bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Adherence to Responsible Reporting of Suicide Guidelines in the Canadian News Media: A 1-year Examination of Day-to-day Suicide Coverage: Évaluer la conformité au journalisme responsable en matière de directives sur le suicide dans les médias canadiens d’information: Un examen d’une année de la couverture quotidienne du suicide
Authors: Antebi Lara , Carmichael Victoria , Whitley Rob
Published: June 2020

Objective:

This study aims to examine routine day-to-day suicide reporting in the Canadian media, giving a descriptive overview of the tone and content of news articles. The primary objective is to assess adherence to responsible reporting of suicide recommendations in news articles about suicide. A secondary objective is to categorize these articles according to their focus. A tertiary objective is to compare guideline adherence across the different categories of articles.

Methods:

We collected news articles containing the keyword “suicide” from 47 Canadian news sources between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2020. Articles were read and coded for their adherence to responsible reporting of suicide recommendations. Articles were also allotted into categories according to their focus and primary suicide discussed. Frequency counts and percentages of adherence were calculated for all key variables—both overall and by category of article. Chi-square tests were also conducted to assess for variations in adherence by category of article.

Results:

The procedures resulted in 1,330 coded articles. On the one hand, there was high overall adherence to several recommendations. For example, over 80% of articles did not give a monocausal explanation, glamourize the death, appear on the front page, include sensational language, or use discouraged words. On the other hand, there was low adherence to other recommendations, especially those related to putatively protective content. For example, less than 25% included help-seeking information, quoted an expert, or included educational content. Cross-category analysis indicated that articles about events/policies/research and Indigenous people had the highest proportions of adherence, while articles about murder-suicide and high-profile suicides had the lowest adherence.

Conclusions:

While a substantial proportion of articles generally adhere to suicide reporting recommendations, several guidelines are frequently underapplied, especially those concerning putatively helpful content. This indicates room for improvement in the responsible reporting of suicide.
Application of artificial intelligence neural network modeling to predict the generation of domestic, commercial and construction wastes
Authors: Coskuner Gulnur , Jassim Majeed S , Zontul Metin , Karateke Seda
Published: June 2020

Reliable prediction of municipal solid waste (MSW) generation rates is a significant element of planning and implementation of sustainable solid waste management strategies. In this study, the multi-layer perceptron artificial neural network (MLP-ANN) is applied to verify the prediction of annual generation rates of domestic, commercial and construction and demolition (C&D) wastes from the year 1997 to 2016 in Askar Landfill site in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The proposed robust predictive models incorporated selected explanatory variables to reflect the influence of social, demographical, economic, geographical and touristic factors upon waste generation rates (WGRs). The Mean Squared Error (MSE) and coefficient of determination ( R2) are used as performance indicators to evaluate effectiveness of the developed models. MLP-ANN models exhibited strong accuracy in predictions with high R2 and low MSE values. The R2 values for domestic, commercial and C&D wastes are 0.95, 0.99 and 0.91, respectively. Our results show that the developed MLP-ANN models are effective for the prediction of WGRs from different sources and could be considered as a cost-effective approach for planning integrated MSW management systems.
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Depressive Disorder in Caregivers of Individuals With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Lee Yu , Chiou Yu-Jie , Hung Chi-Fa , Chang Yung-Yee , Chen Ying-Fa , Lin Tsu-Kung , Wang Liang-Jen
Published: June 2020

Objective:

Parkinson disease (PD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disease. Caring for an individual with PD can have a variety of negative physical and psychological effects on caregivers which may challenge their ability to continue in their caretaking role. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and associated factors of depressive disorders in caregivers of individuals with PD using standardized instruments.

Methods:

This study used a cross-sectional design with consecutive sampling. Study participants were recruited from the neurological ward or neurological outpatient clinic of a medical center from August 2018 to July 2019. Caregivers of persons with PD were enrolled and assessed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale, Beck Hopelessness Scale, Brief Fatigue Inventory, Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, and Big Five Inventory-10.

Results:

Of the 162 caregivers that completed the study, 67.3% (n = 109) were females. The most common psychiatric diagnosis was depressive disorder (11.1%), followed by insomnia disorder (7.4%) and anxiety disorder not otherwise specified (4.3%); 28% of the caregivers had a psychiatric diagnosis. Using logistic regression analysis, it was found that duration of caregiving (odds ratio [OR] = 1.28; 95% CI, 1.05-1.58), severity of anxiety (OR = 1.86; 95% CI, 1.36-2.53), and severity of fatigue (OR = 1.08; 95% CI, 1.01-1.16) were 3 significant associated factors for the development of depression.

Conclusion:

Depression was the most prevalent psychiatric diagnosis in caregivers of people with PD. Early diagnosis of these caregivers is crucial to the offering of suitable support and treatment and might improve caregivers’ quality of life.
Antibiotic Administration Prior to Central Venous Catheter Removal in Neonates
Authors: Teibel Hilary , Hood Katelyn , Manasco Kalen , Bhatia Jatinder
Published: June 2020

Background:

Central venous catheter infection and sepsis are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care unit patients. This complication may result in a significant cost burden, prolonged antibiotic treatment, and increased length of stay.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to determine the difference in post-catheter removal clinical sepsis (PCRCS) in neonatal intensive care unit patients who received antibiotics prior to central venous catheter removal when compared to those who did not.

Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study of 200 critically ill neonates comparing those who received one-time doses of vancomycin and cefazolin prior to central venous catheter removal to those who did not.

Results:

There was no statistically significant association between antibiotic treatment and PCRCS when the analysis was controlled for gender, time the catheter was in place, birth weight, gestational age, or type of central catheter (OR 1.19; 95% CI: 0.18-8.00; P = .8558). No statistical difference was seen in adverse renal outcomes or total antibiotic treatment received for the treatment of PCRCS.

Conclusions:

Administration of one-time doses of vancomycin and cefazolin did not reduce the incidence of PCRCS when administered to critically ill neonates prior to umbilical venous catheter or peripherally inserted central catheter removal.
Utilization of a Dextrose-Only Purge Solution for an LVAD in Patients With Suspected HIT: A Case Series
Authors: Bowers Riley D. , Nowak Jennifer , Bryan Dustin , Biondi Nicolas , Dorsett Brock
Published: June 2020

The Impella devices are percutaneous intravascular ventricular assist devices indicated for use in patients with cardiogenic shock that occurs following acute myocardial infarction (MI) or open heart surgery. These devices must be used with a purge solution that contains heparin per manufacturer recommendation, which will prevent blood from reaching the motor causing pump thrombosis and mechanical failure. We describe the utilization of a dextrose-only purge solution plus systemic argatroban in 2 patients with suspected heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Each case describes a patient with suspected HIT following Impella placement for cardiogenic shock post-MI that had an increased bleeding risk. In each case, pharmacy monitored and adjusted the patients’ argatroban, resulting in therapeutic anticoagulation without major bleeding or thrombotic events. These case reports demonstrate that use of a dextrose-only purge solution in the Impella device may be a safe and effective option when combined with systemic argatroban in patients with suspected or confirmed HIT who exhibit increased bleeding risk. Further research is needed to determine the optimal concentrations and duration of anticoagulation-free purge solution in these patients.
Real-time estimation of tire–road friction coefficient based on lateral vehicle dynamics
Authors: Hu Juqi , Rakheja Subhash , Zhang Youmin
Published: June 2020

This study proposes a two-stage framework for real-time estimation of tire–road friction coefficient of a vehicle on the basis of lateral dynamics of the vehicle. The estimation framework employs a new cascade structure consisting of an extended Kalman filter and two unscented Kalman filters to reduce the computational burden. In the first stage, extended Kalman filter is utilized to estimate lateral velocity of the vehicle and thereby both the front and rear tires’ side-slip angles. In the second stage, a two–unscented Kalman filters sub-framework is formulated in sequence to observe both the front- and rear-axle tire forces, and to subsequently identify their respective tire–road friction coefficient, regarded as two unknown states. All the measured signals required in the study could be realized from the conventional on-board sensors. Typical double-lane change and single-lane change maneuvers were designed and the developed algorithm was verified through CarSim–MATLAB/Simulink software platform considering high-, mid-, and low-friction road conditions. The simulation results show that the proposed method can yield accurate and rapid estimations of the tire–road friction coefficient for mid- and low-friction road conditions even under a single-lane change maneuver, although double-lane change maneuver is needed to accurately estimate the tire–road friction coefficient for high-friction road condition.
Studies on corrosion behavior of AISI 316L cold metal transfer weldments in physiological solutions
Authors: Kannan A Rajesh , Shanmugam N Siva , Sreedhar G
Published: June 2020

Evaluating the mechanical integrity and corrosion performance of welded joints is vital to replace the malfunctioning parts in human body. This research aims to study the effect of Cold Metal Transfer (CMT) process on the corrosion behavior of austenitic stainless steel (AISI 316L) weldments in physiological solution. ER316L filler wire is used to weld thin sheets of 2mm to butt joint configuration. Optical microscopy and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used to study the microstructural evolution in base metal (BM), heat affected zone (HAZ) and weld metal (WM). For determining the phases in BM and WM, X-ray diffraction (XRD) spectrums are captured. WM microstructure illustrated the presence of equiaxed grains while columnar dendrites were observed at HAZ. Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS) analysis highlighted the increase in wt. % of Fe and Cr in WM due to the thermal variations. EDS elemental mapping revealed uniform distribution of Cr, Mo and Fe elements in the WM. AISI 316L WM exhibited higher tensile strength and reduced ductility compared to BM. Micro-hardness measurements showed higher hardness at the WM as result of the increased ferrite content and ductile mode of fracture was characterized with dimples and micro voids. During Corrosion test, the WM and the BM revealed lower corrosion potential and the pitting tendency is relatively less than HAZ. The delta ferrite (δ) formation in the HAZ and WM did not affect the corrosion behavior significantly as confirmed from Tafel scans and Nyquist plots. The corrosion rate is within the acceptable range, ie. First level for WM (<1 mpy) and second level for BM and HAZ (1-5 mpy), respectively.
The wind energy potential in Kudat Malaysia by considering the levelized cost of energy for combined wind turbine capacities
Authors: Albani A , Ibrahim MZ , Yong KH , Yusop ZM , Jusoh MA , Ridzuan AR
Published: June 2020

