bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forensic medical reports in asylum cases: The view of the European Court of Human Rights and the Committee against Torture
Authors: Reneman Marcelle
Published: September 2020

National authorities are often reluctant to arrange for a forensic medical examination or to grant important weight to forensic medical reports in asylum cases. They do not (fully) accept that a forensic medical report may change their initial assessment of the credibility of the applicant’s asylum account. They may argue that a physician cannot establish the context (date, location, perpetrator) in which the alleged ill-treatment has taken place or the cause of a specific scar or medical problem of the applicant. Moreover, they may contend that the physician concerned did not have the expertise to write a forensic medical report. This article examines how the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) and the Committee against Torture (CAT) have included forensic medical reports in their assessment of asylum cases and how they have dealt with the ‘context’, ‘causality’ and ‘expertise’ argument. It shows that these bodies do not accept that national authorities refrain from arranging a forensic medical examination or attach no or limited weight to a forensic medical report submitted by the applicant, just because the applicant has made inconsistent, incoherent or vague statements. They also do not accept general references to the ‘context’, ‘causality’ and ‘expertise’ argument. However, they have accepted these arguments in some individual cases, often without clear reasoning. The article concludes that the ECtHR and CAT could provide more guidance to national authorities concerning the role of forensic medical reports in asylum cases by explicitly weighing the seriousness of the credibility issues against the forensic medical report and by paying attention to the requirements for forensic medical reports laid down in the Istanbul Protocol.
A home-practice intervention for increasing condom use among university undergraduates
Authors: Ricks JaNelle , Crosby Richard A , Graham Cynthia A , Sanders Stephanie A , Milhausen Robin R , Yarber William L
Published: September 2020

The consistently high rate of sexually transmitted infections among people 18–24 years old warrants novel strategies promoting condom use among large segments of this population. Ample opportunity exits to employ such strategies in university settings. This study evaluated a sex-positive, home-practice intervention designed to promote condom use among university undergraduates engaging in penile–vaginal intercourse (PVI). A sample of 29 opposite-sex undergraduate couples, engaging in PVI, was recruited from a large university. After teaching couples about condom use, a health educator helped couples select condoms/lubricants from options comprising various sizes, fits, shapes, textures, and other features. A 30-day ‘homework assignment’ was made to use these products while reducing condom use errors/problems and enhancing sexual pleasure. A repeated measures design, with a six-month observation period, was used to evaluate the program. Over the six-month period, the mean frequency of condomless PVI decreased from 26.4 to 3.9 times ( P < .001). Significant and favorable changes were also found relative to attitudes toward condom use ( P =  .027) and in condom use self-efficacy ( P < .001). Most students completing the follow-up assessment indicated the intervention would favorably impact their future condom use. Findings suggest this intervention program may be important to promoting condom use among university couples engaging in PVI.
‘Will polar bears melt?’ A qualitative analysis of children’s questions about climate change
Authors: Lee Katharine , Barnett Julie
Published: September 2020

Climate change poses a grave threat to future generations, yet relatively little research examines children’s understandings of the issue. This study examines the questions children ask about climate change – rather than their answers to adults’ questions – exploring whether their questions suggest they view climate change as psychologically proximal or distant. Children aged 10–12 from 14 UK schools took part in an online event, asking scientists questions in a ‘climate zone’. The questions were analysed using thematic analysis. The themes related to the nature and reality of climate change, its causes, impacts, and solutions. Participants seemed most exercised about the future impacts of and ways of ameliorating climate change, with some questions evoking science-fiction disaster imagery. The contents of participants’ questions elucidated the ways in which they position climate change as both a proximal and distant phenomenon.
Improvement of Neurological Function in Rats with Ischemic Stroke by Adipose-derived Pericytes
Authors: Ogay Vyacheslav , Kumasheva Venera , Li Yelena , Mukhlis Sholpan , Sekenova Aliya , Olzhayev Farkhad , Tsoy Andrey , Umbayev Baurzhan , Askarova Sholpan , Shpekov Azat , Kaliyev Assylbek , Zhetpisbayev Berik , Makhambetov Yerbol , Akshulakov Serik , Saparov Arman , Ramankulov Yerlan
Published: September 2020

