bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Security Governance: Mafia Control over Ordinary Crimes
Authors: Aziani Alberto , Favarin Serena , Campedelli Gian Maria
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

This study tests whether mafias, as archetypical criminal organizations that exert control over local communities, protect their territories against ordinary criminality. Our hypothesis is that mafias have both the incentives and the capacities to supply security governance to specific territories. This is a distinctive feature of mafias that deserves to be considered.

Method:

To understand whether mafias’ territorial control is associated with lower levels of ordinary criminality, we conduct a panel data analysis on 110 Italian provinces (2004 to 2015). System generalized method of moment and Driscoll–Kraay standard errors are performed to test our hypothesis. This study exploits an aggregated measure of thefts, robberies, and assaults as dependent variable. A standardized index derived from the number of active mafia groups in a province is our proxy of mafia control.

Results:

The article statistically shows that mafias limit ordinary criminality, whereas less stable and unstructured criminal groups do not.

Conclusions:

The results indicate that crime prevention and the maintenance of public order should be considered among the pillars of mafia’s governance. By controlling and reducing ordinary crimes, mafias overcome the role of law enforcement and institutional justice increasing consensus among the population. Consequently, the state may better contrast mafias by becoming a stronger supplier of security.
The cost of caring: secondary traumatic stress and burnout among lay trauma counsellors in the Western Cape Province
Authors: Padmanabhanunni Anita
Published: December 2019

The psychological and emotional risks associated with providing care to traumatized populations have been largely overlooked in the literature on non-professional trauma counselling in South Africa. Non-professional or lay trauma counsellors are frontline service providers and typically the first point of contact for people in community contexts who have experienced traumatic events. The main aim of this study was to investigate the professional quality of life including compassion satisfaction, secondary traumatic stress, and burnout of a sample ( N = 146) of lay trauma counsellors in the Western Cape Province. Demographic factors including age and gender were found to be significant. Older age was associated with compassion satisfaction while younger age predicted burnout. Male lay trauma counsellors were more likely to report high burnout and high secondary traumatic stress compared with their female counterparts. The study underscores the need for organizations to incorporate prevention and intervention approaches to mitigate the negative psychological impact of working with trauma. Male lay trauma counsellors and younger counsellors may particularly benefit from interventions that encourage debriefing.
Evaluating the impact of a defender role-play intervention on adolescent’s defender intentions and responses towards name-calling
Authors: Abbott Nicola , Cameron Lindsey , Thompson Jayne
Published: December 2019

Researchers and anti-bullying organisations have increasingly turned their attention to the role of bystanders in tackling bullying and peer victimisation (e.g. name-calling). The objective of this study was to develop and assess the impact of a role-play programme designed to strengthen adolescent’s defending behaviour to name-calling. This was measured in two contexts: defending intentions in an outgroup name-calling scenario and cyber-defender behaviour in a scripted online peer interaction. Participants ( N = 121, Mage = 12.90 years) were randomly assigned to either a role-play condition or a control condition. Results showed that defender intentions in an outgroup name-calling scenario were higher in the role-play condition, compared to the control; in addition, cyber-defender behaviour was more likely and quicker in the role-play condition, compared to the control. Defender self-efficacy was found to be significantly higher in the role-play condition, and mediated the effect of the role-play programme on defender intentions. Findings also revealed that defender intentions were positively correlated with cyber-defender behaviour, highlighting a link between intentions and behaviour. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Hospital-based bereavement care provision: A cross-sectional survey with health professionals
Authors: Naef Rahel , Peng-Keller Simon , Rettke Horst , Rufer Michael , Petry Heidi
Published: December 2019

Background:

An in-hospital death is a profound experience for those left behind and has been associated with family members’ psychological morbidity. Supporting bereaved family members is an essential part of end-of-life care and includes attentive presence, information-giving, and emotional and practical support. The actual adoption of hospital-based bereavement care, however, remains little understood.

Aim:

To investigate hospital-based bereavement care provision and associated barriers.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey using an online questionnaire.

Setting/participants:

Health professionals ( n = 196) from two University-affiliated acute and psychiatric hospitals in Switzerland.

Results:

The most frequent bereavement services (⩾40%) were viewing the deceased, giving information on available support, and making referrals; the most often named barriers were lack of time and organizational support. Acute care health professionals faced statistically significant more structural barriers (55.1% vs 21.4% lack of time, 47.8% vs 25.9% lack of organizational support) and felt insufficiently trained (38.4% vs 20.7%) compared to mental health professionals ( p ⩽ 0.05). Nurses provided more immediate services compared to physicians, such as viewing the deceased (71.3% vs 49.0%) and sending sympathy cards (37.4% vs 16.3%) ( p ⩽ 0.01). In contrast, physicians screened more often for complex bereavement disorders (10.2% vs 2.6%) and appraised bereavement care as beyond their role (26.5% vs 7.8%) ( p ⩽ 0.05).

