bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Scientific Self-Literacy of Ordinary People: Scientific Dialogic Gatherings
Authors: Buslón Nataly , Gairal Regina , León Susana , Padrós Maria , Reale Emanuela
Published: July 2020

In the last decade, researchers have responded to a social demand for science to become more responsible and have a greater effect on society by looking for innovative ways to link science and lay people. The movement to democratize expert knowledge is growing. This movement is creating tools that are used for improving the scientific literacy of citizens. This article presents dialogues between researchers and lay people of low socioeconomic status and low educational level on the social impact of a Scientific Dialogic Gathering (SDG) as a tool for promoting scientific self-literacy that is being developed at an urban adult school in Spain. Based on a communicative and qualitative approach, an SDG encourages people of low socioeconomic status and low educational level to learn about the latest scientific breakthroughs on issues that interest them, such as health-related topics. Participants in a SDG, together with researchers and educators, discuss scientific articles in an egalitarian dialog. One of the main results of this experience is that SDGs are helping lay people to make better decisions in the face of the challenges of today’s society.
Dialogue With Educators to Assess the Impact of Dialogic Teacher Training for a Zero-Violence Climate in a Nursery School
Authors: Rodríguez-Oramas Alfonso , Zubiri Harkaitz , Arostegui Igone , Serradell Olga , Sanvicén-Torné Paquita
Published: July 2020

Research has revealed the importance of preventing violence from early childhood. Some quantitative analyses have studied the persistence of being an aggressor throughout the different educational stages and its relationship with criminal behavior in youth and adulthood. However, there is a need for qualitative methodologies that deepen the impact of preventive actions from early childhood. Dialogic teacher training (DTT) is based on reading and discussing scientific evidences based on egalitarian dialogue, and it helps educators implement only successful actions in schools. The dialogues and reflections with two experienced educators in an urban nursery that implements DTT are presented, through which the impact of this action on their practice is evaluated. As a result, it is identified that educators have modified their practices in relation to the situations of aggression that occurred in their nursery, achieving a zero-violence climate perceived by educators, families, and researchers.
Culture Wars and City Politics, Revisited: Local Councils and the Australia Day Controversy
Authors: Busbridge Rachel , Chou Mark
Published: July 2020

Conflicts rooted in questions of morality and values—so-called “culture wars”—pose difficult questions for local governance. Yet, when it comes to culture wars, local governments can be as politically active as other levels of government. This article explores the role of local government in the culture war surrounding Australia’s national holiday, Australia Day. We draw on the pioneering work of Elaine Sharp on urban politics, culture wars, and local government to document and analyze how Australian local governments have responded to the Australia Day controversy. Whereas Sharp’s typology is instructive, the ways in which the Australia Day debate has played out at the local level necessitate additional categories of responsiveness. These additional categories may contribute to the broader rejuvenation of studies on culture wars and local politics in light of new fronts in contemporary culture wars and the changing face of local government.
Antioxidant capacity in fruit of Citrus cultivars with marked differences in pulp coloration: Contribution of carotenoids and vitamin C
Authors: Zacarías-García Jaime , Rey Florencia , Gil José-Vicente , Rodrigo María J , Zacarías Lorenzo
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the specific contribution of carotenoids and vitamin C to the lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidant capacity, respectively, of the pulp of citrus fruits using the genetic diversity in pigmentation and in the carotenoid complement. To this end, six citrus varieties were selected: two mandarins, Clemenules ( Citrus clementina) and Nadorcott ( C. reticulata); two grapefruits ( C. paradisi), Marsh and Star Ruby; and two sweet oranges ( C. sinensis), Valencia late and Valencia Ruby. Total carotenoid content and composition in the pulp of fruits were very different, in relation to their color singularities. Valencia Ruby and Nadorcott had the highest carotenoid content, accumulating the former large amounts of linear carotenes (phytoene, phytofluene, and lycopene) and Nadorcott of β-cryptoxanthin. Orange fruits contained the highest amount of vitamin C while in Nadorcott mandarin it was substantially lower. Analysis of antioxidant capacity, evaluated by 2,2’-azino-di-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline sulfonate) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, in the pulp of the different fruit varieties indicated a high and positive correlation between vitamin C content and hydrophilic antioxidant capacity. Nevertheless, a weak correlation was observed between carotenoids content and lipophilic antioxidant capacity in the pulp extracts assayed by ABTS. Overall, vitamin C in the pulp of citrus fruit had an important contribution to the hydrophilic antioxidant capacity, whereas that of carotenoids to lipophilic antioxidant capacity was very variable, being the highest that of Valencia Ruby orange, with large concentrations of lycopene and phytoene, followed by Nadorcott mandarin, with high β-cryptoxanthin content.
Contribution of inflow artery to observed flow in a vascular access: A computational fluid dynamic modeling study of an arteriovenous fistula circuit
Authors: Krampf Jeffrey , Agarwal Ramesh , Shenoy Surendra
Published: July 2020

Introduction:

The volume of blood flowing through the vascular access is an important parameter necessary to provide adequate dialysis for a functional arteriovenous fistula. Higher blood flows are seen in arteriovenous access that receive inflow from larger arteries such as brachial or axillary compared to those based on medium-caliber radial or ulnar arteries. We hypothesized that an anatomic difference in the length and the diameter of the artery is an important determinant of the flow volume in arteriovenous fistula created at different anatomic locations.

