bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technology use in high school aural skills instruction
Authors: Buonviri Nathan O , Paney Andrew S
Published: March 2020

In this study, we investigated the use of digital technology for aural skills instruction in Advanced Placement Music Theory (APMT) classes in the United States. Our research questions focused on which technologies teachers use for aural skills, how they incorporate them, and what influences their decisions to use them. We created, piloted, and distributed a survey electronically to a stratified sample by state of 866 instructors. Participants who completed the survey ( N  = 317, response rate = 36%) were current APMT teachers representing 48 states. Of the 91% of respondents who used digital technologies for teaching aural skills, 93% used websites, 47% used software programs, and 38% used mobile apps. Participants incorporated technology for student practice outside class (93%) and during class (78%), and to present new material during class (55%). Of those who did not use technologies ( n  = 29), 41% cited lack of funds and 34% cited lack of class time. Participants noted that technology can provide extra practice for students and customization for their needs, but that students’ lack of access and limitations of the programs may temper these benefits. Implications for pedagogical practice and music teacher training are discussed.
A Proposed Framework for Enhancing Collaboration in Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education
Authors: Bricker Diane D. , Felimban Huda S. , Lin Fang Yu , Stegenga Sondra M. , Storie Sloan O’Malley
Published: March 2020

Collaboration with caregivers and between disciplines and agencies is a recommended practice in the field of early intervention and early childhood special education (EI/ECSE) as well as required by federal legislation for young children with disabilities. Review of relevant literature suggests that collaboration entails a complex set of principles and practices that are essential for teams and programs to employ if they are to ensure effective and sustained change. Despite the recognized complexity of collaboration in EI/ECSE, few systems frameworks have been proposed that organize the essential components of effective collaboration. We offer a framework that defines the core components of collaboration in EI/ECSE. The proposed system further identifies and operationalizes the infrastructure and practices associated with the components and the levels of action at which these practices operate.
Un/common grounds: Tracing politics across worlds
Authors: Dányi Endre , Spencer Michaela
Published: March 2020

In this paper, we explore possibilities for reconceptualizing cosmopolitics by focusing on sites and situations where the problem of un/commonality plays a central role. Stemming from ethnographic research carried out as part of an ongoing collaboration on ‘Landscapes of Democracy’, we outline a study of democratic politics that extends beyond the politics of a single world and attends to landscapes of political practice that embed, and sometimes deny multiplicity. We follow the chronological unfolding of our fieldwork in Germany and Australia, and trace politics across worlds by telling alternating stories about how commonality and uncommonality are achieved in specific parliamentary settings in Frankfurt, Berlin, Darwin and Miliŋimbi – a Yolŋu community in the Northern Territory. We interrogate the relationship between commonality and uncommonality, not as an opposition, but as a series of situated efforts to find out and articulate what needs to be made un/common, for what purposes, and on what terms. Bringing into focus such explicit and implicit framings of cosmopolitics suggests that there is potential for partial and situated practices on the ground to rework un/common futures through the continual reimagining of pasts and the configurations of people and places to which these futures are tied.
Design of a continuous portable indraft supersonic wind tunnel
Authors: Bruckman Monty , Traub Lance W
Published: March 2020

Programs in mechanical and aeronautical engineering commonly include courses in compressible fluid flow. As such, learning can be greatly enhanced if theory is taught in conjunction with hands on experimentation. While supersonic wind tunnels are not uncommon at many universities, such facilities are generally of the blow down configuration. Consequently, run time is very short and ear protection is required during operation, potentially hindering instruction. Furthermore, blow down configurations are typically expensive and large. This article presents the design and manufacture of a continuous, indraft, miniature supersonic wind tunnel. The tunnel was designed for a nominal test section Mach number of 2; validation indicated a Mach number of 1.96 was achieved. Vacuum was provided by a regenerative blower. The facility is portable and quiet; measurements indicated that the sound level around the tunnel when operational was less than 81 dB (compared to 119dB generated by the department’s blow down supersonic wind tunnel).
Low Self-Control, Victimization, and Financial Hardship: Does Low Self-Control Moderate the Relationship Between Strain and Criminal Involvement?
Authors: Boccio Cashen M. , Beaver Kevin M.
Published: March 2020

