bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Navigating an Identity Playground: Using sociomateriality to build a theory of identity play
Authors: Stanko Taryn Lyn , Dahm Patricia Caulfield , Lahneman Brooke , Richter Jonathon
Published: July 2020

The construct of identity play, which involves the exploration and experimentation with possible future selves, is underexplored in organizational literature. To extend theory on identity play, we take a narrative inquiry approach and examine qualitative interview data in the context of virtual environments. Using a sociomateriality perspective, we contribute to theory on identity play in three ways. First, we reveal how identity play unfolds via the sociomaterial intertwining of not just human agency, but also material agency, situated work practices, and self-representations. Second, we offer a new definition of identity play that goes beyond the exploration of possible selves and uncover identity play narratives on the possible self, the improbable self, and the impossible self. We demonstrate how identity play, particularly with impossible selves, shapes others’ experiences and thus has implications beyond the self. Finally, three identity play affordances emerged: plasticity of appearance, plasticity of behavior, and plasticity of perspective.
CCBD’s Position Summary on the Use of Physical Restraint Procedures in Educational Settings
Authors:   Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders
Published: July 2020

This document provides policy recommendations of the Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders (CCBD) regarding the use of physical restraint procedures in educational settings. It includes (a) an introduction with definitions of terminology; (b) a discussion of the problems with the use of physical restraint, policy on this topic, and the lack of research; (c) a Declaration of Principles; and (d) Recommendations Regarding the Use of Physical Restraint in educational settings. Although the policy recommendations in this document pertain to the United States, we believe the principles and nonpolicy recommendations are equally applicable to other countries.
Is a sampling transition zone important to increase the detection of prostate cancer in systematic prostatic biopsies?
Authors: Queiroz Marcos RG , Falsarella Priscila M , Moreira Valle Leonardo G , Cayres Mariotti Guilherme , Lemos Gustavo C , Alfer Junior Wladimir , Garcia Rodrigo G
Published: July 2020

Background

Use of transrectal ultrasound (US)-guided biopsies improved diagnosis and treatment for patients with high prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or abnormal digital rectal exam (DRE).

Purpose

To investigate whether taking two transition zone (TZ) biopsies in addition to routine prostate double-sextant biopsies (12-cores) would improve detection rates of prostate cancer (PCa).

Material and Methods

A retrospective analysis of 1107 in a single institution database after Institutional Review Board approval, which underwent US-guided prostate biopsies from January 2014 to June 2016. All patients with suspected PCa based on positive DRE or high PSA submitted to US-guided prostate biopsy (double-sextant 12-cores alone and 12-cores with two TZ extra cores) were included.

Results

A total of 1107 patients were included; 120 patients underwent double-sextant 12-cores alone and 987 underwent 12-cores with two TZ extra cores. Among patients submitted to two TZ extra cores, TZs of 755 (76.5%) patients were negative to neoplasia and 232 (23.5%) were positive to neoplasia. Among these patients, 26 (2.6%) had their final Gleason score increased with TZ core; TZ fragments of 20 (2.0%) patients led to a treatment change (re biopsy, active surveillance or from active surveillance to radiation therapy or radical prostatectomy). When the complication rate is analyzed (with or without hospital admission), among the patients submitted to TZ cores, 259 (26.2%) complications were observed; between those submitted to double-sextant 12-cores, 26 (21.7%) complications were observed ( P=0.279).

Conclusion

Extended core biopsy protocol with two TZ extra fragments improves detection rates of cancer when compared to double-sextant biopsy protocol without increasing complication rates. TZ routine cores should be considered.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) reliably rules out neoplasm in developmental renal pseudotumor
Authors: Spiesecke Paul , Fischer Thomas , Maxeiner Andreas , Hamm Bernd , Lerchbaumer Markus H
Published: July 2020

Background

Renal pseudotumors appear as benign cortical hypertrophies and are typically assessed by contrast-enhanced computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging to rule out malignancy.

Purpose

To investigate whether contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) can rule out renal neoplasm and thus potentially reduce cross-sectional imaging and further follow-up in these patients.

Material and Methods

Thirty-two patients with presumption of developmental renal pseudotumor on CEUS between June 2011 and July 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were examined with a standardized renal US protocol including B-mode, color-coded duplex sonography (CCDS), and CEUS by an experienced radiologist (EFSUMB level 3). Images were retrospectively interpreted in consensus by two highly experienced radiologists. Histopathological reports, cross-sectional imaging findings, and clinical course (treatment response, long-term imaging follow-up) were defined as standard of reference.

Results

CEUS correctly identified 8/9 neoplastic lesions and missed one oncocytoma within the 32 included patients. Irregular vessel structure (88.9% vs. 13.0%, P = 0.007) and hyperenhancement (66.6% vs. 17.4%, P = 0.031) on CEUS were more common in neoplasm compared to developmental pseudotumors reaching statistical significance. Compared with the standard of reference, CEUS had 89% sensitivity (95% confidence interval [CI] 57–98), 96% specificity (95% CI 80–99), a positive predictive value of 89% (95% CI 57–98), and a negative predictive value of 96% (95% CI 79–99) for ruling out renal malignancy in developmental pseudotumors.

