bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Material properties of sponge-gourd fiber–reinforced polylactic acid biocomposites: Effect of fiber weight ratio, chemical treatment, and treatment concentrations
Authors: Al-Mobarak Taimur , Mina MF , Gafur MA
Published: May 2018

Sponge-gourd fibers (SGFs) were subjected to chemical treatments such as alkalization, acetylation, and benzoylation by 5−15 wt% sodium hydroxide, acetic anhydride, and benzoyl chloride solutions, respectively, in order to improve fiber–matrix adhesion. SGF-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) biocomposites were fabricated using melt compounding technique. Both untreated and chemically treated fiber-reinforced composites were subsequently characterized by using a field emission scanning electron microscope, a Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer, an X-ray diffractometer, a universal testing machine, and a thermogravimetric analyzer. Structural analyses show that the chemical treatment improves the crystallinity of SGF and exhibits chemical bond formation in the SGF-reinforced PLA composites. Surface morphology indicates that after the treatment of fibers and increase in the treated fiber content, the interfacial adhesion between PLA and fibers is improved. The effects of fiber loading of chemically treated SGF on physical and mechanical properties of the composites were analyzed. Compressive strength of the composites was increased by 10–35% with incorporation of treated fibers into the PLA matrix. The thermal stability of them is found to increase significantly. Soil burial test has confirmed that the composites are biodegradable. Benzoylation of SGF shows superior mechanical properties and enhances thermal stability among the composites.
The Employment Relationship and Movement Strategies among Domestic Workers in India
Authors: Agarwala Rina , Saha Shiny
Published: May 2018

This article examines how paid domestic workers in India fight to reproduce themselves by attaining recognition for their employment relationship and struggling to advance their labor rights. We find a striking convergence toward female-dominated unions that articulate the recipient of domestic services as “employers,” their employment relationship as an exploitative one in terms of time and dignity, and the household as a place of work and profit. To ensure a focus on women members and leaders, domestic workers’ have developed different union types including politically-affiliated and independent unions, as well as unions affiliated to NGOs, faith-based institutions, and cooperatives. Domestic workers’ direct, one-to-one employment relationship has led organizations to empower workers to confront employers’ daily control of workers’ associations (even outside the workplace), citizenship rights, worth, and dignity. However, because domestic workers’ employment relationship is still not recognized by Indian law, domestic workers avoid confronting employers and instead target the state when demanding material concessions to de-commodify their labor. These findings offer important insights into the limits and potential of domestic workers’ struggles.
A synergy-column envelope meshing pair profile for single screw compressors
Authors: Liu Feilong , Feng Junhao , Xie Jia , Feng Quanke , Van Den Broek Martijn , De Paepe Michel
Published: May 2018

Multi-column envelope engaging couples have been proposed for single screw compressors to reduce the friction and prolong the operational life. However, little is mentioned about the relationship between columns at opposite sides of the star-wheel teeth. An imbalance in the lubricant film forces would appear and influence the lubrication between the tooth and the groove. During a real design process, it is necessary to try several times for each different type of compressor to find the optimal combination of columns. In part, due to the large number of columns, it also makes both manufacturing processing and product testing difficult. In this paper, a synergy-column design method and its related manufacturing methods are presented. The locations and relationships of the designed columns can be prescribed by given the tooth width. Manufacturing of the rotor and star-wheel shows the new design method can be more efficient through processing. The stable operation results prove that the synergy-column envelope meshing pair can solve the star-wheel’s wear-out problem.
Clinical application of protein biomarkers in lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis
Authors: Qi S , Chen Q , Xu D , Xie N , Dai Y
Published: May 2018

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a type of autoimmune disease that damages multiple organs, including the heart, joints, liver and kidneys. The main characteristics of SLE are the deposition of circulating autoantibodies; autoantigen complexes in the renal system; and abnormal expression of complements, cytokines and chemokines. Lupus nephritis (LN) is the most serious manifestation of SLE and is characterized by inflammation of the kidney.

This review summarizes recent clinical applications of protein biomarkers including autoantibodies, complements, cytokines and chemokines and some new protein biomarkers in SLE and LN. The clinical differential diagnosis of protein biomarkers related to prognosis and diagnosis is discussed and highlighted.