General strain theory has been widely supported by empirical research. Research concerning possible individual-level moderators of the effects of strain, however, has yielded considerably mixed results. The current study addresses this gap in the literature by examining whether levels of self-control moderate the relationship between strain and criminal involvement in a large nationally representative sample. Our findings reveal that strain and levels of self-control have both additive and interactive effects on criminal involvement. To illustrate, respondents who were exposed to higher levels of strain reported more criminal involvement than respondents exposed to lower levels of strain. Similarly, lower levels of self-control were associated with higher levels of criminal involvement. In addition, levels of self-control were found to moderate the association between experiencing strain and two of the criminal involvement measures. Furthermore, the results suggest that the relationships among strain, self-control, and criminal involvement may vary across gender and forms of strain.
Trajectories of Dynamic Risk Factors During Forensic Treatment: Growth Trajectory of Clinical Risk Factors in a Sample of Dutch Forensic Patients
Authors: Van der Linde Robin , Bogaerts Stefan , Garofalo Carlo , Blaauw Eric , De Caluwé Elien , Billen Eva , Spreen Marinus
Published: March 2020

In this study, growth trajectories (from admission until unconditional release) of crime-related dynamic risk factors were investigated in a sample of Dutch forensic patients ( N = 317), using latent growth curve modeling. After testing the unconditional model, three predictors were added: first-time offender versus recidivist, age, and treatment duration. Postanalyses were chi-square difference tests, t tests, and analyses of variance (ANOVAs) to assess differences in trajectories. Overall, on scale level, a decrease of risk factors over time was found. The predictors showed no significant slope differences although age and treatment duration differed significantly at some time points. The oldest age group performed worse, especially at later time points. Treatment duration effects were found at the second time point. Our results that forensic patients show a decrease in crime-related risk factors may indicate that treatment is effective. This study also found differences in growth rates, indicating the effect of individual differences
What Can a Jump Tell Us About Elbow Injuries in Professional Baseball Pitchers?
Authors: Mayberry John , Mullen Scott , Murayama Scott
Published: March 2020

Background:

The incidence rate of elbow injuries has been rising in recent years among professional baseball pitchers. Determining valid screening procedures that allow practitioners to identify pitchers at an increased risk of such injuries is therefore of critical importance.

Purpose:

To validate the use of countermovement jump (CMJ) tests as a diagnostic tool for pitcher conditioning.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

More than 500 pitchers at a single professional baseball organization performed preseason CMJ assessments on a force plate before the 2013 to 2018 seasons. Three measurements were extracted from ground-reaction force data during the test: eccentric rate of force development (ERFD), average vertical concentric force (AVCF), and concentric vertical impulse (CVI). Athletic trainers at the organization collected detailed information on elbow and shoulder injury rates as well as workload (pitch count) throughout the rest of the season. Poisson regression models were fit to investigate the dependency of injury rates on CMJ test performance.

Results:

ERFD, CVI, and AVCF were all significant predictors of elbow injury risk after accounting for pitcher age, weight, and workload. The analysis identified 3 specific indicators of heightened risk based on the results of a CMJ scan: low ERFD, a combination of low AVCF and high CVI, and a combination of high AVCF and low CVI. In contrast, shoulder injury risk was roughly independent of all 3 CMJ test measurements.

Conclusion:

This study supports the hypothesis of the entire kinetic chain’s involvement in pitching by establishing a link between CMJ test performance and elbow injury risk in professional baseball pitchers. CMJ assessment may be a powerful addition to injury risk alert and prevention protocols. Pitchers in high-risk groups can be prescribed specific exercise plans to improve movement imbalances.
Adjunct Analgesia Reduces Pain and Opioid Consumption After Hip Arthroscopy: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Kunze Kyle N. , Polce Evan M. , Lilly Daniel T. , Garcia Flavio L. , Cohn Matthew R. , Nho Shane J. , Chahla Jorge
Published: March 2020

Background:

Patients who undergo hip arthroscopy inevitably experience pain postoperatively; however, the efficacy and safety of adjunct analgesia to prevent or reduce pain are not well-understood.

Purpose:

To perform a comprehensive qualitative synthesis of available randomized controlled trials evaluating the effect of adjunct analgesia on postoperative (1) pain, (2) opioid use, and (3) length of stay (LOS) in patients undergoing hip arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

PubMed, OVID/MEDLINE, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials were queried for studies pertaining to analgesia interventions for patients undergoing hip arthroscopy. Two authors independently assessed article bias and eligibility. Data pertaining to changes in pain scores, additional analgesia requirements, length of hospital stay, and complications were extracted and qualitatively reported. Network meta-analyses were constructed to depict mean pain, opioid use, and LOS among the 3 analgesia categories (blocks, local infiltration analgesia, and celecoxib).

Results:

Fourteen level 1 studies were included; 12 (85.7%) reported pain reductions in the immediate and perioperative period after hip arthroscopy. Of the 7 studies that assessed an intervention (2 celecoxib, 1 fascia iliaca block, 1 lumbar plexus block, 1 femoral nerve block, 1 intra-articular bupivacaine, 1 extracapsular bupivacaine) versus placebo, more than half reported that patients who received an intervention consumed significantly fewer opioids postoperatively than patients who received placebo (lowest P value = .0006). Of the same 7 studies, 2 reported significantly shortened LOS with interventions, while 4 reported no statistically significant difference in LOS and 1 did not report LOS as an outcome.