This paper presents the wind energy potential at Kudat Malaysia by considering the Levelized cost of energy (LCOE) model for combined wind turbine capacities. The combination of small- and utility-scale wind turbines is the key to the success of the operation of a wind park in the lower wind speed region. In a combination approach, the small-scale wind turbines provide the power required by the utility-scale wind turbines to start the blade rotation. For this reason, the particular closed-form equation was modified to determine the LCOE of a wind park with combined turbine capacities. The modified LCOE model can be used as a basis for setting tariff rates or define the economic feasibility of wind energy projects with combined wind turbine capacities.
Trigeminal trophic syndrome: an important simulator of discoid cutaneous lupus erythematosus – a case series
Authors: Resende Ludimila O , Dwan Alexandre J , Nico Marcello MS
Published: June 2020

Trigeminal trophic syndrome occurs secondary to trigeminal nerve injury, leading to anaesthesia and paraesthesia, with consequent vigorous facial skin manipulation and lesion production, simulating other facial diseases such as ulcerative discoid lupus erythematosus, tumours and other artificially produced lesions. Ulceration and destruction of the ala nasi is a typical feature besides scratching end excoriations in the cutaneous segment affected. In this series, we present the features of five patients with trigeminal trophic syndrome, highlighting possible confusion with cutaneous lupus. Differential diagnoses, including discoid lupus erythematosus, are discussed, as well as possible treatment modalities.
Compensation Funds, Trials and the Meaning of Claims: The Example of Asbestos-Related Illness Compensation in France
Authors: Pillayre Héloïse
Published: June 2020

In France, occupational exposure related to asbestos has been responsible for nearly 200,000 deaths, leading to a massive scandal in the 1990s. In this article, I report the results of a qualitative empirical study, based on 50 interviews with victims, of how those affected by asbestos exposure interacted with two types of compensation mechanism: a compensation fund – a public administrative system subsidized by employers’ taxes – and the courts. Several scholars have asserted that, given that the employers are not judged to be guilty in this instance, compensation through such funds does not carry any moral meaning. In contrast to these arguments, I show that victims attribute a diversity of normative meanings to these mechanisms. The analysis highlights, in particular, how three factors affect the ability of victims to attribute normative meanings to compensation processes: the career paths of the victims; the trust of victims in their employer; and the type of legal intermediaries they meet – namely, doctors or victims’ associations. The article encourages scholars to analyze the role of these legal intermediaries in order to understand how victims make sense of a particularly complex public health scandal.
Analysis of sorghum content in corn–sorghum flour bioethanol feedstock by near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Peiris KHS , Bean SR , Tilley M , Jagadish SVK
Published: June 2020

In the sorghum-growing regions of the United States, some bioethanol plants use mixtures of corn and sorghum grains as feedstocks depending on price and availability. For regulatory purposes and for optimizing the ethanol manufacturing process, knowledge of the grain composition of the milled feedstock is important. Thus, a near infrared spectroscopy method was developed to determine the content of sorghum in corn–sorghum flour mixtures. Commercial corn and sorghum grain samples were obtained from a bioethanol plant over an 18-month period and across two crop seasons. An array of corn–sorghum flour mixtures having 0–100% sorghum was prepared and scanned using a near infrared spectrometer in the 950–1650 nm wavelength range. A partial least squares regression model was developed to estimate sorghum content in flour mixtures. A calibration model with R2 of 0.99 and a root mean square error of cross validation of 3.91% predicted the sorghum content of an independent set of flour mixtures with r2 = 0.97, root mean square error of prediction = 5.25% and bias = −0.49%. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was utilized to examine spectral differences in corn and sorghum flours. Differences in absorptions were observed at 2930, 2860, 1710, 1150, 1078, and 988 cm−1 suggesting that C–H antisymmetric and symmetric, C=O and C–O stretch vibrations of corn and sorghum flours differ. The regression coefficients of the near infrared model had major peaks around overtone and combination bands of C–H stretch and bending vibrations at 1165, 1220, and 1350 nm. Therefore, the above results confirmed that sorghum content in corn sorghum flour mixtures can be determined using near infrared spectroscopy.
Numerical and statistical buckling analysis of laminated composite plates with functionally graded fiber orientation angles
Authors: Evran Savaş
Published: June 2020