Methods:

Using computational fluid dynamics, we evaluated the contribution of the length and diameter of inflow artery on simulations performed with geometric models constructed to represent arteriovenous fistula circuits. Lengths and diameters of the inflow artery were altered to mimic arteriovenous fistula created at various locations of the upper extremity with standard and variant anatomy.

Results:

Models of arteriovenous fistula created with variable lengths and diameters of the inflow artery suggest that the length of the vessel has an inverse linear relationship and the diameter has a direct linear relationship to flow volume.

Conclusion:

Computational fluid dynamic modeling of arteriovenous fistula can be used to understand the physiologic basis of clinical observations of function. Evaluation of the effect of inflow artery length and diameter helps explain the higher flows seen in arteriovenous fistula created using large caliber arteries for inflow. Computational fluid dynamic modeling helps operators understand the contributions of inflow artery in access function and can guide anastomotic site selection.
Modeling the Spatial Distribution of Cancer and Determining the Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Tesfaw Lijalem Melie , Muluneh Essey Kebede
Published: July 2020

Background:

Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally. Despite developing countries including Ethiopia continuing to shoulder the greatest burden, insufficient research has been conducted to determine geographical and other characteristic effects. The main objective of this study was to assess the distribution and risk of cancer and determine the effects of some common clinical patient characteristics on current patient status by taking into account the spatial effect.

Methods:

The data for this study were obtained from the oncology ward of Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. About 415 cancer patients were included in the study. Spatial mixed ordinal logistic regression model was used to explore the geographical patterns of the incidence of cancer and identify the risk factors.

Results:

The findings of this study show that only 1.45% of patients were cured and 46.02% improved, whereas the rest have shown no change and even worse status after treatment. The estimated odds of patients who received chemotherapy was 4.284 times the estimated odds of patients who received palliative care. Prognostic factor (stage of cancer tumor), complication of cancer such as anemia during diagnosis, and treatment of patients given in the hospital had significant effect on the patient status.

Conclusion:

Patients without anemia were more likely to be cured and improved than patients with anemia during diagnosis. Most of the patients had advanced stage (IV) of cancer tumor, which dismantles the capability of the treatment to be less effective. There was negative spatial effect on the incidence of cancer, indicating that districts with higher cancer incidence were usually surrounded by districts with lower incidence.
Residents’ perception of cultural heritage in terms of job creation and overtourism in Europe
Authors: Adie Bailey Ashton , Falk Martin
Published: July 2020

In 2017, about 45% of the European population believed that cultural heritage has a positive effect on the local economy and that there are not too many tourists. However, about 33% of Europeans consider the number of tourists to be too high while simultaneously recognizing cultural heritage’s positive impact on the local economy. Based on Flash Eurobarometer data, this article employs a bivariate probit model to estimate the characteristics of both the perception of tourism as a threat to heritage and as a benefit to the local economy. The results show that people who live near cultural sites, who are highly educated, and those with a higher social status are more likely to believe that tourism poses a threat to heritage while also having a positive impact on the local economy. The findings provide data-based support for the assertion that tourism itself is not the problem.
The impact of alcohol misuse on fathering in Northern Uganda: An ethnographic study of fathers
Authors: Mehus Christopher J. , Wieling Elizabeth , Thomas Oloya Okot , Laura Achan , Ertl Verena
Published: July 2020

The Acholi people of northern Uganda experienced decades of conflict. Alcohol misuse is high among northern Ugandan men. This is common in displaced or post-war communities. Because parents are often the most significant and proximal influence in a child’s development, it is important to understand the relationships between parental behavioral health and parenting. The purpose of this ethnographic study was to understand the impact of alcohol misuse on fathering, from fathers’ perspectives. We collected qualitative data from several sources, including in-depth interviews with 19 fathers. Informants identified three ways in which a father can “overdrink”: drinking to drunkenness, spending too much money on alcohol, or spending too much time drinking alcohol. Fathers described the specific ways in which overdrinking impacted each of the three primary roles of a father, which were identified as providing, educating, and creating a stable home. Of the negative effects of overdrinking, a compromised ability to provide for basic needs was described as the most salient. The findings suggest that support for families in this region should include support for father’s substance misuse, as a father’s overdrinking is widely understood to be problematic for the entire family.
Middle school students’ views about leaders and leadership
Authors: Lavery Shane , Coffey Anne
Published: July 2020