Conclusion:

The majority of studies concerning adjunct analgesia for patients undergoing hip arthroscopy suggest benefits in pain reduction early in the postoperative period. There is mild evidence that adjunct analgesia reduces postoperative opioid use and currently inconclusive evidence that it reduces length of hospital stay. Furthermore, it appears that local infiltration analgesia may provide the greatest benefits in reductions in pain and opioid consumption. We recommend the use of adjunct analgesia in appropriately selected patients undergoing hip arthroscopy without contraindication who are at a high risk of severe postoperative pain.
Effect of Yarn Waviness on Strength of 3D Orthogonal Woven CFRP Composite Materials
Authors: Tong Liyong , Tan Ping , Steven Grant P.
Published: March 2020

A curved beam model is presented for studying the effect of fiber yarn waviness on the tensile strength of woven composite materials. In the model, a curved beam is assumed to be supported, with an elastic tension or shear foundation in a woven composite material, either with the open-mode type or with the shear mode type. By using the maximum stress criterion in a fiber yarn, the ultimate tensile strength of a woven composite material can be determined together with the failure location. The curved beam modeling procedure is then utilized to predict the ultimate failure stress of the 3D orthogonal woven composite materials when subject to a tensile load in the filler direction. For the open-mode type or shear mode type, a good agreement is found between the measured and predicted failure stress in the filler direction for the 3D orthogonal woven CFRP composite materials. A parametric study shows that the failure stress in the filler direction is remarkably affected by the span length and the amplitude of the filler yarn waviness, and slightly affected by the volume fraction of the z yarn and the Young's modulus of resin matrix. The height and width of the filler yarn do not seem to affect the failure stress in the filler direction.
The Otago Exercise Program With or Without Motivational Interviewing for Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A 12-Month Follow-Up of a Randomized, Controlled Trial
Authors: Tuvemo Johnson Susanna , Anens Elisabeth , Johansson Ann-Christin , Hellström Karin
Published: March 2020

The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to examine the 12-month effects of the home-based Otago Exercise Program (OEP) with or without the support of motivational interviewing (MI) on community-dwelling people 75 years and older who needed walking aids and/or home help service. In total, 175 participants were randomized into three groups: OEP ( n = 61), OEP with MI ( n = 58), and a control group ( n = 56) ( M age = 83 years). Measures were physical performance, physical activity level, balance, grip strength, fall-related self-efficacy, fall rate, and fall injury rate. The OEP with and the OEP without MI, with the support of a physical therapist (six home visits and three phone calls), demonstrated no benefits in any of the measures compared with a control group. In this subgroup of pre-frail older adults, more frequent support by personnel may be required to secure efficient intensity and progression in the exercises performed on your own at home.
Latinx College Students: How Schemas and Attachments Impact Depression and Relationship Satisfaction
Authors: Rodriguez Adrian , Ratanasiripong Paul , Hardaway Kimberly , Barron Leslie , Toyama Shiho
Published: March 2020

Latinx college students face challenges regarding depression. The relationships between early maladaptive schemas (EMS) and attachment style on depression and relationship satisfaction were investigated among 236 Latinx college student participants. The Young Schema Questionnaire–Short Form (YSQ-S3) total score was utilized to identify overall schema. Significant correlations were found. Overall schema, attachment anxiety, attachment avoidance, and depression were all positively correlated, while attachment anxiety, attachment avoidance, and depression were negatively correlated with relationship satisfaction. In multiple regression analyses, Model 1, overall schema and attachment anxiety significantly predicted depression. In Model 2, overall schema, attachment anxiety, and attachment avoidance significantly predicted relationship satisfaction, with EMS acting as a positive predictor. Results suggest that Latinx college students with EMS and anxious attachment style endorse more depression, while the influence of EMS and attachment style on relationship satisfaction needs to be further investigated. Considerations for the use of schema therapy and future research are discussed.
“This Society Ignores Our Victimization”: Understanding the Experiences of Korean Male Victims of Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Park Sihyun , Bang Su-Hyang , Jeon Jaehee
Published: March 2020