Pericytes possess high multipotent features and cell plasticity, and produce angiogenic and neurotrophic factors that indicate their high regenerative potential. The aim of this study was to investigate whether transplantation of adipose-derived pericytes can improve functional recovery and neurovascular plasticity after ischemic stroke in rats. Rat adipose-derived pericytes were isolated from subcutaneous adipose tissue by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Adult male Wistar rats were subjected to 90 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion followed by intravenous injection of rat adipose-derived pericytes 24 h later. Functional recovery evaluations were performed at 1, 7, 14, and 28 days after injection of rat adipose-derived pericytes. Angiogenesis and neurogenesis were examined in rat brains using immunohistochemistry. It was observed that intravenous injection of adipose-derived pericytes significantly improved recovery of neurological function in rats with stroke compared to phosphate-buffered saline–treated controls. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the number of blood capillaries was significantly increased along the ischemic boundary zone of the cortex and striatum in stroke rats treated with adipose-derived pericytes. In addition, treatment with adipose-derived pericytes increased the number of doublecortin positive neuroblasts. Our data suggest that transplantation of adipose-derived pericytes can significantly improve the neurologic status and contribute to neurovascular remodeling in rats after ischemic stroke. These data provide a new insight for future cell therapies that aim to treat ischemic stroke patients.
Fatigue response of a solid state self-healing resin
Authors: Jamil Mohd Suzeren Md , Muhamad Noor Nabilah , Wan Zulrushdi Wan Naqiuddin
Published: September 2020

The present work verified the capability of a solid state self-healing system for retarding or arresting fatigue cracks in epoxy materials subjected to cyclic loading at room temperature. A solid state self-healing material is demonstrated using a thermosetting epoxy polymer which was modified by incorporating a linear thermoplastic polydiglycidyl ether bisphenol-A (PDGEBA) as a healing agent. The stress-controlled constant amplitude (CA) tensile fatigue behavior at stress ratio, R = 0.1 and frequency 10 Hz for both the neat and the modified epoxy was investigated. Fatigue life and residual strength degradation were continuously monitored during the fatigue tests. The modified epoxy fatigue life was shown to be increased by ∼50% after healing periods. The fatigue-healing process was proven through the surface and cross-section resin morphology analyses using microscopy optic and scanning electron microscope (SEM). On the whole, the solid state self-healing system has proven to be very effective in obstructing fatigue crack propagation, effectively improved the self-healing polymeric material to achieve higher endurance limits.
Issues in the Provision of Health Care in India: An Overview
Authors: Borooah Vani Kant
Published: September 2020

After reviewing health outcomes and policy in India, this paper concludes that there are at least six sets of issues to be addressed about improving the quantity and quality of health services, and ipso facto improving health outcomes, in India. First, the amount of resources earmarked for health needs to increase. Second, health resources need to be used in a fair and just manner and, in particular, complaints relating to egregious health outcomes need to be addressed. Predominant in this set of issues is oversight and regulation of private-sector health provision. The third set of issues relates to the allocation of health resources and, in particular, to the imbalance in the allocation of health resources between towns and villages. A fourth issue is the accessibility of rural areas since it is the most remote areas that have the lowest density of health workers. Another issue is the more efficient use of health workers in order to make them more productive. Finally, Indian health policy is stronger on rhetoric and aspiration than it is on action and implementation. The successful implementation of the policy requires the explicit recognition that objectives are often competing (primary versus tertiary care) and the acknowledgement that, with budgetary constraints, one cannot have more of one without having less of the other. The first role of policy is to then choose the optimal mix of objectives with respect to these trade-offs. Secondly, policies come up against vested interests which agitate (often with the support of opposition politicians) and litigate against proposed changes. Lastly, policies in India are made against a background of poor governance with the predatory presence of corruption looming over every policy initiative. In implementing, rather than simply articulating, a policy it is important to address these governance issues.

JEL: I10, I11, I13, I14, I15
Feasibility of segmented concrete in wind turbine tower: Numerical studies on its mechanical performance
Authors: Yue Yanchao , Tian Jingjing , Mu Qingyi , Chen Tangbing , Peng Lin , Lu Xi , Liu Jing
Published: September 2020

Segmented concrete slices have been widely used in the construction of wind turbine tower due to easy transportation and cost savings. Factors such as the size and form of the concrete slice and the connector may affect the stiffness and reliability of the structure. The objective of this study is to investigate the influence of the above factors on mechanical performance of a wind turbine tower. A finite element model of 40 m segmented concrete tower was developed for the modal analysis, and a local refinement model was established for the static analysis. Results show that the slice form and connectors have impact on the rigidity of the tower structure. Dividing the tower into two pieces per layer, increasing the height of the tower segment, using the grout connection of the longitudinal and staggering longitudinal seams can increase the stiffness of segmented concrete tower. In addition, this study analyzes the role of rubber pads in improving the mechanical performance of the tower, results show that the peak stress at the joints can be reduced by setting rubber pads with low elastic modulus at the longitudinal seams.
Patterns of Prescribing Antiretroviral Therapy Upon Discharge to Psychiatry Inpatients With HIV/AIDS at a Large Urban Hospital
Authors: Momenzadeh Amanda , Shumway Martha , Dong Betty J. , Dilley James , Nye Jonathan , Mangurian Christina
Published: September 2020

Background

HIV infection is more prevalent among people with severe mental illness (SMI) than in the general population. People with SMI may lack access to recommended antiretroviral therapy (ART), and inpatient psychiatric admissions may be opportunities to ensure that individuals receive recommended treatment.