Conclusion

CEUS is a safe and fast method to rule out neoplasm in the diagnostic work-up of renal pseudotumors. In conjunction with B-mode and CCDS, CEUS has the potential to reduce further (invasive) diagnostic procedures.
Using Conditional Generative Adversarial Nets and Heat Maps with Simulation-Accelerated Training to Predict the Spatiotemporal Impacts of Highway Incidents
Authors: (Raymond) Huang Zirui , Arian Ali , (Rachael) Yuan Yuqiu , Chiu Yi-Chang
Published: July 2020

An increasingly emphasized research area is the forecast of short-term traffic conditions for nonrecurring traffic dynamics caused by random highway incidents such as crashes or roadway closures. This research proposes a prediction framework which focuses on training a machine learning (ML) model to predict the speed heatmap associated with incidents. Heatmaps contain ideal information that depicts the spatiotemporal characteristics of incident-induced impacts and are suitable objects for ML models to understand and predict. Because of the sparsity of incident data in the real world, we proposed a simulation approach to rapidly expand the training dataset, thus speeding up the model training process. The conditional deep convolutional generative adversarial nets is employed to predict the speed heatmap and the mesoscopic dynamic traffic assignment model DynusT was used to generate many training data. The evaluation shows that the proposed model captures both the tonal and spatial distribution of pixel values at 80.19% similarity between the prediction and actual heatmaps. To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the first attempts in the literature to train ML to predict heatmap representation of incident-induced spatiotemporal impact, and speeding up the training via simulation.
Establishing Face and Content Validity of a Survey to Assess Users’ Perceptions of Automated Vehicles
Authors: Mason Justin , Classen Sherrilene , Wersal James , Sisiopiku Virginia P.
Published: July 2020

Fully automated vehicles hold promise for providing numerous societal benefits, including drastically reducing road fatalities. However, we know little about the adoption practices of individuals related to automated vehicles. To assess transportation users’ perceptions of automated vehicles, a 40-item survey was designed using guidance from several technology acceptance models. A focus group was used to assess face validity to ensure the items appeared credible and understandable to the layperson. Seven subject-matter experts rated items for their relevance to provide a content validity index for each item and for the overall survey. The final scale had a scale content validity index rating of 1.00, with 32 of 32 items rated greater than or equal to 0.86 and a scale content validity index of 0.96 (mean content validity index of all items), indicating acceptable content validity. The approach adopted in this study ensured the face and content validity of the survey and enhanced the items’ relevance, concision, and clarity. Future validation is required to assess scale reliability and validity. The paper provides an overview of models used for determining acceptance and adoption of technology and describes in detail the methodology used to establish face and content validity of the questionnaire survey developed for assessing adults’ perceptions of automated vehicles.
Estimating Pedestrian Volumes for Signalized and Stop-Controlled Intersections
Authors: Le Minh , Geedipally Srinivas R. , Fitzpatrick Kay , Avelar Raul E.
Published: July 2020

Pedestrian fatal crashes in the U.S. have increased over the years. From 2007 to 2016, pedestrian fatalities increased 27% nationally, while all other traffic fatalities decreased 14%. On average, a pedestrian was killed every 1.5 h in traffic crashes in 2016. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has been working with public agencies toward developing more data-driven approaches to identify and mitigate pedestrian safety issues. However, pedestrian exposure to risk is not readily available. The absence of pedestrian exposure data makes it challenging to identify and prioritize high-crash risk locations. Using Dallas, Texas, as a case study, researchers wanted to use exposure in relation to volumes—both vehicular and pedestrian volume—to determine pedestrian risk. Although the vehicular volume is extensively available, the pedestrian volume is seldom available. The objective of this study is to explore options for collecting or estimating pedestrian volume data, particularly at intersections with high pedestrian activity. Researchers successfully developed a direct-demand model that estimates pedestrian volumes at signalized and stop-controlled intersections. The final model showed that pedestrian volume: increases 4 times within downtown; increases 12% per school within 1 mi of intersection; increases 4.8 times per 1% increase in commercial/multi-family residential land uses within 300 ft of intersection; increases 4.7 times with presence of higher education, hospitals, or malls; and decreases 36% per 5 mph increase in the intersections’ maximum posted speed limit. This research can help advance pedestrian safety analyses by providing a method of estimating pedestrian volumes for intersections by control type, particularly when volumes are infeasible to measure.
Relationship between Backcalculated and Estimated Asphalt Concrete Dynamic Modulus with Respect to Falling Weight Deflectometer Load and Temperature
Authors: Bech Nathan D. , Vandenbossche Julie M.
Published: July 2020

