bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-Time Forecast of Dense Fog Events over Delhi: The Performance of the WRF Model during the WiFEX Field Campaign
Authors: Pithani Prakash , Ghude Sachin D. , Jenamani R. K. , Biswas Mrinal , Naidu C. V. , Debnath Sreyashi , Kulkarni Rachana , Dhangar Narendra G. , Jena Chinmay , Hazra Anupam , Phani R. , Mukhopadhyay P. , Prabhakaran Thara , Nanjundiah Ravi S. , Rajeevan M.
Published: February 2020

A Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX) was conducted to study the genesis of fog formation between winters 2016–17 and 2017–18 at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), Delhi, India. To support the WiFEX field campaign, the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) Model was used to produce real-time forecasts at 2-km horizontal grid spacing. This paper summarizes the performance of the model forecasts for 43 very dense fog episodes (visibility < 200 m) and preliminary evaluation of the model against the observations. Similarly, near-surface liquid water content (LWC) from models and continuous visibility observations are used as a metric for model evaluation. Results show that the skill score is relatively promising for the hit rate with a value of 0.78, whereas the false alarm rate (0.19) and missing rate (0.32) are quite low. This indicates that the model has reasonable predictive accuracy, and the performance of the real-time forecast is better for both dense fog events and no-fog events. For success cases, the model accurately captured the near-surface meteorological conditions, particularly the low-level moisture, wind fields, and temperature inversion. In contrast, for failed cases, the WRF Model shows large error in near-surface relative humidity and temperature compared to the observations, although it captures temperature inversions reasonably well. Our results also suggest that the model is able to capture the variability in fog onset for consecutive fog events. Errors in near-surface variables during failed cases are found to be affected by the errors in the initial conditions taken from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology Global Forecasting System (IITM-GFS) spectral model forecast. Further evaluation of the operational forecasts for dense fog cases indicates that the error in predicting fog onset stage is relatively large (mean error of 4 h) compared to the dissipation stage.
Intention to Return to Work after Stroke Following Rehabilitation in Ontario
Authors: Duong Patrick K. , Egan Mary Y. , Meyer Matthew J. , Morrison Tricia L.
Published: February 2020

Background.

Returning to work is important for many people following stroke. An estimate of the prevalence of people intending to return to work post-stroke would be helpful in planning services supporting work reintegration.

Purpose.

This study examined the prevalence of intention to return to work after discharge among stroke rehabilitation inpatients.

Methods.

We performed secondary analysis of National Rehabilitation Reporting System data for all stroke rehabilitation inpatients across Ontario (2012–2017). Intention to return to work was examined by gender, age, and level of disability.

Findings.

Among 25,691 stroke rehabilitation inpatients, 4,668 (18.2%) were employed pre-stroke and 2,039 (43.7%) of them intended to return to work. Intention to return to work was somewhat higher among younger and middle-aged stroke survivors and those with mild disability.

Implications.

Providers and planners should be aware that almost half of previously employed stroke-rehabilitation inpatients may be seeking services to assist with return to work.
Experiences of social workers in nongovernmental services in Cyprus leading to occupational stress and burnout
Authors: Solomonidou Alexia , Katsounari Ioanna
Published: February 2020

The aim of this study was to explore work stress among social workers working in nongovernmental services in Cyprus and the factors affecting work performance, as well as possible causes of occupational stress and work burnout. It focuses on organizational characteristics as well as individual factors, which can have an impact on the social workers’ work performance. The method of collecting qualitative data was conducted using semi-structured interviews with 12 professional social workers employed in different nongovernmental organizations. Results show that important sources of work stress for these social workers include the excessive workload, working overtime, dealing with role ambiguity/conflict and ethical dilemmas in the workplace, and having to confront unmet personal expectations and a negative public perception of the profession. These work stressors combined with the insufficient support and understanding by the supervisor and colleagues may lead to occupational stress and burnout symptoms. Findings highlight the fact that awareness and understanding of the impact of occupational stress could be a primary focus of prevention of burnout among professional social workers.
Geospatial Monitoring of Body Mass Index: Use of Electronic Health Record Data Across Health Care Systems
Authors: Anthamatten Peter , Thomas Deborah S.K. , Williford Devon , Barrow Jennifer C. , Bol Kirk A. , Davidson Arthur J. , Deakyne Davies Sara J. , Kraus Emily McCormick , Tabano David C. , Daley Matthew F.
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

The Colorado BMI Monitoring System was developed to assess geographic (ie, census tract) patterns of obesity prevalence rates among children and adults in the Denver-metropolitan region. This project also sought to assess the feasibility of a surveillance system that integrates data across multiple health care and governmental organizations.

Materials and Methods:

We extracted data on height and weight measures, obtained through routine clinical care, from electronic health records (EHRs) at multiple health care sites. We selected sites from 5 Denver health care systems and collected data from visits that occurred between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2015. We produced shaded maps showing observed obesity prevalence rates by census tract for various geographic regions across the Denver-metropolitan region.