Objective

To evaluate ART prescription patterns on an inpatient psychiatry service.

Methods

In this retrospective, observational study, patient and admission characteristics and ART prescriptions were obtained for 248 HIV-positive inpatients between 2006 and 2012. Receipt of any ART, any recommended ART regimen, and ART with potentially harmful adverse events and drug interactions were examined. General estimating equation models were used to evaluate prescription patterns in relation to patient and admission characteristics.

Results

ART was prescribed at 39% of discharges and increased by 51% during the study. Prescription was more common in admissions with an AIDS diagnosis and age greater than 29 years and less common in admissions associated with a psychotic diagnosis and shorter inpatient stays. When ART was prescribed, regimens were consistent with guideline recommendations 91% of the time. Prescription of potentially harmful regimens was limited.

Conclusion and Relevance

In an acute inpatient psychiatry setting in an urban HIV/AIDS epicenter, where psychotic disorders and brief and involuntary admissions were the norm, guideline-recommended ART regimens were prescribed at almost 60% of discharges by the end of the study. Future studies should explore interventions to increase ART for high-risk subpopulations with SMI, including younger individuals or those with brief inpatient psychiatry hospitalizations.
A Systemwide Approach for Navigating the Dilemma of Oral Factor Xa Inhibitor Interference With Unfractionated Heparin Anti–Factor Xa Concentrations
Authors: Levito Marissa N. , Coons James C. , Verrico Margaret M. , Szymkowiak Adrienne , Legler Brianna , Dueweke Eric J. , Kane-Gill Sandra L.
Published: September 2020

Background

Oral factor Xa inhibitors are known to significantly increase heparin anti-Xa concentrations, which leads to inaccuracies when monitoring intravenous unfractionated heparin (IV UFH). Guidance for managing this laboratory interference is lacking, creating substantial uncertainty in clinical practice.

Objective

To describe a strategy used by a large academic institution for managing the controversy of laboratory interference in the setting of oral factor Xa inhibitor use and provide effectiveness and safety data for this approach.

Methods

In December 2016, a new Heparin IV Direct Oral Anticoagulant (DOAC) Interference PowerPlan (a comprehensive order set) was made available in the electronic health record (Cerner, North Kansas City, MO) throughout the health system. We retrospectively examined 169 patients with events reported in the error reporting system, RISKMASTER, and evaluated reports with and without the use of the PowerPlan. Effectiveness was determined through evaluation of thrombosis. The Naranjo criteria for causality were applied to assess thrombotic events.

Results

Of 56 events that were reported with apixaban when the PowerPlan was not ordered, 4 (7%) thrombotic events occurred within 7 days of UFH initiation. One out of the 4 events (25%) that occurred when the PowerPlan was not appropriately initiated was considered probable using the Naranjo Scale. Three additional events (75%) were possible using the Naranjo Scale.

Conclusion and Relevance

The Heparin IV DOAC Interference PowerPlan appears to be conducive to positive patient outcomes when evaluating voluntary reported events and may assist clinicians with managing the therapeutic dilemma of this laboratory interference.
Changes in Biomarkers of Coagulation, Fibrinolytic, and Endothelial Functions for Evaluating the Predisposition to Venous Thromboembolism in Patients With Hereditary Thrombophilia
Authors: Li Lei , Gao Lixia , Wu Xi , Wu Wenman , Ding Qiulan , Wang Xuefeng
Published: September 2020

The changes in the coagulation, fibrinolytic, and endothelial functions are correlated with the pathophysiology of the thromboembolic diseases during acute illness. However, these changes in patients with hereditary thrombophilia who were not in the acute stage of venous thromboembolism (VTE) are unclear. A panel of 4 biomarkers, including thrombin–antithrombin complex (TAT), plasmin-α2-plasmin inhibitor complex (PIC), tissue-type plasminogen activator/plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 complex (t-PAIC), and soluble thrombomodulin (sTM), were assayed in 100 healthy controls and 100 patients with thrombophilia. Although significantly higher concentrations of TAT, PIC, t-PAIC, and sTM were observed in patients with thrombophilia than in healthy controls, 70 patients showed absolutely normal levels of the above 4 biomarkers. Among the other 30 patients who had at least 1 biomarker out of the corresponding reference interval, 26 of them presented elevated PIC with or without increased TAT. Except for sTM, other 3 biomarkers did not show significant differences in patients with previous VTE compared to those without. Patients with single episode of VTE had obviously lower t-PAIC than those with multiple episodes of VTE, whereas the levels of TAT, PIC, and sTM were unassociated with the number of thrombosis episodes. Most thrombophilia patients who were not in the acute stage of VTE showed normal coagulation, fibrinolytic, and endothelial functions. Thus, we were unable to show that the one-time response of this panel was clinically helpful in determining thrombosis risk in thrombophilia individuals. Future studies should focus on the dynamic monitoring during the chronic phase of VTE to offer special advantages for patients with thrombophilia.
Thermoelastic fractional derivative model for exciting viscoelastic microbeam resting on Winkler foundation
Authors: Abouelregal Ahmed E
Published: September 2020

