bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nurse performed peripheral intravenous catheter first time insertion success in pediatric patients in Bhutan: An observational study
Authors: Choden Jigme , Carr Peter J , Brock Aleisha R , Esterman Adrian
Published: August 2018

Introduction:

Peripheral intravenous catheter insertion is a clinical procedure commonly performed by nurses for pediatric patients in Bhutan. This study describes peripheral intravenous catheter first attempt success and factors associated with such insertions.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from October 2016 to March 2017, comprised of a national sample of the Bhutan pediatric patient population (0–12 years). We collected data on peripheral intravenous catheter first time insertion success rate of admitted pediatric patients, to identify predictors of a successful first time attempt. Clustered log binomial generalized linear models were used to obtain the prevalence of first time attempt success and predictors of success.

Results:

The prevalence rate of successful first time attempt adjusted for clustering was 64% (95% confidence interval: 51%–80%). Predictors of a successful first time attempt were older patient age, lighter skin color, the vein being visible with a tourniquet, and the left hand being used for insertion. A transilluminator was used in 52 patients, and the peripheral intravenous catheter was eventually successfully placed in 82% of the patients.

Discussion:

Our first time successful cannulation rate is substantially lower than that found in similar studies in other countries. Considering the impact a peripheral intravenous catheter has on patients’ clinical outcomes and cost implications, reducing the number of failed attempts should be of high importance. Better education and simulation, combined with the adoption of vessel locating technology, are required to improve insertion practice in Bhutan. This could lead to greater efficiency of the health facilities in Bhutan.
Application of Nonparametric Trend Technique for Estimation of Onset and Cessation of Rainfall
Authors: Ojo Olumuyiwa Idowu , Ilunga Masengo Francois
Published: August 2018

The importance of adequate analysis of climatological data cannot be overemphasized as it helps in making vital decision relevant to agricultural practices. Thus, this study gave an overview on nonparametric trend technique for determination of the onset and cessation of rainfall changes over agroecological zones. The rainfall analysis technique reviewed in this study is useful for making decisions at the farm and regional levels and for establishing agroclimatic maps and models for any nation. The study helped to provide baseline information needed for accurate agroclimatic (rainfall) data analysis to enhance agriculture and therefore help farmers in proper planning before and during the growing seasons.
Toward a Radical Spatiality: Dissident Architectural Practices in Contemporary Occupations
Authors: Medina Ana Gabriela
Published: August 2018

The Arab Spring, the Occupy Movement, los Indignados, Gezi Park, the Umbrella Movement, among others, are some of the most representative contemporary social movements that conducted important changes and open debate in fields like politics and economics. However, they are usually not related directly to the transformation of the architectural urban landscape in current cities. During the production of these occupations, dissident practices take place and alter established conditions of urban infrastructures that react as obsolete elements, while collective participation transforms spatial perception, the use and aesthetic of public spaces. This article focuses on the Umbrella Movement, the 2014 Hong Kong occupation, and how protestors modify, on one hand, the architectural urban landscape of the city and generate, on the other, design techniques through the use of quotidian and daily-life objects in dissident means. Pragmatism and immediacy are the main conditions of these occupations for creating spaces that occupiers need, and also for making visible a situation that is implanted deeply in the city: the privatization of public spaces.
Lack of short-chain fatty acids and overgrowth of opportunistic pathogens define dysbiosis of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders: A Chinese pilot study
Authors: Gong Junli , Qiu Wei , Zeng Qin , Liu Xiyuan , Sun Xiaobo , Li Huijuan , Yang Yu , Wu Aimin , Bao Jian , Wang Yuge , Shu Yaqing , Hu Xueqiang , Bellanti Joseph A , Zheng Song Guo , Lu Yongjun , Lu Zhengqi
Published: August 2018

Background:

Intestinal microbiota is an important environmental factor in the initiation and progression of autoimmune diseases. However, investigations on the gut microbiome in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are relatively insufficient, especially for that of the Asia population.

Objectives:

To evaluate whether or not the intestinal microbiota of NMOSD patients had specific microbial signatures.

Methods:

Next-generation sequencing and gas chromatography were employed to compare the fecal microbial composition and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) spectrum between patients with NMOSD ( n = 84) and healthy controls ( n = 54).

Results:

The gut microbial composition of NMOSD distinguished from healthy individuals. Streptococcus, significantly increased in NMOSD, is positively correlated with disease severities ( p < 0.05). The use of immunosuppressants results in a decrease of Streptococcus, suggesting that Streptococcus might play a significant role in the pathogenesis of NMOSD. A striking depletion of fecal SCFAs was observed in NMOSD patients ( p < 0.0001), with acetate and butyrate showing significantly negative correlation with disease severities ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The fecal organismal structures and SCFAs level of patients with NMOSD were distinctive from healthy individuals. These findings not only could be critical events driving the aberrant immune response responsible for the pathogenesis of these disorders but could also provide suggestions for disease therapy.
A nationwide epidemiological study on the prevalence of multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder with important multi-ethnic differences in Malaysia
Authors: Viswanathan Shanthi , Wah Lee Mei
Published: August 2018

Objectives:

This study looked at observed crude prevalence/incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) in Malaysia and identified any inter-ethnic differences for MS/NMOSD.