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is defined as physical, psychological, and sexual violence that occurs in an intimate relationship. For the victims, it often leads to devastating consequences such as physical injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Research on IPV has been extensively conducted for several decades. However, most studies have focused on male-to-female perpetration, and men’s victimization has been relatively neglected. This study aims to explore men’s IPV experiences within the context of Korean society, which is characterized by strong gender norms that may impede efforts to understand how men are victimized. Eleven Korean male IPV victims participated in semi-structured phone or in-person interviews lasting 1 to 2 hr, all of which were audio-recorded and transcribed. The transcriptions were qualitatively analyzed using a phenomenological method suggested by Giorgi. In total, six themes were revealed in the data: (a) living with violence, (b) enduring the violent relationship, (c) feeling helpless, (d) ending the relationship, (e) suffering from trauma, and (f) perceiving male victimization in society. Our findings are meaningful in terms of demonstrating how masculinity in one society can shape the thoughts, emotions, reactions, and behaviors of male victims. These findings can be used to tailor outreach efforts and interventions to the unique experiences of Korean men.
Repertoires on diversity among primary school children
Authors: Kostet Imane , Verschraegen Gert , Clycq Noel
Published: March 2020

This article examines how children in super-diverse schools draw on cultural repertoires to construct ethno-cultural similarities and differences. Based on 47 interviews, we show how, first, children talk about diversity as a commonplace aspect of daily life. Second, we describe how cosmopolitan arguments are used to make sense of diversity. The third repertoire focusses on ‘otherness’ and emphasizes the ‘cultural frictions’ that would stem out of diversity. Finally, we describe how some children share a strong belief in group disadvantages.
Collaboration clusters, interdisciplinarity, scope and subject classification of library and information science research from Africa: An analysis of Web of Science publications from 1996 to 2015
Authors: Asubiaro Toluwase Victor , Badmus Oluwole Martins
Published: March 2020

This study investigated the trends in the scope and subject classifications of library and information science research from authors that are affiliated with institutions in Africa. Library and information science journal articles and conference proceedings from the 54 African countries that were published between 2006 and 2015 and indexed in the Web of Science were retrieved for the study. After the removal of non-relevant articles and articles that were not available online, the library and information science publications were classified based on subject and scope. Results from the analysis of author keywords, country of affiliation, subject and scope classification were also visualized in network maps and bar charts. Frequency analysis shows that though computer science had the most profound influence on Africa’s library and information science research, its influence came to prominence in 2004. Furthermore, North African countries exhibited features that are different from the rest of Africa; they contributed most on core computer classifications while other African countries focused more on the social science-related aspects of library and information science. Unlike other regions in Africa, the North African countries also formed a dense collaboration cluster with strong interests in subjects that are conceptual and global in scope. The collaboration clustering analysis revealed an influence of some colonial languages of as a basis for forging strong collaboration between African and non-African countries. On the other hand, African countries tend to collaborate more with countries in their regions. Lastly, human computer interaction and library and information science history subject classifications were almost nonexistent. It is recommended that further studies should investigate why certain subject classifications are not well represented.
Experimental and semianalytical investigation of X850 ± IM190 CFRP bolted joints
Authors: He Boling
Published: March 2020

Considering the fact that the foundation data for a new X850 ± IM190 carbon/epoxy material system adopted in commercial aircraft industry are extremely scarce in the literature, an in-plane, static tensile experiment was carried out to investigate the bearing performance of double-lap, single-bolt joints in X850 ± IM190 carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites. The effects of ply ratio, 0° layers’ combination percentage, bolt diameter, and curing method were considered. Then, special attention was paid to determine the design parameters of X850 ± IM190 CFRP bolted joints, such as tensile strength of un-notched laminate and stress concentration relief factor. Based on these design parameters, an efficient semianalytical approach was established to obtain the ultimate bearing strength of the joints. The failure prediction exhibited excellent agreement with the experimental data. These results will play an important role in design and strength evaluation of X850 ± IM190 CFRP bolted joints.
Educational Status of Female Youth in Nepal: A Foundation for Health and Well-being. Where Should Programmes Focus?
Authors: Acharya Devaraj , Adhikari Ramesh , Kreps Gary L. , Gautam Kamal , Dhakal Krishna P. , Raikhola Pushkar S. , Bhattarai Radha
Published: March 2020

Youth are important change agents for social, political and economic issues. However, research evidence suggests that many youth, especially females, face many challenges in Nepal in reaching their social potential due to serious problems with educational access and attainment. This study examines the influence of educational attainment on achieving the social potential of Nepalese female youth through a secondary analysis of data from the Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2016. Results from this analysis show that one out of 10 female youth are illiterate and do not receive a formal education. Socio-demographic variables, such as marital status, caste, place of residence and wealth status were found to be major predictors for literacy status and educational attainment of female youth in Nepal. The findings from this study suggest that special attention should be paid to these critical variables for guiding educational and interventional planning by concerned authorities including stakeholders for improving the social potential, as well as the health and well-being of female youth in Nepal.
India in the Emergent Multipolar World Order: Dynamics and Strategic Challenges
Authors: Kukreja Veena
Published: March 2020