Results:

We identified clearly distinguishable areas by higher rates of obesity among children than among adults, with several pockets of lower body mass index. Patterns for adults were similar to patterns for children: the highest obesity prevalence rates were concentrated around the central part of the metropolitan region. Obesity prevalence rates were moderately higher along the western and northern areas than in other parts of the study region.

Practice Implications:

The Colorado BMI Monitoring System demonstrates the feasibility of combining EHRs across multiple systems for public health and research. Challenges include ensuring de-duplication across organizations and ensuring that geocoding is performed in a consistent way that does not pose a risk for patient privacy.
National images, trust and international friendship: Evidence from Chinese students
Authors: Davies Graeme AM , Edney Kingsley , Wang Bo
Published: February 2020

This article uses a new dataset of Chinese student attitudes to foreign affairs to analyse how perceptions of the United States, Russia, Japan and North and South Korea affect respondent perceptions of international friendship with these states. Employing a mediation analysis we find that perceptions of national trustworthiness above all other images is the crucial factor in explaining cross-national friendship. These findings suggest that trust-building measures would be a fruitful avenue for both reducing the likelihood of conflict in the region and fostering cooperative international interactions.
Sphenoid Wing Meningioma Presenting as Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Toro Edgar del , Risbud Adwight , Khosravani Nima , Vengerovich Gennadiy , Archilla Alfredo
Published: February 2020

Sphenoid wing meningiomas are tumors that typically present with vision deterioration and neurological changes due to their proximity to the sella, cavernous sinus, and other vital structures. Some unusual symptoms have also been described in the literature, such as cognitive dysfunction, parkinsonism, and intracerebral hemorrhage. In this report, we detail another unusual case of sphenoid wing meningioma in a 63-year-old female who presented with left sudden sensorineural hearing loss. A brief review of the literature is also included.
The Utility of the Maxillary Heuwieser for Oropharyngeal Foreign Body Removal Under Nebulized Local Anesthesia: A Case Series
Authors: Wang Weitao , Schneider Glenn Todd , Strohl Alexis
Published: February 2020

We describe a novel and safe use of existing instrumentation in the removal of select foreign bodies in the upper aerodigestive tract to minimize health-care costs. A retrospective review of 4 cases involving visualized upper aerodigestive tract foreign bodies were identified via flexible laryngoscopy and extracted under local anesthesia from 2016 to 2018. All 4 patients were not in any airway distress and underwent successful removal of the foreign body, which included 2 fishbones, a sewing pin, and a wire bristle with a maxillary Heuwieser or giraffe instrument under flexible laryngoscopy visualizing using local anesthesia without complications. No foreign bodies were dislodged. The use of a maxillary Heuwieser and flexible laryngoscopy visualization is safe, allows for removal of otherwise difficult to reach foreign bodies at the bedside, improving patient comfort, obviates the need for general anesthesia to the patient, and minimizes health-care costs.
Diagnostic Value of 3D Segmentation in Understanding the Anatomy of Human Inner Ear Including Malformation Types
Authors: Alenzi Saad , Dhanasingh Anandhan , Alanazi Hani , Alsanosi Abdulrahman , Hagr Abdulrahman
Published: February 2020

Objective:

To understand the anatomical and dimensional variations of the human inner ear using 3-dimensional (3D) segmentation within the Middle East population.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Setting:

King Abdullah Ear Specialist Center (KAESC) Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Participant:

Forty computed tomography (CT) images of patients with sensorineural hearing loss who underwent cochlear implant (CI) were taken for analysis.

Main outcome Measures:

Three-dimensional images showing the anatomical variations of the inner ear including various pathological conditions, cochlear parameters including basal turn diameter (“A” value), “B” value which is perpendicular to “A” value, cochlear height, length, and width of the internal auditory canal (IAC), intercochlear spacing, and electrode angular insertion depth (AID).

Results:

Out of 40 CT image data sets, 12 had normal inner-ear anatomy (NA), 4 with enlarged vestibular aqueduct syndrome (EVAS), 8 with only 2 turns of the cochlea (2TL), 7 with incomplete partition (IP) type II, 5 with cochlear hypoplasia, 1 with common cavity, and 3 with abnormal IAC. Taking the NA, EVAS, 2TL, and the IP type II cases altogether, age of the patient had no correlation with the “A” value; however, the “A” value had a linear correlation with the “B” value. The age of the patient had an increasing logarithmic correlation with the IAC length and the intercochlear spacing. The “A” value did not have any meaningful correlation with the cochlear height. Three data sets showed asymmetric inner-ear malformation types on either side of the ears. All these 40 cases were implanted with various CI electrode array variants and the corresponding postoperative plain film X-ray images showing the electrode AID are given separately in figures.

