bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Library SkillUP
Authors: Rivers-Latham Monica-Jane , Singer Helen , Conway Louise
Published: June 2020

This project report describes the workflow model used at the University of Hertfordshire to develop and test a suite of new digital information skills materials for students. The approach taken was informed by findings from the Jisc Student Digital Experience Tracker and good practice from Jisc’s NUS Benchmarking tool. Content was mapped against the digital information literacy segment of Jisc’s Digital Capabilities framework and CILIP’s information literacy definition. The project set out to reuse, refresh and repurpose existing online resources and identify new content where necessary to provide a set of up to date learning objects, which academics could easily embed at point of need into their programmes of study, according to the university’s Guided Learner Journey principles. The project also sought to make an informed decision around which digital technology/platform to use for content creation. Due to the required functionality, Instructure’s Canvas, which is already used by the university for all its courses, was chosen as a platform for the materials. The team used University College London’s ABC Learning Design methodology to design the curriculum and writing teams followed a pedagogical approach to create content and interactive learning elements for the Canvas Library SkillUP module. Students were consulted and provided feedback at all stages of the project.
A Large-Eddy Simulation Study of Contrail Ice Number Formation
Authors: Lewellen David C.
Published: June 2020

Ice crystal number is a critical ingredient in the potential climate impact of persistent contrails and contrail-induced cirrus. We perform an extensive set of large-eddy simulations (LES) of ice nucleation and growth within aircraft exhaust jets with an emphasis on assessing the importance of detailed plume mixing on the effective ice-number emission index (EIiceno) produced for different conditions. Parameter variations considered include ambient temperature, pressure, and humidity; initial aerosol origin (exhaust or ambient), number, and properties; and aircraft engine size. The LES are performed in a temporal representation with binned microphysics including the basics of activation of underlying aerosol, droplet growth, and freezing. We find that a box-model approach reproduces EIiceno from LES well for sufficiently low aerosol numbers or when crystal production is predominantly on ambient aerosol. For larger exhaust aerosol number the box model generally overestimates EIiceno and can underestimate the fraction from ultrafine aerosol. The effects of different parameters on EIiceno can largely be understood with simpler analytic models that are formulated in low and high aerosol-number limits. The simulations highlight the potential importance of “cold” contrails, ambient ultrafine aerosols, crystal loss due to competition between different-sized crystals, and limitations on reducing EIiceno. We find EIiceno insensitive to engine size for lower aerosol numbers, but decreasing with increasing engine size for higher aerosol numbers. Temporal versus spatial representations for jet LES are compared in an appendix.
Upper-Ocean Eddy Heat Flux across the Antarctic Circumpolar Current in Drake Passage from Observations: Time-Mean and Seasonal Variability
Authors: Gutierrez-Villanueva Manuel O. , Chereskin Teresa K. , Sprintall Janet
Published: June 2020

Eddy heat flux plays a fundamental role in the Southern Ocean meridional overturning circulation, providing the only mechanism for poleward heat transport above the topography and below the Ekman layer at the latitudes of Drake Passage. Models and observations identify Drake Passage as one of a handful of hot spots in the Southern Ocean where eddy heat transport across the Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) is enhanced. Quantifying this transport, however, together with its spatial distribution and temporal variability, remains an open question. This study quantifies eddy heat flux as a function of ACC streamlines using a unique 20-yr time series of upper-ocean temperature and velocity transects with unprecedented horizontal resolution. Eddy heat flux is calculated using both time-mean and time-varying streamlines to isolate the dynamically important across-ACC heat flux component. The time-varying streamlines provide the best estimate of the across-ACC component because they track the shifting and meandering of the ACC fronts. The depth-integrated (0–900 m) across-stream eddy heat flux is maximum poleward in the south flank of the Subantarctic Front (−0.10 ± 0.05 GW m−1) and decreases toward the south, becoming statistically insignificant in the Polar Front, indicating heat convergence south of the Subantarctic Front. The time series provides an uncommon opportunity to explore the seasonal cycle of eddy heat flux. Poleward eddy heat flux in the Polar Front Zone is enhanced during austral autumn–winter, suggesting a seasonal variation in eddy-driven upwelling and thus the meridional overturning circulation.
Integrative Jungian Psychotherapy for Anxiety and OCD
Authors: Machado Silvio
Published: June 2020

Cognitive-behavioral interventions for anxiety and obsessive–compulsive disorder have received a great deal of attention for their growing evidence base. These therapies focus on symptom elimination by way of cognitive and behavioral change and, though undoubtedly helpful, miss important symbolic aspects of the client’s experience of these disorders that have the potential for meaning and the resolution of traumatic history. Jungian psychotherapy, like other depth-oriented and humanistically oriented approaches, is concerned both with meaning in the client’s life and the process by which the client becomes more themselves by integrating fragmented, wounded, and hidden aspects of the psyche—a process known as individuation. This article integrates Jungian concepts with trauma theory to generate an integrative framework for psychotherapy with individuals with anxiety and obsessive–compulsive disorder. The case of “Stefan,” which provides a description of trauma-informed psychotherapy incorporating eye movement desensitization and reprocessing within a Jungian framework, is then presented to illustrate key elements of this theoretical integration.
Juvenile Probation Officer Decision-Making in a Reforming State: Assessing the Application of Evidence-Based Principles
Authors: Miller Joel , Palmer Krissinda
Published: June 2020

