bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drive-Through Model for Anticoagulation Clinics During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Rezaei Bookani Kaveh , Minga Iva , Chander Manisha , Hankewych Ksenia , Plassmeier Matthew , Tafur Alfonso
Published: August 2020

The coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) has posed a major challenge for providers and patients. A large number of patients with atrial fibrillation, venous thromboembolism, or valvular heart disease are chronically anticoagulated with vitamin K antagonists and rely on frequent follow ups at anticoagulation clinics for management of their anticoagulation therapy. The need for isolation during COVID-19 pandemic can potentially limit access to health care including anticoagulation clinics and directly affect the care of patients on chronic anticoagulation. Therefore, we created a drive-through clinic to bridge the gap of continuation of care and preservation of social distancing precautions. In this manuscript, we report the steps in implementing such initiative which can be applied to other clinics during a pandemic.
Observer-based sliding mode control for piezoelectric wing bending-torsion coupling flutter involving delayed output
Authors: Li Da , Yang Hui , Qi Na , Yuan Jiaxin
Published: August 2020

An observer-based sliding mode control scheme is proposed for suppressing bending-torsion coupling flutter motions of a wing aeroelastic system with delayed output by using the piezoelectric patch actuators. The wing structure is modeled as a thin-walled beam, and the aerodynamics on the wing are computed by the strip theory. For the implementation of the control algorithm, the piezoelectric patch is bonded on the top surface of the beam to act as the actuator. Ignoring the effect of piezoelectric actuators on structural dynamics, only considering the bending moments induced by piezoelectric effects, the corresponding dynamic motion equation is established by using the Lagrange method with the assumed mode method. The flutter speed and frequency of the closed-loop system with time delay are obtained by solving a polynomial eigenvalue problem. An observer-based controller that does not dependent on time delay is developed for suppressing the flutter, and the corresponding gain matrices are obtained by solving linear matrix inequalities. The sufficient condition for the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system is derived in terms of linear matrix inequalities. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed control strategy based on the piezoelectric actuator is effective in wing bending-torsion coupling flutter system with a delayed output.
Optimization of modified Bouc–Wen model for magnetorheological damper using modified cuckoo search algorithm
Authors: Rosli Rosmazi , Mohamed Zamri
Published: August 2020

This article presents a new modified cuckoo search algorithm with dynamic discovery probability and step-size factor for optimizing the Bouc–Wen Model in magnetorheological damper application. The newly proposed algorithm was tested using a set of standard benchmark functions with different searching space and global optima placement. An engineering optimization application was chosen to evaluate the performance of the algorithm in complex engineering applications. The optimization task involved hysteresis parameter identification of the root mean square error between the model and an actual magnetorheological damper. The magnetorheological damper response was chosen as the objective function. The final value of the fitness function and the iteration number it took to converge were used as the qualifying indicator to the proposed cuckoo search algorithm efficiency. A comparison was done against particle swarm optimization, genetic algorithm, and sine–cosine algorithm, where the modified cuckoo search algorithm showed the lowest root mean square error and fastest convergence rate among the three algorithms.
The Impact of Nursing Staff on Satisfaction Scores for U.S. Hospitals: A Production Function Approach
Authors: Delhy Roberto , Dor Avi , Pittman Patricia
Published: August 2020

Hospitals have increasingly relied on nurse assistants to support nurses in the provision of patient care, yet knowledge about their contributions to the patient experience in U.S. hospitals is limited. We address this issue by exploring the impact of nurse assistants and registered nurses on an array of patient satisfaction measures from the Medicare Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems. Using linked data for 2,807 hospitals from 2008 to 2016, we employ a production function approach to estimate and plot marginal impact curves for both nurse assistants and registered nurses. We find that although registered nurses are more impactful, nurse assistants are the more underdeployed staffing category. We also find that after meeting certain thresholds for minimal hours, nurse assistants have a comparative advantage in improving patient satisfaction scores in the housekeeping and patient support domain. Given their lower labor costs, further employment of nurse assistants may be warranted.
The pharmacist’s role in chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy
Authors: Booth Jennifer P , Kusoski Carolyn L , Kennerly-Shah Julie M
Published: August 2020

The emergence and efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy in previously incurable malignancies represents a promising paradigm shift in cancer care. However, it is not without significant clinical, operational, and financial considerations. Pharmacists should be prepared to fulfill the various roles in CAR T cell therapy provision including: policy development; electronic medical record build; patient and staff education; patient selection; procurement, storage, and handling; medication administration and supportive care; management of adverse reactions; and quality tracking. Our commentary provides an overview of the opportunities for pharmacy involvement in the implementation and maintenance of a CAR T cell therapy program with an emphasis on the importance of pharmacy involvement as part of a multidisciplinary approach to care. Although some institutions have dedicated a CAR T cell pharmacist to meet the demands of emerging CAR T cell therapy, we believe that clinical pharmacists practicing in hematopoietic stem cell transplant and hematology/oncology have the skills and training to fulfill the pharmacist’s role in CAR T cell therapy.
Factors associated with adherence to follow-up calls in cancer patients receiving care at a community oncology practice
Authors: Monestime Shanada , Page Ray , Shaw Nicole , Martin Randy , Jordan William , Rangel Jessica , Aryal Subhash
Published: August 2020

Background

Follow-up calls in the oncology setting are frequently used to augment care and encourage oral antineoplastic adherence. However, limited data are available on patient populations that would benefit from this intervention versus populations that may require alternative interventions. The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics among patients on oral antineoplastic agents that influence their likelihood to respond to follow-up calls.