Methods:

This was a nationwide tertiary hospital–based retrospective cross-sectional study using the capture–recapture method. It looked at the estimated crude prevalence of confirmed MS and NMOSD and annual incidence on 29 December 2017. Recapture of data was done between February and March 2018 on 1 March 2018. Public and referring private institutions were accessed.

Results:

The survey identified 767 MS and 545 NMOSD subjects, with crude prevalence rates of 2.73 per 100,000 (95% confidence interval (CI): 2.53; 2.92 per 100,000 population) and 1.94 per 100,000 (95% CI: 1.77; 2.10 per 100,000 population) with observed crude annual incidence of 0.55 (95% CI: 0.43; 0.58) for MS and 0.39 per 100,000 (95% CI: 0.35; 0.47) for NMOSD. The MS:NMOSD ratios were 1.4:1.0. The capture–recapture method revealed 913 MS (95% CI: 910; 915.9) and 580 (95% CI: 578.8; 581.2) NMOSD with prevalence per 100,000 of 3.26 (95% CI: 3.05; 3.47) and 2.07 (95% CI: 1.90; 2.24), respectively. In the MS group, 59.4% were Malay, 16.6% Chinese, 20.5% Indian, and 3.5% were from indigenous groups. In the NMOSD group, 47.3% were Malay, 46.9% Chinese, 3.5% Indian, and 2.3% were from other indigenous groups. The ratio of NMOSD to MS among the Chinese was 2:1, but the ratio of MS to NMOSD among the Malays was 1.8:1, and that in Indians was 8.3:1.

Conclusion:

There is a modest increase in the prevalence of MS and NMOSD in Malaysia with inter-ethnic differences for MS/NMOSD.
Prognostic value of cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light chain and chitinase-3-like-1 in newly diagnosed patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sellebjerg Finn , Royen Lydia , Soelberg Sørensen Per , Oturai Annette Bang , Jensen Poul Erik Hyldgaard
Published: August 2018

Background:

Neurofilament light chain (NFL) and chitinase-3-like-1 (CHI3L1) concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may have prognostic value in clinically isolated syndromes (CIS) and relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Objectives:

To compare the prognostic value of CSF concentrations of NFL and CHI3L1 in newly diagnosed CIS and RRMS patients.

Methods:

NFL and CHI3L1 were measured in CSF in 177 newly diagnosed patients with CIS or RRMS who were followed clinically for a mean of 5.7 years.

Results:

At baseline CSF concentrations of NFL correlated with CSF concentrations of CHI3L1, relapses in the previous year, time from last relapse, and the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score. CSF concentrations of NFL and CHI3L1 were both associated with increased relapse risk during the first 2 years in univariate analyses, but only the CSF concentration of NFL was independently associated with relapse risk in a multivariable analysis. There was no relationship between CSF concentrations of NFL or CHI3L1 and risk of conversion to secondary progressive MS or development of disability.

Conclusion:

CSF concentrations of NFL are associated with 2-year relapse risk but not with disease progression or clinical worsening in newly diagnosed CIS and RRMS patients. This may be due to confounding by the effect of disease-modifying therapies.
Exploring the predictive ability of LIKES of posts on the Facebook pages of four major city DMOs in Austria
Authors: Gunter Ulrich , Önder Irem , Gindl Stefan
Published: August 2018

Using data for the period 2010M06–2017M02, this study investigates the possibility of predicting total tourist arrivals to four Austrian cities (Graz, Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Vienna) from LIKES of posts on the Facebook pages of the destination management organizations of these cities. Google Trends data are also incorporated in investigating whether forecast models with LIKES and/or with Google Trends deliver more accurate forecasts. To capture the dynamics in the data, the autoregressive distributed lag (ADL) model class is employed. Taking into account the daily frequency of the original LIKES data, the mixed data sampling (MIDAS) model class is employed as well. While time-series benchmarks from the naive, error–trend–seasonal, and autoregressive moving average model classes perform best for Graz and Innsbruck across forecast horizons and forecast accuracy measures, ADL models incorporating only LIKES or both LIKES and Google Trends generally outperform their competitors for Salzburg. For Vienna, the MIDAS model including both LIKES and Google Trends produces the smallest forecast accuracy measure values for most forecast horizons.
Transtheoretical model for change in obese adolescents: MERC randomized clinical trial
Authors: Boff Raquel de Melo , Dornelles Marina Alves , Feoli Ana Maria Pandolfo , Gustavo Andreia da Silva , Oliveira Margareth da Silva
Published: August 2018