This article presents the views of 72 Australian middle school students from 12 metropolitan schools across six states and territories as to their understanding of leadership. Initially, literature is reviewed regarding the developments in middle-years education and theories of leadership pertinent to student leadership. The research methodology is then explained, providing an overview of the participants, the school contexts and methods of data collection and analysis. The subsequent section on results is presented under three topics: examples of good leaders, attributes that make a good leader and participants’ understanding of the concept of leadership. A final discussion is centred on three considerations: the form of leadership that middle school students believed to be appropriate, the type of leadership that they rejected and possible underlying reasons for their choices.
Strength reduction factor of self-centering structures under near-fault pulse-like ground motions
Authors: Dong Huihui , Han Qiang , Du Xiuli , Qiu Canxing
Published: July 2020

Many studies on the strength reduction factor mainly focused on structures with the conventional hysteretic models. However, for the self-centering structure with the typical flag-shaped hysteretic behavior, the corresponding study is limited. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the strength reduction factor of the self-centering structure with flag-shaped hysteretic behavior subjected to near-fault pulse-like ground motions by the time history analysis. For this purpose, the smooth flag-shaped model based on Bouc-Wen model which can show flag-shaped hysteretic behavior is first described. The strength reduction factor spectra of the flag-shaped model are then calculated under 85 near-fault pulse-like ground motions. The influences of the ductility level, vibration period, site condition, hysteretic parameter, and hysteretic model are investigated statistically. For comparison, the strength reduction factors under ordinary ground motions are also analyzed. The results show that the strength reduction factor from near-fault pulse-like ground motions is smaller. Finally, a predictive model is proposed to estimate the strength reduction factor for the self-centering structure with the flag-shaped model under near-fault pulse-like ground motions.
Communing to re-imagine figured worlds
Authors: Sisson Jamie Huff , Whitington Victoria , Shin Anne-Marie , Thiel Jaye Johnson , Comber Barbara
Published: July 2020

The importance of community has been widely recognised in the field of early childhood education. However, the various ways it has been conceived, together with taken-for-granted notions of education, have made it difficult to actualise the processes involved in contextually meaningful ways. This article draws on cultural models theory to explore educational leaders’ re-imagining and redesigning of early childhood educational learning communities in a range of diverse settings. The examination of the processes and artefacts used to promote democratic identities and agency highlights the significance of establishing shared principles, sociality and challenging power relations to engage in processes of communing that are contextually meaningful, sustainable and democratic.
Book review: Macaes, Bruno. 2018: Belt and Road: A Chinese World Order
Authors: Sahu Anjan Kumar
Published: July 2020

Macaes, Bruno. 2018: Belt and Road: A Chinese World Order. London, UK: Hurst and Company. 228 pp. £20.00 hardcover. ISBN: 9781787380028.
Book review: Di Nunzio, Marco. 2019: The Act of Living: Street Life, Marginality and Development in Urban Ethiopia
Authors: Cochrane Logan
Published: July 2020

Di Nunzio, Marco. 2019: The Act of Living: Street Life, Marginality and Development in Urban Ethiopia. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press. 245 pp. US$115. ISBN-13: 978-1501736261 (Hardcover).
Institutional process for infrastructural development in Nigeria
Authors: Omobhude Christian , Chen ShihHsin
Published: July 2020

Infrastructural development is characteristically multifaceted, but studies tend to be focused on limited context which has shed more light on structural issues at the cost of increased ambiguity as regards institutional factors that influence infrastructural development. Combining institutional theory and institutional analysis and development framework (IADF), this research studies how institutional factors influence infrastructural development. In particular, it explores three questions: what are the main differences that exist in policymaking processes? How do stakeholders interact in infrastructural development in Nigeria? How can institutions enhance infrastructural development? The findings show that institutional arrangements and legitimacy pressures are the main reasons for organizational passivity which produce under-performing infrastructures. Initially, mimetic pressures influenced infrastructural development practices as companies imitated other company’s structures that were perceived to be beneficial to attain certain goals. However, coercive pressures by government and normative pressures wielded through professional network of actors appear to be more potent institutional instruments for reducing unresponsiveness. We concluded that favourable institutional pressures support infrastructural development practices, which indicates the need for more structured decision-making process based on collective participation of relevant stakeholders.
The psychology of breakup sex: Exploring the motivational factors and affective consequences of post-breakup sexual activity
Authors: Moran James B. , Wade T. Joel , Murray Damian R.
Published: July 2020