Conclusion:

The study indicates that many barriers to bereavement care exist in hospitals. More research is required to better understand enabling and limiting factors to bereavement care provision. A guideline-driven approach to hospital-based bereavement care that defines best practice and required organizational support seems necessary to ensure needs-based bereavement care.
The effect of interventions on appropriate use of lumbar spine radiograph and CT examinations in young adults and children: a three-year follow-up
Authors: Tahvonen Pirita , Oikarinen Heljä , Tervonen Osmo
Published: December 2019

Background

According to international guidelines, radiological examinations of the lumbar spine are of limited value and do not improve clinical outcome unless there are clinical red flags present suggesting serious pathology. Nevertheless, the utilization of lumbar spine imaging remains high.

Purpose

To follow up the effects of active referral guideline implementation and education on the number and appropriateness of lumbar spine radiographs and computed tomography (CT) examinations in young patients and to evaluate whether the appropriate radiographs have more significant findings.

Material and Methods

Referral guidelines for spine examinations and info pocket cards on radiation protection were distributed to referring practitioners. Educational lectures were provided annually. The number of lumbar spine radiographs and CT examinations on patients aged <35 years was analyzed before and three years after the interventions. Appropriateness and findings of 313 radiographs and appropriateness of 117 CT scans of the lumbar spine were assessed.

Results

The number of lumbar spine radiographs and CT scans decreased significantly after the interventions and the level remained unchanged during the follow-up (−33% and −72%, respectively, P < 0.001). Appropriateness improved significantly in radiographs from 2005 to 2009 (65% vs. 85%) and in CT scans already from 2005 to 2007 (23% vs. 63%). Radiographs that were in accordance with the guidelines had more significant findings compared to radiographs that were not; in young adults, this was 56% versus 21% ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion

A combination of interventions can achieve a sustained reduction in the number of lumbar spine examinations and improve appropriateness. Inappropriate lumbar spine radiographs do not seem to contain significant findings that would affect patient care.
Early hybrid nonbridging external fixation of unstable distal radius fractures in patients aged ≥50 years
Authors: Cheng Pengfei , Wu Fan , Chen Hua , Jiang Chaoyin , Wang Ting , Han Pei , Chai Yimin
Published: December 2019

Objective

We evaluated hybrid nonbridging external fixation (NBEF) supplemented by K-wires as an effective and safe treatment option for osteoporotic distal radius fractures (DRFs) in a retrospective case series.

Methods

Sixteen extra-articular and one intra-articular DRF were treated by NBEF from 2016 to 2018 (mean patient age, 61.8 years; 15 women, 1 man). Radiographic parameters (volar tilt, radial inclination, and ulnar variance), range of motion, grip power, the visual analog scale score, and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score were assessed at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postoperatively.

Results

The volar tilt and radial inclination were restored after surgery and maintained well. The mean visual analog scale score was 4 ± 1 at 4 weeks. Range of motion was restored to 79% to 91% at 6 weeks. The DASH score was good before NBEF device removal. Two superficial pin-tract infections were easily treated with antibiotics.

Conclusions

Hybrid NBEF transfixes DRFs in a multiplanar fashion, and augmentation with percutaneous K-wires provides direct fixation in radial shift and withstands axial loads in fracture fragments. It allows early mobilization with rigid fixation. Hybrid NBEF is reliable for unstable extra-articular and simple intra-articular DRFs in older patients.

Clinical Study registration number

ChiCTR1900021712
Gender, Bullying Victimization, Depressive Symptoms, and Suicidality
Authors: Strohacker Emily , Wright Lauren E. , Watts Stephen J.
Published: December 2019

Bullying victimization can have serious consequences for adolescents. This article examines the association between traditional and cyberbullying victimization, depressive symptoms, and suicidality in a national school-based sample, utilizing general strain theory (GST) as a guide to how these variables might relate to each other. We additionally examine whether the associations between these variables differ by gender. Results suggest that traditional and cyberbullying victimization have significant, positive associations with both depressive symptoms and suicidality. Results are partly supportive of the full model suggested by GST, with the associations between bullying and suicidality being weakened in some models when accounting for depressive symptoms. Gender differences also emerge. These findings are discussed in relation to their relevance for policy and theory.
Hemoadsorption by extracorporeal cytokine adsorption therapy (CytoSorb®) in the management of septic shock: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Singh YP , Chhabra SC , Lashkari K , Taneja A , Garg A , Chandra A , Chhabra M , Singh GP , Jain S
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

Sepsis results in immunologic disturbances with the release of various inflammatory mediators such as cytokines. Cytokines can damage the cells, and the continuous release of inflammatory mediators leads to severely impaired immunity. Therefore, the reduction in cytokine levels by hemoadsorption represents a new concept for blood purification. CytoSorb® as a hemoadsorption device is a detoxification system, which aims to decrease the cytokines levels. This study was conducted to understand any beneficial effects of CytoSorb® therapy in septic patients.