There are several methods for determining the stiffness of asphalt concrete in an existing pavement. The three primary methods are: dynamic modulus testing in the laboratory, predictive equations, and falling weight deflectometer (FWD) testing. Asphalt over asphalt (AC/AC) overlay design procedures allow the use of multiple methods to characterize fatigue damage in the existing asphalt concrete. Therefore, understanding the difference between these methods is critical for AC/AC overlay design. The differences between the methods for determining asphalt concrete stiffness and how these differences are related to FWD load magnitude and asphalt temperature are examined. Data from the Federal Highway Administration’s Long-Term Pavement Performance Program (LTPP) are used in this investigation. It is found that the stiffness determined through FWD testing and backcalculation is generally less than that estimated using the Witczak predictive equation and binder aging models. Furthermore, it is found that both FWD load magnitude and asphalt temperature have a significant effect on the difference between backcalculated and estimated stiffness of asphalt concrete. Backcalculated stiffness increases relative to estimated stiffness as FWD load and temperature increase. These effects must be considered when multiple methods of determining asphalt concrete stiffness are used interchangeably for overlay design.
Exploring Revisions in Academic Text: Closing the Gap Between Process and Product Approaches in Digital Writing
Authors: Bowen Neil , Van Waes Luuk
Published: July 2020

To date, research into dynamic descriptions of text has focused mainly on the spoken mode; and while writing process research has examined language structures, it has largely ignored the functionality (meaning) inherent in them. Therefore, drawing on systemic functional linguistics (SFL) and keystroke logging software, this article takes a further step toward an interdisciplinary dialogue by outlining a new schematic for coding and analyzing revisions. More specifically, we show how revision activity can be tracked within functional components, across functional components, and across clauses in terms of forward and backward movements. By exploring three digitally constructed texts, which were produced and observed unobtrusively in a natural setting, we have attempted to illustrate how one writer’s revising process can be operationalized in terms of (a) chronological movement (sequence) and (b) spatial movement (location). Findings showed how activity was relatively consistent across datasets with regard to session management, revision frequency, and distribution of revision types. Moreover, results also showed how most revision activity occurred at, or ahead of, the point of inscription, particularly with regard to revising the end of clauses. However, findings also indicated that revising the start of clauses was equally important when considering the size of functional components.
Proning in Non-Intubated (PINI) in Times of COVID-19: Case Series and a Review
Authors: Paul Vishesh , Patel Shawn , Royse Michelle , Odish Mazen , Malhotra Atul , Koenig Seth
Published: July 2020

It has been well known for decades that prone positioning (PP) improves oxygenation. However, it has gained widespread acceptance only in the last few years since studies have shown significant survival benefit. Many centers have established prone ventilation in their treatment algorithm for mechanically ventilated patients with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Physiologically, PP should also benefit awake, non-intubated patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. However, proning in non-intubated (PINI) patients did not gain any momentum until a few months ago when the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic surged. A large number of sick patients overwhelmed the health care system, and many centers faced a dearth of ventilators. In addition, outcomes of patients placed on mechanical ventilation because of COVID-19 infection have been highly variable and often dismal. Hence, increased focus has shifted to using various strategies to prevent intubation, such as PINI. There is accumulating evidence that PINI is a low-risk intervention that can be performed even outside intensive care unit with minimal assistance and may prevent intubation in certain patients with ARDS. It can also be performed safely at smaller centers and, therefore, may reduce the patient transfer to larger institutions that are overwhelmed in the current crisis. We present a case series of 2 patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure who experienced significant improvements in oxygenation with PP. In addition, the physiology of PP is described, and concerns such as proning in obese and patient’s anxiety are addressed; an educational pamphlet that may be useful for both patients and health care providers is provided.
Kinematic analysis and optimal design of a novel 3-P

R

R spherical parallel manipulator
Authors: Zarkandi Soheil
Published: July 2020

This paper introduces a novel three degree-of-freedom spherical parallel manipulator with 3-PRR topology, where P and R denote a curved prismatic joint and a revolute joint, respectively. The first revolute joint of each PRR leg is actuated via a double Rzeppa-type driveshaft, and hence underlined. The manipulator has at most eight working modes and eight assembly modes. However, only one working mode and one assembly mode of the manipulator are acceptable during its motion which can be easily identified. Singularity and kinematic dexterity analyses reveal that the proposed 3-PRR spherical parallel manipulator has no forward kinematic singularity for a wide range of rotation of the moving platform around its central axis. An optimal design of the manipulator is also presented having a workspace with good kinematic dexterity.
Corrigendum to the Reply to ‘Critical review on the paper: The earliest datable noctilucent cloud observation (Parma, Italy AD 1840)’
Authors: Bertolin Chiara , Domínguez-Castro Fernando
Published: July 2020

The first aim of this corrigendum is to point out and correct calculation errors on solar depression angle and azimuth angle in Bertolin and Domínguez-Castro (2020a, 2020b). The second aim is to recognize that these calculations are correct in Dalin (2020). The third aim is to analyze the chances of Antonio Colla to observe the noctilucent cloud (NLC) taking into account the correct calculations of the twilight sky arc determining the illuminated area of an NLC and the uncertainties in the Colla’s observation report.
A comparative study on clinical and serological characteristics between patients with rhupus and those with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Frade-Sosa Beatriz , Narváez Javier , Salman-Monte Tarek Carlos , Castellanos-Moreira Raul , Ortiz-Santamaria Vera , Torrente-Segarra Vicenç , Castellvi Ivan , Magallares Berta , Reina Delia , Minguez Sonia , Sallés Meritxell , Manrique de Lara Maria García , Ordoñez Sergi , Riera Elena , Schur Peter H , Gómez-Puerta José A
Published: July 2020