Popular culture has recently publicized a seemingly new postbreakup behavior called breakup sex. While the media expresses the benefits of participating in breakup sex, there is no research to support these claimed benefits. The current research was designed to begin to better understand this postbreakup behavior. In the first study, we examined how past breakup sex experiences made the individuals feel and how people predict they would feel in the future ( n = 212). Results suggested that men are more likely than women to have felt better about themselves, while women tend to state they felt better about the relationship after breakup sex. The second study ( n = 585) investigated why men and women engage in breakup sex. Results revealed that most breakup sex appears to be motivated by three factors: relationship maintenance, hedonism, and ambivalence. Men tended to support hedonistic and ambivalent reasons for having breakup sex more often than women. The two studies revealed that breakup sex may be differentially motivated (and may have different psychological consequences) for men and women and may not be as beneficial as the media suggests.
Understanding Decision Making by Families About Youth Football Participation Postconcussion
Authors: Kroshus Emily , Bowen Deborah , Opel Douglas , Chrisman Sara P. D. , Rivara Frederick P.
Published: July 2020

Many families are concerned about their child’s risk of concussion, and some seek counsel from clinicians about whether or not to return to contact sports participation postinjury. The present study sought to identify factors that parents weight most heavily in forming their preferences regarding whether their child should return to contact sport after recovering from a concussion. Survey data were collected from 568 parents of youth football players (aged 7–14 years) in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States (73% response rate). Approximately two thirds (63%) of parents preferred that their child retire from football after one or two concussions. Multivariable linear regression indicated parents above the sample mean in terms of how strongly they valued football participation preferred their child stop after more concussions than parents below the sample mean (β = .44, standard error [SE] = 0.06, p < .001). Factors endorsed by the most parents as making them “much more likely” to want their child to stop playing football included the belief that their child will experience cognitive issues later in life as a result of concussions (65.0%) and that their child will get another concussion while playing football (43.5%). Within the context of a clinical visit postconcussion, physicians may need to help families clarify their values related to football participation and provide information about the potential outcomes of returning to contact sport. A formalized shared decision aid could help support consistent implementation of this potentially challenging conversation.
Floating Stent-Graft as a Support to Bridge an Unfavorable Renal Artery During Postdissection TAAA Repair Using a Multibranched Thoracoabdominal Endograft
Authors: Rossi Giulia , Perini Paolo , Tecchio Tiziano , Bianchini Massoni Claudio , D’ospina Rita , Freyrie Antonio
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To report an unusual endovascular technique to manage unfavorable renal artery anatomy encountered in an urgent case of symptomatic postdissection thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm (TAAA) treated with an off-the-shelf multibranched device. Technique: The technique is demonstrated in a 77-year-old woman who had a history of previous open abdominal aortic aneurysm repair and an emergent procedure to implant a thoracic endograft and an aortic bare Z-stent (PETTICOAT) for acute Stanford type B dissection 7 years prior. The patient presented with a symptomatic, rapidly growing, postdissection TAAA. Endovascular treatment with a Zenith t-Branch was planned. After standard catheterization techniques failed in the left renal artery, a bailout maneuver was utilized to place a “floating” Viabahn stent-graft in the aneurysm sac to create sufficient support to deliver the bridging stent-grafts through the bare stent to the target left renal artery. The procedure was successful in excluding the TAAA and preserving perfusion to all target vessels. No neurological complications occurred. Six-month imaging follow-up confirmed the patency of the bridging stents. Conclusion: Remodeling changes after complex endovascular TAAA procedures often require the use of innovative techniques and materials during secondary procedures. In this case, the presence of a post-PETTICOAT bare aortic stent and hostile target artery anatomy increased the technical difficulty of t-Branch implantation. A “floating” stent-graft could be useful to reach challenging target vessels by providing additional support to bridging stent advancement and deployment.
A Case of an Aggressive Intraosseous Arteriovenous Malformation in the Lower Extremity: Special Considerations for Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Stribling Lacey C. , Abu-Ghname Amjed , Trost Jeffrey , Montgomery Nicole , Desai Sudhen , Maricevich Renata S.
Published: July 2020

Background:

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are rare, congenital vascular anomalies. Intraosseous AVMS most frequently arise in the head and neck, with only a small fraction occurring in the extremities. Herein, we report the findings of a combined soft tissue and intraosseous AVM involving the lower extremity of a 13-year-old child. This case highlights the necessity of an interdisciplinary approach for the effective treatment and management of these rare vascular anomalies.