India has a middle power status and a rising power mindset. The emerging multipolar world manifests opportunities as well as challenges to India’s foreign policy. The newness quotient is Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘economy first’ approach rooted in his desire to create external conditions necessary to ensure domestic economic progress. He has displayed dynamism while engaging all major powers, promoting and reintegrating India with the global economy, promoting greater cooperation with South Asian neighbours and renewing strategic connections in the Indian Ocean, the Middle East, Central Asia and Africa. Pragmatism in India’s foreign policy is seen in Indo–US relations reaching a new level or in cooperation with China on climate change while opposing its territorial claims in the South China Sea and One Belt One Road Project. To counter China, India has sought close strategic partnerships with the USA and its allies and main partners in Asia-Pacific while retaining its strategic autonomy. A major challenge to India’s foreign policy is the downward spiral of relations with Pakistan.
Mid-life Chinese women’s understandings of sporting pain and injury: A non-Western cultural analysis via the Confucian concept of ‘ren’
Authors: Liu Lucen , Pringle Richard
Published: March 2020

This study explored middle-aged Chinese female table tennis players’ experiences of pain and injuries in the context of life in a foreign country (New Zealand). Data were collected in two table tennis clubs via a year-long participant observation study and through life-story interviews. The Confucian concept of ren, which has similarities to new-materialist theorising, was drawn upon to frame our interpretations of the participants’ experiences of pain and injury. The concept encourages individuals who have been raised in Chinese communities to value social connections, have sympathy for others and strive for harmony. Our study correspondingly examined how aspects of age, gender, culture, immigrant identity and Confucian philosophy interlink to shape experiences of table tennis pain and injury. Results illustrated that our participants were willing to tolerate moderate pain during participation as they were motivated to enhance community solidarity. In contrast to studies that have examined ageing athletes from western countries, our participants did not tolerate pain with the desire to prove one’s individual capability. This study contributes to a non-Western cultural reading of sports pain and injury to illustrate how broader cultural dynamics shape such experiences.
Association of Hospital Readmissions and Survivability With Frailty and Palliative Performance Scores Among Long-Term Care Residents
Authors: Aranha Anil N. F. , Smitherman Herbert C. , Patel Dhaval , Patel Pragnesh J.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Frailty and palliative performance scores are 2 markers used in the measurement of functional decline in oncology and hospice care.

Objective:

To evaluate the frailty and palliative performance scores of a long-term care resident community and determine whether frailty and palliative performance scores can predict hospital readmissions (HR) and survivability of the long-term care resident.

Methods:

One hundred seventy-one long-term care residents from 2 urban facilities were evaluated for functional decline using the Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) and Palliative Performance Scale (PPS). Sociodemographic, HR, and survival data for 1 year from study initiation were recorded.

Results:

The 171 long-term care residents, of lower socioeconomic status, primarily Medicare/Medicaid or dual-eligible, evaluated for functional decline using the CFS and PPS, had mean age of 73.1 years, 52.6% female, 94.7% African American, with 18.1% having HR and 87.1% surviving more than a year. There was a negative association between age and HR ( P = .384). Among functional evaluation scales, CFS was positively associated with age ( P = .013) but not PPS ( P = .673). The residents scored 6.0 ± 1.2 on CFS and 52.8 ± 13.2 on PPS (%) with those residents readmitted to hospital having poorer outcomes. Readmission to hospital and survivability of the long-term care resident were both strongly associated with CFS ( P = .001) and PPS ( P = .001).

Conclusion:

There is a strong association between the 2 markers used in the measurement of functional decline— Frailty measured by CFS and Palliative Performance Score measured by PPS. Frailty and palliative performance scores can strongly predict HR and survivability of the long-term care resident.
Looking Back at US Pharmacy’s Past to Help Discern Its Future
Authors: Shcherbakova Natalia , Desselle Shane
Published: March 2020

Objective: To review specific literature that aimed to predict the future of US pharmacy, beginning in the late 1980s. Data Sources: Articles were identified from searching MEDLINE, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and references of relevant articles. The following combinations of search terms were used: future, pharmacy, prediction, and forecast. Study Selection and Data Extraction: The following inclusion criteria were applied: (1) full-text commentary, review, or original research and (2) focused predominantly on the pharmacy in the United States. Data on predictions for the future of pharmacy were extracted. Data Synthesis: We selected 3 articles published between 1988 and 2006, with each aiming to project the future for the following decade. We examined each prediction in light of the current knowledge. Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice: Educators, practitioners, and other stakeholders should consider reflecting on the changes in pharmacy for the past 3 decades and applying both historical and emerging trends to improve patient care and sustain practice in the third decade of the 21st century and beyond. Conclusion: Most of the predictions for the future of pharmacy from the past 3 decades materialized, with some still in progress (reimbursement for pharmacy services), whereas others manifested in unexpected ways (transition from shortage to excess of pharmacists). Current forces shaping pharmacy include, but are not limited to, growing spending and use of specialty drugs, automation of pharmacy operations, growth of pharmacy in the digital health enterprise, and growing consumer interest in the use of analytical pharmacy that tests drugs before dispensing.
A Battle for Supremacy? Masculinities in Students’ Profane Language Use
Authors: Diabah Grace
Published: March 2020