The randomized controlled trial evaluated the effectiveness of an intervention based on the Transtheoretical Model of Change on anthropometric, metabolic and motivational outcomes in obese adolescents. A total of 135 male and female adolescents were randomized to two groups: intervention group ( n = 65) and control group ( n = 70). The adolescents were evaluated 1 week before the interventions began and at the end of 12 weeks. There was no statistically significant difference between groups in the outcome variables. Intervention group reported magnitude of effect more expressive on body mass index percentile, waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, readiness to change diet and readiness to start exercise.
Racial-ethnic and neighborhood inequities in age of treatment receipt among a national sample of children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Yingling Marissa E , Bell Bethany A
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study is to examine the impact of child race-ethnicity and neighborhood characteristics on age of treatment receipt among children with autism spectrum disorder. Here, we included 1309 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in the National Survey of Children’s Health, 2011–2012. Controlling for key covariates, we used a weighted generalized logit model to analyze differences in age of treatment receipt (<2 years, 2 years, 3 years, and ⩾4 years). Compared to non-Hispanic White children, the relative probability (odds) of entering treatment at 3 years and ⩾4 years rather than <2 years was 326% and 367% higher, respectively, for non-Hispanic Black children. Compared to children whose parents perceived their neighborhood to be cohesive, the relative probability of entering treatment at 2 years and 3 years rather than <2 years was 59% and 61% lower, respectively, for children whose parents did not. Significant racial-ethnic and neighborhood inequities exist in age of treatment receipt, suggesting a need for research that explores the underlying causal mechanisms of inequities.
Developing a Mental Health Measurement Strategy to Capture Psychological Problems among Lower Caste Adolescent Girls in Rural, South India
Authors: Mazzuca April , Nagarchi Dawood , Ramanaik Satyanarayana , Raghavendra T , Javalkar Prakash , Rotti Sarojini , Bhattacharjee Parinita , Isac Shajy , Cohen Alex , Beattie Tara
Published: August 2018

Adolescent girls vulnerable to early marriage and school dropout in rural India may be at elevated risk of psychosocial problems. However, few screening instruments have been culturally adapted and validated to measure this risk. This paper describes the process by which the Primary Health Questionnaire PHQ-9, a screening instrument for depression, was tested for cultural validity as part of the Samata evaluation – an intervention to support low caste adolescent girls in rural south India to attend and complete secondary school and to delay marriage until adulthood. Three focus groups discussions (FGDs) were held with 20 adolescent girls and six outreach workers of the Samata programme in rural north Karnataka, south India. The FGDs were used to explore local expressions of psychosocial problems and to understand the acceptability and appropriateness of PHQ-9 items. A thematic content analysis was conducted on the transcripts of the FGDs. Descriptions of local expressions of psychosocial problems generally matched the items on the PHQ-9. However, not all representations of psychological symptoms were captured by this tool. Persistent worry, loneliness and isolation, and externalised behaviours were also described by participants as common expressions of psychosocial distress. Based on the limitations of translation methods, local stakeholders must be involved in evaluating the cultural appropriateness of mental health screening tools. The current research demonstrates a strategy by which to assess the cultural validity of Western psychiatric instruments with key stakeholders in low- and middle-income settings.
Trends in educational and income inequalities in cardiovascular morbidity in middle age in Northern Sweden 1993–2010
Authors: Waenerlund Anna-Karin , Mosquera Paola A. , Gustafsson Per E. , San Sebastián Miguel
Published: August 2018

Aims: Research is scarce regarding studies on income and educational inequality trends in cardiovascular disease in Sweden. The aim of this study was to assess trends in educational and income inequalities in first hospitalizations due to cardiovascular disease (CVD) from 1993 to 2010 among middle-aged women and men in Northern Sweden. Methods: The study comprised repeated cross-sectional register data from year 1993–2010 of all individuals aged 38–62 years enrolled in the Västerbotten Intervention Programme (VIP). Data included highest educational level, total earned income and first-time hospitalization for CVD from national registers. The relative and slope indices of inequality (RII and SII, respectively) were used to estimate educational and income inequalities in CVD for six subsamples for women and men, and interaction analyses were used to estimate trends across time periods. Results: Educational RII and SII were stable in women, while they decreased in men. Income inequalities in CVD developed differently compared with educational inequalities, with RII and SII for both men and women increasing during the study period, the most marked for RII in women rising from 1.52 in the 1990s to 2.62 in the late 2000s. Conclusions: The trend of widening income inequalities over 18 years in the middle-aged in Northern Sweden, in the face of stable or even decreasing educational inequalities, is worrisome from a public health perspective, especially as Swedish authorities monitor socioeconomical inequalities exclusively by education. The results show that certain social inequalities in CVD rise and persist even within a traditionally egalitarian welfare regime.
The social and psychological health outcomes of team sport participation in adults: An integrative review of research
Authors: Andersen Marie Høstrup , Ottesen Laila , Thing Lone Friis
Published: August 2018