Methods

Patients receiving care from one of the eight community oncology clinics within the same branch were analyzed. Patients were included if they were ≥18 years, received a new oral antineoplastic agent that was electronically prescribed between August 2018–October 2018, and picked up their first fill from their pharmacy of choice. Patients received up to six follow-up calls after picking up their first prescription. Calls were categorized as adherent (≥3 monthly interactions) or non-adherent (<3 monthly interactions). Logistic regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with follow-up call adherence. Factors included demographics, cancer stage, marital status, employment, pharmacy setting (internal pharmacy versus external pharmacy), and insurance used by the patient. Descriptive analysis was performed to analyze response rates, cancer diagnosis, and to determine the best time and day patients responded to follow-up calls.

Results

Data from 125 patients were analyzed, of which 65 patients (52%) were adherent to follow-up calls and the mean response rate over six months was 45% (range: 35% -- 54%). High success rates for follow-up calls were seen between 12–3 pm and on Tuesdays and Thursdays. After adjusting for covariates, patients with stage III-IV were 89% less likely to respond to follow-up calls compared to those with stage 0-II (95% CI: 0.02–0.64; p = 0.01), patients with commercial insurance were 79% less likely to adhere to follow-up calls compared to those on government insurance (95% CI: 0.06-0.71; p = 0.01), and patients using an external pharmacy had a 2.8 times increase odds of being adherent (95% CI 0.98-8.34; p = 0.05). All other factors were not significant.

Conclusions

For patients taking oral antineoplastics, non-adherence to follow-up calls was observed in more than 45% of patients receiving care from a community oncology clinic. Findings demonstrated that those with advanced stages of cancer, on commercial insurance, and going to an internal pharmacy were at higher risk for not adhering to follow up calls. Therefore, alternative methods for managing adherence and side effects in these populations are warranted.
Tacrolimus induced pseudogout following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant
Authors: Cenin Danielle A , Freyer Craig W , Ligon Colin B , Luger Selina M , McCurdy Shannon R , Martin Mary Ellen , Frey Noelle V
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Crystalline arthritis (CA), characterized by acute joint pain and erythema secondary to calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD, or pseudogout) or monosodium urate crystals (gout), is a potentially underreported complication following allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant (alloHCT). Graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis with calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs) causes hypomagnesemia and hyperuricemia, resulting in CA. CA related to tacrolimus has yet to be characterized following alloHCT.

Case report

We retrospectively reviewed records of 450 consecutive patients undergoing alloHCT and identified 15 (3.3% incidence) who developed CA on tacrolimus. Large joints were involved in 10 (66.7%) patients, all patients had recent hypomagnesemia, and no patient had hyperuricemia, suggesting CPPD was the most likely etiology. Management and outcome: Eleven (73.3%) patients received systemic corticosteroids; 6 as initial therapy and 5 added to or substituted for colchicine in the setting of slow or inadequate response. The median duration of corticosteroid therapy was 6 days, however 2 patients (13.3%) required prolonged maintenance due to recurrence. Eleven (73.3%) patients received colchicine; 9 as initial therapy and 2 added to or substituted for corticosteroids in the setting of slow or inadequate response. The median duration of colchicine therapy was 18 days. The median time to symptom resolution was 21 days.

Discussion

Patients on tacrolimus following alloHCT presenting with acute joint pain and erythema should be evaluated for CPPD. Hypomagnesemia secondary to CNIs is likely the precipitating factor for CPPD in this population. Patients can effectively be managed with systemic corticosteroids and/or colchicine, however prolonged duration of treatment and even maintenance may be necessary. Based on the Naranjo Algorithm, CPPD secondary to tacrolimus induced hypomagnesemia is a possible adverse drug event, with a score of 3–4.
Feline conjunctival microbiota in a shelter: effects of time, upper respiratory disease and famciclovir administration
Authors: Lucyshyn Danica R , Maggs David J , Cooper Ann E , Rousseau Joyce D , Weese J Scott
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the conjunctival microbiota of shelter-housed cats with time, upper respiratory disease (URD) and famciclovir administration.