This article investigates what students from University of Ghana’s Commonwealth Hall consider as marks of masculinity, through how they represent themselves and other males in their use of profanity. Data are sourced from songs, observations, and interviews. Drawing from hegemonic and nonhegemonic masculinities and theory of ideologies, findings indicate how these students portray themselves as embodying true masculinity, as they represent themselves as superpowers, virile, and assertive. They however marginalize other males by representing them as weaklings, “uncircumcised”, and vagina police. It is their attempt to keep these binary categories in place, which sometimes leads to confrontations between them and other male students. When they believe and articulate that they embody true masculinity, similar practices can only be interpreted as threats. The article, therefore, recommends a bigger study that includes other public universities and assesses the link between these students’ language use and their “radical” behavior.
Immunohistochemistry Profile Predicts EGFR Mutation Status in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Wencheng , Niehaus Angela G. , O’Neill Stacey S.
Published: March 2020

Significant advances in targeted therapy have been made in recent years for patients with lung adenocarcinoma. These targeted therapies have made molecular testing of paramount importance to drive therapeutic decisions. Material for testing is often limited, particularly in cytology specimens and small core biopsies. A reliable screening tool is invaluable in triaging limited tissue and selection for epidermal growth factor receptor ( EGFR) mutation testing. We hypothesized that the immunohistochemistry (IHC) profile of lung adenocarcinoma predicts EGFR mutation status. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1)/napsin A IHC profile and EGFR mutation status in 339 lung adenocarcinomas at our academic institution. In our cohort, we found that 92.3% of cases were positive for TTF-1 and/or napsin A by IHC with an EGFR positivity rate of 17.3%. Importantly, 7.7% of the cases were dual TTF-1/napsin A negative, and none of these cases contained EGFR mutations. This finding supports the use of TTF-1 and napsin A IHC to identify cases where EGFR mutation status will be negative, thus preserving limited tissue for other ancillary testing.
Effect of Tourniquet Use During Ankle Fracture Fixation on Wound Healing and Infectious Complications
Authors: Benedick Alex , Rivera Trenton , Vallier Heather A.
Published: March 2020

Background:

Tourniquets are common during extremity surgery; however, effects of tourniquets on complications following ankle fracture surgery have not been well described. The purpose was to evaluate effects of tourniquet usage on wound complications and infections after ankle fracture fixation.

Methods:

Consecutive patients (N = 903) treated operatively for torsional ankle injury were identified. Patients for whom a tourniquet was used intraoperatively (n = 523) were compared to those without (n = 380). Subgroup analysis included patients possibly sensitive to tissue ischemia (diabetes, obesity, tobacco, age >65 years, and open fracture). Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results:

A tourniquet was used in 523 (57.9%) of cases. Overall, 22.9% of patients had open fractures in the group with no tourniquet, vs 11.3% ( P < .001), with no differences in fracture pattern or medical comorbidities, except tobacco use was more frequent in the no tourniquet group (51.9% vs 44.4%, P = .032). No significant differences in complications were noted, including superficial infection (4.2% [no tourniquet] vs 5.2%), deep infection (2.1% vs 2.3%), and wound healing problems (6.3% vs 4.0%). Similarly, subgroup analysis failed to reveal any differences in complications based on diabetes, obesity, tobacco use, age, or open fracture. However, patients with open fractures or diabetes were more likely to experience deep infection (OR 3.73, P = .014, and OR 4.01, P = .021, respectively).

Conclusions:

Tourniquet use did not affect rates of wound healing problems or infections. However, patients with open fractures or diabetes were at higher risk. Tissue ischemia produced by a tourniquet did not appear to result in more wound healing or infectious complications.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, prognostic, comparative study
Social Network Intervention Reduces Added Sugar Intake Among Baltimore Public Housing Residents: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Gudzune Kimberly A , Opara Onumara , Martinez Jonathan C , Doshi Ruchi S , Levine David M , Latkin Carl A , Clark Jeanne M
Published: March 2020