Case Description:

A 13-year-old female presented with a 4-year history of intermittent pain and swelling over her right lateral malleolus. The patient was evaluated with radiologic imaging revealing an AVM involving the right distal leg, ankle, and hindfoot with intraosseous involvement of the distal tibia and talus. She was then referred to Vascular and Plastic Surgery and an angiogram was performed demonstrating shunting from the anterior tibial, peroneal, and posterior tibial arteries to the AVM. Venous drainage was to the anterior tibial and greater saphenous veins. Three embolizations were performed over the course of 6 months. Following the third embolization, the patient was taken to the operating room where Plastic and Orthopedic Surgery performed total resection of the nidus and involved bone which was then grafted with injectable synthetic bone graft.

Results:

Successful resection of the nidus was achieved, and the patient had an uncomplicated recovery. Within 6 months postoperatively, the patient demonstrated full range of lower extremity motion and was able to participate in age appropriate gross motor activities. Radiologic evaluation 7 months postoperatively showed no evidence of nidus recurrence.

Conclusion:

Intraosseous involvement of AVMS is rare and presents a therapeutic challenge due to its invasive potential and high incidence of recurrence. Wide local excision with bone grafting and interdisciplinary management are paramount for complete resection.
Outcomes of Florida Sleeve Procedure in Patients with Bicuspid Versus Tricuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Aalaei-Andabili Seyed Hossein , Beaver Thomas M. , Martin Tomas D. , Hess Philip J. , Arnaoutakis George J.
Published: July 2020

Objective

Outcomes of the Florida Sleeve (FS) procedure in patients with bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) have not been reported before. We compared outcomes of the FS procedure between patients with BAV and those with tricuspid aortic valve (TAV).

Methods

From May 1, 2002 to January 1, 2016, 177 patients including 18 BAV and 159 TAV underwent the FS procedure. Baseline characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and echocardiographic measurements were compared between the 2 groups. Kaplan–Meier and life-table analyses were used to evaluate survival and freedom from reintervention rates.

Results

Mean ± standard deviation age and aortic root diameter were comparable in BAV and TAV groups, 47.83 ± 11.19 versus 49.59 ± 15.79 years ( P = 0.55) and 56.57 ± 6.18 versus 55.17 ± 8.84 mm ( P = 0.46), respectively. The 30-day mortality and stroke rates were zero in the BAV group and 1.88% ( n = 3) in the TAV group ( P = 1.00). One patient (5.55%) in the BAV group and 8 (5.03%) patients in the TAV group needed permanent pacemaker implantation ( P = 0.62). Freedom from reoperation was 93% in the BAV group and 99% in the TAV group at 8 years ( P = 0.041). Patient survival rate was 100% in the BAV group and 91% in the TAV group at 8 years ( P = 0.42). Freedom from aortic insufficiency greater than mild was 93% in the BAV group and 96.5% in the TAV group at 5 years ( P = 0.61).

Conclusions

This is the first study reporting outcomes of the FS procedure in patients with BAV. This technique is feasible, and the results appear to be durable when compared to patients with TAV.
Lifestyle Medicine Shared Medical Appointments
Authors: Lacagnina Salvatore , Tips Jean , Pauly Kaitlyn , Cara Kelly , Karlsen Micaela
Published: July 2020

Chronic diseases pose many challenges to health care providers and the health care system from a human capital, logistic, and financial perspective. To overcome these challenges, efficient and effective health care delivery models that address multiple chronic conditions need to be leveraged. Shared medical appointments are one potential solution to address these issues. This article offers a brief history of group visits and shared medical appointments and reviews the available data regarding their outcomes. It describes the benefits of using lifestyle medicine as the primary therapeutic modality within a shared medical appointment to treat, reverse, and prevent chronic disease. Key considerations and action steps for the implementation of lifestyle medicine shared medical appointments (LMSMAs) are outlined and the potential delivery of these services via telehealth is explored.
Emotion labor and affect in transnational encounters: Insights from Western-trained TESOL professionals in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshakhi Abdullah , Le Ha Phan
Published: July 2020

Informed by an ethnographic qualitative research study conducted with expatriate teachers of English in Saudi Arabia, we examine emotion(al) labor in the context of transnational mobilities with regards to cultural and institutional tensions. Engaged with wide-ranging interdisciplinary literature on emotion and affect, we discuss the place of transnational emotion(al) labor in four inter-related manifestations: (a) struggles and efforts to interact and communicate with students; (b) internalization and resentment of privilege and deficiency underlying discourses of native speakers; (c) responses to challenges from social, religious, and cultural difference; and (d) prolonged endurance, frustration, helplessness, and resistance to prescribed curriculum, testing, and top-down policy and practice. We also incorporate our reflections and emotion(al) labor as transnationally trained academics as we engage with the participants’ accounts. We show how our study could inspire dialogues with the self and conversations among researchers for support and solidarity beyond constructed boundaries of race, language, religion, ethnicity, and nationality.
NSGA-II algorithm and application for multi-objective flexible workshop scheduling
Authors: Yahui Wang , Ling Shi , Cai Zhang , Liuqiang Fu , Xiangjie Jin
Published: July 2020