Methods

Cats were assigned to treatment groups on shelter entry. Healthy cats or cats with URD received ~30 mg/kg or ~90 mg/kg of famciclovir or placebo PO q12h for 7 days, or were untreated. Swabs were collected from ventral conjunctival fornices prior to (day 1) and immediately after (day 8) the treatment period. Microbiota analysis was conducted on 124 randomly selected swabs from healthy (56 swabs) or URD-affected (68 swabs) cats. Following DNA extraction and amplification of the V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene, sequences were assembled into operational taxonomic units (OTUs). Over-represented OTUs (as determined by linear discriminate analysis effect size), alpha and beta diversity, and median relative abundance of known feline ocular surface pathogens were assessed for the entire population and in 10 clinically relevant subpopulations of cats.

Results

Bacteria from 33 phyla and 70 genera were identified. Considering all cats, median relative abundance of Mycoplasma increased from day 1 to day 8, while Proteobacteria decreased. Community membership and structure (beta diversity) differed between days 1 and 8 for all famciclovir-treated cats (regardless of health status or dose) and healthy or URD-affected cats (regardless of famciclovir dose). Differences in taxonomic diversity within a sample (alpha diversity) between day 1 and day 8 were not detected in any subpopulations.

Conclusions and relevance

Within 1 week of shelter entry, there were significant changes in community structure and membership of the feline conjunctival microbiota, with a shift towards over-representation of feline ocular surface pathogens. Although famciclovir may impact beta diversity of the feline conjunctival microbiota, absence of change in alpha diversity suggests minimal shift in individual cats.
Effect of panretinal photocoagulation on macular vasculature using optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Faghihi Hooshang , Riazi-Esfahani Hamid , Khodabande Alireza , Khalili Pour Elias , Mirshahi Ahmad , Ghassemi Fariba , Mirshahi Reza , Khojasteh Hassan , Bazvand Fatemeh , Hashemi Amirhossein , Tayebi Fereshteh , Faghihi Shahin , Riazi Esfahani Mohammad
Published: August 2020

Background:

To evaluate the changes of macular vascular density in the superficial capillary (SCP) and the deep capillary plexus (DCP), foveal avascular area (FAZ), choroidal flow, and macular thickness after pan-retinal photocoagulation (PRP).

Methods:

In this prospective interventional non-comparative case series, patients with very severe nonproliferative (NPDR) and early proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and no significant macular edema who were candidates for pan-retinal photocoagulation underwent measurement of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), optical coherence tomography (OCT), Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) at the baseline, 1, and 6 months following completion of PRP treatment.

Results:

Thirty-nine eyes from 21 patients with diabetes were enrolled. Superficial and deep capillary plexus densities in the foveal and parafoveal area didn’t change significantly 1 and 6 months post-PRP ( p > 0.1 in all of them). The FAZ area constricted 6 months following PRP ( p = 0.075). Based on the calculated circularity index, the FAZ became significantly more circular after 6 months of follow-up ( p = 0.047). Although the choroidal flow area increased after PRP this increase wasn’t statically significant neither at 1 month nor at 6 months post-PRP ( p = 0.31 and 0.23, respectively).

Conclusion:

Although OCTA parameters were not significantly affected by PRP at both short-term (1 month) and long-term (6 months) follow-ups, the FAZ area became significantly circular after PRP may be due to redistribution of blood flow in hypoperfused foveal capillary plexus.
Fluid Biomarkers for Synaptic Dysfunction and Loss
Authors: Camporesi Elena , Nilsson Johanna , Brinkmalm Ann , Becker Bruno , Ashton Nicholas J , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik
Published: August 2020

Synapses are the site for brain communication where information is transmitted between neurons and stored for memory formation. Synaptic degeneration is a global and early pathogenic event in neurodegenerative disorders with reduced levels of pre- and postsynaptic proteins being recognized as a core feature of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathophysiology. Together with AD, other neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders show altered synaptic homeostasis as an important pathogenic event, and due to that, they are commonly referred to as synaptopathies. The exact mechanisms of synapse dysfunction in the different diseases are not well understood and their study would help understanding the pathogenic role of synaptic degeneration, as well as differences and commonalities among them and highlight candidate synaptic biomarkers for specific disorders. The assessment of synaptic proteins in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which can reflect synaptic dysfunction in patients with cognitive disorders, is a keen area of interest. Substantial research efforts are now directed toward the investigation of CSF synaptic pathology to improve the diagnosis of neurodegenerative disorders at an early stage as well as to monitor clinical progression. In this review, we will first summarize the pathological events that lead to synapse loss and then discuss the available data on established (eg, neurogranin, SNAP-25, synaptotagmin-1, GAP-43, and α-syn) and emerging (eg, synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A and neuronal pentraxins) CSF biomarkers for synapse dysfunction, while highlighting possible utilities, disease specificity, and technical challenges for their detection.
An Observational Study Assessing Immediate Complete Versus Delayed Complete Revascularisation in Patients with Multi-Vessel Disease Undergoing Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Rathod Krishnaraj Sinhji , Spagnolo Marco , Elliott Mark K , Beirne Anne-Marie , Smith Elliot J , Amersey Rajiv , Knight Charles , Weerackody Roshan , Baumbach Andreas , Mathur Anthony , Jones Daniel A
Published: August 2020

Background:

More than half of the patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) have multi-vessel coronary artery disease. This is associated with worse outcomes compared with single vessel disease. Whilst evidence now exists to support complete revascularisation for bystander disease the optimal timing is still debated. This study aimed to compare clinical outcomes in patients with STEMI and multi-vessel disease who underwent complete revascularisation as inpatients in comparison to patients who had staged PCI as early outpatients.