Protein biomarkers play crucial roles in the study of SLE and LN. Useful biomarkers will provide insights into effective treatments for these diseases.
New Pressures on Family Life
Authors: Hanford Jeanette
Published: May 2018

The impact of accelerated social change is revealed in significantly modified modes of family life and the attendant stresses
Adolescence, the crucible of change
Authors: La Barre Weston
Published: May 2018

With no absolute model of adulthood in our society, alienation tends to become complete, identity a crisis, and freedom a burden
Clash in Perspective between Worker and Client
Authors: Mayer John E. , Timms Noel
Published: May 2018

Family agency clients report disappointment of expectations and negative reactions to caseworkers' approaches in solving interpersonal problems
Illegitimacy—the Dimensions of Prevention
Authors: Chaskel Ruth
Published: May 2018

The tertiary stage in the prevention of illegitimacy involves questions of public social policy and the provision of complete social welfare services
College Student Volunteers in a Child Guidance Clinic
Authors: Burnis Joan B. , Ackerly William C.
Published: May 2018

A new approach supplements the services of a traditional mental health team by using volunteers to provide beneficial relationships for deprived children
Clinical Complexities in Work Adjustment of Deprived Youth
Authors: Benney Celia , Hochhauser Herbert , Sloma Jay
Published: May 2018

A rehabilitation agency and a youth opportunity center of a state employment service cooperate to provide comprehensive services to young persons
Intensive Work with a Deprived Family
Authors: Lance Evelyn A.
Published: May 2018

Imaginative casework treatment provides gratification of some basic needs of immature, deprived parents and enables them to assume responsibility
Emotional Stress in the Symbiotic Relationship
Authors: Bergen Mary E.
Published: May 2018

Knowledge of maternal response to infant demands alerts the caseworker to the double psychological role required in serving immature clients of all ages
Treatment of Patients with Minor Psychosomatic Disorders
Authors: Nelsen Judith C.
Published: May 2018

Several characteristics of patients seeking relief from minor but recurring symptoms dictate a cautious, professional stance in the initial interviews
Social Advocacy: A new Dimension in Social Work
Authors: Mccormick Mary J.
Published: May 2018

Advocacy, with unreserved commitment to the disadvantaged, adds a new dimension, that of breadth, to the objectives of the social work of the future
The Problem-Solving Component in Family Therapy
Authors: Hallowitz David
Published: May 2018

Helping a family deal successfully with reality problems has direct and indirect therapeutic effects on deeper relationship conflicts and pathological force
A Work Group Model for Social Work Intervention
Authors: Depalma Donald
Published: May 2018

A proposal is suggested for the structuring of a work group to permit a flexible application of social work methods to meet the needs of clients
The Idealized Model of the American Family
Authors: Birdwhistell Ray L.
Published: May 2018

The concept of the ideal American family sets goals that are unattainable and may lead to tragic results in parent-child relationships and societal institutions
Implications of White Racism for Social Work Practice
Authors: Shannon Barbara E.
Published: May 2018

A differential view of the basis of white racism compels social workers to assume leadership in developing methods to deal with the problem
Early Treatment of Infidelity in the Neurotic Man
Authors: Weisberg Miriam I.
Published: May 2018

Three case histories illustrate how an understanding of emotional needs and the repetitious nature of behavior can help a man in his attempt to preserve his marriage
Planning and Power in Hospital Social Service
Authors: Segal Brian
Published: May 2018

Staff of social service departments in hospitals can become more autonomous through planning and through developing a technical monopoly
The Developmental Task of the Black Foster Child
Authors: Husbands Ann
Published: May 2018

It is crucial to the black foster child's formation of a positive racial identity that the worker deal with the racial dynamics at work in the home
Social Work Techniques with the Poor
Authors: Pierson Arthur
Published: May 2018

New techniques can be discovered to help those people who are truly burdened by an oppressive outer world of fragmented agencies and outmoded methods
A Creative Living Center for the Mentally Ill
Authors: O'Connor Alice L.
Published: May 2018

An experimental program is launched to offer social activities and problem-solving experiences in groups to former patients of a state hospital
Differential Treatment of the Pseudoneurotic Client
Authors: Rosenberg Blanca N. , Short Jacqueline Stackhouse
Published: May 2018

Detailed assessment of ego-functions and capacities is essential to understand the whole person and thus avoid being led astray by apparent neurotic symptoms
Social Work Concepts and Language Analysis
Authors: Miller Steven I. , Miller Patricia
Published: May 2018

Experience in a tutorial project suggests that some use of contemporary language philosophy can aid social work students in understanding abstract terminology
Family Healing in a Troubled World
Authors: Ackerman Nathan W.
Published: May 2018

The change that is needed in family living today is one that can happen only within a larger change, a creative rebirth of the entire social community
Social Work in Health and Mental Health Services
Authors: Black Bertram J.
Published: May 2018

An examination of some concepts and issues relating to health care shows that the common thread is the responsibility for planning and administration
Use of Color Charts in Supervision
Authors: Crawford Blaine
Published: May 2018

A new method helps students recognize an interactional process, identify clients' defense mechanisms, and evaluate their own activities in interviews
Using Points for Intervention
Authors: Atherton Charles R. , Mitchell Sandra T. , Schein Edna Biehl
Published: May 2018

Appropriate interventive roles for social workers to assume in relation to clients' presenting problems are suggested for providing more effective service
The Collective Preconscious and Racism
Authors: Morales Armando
Published: May 2018