The aim of this numerical and statistical study was to investigate the buckling analysis of laminated composite plates containing functionally graded fiber orientation angles. The laminated composite plates had functionally graded fiber orientation angles based on Taguchi’s L18 (21 × 32) orthogonal array. The fiber orientation angles were considered to be control factors. Numerical analyses were performed using finite element software ANSYS. The optimum critical buckling load and the effects of fiber orientation angles for maximum data were determined using the analysis of the signal-to-noise ratio. The importance levels of laminates and their percent contribution on the buckling characteristics were calculated using analysis of variance. Regression analysis was employed to investigate the effects of control factors on buckling responses mathematically. The effects of laminate stacking sequence, mesh size, element type, mode number, and boundary condition were carried out using laminates with the optimum levels.
Perspectives on autonomy and advance decision-making: A qualitative study based on older people living with frailty and their carers
Authors: Bramley Louise , Seymour Jane , Cox Karen , Samanta Jo
Published: June 2020

The Mental Capacity Act 2005, covering England and Wales, sets out formal tools to extend autonomy past the onset of incapacity that protect an individual’s right to retain autonomy in decision-making. Despite policy drivers who encourage healthcare professionals to support advance decision-making for future care, very few individuals living with frailty engage in doing so. In this article, we interrogate these issues using data from a qualitative study of older people living with frailty, which engages with how those living and coping with varying degrees of frailty experience their situation day to day and their perceptions of planning for incapacity and decision-making. After critically evaluating the viewpoints of older people living with frailty and their carers, we assess the significance of their perceptions for the contemporary debates surrounding autonomy and how they align with the policy perspectives and the clinical practice of advance care planning.
The role of Tasmania’s subordinate legislation committee during the COVID-19 emergency
Authors: Gogarty Brendan , Appleby Gabrielle
Published: June 2020

On 17 March 2020, Tasmania entered a ‘state of emergency’ in response to COVID-19. Parliament stands adjourned, and the executive is regulating the crisis through delegated regulations that significantly limit civil rights and freedoms. Despite assurances that Tasmania’s Subordinate Legislation Committee would scrutinise executive power throughout the crisis, its role has been limited, due to an overly prescriptive (and we argue incorrect) reading of Tasmania’s scrutiny framework, which has not been properly reformed in several decades. This is a salient lesson as to why constitutional laws require regular review and modernisation, to ensure parliaments remain supreme even (and especially) during crises and emergencies.
Prolactin ordering patterns in psychiatric inpatients and the impact this has on patient management
Authors: Jones Annabel S , Sztal-Mazer Shoshana , Rauchberger Ilan , Hamblin Peter Shane
Published: June 2020

Objective:

Guidelines stipulate that baseline prolactin be ordered prior to commencing antipsychotic treatment to facilitate investigation of any subsequent hyperprolactinaemic symptoms. The aim was to observe when and why prolactin levels are ordered for psychiatry inpatients commencing or continuing antipsychotics and how this alters clinical management.

Methods:

Psychiatry inpatients admitted to the Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia, in 2018 with the diagnoses of psychosis, schizophrenia, schizo-affective disorder or bipolar affective disorder were retrospectively analysed. Results and clinical history data were collected in patients in whom prolactin was ordered during or within 12 months of the relevant admission.

Results:

Of 592 patients admitted during this period, 90 had prolactin ordered. Eight (8.9%) of the 90 tests were for hyperprolactinaemic symptoms, while the remainder were routine blood work. The results altered clinical management in 10 of the 90 (11.1%) patients. Of these 10, 8 were symptomatic. In the six patients with first episode psychosis, only one had prolactin ordered prior to antipsychotic commencement.

Conclusions:

Adherence to guideline recommendations of baseline prolactin testing was poor. When established on antipsychotics, measuring prolactin rarely changed management in asymptomatic patients; however, it did in those with hyperprolactinaemic symptoms. Measuring prolactin in asymptomatic patients on antipsychotics appears unhelpful.
Persistent infection and pancytopenia associated with ferret systemic coronaviral disease in a domestic ferret
Authors: Tarbert Danielle K. , Bolin Lisa L. , Stout Alison E. , Schaefer Deanna M. W. , Ruby Rebecca E. , Rodriguez-Ramos Fernandez Julia , Duhamel Gerald E. , Whittaker Gary R. , de Matos Ricardo
Published: June 2020

Ferret systemic coronaviral disease (FSCD) is a well-established cause of mortality in domestic ferrets. We describe herein novel findings in a case of FSCD that was diagnosed and medically managed following virus detection by immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of surgical biopsy samples. Hematologic changes in this ferret suggested spread of the virus to the bone marrow, which was confirmed by IHC staining of a postmortem sample. Genotyping of the virus indicated that the virus grouped with alphacoronaviruses and was most closely related to ferret enteric coronavirus (FRECV) MSU-2. Our clinical case demonstrates that a FRECV MSU-2–like ferret coronavirus associated previously with the enteric pathotype may cause systemic disease, including bone marrow involvement causing persistent pancytopenia.
Gendered Perceptions of Child Sexual Abusers: The Paradox of the “Vulnerable Other”
Authors: Rooney Louise
Published: June 2020