Background

The concomitant presence of two autoimmune diseases – systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) – in the same patient is known as rhupus. We evaluated a group of patients with rhupus to clarify further their clinical, serological and immunogenic features in a multi-centre cohort. In addition, the study aimed to explore the utility of the 2019 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology (EULAR/ACR) SLE classification criteria in our group of patients with rhupus.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. We included rhupus patients from 11 different rheumatology departments, and compared them to SLE and RA patients at a ratio of 2:1. All information was recorded following a pre-established protocol.

Results

A total of 200 patients were included: 40 rhupus patients and 80 each of SLE and RA patients as controls. Disease duration was similar among SLE and rhupus groups (around 13 years), but the RA group had a significantly lower disease duration. Main clinical manifestations were articular (94.2%), cutaneous (77.5%) and haematological (72.5%). Rhupus patients had articular manifestations similar to those expected in RA. Only 10% of rhupus patients had renal involvement compared with 25% of those with SLE ( p < 0.05), while interstitial lung disease was more common in patients affected by RA. The 2019 EULAR/ACR SLE criteria were met in 92.5% of the rhupus patients and in 96.3% of the SLE cohort ( p > 0.05). Excluding the joint domain, there were no differences between the numbers of patients who met the classification criteria.

Conclusion

Rhupus patients follow a particular clinical course, with full expression of both SLE and RA in terms of organ involvement, except for a lower prevalence of kidney affection. The new 2019 EULAR/ACR SLE criteria are not useful for differentiating SLE and rhupus patients. A new way of classifying autoimmune diseases is needed to identify overlapping clusters.
A global test for competing risks survival analysis
Authors: Edelmann Dominic , Saadati Maral , Putter Hein , Goeman Jelle
Published: July 2020

Standard tests for the Cox model, such as the likelihood ratio test or the Wald test, do not perform well in situations, where the number of covariates is substantially higher than the number of observed events. This issue is perpetuated in competing risks settings, where the number of observed occurrences for each event type is usually rather small. Yet, appropriate testing methodology for competing risks survival analysis with few events per variable is missing. In this article, we show how to extend the global test for survival by Goeman et al. to competing risks and multistate models[Per journal style, abstracts should not have reference citations. Therefore, can you kindly delete this reference citation.]. Conducting detailed simulation studies, we show that both for type I error control and for power, the novel test outperforms the likelihood ratio test and the Wald test based on the cause-specific hazards model in settings where the number of events is small compared to the number of covariates. The benefit of the global tests for competing risks survival analysis and multistate models is further demonstrated in real data examples of cancer patients from the European Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation.
Demetrius Zambaco Pasha (1832–1913): The first leprologist of the Orient
Authors: Tekiner Halil , Karamanou Marianna
Published: July 2020

Démétrius Zambaco Pasha (1832–1913) was an internationally renowned Ottoman-born French dermatologist of Greek origin who is considered the first leprologist of the Orient. A graduate from the Faculty of Medicine in Paris, he practised there until he returned to Istanbul in 1872 and later served as a private physician to the Ottoman sultan Abdul Hamid II (1842–1918), then Abbas Hilmi Pasha (1874–1944), the last Khedive of Egypt. Dr Zambaco produced numerous publications in a variety of medical subjects including leprosy, syphilis, morphinomania, eunuchs, and medical history. Leprosy, however, was his main field of scientific interest, with nearly 40 studies published and many other communications presented at international medical congresses. Due to his outstanding scientific contributions, Dr Zambaco garnered many accolades including the Cholera Medal of Honour, the Montyon Prize, and Légion d’Honneur from France as well as the honorary title of Pasha, a higher rank in the political and military system, from the Ottoman Empire.
Temporal profile of lymphocyte counts and relationship with infections with fingolimod therapy in paediatric patients with multiple sclerosis: Results from the PARADIGMS study
Authors: Chitnis Tanuja , Banwell Brenda , Krupp Lauren , Arnold Douglas L , Bar-Or Amit , Brück Wolfgang , Giovannoni Gavin , Greenberg Benjamin , Ghezzi Angelo , Waubant Emmanuelle , Rostasy Kevin , Deiva Kumaran , Huppke Peter , Wolinsky Jerry S , Zhang Ying , Azmon Amin , K-Laflamme Annik , Karan Rajesh , Gärtner Jutta
Published: July 2020

Background:

Reduction in absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) is expected with fingolimod treatment.

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of fingolimod 0.5 mg versus intramuscular interferon β-1a (30 μg) on ALC and its relationship with infections in paediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) up to 4 years.

Methods:

We assessed ALC at baseline, monthly till 3 months, and every 3 months (core phase) and with variable periodicity (extension phase) of Phase 3 PARADIG MS study ( N = 215). Incidence rates (IRs) of infection-related adverse events (infAEs)/100 patient-years were analysed by on-study nadir ALC.