Public housing residents have high intake of added sugars, which is associated with sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption in their social networks. In this feasibility study, we designed and tested a network-oriented intervention to decrease added sugar intake by encouraging reduced SSB consumption. We conducted a 6-month single-arm trial testing a small-group curriculum (9 sessions) that combined behavior change strategies to reduce added sugar intake by promoting SSB reduction with a peer outreach approach. We recruited and trained public housing residents to be “Peer Educators,” who then communicated information and made changes to reduce SSB with their network members. We calculated the median number of group sessions attended and determined the percentage of individuals satisfied with the program. We estimated added sugar intake using a 5-factor dietary screener and compared baseline and 6-month median values using Wilcoxon signed rank tests. We recruited 17 residents and 17 of their network members (n = 34). Mean age was 45.7 years, 79.4% were women, and 97.1% were African American. Median number of sessions attended was 9 (interquartile range: 4-9), and 88.2% were very satisfied with the program. Overall, baseline median added sugar intake was 38.0 tsp/day, which significantly declined to 17.2 tsp/day at 6 months ( P < .001). Residents and network members achieved similar results at 6 months (17.4 vs 16.9 tsp/day, respectively). In conclusion, our results demonstrate that a social network intervention aimed at reducing SSB consumption is feasible and can produce significant decreases in adult added sugar intake, which warrants further investigation in a randomized controlled trial.
Older adults’ construal of sedentary behaviour: Implications for reducing sedentary behaviour in older adult populations
Authors: McGowan Laura J , Powell Rachael , French David P
Published: March 2020

Older adults are the most sedentary age group, with sedentary behaviour having negative health-related consequences. There is currently limited understanding of how older adults view sedentary behaviour. This study investigated older adults’ understanding of the concept of sedentary behaviour. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 community-dwelling older adults in urban North-West England, selected to be diverse in socio-economic background and activity levels. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. An inductive thematic analysis was conducted. Participants often construed sedentary behaviour as synonymous with a lack of physical activity, and many perceived reducing sedentary behaviour and increasing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity to be the same thing. Participants perceived the term ‘sedentary’ to have negative connotations and were often judgemental of people who engaged in high levels of sedentary behaviour. Most participants considered reducing sedentary behaviour to be of value, though more active individuals were unconvinced that reducing sedentary behaviour has value beyond the benefits of being physically active. Interventions may wish to provide education to address the misconception that increasing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity is necessary in order to reduce sedentary behaviour. Educating older adults on the independent health consequences of sedentary behaviour may also prove beneficial.
Cascading effects of childhood abuse on physical health issues in later adulthood through trait anxiety and poor daily sleep quality
Authors: Tracy Eunjin Lee , Tracy Cory T , Kim Jichan J , Yang Rumei , Kim Eunjung
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mediating roles of trait anxiety and daily sleep quality between childhood abuse and physical health issues later in adulthood by utilizing the Midlife in the United States Study ( n = 281; Mage = 56.38 in wave 2 and Mage = 62.57 in wave 3). Individuals who reported a higher level of childhood abuse reported a higher level of trait anxiety and a lower level of daily sleep quality, leading to an increase in physical health issues. The results highlight the cascading effects of childhood abuse on serious health consequences over the life span.
Local clinician perspectives on cause, impact, and treatment of key expressions of distress in Cambodian children
Authors: Figge Caleb J , Martinez-Torteya Cecilia , Taing Sopheap , Chhim Sotheara , Hinton Devon E
Published: March 2020

Child trauma and posttraumatic stress in Cambodia is highly prevalent, perpetuated within a postwar sociocultural context. The examination of locally meaningful expressions of distress is needed to provide culturally sensitive assessment and treatment of trauma-affected Cambodian children. The acceptable, feasible, and sustainable incorporation of expressions of distress into assessment and intervention development relies on key mental health professionals operating in Cambodia, who can provide invaluable perspectives on child trauma experiences in this particular sociocultural context. In this study, qualitative interviews were conducted with 15 Cambodian mental health professionals (MHPs) who work directly with trauma-affected Cambodian children. MHPs were presented with seven key posttraumatic problems derived from previous qualitative interviews with Cambodian children and caregivers, and discussed 1) the causes of these problems, 2) the impact of the problem on the child or those around them, 3) the current treatment for the problem in Cambodia, and 4) recommended treatment. MHPs provided unique insights and perspectives of trauma-affected children in the Cambodian context regarding key target problems, including palpitations, difficulties in school, headache, and thinking too much, and highlighted future directions for assessment and intervention. Recommendations are discussed in regard to programming design and organizational training development to promote culturally salient, feasible, and sustainable mental health service provision in Cambodia.
Conceptualizations of help-seeking for mental health concerns in First Nations communities in Canada: A comparison of fit with the Andersen Behavioral Model
Authors: Isaak Corinne A , Mota Natalie , Medved Maria , Katz Laurence Y , Elias Brenda , Mignone Javier , Munro Gary , Sareen Jitender
Published: March 2020