A beginning concept is introduced as fundamental for an understanding of the stubborn persistence of racist attitudes in the United States
The Chicano Renaissance
Authors: Ortego Philip D.
Published: May 2018

In literature, journalism, and drama the Mexican American is nurtured and sustained by awareness of his artistic heritage and identification with his Indian past
Mexican–American Interaction with Social Systems
Authors: Sotomayor Marta
Published: May 2018

A significant number of weaknesses formerly attributed to internal dynamics of families can be ascribed to the limitations created by external systems
A Life-model Approach to Change
Authors: Oxley Genevieve B.
Published: May 2018

The concept of action as a way in which positive change can be enhanced is discussed in relation to its appropriate use in casework treatment
“Downtown” is the Office
Authors: Edwards Mildred G. , Schmidt Edith R.
Published: May 2018

The combination of casework and group work results in dramatic changes in many aspects of living and personal growth of a mother and her young children
Severe arthritic syndrome due to ibrutinib use for chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Dasanu Constantin A
Published: May 2018

Although newer targeted agents improve survival in cancer patients, they have also been linked with unusual side effects. The most common side effects of Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors include fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, bruising, and cytopenias. We describe herein a case of an unusually severe articular syndrome with the use of ibrutinib in a patient with 17 p minus chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The severity of this side effect led to permanent discontinuation of this agent. As the causality ibrutinib-arthralgia seems legitimate, we expect further similar cases to surface in patients treated with Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Influence of pH value on microstructure of oil-in-water emulsions stabilized by chickpea protein flour
Authors: Felix Manuel , Isurralde Nadia , Romero Alberto , Guerrero Antonio
Published: May 2018

Food industry is highly interested in the development of healthier formulations of oil-in-water emulsions, stabilized by plant proteins instead of egg or milk proteins. These emulsions would avoid allergic issues or animal fat. Among other plant proteins, legumes are a cost-competitive product. This work evaluates the influence of pH value (2.5, 5.0 and 7.5) on emulsions stabilized by chickpea-based emulsions at two different protein concentration (2.0 and 4.0 wt%). Microstructure of chickpea-based emulsions is assessed by means of backscattering, droplet size distributions and small amplitude oscillatory shear measurements. Visual appearances as well as confocal laser scanning microscopy images are obtained to provide useful information on the emulsions structure. Interestingly, results indicate that the pH value and protein concentration have a strong influence on emulsion microstructure and stability. Thus, the system which contains protein surfaces positively charged shows the highest viscoelastic properties, a good droplet size distribution profile and non-apparent destabilization phenomena. Interestingly, results also reveal the importance of rheological measurements in the prediction of protein interactions and emulsion stability since this technique is able to predict destabilization mechanisms sooner than other techniques such as backscattering or droplet size distribution measurements.
The Therapeutic Potential of Blocking Galectin-3 Expression in Acute Myocardial Infarction and Mitigating Inflammation of Infarct Region: A Clinical Outcome-Based Translational Study
Authors: Mosleh Wassim , Chaudhari Milind R , Sonkawade Swati , Mahajan Supriya , Khalil Charl , Frodey Kevin , Shah Tanvi , Dahal Suraj , Karki Roshan , Katkar Rujuta , Blankesteijn W Matthijs , Page Brian , Pokharel Saraswati , Kim Minhyung , Sharma Umesh C
Published: May 2018

Introduction:

Increased galectin-3 is associated with ischemic cardiomyopathy, although its role in early remodeling post-myocardial infarction (MI) has not been fully elucidated. There are no data demonstrating that blocking galectin-3 expression would have an impact on the heart and that its relationship to remodeling is not simply an epiphenomenon. The direct association between galectin-3 and myocardial inflammation, dysfunction, and adverse cardiovascular outcomes post-MI was examined using clinical and translational studies.

Methods:

We performed expression analysis of 9753 genes in murine model of acute MI. For galectin-3 loss of function studies, homozygous galectin-3 knock-out (KO) mice were subjected to coronary artery ligation procedure to induce acute MI (MI, N = 6; Sham, N = 6). For clinical validation, serum galectin-3 levels were measured in 96 patients with ST-elevation MI. Echocardiographic and angiographic parameters of myocardial dysfunction and 3-month composite outcome including mortality, recurrent MI, stroke, and heart failure hospitalization were measured.

Results:

In the infarct regions of murine models, galectin-3 was a robustly expressed gene. Elevated galectin-3 expression strongly correlated with macrophage-mediated genes. Galectin-3 KO mice showed reduced myocardial macrophage infiltration after acute MI. Galectin-3 levels were higher in patients with early systolic dysfunction, and predicted 3-month major adverse cardiovascular events (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.917 ± 0.063; P = .001).