Methodology:

This was a retrospective and observational study, approved by the scientific and ethics committee of Max Super Specialty Hospital, Patparganj, Delhi, India and conducted in compliance with current International Council for Harmonization, Good Clinical Practice, Schedule Y, and Indian Council of Medical Research guidelines. Subjects of either gender (age > 18 year) were included in the study. The data were presented as mean ± standard deviation and categorical as frequency and percentage (%). A p value less than 0.05 (p < 0.05) was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

A total number of 36 patients were included in the study. Majority of the patients were male with mean age (56.36 ± 14.83). After therapy, procalcitonin and total leucocyte count levels decreased within 24 h. Post therapy, sepsis-related organ failure assessment (SOFA) score of Day (D)1, D2, and D3 reduced to 10.4 ± 3.63, 8.7 ± 4.02, and 7.8 ± 3.67, respectively. The Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score and predicted mortality were lower in the survivor group as compared to the non-survivor group.

Conclusion:

Hemoadsorption using the extracorporeal adsorption device (CytoSorb®) might be an effective rescue therapy in stabilizing septic shock patients.
Evaluating South Africa’s tech-entrepreneurship programme for venture creation through the eyes of the participants
Authors: Uctu Ramazan , Essop Hassan , Jafta Rachel
Published: December 2019

Policymakers in many countries have lit on tech-entrepreneurship as an essential element for economic development. To this end, South Africa’s Technology Innovation Agency, with co-sponsorship from the Swiss–South African Joint Research Programme, has run a cross-country tech-entrepreneurial training programme for local tech-entrepreneurs since 2010. This study reviews participants’ assessment of the training programme utilizing the Tech-Entrepreneurship Survey of 2016, designed and administered by the authors. From analysis of the participants’ rich feedback on their motivations for enrolment, the quality of training received and the strengths and weaknesses of the programme, clear indications emerge of what worked and what did not work. This enables the identification of focus areas for tech-entrepreneurship programme owners and policymakers in pursuit of tech-entrepreneurship expansion.
Integration of in-plane and out-of-plane dimensional variation in multi-station assembly process for automotive body assembly
Authors: Jandaghi Shahi Vahid , Masoumi Abolfazl
Published: December 2019

Automotive body assembly systems contain multiple operations in multi-station processes. One of the most critical challenges for such manufacturing systems is dimensional quality, which is affected by the accumulation and propagation of variation caused by manufacturing imperfections. However, sheet metal part compliancy behavior makes the variation modeling method extremely intricate when both rigid (in-plane) and compliant (out-of-plane) variations are considered. This paper develops a more accurate variation propagation model to describe dimensional variation of sheet metal assembly in multi-station assembly system through involving both the variation types simultaneously as well as the impacts of assembly operations on each other. In this methodology, three sources of deviations—non-ideal parts, fixture errors, and assembly operations effects—are taken into account. The variation generated in every assembly operation (placing, clamping, fastening, and releasing steps) and the variation propagation through station-to-station interaction (repositioning) are analyzed by the transfer function mechanism. In the in-plane direction, the stream of variation analysis is adopted to obtain the rigid transfer function to describe the position and orientation relationships between part and assembly element errors. For the simulation of part deformation during the assembly process in the out-of-plane direction, the compliant transfer functions are extracted by variation response methodology. A nested state space model is used to integrate the overall assembly variation by updating part geometry after each assembly operation. The capability of proposed method is illustrated through a case study on an automotive body side assembly process.
Uncertain fault estimation using bicausal bond graph: Application to intelligent autonomous vehicle
Authors: Lounici Yacine , Touati Youcef , Adjerid Smail
Published: December 2019

This article addresses the fault detection and isolation problem of uncertain systems using the bond graph model–based approach. The latter provides through its causal and structural properties an automatic analytical redundancy relations generation. The numerical evaluation of analytical redundancy relations yields residuals, which are used to verify the coherence between the real system and reference behaviors describing the nominal operation. In fact, the residual is compared to its thresholds to detect the fault. In addition, the comparison between all fault signatures allows making a decision on fault isolation. Moreover, to isolate the faults that activate the same set of residuals, an additional residual must be calculated for each fault. This additional residual is the comparison between two estimations of the considered fault obtained using the sensitivity relations. However, due to the presence of uncertainties, errors can occur in the fault estimation allowing false decisions on fault isolation. The novelties and innovative interests in the present work are (1) to improve the fault estimation procedure based on the uncertainties modeling and bicausality notion, in order to overcome the problem related to errors in the estimated fault and (2) to suitably generate the isolation thresholds in a systematic way using the uncertain fault estimation procedure proposed in this article so that fault can be isolated successfully. The proposed methodology is studied under various scenarios via simulations over an electromechanical traction system corresponding to a quarter of intelligent autonomous vehicle, named RobuCar.
Analysis of the compression behavior of an E-glass composite pipe after aging in water
Authors: d’Almeida José RM , Ottolini Leonardo M
Published: December 2019