This qualitative study explored the fit between on-reserve First Nations community members’ conceptualizations of help-seeking for mental health concerns and the Andersen Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. Youth, adults and elders (N = 115) living and or working in eight distinct First Nations communities within a tribal council area in Canada participated in focus groups or individual interviews that were transcribed, coded and then analyzed using a thematic analysis approach informed by grounded theory methodology. Resulting themes were then mapped onto the Andersen Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. Participants’ conceptualizations of predisposing characteristics including social structures, health beliefs and mental illness, enabling and impeding resources had a high degree of fit with the model. While perspectives on perceived need for mental health care, and spirituality as a health and lifestyle practice had only moderate fit with the model, these domains could be modified to fit First Nations’ interpretations of help-seeking. Participants’ perceptions of avoidant strategies and non-use of mental health services, however did not map onto the model. These findings suggest conceptualizations of help-seeking for mental health issues in these First Nations communities are only partially characterized by the Andersen Behavioral Model, suggesting there are a number of considerations to Indigenize the model. Findings also highlight potential explanations for why some members of this population may not access or receive appropriate mental health treatment. Multi-pronged efforts are warranted to link culturally normed pathways of help-seeking with effective mental health supports for First Nations community members in Canada.
The content and potential of the right to social assistance in light of Article 13 of the European Social Charter
Authors: Dalli María
Published: March 2020

This article explores the current development of the right to social assistance as well as its potential for improving income support policies. Focusing on Article 13 of the European Social Charter (ESC), it aims to shed light on the content of such provision by identifying a list of comprehensive defining standards from the monitoring activity conducted by the European Committee of Social Rights (ECSR). Secondly, it asks whether the right can effectively enhance access to social assistance in practice by studying the implementation of the right in two national cases, the UK and Spain. The article concludes that Article 13 ESC imposes clear obligations on States Parties regarding aspects of the implementation of assistance schemes, such as the level of assistance and the right to appeal. Nevertheless, practical aspects of implementation should be taken into account for the effective realisation of the right. The ESC provisions, as well as the ECSR’s Conclusions, should be enforced by States at the national level. Furthermore, the standards developed by the ECSR for Article 13 can be complemented by recommendations currently suggested by civil society, such as the increased flexibility of activation measures for households with parenting duties, and the splitting of payments to achieve financial independence.
Perceived social stigmatisation of gambling disorders and coping with stigma
Authors: Dąbrowska Katarzyna , Wieczorek Łukasz
Published: March 2020

Aim:

This study concerns perceived social stigmatisation of gambling disorder and its determinants, the self-perceptions of people with gambling disorder (self-stigma) and how they cope with stigma.

Design:

In total, 30 interviews with persons with gambling disorder and 60 with professionals were conducted. Selective sampling procedures were employed in the recruitment phase. In the case of professionals, the inclusion criteria were employment in facilities where treatment of gambling disorder is offered, and profession. For people with gambling disorder, the criterion was a diagnosis confirmed by a psychiatrist.

Results:

Elements revealed in past research on stigma-creation processes were reflected in respondents’ statements. The type of gambling, the occurrence of negative consequences, the possibility of hiding, personal responsibility, social status and contact with stigmatised populations are perceived determinants of problem gamblers’ stigmatisation. Gambling disorder sufferers experience anxiety associated with the possibility of rejection and a fear related to their condition being revealed to others. Various manifestations of cognitive distancing and hiding were coping mechanisms identified in the study.

Conclusions:

People with gambling disorder experience anxiety associated with the possibility of rejection, and they often conceal their disorder, which may hinder their treatment. Therefore the issue of stigma should be addressed in therapy.
“It’s like being stuck on an unsafe and unpredictable rollercoaster”: Experiencing substance use problems in a partner
Authors: Weimand Bente M , Birkeland Bente , Ruud Torleif , Høie Magnhild M
Published: March 2020

Living with a partner with substance abuse problems may induce strains in an individual’s everyday life, including poor health, disrupted family life, and social isolation; this may lead to dropping out of education or work, a lack of safety and support, and facing various dilemmas and stigma.

Aim:

The purpose of this study was to explore these partners’ everyday life experiences, including their parental roles.

Method:

A qualitative design comprising qualitative interviews with ten partners and ex-partners was performed, and a thematic analysis was used.

Results:

The findings demonstrated that sharing their lives, including parenthood, with a partner with substance use problems affected every aspect of the participants’ lives, and entailed being influenced by their partner’s ups and downs. The overall theme, “being stuck on an unsafe and unpredictable rollercoaster”, is explored through three themes: “dilemmas, stigma, and shame”, “lack of safety, security, and support,” and “searching for hope and meaning.”

Conclusion:

As a result of the negative impact of their circumstances on their everyday lives, these individuals need support to handle the challenges that they face, but often find it difficult to ask for help. Peer support groups seemed helpful in enabling them to find ways out of their situation.