Conclusions:

Three-dimensional segmentation of the inner ear from the temporal bone CT is a valuable clinical and training tool for surgeons and radiologists especially in difficult cases which will certainly help to understand the overall anatomical and dimensional variations.
Cigarette smoking and cerebral blood flow in a cohort of middle-aged adults
Authors: Paulson Olaf B , Vigdis Ida
Published: February 2020

Cigarette smoking increases cerebral blood flow. Both nicotine and carbon monoxide contribute to the flow increase. Due to carbon monoxide’s high affinity to hemoglobin and slow clearance from the blood, the effect lasts for hours. Nicotine also stays in the organism for some hours. This immediate effect of smoking may explain a recently observed higher cerebral blood flow in current-smokers as compared to former-smokers.
Effect of Fiber Type, Water Content, and Velocity on Wetness Perception by the Volar Forearm Test: Threshold Detection Test
Authors: Zhang Zhaohua , Tang Xiangning , Wang Yunyi , Li Jun , Tian Miao
Published: February 2020

Two kinds of evaluation methods were applied to gain insight into how fabrics affect the perception of wetness under dynamic skin contact at different velocities. In a previous study, the stimulus intensity rating was tested by applying a fixed amount of water to fabric samples to determine the quantitative ratings for the intensity of the perception of wetness. In this study, the perceived threshold was determined by supplying water continually until the level of wetness was just-detectable. The results indicated positive correlations between the fabric coefficient of friction, the water spreading speed, and the wetness perception threshold, and there were negative correlations between fabric wetting time, skin cooling rate, and wetness perception threshold. However, no correlation between wetness threshold and maximum transient thermal flow ( Qmax) was found in this study. The wetness threshold can be predicted by wetting time and coefficient of friction ( R2 = .70, p <  .001). The threshold detection was qualified to evaluate the sensitivity to wetness at the initial detection of moisture on the skin, while the stimulus intensity rating would give a better prediction at the moisture absorption stage. This study provided the evaluation technology for designing sportswear, leisurewear, and health-care products with desirable wetness levels.
Phase 3 randomized, placebo-controlled study of galcanezumab in patients with chronic cluster headache: Results from 3-month double-blind treatment
Authors: Dodick David W , Goadsby Peter J , Lucas Christian , Jensen Rigmor , Bardos Jennifer N , Martinez James M , Zhou Chunmei , Aurora Sheena K , Yang Jyun Yan , Conley Robert R , Oakes Tina
Published: February 2020

Objective

To report efficacy and safety of galcanezumab in adults with chronic cluster headache.

Background

Galcanezumab is a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds to calcitonin gene-related peptide and inhibits its biological activity.

Methods

This study comprised a prospective baseline period, a 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled treatment period, and a 52-week open-label period. Up to six protocol-specified concomitant preventive medications were allowed if patients were on a stable dose for 2 months prior to the prospective baseline period. Patients were randomized 1:1 to monthly subcutaneous galcanezumab (300 mg) or placebo. The primary endpoint was overall mean change from baseline in weekly attack frequency with galcanezumab compared to placebo. Key secondary endpoints were ≥50% response rate and percentage of patients meeting sustained response. Results from the double-blind treatment period are reported.

Results

A total of 237 patients were randomized and treated (120 placebo; 117 galcanezumab). At baseline, the mean age was 45 years and 63% were using ≥1 preventive drug. The primary endpoint was not met; mean change in weekly attack frequency was −4.6 placebo versus −5.4 galcanezumab ( p = 0.334). Key secondary endpoints also were not met. Injection site-related treatment-emergent adverse events were more common in the galcanezumab than the placebo group, with significantly more injection site erythema.

Conclusion

Treatment with galcanezumab 300 mg did not achieve its primary and key secondary endpoints. This study underscores the potential distinct biology of cCH as well as the significant unmet need for safe, effective, and well-tolerated preventive treatment. The safety profile of galcanezumab in cCH is consistent with that observed in trials of episodic CH and migraine.

Trial registration

NCT02438826; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02438826 .
Cyclic Test of Concrete Bridge Column Utilizing Ultra-High Performance Concrete Shell
Authors: Caluk Nerma , Mantawy Islam M. , Azizinamini Atorod
Published: February 2020

Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is a durable material that can be used in constructing new and unique structural elements. This research utilizes UHPC to construct prefabricated shells that act as stay-in-place forms for bridge columns and eliminate the use of traditional formwork. These innovative structural elements reduce the on-site construction time, improve the structural performance of the column, and act as a protective layer in aggressive environments. Generally, during the construction process, the prefabricated UHPC shell is placed around the column reinforcement, which is fabricated using conventional methods. To connect the UHPC shell and column reinforcement with the footing and footing dowels, a step made of UHPC is utilized. The UHPC step connection is designed to shift the plastic hinge away from the column-to-footing interface. In the next stage, normal concrete is cast inside the shell, forming a concrete-filled UHPC shell. The final stage of construction involves placing and connecting a prefabricated cap-beam using the same UHPC step connection. The column specimen was tested under constant axial load and incremental lateral load. In this test, the UHPC shell cracked on the north side at a drift ratio of 3%; however, the column had a significant capacity and behaved similarly to a conventional reinforced concrete column during higher cycles of drift ratios. The test was completed after the column had reached a drift ratio of 7.5% when the first bar ruptured. No damage occurred in the footing and UHPC step which proved that the design was successful in shifting the plastic hinge away from the column-to-footing interface.
The Contradictory Evolution of “Mediterranean” Neoliberalism in Spain, 1995–2008
Authors: Rey-Araújo Pedro M.
Published: February 2020