In the current investigation, the thermoelastic vibration of a viscoelastic microbeam resting on the Winkler foundation is studied using the fractional-order theory. To describe the damping of the viscoelastic material according to experimental results, the Kelvin–Voigt model is replaced by a new form with a fractional-order derivative. The generalized thermoelasticity model and Euler–Bernoulli beam theory are used to construct the governing equation. The microbeam is subjected to axial load, ultrafast laser heating, and varying sinusoidal heat. The governing equation is then solved using the Laplace transform technique to determine the deflection and thermoelastic interaction responses of microbeams. The effects of many parameters such as the coefficient of viscosity, axial load, fractional derivative order, laser pulse duration, and foundation parameter on the microbeam response are explained and discussed in detail.
Sexual Assault Survivors’ Perceived Helpfulness of University-Affiliated Resources
Authors: Graham Amy C. , Mallinson R. Kevin , Krall Jenna R. , Annan Sandra L.
Published: September 2020

The goal of this study was to examine sexual assault survivors’ use and perceived helpfulness of university-affiliated resources. Data were collected in online anonymous surveys from women ( n = 98) at two universities who experienced a sexual assault during college and used university resources. Participants who perceived university-affiliated survivor resources as helpful had significantly better mental health outcomes than women who perceived resources as unhelpful. The most often used resources were mental health counseling (60.6%) and university health centers (24%). The most helpful resources were survivor advocates, peer counseling, and peer support groups.
Poly-Victimization Among Female College Students: Are the Risk Factors the Same as Those Who Experience One Type of Victimization?
Authors: Snyder Jamie A. , Scherer Heidi L. , Fisher Bonnie S.
Published: September 2020

Past research has shown that a significant proportion of college students will experience a victimization during their college tenure. This body of research provides evidence that college students’ lifestyle characteristics and routine activities play a role in influencing their risk of victimization; yet, little is known about whether these same risk factors predict both single-type victimization and poly-victimization. Using a sample of more than 4,000 college women from across the United States, multivariate analyses were used to examine the risk factors for poly-victimization. Measures from both target congruence theory and lifestyles-routine activities theory were found to significantly differentiate single-type victims from poly-victims.
Reduction of bacterial colonization at the exit site of peripherally inserted central catheters: A comparison between chlorhexidine-releasing sponge dressings and cyano-acrylate
Authors: Gilardi Emanuele , Piano Alfonso , Chellini Pietro , Fiori Barbara , Dolcetti Laura , Pittiruti Mauro , Scoppettuolo Giancarlo
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

A serious complication associated with Central Venous Access Device (CVAD) is infection because of bacterial contamination, either by the extra-luminal or by the intra-luminal route. We evaluated the efficacy, the safety, and the cost-effectiveness of two strategies for non-inferiority in controlling bacterial colonization of the exit-site of Peripherally-Inserted Central Catheters (PICC).

Methods:

After PICC placement, a skin swab of the exit site was taken and cultured. In group A the exit site was sealed with N-butyl-cyanoacrylate glue, while in group B a chlorhexidine-releasing sponge dressing was applied. A second skin culture was taken at day 7.

Results:

A total of 51 patients were enrolled in each group. In 42 patients the second skin culture was not performed because of 20 patients were lost at follow-up or deceased and in 22 patients the dressing needed to be changed early, because of local bleeding (13 cases, in group B) or because of dressing detachment (four in group A and five in group B). The microbiological study was completed in 36 patients in group A and 24 in group B. No microorganisms were isolated in any patient.

Conclusions:

Both strategies were effective in controlling bacterial colonization. Glue was effective in reducing local bleeding, and it was more cost-effective than sponge dressing. During the first week, when local bleeding and bacterial colonization must be prevented, glue might be more appropriate than chlorhexidine-releasing dressing; after the first week chlorhexidine-releasing dressing might be preferable, considering that the safety of glue application on the skin for prolonged periods is still questionable.
Perceptions and Use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Among Floridian Middle and High School Students: Secondary Analysis of Cross-sectional Survey Results
Authors: Ferrell Anastasiya , Hadddad Linda , Harrison Elder Jennifer , Garvan Cyndi , Cook Christa L , Salloum Ramzi
Published: September 2020

Introduction:

Rapid increase in youth use of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) led the state and the federal governments to implement minimum-age policies to restrict minors’ access to vaping products. Limited success of the age restrictions fueled efforts to increase the distribution age of all tobacco products to 21 (ie, Tobacco 21 or T21 policies). With limited data on the T21 policies, the current study examines the prevalence of ENDS use and the perceptions about ENDS among youth in the pre- and post-policy-implementation periods for one of these bans in the state of Florida.