Aim: The aim of this article was to review the international scientific research literature about the social and psychological health outcomes associated with participation in team sport and to synthesise the key issues about team sport as a health-promoting activity. Methods: The methodological framework guiding the review process is the integrative research review. A search of 10 key electronic databases was conducted to identify both quantitative and qualitative studies addressing the social and/or psychological health outcomes from participation in a team sport. A total of 6,097 publications were identified and 17 studies met the inclusion criteria. Results: A wide range of different positive social, psychological, and psychosocial health outcomes associated with team sport participation were identified in the studies, with emotional social support, sense of belonging, higher self-esteem, social network, and social interaction being the most frequently reported health benefits. In addition, three key issues influencing the psychological and social health outcomes of team sport participation as a health-promoting activity were identified: (1) team sport versus individual sport, (2) competitive versus non-competitive structure, and (3) commitment and continuation. Conclusions: There is consistent evidence that participation in a team sport is associated with improved social and psychological health independent of the type of team sport, age, somatic, or mental health problems. The findings indicate that team sport could be more efficient in promoting health and ensuring exercise participation and continuation than individual sport. However, when utilising team sports for health purposes, precautions must be taken with regard to their inherent competitive nature.
Design and acceptability of a psychosocial text messaging intervention for victims of gender-based violence
Authors: García Yolanda , Ferrás Carlos , Rocha Álvaro , Aguilera Adrián
Published: August 2018

Mobile phones can produce detailed and personalized data to help diagnose, treat, prevent or rehabilitate women who are victims of gender violence. We sent automatic text messages, based on cognitive-behavioural therapy, to female victims of gender violence to assess the feasibility of the medium for mental health intervention. During the 28-day intervention period, each woman received four automatic text messages every day on a pre-established schedule. We evaluated symptoms of depression using the Personal Health Questionnaire-9. The Personal Health Questionnaire-9 decreased from an average of 14.8 at the beginning of the intervention, to 6.1 at the end of the text messaging period. All of the women reported that they liked receiving the messages, they found them useful and they felt that the messages had improved their health. Text messages are acceptable to women users who are recipients of public health and social services. Future research should focus more on the evaluation of the results and on how the specific content and aspects of text messaging improve health outcomes.
Analytical solution of the longitudinal wave propagation due to the single impact
Authors: Akhondizadeh M
Published: August 2018

In the present work, the rod response due to the impact of a ball is studied in order to analyze the longitudinal wave propagation during the impact and evaluate the velocity of points over the rod length at the end of impact. An analytical solution is given for the governing equation of rod vibration by assuming the impact force as an equivalent sinusoidal function of time. The impact force is defined by a Fourier series to be zero at the rod length except at the impacted end. An analysis of wave propagation will give information about the rod–ball interaction. The evaluated velocity profile at the end of impact can be used as the initial condition for after-impact solution of the rod vibration. It will modify the common simple assumption of constant initial velocity for impacted end.
Optimizations of distributed dynamic vibration absorbers for suppressing vibrations in plates
Authors: Zhu Xuezhi , Chen Zhaobo , Jiao Yinghou
Published: August 2018

Dynamic vibration absorber is an ideal device for vibration control at specific frequencies. In order to get a robust vibration control performance, multiple or distributed dynamic vibration absorbers are usually used for suppressing vibrations in plate structures. Optimization methods for the single dynamic vibration absorber in various vibration systems had been proposed many years ago. However, the analytical optimization solutions with respect to the distributed dynamic vibration absorbers for the plate structures have not been found. In this paper, the optimization problems of the distributed dynamic vibration absorbers for suppressing vibrations in plates are studied. Vibration equations of the plate carrying distributed dynamic vibration absorbers are established using modal superposition method. The similarities of vibration shapes of the dynamic vibration absorbers and mode shapes of the plate are revealed. According to the characteristics of the vibration shapes of dynamic vibration absorbers, the vibration equations of the plate carrying distributed dynamic vibration absorbers are transformed into a form of equations of a two degree of freedom system. The analytical optimization formulas of the distributed dynamic vibration absorbers for suppressing vibrations in plates are derived by applying the fixed-points theory. The effectiveness of the optimization formulas is verified through numerical simulations. The simulation results also show that a brilliant multi-mode vibration control can be realized by using the optimized distributed dynamic vibration absorbers.
Deception in online dating: Significance and implications for the first offline date
Authors: Sharabi Liesel L , Caughlin John P
Published: August 2018