This paper uses social structures of accumulation theory in combination with Ernesto Laclau’s discourse theory in order to analyze the institutional mechanisms that sustained the long economic expansion of the Spanish economy between 1995 and 2008. Productive deficiencies endogenously gave way to several trends that, despite displaying a highly contradictory character when considered in isolation, managed to coalesce into a relatively coherent whole for more than a decade, namely, a massive housing bubble, an explosion of private debt in the face of real wage stagnation, and family economies being submitted to increasing strains. Moreover, their joint occurrence prevented their inherently conflictive nature from acquiring a political expression liable to undo the institutional structure itself, so that a social order was successfully reproduced throughout the whole expansion phase.
Data Compatibility Issues: How to Prevent Miscoding and Dropped Observations When Using U.S. Office of Personnel Management Data Sets
Authors: Alteri Ashley M.
Published: February 2020

A critical comparison of the agency identifier codes in the Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey (FEVS) and FedScope data sets reveals three distinct types of issues will occur when researchers attempt to merge the data sets: (a) a single agency is assigned different codes across data sets; (b) a single code is assigned to different agencies across data sets; and (c) a single code is assigned to two or more agencies in the FEVS data set and a separate agency in the FedScope data set. Between 2013 and 2016, these issues are present in almost all major federal departments. Compatibility issues between the agency identifiers could cause the user to drop observations unnecessarily or unknowingly combine two different agencies’ data improperly. If uncorrected, these issues will distort the analysis of studies that rely on this combination of data. However, researchers can correct for this issue and still use Office of Personnel Management (OPM) identifiers to combine data across multiple data sets.
Vitamin D3-loaded calcium citrate/calcium sulfate composite cement with enhanced physicochemical properties, drug release, and cytocompatibility
Authors: Chen Hong , Ji Mizhi , Ding Zhengwen , Yan Yonggang
Published: February 2020

Vitamin D3 (VD3), an important regulator of calcium and phosphate ion concentrations in blood serum, participates in bone formation by promoting calcium and citrate deposition at defect sites while further stimulating bone calcification and osteoblast function. In this study, VD3-loaded calcium sulfate (VD3/CS) and calcium citrate/calcium sulfate (VD3/CC/CS) cements were successfully fabricated for the first time. The incorporation of VD3 into the cements did not alter their structures or physicochemical properties. Additionally, compared with the VD3/CS cement, the VD3/CC/CS composite cement showed higher mechanical strength (28.87 MPa), better injectability (94.48%), and more appropriate setting time (23.7 min). Depending on the method by which the loaded VD3 was adsorbed, both VD3/CS and VD3/CC/CS cements could achieve sustained drug release. However, due to their different compositions, VD3/CS cement samples, owing to the dissolution of their matrix, showed faster VD3 release rates, while VD3/CC/CS composite cement samples showed more controlled VD3 release rates, owing to the presence of a physical barrier created by calcium citrate. The VD3/CC/CS composite cement samples also demonstrated excellent bioactivity at cellular level, indicating that the VD3/CC/CS composite cement might be beneficial for the localised treatment of bone defects, especially osteoporotic bone.
College Students’ Perceptions of Concurrent/Successive Nonverbal Behaviors as Sexual Consent
Authors: King Bruce M. , Fallon Megan R. , Reynolds Elizabeth P. , Williamson Kennedy L. , Barber Anyah , Giovinazzo Angela R.
Published: February 2020

In previous studies, researchers had students rate single nonverbal behaviors as signals conveying and inferring sexual consent. In real-life interactions, young people use an array of behaviors occurring concurrently or successively to interpret sexual consent. With use of a 7-point scale (0 = Definitely No, 6 = Definitely Yes), students at a southeast public university were asked to rate their perceptions of nine nonverbal behaviors as signals of sexual consent, nine combinations of two of those behaviors, and eight combinations of three behaviors. There were significant effects for both gender and number of behaviors ( p < .001). Over 43% of women answered “0” to all behaviors and combinations of behaviors, whereas only 20.3% of men answered “0” to all. The mean ratings for men were greater than those for women under all three conditions and increased with the number of behaviors. At least one third of men responded with “3” (the midpoint of the scale) or greater to seven of the eight combinations of three behaviors, whereas the percentage of women responding “3” or greater never exceeded 18% for any of the individual behaviors or combinations. It is concluded that as the number of nonverbal behaviors increases the subjective interpretation of sexual consent also increases, thus also increasing the chances of unwanted sexual advances.
Stability of ceftolozane and tazobactam in different peritoneal dialysis solutions
Authors: Harmanjeet Harmanjeet , Jani Het , Zaidi Syed Tabish R , Wanandy Troy , Castelino Ronald L , Sud Kamal , Peterson Gregory M , Patel Rahul P
Published: February 2020