E-glass-reinforced composite pipes are being increasingly used in petrochemical facilities. After years of contact with the fluid being transported, the mechanical integrity of the pipes can be compromised, and their failure mode can be altered. This work analyzes the effect of temperature and pressure on the compressive behavior of an E-glass pipe after exposure to water. The results indicate that temperature causes more damage than pressure on the mechanical response of the composite. A macroscopic damage parameter quantified the effect on the mechanical behavior of the composite. Surface gloss changes were also correlated with the effects caused by aging.
A Review of Research on International Student Mobility: Science Mapping the Existing Knowledge Base
Authors: Gümüş Sedat , Gök Enes , Esen Murat
Published: December 2019

Among the increasing number of academic publications in the field of higher education, studies focusing on internationalization of higher education are on the exponential phase in the last couple of decades. In these efforts, the research on international student mobility (ISM) has been a priority. This current review research uses science mapping tools to examine Web of Science (WoS)–indexed journal publications focusing on ISM. The purpose of the review is to demonstrate the development of ISM research in the last three decades. The findings, revealed from an examination of 2,064 publications, suggest that ISM research has significantly expanded since 2005. Findings also reveal crucial information regarding the authors’ country of origin as well as country collaborations and the most influential scholars in the field by demonstrating networks around the world. Topical foci analysis is also included in the study to show current patterns in ISM research. Discussions and suggestions are expected to provide a basis for countries and international organizations in their policy development efforts related to international students and a ground and direction for future research on ISM.
Schizophrenia, recovery and the individual-cultural considerations
Authors: Tirupati Srinivasan , Ramachandran Padmavati
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

The concept of recovery in mental health has been embraced by many services across the world. Placing the individual (self) at the core of service delivery constituted a profound shift from service-driven models of care. However, cultures described as individualistic or collectivist may hold very different views of individuality. In cultures with collectivist orientation, the notion of ‘individualism’ is integrated into the structure and dynamics of the family. The families in such cultures play a major and lifetime role in caring for its members, making decisions and acting in consideration of the welfare of all. The needs and priorities of individuals, especially women, may be superseded by those of their families. This commentary is on the effect of culture on the identity of self in the recovery process and its relevance to mental health care.

Conclusion:

In multicultural societies like Australia that include Indigenous people, the process of acculturation may be different. For the Indigenous people, the shift was from a collectivist culture to one that was predominantly individualistic. In the provision of recovery-oriented mental health care, there needs to be an awareness of the cultural variations in the relational dynamics of individualism.
A Palliative Care Program for Volunteers in a Community Setting: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Jiwon , Lee Jong-Eun
Published: December 2019

Background:

The objective of community-based palliative care is to improve the quality of life of patients and their families and to share the responsibility of caregiving. However, the evidence of the efficacy of volunteer services in community-based palliative care is insufficient.

Purpose:

This pilot study sought to uncover the feasibility and efficacy of a volunteer program in palliative care.

Methods:

The study used a sequential mixed-methods design. A total of 19 volunteers participated in the training program, and 6 trained volunteers provided services for a period of 10 weeks to 5 families. Quantitative data were collected on death anxiety, coping with death, and meaning in life for volunteers before and after the training and after completing their services. Qualitative data were collected about volunteering experiences.

Results:

Significant increases in coping with death and meaning in life after training and in meaning in life after providing services were observed among volunteers. Three categories (“Volunteer’s growing influence at home,” “Discovering meaning-in-life through volunteering,” and “Death as the final journey in life”) emerged from the qualitative findings. The caregivers’ satisfaction score was high.

Conclusions:

A palliative care program was found to be useful for volunteers in finding meaning in life, motivating continued volunteering. Moreover, caregivers were satisfied with the palliative care service of volunteers.
The Effectiveness of Artificial Hydration Therapy for Patients With Terminal Cancer Having Overhydration Symptoms Based on the Japanese Clinical Guidelines A Pilot Study
Authors: Nakajima Nobuhisa
Published: December 2019

Background:

Recently, there has been a growing interest in the use of artificial hydration therapy (AHT) for patients with terminal cancer. The Japanese Society for Palliative Medicine published the guideline for AHT in 2007, and it was revised in 2013 based on the concept of cancer cachexia.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of AHT for patients with terminal cancer having overhydration symptoms based on this revised guideline.