Methods:

This study conducted secondary analysis on the responses from the 2014 and 2015 Florida Youth Tobacco Survey, which collected cross-sectional data.

Results:

Compared to the data from spring of 2014, the minimum-age policy enacted on July 1, 2014 did not lead to a significant decrease in Florida’s high school and middle school students’ ever ENDS use (14.9% in 2014 vs 25.8% in 2015) and current ENDS use (7.5% in 2014 vs 12.4% in 2015). There was some ambiguity among students regarding the ENDS harm—more students in 2015 thought of ENDS as both equally (11.0% vs 7.7%) and less (32.4% vs 28%) harmful than cigarettes. There was a decrease in the proportion of students who were unsure about their answer to this question (51.5% vs 59.2%).

Conclusions:

Policy change alone may not be effective in shifting the trend of ENDS use among middle and high school students. Although students may know about some of the ENDS effects, many of them are still not aware about the harms. Interventions in school and in the community should be aiming to raise this awareness.
Bluey, Requestival, Play School and ME@Home: the ABC (Kids) of communication cultures during lockdown
Authors: Giuffre Liz
Published: September 2020

When a nationwide lockdown was declared in Australia in March 2020, the role of the ABC as the public broadcaster became vital. Unprecedented pressure was placed on parents and carers as families were cut off from their physical networks and communities beyond immediate household groups. This article focuses on the specialist material created and curated by the ABC to entertain, educate and continue to provide cultural connection for households with children and young adults, particularly broadcast and post-broadcast outlets ABC Kids, ABC ME and Triple J. Notably, these outlets were able to provide both a connection to the ‘real world’ and ‘real events’ happening outside during this time, but they were also able to provide materials to escape and appease audience anxiety pitched at a level that is age appropriate.
Do pre-hospital physicians improve mortality in major trauma patients? A systematic review
Authors: Morgan Owen , Yarham Eilish , Hudson Anthony , Cole Elaine
Published: September 2020

Background

Optimal pre-hospital care systems contribute to improvements in trauma survival. The presence of pre-hospital physicians (PHPs) is reported to increase survival in traumatic brain injury, yet the effects of PHPs on outcomes for all trauma patients is currently unreported. The objective of this systematic review was to compare trauma mortality for patients treated by a PHP with those treated by a non-medical pre-hospital practitioner (NMPHP).

Methods

A systematic literature search (Medline, Embase, and CINAHL) was performed, on 10th March 2020, to identify original studies comparing the mortality for trauma patients treated by a PHP with those treated by a NMPHP published between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2019. Methodological quality of studies was assessed using Grade of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE).

Results

The search revealed 6,296 studies and 14 met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 42,479 patients. Unadjusted mortality suggested a higher mortality for the physician cohort in four studies and no difference in six. However, patients treated by physicians had higher Injury Severity Scores and where adjusted mortality was provided several studies showed a mortality benefit for physicians.

Conclusion

This systematic review did not demonstrate a mortality benefit from pre-hospital physicians attending major trauma patients. However, those with higher Injury Severity Scores may benefit from the presence of a PHP. Identifying this patient cohort in the pre-hospital setting to ensure appropriate resource use requires further evaluation.
From pre-emption to slowness: Assessing the contrasting temporalities of data-driven predictive policing
Authors: Andrejevic Mark , Dencik Lina , Treré Emiliano
Published: September 2020

Debates on the temporal shift associated with digitalization often stress notions of speed and acceleration. With the advent of big data and predictive analytics, the time-compressing features of digitalization are compounded within a distinct operative logic: that of pre-emption. The temporality of pre-emption attempts to project the past into a simulated future that can be acted upon in the present; a temporality of pure imminence. Yet, inherently paradoxical, pre-emption is marked by myriads of contrasts and frictions as it is caught between the supposedly all-encompassing knowledge of the data-processing ‘Machine’, and the daily reality of decision-making practices by relevant social actors. In this article, we explore the contrasting temporalities of automated data processing and predictive analytics, using policing as an illustrative example. Drawing on insights from two cases of predictive policing systems that have been implemented among UK police forces, we highlight the prevalence of counter-temporalities as predictive analytics is situated in institutional contexts and consider the conditions of possibility for agency and deliberation. Analysing these temporal tensions in relation to ‘slowness’ as a mode of resistance, the contextual examination of predictive policing advanced in the article provides a contribution to the formation of a deeper awareness of the politics of time in automated data processing; one that may serve to counter the imperative of pre-emption that, taken to the limit, seeks to foreclose the time for politics, action and life.
Datafied times: Surveillance capitalism, data technologies and the social construction of time in family life
Authors: Barassi Veronica
Published: September 2020