Background:

Peritonitis is a common and serious complication of peritoneal dialysis (PD). PD-associated peritonitis (PDAP) caused by Pseudomonas is usually resistant to most antibiotics, resulting in high failure rates. Ceftolozane/tazobactam (C/T) has been shown to be effective in treating urinary tract and intra-abdominal infections caused by beta-lactam resistant Pseudomonas and other gram-negative bacteria. Given its favourable adverse effects profile, it has a potential role in the treatment of PDAP caused by Pseudomonas species resistant to other antibiotics. Intraperitoneal administration of antibiotics admixed with PD solutions for the treatment of PDAP is associated with superior outcomes. However, there is a lack of published data on the stability of C/T in PD solutions. Therefore, this study investigated the physical and chemical stability of C/T in commonly used PD solutions at different temperatures.

Methods:

A total of 27 PD bags (3 PD bags for each type of PD solution including Dianeal®, Extraneal®, Balance® and Physioneal® PD bags) containing C/T were prepared and stored at 25°C for 6 h, followed by 4°C for 168 h and then 37°C for 12 h. An aliquot from each PD bag was withdrawn, and the concentration of C/T before (0 h) and after predefined time points was determined using a stability-indicating high-performance liquid chromatography assay. Samples were also assessed for pH, colour change and particulate matter immediately after preparation and on each day of analysis.

Results:

C/T retained more than 97% of their initial concentration when stored at 25°C for 6 h followed by storage at 4°C for 168 h and then at 37°C for 12 h. Particle formation was not detected at any time under the tested storage conditions. The pH and colour remained essentially unchanged throughout the study.

Conclusions:

These results provide a platform for clinical studies to determine the safety and therapeutic efficacy of intraperitoneal C/T for the treatment of PDAP caused by resistant Pseudomonas species.
Modified electromyography-assisted optimization approach for predicting lumbar spine loading while walking with backpack loads
Authors: Li Simon SW , Chow Daniel HK
Published: February 2020

This study modified an electromyography-assisted optimization approach for predicting lumbar spine loading while walking with backpack loads. The modified-electromyography-assisted optimization approach eliminated the electromyography measurement at maximal voluntary contraction and adopted a linear electromyography–force relationship. Moreover, an optimal lower boundary condition for muscle gain was introduced to constrain the trunk muscle co-activation. Anthropometric information of 10 healthy young men as well as their kinematic, kinetic, and electromyography data obtained while walking with backpack loads were used as inputs in this study. A computational algorithm was used to find and analyse the sensitivity of the optimal lower boundary condition for achieving minimum deviation of the modified-electromyography-assisted optimization approach from the electromyography-assisted optimization approach for predicting lumbosacral joint compression force. Results validated that the modified-electromyography-assisted optimization approach (at optimal lower boundary condition of 0.92) predicted on average, a non-significant deviation in peak lumbosacral joint compression force of −18 N, a standard error of 9 N, and a root mean square difference in force profile of 73.8 N. The modified-electromyography-assisted optimization approach simplified the experimental process by eliminating the electromyography measurement at maximal voluntary contraction and provided comparable estimations for lumbosacral joint compression force that is also applicable to patients or individuals having difficulty in performing the maximal voluntary contraction activity.
Pacing in Serious Games: Exploring the Effects of Presentation Speed on Cognitive Load, Engagement and Learning Gains
Authors: Petko Dominik , Schmid Regina , Cantieni Andrea
Published: February 2020

Background. To determine the optimal speed of computer-paced serious games, the interplay of cognitive load variables and game engagement variables can serve as combined criteria.

Intervention. In order to test the effects of higher or lower game speeds on different types of cognitive load and engagement, the FRESH FOOD RUNNER game was developed, which teaches the harvest seasons of different fruits and vegetables.

Method. In this study, N=58 6th grade primary school students are randomly assigned to play the serious game FRESH FOOD RUNNER at different speeds. Pre-and post-tests are used to assess learning gains, in combination with rating scales for different types of cognitive load and game engagement.

Results. Results show that highest learning gains and lowest levels of extraneous cognitive load are prevalent at medium speed settings, which are neither too fast nor too slow. A similar pattern is apparent for student ratings of game engagement.

Discussion and Conclusion. In consequence, learning gains, cognitive load and engagement variables can be regarded as suitable criteria to determine the optimal speed of serious games.
Revisiting Photovoice: Perceptions of Dementia Among Researchers With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Watchman Karen , Mattheys Kate , Doyle Andrew , Boustead Louise , Rincones Orlando
Published: February 2020