A growing body of evidence indicates that women who contravene traditional gender-role norms by committing sexual crime toward children are treated more leniently than their male counterparts. Such lenience has been explained by some scholars in terms of the “denial” thesis, which suggests that sexual scripts regarding masculine and feminine norms influence how society reacts to particular kinds of behavior. This study investigates the influence of gender-based attitudes and beliefs on practitioner perceptions of male and female child sexual abusers. It also explores whether and how gender-based ideals impact on practitioner punitiveness and discusses implications for policy and practice.
Predictors of Female Sexual Aggression Among a U.S. MTurk Sample: The Protective Role of Sexual Assertiveness
Authors: Struckman-Johnson Cindy , Anderson Peter B. , Smeaton George
Published: June 2020

We studied predictors of female sexual aggression (FSA) among a U.S. Mechanical Turk sample (from Amazon’s online crowdsourcing platform) of 634 adult women ( median age = 32). A logistic regression analysis revealed that five measures contributed significantly to a model predicting past use of a tactic of post-refusal sexual persistence (PRSP), accounting for 19% of variance. Women’s use of a PRSP tactic was associated with lower scores on two sexual assertiveness measures (the ability to refuse sex and the ability to ask questions about a partner’s sexual health history) and higher scores on measures of acceptance of heterosexual male rape myths, early courtship rehearsal (number of others called, texted, tweeted, sexted due to attraction before the age of 18), and sexual sensation seeking. Based on our results, we suggest that sexual assertiveness training may be a useful addition to anti-sexual assault programming. For better prediction and potential prevention of FSA, we recommend continued research on the variables in this study and additional factors related to maladaptive personality (e.g., psychopathy, narcissism, and antisocial values) and the use of alcohol and drugs.
Age of Majority and Alternatives to Guardianship: A Necessary Amendment to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004
Authors: Raley Sheida K. , Shogren Karrie A. , Martinis Jonathan , Wehmeyer Michael L.
Published: June 2020

Federal law requires that schools provide students receiving special education services and their parents/guardians with notice, 1 year before the student reaches the age of majority, that all of the educational rights previously afforded to the parents/guardians will transfer to the student once they reach the age of majority. During this “transfer-of-rights” period, educational professionals often advise parents/guardians to seek legal guardianship over the student with disabilities without providing information about other options. As a result, many parents/guardians seek guardianship without knowing about or exploring less-restrictive alternatives that could help students retain their legal rights, provide opportunities to enhance self-determination, and build community participation skills that benefit them in school and as adults. This article will (a) provide an overview of the use and impact of guardianship and describe recent advances in developing and implementing less-restrictive alternatives to guardianship and (b) advocate for an amendment to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 that will require schools to provide students and their families with information about the full range of decision-making options during the “transfer-of-rights” period.
Piezoelectric energy harvesting from roadway deformation under various traffic flow conditions
Authors: Zhang Yangyang , Zhang He , Lü Chaofeng , Chen Yisheng , Wang Ji
Published: June 2020

Many laboratory tests and in situ measurements have been conducted to study piezoelectric energy harvesting from roadway deformation. However, the performance of piezoelectric energy harvesters under real traffic flow conditions is still unknown. In this study, an electromechanical model of piezoelectric energy harvesters with detailed parameters (including the geometric parameters, material parameters, and circuits) is established, and the influences of traffic flow conditions (i.e. traffic speed and traffic density) on the output power of piezoelectric energy harvesters are analyzed by employing a scaling law method and traffic flow theory. The results indicate that remarkable differences exist in the load patterns and the frequencies between the laboratory tests (or in situ measurements) and real traffic flow conditions. Because of these differences, the results (especially the output electric power and optimization design methods) of previous studies may be inapplicable for piezoelectric energy harvesters embedded in roadways. Considering the distinguishing features of the traffic load pattern, the optimization criteria to determine the geometric parameters and the intrinsic system parameter of piezoelectric energy harvesters are obtained, and the corresponding optimal output power densities of the piezoelectric energy harvesters are also quantitatively calibrated. These theoretical results may serve as guidelines for optimizing the design of piezoelectric energy harvesters embedded in roadways under different traffic flow conditions.
Combined bending–torsion testing device for characterization of shape memory alloy endodontic files
Authors: Xolin Paul , Becker Simon , Thiébaud Frédéric , Engels-Deutsch Marc , Ben Zineb Tarak
Published: June 2020

Design has an important influence on mechanical response of endodontic instruments made of shape memory alloys. The experimental and numerical prediction of their thermomechanical response is necessary to improve their behavior during operating inside root canal. Due to the curved and tapered shape of the dental canal, endodontic files are subjected to rotating bending during the root canal preparation phase. These rotative bending could ever be combined with torsion when the instruments are engined in the root canal. Bending and torsion tests available in the standard ISO 3630-1 do not take into account this combined loading leading to a response different from the one obtained by superposition of separated bending and torsion loadings. This article details the design and the realization of bending–torsion testing device particularly adapted to shape memory alloy endodontic files. It allows to control the torsion and the bending rotations in a separate or a combined way. Qualification tests using this bending–torsion testing device on NiTi wires showed a good agreement between the experimental and the simulated responses. Finally, this bending–torsion testing device allowed to analyze the response of various NiTi endodontic files, currently used in endodontics, subjected to bending, torsion, and combined bending–torsion loadings. Obtained results showed clearly that combined bending–torsion loading changes significantly the shape memory alloy file response.
More Than Wargaming: Exploring the Miniaturing Pastime
Authors: Meriläinen Mikko , Stenros Jaakko , Heljakka Katriina
Published: June 2020