Conclusions:

Galectin-3 is directly associated with early myocardial inflammation post-MI and may represent a potential target for therapeutic inhibition.
Issues of dissonance in advanced studio lessons
Authors: Burwell Kim
Published: May 2018

In recent years researchers have contributed a great deal to our shared understanding of the complexities of studio practices, which are widely regarded as a centre-point of higher education music. This article investigates an aspect of studio learning that does not lend itself easily to scrutiny, by drawing common issues from the cases of two students who, exceptionally, reported dissatisfaction with the approaches taken by their current teachers. These issues, loosely grouped under the metaphor of dissonance, are explored through interview and observation evidence, in terms of the balance of activity within lessons, turn taking, and encouragement. The study gives rise to questions that might be applied, arguably, in any studio setting.
Effects of a physical activity program on post-bariatric patients: A qualitative study from a self-determination theory perspective
Authors: González-Cutre David , Megías Ángel , Beltrán-Carrillo Vicente J , Cervelló Eduardo , Spray Christopher M
Published: May 2018

This study provides an in-depth analysis of the psychosocial benefits that 10 post-bariatric patients (nine female, 31–59 years) perceived from their participation in an exercise program grounded in self-determination theory. Qualitative data were collected through observations and interviews. Participants reported many factors which facilitated basic psychological need satisfaction such as the instructors caring about their opinion, affection, fitness improvement, pain reduction, and knowledge acquisition. These factors were associated with autonomous motivation, enjoyment, intention to be physically active, happiness, and self-confidence. The results suggest that self-determination theory-based exercise programs could be designed to achieve positive outcomes in this population.
Unmet needs and quality of life in multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Pereira M Graça , Silva Isa , Pereira Marta , Faria Sara , Silva Bruna , Monteiro Sara , Ferreira Gabriela
Published: May 2018

This cross-sectional study analysed the contributors and moderators of quality of life. The sample comprised 124 Portuguese multiple myeloma patients assessed on social support, spirituality, unmet needs, psychological morbidity and quality-of-life measures. Results showed that being older and a woman, as well as psychological morbidity and unmet emotional needs were significant predictors of worse quality of life as measured by the QLQ-C30. Unmet financial needs moderated the relationship between psychological morbidity and quality of life. Results emphasize the importance of intervening in patients’ unmet emotional needs and psychological morbidity in order to promote quality of life, in this population.
Positive predictive value of acute and chronic pancreatitis diagnoses in the Danish National Patient Registry: A validation study
Authors: Kirkegård Jakob , Mortensen Marie R. , Johannsen Ida R. , Mortensen Frank V. , Cronin-Fenton Deirdre
Published: May 2018

Aims: To examine the validity of the diagnoses of acute and chronic pancreatitis registered in the Danish National Patient Registry. Methods: We identified all patients in the Danish National Patient Registry admitted to two Danish hospitals with acute or chronic pancreatitis from 1996 to 2013. From this population, we randomly sampled 100 patients with acute pancreatitis and 100 patients with chronic pancreatitis. For each cohort, we computed the positive predictive values and associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the discharge diagnosis of acute or chronic pancreatitis using medical records as the gold standard. Results: We identified 2617 patients with acute pancreatitis and 1284 patients with chronic pancreatitis discharged from either of the two hospitals during the study period. Of these, 776 (19.9%) had a diagnosis of both acute and chronic pancreatitis and are thus present in both cohorts. From the 200 sampled patients, a total of 138 (69.0%) medical records were available for review. The positive predictive value for a diagnosis of acute pancreatitis in the Danish National Patient Registry was 97.3% (95% CI 90.5–99.2%) and for chronic pancreatitis 83.1% (95% CI 72.2–90.3%). Conclusions: The validity of diagnoses of acute and chronic pancreatitis registered in the Danish National Patient Registry since 1996 is generally high.
Impact as driving force of journalistic and social change
Authors: Wagemans Andrea , Witschge Tamara , Harbers Frank
Published: May 2018

In this article, we explore how entrepreneurial journalists from a wide variety of national contexts present ‘impact’ as one of the aims in their work. By exploring the variety, incongruences, and strategic considerations in the discourse on impact of those at the forefront of journalistic innovation, we provide a much-needed empirical account of the changing conceptualisation of what journalism is and what it is for. Our data show how impact becomes an ideologically as well as strategically driven endeavour as the entrepreneurs try to carve out their niche and position themselves both in relation to traditional counterparts and other startups. Ultimately, we provide empirical insight into a number of tensions that remain underlying in the discourse on constructive journalism, an increasingly popular conceptualisation that refers to a future-oriented, solution-driven, active form of journalism. We show how our interviewees marry different, commonly-deemed incompatible practices and values, thus challenging binary distinctions at the heart of conceptualisations of journalism, also perpetuated in the discourse on constructive journalism. As pioneers in the field, startups can be argued to inspire journalistic as well as social innovation, and furthermore push for a more inclusive understanding of the divergent conceptualisations and practices that together make up the amalgam that we call ‘journalism’.
Stigma phenomenon to dementia in Iranian population: A phenomenological study
Authors: Mohabbat Bahar Sahar , Bigdeli Imanollah
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Dementia is considered as a serious threat for over 65years old population, because of its high prevalence rates. Dementia with a complex and multifaceted nature has negative effects on patients, family members, and their caregivers’ psychological health and socioeconomic status. The current qualitative study is designed to investigate the stigma phenomenon to dementia in Iranian population.