Whereas research has shown improvements in decision-making shortly after the introduction of risk/need assessment (RNA) tools, studies of routine practice nonetheless show shortcomings in RNA utilization. The current study uses an experimental survey-based vignette method to assess juvenile probation officer decision-making several years into a sustained evidence-based effort to implement an RNA in Pennsylvania. Consistent with the risk-need-responsivity (RNR) model, results show officer decisions correspond with clients’ risk and need. Moreover, adherence to the RNR model was found for clients across risk levels and offense categories. However, officers often relied on services for low-risk clients, and made decisions about interventions based on offense characteristics. Results suggest a discretionary form of decision-making, taking cues from within and beyond the RNR model, including from punitive and traditional welfare-oriented approaches. Findings highlight the challenges of producing RNR-consistent decision-making, even when using a sustained scientific RNA implementation strategy.
Following the Girl Scout Trail in Schools for the Blind
Authors: Tomlinson Bertha E.
Published: June 2020

“Educators of the blind are doing a great deal in helping them to become self-supporting and useful members of society. Scouting with its splendid program of physical, mental, and moral development is capable of aiding greatly.

“Since the object of all education is to better fit us to do our part in building a saner, kindlier world, Girl Scouting with its splendid program of home making, outdoor activities, community service, and character building should greatly benefit any girl.”

—From letters of Emeline Brandeen.
Learning Gains From the KinderTEK® iPad Math Program: Does Timing of a Preventative Intervention Matter?
Authors: Cary Mari Strand , Kennedy Patrick C. , Shanley Lina , Clarke Ben
Published: June 2020

A quasi-experimental design in six kindergarten classrooms ( n = 123 students) was used to study the effects of the KinderTEK iPad–based math program on the math achievement of students in general education classrooms. Student math outcomes in three treatment ( early start) classrooms were compared to math outcomes for students in three comparison ( late start) classrooms. Results suggested that relatively brief exposure to KinderTEK produced gains on distal measures of early numeracy and that, on average, timing of intervention delivery did not impact end of year math outcomes. However, exploratory analyses suggested that earlier and longer use of KinderTEK may have provided a benefit for students most at risk in math. The utility of quasi-experimental studies within an overarching research program and implications for the adoption of technology-based math programs in kindergarten classrooms are discussed.
DAB+ as a systemic innovation: Stakeholder interests and the introduction of digital radio
Authors: Evens Tom
Published: June 2020

Radio is on the brink of a digital wave brought about by the introduction of digital audio broadcasting (DAB+). Despite market success in a few European countries, there remains little evidence of industry support and consumer demand. By means of a stakeholder analysis, the article identifies the main stakeholders in the implementation of digital radio in the region of Flanders, to recognise tensions between public and private interests and to discuss possible government policies aimed at promoting the standard among all stakeholders. By seeing DAB+ as a systemic innovation, it offers a structural approach to address the ongoing dynamics of the organisational and institutional system around DAB+ and other media distribution technologies in other European markets (or beyond).
A ‘conversation’ between Frank Land [FL] and Antony Bryant [AB] – : Part 2
Authors: Bryant Antony , Land Frank
Published: June 2020

Part 1 of the ‘conversation’ offered important insights into a groundbreaking era for computer development – adding further detail to existing writings by Frank Land, the work of the LEO group in general, and extended accounts such as those by Ferry, Hally and Harding. This should have whetted the appetite for readers keen to know more, also prompting others to offer their own accounts. Part 2 moves on to Frank Land’s subsequent activities as one of the founding figures of the Information Systems (IS) Academy, and his ‘Emeritus’ phase.
MicroRNA-30a regulates acute cerebral ischemia-induced blood–brain barrier damage through ZnT4/zinc pathway
Authors: Wang Peng , Pan Rong , Weaver John , Jia Mengjie , Yang Xue , Yang Tianhui , Liang Jia , Liu Ke J
Published: June 2020