Results:

With fingolimod, ALC rapidly reduced to 29.9%–34.4% of baseline values within 2 weeks and remained stable thereafter; no relevant changes observed with interferon. IRs of infAEs were 67.6 with fingolimod and 61.8 with interferon; IR ratios with respect to interferon, overall: 1.09, by nadir ALC 0.2–0.4 × 109/L: 1.13 and >0.4 × 109/L: 0.91. Three patients had a single episode of ALC <0.2 × 109/L (core phase). No opportunistic infections were observed and infection risk did not increase during the extension phase.

Conclusion:

In paediatric patients, the overall incidence of infections was comparable between fingolimod and interferon. No association was observed between nadir ALC and infections in POMS, although sample size may have been too small to rule an association.
“If you could just see me”: The construction of heterosexual men’s sexual selves and the hierarchy of desirability
Authors: Montemurro Beth
Published: July 2020

Part of identity development involves the construction of a sexual self. Sexual selves are constructed based on interactions with others. Based on in-depth interviews with 59 heterosexual men between the ages of 30 and 59, I look at the way research participants defined heterosexual men’s desirability through their framing of their sexual selves. I show how participants’ stories revealed a link between desirability and masculinity for heterosexual men in U.S. culture. Moreover, I find that consistent with narratives of hegemonic masculinity, men were concerned with proving their desirability and hetero-masculinity through what I call “evidentiary stories.” These stories focused on men’s telling of how they were seen by others or in other contexts, with such accounts serving as evidence of their desirability. Through these stories, men constructed sexual selves that met (or failed to meet) dominant narratives of hetero-masculine desirability. In so doing, men also participated in the construction of a hierarchy of desirability among heterosexual men, underscoring the idea that certain men are more sought-after or valued than others—both by women partners and others at large.
Prevalence and predictors of psychopathology in the war-afflicted Syrian population
Authors: Selmo Pirko , Knaevelsrud Christine , Mohamad Nabil , Rehm Jürgen
Published: July 2020

Research on the psychological impact of war on affected populations is important for the planning and provision of interventions. However, most studies that address the effects of political violence have been restricted to Western countries, and even after six years of civil war in Syria, there has been no study addressing its psychological impact on the general population. The present study used an online survey to examine the level of psychological symptoms and correlates of distress in a sample of 387 subjects from different areas of Syria. We used t-tests to compare symptoms across zones with different levels of war activity, and multiple regression models to identify predictors of distress. Results indicate a high level of psychological distress indicative of psychopathology in all regions across the country. Rates were higher in areas with more intensive exposure (‘hot’ zones). Greater symptom severity was associated with living in a hot zone, female gender, older age, the number of potentially traumatic events, daily stressors, and (low) perceived feeling of safety; whereas social support, religiosity, and religious coping were associated with lower levels of symptoms. The elevated levels of mental health problems and direct relation between the level of exposure to violence and poorer mental health point to the need for mental health services. Reducing daily stressors and ensuring safety could contribute significantly to better mental health, although this does not replace the need for evidence-based psychotherapy. The planning and delivery of psychological interventions by NGOs should be informed by issues related to stigma, lack of understanding and acceptance of psychological care.
Towards a Prosthetic Archaeology
Authors: Stobiecka Monika
Published: July 2020

Prosthetic archaeology is a theoretical proposal for a materially oriented digital practice. It is based on a critical approach to implementing the latest technologies in archaeology. Drawing from the philosophy of technology and prosthetic studies, this project offers a more critical and meaningful understanding of digital methods in archaeology. The main interpretative figure is the verb “to prostheticize.” Thus, prosthetic archaeology is not solely about prostheses — technological improvements understood as supplements. Rather, it is about the processes of “prostheticizing” archaeology, brought on by the digital turn in “the discipline of things.” A verbal understanding of this main category and its processual potential allows for a technological prosthesis to function as an active addition that does, makes, transforms, refers, evokes, (re)constructs, and generates meanings. The concept of prosthetic archaeology is illustrated with a discussion of the “Body Can’t Wait” advertising campaign organized in Paris, March 2018, where ancient and neoclassical sculptures were equipped with 3D-printed artificial limbs. Inspired by an advertising campaign that uses technology to raise social awareness and engage in current global problems, prosthetic archaeology may offer a prefigurative blueprint for a future, radical archaeology.
Impact of a mobile phone app on adherence to treatment regimens among hypertensive patients: A randomised clinical trial study
Authors: Abu-El-Noor Nasser Ibrahim , Aljeesh Yousef Ibrahim , Bottcher Bettina , Abu-El-Noor Mysoon Khalil
Published: July 2020

Background

Hypertension is one of the most prevalent long-term diseases seen in many countries, including Palestine. Patients with poorly controlled blood pressure are more likely to develop several complications. Therefore; it is imperative to control their blood pressure by improving their adherence to the treatment regimen.

Aim

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of using a mobile phone app on the level of adherence to treatment regimens among hypertensive patients in the Gaza Strip.