Deception is a common strategy for securing a first date with someone from an online dating site. But does the possibility of a second date still exist if deception was used to get the first one? To address this question, we investigated the effects of online dating deception on people’s subsequent offline interactions. Online daters ( N = 94) were surveyed before and after their first date with a prospective partner. Their emails through the online dating site were also analyzed for linguistic markers of deception. Juxtaposing the self-report and observational email data revealed a positive association between participants’ deception and negative emotion words. Further results indicated that participants’ perceptions of their partner’s deception—but not their own—negatively predicted first date success.
The cultural journalist around the globe: A comparative study of characteristics, role perceptions, and perceived influences
Authors: Hovden Jan Fredrik , Kristensen Nete Nørgaard
Published: August 2018

This article presents a global-comparative study of journalists reporting about art and culture, that is, cultural journalists. In the literature, this particular group is said to be different from other types of journalists, because their professional work is guided more by an aesthetic logic than a news logic. Until now, however, this difference has mainly been studied in national contexts. Applying a global-comparative perspective by using data from The Worlds of Journalism Study, this article shows that cultural journalists around the globe do in fact differ systematically from other types of journalists in their social and professional characteristics, and also in terms of perceptions of influences on daily work and professional role perceptions. Even though media systemic contexts play a role, cultural journalists do have distinct characteristics worldwide. This is the first study to apply such a global-comparative perspective to the role perceptions of this particular group of journalists.
Co-creation of a family-focused service model living with younger onset dementia
Authors: Hutchinson Karen , Roberts Chris , Roach Pamela , Kurrle Susan
Published: August 2018

Families living with younger onset dementia face unique social challenges, which services do not currently address. There is a gap in understanding the experiences of families affected by younger onset dementia, including the interactions and relationships within the family units, and with existing services and supports. In this qualitative research study, semi-structured interviews were conducted across Australia with seven health and social care providers, five persons living with younger onset dementia, six spouse/carers, and 17 children. A thematic analysis was conducted using a theoretical lens drawn from the combined perspectives of the social model of disability and family systems-illness model. Two central themes emerged in the data: (1) Understanding the social demands on the family – lifecycle challenges living with younger onset dementia from a social and family context; and (2) Interactions of health and social care providers with families living with younger onset dementia – opportunities and challenges in providing support and services geared to a whole family approach. In order to provide families for those living with younger onset dementia with optimal assistance and support, co-creation of a family-focused services model is proposed. Its purpose is to support effective therapeutic interactions and service development among service users, service providers, and stakeholders.
The Future of Youth Justice
Authors: Haines Kevin , Case Stephen
Published: August 2018

What is the future for youth justice in England and Wales? In a current climate of divergence, normlessness and local variations, we explore reform recommendations and the impact of economic austerity on local Youth Offending Teams: a retraction of support/services, yet increasing oversight by non-specialist managers. Four emerging youth justice delivery structures are identified, followed by an assessment of what does not work in practice – punishment, system contact, treatment and offender-focused interventions. We conclude that ‘what might work’ to progress youth justice is expert analysis, specialist youth workers and Children First principles in a coherent, flexible national policy context.
The rich get richer: Inequalities in public school tax credit donations to charter schools in Arizona
Authors: Powers Jeanne M , Potterton Amanda U
Published: August 2018

In Arizona, individuals can receive a tax credit of up to US$200 per individual taxpayer for donations to public schools. We analyze public school tax credit donations to charter schools and document inequalities in the distribution of donations associated with the percentages of more advantaged students charter schools serve. The differences in donations may be partially attributable to parents’ ability to invest in their children and the extent to which schools actively solicit donations. These dynamics suggest a Matthew effect of cumulative advantage among Arizona’s charter schools. We discuss our findings in relation to a legislative proposal to change the public school tax credit program, the current political environment in Arizona, and in the context of a more transformative social change.
A Review of the Hepatitis B Foundation Website
Authors: Spratt Susannah , Stewart Margaret , Paige Samantha R. , Stellefson Michael
Published: August 2018

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a preventable infection that can lead to chronic HBV and liver cancer without timely detection and treatment. The Hepatitis B Foundation is a national organization that helps coordinate local coalitions that work at the community level. The Hepatitis B Foundation website ( http://www.hepb.org/ ) serves as an interactive, educational website for patients, informal caregivers (e.g., family members), physicians, and community stakeholders such as local/regional health organizations and community coalitions. The multifaceted site provides user-friendly resources and tools that are available in several different languages to reach the global HBV patient population. Topic-delimited tabs (i.e., “What Is Hepatitis B?,” “Prevention & Diagnosis,” “Treatment & Management,” “Resources & Support,” “Research & Programs,” and “News & Events”) keep web content organized and easy to browse. The website also provides interactive tools such as blogs and social media campaigns that support peer-to-peer engagement. Additionally, the website stresses the importance of HBV prevention using resources on primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention. Overall, the website is a very useful tool for anyone seeking more information on topics related to HBV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Upregulation of FoxM1 by MnSOD Overexpression Contributes to Cancer Stem-Like Cell Characteristics in the Lung Cancer H460 Cell Line
Authors: Fu Zhimin , Cao Xiaocheng , Yang Yi , Song Zhenwei , Zhang Jiansong , Wang Zheng
Published: August 2018