The mechanism of early blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption after stroke has been intensively studied but still not fully understood. Here, we report that microRNA-30a (miR-30a) could mediate BBB damage using both cellular and animal models of ischemic stroke. In the experiments in vitro, inhibition of miR-30a decreased BBB permeability, prevented the degradation of tight junction proteins, and reduced intracellular free zinc in endothelial cells. We found that the zinc transporter ZnT4 was a direct target of negative regulation by miR-30a, and ZnT4/zinc signaling pathway contributed significantly to miR-30a-mediated BBB damage. Consistent with these in vitro findings, treatment with miR-30a inhibitor reduced zinc accumulation, increased the expression of ZnT4, and prevented the loss of tight junction proteins in microvessels of ischemic animals. Furthermore, inhibition of miR-30a, even at 90 min post onset of middle cerebral artery occlusion, prevented BBB damage, reduced infarct volume, and ameliorated neurological deficits. Together, our findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms of cerebral ischemia-induced BBB disruption and indicate miR-30a as a regulator of BBB function that can be an effective therapeutic target for ischemic stroke.
Simulation of oxygen transport and estimation of tissue perfusion in extensive microvascular networks: Application to cerebral cortex
Authors: Celaya-Alcala Jose T , Lee Grace V , Smith Amy F , Li Bohan , Sakadžić Sava , Boas David A , Secomb Timothy W
Published: June 2020

Advanced imaging techniques have made available extensive three-dimensional microvascular network structures. Simulation of oxygen transport by such networks requires information on blood flow rates and oxygen levels in vessels crossing boundaries of the imaged region, which is difficult to obtain experimentally. Here, a computational method is presented for estimating blood flow rates, oxygen levels, tissue perfusion and oxygen extraction, based on incomplete boundary conditions. Flow rates in all segments are estimated using a previously published method. Vessels crossing the region boundary are classified as arterioles, capillaries or venules. Oxygen levels in inflowing capillaries are assigned based on values in outflowing capillaries, and similarly for venules. Convective and diffusive oxygen transport is simulated. Contributions of each vessel to perfusion are computed in proportion to the decline in oxygen concentration along that vessel. For a vascular network in the mouse cerebral cortex, predicted tissue oxygen levels show a broad distribution, with 99% of tissue in the range of 20 to 80 mmHg under reference conditions, and steep gradients near arterioles. Perfusion and extraction estimates are consistent with experimental values. A 30% reduction in perfusion or a 30% increase in oxygen demand, relative to reference levels, is predicted to result in tissue hypoxia.
Test–retest variability and reference region-based quantification of 18F-BCPP-EF for imaging mitochondrial complex I in the human brain
Authors: Mansur Ayla , Rabiner Eugenii A , Tsukada Hideo , Comley Robert A , Lewis Yvonne , Huiban Mickael , Passchier Jan , Gunn Roger N
Published: June 2020

Mitochondrial complex I (MC-I) is an essential regulator of brain bioenergetics and can be quantified in the brain using PET radioligand 18F-BCPP-EF. Here we evaluate the test–retest reproducibility of 18F-BCPP-EF in humans, and assess the use of a non-invasive quantification method (standardised uptake value ratio – SUVR). Thirty healthy volunteers had a 90-min dynamic 18F-BCPP-EF scan with arterial blood sampling, five of which received a second scan to be included in the test–retest analysis. Time-activity curves (TAC) were analysed using multilinear analysis 1 (MA1) and the two-tissue compartment model (2TC) to estimate volumes of distribution (VT). Regional SUVR-1 values were calculated from the 70 to 90-min TAC data using the centrum semiovale as a pseudo reference region, and compared to kinetic analysis-derived outcome measures. The mean absolute test–retest variability of VT ranged from 12% to 18% across regions. Both DVR-1and SUVR-1 had improved test–retest variability in the range 2%–7%. SUVR-1 was highly correlated with DVR-1 (r2 = 0.97, n = 30). In conclusion, 18F-BCPP-EF has suitable test–retest reproducibility and can be used to quantify MC-I in clinical studies.
Distributed and consistent multi-image feature matching via QuickMatch
Authors: Serlin Zachary , Yang Guang , Sookraj Brandon , Belta Calin , Tron Roberto
Published: June 2020

In this work, we consider the multi-image object matching problem in distributed networks of robots. Multi-image feature matching is a keystone of many applications, including Simultaneous Localization and Mapping, homography, object detection, and Structure from Motion. We first review the QuickMatch algorithm for multi-image feature matching. We then present NetMatch, an algorithm for distributing sets of features across computational units (agents) that largely preserves feature match quality and minimizes communication between agents (avoiding, in particular, the need to flood all data to all agents). Finally, we present an experimental application of both QuickMatch and NetMatch on an object matching test with low-quality images. The QuickMatch and NetMatch algorithms are compared with other standard matching algorithms in terms of preservation of match consistency. Our experiments show that QuickMatch and Netmatch can scale to larger numbers of images and features, and match more accurately than standard techniques.
Leadership Perceptions and Practices of Hospitality in Senior Care
Authors: Johs-Artisensi Jennifer L. , Hansen Kevin E. , Olson Douglas M. , Creapeau Lindsey J. G.
Published: June 2020

