most upregulated gene. Pathway analysis revealed upregulation of genes known to be involved in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) pathophysiology.

We suggest that aspiration and macrophage phagocytosis may be important mechanisms in the aetiology of diseases such as COPD and cystic fibrosis that are characterised by high levels of IL-8 within the airways.
Barriers and facilitators for BIM use among Swedish medium-sized contractors - “We wait until someone tells us to use it”
Authors: Bosch-Sijtsema Petra , Isaksson Anders , Lennartsson Martin , Linderoth Henrik C. J.
Published: March 2017

Background

The pace of diffusion of BIM (Building Information Modelling) use is considered to increase with governmental initiatives in which public clients in countries like Finland, Singapore, United Kingdom, and Sweden begin requiring BIM as a part of the project delivery. Currently, larger contractor firms use BIM to a certain extent. However, BIM use by mid-sized contractor firms (that is, firms with 50–500 employees that can successfully compete with larger contractors on projects costing a maximum of 50 million Euros) is relatively unknown. Hence, the aim of the paper is to explore current use and perceived constraints and driving forces of BIM-implementation with respect to mid-sized contractors.

Methods

A mixed method approach was applied, and data was collected through an interview study and a survey involving chief executive officers or their closest sub-ordinates in mid-sized contractor firms in Sweden. The survey was based on a technology-, organization-, and environment framework that is used in information systems research to study the use of inter-organizational information systems. The total population of firms in the survey corresponded to 104. The study presented the preliminary results based on 32 answers (with a 31% response rate).

Results

Fifty-eight percent of the surveyed respondents stated that they had been involved in a project in which BIM was used in some manner. The most commonly used application included visualization, which also facilitates coordination and communication. The biggest perceived constraints involved partners that did not use BIM, lack of demand from clients, and the absence of internal demand in the company. With respect to the two last obstacles, significant differences existed between users and non-users. The most common perceived driving forces included the fact that BIM is perceived as a means to follow technical development and that BIM provides competitive advantages to the company.

Conclusions

It is concluded that the main driver responsible for BIM-implementation is mainly determined by an individual’s subjective positive or negative evaluation of BIM, instead of external pressure from clients and partners or by the internal capacity and knowledge to use BIM.
Data completion in building information management: electrical lines from range scans and photographs
Authors: Krispel Ulrich , Evers Henrik Leander , Tamke Martin , Ullrich Torsten
Published: March 2017

Background

The concept of building information management (BIM) is based on its holistic nature. This idea pays off, if all relevant information is fused into one consistent data set. As a consequence, the completeness of data is vital and the research question on how to complete data automatically remains open.

Methods

In this article we present a data completion technique based on knowledge management. We encode expert and domain knowledge in a generative system that represents norms and standards in a machine-readable manner. The implementation of this approach be used to automatically determine a hypothesis on the location of electrical lines within indoor range scans.

Results

The generative paradigm can encode domain expert knowledge in a machine-readable way. In this article we demonstrate its usage to represent norms and standards.

Conclusions

The benefit of our method is the further completion of digital building information models – a necessary step to take full advantage of building information modeling.