This article maps three different yet interconnected hegemonic temporalities that define data technologies: immediacy, archival and predictive time. These hegemonic temporalities, it will be argued, cannot be understood without considering the political economic structures of surveillance capitalism. However, to understand the relationship between data technologies and the social construction of time, we also need to consider the multiple ways in which these temporalities are reproduced and experienced through everyday temporalizing practices. Drawing on an ethnographic project which investigates the impact of data technologies on family life, the article will explore different ways in which these temporalities are impacting the lived experience of family life. Looking at the ways in which everyday experiences intersect with hegemonic constructions of time enables us to ask critical questions about how data technologies surveille and govern subjects through time and consider their implication for our democratic futures.
Birthdays, anniversaries, and temporalities: Or how the past is represented as relevant through on-this-date media
Authors: Humphreys Lee
Published: September 2020

This article explores the mediatization of birthdays and anniversaries through the concept of “on-this-date” media as a way to understand the representation and circulation of media content that occurred in previous years, on that exact date. Drawing on journalism studies and mediated memory work, I argue that past events are made relevant and then irrelevant through a frame of on-this-date media. By juxtaposing Facebook Birthdays and Memories with the Associated Press’s “Today In History” feed, I analyze the multiple temporalities at work across analog and digital media platforms. Drawing on Keightley’s zones of intermediacy, I examine how time is mediated through the textual, technological, and social aspects of media, in sometimes conflicting ways. Thus, this article seeks to contribute to our understanding of mediatization by examining how media institutions structure, organize, and represent mediated temporalities.
A combined orthodontic / orthognathic approach in the management of obstructive sleep apnoea: Balancing treatment efficacy and facial aesthetics
Authors: Shah Naurine , Waite Peter D , Kau Chung H
Published: September 2020

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a prevalent condition and has been extensively managed with orthognathic surgery using a variety of surgical techniques. This case report describes the successful management of a 56-year-old Caucasian woman with a bimaxillary retrusive profile and macroglossia complicated by OSA and the combined use of orthodontics and orthognathic surgery to improve Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index while maintaining facial aesthetics. The non-extraction treatment plan included: (1) pre-surgical orthodontic treatment to maximise aesthetics and functional occlusion after surgery; (2) maxillomandibular advancement using down fracture of the maxilla (Le Fort 1 osteotomy) with counter-clockwise rotation as well as bilateral sagittal split osteotomy with septoplasty to aid increase in airway function; and (3) post-surgical orthodontic finishing and alignment with self-ligating fixed appliances. Optimum aesthetic and functional results as well as an increase in the airway volume were achieved, without compromising facial aesthetics, with the cooperation of two specialties and the use of state-of-the-art technology during the surgical planning stages.
Dynamics of the in sac cavitating flow for diesel spray with split injection strategy
Authors: Liu Fushui , Li Zhishuang , Wang Ziman , Dai Xiaoyu , Lee Chia-Fon
Published: September 2020

IC engines consume a large amount of fuel and produce plenty of emissions, thus reducing fuel consumption, and emissions are important. Nozzle internal flow which dominates spray breakup is the key to improve spray atomization and reduce fuel consumption. In this study, microscopic imaging technique was employed to investigate the effects of needle oscillation and injection strategy on the nozzle internal flow under cold (20°C) and hot (140°C) conditions. Needle oscillation was found to affect spray morphology, leading to obvious spray asymmetry under both cold and hot conditions with stronger spray radial propagation under hot condition. Cavitation in the sac appeared when needle oscillated due to enhanced turbulence. Besides, cavitation in the sac was introduced when the needle was insufficiently open due to throttling, especially under hot condition because of reduced viscosity. By contrast, when the split-injection strategy was employed, cavitation was considerably boosted because of the consistent flow transition and the resultant throttling effect. Effective injection duration of the first injection governed the corresponding peak relative cavitation area. The appearance of cavitation was delayed during the initial stage for each split injection after the fuel flows out due to laminar flow regime.
Factors influencing patient decision delay in activation of emergency medical services for suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Alrawashdeh Ahmad , Nehme Ziad , Williams Brett , Smith Karen , Stephenson Michael , Bernard Stephen , Bray Janet , Stub Dion
Published: September 2020

Objective

The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with time delay to emergency medical services for patients with suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods

This observational study involved 1994 suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction patients presenting to the emergency medical services in Melbourne, Australia, between October 2011–January 2014. Factors associated with delays to emergency medical services call of >1 h and emergency medical services self-referral were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

The time of symptom onset was reported for 1819 patients (91.2%), the median symptom onset-to-call time was 52 min (interquartile range = 17–176). Of all emergency medical services calls, 17% were referred by healthcare professionals. Compared to self-referred patients, patients who presented to a general practitioner or hospital had higher odds of delay >1 h to emergency medical services activation (adjusted odds ratio 7.76; 95% confidence interval 5.10–11.83; and 8.02; 3.65–17.64, respectively). The other factors associated with emergency medical services call delays of >1 h were living alone, non-English speaking background, a history of substance abuse, less severe symptoms, symptom onset at home and at rest, and self-treatment. Emergency medical services self-referred patients were more likely to be older than 75 years, have a history of ischemic heart disease or revascularization, more severe symptoms, and symptom onset at home, with activity, during the weekends and out-of-hours.