Methods and results

This study used an experimental design with a pre and post-intervention assessment. Using the Hill–Bone compliance to high blood pressure therapy scale, 191 participants completed the study: 94 in the control group and 97 in the intervention group. The intervention group used a phone app which reminds participants to take their medication, reminding them about their follow-up appointments and sending educational information about hypertension management. After 3 months of intervention, the level of adherence to treatment was reassessed. Results showed that participants in both groups showed a significant improvement in adherence levels, with higher improvements in the intervention group in the total score as well as all three domain scores: adherence to medication, diet and keeping appointments.

Conclusion

The use of a mobile phone app resulted in improvements in adherence to hypertension treatment. Thus, this study confirms the potential effectiveness of mobile technology in improving treatment adherence in hypertension and an opportunity to reduce cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. However, wider adoption has to be accompanied by ongoing evaluation and integration in public health systems.
Finding the Mating Gear: The Development and Validation of a Mate Access Scale
Authors: Walldén C. , Westerlund M. , Gunst A. , Santtila P. , Antfolk J.
Published: July 2020

Difficulties in finding mates may have broad consequences for well-being. Previous studies often assume that only personal characteristics or competition limits mating success without considering the impact of the social context. We developed and evaluated a questionnaire for measuring context-dependent mate access by surveying 528 Finnish adults. We found support for our hypothesized two-factor structure divided into preferred encounters (i.e., the amount of interactions the individual has with potential mates) and perceived possibilities (i.e., the individual’s perception of their mating opportunities). We also investigated the relationship between these factors and respondents’ social context, negative affect regarding poor mate access, mate value, and sociosexual desire. Individuals in more sociable contexts reported higher mate access, and individuals with less perceived possibilities reported more negative affect. Theoretical associations with mate value and sociosexual desire were supported. The current scale can be used along existing measures to study human mating and its psycho-behavioral correlates.
Parameter identification of a differentiable Bouc-Wen model using constrained extended Kalman filter
Authors: Li Dan , Wang Yang
Published: July 2020

Hysteresis is of critical importance to structural safety under severe dynamic loading conditions. One of the widely used hysteretic models for civil structures is the Bouc-Wen model, the effectiveness of which depends on suitable model parameters. The locally non-differentiable governing equation of the conventional Bouc-Wen model poses difficulty on existing identification algorithms, especially the extended Kalman filter, which relies on linearized system equations to propagate state estimates and covariance. In addition, the standard extended Kalman filter usually does not incorporate parameter constraints, and therefore may result in unreasonable estimates. In this article, a modified and differentiable Bouc-Wen model, together with a constrained extended Kalman filter (CEKF), is proposed to identify the hysteretic model parameters in a reliable way. The partial derivatives of the differentiable Bouc-Wen model with respect to hysteretic parameters can be easily calculated for implementing the identification algorithm. Constrained extended Kalman filter restricts the Kalman gain to ensure that the estimates of parameters satisfy constraints from physical laws. Parameter identification using simulated and experimental data collected from a four-story structure demonstrates that constrained extended Kalman filter can achieve more reliable identification results than the standard extended Kalman filter.
Bypass Grafting vs Endovascular Therapy in Patients With Non-Dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease and Chronic Limb-Threatening Ischemia (CRITISCH Registry)
Authors: Stavroulakis Konstantinos , Gkremoutis Asimakis , Borowski Matthias , Torsello Giovanni , Böckler Dittmar , Zeller Thomas , Steinbauer Markus , Tsilimparis Nikolaos , Bisdas Theodosios , Adili Farzin , Balzer Kai , Billing Arend , Brixner Daniel , Debus Sebastian E. , Florek Hans-Joachim , Grundmann Reinhardt , Hupp Thomas , Keck Tobias , Gerß Joachim , Wojciech Klonek , Lang Werner , May Björn , Meyer Alexander , Mühling Bernhard , Oberhuber Alexander , Reinecke Holger , Reinhold Christian , Ritter Ralf-Gerhard , Schelzig Hubert , Schlensack Christian , Schmitz-Rixen Thomas , Schulte Karl-Ludwig , Spohn Matthias , Storck Martin , Trede Matthias , Uhl Christian , Weis-Müller Barbara , Wenk Heiner , Zhorzel Sven , Zimmermann Alexander
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To report the outcomes of bypass grafting (BG) vs endovascular therapy (EVT) in patients with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (CKD) and chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Materials and Methods: The CRITISCH Registry is a prospective, national, interdisciplinary, multicenter registry evaluating the current practice of all available treatment options in 1200 consecutive CLTI patients. For the purposes of this analysis, only the 337 patients with non-dialysis-dependent CKD treated by either BG (n=86; median 78 years, 48 men) or EVT (n=251; median age 80 years, 135 men) were analyzed. The primary composite outcome was amputation-free survival (AFS); secondary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and amputation-free time (AFT). All outcomes were evaluated in Cox proportional hazards models; the results are reported as the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The Cox regression analysis revealed a significantly greater hazard of amputation or death after BG (HR 1.78, 95% CI 1.05 to 3.03, p=0.028). The models for AFT and overall survival also suggested a higher hazard for BG, but the differences were not significant (AFT: HR 1.66, 95% CI 0.78 to 3.53, p=0.188; OS: HR 1.41, 95% CI 0.80 to 2.47, p=0.348). The absence of runoff vessels (HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.15 to 2.60, p=0.008) was associated with a decreased AFS. The likelihood of amputation was higher in male patients (HR 2.21, 95% CI 1.10 to 4.45, p=0.027) and was associated with a lack of runoff vessels (HR 1.95, 95% CI 0.96 to 3.95, p=0.065) and myocardial infarction (HR 3.74, 95% CI 1.23 to 11.35, p=0.020). Death was more likely in patients without runoff vessels (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.80, p=0.016) and those with a higher risk score (HR 1.73, 95% CI 1.03 to 2.91, p=0.038). Conclusion: This analysis suggested that BG was associated with poorer AFS than EVT in patients with non-dialysis-dependent CKD and CLTI. Male sex, previous myocardial infarction, and the absence of runoff vessels were additionally identified as predictors of poorer outcomes.
Microstructure and performance characteristics of acoustic insulation materials from post-consumer recycled denim fabrics
Authors: Islam Shafiqul , El Messiry Magdy , Sikdar Partha Pratim , Seylar Joshua , Bhat Gajanan
Published: July 2020