There is limited global evidence exploring perceptions of dementia among people with intellectual disabilities. This article presents findings from the first known study where an inclusive research team, including members with intellectual disability, used photovoice methodology to visually represent views of people with intellectual disabilities and dementia. Drawing on Freire’s empowerment pedagogy, the study aims were consistent with global photovoice aims: enabling people to visually record critical dialogue about dementia through photography and social change. We investigated the benefits and challenges of photovoice methodology with this population and sought to identify perspectives of dementia from people with intellectual disabilities. Data collected identified issues such as peers “disappearing” and the importance of maintaining friendship as dementia progressed. Although reaching policymakers is a key aim of photovoice, this may not always be achievable, suggesting that revisiting Freire’s original methodological aims may lead to improved outcomes in co-produced research with marginalized groups.
Hospice Care: Hope and Meaning in Life Mediate Subjective Well-Being of Staff
Authors: Shiri Shimon , Wexler Isaiah , Marmor Anat , Meiner Zeev , Schwartz Isabella , Levzion Korach Osnat , Azoulay Daniel
Published: February 2020

Objectives:

Subjective well-being has been associated with decreased work burnout and elevated work engagement. We investigated the impact of hope and meaning in life on subjective well-being among workers in a hospice care setting. Comparison was made to health-care workers in a rehabilitation unit.

Methods:

Thirty-five hospice care workers were surveyed and their responses compared with those of 36 rehabilitation workers. Survey instruments measuring hope, meaning in life, work engagement, and satisfaction with life were utilized.

Results:

Individuals working in a hospice care center have significantly higher levels of work engagement than their counterparts in rehabilitation. For both groups, hope was significantly related to subjective well-being. For hospice care but not rehabilitation workers, meaning in life was also related to subjective well-being. Multivariate analysis showed that hope and meaning in life were independent factors predicting subjective well-being in hospice care workers.

Significance of Results:

Hospice care workers are highly engaged in their work despite the challenging nature of their work. What characterizes these workers is a level of subjective well-being that is related to both meaning in life and hope. Maintaining a high level of subjective well-being may be an important factor in preventing burnout among those working in hospice care settings.
A far-field scattering model in textured polycrystals with ellipsoidal grains of arbitrary crystal symmetry
Authors: Sha Gaofeng
Published: February 2020

Modeling the scattering-induced attenuation of elastic waves in heterogeneous polycrystals has practical applications in seismology and non-destructive evaluation. However, attenuation modeling for polycrystals with preferred crystallographic orientation (statistically anisotropic or textured polycrystals) has not been well studied. The far-field approximation (FFA) model, which is applicable for arbitrary crystal (triclinic) symmetry and valid for the whole frequency range (Rayleigh region, stochastic regime, and geometric region), has been reported for texture-free polycrystalline materials. This paper extends the FFA model to textured polycrystals with ellipsoidal grains of arbitrary crystal symmetry. This FFA model for textured polycrystals encompasses two advantages: a simple form of dispersion equation and high computational efficiency. Furthermore, this FFA model can predict both the attenuation and phase velocity of elastic waves in textured polycrystals. The FFA model in this study has also been validated by comparison with the full-wave second-order attenuation model on textured polycrystals of triclinic grains. This work provides a simple and efficient tool to predict the elastic wave behavior in heterogeneous polycrystalline materials.
Dynamic analysis of laminated composite sandwich beam containing carbon nanotubes reinforced magnetorheological elastomer
Authors: Selvaraj Rajeshkumar , Ramamoorthy Manoharan
Published: February 2020

In this study, dynamic analysis of three-layered sandwich beam with thin orthotropic skins and multiwall carbon nanotubes reinforced magnetorheological elastomer (MWCNT-MRE) core have been investigated. The laminates are made of glass fiber/epoxy composites with ply orientation of [0/90] s and are prepared using vacuum-assisted hand layup process. Experiments are performed to investigate the vibration characteristics of MWCNT-MRE and MRE sandwich structures by applying the various magnetic field intensities under different end conditions. Further, the laminated composite MWCNT-MRE and MRE sandwich beams are modeled using ABAQUS finite element software and validated through experimental results in terms of natural frequencies. Also, the present finite element model is validated with available literature in terms of natural frequencies. A very good agreement is observed between the results of the experimental method and those extracted from numerical simulation. Also, the influence of applied magnetic field levels, core thickness ratio, ply orientation, and various boundary conditions on the vibration behavior of laminated composite MWCNT-MRE and MRE sandwich beams are analyzed.
Efficacy of Applicator Devices for Self-Application of Topicals to the Back
Authors: Light Jeremy G. , Frantz Travis , McNamara Kyle , Bashyam Arjun M. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: February 2020

Background

Self-application of topicals on the back can be challenging.

Objective

The aim was to assess topical back coverage using commercially available back applicators.

Materials and Methods

Ten subjects applied sunscreen to their back using their hands and then with 3 back applicators (large foam tip, small foam tip, roller tip). The amount of lotion used and the time it took to perform the application were recorded. The resulting distribution of sunscreen was assessed with a Wood’s lamp; the area covered fluoresced less than the uncovered skin. Images were captured and then analyzed using an automated thresholding technique.