Based on the study of multi-objective flexible workshop scheduling problem and the learning of traditional genetic algorithm, a non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm is proposed to solve and optimize the scheduling model with the objective functions of processing cycle, advance/delay penalty and processing cost. In the process of optimization, non-dominated fast ranking operator and competition operator are used to select the descendant operator, which improves the computational efficiency and optimization ability of the algorithm. Non-repetitive non-dominant solutions and frontier sets are found in the iteration operation to retain the optimal results. Finally, taking a manufacturing workshop as an example, the practicability of the proposed algorithm is verified by the simulation operation of the workshop scheduling information and the comparison with other algorithms. The results show that the algorithm can obtain the optimal solution more quickly than the unimproved algorithm. The improved algorithm is faster and more effective in searching, and has certain feasibility in solving the job shop scheduling problem, which is more suitable for industrial processing and production.
Vibrational spectroscopy of liquid biopsies for prostate cancer diagnosis
Authors: Medipally Dinesh K. R. , Cullen Daniel , Untereiner Valérie , Sockalingum Ganesh D. , Maguire Adrian , Nguyen Thi Nguyet Que , Bryant Jane , Noone Emma , Bradshaw Shirley , Finn Marie , Dunne Mary , Shannon Aoife M. , Armstrong John , Meade Aidan D. , Lyng Fiona M
Published: July 2020

Background:

Screening for prostate cancer with prostate specific antigen and digital rectal examination allows early diagnosis of prostate malignancy but has been associated with poor sensitivity and specificity. There is also a considerable risk of over-diagnosis and over-treatment, which highlights the need for better tools for diagnosis of prostate cancer. This study investigates the potential of high throughput Raman and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy of liquid biopsies for rapid and accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer.

Methods:

Blood samples (plasma and lymphocytes) were obtained from healthy control subjects and prostate cancer patients. FTIR and Raman spectra were recorded from plasma samples, while Raman spectra were recorded from the lymphocytes. The acquired spectral data was analysed with various multivariate statistical methods, principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) and classical least squares (CLS) fitting analysis.

Results:

Discrimination was observed between the infrared and Raman spectra of plasma and lymphocytes from healthy donors and prostate cancer patients using PCA. In addition, plasma and lymphocytes displayed differentiating signatures in patients exhibiting different Gleason scores. A PLS-DA model was able to discriminate these groups with sensitivity and specificity rates ranging from 90% to 99%. CLS fitting analysis identified key analytes that are involved in the development and progression of prostate cancer.

Conclusions:

This technology may have potential as an alternative first stage diagnostic triage for prostate cancer. This technology can be easily adaptable to many other bodily fluids and could be useful for translation of liquid biopsy-based diagnostics into the clinic.
Analysis of Immunogenicity of Acanthopanax senticosus Injection
Authors: Feng Yufei , Jiang Lei
Published: July 2020

The cause of the immunogenicity of Acanthopanax senticosus injection has been studied. The method used for the preparation of the injection includes boiling the plant material in water, precipitation with ethanol, and filtration to produce the extract. In the current study, this extract was treated with saturated ammonium sulfate to collect the protein from the extract. Indicators of systemic allergy, including total immunoglobulin (IgE), interleukin -4 (IL-4), and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels in the antiserum of Guinea pigs sensitized with this protein extract were used to determine the immunogenicity of the protein extract. Testing was performed using Western blotting to identify IgE in antiserum binding in Guinea pigs sensitized by injection. The target protein band was further identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry. The protein extract from A. senticosus caused positive reactions and significantly increased the levels of total IgE, IL-4, and IFN-γ in the serum of sensitized Guinea pigs. Western blotting showed that a group of proteins with a molecular weight of 60 000 in the A. senticosus protein extract acted as the major immunogenic protein by binding to serum IgE of Guinea pigs sensitized with A. senticosus injection. The protein was a pyruvate kinase homologous protein with high sequence similarity to the pyruvate kinase protein of Vitis vinifera. It was concluded that the allergic reaction caused by the injection of A. senticosus may be related to the interaction of these macromolecular proteins within the body.
The Golden Thread of Charity: Love and the Formation of Character in Origen and Augustine
Authors: Fogleman Alex
Published: July 2020