Senior care providers are increasingly focused on hospitality to distinguish themselves from competitors. A mixed-methods approach was used to examine perceptions of hospitality from leadership (i.e., administrators of nursing homes and assisted living facilities) and use of hospitality practices across settings and lines of service. Results indicated that hospitality practices readily exist in senior care settings (i.e., nursing homes, assisted living facilities), but may be referred to by names other than hospitality. There also appear to be more similarities than differences in practices across long-term care service lines (i.e., short- and long-stay nursing home residents, assisted living), suggesting that, regardless of provider type, hospitality in senior care is becoming part of the expected culture and cadre of services for residents. Overall, findings suggest hospitality practices are related to providers’ census, payer mix, and organizational performance.
Conceptualizing Teacher Agency for Inclusive Education: A Systematic and International Review
Authors: Li Lingyu , Ruppar Andrea
Published: June 2020

Teachers can and should play a powerful active role in promoting societal inclusion and equity for all learners. There is an emerging interest among teacher education scholars in teacher agency and its importance; however, a theoretical and empirical understanding of teacher agency remains elusive. The purposes of this systematic review are to synthesize existing theories of teacher agency and summarize factors enhancing or constraining teacher agency for inclusive education. Implications for teacher education, professional development, and future studies were discussed. The electronic databases Academic Search Premier, Education Research Complete, ERIC, and PsycINFO were systematically searched for articles published until January 2019. Nine empirical studies were identified to inform the three-dimensional (i.e., iterational, practical-evaluative, projective) and temporal-relational nature of teacher agency, with inclusive teacher identity, professional competence, inclusive professional philosophy, autonomy, and reflexivity as its five core aspects.
Effect of drop weight impact on the torsional-loading behavior of filament wound and prepreg-wrapped composite tubes
Authors: Soykok Ibrahim Fadil , Tas Hamza , Ozdemir Okan , Kandas Halis
Published: June 2020

This article presents an experimental study on the torsional behavior of composite tubes subjected to impact loadings. Four types of composite tubes with the winding angle of 30°, 45°, 60°, and 75° ([±30]FW, [±45]FW, [±60]FW, and [±75]FW) were produced with the filament winding method. Besides, a [0,90]PP composite tube was manufactured with the prepreg wrapping technique. After the composite tubes were impacted at 2.5 J, 5.0 J, and 7.5 J, non-impacted and impacted composite tubes were tested under torsional loading. Contact force–deformation curves of impacted tubes are presented. Torsional moment–twist angle relations for both impacted and non-impacted composite tubes were obtained. In addition, front view and side view of the impacted zone of composite tubes are given. The results showed that sample [±60]FW had the best impact performance with regard to absorbed energy. The impacted samples of [±60]FW and [±75]FW had the lowest torsional strength for each energy level.
Income Inequality and Ideological Positions in the U.S. Congress
Authors: Ladewig Jeffrey W.
Published: June 2020

Over the past twenty years, there has been much discussion about two of the most important recent trends in American politics: the increase in income inequality in the United States and the increase in ideological and partisan polarization, particularly in the U.S. House. These two national-level trends are commonly thought to be positively related. But, there are few tested theoretical connections between them, and it is potentially problematic to infer individual-level behavior from these aggregate-level trends. In fact, an examination of the literature reveals, at least, three different theoretical outcomes for district-level income inequality on voter and congressional ideological positions. I explore these district-level theoretical and empirical possibilities as well as test them over decades with three different measures of income inequality. I argue and demonstrate that higher district levels of income inequality are related to higher levels of ideological liberalism in the U.S. House. This stands in contrast to the national-level trends, but it tracks closely to traditional understandings of congressional behavior.
Testosterone Associations With Parents’ Child Abuse Risk and At-Risk Parenting: A Multimethod Longitudinal Examination
Authors: Rodriguez Christina M. , Granger Douglas A. , Leerkes Esther M.
Published: June 2020

The current investigation considered salivary testosterone as a potential biomarker of physical child abuse risk. Parents enrolled in a prospective, longitudinal, multimethod study beginning prenatally provided saliva when their toddlers were 18 months old. Mothers and fathers self-reported on their empathy, frustration tolerance, and child abuse risk, as well as completing analog tasks of frustration intolerance and child abuse risk and participating in structured parent-child interactions. In contrast to mothers, fathers’ higher testosterone levels were associated with increased child abuse risk, less observed positive parenting, more observed negative parenting, and an analog task of frustration intolerance; such findings were reflected across time. Further, fathers’ socioeconomic status moderated the association between testosterone levels and abuse risk. No evidence of partner effects was observed in dyadic analyses. The current findings suggest that higher testosterone levels reflect an increased likelihood that paternal physically abusive behavior may be expressed.
Help-Seeking Behaviors and Barriers Among Black Women Exposed to Severe Intimate Partner Violence: Findings From a Nationally Representative Sample
Authors: Lacey Krim K. , Jiwatram-Negron Tina , Sears Karen Powell
Published: June 2020