Conclusion

Almost one-fifth of emergency medical services calls for suspected ST-elevation myocardial infarction were healthcare referrals, and this was associated with increased delays. A wide range of factors could influence a patient’s decision to directly and rapidly seek emergency medical services. More efforts are needed to educate at-risk populations about early self-referral to the emergency medical services.
Discourse ethics, epistemology, and educational justice: A reply to Harvey Siegel
Authors: Culp Julian
Published: September 2020

This article explores the contribution of Jürgen Habermas’ discourse theory of morality, politics, and law to theorizing educational justice. First, it analyzes Christopher Martin’s discourse-ethical argument that the development of citizens’ discursive agency is required on epistemic grounds. The article criticizes this argument and claims that the moral importance of developing discursive agency should be justified instead on the basis of moral grounds. Second, the article examines Harvey Siegel’s critique of Habermas’ moral epistemology and suggests that Siegel neglects that the epistemic justification of moral claims proceeds differently from the epistemic justification of assertoric claims. Finally, the article presents a discourse-theoretic conception of educational justice that defends the importance of discursively justifying norms of educational justice through properly arranged structures of justification.
Re-Establishing Solid Food Consumption in a Person With Traumatic Brain Injury and Extended Food Avoidance/Restriction Using a Multicomponent Behavioral Intervention
Authors: Ricciardi Joseph N. , Luiselli James K. , Tretheway Jodi
Published: September 2020

We describe and report the results of a multicomponent behavioral intervention for re-establishing solid food consumption in a 26-year-old woman with prolonged food avoidance and restriction which developed following a traumatic brain injury. The intervention was evaluated by direct measurement of daily meal consumption over a period of several months, including an extended follow-up, and resulted in successful resumption of oral feeding. A complicating paroxysmal movement disorder resolved during treatment as well and resolution of the presenting problem led to significant quality of life improvements. We discuss the relationship of the presenting symptoms to avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder and to food rejection behavior seen when substantial damage has occurred to the parietal lobe. The case illustrates the value of assessment-based, individualized intervention design and an integrated neurobehavioral case conceptualization.
Aortic Valve Perforation During Endovascular Repair of an Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm—A Case Report
Authors: Tanaka Satofumi , Kato Noriyuki , Oue Kensuke , Noda Yoshihiro , Kato Hiroaki , Miyake Yoichiro
Published: September 2020

Although complications associated with endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms are rarely observed above the diaphragm, they could lead to catastrophic outcomes once they develop. Aortic valve perforation is one of those rare and major adverse events. In this report, we describe a case of an 82-year-old woman who suffered aortic valve perforation during EVAR caused by the wire-push technique. Her hemodynamics became unstable during the procedure and did not improve thereafter. Echocardiography performed 8 days after EVAR revealed aortic valve perforation. Surgical intervention was abandoned because her general condition was poor. The patient died 4 months after EVAR due to heart failure. It should be reminded that inadvertent manipulation of the wire can cause aortic valve perforation even during EVAR.
Antibacterial and Toxicity Evaluation of Eastern Medicine Formulation Eczegone for the Management of Eczema
Authors: Chishti Muhammad Amjad , Mohi-Ud-Din Ejaz , Zakki Shahbaz Ahmad , Aslam Muhammad Rahil , Siddiqui Sheraz , Ahmad Saeed , Hayee Abdul
Published: September 2020

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antibacterial activity, in vitro and in vivo cytotoxicity, cell viability and safety of Eastern Medicine coded medicinal formulation Eczegone comprising extracts of Azadirachta indica (Azin) , Fumaria indica (Fuin) , Sphaeranthus indicus (Spin) and Lawsonia inermis (Lain). This work also evaluated antibacterial activity of Eczegone formulation having above mentioned plants ethanolic extracts against different bacteria’s by disk diffusion method. In vitro toxicity of Eczegone formulation was investigated by using human skin keratinocytes HaCaT cell line, crystal violet stained cells, and methyl tetrazolium cytotoxicity (MTT) assay. In vivo acute oral and dermal cytotoxicity was determined by using Swiss albino mice and albino rabbits, respectively. The Eczegone formulation showed antibacterial activity against 3 gram negative bacteria including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Proteus vulgaris and a gram positive Staphylococcus aureus. We didn’t observe any toxic effect of Eczegone formulation on the skin keratinocytes. Furthermore, the Ezcegone formulation was non-irritant according to draize score (OECD TG404, 2002). After rigorous safety evaluation by in vitro and in vivo acute oral and dermal toxicity analysis, we concluded that Eczegone formualtion possessses antibacterial effects and is safe, non-toxic, non-irritant, and the drug would be subjected for further biochemical and clinical studies.
The influence of heads of departments’ instructional leadership, cooperation, and administrative support on school-based professional learning in Kuwait
Authors: Alsaleh Amal Abdulwahab
Published: September 2020