Manganese superoxide dismutase promotes migration and invasion in lung cancer cells via upregulation of the transcription factor forkhead box M1. Here, we assessed whether upregulation of forkhead box M1 by manganese superoxide dismutase overexpression mediates the acquisition of cancer stem-like cell characteristics in non-small cell lung cancer H460 cells. The second-generation spheroids from H460 cells were used as lung cancer stem-like cells. The levels of manganese superoxide dismutase, forkhead box M1, stemness markers (CD133, CD44, and ALDH1), and transcription factors (Bmi1, Nanog, and Sox2) were analyzed by Western blot. Sphere formation in vitro and carcinogenicity of lung cancer stem-like cells were evaluated by spheroid formation assay and limited dilution xenograft assays. Knockdown or overexpression of manganese superoxide dismutase or/and forkhead box M1 by transduction with short hairpin RNA(shRNA) or complementary DNA were performed for mechanistic studies. We showed that manganese superoxide dismutase and forkhead box M1 amounts as well as the expression levels of stemness markers and transcription factors sphere formation in vitro, and carcinogenicity of lung cancer stem-like cells were higher than in monolayer cells. Lung cancer stem-like cells transduced with manganese superoxide dismutase shRNA or FoxM1 shRNA exhibited decreased sphere formation and lower amounts of stemness markers and transcription factors. Overexpression of manganese superoxide dismutase or FoxM1 in H460 cells resulted in elevated sphere formation rates and protein levels of stemness markers and transcription factors. Meanwhile, manganese superoxide dismutase knockdown or overexpression accordingly altered forkhead box M1 levels. However, forkhead box M1 knockdown or overexpression had no effect on manganese superoxide dismutase levels but inhibited or promoted lung cancer stem-like cell functions. Interestingly, forkhead box M1 overexpression alleviated the inhibitory effects of manganese superoxide dismutase knockdown in lung cancer stem-like cells. In a panel of non-small cell lung cancer cells, including H441, H1299, and H358 cells, compared to the respective monolayer counterparts, the expression levels of manganese superoxide dismutase and forkhead box M1 were elevated in the corresponding spheroids. These findings revealed the role of forkhead box M1 upregulation by manganese superoxide dismutase overexpression in maintaining lung cancer stem-like cell properties. Therefore, inhibition of forkhead box M1 upregulation by manganese superoxide dismutase overexpression may represent an effective therapeutic strategy for non-small cell lung cancer.
Prevalence of Foot Complications in People With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Community-Based Survey in Rural Udupi
Authors: Maiya Arun Gundmi , Gundmi Shubha , Matpady Prabhath , Jadhav Radhika , Lingadakai Ramachandra , Hande Manjunatha , Kamath Veena G. , Shivashankar K. N. , Chinmayee P. , Hazari Animesh , Shastri Nagarathna , Hande Rohini , Loftager Mads Mundt , Veluswamy Sundar Kumar , Jude Edward
Published: August 2018

The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of foot complications among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus in the rural part of Udupi district, Karnataka, India. A cross-sectional observational study design was conducted in the rural area of Udupi district. In the study, accredited social health activists were trained to screen people with type 2 diabetes mellitus for diabetic foot complications at a community level. Adults over 35 years of age were screened for the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus by accredited social health activists who reside in the rural part of Udupi district. Participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus were included in the study. Blood glucose level was measured using a glucometer. Foot examination was done by visual inspection, monofilament, tuning fork, and pedal pulse. In the present study, 2110 among the total participants were found to have type 2 diabetes mellitus. The prevalence of musculoskeletal foot complications was 1218 (58%), vascular problem 466 (22.2%), sensory neuropathy 634 (30.2%), autonomic neuropathy 1729 (81.9%), ulcer 134 (6.38%), and infection 561 (26.7%) among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus. In the current study, we found 84.7% of people residing in rural Udupi had type 2 diabetes mellitus. Hence, there is a strong need to create awareness about diabetic foot care in these people.
Naturalistic Decision Making and the Practice of Health Care
Authors: Falzer Paul R.
Published: August 2018