This article examined general help-seeking utilization and barriers among U.S. Black women reporting severe physical intimate partner violence (IPV). Data from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL), the largest and most detailed survey on Blacks residing in the United States, were analyzed. Among U.S. Black women reporting severe physical IPV, many sought the help of a psychiatrist (13.8%) or other mental health professionals (14.0%). Multivariate findings revealed associations between help-seeking utilization and sociodemographic factors. Queries from open responses suggested potential cultural and ethnic differences between African American and Caribbean Black women reporting intimate partner violence in relation to barriers to help-seeking.
The Affective Intensities of Gender Transformative Work: An Actionable Framework for Facilitators Working with Boys and Young Men
Authors: Keddie Amanda , Bartel Doris
Published: June 2020

Facilitating critical discussions with young men about issues of masculinity is not easy work. Gender transformative programs must engage with difficult conversations about issues such as heterosexism, homophobia, and masculine entitlement. The affective force of these issues tends to be downplayed in the pedagogic approaches within these programs, as does the complex facilitation skills required to engage boys and men in these difficult conversations. This paper draws on interview data gathered from a broader study that sought to identify new educative approaches to gender justice in four different sites in the United States. The data were generated through discussions with facilitators and researchers involved in the delivery and evaluation of a gender transformative program for disadvantaged boys and young men. The paper presents four stories that foreground concerns expressed in the interviews about facilitator bias and the feminist delivery of the program. These stories highlight the affective intensities involved in gender transformative work with young men. The paper brings together important work in the area of critical pedagogies, affect, and feminist theory to offer an actionable framework to support facilitators and participants to critically engage with the affective intensities of gender transformative work.
Glucose Homeostasis in Obese Women Is Not Associated to Unacylated Ghrelin Plasma Levels
Authors: Veiga Luisa , Brito Miguel , Silva Carina , Silva-Nunes José
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Unacylated ghrelin (UAG) is the major form of circulating ghrelin. Initially considered as a nonfunctional peptide, soon after, UAG has been associated to an insulin sensitizing action and to a negative action on energy balance. The aim of this study was to analyze the association between the serum levels of UAG and glucose metabolism parameters in obese women, independently from eventual influence of anthropometrics.

Methods:

One hundred lean and 254 obese Caucasian women were studied. Each woman was characterized for anthropometrics, fasting glucose, insulin, HbA1c, and UAG. In addition, obese women were subjected to a classic oral glucose tolerance test (oGTT) to assess glucose and insulin at 120 minutes. Insulin resistance was assessed by the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR). Obese women were classified in 3 glycemic status subgroups (normoglycemia, prediabetes, and diabetes) according to HbA1c and to fasting and oGTT glucose values.

Results:

In comparison with the lean group, significantly lower levels of UAG were observed in obese women. However, no significant difference was observed through obesity classes I to III. UAG levels were not significantly different among glycemic status subgroups and did not show any association with glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, or HbA1c.

Conclusions:

Although anthropometry can influence the level of the unacylated form of ghrelin, UAG plasma levels do not associate to glucose homeostasis parameters.
Biopower, juridical power and the afterlife of rights: Medical assistance in dying and the Supreme Court of Canada
Authors: Young Diana
Published: June 2020

This article considers how different modalities of power emerge in medical assistance in dying (MAID) cases, particularly with respect to the Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in Carter v. Canada (A.G.) [2015]. While juridical rationalities cast the issue of MAID in terms of individual rights, Carter and subsequent legislation distinguishes MAID from assisted suicide through the creation of a regulatory scheme, so that individuals seeking MAID continue to be governed by medical power. This may seem to confirm arguments that the image of subjectivity evoked by juridical discourses simply results in the reinforcement of existing power relations. However, this article argues that it is the very regulatory scheme governing MAID that provides points of resistance, giving the individual opportunities to challenge medical power in ways that may destabilize power relations.
Wind tunnel tests on the aerodynamic characteristics of vehicles on highway bridges
Authors: He Xuhui , Xue Fanrong , Zou Yunfeng , Chen Suren , Han Yan , Du Bing , Xu Xiangdong , Ma Baihu
Published: June 2020

Accurately quantifying the aerodynamic forces acting on vehicles and long-span bridges is critical for assessing the safety of moving vehicles on bridges which are subjected to strong wind. It is necessary to consider the aerodynamic interference between vehicles and the bridge, especially for this with the bluff body section and wind barriers. However, very few investigations have been carried out to find aerodynamic coefficients of vehicles on a bridge with the bluff body section and considering the effect of wind barrier. This article therefore carried out wind tunnel tests to determine aerodynamic coefficients of container truck on a bridge with a π-cross section and wind barriers. The influence of vehicle position in different road lanes of the bridge deck and the aerodynamic interference between vehicles on the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicle and the bridge are investigated. Different heights and ventilation ratios of wind barrier are taken into consideration to examine variations of aerodynamic coefficients with different wind barriers. Furthermore, the change mechanism in the aerodynamic coefficients of the vehicles is observed by analyzing the wind pressure distribution on the surface of the vehicles. The test results show that the different lane locations of the vehicle affect the aerodynamic coefficients significantly, as well as the aerodynamic interference between vehicles with transverse arrangement or longitudinal arrangement, especially for the side force coefficient. The existence of wind barrier reduces the side force coefficients of the vehicle remarkably. Such effects also vary with the ventilation ratio and height of wind barrier.
Perspectives of caregivers with child welfare involvement in a supportive housing program
Authors: Rosenwald Mitchell , Bazazzadeh Shima , Shine Agnes , Taylor Cierra
Published: June 2020