Results

Subjects applied more lotion when using the large foam tip (7.58 g, 95% CI 6.47-8.70 g; P < .004) and small foam tip (7.46 g, 95% CI 6.35-8.57 g; P < .006) applicators compared to hands alone (6.22 g, 95% CI 5.10-7.33 g). Application time was longer with the small foam tip applicator (113.4 s, 95% CI 96.7-130.1 s) relative to hand application (78.7 s, 95% CI 62-95.4 s) ( P < .03). Coverage of the back was higher for the large foam tip (84.8%, 95% CI 78.4%-91.3%; P < .03), small foam tip (88.0%, 95% CI 81.6%-91.5%; P < .006), and roller tip (84.3%, 95% CI 77.9%-90.8%; P < .04) applicators compared to hand application (71.5%, 95% CI 65%-78%). The middle back tended to have less coverage when applying with the hands.

Conclusions

Topical coverage of the back is improved with the use of applicator devices during self-application.
WhatsApp and Mobile Money: Ameliorating Crowdfunding for Social Change in Kenya
Authors: Matanji Frankline
Published: February 2020

Use of WhatsApp as a social media technology and M-pesa, a mobile money service for crowdfunding in Kenya are proliferating at an incredible pace. Crowdfunding helps communities organize for effective participation in social and economic development and empowerment by making sure that members of the community get to benefit from services, such as access to social amenities and better infrastructure, which would not have been available if the community members were to wait for the government to provide the services. This method is being used at Kisii University for students’ retention and providing social welfare to students, their parents and university staff. The approach adopted by this study was qualitative inductive research, where the researcher had a one-on-one interview session with creators of crowdfunding campaigns and the funders using Skype and phone calls as interview tools.
Importance–performance analysis approach to destination management
Authors: Rašovská Ida , Kubickova Marketa , Ryglová Kateřina
Published: February 2020

The role of government in destination development is not a new topic; however, the way the government can impact tourism destination development is still under research. This study addresses such issues, specifically, striving to shed some light on the aspects of importance/performance as it relates to destination management. By understanding such relationships, government officials (at local and state levels) will be able to create specific policies/procedures that would facilitate tourism development. This study utilizes importance/performance methodology to analyze three types of regions (mountain, spa, and wine) in the Czech Republic. The results indicate that variations among the regions exist in terms of areas of importance and performance and point out opportunities for further improvements. Thorough discussions and implications for the industry are made along with suggestions for future research.
What I wish I’d learned as an orthodontic trainee: an online survey of British Orthodontic Society members concerning postgraduate training experiences
Authors: Oliver Graham R , Lynch Christopher D , Fleming Padhraig S
Published: February 2020

Objective:

To survey the opinion of recently qualified and established orthodontists on the perceived value of their training and to identify specific areas which which were considered to be deficient, adequately covered or focussed on excessively.

Design:

Descriptive cross-sectional survey

Setting:

Online electronic questionnaire.

Participants:

Members of the British Orthodontic Society (BOS).

Methods:

An electronic questionnaire was circulated to members of the BOS focusing on dental education history, and opinions concerning orthodontic teaching generally and specific clinical and non-clinical subjects. Information was also obtained in terms of possible need for improvement, modification or removal of teaching on focused academic and clinical aspects.

Results:

A total of 217 responses were received from 1080 emailed invitations resulting in a response rate of 20.1%. Respondents were generally satisfied with their training both in relation to theoretical, academic and practical aspects. However, training was regarded as deficient by some respondents in respect of temporary anchorage devices (38%), bonded retainers (6%), experience with lingual appliances (47%), removable aligners (44%), inter-proximal reduction (24%) and adult orthodontics (16%), working with therapists (32%), and NHS contracts (47%) and commissioning (47%).

Conclusion:

The overall satisfaction of BOS members with postgraduate orthodontic training is generally high, although both recently qualified and established practitioners emphasised the need for better exposure to training in specific practical aspects and practice management within the NHS.
The Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Act 2019
Authors: Pieri Jessica M. , Metcalfe Neil H.
Published: February 2020

The stance on solid organ donations in England has changed. In March 2019, the Organ Donation (Deemed Consent) Act became law, with roll-out delayed until spring 2020. It introduces an ‘opt-out’ system, which assumes every adult has agreed to donate their organs unless they register not to do so, amending the previous ‘opt-in’ approach. The RCGP and General Medical Council have long emphasised that doctors be cognisant of the organ donation process and relevant legislation. This paper summarises the rationale behind the Act’s introduction, outlines its provisions, identifies some criticisms, and stresses the importance of raising awareness.
Transcriptional profiling of lung cell populations in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Saygin Didem , Tabib Tracy , Bittar Humberto E.T. , Valenzi Eleanor , Sembrat John , Chan Stephen Y. , Rojas Mauricio , Lafyatis Robert
Published: February 2020