One of the key issues of the 21st century is to reduce the rate of continuously increasing environmental pollution from waste generated by human beings. Use of recycled materials and environmentally friendly approaches to manufacturing can be a good way to deal with these challenges. Similarly, sound pollution has been increasing at an alarming rate due to industrialization and modernization. Use of acoustic insulation materials produced from recycled textile waste can play a vital role in reduction of sound pollution while simultaneously helping reduce municipal solid waste. The goal of this study was to evaluate the recycling of used apparels to produce commercially feasible sustainable products using nonwoven fabrication techniques with a biodegradable thermoplastic binder fiber for possible use as acoustic insulation panels. Recycled denim fibers were used with Sorona® or a PLA binder fiber to successfully produce sound insulation with good performance properties. Maximum transmission loss of about 24 dB and transmission coefficient close to zero at around 1000 Hz were observed. The data indicated that there is a direct correlation between loss of sound transmission with increase in thickness, areal density and decrease in air permeability. When compared with commercially available acoustic insulation material (gypsum board), these products had better insulation properties, indicating that recycled textile products can be used to produce such value-added materials, giving them another useful life before safely disposing in composting environments.
Bolstering Workplace Psychological Well-Being Through Transactional and Transformational Leadership
Authors: Hannah Sean T. , Perez Alycia L. U. , Lester Paul B. , Quick James Campbell
Published: July 2020

The psychological well-being of employees has significant primary and secondary effects on organizational performance and profitability. Despite this importance, the leadership, and related (e.g., organizational behavior, human resources, applied psychology) literatures have not adequately pursued the theoretical or empirical study of employee psychological well-being. Researchers have instead focused primarily on subjective well-being (e.g., job satisfaction, life satisfaction, and positive affect). We seek to make four contributions by (1) drawing from established theory on psychological well-being from applied, social, clinical, and developmental psychology to highlight a seven-component model of psychological well-being that applies to the workplace; (2) differentiating psychological well-being from subjective well-being, providing a deeper understanding of what constitutes well-being in the workplace and how it is formed; (3) integrating psychological well-being with transactional and transformational leadership theories to propose leader interventions to bolster each component of psychological well-being in followers; and (4) theorizing how the components of psychological well-being relate in unique ways to important organizational outcomes: task, contextual, and ethical performance criteria. Our intent is to provide propositions to encourage the field to reach beyond subjective well-being through theorizing new linkages between leadership, psychological well-being, and follower work behavior. We ultimately seek to enrich our understanding of the underpinnings of thriving and performance in the workplace.
Management of Type A Aortic Dissection with Malperfusion Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Moroi Morgan K. , Hendriksen Brandon S. , Roberts S. Michael , Ramirez Maria C. Castello , Mandal Kaushik
Published: July 2020

Acute type A aortic dissection (TAAD) with malperfusion syndrome remains a challenging diagnosis and optimal surgical management remains unsettled. We present a case and surgical approach employed for a patient with TAAD and malperfusion syndrome who presented with pulseless bilaterally extremities. Satisfactory outcomes can be achieved with early multidisciplinary collaboration and urgent repair of the aorta and simultaneous efforts to restore blood flow to ischemic tissue.
Stentless Pericarbon Freedom Versus Stented Perimount Aortic Bioprosthesis: Propensity-Matched Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Stefanelli Guglielmo , Pirro Fabrizio , Smorto Vincenzo , Bellisario Alessandro , Chiurlia Emilio , Weltert Luca
Published: July 2020

Objective

Stentless aortic valves have shown superior hemodynamic performance and faster left ventricular mass regression compared to stented bioprostheses. Yet, controversies exist concerning the durability of stentless valves. This case-matched study compared short- and long-term clinical outcomes of stentless LivaNova-Sorin Pericarbon Freedom™ (SPF) and stented Carpentier-Edwards Perimount (CEP) aortic prostheses.