The literature is absent on qualitative research that documents perspectives of caregivers involved in child welfare and who participated in a U.S. Housing First supportive housing intervention. A program evaluation of a social work-led, Housing First intervention was conducted, and this study reports the qualitative findings of the evaluation. Drawing on the focus group method, nine caregivers, involved in child welfare and with a history of homelessness risk, shared their perspectives on the Housing First intervention as well as the impact of the Housing First intervention on their families.

Findings

Using two-cycle coding for theme analysis, researchers independently analyzed the focus group transcripts and jointly identified seven themes. The themes include: (1) experience with adversity, (2) spiritual impact, (3) resources and services, (4) role of support of staff, (5) housing stability, (6) self-sufficiency, and (7) family stability.

Applications

This research provides insight into for social work administrators to develop a trauma-informed, strengths-based Housing First program to assist child welfare-involved families. Further, specific roles are delineated that social workers occupy when working with families in a Housing First program; these roles include educator, advocate, and nurturer. This information can provide supervisors and grant writers with specific staff functions that can be helpful in creating staffing patterns, providing job descriptions, and detailing program support. Finally, the themes of housing stability, family stability, and self-sufficiency support the U.S Children’s Bureau’s goals of safety, permanency, and well-being and meet the social work profession’s obligation to protect children and improve family functioning
Comics-based research: The affordances of comics for research across disciplines
Authors: Kuttner Paul J , Weaver-Hightower Marcus B , Sousanis Nick
Published: June 2020

Comics have long been a focus of scholarly inquiry. In recent years, this interest has taken a methodological turn, with scholars integrating comics creation into the research process itself. In this article, the authors begin to define and document this emerging, interdisciplinary field of methodological practice. They lay out key affordances that comics offers researchers across the disciplines, arguing that certain characteristics—multimodality, blending of sequential and simultaneous communication, emphasis on creator voice—afford powerful tools for inquiry. The authors finish by offering some questions and challenges for the field as it matures.
Facilitating transcatheter aortic valve implantation in the era of COVID-19: Recommendations for programmes
Authors: Lauck Sandra , Forman Jacqueline , Borregaard Britt , Sathananthan Janarthanan , Achtem Leslie , McCalmont Gemma , Muir Douglas , Hawkey Marian C , Smith Amanda , Højberg Kirk Bettina , Wood David A , Webb John G
Published: June 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to significantly impact the treatment of people living with aortic stenosis, and access to transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) programmes require unique coordinated processes that are currently experiencing multiple disruptions and are guided by rapidly evolving protocols. We present a series of recommendations for TAVI programmes to adapt to the new demands, based on recent evidence and the international expertise of nurse leaders and collaborators in this field. Although recommended in most guidelines, the uptake of the role of the TAVI programme nurse is uneven across international regions. COVID-19 is further highlighting why a nurse-led central point of coordination and communication is a vital asset for patients and programmes. We propose an alternative streamlined evaluation pathway to minimize patients’ pre-procedure exposure to the hospital environment while ensuring appropriate treatment decision and shared decision-making. The competing demands created by COVID-19 require vigilant wait list management, with risk stratification, telephone surveillance and optimized triage and prioritization. A minimalist approach with close scrutiny of all parts of the procedure has become an imperative to avoid any complications and ensure patients’ accelerated recovery. Lastly, we outline a nurse-led protocol of rapid mobilization and reconditioning as an effective strategy to facilitate safe next-day discharge home. As the pandemic abates, TAVI programmes must facilitate access to care without compromising patient safety, enable hospitals to manage the competing demands created by COVID-19 and establish new processes to support patients living with valvular heart disease.
Digital soil: Robotically 3D-printed granular bio-composites
Authors: Mitterberger Daniela , Derme Tiziano
Published: June 2020