Methods and results:

We conducted an observational cohort study consisting of 1522 patients who underwent primary PCI with multi-vessel disease from 2012 to 2019. Exclusions included patients with cardiogenic shock and previous CABG. Patients were split into 2 groups depending on whether they had complete revascularisation performed as inpatients or as staged PCI at later outpatient dates. The primary outcome of this study was major adverse cardiac events (consisting of myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularisation and all-cause mortality). 834 (54.8%) patients underwent complete inpatient revascularisation and 688 patients (45.2%) had outpatient PCI (median 43 days post discharge). Of the inpatient group, 652 patients (78.2%) underwent complete revascularisation during the index procedure whilst 182 (21.8%) patients underwent inpatient bystander PCI in a second procedure. Overall, there were no significant differences between the groups with regards to their baseline or procedural characteristics. Over the follow-up period there was no significant difference in MACE between the cohorts ( P = .62), which persisted after multivariate adjustment (HR 1.21 [95% CI 0.72-1.96]). Furthermore, in propensity-matched analysis there was no significant difference in outcome between the groups (HR: 0.86 95% CI: 0.75-1.25).

Conclusions:

Our study demonstrated that the timing of bystander PCI after STEMI did not appear to have an effect on cardiovascular outcomes. We suggest that patients with multi-vessel disease can potentially be discharged promptly and undergo early outpatient bystander PCI. This could significantly reduce length of stay in hospital.
Changing tides: the impact of crisis on advertising
Authors: Jenyns Cameron
Published: August 2020

A short essay considering the impact the Coronavirus Crisis is having on advertising. By reflecting on the industry’s response to prior economic crises and identifying key trends and approaches, this essay argues the important role authenticity offers in developing strategic advertising campaigns that challenge the orthodoxy, and make deeper, more relevant connections with consumers, resulting in enriched brand meaning and competitive advantage.
Geospatial relationship of trauma and violent crime: An analysis of violent crime and trauma center utilization
Authors: Colosimo Christina , Yon James R , Ballesteros Steven R , Walsh Nathanial , Talukder Asif , Ham P Benson , Abuzeid Adel M , Mentzer Caleb J
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Descriptive epidemiologic and geographic analysis utilizing geographic information science (GIS) has been used to determine the utilization of trauma systems and to spatially describe patterns of trauma and crime. We examined the relationship between spatial components of criminality and injuries in order to evaluate the optimal trauma center location and determine a correlation between reported violent crime and trauma center utilization.

Methods

All adult trauma and violent crime (VC) encounters in a defined area over a single year were included. Geospatial statistics pattern analysis tools of Median Center (MC) and the Average Nearest Neighbor analysis (ANNa) were used to determine if mapped points occurred in complete spatial randomness or were clustered in a significant pattern.

Results

ANNa of VC resulted in a z-score of –20.54 and a p-value of <0.001, indicating a <1% likelihood that violent crimes were distributed randomly. Further ANNa yielded a zscore of –5.67 and p-value of <0.001 for injuries. Our trauma center is 1.45 miles from the MC of VC and 2.28 miles from the MC for injuries. Spatial autocorrelation failed to demonstrate a direct relationship between criminality and trauma center utilization with a z-score of 0.030 and p-value of 0.98.

Conclusion

While not statistically significant, the spatial trends of violent crime and trauma center utilization demonstrated a clear pattern. GIS is a powerful tool for the trauma director, and examination of the local regional patterns of trauma should be undertaken by health systems to assist with optimizing outreach, expansion, and response times.
The haunting of GeoCities and the politics of access control on the early Web
Authors: Reynolds CJ , Hallinan Blake
Published: August 2020

Yahoo’s purchase of make-your-own-website platform GeoCities in 1999 and subsequent implementation of a new Terms of Service agreement led to one of the most notable boycotts in Web history. During the “Haunting,” GeoCities users stripped their homepages of color and content, replacing blinking GIFs with excerpts of the offending Terms of Service. In this landmark battle over content rights and access control, protestors used the platform antagonistically, disrupting the value of user-generated content and undermining the company’s strategic vision for the platform. Within a week, the Haunting of GeoCities successfully forced Yahoo to acquiesce to protestor demands and set enduring standards for Terms of Service that preserved greater rights for content creators. This case study from the early Web demonstrates how access is always bound up in a struggle over control and offers a timely reminder of how users have been—and can be—vital agents of platform politics.
Streamlined variational inference for higher level group-specific curve models
Authors: Menictas M. , Nolan T.H. , Simpson D.G. , Wand M.P.
Published: August 2020