Methods:

This is a before-and-after study. We retrospectively analyzed 121 patients, of the 523 patients with terminal cancer who were admitted during the last 4 years, who were receiving “inappropriate hydration therapy.” We performed guideline-based AHT and examined the effects on the alleviation of hydration-related symptoms, quality of life (QOL), patient satisfaction, and the feeling of benefit from AHT using a numeric rating scale, European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-Life Questionnaire-C30, satisfaction scale, and benefit scale on day 7 ± 1 compared to those at baseline.

Results:

Hydration-related symptoms (nausea: 32, abdominal pain/distention: 35, peripheral edema: 42, and dyspnea: 28 cases) were significantly improved after performing guideline-based AHT (5.35 ± 1.26→4.00 ± 1.51, P = .002; 5.41 ± 1.44→4.12 ± 1.52; P = .005; 5.16 ± 1.38→3.29 ± 1.66; P < .0001; and 5.24 ± 1.22→4.21 ± 1.53, P = .002, respectively). The general QOL scores, overall satisfaction, and feeling of benefit were also significantly improved (2.67 ± 1.21→3.98 ± 1.55, P < .0001; 2.25 ± 1.35→3.48 ± 1.44, P < .0001; and 3.12 ± 1.24→4.31 ± 1.38, P = .0001, respectively).

Conclusions:

An appropriate AHT could alleviate overhydration-related symptoms and improve the QOL, patient satisfaction, and feeling of benefit.
Malignant Pleural PEComa: A Previously Undocumented Site
Authors: Au Rebecca Tian Mei , Ahmed Aneez D. B. , Ho Bernard Chi Shen , Teo Clarence Hai Yi , Chuah Khoon Leong
Published: December 2019

Perivascular epithelioid cell (PEC) tumors are rare tumors of mesenchymal origin and can affect many anatomic regions. Although these tumors are usually benign, malignant variants exist. We document for the first time a malignant PEComa arising from the pleura of a 43-year-old Malay woman. The pathology of the tumor as well as differential diagnoses is discussed.
Outcomes Related to Antiplatelet Therapy in a High-Risk ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction Population: A Retrospective Real-World Analysis of an Italian ECMO Center
Authors: Righetti Stefano , Montemerlo Elisabetta , Soffici Federica , Sala Davide , Bozzano Alessandro , Mauro Andrea , Maggioni Elena , Avalli Leonello , Camisasca Paola , Colombo Virgilio , Achilli Felice , Lettino Maddalena , Calchera Ivan
Published: December 2019

Aim:

To evaluate outcomes related to antiplatelet therapy in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) admitted to the San Gerardo Hospital in Monza, an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) reference center in the Monza-Brianza area.

Methods:

This retrospective study enrolled patients with STEMI hospitalized between 2013 and 2017.

Results:

This study included 653 patients (mean age: 67.5 years, 71% male). Across the study period, ticagrelor use showed consistent increases, from 22% of patients during 2013 to 85% in 2017. Cardiac arrest prehospitalization occurred in 100 patients (15.3%), either at home (n = 85, 13.0%) or during transfer (n = 15, 2.3%); 46 patients underwent ECMO for refractory cardiac arrest. Rates of 90-day survival (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3-4.4, P = .004) and ST resolution (odds ratio [OR]: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.6-4.1, P = .000) were higher with ticagrelor than with other antiplatelet agents. When analyzed by each agent, patients on ticagrelor had longer survival (HR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2-0.8, P = .008) than patients on clopidogrel and more frequent ST resolution than those on clopidogrel or prasugrel (OR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2-0.7, P = .002 and OR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2-0.7, P = .006). There was no difference in mortality between ticagrelor and prasugrel.

Conclusions:

Changes in the treatment of high-risk patients with STEMI over time are in line with changes in treatment guidelines. In these patients, ticagrelor is associated with significantly improved 90-day mortality compared with clopidogrel.
Integration of a nausea and vomiting assessment tool into antineoplastic management of pediatric oncology patients
Authors: McKinnon Krista , Jupp Jennifer
Published: December 2019

Background

Antineoplastic-induced nausea and vomiting (AINV) is a treatment-related issue that can have significant negative influences on the cancer patient’s quality of life. Assessment of nausea is challenging in children as few studies include the perception of nausea as an outcome, and the severity is rarely evaluated with the use of a validated instrument. We describe our experience of integrating an AINV tool into patient care at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Procedure: The Pediatric Nausea Assessment Tool (PeNAT) was adapted to create a standardized tool that could be used by the clinical pharmacists for AINV assessment. From February to August 2017, 74 patients receiving 217 cycles of highly or moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC or MEC) were eligible to use the AINV tool. Patients that completed the AINV tool were contacted to complete a satisfaction survey.