Organic granular materials offer a valid alternative for non-biodegradable composites widely adopted in building construction and digital fabrication. Despite the need to find alternatives to fuel-based solutions, current material research in architecture mostly supports strategies that favour predictable, durable and homogeneous solutions. Materials such as soil, due to their physical properties and volatile nature, present new challenges and potentials to change the way we manufacture, built and integrate material systems and environmental factors into the design process. This article proposes a novel fabrication framework that combines high-resolution three-dimensional-printed biodegradable materials with a novel robotic-additive manufacturing process for soil structures. Furthermore, the research reflects on concepts such as affordance and tolerance within the field of digital fabrication, especially in regards to bio-materials and robotic fabrication. Soil as a building material has a long tradition. New developments in earth construction show how earthen buildings can create novel, adaptive and sustainable structures. Nevertheless, existing large-scale earthen construction methods can only produce highly simplified shapes with rough geometrical articulations. This research proposes to use a robotic binder-jetting process that creates novel organic bio-composites to overcome such limitations of common earth constructions. In addition, this article shows how biological polymers, such as polysaccharides-based hydrogels, can be used as sustainable, biodegradable binding agents for soil aggregates. This article is divided into four main sections: architecture and affordance; tolerance versus precision; water-based binders; and robotic fabrication parameters. Digital Soil envisions a shift in the design practice and digital fabrication that builds on methods for tolerance handling. In this context, material and geometrical properties such as material porosity, hydraulic conductivity and natural evaporation rate affect the architectural resolution, introducing a design process driven by matter. Digital Soil shows the potential of a fully reversible biodegradable manufacturing process for load-bearing architectural elements, opening up new fields of application for sustainable material systems that can enhance the ecological potential of architectural construction.
Novel triple coaxial system to navigate 9 French balloon guiding catheter into common carotid artery
Authors: Yasuda Ryuta , Toma Naoki , Suzuki Yume , Miura Yoichi , Shiba Masato , Suzuki Hidenori
Published: June 2020

Background

It is often hard to navigate a 9 French (F) balloon guiding catheter in patients with type III or bovine aortic arch. Also, a common carotid artery stenosis is challenging, because a guidewire cannot be advanced distally. We developed the combination of a 4F Simmons-type catheter and a 6F distal access catheter as a coaxial inner catheter to navigate a 9F balloon guiding catheter to overcome these difficulties.

Materials and methods

Medical record at our institution was retrospectively reviewed and carotid artery stenting cases in which the 4F Simmons-6F distal access catheter system was employed as a coaxial catheter to navigate a 9F balloon guiding catheter were identified. To construct this system, a 4F 145 cm SY3 (Hanako Medical, Saitama, Japan) and a 6F 118 cm Cerulean DD6 (Medikit Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) were usually employed. A rotating hemostatic valve should be as short as possible and was attached to only a 9F balloon guiding catheter. The length of a 0.035-in. guidewire needed to be 180 cm or longer.

Results

During the study period, 106 carotid artery stenting cases were identified. Of these, this system was employed in 29 cases that included 5 cases with a steno-occlusive lesion at common carotid artery/external carotid artery, 10 with type III or bovine arch, and 11 harboring both. In all the cases, a 9F balloon guiding catheter was successfully navigated.

Conclusion

The 4F Simmons-6F distal access catheter system was useful in navigating a 9F balloon guiding catheter in patients with a common carotid artery stenosis, an external carotid artery occlusion, and an in-stent restenosis, especially when they also harbored type III or bovine aortic arch.
A novel mobile robot navigation method based on deep reinforcement learning
Authors: Quan Hao , Li Yansheng , Zhang Yi
Published: June 2020

At present, the application of mobile robots is more and more extensive, and the movement of mobile robots cannot be separated from effective navigation, especially path exploration. Aiming at navigation problems, this article proposes a method based on deep reinforcement learning and recurrent neural network, which combines double net and recurrent neural network modules with reinforcement learning ideas. At the same time, this article designed the corresponding parameter function to improve the performance of the model. In order to test the effectiveness of this method, based on the grid map model, this paper trains in a two-dimensional simulation environment, a three-dimensional TurtleBot simulation environment, and a physical robot environment, and obtains relevant data for peer-to-peer analysis. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm has a good improvement in path finding efficiency and path length.
Dynamics of a specialized and complex health care system: Exploring general practitioners’ management of multimorbidity
Authors: Nissen Nina Konstantin , Aarhus Rikke , Ørtenblad Lisbeth
Published: June 2020

Objective

To explore general practitioners’ (GPs’) experiences of cooperation with hospital-based physicians regarding multimorbid patients and to identify challenges as well as strategies in managing such challenges. Study setting: Three medical practices in a provincial town in Denmark.

Study design

A qualitative methodological design was used with explorative data collection among GPs. Data collection/Extraction methods: Participant observation, qualitative interviews and a focus group interview were conducted. Interpretive description was used as the analytical framework. Principal findings: The GPs appreciated cooperating with physicians in optimizing treatment of multimorbid patients. However, three main challenges were experienced: insufficient communication and coordination; unclear divisions of roles and responsibilities; and differences in the way of approaching patients. The GPs navigated these challenges and complexities by taking advantage of their personal relationships and by developing creative and patient-centred ad hoc solutions to difficulties in cross-sectorial cooperation. A hospital initiative to support care for multimorbid patients has not been adopted by the GPs as a preferred strategy.