Several recent educators have proposed a reconsideration of the importance of love in higher education. Drawing on resources from early Christian catechesis, this article explores ways in which educators might reflect on the role of love in the acquisition of virtue. In conversation with Origen and Augustine, I argue that an account of love rooted in a theology of the Incarnation is fundamental to the initial processes of forming character, even while—and indeed especially while—remaining largely inconspicuous in the process. Love is everywhere present in teaching virtue to new Christians, though in much more complex and interesting ways than a simple explication of love as a topic of study among others. Though far apart in time and geography, the examples of Origen and Augustine provide a rich tapestry of pedagogical wisdom from which educators might draw today.
School Nurses on the Front Lines of Healthcare: Recognizing “BONES” and Knowing When to Pick Up the Phone: Eating Disorders Among Students in the School Setting
Authors: Lucas Christy , Brady Jodi , Olympia Robert P.
Published: July 2020

Through a case presentation, this article describes the assessment and management of a student presenting with a history of disordered eating and weight loss. As medical concerns are brought to the attention of the school nurse, it is important for the school nurse to be aware of common signs and symptoms seen in students with undiagnosed or established eating disorders, as well as possible medical complications associated with untreated or poorly controlled eating disorders. Possible signs and symptoms associated with eating disorders that require outpatient referral or emergent management is delineated in this article, and school nurses are provided with a helpful mnemonic called “BONES” to aid in the recognition of eating disorders in the school setting.
Prevalence of Neurologic Deficits in Combined Facial and Cervical Spine Injuries: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Philip Manju Roby , Soumithran C. S.
Published: July 2020

Study design:

A retrospective data analysis of maxillofacial trauma patients with combined cervical spine injuries.

Objective:

This study is based on investigating the importance of timely diagnosis of patients who suffer with cervical spine injuries along with maxillofacial trauma by estimating the prevalence of neurologic deficits and its relation with etiology.

Methods:

A database of 4460 patients suffering from maxillofacial injuries and admitted in specialized environment surgery of Government Medical College, Trivandrum, Kerala was taken under consideration. The prevalence and types of neurologic deficits and its relation with etiology were assessed in patients with combined facial and cervical spine injuries.

Results:

Of 4460 patients, 48 were having cervical spine injury along with facial damage with the prevalence of 0.01%. Neurologic deficits were seen highest with etiology of road traffic accidents followed by falls from height. Most of the accidents occurred in bike riders and helmets were absent.

Conclusions:

It was concluded that most of the accidents engage bike riders and drivers, due to unethical and unsafe driving. There was no significant correlation found between facial and cervical spine injuries.
Colon capsule endoscopy versus CT colonography after incomplete colonoscopy. Application of artificial intelligence algorithms to identify complete colonic investigations
Authors: Deding U , Herp J , Havshoei A‐L , Kobaek‐Larsen M , Buijs MM , Nadimi ES , Baatrup G
Published: July 2020

Background

Guidelines suggest computed tomography colonography (CTC) following incomplete optical colonoscopy (OC). Colon capsule endoscopies (CCE) have been suggested as an alternative, although completion rates have been unsatisfactory. Introduction of artificial intelligence (AI)‐based localization algorithms of the camera capsules may enable identification of incomplete CCE investigations overlapping with incomplete OCs.

Objective

The study aims to investigate relative sensitivity of CCE compared with CTC following incomplete OC, investigate the completion rate when combining results from the incomplete OC and CCE, and develop a forward‐tracking algorithm ensuring a safe completeness of combined investigations.

Methods

In this prospective paired study, patients with indication for CTC following incomplete OC were included for CCE and CTC. Location of CCE abortion and OC abortion were registered to identify complete combined investigations. AI‐based algorithm for localization of capsules were developed reconstructing the passage of the colon.

Results

In 237 individuals with CTC indication; 105 were included, of which 97 underwent both a CCE and CTC. CCE was complete in 66 (68%). Including CCEs which reached most oral point of incomplete OC, 73 (75%) had complete colonic investigations; 78 (80%) had conclusive investigations. Relative sensitivity of CCE compared with CTC was 2.67 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.76;4.04) for polyps >5 mm and 1.91 (95% CI 1.18;3.09) for polyps >9 mm. An AI‐based algorithm was developed.

Conclusion

Sensitivity of CCE following incomplete OC was superior to CTC. Introducing and improving algorithm‐based localization of capsule abortion may increase identification of overall complete investigation rates following incomplete OC.

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02826993
A prospective study of the components of operating room utilisation time for robotic urological surgery in a public teaching hospital setting
Authors: Broe Mark P , Bolger Jarlath M , Norton Sarah , David Silviu , Coffey John C , Giri Subhasis K
Published: July 2020

Introduction and aim:

Although there are several publications on learning curves and patient outcomes in robotic surgery, the literature is lacking in depth analysis of operating room (OR) utilisation time which is an expansive healthcare resource for robotic surgery, especially in urology. Thus, we aimed to study individual operating theatre component times in order to improve performance and efficacy.