Results

AINV tool uptake was low: 47 (22%) eligible chemotherapy cycles utilized the tool (24 (32%) and 23 (16%) cycles of HEC and MEC, respectively, ( p < 0.01)). Ifosfamide-containing cycles received the highest nausea ratings, with nausea severity correlated with agent emetogenicity. Mean nausea rating was 2.07 versus 1.76 for patients receiving HEC or MEC, respectively. Clinical pharmacists performed 1.24 AINV interventions per day. Patient satisfaction with AINV care overall was high; however, 51% of patients indicated that the tool led to no changes in nausea symptoms.

Conclusions

AINV tool uptake was low with limited value in improving outcomes. Incorporation of nausea assessment into the electronic health record and potential use of a mobile application may improve uptake.
Relationship of Anxiety, Inflammation, and Telomere Length in Postpartum Women: A Pilot Study
Authors: Groer Maureen , Louis-Jacques Adetola , Szalacha Laura , Redwine Laura , Dracxler Roberta , Keefe David
Published: December 2019

Background:

The postpartum period can be a vulnerable time during which many women are prone to mood disturbances. Since telomere length (TL) is known to be associated with dysphoric moods, inflammation, and stress in many populations, this study’s objective was to assess the relationships among TL, dysphoric moods, stress, and inflammation during the postpartum period.

Method:

This cross-sectional pilot study is a secondary analysis of data collected in a larger parent study of anti-thyroid peroxidase (TPO) enzyme antibody positive versus negative women. The parent study followed selected mothers every month for 6 postpartum months. From this parent study, a random sample of preserved peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 97 participants collected at 2–4 months postpartum were measured for TL. Data were available on the production of interleukin-6 (IL-6), an inflammatory cytokine, in stimulated ex vivo cultures for 59 of these women. Dysphoric moods and stress were measured. Pearson correlations and linear regressions were performed, controlling for postpartum thyroiditis status and age.

Results:

There were no statistically significant relationships between TL and demographic factors, stress, depression, or TPO status. There were significant negative correlations between TL and anxiety and a trend for a relationship between TL and IL-6 levels. IL-6 levels were significantly, positively associated with negative moods.

Conclusions:

Higher anxiety scores and inflammation were associated with shorter TL. Inflammation was related to anxiety and other dysphoric moods and was marginally associated with shorter TLs.
Endovascular salvage of non-maturing autogenous arteriovenous fistulas by using angioplasty and competitive vein embolization
Authors: Nauta Lisette , Voorzaat Bram M , Rotmans Joris I , Ghariq Elyas , Urlings Thijs , van der Bogt Koen E A , van der Linden Edwin
Published: December 2019

Introduction:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the maturation and patency rates after endovascular treatment of non-maturing arteriovenous fistulas with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, embolization of competitive veins, or a combination of both in a series of consecutive patients.

Material and methods:

Retrospective evaluation of patients with non-matured arteriovenous fistulas treated in our hospital was performed. Fistulography and ultrasonography was performed in all patients to evaluate the presence of stenosis and competitive veins. Significant stenoses (> 50%) were treated with balloon angioplasty and competitive veins (accessory and collateral veins) with coil embolization.

Results:

A total of 78 fistulas were treated. Angioplasty and coil embolization were performed in 73 and 51 patients, respectively. No major complications occurred. In 65 out of 78 arteriovenous fistulas (83%), successful cannulation with two needles was possible after endovascular treatment. Sixty-three arteriovenous fistulas (81%) were used successfully for at least 3 months. Accessory veins were the only lesion present in 14% of the arteriovenous fistulas; coil embolization of these accessory veins resulted in 100% successful maturation. The estimated 3, 6, and 12 months postintervention assisted primary patency rates were, respectively, 73%, 55%, and 45%. The estimated 3, 6, and 12 months postintervention secondary patency rates were, respectively, 81%, 78%, and 73%.

Conclusion and discussion:

Angioplasty and coil embolization are successful and safe procedures that can convert a non-mature fistula into a mature one in more than 80% of patients. Accessory vein embolization may be more important than collateral vein embolization in the presence of stenosis.
Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia After Relapse of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A Case Report
Authors: Hamamyh Tahseen , Yassin Mohamed A
Published: December 2019

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is one of the differential diagnoses for anemia in patients with lymphoproliferative neoplasia, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia, who experience sudden drop in hemoglobin. The association between autoimmune hemolytic anemia and chronic myeloid leukemia on the contrary is unusual. Here we present a patient with a background of chronic myeloid leukemia treated previously with Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors, then developed autoimmune hemolysis simultaneously with chronic myeloid leukemia relapse. Hemolysis was treated with steroids with good response.
The Self stepping into the shoes of the Other: Understanding and developing self-perceptions of empathy among prospective physical education teachers through a special school placement
Authors: Maher Anthony J , Morley David
Published: December 2019