Background. Miniaturing, or painting, collecting, and gaming with miniature wargaming figurines, is a popular, yet vastly underresearched subject. Previous research suggests a multitude of practices and ways of engaging with miniatures.

Aim. This qualitative study explores the various elements of miniaturing to both map the phenomenon and build a foundation for further research.

Method. Miniaturing is explored through a thematic analysis of 127 open-ended survey responses by adult Finnish miniature enthusiasts.

Results. Responses suggest a dual core to miniaturing, consisting of crafting and gaming. In addition to these core activities, storytelling, collecting, socializing and displaying and appreciating appear commonly, with considerable individual variation. The different elements are closely intertwined, based on individual preferences and resources.

Discussion. As a pastime, miniaturing occupies an interesting position with elements of crafting, toy play and gaming, and escapes easy situating. The considerable individual variation in enthusiasts’ preferences suggests a multitude of fruitful approaches in further research.
Hospice Patient Care Goals and Medical Students’ Perceptions: Evidence of a Generation Gap?
Authors: Levy Kathryn , Grant Pei C. , Kerr Christopher W. , Byrwa David J. , Depner Rachel M.
Published: June 2020

Background:

The ability to perceive care goals of the dying may be an indicator of future quality patient-centered care. Research conducted on end-of-life goals indicates discrepancies between patients and physicians.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to compare end-of-life care goals of hospice patients and medical student perceptions of patient care goals.

Design:

Hospice patients and medical students were surveyed on their care goals and perceptions, respectively, using an 11-item survey of goals previously identified in palliative care literature. Medical student empathy was measured using the Interpersonal Reactivity Index.

Settings/Participants:

Eighty hospice patients and 176 medical students (97 first-year and 79 third-year) in a New York State medical school.

Results:

Medical students ranked 7 of the 11 care goals differently than hospice patients: not being a burden to family ( p < .001), time with family and friends ( p = .002), being at peace with God ( p < .001), dying at home ( p = .004), feeling that life was meaningful ( p < .001), living as long as possible ( p < .001), and resolving conflicts ( p < .001). Third-year students were less successful than first-year students in perceiving patient care goals of hospice patients. No significant differences in medical student empathy were found based on student year.

Conclusions:

Medical students, while empathetic, were generally unsuccessful in perceiving end-of-life care goals of hospice patients in the psychosocial and spiritual domains. Differences impeding the ability of medical students to understand these care goals may be generationally based. Increased age awareness and sensitivity may improve future end-of-life care discussions. Overall, there is a need to recognize the greater dimensionality of the dying in order to provide the most complete patient-centered care.
Sustained Effects From a School-Based Intervention Pilot Study for Children With Asthma and Anxiety
Authors: McGovern Colleen , Arcoleo Kimberly , Melnyk Bernadette
Published: June 2020

Children with chronic conditions (i.e., asthma) are more likely to have anxiety or depressive symptoms. Comorbid asthma and anxiety in children leads to increased morbidity, causing children to miss instructional time and parent/caregiver (CG) work absences. Asthma educational programs and mental health interventions have been developed, though no scalable programs integrate asthma education and mental health behavioral interventions for school-aged children. This study evaluated the sustained preliminary effects of an integrated asthma education and cognitive behavioral skills-building program, Creating Opportunities for Personal Empowerment for Asthma. Thirty-two children ages 8–12 years with asthma and symptoms of anxiety received the intervention. At 6-weeks postintervention, anxiety and CG-reported behavioral symptoms were significantly reduced, there were fewer missed doses of asthma controller medications, and asthma-related self-efficacy, personal beliefs, and the children’s understanding of asthma significantly increased. Most children ( n = 29, 91%) reported continued use of coping skills.
Mechanisms for the Risk of Acute Coronary Syndrome and Arrhythmia Associated With Phytogenic and Synthetic Cannabinoid Use
Authors: Richards John R.
Published: June 2020

Phytogenic cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa and synthetic cannabinoids are commonly used substances for their recreational and medicinal properties. There are increasing reports of cardiotoxicity in close temporal association with cannabinoid use in patients with structurally normal hearts and absence of coronary arterial disease. Associated adverse events include myocardial ischemia, conduction abnormalities, arrhythmias, and sudden death. This review details the effects of phytogenic and synthetic cannabinoids on diverse receptors based on evidence from in vitro, human, and animal studies to establish a molecular basis for these deleterious clinical effects. The synergism between endocannabinoid dysregulation, cannabinoid receptor, and noncannabinoid receptor binding, and impact on cellular ion flux and coronary microvascular circulation is delineated. Pharmacogenetic factors placing certain patients at higher risk for cardiotoxicity are also correlated with the diverse effects of cannabinoids.
Vibration reduction of a flexible robot link using a frictional damper
Authors: Biglari Hamed , Golmohammadi Masoud , Hayati Sajad , Hemmati Siroos
Published: June 2020