Method:

A cross-specialty robotic-surgery programme was established at our institution in mid-June 2016 using the daVinci Xi dual console robot. A detailed database was established before initiation of the project. The times taken for each element of the preparation and completion of robotic urological procedure were collected by an independent nurse for all the procedures. Primary outcome measures were total OR time, operative time and console time. Secondary outcome measures were port placement time, set-up time and non-operative time. The statistical significance was calculated by using the Student’s t-test, Fisher’s exact test or Wilcoxon matched pairs test where appropriate.

Result:

Thirty consecutive urological cases were analysed. Mean total OR time, operative time and console time were 320.86 (range 172–485), 235.7 (124–295) and 152.3 min (66–219) respectively. Console time accounted for about less than half of OR time. A significant proportion of OR time was non-operative time (almost one third). After an initial learning curve, set-up time was consistently maintained for most robotic procedures.

Conclusions:

The findings of this study have three implications for clinical practice. Firstly, console time contributed about half of the OR time. This can be optimised with experience. Secondly robot set-up time is likely to reduce with the experience of the whole team. Finally, non-operative OR time constitute a significant one third of the OR time during robotic surgery. Efforts to reduce non-surgical aspect of OR time will have potential to reduce cost and improve efficiency.

Level of Evidence:

4
From pool to profile: Social consequences of algorithmic prediction in insurance
Authors: Cevolini Alberto , Esposito Elena
Published: July 2020

The use of algorithmic prediction in insurance is regarded as the beginning of a new era, because it promises to personalise insurance policies and premiums on the basis of individual behaviour and level of risk. The core idea is that the price of the policy would no longer refer to the calculated uncertainty of a pool of policyholders, with the consequence that everyone would have to pay only for her real exposure to risk. For insurance, however, uncertainty is not only a problem – shared uncertainty is a resource. The availability of individual risk information could undermine the principle of risk-pooling and risk-spreading on which insurance is based. The article examines this disruptive change first by exploring the possible consequences of the use of predictive algorithms to set insurance premiums. Will it endanger the principle of mutualisation of risks, producing new forms of discrimination and exclusion from coverage? In a second step, we analyse how the relationship between the insurer and the policyholder changes when the customer knows that the company has voluminous, and continuously updated, data about her real behaviour.
Self-preservation and sociology’s modern moral personality: Dual structure in Durkheim’s Suicide
Authors: Sun Feiyu
Published: July 2020

According to Durkheim, suicide means a conscious choice of death. The only opposite of death is being, and there is no middle ground in between. Therefore, when Durkheim discusses suicide, he certainly touches on the issue of living, or a choice of self-preservation, in a cryptical way, as well. This veiled discussion has been unacknowledged by Chinese mainland sociology because the widely adopted Chinese version of Durkheim’s Suicide loses most of the textual evidence of this clue in its translation. This paper offers a textual analysis of Durkheim’s Suicide based on that textual evidence. Durkheim treats different types of suicide as extreme forms of different types of morals, and, in many places, he asks under what kind of moral condition one can achieve self-preservation. This paper argues that there is an inner connection between Durkheim’s definitions of three types of suicide and his definition of sociology. As a social scientist who studies morality, he sees sociology as the expression of a particular modern morality, the same kind of moral condition that he calls for in his book. This paper shows that for Durkheim, this moral entity signifies for self-preservation both for the modern individual and for sociology.
Case studies towards the analysis of total social construction
Authors: Qu Jingdong
Published: July 2020

Case study is an irreplaceable sociological strategy for research on social construction. Different from either hypothesis tests or descriptive accounts of social life, case study aims to make a long chain of interpretations from a typical case to the construction of the whole society, by linkages of concrete people, conditions, and situations in a case with other related social, political, and cultural elements all the way through. In other words, the case is not only influenced by the policies made by central or local governments at different levels, but also located in grassroots customs and mores at the bottom. To find these multiple relations horizontally and vertically clustered in a case study, various methods of -graphy must be used, such as geography, cartography, demography, historiography, biography, autobiography, lexicography, and, finally, ethnography. At the same time, however, all these elements and their relations should be activated by eventalization having happened in daily life. Through the types of stimulation of abnormal processes or sublimation of normal rituals in eventalization, the complicated, correlative, and sustainable relationships among social elements are presented as many social mechanisms in different dimensions. On all accounts, the whole scene of society will be opened out as a solid structure by the various points (events), lines (linkages), and plane (mechanism) in three dimensions. As Max Weber said, ‘The causal relations in sociological research would be satisfied as a special explanatory demonstration’.