Teachers who demonstrate a high degree of empathy are said to have more positive attitudes towards pupils with disabilities. Therefore, this article sought to explore the influence of a special school placement on prospective teachers’ self-perceptions of empathy. Thirty-two final year undergraduate students participated in focus group interviews and were selected because they aspired to be a physical education teacher and had attended a placement in a special school. Interview transcripts were analysed and the following themes constructed: Stepping into the shoes of the Other; Frustrated ‘for’ not ‘with’ pupils with disabilities; Empathy for planning inclusive lessons and ‘reading’ pupil body language; and Knowing when not to show empathy. All prospective teachers felt that: (a) they could empathise with pupils with disabilities; (b) situated learning experiences within the placement enabled them to reflect on the ways in which their empathy influences their teaching now and could continue to do so in the future; and (c) it was important that teachers demonstrated empathy. Thus, it is recommended that all prospective teachers gain some experience teaching in special schools. Our research also warns against teachers claiming the last, conclusive word about who children with disabilities are, what they think, how they feel and what they want, in myriad contexts and situations.
A spectral-acceleration-based combination-type earthquake intensity measure for high-rise stack-like structures
Authors: Qiu Yikun , Zhou Changdong , A Siha , Zhang Guangwei
Published: December 2019

Ground motion intensity measures are of great importance for the seismic design of structures. A well-chosen intensity measure will reduce the detailed ground motion record selection effort for the nonlinear dynamic structural analyses. In this article, a spectral-acceleration-based combination-type earthquake intensity measure is presented. This intensity measure considers the higher modes effect and period elongation effect due to nonlinear deformation at the same time. The modal mass participation factors are determined to take weighting coefficients and the product of elastic first-mode period T1 and a constant C is expressed to represent the elongated period. Therefore, the proposed intensity measure is a combination of earthquake ground motion characteristics, elastic structural responses, higher modes participation, and the period elongation effect due to inelastic structural behaviors. Four three-dimensional models of reinforced concrete stack-like structures including a 240 m-high chimney, a 180 m-high chimney, a 120 m-high chimney, and a 42.3 m-high water tower are established and analyzed in ABAQUS to investigate the correlation between the intensity measure and the maximum curvatures under 44 far-field ground motions and 28 near-fault ground motions with a pulse-like effect. With the optimal vibration modes and the proper period elongation coefficient, the efficiency of the introduced intensity measure is compared with the other 15 intensity measures. The results indicate that the proposed intensity measure is believed to be a good choice for high-rise stack-like structures, especially under the near-fault ground motions with pulse-like effect.
#MigrantCaravan: The border wall and the establishment of otherness on Instagram
Authors: Jaramillo-Dent Daniela , Pérez-Rodríguez María Amor
Published: December 2019

Recent media attention aimed at migrant caravans at the US–Mexico border has increased interest from different actors in the political and social spheres. Parallel to traditional and mainstream media, social media has become the prime context where narratives about the border develop, molding broader societal perspectives on the immigration issue. Through a content and discourse analysis of 105 posts connected by the #MigrantCaravan or #CaravanaMigrante hashtags, we delved into how media representations of immigration on Instagram effectively establish otherness between the different characters involved in this phenomenon. The border wall emerges as one of the main components in these narratives and a symbol of the temporal and spatial stages of the migratory journey. Meanwhile, the voice of the main character, the migrant, is mostly absent, often conveyed through biased views, filtered by the opinions of posters about immigration and characterized by new narrative configurations enabled by the Instagram format.
When will Black children be well? Interrupting anti-Black violence in early childhood classrooms and schools
Authors: Boutte Gloria , Bryan Nathaniel
Published: December 2019

We demonstrate that Black children are not faring well in early childhood settings and suggest ways educators can work toward ensuring that Black children thrive and flourish in schools. Five types of daily violence/traumas that Black children experience in schools are described against the ethical backdrop First Do No Harm (Boutte, 2008). Evoking the Maasai legend that asks, How are the children? we share two examples of Black males’ school experiences, though we readily acknowledge that Black females experience parallel issues. We present an overview of five types of school violence (physical, symbolic, linguistic, curricular/pedagogical, and systemic), and conclude by offering ways to interrupt these to ensure that Black children are well.
Considering a participatory approach to social work – Service user research
Authors: Flanagan Niamh
Published: December 2019