A recent essay in this journal identified health care as a fertile domain for extending the reach of naturalistic decision making (NDM). It targeted the “best practices regimen,” a host of initiatives begun in the late 20th century that address problems in service delivery, skyrocketing costs, and impediments in transforming products of basic science into effective treatments. Of particular importance are efforts to base treatment decisions on empirical research findings and to gauge the quality of decisions by their conformance to evidence-based practices. The challenges that the essay identified and the ways of addressing these challenges are well known in the health care community. They have had limited impact owing to several factors, including how advocates of the best practices regimen envision clinical decision making and their tendency to equate the exercise of skill with resistance to change. This paper describes the regimen’s concept of decision making and its principles and deficiencies. It also identifies a conundrum: oversimplification prevents complexity from being recognized; as a result, evidence-based recommendations frequently have unforeseeable and deleterious consequences. The paper proposes that NDM is well positioned to address these problems and make a valuable contribution to health care practice. It illustrates NDM-based theories and concepts with a research example and describes their ability to address complex issues that arise in treating chronic illnesses.
The Experiences of Gay and Bisexual Men Post-Prostate Cancer Treatment: A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Studies
Authors: Alexis Obrey , Worsley Aaron James
Published: August 2018

Studies suggest that gay and bisexual men are affected by the psychological aspects of prostate cancer treatment differently than that of heterosexual men; however the data have not yet been synthesized. The focus of this meta-synthesis is to explore gay and bisexual men’s experiences of prostate cancer posttreatment. Empirical research published in peer reviewed journals between January 1990 and January 2018 were identified in six databases: CINAHL, Cochrane, Medline, PsycINFO, PubMed, and Web of Science. Titles and abstracts were checked by two reviewers. The six studies that met the inclusion criteria were selected and reviewed for quality and the extracted data were then synthesized. The main themes that emerged were sexual impact, physical and psychological difficulties, challenges to intimacy, and support mechanisms. Gay and bisexual men can have specific sexual roles and developing prostate cancer and undergoing treatment may compromise their ability to perform their sexual role. The needs of heterosexual men were perceived to be accommodated more often than that of gay and bisexual men because of engrained heteronormativity in the health-care system. The review suggests that more support groups specifically for gay and bisexual men should be established, while urologists should cater to the sexual and masculine implications of treatment, and not frame problems for gay and bisexual men in heterosexual terms. By failing to address the salient needs and concerns of gay and bisexual men, health-care professionals are reinforcing invisibility and marginalization of gay and bisexual men with prostate cancer.
Early Postoperative Improvement in Sleep and Pain After Carpal Tunnel Release
Authors: Niedermeier Steven R. , Pettit Robert J. , Frantz Travis L. , Colvell Kara , M. Awan Hisham
Published: August 2018

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common compressive neuropathy of the upper extremity. We sought to assess the subjective improvement in preoperative symptoms related to CTS, particularly those affecting sleep, and describe opioid consumption postoperatively. Methods: All patients undergoing primary carpal tunnel release (CTR) for electromyographically proven CTS were studied prospectively. All procedures were performed by hand surgery fellowship–trained adult orthopedic and plastic surgeons in the outpatient setting. Patients underwent either endoscopic or open CTR from June 2017 to December 2017. Outcomes assessed were pre- and postoperative Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH), visual analog scale (VAS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores as well as postoperative pain control. Results: Sixty-one patients were enrolled. At 2 weeks, all showed significant ( P < .05) improvement in QuickDASH scores. At 6 weeks, 40 patients were available for follow-up. When compared with preoperative scores, QuickDASH (51 vs 24.5; P < .05), VAS (6.7 vs 2.9; P < .05), and PSQI (10.4 vs 6.4; P < .05) scores continued to improve when compared with preoperative scores. At 2-week follow-up, 39 patients responded to the question, “How soon after your carpal tunnel surgery did you notice an improvement in your sleep?” Seventeen patients (43.6%) reported they had improvement in sleep within 24 hours, 12 patients (30.8%) reported improvement between 2 and 3 days postoperatively, 8 patients (20.5%) reported improvement between 4 and 5 days postoperatively, and 2 patients (5.1%) reported improvement between 6 and 7 days postoperatively. Conclusions: The present study demonstrates rapid and sustained improvement in sleep quality and function following CTR.
Enhancing and Extending Biological Performance and Resilience
Authors: Leak Rehana K. , Calabrese Edward J. , Kozumbo Walter J. , Gidday Jeffrey M. , Johnson Thomas E. , Mitchell James R. , Ozaki C. Keith , Wetzker Reinhard , Bast Aalt , Belz Regina G. , Bøtker Hans E. , Koch Sebastian , Mattson Mark P. , Simon Roger P. , Jirtle Randy L. , Andersen Melvin E.
Published: August 2018