Methods

From 2003 through 2006, 134 consecutive patients received aortic valve replacement with SPF at our institution. This cohort was matched, according to 20 preoperative clinical parameters, with a control group of 390 patients who received CEP prosthesis during the same time. The resulting 55 + 55 matched patients were analyzed for perioperative results and long-term clinical outcomes.

Results

Early mortality was 0% for both groups. Lower transvalvular gradients were found in the SPF group (10.6 ± 2.9 versus 15.7 ± 3.1 mmHg, P < 0.001). Overall late mortality (mean follow-up: 10.03 years) was similar for both groups (50.1% versus 42.8%, P = 0.96). Freedom from structural valve degeneration (SVD) at 13 years was similar for both groups (SPF = 92.3%, CEP = 73.9%, P = 0.06). Freedom from aortic valve reinterventions did not differ (SPF = 92.3%, CEP = 93.5%, P = 0.55). Gradients at 13-year follow-up remained significantly lower in SPF group (10.0 ± 4.5 versus 16.2 ± 9.5 mmHg, P < 0.001). Incidence of acute bacterial endocarditis (ABE) and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) was similar.

Conclusions

SPF and CEP demonstrated comparable long-term outcomes related to late mortality, SVD, aortic valve reinterventions, and incidence of ABE and MACCE. Superior hemodynamic performance of SPF over time can make this valve a suitable choice in patients with small aortic root and large body surface area.
Negative-Pressure Vacuum Therapy for High-Output Chyle Leak Following Neck Dissection
Authors: Pines Guy , Malka Yosef Liron , Lazar Li Or , Bar Ilan , Schindel Doron
Published: July 2020

Chyle fistula is a challenging complication following neck dissection carrying a high morbidity and mortality rate. Herein we present a challenging case of successful management of high-output left-sided cervical chyle fistula with negative-pressure vacuum (VAC) therapy in a case where all conservative treatments failed. A 40-year-old man with lymphoma and supraglottic carcinoma underwent endoscopic resection and bilateral neck dissections. He developed high-output chyle fistula, nonresponsive to conservative treatments. Double-layered Vicryl mesh was placed between the sponge and the jugular vein to prevent vascular injury. Immediately after initiation of the VAC therapy, the output decreased, and completely stopped after 3 days. The VAC therapy was continued for additional 5 days to ensure complete seal of the fistula by granulation tissue, by which time the wound was primarily closed. VAC therapy seems to be a safe and effective treatment for high-output cervical chyle fistula following neck dissection, avoiding complex surgical interventions. Thoracic surgeons should be aware of this low-morbidity and potentially effective treatment modality for this challenging complication.
Leveraging Lifestyle Medicine Interest Groups Through the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Thompson Lisa Kisling , Znayenko-Miller Tatiana , Gorenstin Daniel , Rastorguieva Krystyna , Bég Sami , Frates Elizabeth , Frates Beth
Published: July 2020

Lifestyle medicine domains, despite accounting for more than 78% of chronic disease risk, are infrequently taught as a part of the medical curriculum. Aspects such as nutrition are taught in less than 25% of medical schools, a statistic that continues to decline, and less than 20% of practicing physicians were required to take even a single course in exercise counseling during their medical school training. To combat this lack of training, the American College of Lifestyle Medicine annually awards the Donald A. Pegg scholarship to fund the development of Lifestyle Medicine Interest Groups (LMIGs) across medical schools worldwide. This scholarship was initiated in 2016 and utilizes private funds to support the development and expansion of LMIGs with the aim of increasing awareness of lifestyle medicine among training practitioners. There are four award winners per year. To date there are sixteen Pegg Award winners. This article will showcase the four 2019-2020 Donald A. Pegg award recipients and their impact on the LMIGs at their institutions. Furthermore, it highlights the ingenuity and adaptation of these LMIGs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How Can Intranasal Oxytocin Research Be Trusted? A Systematic Review of the Interactive Effects of Intranasal Oxytocin on Psychosocial Outcomes
Authors: Mierop A. , Mikolajczak M. , Stahl C. , Béna J. , Luminet O. , Lane A. , Corneille O.
Published: July 2020

Over the past two decades, research about the role of oxytocin (OT) in human behavior has grown exponentially. However, a unified theory of OT effects has yet to be developed. Relatedly, growing concerns about the robustness of conclusions drawn in the field have been raised. The current article contributes to this debate by reporting on and discussing key conclusions from a systematic review of published studies addressing the interactive effects of intranasal OT (IN-OT) administration on psychosocial outcomes in a healthy population. The review indicates that (a) tested interactive IN-OT effects were highly heterogeneous; (b) for most published interactions, no replication was attempted; (c) when attempted, replications were largely unsuccessful; (d) significance was unrelated to sample size; (e) statistical power was critically low and unrelated to the rate of significant results; and (f) research practices were characteristic of an exploratory approach. This concerning state of affairs makes it virtually impossible to tease apart true from false interactive IN-OT effects. We provide constructive directions on the basis of this observation and positive predictive value simulations for future research that should help extract true effects from noise and move the IN-OT field forward.