Service-user involvement in social work research is much vaunted and considered desirable. Yet, it is not common. This is despite the fact that research-funding bodies are increasingly mandating inclusion of service users in the research process. It would seem timely for the profession to look again at participatory research as an approach to working collaboratively with service users in the co-production of research. This article reviews the arguments for service-user collaboration in social work research; it considers the evolution of service-user engagement and its current status in practice. Building on the foundations of social work research methodologies, the article considers the practicalities of participatory research and the potential barriers. The article draws on vignettes of published participatory research to illustrate this type of research in social work.
State access to encrypted data in the United Kingdom: The ‘transparent’ approach
Authors: Keenan Bernard
Published: December 2019

This article foregrounds four key powers through which the UK intelligence and police agencies (broadly referred to hereafter as ‘law enforcement’) may access encrypted communications and data. It is structured as follows. First, a brief overview of the European Court of Human Rights’ jurisprudence on communications surveillance contextualises the overarching normative framework that must be translated into domestic law. The four powers are then discussed, both in legal and practical terms. The first two powers operate covertly, without the knowledge of the target. The latter two operate coercively, allowing police to demand individuals unlock encrypted data on penalty of prosecution. The article argues that the overall effect is to weaken encryption systems globally.
Profits Uber everything? The gig economy and the morality of category work
Authors: Cornelissen Joep , Cholakova Magdalena
Published: December 2019

In this essay, we address the question of how the strategic and organizational activities of on-demand sharing economy companies such as Uber are labeled and classified. We approach this question through a categorization lens and explore in particular whether sharing economy companies can legitimately frame the individuals who work for them as “independent workers” and what this implies for the nature of the employment relationship in such on-demand business models. Our overall aim in doing this is twofold. First, we highlight and address an important categorization issue in our current society, which has potentially far-reaching consequences for the nature of employment and the securities and protections that workers used to enjoy in many parts of the world. Second, we advance prior research in the strategy and organizational domain by elaborating how acts of categorization are inherently moral and political in nature. In this way, we aim to provoke researchers toward studying the moral basis of categorization work and we provide pointers in this essay for how they might do so.
Deletion of haematopoietic Dectin-2 or CARD9 does not protect from atherosclerosis development under hyperglycaemic conditions
Authors: Thiem Kathrin , Hoeke Geerte , Zhou Enchen , Hijmans Anneke , Houben Tom , Boels Margien G , Mol Isabel M , Lutgens Esther , Shiri-Sverdlov Ronit , Bussink Johan , Kanneganti Thirumala D , Boon Mariëtte R , Stienstra Rinke , Tack Cees J , Rensen Patrick CN , Netea Mihai G , Berbée Jimmy FP , van Diepen Janna A
Published: December 2019

Background:

C-type lectin receptors, including Dectin-2, are pattern recognition receptors on monocytes and macrophages that mainly recognize sugars and sugar-like structures present on fungi. Activation of C-type lectin receptors induces downstream CARD9 signalling, leading to the production of cytokines. We hypothesized that under hyperglycaemic conditions, as is the case in diabetes mellitus, glycosylated protein (sugar-like) structures activate C-type lectin receptors, leading to immune cell activation and increased atherosclerosis development.

Methods:

Low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice were lethally irradiated and transplanted with bone marrow from control wild-type, Dectin-2−/− or Card9−/− mice. After 6 weeks of recovery, mice received streptozotocin injections (50 mg/g BW; 5 days) to induce hyperglycaemia. After an additional 2 weeks, mice were fed a Western-type diet (0.1% cholesterol) for 10 weeks.

Results and Conclusion:

Deletion of haematopoietic Dectin-2 reduced the number of circulating Ly6Chi monocytes, increased pro-inflammatory cytokine production, but did not affect atherosclerosis development. Deletion of haematopoietic CARD9 tended to reduce macrophage and collagen content in atherosclerotic lesions, again without influencing the lesion size. Deletion of haematopoietic Dectin-2 did not influence atherosclerosis development under hyperglycaemic conditions, despite some minor effects on inflammation. Deletion of haematopoietic CARD9 induced minor alterations in plaque composition under hyperglycaemic conditions, without affecting lesion size.
Time to Dream, Time to Remember: Patterns of Time and Metaphysics in Westworld
Authors: Salvadó-Corretger Glòria , Benavente Fran
Published: December 2019

This article examines Westworld as a paradigmatic example of a model of series that highlight questions of time and identity. We identify structure and narrative mechanisms most common in this type of television fiction: confusion between reality and dream realms, the need for recollection to discern the real from the dream, the series itself as an empty narrative device with the single objective of prolonging the serial structure, the appearance of a temporal twist that turns into a metaphysical twist, and the construction of characters on the basis of their different temporal identities. This model of TV series has the potential to provoke serious ontological doubts in the spectator and to open the series to metaphysical reflection because, as Deleuze suggests in his discussion of Bergson, the essential problem of metaphysics is time.