Methods

This qualitative research was conducted by the descriptive phenomenological method. In order to analyze the data, the Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological method was used. The target population consisted of all patients with dementia and their family members in neurological clinics of Tehran. We interviewed with patients and one of the main family members until data saturation. Participants included the main family members (spouse and children) of people with dementia (nine women and six men) who were selected by a nonrandom purposeful sampling method.

Results

Two main themes emerged from data analysis: dysfunctional beliefs and negative social attitudes. Each main theme integrates the classes and clusters which are constituted by formulated meanings.

Conclusion

Dimensions of stigma, such as dysfunctional beliefs and negative social attitudes, in addition to undesirable effects on patients and caregivers lives, is considered as a serious obstacle to effective caring and providing a good quality of life. It can be concluded that, higher levels of awareness, management, and coping with this powerful phenomenon are capable of preventing, rehabilitation, and improving the psychosocial health in elderly population.
Objectivity and accountability in migration control using risk assessment tools
Authors: Dekkers Tim , van der Woude Maartje , Koulish Robert
Published: May 2018

In recent years immigration control has seen an increase in the implementation of risk assessment technology. According to proponents, such technologies would lead to more objective decision-making compared with the discretionary decisions made by street-level bureaucrats. However, because empirical research on risk assessment technology is limited, it is not quite clear how risk assessment technology in migration control impacts the decision-making process and to what extent it does make the decision-making process more objective. This article aims to shine a light on this issue by making use of a case study of Amigo-boras, a smart camera system used by the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee (RNM) for migration control purposes. Qualitative data show that Dutch immigration officers are still able to exercise discretion in the execution of their tasks, placing doubt on claims to objectivity. This finding is confirmed in quantitative data based on a US case study. Although quantitative data on the decision-making process would be able to show if these doubts were justified, the RNM has no such data on the outcomes and selection process using Amigo-boras. This information gap raises new issues regarding the objectivity of the selection process and the individual accountability of RNM officers.
Middle meningeal artery embolization for chronic subdural hematoma: Endovascular technique and radiographic findings
Authors: Link Thomas W , Rapoport Benjamin I , Paine Stephanie M , Kamel Hooman , Knopman Jared
Published: May 2018

Background and purpose

Embolization of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) has recently been proposed as an alternative to surgery for treatment of chronic subdural hematoma (SDH), and several case reports have been published supporting its efficacy. It has been suggested that the primary pathologic process in chronic SDH is repeated microhemorrhaging into the subdural collection from fragile neovasculature within the SDH membrane that arises from distal branches of the MMA. Embolization could thus provide a means of eliminating this chronic rebleeding.

Materials and methods

Images were selected from MMA embolization procedures performed at our institution in order to illustrate the technique and theory behind its efficacy for treatment of chronic SDH.

Results

Images from MMA angiograms demonstrate the variability of MMA anatomy and help illustrate the importance of avoiding potential ophthalmic collaterals and branches supplying cranial nerves. The findings of irregular wispiness of the distal MMA vasculature, contrast outlining of the SDH membrane on angiography, and homogenous increased density within the SDH on postembolization head computed tomography are described.

Conclusion

MMA embolization may provide a safe alternative for treatment of chronic SDH, but careful angiographic assessment of MMA anatomy should be performed to avoid potential complications. The findings illustrated here lend support to the theory that the pathologic process of chronic SDH is repeated leakage of blood products from an inflamed, abnormal arterial neovasculature within the SDH membrane that arises from the MMA, and thus selective embolization could provide an effective treatment.
Risk of infection following semi-invasive ultrasound procedures in Scotland, 2010 to 2016: A retrospective cohort study using linked national datasets
Authors: Scott David , Fletcher Eilidh , Kane Hayley , Malcolm William , Kavanagh Kimberley , Banks A-Lan , Rankin Annette
Published: May 2018

Introduction

Outbreak reports indicate a risk of cross-infection following medical procedures using semi-invasive ultrasound probes. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of infection, using microbiological reports and antibiotic prescriptions as proxy measures, associated with semi-invasive ultrasound probe procedures, including transoesophageal echocardiography, transvaginal and transrectal ultrasound.

Methods

Patient records from the Electronic Communication of Surveillance in Scotland and the Prescribing Information System were linked with the Scottish Morbidity Records for cases in Scotland between 2010 and 2016. Three retrospective cohorts were created to include inpatients/day-cases and outpatients in the following specialties: Cardiology, Gynaecology and Urology. Cox regression was used to quantify the association between semi-invasive ultrasound probe procedures and the risk of positive microbiological reports and community antibiotic prescriptions in the 30-day period following the procedure.