A two-level group-specific curve model is such that the mean response of each member of a group is a separate smooth function of a predictor of interest. The three-level extension is such that one grouping variable is nested within another one, and higher level extensions are analogous. Streamlined variational inference for higher level group-specific curve models is a challenging problem. We confront it by systematically working through two-level and then three-level cases and making use of the higher level sparse matrix infrastructure laid down in ( Nolan and Wand (2020) , ANZIAM Journal, doi: 10.1017/S1446181120000061). A motivation is analysis of data from ultrasound technology for which three-level group-specific curve models are appropriate. Whilst extension to the number of levels exceeding three is not covered explicitly, the pattern established by our systematic approach sheds light on what is required for even higher level group-specific curve models.
Effects of a virtual group cycling experience on people living with dementia: A mixed method pilot study
Authors: D’Cunha Nathan M , Isbel Stephen T , Frost Jane , Fearon Angie , McKune Andrew J , Naumovski Nenad , Kellett Jane
Published: August 2020

Social isolation and sedentary behaviour are common in residential aged care facilities (also known as nursing homes or long-term care). Use of new technologies such as virtual and augmented reality are currently under investigation for their potential to provide exciting and engaging activities for older people in residential aged care facilities. However, there is limited evidence on whether these technologies can promote physical activity in a small group setting for people with cognitive impairment. Using mixed methods, we examined the use of a virtual cycling experience in a sample of 10 participants with cognitive impairment living in residential aged care facilities. In a randomised crossover design, participants engaged in a 25-minute, self-paced, facilitated seated virtual cycling experience and a time-matched seated physical activity session in groups of five. All participants completed a brief pre- and post-intervention mood questionnaire. Video analysis was used for both conditions to compare levels of environmental stimulation, apathy and engagement using both the Person–Environment Apathy Rating Scale and the Engagement of a Person with Dementia Scale. A thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews following the virtual cycling experience was also performed. No differences were observed between conditions for all outcomes except for environmental stimulation, where there was a lower response in the intervention than the control condition ( p = 0.032). This was primarily driven by lower scores for the virtual cycling experience than control in physical accessibility ( p = 0.012). Participants reported the virtual cycling experience to be immersive and challenging and reminisced about cycling earlier in life. The activity manager observed that the virtual cycling experience was an overall positive experience and emphasised benefits of safety screening and preparation prior to the activities. The findings of this study support the use of the virtual cycling experience as an immersive and engaging alternative to usual activities, which might encourage higher levels of physical activity in residential aged care facilities.
Computational design and fabrication of highly customizable architectural space frames: Making a flat-cut Weaire-Phelan structure
Authors: Liu Jingyang , Lee Yi-Chin , Cardoso Llach Daniel
Published: August 2020

This paper documents a computational approach to the design, fabrication, and assembly of customizable space structures built entirely out of flat-cut interlocking elements without the need of nodes, fasteners, cement, or glue. Following a Research by Design (RbD) methodology, we establish a framework comprising geometric and parametric modeling, structural analysis, and digital fabrication stages to examine the following research question: how might the modularity of a construction kit be combined with the plasticity of parametric descriptions to facilitate the design and fabrication of flat-cut space structures? We find that an adaptive joint design that resolves local deformations at the node and element levels can facilitate the construction of flat-cut space structures by making modular components responsive to local geometric, material, and mechanical demands. The research centers on the design and construction of an architecture-scale installation based on the Weaire-Phelan structure—an aperiodic space-filling geometric structure that approximates the geometry of foam—entirely out of flat-cut interlocking elements. Documenting the process in technical detail, as well as some limitations, the paper contributes to recent efforts to develop digital materials suitable for architectural applications. In addition, it contributes to extend the formal and architectural possibilities of flat-cut space structure design by facilitating “bottom-up” design explorations in concert with the structure’s tectonic resolution.
Intra-Party Deliberation, Under-Represented Groups, and Candidate Selection: The Case of Demos in Romania
Authors: Stoiciu Victoria , Gherghina Sergiu
Published: August 2020

Intra-party deliberation has the potential to involve groups that are traditionally under-represented in politics. This article aims to identify the conditions that favor and inhibit the inclusion of four under-represented categories in intra-party deliberation. It analyzes how a newly formed Romanian political party engages women, lower social strata, ethnic minorities, and sexual minorities. Deliberation was used to select the candidates for the 2019 European elections. The empirical evidence comes from ethnographic research, and the results indicate that the progressive stance of the party and a stepwise structure of deliberation favor the inclusion of under-represented groups.
Support for Liberal Democracy and Populist Attitudes: A Pilot Survey for Young Educated Citizens
Authors: Zanotti Lisa , Rama José
Published: August 2020