Conclusions

The structures of the health care system severely challenged cooperation regarding multimorbid patients; nevertheless, these GPs were aware of the advantages of cooperation, and their mainstay strategy in this involved personalized solutions and flexibility.
Presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of prostatic abscess: comparison of three treatment modalities
Authors: Alnadhari Ibrahim , Sampige Venkata Ramana Pai , Abdeljaleel Osama , El Ansari Walid , Ali Omar , Salah Morshed , Shamsodini Ahmad
Published: June 2020

Purpose:

The lack of available guidelines for the management of prostatic abscess (PA) results in inconsistencies in its management. The most commonly used management modalities were conservative treatment with parenteral antibiotics alone, transrectal ultrasound-guided (TRUS) needle aspiration, or transurethral deroofing (TUD). The current study is a retrospective study and examines prostatic abscess cases treated by either one or more of the different modalities. We assess and compare presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcomes of prostatic abscess and we compare the outcomes of the three management modalities.

Methods:

We retrieved the records of all patients ( n = 23) admitted to the Urology department at Al Wakra hospital with the computed tomography (CT) diagnosis of prostatic abscess from January 2013 to March 2018. Data collected included demographic, clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings, as well as management modality, duration of hospital stay, duration of follow up, outcome, and recurrence.

Results:

A total of nine (39.1%) patients had conservative treatment only; eight (34.8%) had TUD, and six (26.1%) had TRUS needle aspiration. The mean age was 52.7 years. Lower urinary tract symptoms and fever were the most common presentations (95.7% and 82.6%, respectively). CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis with contrast was undertaken for all patients and it showed that multiple abscesses were observed in 14 (60.9%) cases. The overall mean hospital stay was 8.45 days (range 2–21 days). We observed no recurrences for patients treated conservatively or those who undertook TUD, but three patient (50%) recurrences were noted in TRUS aspiration patients. There was no mortality across the sample.

Conclusion:

Early diagnosis of prostatic abscess and prompt management may have decreased the morbidity and mortality. Conservative management can succeed in subcentimeter abscesses but TUD is the definite therapy for large and multiloculated abscess. TRUS aspiration does have a role in treatment, but it has higher recurrence and longer hospital stay.
Effectiveness and safety of leflunomide compared with cyclophosphamide as induction therapy in Takayasu’s arteritis: an observational study
Authors: Dai Xiaomin , Cui Xiaomeng , Sun Ying , Ma Lili , Jiang Lindi
Published: June 2020

Aims:

The objective of this study was to investigate the outcomes of leflunomide (LEF) compared with those of cyclophosphamide (CYC) as induction against active Takayasu’s arteritis (TA) in Chinese patients.

Methods:

This was an observational study based on a prospective cohort that included TA patients diagnosed in large third-level first-class general hospitals in East China from January 2009 to September 2018. LEF- or CYC-induced active patients were enrolled for comparative effectiveness analysis. One-to-more paired cohorts of LEF versus CYC were derived by propensity-score matching (PSM). The primary outcome was complete remission (CR) at 9-month follow up, and secondary endpoints included partial remission (PR) and effectiveness rate (ER). Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify statistical significance.

Results:

A total of 131 enrolled patients with at least 3-months treatment included 53 receiving a regimen of glucocorticoid (GC) and LEF and 78 receiving GC and CYC. Compared with the CYC group, the LEF group showed higher CR rate {LEF versus CYC: 84.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 74.5–94.8%] versus 59.0% (47.8–70.1%); relative risk (RR) = 0.3 (0.1–0.6), p = 0.002} and lower daily GC dose [10.0 (5.0–12.5) versus 12.5 (10.0–15.0) mg, p = 0.043] at the end of the 9-month induction. In the matched analysis, the LEF group ( n = 23) still indicated a higher CR rate than the CYC group ( n = 54) after PSM [RR = 0.1 (0.0–0.6), p = 0.003]. Four LEF-treated patients had mild side effects, and one died unrelated to LEF.

Conclusion:

LEF could be an alternative induction therapy against TA, showing good effectiveness and tolerance compared with CYC.
Lower extremity revascularization via endovascular and surgical approaches: A systematic review with emphasis on combined inflow and outflow revascularization
Authors: Mustapha Jihad A , Anose Bynthia M , Martinsen Brad J , Pliagas George , Ricotta Joseph , Boyes Christopher W , Lee Michael S , Saab Fadi , Adams George
Published: June 2020

This review is intended to help clinicians and patients understand the present state of peripheral artery disease, appreciate the progression and presentation of critical limb ischemia/chronic limb-threatening ischemia, and make informed decisions regarding inflow and outflow endovascular revascularization and surgical treatment options within the context of current debates in the medical community. A controlled literature search was performed to obtain research on outcomes of critical limb ischemia patients undergoing complete leg revascularization for peripheral artery disease inflow and outflow disease. Data for this review were identified by queries of medical and life science databases, expert referral, and references from relevant papers published between 1997 and 2019, resulting in 48 articles. The literature review herein indicates that endovascular revascularization—including ballooning, stenting, and atherectomy—is an effective peripheral artery disease therapy for both above the knee and below the knee disease, and can safely and effectively treat both inflow and outflow disease. As such, it plays a leading role in the therapy of lower extremity artery disease.