Results

There was a greater hazard ratio of microbiological reports for patients who had undergone transoesophageal echocardiography (HR: 4.92; 95% CI: 3.17–7.63), transvaginal (HR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.21–1.64) and transrectal ultrasound (HR: 3.40; 95% CI: 2.90–3.99), compared with unexposed cohort members after adjustment for age, co-morbidities, previous hospital admissions and past care home residence. Similarly, there was a greater hazard ratio of antibiotic prescribing for those who had received transvaginal (HR: 1.26; 95% CI: 1.20–1.32) and transrectal (HR: 1.75; 95% CI: 1.66–1.84) ultrasound, compared with unexposed patients.

Conclusion

Analysis of linked national datasets demonstrated a greater risk of infection within 30 days of undergoing semi-invasive ultrasound probe procedures, using microbiological reports and antibiotic prescriptions as proxy measures of infection.
Assessment of the ventilation efficiency in the breathing zone during sleep through computational fluid dynamics techniques
Authors: Hormigos-Jimenez Susana , Padilla-Marcos Miguel Ángel , Meiss Alberto , Gonzalez-Lezcano Roberto Alonso , Feijó-Muñoz Jesús
Published: May 2018

In developed countries, presence at home varies between 60% and 90% of the day, sleeping supposes 30%. Therefore, it is essential to ensure good indoor air quality that enhances health and benefits rest and recovery. In this context, it is necessary to achieve a balance between energy efficiency and air distribution parameters; thus, the influence exerted by the furniture of a bedroom on the air exchange efficiency, in the breathing zone during sleep, is assessed in this study. Computational fluid dynamics techniques, experimentally validated by the tracer gas (SF6) concentration decay method, are used to analyze 52 case studies corresponding to the same space, but varying both the number and the arrangement of the furniture inside. It is concluded that, in order to achieve a significant improvement in the air exchange efficiency, the number of elements included in the bedroom is not relevant, but the position of them. The highest increase in the ventilation efficiency in breathing zone is observed when the furniture is located avoiding the airflow obstruction in the area near the inlet and creating an unfilled volume of air in the area close to the outlet.
A Victorian fraudster and bigamist: Gentleman or criminal?
Authors: Woolnough Guy N
Published: May 2018

This article examines the case of a Victorian gentleman who operated at the tipping point between respectable gentleman and habitual criminal. The case of Henry Wilshin allows an exploration of ideas of class and respectability in Victorian England and the problematics of the distinction between the gentleman and the convict: an analysis of Wilshin’s escapades places the deconstruction of the ‘crimes of the law-abiding’ in a Victorian context. The issues remain relevant today in debates concerning the banking industry. In the mid-19th century the expanding commercial enterprise of industrial Britain presented opportunities that were grasped by the unscrupulous, but the distinction between licit and illicit activity was far from clear. A gentleman offender like Henry Wilshin challenged Victorian assumptions of respectability. This article analyses Wilshin’s career in the context of Victorian ideas of middle-class respectability and the operations of commerce. Neutralization theory will be advanced to reconcile the contradictions in Wilshin’s life.
Mycobacterial chylous ascites: report of three cases and systematic review
Authors: Mallick Bipadabhanjan , Mandavdhare Harshal S. , Aggarwal Sourabh , Singh Harjeet , Dutta Usha , Sharma Vishal
Published: May 2018

Background:

Chylous ascites is an uncommon presentation of mycobacterial infection.

Methods:

We report three cases of tubercular chylous ascites, and in addition, we performed a systematic review of the published literature for the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of mycobacterial chylous ascites. We followed the PRISMA guidelines for the systematic review.

Results:

A total of 33 cases (including three of ours) were included. The mean age of the reported cases was 32.54 ± 17.56 years, and a male predominance (76%) was noted. The predominant clinical features were abdominal distension, abdominal pain, fever and loss of appetite and weight. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare (MAC) infection were responsible for 16 and 15 cases, respectively. All patients with MAC related chylous ascites had HIV infection. The mechanisms were related to lymph nodal enlargement, constrictive pericarditis and remote scrofuloderma. Overall, there was 29% mortality. Use of anti-mycobacterial therapy with use of total parenteral nutrition, octreotide and medium chain triglyceride-based diet resulted in improvement in the rest of the cases. The cause of death in our case was anti-tubercular therapy-induced hepatitis; three deaths were due to disseminated mycobacterial infection, one due to cardiopulmonary failure and unknown in four patients.