At the theoretical level, even if populism and democracy are not necessarily antithetical, the former challenges the liberal component of democracy, advocating for the majority rule and putting under stress the principles of the rule of law. To test the relationship between liberal democracy and populism, we created four new questions that measure the support for liberal democracy conceived as a trade-off with different policies. We tested our battery of questions in a pilot survey with educated young voters. The results show that those individuals who exhibit lower levels of support for liberal democracy are the ones with higher populist attitudes. This might be due to the fact that the original battery of questions grasps the level of support for liberal democracy better than the standard ‘Churchillian’ question.
Social Support and Student Engagement Among Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Students
Authors: Cheng Sanyin , Deng Meng , Yang Yuqin
Published: August 2020

This study explores how students’ social support are related to their engagement, by administering the Chinese Version of Zimet’s Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS-C) and the Student Engagement Scale to 225 deaf or hard-of-hearing (D/HH) school students in mainland China. Results show that, among all participants, those with higher levels of social support scored higher on student engagement, whereas those with lower levels of social support had lower scores. The contributions, limitations, and implications of the present research are discussed.
Using Art-Based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for an Adolescent With Anxiety and Autism
Authors: Chapman Rosanna , Evans Bethan
Published: August 2020

Anxiety is a common experience for young people with an autism spectrum condition (ASC). This article describes the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) through the medium of art to increase well-being for a young woman with ASC and significant anxiety. An ACT art protocol was delivered over 8-weekly sessions with outcome measured administered at baseline, pre-, mid- and post-intervention. Follow-up data were also obtained 3 months after the intervention. It was found that the young person experienced improvements in measures of well-being and psychological flexibility. Importantly, these were seen to translate to increased engagement in activities that were in line with the young person’s values. This demonstrates that using third-wave approaches for young people with ASC can result in improvements in well-being and quality of life, but that adaptations in line with person-centered care are crucial to facilitate engagement and produce meaningful change.
A comparative analysis of resource allocation schemes for real-time services in high-performance computing systems
Authors: Qureshi Muhammad Shuaib , Qureshi Muhammad Bilal , Fayaz Muhammad , Mashwani Wali Khan , Belhaouari Samir Brahim , Hassan Saima , Shah Asadullah
Published: August 2020

An efficient resource allocation scheme plays a vital role in scheduling applications on high-performance computing resources in order to achieve desired level of service. The major part of the existing literature on resource allocation is covered by the real-time services having timing constraints as primary parameter. Resource allocation schemes for the real-time services have been designed with various architectures (static, dynamic, centralized, or distributed) and quality of service criteria (cost efficiency, completion time minimization, energy efficiency, and memory optimization). In this analysis, numerous resource allocation schemes for real-time services in various high-performance computing (distributed and non-distributed) domains have been studied and compared on the basis of common parameters such as application type, operational environment, optimization goal, architecture, system size, resource type, optimality, simulation tool, comparison technique, and input data. The basic aim of this study is to provide a consolidated platform to the researchers working on scheduling and allocating high-performance computing resources to the real-time services. This work comprehensively discusses, integrates, analysis, and categorizes all resource allocation schemes for real-time services into five high-performance computing classes: grid, cloud, edge, fog, and multicore computing systems. The workflow representations of the studied schemes help the readers in understanding basic working and architectures of these mechanisms in order to investigate further research gaps.
Impact of Participation of Surgeons in Diagnostic Studies of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease on Completion of Workup and Utilization of Antireflux Surgery
Authors: Fanous Medhat Y. , Jaehne Anja K. , Lorenson David , Williams Sarah
Published: August 2020

Introduction. Patients presenting with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are usually evaluated by gastroenterologists who perform the diagnostic workup and determine when to refer for surgical consideration. The multiple diagnostic studies can be overwhelming, and this leads to dropouts. In a rural setting, without gastroenterology services, the surgeon can diagnose GERD and perform antireflux procedures. This study aimed to assess the completion of the required diagnostic studies and progression to surgical intervention. Methods. This is a retrospective chart review of patients who presented with GERD symptoms between August 2015 and January 2018. Standardized workup included the upper gastrointestinal study and esophagogastroduodenoscopy with concomitant wireless pH placement. High-resolution impedance manometry and the gastric emptying scan were selectively utilized. Results. 429 patients were evaluated. Proton pump inhibitors were used by 82.2% of patients. The required diagnostic workup was completed by 92.7% of all patients. Nearly 75% were suitable candidates for antireflux surgery. Approximately 2/3 of these patients proceeded with antireflux surgery. Discussion. The lack of gastroenterology services in rural hospitals provides a unique opportunity for general surgeons to diagnose and treat GERD patients locally. This avoids fragmentation of care and enables the surgeon to evaluate the entire spectrum of GERD. This structured approach results in increased completion of multiple diagnostic studies. Moreover, surgical candidates are likely to proceed with surgical intervention. Conclusion. A surgical antireflux program with diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities results in increased completion of diagnostic workup and utilization of antireflux surgery.
Mid-term outcomes of symptomatic isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection with endovascular management
Authors: Xu Yingjiang , Li Xuexin , Shang Dan , Liu Jianyong , Jin Bi , Chen Wei , Gao Jianwei
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The clinical outcomes, safety, and efficacy of endovascular management are explored for symptomatic isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection (ISMAD).