One of the most important factors reducing flexible manipulator efficiency is the residual vibration occurrence. In this research, vibration reduction of flexible manipulators is investigated using an internal frictional damper. At first, the vibration equation of a manipulator is obtained using the finite element method with the Euler–Bernoulli beam element to study its vibrations in a reciprocal motion. In addition, an analytical model is developed to investigate the effect of the frictional damper on robot link vibrations. Using particle swam optimization, ICA, NSGA-II, and GWO methods, the optimal structure for the damper is obtained to maximize its effect. The optimally damped link is fabricated, and its dynamic characteristics are extracted from a modal test experiment. The modal test results show a considerable improvement in the damping ratio of the damped link in comparison with a simple link. The fabricated link samples are then tested in a realistic situation. The experimental results are in coincidence with the simulation results, certifying the performance of the proposed plan in vibration reduction of a robot link.
Robust integral sliding mode control of tower cranes
Authors: Aboserre Lobna T , El-Badawy Ayman A
Published: June 2020

In this study, integral sliding mode control is proposed for tower cranes to ensure precise tracking of the desired position while reducing the oscillations of the payload. The nonlinear robust controller is designed based on high fidelity nonlinear dynamical model, unlike the decoupled or linearized models used in the literature. The advantage of this approach is reducing the model uncertainties resulting in a lower control effort demand that would be required by the sliding mode controller. Moreover, the stability of the under-actuated tower crane system is analyzed using Lyapunov theory to guarantee the practical stability of error dynamics. Experimental results of the proposed control approach are compared with conventional sliding mode control to show its effectiveness and robustness against real system uncertainties.
Valsalva retinopathy: Long-term results and management strategies
Authors: Celik Dulger Selda , Ozdal Pınar Cakar , Teke Mehmet Yasin
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

To investigate the long-term results and efficacy of the treatment modalities for preretinal hemorrhage due to valsalva retinopathy.

Methods:

Retrospective review was conducted on 24 eyes of 24 patients with valsalva retinopathy who were treated between 2004 and 2019. These patients were treated with Nd:YAG laser, argon laser and vitrectomy or were only observed. Nd:YAG laser hyaloidotomy was performed in 10 eyes, argon laser was applied to two of those following failed Nd:YAG laser, and vitrectomy was performed in one eye. A conservative approach was adopted in 13 eyes.

Results:

There were 15 females and nine males with mean age of 41.08 ± 12.72 (21–65) years. Mean follow-up period was 42.83 ± 23.78 (range: 12–116) months. Patients with hemorrhage size smaller than or equal to 4-disc diameter were observed for spontaneous resorption and achieved 20/20 visual acuity within 6 months. Visual acuity of all patients treated with Nd:YAG and/or argon laser, increased within the first week after the treatment. Vitrectomy was performed in only one patient with hemorrhage located away from macula. The good visual outcomes were achieved in all treatment modalities.

Conclusions:

Observation, Nd:YAG laser and argon laser seem to be safe and effective approaches for eyes with valsalva retinopathy. The size, volume and duration of hemorrhage are the most crucial factors for treatment choice, success and complications.
Update on the pathogenesis and management of ocular rosacea: an interdisciplinary review
Authors: Jabbehdari Sayena , Memar Omeed Michael , Caughlin Benjamin , Djalilian Ali R
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

Rosacea is one of the most common conditions affecting the ocular surface. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the pathogenesis and treatment of rosacea based on the dermatology and ophthalmology literatures.

Methods:

Literature searches were conducted for rosacea and ocular rosacea. Preference was given to systematic reviews, meta-analysis, case-controlled studies, and documented case reports while excluding poorly documented case studies and commentaries. The data were examined and independently analyzed by more than two of the authors.

Results:

Rosacea is a complex inflammatory condition involving the pilosebaceous unit. Its underlying mechanism involves an interplay of the microbiome, innate immunity, adaptive immunity, environmental triggers, and neurovascular sensitivity. The latest classification of rosacea includes three dermatologic subgroups and a fourth subgroup, ocular rosacea. Ocular rosacea clinically displays many features that are analogous to the cutaneous disease, such as lid margin telangiectasia and phlyctenulosis. The role of environmental triggers in the exacerbation of ocular rosacea appears to be understudied. While lid hygiene and systemic treatment with tetracycline drugs remain the mainstay of treatment for ocular rosacea, newer dermatologic targets and therapies may have potential application for the eye disease.