Conclusion:

Chylous ascites due to mycobacterial infection is uncommon and associated with poor outcome. However, early diagnosis and nutritional management along with antimycobacterial therapy can improve outcome.
Distributional effects of political power-sharing arrangements and their negative consequences for post-agreement stability
Authors: Obayashi Kazuhiro
Published: May 2018

Most of the previous studies of power-sharing arrangements (PSAs) find the political PSA to be ineffective in stabilizing post-agreement peace. These studies argue that the political PSA is a signal that is not costly enough to moderate the information asymmetry or commitment problem among the signatories. In this article, I develop an alternative theory of the political PSA that identifies its “negative” effect on post-agreement stability by highlighting two issues that have attracted little attention in the previous studies, i.e. distributional effects of the political PSA and shifts in the bargaining power among the signatories. To assess the validity of the theory, I first conduct a logistic regression analysis of inclusion of political PSA provisions in peace agreements, and then conduct a survival analysis of post-agreement peace duration.
Of Bob, Madzibaba Gabriel, and Goblins: The Sociopolitics of Name-Calling and Nicknaming Mugabe in Post-2000 Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyambi Oliver
Published: May 2018

Prior to his recalling by the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union Patriotic Front (ZANU PF) amid national protests in 2017, Zimbabwe’s former president, Robert Mugabe, had, for close to four decades, managed to sustain his rule even when odds seemed overwhelmingly against him. Many studies have broached several aspects of his power-retention strategies and public responses to his rule, mostly from “pure” political science perspectives. This article attempts a paradigm shift in methodology and approaches to this topic. It focuses on how the cultural practice of nicknaming and name-calling can illuminate the nature of Mugabe’s rule and his subjects’ perceptions of it in new ways. The article uses a critical discourse analysis approach to analyze focal nicknames and instances of name-calling in the context of their everyday use by citizens. Invoking Taska’s notion of “watchfulness” as a psychopolitical process preceding and informing the act of nicknaming and name-calling, the study argues that nicknaming and name-calling Mugabe not only reflect the nicknamers and name-caller’s experiences of (and attitudes to) his rule but also refract deeper issues attendant on the ways in which they relate and respond to certain exercises, performances, and displays of power.
Separate, Unequal, and Uncorrelated: Why We Need to Consider Race-specific Homicide Rates in US Metropolitan Areas
Authors: Feld Scott , Bauldry Shawn
Published: May 2018

Sociologists recognize that American metropolitan areas continue to be highly segregated by race and that blacks continue to experience much higher homicide rates than whites across metropolitan areas. We show that the racial divide goes beyond separate and unequal to the point of being uncorrelated. Based on data from the Centers for Disease Control Underlying Cause of Death files 2008–2010 and the American Community Survey, this paper reports that homicide rates for whites and blacks are uncorrelated across US metropolitan areas. We show that under these conditions, the practice of analyzing overall homicide rates can substantially misrepresent both subgroups and that the correlations of other variables with overall homicide rates systematically exaggerate the average of the correlations with the two separate homicide rates. We therefore suggest that it is crucial to analyze rates of black and white homicide separately to accurately describe and understand causes and consequences of urban homicide.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the prognosis of language outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Brignell Amanda , Morgan Angela T , Woolfenden Susan , Klopper Felicity , May Tamara , Sarkozy Vanessa , Williams Katrina
Published: May 2018

Background

Language difficulties are common in autism spectrum disorder, yet little is known about the prognosis of language in children with autism spectrum disorder. The aim of this study was to systematically review studies reporting language outcomes in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Method

A comprehensive search strategy with a well-established sensitive prognosis filter for Medline, adapted for five other databases, was used. Included studies observed individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder for ≥12 months and had ≥30 participants. Risk of bias was assessed.

Results

Fifty-four studies (N = 5064) met inclusion criteria. Language outcomes were standardised assessments (n = 35), notation of presence/absence of verbal language (n = 11) or both (n = 8). Age at baseline ranged from 17 months to 26 years, duration of follow-up from 1 to 38 years. Most publications (92%) were rated medium to high risk of bias. In all but one study individuals had below-average scores at baseline and follow-up. However, in most (n = 24/25; 96%) studies reporting standard scores, individuals (aged ≤ 11 years at follow-up) progressed at a comparable rate to age-expected norms or demonstrated some ‘catch up’ over time. Meta-analyses found mean standard scores increased over time in three language domains (composite receptive language, composite expressive language and adaptive language). Nineteen to thirty percent of children aged five years and under gained verbal language. For children aged over five years 5–32% gained verbal language over the course of study. Age, baseline language scores, IQ and length of follow-up did not moderate between study differences in composite language or adaptive language growth or the acquisition of verbal language.

Conclusion

Despite variability in study methods, findings were consistent, with the majority of studies reporting children under 11 years on average progressed at a comparable rate to age-expected norms or with some ‘catchup’ over time.