Human performance, endurance, and resilience have biological limits that are genetically and epigenetically predetermined but perhaps not yet optimized. There are few systematic, rigorous studies on how to raise these limits and reach the true maxima. Achieving this goal might accelerate translation of the theoretical concepts of conditioning, hormesis, and stress adaptation into technological advancements. In 2017, an Air Force-sponsored conference was held at the University of Massachusetts for discipline experts to display data showing that the amplitude and duration of biological performance might be magnified and to discuss whether there might be harmful consequences of exceeding typical maxima. The charge of the workshop was “to examine and discuss and, if possible, recommend approaches to control and exploit endogenous defense mechanisms to enhance the structure and function of biological tissues.” The goal of this white paper is to fulfill and extend this workshop charge. First, a few of the established methods to exploit endogenous defense mechanisms are described, based on workshop presentations. Next, the white paper accomplishes the following goals to provide: (1) synthesis and critical analysis of concepts across some of the published work on endogenous defenses, (2) generation of new ideas on augmenting biological performance and resilience, and (3) specific recommendations for researchers to not only examine a wider range of stimulus doses but to also systematically modify the temporal dimension in stimulus inputs (timing, number, frequency, and duration of exposures) and in measurement outputs (interval until assay end point, and lifespan). Thus, a path forward is proposed for researchers hoping to optimize protocols that support human health and longevity, whether in civilians, soldiers, athletes, or the elderly patients. The long-term goal of these specific recommendations is to accelerate the discovery of practical methods to conquer what were once considered intractable constraints on performance maxima.
Analysis of flexible supported industrial robot on terminal accuracy
Authors: Wang Liping , Chen Lian , Shao Zhufeng , Guan Liwen , Du Li
Published: August 2018

To meet comprehensive performance requirements of large workspace, lightweight, and low energy consumption, and flexible supported industrial robots emerge, which are usually composed of a six-degrees-of-rotational-freedom (6R) industrial robot and a flexible support. Flexible support greatly expands the motion range of the attached industrial robot. Flexible supported industrial robots have been adopted in surface coating of large structures such as aircrafts and rockets. However, the rigid–flexible coupling exists in these robot systems. When the industrial robot moves, the reaction force and torque of the robot disturb the flexible support and introduce vibration, which may result in the deterioration of the system’s terminal accuracy. This study focuses on both the robot body accuracy and system vibration suppression to improve the terminal accuracy of the flexible supported industrial robot. Firstly, based on kinematics analysis, accuracy of the industrial robot is investigated with the local conditioning index. Then, reaction force and torque ellipsoids are proposed with the deduced dynamic model to evaluate disturbances that the industrial robot applies to the flexible support. Considering these two aspects, the high-quality workspace of the flexible supported industrial robot is established. Numerical simulations show that reaction force and torque are effectively limited in the high-quality workspace, which greatly reduce the vibration energy and improve the terminal accuracy of the system.
Relational trust and positional power between school principals and teachers in Chile: A study of primary schools
Authors: Weinstein José , Raczynski Dagmar , Peña Javiera
Published: August 2018

The article analyses the trust relationship between principals and teachers in primary schools in the specific Chilean educational context. The analysis is based on the concept of school trust, emphasizing Bryk and Tschannen-Moran’s classic works. A mixed sequential quantitative–qualitative research methodology is used, including both a survey and a qualitative case study carried out in nine schools. The main results, include: principals and teachers take a different approach when forging trust they have in one another. While principals confer this trust, teachers earn it. Likewise, principals mainly set the tone, intensity and scope of the trust relationship; principals are more critical of teachers, mainly questioning certain aspects of their professional skills. Conversely, teachers normally base trust on more personal matters; individual traits of both principals and teachers have little impact on their relational trust, the exception being the number of years teachers have been on the job. While for teachers there are hardly any differences (and this changes only when it comes to the prevailing principal’s leadership), among principals, differences emerge from schools’ size, socio-economic level and public or private status; and a final discussion propounds the importance of the educational context when analysing trust relationships and positional power in schools.
Buildings with environmental quality management, part 3: From log houses to environmental quality management zero-energy buildings
Authors: Yarbrough David W , Bomberg Mark , Romanska-Zapala Anna
Published: August 2018

The discussion in this article starts in the 1920s, that is, at the time of the humble beginnings of building science and brings us to 2020s with the development of net-zero energy buildings. The knowledge accumulated by explaining observed failures in the practice of construction slowly formed a basis for moving toward a predictive capability and to an integration of modeling and testing. Furthermore, we have learned that interactions between energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, and moisture management are so critical that the three issues must be considered simultaneously. Effectively, a change in the low energy is needed to ensure durability of materials and cost considerations for these buildings. At this stage, one could observe a clear change in the mind-set of the scientific community. Forty years after construction of the first 10 passive homes, we made a shocking observation—an adequate technology has been developed, but our lack of vision prevents effective use of this technology. Again, we need to modify our vision and change the design paradigm to balance comfort, building durability, and cost-effectiveness. If the quest for sustainable buildings is our ultimate objective, then we should learn more from the surrounding nature; termites appear to master the art of hygrothermal control better than humans because they can optimize transient conditions to maintain a stable interior comfort zone. Thus, in the article to follow a new compact building envelope design package is proposed, applicable to different climates with specific modifications of critical hygrothermal material properties. This approach is called the Environmental Quality Management. This will be the second step for a building science (physics) needed to become a leading force in the transition to sustainable built environments.