Conclusions:

Ocular rosacea appears to embody many of the manifestation of the dermatologic disease. Hence, the basic pathophysiologic mechanisms of the ocular and cutaneous disease are likely to be shared. Better understanding of the ocular surface microbiome and the immunologic mechanisms, may lead to novel approaches in the management of ocular rosacea.
Thelaziasis as an uncommon cause of giant papillary conjunctivitis
Authors: Cheung Sandy Pui-shan , Tsang Yat-ming , Luk Kristine Shik , Ho Alex Yat-man , Chan Leo Wai-lok , Lam Robert Fung , To Wing-kin
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

We report a local human case of Thelazia callipaeda eye infection in a 49-year-old lady with history of fly contact in Hong Kong.

Case description:

A 49-year-old lady presented with right eye foreign body sensation for one month. She recalled a fly being stuck onto her right upper eyelashes with mascara when she went hiking in a forest trail in Hong Kong. On assessment there were a lot of giant papillae on palpebral conjunctiva. Three living worms crawling on conjunctiva were discovered and removed in total. The worms were identified as Thelazia callipaeda by morphology and molecular sequencing. After removal, her symptoms resolved completely.

Conclusion:

Human thelaziasis is probably under-reported in many countries. The presence of giant papillary conjunctivitis in non-contact lens wearers should alert clinicians to the possibility of thelaziasis in patients with compatible exposure history in endemic regions. Ophthalmologists should increase their awareness towards this uncommon disease and should not wrongly attributed the symptoms to allergic conjunctivitis.
Cataract surgery in treated retinoblastoma eyes: A study of 29 eyes
Authors: Kaliki Swathi , Maniar Arpita , Kekunnaya Ramesh
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

To study the outcomes of cataract surgery in treated retinoblastoma (RB) eyes.

Methods:

Retrospective study of 29 eyes of 27 patients.

Results:

Based on International Classification of Intraocular Retinoblastoma, tumors belonged to group B ( n = 3, 10%), C ( n = 1, 4%), D ( n = 10, 34%), and E ( n = 3, 10%). The remaining 12 eyes (41%) had regressed tumors on presentation due to prior treatment. The RB treatment details included intravenous chemotherapy ( n = 24, 83%), external beam radiotherapy ( n = 14, 48%), and others. The mean time interval between tumor regression and cataract surgery was 51 months (median, 26 months; range, 6–245 months). The post-operative visual acuity was 20/200 or better in 12 (41%) eyes. Overall, 16 (55%) eyes displayed improvement of vision post-cataract surgery, while 13 (45%) eyes had no improvement in vision. The complications of cataract surgery included visual axis opacification ( n = 15, 52%), pupillary membrane ( n = 4, 14%), hyphema ( n = 1, 3%), and extraocular tumor extension ( n = 1, 3%). Clearer fundus view post-surgery revealed underlying tumor edge recurrence in 1 (3%) eye, and two (7%) patients had tumor recurrence at a mean interval of 8 months (median, 8 months; range, 7–8 months) following cataract extraction. Globe salvage was achieved in 26 (90%) eyes over a mean follow-up period of 103 months (median, 91 months; range, 19–267 months).

Conclusion:

Cataract surgery in treated RB is safe with vision salvage in 55% eyes and globe salvage in 90% eyes. Though there is a risk of extraocular tumor extension, its occurrence is rare (3%).
Fabry disease due to G171S GLA mutation: An atypical small nerve fiber sparing variant?
Authors: Prencipe Matteo , Posarelli Chiara , Figus Michele , Gabbriellini Giovanna
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

To describe the ocular manifestations and in vivo confocal microscopic findings in a patient carrying the recently described hemizygous G171S GLA gene mutation.

Case description:

A 63-year-old Albanian male patient was evaluated for cataract surgery. Anamnesis showed pacemaker implantation in left ventricular hypertrophy, chronic kidney disease, family history for kidney transplantation, and late onset of sporadic acroparesthesias. Bilateral cornea verticillata, and increased tortuosity in conjunctival and retinal vessels were present. In vivo confocal microscopy revealed clusters of hyper-reflective corneal epithelial cells centripetally extending from the limbus. Interestingly, the nerve fiber number, density, and length in the corneal sub-basal nerve plexus were preserved. Alpha-galactosidase A activity was almost absent and hemizygous c.511G>A mutation (G171S – p.Gly171Ser) of the GLA gene was identified. The patient was referred for initiation of enzyme replacement therapy, and genetic counseling was recommended for at-risk family members.

Conclusion:

This is the third reported case of Fabry disease due to GLA G171S mutation. All patients are of Albanian descent. Cornea verticillata and vascular anomalies remain common ocular manifestations, as well as cardiac and renal involvement. Confirming its pathogenicity, this mutation results in a “classic” Fabry disease phenotype, but it seems to be associated with a relative small nerve fiber sparing that may delay a correct diagnosis. The diagnosis of Fabry disease still remains challenging due to its clinical heterogeneity, but a thorough ophthalmological examination can promote early detection and, consequently, early initiation of enzyme replacement therapy.