Implications

This review provides synthesised information for families and clinicians on language development over time and on language outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Such information can be useful for prognostic counselling and may assist planning around future resources and support needs. This review also makes recommendations regarding methodology for future studies so that prognosis can become more fine-tuned at an individual level.
Delamanid for rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis: a retrospective study from South Africa
Authors: Mohr Erika , Hughes Jennifer , Reuter Anja , Trivino Duran Laura , Ferlazzo Gabriella , Daniels Johnny , De Azevedo Virginia , Kock Yulene , Steele Sarah Jane , Shroufi Amir , Ade Serge , Alikhanova Natavan , Benedetti Guido , Edwards Jeffrey , Cox Helen , Furin Jennifer , Isaakidis Petros
Published: May 2018

Experience with delamanid (Dlm) is limited, particularly among HIV-positive individuals. We describe early efficacy and safety data from a programmatic setting in South Africa.

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients receiving Dlm-containing treatment regimens between November 2015 and August 2017. We report 12-month interim outcomes, sputum culture conversion (SCC) by months 2 and 6, serious adverse events (SAEs) and QT intervals corrected using the Frederica formula (QTcF).

Overall, 103 patients were initiated on Dlm; 79 (77%) were HIV positive. The main indication for Dlm was intolerance to second-line anti-tuberculosis (TB) drugs (n=58, 56%). There were 12 months of follow-up for 46 patients; 28 (61%) had a favourable outcome (cure, treatment completion or culture negativity). Positive cultures were found for 57 patients at Dlm initiation; 16 out of 31 (52%) had SCC within 2 months and 25 out of 31 (81%) within 6 months. There were 67 SAEs reported in 29 patients (28%). There were four instances of QTcF prolongation >500 ms in two patients (2%), leading to permanent discontinuation in one case; however, no cardiac arrhythmias occurred.

This large cohort of difficult-to-treat patients receiving Dlm for rifampicin-resistant TB treatment in a programmatic setting with high HIV prevalence had favourable early treatment response and tolerated treatment well. Dlm should remain available, particularly for those who cannot be treated with conventional regimens or with limited treatment options.
Management appropriateness and outcomes of patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Jiménez David , Bikdeli Behnood , Barrios Deisy , Morillo Raquel , Nieto Rosa , Guerassimova Ina , Muriel Alfonso , Jara-Palomares Luis , Moores Lisa , Tapson Victor , Yusen Roger D. , Monreal Manuel
Published: May 2018

The impact of adherence to published guidelines on the outcomes of patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE) has not been well defined by previous studies.

In this prospective cohort study of patients admitted to a respiratory department (n=2096), we evaluated whether patients with PE had better outcomes if they were acutely managed according to international guidelines. Outcomes consisted of all-cause mortality, PE-related mortality, recurrent venous thromboembolism (VTE) and major bleeding events during the first month of follow-up after diagnosis.

Overall, 408 patients (19% (95% CI 18–21%)) did not receive guideline-adherent PE management. Patients receiving non-adherent management were significantly more likely to experience all-cause mortality (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.39 (95% CI 1.57–3.61) or PE-related mortality (adjusted OR 5.02 (95% CI 2.42–10.42); p<0.001) during follow-up. Non-adherent management was also a significant independent predictor of recurrent VTE (OR 2.19 (95% CI 1.11–4.32); p=0.03) and major bleeding (OR 2.65 (95% CI 1.66–4.24); p<0.001). An external validation cohort of 34 380 patients with PE from the RIETE registry confirmed these findings.

PE management that does not adhere to guidelines for indications related to anticoagulation, thrombolytics and inferior vena cava filters is associated with worse patient outcomes.
Reductions in dead space ventilation with nasal high flow depend on physiological dead space volume: metabolic hood measurements during sleep in patients with COPD and controls
Authors: Biselli Paolo , Fricke Kathrin , Grote Ludger , Braun Andrew T. , Kirkness Jason , Smith Philip , Schwartz Alan , Schneider Hartmut
Published: May 2018

Nasal high flow (NHF) reduces minute ventilation and ventilatory loads during sleep but the mechanisms are not clear. We hypothesised NHF reduces ventilation in proportion to physiological but not anatomical dead space.

11 subjects (five controls and six chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients) underwent polysomnography with transcutaneous carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring under a metabolic hood. During stable non-rapid eye movement stage 2 sleep, subjects received NHF (20 L·min−1) intermittently for periods of 5–10 min. We measured CO2production and calculated dead space ventilation.

Controls and COPD patients responded similarly to NHF. NHF reduced minute ventilation (from 5.6±0.4 to 4.8±0.4 L·min−1; p<0.05) and tidal volume (from 0.34±0.03 to 0.3±0.03 L; p<0.05) without a change in energy expenditure, transcutaneous CO2or alveolar ventilation. There was a significant decrease in dead space ventilation (from 2.5±0.4 to 1.6±0.4 L·min−1; p<0.05), but not in respiratory rate. The reduction in dead space ventilation correlated with baseline physiological dead space fraction (r2=0.36; p<0.05), but not with respiratory rate or anatomical dead space volume.

During sleep, NHF decreases minute ventilation due to an overall reduction in dead space ventilation in proportion to the extent of baseline physiological dead space fraction.