Methods

In this retrospective study, 51 consecutive patients with symptomatic ISMAD received endovascular management from three institutions between January 2011 and December 2019.These patients were categorized into group A (endovascular treatment was used as the first-line therapy) and group B(endovascular treatment was used as the second-line therapy). The general epidemiological data, clinical manifestations, first-episode symptoms, treatment process, imaging findings, follow-up outcomes were analyzed from the medical records.

Results

A total of 51 patients with endovascular management were collected in this study. Significant differences were observed between the two groups with respect to the course (150 h vs. 57 h; p < 0.001), intestinal ischemia (26.32% vs. 6,25%; p = 0.04) and dissection length (45.26 ± 13.78 mm vs. 63.37 ± 12.73 mm; p < 0.001). Technical success rate was 90.2% (46/51). There was significant difference in the MOD (42.27 ± 23.41 min vs. 76.63 ± 28.62 min p < 0.001), MPSRT (4.67 ± 2.65 h vs. 7.32 ± 2.49 h, p = 0.02), LOS (9.52 ± 3.72 days vs. 11.86 ± 4.13 days; p = 0.01) between the two groups. The bleeding complication rate was 7.84% (one patient in group A and three patients in group B). A total of 48 (94.12%, 48/51) patients were followed up for a median of 36.51 months (range, 4–87 months). Positive events of the SMA were achieved in 81.25% (39/48), and negative events of the SMA were achieved in 18.75% (8/48) based on the follow-up contrast-enhanced CT scan.

Conclusions

Endovascular management of symptomatic ISMAD has a high technical success rate and efficient at controlling symptoms. Furthermore, as more positive events occur, endovascular management should be encouraged early when pain persists after conservative management or there are signs of disease progression.
Methodological intervention with soccer coaches to improve athlete-perceived coaching competency, satisfaction with the coach, enjoyment and intention to persist
Authors: Pulido Juan J , Leo Francisco M , González-Ponce Inmaculada , López-Gajardo Miguel A , Sánchez-Oliva David
Published: August 2020

Objectives

The purpose of the study was to assess the effect of a coaching intervention on soccer athletes’ perceptions of the coaches’ competencies, enjoyment, satisfaction, and intention to persist in the sport. Equipment and methods: The sample consisted of 117 young male soccer players and eight of their coaches who were divided into two groups: group receiving the coaching effectiveness intervention (EG) ( n = 4; Mage = 32.50 years, SD = 14.24) with an average of 3.00 years of training experience ( SD = 2.44); and control group (CG) ( n = 4; Mage = 28.50 years, SD = 13.67) with an average of 6.25 years of training experience ( SD = 2.87), and their 117 young male soccer players from 45 teams, aged between 10 and 16 years ( Mage = 13.78, SD = 1.38). Focused on coach-effectiveness, coaches from EG received a 12-hour training program. Self-report questionnaires were administered to the athletes both at the beginning and the end of the intervention. A repeated-measures ANOVA was carried out for each dependent variable.

Results

The results showed significant changes in coaches’ game strategy competency, technique competency, and character-building competency as perceived by the players from the EG compared with the players from the CG. Also, both the CG and the EG athletes decreased their satisfaction with the coach. Thus, these types of interventions are effective for improving and maintaining over time variables related to athletes’ perception of their coaches’ competency, their own enjoyment, and intention to persist practicing sports.
The effect of a school based injury prevention program on physical performance in youth females
Authors: Sommerfield Lesley M , Whatman Chris S , Harrison Craig B , Maulder Peter S , Borotkanics Robert J
Published: August 2020

Injury prevention (IP) programs can reduce injury in youth, however, little is known about their impact on athletic performance, especially in females. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of a school curriculum IP program on movement skill and athletic performance in youth females. Ninety-two female students (age 14.0 ± 0.6 y, height 162.5 ± 5.8 cm, mass 57.1 ± 9.3 kg, intervention (INT) n = 43, control (CON) n = 49) participated in this study. The INT group completed a 23 week IP program whereas the CON group continued normal physical education class. Sprint, countermovement jump (CMJ), isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), y-balance, back squat assessment (BSA), and drop vertical jump (DVJ) were assessed. An independent-samples t-test revealed that the INT group performed significantly better on all tests at baseline (p = <0.05), except single-leg CMJ power. Ordered regression models showed the INT group were more likely to improve their score on the BSA and DVJ (OR = 0.14 and 0.20) compared to the CON group. Marginal analysis revealed a significantly greater increase in y-balance composite measures for the INT group [mean difference (95% CI) = 2.07 (0.48 to 3.66) and 2.66 (1.03 to 4.29), p < 0.05] and relative IMTP for the CON group [mean difference (95% CI) = −0.34 (−0.60 to −0.08), p < 0.05). These findings highlight that a long-term IP program integrated into the school curriculum can improve movement skill and balance in youth females.
Making Public Shame Bearable and Entertaining: Ritualised Shaming in Reality Television
Authors: Hájek Martin , Frantál Daniel , Simbartlová Kateřina
Published: August 2020