This article investigates the influence of head of department instructional leadership, collegial cooperation, and school administration support on the perspectives of 649 teachers in Kuwait toward school-based professional learning. The study used a quantitative questionnaire, and teachers expressed positive school-based learning experiences. The multiple regression analysis revealed that this learning was significantly related to collegial cooperation, head of department instructional leadership, and school administrative support. The results of the study contribute to understanding the way that instructional leadership, cooperation, and school administration support interact and contribute to teachers’ school-based professional learning.
An update on magnetic resonance imaging markers in AD
Authors: Leocadi Michela , Canu Elisa , Calderaro Davide , Corbetta Davide , Filippi Massimo , Agosta Federica
Published: September 2020

The purpose of the present review is to provide an update of the available recent scientific literature on the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). MRI is playing an increasingly important role in the characterization of the AD signatures, which can be useful in both the diagnostic process and monitoring of disease progression. Furthermore, this technique is unique in assessing brain structure and function and provides a deep understanding of in vivo evolution of cerebral pathology. In the reviewing process, we established a priori criteria and we thoroughly searched the very recent scientific literature (January 2018–March 2020) for relevant articles on this topic. In summary, we selected 73 articles out of 1654 publications retrieved from PubMed. Based on this selection, this review summarizes the recent application of MRI in clinical trials, defining the predementia stages of AD, the clinical utility of MRI, proposal of novel biomarkers and brain regions of interest, and assessing the relationship between MRI and cognitive features, risk and protective factors of AD. Finally, the value of a multiparametric approach in clinical and preclinical stages of AD is discussed.
A phase II study of liposomal irinotecan with 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin and oxaliplatin in patients with resectable pancreatic cancer: the nITRO trial
Authors: Simionato Francesca , Zecchetto Camilla , Merz Valeria , Cavaliere Alessandro , Casalino Simona , Gaule Marina , D’Onofrio Mirko , Malleo Giuseppe , Landoni Luca , Esposito Alessandro , Marchegiani Giovanni , Casetti Luca , Tuveri Massimiliano , Paiella Salvatore , Scopelliti Filippo , Giardino Alessandro , Frigerio Isabella , Regi Paolo , Capelli Paola , Gobbo Stefano , Gabbrielli Armando , Bernardoni Laura , Fedele Vita , Rossi Irene , Piazzola Cristiana , Giacomazzi Serena , Pasquato Martina , Gianfortone Morena , Milleri Stefano , Milella Michele , Butturini Giovanni , Salvia Roberto , Bassi Claudio , Melisi Davide
Published: September 2020

Background:

Up-front surgery followed by postoperative chemotherapy remains the standard paradigm for the treatment of patients with resectable pancreatic cancer. However, the risk for positive surgical margins, the poor recovery after surgery that often impairs postoperative treatment, and the common metastatic relapse limit the overall clinical outcomes achieved with this strategy. Polychemotherapeutic combinations are valid options for postoperative treatment in patients with good performance status. liposomal irinotecan (Nal-IRI) is a novel nanoliposome formulation of irinotecan that accumulates in tumor-associated macrophages improving the therapeutic index of irinotecan and has been approved for the treatment of patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer after progression under gemcitabine-based therapy. Thus, it remains of the outmost urgency to investigate introduction of the most novel agents, such as nal-IRI, in perioperative approaches aimed at increasing the long-term effectiveness of surgery.

Methods:

The nITRO trial is a phase II, single-arm, open-label study to assess the safety and the activity of nal-IRI with fluorouracil/leucovorin (5-FU/LV) and oxaliplatin in the perioperative treatment of patients with resectable pancreatic cancer. The primary tumor must be resectable with no involvement of the major arteries and no involvement or <180° interface between tumor and vessel wall of the major veins. A total of 72 patients will be enrolled to receive a perioperative treatment of three cycles before and three cycles after surgical resection with nal-IRI 50 mg/m2, oxaliplatin 60 mg/m2, leucovorin 200 mg/m2, and 5-fluorouracil 2400 mg/m2, days 1 and 15 of a 28-day cycle. The primary objective is to improve from 40% to 55% the proportion of patients achieving R0 resection after preoperative treatment.

Discussion:

The nITRO trial will contribute to strengthen the clinical evidence supporting perioperative strategies in resectable pancreatic cancer patients. Moreover, this study represents a unique opportunity for translational analyses aimed to identify novel immune-related prognostic and predictive factors in this setting.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrial.gov : NCT03528785. Trial registration data: 1 January 2018 Protocol number: CRC 2017_01 EudraCT Number: 2017-000345-46