Despite recent improvements in management of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension, mortality remains high. Understanding the alterations in the transcriptome–phenotype of the key lung cells involved could provide insight into the drivers of pathogenesis. In this study, we examined differential gene expression of cell types implicated in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension from lung explants of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension compared to control lungs. After tissue digestion, we analyzed all cells from three idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension and six control lungs using droplet‐based single cell RNA‐sequencing. After dimensional reduction by t‐stochastic neighbor embedding, we compared the transcriptomes of endothelial cells, pericyte/smooth muscle cells, fibroblasts, and macrophage clusters, examining differential gene expression and pathways implicated by analysis of Gene Ontology Enrichment. We found that endothelial cells and pericyte/smooth muscle cells had the most differentially expressed gene profile compared to other cell types. Top differentially upregulated genes in endothelial cells included novel genes: ROBO4, APCDD1, NDST1, MMRN2, NOTCH4, and DOCK6, as well as previously reported genes: ENG, ORAI2, TFDP1, KDR, AMOTL2, PDGFB, FGFR1, EDN1, and NOTCH1. Several transcription factors were also found to be upregulated in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension endothelial cells including SOX18, STRA13, LYL1, and ELK, which have known roles in regulating endothelial cell phenotype. In particular, SOX18 was implicated through bioinformatics analyses in regulating the idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension endothelial cell transcriptome. Furthermore, idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension endothelial cells upregulated expression of FAM60A and HDAC7, potentially affecting epigenetic changes in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension endothelial cells. Pericyte/smooth muscle cells expressed genes implicated in regulation of cellular apoptosis and extracellular matrix organization, and several ligands for genes showing increased expression in endothelial cells. In conclusion, our study represents the first detailed look at the transcriptomic landscape across idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension lung cells and provides robust insight into alterations that occur in vivo in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension lungs.
Estrogen metabolites in a small cohort of patients with idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Denver Nina , Homer Natalie Z.M. , Andrew Ruth , Harvey Katie Y. , Morrell Nicholas , Austin Eric D. , MacLean Margaret R.
Published: February 2020

Increased risk and severity of idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (iPAH) is associated with elevated estradiol in men and postmenopausal women. Pulmonary arteries synthesise estradiol via aromatase and metabolise it via CYP1B1 to mitogenic metabolites; SNPs in aromatase and CYP1B1 have been associated with PAH. This suggests that estradiol metabolism could be altered in iPAH. This proof‐of‐concept study profiles estradiol and several metabolites of estradiol simultaneously in serum from iPAH patients and controls. We show that the estradiol and metabolite profile is altered in iPAH and that 16‐hydroxyestrone and 16‐hydroxyestradiol accumulate in iPAH patients with 16‐hydroxyestrone levels relating to disease severity.
Age and Gender Confound PROMIS Scores in Spine Patients With Back and Neck Pain
Authors: Jevotovsky David S. , Tishelman Jared C. , Stekas Nicholas , Moses Michael J. , Karia Raj J. , Ayres Ethan W. , Fischer Charla R. , Buckland Aaron J. , Errico Thomas J. , Protopsaltis Themistocles S.
Published: February 2020

Study Design:

This was a single-center retrospective review.

Objectives:

To explore how age and gender affect PROMIS scores compared with traditional health-related quality of life (HRQL) in spine patients.

Methods:

Patients presenting with a primary complaint of back pain (BP) or neck pain (NP) were included. Legacy HRQLs were Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). PROMIS Physical Function (PF), Pain Intensity (Int), and Pain Interference (Inf) were also administered to patients in a clinical setting. Patients were grouped by chief complaint, age (18-44, 45-64, 65+ years) and gender. Two parallel analyses were conducted to identify the effects of age and gender on patient-reported outcomes. Age groups were compared after propensity-score matching by VAS-pain and gender. Separately, genders were compared after propensity-score matching by age and VAS-pain.

Results:

A total of 484 BP and 128 NP patients were matched into gender cohorts (n = 201 in each BP group, 46 in each NP group). Among BP patients, female patients demonstrated worse disability by ODI (44.15 vs 38.45, P = .005); PROMIS-PF did not differ by gender. Among NP patients, neither legacy HRQLs nor PROMIS differed by gender when controlling for NP and age. BP and NP patients were matched into age cohorts (n = 135 in each BP group and n = 14 in each BP group). Among BP patients, ANOVA revealed differences between groups when controlling for BP and gender: ODI ( P < .001), PROMIS-PF ( P = .018), PROMIS-Int ( P < .001) PROMIS-Inf ( P < .001). Among NP patients, matched age groups differed significantly in terms of NDI ( P = .032) and PROMIS-PF ( P = .022) but not PROMIS-Int or PROMIS-Inf.

Conclusions:

Age and gender confound traditional HRQLs as well as PROMIS domains. However, PROMIS offers age and gender-specific scores, which traditional HRQLs lack.
Kidney transplantation in patients with multiple myeloma: A word of caution
Authors: Nair Vinay
Published: February 2020

Multiple myeloma is the most common hematologic malignancy to result in end-stage kidney disease. Due to frequent relapses and extensive renal involvement, it has historically been seen as a relative contraindication to kidney transplantation. As newer medications arrive and overall prognosis improves, the question of whether kidney transplantation is now appropriate has resurfaced. A review of the published literature suggests that it still carries substantial risk. In addition, current literature is of insufficient quality to advocate routine allocation of kidneys to this complex population.