In modern liberal society, a person is considered a ‘sacred’ entity and any violation of their dignity should produce embarrassment not only on the side of the ashamed individual but in those co-present as well. In our research, we studied public shaming in reality television (RTV), a recent popular culture product, in order to understand the mechanism that transforms otherwise degrading shaming into popular entertainment. The analysis drew on the classical concept of the ‘degradation ceremony’ (H. Garfinkel) and it covered three RTV programmes originating in different cultural contexts. We discovered that it is strong situational ritualisation of shaming which substantially attenuates the harmful consequences of being shamed for participants’ selves and thus protects viewers from uncomfortable feelings. In RTV, the shaming takes the form of a purposively unaccomplished degradation ceremony, which consists of the creation of an extraordinary situation, typification of participants, emphasis on the shared values in whose name the shaming is done, and participants’ reflexive performance in the show. The results suggest that in RTV, the social practice of the status degradation ceremony is transformed into a cultural practice of systematic shaming without real identity degradation, which makes it possible for shaming to become global mediatised entertainment.
Crises as catalysts of foreign reporting on Latin America: An evaluation of the German press over 15 years
Authors: Cazzamatta Regina
Published: August 2020

This article investigates whether, in light of the political and economic changes that occurred in the region in the last decades, crises are still a catalyst for foreign reporting on Latin America. The study comprises 3,831 articles related to the 20 Latin American countries published from 2000 to 2014 in the German press: the dailies Süddeutsche Zeitung and Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, the political magazine Der Spiegel and the alternative newspaper tageszeitung. The author found that more than half of the coverage on the continent depicted some sort of crisis, especially non-violent ones and controversies (36.4%). However, the portrayal of crises is sectorial. The ‘invisible’ Central American states (Honduras, Haiti, Guatemala and El Salvador) and the countries against the Washington Consensus (Bolivia, Ecuador and Venezuela) exhibit a higher coefficient of crisis intensity. Colombia, despite considerable press attention, has the most crisis-centred reporting due to the conflict with FARC.
Vision improvement in severe acute isolated optic neuritis after plasma exchange treatment in Chinese population: a prospective case series study
Authors: Tan Shaoying , Ng Tsz Kin , Xu Quangang , Yang Mo , Zhuang Yuan , Zhao Jie , Zhou Huanfen , Teng Da , Wei Shihui
Published: August 2020

Background:

Plasma exchange (PE) is often considered as an effective treatment for neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and several inflammatory demyelinating disorders of the central nervous system. This study aimed to evaluate the visual outcomes of Chinese patients with severe acute isolated optic neuritis (ON) who received PE therapy after high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone (IVMP) treatment.

Methods:

Thirty-seven acute isolated ON patients experiencing their first attack of severe visual impairment without neurological disability were recruited. All subjects received five cycles of double-filtration plasmapheresis. Visual acuity (VA) was documented at onset, 1 day before PE treatment, at each cycle of PE therapy and at the 1-month follow-up visit.

Results:

This study included 26 female (70.3%) and 11 male (29.7%) subjects, and 18 subjects (48.6%) had bilateral involvement. The time window between onset and PE treatment was 27.3 ± 12.7 days (range: 6–53 days). Mean VA (logMAR) of the studied eyes at onset, 1-day before PE treatment/after IVMP and after the fifth PE treatment were 3.41 ± 1.50, 2.61 ± 1.64 and 1.66 ± 1.52, respectively ( p < 0.001). Nineteen eyes (51.4%) showed no light perception at the onset, and 17 eyes (45.9%) improved to Snellen VA >20/800 after IVMP and PE treatments, among which five eyes (13.5%) recovered to Snellen VA 20/20 ( p < 0.001). Predictors of good visual outcome included body mass index [odds ratio (OR) = 0.734, p = 0.044], serum AQP4 antibody-positive status (OR = 0.004, p = 0.001), bilaterality (OR = 0.042, p = 0.008) and time window from onset to PE therapy per 1 day (OR = 0.79, p = 0.002).

Conclusion:

This study revealed that PE treatment effectively improves the visual outcomes of patients experiencing their first attack of severe acute isolated ON after high-dose IVMP treatment. Better visual outcomes can be achieved with early PE treatment.